tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58805128645840178592012-01-26T12:52:01.527+11:00Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.comBlogger851100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-48133863016801610032012-01-26T12:52:00.000+11:002012-01-26T12:52:01.539+11:00

Hi there Hope you have enjoyed a relaxing break with family and friends eating, drinking and generally being merry!!!  I know we have and the scales are telling me how much!! We have been working away at creating our new look website which includes an on-line store that we will be continuing to build on.  We are still refining the elements but it is definitely up and running!!  Go and take a

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-88125696853282224212011-12-21T15:46:00.000+11:002011-12-21T15:46:00.889+11:00

The end of this year has been eventful to say the least.... Our oldest boy is finishing Primary School so there has been a lot of presentations and celebrations that we thought we would need to go to.  That was until he came down with Chicken pox!!!! And yes he was immunised which basically seems to mean you get a mild dose which is great but doesn't let you be with your friends when you really

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-58007435017186579952011-12-09T13:55:00.000+11:002011-12-09T13:55:08.962+11:00

What a year!! I cant seem to keep up with both family commitments and getting all I want to say to you about the things that are happening at the moment.... You might have heard that the wonderful girls at Prints Charming have created another range of absolutely beautiful fabric - we are hoping to see this very soon. I am happy to say that we have also ordered and received some fabulous hand

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-78353549403320546812011-10-31T13:55:00.000+11:002011-10-31T13:55:46.067+11:00

When our friends at Purl's Palace had their store, I must admit that I would wonder over every now and then for a chat and to look at all the beautiful yarn in their store.  Mostly looking at the beautiful garments, a lot of them designed by Zoe which made them even more special. Secretly I had wished that I could knit well enough to make something for myself that looked decent enough (for a

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-15342576719249489682011-10-10T12:31:00.000+11:002011-10-10T12:31:43.131+11:00

Do you every go through a phase of looking at all your half completed things and then promptly ignoring them???!!!  Do you look at them and think they will never get finished - the pattern you have devised that needs to be written, the little "quick" stitchery that is now months old and half finished.. the quilt pieces done at primary school that need to be finished... that patchwork bag that

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-47592622039338105692011-08-28T15:44:00.000+10:002011-08-28T15:44:29.578+10:00

I know its been a while but there has been a flurry of activity at Threadneedle and at home. Our first exciting bit of news is that we have introduced Wool into our Shop!!!  We now stock Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino and Eco Baby Cotton as well as the magnificent Noro Silk Garden and Silk Garden Sock... But wait there is more... we also have Rare Yarns in 4 & 8 ply as well as Boucle and Brushed.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-36616263644481612782011-06-11T11:02:00.001+10:002011-06-12T11:42:24.077+10:00

That's about all I can say about the amazing weekend that was!! With the help of our three gorgeous designers and their equally stunning designs we went to Peppers and had a great time!! (Melly, Jodie and Kristen found out that they can grapevine together - always important to learn new skills... ) I must thank a whole lot of people in addition to the designers.  First of all my helpers and

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-59166895746898225192011-05-25T09:32:00.002+10:002011-05-26T19:33:07.045+10:00

Soooo.... I wonder what's going to be in these??? Are you coming? Don't forget the Makers Market on this same weekend Check out our Weekend of Craft.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-15135428076719419932011-05-08T14:27:00.000+10:002011-05-08T14:27:25.125+10:00

I met both Leonie and Bill the quilt trade shows in Melbourne a couple of years back.  Being a relatively new shop I was still finding my way but I thought the Westalee products were fantastic - and promptly bought some for the shop ... and ... me. Leonie and Bill have created a fantastic range of quilting products that take the pain out of getting perfect corners and clean lines since then

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-59875631102323787542011-04-20T22:22:00.000+10:002011-04-20T22:22:58.926+10:00

April seems to have disappeared in a blur.  I know there is still a little bit of it left but with school holidays and two birthdays in them - I am ready for a sit down!!! So when I get home at night some stitching in front of the telly is a nice way to wind down and relax with the boys. Its amazing how I can cope with Man vs Wild eating who knows what when I  have something nice to stitch!!!!!

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-23999911158661059912011-04-02T12:38:00.000+11:002011-04-02T12:38:21.634+11:00

It seems that this year is going to fly - and I am going to be catching up all the time!!! There are heaps of things about to happen so I thought I would talk about them in no particular order. First.... school holidays are just around the corner!!! We have some fun things to do in the shop during the two weeks Click here to take a look at what's in store for our talented kids. Second...

