tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5808286091928494072024-03-14T02:50:52.019+11:00A New Ball of StringThe home of an easily distracted sewerTamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.comBlogger179125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-61091357271788845862014-02-07T11:52:00.000+11:002014-02-08T00:13:20.496+11:00It's on again!<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you're a Melbourne-based vintage lover and have not yet experienced a <a href="http://www.uniquevintage.com.au/unique-vintage-wholesale-vintage-clothing-australia/" target="_blank">Unique Vintage</a> warehouse sale, take a trip to Cheltenham tomorrow (8th Feb) and be prepared to go nuts!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CbL-o0KF4ek/UvTKAhrvIgI/AAAAAAAACww/jnqiHXWCHOI/s1600/P1050603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CbL-o0KF4ek/UvTKAhrvIgI/AAAAAAAACww/jnqiHXWCHOI/s1600/P1050603.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unique Vintage is located at 10 Hewitt St, Cheltenham, roughly 30 minutes by car from Melbourne's CBD. You can also get there via public transport - catch a Frankston line train to Morrabbin, then an 811 or 812 Dandenong bus to the Keys Rd bus. The draw-backs of using public transport are: the buses seem to only run hourly and it's no fun having to change vehicles while carting a giant garbage bag full of clothes. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2ItLRIQQ2w/UvTKLFsEqvI/AAAAAAAACw8/hoSZseaLP4U/s1600/P1050595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2ItLRIQQ2w/UvTKLFsEqvI/AAAAAAAACw8/hoSZseaLP4U/s1600/P1050595.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Dresses - $15</div>
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Cowboy boots - $30</div>
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At this months sale, they're offering playsuits for $15; skirts for $10; women's shoes for $10; and handbags for measly $5. The amount of stuff on offer is phenomenal, quite literally a warehouse full, and it can be a bit daunting for a first timer. That said, I still managed to pick up a few good buys the last time I went.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w1V2-kbYeAk/UvTWwZRFN9I/AAAAAAAACxg/3DHhks12G2o/s1600/P1050676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w1V2-kbYeAk/UvTWwZRFN9I/AAAAAAAACxg/3DHhks12G2o/s1600/P1050676.JPG" height="400" width="273" /> </a></div>
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This day dress has had quite a few outings over the last couple of months. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DFMDa6vQHkQ/UvTW8S7eiWI/AAAAAAAACxo/-v7CEeuvDB4/s1600/P1050691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DFMDa6vQHkQ/UvTW8S7eiWI/AAAAAAAACxo/-v7CEeuvDB4/s1600/P1050691.JPG" height="400" width="270" /></a></div>
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Another day dress which is new old stock and still had an original price tag attached.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nCWjyOAJlTI/UvTXPE5AR9I/AAAAAAAACxw/GGmXJaM1_pU/s1600/P1050702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nCWjyOAJlTI/UvTXPE5AR9I/AAAAAAAACxw/GGmXJaM1_pU/s1600/P1050702.JPG" height="400" width="278" /></a></div>
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This awesome number has a few small moth holes (it's wool) but is otherwise perfect. </div>
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My best buyer's tip is this: Don't wast your time going through every garment on the rack; scan for vintage prints and fabrics - they'll most likely be cotton & blends - then take a closer look. Oh, and don't forget the ever handy '<i>waist around the neck</i>' measurement, it saves having to try things on. Believe it or not, if you can reach half the full waist around your neck, it will fit. Give it a try, it really works!</div>
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For more details on the warehouse sale, check out Unique Vintage on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Unique-Vintage/135766459831448?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</div>
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Happy shopping!</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-1685627513785633072014-02-05T23:47:00.000+11:002014-02-06T01:01:12.634+11:00Some New Additions<div style="text-align: justify;">
Back in December, I had a big clean out and sold a heap of stuff on Ebay. With a surprisingly healthy PayPal balance, I decided to treat myself to some new patterns. </div>
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One of my favourite places to shop (online) when I have some spare cash to splash is <a href="http://www.oldpatterns.com/" target="_blank">Patterns from the Past</a>. I find the redesigned site a little cumbersome for searching but if you have some time to browse, your efforts are likely to be rewarded. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fEMx6wVlbfg/UvI5Ft_MuWI/AAAAAAAACv8/Vg9eNjntZNw/s1600/img077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fEMx6wVlbfg/UvI5Ft_MuWI/AAAAAAAACv8/Vg9eNjntZNw/s1600/img077.jpg" height="400" width="218" /></a></div>
