tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86228171900551093752024-03-13T11:22:20.422-07:00The Stitching PixieEthical Style. Craft. Design. Cornwall.
I knit. I crochet. I sew. I pattern cut. I teach.
Some things resonate.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-38796922297183592017-09-02T15:19:00.000-07:002017-09-02T15:19:55.061-07:00Simple Steps for Calming Back-to-School Stress<h3>
September Stresses</h3>
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Whether you are a student, a teacher or a parent, this coming week has potential to be quite stressful. Back-to-school can definitely come with a shock: whether you are perhaps going off to university, or preparing to meet your new class of students, or maybe wondering how on earth you will get the kids out of the door in the right clothes and with all the right kit, let alone support them through school, then you might be in need of help to de-stress.</div>
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Here are three simple tips to help you through this and any other bumpy period in your life. You can also teach them to your kids- nobody else need know they are even doing them, but giving them useful tools to manage stress at a young age might well help them to become emotionally empowered adults. </div>
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1. Slow Exhales</h3>
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This simple breath technique is one I use all the time. It is so simple to do, but if you are feeling stressed, if your heart is beating fast or you are anxious, by slowing down your exhales you will kick-start your parasympathetic nervous system, which is the one that tells the body everything is ok and it can function normally (in other words the fight-or-fight response shuts down). It can also, really simply, give you back a sense of control. </div>
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2. Simple Visualisation</h3>
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Imagine that you can see yourself from above, looking down on whatever you're doing right now. Why? Because it can give you a sense of distance, of separation & perspective. When I am teaching yoga I say 'notice this' or 'notice that' all the time, to help make my students aware of their body or their breath. It's useful in everyday life because if you can start to notice how you feel about things, how you are reacting, and thought patterns that you have then you can begin to see the narrative that you tell yourself, and whether it's really useful. </div>
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If you try imagining that you can see yourself from above you can begin to notice what is really you, and what you might be doing- they are different. You are not defined by anything that happens in a single moment, or a day, or a week. If you make an embarrassing mistake, or you have a terrible day or even an angry week these things do not constitute you, and if you can take that long look at a situation that may well seem stressful in the moment, you can maybe get a better sense of how you actually want to handle it- there is always a choice. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finding some peace in the everyday</td></tr>
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3. Mudra</h3>
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Simple Mudras are fantastic calming things to do with your hands. In times of stress many of us have nervous things we do with our hands, touching our face or hair, or scratching, or tugging at clothes. This can sometimes make us more stressed. Instead, try pressing your thumbs against the tips of your ring finger and little fingers of both hands. This is Pran Mudra, and helps reduce nervousness and facilitates clear thinking. It is great to have a breath exercise and a mental exercise, but sometimes taking a physical, proactive step- however tiny- is what we need to feel like we are in control. </div>
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Good luck in your back to school transitions. I'd love to know if you find these tips helpful, and in the mean time here is love and light to you all! </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-91396988084530485962017-08-24T06:17:00.001-07:002017-08-25T13:40:30.312-07:00On Change<h3>
Change. It's always difficult. </h3>
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A few people I know seem to be having unexpected things happening in their lives right now, forcing change upon them whether they like it or not. </div>
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Let me tell you a little story about change as I see it:</div>
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We had a car, which we loved- quite irrationally as it was an inanimate object, but it was reliable, comfortable, it drove smoothly, it was classy. We thought it was very 'us'. We felt loyal to it. It served us really well, especially when we stuffed it as full as we could and ratcheted a chair to the roof to drive across the whole country to get to Cornwall. </div>
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Then, one pleasant afternoon a couple of months ago, this happened: </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unforeseen Change</td></tr>
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The first thing to say is that fortunately nobody was hurt. It was just a silly thing, which I saw happening but was powerless to prevent. I was shocked and shaky.</div>
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The second fortunate thing for me was that the other driver immediately admitted responsibility and phoned his insurance company. </div>
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There were many other positive things which happened in those early moments- offspring could be contacted in round-about way (thanks Tilda!). Other parents rallied round. It was a sunny afternoon so I wasn't waiting in the rain. There was a warm coat in the boot of the car, which I needed in my state of shock. Phone calls were fielded on my behalf at home. The recovery guys (Tonkins- if you live in Cornwall you will know them) were absolutely brilliant... there were so many things that I could have considered lucky, or in fact good at that point in time, but I didn't feel particularly grateful.</div>
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I will spare you the whole saga, but just skip ahead to the fact that our lovely car, being 10 years old, was considered a write-off. We were aghast- how could our faithful friend with minor damage be good for nothing? We only have one car, so we were left with what we considered to be an extremely freaky hire car on a countdown to when we had to return it, and then potentially no transport at all. The situation was problematic. We spent a lot of time chasing all possible solutions, but we were getting nowhere, except closer to meltdown in a wasteland of used cars.</div>
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Cactus in the Wasteland</h3>
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It was then that a strange thing happened. We developed a crush on our hire car. Freaky became beautiful. Space age gadgets began to seem like they were right for 2017. And in short, dear reader, we bought one. </div>
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So, this is not a car advert but I will quickly tell you a few things I love about our Citroen Cactus: it is fun to drive, it is extremely economical, the tax is currently free, it is roomy, it has all sorts of modern gadgets... and it just has that <i>je ne sais quoi</i>. We certainly did not know how inefficient our old car was until we saw how little we now spend at the petrol station.</div>
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Now, not every change is as simple as finding a new car. But my point is that this situation seemed so bad, such a puzzle in the moment, and kind of desperate. And once it was resolved all of that worry seemed so trivial. The best outcome happened for us.</div>
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We resist change- it is stressful and unsettling, sometimes even shocking. But, if you're going through something unforeseen, please remember that change is in fact the natural order of things- it's more natural than any kind of status quo. </div>
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You Can't Always Get What You Want</h3>
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We did not realise we needed a new car until one was thrust upon us, for which I am now, with hindsight, grateful. Changes come in all magnitudes. Whether it is cars, jobs, houses, relationships, lifestyles or whatever, sometimes we don't know what we need until we are confronted with it, which invariably means we have to let go of the old. If you're enduring a traumatic development in your life I can't promise that you will be fine, that things will be great, but sometimes things might just turn out for the best. And, human nature being what it is, I am sure we all need reminders to look for the positives hidden in our difficulties. </div>
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You might just end up finding the cactus in your wasteland.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-21119595082288219352017-02-09T11:20:00.001-08:002017-02-09T11:20:54.230-08:00Winter in Cornwall & Polperro Off Season <h2>
Winter in Cornwall</h2>
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Some time ago, upon meeting somebody for the first time, I was asked, "yes, but have you spent a winter in Cornwall yet...?" </div>
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We had- and had loved it too- but I suppose I can understand a little bit her implication that winter here is an ordeal. It can be very wet and stormy, and can seem entirely different from endless summer days. </div>
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Quick Guide to A Cornish Winter:</h2>
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It is well worth visiting Cornwall out of season- it is still just as beautiful but has the advantage of being a lot quieter. Here are some quick tips:</h3>
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Dress well:</h3>
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The weather here is extremely changeable so I always opt for light layers which I can adjust as necessary. Good footwear is essential on slippy surfaces, as is a waterproof top layer as you can almost bank on getting wet at some point.</div>
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Take provisions:</h3>
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In the summer there is an abundance of cafés, and in some places this is the case in winter too, but not always. A hot flask and some sandwiches is never a bad idea. </div>
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Travel with care: </h3>
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In my experience the Cornish can be a little gung-ho when it comes to driving (if also quite courteous too). Factor in narrow lanes with Cornish hedges (aka jagged walls, eager to burst any passing tyre), cyclists, tractors, roadworks, oncoming headlights and potentially horizontal rain... it can be challenging even when you are accustomed to it. So, my advice here is to just take your time and don't be intimidated, and consider using public transport for more-major destinations. The trains here are good, and the fact that they run at a leisurely pace gives you a great chance to soak up the scenery.</div>
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Take bad weather seriously:</h3>
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Storms do batter the South West of England. The ensuing rough seas and blustery weather can be exhilarating. However, they are also dangerous, and it is essential to take care. One thing to love about Cornwall is that there are rarely any railings, and no busy-bodies telling you what you can and can't do. However, just because you <i>can</i> stroll onto an exposed quay in a storm it really doesn't mean that you <i>should</i>. And yet... people still do! Is that shot for Instagram really worth it...?</div>
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Be Flexible:</h3>
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If I was renting a cottage here in the winter, I would definitely plan some indoor things to do, but seize every opportunity to soak up the wonderful light when it does show itself. Spring does appear to come early here too, despite the stormy weather, so don't forget to look for the signs.</div>
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Things to do on a cold day in Polperro:</h2>
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The village of Polperro is situated along a deep shady valley, and as such it can feel pretty chilly there, even on a summer's day, let alone in the winter when seemingly everything is shut anyway. So, if you're planning a winter day-trip I've put together some highlights: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-veE8xLTWMbA/WJxRfkVqeRI/AAAAAAAABr8/SrSob7i9uQ0p1XXE6gVWhflFWn9QFbm0QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Polperro shuts for the winter" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-veE8xLTWMbA/WJxRfkVqeRI/AAAAAAAABr8/SrSob7i9uQ0p1XXE6gVWhflFWn9QFbm0QCLcB/s640/IMG_1733.jpg" title="Polperro shuts for the winter" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Prettiest 'Closed' Sign</td></tr>
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The Shell House:</h3>
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A must-see at any time of year. This stunning property just appears as you walk around Polperro harbour. Entirely free to marvel at, but you can leave your donation in the box. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abub9fCGNEo/WJxRhPYYOwI/AAAAAAAABsM/zqK1yzIZ_BYxDGcUe4VW8tg5e0P1V2UrQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="The Shell House Polperro" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abub9fCGNEo/WJxRhPYYOwI/AAAAAAAABsM/zqK1yzIZ_BYxDGcUe4VW8tg5e0P1V2UrQCLcB/s640/IMG_1738.jpg" title="The Shell House Polperro" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Shell House Polperro</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Shell House Polperro</td></tr>
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Watch the water</h3>
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The river flows right through the centre of Polperro- right up against the buildings. It is also a working harbour, so there's plenty of boats to watch, as well as swans, ducks, and all sorts of other birds. The tide rises and falls rapidly in the harbour, so this is the perfect place to just be present and watch life unfold in front of you. There's such a meditative quality in doing this. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSgwoZVq-UM/WJxRgHh38hI/AAAAAAAABsE/bDmrld-f1sECeHJBlGYQ-N-nLLoqRdh9QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="House on the Props, Polperro" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSgwoZVq-UM/WJxRgHh38hI/AAAAAAAABsE/bDmrld-f1sECeHJBlGYQ-N-nLLoqRdh9QCLcB/s640/IMG_1736.jpg" title="House on the Props, Polperro" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House on the Props, Polperro</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hJv_9dOnxc/WJxRhtzUu6I/AAAAAAAABsY/UXKJcWnKLFwYCZEVTx1Ac-BE-QAk_XxDACLcB/s1600/IMG_1743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Polperro Harbour" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hJv_9dOnxc/WJxRhtzUu6I/AAAAAAAABsY/UXKJcWnKLFwYCZEVTx1Ac-BE-QAk_XxDACLcB/s640/IMG_1743.jpg" title="Polperro Harbour" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Polperro Harbour</td></tr>
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Walk: </h3>
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Follow the coast path in either direction to get a fuller view of the stunning coastline. To the west you can walk up past the historic Net Loft and onto a rocky outcrop, from which the views both back into town and out to sea are just beautiful. As well as being scientifically proven to make you feel good, walking will help you stave off the cold. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ac_apv59bJQ/WJxRjJSYpxI/AAAAAAAABsk/Nn83xm1e_X0-5Ucvww0FbSKXa2qwcdx1QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Coast Path Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ac_apv59bJQ/WJxRjJSYpxI/AAAAAAAABsk/Nn83xm1e_X0-5Ucvww0FbSKXa2qwcdx1QCLcB/s640/IMG_1768.jpg" title="The Coast Path Cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Coast Path</td></tr>
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But if you don't fancy this, you can explore the beach below with its caves, rock pools and steps carved into the stone. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cornish Light</td></tr>
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The sea pool:</h3>
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Ok, so in this picture the tide is in, but you can just make out the outline of the naturally formed sea pool. I admit that I did not swim in it on my recent visit, but with a warm wetsuit there is no reason why you shouldn't take advantage of its emptiness in colder months. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AQVHU5dHi2g/WJxRjAhVBoI/AAAAAAAABsg/u94vkf9EmZYJ-rVpl15PlF8QCOmGruCcACLcB/s1600/IMG_1763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Sea Pool Polperro" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AQVHU5dHi2g/WJxRjAhVBoI/AAAAAAAABsg/u94vkf9EmZYJ-rVpl15PlF8QCOmGruCcACLcB/s640/IMG_1763.jpg" title="The Sea Pool Polperro" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sea Pool</td></tr>
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And if all else fails, there is always </div>
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Roly's Fudge</h3>
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There is nothing like a sweet treat to warm yourself up on a winter day, and who can resist that wonderful smell...? The best fudge comes from Roly's, and the branch in Polperro has the friendliest service too. If you are spoilt for choice then do try the sea salt flavour.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roy's Fudge Polperro</td></tr>
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Enjoy your visit, and please let me know if you find my tips useful </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-28530948247899703692016-11-14T08:38:00.002-08:002016-11-14T08:45:36.593-08:00Small Talk (plus discount code)<h2>
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Sustainable Smalls:</h2>
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Underwear can pose a bit of a problem when it comes to dressing more sustainably. We are quite demanding of our smalls (we want them smooth but supportive, invisible but opaque, cool but warm...). And, a cursory glance about any lingerie department in a large shop will show you a huge range of styles, because our tastes are so individual. </div>
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Bras pose a bit more of a problem, as the fit is so personal, and us women vary so widely in terms of our shape. However, I've taken a peek at some sustainable pants and put together a small selection to get you started, hope you like them! </div>
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N.B. there are no pictures of my actual tried and tested pants! </div>
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Merino Wool:</h2>
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Yes really. If you haven't caught up with my craze for everything merino then see <a href="http://thefitpixie.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/wool-week-review-intensify-seamless.html" target="_blank">here</a>- I'm a convert! </div>
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And, I do now own merino pants. Merino is light and temperature regulating, moisture wicking, anti-smell, sustainable, completely biodegradable, and contrary to what you might expect it is also smooth, comfortable, and easy to care for. </div>
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Cornish brand <a href="http://www.finisterre.com/shop/womens/clothing/merino-underwear-womens-thermal-underwear.html" target="_blank">Finisterre</a> make nice-looking woolly pants, or you could try <a href="http://uk.icebreaker.com/en/womens-underwear" target="_blank">Icebreaker</a>, although reviews are mixed for their pants. <a href="http://shop.eu.monsroyale.com/collections/underwear-womens-aw16" target="_blank">Mons Royale</a> make pretty longer-leg pants too. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Merino Wool Tank Top from Finisterre, which matches their undies.</td></tr>
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Silk:</h2>
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Silk is also entirely natural, breathable, and biodegradable. Traditionally a luxury fabric, it is strong and light, and temperature regulating. </div>
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<a href="http://www.greenfibres.com/product/productlist.aspx?&o=bm&i=12&val=0&term=silk+pants&p=0&dep=0&new=0&sale=0&c=0&man=0&atr=63&addatr=72&fpr=0&lp=0&up=9999999&wsh=0&page=1" target="_blank">Greenfibres</a> sell a range of undies made from organic silk jersey, which looks supremely comfortable, (unlike some silk undies made from woven fabrics which can feel a bit papery).You can use code PIXIE10 for a discount at <a href="http://www.greenfibres.com/" target="_blank">Greenfibres</a>. </div>
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Bamboo:</h2>
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I have some of <a href="http://www.noballs.co.uk/Bamboo-Bikini-Briefs-Black/NB1615400.html" target="_blank">these</a> undies from <a href="http://www.noballs.co.uk/" target="_blank">No Balls</a>. They are the most comfortable pants ever! Completely seamless, they are soft and stretchy, and they fit really well. They are £11 a pair, or cheaper if you can find what you need in the <a href="http://www.noballs.co.uk/products/clearance" target="_blank">clearance</a> section. They also make a <a href="http://www.noballs.co.uk/Bamboo-Seamless-Briefs-Midnight/NB1615369.html" target="_blank">boy short</a>. </div>
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Other suppliers of bamboo undies include <a href="https://bambooclothing.co.uk/category/womens-bamboo-underwear" target="_blank">BAM</a>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic Cotton Stripes from Seasalt. Their pants are designed in the same vein. </td></tr>
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Organic Cotton:</h2>
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<a href="https://www.seasaltcornwall.co.uk/women/clothing/underwear_1" target="_blank">Seasalt Cornwall</a> make pretty organic cotton pants, including their signature sailor stripe. Watch out for <a href="http://mightygoodundies.com.au/our-range/" target="_blank">Mighty Good Undies</a> too who have a good range of styles available soon, and again <a href="http://www.greenfibres.com/product/267/organic-cotton.htm" target="_blank">Greenfibres</a> who also stock a pretty range of pants (again don't forget to use code PIXIE10). </div>
