The Stitch and Make Studio

Tidy up, you messy slut!!!

2012-01-19T09:56:00.000-08:00

After the nuttiness of the Xmas period It's been good to get back into the studio. I had plans to close for about a month and totally relax. Relaxing is sooooo overrated and I found myself wandering Burns St way on the 29th of December! Ive put some new stock into the Most Marvellous. The haberdashery lady from the market has gone so Im now selling a few sewing bits and bobs as well as my clothing range. Ive also had some commissions to do, which I've finally finished. I've got some planning for projects to do but in the meantime find myself having free time to make some new clothes. This was a sample I tried this afternoon on a piece of linen I had.

Im really pleased with how it turned out, the roses are all silk and Im planning to use this on a skirt with a bound edge and vintage scarf tie at the waist. Ive booked to do the Made It Market in Cambridge at Easter so have one eye on being well organised with some lovely new stock. We shall see.....

As I have no classes until Mid-Feb Ive had no pressure to keep things tidy which has resulted in a horrible chaotic mess visiting me when I wasn't looking. Sally "Bells and whistles" and I have been trying to screenprint Kirsty T-shirts. I haven't screenprinted for about 30 years but the sheer joy and pleasure was worth the wait- when we realised that it was perhaps a bit more difficult than it first appeared we left the stuff in the middle of the table while we got on with more pressing stuff (tea!) Then I visited the suppliers for a splurge, telling myself that I could sell purchases in the Most Marvellous- i did buy some funny things like rubber buttons and very old French ribbon with hikers and mountains on, so my visit was entirely justified. I've been spending all week sewing buttons onto cards. Now Im bored.

So then thought Id wrap ribbon around card, then got bored of that and decided to make some clothes. I blame the weather....it's too cold to think clearly.

Now it's home time and someone's made a mess on the table.

Small worlds.

2011-12-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

The blogs that I enjoy the most are ones with lots of pictures and just the right amount of writing . So to this end I have some pictures with attached words. Sometimes, when Ive got jobs out of the way I just wander aimlessly around the studio doing a bit of tidying and a bit of re-arranging.

I enjoy enormously these small worlds I've somehow created and fiddling around with them brings me enormous pleasure. And Ill make no apologies for it either. So above we have some casualties from a sock monkey dads and lads class, some beautiful silk from my friends mother, a kind donation but just too good to cut up just yet. Finally my lovely papier mache dolls which I started to make at a Julie Arkell workshop years ago now in Leicester. The creature at the back with the pink face is Peregine Malcolm! he is a charity shop creature.

In this small world is an owl doorstop from one of our workshops in summer. A carved owl pencil holder and a very expensive pair of shoes which I brought from a bridal show and have never worn because they're not my size! I worked at the bridal show, I would NEVER visit one of those god awful places otherwise.

Here's Professer Bunsen amongst the cottons. I love collecting these threads and Im very, very reluctant to sew with any of them. Once I caught a student winding a bobbin with one of them! They have such lovely names as well like Cob Nut and Periwinkle. Another smaller owl. Very popular birds.

Winter Hideaway.

2011-12-02T01:23:00.001-08:00

Its time for Nan's tea!

Each year I go away with a group of close friends to Wells next to the Sea on the East coast. We've been going back to Wells for years and it's a truly beautiful part of the country. We had a celebration on Friday alongside our Nans tea as It was Kate's birthday too. We drank Bendover Brendas and Malibu cocktails to celebrate.

We eat the same meals, watch the same programmes on the tele, visit the same pubs and slob around in our pyjamas. There are some lovely independent shops in Wells and it's heartening to see that new shops have opened.

Come Sunday, we're desperate for a long, long walk on the beach. The beach this year was exeptional; so bright and desolate, sunny and warm. We walked and talked for miles, sat on a sand dune and watched the horizon. When we got back to the house there was a massive Sunday dinner waiting. Could it be any more perfect?

Generousity Aplenty.

2011-11-16T11:45:00.000-08:00

Feast your eyes on these beauties!

When I arrived back from my community sewing group yesterday a lady had been into the studio and left me some fabric.

Apparently, she is an interior designer and had been cleaning out her cupboards to to make some space.

She gave me these beautiful fabrics, this is something I dream about so thank you anonymous lady wherever you are. I do think that there's no point in clinging onto fabric you'll never use (sometimes it's easier said than done) if you send it out into the universe you'll always get something back. The mustard print barkcloth reminds me of a Lucienne Day print. I feel very excited by the colour combinations, they make me feel so very happy.
There is enough to make a lovely skirt or pinafore dress with, I can't wait to get cutting I have some massive yellow vintage buttons which will go really well.

A Most Marvellous Move.

2011-11-13T05:56:00.000-08:00

Fans of my clothing can now find selected pieces at "The Most Marvellous Place to Shop" which is on the Kettering Road opposite the Jaguar garage here in Sunny Northampton. If you haven't visited yet, get yourselves down there. The place is packed to the rafters with lovely retro clothing, vintage crockery and collectables and most of all a fantastic cafe called Nannas Kitchen where Kaw and Emma serve great food.

After attending the Renegade Handmade market a few weeks back and getting such a good reception on my clothing, I didn't hesitate when asked if I wanted a space in the Most Marvellous. I also sell vintage trims, buttons and vintage fabric. I get some vintage fabric which just isn't big enough to make clothing, so I decided to cut it into decent size pieces and sell it in packs. Subsequently you can get a pack of at least 8 various sized vintage fabrics- a word of caution here Vintage is 25 years or more (my fabric is exactly that) you can get lots of projects from this fabric for just £15!
Every single item of clothing is unique and I only buy fabric in limited amounts mostly due to the fact that it's vintage and in short supply. Everything is hand finished by myself and usually features some type of hand stitching or embellishments on it.

This is only a sneaky peek at a couple of the pieces as we did a photoshoot last week. I was lucky enough to be selected for a bursary to help small businesses from UCN with which Im expanding the website. It will contain lots more classes, information on education packages for schools, photos of my clothing and collaborative work. All of which is very exciting.

New Knitting Masterclass!

2011-11-06T14:27:00.000-08:00

We have a lovely group of ladies who meet up at the studio on the 3rd Sat of each month from 10-12. I enjoy having people use the space and these ladies are very accomplished knitters.

If anyone else would like to come along to knit please feel free. The next meet is on November 19th, and it only costs £1. The lovely Anna Thorpe will be in the studio that morning as Im taking a little jaunt to the east Coast.

Renegade Craft Fair

2011-10-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

Having finally caught up on sleep, and with a few outstanding jobs out of the way, It's time to report on the Renegade Craft fair.

My beautiful helper-Lady Hermione and i travelled down very early a few weekends back to do the Fair in Brick lane.I had a major sweat on because I had to leave 2 chairs behind and had worked myself up into a frenzy of furballed anxiety. As it was I really should've just enjoyed it more (maybe it's encroaching old age?)

We were allocated a massive space in a really good setting almost opposite the main doors. Miss Hubbard's pencil moustaches quickly found favour with the London masses and I sold an incredible 15 in one day!!! lady Hermione was quick to model the Noel Gallagher/Terry Thomas combo.

The other sellers were an incredibly talented bunch, such beautiful work. Here's the ceramic work of melodyrose- she takes vintage ceramics and applies transfers and then re-fires again. We met each morning under the harsh glare of the mirror in the ladies loo. She has been selling at Portabello market for a few years now, her work is truly beautiful,original and delightful and recieved a lot of attention. Deservedly so.

Each morning I did a quick scoot round while it was still quiet to take some pics.I just absolutely loved the way these girls from Art=Happy dressed their space making it look so welcoming and inspiring. Those Henry Holland-esque granny blanket dresses in the background were awesome!!! and a very good price too. Get over to their website and buy one .

It was also a good chance to catch up on London friends I hadn't seen in a while. Here, the Virgo ladies like to put the buttons in neat piles and have a tidy up!