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<i>New York 1612</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SR2cqx_eIzo/UvI5FHXwncI/AAAAAAAACv4/jMKZI-oOv1s/s1600/img076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SR2cqx_eIzo/UvI5FHXwncI/AAAAAAAACv4/jMKZI-oOv1s/s1600/img076.jpg" height="400" width="271" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Simplicity 3802</i></span></div>
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As you may recall, I'm <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/for-love-of-vogue.html" target="_blank">a massive Vogue fan</a>, mostly actual vintage era but I won't pass up a new Vintage Vogue if the price is right. Spotlight were offering all patterns at $5 each, plus members also get another 10% off which meant I scored my Vintage Vogues for $4.50 a pop! Too good. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3owwoN5K8U/UvI5L7BQW0I/AAAAAAAACwI/rnyOsxXptKE/s1600/img074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3owwoN5K8U/UvI5L7BQW0I/AAAAAAAACwI/rnyOsxXptKE/s1600/img074.jpg" height="400" width="266" /> </a></div>
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<i>Vogue V8812 </i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7GiABfv8KfE/UvJAQ3WQ96I/AAAAAAAACwk/dTPG_zrLEeo/s1600/94eafaffbbf24085933a79075253ae49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7GiABfv8KfE/UvJAQ3WQ96I/AAAAAAAACwk/dTPG_zrLEeo/s1600/94eafaffbbf24085933a79075253ae49.jpg" height="400" width="222" /></a></div>
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The above pattern has been re-released as V8788 and is dated 1954, but looking at some of the design features, I'd say it's more like 1956. Either way it's a super cute wrap dress which needs to made ASAP. </div>
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Ebay has also been good to me in terms of bargains, which seems to be somewhat of a rarity these days. I picked up a Butterick repro & a real vintage Vogue for less than $10 each.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wxT2G9mGSuM/UvI5MP7LpHI/AAAAAAAACwM/pc4q9Ib4j3I/s1600/img075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wxT2G9mGSuM/UvI5MP7LpHI/AAAAAAAACwM/pc4q9Ib4j3I/s1600/img075.jpg" height="400" width="272" /> </a></div>
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<i>Butterick B5708</i> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--kuC-3vM-H0/UvI5QLu8j6I/AAAAAAAACwU/Z_qEXzDuzBc/s1600/img078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--kuC-3vM-H0/UvI5QLu8j6I/AAAAAAAACwU/Z_qEXzDuzBc/s1600/img078.jpg" height="400" width="243" /></a></div>
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<i>Vogue 7505</i></div>
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Ahhh, so many beautiful patterns, so very little time to sew.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-85642609992877590012013-12-05T13:30:00.000+11:002013-12-05T13:30:00.656+11:00Bombs Away!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last winter I compiled what I thought would be an achieveable <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/winter-wishlist.html" target="_blank">wish-list</a> - there were a total of three projects, only one of which was actually <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/purple-reign.html" target="_blank">completed</a>. Due to school commitments, I knew I wouldn't have much time to complete more than one project this winter, so decided to make the Vogue jacket from the 2012 wish-list.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xbTldRKGka4/UpSandV4QJI/AAAAAAAACsA/JpKUbfQXjKI/s1600/img046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xbTldRKGka4/UpSandV4QJI/AAAAAAAACsA/JpKUbfQXjKI/s400/img046.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Vogue 7146</span></em></td></tr>
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I've loved this 1950s bomber jacket for years but have never had the courage to start it. So many bound buttonholes to line up, not to mention the welted pockets and slashed sleeve openings - it was a little advanced for me at the time. These days, bound buttonholes are pretty much the norm and I've perfected the slashed sleeve so it was time to crack on.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGg5IW_fB3k/UpStNG8Ei0I/AAAAAAAACtI/fNMVNTnNXB0/s1600/P1050662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGg5IW_fB3k/UpStNG8Ei0I/AAAAAAAACtI/fNMVNTnNXB0/s400/P1050662.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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This is actually one of my first serious projects using 100% wool fabric. More often than not, I sew with cheap, blended fabrics for the simple reason that I rarely bother to make a muslin. I figure, if it ends up a disaster my financial loss is minimal. But what a difference good quality fabric makes! The wool was so smooth to sew - my machine barely made a sound - and it held the ironed in creases beautifully. If only I could afford to sew with good fabric all the time. Sigh.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zVN_b8AeaxM/UpScMsGpwMI/AAAAAAAACsk/PRhKC10deWI/s1600/P1050656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zVN_b8AeaxM/UpScMsGpwMI/AAAAAAAACsk/PRhKC10deWI/s400/P1050656.JPG" width="313" /></a></div>
