calico and ivy

christmas cheer

2011-12-23T19:13:00.000+08:00

as we wind down our 2011 year, sarah and I extend to you our warmest wishes for the forthcoming christmas season.

so many, many thanks for embracing our new venture in sydney with such enthusiasm, and so much gratitude to all of our loyal perth girls who make us smile with their cheery visits.

Our sincerest thanks also go to our counter girls who have become our extended 'calico' family...perth-side, lynnie, suzie, jane, jen (just retired), anthea, kim, danielle, sally and sydney-side donna, sue, kim and sam. you all shine brighter than the sparkliest christmas ornament, and support us without reservation... there are none better.

thanks also to all the girls who have shared their talents and time to teach with so much enthusiasm within our walls.

we are super excited with our ongoing plans for each store as we refine and expand our collections of all things we have learned you truly love.

finally, a little personal indulgence as I express my appreciation to sarah for her advice, support, strength and friendship for the longest time now. Sarah you are truly a very special person who juggles our balmain baby with your family daily, and for that I offer thanks and love to you, and your beautiful family.

love, hugs and happy christmas... deb and sarah

christmas crafting

2011-12-18T14:41:00.000+08:00

We are keeping it busy here this beautiful Sunday afternoon. I have my grand kiddies visiting and all they need for amusement are many pieces of paper and lots of coloured pens. Too easy.

I have a few (10 actually) stockings to finish for the family...

...getting there, these are the last three.

Christmas trading hours:

BALMAIN: close 5pm, Saturday 24th December

re-open 10am Thursday 5th January

MOSMAN PARK: close 5pm, Saturday 24th December

re-open 9.30am Thursday 5th January

it's that time of the year

2011-12-15T08:29:00.000+08:00

prints charming

2011-12-02T13:25:00.001+08:00

How very exciting that Prints Charmings latest fabric range, Daisy Chain has landed in the Balmain store (& soon to be Mosman Park too)!

Join the girls, Cath & Kirsten, to celebrate this exciting range with a glass of champagne & to see

the wonderful wares that the girls have made that will truly inspire you.

Saturday, 10th December, 3pm - 5pm,
10 Birchgrove Rd,
Balmain

sophie digard in blue

2011-12-01T11:13:00.001+08:00

Both Mosman Park & Balmain have lots of lovely new Sophie Digard pieces to choose from. Here are some snaps from yesterday. In blue.

Blue is a sapphire sky,
On a hot summer's day,
It stimulates the senses,
And lets you melt away.

Blue is the ocean,
Deep and crystal clear,
It draws you in and reminds you,
Of what you hold so dear.

Blue is a bird,
As wild and as free,
It never fails to give you,
The comfort that you need.

Blue is a forget me not,
Blowing in the wind,
It heals and protects you,
Even when the lights are dim.

excerpt by Mary

inoui

2011-11-27T15:27:00.001+08:00

here are some of the inoui scarves that we have in both stores. french & totally gorgeous, of course. perfect for summer. give someone a hint you'd love one for Christmas.

dotti angel

2011-10-31T13:39:00.000+08:00

i am a huge fan of dear dotti angel.

anyone who can create an alter ego with such flourish, and consistently thrill with her imaginings has my vote. i am the ultimate daydreamer tapping into my imagination at whim, and encourage it at all times for those around me.

imagination has been gifted to us all, tiff fussell and her dotti truly encourage us all to explore that path.

calico & ivy both in mosman park and balmain have stock of the dotti angel book. it also sits on our website for those not close enough to venture in, but do try and visit as we hope our shop environments will enable your imaginings, and bring out the little fun person within your souls also.

a great gift idea for the chrissy season ahead, or just treat yourself to the most delightful read of the year.

minxy vintage afternoon tea

2011-10-23T18:25:00.000+08:00

This afternoon we held the Minxy Vintage book launch & afternoon tea that I blogged about a few weeks ago. What a delight it was!

I could continue holding events with Kelly purely just to see which exquisite outfit she turns up in. Seriously. This girl has style & a beautiful array of vintage clothing pieces to accompany this.

Minxy Vintage is Kelly's latest release book, and can I just say, it causes insomnia, in a good way. It is such an inspiring book that encourages you to fix and alter vintage and retro garments, to give them new life and inject some individuality into your wardrobe. My head is swimming with the possiblities, hence the insomnia.

Big thanks to Kelly for imparting fabulous hints and tips and encouraging us all with her passion & sheer gift of reworking vintage.

inspiration....nathalie lete

2011-10-11T17:38:00.002+08:00

This is the very talented artist Nathalie Lete. So inspirational in so many ways. Her works are becoming well known around the globe. Known for her playful, whimsy, naive pieces in many different mediums, they are sure to have you smiling a smile that transports you right back to being a child.

These scarves we have in both stores - Perth & Balmain. The top ones are cotton scarves perfect for our long hot summers. Tie one around the neck or pop one into your handbag and elegantly mop your brow when necessary. They make awesome presents, so stock up for Christmas (yes, scary, it's just around the corner!). The silk scarfs are simply stunning. Be sure to check them out when in our stores.

Bric a Brac is one of Nathalie's hard to find books, that we have in our stores. So delightful and inspirational. Flicking through it, makes me just want to go and create. Her great use of colour is a great resource too. Plenty of beautiful colour combinations that are begging to be the inspiration of many quilts. The little dresser above houses Nathalie's treasured "heroes" that she has often rescued (thrifted) and star in many of her creations.

So, what's inspiring you lately?

Sarah

Minxy Vintage

2011-09-22T12:09:00.003+08:00

Do you browse through vintage or retro clothes at flea markets and wish you had the knack to breathe new life into the dated frocks, skirts and smocks? Kelly Doust’s Minxy Vintage will help you transform these items – and indeed any item in your wardrobe, ripe for reinvention. In Minxy Vintage, Kelly combines her love of fashion with creativity, transforming more than 50 damaged, ill-fitting and past-it clothes into modern, wearable pieces.

Join us for an afternoon tea party and practical advice session with Kelly, and bring along some of your own items for advice on how to update them. Enjoy a glass of champagne while she shares her top shopping hints, tips and ideas for seeing the wonderful possibilities for updating all old clothes, and how to look fabulous doing so, no matter what your age, location or budget.

Kelly Doust introduces readers to her wonderful world of reviving and customizing vintage pieces, while bringing a modern and unique twist to wearing vintage clothes.
- Dita Von Teese

A vintage vixen’s guidebook for the chic: just read, shop, recreate, and repeat. You can’t help but get inspired by her vintage acumen. - Janie Bryant, Award-Winning Costume Designer, Mad Men

Bookings essential. Please call the shop on 02 9555 9909 to confirm your place.

washing day

2011-09-01T15:00:00.000+08:00

I love nothing better than a handmade lace find at the markets, a little worse for wear, a little grimey and in need of a new home and some loving, some appreciation.

These pieces washed up wonderfully & were nothing short of beautiful in the spring sunshine, worth sharing I thought. Sarah

one of a kind

2011-08-29T12:21:00.001+08:00

In the Balmain store, we have these amazing one off pieces by Dowry. They are handmade in Australia, in a wonderful collaboration between mother & daughter from country NSW. They design unique pieces utilizing vintage fabrics and discarded textiles, creating what can only be described as breathtaking, covetable pieces. We also have a wonderful collection of tapestry cushions and some wonderful pieces of their special clothing - of which I will blog about when we receive more.

Above are the two remaining tapestry bags, which I've placed in our online store .
- Sarah

our perth crochet diva...

2011-08-23T15:51:00.001+08:00

Danielle is our Perth crocheter extraordinaire. Danielle teaches our beginners and goes on to teach flowers and hexagons to our crochet ravenous participants

A new blanket pattern is now available on our website to entice

crocheted in debbie bliss baby cashmerino

Danielle also brought in this lovely hexagon quilt, all stitched in Liberty fabrics - her favourite

Pop in store and add your name to our list for one of Danielle's classes

my hidden post

2011-08-22T08:50:00.000+08:00

I am in Sydney enjoying the Balmain shop and all the joy that comes with it.

Sarah and I indulged in a weekend road trip, collecting a bundle of goodies for the shop, and for me soaking in the beauty of NSW's south coast for the first time... as a result another love is added to my list...

These pictures are everywhere, but this particular one was on the climb into Kangaroo Valley.

I dream on...

Milton was a fine stop for breakfast...

and after a couple of huge days, back to my digs in Balmain.

This visit my accommodation is a not so attractive 70's apartment block with very recent renovations. Very minimalist, contemporary and a little soulless, but great facilities, and central to it all here, so I added some flowers and the sweetest bird vase found in Milton...

and voila...

feels like home - just for a week.

Hidden post? Hubbie doesn't visit the blog (I think), so I can prattle on about my Sydney passion to my heart's content, without him feeling uneasy about where my heart is lying...

sources of inspiration

2011-08-07T17:06:00.000+08:00

In a recent Japanese magazine featuring Liberty of London fabrics, Sania Pell featured with some beautiful little bottles that she had decorated with pieces of Liberty. So inspired I was by her little collection, I couldn't help but make some myself for the Balmain store.

