Ten years of counselling and psychology study, twenty one years of practice and I'm taught a lesson by my 12 year old granddaughter. I have made something special for somebody very close to my heart. I said to Rhiannon this morning that I was anxious that they wouldn't like it, her very wise response "What if they do!" - I hadn't even considered that. Out of the mouth if babes come

During one of my recent classes one of my ladies sewing machine wasn't working too well. When we opened her bobbin casing we could see that it had been a long time since she had cleaned it. You can see the fluff built up around her casing. Remember that it is important to keep your machinery in good working order. Clean regularly and put in a drop of oil to keep your sewing machine humming. It is very frustrating when you have to stop half way through a project because your machine doesn't work properly. Happy Sewing!!

It is such a pleasure to share my latest work with you. Michele Hill, designer and quilter from Australia produces exquisite William Morris patterns. Google her name and you will see what I mean. I have adapted one if her quilts with another favourite if mine, Kaffe Fasset. His bright designs and fabrics work beautifully with William Morris designs.
I am currently teaching a class in Rangiora, North Canterbury with  William Morris enthusiasts. If you would like a class run in your area please contact me and I will see how I can accomodate you.  If you live in Canterbury I am starting another class from April 12 2017, 9am until 12pm at Quilters Quarters Rangiora.  Come and enjoy the company of other like minded ladies.  

I am thrilled to be able to offer my favourite hand stitch products for sale. Firstly, my favourite scissors are from Famore' cutlery. They are made from high grade steel and are non rust and corrosion resistant. I have had my pair for over 8 years, they have never been sharpened and I use them to cut both paper and fabric. These curved scissors are ideal for cutting thread and also for all your appliqué cutting.
Bohin products from France are exquisite to use. They are fine and sharp, especially good for appliqué work. I love hand work and these size 11 needles are my most favourite. The same applies for the appliqué pins. Exceptional for hand piecing and appliqué.
If you have never used appli-Kay wonder you are in for a real treat. This product is the best product I have ever used for appliqué work. Once you have cut out your shapes with the fusible webbing ironed onto the fabric, you peel the backing off and can apply your piece, wherever you require it to be place, without further ironing it. If placed in the wrong position you can lift the shape and reposition it, brilliant for perfectionists.
​To purchase any of these products please contact me.

On a recent trip to Nelson New Zealand, I purchased this exquisite cheese dish from Ursula Edwards. Two things struck me about this great piece of work, the image and the workmanship. The image is the epitome of my desire to, unite together individuals in a unique, supportive community where they can explore and express their creativity.
The only way to do good work, is to love what you do. It is clear to me that Ursula loves what she does.
I encourage you, the reader, to follow your heart and "love what you do".

The sweet aroma of lavender calls from ages past,
Hand-stitched little parcels, oh how the memories last.
Fingers deftly filling the mind in peace employed,
Each stitch a joy awakened, to find a spirit buoyed.
Lifes’ healing flow of inspirations, threads sewn in every stitch.
A mind in contemplations peace.
                                                                                                                                 Bob Howley
                                                                                                                                              13  February 2017