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As you can see, I've rocked the slashed sleeve opening - turns out all I needed was a really sharp pair of scissors. Previously, I'd been too afraid to cut the slash right down to the stitching line and could never get the ends to sit right. Now that I'm cutting it right down to the wire - seriously, there only needs to be a couple of threads of fabric left - the facing folds in neatly and are then topstitched into place.</div>
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The welted pockets and bound buttonholes use basically the same technique, but with a Y shaped cut at each end of the slashes. The Y shape folds in to create a nice, neat edge for the buttonholes. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6p2Al6RzhQ/UpSsX86cT_I/AAAAAAAACs8/NE6pNTgX97A/s1600/P1050672.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6p2Al6RzhQ/UpSsX86cT_I/AAAAAAAACs8/NE6pNTgX97A/s400/P1050672.1.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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Sadly, the bottonholes aren't as pretty on the inside, but at least you get to see a small splash of the teal green fabric I choose for the lining. Oooh, pretty.</div>
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I can't tell you how much I love this jacket! It had quite a few outings this winter and with plans for a few more pants/skirt options, it's likely to be popular next winter too.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-90442146095129017132013-12-04T23:12:00.000+11:002013-12-05T00:00:13.888+11:00First Day of Summer Sun<div style="text-align: justify;">
With this Sunday being the first day of summer and the forecast for sunshine, we took a trip to Eastern Beach, Geelong, for the running of the second <a href="http://www.geelongrevival.com.au/" target="_blank">Geelong Revival Motoring Festival</a>. </div>
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The Geelong Speed Trials first ran in 1956. The event was conceived by Murray Rainey, a prominent member of the Western District Car Club and Geelong’s automotive industry, as a means for promoting Geelong. It also offered the local community a chance to see some of Australia’s top motor sport identities competing in the most powerful and exotic sports and sports/racing cars of the day.</div>
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By all accounts, the original Speed Trials continued to run up until 2003. Many were greatly saddened that the event seemed resigned to history, but in 2010, a new group of enthusiasts, in conjunction with the City of Greater Geelong council, set about reviving the event.</div>
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The re branded Geelong Revival Motoring Festival was launched in 2012 and saw more than 35,000 people attend the two day event. This year's Festival saw its theme broadened to include all things vintage and retro. Their new direction is based on the <a href="http://www.goodwood.co.uk/festival-of-speed/about/about.aspx" target="_blank">Goodwood Festival of Speed</a> - a motor sport garden party if you will.</div>
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Cars aside, there was also the 2nd Annual Fashions on the Field which had a good 30+ entries. There were prizes in both Men's & Women's categories and entrants were judged on uniqueness and authenticity. I didn't stick around for the announcement of the winners but I did snap a few pics before the parade. </div>
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The Revival was a great day out with plenty of activities for families and non-car enthusiasts and has the potential to become a really great event in the future. </div>
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Did anyone else get the chance to enjoy our short burst of summer?</div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-79184782030527593922013-11-22T01:18:00.001+11:002013-11-22T01:18:14.376+11:00Murder Most Foul<div style="text-align: center;">
Back in September, I took a trip to <a href="http://www.ripponleaestate.com.au/" target="_blank">Rippon Lea Estate</a> to see 'Miss Fisher's Costume Exhibition. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Essie Davis as Miss Phryne Fisher.</em><br />
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Miss Phryne Fisher is a character created by the Australian author <a href="http://www.phrynefisher.com/Kerrygreenwood.html" target="_blank">Kerry Greenwood</a>. Phryne (Fry-nee) is a glamorous and thoroughly modern woman of the 1920s. She has an acquired taste for the best but has working-class origins. The independent and unflappable lady sleuth sashays through the back lanes and jazz clubs of Melbourne, fighting injustice with her pearl-handled pistol and her dagger sharp wit. To date, there are twenty books in the series and the TV program, produced by ABC TV Australia, is now in it's second series.</div>
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I'm not much of a murder mystery fan myself so I've not read any of the books, or seen the TV show, but I do love a spectacular costume and Miss Fisher's costumes did not disappoint.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo: ABC TV</span></em> </td></tr>
