I've been involved in a Hand-stitched Embroidery Swap on Flickr this month. I'm not sure what possessed me to do it as my last swap ended in tears as my swap partner disappeared off the face of the earth after receiving my lovely bunch of goodies and I never got to get hers (I am genuinly concerned that something awful did happen to her as she has literally fallen off the end of Flickr with not a word from anyone).

I was invited to join the swap by Kate, my lovely friend on the other side of the world, so I couldn't refuse her. I have to say it was a fantastic experience. This is my first 'making' swap. The others were swapping fabric and I think this made the whole thing such fun. We all posted our progress pics and oohed and ahhed over the ones we hoped we'd be getting. (It was a secret swap - noone knew who was giving to who)

I was very much oohing and ahhing over the progress of Tacha's pics of the embroidery I subsequently received. Even from the first posting she did, I was intrigued and mesmerised. As for the finished article, well, just look at it, it's stunning isn't it?

Tacha had obviously done her homework on me. I mean, would'ya just look at all tha blue and red?? I could not have bought a more perfect embroidery. And I love it's position in my kitchen.

Thank you, Tacha, it is more than perfect.

As for my creation...this is what Kate received from me...

Yes, that's right, Kate ended up being landed with me as a partner! Apparently she loves it...or so she says...

Above all, this was a fantastic experience, meeting lots of talented, wonderful people. Can't wait for the next one!

Sunday Stash #6

Again, not so much a stash in my possession, but one that will be any day now...

My American aunt is on her way over, so as ever I have ordered a shed load of fabric for her to bring with her for me. Here's just some that I'm hanging out for.

This lovely little lot is coming from Sew Mama Sew.

(Go see more SS goodies over here...)

::friday flickr favourites::

I'm a bit obsessed with these colours at the moment and hope you'll enjoy perusing these lovely examples. Hopefully it all works and the links will take you through to more about these artists.

1. Mini Quilt Monday 2. Citron Stack 3. Crafting 365 4. Bosch 5. grey and yellow linen clutch 6. Crafting 365: 285Mottle 7. Yellow and Grey Wing Chair 8. Pete and Pearl 9. side plate

Enjoy and Happy Friday!

See more :: friday flickr favourites:: here

Something for the house

Yesterday ... or was it the day before now? I lose track ... it was Ladies Day. Today it is the turn of your home.

I've been coveting these beautiful cushions by Roddy & Ginger for aeons and finally they are here at Blueberry Park.

If you are a regularly reader, you know all about my soft spot for hand printed fabrics. And my soft spot for cushions. So it's hardly surprising that these were going to hit the spot.

Virginia, the talent behind this vintage inspired company, handprints stunning retro inspired designs onto linen or cotton using water based dyes.

I love the freshness and colours of her designs and never tire of gazing at them. Go check them out right here and tell me what you think. I know you'll feel the same way as I do.

Something for the ladies

Today has been another exciting day at Blueberry Park. We've had a delivery of these beautiful felt corsages.

Anna Johnson is the talented designer of the A Alicia label. She makes beautiful corsages from the most exquisite felt. This range of colours is so autumnal and stunning.

From Winter White to Burnt Sienna, Anna has produced a range that is already proving to be a big hit.

Anna cuts and sews every felt petal by hand so each brooch is utterly unique. The sculptured shape of the flowers makes them little works of art.

Whether you are accessorising a sweater, dress, coat, bag, hat these will be firm favourites on any outfit.

Sunday Stash #6

Not so much a stash I currently have...more one I am lusting after.

Knowing my willpower with resisting buying fabrics, unlike this lady, no doubt it will be purchased quicker than you can say...well anything really...

And if you'd like to test your own willpower, head over here.

Lucky lucky me

A while ago I commented on one of my cyberspace friend's blog about how much I loved a shirt she had designed. (I would show you her original design, but I can't find the blog post!) Almost by return, the lovely Kylie emailed me thanking me for the comments and what were my measurements so she could make me one.

I was flabbergasted by her kindness. She didn't want payment, she was just touched by my comments and would be honoured to make something for someone who genuinely appreciated her work.

I accepted her kindness (well who wouldn't?) but only on the proviso I could make something for her. Kylie chose a pin cushion and needle set, which seemed insubstantial to be honest.

Today it arrived and I am blown away by how gorgeous it is, how beautifully it is made and by the fact that it is mine! Not only will I enjoy wearing this ALOT, but every time I do it will remind me of that lovely lady on the other side of the world, who I have 'met' and become friends with through this wonderful world of blogging.

Thank you so much, Kylie xx

(Now all of you, if you haven't come across 3 sheets before, go check out Kylie's wonderful blog and shop)