Kloth and Bolt

White Christmas Dress

2010-12-21T16:52:00.000-08:00

There is something so sweet about little girls in all white dresses. Last night when I couldn't sleep, I planned out how to use this scrap from the backing to Mark's quilt. Perfect for Scout's Christmas dress, when she tried it on she looked adorable. Her comment..."no like it, no no". Is she crazy? Are my days of dressing her over? She's not even 2 yet! -kb

Custom Tea Towel Info

2010-12-20T14:01:00.000-08:00

I've had a few questions on the tea towels and tea towel blanks. Here's the info:

Tea Towels are 100% Linen

Measure 19 3/4 x 27 1/4 inches (50x69 cms)

For quantities of 10+ I will print your design in a single color, cost $7 + shipping.

For smaller quantities or multi color - send me an email with your requirements and I'll see what I can do.

email: klothandbolt at gmail dot com

If you are after tea towel blanks, send me email as well and I'll give you all the fun info!

Too late for Christmas this year, but lots of other great crafty uses. -kb

PJ's

2010-12-19T14:13:00.001-08:00

Mark's mom hinted heavily that she wanted a pair of these PJ's for Christmas this year, so her wish was granted in pink. We exchanged gifts over the weekend as her and my father in-law are headed to Perth for the holidays. She loved them. I wrapped them with a few other handmade items (lavender sachets, shopping bag etc), she was delighted.

I made the same ones for my sister in-law last year, they are really my all time favorite pants, super super wide, but super super comfy. I like to hem them with an extra wide and heavy hem, helping them fall perfectly and at your ankle when snuggled in bed!

I am plowing through my to do list, just need to take a few photos of what I've been up to...there's been no slacking here!-kb

Hex Tea Towel

2010-12-10T19:43:00.000-08:00

I had a few extra tea towel blanks left after I made the Mothers Group Christmas gifts, so I decided to try a few designs. This one is for me...my Hex obsession continues...-kb

Custom Tea Towels for Mothers Group

2010-12-09T19:37:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow is our annual Mothers Group Christmas party. The kids are very excited so should be a very fun afternoon. As a gift for the mom's this year I made tea towels. I created a quick graphic of all of the kids names and screen printed onto high quality 100% linen tea towels. I printed in two colors and have tied one of each together with a single red ribbon. I am really happy with how these came out, simple and so handy to have in the kitchen? -kb

Details on how to order from me here.

33

2010-11-21T13:21:00.000-08:00

33 sounds so old, but I don't feel so old. Yes rubber car mats get me excited, my bookshelf now includes books about canning, but I've not lost my gusto at all. I like to think I am now a more refined version of my 22 year old self! Here is Scout and I at the beach celebrating the big day. -kb

To Do List

2010-11-19T02:17:00.000-08:00

So super happy...my sewing machine is back and actually fully functional. Yippee. Now for my very long to do list, all of this, plus Christmas, kids, three birthdays and oh yeah and I am sorta looking for a new job. It's about to get busy around here!

1. 1. Make lavender sachets for Luca’s teacher gifts – with Luca’s help

2. Screen print linen tea towels for Christmas

3. Make Heart hex block

4. Stitch embroidered Pillow

5. Finish Mark’s cross quilt

6. Finish Anna Voile quilt

7. Cover two bricks + tutorial

8. Make pajama shorts for Scout

9. Make shearing dress for me

10.Make shearing dressing for Scout

11. Grocery bags/totes w/leather handles

Agapanthus

2010-11-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

Some may consider agapanthus weeds, but they are some of my favs. Photos from our front garden. -kb

Spring Garden In Bloom

2010-11-10T16:21:00.001-08:00

Broken

2010-11-08T13:39:00.000-08:00

My poor sewing machine is broken, I am so bummed. Here I have about 1000 projects planned...umm...and about 10 half finished, and no sewing machine. Apparently I need a whole new mother board (expensive computer component), it's already been a two weeks and I am stressing that it could be another two or three until I have her back!

In the mean time I've had plenty of time to work on this. This is a hex quilt I am making for Scout's bed. She will most likely move into her own "big girl bed" next October, so I have another 11 months to finish. At the moment the whole piece is measuring 25 inches square. This little sewing machine hiatus should hopefully help me add quite a bit more. -kb

Second Ice Cream Top

2010-10-22T21:52:00.000-07:00

Ice Cream Top

2010-10-20T20:31:00.000-07:00

Ages ago when Amy was hosting the Ice Cream Social I had a million other things on, including a job that was keeping me very busy. Now that I've left work and have a little more time on my hands I'm catching up. I loved this top by Kristine so decided on View C of this lovely Oliver + S pattern. I had just enough Anna Maria cotton voile from a quilt I am working on, so have made two tops for Scout. Just a hem left on the second. Scout's summer wardrobe is starting to look fabulous. -kb

Bananas and Chocolate

2010-10-19T16:32:00.000-07:00

Bananas and Chocolate...yummm...is there anything better? My banana bread recipe + chocolate chips baked in mini-muffin tins. The kids have devoured them. -kb

Home Love and SISTER2Sister

2010-10-18T16:21:00.000-07:00

Last night I was thrilled to attend a fundraiser for SISTER2Sister hosted by the lovely Catherine Swan. Enjoyed chatting with girlfriends, watching "Eat Pray Love" and winning an excellent raffle prize, a copy of Megan Morton's book "Home Love". A fantastic night with fantastic friends for a fantastic organization. -kb

Evie's Enchino Quilt

2010-10-17T02:18:00.000-07:00

Some very close friends had a new little addition this week, "Evie". She arrived 10 days early, so I was quickly trying to finish this Enchino beehive quilt. My sewing machine had a few other ideas, I was only able to get 5 of the flowers completed. The free motion setting just kept jamming over and over and over. Clearly my machine needs a service!