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While there was strictly no photography - by order of the ABC - I couldn't help myself, qu'elle suprise. There are over 30 costumes on display which have been worn by the lead cast of the show and costume designer Marion Boyce (<a href="http://www.everycloudproductions.com.au/" target="_blank">Every Cloud Productions</a> ) has done an incredible job.</div>
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Along with the costume exhibition, you can also do the murder mystery audio tour, which involves seeking out the various clues scattered about the mansion in order to solve the crime.</div>
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Booking your <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.au/vic/MissFishersCostumeExhibition" target="_blank">ticket</a> online will save heaps of time; </div>
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there was a queue when I visited so I'd hate to think what it will be like in the final weeks.</div>
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Miss Fisher's Costume Exhibition closes on 1st of December. </div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-49749331134141668842013-11-13T00:19:00.002+11:002013-11-22T01:18:56.278+11:00It's Show Time!<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the great things about living in the country is the annual agricultural shows that pop up all over the region throughout Spring. Last Saturday was far too nice to waste the day inside, so we took a quick trip to Whittlesea for their annual Agricultural Show.</div>
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The Whittlesea Show began in 1859 and now attracts over 50,000 visitors over the two days. There was the usual over-saturation of showbag stalls, ageing sideshow games like Duck Hunt and the always adorable animal nursery. Sadly, the animals had pretty much flaked-out in the heat by the time we reached them and were all sound asleep.<br />
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Another integral part of the country show is the Arts & Crafts pavilion. As a kid, I remember being encouraged to enter various categories in the competitions; we would submit things we had made at school. I was pleased to see that children are still excited to see if their projects have earned them a certificate or blue ribbon.<br />
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Besides the children who are in it for fun, there are the die-hards who enter every year and take great pride in being awarded the best scones or sponge cake in the district. I've always found it funny that the cakes biscuits are on display, I'm assuming taste plays some part in choosing the winner.</div>
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That said, you just have to look at these little guys to know how good they would taste. </div>
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Double-decker chocolate cupcakes, Oreos, Candy Corn...</div>
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Thanksgiving treats, anyone?!</div>
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Here's an example of someone who's been practising their craft for a long time.</div>
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Their first prize was well deserved, the lacework is divine!</div>
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Just quietly, I'm considering entering something in next year's Show.</div>
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That said, it's more likely I'll have forgotten by then, but it's nice to have a goal.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-37565347139693238862013-10-01T17:48:00.001+10:002013-10-01T17:48:34.489+10:00Girl in Da Hood<br />
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After all the fiddly sewing on my <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2013_04_01_archive.html" target="_blank">wedding dress</a>, my next project needed to be something a little less taxing. I've been in need of some new additions to my winter wardrobe and I thought this pattern would be just the thing to ease me back into sewing.</div>
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Vogue 8423 is ridiculously simple; it has two pieces in total - front & back - and can be made using one metre of 150cm wide fabric. Happy coincidence, I'd just picked up exactly that amount of random, $3 p/m fabric at Spotlight. </div>
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Long-time readers will know I don't tend to bother with a muslin, I'm more of a '<em>crack-on</em>' type of gal. I'm pretty confident with my measurements and I know from experience that I always need to remove 1" from the bodice length - no need to waste precious sewing time on mock ups!</div>
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Thanks to my trusty overlocker, this project was done in roughly three hours. In fact, I was so pleased with the result, I wore it the very next day.</div>