On the Sunday we had some success with our workshops (lowering the prices helped!) It was just great to have people sitting around the table handsewing all day. It helped draw more people to the stall and made it look like we knew what we were doing.

A view from the hill. This was about a fifth of the size-there were 86 stalls in all. Sunday was busier , but then the whole of Brick lane was rammed. I did pop over to Spitafields market and was saddened by the amount of tat and dross. There are so many stalls all alike flogging cheap dresses and crap from China. I remember a time when Spitafields (and Camden) were all about originality and promoting small designer maker businesses. Now their just full of boring mass produced rubbish. Why does it take a small group of visiting Americans to show us how it should be done?

On your marks.......

2011-10-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Get Set......

All week Ive been farting around with buttons, badge backs, labels and felt. Every time I search for a piece of fabric I get so distracted I cover the table with piles and piles of fabrics, scraps and curtains. The finger of fear is probing my intestines as its almost time for the Renegade Craft Fair. As a result Im having difficulty concentrating my mind. My very good friends Helen, Lauren, Sam, Emma and my lovely daughter Hermione have all done their bit to help and I have been grateful for their input and company.

As it's a killer 5 O'clock start we've had a run through to see if we can fit everything into the space and to also help us get cracking when we arrive. We're selling my beautiful range of one-off clothing pieces, vintage trims and buttons, lots of lovely vintage fabrics and fabric packs as well as running workshops!!! from 11 till 6 every day.

If you can't make it, don't despair as I will be offering you all the opportunity to purchase all of the above items very soon at The Most Marvellous Place To Shop here in Nupton. More of which later when I return after the weekend.

New Items for Renegade Craft-Brick Lane Oct 8-9th

2011-09-23T11:58:00.000-07:00

What I have been doing lately is a lot of thinking and also a lot of doing, but in a slow way. At the end of each day (sometime's it's night by the time I finish my classes) I feel that I haven't done enough. Nevertheless, at the end of the week I look back and count how many dresses I've cut out or made, classes I've taught or stuff Ive sat down and hand finished and It's actually quite a lot. These past few weeks have been worse leading up to the Renegade Craft event in London. I felt better because at Stitch and Bitch last night, James Thorpe- whose a very good photographer offered to photograph some of my work. So here they are. I think he's done a lovely job. It does make me feel a whole lot better when I look at them.

This is just a close-up detail from the front panel and collar.

I was trying to make a pattern which had more shape than a bolero, but also had a bit of a Japanese feel about it.

Same style but with furry cuffs. All of the fabric is either vintage or re-cycled. This wasn't a deliberate choice, it's just the stuff which went well together.

This is my favourite dress. Although It's not apparent in the picture but this dress has lovely deep side pockets- for hankies, conkers or worms, very useful. The fabrics I brought a few weeks ago from a friend who has a huge collection of elderly and vintage fabrics. I spent a fortune! but got his lovely collection . I made the collar from a crochet dressing table doilley. I purchased some fabrics-all vintage which Ill be selling by the metre. Ill be posting these up when Ive got a minute.

Renegade Craft Fair- Oct 8th/9th.

2011-08-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

Well, I am truly crapping it!!!! Every day until October 8th.

Im taking the studio and forcing it into a space 8ftx16ft for this October weekend. Im taking my Japanese style corsages, which were one of my first ever Sew Hip tutorials and Miss L Hubbards pencil moustaches. Both of these will be available in kit form as well as "take and make" workshops and also for sale. Ill also be selling my wonderful one-off pieces of clothing. And to this end have been making some lovely new pieces incorporating vintage textiles, beads and lots of embroidery. You London girls better watch out!!!!http://renegadecraft.com/london Miss Jackson's coming to give you a mix up.

Photoshoot on the backfoot.

2011-08-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

Its been an age since I last posted anything and I must make an effort to update more regularly. So much has happened since my last post. More of that later.

This week I had a visit from who used to be a photographer on our local paper The Chronicle and Echo. And he offered to photograph some of my clothes the next day. Fortunately , my lovely daughter Hermione has had lots of modelling experience and was only too happy to help out. This is my friend Sally Bells Blaise new space where she will be working, she's an amazing ideas person with a tap attached to a rainbow which pours out of her head.

It really was a rather slap-dash affair on my part as I was trying to finish a jacket an hour before and really didn't have an idea of what pieces were going to be photographed. Luckily it all looked lovely in the end and Im so very pleased with the results. Those earrings are by Julie Arkell and I brought them eons ago from a lovely shop called Hibiscus in Nupton. Julie Arkell is an incredible folk artist who works mainly in papier mache. These earrings were some of her early work and are made from plastic jewels and quality street wrappers.

I think this is my favourite, it reminds me of Frieda Khalo drifting around in Liberties. I love the rich colours and all the textures. The shawl was given to me and was just lying around the studio, I tore of a bit of silk which were old curtains and wound it around Hermione's head. The headpiece is one which Amelia made for a workshop. It seemed to match perfectly.

All in all Im very pleased with the results, we had an enjoyable time just playing around with ideas and stuff.

Leafcycles veg box scheme....a fair swap.

2011-07-27T15:30:00.001-07:00

Leafcycles in Northampton run an organic veg box scheme and they'll be appearing at The Umbrella Fair on August 13th and 14th. At the moment Im doing a couple of hours teaching a man with long legs how to make his own trousers in return for a smashing fruit and veg box.
We've had some fantastic dinners, tonight we had home made pizzas with chard, pine nuts and sultanas. I cant wait to get my hands on the rhubarb tomorrow.

Completed patchwork cushion.

2011-07-27T15:25:00.001-07:00

Here's my completed patchwork cushion for the class on August 27th, we'll be doing crazy patchwork as well. The needlepoint cushion in the background is one that took me four years to make. Won't be doing that again anytime soon.

Patchwork and crazy patchwork day- Sat August 27th

2011-07-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I started to make an example of work for our forthcoming Patchwork day on Sat August 27th. All day, Im really looking forward to it, especially as it's machine patchwork so should grow quite quickly.

It was very difficult to whittle my colours down in order to get them to match. As good friends know, I do like to wear all my favourite colours at once, but if a new person comes to a class I think they like to see something a bit more organised and a bit less chaotic that they could be making.

This is going to be the front of a cushion. ive wanted to offer a patchwork class for a long time but have never felt accomplished enough but i think that it's all about bringing people together, sharing skills and having fun. So I just thought hell, why not????

That magical place Essaouira...again.

2011-07-12T01:19:00.001-07:00

Well, It's been a while.....
Ive been away to Croatia sailing at the beginning of June, which sounds really swanky and a bit like the Duran Duran "Rio" video. The reality is far, far more cramped and gritty. We flew to Split where we picked up a yacht and sailed to Vis, Brac and lots of other wonderful places. If you get the opportunity to visit Croatia GO IMMEDIATELY, do not pack any clothes...
So, sailing is a great holiday because it's very physical interspersed with periods of inertia. You sleep like a stone at night, being rocked to sleep by the sea.

At the end of June I took my off spring to Essaouira for the Gnoawa music festival. We stayed in a riad with a whole bunch of mates. It's the 5th time Ive been to Essaouira and it's just such an amazing living, breathing, vibrant place. I didn't take too many pics as my daughter took over 500.

As usual it's all about the sea. The town is the 2nd largest port in Morrocco. Wooden fishing boats are still built by hand and its awe inspiring to see such craftsmanship.

This riad was just a few streets away from us. Everything is so ornamental and saturated with beauty that after a while you just start to take it for granted. Not a good thing to do.

Patisserie Dris, So this was our breakfast most mornings. All the pastries are made fresh each morning on site and you just choose and point. All this for just under two pounds!

My attempt at a panoramic view! I found a setting on my camera and thought I'd have a go. I think it's quite evocative of the place and you do get an idea of the broad sweep of things.

On Your Head Be It

2011-06-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

This wonderful hat studio is owned by my good friend Michelle O'callaghan and can be found on The Billing Road here in sunny Nupton Town.