I struggled to find a binding I was happy with, in the end I settled on the white. Overall I think the binding looks great on the beehive side but sorta ok on the stripe side. The fabric was from my stash, some I purchased in Tokyo ages ago, just waiting for the right project.

I gave the quilt to little Evie today, and promised her Mum and Dad that as soon as my machine was repaired I would fix up those flowers. -kb

Popover Sundress

2010-10-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't done much sewing for Scout since she was born. She is finally growing out of all of those dresses and tunics my mom and I made for her almost 2 years ago. With the weather warming up I have started to make her a few things for summer. First up was the Popover Sundress from Oliver + S. This pattern is a free download on their blog, fantastic little summer dress, quick and easy to make. I used some Liberty from my stash and some daisy trim my mom sent over in a care package. Looks cute with a tee under for Spring and will be perfect for the warm summer days ahead. -kb

Spring Garden

2010-09-30T06:03:00.000-07:00

Photos from our spring garden.

Ray

2010-09-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

I check here every other week, fingers crossed Ray will tour in Australia. To my excitment he was in Seattle for one night when we were also going to be in Seattle. I snapped up tickets quickly!

We arrived just in time for the first song, after 7 hours in the car driving from Eastern Oregon. He was fantastic! I loved every second and wished he would have sung for a bit longer! After the concert we had dinner at Hatties Hat (chicken fried chicken, creamed corn and garlic mash). It was like the best night ever! -kb

Shells

2010-09-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

My sister collected these shells during our 4 day visit to Decatur Island in the San Juans. I only snapped the picture. They remind me so much of the beach when I was growing up, so very different from the beach where we live now. I think I have always been very lucky to live near the beach, be it ocean or lake, now giving my kids the opportunity to grow up on the beach couldn't make me happier. -kb

Pastis

2010-09-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

I bought some pastis for a recipe (was ok, not great so I won't share). I am a huge fan of black licorice and love pastis! I had forgotten the lovely taste, my current weakness is a small glass while making dinner....soooo yummy and makes me feel like I am back in Paris! (I have no idea if Ricard is even good quality, it was the only pastis my local bottle shop had) -kb

Cross Quilt

2010-09-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

Mark has asked me to make him a quilt. He seems to be annoyed that I make them and give them away. During our trip I drug him (literally) into the fabric store to pick out the fabrics he wanted. He already mentioned he wanted a series of crosses. Here is my WIP, not my usual colors, but I think it will come out well. I am going to make this one big, big enough for two to snuggle under! -kb

Purl Soho

2010-09-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn Bridge

Purl Soho is one of my all time favorite online shops for fabric and yarn. I browse their blog often, have a number of their books and generally love love love Purl. During our trip to the US we spent 5 days in NYC kid free. We had an absolute blast, sleeping in, eating out, shopping and visiting with friends.

Mark and I split up for one full day, to explore the city solo. My first stop, Purl Soho. They had a leak...they were flooding...they were closed. I was so disappointed, I stood in the window read the sign a few times and generally tried to get a peak in at the displays etc. A super nice lady opened the door told me they wouldn't be opening again that day and gave me a nice little Purl canvas bag with some freebies. We were leaving the next day, so my one and only chance lost. I was crushed, and even walked by again just to see if the opened at the end of the day.

After reading Suzy's post today I was once again dreaming of another trip to NYC and hopefully an actual inside the doors visit to Purl. In the meantime, it's online for me! Thank goodness the Aussie dollar is doing so well! -kb

Nanny Needed!

2010-09-22T17:15:00.000-07:00

We've just arrived home from a fantastic 3 1/2 week holiday to the States. We had a number of exciting adventures including NYC, Sisters, Portland, Seattle and the San Juans. Back to reality and our house looks like it's been tipped upside down, we've got about 100 loads of laundry, and a long long to do list!

Only one small problem, our fantastic nanny has had to leave to return to Brazil due to immigration dramas! This is really hard for Luca and Scout who absolutely loved her. Also difficult for me as I would love to be getting through the to do list, however anything that involves the computer, sewing machine, phone or generally our office is met with loud screaming and "mommying" from both!

If you know of any nannies who are looking for a full time 40+ hour role in Sydney, let me know. We have live in accommodation if needed in our private guest house.

More exciting blog posts to come, in the mean time here is a photo of me in front of the very famous Stitching Post in Sisters Oregon. We attended a wedding at Black Butte Ranch, just down the road. It wasn't until we were on our way that I figured out that Sisters is quite the quilting destination! Will share my purchases soon! -kb

Tape Pirate

2010-08-19T20:52:00.000-07:00

A little fun with Japanese Tape. A boat was later made to float in the pool. Luca is going through a big pirate phase, we'll see if it last until December, if so sounds like a pirate party for his 4th birthday. Ahoy! -kb

Catch Up

2010-06-29T20:16:00.000-07:00

I’ve been absent here for the last few months. I have been happily busy with all sorts of goodness.