I found some old sheet music at the markets on Saturday morning and was able to whip these up in the afternoon.

progress

2011-08-03T15:53:00.001+08:00

Today has been very much a 'catch up' day for me over here in Perth. Following on from the effort of establishing the Balmain store, I am now slowly putting all the pieces of life back together here at home so it all functions efficiently (well sort of).
Paperwork is one foe... but I am attempting to make it more pleasurable by organising the room that we allocated in the house to be my office into a snug and efficient (and neat) environment.
I am documenting the room in it's present state as an incentive to keep it as such. The only clutter onwards will be the addition of more treasures, but all paperwork must now find a hidden home.

Incredible order - but for how long?

I fancy the idea of a random inspiration board, but decided a whole wall suited me better!

a tentative beginning - I love using the fabric tape we have in the Mosman Park shop here,

and some snippets...

now to keep it that way...

still life

2011-07-26T18:18:00.001+08:00

These still lifes just happened in Balmain last Saturday. Sue returned from her early morning trip to the markets with these tulips, violets - my childhood favourites and some ever inspiring anemones. Flowers are so good for the soul. It's great to marvel at their beauty and derive inspiration from their colours and textures.

Busyness amongst the still. Some koigu yarn being wound into a scrumptious ball.

That's an embroidery in itself. An anemone in all it's beauty. Speaking of embroidery and other things of beauty, don't forget we have the talented duo from Prints Charming and also Soraya and her beautiful Sashiko pieces having classes in the upcoming weeks. Ring the Balmain store to secure your place.

softly spoken

2011-06-29T17:47:00.000+08:00

Here at Mosman Park we have been exploring a softer palette and loving it.

Pat Goodchild is welcoming a little one into the world with some inspired warmth for our slowly cooling winter months...

Lots of Liberty tana lawn, touches of hand applique, sweet embroidered apples, a little story to match the appliqued panel, all surrounded by Pat's trademark knitted edging to further soften the whole concept.
We have this sweetie on loan for just a week or two, until babe has arrived.

Pat has also knitted an adorable blanket in our Rowan Lima yarn for bub...

...and if you look into the distance you will see also the bag she knitted to deliver it all to the lucky recipients.

I have also embraced the lighter palette with a new addition to our shop patterns and projects, a lace edged cowl.

Knitted in Debbie Bliss's Cashmerino Aran and edged with a soft alpaca crocheted edging, this project can be easily achieved with basic knitting and crochet skills.

We are kitting this as I write, and you will receive the pattern free with the purchase of all the yarn required for this project.

I leave you with a pic taken last week at home. Lily checking out our newest residents, a family of fungi that emerged from our side door mat. I was becoming worried we may miss out on these babies this year with the lack of rainfall over here. Ahhh... love these simple pleasures.

Girly Goodness

2011-06-20T19:44:00.000+08:00

No nepotism here, just a beautiful quilt that needed to be shared. Anna, my sister, started this quilt in Sheena's workshop a couple of weeks ago. It's now all finished and ready to be hand quilted. It is the perfect balance of girliness, without being over the top girly. Perfect for her little girl Poppy to treasure always.

Anna used some of the new 'A Day in the Country' spots in her quilt top. The coordinating stripes are fantastic too.

See....how good are they!

Strings and Sheena

2011-06-09T12:01:00.001+08:00

Yesterday was Sheena's "Make Do" class at Calico & Ivy Balmain. Sheena shared her love of string piecing with 4 girls, who all created beautiful starts to be finished at home. Fabric everywhere and creativity flowing.

Fiona stringing away...to complete .....

...this gorgoeus block. Fiona even went outside her comfort zone, using the spotted mustard. How well does her block, match her outfit.

Resident class member Kelly, got stuck into her vintage pieces, mixing them with some moderns and left with her top complete!

Here are some of her blocks before it was pieced together.

Belinda is another regular class member and shopper at C & I Balmain.

How stunning is Belinda's first block?? Using all the Japanese fabrics that she loves, I can't wait to see this complete.

Anna was so busy on the machine, I only caught her hands in action. She too, was channelling her accessories into her blocks. So girly.

Crochet Class

2011-06-06T19:04:00.000+08:00

Our first crochet class for beginners in Balmain, finished today, with great success. Heather Hunt - crochet teacher extraordinaire, has taught these 6 ladies the crochet basics (and some) and to watch them run with their new skills has been wonderful. Above is Peta, with enough hexies to almost make a cushion.

Here is Adele, with her beautiful scarf made up in Debbie Bliss Andes.

Here is the Crafty Minx herself, Kelly, with one of her two projects that she has on the go at the moment.

Thanks to all the girls for making Monday's so fun in the store.

Around the Balmain Store

2011-06-04T05:21:00.001+08:00

Over the past month, the first classes at C&I Balmain have started, creating such a buzz of excitement and experimentation. Sheena started off the classes with "Branching Out", teaching the girls all about curved piecing and placement.

This is Ingrid's piecing. Can't wait to see it finished!

Sarah Fielke's Friday Girls are going in all different, exciting directions. It will be great to watch each of the ladies projects unfold as we pass through the weeks. Above is the start of Margaret's new project

Fiona's lace workshop was wonderful. So nice to watch the girls grasp and love the new technique that they've learnt.

Newly made in store is this beautiful little dress in Liberty and Eco Baby yarn, whipped up by Donna. Straight from the mouth of a babe I know - "divined"!

Soon to come, some shots of the crochet girls, who have embraced their hooks and are all crocheting up storms and enjoying every moment of it and of each others company too! That's what it's all about.

Liberty Bias

2011-05-10T19:49:00.001+08:00

The long awaited Liberty of London bias binding is finally in both stores. There are 10 different classic prints to tempt you. Perfect for dressmaking, finishing off a special knit or to add something special to compliment your applique work. Enjoy that the hard work of making bias binding is done for you!

small joys for japan

2011-05-03T13:07:00.000+08:00

So many gorgeous toys and presents have been dropped off for the small joys for japan appeal. We are in our last days now, you can drop your handmade or store brought softies to either calico & ivy stores, last day for drop off will 14 May.

On Saturday, we had these gorgeous pencil cases filled with coloured pencils for the children of Japan. They are so wonderful, I can only imagine the joy they will bring.

Here are some of the treasures that have arrived in the balmain store, recognise any?

Speaking of treasures, here is Sheena's latest gem. a wall hanging, mounted on canvas. Sheena has two classes at calico & ivy balmain this term, and they are close to filling. They are one day workshops, the first being "branching out" - where you can make either a cushion cover or a wall hanging. The second is an introduction to string piecing, using vintage as inspiration - "make do".

Both stores have a great host of classes on offer this term, check them out. Classes are a great way to reinvigorate your creativity, meet some new crafty, like minded people and have a whole lot of fun!

inspiration

2011-04-30T05:43:00.000+08:00

This week in Balmain, I've hung one of Sarah Fielke's beautiful quilts from her new book,
from little things..... it's such a stunning quilt, with so many different pieces of awesome fabric and lovingly hand quilted.

We still have some spots available in Sarah's classes - a great way to learn new techniques, perfect the ones you have and be inspired by Sarah on a regular basis.

hexie love continues

2011-04-21T08:09:00.001+08:00

We have a BIG easter break coming up, but the shops both will open for easter saturday (we will be closed friday, sunday, monday and tuesday).

I have been playing with fabrics again, and came up with another addition to our hexi love album.

No this is not it, but without realizing it, this is my inspiration. Marnie (you may remember that she worked in the shop a while back, and is still one of my favourite visitors), was working on a fantastic crochet piece using Noro silk garden and hexagons. I had this pic archived away in my favourites, and began working on a new project a few weeks ago.
I chose to use all fabrics that were in the store on that selected day. I wanted to use lots, and little (20 cm strips of each). I cut and cut, and home it all came.
The process needed to be quick and easy to translate as a shop sample, I hoped to have the top finished before embarking on the class lists (see last post).
Not quite finished piecing am I (still need to join the triangles, and rows), but I think you will get the gist.

As it emerged I realized the connection between my subconscious memory of Marnie's work and the work in progress. Therefore the finished quilt can only have one name... Marnie.

Deb

classes, classes, classes...

2011-04-13T21:27:00.005+08:00

(lace shawl by Clare Lakewood - mosman park)

Lace knitting is big... we have a class at each store to show you the tricks. See also the abundance of other knitting disciplines we are teaching this term.

(crochet cushion by Heather Hunt - balmain)

(flower crochet by Danielle Reader - mosman park)

Crochet still continues to be enchanting to many... and with samples like this, who could wonder why?

(Amish inspired quilt - Anthea Carboni - mosman park)

(cushion cover - Sheena Chapman - balmain)

Abundant ideas being taught for our stitchy girls - the two above are just to whet the appetite.

And Sarah Fielke is teaching for us in Balmain - how lucky are we to offer the opportunity, and you to have the option to take that opportunity!