This gorgeous little number is by leading British milliner Rachel Trevor Morgan. Each one of these petals is made from either silk or silk organza and each petal is curled by hand. Thats true craftsmanship.

Of course I am slightly biased as Mitch and I have been friends for a long time, she also stocks my weekend bags in her studio. These are made from vintage fabrics and trims. They're very sturdy and offer an individual solution to all that dull hand luggage out there.

Im just drawn to the rich colours and dinky sizes. I just love to see people wearing hats at weddings and a visit to Mitch's hat studio is such a thrill.

This is my absolute favourite, again It's by Rachel Trevor Morgan and is just so enchanting. I could spend hours trying them all on and am just waiting for a special event.....

Inject a bit of colour into your life.

2011-05-27T01:01:00.000-07:00

My good friend Michelle O'Callaghan, who runs the most wonderful hat studio, here in Northampton has started to stock a few of my pieces. Her website is now up and running please take a peek www.onyourheadbeit.com if you're ever going to a fancy "do" she's the lady to visit. Anyhow, she'd sold a couple of silk dresses so my thoughts were full of cutting out.

I had brought these beautiful trims from Birmingham market last Friday. They're from a guy who has a stall outside he has about a bazillion to choose from and they are truly beautiful, the most amazing colours.

This Italian silk/satin is featured in an article this month in Making. They've made a kimono from it, it's a gorgeous print quite reminiscent of the 1940's. So..... I just gotten down to some work and was thinking how I take for granted all the colour that surrounds me and how I get to do what I love every single minute of my working day. So I took some pictures and lit a candle.

Vintage Fair Stony Stratford.

2011-05-21T12:16:00.001-07:00

I have just returned from the most wonderful day of selling at the Vintage and Home fair in Stony Stratford. I remembered I had my camera in my bag and whizzed around clicking away.

Really I should have photographed my stall and the layout, but instead took a picture of these yummy cucumber and cream cheese sarnies which the lovely ladies in the vintage tea room made me!!

There were 3 floors of really good quality designer/maker vintage-esque craftsters, alongside original vintage pieces. It was a comfort to sell amongst such good company. After my horrific "blobs-in-a-basket" incident in Earls Barton a few years back i'd made a decision to no longer attend sales.

Good friends had recommended this event and I was so pleased to be invited. The organisers had done a sterling job and the place looked wonderful, there was a great "vibe" about the place. The tea room was buzzing with a crowd of satisfied cake-engourged customers. There was also the most captivating vintage inspired ice-cream van parked outside selling Cornish clotted cream cones (not a tongue twister)I wish I'd taken a picture of it now.

I took along adozen or so good quality pieces of vintage as well as a range of recent pieces made from vintage fabrics. I was also pleased because I sold some of my newly acquired vintage trims, I really didnt want to keep them all to myself!! Im always modestly suprised when people respond so positively to my work. I obviously don't get out enough.

I did have some concerns as I hadn't done a sale in so long, so maybe didn't take enough things to sell, which is usually the opposite as most folks take too much . I also should have spent more time on the layout as I spent a lot of the time rammed in the corner trying to create a aura of "space" around me so that people could look at the rails.

I had a great day, made some money and met some wonderful new people, what more could you ask for?

How to celebrate the Royal Wedding in style.

2011-05-02T12:42:00.000-07:00

When I heard that there was going to be a wedding of mass distraction, I decided to have my own wedding themed day. We had a right royal feast; toast strawberry jam and tea in the morning, Butt Savouries for lunch, which consist of Indian samosas and vegetable pakoras with Indian rice pudding and pistachio nuts. Home made Victoria sponge in the afternoon.
Sorry, I forgot to say that we had gathered to make fascinators! not just to stuff our chops.

In the morning Miss AP and I demonstrated some techniques to make silk roses and showed lots of different ways with feathers and trims.

First off, everyone gathers far too much of everything in a mad crazed panic of uncertainty. Slowly, as the day progresses the choices become more refined and selective. We covered boning in bias silk strips to add height and definition. We also dyed lace in tea to give it an aged look.

We toasted the Royal Couple with our charity shop mugs brimming with hot tea and bedecked in our feathered finery.

There were plenty of old vintage jewellery bits and bobs to cut up and use. Courtesy of my lovely mum.

I particulary enjoy this workshop for the sheer range of delightful items that are always produced. When I think of the amount of mass produced tat in shops it makes me glad I do the job I do. Thanks for all your support folks!

Working on new designs at Easter-preview.

2011-04-22T12:18:00.001-07:00

Im thoroughly delighted at the moment because Ive managed to get my clothing into another boutique in London. I cant say too much because It's early days, nevertheless Its in a great area and a spiffing little place. To this end I have been cutting out and making like a crazed harriden. I think that the fabric this smock dress is made from (very old curtains) has got to be one of my all time favourites. The folk art pattern is divine and the colours have such harmony together. I rarely want to keep items for myself once they're finished but could seriously be tempted with this one.

The buttons on the back are actually green with a white ring around them and are from the '70s. Ive also used these gorgeous red plastic buttons shaped like a flower (also from the '70s)

On the hem there are two different types of ribbon, one which has multi coloured stripes and another stitched on top which looks Swiss and has embroidered red and green flowers. To me this smock dress is so complete and would look so dinky with red glitter ankle socks and yellow shoes, both of which I have. It was obviously made for me!!

I came across this bargain roll of 1950's cotton in The Most Marvellous Place to Shop. Which, by the way is actually a real shop name and is also factually accurate. I fully intend to blog about this later on sometime in the future, but for now....the glazed cotton was made into this lovely wraparound dress which has big colourful poppies machined onto the front. Ive finished them off with blue sequins and French knots absolutely and totally my favourite embroidery stitch (yes, sadly I do have them)

Unfortunately, I still haven't made friends with my camera and many of the dials on it are still a mystery. So you get to loose out on close-up's of the smashing trims on this dress which consist of a blue ri-rac which I got from Shepherds Bush Market for 75p and a cerise pink ribbon with a gold thread running through it. This was from Barnett and Lawson which is in Little Portland St and is a Mecca of haberdashery and wonderful-ness. Again, i need to blog about this at a later date.
I'll be photographing and finishing of more pieces in the next few weeks. So dont forget to re-visit.

A Good Day's Work.

2011-04-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

Following our very busy Saturday bag making workshop, I got fired up and decided to make my own. The fabric is some old Ralph Lauren from 1994 (practicaly vintage these days!) The front pocket was a piece which was in a very old box of embroideries, lace, threads and letters which was given to me. the letters were dated around the 1900's and the work was done by one of two sisters who were Missionaries. The work was all done by hand on silk and in quite a sorry state. Some of you may think It's criminal to cut it up, but I do really appreciate the work that's gone into it and want it to be seen and used. To me, it's no good sitting in an old box.

The gorgeous trim is from Barnett and Lawson, who supply trims and haberdashery for all the London shows (and Gok) the place is an Aladdin's cave and is at 16 Little Portland St if you want to go. This particular trim I fell in love with. It was a bit pricey but worth it now as I think it just sets everything off.

For the Royal Wedding we're spending the day making fascinators in a workshop. we will also be stuffing our faces with cake and drinking copious amounts of tea. Anyone interested? just get in touch.

Just another delicious picture of the bag.

New pieces from vintage patterns. 1952

2011-03-28T12:40:00.003-07:00

I own a large collection of old patterns now. The thing that gets me is that for something to be labelled as "vintage" it needs only to be 25 years old. That's 1986 and many of my old patterns are "Classics" (50 years) Theres no way that Id ever consider making up ANY garment from 1986. I hated most of the fashions from the '80s, especially all those Perry Ellis style striped vest tops and dirndl skirts with tiny belts, brogues and lacy ankle socks and gloves. Biliousness. When I first found this pattern I really loved the illistration on the front. I love a wraparound shirt. Very flattering for most shapes. It was an ideal opportunity for me to use some of my 1950's cottons. The tissue papaer pattern was printed with no markings on and just a series of holes. Once I had got my head round that I transfered the pattern onto dot and cross paper to make a more up-to-date version.