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Enjoy shopping for sustainable underwear, and if you have any favourites that I haven't mentioned then do let me know :-)</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-17836439341221079152016-10-18T02:19:00.000-07:002016-10-18T02:19:45.932-07:00On Garment Waste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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Organic Cotton Stripes</h3>
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If you are a regular reader, you will probably know that I do love a stripey sailor top, especially if it is made from organic cotton and is in a fabulous colour, like orange perhaps. </div>
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I was interested, then, when I noticed that my local Seasalt branch was having a sale recently. I popped in, with no particular intention of making a purchase and discovered this beauty on the sale rack: </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ztFCcgAfZ5M/WAXjYPzHt4I/AAAAAAAABn0/KFJeAd_qx1k0JrITf_lbW2ho1Yc6O3aEgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="organic cotton sailor top" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ztFCcgAfZ5M/WAXjYPzHt4I/AAAAAAAABn0/KFJeAd_qx1k0JrITf_lbW2ho1Yc6O3aEgCLcB/s640/IMG_1023.jpg" title="organic cotton sailor top" width="640" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
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Brilliant Mistake</h3>
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It turns out that this, and a bunch of other items were all reduced because they have flaws: tiny rips, buttons missing, small marks, that sort of thing. Well, naturally I headed straight for the checkout with my prize. I bet you didn't even notice the tiny mark either- it's barely even visible in the picture, despite the huge incriminating arrow!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3QhgoxrHcnI/WAXjYG4axMI/AAAAAAAABn4/L_7yUodwl-kE8ukanFHnmZhB-OdSuANNACLcB/s1600/IMG_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="seasalt cornwall organic top" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3QhgoxrHcnI/WAXjYG4axMI/AAAAAAAABn4/L_7yUodwl-kE8ukanFHnmZhB-OdSuANNACLcB/s640/IMG_1024.jpg" title="seasalt cornwall organic top" width="640" /></a></div>
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Marks for Thought</h3>
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This got me to thinking: why don't we see more slight second in shops like this? In short, I suspect it is because they are sent to be mulched before they even reach the shop floor, or worse- to landfill. There's nothing wrong with recycling of course when something has reached the end of its life, but how much better to offer people the choice? Surely it's up to the individual consumer whether a 'flaw' is acceptable to them or not? </div>
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Thank you, Seasalt</h3>
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So, thanks Seasalt for putting these less-than-perfect garments out there for us to make up our own minds, and giving items which have taken resources and energy all along the production line a chance to be used before they go to be recycled. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuBBI7aAXjY/WAXjX83R_aI/AAAAAAAABnw/tiFQFjmfYXoKG4EWNicrFc6v9z1cS-TygCLcB/s1600/IMG_1030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="responsible fashion " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuBBI7aAXjY/WAXjX83R_aI/AAAAAAAABnw/tiFQFjmfYXoKG4EWNicrFc6v9z1cS-TygCLcB/s640/IMG_1030.jpg" title="responsible fashion " width="640" /></a></div>
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Could Try Harder?</h3>
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I was pleased to be handed my top in a small paper bag. The paper comes from 'sustainably managed forests' which is great, but wouldn't it be better if it was recycled paper? The receipt was also handed to me in a quite a large piece of folded card, and on reflection I wonder whether this is at all necessary- especially as due to the nature of my purchase it was going to be un-returnable anyway... food for thought.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-89001443646496177632016-10-06T07:25:00.001-07:002016-10-06T07:25:14.186-07:00New Pattern Announcement: Cornish Sunset Crochet Throw<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I devised this pattern some months ago, but having taught it to a group of lovely ladies at <a href="http://www.lynhervalley.co.uk/roselandmewsstudio/index.htm" target="_blank">Roseland Mews</a> last weekend, I finally had the impetus to dot the slip stitches and cross the trebles, and get the finished result listed up on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cornish-sunset-throw" target="_blank">ravelry</a>. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8nSeL6HUag/V_ZYsEVe1jI/AAAAAAAABms/PxxXXM7LTEgzWu-hKkUGpwPbWHSzWXWMgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="crochet workshop cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8nSeL6HUag/V_ZYsEVe1jI/AAAAAAAABms/PxxXXM7LTEgzWu-hKkUGpwPbWHSzWXWMgCLcB/s640/IMG_4508.jpg" title="crochet workshop cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cornish Sunset Crochet Throw </td></tr>
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The colour scheme was mainly dictated by what I had in my stash at the time, but I feel it works well for the sunset theme, with a little pop of colour in the centre of each motif. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O825w2qztwk/V_ZYpSA5wpI/AAAAAAAABmY/Z_sin0BScCc6JpXf3Cu0VSExT5WWhb1swCLcB/s1600/IMG_0881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="crochet lessons cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O825w2qztwk/V_ZYpSA5wpI/AAAAAAAABmY/Z_sin0BScCc6JpXf3Cu0VSExT5WWhb1swCLcB/s640/IMG_0881.jpg" title="crochet lessons cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobbles!</td></tr>
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The pattern is both written and charted, allowing my workshop participants to familiarise themselves with both, as well as looking at some more-advanced techniques like bobbles. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pattern on Ravelry</td></tr>
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Following the pattern is a great exercise in counting stitches and reading what you have done- skills which are always useful! </div>
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I can deliver this workshop on request, so if you have a crochet group or just a few friends who you want to get together for me to visit then please contact me so we can discuss it!</div>
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The blanket is worked in Aran-weight yarn, so it builds up quite quickly. My sample is about 3' square, but of course you can keep adding hexagons until you reach the size you want. </div>
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It occurred to me after the workshop that I have lots of odds and ends in Aran weight yarn, which I could collage together to make more of a random result. Because there is a lot going on in this version, I have kept the coloured centres to a single colour, and I've also left out the bobbles. </div>
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I can make these motifs pretty much without even looking now, so this is great TV crochet for me. I'd like the result to be big enough to thrower the bed, where we have duck-egg-coloured walls... but, there's no urgency so I'll just see where this project goes. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-juu1AaBwwlA/V_ZZyFU5BRI/AAAAAAAABm4/A9Q2gFjBub0IGvz3D2pWX7zYiWROfOvYgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="craft teacher cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-juu1AaBwwlA/V_ZZyFU5BRI/AAAAAAAABm4/A9Q2gFjBub0IGvz3D2pWX7zYiWROfOvYgCLcB/s640/IMG_0913.jpg" title="craft teacher cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Next Crochet Blanket</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cornish Sky</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-29953229463777889362016-09-16T11:36:00.002-07:002016-09-16T11:36:37.978-07:00Neal's Yard Review: 3 Favourite Cosmetics (Organic Beauty Week)<!--START MERCHANT:merchant name Neals Yard Remedies from affiliatewindow.com.-->
<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=452783&v=3169&q=114851&r=267317"><img border="0" src="https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=452783&v=3169&q=114851&r=267317" /></a>
<!--END MERCHANT:merchant name Neals Yard Remedies from affiliatewindow.com-->
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<h3>
Au Naturel</h3>
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I'm not the sort of woman who uses lots of cosmetics. I don't ever wear make-up (in fact I don't even own any). I don't have a problem with it, by which I mean for me it's not a polemical feminist choice not to wear it: it's not a statement as far as I'm concerned, I just can't muster any enthusiasm for it. And besides, I was alway useless when I tried to put it on to go out in my younger days. </div>
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<span style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; text-align: start;">Neal's Yard Organic Skincare</span></div>
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However, I do like good skincare, and I am trying to take better care of my skin as I get older. I've dipped in and out of Neal's Yard products over the years (when I dipped out it was because I could't afford it), but I do have a few favourites amongst their delightful range, so I thought I'd share them with you here, in time for Organic Beauty Week next week- which I am delighted to discover exists: </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s_r3xaes1rU/V9wwHOOv61I/AAAAAAAABlE/_kJwGJYmuS0C6zCRNZEzludhoVwN7eaOACLcB/s1600/IMG_0762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s_r3xaes1rU/V9wwHOOv61I/AAAAAAAABlE/_kJwGJYmuS0C6zCRNZEzludhoVwN7eaOACLcB/s640/IMG_0762.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What's so great about Organic?</h3>
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There is a great explanation on the Neal's Yard website, which you can see <a href="https://www.nealsyardremedies.com/about-us-pages/our-products/why-choose-organic.html" target="_blank">here</a>- I can't put it any better!<br />
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<!--START MERCHANT:merchant name Neals Yard Remedies from affiliatewindow.com.-->
<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=446433&v=3169&q=114853&r=267317"><img border="0" src="https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=446433&v=3169&q=114853&r=267317" /></a></h3>
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<!--END MERCHANT:merchant name Neals Yard Remedies from affiliatewindow.com-->
My Three Favourites: </h3>
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<b>Rose & Almond Night Cream:</b> this is an intense, nourishing cream which smells heavenly and comes in a delightfully old-fashioned tin tube. It's probably best for drier skin, but I find it absorbs easily enough and makes me feel like I'm really ready for some restorative sleep. 75% organic ingredients, and packed with anti-oxidants and vitamins. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VP4gd_HFLEU/V9wwHI5UQPI/AAAAAAAABlI/xJL984ZbLgQIkIc3Xh9TpBFymH8FQ5LnwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VP4gd_HFLEU/V9wwHI5UQPI/AAAAAAAABlI/xJL984ZbLgQIkIc3Xh9TpBFymH8FQ5LnwCLcB/s640/IMG_0763.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Wild Rose Hand Cream: </b>92% organic, this cream again smells divine. It is easy to apply, and is well absorbed whilst leaving your hands delicately scented. Plus, it has really pretty packaging. Perfect to counteract anything strenuous you might do with your hands.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOhz2vaawPk/V9wwGwC1l0I/AAAAAAAABlA/6vGNuHF9a04soGLmLNfTe0nrA13lI3zHwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOhz2vaawPk/V9wwGwC1l0I/AAAAAAAABlA/6vGNuHF9a04soGLmLNfTe0nrA13lI3zHwCLcB/s640/IMG_0764.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Starflower Cleansing Milk: </b>I'm pretty sure that one of the things I used to love about this cleanser was that it was a splash-off sort of thing. This seems to have disappeared from the instructions for use, however it is still a lovely light cleanser which doesn't leave a residue or let your skin feel overly dry. At 95% organic it is reassuring to know that you don't need man-made synthetic chemicals to leave your skin feeling bright and awake. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-psiWqfaezf4/V9wwHsPxntI/AAAAAAAABlM/zSm-ypHOQsYPRHqTlZxXDCF9G59yiWdlQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-psiWqfaezf4/V9wwHsPxntI/AAAAAAAABlM/zSm-ypHOQsYPRHqTlZxXDCF9G59yiWdlQCLcB/s640/IMG_0765.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Something for all skin types</h3>
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Do click the banners to go straight to the Neal'sYard site. With a comprehensive range of products there is bound to be something which smells delicious and suites your skin type. On my list to try is the Palmarosa Purifying Face Mask to tackle congested skin. </div>
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Organic Make-Up</h3>
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If you are more interested in make-up, you might be interested to know that you can organic too! Click below!</div>
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<!--START MERCHANT:merchant name Neals Yard Remedies from affiliatewindow.com.-->
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The Down Side</h3>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">My only comment about ordering from Neal's Yard online would be the over-the-top packaging that everything seems to come in- think huge boxes full of padding, and thermal envelopes. Seriously, is that the most economic and eco-friendly way of sending things...? I wonder.</span><br />
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Incidentally, in case you are wondering, also pictured is the delightful ikat clutch bag that I won from <a href="http://www.teixitsvicens.com/" target="_blank">Teixits Vicens</a>, in the instagram competition they ran to showcase items made from their stunning fabrics. Thank you Martina! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-54111147180671107722016-08-10T01:36:00.000-07:002016-08-10T01:36:33.522-07:00New Knitting Pattern Announcement: Lanhydrock Shawl & Discount Code<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrfaCOzgzaE/V6rd2J1RuSI/AAAAAAAABkA/Xi4t-q3HVQQvLt9vyst5uj-ctluOJ2s_QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Lanhydrock house and gardens Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrfaCOzgzaE/V6rd2J1RuSI/AAAAAAAABkA/Xi4t-q3HVQQvLt9vyst5uj-ctluOJ2s_QCLcB/s640/IMG_0297.jpg" title="Lanhydrock house and gardens Cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best gardens seem to have secret doors!</td></tr>
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Some places are full of patterns and shapes, and cannot help but to inspire creativity. <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lanhydrock" target="_blank">Lanhydrock</a>, National Trust stately home and gardens, set in lush green parkland, is one such place. As soon as I first visited and saw the formal gardens, abundant floral borders, and neat topiary I thought 'shawl design'! </div>
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I got to work, settling on some beautiful 4 ply from my stash, and after a bit of thinking and scribbling on graph paper, this design was born: the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lanhydrock-shawl" target="_blank">Lanhydrock Shawl</a>. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cpehNStRgC0/V6rd07cZZUI/AAAAAAAABjs/lZw4K1mQ-ioAmjnROcQTkJuqXq8VVkp6wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Lamhydrock knitting pattern " border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cpehNStRgC0/V6rd07cZZUI/AAAAAAAABjs/lZw4K1mQ-ioAmjnROcQTkJuqXq8VVkp6wCLcB/s640/IMG_0081.jpg" title="Lamhydrock knitting pattern " width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lanhydrock Shawl in situ...</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I really wanted to make use of the formal, symmetrical garden layout in the lace motifs I picked, as well as those giant topiary trees. As in real life, the edge of my Lanhydrock is fringed by a wilder border area.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6r303fp4cM/V6rd1KGZotI/AAAAAAAABj0/Q3k6CbufTDIRqpHyXjRwImcYWfod8TuGgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Cornish design" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6r303fp4cM/V6rd1KGZotI/AAAAAAAABj0/Q3k6CbufTDIRqpHyXjRwImcYWfod8TuGgCLcB/s640/IMG_0079.jpg" title="Cornish design" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...inspired by the formal gardens...</td></tr>
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I used a full 400m of Artesano Alpaca Silk 4 ply, in shade 'Dolphin'. The shawl is knitted from a tab cast on, and the trim is knitted on, making use of optional beads (mainly to help with blocking).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRRDGk-22sw/V6rdzo_NF-I/AAAAAAAABjg/VlJkuO7nMXsHzdl94WjpG18RDqsbKvDFwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lanhydrock shawl pattern " border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRRDGk-22sw/V6rdzo_NF-I/AAAAAAAABjg/VlJkuO7nMXsHzdl94WjpG18RDqsbKvDFwCLcB/s640/IMG_0068.jpg" title="Lanhydrock shawl pattern " width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...patterns are everywhere...</td></tr>
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I put the pattern out to test, and have had some really useful feedback, which has helped me refine the pattern quite a lot. Many thanks to all of my test knitters- your shawls look amazing and I really appreciate your patience!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xrjrMwOoXuA/V6rd0u8_c1I/AAAAAAAABjo/_WInISgxytkpyoSp_gXc-LR9kSrZ9UXiACLcB/s1600/IMG_0076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="knitting inspired by Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xrjrMwOoXuA/V6rd0u8_c1I/AAAAAAAABjo/_WInISgxytkpyoSp_gXc-LR9kSrZ9UXiACLcB/s640/IMG_0076.jpg" title="knitting inspired by Cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...the shawl is symmetrical...</td></tr>
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I am offering my blog readers 25% off the price of this pattern until September 10th, using the code 'pixieblog'- simply enter it at the checkout on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lanhydrock-shawl" target="_blank">ravelry</a> and your discount should appear. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KruxKr5-ndI/V6rd1IxdPSI/AAAAAAAABjw/tQ8akHvwhUgAM8eXiptv2le5pKnO3t5iQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cornish bue knitted shawl" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KruxKr5-ndI/V6rd1IxdPSI/AAAAAAAABjw/tQ8akHvwhUgAM8eXiptv2le5pKnO3t5iQCLcB/s640/IMG_0085.jpg" title="Cornish bue knitted shawl" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cornish blue to reflect the sky</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SljocMufe-k/V6rdzoj0U6I/AAAAAAAABjc/65u4Co20bQAKMnQJvk0Il0WEXX4iL7FRgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="shawl pattern knitting discount" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SljocMufe-k/V6rdzoj0U6I/AAAAAAAABjc/65u4Co20bQAKMnQJvk0Il0WEXX4iL7FRgCLcB/s640/IMG_0067.jpg" title="shawl pattern knitting discount" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...everybody loves discount!</td></tr>
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I have a few more designs in the pipeline- I can't help but be inspired by beautiful Cornwall! Most of them need to be tested. Do let me know if you are interested in test knitting!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FuJyE2zAoug/V6rdzzydw1I/AAAAAAAABkE/_WxPVod_88MyfZwh1OYxjPhMU7lh5eu9gCEw/s1600/IMG_0070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Lanhydrock House Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FuJyE2zAoug/V6rdzzydw1I/AAAAAAAABkE/_WxPVod_88MyfZwh1OYxjPhMU7lh5eu9gCEw/s640/IMG_0070.jpg" title="Lanhydrock House Cornwall" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yaC5KyHdf38/V6rd1l_olKI/AAAAAAAABj4/4EDFzIO4AKIBcMw4WiD8eLtcvF_rHpnMwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="architecture at Lanhydrock, Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yaC5KyHdf38/V6rd1l_olKI/AAAAAAAABj4/4EDFzIO4AKIBcMw4WiD8eLtcvF_rHpnMwCLcB/s640/IMG_0207.jpg" title="architecture at Lanhydrock, Cornwall" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WwrHHCY-6fQ/V6rd2HsiYII/AAAAAAAABj8/qRc7TCaalGo4dEpjkuNyAjn_ICJXzBzggCLcB/s1600/IMG_0301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="beautiful plants at Lanhydrock" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WwrHHCY-6fQ/V6rd2HsiYII/AAAAAAAABj8/qRc7TCaalGo4dEpjkuNyAjn_ICJXzBzggCLcB/s640/IMG_0301.jpg" title="beautiful plants at Lanhydrock" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-89774023617823604122016-07-24T10:33:00.003-07:002016-07-24T10:51:31.028-07:00Review: A Visit to The Eden Project<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--SB0HY4XF0Y/V5CjFUrOBMI/AAAAAAAABhg/WnhNr91cWOMeP_A_jJlO3A-kpO5c9sYHACLcB/s1600/IMG_0247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="The Famous Eden Project Biomes" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--SB0HY4XF0Y/V5CjFUrOBMI/AAAAAAAABhg/WnhNr91cWOMeP_A_jJlO3A-kpO5c9sYHACLcB/s640/IMG_0247.jpg" title="The Famous Eden Project Biomes" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Famous Eden Project Biomes</td></tr>
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Why Visit?</h2>
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To my slight shame, we have lived within striking distance of The Eden Project for over a year and had not visited until recently. As clichéd as it is, we actually had no idea what we were missing!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vuvwqvaPCA4/V5CjIZDDruI/AAAAAAAABhk/b9xboX7SFFg4X2EmKrQw-8yhzJxrhUUhQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="A riot of colourful plants" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vuvwqvaPCA4/V5CjIZDDruI/AAAAAAAABhk/b9xboX7SFFg4X2EmKrQw-8yhzJxrhUUhQCLcB/s640/IMG_0249.jpg" title="A riot of colourful plants" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Riot of Colourful Plants </td></tr>
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A trip to this attraction is not just a botanical and ecological education. It is also a trip around the world, as well as, paradoxically, a real dose of Cornish fresh air, as witnessed by the pair of calling buzzards we saw wheeling about in the huge expanse of blue above.<br />