Here is a quick sampling:

Saw SATC – LOVED IT, I don’t care what the critics have to say, it was entertaining and fun. The clothes and décor were fabulous.
Have started using Moroccanoil on my hair…seriously amazing!
I am almost done with an hourglass quilt for my sister, not posting pics, she know’s I’ve made it, so I am trying to leave something a surprise. I used these two tutorials for what turned out to be very speedy quilt top.
Went to the Craftroom last month, was such a space cadet that I forgot my cutting mat and had nothing to do. I literally sat for two hours munching on snacks and flipping through a few books that Claire brought. Love these ladies and very excited about the Craft Sunday at the end of the month.
Have recently finished a few books:
The Elegance of the Hedgehog – Loved
The Pages – Like, but did not like the characters, I couldn’t identify with any of them.
Three Cups of Tea – Loved
The Harp in the South - Loved
Mark and I finished season 3 of Mad Men, I am now ready to start it all over again. How great are the clothes!
I’ve been doing heaps of cooking lately, these cookies have to be the all time best ever, when choc chips are added of course. Luca and I keep making them every week when we are “being chefs”.
It was raining here non-stop, we’ve planted peas and broccoli in the garden, peas are doing fine I think the broccoli has drowned! Oranges and lemons are hanging from every branch of our trees, they taste fantastic! Sun is now out, but it's freezing! Fingers crossed for a decent winter garden.
We’ve booked a 4 week trip home to the states in Aug/Sept, I can’t wait to see my sisters new house in person!

I would like to say I’ll try to post more often, but in reality we’ll see…-kb

Pillows

2010-04-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

It’s amazing how new pillows can totally transform your bed. Mark commented how sophisticated our bed looked with these two new additions. The bed has been made every day since I made them! Fabric Alexander Henry, Heath from Tessuti vintage buttons from my stash. -kb

Holly

2010-04-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

Image: Hop Skip Jump

I’ve been searching everywhere for a doll for Scout. I wanted something timeless that would last and stand the test of many a night sleep, car trip, plane trip etc. I ordered “Holly” from Hop Skip and Jump. She is perfect, no other way to describe. Perfect. I’ve already started making a few other outfits so Scout can dress her up for different occasions. Scout loves her! –kb

Giraffe for Abe

2010-04-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

My little nephew Abe is growing so fast, I try to send a package over to him every few months. This month over went some hand-me downs from Luca, one of the kids favorite books "Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge" by Mem Fox and a giraffe softie.

I used a Melly and Me pattern, that I've made a few times before. It takes about 10 min for me to whip out the body and legs, and about 3 hours to do those tiny horns, ears mane and tale. There was much cursing this round, don't love how the eyes came out and I have have unfortunately left a tiny spot of blood on the nose after pricking myself with the needle! I think I've decided I need to bite the bullet and buy a turning tool. Anyone have one? Recommendations? -kb

Skirt

2010-04-19T20:27:00.000-07:00

(image courtsey of Sparkle Power)

After spotting this adorable skirt on Sparkle Power (seriously what a great blog name), I left a comment saying I’d love one. The fabric is just so fresh and cute for a little girl. Lucky for me Candace is selling some in her etsy shop for an incredibly reasonable $10. My order arrived yesterday for Scout…now if I can just convince her to make me one in my size! –kb

chandelier

2010-03-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

Free tee from a friend + cute embroidery from Sublime Stitching = super cute new shirt for Scout. -kb

Picnic Blanket

2010-03-19T21:11:00.000-07:00

Sydney winters are perfect for picnics. The weather is rarely cold cold, but is usually crisp and mild. Since we've lived here we've made weekend picnics a priority in Autumn and Winter. In summer it is just too hot to be sitting in the blazing sun, and most of our time is spent at the beach or in the pool. Last year as we were enjoying a fantastic lunch squished on a tiny blanket I was a bit embarrassed that we had been using the smallest freebie blanket given to me ages ago at work. It was complete with logo and horrible fluorescent green fleece. I've made a new picnic blanket to be kept in the car, ready for use at any time.

The quilt was put together with some of the Amy Butler fabric I purchased in WA last year. The sashing is a dark cream linen I had in my stash and I was able to piece together a number of different pieces of left over batting from my stash for the entire quilt. Overall I am very happy with how it came out, there are flaws here and there, and I am now much more well prepared to try a 9 patch style quilt again. I made a quick draw string bag to keep in the car, just to keep things nice and tidy. No corporate logos, no florescent and best of all it is big, really big, big enough for all four of us.

Luca and Scout both took a keen interest in the project, Luca handed me endless pins, helped me lay out the backing and told me stories as I quilted away. Scout mostly just sprawled out the quilt with the biggest smile on her face every time I spread it out to have a look at how it was coming along. When it came to taking the photos Luca insisted he be part of the fun.

Tomorrow we are off to the zoo followed by a picnic...I can't wait. -kb

Olive's Friend Pop

2010-03-11T16:11:00.001-08:00

I couldn't resist these two from the lovely Olive's Friend Pop for Scout this winter. I would so love these in my size! Loving their new Spring collection as well...-kb

feather

2010-03-09T19:38:00.000-08:00

I loved the porcelain feather I first spotted here. Since then I've come across them in the pages of a few glossie magazines. Saturday Luca and I ventured into Paddington to check out Matilda's. We had a fantastic time and found some lovely bits, after while devouring our cupcakes, we walked to Society Inc. (amazing by the way) where I found this little porcelain feather. I am not much of a knick-knack collector, but this was too lovely to pass up. -kb

Skirt

2010-03-06T15:03:00.000-08:00

With autumn fast approaching I've decided Scout needs some new clothes. Corduroy has to be one of my all time favorite fabrics. This fabric was purchased from Leslie ages ago with no particular project in mind, I added a bit of Mokuba trim I picked up at Tessuti this week and she is set. I've made this type of skirt many times before but picked up some handy tips from this tutorial, quick 20 min project with great results. While I am making my way through my stash...my self imposed fabric shopping ban was broken...I just couldn't pass up two lovely fabrics in Tessuit. -kb

Praying Mantis

2010-03-04T18:07:00.000-08:00

I mentioned we had visitors in February, here is one that we quickly escorted back to the garden. -kb

Oh Anthro How I’ve Missed You!