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-48053862901641196532011-03-20T08:13:00.002+11:002011-03-20T08:14:45.347+11:00

You might remember in November we did some great resin classes with Sylvia Nevistic and we had an absolute ball creating beautiful pieces. Well she has kindly offered to come back and let us have another play!!  This time we will be starting with the making of the moulds and then creating our own individual resin pieces from them. This will be a series of 3 classes held on the first three

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-66763723309057164322011-03-05T13:57:00.000+11:002011-03-05T13:57:07.929+11:00

When Melly's lovely Little Menagerie fabric came in I just kept looking at it.  Then I looked at Jodie's Tea Set pattern... and well... Ellie and Claudine needed a chat and a cuppa... So I made them a tea set so they could be refined ladies ..... discussing all things crafty.... I think they might be talking about the Daylesford Craft Experience and what will be made by our three crafty

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-10087982063829677552011-02-12T13:46:00.000+11:002011-02-12T13:46:43.062+11:00

Our Annual Sale starts today for two weeks.  I can't believe we are actually 3 years old!! There are bargains available all over the store with up to 20% of our range of products. Hope to see you there!

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-83947652947051290772011-01-30T10:58:00.000+11:002011-01-30T10:58:21.380+11:00

I have been playing with the Tailor Made Fabric range from Cosmo Cricket.  It has all things sewing and it just had to be made into Rosalie Quinlan's  Nellie's Sewing Bag. What do you think.... What else could a sewing bag be made of?  There is a little bit of Wordplay from Benartex in there as well as you can see from the inside. Its a lovely pattern - even though it is a older one that

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-49253237121073828882011-01-23T10:57:00.011+11:002011-01-23T18:40:33.277+11:00

We have started sending newsletters out and contacting people with respect to the Daylesford Craft Experience.  If you haven't received any information about it you can go here to get some information and the booking form.   Last year we had a great time at the beautiful Peppers in Hepburn where we were well fed and cared for.  So this year we thought there was no other place to go and

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-83131173830606164222011-01-08T14:43:00.000+11:002011-01-08T14:43:10.400+11:00

Happy New Year!!! (slightly belated - there goes the first of the NY promises - blogging more) I can't believe its 2011.  The end of last year was full of both sadness and happiness for some of our friends and family (some of which is still continuing). However, I am truly glad that we are in a new year and am looking forward to all the adventures that it holds. Once again we have a schedule of

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-15573698876567134542010-12-23T19:08:00.000+11:002010-12-23T19:08:47.533+11:00

Hi there! ListCards sent?Gifts prepared?Presents wrapped?Xmas Dinner planned?Wine/Champagne cooling?Post Xmas sleeping zone selected?Cheesy movies?Antacid purchased? Rudy Reindeer ready for flying duty! If you can say yes to more than one of the above, I am very jealous!!!  Ice cream security!!  We would like to wish you a Very Merry Christmas and hope that Santa is kind.  Be safe and

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-33610719470516558982010-12-15T13:41:00.000+11:002010-12-15T13:41:05.864+11:00

I thought I should tell you about this weekend's Twilight Market.  Here are some of the stunning designers that make the Daylesford Makers Market so special.   Curlypops Moederkip If you wanted to see some more of the fantastic things you can find, take a look at the Makers Market Blog. The Market goes from 4pm til late with that man in the red suit being there from until 6pm.  We

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-18715318967715057282010-12-08T13:23:00.002+11:002010-12-08T13:25:49.222+11:00

Do you remember this? And This? Well we are doing it all again in 2011!!! Some of you would have received Zoe's newsletter already announcing it.  If you haven't heard then read on... Because we had so much fun with all our beautiful designers this year it was very hard to decide what to do...  We are pleased to announce that both Melly and Jodie are coming back with bigger and brighter ideas

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-24170672220599198742010-11-23T23:28:00.006+11:002010-11-24T10:28:40.363+11:00

You might have seen on Jodie's blog a little while ago about our having two resin classes with Sylvia from Schmookville.  Here are of some of the molds we used with their precious cargo. As you can see we didn't restrict ourselves at all.  Bangles with lichen and moss  The makings of a necklace   Using Colour Sylvia was fantastic in describing how to mix the resin and what

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-85539539866222202442010-11-03T20:03:00.000+11:002010-11-03T20:03:04.172+11:00

I have been thinking about a number of things to write about this week, but have settled for the one toy that I really enjoyed making the most of late. Meet Bubbly the Scrappy Owl who was created by the talented Jhoanna of One Red Robin He has been on my mind for quite some time now and when some fantastic woven wool pieces from Moda arrived, I knew it was time.  The wool packs contain 

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-36847195826698274252010-10-14T18:54:00.000+11:002010-10-14T18:54:17.117+11:00

