Valentine, Kids, Craft and Fun...

A few months ago I had a lovely opportunity to have a very special Christmas craft day with one of my best friends, Amy and her gorgeous son Alfie.  It was great to just create, make a mess and have fun at the same time.  Not sure who enjoyed it more, Alfie or Amy and I! 

I loved it so much that I thought it would be nice to share a few little projects that you may like to try out with your little ones in the run up to Valentine's Day.

They are mainly pages that I have stumbled across while browsing on Pinterest and I have tried to include different projects to suit a range of ages.

1.  Paper Heart Garland

http://howaboutorange.blogspot.co.uk/2010/01/paper-heart-garland.html

2.   Valentine Jelly Pops

http://jelly-shot-test-kitchen.blogspot.ie/2012/01/valentine-jelly-pops.html 

3.  My Little Valentine Matchboxes

http://inchmark.squarespace.com/inchmark/2009/2/10/my-little-valentine.html

 4.  Love Bug Valentines Card

http://www.bellasavvy.net/archives/19074 

5.  Felt Heart Monster

http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2013/02/felt-heart-monster.html 

6.  Molly's Sketchbook: Felt Candy Hearts

http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2012/2/3/mollys-sketchbook-felt-candy-hearts.html 

7.  Valentine Paper Roll Owls

http://www.happyclippings.com/2013/01/diy-valentine-paper-roll-owls.html

 8.  Egg Carton Heart

http://krokotak.com/2012/11/egg-carton-heart 

9.  Long Distance Hug 

http://thepartyevent.wordpress.com/2012/02/05/valentines-crafts-for-kids-a-long-distance-hug-a-beautiful-present-for-someone-special-diy/ 

10.  Valentine Bookmark

http://www.education.com/activity/article/valentine-bookmark-craft/

Thank you to all the blogs/websites above for sharing their lovely work and creativity.  

Have a great Valentine's Day and lots of fun too!

Jayne

xxx

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Amigurumi - Ami what?

As you will probably know, if you have read my blog before or follow me on Facebook or Twitter, I like to try my hand at anything creative.  One craft that I had never been able to master up until recent years was crochet.  Only about three years ago I started to learn the basics so to be sharing my latest Amigurumi project with you makes me feel quite proud of myself.  I finished her earlier this week and I love her to bits. This is "Kira" the Kangaroo!

 

I found a link to the pattern for "Kira", one day while browsing Pinterest, on a lovely french blog called, Tournicote... à cloche-pied.

My love for crocheting began at a 17th century reenactment weekend (don't ask, that's for another blog post!) when my good friend Charlie got out a crochet hook and a ball of wool.  I instantly wanted to learn.  She started by showing me how to do a basic chain and we then went on to make a rose.  I loved it and was 'hooked'!  Since then there has hardly been day when i haven't picked up a hook!

I really wanted to develop my new skill so I turned to good old You Tube.  I started on small, simple projects and learnt new stitches and techniques.  I gradually improved after a lot of hard work and a few mistakes along the way!

One branch of crochet that I could never seem to master was Amigurumi.  Ami what, you say?

For those of you that have never heard of it, Amigurumi originated in Japan around about 2003 and has steadily grown in popularity over the years.  In fact, in 2006 it was reported to be one of the most popular items on Etsy.  The word, Amigurumi (pronounced, 'Ah - mee - goo - roo - mee) is derived from a combination of ami, meaning crocheted or knitted, and nuigurumi, meaning stuffed doll.

My first attempts at Amigurumi were a bit embarrassing.  I was rubbish at working with smaller hooks, typically used to keep the stitches small and tight.  My stitches always ended up baggy and the stuffing showed through.  I wasn't going to post a picture of my first little project but here it is anyway. No laughing, we all have to start somewhere!

I eventually got frustrated and gave it up as a bad job.

It all changed just before Christmas.  I wanted to make a Kokeshi doll for my fiancé's Sister-In-Law but the pattern called for a knowledge of Amigurumi.  I was annoyed that I'd failed at my first attempt at Amigurumi so this time I was determined that I was going to master it.

And this was the result...

A cute little Kokeshi doll complete with beaded chopsticks in her hair.  I found the pattern over at the wonderful blog, All About Ami.