Her new book 'Quilting From Little Things' is inspirational and relevant. Don't let these learning opportunities with Sarah elude you.

Flick over to our website and pop into the class list relevant to you - I think you might find something to tempt you. I have only shown you here a sprinkling of the many options available to you this term.

Classes term 2 2011

Two shops means long days for me lately... but a greater joy there is not! I'm off to the land of slumber...

Stocking Up For Winter

2011-04-06T20:03:00.000+08:00

The much anticipated 2ply crewel wool arrived in Balmain today. It will reach Perth any day now.

Our first shipment of Noro.

Pop in and stock up for winter. Start dreaming about those winter projects, the chill is in the air.

Easter Crafts & High Tea with Kelly Doust

2011-03-18T18:59:00.003+08:00

Join us for a decadent afternoon creating felt egg cosies, finger puppets and other felt fripperies from our beautiful range of Heather Bailey designer felt.

Kelly Doust, bestselling author of The Crafty Minx and The Crafty Kid will be joining us for Calico & Ivy's first Sydney workshop event on Sunday 10 April, and showing us how to create some of her cute, simple designs for an elegantly homespun Easter. Crafters of all skill levels welcome.

Date: Sunday, 10 April, 2011

Address: 10 Birchgrove Road, Balmain

Time: 2-5pm

Cost: $65.00

Phone: 02 9555 9909

Details: a lavish high tea party including sandwiches, cakes and loose-leaf teas and of course a glass of bubbles will be provided on the day.

Please book early to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited.

Enriched!

2011-03-06T15:57:00.002+08:00

If you shared in either our Kaffe Fassett workshop on Tuesday or lecture on Wednesday evening, I think that you will be like me - totally inspired!

Where do I start? Do I pick up the knitting needles, crack some tiles and have a go at a mosaic, pick up a needlepoint and stitch frantically, or start a quilt or two. Well for me I decided it was back to a quilt I began some time ago, finish it I must, and a new crochet project from some amazing 2 ply crewel wool we are sourcing for the shops.

Kaffe and Brandon have given us all permission to have at least 15 projects on the go at any one time, and who am I to argue this point! I am all for a little over indulgence! There is nothing like spending over an hour being gently swayed back into the colour groove. Kaffe has been an inspiration for me since an early encounter with his knitting books, and during his lecture he took us back down that road, and then led us back up to his current works, at all times showing how he manipulates shape and colour to achieve beauty.

We have a long weekend here in Perth, and for the first time in the longest while the heat has moderated, so I must strike while the climate is cool and the iron is hot!

Share the pics we took at the workshop on the slideshow to the right and I am sure you will agree that our 30 participants excelled. Their good humour and enthusiasm was contagious as the day turned on the heat, and our portable air conditioners were tested to the max. Memorable is the word here.

How joyful it was as some of the emerging quilts reflected their creators personalities so entirely - right down to their selection of clothing for the day!

And of course Brandon always is in for a giggle, from dancing with our air conditioning 'robots', to skylarking in the ocean off Carnac Island.

Liberty of London - Spring Summer 2011 - 'The Story Book Collection'

2011-02-23T04:08:00.000+08:00

The latest Libert Art Fabrics have arrived in Balmain and are oh, so close to arriving in Perth. We have about 100 of the latest collection, created by the Liberty Design Studio in collaboration with up and coming and award winning British illustrators. They are just divine. Sarah x

Hexie Love

2011-02-14T17:36:00.000+08:00

Happy Valentines Day! On the day where all things are a flutter of love and romance, I thought I'd share a little hexie love. c & i balmain has just received a shipment or two of Japanese sewing and crafty books to make the heart sing. Amongst them was this cute little book that contained this gem made in Liberty fabrics.

By this time next week, our shelves should be filled with gorgeous new Liberty seasonals. And as one elderly customer who walked in a few weeks ago and exclaimed 'how very excitment', I think of this coming Liberty shipment and I'm thinking the same - how very excitment indeed!

Sarah

Selvedges

2011-02-10T18:15:00.000+08:00

There has been a little bit of talk about Selvedges of all kinds recently at c & i balmain. Amy had a bit of a selvedge thing happening at the beginning of the week, but my week has been all about the new Selvedge magazine that's just out. Loving it. Perfect for the pooch lover!

Featured is the clever artist Peter Clark.

Always such a great magazine - available at both stores.

Images from here.

catching up

2011-02-04T16:46:00.002+08:00

Maybe February sounds in the new year for me, as I completely lost January in it's flurry of activity. I have gratefully accepted a couple of 'days off' and feel quite fresh - as a new year usually makes me feel. Lots of possibilities... a few may make it to fruition.
The latest class list is out for Mosman Park, and classes are filling well. I suspect you are as eager to start a new year project as I am.
If you haven't seen the list pop over here
One of the new classes this term is our smocking class with Janette Medcalfe.

Jody Pearl offers a class for the beginner sewer. These sessions will have you stitching everything from a bag, simple patchwork quilt, pj's, pants and a drawstring top... so many choices! Below is a sample for the pants and top.

We are working on our first class offering for Balmain presently, and have had some sparkling talent offer their teaching services to date.

Lynnie has made a new sample for the shop which is causing a stir as customers enter our doorway. Taken from the Rowan Magazine no 47 it has that gypsy feel that Lynn captures so well (a past life or two inevitably peek through into Lynn's project choices).

Lynn chose a newer Rowan yarn named Revive for this project and enjoyed the speed in which it crocheted together. We all love a quick and easy project that looks so good.

Well that's my new year started, maybe we can help you get your new stitching year moving forward with a flourish...

onward...

2011-01-22T17:45:00.003+08:00

Balmain calico & ivy has opened and continues to be visited by many. Thank you so much for such positive support.

Sarah and I visited the flower market on Monday to collect some fresh flowers. So many bustling, happy vegemites at such an early hour (5.30 am)... and such a colour explosion!

and into the shop they went...

(Liberty betsy made into the fun bubble dress by Oliver & S patterns)

We have released the sale of tickets for Kaffe Fassett's workshop over here in Western Australia this week.

Tuesday March 1st - 9.30am - 4.30am

This will be a day of colour and pattern experimentation with guidance. Kaffe and Brandon both entertain and inform, and all participants leave with colour placement achieved for an eye catching quilt. We have chosen the Bordered Diamonds quilt from Kaffe's book Simple Shapes Spectacular Quilts as the subject quilt, and still have a few places available for the day.

The cost of the workshop is $300.00 which includes a light lunch.

Please call into the shop or phone on 9383 3794 to book or for more information.

A word of thanks...

The above images are of some special pieces we have acquired to furnish calico & ivy balmain.

Ken Wallis owns an amazing emporium named Seasonal Concepts in redfern, nsw.

During our establishment of the balmain shop, Ken has offered valuable advice and assistance, and just so much neighbourly friendship.

I encourage you to visit this stunning shop to experience their collection of vintage Australiana and exciting and unique flowers and greenery.

The mannequin and stand (we use for books and patterns) below are a couple of other treasures we sourced at Seasonal Concepts...

Almost......

2011-01-08T19:23:00.000+08:00

Our Balmain store is almost ready. On Monday we open our doors to you all for the very first time!

We are so excited and can't wait to share a bit of 'Calico' love with Sydney.

Months of dreaming, planning, painting, building.....

............choosing, sourcing, waiting.....

........scouring.....

...........tying..............

...a little bit of sewing....

...primping, preening, tweaking....... and ' Little Calico' is oh , so nearly ready.

We open our doors:

10am - 5pm Monday - Saturday

10 Birchgrove Road, Balmain

9555 9909

And because we are in Balmain and Balmain is all about the dog, I need to share with you a little dog love.

This is Otto.

Hoping to see you in the shop soon. Sarah

a quiet christmas

2010-12-23T17:37:00.003+08:00

Anthea created a very 'anthea' window for us this season.

Anthea's style is beautiful simplicity and one of my favourites, many thanks.

More thanks to all of the 'calico' girls for their unerring support and love. Not a moment passes that I don't feel extreme gratitude for their presence in my life and their roles within the shop. Each has an individual specialness of quality that they bring into the shop environment...and it is that which makes 'calico' a memorable place to visit.

We are approaching our down time now, and I welcome some special time with my family.

One more day for visiting before we close for a near on two week break.

These are a few new goodies you will encounter in store...

and these...

the new french ribbons have been well received...

and I cannot end the year without tempting you with a little Liberty... bias!

maybe I will catch up with you tomorrow, otherwise we re-open on thursday 6th january 2011, 9.30 on the dot.

It's going to be a great new year... I just know it!

Sarah is busy readying the Balmain shop for our first day of business on 10th January... have a glass of champers for me!

and a little bird told me that the newest Liberty seasonal collection will be available very early on in the new year...yes!!!

progress

2010-12-16T09:20:00.002+08:00

It has been a while between posts but our attentions have been focused on preparing 'baby' calico for her opening. We didn't quite make the mid December timing we were hoping for but have chosen to allow the holiday season to pass first.