I am still sure that the weeks are going by twos at the moment!  Just when I think I am on top of things I realise that I have a whole new list of things to do... One thing I have been meaning to talk about is our Tuesday night sessions.  On the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.00pm til 9.00pm, you can come and just .. well .. sew. If you haven't done any sewing before and want to

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-55347065818583372762010-09-29T12:17:00.000+10:002010-09-29T12:17:32.960+10:00

I have been looking at Dee Dee, the dolphin from the talented Melly & Me for a while.  When these lovely prints came in, I thought they were suitable for a girl like her with their lovely nautical colours. These Aqua fabrics are a range from Michael Miller and are $24- p/m. Another month has gone by and the talented stally holders will again be at the Daylesford Makers Market this weekend.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-38816814546479968722010-09-20T16:13:00.000+10:002010-09-20T16:13:32.487+10:00

We have a great resin jewellery making course at the shop commencing in November. The course will be conducted by Sylvia Nevistic, who has been a jewellery & object-maker for 13 years.  She has taught jewellery making techniques for about 4 years & loves to pass on the skills she knows to those that want to learn. In Sylvia's workshop, you will have the opportunity to make unique pieces of

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-64926762027353482902010-09-14T16:28:00.000+10:002010-09-14T16:28:13.188+10:00

I don't know how it's happened, but I've lost a week and soon it will be school holidays!!  Just when I thought I'd caught up, now I realise that is never going to happen. We try to do some fun classes during the school holidays & we have a range of beading, papercraft & beginner sewing classes.  Mind you, the "beginner sewers" are amazing & create beautiful work. Here are pictures of some of

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-65056938312615787132010-09-03T12:21:00.000+10:002010-09-03T12:21:17.309+10:00

A little while ago I got a couple of Melly's Raspberry Ripple Patterns.  The pleats in this bag really give it a different look and I thought it would be a great one to make up.  Being contrary of nature I decided to make it with only two contrasting colours and well, here is the result... Here's an inside view - it has a pocket in the middle which I love (excuse the dodgy photo - I had to do

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-56164266441276794802010-08-20T20:02:00.000+10:002010-08-20T20:02:55.211+10:00

By now you have met Izzy and Archie on Jodie Carleton's Blog. Some of you may know that Izzy and Archie made an appearance at the Daylesford Craft Experience.  Both Zoe, at Purl's Palace, and I did a version of them for the weekend. Here are my froggy friends in all their finery ... I must say, that Archie is the typical boy as his pants continue to fall down (maybe I should have used tighter

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-89454666268207402672010-08-14T20:45:00.000+10:002010-08-14T20:45:21.117+10:00

I know I was going to talk more about Izzy and Archie, but I had to show you these ... Sweetie Petites Aren't they cute??  They are called "Sweetie Petites" and are from The Red Thread.  Their names are (from L-R) Freddie, Mimi, Molly, Ginger and Daisy, and they come individually as kits for $20.  Each kit contains instructions, printed fabric (each one has a "little friend") and toy fill

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-49212071288620648242010-08-11T16:13:00.000+10:002010-08-11T16:13:00.029+10:00

As you probably know Jodie from Ric Rac has been quite ill with whooping cough but now thankfully appears to be on the road to recovery.  Jodie created these Sample Scarves for our Craft Experience.  This is a great one to make up in any way you want.  Zoe at Purl's Palace also has two different styles as well and they looked fantastic in the oriental fabrics.  (In this one it looks like we have

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-318704833657282762010-08-06T13:53:00.004+10:002010-08-14T20:49:28.487+10:00

This is "Daylesford Buds" from our lovely Daylesford Craft Experience.  I thought you might want to take a closer look at this fabulous handbag design from Melly & me.  Zoe from Purl's Palace had a gorgeous version as well, using oriental fabrics.  I only wish that I could blanket stitch so neatly!  I should mention that our bag had a 2" (finished) strap, which is smaller than the one in the

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-37030906159648721762010-07-07T16:47:00.001+10:002010-07-07T16:49:46.917+10:00

What a weekend! What amazing people! What a lot of fun! Last Friday, we were desperately trying to finish last minute preparations before our helpers and designers arrived.  Jodie Carleton of Vintage Ric Rac arrived first, then Jody Abel. We then got our priorities right by starting with a coffee & fantastic toblerone cake at one of Daylesford's local cafes, Bocconcini. Amazingly, after that

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-46314990466520170002010-04-29T21:45:00.005+10:002010-04-29T21:53:13.483+10:00

We've recently received these fabulous fabrics from the Rural Jardin collection by Kaari Meng of French General. The collection is named Rural Jardin because the designs are reminiscent of old French gardens in the South of France. Many of the designs have been reproduced from 19th century French textiles. We have printed & woven 100% cotton fabrics from the collection as well some cotton/

