Lindiblog

little boxes how I love little boxes

2012-01-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry not to have Blogged for a while but I have had my head buried in several sewing projects which I have now completed.
I have had a busy time getting my unit down at the Dorchester Curiosity Centre up and running and have enjoyed having a little permanant retail outlet.

I went on my first "call" of the year and came home with some new treasures, these little boxes are just so lovely , wonderful quality workmanship to house sewing aids, definitely a cut above

New Year's Project

2012-01-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

After several days in front of the fire and rubbish films, I am pleased to welcome the New Year with my latest throw, just the backing to do. All that hand stitching I am aching but pleased .
I have done three this winter which is a bit of a record . I was inspired by the colours when I found my latest Fair Isle, it is usually that that pulls the whole thing together and sparks me off, I have to like the colours, too much work otherwise

Getting in the Spirit

2011-12-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

Cowslip Christmas was the start with such a wonderful atmosphere ,following that a trip to Germany for the Christmas Markets and this weekend is our family weekend Rufus has his tree ready
Happy Christmas to you all

Victorian Doll's trousseau

2011-11-30T10:07:00.001-08:00

This little box of delights was " truffled " out of a Victorian loft, so new to the market.

nearly all perfect , one bonnet has a little damage and a stain I have to tackle on the bloomers that look like ink.
16 items in all.
make me a good offer and they can be yours just in time for Christmas

Cowslip Christmas was wonderful !!

2011-11-21T09:24:00.001-08:00

Cowslip at Christmas

2011-11-17T02:46:00.001-08:00

This weekend Cowslip Workshops will be dressed to thrill , full of beautiful handcrafted items and Christmas Joy as Jo opens her doors for three days to all her enthusiastic followers.
Lovely food at the wholefood cafe , an amazing shop for all your makers and creaters or just those that love a book and dream !
Do come and join us , google the web site for directions and bring a friend

We love our time at Cowslip and enjoy catching up with all the regulars we see on our various stays there, it is always inspiring , gets you in the Festive mood and a good start on your Christmas shopping with lovely things that are unique.
Kirsty is coming to visit on Friday so that should add to the fun.

Some Business and lots of pleasure !

2011-11-12T08:06:00.001-08:00

I have just been to France for a few days with some very special friends, I always feel like I have come home when I arrive.
This time the boat was an hour later so I had to do the last part of the trip in the dark ..." another box ticked " as they say, but was given a warm welcome when I reached Les Pannards by Ticky Nick and the animals.
Each day we went off to forage for goodies and were not dissapointed, lots of lovely hemps which I have been slaving over and some lovely Linens.

One of the biggest pleasure this trip was the two hours riding through the lanes in the most glorious countryside on Nick's horse Pepita with Tick on Rosy and friend Alison on Troy who met up with us en route. What a way to see rural France ! Pepita is 17 hands high which is fine until you have to get off !! We managed two long rides over the weekend. We actually saw red squirrell.
My biggest thrill buying was a portfolio of 17 th century legal documents the earliest was 1628 , many on velum. They all relate to an Estate on the edge of the Mayenne forest near Place. I have real goose bumps looking at that amazing sepia colured ink and wonderful curly script. If you are interested please let me know.

Bridport Vintage Market

2011-10-25T06:58:00.000-07:00

A little slice of Heaven

2011-10-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

Now you can see why Penny and I love this spot sooooo much

That's Jersey out there , sometimes you feel you can touch it and sometimes it just dissapears. The colours I love ,pale blues and greys and a touch of sand.

At night we can hear the waves when the tide is in, it has some of the longest tides in Europe and very rocky when the tide is out, the wading birds swoop in and the bird calls are wonderful , often you can look out of the window all the way down the West coast of the pininsular at pale undulating sand an no people.

At night magically lights appear and the lighthouses on Jersey sweep the sea.

Back with another haul of goodies , see you at Ardingly Shopping Arcade no 58 next week.

Franglais has a collection of delicious 20's 30's underwear and some new gowns

Up and Running

2011-10-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

Yvonne and I are all moved in and already doing business which is cheering , Lizzie is moving in next week after her Wedding Fair. We have found it a buzzy and friendly place and a few more familiar faces have signed up this week, so lets hope it will tick over and fill the gaps between Fairs.
I have really enjoyed "playing shops " again and it is five mins from home so so easy and minimal on petrol, so important these days.
Look forward to seeing you.

Pastures New

2011-10-07T01:02:00.001-07:00

This in on my doorstep and filling fast, lots to see and some real quality , so though I would have a go. No travelling is a huge bonus , I am quite excited as I love a new project, will keep you posted

Trolley'd Again !!

2011-09-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

I love tea trolleys ! especially folding ones , a mobile table when space is short at Fairs as it often is.

The last one I bought was pounced on it's first day out by a fellow stall holder who said it was top of her want list....how could I resist... today walking home from the dentist via town to celebrate escaping I spotted another one.
See you at Honiton next Tuesday Oct. 4th

See you There !

2011-09-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

Lizzie and I are looking forward to seeing you tomorrow at a new venue " it's all been done before " we are not sure what to expect but is has been on TV so a bit of good publicity.
We will let you know how we get on.

Best lunch in town with the Farmers with added entertainment. Below Brest's impressive Port

Next weekend we are off foraging in France for the weekend, we are going to Brittany with the Devon antique dealers so don't miss the results at Honiton Textile and decorative fair when we get back It's Oct 4th. next to church on the high street.

