So Tread Softly...

sweet things

Today I've needed a few of these to keep me going

I'm flagging a wee bit but remarkably, I'm still on target for this weekends fair. I'm off to Wellington over the next couple of days for a conference relating to my regular job, so was pleased to get a few more things ticked off the To Do list.

These needle felted balls that look almost edible were decorated with seeds beads and made into brooch pins.

Someone else had his eye on them as well!

 

{sigh} - you turn your back for one minute!!!

I really enjoyed making these necklace pendants out of  French antique letters and photos. Well, they are for the French Fair after all. Knew that soldering iron would come in handy one day!

Can I say a big THANK YOU for all of your comments over the past couple of posts. I do my best to reply to each of them but this week it's just beaten me. Know that I always appreciate them.

Until next time..

and breath

It's the Wairarapa Balloon Festival this week so each morning we've woken up to the breathy sound of hot air and wonderfully colourful sights floating over the top of our little wooden cottage.

Did you see that the moon was still up in the first picture?

There's something very peaceful and tranquil about balloons sailing by. It really is a great way to start the day - standing in the garden in your pyjamas on dewy grass, neck stretched, gently breathing in and out in time with the hot air pressure, cat by your side. In fact, Trumpet hasn't left my side today. Usually he's out and about chasing butterflies and climbing trees but today he's been content to sit on my craft table, watching me choose buttons and sew. Sigh…

Until next time...

shared easter moment

images: anoushka making a necklace from vintage glass beads

One of my favourite moments over the Easter break was spending time jewellery making with my god daughter. So grateful to have her in my life.

time spent

It's been a bit quiet on the blogging front of late as Mr Tread Softly and I have been away on holiday exploring Christchurch and Akaroa on New Zealand's South Island. We also managed to catch up for dinner with the super glamorous Poppy Black and her husband. Wonderful to meet her in person. We spent the entire evening me, talking for England and her, for New Zealand! Looking forward to the next time

image: sunset over Christchurch. PB on left, me on right

Time was also spent...

...here, at our little homestay...

...sitting on sea grass chairs in the garden with a mountain of books...

...and occasionally glancing up to take in the fabulous view...

...walking along hilltops...

...along jetties...

...and along promenades at dusk...

We're home now, refreshed and ready to start preparing for probably my favourite and final fair of the season, The French Fair.

Until next time...

fabric source tip

The second Martinborough Fair was a huge success. The weather was kind, I met some great people and sold some hand mades along the way. I'm busy working now towards the French Fair that takes place the first weekend in April. I'm finding it difficult to get going this week. I think what I should have done was to put one day aside to get new supplies but with a planned holiday with Mr TS on the horizon, I was eager to get sewing and replenish my stock. I did, however, find time to buy a new pair of shoes that I LOVE.

I spend heaps on fabric. Surprised? Didn't think so. I like to buy as much as I can from Op Shops and garage sales but I've also recently discovered the joys of the home decor store. We have one in our small town and they have rows of rows of sample fabrics that you can order. Every once in a while they stop stocking a certain line so bundle up the samples and sell them at $2 a roll. I came away this week having spent $14 on a bag crammed with beautiful gauze linens and cottons. Ideal for applique and smaller crafts. Here are some of my favourites...

These were metre lengths

I know that many of the decor stores just throw their samples away so it's well worth popping in and asking them to save them for you.

Until next time...