Monday 10th January is our official opening day - 10am.

10 Birchgrove Road, Balmain is your destination for a visit.

Lady Liberty classics have arrived, the new seasonal collection will be available by February:

Greeting cards galore:

A very special cabinet to showcase our Sophie Digard collection:

And why not a cuppa while stitching?

very beautiful ribbon:

and of course our yarns are consolidating ready for the new season:

She makes us smile every time we walk in... hopefully you are liking her too.

Meet Sarah, Amy and Donna on your visits and be creatively inspired!

soul blossom wedding

2010-11-21T18:03:00.005+08:00

we had a wedding yesterday... the marvellous, beautiful wedding of our daughter Danielle and her fiance Nick.

The lead up to the wedding was a tad busy, as much to our delight Dani and Nick asked to have the reception in our home. We had a bathroom to renovate and decided the adjoining room may as well be fixed up in the effort. This added to the refreshing of the Balmain 'baby calico' kept hubby and I on our toes.

But an amazing calm fell over the house on Friday, we had tizzied, fluffed, arranged, played, cleaned and fussed, until we could no more. We took a collective deep breath and decided the fun would begin. So a quiet Friday night led into a casual, laughter filled Saturday. Everything fell into place perfectly and Danielle met her groom a relaxed, radiant bride, for a ceremony on the water off the cliffs of Blackwall Reach.

Back home to final preparations and Dani and Nick's guests filled our home. It was all candles and flowers and many upbeat, happy friends enjoying a balmy night for an occasion of great merriment.

Random pics from the night.

I had a few problems with the camera and light over the night and most of my pics are a little blurry. I will show you our beautiful bride and her dress very soon, on receipt of some better snaps.

Danielle is a girl of colour, and her fabric choice to embellish a couple of the tables came from the latest range of fabric to hit our shelves, Amy Butler's Soul Blossoms, and some of our linen gauze.

Amy chose to capture some of the textile inspirations she experienced while travelling through India for this range. This collection takes me back to her earlier ranges in colouring and pattern. The colours suited Danielle's palette of yellow, pink and orange for the wedding, so just arrived in time to play a leading part. I found some free time on Friday to pop it onto the website here

Just a few more peeks at Amy's Soul Blossom in the shop

exciting isn't it...

yes, truly enchanting

2010-11-16T18:03:00.003+08:00

You may remember this image posted not so long ago.

Nimet sent me what she felt was a rough translation so I could get a gist of the written word.

Here goes:

"For Charlotte de L'Isle (written on door)

How often did the little door of La Charlotte open up?

How many times did faces fall upon finding her shut?

How many pots of chocolate passed through to the dishes, not to mention the cups... or the hands of the washer-man or washer-woman

As for having a rest, how often, how much... No! I stop.

Simply: thank you

For your presence, each of you, your peals of laughter, your silences full of care and attention.

This door which offered me so much and taught me so much will shut once more

and life will open up again, in the country, for other adventures."

We are of the opinion the shop may have closed and the owner moved to the country, as the shop was not open on what would have been a normal trading day (all neighbours were open) or maybe a grateful customer leaving Paris for new pastures presented this to the owner. Whatever the circumstances, yes the translation was as enchanting as I imagined.

Thanks Nimet

balmain continued and fabric crochet

2010-11-08T18:44:00.004+08:00

Simply put... thanks. We have read your enthusiastic comments about our new store in Balmain... thanks. I have received emails with offers of assistance, and talent abounding... thanks. Even a few heads have popped into the half open doors while the paint dries, and the preparation works continue... thanks. At such a busy time in the collective lives of those of us at Calico these touches are so uplifting... so many thanks.

Personally what is ringing through clearly is that Balmain is a community of like-minded, friendly, positive souls. I have lived much of my life in and around Fremantle, here in the west, and that same vibe is what ties me to this environment here. It feels good... very good.

Anthea has been guiding a class of girls through the ins and outs of fabric crochet.
The enthusiasm was such that before the second class these are some of the goodies the girls whipped up at home.

The above baskets were Jill's creations, just in one week. The basket in the first image is made of multi-coloured voiles, the lower image shows a green woollen check with cotton string used as a trim for one basket and the other a patterned fabric, with added strips crocheted onto the edge to create the whimsical edging.

Above is Tracy's basket made from cotton fabric with the trims being strips cut from an Indian fabric skirt.

Next term might be your opportunity to learn this fun skill.

calico and ivy is having a baby...

2010-10-31T15:27:00.002+08:00

really...

come on inside...

10 Birchgrove Road, Balmain. A thoroughly cute little shopfront which is slowly evolving into our Sydneyside home.

A touch more paint, a little more of my builder's (hubby of course!) handy work, and then in will go the stock we have been collecting.

You might know Sarah Wheatley...

oh Sarah, please show your smiling face...

Sarah worked in Mosman Park from the day I bought Calico until the beginning of 2009 when she returned home to Sydney with her family. Truly missed is an understatement, but I caught up with her as much as possible, and when I began to deliberate on the Sydney option, I knew it would only work if I could coax Sarah back to manage the shop for me.

Come early December we hope to open the doors, with the product you have come to know Calico & Ivy for, and a few new additions. Of course, Liberty of London Tana Lawn will be well represented, with many, many classics available on opening, and the new Spring 2011 collection arriving in both stores in January.

We will be needing a little help in Sydney. We hope to attract a few talented, experienced, innovative and friendly people to assist in both teaching and counter roles. Email here and tell us about yourself if you're intrigued.

we will keep you updated as Balmain blossoms...

christine and sophie

2010-10-13T15:40:00.002+08:00

Christine Little might well be known to quite a few visitors to the shop. Christine has owned the shopfront Quinces which has occupied a few tenancies within our Glyde Street shopping strip for around 26 years now. Christine is an interior designer and manufacturer of soft furnishings and has a wealth of knowledge about the history of our little enclave and a few colourful characters who have spent time.

Christine is also a very proficient and zippy knitter. Allow me to show you her latest works.

This pattern Christine sourced from her extensive library, and chose our Colinette Jitterbug yarn and being the fantastic colourist that she is popped four colours together her way and doesn't it sing?

Then straight onto another project Christine made this jumper that we affectionately call the botox lip.

detail:

from this book:

Lynn and I brought some Sophie Digard product back from France, having finally met Sophie and her lovely assistant Kay. A more enjoyable few hours could not have been had despite the heat being oppressive. Ongoing choosing a huge quantity of linen scarfs that will arrive closer to Christmas, and more merino wool scarfs to arrive in February/March for the winter season. Yes, Lynn and I were like kiddies let loose in a lolly shop, colour and texture surrounding us and reviving our then jet lagged minds.

a snapshot of our latest Sophie Digard product. I have posted it all on the website today, and will have it in the shop tomorrow.

class list and Kaffe lecture

2010-09-29T13:02:00.001+08:00

today the latest class listing was emailed out to those of you on our list, and an invitation to purchase tickets for the Kaffe Fassett lecture on March 2nd, 2011.

I enjoyed such a lecture by Kaffe two visits to Perth ago, and became an even greater devotee as a result. Kaffe's books are an inspiration, but he has a wonderful presence when speaking, and I found myself so much more engaged by listening to his descriptions of the elements that trigger his imagination and ever changing works, and enjoying the musings of such a creative man. All of this accompanied by a spectacular slide show, and Brandon will be along side for some light entertainment. Of course the lecture content changes for each tour presentation. Bliss.

To access our class list follow this link.

To purchase a ticket follow through to here.

And how about this:

Lauren Price is staff member Suzie's 18 year old daughter. Lauren has come up with this and a couple of variations to use on our promotional material for the upcoming tour. I am so delighted with her work, just a little direction on my part and off she flew. My thoughts are that this young lady is a very bright star. My favourite colouring of this image is that which we chose for the front of the lecture tickets. When you receive your ticket you will see what I mean.

and the beat goes on...

2010-09-22T15:25:00.001+08:00

home again from a lovely time in Paris. Lynn and I gently explored and ate our way through the various byways of the city. The perfect millefeuille was one of our desires, and boy when they are good, they are soooo good. Over the next few months products sourced at the trade shows will be introduced into the shop and samples inspired by our travels will emerge.

Over our time away we managed to keep our hands busy - in Lynn's case a knitted pair of socks were achieved for hubby, and in my case the joining of many, many tiny Liberty hexagons...

I am finding the glue then stitch together method is working very well. We have a Sewline glue stick available in the shop along with many different sized hexagon cut papers if you would like to have a go also. Not quite sure where this is going in terms of a finished project, but sure am liking the process. Any ideas gratefully accepted.

Just finishing with these gems...

found on the doors of two adjoining little shops on the Ile de St Louis (with Berthillon icecream in hand). I present the first image hot having much clue as to the content. Maybe a translation is in order. I do hope it is as enchanting as the image.

hip hip hooray

2010-09-02T18:12:00.001+08:00

hip hip hooray.. Rowan yarns are back with refreshed lower pricing, and their renowned masterful colour palette.