Franglais latest treasures from the South

2011-09-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

This lovely duck egg blue and raspberry French quilt is in good order and will be coming to Honiton October 4th unless of course you want to buy it now! £125.00

2011-09-14T23:50:00.000-07:00

Distressed but lovely

2011-09-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

A lovely Victorian quilt/coverlet.
Needs work but would always work as a hanging, you know how I love rescuing ~~lovingly made items, sorry seem to have pressed a strange button!~~

2011-09-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

Hi Lizzie and I are going to give this a try just for fun.
It is in the same area as Vintage in The Village Hall where we has a good response so thought we might make a few new friends and re visit those we saw in the village

Wooly Wonders

2011-09-03T02:52:00.000-07:00

All those who follow me will have realised I love wool !
I wish I had the patience to knit like this , I do try at the " Spinners " but have only managed smaller projects.
These are so heavy I think they have to be wool. I would say 1940's ??? comments welcomed

One huge double and a single

The Haberdashery Junkie's latest Fix

2011-08-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

If there is anything that takes your fancy please give me a call

What makes you think I love French Red and White !!

2011-08-25T06:27:00.001-07:00

Oh Yes and American too !
New Stock from my studio and the Franglais duo Lizzie and myself
We will be standing at The Talent for Textiles Fair At the American Museum at Claverton Bath next Thursday Sep. 1st

Ticky's creative sideline

2011-08-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

A girl of many talents ! when not helping with the roof she has become a dab hand with the cutters ! these are lovely old French slate and come in two sizes, with antique mother of pearl buttons.
I can think of loads of decorative uses for them

2011-08-21T07:43:00.000-07:00

Plump and sumptious

2011-08-20T06:06:00.000-07:00

A lovely double eiderdown with pretty wild roses on a black background destined for the Talent for Textiles Fair at The American museum

Perfect little American Feedsack quilt

2011-08-20T01:41:00.001-07:00

French Samplers

2011-08-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

I simply love these samplers , always in red, or nearly always so must have been traditional.
We managed to buy quite a collection on our big trip, they all went very quickly so was thrilled to spot these at a Brocante last Sunday.
I think I am right in thinking they were a way of showing your skill at needlecraft and a lot were done at school.

Latest Fair Isle wool throw finished !

2011-08-19T09:15:00.001-07:00

I had a wonderful time in France and bought some brilliant things for the Talent for Textiles Fair at the American Museum and Ardingly the week after.
It was so peaceful at Ticky and Nick's I really chilled out and am having difficulty in winding myself up again !
Having opened the Studio door and closed it again, I decided finishing my throw would be a positive start to getting back to work so the last three days has been spent hand sewing .
Job done, I love the colours of this one, grey and taupe are very " in "

Well done Yvonne Hobbs

2011-08-10T05:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-14127209

Do you need one of these ??

2011-08-10T04:18:00.000-07:00

2011-08-08T09:36:00.001-07:00

Latest Farisle throw, ready to back and finish off

2011-08-08T05:35:00.000-07:00

I think this is no 12 ! over a period of 6 years and I love the colours of this one. I just have to put the tweed backing on and bind the edges .
Hours of work , first cutting all the squares, then hand sewing them all together and overlocking all the raw edges , my machine does not like that much !!
They are all wool and I hand sew the backing to the front.

Check out Buglebead on e-bay

2011-08-08T05:33:00.000-07:00

This is where I will be on Thursday !

2011-08-08T05:23:00.000-07:00

Thursday as we sail out of Portsmouth I will be enjoying breakfast after a very early start.
It is a holiday weekend in France as August 15th is a holiday whatever day it falls on , I believe and I hope to do my usual calls plus enjoy one or two Vides , there is a big one we go to each year and I am hoping for fine weather and lots of new treasures to bring to the Talent for Textile Fair at the American museum and also Ardingly on Set. 6th & 7th.
It will be lovely to be with Ticky and Nick again in their little piece of heaven in the countryside sitting on the bench out the front of the house ,looking towards the lake , watching the horses and chickens.... yes definitely time for a break !
Honiton tomorrow then packing on Wednesday

2011-08-08T05:22:00.000-07:00

2011-07-26T06:37:00.000-07:00

zip zip zipping

2011-06-19T02:28:00.001-07:00

I have six bunches of 20 vintage zip fasteners. Mostly metal some plastic , variety of lengths and colours £10 a bunch, great for vintage clothes and bags , perfect for craft and inspiring for you textile artists

2011-06-17T05:06:00.000-07:00

See you at Cowslip Workshops June 10th & 11th

2011-06-01T01:07:00.000-07:00

Final lap of our tour de France

2011-05-30T04:56:00.000-07:00

We left Bergerac on a lovely sunny morning having made an executive decision to change our route for a more gentle rural N road instead of going further West and having to contend with heavy traffic and more cities.
We had breakfast on the patio in the sun looking over the vineyards and drove North to Perigdeux, It was just gorgeous and we felt we were in true old France, areas that were full of history ,not forgetting the famous cave paintings which we must go back and see.
It was a lovely day and we spotted this treat which we made a swift detour to enjoy along the way as there is so much to choose from I think it needs another visit to do it justice.I would love to explore the city of Perigdeux , there was something unique about it.
We were making good time and went to re visit Saumur which I like a lot and have been to briefly a couple of times. On the outskirts along the Loire are many grand houses and chateau and these amazing places built into the rock which made wonderful wine stores.
I think really we should have stopped then but I had it in mind to go to Angers where we got caught up in rush our traffic jams again !! looking for a bed.
We were lucky Lizzie had found Hotel Camponile had one on the road out , which we spotted and dived off the turning. It turned out to be a good clean motel type place with an attached restaurant and plenty of parking. Just what you need after a really long drive.
Our final night on the road before arriving at Nick and Tick's next day in time to watch the Royal Wedding.
This wonderful " by the mill stream " picture is where we enjoyed a garden party next day ,our last day before catching the Ferry home, what a trip !! thank you for coming along

Yes !! France again!!