I then went onto to create a new Kokeshi doll that also serves as a little trinket box designed by HandmadeKitty.  She was a lot more challenging but I got there in the end and learnt a few new tricks along the way!

So it just goes to show that you are never too old to learn a new skill even if learning it didn't work out first time around!

“Everything is hard before it is easy”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Crochet is such a great art to learn.  There are so many different styles that I truly believe that there is something to appeal to all tastes.  

If you fancy having a go and need any advice about where to start please do not hesitate in contacting me.  I'm not perfect at it but I would always attempt to help if I can.

Jayne

xxx

P.S. Happy Birthday to Charlie, the wonderful friend that gave me my passion for crochet.

Crocheted Granny Bunting

Well, it's been quite a while since I posted a blog.  Everyday life seems to have taken over but I'm back and going to try to make more of an effort to share what's going on here in the Pink Sweetheart craft room.

Over the last couple of weeks I decided to have a go at making some pretty crocheted bunting, this time it was meant to be for my kitchen for once!  I spend so much time making things for other people that sometimes I tend to neglect adding prettiness to my home.

I have wanted to adorn my little cottage with more crocheted items for a long time now but have never got round to it.  I needed a bit of inspiration and after looking at a lot of granny square patterns I thought granny square bunting would be perfect.  So, out came my hooks and my ever growing stash of wool.

My Wool Choice

I based my design on a basic granny square pattern but with only three sides.  The colour choice was easy!  I just selected three colours from the fabric used in my kitchen, a lovely rich red, baby pink and cream.  Let the crochet begin...

Work in Progress

Twelve triangles later and my bunting was nearly finished!

Bunting Stack

All that was left to do was to join them together and ta da.... 

The Kitchen Fireplace

The next decision to make was where to put it!  Maybe I should just make more and even some matching coasters?  Watch this space!

Plate Rack Bunting

Close-Up

If you would like me to create some bespoke bunting in any size or in colours of your choice do not hesitate to contact me.  Prices vary depending on size. 

I also have one ready made bunting available here on the Pink Sweetheart Facebook page.

Jayne

xxx

Why Not Try a Little Drawing with your Sewing Machine?

Over the last few months I decided that I wanted to rekindle my love for freehand machine embroidery.  I had dabbled with it years ago while at uni and loved every minute of it.  So many times I have tried to have another go at it but my ‘not so trusty’ 25 year old sewing machine was having none of it!

Last year I was very lucky to be able to purchase a brand new ‘all singing, all dancing’ machine.  I was a little daunted at first but after many an hour playing my confidence has started to grow.

 

My New Sewing Machine

It didn’t take long before I was dropping the feed dogs and swapping the normal sewing foot for a darning foot!

Darning Foot

I was ready to start drawing once again with my sewing machine!

But where to start?..... I needed a bit of help and inspiration!
After a bit of ‘Googling’ and research I came across Poppy Treffry’s book, Freehand Machine Embroidery.

I simply just NEEDED it!

I was so excited, a few days later, when the postman knocked on the door with my special delivery.....

My New Book

I couldn’t wait to get reading!

Poppy’s book definitely didn’t disappoint.  Everything about the book is amazing.  The quality..... the photography..... and most of all Poppy’s writing style.

Each page is set out so that it’s easy to understand whether you are reading it page by page or just flicking through.

The book is split into three main sections:

1. Starting Out
An introduction into the basic equipment, fabrics that you will need and getting to grips with using your machine for freehand machine embroidery.

Starting Out

This section is brilliant for those that are just starting out.  As well as it being very informative, the images are so inspiring.  Poppy even covers how to maintain your sewing machine!

2. Techniques
This guides you through outlining, shading and appliqué.  It covers finishing and edging.  

Techniques

There is also a brilliant (much needed in my case) trouble shooting table.
I love this part of the book! Poppy encourages you to just have a go, have fun and not to worry if it’s not perfect or if your needle snaps.  In her words it’s,

 "all part of the learning curve"

This put my mind at rest as I did have one or two needle mishaps along the way!

3. PROJECTS

The exciting part!  Lots of lovely projects for you to try out, sixteen in all!  Every single project has easy to follow instructions with a combination of beautifully hand-drawn images and photographs.  The step by step guides are simple yet detailed enough to make the learning process easier.  

Projects

I love that Poppy includes little ‘tips’ that, believe me, do come in really useful!
Templates for all of the projects are included too.