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-12193095400000930682010-04-20T13:26:00.001+10:002010-04-20T13:27:07.070+10:00

Denise Longmire is a talented local who will teach a course in embroidery design utilising a number of design techniques & embroidery stitches. The bag shown below illustrates the beautiful work you will complete. This course will give you the confidence to create your own embroidery designs & you will learn the techniques required to create your own works of art. We're planning this class

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-12540385144009531222010-04-04T09:43:00.000+10:002010-04-04T09:43:10.640+10:00

Last weekend, I had a stall at the Ballan Quilt & Craft Show held during Ballan's Autumn Festival. This year's theme & challenge was ... "All the fun of the fair, life's just a circus". The Ballan Quilt group makes a terrific effort to host this annual event.  The hall entrance was decorated like the "big top" at the circus. Inside, amongst the superb quilts & craft on display there were a

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-74150621383139270982010-03-16T16:39:00.006+11:002010-03-16T16:43:34.144+11:00

I have a regular group of school girls who are becoming very accomplished with a needle & thread. The journal cover design below, from "The Janelle Wind Collection", will be the the project for our next class during the Easter school holidays. As usual, we will have other school holiday classes as well, including papercraft & beading.  The workshop schedule can be viewed by visiting our

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-72918157843852900642010-03-15T16:28:00.000+11:002010-03-15T16:28:21.163+11:00

I've just finished my "Maisy Mouse" quilt. This simple cot-sized quilt (135cm x 110cm) designed by Michelle & I, has been in my project basket for a while. The fabric is from a range of Maisy fabrics designed by Lucy Cousins for Andover Fabrics. I have Maisy fabric packs available that contain a panel & 5 fat quarters for $49.90 (plus postage). Photos of the individual fabrics can be seen by

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-51870729340478765612010-03-04T14:41:00.000+11:002010-03-04T14:41:40.660+11:00

I feel like I'm beginning to catch up with unfinished projects. This is Claudine from designers, Rosalie Quinlan & Melanie Hurlston of "Melly & me". I started Claudine before Christmas as a fabric challenge with Daylesford's Spa Quilters group, but I hadn't finished the face. I admit it's an unconventional entry to a fabric challenge, but the ladies thought it was very cute. Now she's

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-79132933938510861802010-03-02T15:43:00.000+11:002010-03-02T15:43:33.008+11:00

"A festival of craft & design in a pretty county town"  That's how Daylesford's Makers' Market has been described & with the Chillout festivities on in Daylesford this Labour Day long weekend, it's a very apt description. The Makers' Market will be held at the Daylesford Town Hall on Sat. 6 March from 10 am to 3 pm. There's always something new to see at the market which will be held monthly

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-58822742657808425762010-03-01T16:39:00.000+11:002010-03-01T16:39:19.721+11:00

My latest sewing project has been to make one of Jodie Carleton's fabulous "Disco-Bots". Doesn't it look great!  The Disco-Bot has moveable arms & legs and stands about 30cm tall. Jodie is one of the guest designers at our retreat at Daylesford in July.  She has a great sense of fun that shows in her designs. You can see other creations by Jodie at her blog.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-44078574498556995812010-02-15T13:49:00.003+11:002010-02-15T14:05:09.419+11:00

"Indulge your creative self ..." ... in conjunction with Zoe Bradshaw of Purl's Palace, we have created the "Daylesford Craft Experience", a fabulous new craft retreat to be held over the weekend on 3-4 July 2010. We have 3 very special guest presenters: Melanie Hurlston of "Melly & me" Jodie Carleton of "Ric Rac"; and Anette Eriksson The retreat will be held at the award winning, Peppers

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-91327500937691583072010-02-12T12:30:00.002+11:002010-02-12T12:48:35.093+11:00

These new fabrics from Kokka will be available during our fabric sale, along with all other fabric in the shop. These gorgeous fabrics from Japan are a linen/cotton mix & have a lovely texture.  They are ideal for making clothing, soft furnishings & toys. We have a Nani Iro designed floral, dancing ballerinas, babushkas & toys. Dancing Ballerinas (large & small) & Toys Nani Iro floral (

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-91664179765072599772010-02-10T20:19:00.004+11:002010-02-10T20:27:55.077+11:00

Yay! ... we're having a sale on all our fabrics to celebrate our second anniversary since opening. We will have 20% off all fabrics for 2 weeks commencing Saturday, 13 February until Sunday, 28 February 2010. The sale includes all fabrics, including fat quarters, layer cakes, etc. There will also be special offers on other selected craft items in the shop. We stock contemporary & traditional