2011-05-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

Set up and ready to go ! they gave us so much space @ 3 euro a table !
Lizzie and myself were on the dawn Ferry to Cherbourg the morning after the Glastonbury Fair ! Never mind, after breakfast we slept through the crossing.
We drove down to St Mere Eglise where Mark met us and showed us the way to the " Petite Chateau " where Shirley was preparing lunch.
She had set up a lovely awning in the garden with a beautiful table for seven.. flowers and all , it looked so romantic with views over the marshes.
Digger was waiting to entertain us,this dog has embraced the French life as you can see !!

The sun was shining and it was just a slice of heaven in the peaceful countryside. Three other friends joined us and we were treated to a memorable meal, felt like we had been transported to another world , hard to believe we were working the day before.
After this lovely few hours we reluctantly dragged ourselves away to drive down to St. Lo where we were doing The Puce de Couturier's or " Dressmakers drawers " Rag market to you and me ! with a local needlework group.
We were allowed to set up that evening and as our host family lived just round the corner it made life very easy Sunday morning when we had breakfast and strolled to our stall.
They were all so friendly and so hospitable , The food was lovely , all home prepared and they came round with Kir at lunchtime.
We had a great day, were pleased with our takings and delighted with the pile of lovely linen , chanvre,trimmings and even some vintage and antique clothing items we managed to buy.
And yes we have been invited back.
They are a very sociable group and had a little get together at the end with drinks and cakes.
We stayed long enough to be friendly but had another two hours or so driving to do to get to our "second home" with Ticky and Nick where we were going to relax for a couple of days in the peace of the countryside and enjoy being spoiled rotten as always. Thank you darlings xxx

On our way to catch the Ferry Wednesday we took a detour for coffee and almond croissants in the delightful capital of Swiss Normandy Clecy { it's tiny ! }King of all he surveys

2011-05-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

Postcards from Bergerac

2011-05-28T00:11:00.000-07:00

We loved Bergerac and happlily took up Lesley's offer of two nights out in the Vineyards in their lovely Gite

Further travel tales of Franglais on tour !

2011-05-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

Are you still with us ??!! or have you got lost along the way!
We left Caroline in her paradise and started to head North, it seemed a long time since we had started out as we had done and seen so much.
Before we joined the motorway we did a small detour to a Brocante in a neighbouring village, Montreal in a lovely old building and just full of goodies , but best of all a whole corner shelved out and given over to Linen and Textiles.The young couple who run it were so friendly and helpfull and we bought a huge pile before heading off to our next destination.
By some miracle we managed to get on the right road to take us round Toulouse , and on through some more lovely countryside through the Agen famous for it's prunes onwards on the N21 through the Lot Valley and into the Dordogne , I was quite unprepared for it to be so beautiful and when we got into the wine country so pretty and quite different again.
Friends Leslie and Tony live just on the outskirts of Bergerac, which is a fabulous and historic town definitely a favourite and one to re visit.
Our friends have lovely gardens and space with lots of out-buildings one which houses Leslies's workshop and one for Tony for his carpentry , and still more to develope .
The duck " Ducky " they had from an egg if you know what I mean !
not remembering they had chickens we had taken a dozen new laid eggs from Caroline's flock so Leslie whipped up an amazing Spanish omlett and a salad from the vegetable patch yummy

Rustic French Sheets = Great curtains

2011-05-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Lovely heavy linen or hemp sheets with red monograms make wonderful value curtains, no work really , just ties or rings sewn to the top , even better flop the top over to show the red monogram which gives a pelmet effect.
At 120 inches of drop you can have them "pool " on the floor. They are a creamy white and give a lovely light. these are 64 inches wide each sheet , hand joined and hand embroidered letters
£80 a pair

Talent for Textiles at " Avalon "

2011-05-27T02:39:00.000-07:00

A stunning new venue and extended group of dealers transformed the magnificant barn at the Rural Life Museum at Glastonbury last Friday May 20th.
Buff had excelled herself in arranging the lighting in strings all round the interior giving a really amazing atmosphere. The standard of stock on sale was superb both in variety and quality.
Thanks again to Elizabeth Baer

Franglais at Avalon Loads of gorgeous French Linen and lots of buttons lace and trims

Westward Ho

2011-05-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

After our lovely stay in Isle sur la Sorgue we headed west on Easter Sunday all the way to Carcassonne and we did see the Med. as we sailed along through beautiful countryside.
We were headed forthe home of Caroline Gorst a friend of Lizzie who lives in over a hundred acres of private woodland and pasture near Mirepoix.
Caroline has a lovely home and a fine selection of animals and birds who share it with her. You can let the house and for further details www.marmiflet.com.
It is a haven of peace and beauty , we arrived early afternoon and were pleased just to relax and stop after being on the road for a week.
We were made so welcome and Easter Monday Mirepoix has a big market and fete which we went off to visit. I fell in love with the town and all the surrounding area,being able to see the Pyrenees in the background was an added thrill and most dramatic when later in the day we could hear and see the storm rolling over the peaks.
The afternoon was spent gardening in the sun , the herbaceous border was our contribution ! the evening rain meant easy planting for Caroline after our efforts.
We had a lovely stay and keen to take up Caroline's invitation to go again. We managed to buy in two Brocantes in Mirepoix and on the way back to the motorway stopped off at a Brocante which was an absolute treasure trove and run by a delightful young couple.

Snapshots of the day... More Sourge

2011-05-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

L'Isle sur la Sorgue : the Venice of the Comtat, between Avignon and Luberon

Isle sur la Sorgue is a charming Provencal town 25km southeast of Avignon. The numerous canals and branches of the Sorgue have given the town the nickname of the Venice of the Comtat.

L'Isle sur la Sorgue is the chosen home of many antique and second-hand goods dealers. Each week-end, the market counts about 300 stalls, and more than 500 during the antique fairs at Easter and August 15, attracting an international clientele.
Birthplace of the poet Rene Char, the town is also home many galleries and exhibitions.

L'Isle sur la sorgue - - - -

SARL Provence.com 1996-2011 \| © Avignon et Provence \| All rights reserved \| Contact Provence.com \| Site Map The photos and texts presented on this site are non-contractual. The photos and texts are for informational purposes only; Provence.com bears no responsibility for the content therein.