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I did try to add extra to the sleeve length for warmth, but when you've only a metre of fabric to work with, you just have to make do. </div>
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Despite my fabric being fuzzy on the inside, I couldn't help but line the hood with jersey - much more hair-friendly if you wear the hood for any length of time. </div>
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Although, it's not likely I'll be zipping up the hood when out & about...</div>
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I have wings!!</div>
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Perfect, should I ever plan on going into stealth-mode!</div>
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Sadly, my hood disaster isn't an easy fix. It's cut in one with the bodice and I'd have to pull the zipper out, among other things. The only thing I can think is that I needed to take an inch out of the length of the neck/hood.</div>
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No matter, I still love it!</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-51813794453841333702013-07-18T23:32:00.000+10:002013-07-18T23:32:38.482+10:00Learning Curve<span id="goog_897826480"></span><span id="goog_897826481"></span><br />
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This year has been full of changes for me and as a result, my blog has had to take a backseat. That's not to say I haven't been sewing. I've completed quite a few little projects, but with limited time at my disposal, I've not had a chance to photograph them. Then there's at least a couple of hours Photoshop-ing and composing content... I have other, more pressing priorities to attend to.</div>
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Back in March, I started a Diploma in Fashion Business at the <a href="http://melbournefashioninstitute.com.au/" target="_blank">Melbourne Fashion Institute</a>. The full time course is only two days a week, but the learning is pretty intensive and I'm finding myself quite exhausted at the end of each class. Not to mention my business idea is very different to that of the course content and I struggle at times to relate to my end goal. I can't divulge too much about my idea at this point in time but I promise to let you know once it comes to fruition.</div>
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The Melbourne Fashion Institute has many different courses available - patten making & garment construction, design & illustration, styling & couture - too many fun things to choose from. Business studies are all about Sales Plans, Organisation Structures and Unique Selling Propositions and I often find myself longing to something a bit more creative. Thankfully, there are a few artistic lights shining in the dullness of all this serious business.</div>
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The Visual Merchandising component of the course required us to create a mood board, a clothing range and store window to sell our fashions. Rather than just selling clothing, I was trying to sell an era - the 1930s - and my window was based on the image below.</div>
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This room was a little too busy to work as good visual merchandising, so I produced a more simplified version - it only needed to be representitive after all.</div>
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The chaise and telephone table were easy to source, but I had terrible trouble finding a scale mannequin to suit. I ended up having to make my own from air-modelling clay. Her boobs are a little high on the body but she's to perfect scale. If you're wondering about the missing legs, it's purely because they kept falling off and I ran out of patience.</div>
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There are some other wonderfully creative students in my class; we had spray-painted women, disco bitches fighting on the dance floor and a full scale skirt made from Hawaiian leis. I didn't get much of a chance to take pics on the day of presentations, but I did snap a couple at the end of the day, before everyone scurried off home.</div>
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A hooded cape by an active/sportswear label.</div>
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Hats by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SophieAllportDesigns" target="_blank">Sophie Allport Designs</a>.</div>
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Our next creative project is to be a t-shirt design - it relates to the sourcing & production component of the course - but that's a couple of weeks off. We've yet to get through Marketing Plans & Finance but at least there's something fun to look forward to.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-10140243008913070512013-07-02T22:50:00.000+10:002013-07-02T22:50:14.717+10:00Everyone's a Picker<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last week I read a news <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/money/investing/4-op-shop-buy-sells-for-75000-20130625-2otj4.html" target="_blank">story</a> about a man who purchased a particularly ugly bowl/cup in an op shop for $4 and then sold it at auction for over $75,000. Turns out, it was a 17th Century Chinese 'libation cup' carved from rhinoceros horn. A rare find indeed, but I get the feeling this guy knew exactly what he was looking at.</div>