We are adding to our colour range in the Pure Wool DK, Kidsilk Haze and have now stocks of Felted Tweed Aran and a new addition to the Rowan range named Lima, which is 84% baby alpaca, 8% merino and 8% nylon and aran weight. Soft, soft, soft.

The latest Rowan magazine is very special and at the great price of $35.00.

and this is the picture of the year as I see it.

isn't she beautiful?

hip, hip, hooray to Leah and Emily as they welcome a new member to their family, young Lexie. She has been visiting this week and has us all besotted.

and of course the obligatory puppy nappy bag...

but no mishaps inside thankfully. Barbara is deep in concentration in the background...sock knitting.

hip, hip, hooray... off to Paris tomorrow

We haven't been able to wipe the smirk off Lynnie's face for weeks now.

Well that's it for a bit until we come back from Paris and our quest to find many, many new goodies to tempt you with.

The shop is open as usual in the capable hands of Anthea, Jane, Kim and Suzie.

au revoir mes amis

Building blocks

2010-08-29T19:41:00.001+08:00

I have spent the weekend building up packs of Liberty 6 inch squares. This is one of those jobs that I tend to put off, but once I get going I thoroughly enjoy the process.

From cutting to colour arrangement and on to the final packaging it is a slow job, but totally rewarding, as the finished packs look a treat.

Our dining table was completely covered in all things calico & ivy, so meals have been in the lounge on laps.

On finishing I had a little creative itch to scratch, hence this...

temporarily sticky taped to our lounge room wall.

I really do have a fancy for playing with Liberty wrapped wire, and these will accompany me to Sydney on my next visit in a few weeks, as I have a little secret.

All will be revealed soon.
I do hope you had a joyful weekend.

Lucy in the sky...

2010-08-23T18:40:00.005+08:00

with diamonds.

Our classroom has been sparkling brightly and warmly over the past two weeks with stunning diamond quilt creations. Sue Hanson joined our teaching crew and was overwhelmed with participants wishing to have a try at a diamond quilt. We were overwhelmed with the results.

Two of our girls have been back in to show us their progress, Nimet being first, as she was keen to finish the top before heading back to Thailand for a little while.
This was the beginning of Nimet's adventure...

and the finished quilt top...

Kerry was in our second class and came in to show us her progress, from this...

to this...

not quite finished but the story is unfolding.

Anna joined me in the shop on Friday and kept snapping, so enjoy...

Sue guided these girls through the fabric selection process and onwards teaching a very clever piecing technique.

Thank you Sue, we look forward to your next class installment when you are in Perth again, and thank you Nimet and Kerry for thrilling us with your creations.

I will showcase more of these amazing quilts as they revisit us in store.

A visit from Mr Rainman

2010-08-13T08:19:00.002+08:00

It has been raining. That lovely soaking gentle type of rain that filters into the ground and replenishes all.

It is about this time each year that the early risers in our garden emerge from winter hibernation, and embrace a new season. I took a walk in the rain and captured these...

and then found what I was looking for...

a new season is just around the corner.

Inside too I have a petite installation...

This dress was made by my mum, Clasina, some fifty years ago with hand stitched silk sent over from Europe.

One of my treasures, and one of the few pieces of her handwork we still have. I am so grateful that Mum shared her skills with me when I was young.

A lamp base from the shop came home and I had this lampshade made...

If you live in Perth, have fun in the rain while it lasts. I am.

On top of the world

2010-07-24T18:47:00.001+08:00

We have had a busy, exciting and bountiful few weeks in the shop and now it is time I included you in the fun.

Pat Goodchild has allowed us to hang yet another inspirational creation...

our long awaited shipment of Alchemy Haiku (40% silk, 60% mohair) has arrived...

This yarn has to be felt to be believed, and definitely is enhanced with the exclusion of the plastic bags.

Just thought I would show you a few favourite gift lines we are selling at the moment...

We have been doing a spot of re-decorating...

and have I kept you in suspense long enough...

Yes, the new Liberty of London tana lawn seasonal collection has arrived, is on the shelves and also has been put onto the website.

We all become a little excitable, even somewhat overwhelmed with the possibilities. This collection lends itself to to many dressmaking projects, and with Lynnie and I off to Paris in a month it is perfect timing, as a few snappy new outfits might well be in order.

and a few of my favourites...

As you can imagine we truly are on top of the world... come join us!

Amy for sale

2010-07-13T17:18:00.002+08:00

oops...Amy ON sale

As I have a tendency to do, I have ordered copious amounts of new fabrics for 'calico' that are due to arrive over the next few months. This leads me to the impossible task of choosing which fabrics will have to move fast to make way. I only buy what I love, so hence the problem.

I have chosen many, many Amy Butler fabrics for this sale, and I don't imagine they will take long to find new homes... so beautiful they are.

The cot is back out, and all the fabrics within it are $13 metre. Minimum cut is 50 centimetres.

You might like to visit sooner rather than later for the best selection... we look forward to seeing you

a finishing touch

2010-07-08T07:43:00.005+08:00

I have been nesting a little lately. The colder weather, and having my eldest daughter under the roof a little more regularly when she visits from Karratha, has made me centre a little more on snuggling up the home front. I make subtle changes, then more dramatic ones (found an amazing antique cupboard from India the other day that now comfortably sits in our bedroom), but in all my stitching days I have never made a cover for our bed. A quilt has never seemed right.
You know how you just have to add one right element to a room and suddenly everything else seems to fall into place? Well the addition of the new cupboard made the bed cover dilemma a dilemma no more. It immediately spoke of the need for a crocheted blanket.
Heidi's blanket came to mind and I knew something similar would be the answer, so away I went...

I have chosen Debbie Bliss's Baby Cashmerino because so many colours were available to me (and Lynn suggested it might keep the weight down).
So with all of the unfinished projects I have underway, yep, I have begun another... naughty, naughty (yet truly blissful because this is how I work and I can't fight it... and I know many of you are with me on this).
I have now completed 18 blocks, each block takes around 1 hour, and I have 121 in total to make. Sinchy! ha...ha!

Now another inspirational blanket is that made by our Lynn, again in Baby Cashmerino.

Lynnies is finished and has a lot more pink than I dare use (still coming to grips with pink am I).

And what about this border... how perfect.

Lynnie's attention to detail is a major part of why she is such a talent. I will settle for a much simpler edging, as I must get a project or two finished within my lifetime.

Would you like to make a crochet blanket?

Our latest class listing is now on our web page... and lots of crochet classes have been scheduled, as have knitting classes... and quilting and ... the list goes on!

If you do not receive the email notification of our class listings, and would like to, pop onto our website's homepage and in the top right hand corner is the link to follow to pop your details into and from here on in you will in the loop. Better yet, click here, and you are right there.

That's all folks!

2010-07-02T10:45:00.002+08:00

Winter project ideas are plentiful with many new additions to see in store.

A few scarf ideas:

This scarf is crocheted from Debbie Bliss's Rialto DK and then has strips of Liberty woven through to complete the picture.

With this diagonal weave scarf Lynn decided to stretch the skills of our more experienced knitters (and my ability to write patterns) and the effect of this stitch knitted in One Zero and larger needles is luscious.

And finally one for the men :- The Dr Who scarf (I hear rumoured that Johny Depp may be the latest Dr Who in the movie version... Hmmm...). Knitted using Cashmerino Aran, each segment of colour equates to one ball of yarn. Make it as long or as short as you like.

Our mannequins became quite animated with being the centre of a photo shoot.

Shall we dance?

All yarn for the projects above are available now, and with the purchase of the yarn we supply a free pattern.

and more...

2010-06-23T19:09:00.002+08:00

Nimet has been a fairly permanent member of the calico and ivy family for a while now. Her husband has kindly loaned her to us as a semi full-time student, and been left to fend for himself in Thailand while she plays with us here. We are not complaining, as a matter of fact I have loved getting to know Nimet better.
When Nimet first signed up for a beginner's patchwork class she was like most of us, very unsure of her abilities.
Look at her now...

this quilt top is the result of a class with Anthea - Contemporary Quiltmaking.

I love it. We have shared so much excitement with the growth of this work of art.

Then it came to putting together a backing and we encouraged her to add a few quirks, so she took us on... and ran

Well... we all agree this is a quilt in it's own right, so now two new backings need to be made.

This is so much the point of Anthea's classes. Nothing is carved in stone, they are designed to stimulate each participant to create and add their own soul.

I believe Nimet has so much more confidence in her creative abilities now, and will miss her when she feels the time has come to return home.

I will be putting the next term class list on our web page in a couple of weeks. If you are on our mailing list you will receive an email advising you of this.

You too might consider a class with Anthea.

Just have to show you...

2010-06-16T16:16:00.000+08:00

what talented customers we have here at Calico and Ivy.

Sam Donovan bought a very favourite Kokka fabric from us here in the shop to cover a wingback chair during classes she was taking at Challenger TAFE at John Curtin.
She popped these pics across to me and agreed to show you all.

and the side view...