World Textile Weekend Bisley Nr Stroud

2011-05-16T06:11:00.001-07:00

Inside this simple village hall, your eyes were almost blinded by the array of Textiles from all over the world!
This small group of top dealers in their fields transformed the space into a veritable souk over night.
I have done Rag Markets at this lovely village space and it has a great atmosphere, always feels you have stepped back to the 1940's. It has been lifted with a wonderful Scandinavian paint colour which made a perfect backdrop for all our textiles.
Polly Lyster excelled herself in organizing this fair assisted by husband Adrian and daughter who ran the cafe.
Not only were we well looked after at the show but five of us stayed with them at their lovely stone house 5 mins away and had a riotous 2 evenings after work over delicious dinners.
It was attended by a steady stream of enthusiasts on both days right up until packing up time.
It was wonderful to listen to the tales of these travellers and soak up the knowledge they have of their wonderful old textiles.
Of course none of us could come home without having bought something !
It was a huge success and we are thrilled to know we have a place in the next one.

Isle sur la Sorgue Foire Internationale Brocante & Antiques Everything we hoped it would be !

2011-05-12T06:08:00.000-07:00

Twice a year Isle sur la Sorgue hosts a big International Antique Fair .
There is a weekly Sunday Antique Market and the whole town is full of Antique and Interior shops , wonderful decorative items just everywhere.A Mecca for Antiques

Just the place for breakfast after an early start, we had already a full trolly so sat in the sun , counted our blessings and people watched

Lizzie made a friend !

We found lots of intersting permanant shops in various courtyards which proved fruitfull

Being the South Of France prices can be eye watering , however we found the dealers delightful, so friendly and happy to " Trade "
As you can see my trusty " equiparge " is loaded with goodies

SNAPSHOT OF THE DAY "L'OASIS" Coustellet our Home for three days

2011-05-11T04:50:00.000-07:00

We finally arrived at our destination Thursday afternoon as planned. We had booked our Hotel/Restaurant on the internet and through Google Earth I had a good idea what to expect , it was very reasonable and really a Restaurant with rooms , which suited us fine. A small room on the back away from the busy 900 with a view over the vineyards. Clean with little table and chairs and our own shower / bathroom .
10 k from Isle sur la Sorgue where the Antique fair was being held for four days over the Easter Weekend.
This is Vaucluse and definitely The South !
We were hot and very pleased to have arrived so after unpacking went and lay in the sun and dangled our feet in the freezing pool they were just filling. Madame brought us a pre dinner Kir while we relaxed and congratulated ourselves on having made it . The Provence hills in the background, it felt very different and much more mediteranian

FRANGLAIS SHOWING AT STROUD

2011-05-11T04:47:00.000-07:00

2011-05-11T04:41:00.000-07:00

Well done Ted and Bunny

2011-05-10T07:03:00.000-07:00

Vintage in the Village Hall was absolutely fabulous

Star Turn latest buy

2011-05-10T06:55:00.001-07:00

This mid to late Victorian Frame quilt top has still got it's papers in and is the most stunning document piece, getting rarer by the moment so am thrilled when I can own one for a bit.

ATG are interested in Talent for Textiles and Poundbury so am hoping this will feature as she has asked me for Images

Viviers/ Relais du Vivarais/Lunch

2011-05-10T04:50:00.000-07:00

This is the oasis of calm that greeted us when we stopped here for late lunch after being side-tracked by a Brocante on the way down the mountains of Ardeche , wow that was a drive !! 10 k of hairpins.
The Brocante proved to be treasure trove and we left the lady owner very happy , throwing gifts at us as we departed.
We asked for an omelette , no one does them like the French, on the mention of " fries" Madame threw up her hands in horror and said they would do us some gratinoise potatoes , they arrived in little pots and the most stunning smell of caramelized garlic.
This place was a delight , everything you could imagine you wanted, French very much the clients just so heavenly. We knew we had arrived in the very heart of France

Today's Snapshot Le Puy en Velay the strangest place yet

2011-05-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

Founded in the 6th century and definitely on the Pilgrim route this city in the Avergne has two extraordinary natural features which strike you as you drop down the mountains..two volcanic chimney's shaped and eroded by weather to leave two huge stacks topped with enormous statues,
It really takes you by surprise !
It was mahem when we arrived and we had a stressful hour or so going round and round and eventually escaped back up the mountain the way we had come where we were lucky enough to get a room in a small hotel hanging on the side of the most amazing views with a very gourmet Restaurant next door Phew !!!!! what a relief, it was getting late.
Shame we did not get to go to the lace museum , Le Puy is famous for pillow lace...no room at the Ibis sadly , however I enjoyed the more peaceful location before tackling the city again next day to head for the Ardeche

Todays snapshot Riom city of Volcanic stone

2011-05-08T02:41:00.000-07:00

I was determined never to go back to Clermont Ferrand in the Auvergne, thats another story...soo Lizzie and I pitched up here lunchtime on our second day.
A place of contrasts reflecting the volcanic area, The extinct volcano chain is very dramatic on the skyline.Many of the buildings were built in dark volcanic rock and there is plenty of history here.
I had visited the area twice before but had not visited this town, you climb up to it so it feels quite high and is quite smart but friendly , we liked it and spent a pleasant couple of hours here
It is an area of natural beauty

Bourges Cathedral part two

2011-05-08T02:21:00.001-07:00

Cheers
I really liked Bourges , may make it back to explore a little more.