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It is a delight to see the sheer creativity and ingenuity that have come together to create the place. And most of all, it is a really pleasant stroll through the most beautifully maintained gardens and greenhouses imaginable. </div>
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We have now been twice, and as I mentioned, I'm quite embarrassed that we weren't expecting it to be very engaging.<br />
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The Welcome: </h2>
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Without fail, all of the staff we have encountered at The Eden Project have been friendly, polite and helpful. Top marks for customer service!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Sih1ziz9Fg/V5T2cbgrTdI/AAAAAAAABik/GyG0owkONLQapPDQEiQqwsRhHMHh4kQqwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Welcoming Faces" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Sih1ziz9Fg/V5T2cbgrTdI/AAAAAAAABik/GyG0owkONLQapPDQEiQqwsRhHMHh4kQqwCLcB/s640/IMG_0124.jpg" title="Welcoming Faces" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcoming Faces </td></tr>
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<h2>
Getting Around:</h2>
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Two words: 'sensible shoes'. The paths are wide and well-maintained, and there is a land train to help you get around this attraction. However, there is no getting away from the fact that to really take in the magic of the Eden Project you will need to do some walking. Ok, perhaps a lot of walking.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrLwUnWNXxE/V5CjBx22ztI/AAAAAAAABhc/xqUlNGZmgcA0NQjN6Tu-hoCuovZ1mYvKACLcB/s1600/IMG_0243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Exotic Floral Beauty" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrLwUnWNXxE/V5CjBx22ztI/AAAAAAAABhc/xqUlNGZmgcA0NQjN6Tu-hoCuovZ1mYvKACLcB/s640/IMG_0243.jpg" title="Exotic Floral Beauty" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exotic Floral Beauty</td></tr>
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Looking after yourself:</h2>
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Part of the magic of this place is that it is built in a converted industrial landscape. You can't even see it, despite its grand scale, until you are in it: think of a large crater. This means that in summer the Eden Project is a hot place, and there isn't much shade. And of course, the tropical biome (golf ball shaped greenhouse) is just that: tropical. There is a small water fountain, and plenty of places to buy a cooling drink, but I would thoroughly recommend that you wear a hat and sunblock, wear clothing in layers which you can take off as necessary, and take your own supply of water.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dTroYfgPBSc/V5T3CyhpKVI/AAAAAAAABio/bJgyaR8QAvg9inObyYoNn4GsYpZWWj0QACLcB/s1600/IMG_0126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mediterranean Tiles in the Biome" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dTroYfgPBSc/V5T3CyhpKVI/AAAAAAAABio/bJgyaR8QAvg9inObyYoNn4GsYpZWWj0QACLcB/s640/IMG_0126.jpg" title="Mediterranean Tiles in the Biome" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mediterranean Tiles in the Biome</td></tr>
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<h2>
Eating:</h2>
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It's so refreshing that the quality of the food served here is amazing. We had a burrito (prepared in front of us in a completely open plan area) which was served with the freshest salad. Both were extremely tasty. We might possibly have indulged in carrot cake too, which was also yummy. </div>
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<br />Shopping:</h2>
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I was surprised at the quantity and variety of things to buy at various shops around the site. I am no gardener, but even I was really thrilled by the selection of plants for sale. What a great concept in souvenir shopping: your very own piece of Eden!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJSFHPSik1I/V5CjIjLPAhI/AAAAAAAABho/t43lL7Gqmc0-RxK5liVIJKTNUpi1CQ8aQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Geometric Leaves" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJSFHPSik1I/V5CjIjLPAhI/AAAAAAAABho/t43lL7Gqmc0-RxK5liVIJKTNUpi1CQ8aQCLcB/s640/IMG_0250.jpg" title="Geometric Leaves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geometric Leaves</td></tr>
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Added to which, there were plenty of shopping bags, eco kitchenware, foodstuffs, recycled glass, jewellery... etc. Basically, a great place to find unusual gifts, and everything oozed quality. There was no cheap 'tat', which was really refreshing, but I'm not sure what you'd do if the kids are expecting a novelty pencil to spend their pennies on. Perhaps I missed that section- the main shop is huge so it's quite likely.<br />
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I was excited to see a selection of clothing by eco brand Braintree too.<br />
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<a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=6*R80nnWUFY&offerid=330522.17&subid=0&type=4"><img alt="Braintree Clothing" border="0" src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=6*R80nnWUFY&bids=330522.17&subid=0&type=4&gridnum=16" /></a>
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Plus, Pukka teas are for sale (see below for more on this).<br />
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Cost:</h2>
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To visit the Eden Project with a family as a one-off would be quite a pricey day out. Personally I would say that it is worth the cost, as you could happily spend the whole day there. However, if you think there is any chance you might return within the year, it would be better to buy an annual pass (for the same price as one-day admission). </div>
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<h2>
The Highlights:</h2>
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The Eden Project is a huge attraction. Most of the time I was too enthralled to even take photos, and there's no way I've seen everything it has to offer, but here are just a few of my highlights:<br />
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1: The <b>smoothie bar</b> in the Tropical Biome. Yum yum!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy Smoothies</td></tr>
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2: The <b>Mediterranean Biome</b>: I loved this area. If you've ever been to the Med and walked around the countryside this will be a really nostalgic experience. If you're having a staycation, or just missing some sun then have a wander through here and drink in the atmosphere and the smells and make believe!<br />
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3: The <b>Roul Rouls</b> and their delightful little chicks: they scamper around the Tropical Biome, pecking at fruit, and are just too cute. But, you'll have to see them for yourself, as I couldn't get a single photo as I was cooing over them too much!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thoughtful Details: even the floors are beautiful!</td></tr>
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I'd thoroughly recommend the Eden Project for visitors of all ages and all interests. There are play areas and story telling for the little ones, as well as plenty of space for them to run off steam. There are too many facts hidden amongst the foliage for one person to ever tire of, and even poetry if you look for it. Whether you are interested in taking in all of the engaging information on offer, or just admiring the immense botanical beauty, I expect that you will have a fantastic time. </div>
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Oh, and even the piped music in the café space is a treat, if you care to listen out for it! </div>
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Pukka:</h2>
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Pukka teas evidently have a relationship with the Eden Project, and there is a little section devoted to the magnificent herbs and spices which are oh so good to drink. I found this really fascinating: seeing things like vanilla pods and cinnamon growing in front of me was quite exciting, as I normally associate these great-smelling things with jars and essences. </div>
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Following on from this, there was also the biggest imaginable range of herbal teas for sale in the shop. Quite handy for me, as these are my favourite teas! I indulged in a box of liquorice and cinnamon, and I'm very pleased that I did, as it is supremely tasty. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pukka Merchandise </td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-67171242596977881292016-06-12T04:27:00.000-07:002016-06-12T04:27:05.423-07:00Winning Ikat Fabric from Mallorca<h2>
Med Style</h2>
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The Balearic Islands are really special to me. </div>
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I have been fortunate indeed to have spent many happy hours both in Mallorca and Menorca, but this is nothing compared to the 10 years plus that my beloved lived in the Balearics for. He tells me such stories of his youth there, the characters he knew and the spirit of the islands that I feel like I have also grown up there. </div>
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Slow Fabric</h2>
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One of the favourite places that I have visited is <a href="http://www.teixitsvicens.com/" target="_blank">Teixits Vicens</a>, where you can buy traditional ikat and striped cloth, and if you are lucky even see it being made behind the shop. You can also buy beautiful merchandise too, from deckchairs to handbags.</div>
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As you probably know, I am a massive fan of stripes- not to mention how keen I am on slow, traditional crafting methods, so this place is pretty heavenly for me! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IldGvRUPkvk/V10_H5MT2WI/AAAAAAAABfo/uFsysAndAKMHAfhL8iwi8fSaGP9MRJWyQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ikat fabric pollença" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IldGvRUPkvk/V10_H5MT2WI/AAAAAAAABfo/uFsysAndAKMHAfhL8iwi8fSaGP9MRJWyQCLcB/s640/IMG_1227.jpg" title="ikat fabric pollença" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric Heaven!</td></tr>
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Winning Style</h2>
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Recently, the lovely people at Vicens fabrics ran a competition on Instagram for items made from their fabrics. Well, I have a number of these, and being the fan that I am I decided to enter, with this picture:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1eOeVuQ8kAg/V10_J4dX_QI/AAAAAAAABgM/9vmquznufuEVGk0qmN-pKjYTl-WbKgwZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="teixits vicens" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1eOeVuQ8kAg/V10_J4dX_QI/AAAAAAAABgM/9vmquznufuEVGk0qmN-pKjYTl-WbKgwZgCLcB/s640/IMG_9393.jpg" title="teixits vicens" width="596" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my handmade competition entry</td></tr>
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I drafted the skirt pattern in an easy-to-wear A-line shape, with a yoke, a front pleat, and- of course- pockets and made this skirt some time ago. It has washed and worn really well, and the fabric is a great weight for all sorts of weathers. Here I teamed it with an organic cotton stripey top from Seasalt, and my vintage Levi's denim jacket for a trip to St Michael's Mount, which is where I'm standing. </div>
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And guess what? I won first prize in the competition! I still can't believe it. Thank you so much, Teixits Vicens, I'm so happy!</div>
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Views from a Fabric Workshop</h2>
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I thought I'd take this opportunity to share some snaps from my last visit to Teixits Vicens. The colours are just dreamy!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OuEoopsgSq8/V10_Hm1Vh6I/AAAAAAAABfs/kyUwBBGKvB0XaElz6GLSdyAf8mBHTr0mQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="texits vicens" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OuEoopsgSq8/V10_Hm1Vh6I/AAAAAAAABfs/kyUwBBGKvB0XaElz6GLSdyAf8mBHTr0mQCLcB/s640/IMG_1224.jpg" title="texits vicens" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nySNQ1qqCtw/V10_IqdA-xI/AAAAAAAABf4/qp49JqcxZa4hmHvfE_dm1jdNLWPw0bc6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_1231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="traditional ikat mallorca" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nySNQ1qqCtw/V10_IqdA-xI/AAAAAAAABf4/qp49JqcxZa4hmHvfE_dm1jdNLWPw0bc6ACLcB/s640/IMG_1231.jpg" title="traditional ikat mallorca" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5sq637c-EM4/V10_Iy-o4cI/AAAAAAAABf0/T2QI9MDCjGwIg3Tbd3jjD-LnAWTvqIkRQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="traditional balearic colours" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5sq637c-EM4/V10_Iy-o4cI/AAAAAAAABf0/T2QI9MDCjGwIg3Tbd3jjD-LnAWTvqIkRQCLcB/s640/IMG_1232.jpg" title="traditional balearic colours" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TfsXpLldbIs/V10_IwZHVzI/AAAAAAAABf8/eNDfCj7Kk6kJSpPjB71Ems_X17Vl98PngCLcB/s1600/IMG_1234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lilac threads for mallorca fabric" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TfsXpLldbIs/V10_IwZHVzI/AAAAAAAABf8/eNDfCj7Kk6kJSpPjB71Ems_X17Vl98PngCLcB/s640/IMG_1234.jpg" title="lilac threads for mallorca fabric" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rfF3uZOrk68/V10_Jz9FaCI/AAAAAAAABgI/HovBiKZHn6k6jaKUtaiS4N4StK94kp2xwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="slow fabric crafting" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rfF3uZOrk68/V10_Jz9FaCI/AAAAAAAABgI/HovBiKZHn6k6jaKUtaiS4N4StK94kp2xwCLcB/s640/IMG_1238.jpg" title="slow fabric crafting" width="640" /></a></div>
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My Balearic Wardrobe</h2>
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Some of my favourite outfits incorporate Teixits Vicens:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9JVXZOF9gJY/V10_Z8-phhI/AAAAAAAABgU/0LXyMNM273EffakxJCBioRqB66eWiZb1QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="dress mallorca ikat" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9JVXZOF9gJY/V10_Z8-phhI/AAAAAAAABgU/0LXyMNM273EffakxJCBioRqB66eWiZb1QCLcB/s640/IMG_9291.jpg" title="dress mallorca ikat" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LBD: little blue dress- my wardrobe is full of them</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PYJaujOJoSw/VwdztZ3CapI/AAAAAAAABNg/-5xKBx6hK3wmiXvblH6G7GhpTYtdSBaNgCKgB/s1600/DSCN4843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="coral stripes balearics" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PYJaujOJoSw/VwdztZ3CapI/AAAAAAAABNg/-5xKBx6hK3wmiXvblH6G7GhpTYtdSBaNgCKgB/s640/DSCN4843.jpg" title="coral stripes balearics" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this skirt goes with everything!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kH9TzX1uXr4/Vv_q6Hq0QzI/AAAAAAAABMw/tup1rm4aRdYUwHOxTC4Vb389T5ZtRlZvgCKgB/s1600/IMG_7568_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="skirt for all seasons" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kH9TzX1uXr4/Vv_q6Hq0QzI/AAAAAAAABMw/tup1rm4aRdYUwHOxTC4Vb389T5ZtRlZvgCKgB/s640/IMG_7568_1024.jpg" title="skirt for all seasons" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">perfect for Cornish days out</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-54861414525529951762016-06-02T01:12:00.002-07:002016-06-02T01:12:20.897-07:00June Monthly Giveaway: Fat Quarter Bundles from Fairtrade Fabric<i>Wow, not one but four giveaways this month! </i><br />
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Free Fabric!</h2>
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Each giveaway will be open for a whole calendar month, so you have the whole of June to get excited about this one, and then I will announce the winner and the next giveaway at the beginning of July (May's winner to be announced very shortly).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LHu61OV56iY/V0_nb7cKIRI/AAAAAAAABe8/0VP8pzWCse0GYi6SrQ1MxvtqGm6QuiGQQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="blog giveaway fabric" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LHu61OV56iY/V0_nb7cKIRI/AAAAAAAABe8/0VP8pzWCse0GYi6SrQ1MxvtqGm6QuiGQQCLcB/s640/IMG_9952.jpg" title="blog giveaway fabric" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fat quarters by <a href="http://www.fairtradefabric.co.uk/epages/rz8us86k7vgt.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/fairtradefabric.co.uk/Categories/Shop_Online/Susie_Huson_Prints_and_Coordinating_Plains" target="_blank">Fairtrade Fabric</a></td></tr>
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This month I am thrilled to offer not just one, but four chances to win: those lovely people at <a href="http://www.fairtradefabric.co.uk/" target="_blank">Fairtrade Fabric</a> have provided all of these amazing fat quarters from their powerloom range of designs by Susie Huson- see <a href="http://www.fairtradefabric.co.uk/epages/rz8us86k7vgt.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/fairtradefabric.co.uk/Categories/Shop_Online/Susie_Huson_Prints_and_Coordinating_Plains" target="_blank">here</a>. They are organic, fairtrade certified, and just adorable! </div>
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They are perfect for quilting (amongst many other things). Keep an eye on the blog for an extra special tutorial featuring one of these prints very soon... </div>
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To win a bundle, simply leave me a comment stating which bundle you'd prefer and what you plan to do with it- it's that easy. </div>
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Win these FQ bundles: </h2>
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Bundle 1: </h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bundle 1</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yPWwmsR0PXA/V0_nbzMQXxI/AAAAAAAABe4/JuVOJJaF14YU-mN1sDqjvPI_O8UAn7SAQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="cute organic fair-trade fabric" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yPWwmsR0PXA/V0_nbzMQXxI/AAAAAAAABe4/JuVOJJaF14YU-mN1sDqjvPI_O8UAn7SAQCLcB/s640/IMG_9954.jpg" title="cute organic fair-trade fabric" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bundle 1</td></tr>
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Bundle 2:</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U2xe-Ii2T2o/V0_nciBYi-I/AAAAAAAABfA/a95HFn2wkuo-kCPIEiZZ5JlXwywIjX8cACLcB/s1600/IMG_9955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="worldwide free fabric" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U2xe-Ii2T2o/V0_nciBYi-I/AAAAAAAABfA/a95HFn2wkuo-kCPIEiZZ5JlXwywIjX8cACLcB/s640/IMG_9955.jpg" title="worldwide free fabric" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bundle 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HgBYLYve4lk/V0_ndWO8ZvI/AAAAAAAABfI/tr7XpXpaHYEDtlHBBURP_q3fmVWXUe_7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="free fat quarters" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HgBYLYve4lk/V0_ndWO8ZvI/AAAAAAAABfI/tr7XpXpaHYEDtlHBBURP_q3fmVWXUe_7ACLcB/s640/IMG_9956.jpg" title="free fat quarters" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Bundle 3: </h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bundle 3</td></tr>
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Bundle 4: </h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k1OI0xEVjKY/V0_neHlaQEI/AAAAAAAABfQ/LpgxS6BphOkRJc6F_iq7Gbjlx-21zhfZQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="win fat quarters" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k1OI0xEVjKY/V0_neHlaQEI/AAAAAAAABfQ/LpgxS6BphOkRJc6F_iq7Gbjlx-21zhfZQCLcB/s640/IMG_9959.jpg" title="win fat quarters" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bundle 4</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmiKtX2YYn8/V0_neLVwrXI/AAAAAAAABfU/0pUD7y49lpEwn-zJMo5-Fu7Xpxn5VkZegCLcB/s1600/IMG_9961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="free fabric" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmiKtX2YYn8/V0_neLVwrXI/AAAAAAAABfU/0pUD7y49lpEwn-zJMo5-Fu7Xpxn5VkZegCLcB/s640/IMG_9961.jpg" title="free fabric" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bundle 4</td></tr>
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What's the Catch?</h2>
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No catch! There are generally no conditions attached to my giveaways, I'm just giving away either treasures from my stash, or as in this instance items kindly provided by other companies. I hope that you will stay a while and read some other posts, perhaps even leave the odd comment, but that's entirely up to you. </div>
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This particular offer is open to everyone, wherever you are in the world. </div>
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If you'd like to be considered please just leave me a comment below, and that's it, consider yourself entered- it really is that simple. If for some reason you can't comment then you can use the contact form instead.</div>
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If you share a link to this page on social media and let me know you have done so I will put your name down twice for an extra chance at winning. </div>
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Tip: to be sure you never miss a giveaway, or more importantly a notification that you might have won, why not subscribe to my blog...? It's easy, and you'll find where to do it on the top right ----></div>
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Thank you's: </h2>
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Thank you again to <a href="http://www.fairtradefabric.co.uk/epages/rz8us86k7vgt.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/fairtradefabric.co.uk/Categories/Shop_Online/Susie_Huson_Prints_and_Coordinating_Plains" target="_blank">Fair-trade Fabric</a> for providing such wonderful giveaway prizes, and thank you dear readers for stopping by and for entering. Good luck to you all!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-38906484629759576152016-06-01T02:29:00.001-07:002016-06-01T02:29:14.256-07:00Barrel Bag Sew Along Instructions: Week 5 <div style="text-align: justify;">
The final step is here! Well done if you've been keeping up with the sew along, and thank you so much for taking part. I have really enjoyed seeing your bags come together. </div>