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-44810614374779159282010-01-13T12:47:00.009+11:002010-01-13T13:23:11.351+11:00

We've we've just received these handprinted embroidery panels from Prints Charming!They're handprinted by Cath Derksema & Kirsten Junor who have their fabulous studio at Annandale in Sydney's inner west.These embroidery panels on natural linen are ideal for cushions, quilt panels, bags & wall hangings.They are so easy to finish & they have a stitching guide on the reverse.The cut size of the

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-26123144069974388232009-12-24T12:13:00.006+11:002009-12-24T12:44:47.171+11:00

This is "Rudy" the Reindeer, a Christmas creation from Melly & Me.I've helped to make about ten of these cute critters, with a group of local school girls who have been learning to sew with me during the last few weeks.We will have more workshops for kids during the school holidays. You can view our class list at www.threadneedle.com.auBest wishes for Christmas to all our customers ... I look

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-58982020759960323912009-12-14T13:07:00.006+11:002009-12-14T13:50:40.101+11:00

Amy Butler has released a fabulous range of bags designed with crafters in mind.The bags are constructed using mid-weight fabrics from Rowan & feature Amy Butler's "August Fields" fabric designs. The bags are 100% cotton lined with co-ordinating prints.They have lots of pockets & tool channels, strong & long straps for carrying comfort, expandable side panels & bag bottoms.I only have two of

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-23468459887757748432009-11-11T15:11:00.007+11:002009-11-12T11:33:44.482+11:00

"Make!" is a great new book by Cath Kidston from the UK ($34.95 + postage).Inside there are 48 fantastic projects to make & masses of tips & further ideas.Cath shows you how to update an old cardie, bring new life to a boring bag & introduce her personal touch throughout your home.All the techniques you will need to complete the projects are explained in the book.So you can get started straight

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-18678128631535182072009-11-10T13:52:00.006+11:002009-11-10T14:14:37.451+11:00

Here are photos of some very accomplished young ladies who have just finished making handbags in our recent after-school "learn to sew" workshops.The workshops were held over a 4 week period during the beginning of the school term.We will soon begin another after-school workshop series where we will make "Rudy the Reindeer", a cute soft toy from Melly & Me, just in time for Christmas.We will also

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-81037780130520781912009-11-05T21:21:00.006+11:002010-03-15T16:35:34.356+11:00

We've just received a great new range of "Maisy Mouse" fabrics designed by Lucy Cousins for Andover Fabrics. The range includes a fabulous picture-book panel & alphabet design that would be ideal for a sewn fabric book for young ones. The fabrics from this range are $26.00 per metre (plus postage). Maisy Mouse panel Alphabet panel Maisy Mouse design on white background Stars - Red &

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-56435235886410966372009-10-29T09:36:00.008+11:002010-04-29T21:54:03.578+10:00

We have a gorgeous book & French country-inspired gift collection from Moda Home. Historically, young French girls embroidered their initials on their finest linens. The initialled letters were always blood red because red was a strong & endurable dye that could be easily seen. .. "French General - Home Sewn" by Kaari Meng contains 30 French-inspired projects for every room in the house. "

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-38022436642731054942009-10-28T14:51:00.010+11:002009-10-28T23:11:03.601+11:00

Ooh la la ... more French-inspired craft books!A little thread, some linen, a needle & a few easy stitches, "Made in France" includes more than 50 pretty projects worked in cross stitch, stem stitch or French knots.Elegant & timeless in red, white & blue, these exquisite needlecraft motifs can be used in a multitude of ways to create unique gifts & home accessories..."Made in France" with Agnes

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-14837697927241414222009-09-09T16:39:00.006+10:002009-09-09T17:11:25.194+10:00

Finally, we're open in our new location ...The move last week was "fast & furious", but thankfully everything is now in it's place & we're back at "work".The best news is that we have a 10% - 20% sale on all stock this week to celebrate our re-opening. The sale ends on Sunday, 13 September.Here are a few photos of what you can expect to see ... Above, is the view towards our fabric section. We

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-5685028012555282302009-08-28T18:20:00.014+10:002009-09-03T22:55:02.021+10:00

Our final news this week is that we are moving our shop in Daylesford ... next week!!We are re-locating from our current location (across from the Primary School) to a great new spot in the Coles walkway, next to Kabuki.We are already expanding since opening less than two yearsago! The new shop is bigger & will allow us to increase our product range (especially our fabrics!).The central location

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-21581493674716807422009-08-26T13:48:00.002+10:002009-08-26T13:59:30.185+10:00