2010-03-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

Placing my first order shipped directly to Australia! Yippee! So many goodies to choose from…..and you make it so easy…displaying all of the prices in AUD…

PS Do you think you could tell your friend JCrew how easy it is to ship to Australia?

Feb just flew by

2010-03-02T20:47:00.000-08:00

February just flew by, between visitors from overseas, work trips to Singapore and Luca starting pre-school it's been a busy month. Not much time for sewing. I've picked up a few of my post holiday projects and am looking forward to a much quieter March! The first part of a big project is being delivered on March 10th, this one will involve a lot of paint...should be interesting. Above the binding waiting to be hand sewing on to a new car/picnic quilt I've been working on here and there for a few months. I am on the home stretch! -kb

Totally dorky purchases that have been making me super happy or Am I getting old?

2010-01-30T22:38:00.000-08:00

New Car – Best feature, the rubber floor mats…so easy to clean!
Laundry detergent canister – I just could not take one more day of the powder spilling everywhere.

What happened to the days of new heels, jewlery and convertibles??? I am so getting old! -kb

Robot with Two Faces

2010-01-30T22:27:00.000-08:00

I made a little robot for a friend who just had a little boy this week. While making the robot Luca spotted me and asked if I could make him one. He helped me line up the front and back, and helped with the stuffing. He was actually super helpful. He calls this robot, his robot with two faces as both sides are the same just different color ways. The fabric is Kristen Doran and made for a quick 10 min. project with excellent results. -kb

mixer

2010-01-30T00:26:00.000-08:00

When we left the US I had to leave behind my kitchen aid mixer. The power was simply not compatible. I miss my kitchen aid, I've not got around to buying a new one here in Australia, I've used a hand mixer and good old fashioned elbow power when needed. When I bought Scout her birthday present I have to admit I loved it, but my fingers were crossed hoping she would (somewhat selfish I know). She LOVES her Le Toy Van Honeybake set, she literally sits at her little table and plays for 30 min. plus! With this adorable mixer who can blame her, maybe if I had a kitchen aid I wouldn't want to leave the kitchen either? -kb

needles

2010-01-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

I was gifted an old bag found in the back of a closet full of every size knitting needle I could imagine. These once belonged to my husbands grandmother and I feel so lucky to be the recipient. Along with all of the needles were some very old balls of wool and a number of handwritten patterns. I don't do much knitting, but these needles and patterns have inspired me to pick a project for winter. -kb

super ideas

2010-01-21T18:25:00.000-08:00

I read a lot of blogs. I used google reader because I love the feature where you can star and categorize things for later.

This week I used two of my "stars". From my recipe stars this recipe for Enchiladas....AMAZING, spotted at Creative Little Daisy. They were so so so yummy, my husband was licking the plate. They have officially been added into our family's favorites. I did add some extra bits, but the basic idea for the filling remained the same. Who knew, cream cheese in Enchilads would be a winning combo? (sorry Fran another very very cheesey recipe)

Second from my sewing tutorials stars I used this helpful tutorial orginially spotted on Suzy's blog. This has got to be the quicket way to make triangles! I made 3 lavendar sachets for a friends birthday in about 10 min. They look fantastic and far more complex thanks to this little tip. Sometimes (well really always) I love blog land. Thanks for the super ideas ladies! -kb

Napkins

2010-01-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

On Saturday one of my good friends from my Mothers Group turned 40. We had a fantastic night out to dinner with the girls. For the occasion I made her a set of 6 linen cocktail napkins with a flower print. My husband has a print gocco, this was the second time I've used it and I have to say I am totally addicted! They turned out fabulous, much better than I expected. I quickly made another 6 in green for another friend. Now my mind is racing with what else I can gocco. -kb

Stuffed Shells

2010-01-18T15:45:00.000-08:00

Tonight for dinner we are having one of my absolute fav meals and the bonus is we are using fresh tomatoes from our garden! I’ve seen many variations on this same recipe, here is my version:

Stuffed Shells

Mix together:
3-4 cups Ricotta (I used low fat)
1 cup of grated or shredded parmesan cheese
½ cup grated/shredded mozzarella cheese
2-3 eggs
Black pepper

I am not super specific with the measurements, sometimes use more or less of the above depending on what we’ve got on hand.

Combine 1 can diced tomatoes with juice, ½ cup chicken stock, black pepper and 1 cup of fresh whole cherry tomatoes in a glass baking dish. Sprinkle with some torn fresh basil.

Pre cook 1 package super large pasta shells. Fill each of the shells (with a spoon) with the cheese mixture. Place the shells in the glass baking dish with the tomato mixture.