Today's snapshot view of Historic Bourges from Cathederal

2011-05-07T05:05:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Bourges rush hour ( this was to happen most days ! ) after the first day of our trip after leaving our friends Ticky and Nick who we had stayed with after driving down from the ferry the afternoon before.
It is a beautiful old city and we saw a lot of these narrow streets looking for somewhere we might stay, almost one too many ! Freida is a bit broad in the beam..
we descended to the lower part of town and after a few circles found Hotel Ibis which had room for us . showered and relaxed we took a taxi up to the Cathedral and explored this beautiful place.Visited the inside of this amazing Cathedral and sat in on part of a service, with glorious music resounding in our ears ,we crept out and joined the cafe society in the square for a Kir before strolling back to our Hotel for supper.
We were triumphant as on our first day we had managed to buy a collection of samplers and a few other delights

North South East West and North again 2000 miles and a bit later

2011-05-07T04:34:00.000-07:00

Lizzie took this one of me with my trusty trolly , also has a few miles on the clock !

Springtime on the farm Cowslip Workshop snapshots

2011-04-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

Vintage treasures at Cowslip Workshops

2011-04-16T04:54:00.000-07:00

Once again we were made very welcome at Cowslip Workshops by Jo and Stephen and had a lovely two days at that most idyllic spot.
There is always something going on there and it is busy all day long with enthusiastic quilters and makers who come for the exhibitions , workshops and lovely shop, not least the fabulous cafe, they were having a tea party for 15 when we arrived on Thursday afternoon to set up.
It's a great place to meet your friends browse and relax...try it

We were there with our vintage textiles and trims under the " Franglais " banner and on Saturday afternoon a coach of quilters from the Guild A.G.M. at Exeter came for cream tea and a browse, that was a great success and many will be back.
Lizzy and I have some regular customers and friends now on our visits and this time met some new faces. We are looking forward to be back there June 10th / 11th during the Julie Arkell workshop.

Time and Tides..

2011-03-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful three days in France with unbelievable weather, primroses everywhere and the sea just gorgeous, huge spring tides that seem to go out nearly to Jersey. You Guardian readers may have seen a full page in the Sat. Guardian of our Hotel des Isles promoting the fact you can fish for your supper on these rocks and the chef will cook it!!
Penny and I settled for the restaurant and as ever enjoyed our favourite view right down the coast.
I collected some goodies, a child's indigo Blaude a nice pile of beautiful linen chemise and smocks,and two amazing graphite coloured herringbone linen paysanne mens smocks. These will be going to the Stroud International Textile Fair in May under the " Franglais " Banner when Lizzie and me stand there along with what we forage in the South.

"Avalon" fabulous new venue for Talent for Textiles

2011-03-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Baer has a fantastic nose for a good venue to delight "Talent for Textiles" followers.
The latest find is quite thrilling, it poses a few challenges not least the feisty chickens sitting on eggs in the huge hay cart !! one raised merry hell the whole time we were there on Tuesday to work out table plans.
Lizzie and I met Elizabeth at Glastonbury Somerset rural life Museum, Abbey Barn is 14th century and just breathtaking.
May 20th is not an event to miss!
There is a lovely museum attached with a great cafe ,we tested the fare it was delicious!
It is a short way to The Abbey and a walk directly to the Tor .It is free entry too
www.county-museum@somerset.gov.net
The first thing they did was hand out hard hats! mostly you needed to watch where you walked not worry about things dropping on your head, as they are replacing a pair of the huge side doors , experts using techniques from ancient times just fascinating, it is a magnificent space.
There is going to be an amazing selection of dealers from all spectrum's of Textiles and Glastonbury is an interesting town so please pass the word and come and enjoy a "T for T experience "

Yes it's that time again...We are Sailing..

2011-03-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

Our room 2nd and 3rd from right on top floor , we get two windows! long climb but the view is heaven
Penny enjoying the Spring sunshine devouring Cote Ouest magazine

Twice a year Penny and myself escape to a little place we love on the West Coast of the Cherbourg Peninsular Hotel Des Isles, it looks straight out to Jersey and the sea is so close we can hear it lapping and rippling through the open window at night.

It is very " New England " in style and the Brazilian owner is also an interior decorator with a shop in town, so it is the last word in chic and all simple muted colours and lots of maritime influence being right on the plage.
We have our favourite places to visit and a lot revolves round food ! but of course I will take time to buy,how could I not!
There is a discount fabric shop in the most unlikely place it took us ages to find after a few years gap. We used it for patchwork fabric in the past,it is mostly too modern but a delight to rummage through and can produce something different for the " makers ", it is near the most breathtaking estuary with stretches of pale smooth sand molded into shapes by the river and sea, this time I will try and do it justice in a photograph. I just find it so soothing ..the colours and textures and emptiness .
We are going to Granville this time , it is a lovely seaside town with a serious harbour,I often used to stop for lunch on the quay on my way to catch the ferry home after a visit much further south,it will be nice to re visit after a few years absence . The Chandlers shops amongst the seafood restaurants were always fascinating,I bought fine netting to make curtains to screen an ugly view and still have light.

Tide way out ! when in, comes right up to the rocks in the foreground across the road from the Hotel, Jersey in the haze the lights are lovely at night

Miss Scarlet Velvet's Gothic Emporium: New Trend from Japan - Mori Girl Style / Dolly Kei...

2011-03-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

Miss Scarlet Velvet's Gothic Emporium: New Trend from Japan - Mori Girl Style / Dolly Kei...: "Very pretty new trend from japan, this look incorporates lots of vintage and retro clothing as well as lots of antique lace and other haberd..."

Bits and Bobs this and that

2011-03-20T11:23:00.000-07:00

I find it totally fascinating what can turn up in otherwise seemingly simple sewing boxes !
can you imagine having hose in the colours of these mending yarns, wow they were so chic.
This was also the period when zips were new and big and bold....at least they did not fall appart at the first excuse like the horrid plastic ones we have now !! some would make a fab feature in some customized garment they are so chunky and bold...ideas please readers, I have lots and lots!!
And what about these ? I love the way these are presented, obviously a special purchase or present

And this is just the cutest thing , what story it could tell ?A traveling sewing kit, how long has it been in the bottom of this ottoman ?