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Don't worry if you are worried about losing your place in the instructions: I am planning to archive them all in one spot so that they are easy to find for future reference. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6EmWoQdDnqc/V06ioZrVcGI/AAAAAAAABeU/wZh_4RM6KaQpBPbwu86Ml3sphx3OgU_QQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="how to make a bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6EmWoQdDnqc/V06ioZrVcGI/AAAAAAAABeU/wZh_4RM6KaQpBPbwu86Ml3sphx3OgU_QQCLcB/s640/DSCN4959.jpg" title="how to make a bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Finishing Touches:</h2>
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Seam Finishing: </h3>
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The next thing you need to do after last week is finish the inside of your round seams: I have bound mine using the 4cm bias binding. It is a professional and also pretty finish to have on the inside of your bag. If you want to request a tutorial in how to bind seams please go ahead and use the contact form. </div>
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Or, you can overlock the raw edges together- it is quicker and also very strong. </div>
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Making the Strap:</h3>
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Cut 2 x 10cm lengths of webbing, and also 2 x 7cm lengths. Then, have a look at your remaining webbing and decide how long you would like your shoulder strap to be. </div>
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Don't forget that the buckles themselves will contribute to the length, and you should also allow about 3cm for the loop of webbing used to attach them (see picture below)- the overall length of buckle plus webbing loop is about 7.5cm each end of the strap. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zdoIsLESukE/V06ioNvnrSI/AAAAAAAABeQ/ifq1ROzi5901klVrWzr1WXzl3DicttlpgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="how to make a barrel bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zdoIsLESukE/V06ioNvnrSI/AAAAAAAABeQ/ifq1ROzi5901klVrWzr1WXzl3DicttlpgCLcB/s640/IMG_9108.jpg" title="how to make a barrel bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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You also need to add 1cm seam allowance each end of your strap. </div>
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Once you are satisfied that you have identified the correct length of webbing, cut the strap to length. </div>
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Take a 10cm piece of webbing, fold in half long ways and topstitch. Thread this loop through your buckle, then sew the loop closed. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGMs_KKQsy0/V06im3Ash-I/AAAAAAAABeA/nl5rz2fAY9U2vcWtrySrntSm2D4tl5i6ACLcB/s1600/DSCN4943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="bag instructions" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGMs_KKQsy0/V06im3Ash-I/AAAAAAAABeA/nl5rz2fAY9U2vcWtrySrntSm2D4tl5i6ACLcB/s640/DSCN4943.jpg" title="bag instructions" width="640" /></a></div>
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Place this loop onto a shorter 7cm piece of webbing and sew them together near the top. Make sure the buckle has its opening side facing down as pictured. The webbing loop should overhang by about 1cm: this is to stagger the bulk of the seam and also to ensure the rivets will go through it.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2IswFauSwH4/V06imoAdGhI/AAAAAAAABd4/oJZyh-xVqb4GZpKBwYgrJxQ5UQMMiFWmwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="merchant & mills sew along" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2IswFauSwH4/V06imoAdGhI/AAAAAAAABd4/oJZyh-xVqb4GZpKBwYgrJxQ5UQMMiFWmwCLcB/s640/DSCN4944.jpg" title="merchant & mills sew along" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, place the strap onto the buckle to sandwich it into place, and sew, taking a 1cm seam allowance from the strap and the 7cm webbing. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5itHUl7vgM/V06impuJ2LI/AAAAAAAABd8/sLCcRQ9G7SMbA5JBCMduRcOcb8MEXNIegCLcB/s1600/DSCN4946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="barrel bag tutorial " border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5itHUl7vgM/V06impuJ2LI/AAAAAAAABd8/sLCcRQ9G7SMbA5JBCMduRcOcb8MEXNIegCLcB/s640/DSCN4946.jpg" title="barrel bag tutorial " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Chzse0cWgrE/V06inmLCLwI/AAAAAAAABeE/5PFEfRB3N5AN1vs-cYKRRw5VjTGjwvHjACLcB/s1600/DSCN4947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="learn to sew a bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Chzse0cWgrE/V06inmLCLwI/AAAAAAAABeE/5PFEfRB3N5AN1vs-cYKRRw5VjTGjwvHjACLcB/s640/DSCN4947.jpg" title="learn to sew a bag" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now, press this seam so that it lays flat, and press the raw edge of the 7cm webbing, turning 1cm over. </div>
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Topstitch around the sides and top of this shorter piece, attaching it to the main strap. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23kux8axxq4/V06inuV44UI/AAAAAAAABeI/i5qdF7mTsD8NJQFLff_SYIZd29gvjNVggCLcB/s1600/DSCN4948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="make a strap with buckle" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23kux8axxq4/V06inuV44UI/AAAAAAAABeI/i5qdF7mTsD8NJQFLff_SYIZd29gvjNVggCLcB/s640/DSCN4948.jpg" title="make a strap with buckle" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnR8hWz-ioc/V06inx0eXlI/AAAAAAAABeM/A4rjjoeayxYaI6QC8wFVd3l7BUxcz_eRACLcB/s1600/DSCN4949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="sewing instructions" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnR8hWz-ioc/V06inx0eXlI/AAAAAAAABeM/A4rjjoeayxYaI6QC8wFVd3l7BUxcz_eRACLcB/s640/DSCN4949.jpg" title="sewing instructions" width="640" /></a></div>
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Repeat this process for the other end of the strap. </div>
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Now, making small pilot holes with an awl or a sharp pair of scissors, hammer the rivets into place, arranging them as you like, but preferably add strength by holding all of these layers of webbing together. </div>
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The last step:</h3>
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One (optional) finishing touch is to sew your handles together longways for strength and ease of use: find the midpoint at the top of you handles, then measure and mark 10cm either side of this. </div>
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Fold your webbing in half along this 20cm, and sewing close to the edges topstitch both sides together. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-85vgVGiaPOE/V06llrxnzGI/AAAAAAAABek/GHRV16GsjT412v0T2nhoK5M0XVkfqqK6wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="merchant & mills linen bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-85vgVGiaPOE/V06llrxnzGI/AAAAAAAABek/GHRV16GsjT412v0T2nhoK5M0XVkfqqK6wCLcB/s640/IMG_9101.jpg" title="merchant & mills linen bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love that 'Quink' linen</td></tr>
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And you're done! </div>
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Well done and thank you again for joining in the sew along. Don't forget to keep tagging me in your finished results on <a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">instagram</a>!</div>
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With thanks once again to <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products-page/" target="_blank">Merchant & Mills</a> for kindly supplying the materials for this project. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eTYHk0p7ndo/V06iop7aBOI/AAAAAAAABeY/4hl_lgQsk88fUB4I0RQP5zx78OhKduqDgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="home sewing bag tutorial" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eTYHk0p7ndo/V06iop7aBOI/AAAAAAAABeY/4hl_lgQsk88fUB4I0RQP5zx78OhKduqDgCLcB/s640/IMG_9112.jpg" title="home sewing bag tutorial" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">barrel bag from Merchant & Mills materials</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-43528312612276974692016-05-26T04:10:00.002-07:002016-05-26T05:18:16.753-07:00Earth Kind Originals: Ethical Cornish Fashion Review, Q&A & Discount <h2>
Organic Fashion from Cornwall</h2>
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In my research into ethical clothing companies, I was thrilled to discover EKO, or <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/" target="_blank">Earth Kind Originals</a>, hailing from beautiful St. Just in Cornwall. </div>
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Being slightly cynical, I did wonder whether this company's head office was based here and manufacture took place in a developing country, but I need not have worried, as for once EKO mean exactly what they say by 'Made in Cornwall': a good selection of their pieces are made right here, from organic cotton that has been knitted in Nottingham. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SgYpyYfEfqM/V0bEjJ3dOnI/AAAAAAAABcc/rp2G2RUNNmA59rDmMg2u8O2ETn0IE0eFwCLcB/s1600/made%2Bin%2Bcornwall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ethical fashion from Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SgYpyYfEfqM/V0bEjJ3dOnI/AAAAAAAABcc/rp2G2RUNNmA59rDmMg2u8O2ETn0IE0eFwCLcB/s640/made%2Bin%2Bcornwall.jpg" title="ethical fashion from Cornwall" width="558" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: EKO</td></tr>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
I chat to EKO Founder, Helen:</h3>
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I was lucky enough to be able to put some questions to Helen, and I think you'll agree the answers are inspiring:<br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>Tell me a little about your journey into Earth Kind Originals!</b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">In a nutshell I woke up one day and decided I needed to escape London and move back to the Cornish coast. I think your past shapes who you are and what you feel passionately about, and having seen my dad run his own business and growing up in Cornwall, have all had an impact. Leaving my job as a commercial fashion design in London and setting up my own eco friendly clothing label seemed like a natural progression. Combining my passion for good design and natural fibers, while working somewhere so inspiring has been a real driver.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>You're clearly passionate about EKO, and about Cornwall, what motivates you to work so hard?</b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">I love living in Cornwall, designing and creating feel good ideas, so being able to combine all of these things to create a brand is very exciting. Most days consist of number crunching, juggling cashflow and making tough decisions, but there are also times when the music goes up a notch, designs are created and ideas are hatched, and these days make it all worthwhile. Motivation comes from the journey of all these things, the curiosity of learning, making mistakes and feeling like I am building something truly unique, one brick at a time.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ipc6Z1ccL6w/V0bN3BQSyLI/AAAAAAAABc8/ZI3GaDLFqNkPyGqALW0xuenzQip1yE7KwCLcB/s1600/eko%2Bhq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Earth Kind Originals" border="0" height="532" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ipc6Z1ccL6w/V0bN3BQSyLI/AAAAAAAABc8/ZI3GaDLFqNkPyGqALW0xuenzQip1yE7KwCLcB/s640/eko%2Bhq.jpg" title="Earth Kind Originals" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Imaget: EKO</td></tr>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>What is the most satisfying thing about your job?</b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">I can wake up every morning take my dog (Buster the crazy but lovely working cocker spaniel) out along the Cornish ciffs, then settle down in the office with a cuppa and work my way through the morning to do list. I try and appreciate this everyday. Although, what brings a real satisfying smile to my face is the lovely comments and cards we get from happy customers, who love the range as much as we do. Happy customers are why we do what we do, and make is possible for us grow and move the brand forwards.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>What is your favourite item that you sell?</b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">It has to be the Emily Jane Dress, which we have sold from day one, and we are super proud to be now making this style in Cornwall. It has our signature sculptural shape, timeless style and practical slouch pockets, made from super soft organic cotton jersey sourced from a mill in Nottingham.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>Who is your heroine?</b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">It has to be Anita Roddick, as I feel she was a true inspiration and pioneer of how business can be a change for good. I read her book while at uni studying fashion called ‘Business as Unusual’, and its always stuck with me. She is best known as the founder of The Body Shop and combined her brand with relentless charity work, campaigning for fair trade practice, and raising awareness on environmental issues. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>How would you like to be remembered?</b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">For being nice and doing good things, like putting a smile on your face after a tough day.</span></div>
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Product Review:</h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">happily earth-kind packaging </td></tr>
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Being completely in love with both ethical fashion and my local area, I was thrilled to receive this package- and especially to see that it arrived in a beautiful (and biodegradable) brown paper package. </div>
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I know you're as excited as I was to know what's inside: I received the famous <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/shop/organic-cotton-dress/" target="_blank">Emily Jane</a> dress, and also a pair of <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/shop/organic-cotton-relax-leggings/" target="_blank">Relax</a> leggings.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ls36HHZ10Oc/V0bJc68G71I/AAAAAAAABcw/ZQfVGSXqv3EQ3j1h7xb8y6mfNB0aIUuVgCLcB/s1600/EKO%2BEmily%2BJane%2BDress%2Bblack%2Bcut%2Bout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><img alt="Emily Jane dress" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ls36HHZ10Oc/V0bJc68G71I/AAAAAAAABcw/ZQfVGSXqv3EQ3j1h7xb8y6mfNB0aIUuVgCLcB/s400/EKO%2BEmily%2BJane%2BDress%2Bblack%2Bcut%2Bout.jpg" title="Emily Jane dress" width="342" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: EKO</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wtAZIOzT7_M/V0bJcsh6lTI/AAAAAAAABcs/5OTNtVb4nAQ2ei85w1kEgHicOup4u16YwCLcB/s1600/EKO%2BRelax%2BLeggings%2BCharcoal%2BCut%2BOut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><img alt="relax organic leggings" border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wtAZIOzT7_M/V0bJcsh6lTI/AAAAAAAABcs/5OTNtVb4nAQ2ei85w1kEgHicOup4u16YwCLcB/s400/EKO%2BRelax%2BLeggings%2BCharcoal%2BCut%2BOut.jpg" title="relax organic leggings" width="342" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: EKO</td></tr>
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My first impressions as these exciting pieces tumbled out of the pack were of the quality of the fabric: the 95% organic cotton jersey feels really substantial: these are no throw-away pieces. The 5% elastane gives them enough stretch to keep their shape, and they are both lovely and opaque. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">new favourite outfit?</td></tr>
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<h3>
Style: </h3>
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I don't often wear black, but when I do I want it to be classic, elegant and terrific quality. So, the Emily Jane dress fits the bill perfectly! The sculptural cut has a flattering empire-line waist with smooth pleats below, giving you shape in all the right places. The tulip-shaped skirt is the perfect length, and it has pockets! You know how much I love pockets!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v0yktRTM0Yo/V0bCWdqopXI/AAAAAAAABb0/MG_ijjhLO6oD63VKZBEDi9e2gqETFJcfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="black organic cotton dress" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v0yktRTM0Yo/V0bCWdqopXI/AAAAAAAABb0/MG_ijjhLO6oD63VKZBEDi9e2gqETFJcfQCLcB/s640/IMG_9638.jpg" title="black organic cotton dress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Emily Jane: shapely black organic cotton jersey...</td></tr>
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The leggings in shade 'charcoal' are actually a flattering buff colour, which will work well with black of course, but will also tone nicely with the other colours in my wardrobe. </div>
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The Fit: </h3>
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I opted for a Small in both pieces, and they fit my 8-10 size really well. The size charts on the EKO website are easy to locate and easy to interpret, which is definitely a plus. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jX0QhYBP45s/V0bCVRh1iFI/AAAAAAAABbs/DEpjDZVDBzIgcGLN47UjqC5NKfzvfEYmwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="stylish earth kind originals dress" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jX0QhYBP45s/V0bCVRh1iFI/AAAAAAAABbs/DEpjDZVDBzIgcGLN47UjqC5NKfzvfEYmwCLcB/s640/IMG_9633.jpg" title="stylish earth kind originals dress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...with perfect pockets!</td></tr>
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The leggings were also the perfect length, and fitted well around the hips and waist. I loved the turn-over waist band, as it seems to allow for maximum comfort and a soft silhouette. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bd0y0B6tfpQ/V0bCWsSVOmI/AAAAAAAABb4/rOWVcqShUZ0uFfgf4hy0B_-uXWhEMX9jwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="made in Cornwall" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bd0y0B6tfpQ/V0bCWsSVOmI/AAAAAAAABb4/rOWVcqShUZ0uFfgf4hy0B_-uXWhEMX9jwCLcB/s640/IMG_9642.jpg" title="made in Cornwall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super-comfortable organic cotton leggings</td></tr>
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Quality: </h3>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">As well as being made from beautiful fabric, the quality of the manufacture is also really high: the overlocking on both of these pieces lays really flat (no puckers to be seen), and it is stitched really securely (no stray threads or wobbly bits either).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dpSY3KlzIEw/V0bCVIeCb0I/AAAAAAAABbo/YCzGxxUluAICw4OrmCM4Q4dlhHEGW_TeACLcB/s1600/IMG_9631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="local independent ethical clothing" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dpSY3KlzIEw/V0bCVIeCb0I/AAAAAAAABbo/YCzGxxUluAICw4OrmCM4Q4dlhHEGW_TeACLcB/s640/IMG_9631.jpg" title="local independent ethical clothing" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">paired together for a beautiful outfit...</td></tr>
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</h3>
<h3>
The Outfit: </h3>
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Teamed together, these pieces make a winning outfit that could take you anywhere and to any occasion. But they are also great wardrobe staples which can be layered up or down. I can see the Emily Jane being my dress of choice for an upcoming trip as it's just so comfortable. </div>
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I can see why these are both best sellers! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-idxFxxvglHs/V0bCVIcH_zI/AAAAAAAABbk/1c_BaXcH4gMgf5egGM9j4QJ-J__BBT0cQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ethical fashion discount code" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-idxFxxvglHs/V0bCVIcH_zI/AAAAAAAABbk/1c_BaXcH4gMgf5egGM9j4QJ-J__BBT0cQCLcB/s640/IMG_9627.jpg" title="ethical fashion discount code" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and a flattering silhouette</td></tr>
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<h3>
Discount Code: </h3>
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Not only has it been a real pleasure to work with EKO, but I'm thrilled to tell you that my lovely readers have been offered a discount: just enter the code <b>'happiness'</b> at the checkout for a generous 15% off until the end of August! Thank you so much, EKO!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIJtqPaXOEs/V0bCWLOMGuI/AAAAAAAABbw/hXf3lbC-2HcpDI34e-U5NJ0hhAOvbOa7QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="organic cotton yoga leggings" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIJtqPaXOEs/V0bCWLOMGuI/AAAAAAAABbw/hXf3lbC-2HcpDI34e-U5NJ0hhAOvbOa7QCLcB/s640/IMG_9641.jpg" title="organic cotton yoga leggings" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">organic cotton leggings</td></tr>
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Would I buy again? </h3>
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I would definitely shop further with EKO. I'd be tempted by the <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/shop/casual-day-dress/" target="_blank">Day Dreamer Dress</a>, which is similar to this one but with an exciting textured bodice, and sleeves: a great variation for colder months, or if you don't like to show your arms. </div>
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I love their take on the <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/shop/organic-flow-top/" target="_blank">stripey top</a>, and the <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/shop/organic-long-vest/" target="_blank">long vest</a> not only looks super comfortable, but is made from eucalyptus no less! That's definitely on my shopping list. I can see a lot of the collection making their way into my yoga wardrobe too.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_q2c5ocj12Y/V0bCdMn4JPI/AAAAAAAABb8/aF-JBWKHxswGmf3lYCJn-MpPGZkd4aDgwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="local responsible organic clothing" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_q2c5ocj12Y/V0bCdMn4JPI/AAAAAAAABb8/aF-JBWKHxswGmf3lYCJn-MpPGZkd4aDgwCLcB/s640/IMG_9297.jpg" title="local responsible organic clothing" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">feel good about what you wear!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I thoroughly recommend <a href="https://earthkindoriginals.co.uk/" target="_blank">Earth Kind Originals</a>: I not only support their aims and ethics, but the products stand up for themselves, especially in what can sometimes feel like a limited ethical fashion market. </div>