Bake at 175C for 30-45 min. Serve warm also make leftovers the next day. -kb

Flower Pom-Poms

2010-01-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

We had a small family birthday party for Scout last weekend, I can not believe she will be one year old next week! Where has the last year gone? For the party my niece and I made a whole bunch of these flowers using a Martha Stewart tutorial. They were easy, adorable and the perfect accent for a very simple girly celebration. -kb

Rainy day lollies

2010-01-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon it was rainy and dreary, how best to entertain a 3 year old? Fill him up with sugar! Luca and I made Lolli Pops using this recipe as first seen here. They were so quick, basically mess free and yummy. I added about 1 tsp. of vanilla at the time I added the coloring just to give them a bit more flavor. We will be making these again! -kb

Pickles

2010-01-09T00:13:00.000-08:00

I LOVE pickels...alway have...always will. All kinds...oh and relish I really like pickled relish. So this year when we grew cucumbers with great success and abundance in the garden I naturally had to make some pickles. I used this recipe from Martha Stewart for my first attempt, overall I am very happy. Am also thinking of giving this recipe from Jelly Wares a try with the next few cucumbers to come off the vine! -kb

Hex Patch

2010-01-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

These were Luca's jeans...they were adorable! However as I am quickly learning boys tend to wear holes in the knees of their jeans by about the second wear. They are now officially too small for him, inspired by this post ages ago I thought I could patch these up for Scout. When winter comes along she'll be set with a very cute pair of jeans. One of my favorite kinds of recycling! (oh and yes the hex quilt is finished, gifted for Christmas before I took a photo, will post pics etc when I get a photo)-kb

The Favorite Gift

2009-12-30T11:23:00.000-08:00

Opera House wooden toy...my favorite gift the kids received...as you can already see it's spent some time in the Scout's mouth. Luca loves it and continues to build and rebuild over and over, Scout just keeps chewing. -kb

The Kids

2009-12-30T02:38:00.000-08:00

These two had a blast. Luca is the perfect age for Christmas and Scout couldn't have been happier with all of the paper to rip (and eat) and all of the kids to play and run after.

Our Christmas Card

2009-12-30T02:28:00.000-08:00

The Flowers

2009-12-29T02:29:00.000-08:00

These have graced the table all week, while not traditionally Christmas-y, the color is perfect and for some reason I just love them.

The Tree

2009-12-29T02:23:00.000-08:00

Here starts my christmas roundup...first up the tree....

Toms

2009-12-09T02:15:00.001-08:00

I went to a party on Saturday night...a friend was wearing a pair of these. They were ADORABLE. A white tee and a pair of jeans she was the best dressed...I think a silver pair is will soon appear on my wish list...

old now new

2009-12-05T14:36:00.000-08:00

Once a long long time ago I had a stamp collection. I was maybe 8 and an "avid" collector. I was very lucky to be on the receiving end of a family member who gave me his collection and to have so many friends and family passing their stamps from around the world to me.

During my big "spring clean" a few weeks ago, I found the stamp collection. I opened it and looked through for the first time in 20 years. I am no longer the "avid" collector, however when I closed the book and placed it back on the shelf I just couldn't stop thinking about some of my favorites.

I've chosen my favorites and famed below an heirloom of Mark's, the radio dial from our antique radio (the dial was removed as the back of the radio is now a shelf). I am so happy with the stamps and love that something old is now new again. -kb

Embroidery

2009-12-02T00:52:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I bought this screen print at the Stitches and Craft show from the lovely ladies at Prints Charming. I am sure at least a 1000 other people went home with the same pattern but I still couldn't resist putting it in a little frame after I had embroidered round and round. Our hallway now has a new piece of art (if you can call it that!). -kb

On my nightstand

2009-12-01T01:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T01:36:00.000-08:00

We are in Noosa QLD on holiday...no Turkey feast for us as they were all at the beach! -kb

In Bloom

2009-11-12T03:15:00.000-08:00

Our garden is coming into full bloom and I am loving how mature our plants have become and how nice it is to have flowers mixed in with the veggies and plants.-kb

Melbourne Cup Horses

2009-11-03T13:13:00.000-08:00

My mothers group has an annual party for the Melbourne Cup. I hosted this year, most of the afternoon was spent in the pool as it was 35 and steamy! Highlight of the day...adorable horse pastries made by one of the other moms. Such a great idea, puff pastry cut out as horses topped with sprinkles and some powdered sugar. Adorable! -kb

Spring cleaning for a cause?

2009-10-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

I've been doing some serious spring cleaning...kids clothes, my clothes, cupboards etc. all getting a good clear out. Donations being made, items listed on ebay and packages of hand-me-downs sent to family. Am planning to treat myself to one of these adorable and very eco-friendly cups with my ebay earnings...the house will be tidier, the environment will be less filled with my coffee cups and I'll be none the happier.-kb

on my night stand

2009-10-20T13:49:00.001-07:00

Quilt 7

2009-10-16T02:05:00.000-07:00

This project is coming along very well...I've started on part two. Not much posting going on here, just focusing on all of the projects I have unfinished...-kb

Spring Flowers

2009-09-26T20:16:00.000-07:00

These little lovelies arrived in the mail the other day...Emerson made. Her site is super quirky and her style is uncompromisingly beautiful. -kb

Princess and the pea goes to work...

2009-09-17T04:54:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist making something for myself with some of the amazing Heather Ross fabric I bought from Corrie. I am not so into novelty prints, so this was certainly a departure for me. After making this simple skirt I thought I could maybe get away with wearing it to work. Paired with a Banana Republic knit and Michael Kores Shoes defiantly work worthy. Scout will soon be sporting a matching dress. I know super geeky, but I don't care!

Last week Singapore was a disaster. Not only did I get the flu while there, Mark and the kids also had the flu back here in Sydney. I was not only sick, but worried sick about the three of them. Thank goodness their lovely nanny pampered them like crazy by Friday I was home and we were all feeling fantastic. Shopping in Singapore however was very very short. A few bits and peices but the good shopping fun will have to wait until next time.