I had to really get used to the idea of using the fabric up. I like to see it folded into piles. BUT THAT'S JUST STUPID. As there's plenty of fabric out in the universe for everybody.

Im really pleased with the results. I particularly like the shape of the collar and there's a tie on the inside. These two blouses will be on sale in my new Etsy shop, opening shortly. In the meantime Im trying to decide what to make next.

Customising samples for workshop.

2011-03-19T13:20:00.001-07:00

Here at the Stitch and Make studio we like to encourage creativity and have a mother and daughter special price of £50 for both on any Saturday workshop. Rachel is eleven and has attended quite a few workshops now with her mum. She's the fastest worker in the place, often finishing her projects before anyone else and then also making additional pieces as well.

Here's her vest top which she customised using strips of fabrics and some Bondaweb techniques. I'd love to see some more mums and daughters sharing their Saturday afternoons and making things together.

Im making a conscious effort to try to compose my photos, so that they look a bit more interesting. A source of fascination for me is the colours schemes which people choose to work with. Its so interesting within the group that we never get 2 people with the same ideas. Thats one of the things that makes my job so fascinating.

On the day we make a background from strips of fabrics, ribbon and used couching and some embellishments. This section can be cut up for strips round sleeves or as a feature. We also make gathers, rosettes, bias cut roses and Bondaweb motifs.

Phew!! what a full on day. Dont forget, the next workshop is April 9th making the weekend bag (see previous posting) which Im really looking forward to.

Weekend bag workshop- New dates added.

2011-03-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we held our weekend bag workshop- I was both looking forward to and dreading this one. I knew the bag was a great pattern and size but also felt that its a lot to ask people to make it completely and to a high standard in one day, especially as they've come to enjoy themselves. As you can see from the pics, we had some truly wonderful results. I sell one or two of my bags in a friends hat studio On Your Head Be It here in Northampton and one or two of these are serious contenders.

I just love the way that this old vintage tablecloth has been utilised. The prints in the corners have been incorporated into the bag. The reverse is an old tea towel with a liner on it. The entire piece has a sea-side theme. Simply wonderful.

Here's one part way through, what absolutely gorgeous William Morris fabric. Good old Mr Morris was very much in evidence, his fabrics make the most perfect bags for dirty weekends away (not sure wether he'd approve though!)

We had such a lovely day I have decided to run this workshop again on April 9th from 10-4 at a cost of £35. If any one's interested please get in touch.

Essaouira- Part 2 of an evolving series.

2011-01-22T12:55:00.000-08:00

This tiny town is utterly intoxicating with it's combination of whiffy odours, dramatic scenery and music on every corner. You can take a walk along the ramparts, Essouira is a very small town within the walls, getting lost is part of the adventure. The waves come crashing in from the Atlantic, it's exhilerating to watch the gulls hovering in the currents of air.
The beach is miles long and right at the end of the sweep near the camels is the cheesily named Ocean Vagabond which is a great Bar/Cafe with deckchairs, sun loungers and table football, its really worth the long walk, the food is lovely some of the best in Essaoiura, the chocolate tart and vanilla custard are heavenly.

Down by the harbour, if it all gets a bit too much you can always put a box on your head.

It seems as if everyone in Essaouira is a skilled with their hands, the shops are full of vibrant woven shawls and rugs, carved bowls and the most beautiful silver jewellery and wooden carvings. The prices are much cheaper than in Marrakech and the people aren't pushy, just friendly and they can't do enough for you. Be warned never accept the first price offered and always enjoy the bartering, it's part of the holiday.

Here is Patisserie Dris which is on the main square. The place is a cakey revelation where everything is fresh, sweet and exotic. You can buy breakfast for about 15 dirhams which is a little over a pound! you will get a pain au chocolat, croissant, freshly squeezed orange juice and milky coffee. If you fancy any of the other pastries just go up to the counter and point, dont forget your best French manners, they'll go a long way.

Legs like an old Italian widow.

2011-01-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness Im back to work. That holiday seemed so long and although I was looking forward to it, by December 28th I was itching to get out of the house and start sewing again. I have been making an example coat for the workshop but Ive gone and done a wrong thing because its actually got a 28" chest (would fit a freezing jockey). I'm still going to put it in the window of the local sewing machine shop Sew....Northampton. The workshops are filling up gradually and Im very pleased. We still have spaces on Beginners and Intermediate sewing, felt jewellery and Customising Charity Shop Finds.

Tonight Im supposed to be researching textile designers who use recycled materials in their work but as usual I get thoroughly distracted when Im on the internet and have found some amusing photos.

When my good friend Aasen,who does the most amazing papercuts moved into his new studio we all went to have a look around. We were impressed by such a great space although he doesn't have a toilet so has to leave his bladder at home. Anyway, i found some legs.......

Spanking brand new workshops for 2011.

2011-01-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

Customising Charity Shop Finds, March 19th 10-4pm £35.

Spend the day learning some simple yet effective techniques to brighten up those tired old clothes. Examples from the sewing magazine Sew Hip will be demonstrated as well as a couture technique to make beautiful roses which look gorgeous on a vest top or clutch bag.

Art Textiles For Your Home- Feb 26th 10-4pm £35.

Come and have a fun filled day playing with lots of lovely threads, beads, bondaweb, and transfoils. We will show you simple and effective techniques which can be made into decorative pieces for your home, these make great abstract pictures or cards.

We do have a lot more workshops on the website from beginners sewing classes to felt jewellery. We also offer a reduced rate for mothers and daughters. You can also book time in the studio to work on your own projects.

Knitted Bench...Pod Projects

2010-12-27T07:26:00.001-08:00

Ages ago, when I was still at the Fishmarket I met Trevor Pitt who was working with Open Places Open Spaces. They were putting up installations and we got talking about a knitting project Trevor was involved in. Rather than me blathering on about it here you can read all about it at www.podprojects.org In brief I organised for local wool to be sourced and spun by the Long Draw Spinners at Stoke Albany and the wool was then knitted into slats and they were sewn together around a bench.

These photos were taken on the opening night at a gallery called Nest in Birmingham. It brought together groups from around the UK who had knitted a bench. This particular bench was knitted by a group in Newcastle Gateshead and we had a lovely meal afterwards in Wagamamas with Jess who ran the project. It was a lovely evening, very exciting to meet other knitters and enthusiastic people.

Above and below are pics of our bench and information on the project.

The benches then went onto The Public in West Brom, I spent a day meeting people and teaching some of them how to knit. This is the most wonderful and amazing building, a true inspiration. Like a lot of public Art Spaces I think that people are initially suspicious and wary as you cant see the immediate benefit. Again, I had a great day.
The Northampton bench will eventually return back to the studio at some point in the future.

If you've missed my blogs , apologies.......read on

2010-12-27T06:12:00.000-08:00

I always knew that blogging wouldn't come easy to me as the camera and computer are my natural enemies, but I make an apology for not posting since September. I know that folks read my blogs to get an idea of the types of workshops I run. So I'm very sorry for the prolonged absence.

Lots of happenings and events throughout the year at the studio; which has finally closed for the winter. This is giving me time to plan for next year and also reflect on my (almost) first year . It HAS NOT BEEN EASY!(thanks Eon) and I realised that it sheer enthusiasm and niavety for the project which has brought me this far ( X factor contestants would call this "the dream") Although there was lots of things I struggle with. To make it more interesting, here's a list:

Diversion Tactics- Get to work, put the kettle on, tidy up, wash up, pick pins off floor, arrange collection of old Coates cotton reels into colours, select tiny swatches of Liberty fabrics into small pile, put kettle on, peruse old copies of Selvedge looking for old article on "pegging out",pick needles off floor. Mad panic as I realise I have done no work and its almost one. Put kettle on....

Paperwork- I went to Staples and brought a tray which looked like it belonged in an office. I wanted to file it with bills, evaluations and spreadsheets. In reality its got a pocket sample, unfinished cards, old reciepts and some buttons in there. Every now and again I look in and weep, how could this have happened???? Alan Sugar hasn't got one of these on his desk.