At the back of the book there is a suppliers and a sources of inspiration section.

This was my first attempt at a little machine embroidery, not perfect, I know, but with more practice I'm hoping to improve my skills.  In the meantime I'm enjoying every minute of practicing!

My First Attempt

You can follow my progress by 'liking' the Pink Sweetheart Facebook page here.  I'll also be sharing a few pictures over the next few weeks on Twitter, @PinkSweetheart

Overall I would highly recommend Poppy Treffry's,  Freehand Machine Embroidery book.  The book has taught me so many new things that I would have never thought of on my own.  I have shown it to quite a few of my crafty/artistic friends and every single one was impressed by the high standard and quality of this brilliant book.

I can't wait to get my next Poppy Treffry book and maybe do another little review to share here on my blog.

Thank you Poppy!

Jayne

xxx

For more information about Poppy Treffry take a look at her website,  http://www.poppytreffry.co.uk

You can also follow her if your are a twitter user,

@PoppyTreffry

And also on Facebook,

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Poppy-Treffry/84558333782

Book Details 

Freehand Machine Embroidery

Learning to draw with your sewing machine.

By Poppy Treffry

Published by David and Charles

ISBN-13: 978-1-4463-0186-9 paperback

ISBN-10: 1-4463-0186-9 paperback 

My First Nomination... The Liebster Award!

It was such a lovely surprise this week to be nominated for a Liebster Blog Award by Jade at the @UniqueMummyBlog
 

Jade's blog is wonderful. She shares what goes on in her life as a young mummy. She became a mum just before her 16th birthday but was determined to stay in education and remained living with her parents.  A good move as far as I can see.  Her blog is a brilliant inspiration to all of the other young Mums out there!
From what I have read about Jade on her blog she has done everything in her power to do the right thing for herself and her son, Spud.  I really respect that.

In Jade's words,

"I will try everything once, twice if I like it"

Visit Jade's blog
 http://www.uniqueyoungmum.com

So what is the Liebster Blog Award?

It's an award given to bloggers that have less than 200 followers.  There are no judges, no prizes or votes given.  You are nominated by a fellow blogger who has enjoyed reading your blog and wants to encourage you to continue blogging. So basically if you are nominated for one you are a winner!

There are a few rules to follow if you wish to accept the award:

List 11 facts about yourself.

Answer the 11 questions given to you.

Create 11 new questions for the bloggers you nominate for the award.

Thank the person who nominated you and link back to their blog.

Choose 5 bloggers with 200 or less followers to nominate.

Go to each bloggers page and let them know about the award.


11 Facts About Me

1.  I once came first in a national newspaper colouring competition. I won one of these! #Atari

2. I have taught hundreds of people to drive and I'm very proud of that!
 3. I once met Charlton Heston
 4. I have moved house over 15 times
 5. I once designed a 12ft banner that was displayed in York Minster
 6. I have spoken to Steve Diggle and Pete Shelley from Buzzcocks on the telephone
 7. I can touch my nose with my tongue
 8. I have an eight year old goldfish named Alan
 9. I get nervous every single time I go to publish a blog post
 10. I hate seafood
11. I once got attacked by someone's pet crow


 11 Questions given to me

1. Why did you start blogging? 
I was encouraged to start a blog by my lovely friend @mammalewis I wanted to share my designs and creations with like-minded people and blogging seemed the perfect way. 
2. What’s your favourite fizzy drink?

Lemonade from Aldi, best lemonade ever and it's only 40p! 
3. Favourite holiday destination?
It's got to be Africa. The safari was amazing.
 4. What’s your favourite chocolate bar?
You can't get it anymore but when you could it was an Ovaltine chocolate bar. 
5. What’s your favourite Disney movie?

The original 1976 Freaky Friday
6. What’s the best thing you can cook?
A good old fashioned Shepherd's Pie  
7. Which 5 celebrities would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Guy Martin, Kenny Rogers, Aiden Moffet, Matt Johnson and Andrew Weatherall can DJ 
8. What’s your bad habits?
Procrastination
9. Favourite word?
thing·a·ma·jig 
10. If you had to dress up as a Disney Character who would you be and why?
 Mickey Mouse, I like wearing red and black. 
11. What’s your biggest fear?

Panic


My Questions for my nominees?