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We need to support brands like this who are working so hard with talent and vigour to stand up for what they believe in. It's by supporting companies like this with our shopping habits that we can show the garment industry how we want the future to look. </div>
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<i>Grateful thanks to EKO for providing an outfit to review. </i><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-344694910250723912016-05-25T00:00:00.000-07:002016-05-25T00:00:10.896-07:00Barrel Bag Sew Along Instruction: Week 4<h2>
Sew Along: Week 4</h2>
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Welcome back! This week is an exciting one- your bag will really begin to take shape! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnjuEmSGsYY/V0StPh7tqeI/AAAAAAAABa0/KkSOli7n3-sAC4_gY1y-2YrpZiVOtYTuACLcB/s1600/IMG_9122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="how to make a barrel bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnjuEmSGsYY/V0StPh7tqeI/AAAAAAAABa0/KkSOli7n3-sAC4_gY1y-2YrpZiVOtYTuACLcB/s640/IMG_9122.jpg" title="how to make a barrel bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">barrel bag sew along</td></tr>
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You will need to have your D rings handy.<br />
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<h3>
Let's go!</h3>
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Cut a 20cm piece of your webbing. Fold it in half down the length of it and topstitch the long edges neatly together (from the right sides). Now cut this into two, so that you have two pieces measuring 10cm each. </div>
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Fold one piece in half, place the D ring into the fold and stay stitch the ends together, so that your D ring is secured into a loop of webbing. Repeat this step for the other D ring and piece of webbing. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8eioFZe-3Q/V0StNb6rP1I/AAAAAAAABac/ksS9nWmELxQ9MXWP1Z7BrvlxF-zH--DZACLcB/s1600/DSCN4917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="merchant & mills haberdashery" border="0" height="638" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8eioFZe-3Q/V0StNb6rP1I/AAAAAAAABac/ksS9nWmELxQ9MXWP1Z7BrvlxF-zH--DZACLcB/s640/DSCN4917.jpg" title="merchant & mills haberdashery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Merchant & Mills Hardware </td></tr>
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<h3>
Bag Ends: </h3>
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Now, take both of your round bag ends, and mark the quarters around them that you notched into your pattern way back at the beginning. I don't like to mark these points too soon because when you are using chalk they often rub off anyway. </div>
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Also on the body of your bag mark the point on the fabric which is directly opposite the zip seam, and also the points which are exactly half way between the top and bottom of the bag.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P4UzVAwMXRg/V0StNjUstbI/AAAAAAAABak/crf51P4Jp8Ed_AoI3LMlynzgT7JfFYeKACLcB/s1600/IMG_9094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="bag sew along instructions" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P4UzVAwMXRg/V0StNjUstbI/AAAAAAAABak/crf51P4Jp8Ed_AoI3LMlynzgT7JfFYeKACLcB/s640/IMG_9094.jpg" title="bag sew along instructions" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">notches are important</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dB7K2pflJzI/V0StNV-5QaI/AAAAAAAABag/lYfir_lZfcAQxWYE5d9xQrT59pBhMVLNQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="tutorial, instructions, how to" border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dB7K2pflJzI/V0StNV-5QaI/AAAAAAAABag/lYfir_lZfcAQxWYE5d9xQrT59pBhMVLNQCLcB/s400/IMG_9095.jpg" title="tutorial, instructions, how to" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...marked with chalk</td></tr>
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Now, attach your one-sided foot to the machine and locate your piping cord.</div>
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Lining up all of the raw edges, place your piping cord onto the round bag end and sew thus: you should have a 1cm seam allowance. It is important that the start and end of your cord should overlap as shown in the pictures so that there will be no gaps in the cord, so make sure you have a little spare at the beginning and end. When you come to the end of the circle, sew actually through the cord to secure it into this overlapped position. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F99dKsdwck0/V0StPH48XYI/AAAAAAAABaw/r5XvsCC36PQ8e2NqjuMVZo2P_Hfk9-05wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="how to sew a piped seam" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F99dKsdwck0/V0StPH48XYI/AAAAAAAABaw/r5XvsCC36PQ8e2NqjuMVZo2P_Hfk9-05wCLcB/s640/IMG_9098.jpg" title="how to sew a piped seam" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piping attached to one bag end</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oHc554jfMmU/V0StO3nlpSI/AAAAAAAABao/V_5kBS0JVnYq-rzqM_M-bB2qPn8jkor7gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="piped seam tutorial" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oHc554jfMmU/V0StO3nlpSI/AAAAAAAABao/V_5kBS0JVnYq-rzqM_M-bB2qPn8jkor7gCLcB/s640/IMG_9097.jpg" title="piped seam tutorial" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">piping must overlap at the beginning and end</td></tr>
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Re-mark your quarter points if necessary. </div>
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Pin your loops with their D rings so that they will sit at the top of the bag. Be sure that the rings point towards the centre of the circle, so that they will be on the outside of the bag when it is turned through. </div>
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Now, lining up all of your guide points carefully, pin the body of your bag onto the bag ends (RS together), and still with your one-sided foot sew around the circle in exactly the same way as before. Take a 1cm seam allowance- the aim is to sew in exactly the same place when you attached the piping.</div>
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Ensure that your zip is open (crucial but easy to overlook!), before repeating these steps for the opposite end of the bag. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bQ-7j1QGRTA/V0StPLl5LDI/AAAAAAAABas/Bh5dvZpXlUIDxihm69r38IFGYtjOFdpcACLcB/s1600/IMG_9103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="barrel bag with piping instructions" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bQ-7j1QGRTA/V0StPLl5LDI/AAAAAAAABas/Bh5dvZpXlUIDxihm69r38IFGYtjOFdpcACLcB/s640/IMG_9103.jpg" title="barrel bag with piping instructions" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">piping is a beautiful visual detail on the bag</td></tr>
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Join me next week for the final instalment of instructions, with details of how to finish your bag to a beautiful standard. </div>
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Once again, thank you for tagging me on <a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">instagram</a>. Please keep doing this- it's great seeing how you are getting on, and don't forget you can always use the contact form if you need clarification. </div>
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<i>Thank you for taking part!</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-89024175076396614352016-05-18T01:14:00.002-07:002016-05-18T01:14:36.229-07:00Tilda Fabric Fat Quarter Blog Hop: Fat Quarter Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I'm delighted to have been invited to take part in the Tilda Candy Bloom <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/tilda-candy-bloom-blog-hop-2016/" target="_blank">blog hop</a>, organised by Stitch Craft Create. </div>
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I was set the challenge of what to do with nine fat quarters... and this is what I came up with: </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9bpPtiV1mQ/VzwebWCYoHI/AAAAAAAABZ4/pxYmfqstBtgi405Fb5PFtIDW69X8UHjjQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tilda fat quarter dress" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9bpPtiV1mQ/VzwebWCYoHI/AAAAAAAABZ4/pxYmfqstBtgi405Fb5PFtIDW69X8UHjjQCLcB/s640/IMG_9519.jpg" title="Tilda fat quarter dress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tilda fat quarter dress</td></tr>
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I love Tilda fabric, but I am used to the more subtle designs they have come up with in the past, so when this delightful bunch from the Candy Bloom collection exploded out of the envelope it put me in the mood for some fun!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G5tm_pHEglY/VzweckNdnrI/AAAAAAAABaI/Rj91301XtBct792WNAWbbJENT5HZo4gJwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="fat quarter beach dress " border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G5tm_pHEglY/VzweckNdnrI/AAAAAAAABaI/Rj91301XtBct792WNAWbbJENT5HZo4gJwCLcB/s640/IMG_9537.jpg" title="fat quarter beach dress " width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fat quarter beach dress </td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Part beach cover-up, part everyday overdress, my design used all nine fat quarters, with minimal wastage. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjWuDzeCodA/VzweckB8n4I/AAAAAAAABaE/f4S1wmEdGi0yeYinqvoDJ-hN8KGR1UgOwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tilda fabric candy bloom" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjWuDzeCodA/VzweckB8n4I/AAAAAAAABaE/f4S1wmEdGi0yeYinqvoDJ-hN8KGR1UgOwCLcB/s640/IMG_9529.jpg" title="Tilda fabric candy bloom" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fun to make and fun to wear</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwdBWdTwNgo/VzwecvD7CPI/AAAAAAAABaA/kC_V1w_XRV8T3otLWkLseV6mC69Hp58rgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="no waste sewing" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwdBWdTwNgo/VzwecvD7CPI/AAAAAAAABaA/kC_V1w_XRV8T3otLWkLseV6mC69Hp58rgCLcB/s640/IMG_9538.jpg" title="no waste sewing" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitching Pixie dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QGovE_wg1Z4/Vzwede8kajI/AAAAAAAABaM/gpRSU6MXyzYO2-EDeVqghO_68-iPKfrUQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="fat quarter over dress" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QGovE_wg1Z4/Vzwede8kajI/AAAAAAAABaM/gpRSU6MXyzYO2-EDeVqghO_68-iPKfrUQCLcB/s640/IMG_9542.jpg" title="fat quarter over dress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wear as an overdress...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If there is demand I will consider writing a tutorial, so don't forget to let me know if you'd like to see this by leaving me a comment below. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And if you share a link and tag me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">twitter</a> I'll know you're really keen to have a go at recreating my dress!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpFurL0bjbM/VzwebUHVoiI/AAAAAAAABZ8/me_tX3Xh5s0SkMK2g1F1_-BdusctZj5wwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="easy holiday dress" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpFurL0bjbM/VzwebUHVoiI/AAAAAAAABZ8/me_tX3Xh5s0SkMK2g1F1_-BdusctZj5wwCLcB/s640/IMG_9523.jpg" title="easy holiday dress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...or as a beach cover-up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KT_9NYjTVfE/Vzwebe3V6xI/AAAAAAAABZ0/UMRlMNVs-0w9GwV7y-qq9RRyfWIvr9n7QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tilda fabric dress" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KT_9NYjTVfE/Vzwebe3V6xI/AAAAAAAABZ0/UMRlMNVs-0w9GwV7y-qq9RRyfWIvr9n7QCLcB/s640/IMG_9524.jpg" title="Tilda fabric dress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you want a tutorial? Leave me a comment!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You can win your own bundle of Tilda fat quarters <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/tilda-candy-bloom-competition/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Don't forget to check out the other talented bloggers, as this blog hop is running all week (click the link above). </div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">And, if you're not a lucky winner this time, click the banner below to go straight to the Stitch Craft Create:</span><br />
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<a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=mdpREjWAVGg&offerid=324238.52&subid=0&type=4"><img alt="Best of Spring Tilda at Stitch Craft Create" border="0" src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=mdpREjWAVGg&bids=324238.52&subid=0&type=4&gridnum=16" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-65963845579407788042016-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:002016-05-20T10:32:18.007-07:00Barrel Bag Sew Along Instructions: Week 3<h2>
Sew Along: Week 3</h2>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0aOSBBgHQXA/VzsRDRekxMI/AAAAAAAABY4/ixrtBkXb9G0rR9q3hp-LyH-qj1xiQPTlwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="barrel bag tutorial" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0aOSBBgHQXA/VzsRDRekxMI/AAAAAAAABY4/ixrtBkXb9G0rR9q3hp-LyH-qj1xiQPTlwCLcB/s640/DSCN4950.jpg" title="barrel bag tutorial" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barrel Bag </td></tr>
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This week your bag will really begin to take shape! We will be inserting the zip. </div>
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I would first just like to point out that, shockingly, I forgot to do what I am about to instruct you to do! Apologies in advance for this, I just got too excited! </div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Next Step:</h3>
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It is necessary to finish the raw edges where the zip will be inserted. These are the edges of your main fabric which measure 52cm. </div>
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By 'finish' I simply mean that we cannot leave the fabric with the raw edges it has at the moment because it will fray. You can either</div>
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- overlock these edges,</div>
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- run a zig zag stitch along them,</div>
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-or, bind them with bias binding.</div>
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You have a 1.5cm seam allowance here, so make sure whatever finish you use stays within this distance of the edge of the fabric. </div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
The Zip:</h3>
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Don't be afraid of the zip! We are going to topstitch it in place. Your zip should be about 45cm/18".</div>
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Place your now-finished edges together and line them up as if you are going to sew down them, joining them, with the RS's of your bag together. Be sure to keep the handles out of the way. </div>
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Taking a 1.5cm seam allowance, sew about 5cm down the edges, then stop, backpacking securely. Turn the bag around and do the same at the other end. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WyNNGDdgikQ/VzsVO_Ja6PI/AAAAAAAABZE/f2gRyv1poIAG8WiWu9aHEyP9h_uOU4bjwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="how to sew a zip" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WyNNGDdgikQ/VzsVO_Ja6PI/AAAAAAAABZE/f2gRyv1poIAG8WiWu9aHEyP9h_uOU4bjwCLcB/s400/DSCN4934.jpg" title="how to sew a zip" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tack in a contrasting colour</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Use chalk or a fabric marker to draw a line 1.5cm from the edges running along the rest off this edge we are working on. </div>
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Then, preferable in a contrasting colour, make a neat line or tacking stitches along the line you have drawn. Make these stitches as straight as possible. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8sPrEHHQVw8/VzsVtdJsncI/AAAAAAAABZI/_nCQYgbKb0Ufc3NRxzK4yyX73_r-PZ8MQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="inserting zip" border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8sPrEHHQVw8/VzsVtdJsncI/AAAAAAAABZI/_nCQYgbKb0Ufc3NRxzK4yyX73_r-PZ8MQCLcB/s400/DSCN4936.jpg" title="inserting zip" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">seam pressed open</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Press this seam open, along the whole length of the machine stitches and tacking stitches. A long thin sleeve board is useful here if you have one. </div>
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Next, pin and tack your zip into place, so that the teeth are carefully positioned where the bag will open (under your contrasting tacking stitches).</div>
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For sewing in the zip, you can use your one-sided foot. However, when I have bulky fabric I often like to use my walking foot for sewing in zips. This helps to prevent the puckering that sometimes happens.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lay_wlcb6xU/VzsX1m7j01I/AAAAAAAABZY/Xdq3v2NK1zoO05twEP8NbfBhL_KIsEp8gCLcB/s1600/DSCN4938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="sewing machine walking foot" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lay_wlcb6xU/VzsX1m7j01I/AAAAAAAABZY/Xdq3v2NK1zoO05twEP8NbfBhL_KIsEp8gCLcB/s640/DSCN4938.jpg" title="sewing machine walking foot" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">walking foot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Making sure your needle will not hit the zipper teeth (this will most likely break it), and starting with the zip closed, sew in a neat box down one side of the zip, across the end if you can, and up the other side and the opposite end. You will need to move the zip handle a little as you get to the end of your box- leave the needle down through the fabric so as not to interrupt your line of stitching. </div>
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Remove the rest of your contrasting tacking (you will most likely have had to remove a little already in order to sew the box all around your zip). This is where the contrasting colour is really useful: you know easily that these stitches can be removed. </div>
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Also remove the tacking that held your zip in place as this is no longer needed. </div>
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Open your zip- both to check that it all works, and in preparation for the next step!<br />
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<i><b>Well done! </b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HTW85Z97lGg/VzsZ6lTiRxI/AAAAAAAABZk/ZvRoypMwwyoLWNgo5mUiPlAx4Gl19HGTwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="sew zip bag instructions" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HTW85Z97lGg/VzsZ6lTiRxI/AAAAAAAABZk/ZvRoypMwwyoLWNgo5mUiPlAx4Gl19HGTwCLcB/s640/DSCN4954.jpg" title="sew zip bag instructions" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">barrel bag with zip</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
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Thank you if you have tagged me on social media (<a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">here</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">here</a>) to let me know how you're getting on. I love seeing all of your fabric choices. And don't forget, if you need any clarification just use the contact form to the right and I will try to explain anything that might seem confusing. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-86480765969834358952016-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:002016-06-02T00:43:02.747-07:00Barrel Bag Sew Along Instructions: Week 2 <h2>
</h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lHbdwlnszJk/VyIV-dFy1TI/AAAAAAAABXU/kAC8R5k7H40A7xNT8EpnWlIUuRtRnfdaACLcB/s1600/IMG_9123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="How to make a Barrel Bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lHbdwlnszJk/VyIV-dFy1TI/AAAAAAAABXU/kAC8R5k7H40A7xNT8EpnWlIUuRtRnfdaACLcB/s640/IMG_9123.jpg" title="How to make a Barrel Bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How to make a Barrel Bag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h2>
Step 3:</h2>
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<h3>
Welcome back to the sew-along! </h3>
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Our next task is to make the pocket. You will remember that we have cut out two matching squares for this, one from the main fabric and one from the contrast fabric, so you'll need these. You will also need a piece of your piped cord: cut a length of about 20cm.</div>
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Decide which is to be the top edge of the pocket. If you have plain fabric this won't really matter and any edge will be just fine. </div>
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Place your pocket squares so that they are RS facing (meaning that the fronts, or Right Sides of the fabrics are facing each other, and you can only see the backs whichever way you look). </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prj8bGZn2mw/VzIVoh2mghI/AAAAAAAABYE/k9WAnc0u_QgErMGOONn-YdO0Zd8kEa3AwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Quick linen from Merchant & Mills" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prj8bGZn2mw/VzIVoh2mghI/AAAAAAAABYE/k9WAnc0u_QgErMGOONn-YdO0Zd8kEa3AwCLcB/s640/DSCN4919.jpg" title="Quick linen from Merchant & Mills" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some fabrics are very different on the front and back,<br />
like the Quink linen I used from Merchant & Mills</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Line the edges up carefully, then place your piece of piped cord so that the raw edges of the bias binding run along the raw edges of the fabric, as pictured below. </div>
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Using your one-sided foot again, sew all of these layers together keeping your stitches close to the piping cord (just as you did before when sewing the cord into the binding). You will be taking roughly 1cm seam allowance. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0XoUbBPzqKY/VyIVJSI-fXI/AAAAAAAABXA/Ondi6FyJ4JErnc7FQNH_gHXtQNVVHHAKwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Piping & Pocket Pieces" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0XoUbBPzqKY/VyIVJSI-fXI/AAAAAAAABXA/Ondi6FyJ4JErnc7FQNH_gHXtQNVVHHAKwCLcB/s640/IMG_9089.jpg" title="Piping & Pocket Pieces" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piping & Pocket Pieces</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Replace your normal sewing machine foot, and taking a 1cm seam allowance again, sew along the bottom edges of your pocket pieces, so that your pocket piece is a bit like a tunnel. </div>