And this gorgeous little 1920's " China -man " travel set, is'nt he fun

finally this lovely little painted wooden pin cushion just so much in it's period , I love it

2011-03-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

2011-03-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

Haberdashery Heaven

2011-03-19T08:54:00.000-07:00

having had a quiet response to my ad. in the local newspaper when it was published a couple of weeks ago ,suddenly the phone is ringing so they must have been having a sort out!
Amazing the social history contained in peoples sewing rooms and I swear they are the biggest hoarders of small pieces of elastic ! Has anyone a use for large quantities of polyester and crimpeline ??
Anyway amongst it all I have some wonderful buttons buckles and sewing aids all destined for my next few Vintage and Rag markets plus we are off to Cowslip Workshops in April

Major Studio re-vamp = 2 day's chaos and counting !

2011-03-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

It's nearly five years since my studio was built and lots of times I have had a major sort and blitz but never a total re vamp.
Those of you that remember the shop No 6 , Dairy House and Muckleford will remember my huge pine cupboard I had built. It was a shop in its'self . When I moved from Muckleford I was persuaded to sell it to my god daughter not thinking it would fit the studio, at that time not yet built.
Long story but it is coming home and it has taken two days to empty the studio and today by the skin of our teeth we managed to get it through the house and into the studio ! it has transformed the space, the house looks a mess but the studio looks an oasis of calm.
I have had a little change around and now have a little work area looking over the garden and in summer can throw open the doors.
I am really pleased with the way it has slotted in and now really want to keep the space to move.
There will be loads of bargains at Bridport Vintage mkt March 27th down Les Alleez as I do not want it to go back in my studio. I am off to France the few days before the market so hope to have some new goodies

Wanted a Doll's bed

2011-03-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

I have a customer looking for a dolls bed can anyone help me out ??

Richmond Re visited

2011-03-05T10:14:00.000-08:00

Fellow dealer and great friend Sandra , we met for tea and scones down the lanes in Richmond to catch up on family news, more relaxing than Ardingly when we were too busy buying and selling to relax
Richmond riverside is a delight , really funny for me as so much was familiar yet so much had changed! just along from here was the Italian shack David and I used to love in early 70's.

Henry V111's Palace is just down from here just off Richmond Green

this Heron was like a stuffed bird amongst the ducks and Canada geese , never moved !

Richmond boat builders are famous, I asked this one if he was building " Gigs " we race them in the West Country..no he says these are ancient Greek boats for a film circa BC !
I took a " Megatrain" to London to catch up with my son and see his new flat in Putney , look them up you can get amazing deals on trains, takes a bit of fiddling but I got a trip to London for £26 return.
I could not resist the opportunity to go to Richmond where I lived in 70's and where Lawrence works , so was able to meet my friend for afternoon tea and re visit old haunts, meet Lawrence after work and go a few stops on the train to Putney.

Franglais at Ardingly

2011-03-03T03:58:00.000-08:00

Monday we collected our van and after a full morning of packing and sorting we were happy to get on the road and have a nice gentle drive to The Copthorne Hotel , we go the pretty route and arrive in time for a relaxing evening with our feet up ready for the next day.
The Hotel is only a few miles from the showground so makes life simple with a 4.30 am start and in the line of vans an hour later.
There is such a feeling of anticipation and this time it is dry but freezing freezing cold.
We always line and carpet our Shopping Arcade pitch and it makes a huge difference when you are in a muddy field for two days. Doormats and carpets welcome our customers and they love it.
We hung our gorgeous French fabrics this time , so much hopping about on tables with pegs for moi
Thanks Alex for the help xx
There were some wonderful things to be seen all over the showground , lots of decorative stuff, some amazing lumps of reclamation, it was really buzzy and busy ....we love it
the first day we were so thrilled to get back to a warm room and deep hot baths a glass of wine and room service, we were frozen to the tips of our toes but at least not wet like last time.
Second day was more low key, a lot of public will pay to be there on the first day with the Trade, second day we still had some good sales and the sun came out hoorah but the wind soooo cold.
Got packed up by 4.30 and headed home via Mac's our naughty little treat at Petersfield.
French stock went well , lots of shops buying from us . we won't be there in April as we are heading south on a buying trip so next time is July

Beautiful boxes

2011-02-23T01:58:00.000-08:00

Just filled my Etsy shop with a pile of little French favour boxes, had a good response already which is fun.
Franglais textiles and trims is my banner under Vintage

Franglais textiles and trims on Etsy

2011-02-22T13:31:00.000-08:00

Bed or Board

2011-02-19T09:03:00.001-08:00

This is a lovely old linen in that slightly grey white dated in corner Elizabeth Cromwell 1830 which does not match with the monogram so she must have done it as a present.
It has one neat patch done a long time ago at one end.
Price £45.00
I am using my Blog rather than my web site at the moment as Fasthosts seem to be having problems and none of my pictures are uploading they are seeking advice from a higher technology.....The Engineer Mr Moon is in charge.