Searching for customers- Im trying to be more efficient about keeping the people who've come on workshops better informed, keeping evaluations and writing the new workshop programme on time. We have have folks who have paid in full and never turned up. I even had one lady who rang to say she was on her way and never arrived! "Theres nowt so queer as folk", as my Grandma used to say.

Working on my own- In the old days at the Fishmarket I worked alongside other people who also made things. Here, I plan, design and make on my own. Its ok as I get more done. But the corridoor downstairs looks like the one off the Shining and It's a big old building. If I whistle loudly it's not too bad.

I had a Fashion Student from Derby University who came for a work placement during the summer and stayed until November! Kelly was just so lovely and was wonderfuly organised. I will always consider offering a work placement to a student especially if they have some pattern cutting knowledge and can use an Industrial machine. Kelly worked on new pieces for some boutiques and I have photos of her Ladyship Hermione Thomas modelling them.

I wanted to make a dirndl skirt which was similiar to the Prada ones, really there's nothing new in fashion and these simple box skirts have always been around. The fabric is vintage and Ive got this lovely emerald green Jacquard for the hem and the large pockets on the side, bedecked with a massive green button.

I absolutely love this style and have been using it a lot in summer. I got a phone call from the boutique in Marlow to say that Henly was coming up and they wanted me to send all the dresses Id made . What a stroke of luck! So this particular dress is made from a lovely cotton, not dissimiliar to a Liberty in scale. The hem is a vintage Habitat from a charity shop which I got Kelly to overlay in an aubergine coloured star print. Finally those lovely vintage buttons just finish it off nicely.

Finally, I made a few jackets and skirts. I love to mix up the fabrics and prints. I picked this fabric up from the Scrapstore in MK for about £1 but I take a lot of time doing the machine embroidery and embellishments. I keep saying that Im going to put my pieces on Etsy but by the time they've gone to either boutiques or private sales they've gone. There's nothing worse than having old stock hanging round and haunting you.
I remind myself that sometimes not all designs are succesfull and I know that designers have off days, just look at some of the samples in TK Maxx!

Fascinators from our workshop.

2010-09-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday in The Stitch and Make Studio Amelia and I ran our fascinator workshop.
We had a relaxing and creative day showing our class tricks with feathers, jewels, fabrics and sequins

My friend Michelle O'callaghan from On Your Head Be It-design and millinery, very kindly donated a load of feathers and some lovely trims. She has the most wonderful range of hats for hire or to buy from her amazing studio on the Billing Road. She also sells Lulu Guinness bags and jewellery.

The two youngest girls in the group made these lovely fascinators to go with outfits they were planning.

These beautiful creations belong to Patsy and Alison, who worked really hard all day to produce something truly delightful.

Well done to everyone who came along on the day, it's always a pleasure and a surprise to see what people can invent and create with imagination and a few taught skills. Our next workshop is the clutch bag from a vintage scarf on Sept 18th.

Fascinator workshop-August 28th Sneeky Preview

2010-08-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

We're going to have a whole day of making fascinators using feathers, sequins, beads, buttons, vintage fabrics and practically anything else that can be sewn or hot glue gunned.

Come along and enjoy a day of creative expression. Bring a packed lunch, the workshop runs from 10-4pm and costs just £35

Textile Calico Workbook-workshop

2010-08-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

This was the first time Amelia and I had run a workshop of just techniques, although I had used a lot of these when teaching A level textiles. Each week we demonstrated a different technique, we could've easily ran a 6 week workshop on Bondaweb alone. We all had a great time and there was such an outpouring of creativity and enthusiasm. My favourite bit of the evening was laying everyones work out on the table at the end of the session. This gave us a chance to compare notes and discuss our work. Judging from the enthusiastic response we will definetly be running this workshop again. Here are just a few of the samples below;

Make It workshops at the Umbrella Fair.

2010-08-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

The Make It crew had a most excellent day on Sat at the Umbrella Fair on Northampton's Racecourse. We took our crafty tree, which we hung with craft packs to take home. The badge maker was a big success as usual, we also stencilled small and large calico bags decorated with glitter, pom-poms and jewels.
This is our 2nd year at the Umbrella Fair. It's so enjoyable because of it's community mindedness, there's no corporate feel about it, everything sold is reasonably priced . I love the veggie food, It's a real treat to have so much choice, usually it's pork rolls and snout burgers at outrageous prices.

Marathon sock monkey workshop.

2010-07-31T14:17:00.001-07:00

Friday July 30th saw the kick off of our new workshop programme. We had an amazing time making sock monkeys and were so pleased with the amount of people who signed up for the workshop (we had entire families!)the standard of work was incredible. Its criminal that such scant attention is paid to textiles and sewing in schools as these children concentrated for over 3 hours doing a combination of machine and hand sewing.

Our youngest sewer was just 5 and he also happened to finish first, although he did have a very small pair of socks.

At first AP and I thought that we may have done a wrong thing and taken on too much. We thought that having parents along would mean that they would help with the more tricky activity of sewing on machines. Not so, as some of the parents turned into Nigel Mansell and over enthusiastically proceeded to snarl up the machines with great gobs of thread.

No-one lost their temper or their fingers and everyone went home really happy with a completed project. Which is so satisfying.

The children were so excited as a photographer for the local paper came up. The Chronicle and Echo are planning a feature for next week, so hopefully they will use the photo of the whole group with their monkeys.

When I got home I felt like I'd been caught in a bombing raid, I was a bit stunned by the massive amount of activity and instruction. Luckily AP was there throughout with her wonderful calm outlook and unflapperble-ness.

There are times when I know I couldn't wish for a better job. Yesterday was one of those days.

Sew Hip Re-Fashion feature.

2010-07-21T13:25:00.001-07:00

Do you like the strategically placed magazine rack ? crafty touch that.

My re-fashion feature in Sew Hip has been running for about 6 Issues now. I'm really happy with the way it's going and was originally worried that I'd run out of ideas but that hasn't happened at all, in fact I see potential ideas everywhere. As I'm now working a couple of months ahead I've just completed a project for late Autumn, which is a bit weird as It's so lovely and sunny outside and I'm cutting up jumpers!
This month the magazine are also running a feature on the studio which I absolutely can't wait to see. I've been super organised and got all my flyers ready and thanks to my wonderful friend Sam all the dates and info on the workshops are up on the website www.abijackson.com

Please take a look and see if there's anything that tickles your fancy.

A magical place called Essaouira.

2010-07-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

At the end of June , eleven of us went to the Gnawa music festival in Essaouira (pronounces Ess-o-where-a) This absolutely beautiful place is on the west coast of Morocco. Its a flight to Marrakech and then a 3 hour bus ride through the desert and Berber villages. Well worth it to reach such a magical spot. The medina is a Unesco world heritage site.

We stayed in a riad in the medina, this was the central courtyard, where all the rooms faced inwards and were decorated in the most beautiful moroccan lamps and furnishings. At the top of the building was the most wonderful roof terrace which overlooked the sea.

Around every corner was another colourful photo opportunity, the doors especially were so beautiful with their richly decorated tiles and intricate carvings. The people in the town still make their living from weaving textiles, wood carving, sewing traditional clothing, making jewellery. They have a history and culture rooted in Artisan craftsmanship. Everything made and brought in Essaouira has value,provenance and true worth.

The town itself is very small with two main streets and a few little squares with cafes. The spice markets and fruit and veg markets lead off the main streets. The main square leads to the fish stalls and port, where the boats are still hand built. The fishermen bring in the daily catch and the fish are gutted on the rocks. Nothing is wasted and the guts are shared between the gulls and local cats.

I'll still be posting for weeks to come and have some great pictures from around the town. It's cheap to get a flight to Marrakech and a bus to Essaouira, it's also cheap to stay and eat. However, it's my little secret so please don't go there!!

Customising Charity Shop Finds.