These two cute creations are "Bonza & Beaut" designed by the talented girls behind Melly & Me.I love making these popular patterns because they can be made from any pieces of left-over fabric from your scrap-bag.The fabric colours & patterns don't have to match (as you can see below) & children absolutely adore them as gifts!These great patterns retail from Threadneedle Craft for $17.75 + postage.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-10859334975762771032009-08-23T22:19:00.009+10:002009-08-24T17:39:03.689+10:00

So much has been happening since my last blog!First, I want to show you a talented group of girls having fun making wheat bag pigs. We started with four in the class, now there are seven!The girls have been working hard after school every Thursday this month. The design for the pigs is from the book, "More Softies".Also shown below, are two I made for my boys so they could be cosy in bed during

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-64543607950388949132009-07-30T14:46:00.011+10:002009-07-30T15:35:21.091+10:00

Look at the gorgeous fabrics that have arrived from Prints Charming! These fabrics are from the "Rainbow Garden" range.We've been waiting for a while for these fabrics to arrive.I'm so glad they're here ... just what we need to brighten the shop during these dreary winter months.These fabrics retail for $26 per metre (plus postage)."Paisley Garden - Purples""Rainbow Garden - Purples""70's Rainbow

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-66449315977298909202009-07-28T10:54:00.005+10:002009-07-29T19:09:36.305+10:00

I've got a bit behind with my blogging this month ... we've been busy during school holidays, juggling family & the shop.During my time away from the shop, I've also been "playing" with my great new sewing machine, a Bernina Aurora 440QE!I've been enjoying the new machine immensely. It's so quiet & is fantastic to work on.Not that my old Janome was bad ... I still have it for classes so that

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-34780206221431569982009-06-22T13:36:00.006+10:002009-06-22T13:49:07.901+10:00

Hi again ... I've been busy!Let me introduce you to "EMOtional Anna & SeBATstian". Another of the lovely Melly & Me patterns ($17.75 + postage).I made this for a good friend who is a musician. Instead of a teardrop, she has a musical note beneath her eye.She looks difficult to make, but she's not at all. The pattern is great & covers everything you need ... I really enjoyed making her!The best

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-28748171665291727102009-06-17T16:18:00.009+10:002009-06-18T13:26:12.190+10:00

This is my latest finished project ...It is the "Fat Quarter Bag" designed by Melanie Hurlston & Rosalie Quinlan from Melly & Me.The handbag was great fun to make. It's made using 4 fat quarters & involves some quilting. I would rate this as an intermediate level project.The fabrics I've used are from the "City Blooms" range by Kitty Yoshida. They are imported by XLN Fabrics from New York.The

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-43359695141454789002009-06-08T09:33:00.006+10:002009-06-09T17:50:23.757+10:00

William Morris has influenced crafts-people & fabric designers for more than 100 years. As a textile designer, printer & weaver, his designs integrate nature into art & art into life.We have books inspired by William Morris, such as "William Morris in Applique" & "William Morris Needlepoint".Both these books include sections on basic techniques used to finish the selected projects."William Morris

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-86184656231103797792009-06-01T20:59:00.004+10:002009-06-01T21:34:17.969+10:00

We have some fantastic new products for kids from Lark.They include the "Dumpling Dynasty" Sewing Kit & Easy Sew Bunny Kit ($29.95 + postage). These introductory sewing kits for children are extremely popular.The Bunny Kit contains instructions & all the materials required to stitch a cute felt bunny.We also have the "Rosie Flo" & "Johnny Joe" colouring book series.These beautiful colouring books

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-88590972359574916602009-05-27T10:53:00.012+10:002009-06-01T20:59:23.235+10:00

The timeless & exquisite Flower Fairies, first published by Cicely Mary Barker in 1923, have been an inspiration for craft lovers for generations.We have a selection of gorgeous Flower Fairy fabrics, needlework books & kits available at Threadneedle Craft Daylesford."Flower Fairies" fabrics from Michael Miller Fabrics"Apple Blossom Fairy" panel ($26 per metre + postage)"Blossom Fairies" panel (

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-16871393415754685542009-05-06T14:12:00.011+10:002009-05-06T14:41:09.615+10:00

We have both of these great books available in our store.The "softies" & "more softies" books each have 22 "friends" for you to sew, knit & crochet.The books have been extremely popular & the soft toys are easy & fun to make.The books may be purchased for $29.95 + postage via mail-order.The "Pocket Gnome" from "more softies" is pictured below.The fabric in the background is from Moda Fabrics'"

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-64567601810606308852009-05-04T20:03:00.007+10:002009-05-04T20:25:53.519+10:00

During the past month there have been many birthdays in our family.David's mum, Helen, is a talented crafts-person, who excels at most things she turns her hand to ... I'm very jealous!These are cards that Helen made for David & our two boys. They use a technique known as paper embroidery. Frogs, Ducks & SnailsCute Frogs on a Lily-PadDucks Swimming on PondSnails on Blades of Grass