Isn't this chair fantastic? Well done Sam and a great choice of fabric.

I was so inspired that today my not so excitingly covered wingback and ottoman were wizzed away in an upholsterers truck with multitudes of this Anna Maria Horner fabric that I have been saving

and hopefully in a couple of weeks I will have a delicious chair too. Stay tuned.

Home again

2010-06-07T18:42:00.001+08:00

Hubbi, Annie and I have had a little adventure for a week to Coral Bay. We met up with Danielle (my eldest daughter) and her fiance Nick along with Nick's family, and proceeded to have a fantastic time.

I had never been before, but am so glad that I visited.

The township is simple, clean and looks after it's visitors superbly, from plenty of tucker (the bakery had an amazing broccoli, cauliflower and cheese sauce pie which I think I may have tasted just a few too many times), to the amazing bay.

Of course the highlight of the trip was the Ningaloo Reef... beautiful beyond words and so beyond my imaginings. We snorkeled and swam and on one occasion kayaked out with a guide, who led us on an experience that I will remember for life...very clearly.

the size and multitude of these fish startled me a little, but I think I startled this baby more than he me.

We swam with turtles (here Anna gets up close)

And after a change of mask I joined the throngs of fish again and became so enthralled with my improved vision that BANG...

I smashed straight into the kayak.

Yep, there's always someone handy with a camera to catch an awkward moment.

Simple living is the key to an enjoyable stay in Coral Bay

A must see experience for everyone at some stage.

Being held accountable

2010-05-27T18:12:00.001+08:00

I said I would take a pic of my work in progress but procrastination has been playing havoc with me. As another week draws to a close, I finally have the first draft of my new quilt top up on the board and dared to take a pic.

This quilt changes before my eyes in interpretation, as the initial intent was for a Facet quilt from Kaffe and Liza's Simple Shapes, Spectacular Quilts but I am not so good at doing as I am told, and still being influenced by the mosaic on page 108, I wanted to take the imagery tighter.

Now I shall make the dark diamonds and then they will get thrown into the mix. Maybe that will be the time to put a little more order into placement - but I think rather not! So exciting.

eggs

2010-05-26T16:43:00.003+08:00

yes eggs...
amazing little things are eggs.

Tanya Wilding is a very favourite person. We met early in my days at 'calico' and clicked immediately. You see Tanya lives my dream life - don't get me wrong I am as happy as a little piggy in the proverbial with my life, but Tanya lives in bucolic bliss down in Yallingup.

Just about two years ago Tanya and her husband picked up their little tribe and made their seachange, and I was with her in heart all the way. It was brave as they knew few, and the children had to adjust not only to a new school but the change in lifestyle also. Many of us talk the talk, but Tanya and co. walked the walk... and they are a very contented lot with their new life.

Tanya paid us a visit last Friday as she has just a minor fabric addiction (Kaffe fabrics make her heart sing), and needed to satisfy the craving, and with her she delivered a dozen of beautiful fresh home eggs. Her 'girls' have begun laying and I happily received their little gifts.

This is a little post just for you Tanya to thank you and show you just how much appreciated these little eggies are:

Yum Yum.

This is Tanya back about eighteen months ago with Marnie while doing a Snowball quilt class with Suzie.

I wish I had a piccy of her quilt as it was a showstopper, but here you can see just a peek.

The owl and the pussycat...

2010-05-21T08:38:00.002+08:00

went to sea in a beautiful pea green boat.

This has always been one of my favourite ditties as a child - all fantasy and romance with not much connection to the real world.
It feels to me like I departed on this journey and am still bobbing around on those magic seas.
I scheduled a little 'time out' to start and finish some projects and take a creative journey, and while I am still bobbing on these waters of creativity, reality has snuck its way back into the picture.
Both projects envisaged in my last posting are taking extraordinary turns, and excitingly nothing like the original imaginings any more. Gotta love these twists and turns. Next posting I will make you privy (the camera battery is charging).
Lynnie Jones has a new/old caravan coming into her life and her excitement has been very infectious within the shop.
Sock knitting projects are gathering pace, crochet is exploding into multi-coloured blankets and floral embellishments, and the soft hum of Kaffe's name is resonating as we begin preparations for his March 2011 visit. Hmmm... all sweet sounds are playing.

Anthea has added a selection of the most appealing tees and tanks for the little one's...

and a lovely selection of larger scale buttons suitable for bags and knits are now available...

Have a wonderful day... we here are well into Autumn and the trees are glowing with warm colour, ready to shed their leaves.

I wish...

2010-05-10T17:16:00.000+08:00

I wish for just a little teensy, weensy bit of extra time to indulge in my passions.

There really is only one way to make this wish come true...

and that is to force the issue a little...

so I won't be much seen around the shop this week. I will hide away here at home, and maybe won't answer all of my emails, and probably won't make myself available for problem solving...

but I will play with these...

because I now have my copy of this...

and flirt with these...

and all of my wishes might just be granted.

Stay tuned and follow my progress.

By the way, you know that if I have my copy of Kaffe's new book there must be one for you too... just visit calico and ivy to pick yours up today.

Festive Friday

2010-04-27T17:36:00.004+08:00

Danielle had a crochet flowers class here on Friday.

I suspect a good time was had all round indicated by the animated chat amidst the high concentration.

Lyndel, one of our class participants, brought in some show and tell, so I am now taking it to the wider community.

Grace Farey is a very young 87 years of age, she's also Lyndel's mum and lives in NSW.

This is her latest project, knitted from our lovely Cascade yarns.

I hope you can see some of the detail, as the blocks have differing cables and patterns knitted into them. Once joined, Grace knitted a mitred corner edging to finish it off. The colours are so warm and the blanket quite heavy - perfect for a chilly night. Lyndel's dog has already found it the perfect place to nest. We were all very motivated...

then out came this beauty.

It isn't hard to imagine why Lyndel has had the drive to hand piece all of these hexagons into this lovely colourwash quilt. I couldn't take my eyes off the variety of Liberty tana lawns that complete this top. As such I did get a little camera happy and hope you don't object to the profusion of pics I

post.

and this is the back - a work of art in itself as Lyndel used magazine pages for the templates. They are a little softer under hand with the finer lawn and make piecing easier (a tip from Lyndel's friend Freida). It is a shame that they will come out next, as we all agreed this quilt feels luscious with the papers still in.... washing might be a tad tricky though.

Margot

2010-04-27T13:02:00.004+08:00

I really get the warm fuzzies when a story of a young stitcher comes through our doors. I believe that all children should be given an opportunity to play with yarn and cloth. I know the medium will not suit all, but the only way to know is to experience it.

We have a few lost generations (I am speaking in 10 year brackets here), where stitching was not widely embraced and therefore not handed down as a skill. I truly feel I am one of the lucky ones whose mum patiently taught me all she knew.

I think we now are turning this void around, with parents and even schools choosing to teach and encourage stitch skills again. Any youngster visiting my home knows the fabric scrap basket is theirs to fossick through and create from. I still manage to stitch enough to be filling it faster than they empty it, although now that my fabric choice is increasingly Liberty of London, maybe I will have to reassess this situation!

Meet Margot Shorrocks.

Mum Yolande visited Perth from Sydney some weeks back and bought Margot a flannel fabric pack and a Melly and Me pattern named Sangsang. Over the Easter break Margot enthusiastically made up one doll, and then another as a gift for a friend.

We were told that Margot completely made all of the doll herself with guidance from mum and is so enthusiastic that on a return visit to Perth this week, Yolande picked up some extra goodies for the next installment.

For me the sweetest part of this all is that Margot is only 8 years old.

What a gem!

While on the subject...

2010-04-21T13:48:00.004+08:00

a little bird told me today that red pepper quilts had used as inspiration for her latest quilt my quilt made from Anna Maria Horner's little folks voiles. How flattering... and Rita's quilt is another great combination of these fabrics.

In reading the comments that have been left on both red pepper's and calico's blogs there is great passion for all of Anna Maria's fabrics and I thought I would make another addition to the use of her fabrics.

About a year ago I pieced this double wedding ring from Anna Maria's good folks collection, and more recently it has been quilted. Just a binding to go and some perle thread quilting in the centres and she is finished. As some of you seem to be holding tight to your collections of Anna Maria's fabrics I am hoping this quilt too might inspire you to cut and stitch.

Templates from Matilda's Own (available at Calico and Ivy) make cutting and stitching manageable (I will not deceive you, curved piecing does take patience). Use a small rotary cutter (28mm) with these templates and you are on your way.

We haven't had 'good folks' for a while now, but I can see this made in Kaffe Fassett's cottons as a definite alternative.

the quilt

2010-04-10T10:22:00.003+08:00

When Lynn Jones began work back at calico she brought with her 'the quilt'.

Using her amazing collection of Liberty prints she has made an amazing off centre log cabin.

Many tiny snippets of special pieces have been slipped into the mix, and each round of logs represents a fabric, and no fabrics have been repeated within the quilt.