2010-06-12T14:24:00.000-07:00

We had a great day the other Saturday sewing strips of fabric, ribbons and threads together in a combination of wonderful colours. These were then turned into frills for T-shirts. Our class spent many happy hours experimenting and playing with a rather enormous mountain of fabric with which to embellish their clothes.

If you love experimenting with textiles and discovering new techniques, our Calico Textile workshop starts on Tues july 6th from 7-9pm here at the studio. Each week we
demonstrate a new technique and you spend time experimenting. This is eventually made into a book of samples, which you can work into further. Just get in touch.

Our Vintage Clutch Bag Workshop.

2010-05-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun and rewarding day today in the studio. Although it was rainy outside Amelia and I kept everyone topped up with tea and biscuits whilst we showed the group how to make a gorgeous clutch from a vintage scarf.
Following a simple outline wadding is sandwiched between lining and the scarf.

We also showed the group how to make some lovely couture roses to embellish the front.

A very happy group showing off their handiwork. The next clutch bag session is July 17th.

Our Fabulous Stitch and Bitch Group.

2010-05-29T11:18:00.001-07:00

In May 2007 I applied for funding from NCF (Northampton Community Foundation)for sewing machines and basic equipment in order to teach people how to sew, knit, pattern cut, in fact anything associated with textile art. To share knowledge and experiences and to just generally socialise and enjoy ourselves.
The Stitch and Bitch is now 3 years old and still has a waiting list. We can teach you how to pattern cut from a basic block or how to use a commercial pattern. We can teach you how to knit, crochet and hand embroider. You won't find a more supportive group who will listen to your troubles, make you a cup of tea and share their experiences. It so much more than just "sewing".

I started this group because I got fed up with people acting as if making your own clothes was a complete mystery. Most people don't lack ideas it's application and support they need. I am constantly amazed by the supply of fresh ideas, novel use of fabrics and materials and wonderful gifts the group come up with.
I could not run the group without my talented, patient and wise assistant Amelia. She graduated in Fashion a few years back now and did the whole London thing, but she soon got wise!! She now runs her own label ALQ UKBrand. Nothing can replace the satisfaction of working for yourself.
If you would like help and advice on setting up your own group, please do not hesitate to contact me. I'd love to help you.

Beautiful clutch from vintage scarf...workshop.

2010-05-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

We are taking bookings for all day workshops on May 29th and also July 17th to make this stunning clutchbag. These all day workshops are great fun, bring a packed lunch to eat in Nan's lounge and we'll keep you topped up with tea and biccies throughout the day.

The clutch has a layer of wadding between it to make it substantial and the edges are beaded. We will show you how to make these couture silk roses to stitch on the front. You could also make the roses detachable to pin on other garments.

This clutch would make a gorgeous and totally unique present. We will have a selection of scarves on the day for you to choose from, or you can bring your own. Cost of the workshop from 10-4pm is £35. Bargain!!!

New Workshop Flyer and some Brilliant Classes.

2010-04-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

At last we have our new programme of workshops, although unfortunately there is one tiny error. The calico textile workbook course is an evening class for 6 weeks and not one session, its actually self explanatory really 'cos £45 for one session is pretty steep! I am also doing private workshops for small groups for hen parties etc. Just get in touch via my website www.abijackson.com and donk on the contact button. The customising charity shop finds was really popular last time and we've also had lots of interest in the cluth bag from a vintage scarf

If your stuck for a birthday idea these workshops make great presents ( i'll even do you a little gift card)

Some work and Northampton events.

2010-04-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

Some time back I make some pieces for the opening night of our Make It event, amongst which was this lady with a lobster on her head. I had some 1950's napkins which had pictures of food on them. I had in mind the Elsa Schiapperelli dress and her Surrealialist hats when I came up with this. I did a few textile pieces for the Sunday Art market which has started again on Northampton Market Square.This is a very affordable way to buy and sell art. A stall costs just a tenner, so if you just want to test the waters you're not going to be massively out of pocket. The next dates are May 2nd, 13th June, 4th July, August 1st. To book you need to go to the Sunday arts market website.

I spent a wonderful weekend with Angie Hughes last year at Compton Verney. This close up detail of a textile piece I produced took around ten hours and is built up of many layers of pattern paper, interfacing, woven silks and cottons. Each individual layer is built up using a variety of processes including print, embossing, hand and machine embroidery. The original is hanging on the wall in the studio.

Dad's and Lad's workshop.

2010-04-05T04:29:00.001-07:00

On April 3rd we ran a Dads and Lads sewing workshop. When I first wrote the programme for the studio my friend Jess suggested a workshop that fathers and sons could do together to get them to spend some precious time with each other. I don't have any issues with getting children on a sewing machine (supervised of course!) In fact, to a lot of little boys I've met, sewing machines are a piece of very exciting machinery.

Everyone made a sock monkey. In some ways this was the ideal project because it had the right combination of hand and machine stitching. There were enough component parts to the project like sewing on eyes from buttons, stuffing body parts, stitching the mouth, to stop boredom setting in.

It was a lovely morning in the studio, whilst Bill Pollard ran the Dads and Lads I was in the knitting lounge doing a little hand sewing corsage project, which was lovely and relaxing, drinking tea and eating biccies. A couple of other folks dropped in to see the space and sign up for Fathers Day workshops. All of the children who came along said that they would be happy to join other workshops and we are planning a great present for dads for Fathers Day. Watch this space....

Design and Make a Party Dress-Workshop.

2010-03-28T05:57:00.001-07:00

When the weather was still chilly Miss AP and myself began our 6 week party dress workshop on a Tues eve. This has been really challenging; to trace your own bodice block, to make a toille from scratch and make up a dress in 6 weeks is a tall order. All credit to our students, they've done marvellously.

We had no idea about what designs people would choose and lucky for us no-one wanted to make an Oscar gown. It was good sitting round a table and talking about the designs each person had chosen, they were all very different, just like the individuals in the room. We had a classic tailored dress,maxi dress, body-con stretch number and boned bodice to name a few. This workshop has been so succesful we have decided to run it again and it starts on Tues from 7-9 on April 27th for 6 weeks at a cost of £45. You will need sewing experience as the course is action packed.

New work for Alternative Fashion Week .April 21-23. Spitafields.

2010-03-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

This week I started to make stock for Alternative fashion week at Spitafields market. I'm sharing a stand with my beautifal and talented assistant Miss A P who runs ALQ Associates. She has been invited down to London to show her Women's and Menswear collection on the Wed. Our work is very different from each other so it will be very interesting to see how we divide the space. I brought some beautiful Makower cotton sateen from Barry's in Birmingham. I always thought that makower specialised in bridal fabric so was very suprised to see this fabulous print. I also brought it in a pale grey/turquiose combo and a wonderful sugar pink which had drawings of Brighton Pavilion all over it.

I have been an advocate of orange for years, so it's lovely to see it making a return. This print with carousels and fairground horses is enchanting. I'm really hoping that this dress will sell, It's a new style I'm trying it has a curved back and a contrast band on the hem with a little bit of vintage '70s trim. I'm doing other colourways too. I would like to see more people wearing orange and teaming it with hot pink or green, maybe stripes or polka dots......

The skirt in the background is my latest customising feature for Sew Hip magazine I think it may be Issue 19 which isn't out till about the end of April.

Photos for Elna sewing machines.

2010-03-21T06:09:00.000-07:00

Elna sewing machines sent me to the Knit and Stitch Show at Alexander palace last October. The response to my work and enthusiasm for textiles was overwhelming and gave me the kick up the jacksy I needed. Anyway, without waffling, they gave me the sewing machines for the Stitch and Bitch group and they're great machines very easy to use, straightforward and well built. Whilst most sewing machine manufacturers are very involved with the quilting and patchwork fraternity (they do have the most spare cash) Elna are trying to target the Customising, re-fashion and younger audience. That's why I'm involved. So Iv'e designed a basic skirt pattern, which should be simple enough for any beginner to make as it doesn't have a waistband or fiddley zips. I would really appreciate any feedback you would care to give, good or bad.