A Lick and A Promise

2011-02-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

Makes a nice break from Ironing napkins!
This is quite a big basket of it's type and although they were probably for root vegetables, the mud falls through . I think it would do a turn for laundry, perhaps even transport a tablecloth a few glasses and a bottle of wine on a picnic.
I am rather in love with Farrow and Ball old white this week, so gave the basket a quick lick and some frames too. No wonder I end up with so many containers, its a throw back from my treen and kitchenalia days.
Found Lizzie clutching this on one of our " truffling "days for Franglais
£25.00 for the basket

Box clever

2011-02-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

I love fabric covered boxes ! and these lovely French fabrics were irresistible at our Couturier's Puce.
I love the cylinder lined as well as covered. It would be ideal for knitting needles and the long rectangle is almost a fan box but could be used for needles too.
The little set of drawers with metal handles is definitely Provence.
I would love to be able to do this as neatly as these are, does anyone know of a course I could do ??
£35.00 for the set of drawers
£35.00 for the rectangle
£28.00 for the cylinder

Fun at the Fair/ rag mkt French style

2011-02-15T13:10:00.001-08:00

We were made really welcome by all the ladies who run the dressmakers rag market each year in a little Town about 15 miles from Ticky. We managed to get there last year despite the snow and bought some lovely things and Ticky had been before when we were unable to make it.
I occurred to us they might find us a novelty ! we packed about four boxes each I have never been anywhere with just four boxes , nevertheless we were happy with our day and met some really nice people, it made me practice my French too!!
The locals were intrigued with my darning mushrooms and I sold quite a few.
We had a little quiet time mid day while we all enjoyed a bit of lunch ,then they flooded back in and it was busy until 5.30.
We had a lovely surprise when Mark and Jean dropped in to say hello.
There were a good number of quilters there and there seems a good mix of French and English.
We have been invited to do another one further north at St Lo which we are considering whether we can manage depending on timings as we are soooo busy in May... it may be another quick "turn around" from one Fair to another but involving ferry travel so more complicated .
It was fun to be part of something in the community. Ticky was brilliant as always making sure we had lunch and were happily settled , when we got home a fantastic Sunday roast awaited us, then the fire and Bafta awards... happy bunnies

Just a taste of our latest treasures from France

2011-02-15T09:41:00.000-08:00

We can't wait to deck our shopping arcade at Ardingly on March 1st with our stunning block printed and Arts and crafts fabrics.
You will find us in No 58 of the Shopping Arcades with all our new stock as Lizzie and I will spend the next two weeks preparing it all, Ardingly is our next event so do come and visit us .

Lots of fine linen for dolls clothes

Franglaise in France ( a slice of heaven )

2011-02-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

We had a lovely trip on Thursday starting with a fabulous breakfast in the Restaurant on the ferry which is sheer luxury and much better value than the self service ! We had had very little sleep and an early start so that set us up for the day as we sailed out of Portsmouth.
It was a quiet calm crossing and we were soon on the road south. As we got into the journey the sky was brightening and by the time we were through Domfront (which I have an affection for it is a magnificent fortified hill town ) it was a lovely evening.
We arrived well before dark which I was grateful for, so we had time to say hello to the chickens and horses and big hugs all round as it was November that I made my last visit and Ticky and Nick are so welcoming and lovely I feel I have just come home.
They have great plans for their lake and hope to be open for fishing in the near future, and believe me it is a heavenly spot to spend some time.so keep your eye on our Blogs for more info
.

Dates for your Diary

2011-02-07T04:05:00.000-08:00

2011-02-07T03:57:00.000-08:00

If there's a boat going....!

2011-02-06T07:44:00.001-08:00

Lizzie and I are off this Thursday dawn at Portsmouth , first trip of the season, I have to confess I am excited ! I have always had the gipsy wanderlust and need the thought of trip to keep me going on some of these really busy times and runs of early mornings.
We are going for four nights to our friends down near Mayenne and are actually doing a French version of our Rag markets on the Sunday, very casual and friendly, but we bought well last time and thought it would be fun to do with our English stuff. Mostly quilters and dressmakers make up the stall holders but Claude who used to do La Mans with us stalls out there so we shall see.
3€ a table is the fee!
we will take some pictures for you.
We will have Friday and Saturday to do our regular calls in a radius of about 50 miles ,who knows what we might find ! it is the thrill of the chase.It is all so familiar now which I love but always the chance of something new, I added another Brocante to my map last time and bought a pile of amazing 50's dress patterns.
Just can't wait to be back in France and so looking forward to seeing Nick and Ticky again , it was November last time I was there so seems ages.
I have been making purchases for the stables they are working on for their horses . my shopping list is always amusing, amazing the things you miss from the Old country. We always have a good old fashioned English breakfast at the weekend , more like brunch after an early market rummage.

Introducing Miss Scarlet_Velvets Gothic Emporium

2011-02-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

Firstly I have to apologize for the quality of the pictures but not bad for a phone , the joys of modern technology!
I was out on the road Wednesday sourcing and buying for Miss scarlet with her on the end of the phone egging me on .
She now has an impressive start to her Gothic Emporium with her core stock , this is a tiny sample of the gorgeous swishing taffeta , lace and heavy damasks and some lovely jet beading.
You Goths need to contact her at scarletletter@hotmail.co.uk and keep an eye on scarletvelvetsgothicemporium.blogspot.com

Lady Shedowners

2011-01-31T06:55:00.000-08:00

I know ! sounds like wheel tappers and shunters but we lady shed owners love our sheds.
I spent a Iovely morning today as the guest of Sue who invited me for a shed rummage.
Sue has been a tayloress and needlewoman all her life and has a shed overlooking a breathtaking view over the valley.
She has a row of Bernina sewing machines and a well organized workspace the shelves however were full of jars and tins and some happy time later this was what we accumulated.
We had great fun and I am happy with my collection.
I really like the amazing set of metal diamond shape Scottish buttons with a thistle on , these would have been on a lovely velvet jacket they wear with the kilt.
The pair of enamels with roses are sweet and some interesting mock-cut-steel-not-sure-what-they-are's?? and a nice collection of 40's

Restoration project

2011-01-28T09:29:00.000-08:00

I think this is Kashmiri rather than European so maybe destined to return to India ,yes they want them back!
I get regular calls from India and think they have the expertise on restoring these.
Someone took a lot of care when making these curtains , lined in calico and backed with silk

2011-01-28T06:28:00.000-08:00

To Die For !! gorgeous prints

2011-01-28T05:45:00.000-08:00

These gorgeous soft cotton panels arrived in my post today and needless to say I am thrilled.
Two panels 72 inch drop and 70 inches wide each. The fabric is 30 inches wide so they are joined with a central panel of the full width and half a panel each side beautifully done and hard to see from front.
I would think they are early 20th cent. the pattern fruit and flowers is taken from a 19th cent. American print. stunning colours I love them.