Ok...yes I know I should try to comb my hair prior to photos in the future! -kb

Singapore

2009-09-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

Next week I have 72 hours in Singapore, 10 hours of of which I think I can squeeze in shopping! I have a few favs (Muji, Banana Republic) I want to visit, but was also hoping to go to some fabric/crafty shops. Recommendations? -kb

hex

2009-09-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

I've started on a quilt for my in-laws...for Christmas...yes Christmas. Part of my plan is to have a section with hexagons. I am so loving this project. I have been very inspired by Sophie, with her helping hints at Craftroom I think this will be a success. Stay tuned for many more hexagon projects and hopefully a lovely new quilt by Christmas! -kb

Dear J.Crew

2009-08-30T05:18:00.000-07:00

Dear J.Crew,

I miss you. I really really miss you.

I know that this overseas move of mine has meant that we've spent less and less time together. Not a day goes by that you are not with me (jeans, tees, socks, flip flops, adorable navy jacket with the grey silk lining found on sale last year...) If you could find it in your heart to move to Australia, I promise I will be a frequent and loyal customer. I will introduce you to all of my friends and family in Sydney, they will love you. You have yet to my little daughter, Scouty, when she is big enough to fit your size 2's I am sure her love affair with you will also begin.

If you are not willing to move, could we reach a compromise, like affordable shipping to Australia?

With all of my love, your most loyal customer (seriously you and I both know I loved you even before you were cool).

-kb

Ray in Paris

2009-08-25T04:40:00.000-07:00

Ray in Paris....it's like a dream come true. Now all I need is a very good excuse to fly to Paris in two weeks for this concert. -kb

More from the weekend....

2009-08-24T00:13:00.000-07:00

A few more purchases from the weekend. Tee from Spout for Luca. Love the brown, hides all little boy messes and is a bit of an homage to all of the little inch worms Luca and I have squished in the pursuit of organic broccoli. 15 fantastic squares from Cloth, I've got grand plans to turn these into a blanket/quilt for our couch. -kb

Stiches

2009-08-23T00:06:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I squeezed in a quick trip to the Stitches and Craft Show. I wasn't sure what to expect. Overall I think level four, the incubator section was my fav. I also enjoyed the craft bars where I learned a bit of embroidery....I think I have a new addiction. Here is the little tape I made, very wonky in a few parts, but for my first attempt I am pretty pleased. This will be quickly making it's way to one of Luca's tee's. Will share some of my other purchases over the next few days. At this point I am drowning in projects...some started, some not. -kb

pikelets

2009-08-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

My latest obsession...pikelets. Super yummy breakfast treat. Prior to living in Australia I had never had these...they are quickly becoming a Sunday Morning staple.

Recipe (modified from Donna Hay)

2 C self raising flour

1/3 - 1/2 cup sugar

3 eggs

30g melted butter

1 C milk

2 tsp vanilla extract

Mix flour and sugar. Add eggs, butter, milk and vanilla. Mix until combined. Heat a non-stick pan over low heat. Scoop just less than 1/4 C for the large size or a generous spoonful for small size and cook on low for 4 min or until bubble appear, flip and cook another 2-4 min.

Serve with butter, cream, jam, nutella, berries or plain.

My tips - play with the heat on your pan a bit, I sometimes cook them on a medium low setting. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, pikelets keep well for a few days.

Enjoy! -kb

20 down...80 to go

2009-08-04T22:04:00.000-07:00

I have continued the crochet, am now working on a granny square blanket. I estimate I will need 100 squares to make a blanket big enough to snuggle under. Love this project at night or on the weekends, totally portable and easy! -kb

more craft room love

2009-08-02T03:54:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday night I picked up some lovely left overs from the clean outs of both Corrie and Belinda! I am thinking of a few little skirts for Scout and maybe a little dress for me with one of these patterns. Best of all, has inspired me to do a clean out of my own...will be bringing some goodies to share next month. -kb

WIP

2009-07-27T01:09:00.000-07:00

I am using these for a very scrappy project and loving the result. I think it will take me a few more months to finish so far so good! -kb

harvest

2009-07-26T00:54:00.000-07:00

We are slowly becoming urban farmers. This weekend we picked our first broccoli and I couldn't be happier! Broccoli is my favorite veggie and Luca actually eats it (minor miracle for a 2 1/2 year old so I hear). Has been fantastic to have something in the garden growing in winter as well. Completely organic (pesticide care of Birkenstock (I hand picked off the grubs and squashed them with my garden shoes)) we haven't eaten it yet, saving it all for a big family dinner on Tuesday night.

Our lemons are doing fantastic, the passion fruit vine is dripping with fruit that I am hoping will be ready next weekend. Now on to more adventurous ideas...chickens. Any tips you can share? I've convinced my husband, now I've got all the logistics to figure out like coop, breed etc. Ideas? -kb

*Oh and this is my first post from our new I-MAC. Yes we did the big switch. Thanks for the feedback!

Coco Avant Chanel

2009-07-10T04:18:00.000-07:00

Saw this film last night...lovely. -kb

a picture of you taking a picture of me

2009-07-08T21:55:00.001-07:00

My little photographer…taking a picture of me taking a picture of him on his Lego Camera (built by daddy) I think a kid proof digital camera may be in our future…-kb

lovely necklace

2009-07-04T22:05:00.000-07:00

I am often reading blogs when I come across adorable items that I add to my wish list...very rarely do I actually love something so much I go through the motions to buy online. Usually I am deterred by the shipping costs to Australia. When I saw this necklace by the very talented Jess, I splurged. They arrived in the post this week and I love them (them...yes, I had to get the matching earrings too). -kb

*our computer officially died over the weekend...now the big question do we covert to MAC???