The fabric was from Bramble Patch in Weedon and that's my daughter she also models for www.alqassociatesukbrand.co.uk with my son.

First Knit Meet.....thanks for your support.

2010-03-21T05:33:00.000-07:00

On Saturday afternoon we held the first knit meet here at The Stitch and Make Studio. After Liz had rung everyone we had an impressive 15 people turn up. I was chuffed to bits. The atmosphere was wonderful as experienced knitters swapped techniques and helped the beginners, folks swapped tips and patterns. Other than make some cakes and put the urn on I just left them to it.

Anne Long is a lovely lady and she knits for her son James Long who is a menswear designer who is in his fifth season at London fashion week. He is currently in New York, having been sent by the Fashion Council alongside a group of very talented designers. Anne knits James's pieces and has recruited some of the ladies to help her. She is in the fledgling stages of having her own small studio on the floor below where she will be selling wool and knitting. I'm sure that this will be so popular if the feedback and enthusiasm on saturday is anything to go by.

My original idea for the studio was to provide a space which would be used to promote all aspects of "craft, creating, making and design" In the eight weeks since the studio has been opened it has been used for two fashion photoshoots, the stitch and bitch group, sewing workshops and a new knitting group. Next month I am having Dads and Lads starting and visits from Catmose College for workshops. If you would like to use the space or would like to get a group together for a visit and I can teach you something please get in touch. I'd love to help.

Customising Charity shop finds and next Knit Meet April 17th......These are both on the same day!!!! Thankfully I have a new sofa and plenty of space. The workshop runs all day from 10 till 4 and following a post on facebook we have only a few spaces left. Please get in touch if you would like to come along, this is a great day where you will learn loads of techniques and meet lots of interesting and enthusiastic people. Also the knit meet will be from 2-4 in the lounge area. The knit meet is free but there's a charge for tea and coffee, the workshop is £35. Can't wait
.

Knitting in Nan's Lounge.

2010-03-10T10:34:00.001-08:00

On Sat March 20th from 2-4pm we are inviting anyone interested in joining an informal knitting group to pitch up with their needles etc to The Stitch and Make Studio in Burns St Northampton. Where you will recieve a warm welcome, cup of tea and slice of cakey cakey cake.

New Homes Needed...for orphaned primates.

2010-03-07T02:17:00.000-08:00

On Saturday April 3rd and 10th from 10-12.30 We are running a Dad's and Lad's workshop. It's an alternative to football and McDonalds. We will show you how to make a cheeky monkey pal from an old pair of socks and the following week will be designing and stencilling T-shirts. This is going to be such fun!!!

It's not really exclusive to Dads and Lads but I thought that It would be a chance to do some "bonding" and get involved in an excellent activity at the same time. If you're a Grandparent you can come too. The cost for BOTH sessions is £35 for the pair. But we don't supply the T-shirt or the old socks! If you want your old man and kids out of the house so you can read the TV Quickie and stuff your face with Mint Viscounts, send them to me. I will do a discount for multiple siblings.

Workshop - Customising Charity Shop Finds...come and join in.

2010-03-07T01:55:00.001-08:00

In October I was lucky enough to have this T-shirt featured in Sew Hip. Apologies for the picture quality, I am fairly new to this. You could use the techniques I used on any type of clothing and they particularly look good as book covers. So I put together a workshop demonstrating loads of textile techniques as samples which could then be applied to anything you could imagine. Basically, if it doesn't move, cover it in fabric!

On Sat 24th April the wonderful Miss AP and myself are running our "Customising Charity Shop Finds" workshop from 10 till 4pm at a cost of £35. This is a great day of frenzied activity, plus you get the chance to rummage through my old fabrics, some of which are very precious. We will demo lots of different techniques which you can then try yourselves. In the afternoon we will show how you can use these techniques in your work and apply them. We have plenty of sewing machines (including the new Elna's) equipment and there's plenty of space to spread out. Unfortunately we don't feed you at lunchtime but there will be plenty of TEA and BICCIES for artistic sustenance, and you can take a well earned break in the nans knitting lounge.

If this kind of thing floats your boat (and I'm sure it will)
get in touch and I'll put your name and details on the list.

Friday fabric Barrys Birmingham bargains....

2010-03-05T09:56:00.001-08:00

Please don't serve the Bag Lady.

Today lovely Miss AP and I had a well earned day of fabric buying in Birmingham. Leon came with us (her wonderful fiance) to carry our bargains and supervised our road crossing, as we tend to get flustered when we see stalls of fabric at 50p a metre. We always go to Barrys which is on the Barford Road, just a few minutes walk from the rag market. The Rag Market is open on Tues, Fri and Saturday and fabrics and trims are as cheap as dirt. The Rag Market tends to close early in the afternoon so catch the train in the morning. For the three of us it's just seven pounds each.

The lovely ladies in Barry's weren't keen on me taking a photo as they're in the middle of having new shelving put in. I think it looks fabulous like this and although some of this fabric is quite old stock it feels like new because it's been moved around. As you can see from the pic some of the fabric is just a quid a metre and I bagged some beautiful floral chiffon in pinks and yellows.

At the till I blew the entire budget buy purchasing some amazing cotton satteen in 3 different colourways, very 1950's looking with carousels and hot air balloons on. Oh, how my heart sung as I parted with the money ! AP and Leon have been invited to show at Alternative Fashion Week at Spitafields in April (19th to 23rd)and we're sharing a stall, so I'm planning lots of yummy new dresses to sell. Can't wait to get cutting. I will put pics up of fabric in due course.

The opening night and workshops.

2010-02-28T06:03:00.000-08:00

Stunning new Studio: Open for work shops.

2010-02-28T05:57:00.001-08:00

Finally all the hard work has paid off and the Studio is open for business. My good friend Mrs Gibson has taken some wonderful photos to show you just how amazing this space is.

The Morning After........

2010-01-24T14:58:00.000-08:00

After the excitement of last night and 3 hours of washing up I decided to take a few pics and show you all where I'll be working from now on. I can't help having a small trace of envy in my voice. Monday morning's just can't come round quick enough. I have a range of workshops, just follow the link from my website Abijackson.com and you too can immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere of this lovely space. This shot is my little boutique area where I will be selling my one-off pieces alongside jewellery from Mrs Gibson, who makes the most wonderful buttony bracelets. I'll also be doing a featured Seller of the Month which I'm very, very excited about. Watch this space...

This is the Knitting Lounge area. I tried to amalgamate that '70's feeling and Saturday afternoon at nan's house, World of Sport on the tele some quality wrestling and haslet sandwiches for tea. Just out of shot is a clock with no hands on. Time stands still when you're creating in Nan's Lounge. We're hoping to set up regular knitting meets and just right of the picture we have a bookshelf with wonderful magazines like Selvedge and Craft alongside some wonderful books for all to share.

The Pointy Kitties are coming... At Stitch and Bitch, which I run with my lovely assistant Miss A.P we had the Pointy Kitty competition(pattern available from www.weewonderfuls.com) most of the group made a cat in thier own inimitable style and we put on a catshow in the Fishmarket in Northampton, where I used to be based. We invited members of the public to vote for their favourite and the winner recieved an atrocious amount of tat from various charity shops. These are the remaining members of the gang who now watch over me as I pattern cut.

My lovely friend Lyndsey gave me this lavender scented candle in a vintage tea-cup as a pressie last night. It smells so gorgeous and looks so pretty I tried to compose a picture around it, although I'm not that accomplished with the camera. My good friend Ace from Deathhouse who does the most amazing and intricate papercutting cut me a card with the Stitch studio's logo on thefront. The little green guy in the corner is Eddie who I made when I was demonstrating a papier mache workshop.

This final shot is the T-shirt which went into Sew Hip magazine. We use this as our example for customising charity shop finds workshop as it shows a very simple but eye-catching technique. My daughter's wearing this T-shirt on my website. I usually do more of these in summer and try to do a range of hand painted and applique one's as well. These usually sell v. well. I try to incorporate snippets of vintage fabrics, applique and hand painting to make something truly unique and individual.