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Turn the pocket through, so that it is the correct way out, and press both seams so that the pocket lays nice and flat (never skimp on the pressing, it makes all the difference!)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGO6a_tgbdo/VyIVJit2ioI/AAAAAAAABXI/5ZyUHD04oYgBRmRTMmEasg6t92iJ36DHgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="sew a piped pocket" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGO6a_tgbdo/VyIVJit2ioI/AAAAAAAABXI/5ZyUHD04oYgBRmRTMmEasg6t92iJ36DHgCLcB/s640/IMG_9091.jpg" title="sew a piped pocket" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completed Pocket</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The pocket should now look like this one below. Trim off the extra piping cord which hangs out of the sides. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RoFZxUuG5R0/VyIVKHxVhMI/AAAAAAAABXM/lwydwccw1tohm2f1hPkE9pAlq6N6WOG3gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="pocket with piping cord" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RoFZxUuG5R0/VyIVKHxVhMI/AAAAAAAABXM/lwydwccw1tohm2f1hPkE9pAlq6N6WOG3gCLcB/s640/IMG_9092.jpg" title="pocket with piping cord" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pocket Ready to Attach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
Bag Handles: </h3>
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Cut a piece of your webbing: it needs to be 230cm in length. </div>
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Ensuring that it is not twisted, sew the ends together (RS together if there is a front and back) taking an allowance of 1cm, and press well so that the seam lays flat. </div>
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<h3>
Marking Out:</h3>
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This next step is really important. You will need your straight edges, measuring tools and fabric markers/tailors chalk. </div>
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Mark out your fabric (the large piece that you cut out as directed in the previous instructions) as shown in the diagram below. The drawing is not to scale. All angles are right angles, and the diagram is symmetrical. </div>
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The long rectangles running up and down the diagram represent where you attach your webbing, and the smaller square which connects them is where you will put the pocket. The long rectangles are the same distance from both the top and the bottom of the fabric.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXS8_JxSQRc/VzI8A0hjiFI/AAAAAAAABYY/j65aF1Ep8_Qio4LQZEvVan0kjpsy5dRjQCLcB/s1600/barrelbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="barrel bag diagram" border="0" height="556" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXS8_JxSQRc/VzI8A0hjiFI/AAAAAAAABYY/j65aF1Ep8_Qio4LQZEvVan0kjpsy5dRjQCLcB/s640/barrelbag.jpg" title="barrel bag diagram" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Markings for Main Pattern Piece</td></tr>
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Assembly:</h3>
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Once you have made all of the markings, put your pocket piece into the correct place. Topstitch closely and carefully along the bottom edge of your pocket only. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-znvjoR_y1vI/VzIVxsf7YbI/AAAAAAAABYI/l3N5B_4sKa07X17ffIG6pWN3t-pTWVBmQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="fabric marked with tailors chalk" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-znvjoR_y1vI/VzIVxsf7YbI/AAAAAAAABYI/l3N5B_4sKa07X17ffIG6pWN3t-pTWVBmQCLcB/s640/DSCN4930.jpg" title="fabric marked with tailors chalk" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fabric marked with tailors chalk</td></tr>
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Now, take the loop of webbing that you have joined, and place it onto the bag outer as shown. Make sure that the webbing seam is in the centre of your main fabric so that it will be on the bottom of the bag. </div>
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Your handles will be the loops of fabric which hang over the body of the bag. You will only be stitching them within the long rectangular markings- not all the way to the edge of the fabric- so if you can no longer see where the stitching should end, be sure to extend your markings (take a look at the picture above to see where I've done this). </div>
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It is critical to make sure that both of your handles are the same length: roughly 50cm. Check this now, then pin the webbing on. When the webbing is on top of the pocket piece, pin through all layers and make sure the pocket will be securely held in place. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Webbing Ready to Sew</td></tr>
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Top-stitch the webbing onto the bag fabric by sewing the two long rectangles that you marked. Sew close to the edge of the webbing for a really neat finish.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ounr2GTLlLo/VyIVI2TJPvI/AAAAAAAABW8/i_VKW5hgARcUd1x0h8NRt4J2ZNmS6xm2wCLcB/s1600/DSCN4932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="how to sew a barrel bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ounr2GTLlLo/VyIVI2TJPvI/AAAAAAAABW8/i_VKW5hgARcUd1x0h8NRt4J2ZNmS6xm2wCLcB/s640/DSCN4932.jpg" title="how to sew a barrel bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barrel Bag Handles Pinned On</td></tr>
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Lesson Complete!</h2>
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And that's the end of this lesson- good luck and don't forget to tag me on social media with your makes, <a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">here</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Please use the contact form if you have any queries, and enjoy! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NnJjKp_3Rpc/VzI96zC_FVI/AAAAAAAABYk/7l0dzoZ3x5Ag-NqHsdHs8sYYKMOC3RJxQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Haberdashery & Tools" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NnJjKp_3Rpc/VzI96zC_FVI/AAAAAAAABYk/7l0dzoZ3x5Ag-NqHsdHs8sYYKMOC3RJxQCLcB/s640/DSCN4914.jpg" title="Haberdashery & Tools" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haberdashery & Tools</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-85992413834247539122016-05-04T00:00:00.000-07:002016-05-03T04:10:00.857-07:00Barrel Bag Sew- Along Instructions: Week 1<h2>
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Are you sitting comfortably? </span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Then let's begin our sew-along!</span></h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How To Make a Barrel Bag </td></tr>
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<b><i>Step 1</i></b> was to prepare your fabrics, which is why today we are starting with:</div>
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Step 2:</h2>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Cut Out Your Pattern:</span></h3>
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Do you remember that I mentioned a 26cm diameter plate? Well, I'm sure you will have guessed that this is for making the ends of your bag! </div>
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Draw around your plate (or use a compass to draw a circle this size), and cut a paper pattern (no need to add any extra seam allowance, this is already included).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AagHtI_5OjM/VyCM-636JwI/AAAAAAAABWg/B1-njU4SPSIJEJzQ1iaYqAxQA1EeT2ORACLcB/s1600/DSCN4927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="barrel bag pattern" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AagHtI_5OjM/VyCM-636JwI/AAAAAAAABWg/B1-njU4SPSIJEJzQ1iaYqAxQA1EeT2ORACLcB/s640/DSCN4927.jpg" title="barrel bag pattern" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">26cm Circle</td></tr>
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Fold the circle in half both horizontally and vertically, and mark quarters around the edge (e.g. 12 o'clock, 3, 6, and 9). You can use a notcher here if you have one. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_e66nRtzErM/VyCM-vb56HI/AAAAAAAABWY/Y4jr_50W8AI4YfBIqJyzK1v0MZG1b_feACLcB/s1600/DSCN4928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Paper Pattern with Notches" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_e66nRtzErM/VyCM-vb56HI/AAAAAAAABWY/Y4jr_50W8AI4YfBIqJyzK1v0MZG1b_feACLcB/s640/DSCN4928.jpg" title="Paper Pattern with Notches" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper Pattern with Notches</td></tr>
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Other Pattern Pieces: </h3>
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Cut a paper square with sides measuring <b>19cm</b> for the pocket pattern, and cut a paper pattern for the main body of the bag measuring <b>76.5cm x 52cm</b>.<br />
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It pays to be as accurate as you can be at this stage, so it is a good idea to check that your corners are right-angles and your sides the correct length. Again there is no need to add any extra seam allowance as it is already included. </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Cut Your Fabric:</span></h2>
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Pin the pattern pieces carefully onto your fabric and cut as follows:<br />
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• cut two circles from main fabric,<br />
• cut one piece for the body of the bag from the main fabric (line up one of the edges with the straight of grain),<br />
• cut one pocket square from main fabric and one pocket square from contrasting fabric (again, cut along the grain line). </div>
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Making Bias Binding:</h2>
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Taking your contrasting fabric (my Marble Indigo cotton) we are going to make some bias strips, which we will use for binding and for piping. </div>
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This is where your graders square (if you have one) will come into its own: line up one of the shorter sides of the triangle with the selvedge and mark down the long edge of the tool- this will be at 45˚ to the straight of grain, or the bias. Take care not to drag on the fabric as you go. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lUFx89illic/VyCID1Nn2sI/AAAAAAAABVw/4MGpFO52g4o-cKlHSjvAs2ifTasSXFNKwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="graders square tutorial" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lUFx89illic/VyCID1Nn2sI/AAAAAAAABVw/4MGpFO52g4o-cKlHSjvAs2ifTasSXFNKwCLcB/s640/IMG_9084.jpg" title="graders square tutorial" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using Graders Square</td></tr>
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You can then use the markings on the plastic (seen here in the bottom of the picture) to help you draw a series of lines running parallel to the first one, and draw a number of strips which run along the bias. </div>
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If you don't have a tool like this, use a small set square to find the bias, then use it in conjunction with a long ruler to mark your strips. </div>
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You will need roughly 2m of 4cm-wide binding, and 2m of 3cm-wide binding. Do all of your drawing before you begin to cut. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jL41Kz4rjX0/VyCJ_au5bbI/AAAAAAAABWM/fB5_AvULPQkviyu7MdDF27DMNjTEgNhZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="homemade bias binding" border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jL41Kz4rjX0/VyCJ_au5bbI/AAAAAAAABWM/fB5_AvULPQkviyu7MdDF27DMNjTEgNhZgCLcB/s320/IMG_9116.jpg" title="homemade bias binding" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Rolls of Bias Binding Ready to Use<br />
<i>notice the different widths</i></td></tr>
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Cut along your lines to make strips, and join them together to make long rolls of bias binding as follows: to determine whether the ends of your strips can be joined, lay them with right sides (RS) up, and if the angles run parallel you will be able to join them.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPZkxoV5lEU/VyCID33n5BI/AAAAAAAABV0/2G256uVJj84fPO5TH10msbUPUZbQHpMMwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="homemade bias binding" border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPZkxoV5lEU/VyCID33n5BI/AAAAAAAABV0/2G256uVJj84fPO5TH10msbUPUZbQHpMMwCLcB/s320/IMG_9085.jpg" title="homemade bias binding" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edges Run Parallel</td></tr>
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Take one strip and turn it over, laying it on top of the other- now RS's face each other. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ryp-QrQ43WY/VyCIEGkJaBI/AAAAAAAABV4/FkrUV88fQF4pn6RgzCvOveMZKvDM_n2ZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="joining bias strips" border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ryp-QrQ43WY/VyCIEGkJaBI/AAAAAAAABV4/FkrUV88fQF4pn6RgzCvOveMZKvDM_n2ZwCLcB/s320/IMG_9086.jpg" title="joining bias strips" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joining Bias Strips</td></tr>
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The stitch line will be 1cm from the raw edges, so make sure this is where the edges intersect, and that this is the point at which the right angles appear along the edges- stitch line drawn below. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Kkd130pqts/VyCIE5z5jEI/AAAAAAAABV8/MM37-1JBRMAjYPh5WdBXytwStTjLaMviwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="how to join bias strips " border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Kkd130pqts/VyCIE5z5jEI/AAAAAAAABV8/MM37-1JBRMAjYPh5WdBXytwStTjLaMviwCLcB/s320/IMG_9087.jpg" title="how to join bias strips " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitch Line</td></tr>
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Cover Your Piping Cord:</h2>
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You will need to attach your one-sided foot to your sewing machine. If you're not sure what this looks like, take a look at the image below: I always think it looks like a ski. </div>
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It will not sit in the middle of the ankle, you will have to attach it to one side- attach it so the foot it positioned to the right of the needle. </div>
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In some machines, the position of the foot is adjusted by loosening the screw, sliding the foot to the desired position and tightening it back up. You can do this with the needle down to get a really close hold on the fabric. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making Piping Cord</td></tr>
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Take your 3cm binding, and roll it around your piping cord. Take care that the raw edges of the bias binding are level with each other and that the cord runs down the centre of the bias strip. </div>
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Using your one-sided foot as shown in the photo, sew a line of stitching running along the cord- don't stitch through the cord itself but try to keep the stitches close to it to hold it in place. </div>
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Lesson One Done!</h2>
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That is as far as we are going to go this week, I hope you enjoy it and I look forward to you sharing your progress with me on <a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">instagram</a>. </div>
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If you need anything to be clarified please go ahead and ask, and if you really don't do the metric system I may be persuaded to offer imperial conversions... </div>
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#MMMay:</h2>
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Are you following #mmmay on social media? Me-made May is the perfect opportunity to show off your skills, so don't forget to add this tag too to your barrel bag pictures.</div>
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Following the Instructions:</h2>
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I will be putting up other blog posts between the sew-along, so don't forget that you can click on the words 'sew-along' in the word cloud to the right to see everything in this sequence. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-25426172050664265562016-05-01T00:30:00.000-07:002016-05-01T00:30:01.985-07:00May Monthly Giveaway: Debbie Bliss Paloma Yarn & Crochet Kit<h2>
Free Stuff!</h2>
<br />Due to the success of my recent <a href="https://stitchingpixie.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/free-knitting-pattern-plus-yarn-needle.html" target="_blank">giveaway</a>, you'll be pleased to know I am going to make it a regular monthly thing, hurrah!<br />
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Each giveaway will be open for a whole calendar month, so you have the whole of May to get excited about this one, and then I will announce the winner and the next giveaway on June 1st.</div>
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What's the Catch?</h2>
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No catch! There are no conditions attached, I'm just giving away either treasures from my stash, or items kindly provided by other companies. I mean I hope that you will stay a while and read some other posts, perhaps even leave the odd comment, but that's entirely up to you. </div>
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Usually it will be yarn or fabric themed. </div>
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This is open to everyone, wherever you are in the world, unless I occasionally specify postage restrictions. </div>
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If you'd like to be considered please just leave me a comment below, and that's it, consider yourself entered- it really is that simple. If for some reason you can't comment then you can use the contact form instead. </div>
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Tip: to be sure you never miss a giveaway, or more importantly a notification that you might have won, why not subscribe to my blog...? It's easy, and you'll find where to do it on the top right ----></div>
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So, down to business:</div>
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May Giveaway:</h2>
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Now, I know it's only May, but I know that all you yarnies are already thinking about next winter. And with that in mind I have put together a little kit to kick start your winter woolies: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdSkWCSviP4/Vx-dtPkcjsI/AAAAAAAABVI/2TVLGoLBpGQxtGN80wG4k5-ZXtJBvf_MwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="crochet kit giveaway" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdSkWCSviP4/Vx-dtPkcjsI/AAAAAAAABVI/2TVLGoLBpGQxtGN80wG4k5-ZXtJBvf_MwCLcB/s640/DSCN4964.jpg" title="crochet kit giveaway" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crochet Kit Giveaway</td></tr>
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Win a Crochet Kit</h2>
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I am offering a kit I have put together, comprising of 2 skeins of Debbie Bliss Paloma yarn, a Knit Pro crochet hook, and a vintage button, plus an email copy of my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sundance-kerchief" target="_blank">Sundance Kerchief</a> broomstick crochet pattern. </div>
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The yarn is a warm autumnal ochre, shade 42008. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqpfoA4Nshk/Vx-ds_1nM6I/AAAAAAAABVA/e0zdpDZ7hdEjINEOwXO9qAkhzvzCBGe9wCLcB/s1600/DSCN4963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="crochet kit giveaway" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqpfoA4Nshk/Vx-ds_1nM6I/AAAAAAAABVA/e0zdpDZ7hdEjINEOwXO9qAkhzvzCBGe9wCLcB/s640/DSCN4963.jpg" title="crochet kit giveaway" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super squishy yarn!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knit Pro crochet hook</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful statement button</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you can make this!</td></tr>
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Simply comment to enter, and thank you! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-90989044079799262482016-04-27T00:00:00.000-07:002016-05-20T10:33:08.385-07:00Announcing The Barrel Bag Sew-Along, with Merchant & Mills<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5et_gyYS_Vk/Vx95VVsAk8I/AAAAAAAABUY/zP4wBzKqJsca5LW54gHqTiUBj_ibi2a6wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="sewing tutorial" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5et_gyYS_Vk/Vx95VVsAk8I/AAAAAAAABUY/zP4wBzKqJsca5LW54gHqTiUBj_ibi2a6wCLcB/s640/IMG_9115.jpg" title="sewing tutorial" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sewing instructions</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Announcing the Sew-Along:</span></h2>
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I am delighted to announce that I am hosting a sew-along, sponsored by <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/" target="_blank">Merchant & Mills</a>.</div>
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How it works: </h3>
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Each Wednesday I will upload a set of clear instructions for you to complete at your leisure to take you through every detail of how to make your very own barrel bag, in small manageable stages.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J85mLI-e_gs/Vx95VsSKuRI/AAAAAAAABUc/pbxtyUryWywi1qJ2D-swcQA0sEFnbxfaACLcB/s1600/IMG_9104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="barrel bag sew-along" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J85mLI-e_gs/Vx95VsSKuRI/AAAAAAAABUc/pbxtyUryWywi1qJ2D-swcQA0sEFnbxfaACLcB/s640/IMG_9104.jpg" title="barrel bag sew-along" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sew-Along</td></tr>
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<h2>
About the Bag: </h2>
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I love the preppy style of barrel bags, but I wanted to soften it a little. The relaxed and slightly slouchy result is perfect for me to use as a gym bag: it is quite capacious but with a proper fastening, and I can either throw it over my shoulder or grab the handles to rummage through the contents. </div>