A month of Sundays...

2009-06-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

It took a month of Sundays, sitting in front of the TV when the kids were in bed to sew the binding on my Lotta quilt...it was so worth it! I love this quilt. Front is 4 large pieces of Lotta Jansdotter linen I purchased in Tokyo, back is a pale blue pinstriped cotton and the binding is a mocha brown cotton from Lincraft. I did free motion quilting randomly around the outer edge of many (but not all) of the blue and brown bobbles on the Lotta fabric. This created a very cool circled quilting effect on the striped fabric on the back. This is one of the largest quilts I've made, just about Queen size, perfect for full body coverage while lying on the couch. Originally I planned to put this quilt in our guest house to match some pillows I made last year...however I am so in love I might have to keep it in the living room through the winter to properly wear it in!
Pictures are not that great, but due to the size was very hard to figure out how to photograph this one, it has been quilted properly all those waves were just impossilbe to resovle on the floor. Suggestions, how should I be taking these types of photos? -kb

Hong Kong Fabric Agent?

2009-06-23T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hi! I've been crazy busy, however have a few completed projects to show off this week...finally! In the mean time I am looking for a good fabric/textile agent in Hong Kong? Can anyone recommend someone? Send me details at klothandbolt@gmail.com? Thanks! -kb

Craft Room

2009-05-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

I am so loving the Craft Room. Wednesday night I arrived with two projects both that I had heaps of questions on. The ladies were full of advice and ideas. I learned how to finish my crochet with a scalloped edge and unfortunately had to unravel a very long knitting project. I've found a solution to the knitting and I couldn't be happier with the crochet. I am so impressed with the knowledge and the skills of these ladies, I have a feeling my sewing and knitting are going to improve immensely if I can continue to sponge off this amazing group! Next up I think I am going to get some advice from this lady on how to make hexagons...I just can't stop thinking about them...she was hand stitching them all through Wednesday night...-kb

Scout's Baptism

2009-05-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

Scout was baptised on Sunday. Following the service we held a big party at our house. Last week I spent ages sewing her dress. Silk with a lace trim, puffed sleeves, fully lined...reminder a 4 month old has tiny arms, most of the lace and the arm holes were sewing on by hand as was the lining. The silk raveled like crazy to be honest it was a bit of a nightmare, if it weren't for sheer determination I think I would have have thrown it out just after I cut the fabric! All of that being said, I love the dress it came out perfect.

So many friends and family joined us, one of the best parties we've ever had. The house was full of white flowers, we had pink cupcakes and triangle sandwiches...and Scout wore her dress the entire day, after all of that work I wasn't about to take it off! -kb

A day in the city

2009-05-07T05:34:00.000-07:00

Friday I ventured into the city for a few errands with Scout in tow. I took her to some of my favorite spots including Tiffany, Prada and the Strand Arcade for some serious window shopping. She was all smiles and loved checking out all the sounds and colors. We lunched at the David Jones Food Hall (love that place) and browsed through endless Japanese sewing books at Kinokuniya. It was our first mother daughter shopping trip to the city, I had a blast, she was amazing and I can't wait for all the adventures like this we will share in the future. We came home with 3 books, the rest of the day was just browsing. I thought there was nothing as great as shopping with your mom, but now I have shopping with my daughter. (picture of "scout" tee from holly loves finn (hollylovesfinn@optusnet.com.au) -kb

More lounge pants

2009-05-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

My good friend Jen celebrated her birthday with a fantastic party over the weekend. As I am so in love with my lounge pants I thought they would make the perfect gift. Used fabric from my trip to Western Australia (2 meters down, 58 to go!) and scraps to tie a bow on the bag. She loved them. -kb

Lounge Pants

2009-05-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

I made these lounge pants from the Amy Butler In Stiches book a few weeks ago. I modified slightly by making a really big cuff at the bottom, used fabric from my stash, Amy Bulter as well. Right after taking this photo I actually told my husband I would wear these everywhere if it were socially acceptable to wear pajamas in public. Needless to say I love these pants, the fit and the fabric are perfect. -kb

Just in Time for Winter

2009-04-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

I finally finished the pool lounge cushions. This project took some time, but in reality making these cushions was not difficult I was pretty much just a procrastinator. It finally stopped raining so I snuck them out for the afternoon and gave them a go. The extra thick foam meant I didn't have to worry about connecting the top and the bottom as I worried about in the spring, it also means they are very very comfortable! I made another quick covered brick with the remnants for the guest house door. No sewing for me this avo, I'll be lounging by the pool (with a wool sweater on). -kb

2009-04-29T14:56:00.000-07:00

So it's been a few weeks since my last post, but I've been busy! Here is a quick roundup:

I've dug up a few half finished projects and all 3 are almost finished. Will be sharing soon.
Began knitting a new winter scarf with the loveliest teal wool our on holiday...might have to unravel the entire thing (about 3 feet) to fix the rolling edges...
On our trip to Western Australia, I bought 60 (yes 60) meters of fabric. The price was too good to pass up! Needless to say, I've got a few projects planned!
Went to The Craft Room last night and met these amazing ladies: Corrie, Rachel, Sophie, Cass, Amelia, Ingrid and Belinda . Super fun, was fantastic to meet some of these ladies in person!
Under Corrie's excellent tutelage, I learned to crochet...not sure if I am going to stick with it...just might not be my thing.
Only 5 weeks left of my maternity leave, then it's back to work...I am in two minds on this, on the one hand will be great to have regular adult interaction, other the other both Scout and Luca are growing so fast I am loving every second I spend with them. I know the adventures ahead are even more exciting. Let's just hope I can balance it all come June!

