Inspired to make something..

Inspired by some of the beautiful creations people have made I decided that I would like to make something myself.  I headed into town on Saturday and bought a couple of magazines, both of which you probably know about already.

The Mollie Makes mag found me pouring over all the lovely vintage and shabby chic articles giving me lots of ideas for home decor as much as anything, whereas the Handmade Living has a selection of all kinds of things including crafts, recipes, gardening, art etc. I've been into lots of  fabric websites and am absolutely amazed at just how much is out there. Can't wait to get going now.

In a previous post I mentioned that I had completed a two year City & Guilds course called Family Heirlooms which not only covered history of my favourite Victorian era including social history, gardening history, music halls, photography to name but a few, but also taught us the art of making Victorian crafts.  Here are two of the many projects learnt.

This Suffolk Puff doll was a cutie and one of my favourite projects although not an easy task making all those Suffolk puffs (54 in all) for her arms, torso and legs, but I found it particularly absorbing and very satisfying.

Then I had a go at something called Somerset patchwork and used my small sample to top a textured box which was made from handmade paper and which I painted with emulsion. I lined the box and lid with wadding covered with Toile de Jouy fabric and then glued my patchwork onto the top of the lid. I then made a cord from embroidery silk and glued this around the patchwork. Using some scraps of fabric I made a lavender bag scissor keeper and a needle case.

Looking at my portfolio of work has now given me an extra incentive to make a start. So, with a bit of luck I may attempt something soon, although I have to get a rather nasty essay out of the way first, but......watch this space.