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-53717939486098957112009-05-01T13:40:00.013+10:002009-05-01T14:56:33.709+10:00

Did you know that at Threadneedle Craft we stock craft books on needlework, quilting, beading & papercrafts?Books can be ordered by mail by contacting us by phone or email.Here are some of our most popular books this year ..."Material Obsession" by Kathy Doughty & Sarah FielkeContemporary quilt designs with foreword by Kaffe Fassett($47.95 + postage)"Institches" by Amy Butler 25 simple & stylish

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-4632537780195274802009-04-20T14:36:00.012+10:002009-07-30T14:45:27.856+10:00

We had a surprise visit last week from Kirsten Junor of Prints Charming.Kirsten & Steve, her husband, & kids were on a camping holiday travelling through Victoria.Prints Charming's "Rainbow Garden" fabrics were displayed in the window, so Kirsten asked Steve to stop the car & the family all came in. We had a great chat!We'll have more of Prints Charming's spectacular fabrics arriving soon.You can

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-77756687016679325442009-03-31T14:50:00.010+11:002009-03-31T15:02:03.667+11:00

Jody Abel of Daisy Patch Quilting, will lead a workshop at Threadneedle Craft Daylesford on Sunday, 26 April from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm.This gorgeous, contemporary quilt, based on a Drunkard's Path theme, is an opportunity for you to use your funkiest fat quarters.Further details can be obtained from the "classes" page at www.threadneedle.com.au.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-42273156207526748022009-03-26T13:30:00.005+11:002009-03-26T18:36:26.348+11:00

Meet some of the class members from our regular card-making workshop on Thursday afternoons.Pam Cetinich inpires the class each week with great card-making & paper-craft projects.During the next several months, we will also have beginners quilting classes & workshops for kids during the Easter school holidays.Visit our website at www.threadneedle.com.au to view our classes schedule.L to R: Irene,

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-82236258814689087582009-03-15T22:33:00.005+11:002009-03-19T13:49:13.830+11:00

Here are some of the gorgeous fabrics from Prints Charming that we have in-store.Prints Charming is a design & screen printing collaboration between Cath Derksema & Kirsten Junor, who have a studio in Annandale, Sydney.In addition to the original hand-printed designs available from their studio, their artwork is used in the Prints Charming range produced by Marcus Fabrics in New York.The soft

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-12576422047016326132009-03-15T22:32:00.006+11:002009-03-16T13:09:26.714+11:00

It's our first anniversary since opening, so to celebrate we currently have a 20% sale on all fabrics ending on Sunday, 29 March 2009.It was bedlam at the weekend, with visitors to the shop from all over Victoria!The sale applies to all fabrics in-store, including fat quarters, wadding & backing fabrics.Daylesford is glorious during Autumn, so if you haven't visited recently, now there's another

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-58419575561844269482009-03-11T12:31:00.024+11:002009-03-11T13:23:57.624+11:00

We are excited to have added the Anette Eriksson range of needlework kits to our store."Handmade" is a trend that has emerged in interior décor & fashion design during the current economic climate.The Anette Eriksson range is a contemporary collection for your home that is inspired by Scandinavian design. The range makes extensive use of natural fibres such as hessian & wool. The kits include

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-85200540330545630642009-01-25T12:39:00.007+11:002009-01-25T22:26:26.467+11:00

Our last class of the School Holidays was this great journal created by Pam Cetinich.Just look at the fabulous colours using Kaiser scrapbooking papers.We have a few kits available to make your own journal for $10 each.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-8576965146640765452009-01-25T11:16:00.007+11:002009-01-25T22:22:09.519+11:00

A School Holiday's favourite is beaded jewellery.Meet Nel, one of our talented beaders who has just completed a trio of beautiful earrings.I love seeing things that you've made, so please do not hesitate to send me photos of your fabulous creations for our blog!

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-62489692665914168202009-01-25T11:04:00.009+11:002009-01-25T22:12:44.964+11:00

I hope you've had a great festive season!Kids will have fun during our School Holiday's program. We are doing a few different projects this time.Do you remember DAS when you were a child? It's still available ... now, in a variety of great colours.In this class, we've used DAS to create stylish chameleons. Here are a few creative examples!