Ardingly in the mud

2011-01-17T03:28:00.000-08:00

Lizzie and I packed up Monday and headed for Sussex to do Ardingly. It is a lovely drive through Midhurst ,Petworth and beyond and we are becoming more familiar with some of the quirky junctions.
We were on site after a night of driving rain and were prevented from driving into the mud in the dark opposite our shopping arcade 58 by the timely intervention of our French neighbours who were already stuck !!
We lined our marquee with tarps and rugs which makes it very cosy but the amount of mud and rain water still creeps in and mud gets splashed so everything is having a spruce in time for Shepton this weekend. We had a good fair despite the weather and look forward to the next one March 1st and 2nd

Cornish Break

2011-01-17T03:16:00.000-08:00

It has become a regular trip now to go to Cornwall, three girls and three dogs in a cottage by the sea to celebrate Yvonne's Birthday.
It entails a lot of walking up hills and windy beaches with surf crashing which the dogs adore as do we.
It has been a real wet miserable week from Ardingly onwards but Friday the sun showed itself and we went off to Leryn to walk the estuary and stop off for lunch with Jonnie at the pub, we rented his boathouse three years ago.
Highlights of the week were watching dolphins in the bay !! chili garlic butter with huge prawns the odd glass of Guiness and some good live music.

Get your patchworks out

2010-12-31T09:40:00.000-08:00

When a magazine e- mailed me to ask for images of my patchworks for a feature in the Spring it gave me the excuse to get all my babies out.
Some of them are treasured " wrecks " some are stock, wish I had some that got away.... I find a gap in my life as well as my cupboard when I sell quilts....still this is what I do

New Kid on the Block

2010-12-30T12:26:00.000-08:00

http://scarletvelvetsgothicemporium.blogspot.com/

Restoring Quilts, long job but worth the effort

2010-12-27T09:08:00.000-08:00

This antique Durham is gorgeous, look at the quilting !
The problem was it had raggy frayed edges otherwise great.
I am reluctant to just bind them and machine the edge , I prefer to unpick far enough back and cut back the batting so you can fold over the edges and hand sew them down.
The result I think you will agree is much more pleasing and often hardly discernible.
It has taken me 12 hours up to now, I just have to stitch down two sides it is all pinned.
So now you know how I have spent my Boxing Day !!
very satisfying now I am on the home straight.

Muckleford revisited Christmas morning

2010-12-26T03:01:00.000-08:00

My friend June bearing gifts

Tessa and Andrews Old Chapel

Old Dorset thatch
Twin cottages Foxlea and Hazelbank
Excuse me if I indulge in a little nostalgia , it's that time of year after all.
Those of you that have known me for a while will remember Hazelbank at Muckleford where I was for nine years.
I have kept the connection with my friends and neighbours there and try to be there Christmas morning to see Sue and June each year.
I always have a little lump in my throat as the memories there are very strong and we all had some wonderful times as it was the sort of house you could fill with people and we often did.
So for all of us a few pictures of it looking like a picture book
Merry Boxing Day to You All xxxxx

Christmas at no 2

2010-12-19T07:11:00.001-08:00

View from my office
My wooden birds
Santa has been busy
Many cooks
I have just had a text from my children to say they have reached Putney where Lawrence and Nagisa live. Sam has to go to Hemel Hempstead then I can relax.
Ever since I have been on my own with my children when Lawrence was 10 and Samantha thirteen, we established our own Christmas traditions and elected to do the whole thing a week before Christmas , a special celebration just for us so that on " The Day " choices were made easier they could be with Dad or Grandparents or friends and no one had to feel torn.
If I was alone I used to spoil myself and relax having already done it all.
I really thought this year the weather was going to spoil it all and was thrilled but rather nervous when I got a message saying they were at Fleet services, it was snowing but Sam's French farmer's car was making steady progress ! They battled down Puddletown bypass which was thick with snow despite the brilliant sunshine and arrived bearing gifts and the usual germs! just in time judging from the phonecall from my sister in Surrey who said is was blizzard conditions there after they had passed through.
As you can see Santa's helper had been busy stuffing stockings which were all opened this morning including mine which they do!!
We had a special treat for lunch Nagisa and Lawrence prepare Japanese dumplings wow yummy
Does anyone know where I can get the little dumpling pancakes here in Dorset as I have a nice stash of filling in the freezer.

Little Victorian gem

2010-12-14T05:48:00.001-08:00

spotted this on the way to get the coffee, lovely little hexagons and some good early fabrics in amongst the lovely shirting's. There are some really vibrant blocks giving it a "Grandma's flower garden " look
I love the Indigo especially the little horseshoes. It has a few faults but not many and easy fixed with the correct fabric.
The quilt has been backed in blue brushed cotton. It has a predominantly cream background rather than white, fits across a standard double bed but is made for a double ended iron or wooden bedstead.

Todays buys cosy eiderdowns

2010-12-13T10:03:00.001-08:00

`Christmas has officially arrived at my Studio

2010-12-13T09:16:00.000-08:00

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL XXXXX

There are nets and nets

2010-12-11T02:05:00.000-08:00

I seem to have had a run of lace and net curtaining ,I have here some wonderful white panels with applique 5 of them all perfect and an amazing amount of Victorian lace edged in cream also 5 of those but 3 one length and two another.
I also have several more single cream 20's/30's panels in a range of patterns and some pairs plus a huge amount of white with fleur de lys all over them they need fiddling with as there is some damage but an amazing amount of fabric to work with depending what size you require.
See you at Shepton Mallet Flea Market stall no 91 on Showrings tomorrow Sunday 12th call me with any requests or questions 01305264914