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It's been a long while since I've been op shopping for no other reason than they've all been picked over. Not to mention that they've cottoned on to how much more they can make on vintage and designer pieces. It's a fair call, the proceeds go to charity after all, but this attitude appears to be creeping into the last refuge of bargain hunters everywhere - garage sales and swap meets.</div>
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The last swap meet we went to was the annual Broadford Swap Meet back in April and what a change it was from <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/03/ill-swap-ya.html" target="_blank">last year</a>. Practically every stall holder had what they believed to be a 'rare piece' and they were charging accordingly; it sure took the fun out of it. Personally, I blame TV shows like American Pickers, Auction Hunters and the like. Before they came along, people didn't even know they had 'rusty gold'. </div>
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With the swap meet prices being well out of my budget, I had to content myself with seeking out some of the more fun stuff on offer.</div>
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Phones, phones everywhere...</div>
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Something for the car restorer</div>
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Who knew the 'Three Men in a Boat' author wrote another book?</div>
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Fabulous sewing machine oil cans</div>
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Oh, what I wouldn't give to see this baby in action!</div>
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The Police Siren Door-Stop Burglar Alarm would make for the perfect prank.</div>
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And finally, Thrilling Ranch Stories - Romantic stories of the West (c.1940s). If the front cover is to be believed, it looks like a great read. As you can imagine, I was sorely tempted by this one.</div>
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I do hope this weekend's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Melbournes-Vintage-Clearance-Centre/135766459831448" target="_blank">Vintage Clearance Centre</a> sale lives up to it's advertised bargains, I'm in the market for a new coat.</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-85058133523133325662013-06-21T21:08:00.000+10:002013-06-21T21:08:35.111+10:00Perfecting Procrastination <div style="text-align: justify;">
Those who know me are well aware of my awesome ability to procrastinate. Despite having ample time to complete a project, I will invariably leave it 'til the last minute - all the while declaring: "I work better under pressure!" </div>
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True to form, I even procrastinated while sewing my wedding dress. I had allowed myself a good three months to make the dress - plenty of time to do other things, instead of working on the task at hand.</div>
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Late last year, I treated myself to a couple of <a href="http://www.wearinghistorypatterns.com/categories/Wearing-History-Patterns/" target="_blank">Wearing History patterns</a>, an early Christmas present if you will. We were heading into scorching hot summer, I desperately wanted to make myself the <em>'Chic Ahoy!'</em> halter top. It looked like a fairly simple project that wouldn't take too long to complete.</div>
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As suggested in the instructions, I made a muslin before cutting into the deco-patterned skirt I picked up at Target for $8. The skirt itself was awful but I adored the pattern and could imagine it made into a halter top of some sort. </div>
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In my excitement to get started, I didn't notice the print was lighter on the inside. No problem, I'll just cut two more collar pieces. </div>
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There was barely enough of the skirt fabric left to line the collar so I made up the rest with some lining from my stash. This is where my simple solution went south. I didn't cut the lining on the same grain as the skirt fabric so it wouldn't sit properly when I tried to finish off the bottom. It was in to the UFO for this 'quick' project - I had more important things to do.</div>
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Two seasons later, I've completed the entire ensemble and have been waiting for a spare, sunny afternoon to take some pics. Please forgive the absence of smiles, it was freezing!</div>
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The top still doesn't sit right but it's wearable. And the pants, oh the pants! They're extremely wide - I took 1.5 inches off the outside leg - but so very comfortable. This pair is made from crepe but I think they'd work just as well in a soft cotton. Perhaps in a more user-friendly colour next time.</div>