Customers drift down to the rear of the shop where this quilt is showcased, and then we don't see them again for quite some time while they absorb this amazing use of fabric.

We ourselves choose to have a bite to eat, or price new stock in the company of this quilt just so that we can tap into its soul for just a little while.

Lynnie's quilt has become a friend to us all.

Melanie from the United Kingdom emailed me the other day wishing for a larger view of 'the quilt' from the one scrolling through on our homepage banner on the website. Ever wishing to oblige Lynn has agreed it should be showcased for all to see...

spectacular!

flirty florals

2010-04-07T14:34:00.000+08:00

Danielle and Lynn are teaching a class on crochet flowers this term. We've had a few requests for these flirty little numbers as they can embellish any project be they textile or yarn based.

I thought I would show you some samples as they didn't get to me in time for the class list.

Lynnie was having a 'pink' moment when she began crocheting these babies. The two larger flowers are daisys, the mid sized pinkie is a three dimensional flower made using popcorn stitch, and the teeny ones we call milleflori.

These milleflori are 'joined as you go' and with more additions a fun round cushion can be achieved.

If this sounds like the class for you, call the shop (9383 3794) and book your position as this class is scheduled for Friday April 23rd.

our hearts are a flutter with possibilities...

2010-04-01T19:33:00.000+08:00

knowing I have a four day break ahead I am truly a flutter with possibilities. To knit, crochet or stitch is the burning question - and I think seeing as I might just be spending some of the time on the rocky blue Indian Ocean waters, knitting is winning out.

I have begun another chevron scarf (book with pattern available in store) using the amazing Mori silk/merino blend by Koigu. I find the knitting process for this scarf addictive, as I choose to use two different coloured yarns (in this case m628 3 and m830 7) and the constant colour changes that occur keep me captivated. I also am using a pair of mum's old knitting needles (she gave me her collection many years ago) and that too keeps my heart a flutter.

I have posted the latest class newsletter this evening, and emails are out advising all of those on our mailing list. If you do not receive such an email and would like to, please call the shop and give us your email details, or register on the website homepage (top right hand corner).

Also a reminder that we are not opening for Saturday trade this Easter holiday...we will be open again on Tuesday to take class bookings and have a chat.

All of us at 'calico' wish you a joyful and peaceful Easter break

bountiful

2010-03-28T11:56:00.001+08:00

this time each year book fever strikes calico and ivy... or should I say it strikes me and as such I have ordered bountiful quantities of books for your selection.

this piccy shows some of the yarn selections...

some personal favourites...

and I always order books that take me to my favourite overseas destination.

there are many more titles in store...I hope you see one or two that appeal to you, but be quick as they move quickly to their new homes

just a note that our easter trading hours reflect that we will close for the entire break from good friday through to monday.

we will be back on deck on tuesday with our latest class list having been posted on the website during the break.

voila

2010-03-19T18:03:00.006+08:00

I was anticipating the arrival of Anna Maria Horner's little folks voiles in all types of strange ways.

While I had the opportunity to touch and feel in Houston, and see Anna Maria's applications, I wasn't sure how it would stitch, and felt if I didn't love it, I would have troubles selling it... but I just had to have it in the shop.

Last week our order arrived and I was straight into cutting and stitching... as I had to experience the fabric.

All hesitation was thrown aside as I began stitching, as I found it to be a wonderful medium, and freeing beyond belief.

Just by feeling the softness I knew to attach the walking foot immediately, and off I went...

Despite a march madness head (sinus headaches) I couldn't stop. Once I strip pieced the top I hurriedly sandwiched the layers and set to with the perle thread and hand quilted frenetically. It was so addictive, the needle slid through the layers, and the fabric was almost playing with me the whole time.

My thought to keep it simple worked as no frustration was met at any stage, and the fabrics most definitely speak for themselves.

Come on into the shop and have a feel... I suspect you will be tempted to play with the fabric also.

Next week I will kit up this quilt for the shop... it is achievable, and effective.

what's new?

2010-03-16T09:00:00.003+08:00

new Sophie Digard stock is what's new, and we think this collection is the nicest yet.

the scarfs are all linen this time around...

as are the toys, necklaces and brooches

visit our website here and have a little look...

all sophie digard goodies are in store now.

Sydney Town

2010-03-05T12:47:00.004+08:00

Anthea and I have just returned from a spell in Sydney. While our major objective was to buy goodies for 'calico' at the gift trade fairs we preferred when we played hooky and explored the inner city.

Our first discovery was Cerrone in Martin Place. The visual presented in the shop windows drew us over like a magnet.

Hand stitched embellishment on mannequins - so simple, yet so artfully executed.

We were captivated.

Another favourite destination was Surry Hills.

Firstly we stumbled upon the Bourke Street Bakery

and without daring to go in and being tempted, moved onto my favourite Sydney haunt ici et la.

I was tempted here by a lovely old iron clothes rack which is trucking it's way to the shop as I write.

onward we wandered down Nickson Street and found these treasures

Next on to David met Nicole, a small bite to eat, and back to our accommodation.

Spring 2010 Liberty in store

2010-02-24T11:35:00.004+08:00

The truck has delivered another shipment of Liberty...the Spring 2010 collection.

We are all abuzz with ideas and projects that we can create.

I have popped it all on the website also...

happy today

Lots and lots...

2010-02-22T07:27:00.002+08:00

Julie McAllister is a lots and lots of kind of girl. She has been busy making lots and lots of quilts of late.

Julie even bought herself a longarm quilting machine so she can do lots and lots of quilting...

presumably so she can get back to doing lots and lots of the creative side, being designing and piecing.

(This image is a little skew, Julie's quilt is not)

Phew...

I am exhausted just thinking about it, but delighted enjoying the eye candy they present.

Another very talented customer - thanks for sharing

2010-02-20T18:04:00.001+08:00

we have added a cot load of fabric to our sale as we continue our mini clean out to enable our shelves to cope with the many new fabrics arriving.

all fabrics in our cot are $12.00 metre

buy all of the fabric remaining on the bolt and pay only $10.00 metre

minimum cut 50cm

look forward to seeing you soon

i before e

2010-02-15T11:21:00.000+08:00

'Calico' has stocked a book named Flea Market Style for a while now, it is one of those visually inspiring books that always delights me when I flick through.

Heidi Steinmann (see title) bought Flea Market Style some time ago and this book then went on to became her inspiration after finishing a Learn to Crochet class here. We helped Heidi to make an initial selection of yarns and she now visits regularly to buy add ons for the continuing growth of her crochet squares blanket. I need add not much more to this story, as it unfolds...

An image extracted from Flea Market Style by Emily Chambers...

...and Heidi's version

Heidi is using Cascade yarn in an off white as the background (100gm - $12.50) and a mix of DK yarns from Debbie Bliss and Cascade for the colour highlights.

You should be so proud Heidi, your blanket is spectacular.

2010-02-10T06:52:00.000+08:00

Why don't you help us to clear the shelves a little for new yarn selections arriving soon.

We are currently offering 30% off all Jo Sharp yarn.

Be quick for the best selection.

Silly Billy

2010-02-04T15:11:00.002+08:00

We had a little visitor while in Mandurah, and he presented us with a few dilema's, you see he was a little bird, and we have a little cat.
The story goes....
Mama and dada bird expelled little Billy (as he became known to us) from the nest, as they felt it was time he took to the skies, but little Billy had other ideas, and chose to be a ground dweller for a while. No amount of coaxing from mama and dada was going to get Billy to make his maiden flight.
This little scenario was being played out just outside of my kitchen window, and I became very aware of the situation by the somewhat shrill and distressed cries from his parents, as they became aware he could not get back to the safety of the nest, and dark was descending. Eventually they manouvered Billy to they safest place they could find which was a dark corner by the trunk of the tree that held the nest, and they retreated for the night.
Being very aware that my Lily cat would enjoy the delicious morsel that Billy presented, it was time to take over. We rigged a box up to the pergola rafters and placed a makeshift nest inside of it for Billy's comfort, and up he went.
It was a mighty blowy night that night, and I ventured out at around 3am to see the box swinging wildly in the wind, but all was well.
Next morning we placed Billy back where he had been left, and began a rotation system of Billy in the house in his nest, and cat outside for a bathroom break, and vice versa.
We found that Billy's problem was that although well developed, his tail feathers had hardly emerged, thus affecting his balance. Now to cut a long story short, we kept cat from bird for four days, while mama and dada continued to work on Billy's flight abilities.
None of these tiny birds seemed at all unhappy with our human interference, they just had a job to do.
Darling Billy took to the skies and hopefully a happy bird life much to the relief of the by then three carers who had become completely besotted by him.
Now this little story may seem a little removed from Calico and Ivy, but no...

Here you see little Billy in his makeshift nest... yes, I had crocheted it after a lesson from Anthea from assorted shot cottons, and padded it out with fine slivers of Liberty. A fine pad for a sweet bird.