Photo of another dress made for Scout. This one took me weeks of fiddling to draft the pattern and even more tweaking to come to a final piece I was happy with. Will certainly be making this one again after all of this effort. -kb

Animal

2009-03-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, another dress for Scout. This was a very interesting project, I purchased the vintage Butterick 3667 (Size 2) pattern at a market in Sydney ages ago. The pictures on the front were too cute to pass up. During my mom's visit we traced and cut the pattern and noted the neck looked a bit small, once the fabric was cut it was clear the neck was about the right size for the wrist of a 2 year old, not the neck. After a number of alterations and adjustments and measuring on Luca we were ready to go. I am very happy with the end result, it was a great project to practice some pattern changes on and was so helpful to have my mom talk me through the adjustments. So much easier when you have someone to bounce ideas off. After all the work put into the changes will definitely be making this dress again. Material from my Tokyo stash and vintage buttons from ici et la. -kb

Folded, pleated detail?

2009-03-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

This is the detailing running up the center of a blouse I recently purchased. I love it and think it would be a great additon to some of the clothes I am making Scout. Does anyone know what this is called or maybe have any hints or links on how to do this? -kb

Exactly how old is too old to wear a tutu?

2009-03-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

A little friend is turning 3 this weekend. For her birthday I have made her a bubble gum pink tutu. Fingers crossed Scout likes tutu's as this was the easiest and most girly project I've done in ages. I used tips and hits from these two tutorials, unfortunately I couldn't find any tulle on a role in Sydney so I did have to cut the strips, but really it went quick. When finished I kept thinking this is sooo cute, could I wear one...obviously not in public, but maybe while cleaning the house or doing laundry? Ok so maybe not, in the interim I think this will be my go to gift for little girls.-kb

Teal Dress

2009-03-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Another dress for Scout, same pattern as the lemon dress. I can't wait until she is wearing these! -kb

lifers

2009-03-23T05:06:00.000-07:00

These are my new lifers (shoes I'm sure to have forever) and a great find.

They are comfy (rare for my size 41/42 feet), on sale (last pair) and they have feathers and beads...pretty much perfect. -kb

Tunic...

2009-03-22T09:10:00.000-07:00

Another tunic made for Scout. I used the same pattern as the elephant tunic and more fabric from my Tokyo stash, this version is a bit longer and I am imagining her wearing this with red tights and shiny shoes. She is smiling, she is growing and turns out like Luca a fabulously content little baby, hence all of the sewing!

We are off to WA for three weeks in April. We will be visiting Perth, Margaret River, Albany and Esperance. Any suggestions on sights/shopping etc while we are there? -kb

Lemon Dress

2009-03-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Lemon dress made with my mom during her Scout visit. I love this pattern from one of my Japanese sewing books, will make this one again and again. A few of you have asked for photos of Scout wearing some of the clothes I've been making most everything in at least a size one so it'll be a few more months before she's rocking any of these. Between all of the lovely gifts and the Luca hand-me downs it didn't seem practical to make smaller sizes. More fabric from my Tokyo stash! -kb

earings etc

2009-03-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I visited the Paddington Markets with one of my friends. I love wandering through the market and the shops on Oxford street while chatting away. Much more talking than shopping, a great way to get a little extra exercise with an added bonus of lots of pretty things to look at! After loosing a game of rock paper scissors for a lovely pair of earrings, I stumbled upon these. I've bought a few other pieces from Kristina Brenke on other visits to the market and absolutely love this new addition!

Yesterday I had my first in person blogger meet. While shopping a big sale at CR I couldn't help but notice a fellow shopper looked super familiar...I am an avid reader of her blog. Now that I've met her in person I am blown away at how she manages all 3 of her kidos at home let alone finding time to do any sewing, they were amazingly cute and so well behaved! Looking forward to bumping into her again! -kb

Blue Girly Skirt

2009-03-17T15:38:00.000-07:00

My mom came out to Australia when Scout was born. She was a great help with so many things including quite a bit of sewing. She made this adorable blue skirt, using a pattern from one of my Japanese sewing books. The very light weight blue cotton from my stash was perfect for the two layers. I would not make this pattern again as the inside of the waist band has a very unfinished look, I will however make Scout more double layer skirts using this idea! -kb

Green Bull

2009-03-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

While shopping at Ici Et La in Sydney the sales assistant gave Luca a little leather bull. Was the perfect entertainment for him and allowed me to browse without worry. Now that we are home, the little bull has found a home in my studio as I think I like him even more than Luca. Love the color and a great use of scrap leather-kb

Swing Jacket

2009-03-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

I made this swing jacket from the "Bend the Rules Sewing" pattern. The grey is a quilted cotton jersey that is amazingly soft, picked up at the Kirribilli markets last year. The pink and grey combination seems so lovely and girly to me. I will make this pattern again, but I think I will lengthen the body a few inches. Very very easy and quick project! (I have changed my header as my husband was non-stop teasing me about the brain photo!) -kb

Autumn Garden

2009-03-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Our garden is in full swing. I think one of the great things about the Sydney climate is the year round garden, there is something blooming or growing all year round. My current fav in the back garden is this succulent, I can't take my eyes off the colors! -kb