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I hope I've come up with something that will be equally useful to you, be it for a day out, an alternative to your handbag, an overnighter, for school or college... or whatever you choose. A barrel bag is also gender neutral, so this could be a great make for a man. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBy26TO6VOo/Vx95UmRhXrI/AAAAAAAABUU/7LIt8wk_BJ4PqfK2gtX8heePIO2cus4lwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="How to make a barrel bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBy26TO6VOo/Vx95UmRhXrI/AAAAAAAABUU/7LIt8wk_BJ4PqfK2gtX8heePIO2cus4lwCLcB/s640/DSCN4958.jpg" title="How to make a barrel bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How to make a barrel bag</td></tr>
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I'm waiting a week before I launch in with instructions to allow you to gather your materials and equipment. </div>
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Merchant & Mills:</h2>
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If you've never encountered Merchant & Mills at their shop, or selling elsewhere then you have missed out! Their website is perfectly lovely, and tells you pretty much everything you need to know, but there is nothing quite like seeing the colours of all of those beautiful fabrics in the flesh and engaging with their really tactile properties. Yes, dear readers, I have spent some considerable time loitering, planning projects, and, um, shopping!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wci7JTyvxws/Vx95TasN8UI/AAAAAAAABUE/F72RlCUg3MAAaOSYDXi0lWK2cJxLYvFEQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="posh haberdashery" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wci7JTyvxws/Vx95TasN8UI/AAAAAAAABUE/F72RlCUg3MAAaOSYDXi0lWK2cJxLYvFEQCLcB/s640/DSCN4913.jpg" title="posh haberdashery" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what's in this beautiful package?!</td></tr>
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Therefore, I am thrilled that they have supported this sew-along by providing my fabrics, hardware, and webbing. Thank you so much to Carolyn, and also to Michelle. </div>
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I strongly recommend that you order your fabrics and hardware from their <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products-page/" target="_blank">website</a>, or pop down to their shop in Rye, East Sussex, if you can.<br />
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What You Need to Make a Barrel Bag:</h2>
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Fabrics:</h2>
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It took me (somewhat characteristically) a long time to decide which fabrics to plump for, but for my main fabric I chose <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products/linen/quink/" target="_blank">Quink</a> linen: it is substantial and yet soft, and I love the way has amazing depth of colour, and yet antiques with use. It is also beautiful on the 'wrong' side, which means the inner of my bag is as beautiful as the outer (I made use of this contrast on the pocket). You will need one metre.</div>
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For the contrasting fabric I went for an Indian cotton, in <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products/cotton/marbled-indigo-web/" target="_blank">marbled indigo</a>. I have used these Indian cottons before, so I knew that they handle really well and have a nice dry sort of feel. </div>
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The straps are vital to this bag, so I suggest that you don't scrimp on your webbing. You will need four metres, which seems huge I know, but I promise you it is important. I went for 50mm <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products/trimmings/gros-grain-50mm-blue/" target="_blank">blue grosgrain</a>. </div>
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You'll also need two metres of fine piping cord (approximately 2mm diameter), plus matching cotton sewing thread. I used Guttermann shade 5412 which is a perfect match.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTv9cIEoG1g/Vx95UT_uNBI/AAAAAAAABUQ/VDwPWTXPcrAUnogmdDS2XLA3eNMbAza_gCLcB/s1600/DSCN4921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Merchant & Mills fabrics" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTv9cIEoG1g/Vx95UT_uNBI/AAAAAAAABUQ/VDwPWTXPcrAUnogmdDS2XLA3eNMbAza_gCLcB/s640/DSCN4921.jpg" title="Merchant & Mills fabrics" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Quink' linen, Indian cotton, 5mm grosgrain</td></tr>
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<h2>
Hardware:</h2>
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A beautiful bag deserves top quality hardware!<br />
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You will need a zip. I went for a chunky metal one, measuring 45cm long.</div>
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To make this bag you will need two <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products/measures/heavy-d-ring/" target="_blank">D rings</a>, two <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products/measures/paraclip/" target="_blank">paraclips</a> & four <a href="http://merchantandmills.com/products/measures/double-headed-rivets-matt-bronze/" target="_blank">rivets</a>. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mTW2L5ojD4/Vx95UfoXXNI/AAAAAAAABUM/2_UDXNftlPsXfJWgM6hxggIkb4zQq7qpgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="brass fittings from Merchant & Mills" border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mTW2L5ojD4/Vx95UfoXXNI/AAAAAAAABUM/2_UDXNftlPsXfJWgM6hxggIkb4zQq7qpgCLcB/s400/DSCN4924.jpg" title="brass fittings from Merchant & Mills" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful hardware</td></tr>
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<h2>
Tools:</h2>
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You will need a sewing machine with a good sharp needle, plus a one-sided foot. </div>
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You'll need your general sewing kit (hand needles, pins etc). </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CsznDFPo7dA/Vx99YtJh3mI/AAAAAAAABUw/R1TdNaBXJf4wWQvHnFAqNd8lQwRHDo7LACLcB/s1600/DSCN4935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="sewing essentials" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CsznDFPo7dA/Vx99YtJh3mI/AAAAAAAABUw/R1TdNaBXJf4wWQvHnFAqNd8lQwRHDo7LACLcB/s400/DSCN4935.jpg" title="sewing essentials" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sewing kit</td></tr>
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Also on the list of essentials are good fabric scissors, drawing tools for both paper and fabric and pattern paper, (unless you want to work straight onto the fabric, in which case good fabric markers will do), including a long straight edge. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--XnOqEFanT4/Vx99YtzEwtI/AAAAAAAABUs/jWeGI_Ej1PMLCJsAyPYIeaYpixw8rWvtgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="fabric pans" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--XnOqEFanT4/Vx99YtzEwtI/AAAAAAAABUs/jWeGI_Ej1PMLCJsAyPYIeaYpixw8rWvtgCLcB/s400/IMG_9120.jpg" title="fabric pens" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilot 'Frixion' pens: my favourite for fabric marking as they iron off easily</td></tr>
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A grader's square is extremely useful, as is a 26cm diameter plate. </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">For attaching the rivets: a hammer and an awl.</span><br />
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Skills: </h2>
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This sew-along will suit an adventurous beginner or someone who has intermediate skills. We will be putting a zip in, sewing curves and using bias binding (which I will explain in full). The really make-or-break skill is careful marking out though, for which no experience is necessary. </div>
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How to Make a Barrel Bag:</h2>
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Step 1: <span style="text-align: justify;">Preparation</span></h3>
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Wash your fabric as per the instructions, and lay flat to dry, or hang from the selvedge on the line. Give them a careful press. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">26cm dinner plate</td></tr>
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Sew-Along With Me: </h2>
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So, I hope you will join me next week for the first set of instructions in the sew-along. As I mentioned, each Wednesday the next instalment will be uploaded. You could consider subscribing to ensure that you don't miss any stages. </div>
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I always welcome your comments, and if you get really stuck or you want to request further tutorials then please go ahead and use the contact form on the right. </div>
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Also, I'd really love it if you tag me on instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stitchingfitpixie/" target="_blank">@stitchingfitpixie</a> or twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/StAustellStitch" target="_blank">@StAustellStitch</a> at every stage of your make: show me your fabrics and how you're getting on!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Oj1ZPZymo0/Vx95TbKSJ3I/AAAAAAAABUI/vx8mPjn-gRM1y6jc3y117MIsMlRwKgfsACLcB/s1600/DSCN4916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="http://merchantandmills.com" border="0" height="584" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Oj1ZPZymo0/Vx95TbKSJ3I/AAAAAAAABUI/vx8mPjn-gRM1y6jc3y117MIsMlRwKgfsACLcB/s640/DSCN4916.jpg" title="http://merchantandmills.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing giant protractor also purchased at Merchant & Mills</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-51975728686098576102016-04-24T08:51:00.000-07:002016-04-24T08:51:13.703-07:00Q&A: Ethical Brand 'Lost in Samsara' + Product Review<h2>
About Lost in Samsara:</h2>
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So much more than a fair-trade shop, Lost in Samsara is an enterprise based on the whole philosophy of supporting less fortunate communities by sourcing beautiful products. You can read about the origins of every product (whether it has been up-cycled or hand made from scratch), and see pictures of who actually made it, and find out what your purchase will mean to the community it originates from. </div>
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You can even join in with the <a href="http://www.lostinsamsara.co.uk/wheel" target="_blank">Wheel Project</a> and exchange skills with others locally. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KyYA84FXPic/VxjkwZVYc7I/AAAAAAAABTQ/3esrHOSvQFwWNoWxF5zjdsqyH9gFyb0NgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Up-cycled Cement Bag Hold All" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KyYA84FXPic/VxjkwZVYc7I/AAAAAAAABTQ/3esrHOSvQFwWNoWxF5zjdsqyH9gFyb0NgCLcB/s640/DSCN4898.jpg" title="Up-cycled Cement Bag Hold All" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">up-cycled cement bag hold all</td></tr>
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Q&A:</h2>
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I was lucky enough to chat to Marvi from Lost in Samsara about the big picture. The answers that I received to my little interview really blew me away and I am thrilled to share them here: </div>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie:</i></b> How long have you been running Lost in Samsara?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>Lost in Samsara started at the beginning of 2015. We decided it was time for us to start doing more of what we believe in and after a trip to Nepal and few more conversations Lost in Samsara was born.</div>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie: </i></b>As a brand, what is your primary aim?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>Our primary aim is to encourage people to change the way we consume and to ask ourselves who is behind what we have and how we dress. We collaborate with different projects around the world that employ artisans who are paid a fair wage. Most of them are women who face economical and social problems. We’d like our brand to be a bridge that reconnects products and people, encourages slow-production and promotes trade over charity.<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10px; line-height: normal;"> </span></div>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie: </i></b>Who is your typical shopper?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>We try to design and/or bring to the market things that are new and that can satisfy both male and female shoppers. So far, we have had people of all ages and gender, which is something we really love. </div>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie: </i></b>What's the best part of your job?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>The best part of our job is our job and we can finally say that we are happy about what we do and waking up in the morning is something we enjoy now. We also really love engaging and talking to people at the markets we do. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">strong, roomy & comfortable </td></tr>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie: </i></b>What is your favourite thing that you sell?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>We sell many different things and there is not really a favourite. We like each and every item for different reasons. Some are up-cycled, some hand-woven, some hand-knitted. Each craft reflects the country where is from and we love that. </div>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie: </i></b>Who is your heroine?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>We don’t have a heroine in particular. Our heroine is each and every woman who struggles everyday for a better life for herself and her family.</div>
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<b><i>Stitching Pixie: </i></b>How would you like to be remembered?</div>
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<b><i>Marvi: </i></b>Probably more than being remembered we hope we can have a positive impact on all the people we meet during our life. We like to think that we are all connected and that we can all have a part in telling a better story. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">adjustable shoulder strap</td></tr>
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Product Review: </h2>
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I was given a fantastic up cycled hold-all to review. I just love the design, featuring Elephant Brand cement bags, complete with all of the original instructions and warnings. </div>
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True to its name, the Elephant brand bag is sizeable and strong! Reinforced with a tough textile lining (complete with interior pocket), I feel like it could take me on any trip stuffed with any amount of gear. All of the hardware (the zip, the buckles etc), are lovely quality, and the bag benefits from having both an adjustable shoulder strap and a pair of webbing handles (both very tough and comfortable as you might expect). </div>
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I tested this gorgeous bag as my gym bag for a week, and it worked perfectly: comfortable to carry and very roomy, I could throw all of stuff in there in a hurry, and better still there was plenty of space to rummage through it to find everything again! </div>
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My only complaint? It has inspired a little bit of wanderlust in me: I cannot wait to take it on a real trip with me!</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">You can view this product and buy it </span><a href="http://shop.lostinsamsara.co.uk/bags/upcycled-bags/upcycled-holdall-bag.html" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">here</a>. I feel that for its modest price tag, this is an extremely good value bag. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shorter handles even fitted over my shoulder</td></tr>
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Made in Cambodia, with the added benefit of empowering women and paying a fair wage, there is everything to feel good about with this bag. Perfect for however much 'wandering through' you end up doing. </div>
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Next time I need a gift, something for my home, or another gorgeous bag, I will head to Lost in Samsara. Top of my list though would be these adorable silver stud <a href="http://shop.lostinsamsara.co.uk/jewellery/jewellery-elephant-post.html" target="_blank">earrings</a>, also elephants and carefully sourced in Mexico, or if I really wanted to invest in a statement tote bag, it would have to be this <a href="http://shop.lostinsamsara.co.uk/bags/weekender-bag-ikat.html" target="_blank">Ikat weekender</a>. </div>
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However, the thing that would bring me back to Lost in Samsara above all is that dealing with them has been such a pleasure from start to finish. I have to recommend them as a totally feel-good brand! Thank you Alessia & Marvi! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QblQK7PB4Y0/Vxjkwc0M9CI/AAAAAAAABTM/Bvpig__Hm-Uiltqihn_tgThjDhv_ZnaEQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="up cycled bag" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QblQK7PB4Y0/Vxjkwc0M9CI/AAAAAAAABTM/Bvpig__Hm-Uiltqihn_tgThjDhv_ZnaEQCLcB/s640/DSCN4897.jpg" title="up cycled bag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...for all of your wanderings<br /><br />Product kindly supplied by Lost in Samsara</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-62104450846094296472016-04-20T03:31:00.001-07:002016-04-20T03:31:41.470-07:00Girl Talk, Lidl & The Oeko-Tex Standard<h2>
Whatever you want to call it...</h2>
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If you are anything like me, the last thing you will want to spend time thinking about is your sanitary protection, feminine hygiene, or whatever other euphemism springs to mind. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Urchins have nothing to do with tampons, but this blog post was a little difficult to illustrate!</td></tr>
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Tampons: a textile product</h2>
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I confess that beyond safe disposal, I haven't given a thought to the ecology of tampons, so when I grabbed a box in a discount supermarket I was pleasantly surprised when I noticed the Oeko-Tex 100 Standard on the box. <i>Of course</i> these things are made from cotton, and therefore we should be concerned about where that cotton comes from. </div>
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And after all, due to the intimate way we use these products, shouldn't we be diligent about ensuring they do not contain harmful chemicals...? Now, I have absolutely no proof that more mainstream brands of tampons contain chemicals, but I don't see them rushing to reassure us that they are not. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZjRVnokobI/VxZcjC1YK3I/AAAAAAAABSw/7_sKsHD06xknDJZtTYFTUm6EoWU1htpKwCLcB/s1600/IMG_8417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZjRVnokobI/VxZcjC1YK3I/AAAAAAAABSw/7_sKsHD06xknDJZtTYFTUm6EoWU1htpKwCLcB/s640/IMG_8417.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't flush them or they will end up here!</td></tr>
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The Oeko-Tex Standard</h2>
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In case you are not familiar with the Oeko-Tex standard, it is an assurance that the product has been thoroughly and independently tested for legal and illegal harmful substances. The end use of the product and the intensity of the contact it will have with the skin is taken into account then applying the test criteria. Again this is reassuring given that we are talking about tampons. </div>
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The Oeko-Tex 100 is not a comprehensive test for all-round ethical production (it is not a fair trade or organic certification), but, it is a lot better than having no assurances at all. And if there are no nasty chemicals in the end product, that's a good sign that the environment has been respected along the production process. </div>
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You can read more about the Oeko-Tex standard <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oeko-tex_standard" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Best Brands of Eco Tampons:</h2>
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<b>Lidl</b>'s own 'Siempre' brand of tampons, then, seem like a good bet- well done Lidl! However, if you don't shop in Lidl here are some alternatives:</div>
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<b>Natracare</b>, soil association certified organic cotton tampons, available from Greenfibres (don't forget to use PIXIE10 discount code): <a href="http://www.greenfibres.com/product/316/79100/natracare-organic-cotton-tampons.html" target="_blank">click here</a></div>
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<b>Organyc</b> applicator cotton tampons, available from Natural Collection (click banner to the left)</div>
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<b>Veeda</b> natural cotton sanitary products, available from <a href="http://www.boots.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/SolrSearchLister?storeId=10052&langId=-1&catalogId=11051&stReq=1&searchTerm=veeda#container" target="_blank">Boots</a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-54620646871081009162016-04-15T10:02:00.000-07:002016-04-15T10:02:16.151-07:00Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare Review<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Skincare:</h2>
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Here's a skincare confession: I am a bit lazy when it comes to my face. I always wash it in the morning, in the shower or after I work out, but I often just hop into bed of an evening without so much as the lick of a wet flannel. That's pretty lazy isn't it?</div>
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So, when I was offered the chance to try out these beautiful products from Liz Earle, I jumped at the chance to mend my ways and build up some better habits. Would it make any difference, I wondered...?</div>
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About Liz Earle:</h2>
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Based on the Isle of Wight and founded in 1995, Liz Earle founded her skincare brand on the principles of botanical goodness and a fuss-free dependable routine. The brand is also committed to being <a href="http://greennews.lizearle.com/our-green-journey/" target="_blank">environmentally friendly</a>, which is laudable. </div>
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Naturally Active:</h3>