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The <em>Chic Ahoy</em> outfit makes me feel like I should be lounging at the beach, </div>
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not shivering my way though winter. There's always next year... </div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-52584209517949192222013-05-07T21:54:00.001+10:002013-05-07T22:49:31.809+10:00Curls in Crisis<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now all my wedding sewing is finished, I've had more time to work on fun projects, but I've been too lazy to take any photos. The weather is looking good for the next few days so I hope to have a sewing post for you in the near future. For now, let's talk hair.</div>
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While I'm reasonably confident in setting my own hair, I really wanted someone else to style it for my wedding. You know how it goes - get pampered and preened by others and not have to worry about a thing. Originally, I'd wanted my hair to look something like this...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTubn-xpNQ0/UYjcO2OgpqI/AAAAAAAAChI/gkUSqNyzGTk/s1600/kate-bosworth-big-finger-waves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTubn-xpNQ0/UYjcO2OgpqI/AAAAAAAAChI/gkUSqNyzGTk/s400/kate-bosworth-big-finger-waves.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But, after the hair trial, it was apparent my layers were still too short to create a nice, smooth wave and my hairdresser wasn't up to the task of finger-waves. It was time for a rethink. I decided to go with something </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">based on the '<em><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">30s Fake Bob'</span></em>
which appears in Lauren Rennell's awesome </span><a href="http://www.hrstbooks.com/vintage-hairstyling" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">Vintage Hairstyling</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> book (p73). Sadly, the
hairdresser's interpretation of the style wasn't quite what I was looking for,and
with the day being so hot my curls had dropped in the 5 minutes it took to
drive home. </span><br />
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<em>Photo: </em><a href="http://www.indielane.com.au/" target="_blank"><em>Indie Lane</em></a><em>.</em></div>
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Thankfully, I have a large stash of <a href="http://www.hbwa.com.au/prod129.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">pin curl clips</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and was able to rearrange the disaster into something resembling the hair-do I had envisioned. I also had the help of <a href="http://www.kuscomurphy.com.au/products/14/30" target="_blank">Kusco Murphy Setting Lotion</a> to keep my curls in shape. It has really good holding power and the smell reminds me of something my Nanna used to use in my hair as a child. Does anyone remember <a href="http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/22420284?searchTerm="curly pet"&searchLimits=l-availability=y|||l-australian=y|||l-category=Advertising|||l-title=13" target="_blank">Curly Pet</a>?</span><br />
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<em>Photo: </em><a href="http://www.indielane.com.au/" target="_blank"><em>Indie Lane</em></a><em>.</em></div>
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With the clock ticking, I had less than an hour to allow my curls to set so I decided to leave them fully formed. Ordinarily, I would have liked to have brushed them out for a softer look, but I couldn't risk them dropping again. With some carefully placed bobby pins and a generous helping of hairspray, those babies were not going anywhere.<br />
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<em>Photo: </em><a href="http://www.indielane.com.au/" target="_blank"><em>Indie Lane</em></a><em>.</em></div>
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As you can see, the 'do is a long way from Kate Bosworth's sweeping wave but it's still got that vintage bride style. Oh, and I'm pleased to report, my curls lasted well into the wee hours.<br />
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- Tamara </div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-35004584963381542522013-04-25T23:26:00.001+10:002013-04-25T23:26:19.040+10:00The Devil's in the Detail<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I mentioned in my last post, it was far from smooth sailing with the construction of my wedding dress. <br />
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Regardless of whether I'm using a vintage or modern pattern, I always need to take an inch out of the bodice length. Ordinarily, the 'shorten/lengthen' line is marked on the tissue, but due to the Empire style bust line there's no allowance for it. To remedy the problem, I took an inch from the top of the skirt to bring the curve of the side seam up to my hip line, where it should be.</div>