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-72601438958581590112008-12-15T13:25:00.009+11:002008-12-15T13:46:34.204+11:00

Have you seen the range of new adjustable quilting rulers designed & made in Australia by Westalee Design?This innovative design was invented by Leonie West, who recently won The New Inventors' 2008 Peoples' Choice Award on ABC television.It's a great win for quilters too! With 66.5% of the vote, hear them roar ... "I quilt & I vote!"We have three rulers from the range in-store, including 24"

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-75917225655270511162008-12-10T14:22:00.006+11:002008-12-10T14:39:21.237+11:00

Look at the beautiful Christmas tabbed album made in Pam Cetinich's workshop over the past week.The Christmas tabbed album was completed in the workshop over a couple of sittings. The result is terrific!In recent weeks, our talented card-makers have also made Christmas tree advent calendars.Look out for new workshops during December-January, including our kids' school holidays program by visiting

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-53638269204885737682008-11-24T20:16:00.006+11:002008-12-10T14:41:28.836+11:00

Christmas is drawing closer ...I've started getting Christmas stock into the shop & we have Christmas-themed classes for adults & children during December.One that I think will be a lot of fun, is "It's a Redwork Christmas". It will use Threadworx overdyed threads to really brighten things up. Take a look & hopefully you will agree.This class with Fiona Curruthers will be on Saturday, 6 December

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-83707574611100308332008-11-20T15:08:00.009+11:002008-11-24T20:13:50.737+11:00

What a great weekend ...On Saturday evening, I went to a presentation by Amy Butler. She is an inspired & passionate person who has definitely found her niche & really enjoys what she does. She says "Do what you love, love what you do". That's a good mantra for all of us!On Sunday, I went to the Australian Quilt Market in Melbourne. I went shopping for new fabrics to stock in the the shop. I've

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-26979465139978240262008-11-20T14:47:00.009+11:002008-11-20T22:14:03.540+11:00

I visited the Melbourne Bead Expo & Australian Quilt Market, both held in Melbourne last weekend.At the Bead Expo, there were retailers & wholesalers from all around the country. In addition, the Bead Society of Victoria held their annual Bead Challenge exhibition. The exquisite beaded jewellery displayed was simply stunning.There was a great selection of semi-precious stones available. Pandora

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-43795905879914793082008-10-24T12:32:00.012+11:002009-11-10T14:10:40.643+11:00

I just received these photos from Heidi, a customer who has made the "Bella" handbag designed by Monica Poole of Moonshine Designs.Fabulous work, Heidi ... the bag is gorgeous!The Bella handbag has been made using fabrics from the "Flutterby" range by Moda. Other fabrics in the range can be seen on www.threadneedle.com.au.The design has been so popular that I've had to re-order more patterns.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-89447286679112798172008-10-21T22:01:00.006+11:002008-11-20T22:17:33.922+11:00

What a lot has happened since the holidays! Last Saturday, we participated in Kidzfest with a craft stall at Daylesford Town Hall as part of the children's art & book festival. My kids enjoyed the festival, making puppets, viewing art work & listening to childrens' stories being read.Recently, I made one of Rosalie Quinlan & Melanie Hurlston's "Melly & Me" toys. "Ellie" is her name. I adored

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-60553987051267438652008-10-01T18:47:00.005+10:002008-10-01T19:20:52.595+10:00

We've had an exciting time during the September school holidays, with lots of classes being held. The kids have been extremely creative.Projects have included a card & coaster, flower magnet & "scrunchie" (with beads), necklace using memory wire plus earrings & fabulous photo frames. We even had an extra t-shirt design class using Giotto Textile textas.I'm starting to plan several classes for

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-48127074712559263122008-09-15T18:30:00.007+10:002008-11-20T22:19:21.055+11:00

Our regular card-making class, led by Pam Cetinich, has been making early preparations for Christmas.Last week, the class made a Christmas candle & card in matching colours. What a fabulous gift!The class meets on Thursday afternoons from 1.00-3.00 pm.Check our class schedule on www.threadneedle.com.au for upcoming projects.

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-3456717140262119652008-09-12T21:34:00.012+10:002008-11-20T22:19:56.745+11:00

On Wednesday, 21 August it was Art Attack Day at Daylesford Primary School.Being a mum and craft addict, I was happy to contribute with the other keen mums and dads. What a lot of fun was had with our group making Bead Bugs - of course, the main feature was a bead spider!It was great to see the creativity of the kids (Grade 4 and up) shine as we had dragonflies, scorpions and all sorts

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5880512864584017859.post-90481478583852908332008-08-18T20:56:00.013+10:002008-11-20T22:22:31.092+11:00

Threadneedle Craft Daylesford is a craft & art supplies shop located in Daylesford, a picturesque town located in Victoria's spa country in Australia.We stock a large range of craft & art supplies, including needlework, patchwork, beading, card making & art supplies. We stock patterns & kits to create home decor & accessories, as well as a great selection of craft books, gift ideas for kids,

Merrilyn Simnoreply@blogger.com3