Stitch and Make studio throws open it's doors.

2010-01-24T14:38:00.000-08:00

Hermione Alicia Thomas AKA my daughter got the opportunity to learn how to cue in records and do some scratching. This was after she discover that records have 2 sides and couldn't believe her luck when she discovered songs on the other side too!!After all she's been used to playing CD's her whole life. The wonderful Dan Brody and Lauren Hubbard treated us to some wonderful tunes, whilst we ate homemade cake and drank mulled cider.

The new Studio is divided into areas for pattern cutting,workshops,knitting lounge,sewing and shopping. There is also artists space and a small kitchen area at the back of the studio behind the door. It's like the Tardis. Good friends of mine Amelia Quiamboa and Leon Grant who run the label ALQ Associates sold from their exclusive range of clothing on the night. Artist Elke Pollard brought along her pencils and watercolours to amuse and amaze with impromptu guest portraits.

Sew Hip Magazine Article

2010-01-24T14:20:00.000-08:00

Here's my first ever article for Sew Hip magazine. I was really fortunate to meet the girls at The Knit and Stitch exhibition in Oct. I was on the stand next to them demonstrating on my wonderful new Elna machine. They photographed one of my T-shirts and asked if I'd like to write a few projects for the mag. I jumped at the chance. Heres's my first article, though I'd start with something quite easy. This corsage is made from all my little scraps and lovely snippets of fabrics, so satisfying to make. We're also running a workshop on how to make this corsage on a sat morning in April if anyone would like to sign up details are on my website Abijackson.com other projects I'll be doing will be a customised wrap A-line skirt, charity shop creatures and a Scrap and Strip bag.

Finishing Line In Sight.

2010-01-08T12:44:00.000-08:00

This is my son who has been working really hard helping get things ready (he's currently single)

Although it looks like I've taken pity on two Big Issue sellers. These two are very dear friends of mine. Lauren and Bill have been working really hard for very little reward (just tea and toast) to help get The Stitch and make Studio ready for the launch on Jan 23rd. That's my new wallpaper from e-bay...love it.

2010-01-06T06:50:00.001-08:00

2010-01-06T06:49:00.001-08:00

2010-01-06T06:47:00.001-08:00

Pages from sketchbook.

2010-01-06T06:43:00.001-08:00

I love working in my sketchbook, but dont get as much time as id like to. The snow gives me the perfect excuse to stay in and draw, drink tea and eat mince pies. Sheer bliss.

Linda Barker eat your eyes out!!!!

2010-01-05T15:39:00.000-08:00

This is my invention of a knob to hang something from, which also doubles as an attractive photo (or not) I got the pictures from The Bicycle Basket Bazaar, the frames from Ikea and the ceramic knobs from the very amazing and wonderful Anthropologie. I have combined all elements together to produce and item worthy of selling on Regretsy. I'm very proud of myself.

So initially I wanted to create a very chic and professional atmosphere for first time visitors to the Stitch and make Studio. As the project progressed however my true "bag lady on acid" nature emerged and I reverted back to type.

Something Got Me Started..... I don't think that Mick was really singing about my wallpaper, but one late night I was on E-bay looking for old wallpaper with a tiny yellow flowered sprig on it, so I brought this instead! well sometimes it just happens like that. It truly is an optical paradise and looks like it's been drawn with oil pastels. I have moved on with my decorating plans since then and more posts will follow....

New Years Eve 2009

2010-01-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

Whilst the world was preparing to celebrate with Lambrini and Twiglets. I was cleaning The Stitch and make Studio in my magical beetle-winged scrubbing helmet.

Who say's teenagers are a waste of time?

2009-12-20T11:23:00.000-08:00

In summer last year (how long ago does that seem?) I did papier mache workshops with teenagers which was great fun. We made beads, scampi brooches which are a single bead I put a tassle on and sew onto a brooch back. I think It looks like a scampi, and that's because I'm a glasses wearing vegetarian gaylord. The other workshop was a purse based on a logcabin patchwork which we sewed on the machine.

Hand Made Beads...so tasty they will blow your eye-balls from their sockets.

2009-12-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

For your delight.......some pics of a papier mache bead making workshop which I do. Out of all the workshops I teach, this one's my favourite....so far. I do a little demo using a little triangle of paper and build it up from there. The best bit is getting the soldering iron out and burning the s**t out of it at the end. What a stink!!! The personality of the individual really comes out in these beads and I've had one women make a solitary bead in two and a half hours although it was truly exquisite. Teenagers, on the other hand can make loads to go on bracelets in about an hour. I am planning to teach this workshop at the studio in the Spring/summer and will be

posting sessions on my website shortly.

Fabric felt workshop

2009-12-15T03:19:00.001-08:00

Tues morning wolverton library

2009-12-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

Someone will say to me "I've got some old fabric, do you want it?" and my heart will lift ..."Yes please". Then I get a bag of old smelly crimplene skirts, nylon shirts and navy lining. Very, very occasionally I'll get some barkcloth 1950's curtains, Saundersons chintz and beautiful Liberty. Which I make into my clothes. I finish off using free motion embroidey, hand stitches, or both.

Some examples of work, mostly elderly.

2009-12-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

So here are some pics of work which I 've done. I'll be selling pieces on Etsy when I've settled into the studio. One thing at a time.....I keep telling myself.

Charity Shop Challenge.

2009-12-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

In Sept 2008 two friends and myself challenged each other to not buy new clothing from the High St for a year. Actually, that's not so much of a challenge cos most of the stuff is badly made, totally unoriginal, boring and overpriced. We allowed ourselves to buy underwear and footwear new. We got some major bargains like a Vivienne Westwood coat for a tenner I customised stuff and sold other bits in my shop. We were featured in the local lifestyle magasine "Image" and I personally saved around £700 I only slipped up once when I slipped into a trance in TKMaxx nad left with a green cardi, but I confessed immediately and sold it to my mum. As for the challenge Sept 09 came and went and we still haven't returned to the High St.

Anyway, Ive got some pics of Charity shopping and hunting for the Gunness book of records.......enjoy.

Make It...Green Screen Festival.

2009-12-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

In July of this year The Make It group put on a 3-day Film and Craft festival and it was awesome (a word which I don't normally use) We procured the film Handmade nation by Faythe Levine, a film about the renegade handmade craft movement in the US. It was truly an inspiration. We also built a crafty tree and hung free craft packs from this, we put the tree on a meadow of astro-turf where people sat at night to watch the film and knit. We offered free workshops in bunting making, patchwork cushion making and a giant knitting nancy. On the Saturday we had the unique and wonderful Bicycle Basket Bazaar and the soft bench (a knitting project I'm involved in and will write about later) The Community Foundation gave us the funding which was a very wise move on their part.

"Will we ever be accepted by society?"...lets hope not.

2009-12-12T12:47:00.000-08:00

A group of us Artist/Makers who met at the Fishmarket in Northampton set up a not for profit community group in Summer. So we went took to the road like a latter-day troupe of merry tinkers and vagabonds to spread good cheer with our badge making and bunting. Here are some pics of us at the Umbrella Fair, which was on the Racecourse in August this year.

First photos of my new born studio... Dec 10th 2009

2009-12-10T14:59:00.000-08:00

How very exciting. My first ever post. So please excuse my first fumbly attempts.

This is above Trashy Flowers which is a fantastic Vintage retro and clothing warehouse on Burns St. The retail side is on Abington Square. The Burns St site is going to be the location of the Stitch and Make Studio in Northampton a positive hive of industrious stitching and making, wonderful workshops and loads of other activities which you can follow and also get involved in.

This space now has a stud wall across it with a door in. The rather fetching range of Euro-trash undies have now gone somewhere else and I have put a stud wall across with a door in it, well not me personally, a builder... who refused to wear the very tight dungarees and white vest I insisted were EU Safety directorate requirements. Anyway here, are some more pics.

Working Hard

2009-11-10T00:54:00.000-08:00