1. What and/or who inspired you to start your blog?

2. Which of your blog posts is your favourite to date and why? (Give us a link too!)

3. What do enjoy the most about reading blog posts?

4. If you had to write a blog post talking about your favourite place, where would the post be about? (Write it soon and share it!)

5. Who, past or present, do you wish had written a blog so that you could read a little more about them?

6. If you could go back to a very special day in your life, which day would it be and why?

7. What do you wish that you could do but can’t? (Set yourself a goal to do it this year!)

8. Music, what would you listen to right now if you could?

9. What's your favourite possession?

10. Favourite radio station?

11. Have you planned your next blog post? (If not, do it, I love reading your posts!

My Nominations 


Fin, Son of @blamehound
http://fin.creativeblogs.net/
Fin is a 9yr old reluctant writer but has found a love in sharing his favourite things through blogging!


@PetraSenders 
 http://www.knittedpainting.blogspot.co.uk/
I love Petra’s blog! She takes amazing pictures. I especially love her photos of my local area.


@buttonbeautiful 
http://www.buttonbeautiful.wordpress.com
I’ve followed Tracey on Twitter for a long time now and always look forward to her new blog posts to see what she has been crocheting this week. I don’t know how on earth she gets the time while looking after her 5 lovely children!


@charliestamper
www.charlieischarlottelouise.blogspot.com
Charlie is my closest long distance friend.  She doesn’t blog very often but when she does you can always tell it’s from the heart. I just love her style of writing so much. Blog more Charlie!


 @thebuttontin
http://gemmanemer.blogspot.co.uk/p/button-tin.html
Gemma creates the most beautiful things in her little shop in Rotherham
She did a brilliant interview on Radio Sheffield yesterday promoting the giving of handmade things.

Thank you to all the above for sharing your blogs.

Jayne
xxx

Platform 9¾……… All Aboard!

One of my favourite commissions from 2012 was to design a birthday card.  It was for the Mum of one of my very special friends, Charlie (@charliestamper).  Charlie designs and makes things herself so it was pretty important to me that I got this right!

Charlie was planning on taking her Mum to see the Warner Bros Studio Tour of the Harry Potter films in London as a birthday treat.  She called me to ask if I could design and make a special card to mark this occasion.

Harry Potter Card

I must admit I did feel slightly daunted by this prospect.  I was worried that whatever I designed may look far too masculine for a Mum’s birthday card.  I like a challenge and this was going to be one! 

My main aim was to make sure that the card appealed to Val (Charlie’s Mum).  Charlie talks quite a lot about her Mum so I kind of know a little about her taste already, so that was a good start.  Val makes beautiful vintage style cake stands and as you can see here she is a lady of style!

The look that I decided on was mainly inspired by the enchanting, magical feel that is loved by so many Potter fans.  I wanted the card to have a unique feel and to be as interactive and tactile as possible.  That’s when I came up with the idea that it could have removable elements.

Platform 9¾ Ticket

One of Charlie’s main specifications was that she wanted the card to include an image of the famous Platform 9¾ ticket.  I thought it would be good for the ticket to be one that you could actually take from the card and hold in your hand.  This inspired me to include a distressed, origami folded Marauder’s Map.  I really enjoy origami and distressing things so this was something that I really loved doing!  The ticket and the map where placed in a pocket on the front of the card.

 

The folded map opens out to reveal the witchcraft and wizardry world of Hogwarts School.

Full Map

I then had to chose a colour theme for the card.  A rich chocolate brown and cream seemed to fit in perfectly with the whole look of the card.

I was really starting to love this project! It was becoming one of the most enjoyable commissions that I had been given to date.

Now to add a bit of femininity to the card.  I had a rummage through my ribbon collection and came across a lovely antique style lace and some beautiful chocolate brown organza.  They matched so well and after playing about with the composition a little I found perfect places for them on the card.  It was all starting to come together really well!

Chocolate Brown Organza Ribbon

Finally I decided to add the finishing touch of two antique looking keys.

Antique Style Keys

As you can probably tell I really put my heart into this card. My ultimate goal was reached by putting a smile on Charlie and Val’s face on this special occasion.

Check out Charlie’s lovely designs and makes here at  C.J Magpies & Co. Facebook page. 

If you'd like me to design a special bespoke card please feel free to contact me. 

Jayne

xxx