Wonderful book from Alabama Studio

My goodness.   Thank you Alabama Studio.

In the true spirit of Christmas (????) I have committed that common crime of buying myself a Xmas present or two perhaps more often that I bought one for someone else.   I go shopping so rarely that being forced into the world of shops and pretty goods - I find myself going "ohhh, that's nice - might get that for myself" with frightening frequency. Not confined to physical shops, it also happened when I was online finding some books for friends and family.   I have ended with 3 for myself.... is this so wrong?

However, I can't feel bad about it because one of those books was Alabama Studio Sewing + Design by Natalie Chanin.   I found it very difficult to focus at work today once I opened the Alabama Studio book and couldn't wait to get home, tuck in to a chair, and get reading.

I have devoured this book.   It is truly hands-down the most helpful, un-naff, stylish, creative sewing book I have read to date.   No more frilly apron patterns or plastic bag holders - these guys have packed so many useful hints, tips, techniques, and styles into this book I feel I need to say thanks irrespective of having paid for the book.   The instructions for stitch styles are very clear.   The designs are effective.   And the generosity of laying bare all these wonderful ideas just makes you feel lucky to read the book (in a day of meagre offerings and stretching things out to make more money - it is so enjoyable to find a book that keeps giving on every single page).

I am very keen to try out some of these techniques which will all be very new to me.   If I can get myself organised in the next week, I might be able to take a few portable projects with me to pass some time whilst camping over the holidays.

Pleated handbag

I picked up this fabric at a fabricabrac sale and knew it would be perfect for a couple of bags as the prints are so eye catching and happy.

Recently I finally decided to action the plan (rather than think about the plan).  And here are the results. 

I think they have turned out great. I made the bags quite large so they are almost totes, fitting all you stuff and a book easily. This meant I only had enough fabric for one bag each, but I think its worth it. It makes them absolute one-offs.

Am in the process of popping these three handbags up on my felt site.

A very bleak Fair day

Spent yesterday at the Thordon Fair.   A friend was having her first market stall and as its always easier with 2 people, I offered to help.   I also threw a few things out on her stall to flesh it out.   She was selling some intricate smock dresses for little girls.

And what a horrid day Wellington turned on for the Fair.   It has been glorious weather prior and its glorious weather after.   But Sunday, the day was terrible - gale force winds that blew everything over (including taking people's gazebos into nearby trees), and generally kept you on your toes.   It had rained up until an hour before set-up and we are thankful the rain held off for the day, but the clouds sort of blew through the street, lending a real chill to the air.   And of course, this kept the crowds away - lets face it: I wouldn't have got off the couch if I hadn't been involved. 
 
So, all and all, not the best foray into the world of fairs for my friend, but certainly a realistic one. 

My highlights included (i) buying this toffee apple that I'm going to eat tonight.
 
(ii) acquiring this teapot to match the mugs I'd bought the previous year.   I love this design and love the quirky shape.   I figure if I keep buying an item every time I attend a fair where this talented potter has a stall, I'll eventually have the whole set.