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There is an A-Z of ingredients on the Liz Earle website <a href="http://uk.lizearle.com/a-z-ingredients" target="_blank">here</a>, which is very informative, and actually flags up just how committed to the "Naturally Active" tag the brand is: it's a very long list. </div>
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I also love this spirit of openness: we are getting smarter about what we consume in our foods, but given that the skin is our biggest organ, are we lacking behind in an understanding of what is in our cosmetics?</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-miReYoXicTU/Vw-taFm-LNI/AAAAAAAABQM/UgZVn2EKnjAsg80kN1-reg-3TBBjwrYaQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-miReYoXicTU/Vw-taFm-LNI/AAAAAAAABQM/UgZVn2EKnjAsg80kN1-reg-3TBBjwrYaQCLcB/s640/DSCN4867.jpg" title="Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare</td></tr>
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The Products:</h2>
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I received some Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, accompanying muslin cloths, and a tub of Superskin Moisturiser.</div>
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My first impressions were of quality: the elegant packaging is neither too girly nor dripping with too much hard-sell. I loved the understated no B.S. feel of everything. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P7jCayDXMVI/Vw-tZ3cfYmI/AAAAAAAABQE/vsslW_-5z9Ifmbs0OBUDitmxXMnXtbw4gCLcB/s1600/DSCN4869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="superskin" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P7jCayDXMVI/Vw-tZ3cfYmI/AAAAAAAABQE/vsslW_-5z9Ifmbs0OBUDitmxXMnXtbw4gCLcB/s640/DSCN4869.jpg" title="superskin" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Superskin here we come!</td></tr>
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Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser:</h2>
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This is sort of across between a face wash and a cleansing lotion: you apply to dry skin and wash off with the muslin cloths. This is a really pleasant sensation, and being a stress-relieving experience is now a little part of the day that I look forward to. </div>
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I can see why this product has won a huge number of awards: it smells really fresh and it cleans without leaving a residue or over-drying the skin. </div>
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The muslin cloths were easy to chuck in the washing machine, although I have to confess that I did switch to my crocheted wash-cloths, which seem to work just as well. I would be interested to try the Rose & Cedrat limited edition Hot Cloth Cleanser too. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-852zrbB3Sv4/VxD5iu3XxQI/AAAAAAAABRU/zBc23U_9itE-aXw7-g84iM6SA3pNcivYQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Award-winning Hot Cloth Cleanser" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-852zrbB3Sv4/VxD5iu3XxQI/AAAAAAAABRU/zBc23U_9itE-aXw7-g84iM6SA3pNcivYQCLcB/s640/DSCN4886.jpg" title="Award-winning Hot Cloth Cleanser" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Award-winning Hot Cloth Cleanser</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c1B-hgcbzas/VxD5ioIPHmI/AAAAAAAABRY/MqKxv5rGcQgYWVu2weyjjAMazaw6h6VZgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Award-winning Hot Cloth Cleanser" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c1B-hgcbzas/VxD5ioIPHmI/AAAAAAAABRY/MqKxv5rGcQgYWVu2weyjjAMazaw6h6VZgCLcB/s640/DSCN4889.jpg" title="Award-winning Hot Cloth Cleanser" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Cloths, of the crochet variety</td></tr>
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Superskin Moisturiser:</h2>
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The first sensation I had of this cream was the gorgeous smell emanating from the (very full) tub, which I suppose must be the neroli- it's heavenly. I soon discovered that the cream is very rich, and a little goes a long way. It has a shelf life of six months- I know this because I actually did wonder whether I would get through it all before it has gone out of date!</div>
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Applying it in the mornings and at night (yes indeed, check me out and my new routine!), I found my skin looked fuller and felt really supple. I definitely felt like I looked healthier, and I actually do believe that, as the packaging claims "Superskin can't turn the clock back, but helps slow the ticking". </div>
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I found that it was fairly easily absorbed, but the little how-to-apply guide that comes with it is actually really useful. I'd never thought about the best way to apply face cream... until now.</div>
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I will continue to use the cream overnight. Although it felt like amazing protection if I was out in the Cornish elements, it was however just a touch heavy for the daytimes, especially if I was getting sweaty at the gym. I might invest in a lotion for the day times: perhaps <a href="http://uk.lizearle.com/skin-repair-light-moisturiser-combination-oily.html" target="_blank">Skin Repair light moisturiser</a> might be a better go-to option if you don't have really dry skin. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C_GffwO3zX8/Vw-ta_9tSrI/AAAAAAAABQU/AwDn474teGcjKzOinYde3WnrHC8HJkyjACLcB/s1600/DSCN4870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Superskin Moisturiser with Neroli" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C_GffwO3zX8/Vw-ta_9tSrI/AAAAAAAABQU/AwDn474teGcjKzOinYde3WnrHC8HJkyjACLcB/s640/DSCN4870.jpg" title="Superskin Moisturiser with Neroli" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Superskin Moisturiser with Neroli</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F9sT-SVn-SM/Vw-ta5-UpGI/AAAAAAAABQQ/EfSKkXsZMukP7MHd4pJpiA_VlagnnNZKQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="how to apply face cream guide" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F9sT-SVn-SM/Vw-ta5-UpGI/AAAAAAAABQQ/EfSKkXsZMukP7MHd4pJpiA_VlagnnNZKQCLcB/s640/DSCN4882.jpg" title="how to apply face cream guide" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How to apply face cream, who knew...?</td></tr>
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The Verdict:</h2>
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It felt like a real treat for my face (as well as my sense of smell) to use these products. I love the fact that they use natural ingredients, and I would definitely shop the Liz Earle range, especially as I want to get behind the company's aims. </div>
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If, like me, you struggle a little bit with good skincare habits, a new regime that feels like a few minutes of luxury might be just the ticket! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xB8gDESi2qk/Vw-taIClzHI/AAAAAAAABQI/wNcbFaEbH14P0TeNICkkBLpTc94sGlQ7QCLcB/s1600/DSCN4868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xB8gDESi2qk/Vw-taIClzHI/AAAAAAAABQI/wNcbFaEbH14P0TeNICkkBLpTc94sGlQ7QCLcB/s640/DSCN4868.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Products kindly supplied by Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare, opinions are my own.</span></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-69027511358146843832016-04-08T09:01:00.000-07:002016-04-12T04:37:13.641-07:00Coral Colour Pop!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Trend Alert: Coral</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mkK3NAS-iec/VwfPPlOF6XI/AAAAAAAABN8/s2o4px-pz2UCta2StgvvOEg9FSAQySNBg/s1600/IMG_9019%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="coral favourites for spring" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mkK3NAS-iec/VwfPPlOF6XI/AAAAAAAABN8/s2o4px-pz2UCta2StgvvOEg9FSAQySNBg/s640/IMG_9019%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="coral favourites for spring" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seasalt scarf from a charity shop, People Tree stripes, <br />
and floral fabric from the V&A, from which I sewed a top.</td></tr>
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I am really loving the current trend for all things coral. For those of us who aren't that fond of pink, coral is an accessible way to feel feminine and spring like. Coral is flattering on all skin tones, and whilst it typically has a more lighthearted, holiday vibe, I reckon you could you could work it into a formal wardrobe with careful selection of the right pieces. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UJA2awva4jQ/VwdzuIWPraI/AAAAAAAABNc/YrwdDRz6CGQ0xtWbFSWQmS5YPl0hrxB2A/s1600/DSCN4855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ss16 coral trend" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UJA2awva4jQ/VwdzuIWPraI/AAAAAAAABNc/YrwdDRz6CGQ0xtWbFSWQmS5YPl0hrxB2A/s640/DSCN4855.jpg" title="ss16 coral trend" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whistles silk dress: a few years old but still lovely! </td></tr>
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My Coral-coloured Wardrobe:</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KN8vhLJ3XW8/VwdztlHdDoI/AAAAAAAABNY/-IrAL2ODo8sMaHXBftZfEoohjJD6mqExA/s1600/DSCN4847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KN8vhLJ3XW8/VwdztlHdDoI/AAAAAAAABNY/-IrAL2ODo8sMaHXBftZfEoohjJD6mqExA/s640/DSCN4847.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handmade top, crops from People Tree</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PYJaujOJoSw/VwdztZ3CapI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Ufj9ErXKlzQWLwt70MKz3B0Z2G3y2218w/s1600/DSCN4843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PYJaujOJoSw/VwdztZ3CapI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Ufj9ErXKlzQWLwt70MKz3B0Z2G3y2218w/s640/DSCN4843.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top from People Tree, handmade skirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zAwAWyi3dE/VwdztVlyaEI/AAAAAAAABNU/ByGYoXeHlFoT3Q9QOuj1QdTAShlye6RLA/s1600/DSCN4846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zAwAWyi3dE/VwdztVlyaEI/AAAAAAAABNU/ByGYoXeHlFoT3Q9QOuj1QdTAShlye6RLA/s640/DSCN4846.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linen top from Sweaty Betty</td></tr>
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How do you wear coral...?</h2>
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You can of course wear head-to-toe coral, if you are having as much of a passion for the colour as I am. But in the unlikely event that you want to dilute it just a little bit, coral seems to work well with cream, grey, and (my other favourite) indigo blue. </div>
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You can go for just a small accent, a whole block of colour, or even patterned separates. Stripes are always good.</div>
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How do you wear yours?</div>
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Where to shop for coral colours:</h2>
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Ethical style from around from around the web:</h3>
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There are plenty more coral-coloured beauties on the <a href="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/search?srch=coral" target="_blank">People Tree</a> website, or, try my picks below: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.greenfibres.com/product/192/2101/organic-cotton-jersey-headband.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBJzK3Cb6io/VwfN3B2u7uI/AAAAAAAABNw/bxgS8yOlnEYX1TvebvHuSNHdkla35WeHA/s640/image_010.jpg" width="531" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.greenfibres.com/product/192/2101/organic-cotton-jersey-headband.html" target="_blank">Coral Cowl from Greenfibres </a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.east.co.uk/hobo-jute-orange/" target="_blank"><img alt="organic jute tote from East" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQGR6-aisdQ/VwuxwTcRmyI/AAAAAAAABOo/ggmCUirA3S0ZbT6Kiyj98X0V2uZgjBGnA/s640/72193GINGER_002.jpg" title="organic jute tote from East" width="512" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.east.co.uk/hobo-jute-orange/" target="_blank">Organic Jute Tote, from East</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.vandashop.com/V-A-Recycled-Plastic-Ring/dp/B00FKBVFVM" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" Recycled Plastic Ring, from V&A" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ieRGFboLM2k/VwfOoqnC9dI/AAAAAAAABN4/6XiRsZ5-5L0czERc3AOVRYiaczg5NOjVg/s640/B00FKBVFVM.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.vandashop.com/V-A-Recycled-Plastic-Ring/dp/B00FKBVFVM" target="_blank">Recycled Plastic Ring from The V&A</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://designmuseumshop.com/products/some-like-it-hot-chocolate-bar" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" Chilli Chocolate from the Design Museum Shop" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2WOnWTJ2Qg/VwfQUAaQAhI/AAAAAAAABOI/1_fP45XLSs8xz8Yr0Nb7rZGmjHixvcUIQ/s640/Shopify_-_Chocolate_Some_Like_It_Hot_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://designmuseumshop.com/products/some-like-it-hot-chocolate-bar" target="_blank">Chilli Chocolate from the Design Museum Shop</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.deramores.com/debbie-bliss-eco-baby" target="_blank">Debbie Bliss Eco Baby Yarn</a></td></tr>
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Click below to shop more great ethical styles from East:</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622817190055109375.post-62776845524251344472016-04-02T09:03:00.000-07:002016-04-02T09:03:58.091-07:00New Plan: Buy Less, Buy Responsibly<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Slow Fashion:</h2>
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I've been harping on about slow fashion for years, since I was studying for my Fashion degree. The concept is having a bit of a zeitgeisty moment right now which I am completely behind, and it has got me really thinking again about what it means to be an ethical consumer, as well as helping me think about what I want to use my blog for. See <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Slow-Fashion-Safia-Minney/dp/1780262833?ie=UTF8&keywords=slow%20fashion&qid=1459611405&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Slow Fashion by Safia Minney</a> as a prime example. </div>
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Sustainability</h2>
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Wikipedia tells me that "Despite the increased popularity of the use of the term "sustainability", the possibility that human societies will achieve environmental sustainability has been, and continues to be, questioned- in light of environmental degradation, climate change, overconsumption, population growth and societies' pursuit of indefinite economic growth"</div>
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So, that's cheery: we talk more about sustainability but in fact we are getting further from it. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2EEnSEJ86Hs/Vv_r1DDInKI/AAAAAAAABM4/3bWF9tN-N2IAdG5Rl_yEJCtYWfk30fuQw/s1600/IMG_8188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="steppingstones Lerryn" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2EEnSEJ86Hs/Vv_r1DDInKI/AAAAAAAABM4/3bWF9tN-N2IAdG5Rl_yEJCtYWfk30fuQw/s640/IMG_8188.jpg" title="steppingstones Lerryn" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a Beautiful World, lets protect it!</td></tr>
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Why is it important?</h2>
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As I see it, there are two main strands to the argument for ethical fashion. Firstly, there is the human cost: people all over the world are exploited in order to make cheap clothing. Sometimes it is working in exploitative conditions which even causes their death (remember the huge factory collapse in Bangladesh?). This is unacceptable. I totally don't buy the argument that an exploitative job is better than no job. No, what is better is a supported community, where nobody's health has to be damaged by the job that they do, children are able to receive and education, and workers are fairly paid. </div>
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The second strand is environmental: copious amount of chemicals are used in garment production, from plant growing, to dyeing, printing and distressing fabrics. Many of these are not exactly environmentally friendly, and this is just the tip of the iceberg- for example what about the emissions used to transport all those garments that we don't even need...? What about the amount of water required to grow crops? Not to mention pesticides... </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlTVPmw4VFI/Vv_suEh4kAI/AAAAAAAABNA/IcbW8Rm0128nGI6avd9sr1a0CdAo-1cnQ/s1600/IMG_3680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ethical fashion" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlTVPmw4VFI/Vv_suEh4kAI/AAAAAAAABNA/IcbW8Rm0128nGI6avd9sr1a0CdAo-1cnQ/s640/IMG_3680.jpg" title="ethical fashion" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ethical Fashion</td></tr>
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Isn't it limiting to buy eco fashion?</h2>
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Yes, in some ways it is- it is difficult to find absolutely everything you need from a responsible source. It is also more pricey. I won't say it is too expensive, as I feel we have got used to unsustainably cheap garments, and the prices asked by ethical companies are much more in line with what is fair. Higher prices are also likely to limit the amount of stuff that you acquire, and this might be a good thing as many of us have bad habits when it comes to the quantity of things we own. Another plus about a heftier price tag is that as a consumer I feel if you have more invested in an item then you are more likely to hang onto it for longer, and use it until it really does wear out. </div>
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Having said that, there are some really exciting brands producing wonderful ethical fashion. This brings me neatly back to the subject of my blog: keep an eye out for more posts about these in future... I am going to buy ethically if at all possible from now on, and I look forward to sharing my finds with you. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g27ce35Yja4/Vv_r0rqtTBI/AAAAAAAABM0/P44K1hgay7Ap79VHzjvFfXt-U_foE7nvg/s1600/IMG_8638%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Organic Clothing Seasalt" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g27ce35Yja4/Vv_r0rqtTBI/AAAAAAAABM0/P44K1hgay7Ap79VHzjvFfXt-U_foE7nvg/s640/IMG_8638%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="Organic Clothing Seasalt" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic Stripes from Seasalt</td></tr>
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Home Making:</h2>
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I've long believed in the make-it-yourself ethos. I feel lucky that I have the knowledge required to make my own clothes and accessories, and this is something that I have really loved passing on to other people over the years I have been teaching. It does take a lot of time to make your own clothes, and sometimes it can be an unsatisfying process. I know I am still learning whenever I make something to wear, but when I have come up with something really successful it is thrilling, and I am proud to wear homemade often now. </div>
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If you have never sewn a garment of knitted a jumper, let me tell you it is an eye opener: the amount of time you will have to invest may shock you. I know domestic methods are not exactly comparable with industrial processes, but even so, you might be surprised just how many seams there are in a jacket!</div>
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I know not everyone is able to make their own clothes, but if you can, I urge you to. I am planning to share some general tips, but if you are stuck on a project please consider asking me for virtual help. I am not an expert, but if I can put my education and experience into assisting you then I will. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kH9TzX1uXr4/Vv_q6Hq0QzI/AAAAAAAABMs/X_A8ySdT7D8tL6l7oBgowdRrfSj-z-82w/s1600/IMG_7568_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="handmade fashion" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kH9TzX1uXr4/Vv_q6Hq0QzI/AAAAAAAABMs/X_A8ySdT7D8tL6l7oBgowdRrfSj-z-82w/s640/IMG_7568_1024.jpg" title="handmade fashion" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Hardy Handmade Skirt</td></tr>
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But this brings me to an important question: </div>
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Is it green to be a crafter?</h2>
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I have a stash of fabrics and yarns. It isn't exactly a stock pile, but it is more than I can use in the short term. In my defence, this is from when I was designing a lot, and I did genuinely believe I was going to be able to use everything up imminently, but life happened. I know I am not alone in stashing crafting supplies. The briefest of glances through the ravelry forums will vouch for this, as will any chat with a keen crafter. </div>
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But... surely there is the same problem with over-consumption of raw materials as there is in over-consumption of anything? I suppose it is unlikely that small children have been employed in sweat shops to make yarns in the way that they can be exploited for other industries, but can you be absolutely sure that the people who looked after the sheep for example were fairly treated by the supply chain?I know there has also been an outcry in the past over the production of angora- any industry involving animal products must naturally lead us to question the treatment of livestock. And what about fabrics? Do you know for sure what has happened along the supply chain of that pristine bolt of cotton? The answer in short is that I do not know. Some of my fabrics are made or printed in England, where I am pretty confident in the welfare of the factory workers, but what about the environmental concerns? Again, I just don't know. I'd like to look more at this, so I am on the hunt for ethical craft suppliers as I write. </div>
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So, here is my plan: I stopped acquiring new things for intended projects some time ago, which I feel good about. And now, when I have an idea to make something I am really strict with myself about whether I can make it from the materials I already own. Then, if I really do need to get hold of something, I will try to source ethical fabrics, yarns and even threads. I'm really looking forward to sharing my discoveries in this area with you too. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022677015334201345noreply@blogger.com0