If you have been considering doing the crochet basket course with Anthea, I now feel I have put forward an argument for you all to attend...
you never know when a silly Billy will come knocking

Getting to know the Calico and Ivy teachers - Kim Holland

2010-02-01T16:37:00.003+08:00

Kim Holland teaches knitting for calico and ivy and happily moves from our beginners through to our more experienced girls looking for a new challenge. Her fair isle class last term was challenging but well received.

I thought you might be inspired by seeing some of her work, albeit that many are 'blasts from the past' (Kim's own wording), they exhibit amazing craftsmanship and you can feel the love that has been knitted into every stitch.

A closer inspection demonstrates the quality of Kim's knitting.

Whenever anyone questions the validity of the time we spend on handcrafted goods I feel disinclined to debate the topic as I always feel these people just don't 'get' it. I think I would be better served carrying a journal with me full of images as those above to simply demonstrate the skill, and soul hours filled with satisfaction that make us the wonderful creative people we are.

Yep you're right, they still wont 'get' it.

What a Week!

2010-01-30T18:58:00.002+08:00

Isn't it always difficult to get back into the groove after a break? Slowly I am catching up on all of the Calico and Ivy background activities and the class list will be available on our website this coming Monday.

Pat Brown visited this week with her version of Danielle's crochet hexagon blanket.

Pat and her wonderful wide smile.

Pat has embraced crochet enthusiastically. With a new grandchild around the corner she has whipped up this marvel for the nursery, and has now moved on to Suzie's Taiyo crochet blanket.

Danielle Turner will be teaching the technique for the hexagons in a class this term. Also available now is a pattern for the blanket priced at $20.00, a collaborative work by both Danielle and Lynn Jones.

Two Danielles

2010-01-20T18:40:00.003+08:00

Danielle O:

My gorgeous daughter Danielle is visiting from Karratha for a while with her boyfriend Nick.

She popped into the shop (centre of pic, with Nick and Anna) for her first visit to the new 'Calico'.

She also showed me her first completed quilt top...

I have been giving her fat quarter packs as new collections hit the shelves, and this is her interpretation of the Amy Butlers. Proud mum here!

Danielle T:

I arrived at the shop for my Tuesday fun day, and was greeted with a surprise gift from our Saturday Danielle.

As featured on her blog, I was the lucky recipient of one of her delightful bags, made from her amazing collection of Liberty Tana Lawn.

Many thanks... just love it!

Harking back to Houston...aquisition 2

2010-01-15T15:11:00.003+08:00

Every time I look upon, touch and love this quilt top, my heart skips a few beats and I feel just so privileged to be the current custodian of this very precious textile piece.

It was either Lynn or Sarah (my travelling companions) who rummaged through a huge pile of quilt tops, and came upon this wonder, but I was the lucky one who carried it home.

The quilt top is made of 9744 tiny 5/8" finished squares, all hand stitched in American piecing style. Add to this the border strips as shown above and it was a monumental undertaking for it's maker.

The border treatment clinched the deal, as it is so similar to the style of border I have used on many of my own quilts.

The fabrics are all holding their colour well, but a few tears in the stitching have occurred over time, and a few coffee coloured stains are showing, but to me these add to the character of the piece, and just make me love it more.

How lovely it is with the sun streaming through the patches - such a work of art.

Joy

2010-01-09T09:21:00.002+08:00

Joy... to spend time with a truly happy collection of customers yesterday

Joy...to see so many country girls, great to catch up again

Joy...simply to be back

snippets from the shop - the cooling powers of white

Suzie's crochet afghan is attracting lots of attention as it is quick and cool under hand...the Noro Taiyo yarn she chose has exquisite colourings.

Harking back to Houston...aquisition 1

2010-01-04T18:28:00.010+08:00

While in Houston for quilt market I was so drawn to the vintage stands that it was inevitable I would bring some goodies home.

I have always been attracted to two colour quilts - their graphic appeal is strong, but they leave nowhere to hide in terms of stitching. My vintage red and white quilt has been meticulously pieced and stitched and sits perfectly flat, definitely the work of an experienced quilter. I love the bright strength of the red, verging on orange tonings.

Calico and ivy will be re-opening on Thursday 7th with Lynn and Jenny on board.

Our new window display is emerging down here in Mandurah as I write. It's very uncontrollable wire refusing to let us pass in the living area, without giving us a little nudge.

a little sneak peak

the new window display will be in place on Friday... just another reason to pop in and share new year

hellos

happy new year

2010-01-01T10:50:00.001+08:00

Don't you just love a new year?

I am not much into resolutions, but I plan and make goals for the year ahead very actively. I also put that down to having the quiet time to think clearly.

This year I am starting a visual diary expressly for calico and ivy, so as I don't lose sight of what we aim to achieve and present to our customers.

Page one will be neatly pasted and sketched, artfully styled and perfect. Then, time constraints will see it become more messy, but with the aim being visual inspiration and reminder for myself and the girls here, that is very acceptable... if anything the way I would rather it be. All a bit like school days to me.

Snippets from my visual musings will be posted here also, as your opinions are sought.

Now back to the business of holiday time...

a peak into my kitchen

Ah... a peaceful place to lay ones head

Please take time over the new year break to relax and compose ideas for your new year ahead.

Summer holidays - installment 1

2009-12-29T19:40:00.004+08:00

My Christmas and New Year are quietly spent at a little ex-fishermans cottage in Mandurah. Open house is extended to family and friends, and we move our animal menagerie down so they too have the opportunity to experience the change of scenery and their own summer break.

Those of you who know me well, know I have 14 pet rabbits. It is a long story as to why I have 14 pet rabbits, but I think I can leave that ditty to your imaginations.

Mocha being unusually shy

With a limited battery life and no charger here with me in Mandurah I have only pics of those who chose to co-operate.

bo jangles and bobby mcgee are brothers, but chose not to pose together

hansel and gretel, brother and sister and inseparable

to the left truffle is saying hello, and to the right jelly looks beautiful as usual.

Now my secret is out, and I have been indulged...thanks.

It started as...

2009-12-17T22:01:00.001+08:00

a simple mock up...

and finished up being pivotal to calico and ivy's new website.

Please feel welcome to visit www.calicoandivy.com and see the changes for yourself.

We've gone through a fairly major transformation as a shop in the past few months, and this caps the whole process off.

I hope you like it

Silly Season

2009-12-13T15:34:00.005+08:00

Silly season is well and truly here with so many girls hoping, in their last days leading up to Christmas, to make special gifts for the special little people in their lives.

Our suggestion is a critter made from a Melly and Me pattern, or perhaps the endearing but mostly unusual interpretations of soft toys in our Softies, or More Softies books.

To help the process along we made up a display of samples, patterns, books and fabrics

bundled into inviting selections.

We received an amazing colour selection of felt also.

What an invitation to create.

Swiss Chard

2009-12-05T18:05:00.006+08:00

From this humble beginning I am hoping to one day grow a real life version of the vegetable so wonderfully replicated in one of my all time favourite fabrics - Chard, by Kaffe Fassett.

grow tiny plants...grow to the sun.

Speaking of Kaffe fabric, we have his new fabrics hot on the shelves, and selling fast.

As usual the colours are rich and the designs fluid. I add credit to Brandon and Phil Jacobs as their contributions fill out the collection admirably.

Snowflakes in summer?

2009-12-01T21:27:00.007+08:00

Anything's possible...but the reality is I forced the issue by creating my own using double sided Peltex and plenty of strips of Liberty of London's yummy Tana lawn. I then embellished them with ribbon, trim and slivers of fabric nestling multitudes of buttons

An easy project, resulting in a flurry of snowflakes being born of many differing fabrics and embellishments by our enthusiastic customers.

A great project for the young crafter.

All you need is LOVE!

2009-11-30T12:40:00.008+08:00

la...la...la...la...la

all you need is love, love

love is all you need

Well a spot of tucker here and there would go down a treat also!

Amy Butler has named her latest fabric collection LOVE

We all quite fancy this range.

Amy has also released two new patterns:-

the sweet harmony handbag and tote

and the long awaited Liverpool shirt

You might remember this design was featured as a dress in Amy's Midwest Modern book (pages 142 & 143), and many customers were keen to source the pattern.

We have stock of all of Amy's new goodies, and many of her older designs also.

Sophie Digard

2009-11-25T12:26:00.008+08:00

Calico and Ivy stock a selection of very amazing accessories designed by Parisian Sophie Digard, and hand worked by her 'village' in Madgascar

We like to adapt their use to suit what we are wearing on the day - one day a necklet, the next a belt.

Love, Love, Love.

A gifted lady

2009-11-23T19:01:00.012+08:00

Anthea Carboni is one very talented lady. Apart from the wonderful assistance she avails to me as a 'counter girl' she spends hours in her home studio making amazing stitched creations.

I am sure you will agree her birds are truly charming

Available now in store.

Ready, set, go...

2009-11-22T21:34:00.010+08:00

...our new shop is ready to show off her new look and although a little camera shy we coaxed these images from her.
We are preparing for Christmas and dressing up 'calico' accordingly.