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With this adjustment made, I set about making a muslin to check the fit. I'd purchased some crazy cheap silk satin from Thailand for the job and boy, could you tell it was cheap. You could hear the needle sawing through the fabric and it felt like I was sewing two pieces of paper together! Ugh!</div>
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As you can see, the waistline is in the right place but the cowl is outta control! If I was going to wear this version, I'd be flashing my boobs all day; not to mention the amount of food that would find its way in there. I had no idea where to start in order to fix the excess fabric in the cowl and was so peeved with it, I threw the muslin on the ground and stomped all over it in disgust.</div>
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Several days later, after I'd had a chance to calm down, I took a second look. From what I could tell, I would need to remove at least an inch and a half from the cowl piece itself. With limited pattern making skills at my disposal, I decided to wing it and take out an up-side down triangular piece, starting at the mid-point of the bust. I had to make another two versions of the bodice from an old sheet before the cowl had just the right amount of fall. I didn't take any photos of the progress but here's the final result...</div>
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I hadn't really planned on adding any extra embellishments to the dress, other than the pearl strands, but when I came across a trim made up of beaded fans with tulle in <a href="http://www.tessuti.com.au/" target="_blank">Tessutti</a>, I knew it wouldn't be complete without them. After carefully separating each fan, then reinforcing the edges so they wouldn't fall apart, they were sewn on by hand using invisible thread. What a pain in the butt that stuff is to use. </div>
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Behold the beauty that is my crazy, long train. </div>
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The hem took a good <em>seven</em> hours to sew!</div>
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<em>Photo: <a href="http://www.indielane.com.au/" target="_blank">Indie Lane</a></em></div>
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For some reason, the elasticised continuous loop trim is difficult to source these days so I had to make my own button loops. There should have been twenty buttons down the back of the dress, but I had terrible trouble getting them in quantity. After much trial & error with nail polish and various types of buttons, I just had to go with less buttons - I was only able to find fifteen.</div>
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<em>Photo: Terry Hartin</em></div>
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Despite the fitting issues, not to mention the bruised elbows caused by hours of hand sewing, my perfect wedding dress was well worth the effort. </div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-10141613354097706772013-04-15T17:15:00.001+10:002013-04-25T23:42:44.687+10:00Bye, Bye Belle<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know I said I'd be posting my news at the end of February, but life sometimes gets in the way and I've not had much spare time of the last couple of months. I've also had some frustrating issues with my computer (time for an upgrade), but that's another story.</div>
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Here's what I've been up to...</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo: Terry Hartin.</span></em></div>
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I'm a Mrs.!</div>
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Mdblm & I met online (dating) and things were easy from the start. Our first date, we spent six hours together and we were never once lost for conversation. I also remember we laughed a whole lot too. He ticked all my wish-list items, bar one - he's not much of a dancer but we've been working on that - and he's the most awesomely supportive guy I've ever met!</div>
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That said, this being a sewing blog an' all, let's get on to the dress.</div>
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I'd always thought is weird this pattern was filed under the 'Costume' section of the Simplicity pattern book; it's so beautiful and not at all costume-y. As soon as I saw it, I knew (someday) this would be my wedding dress. That was nearly six years ago now and although my sewing skills have vastly improved, I'd never undertaken such a large project. It was intimidating to say the least.</div>
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Thankfully, once the skirt part of the dress is sewn - it has French seams - it's two-thirds done. I did have some fitting issues with the bodice, there's no allowance to adjust the length, but I persisted, documenting every change as I went. It may have taken me three months, and several muslins to get it right, but it was well worth the effort.</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo: Terry Hartin.</span></em></div>
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So there you have it! I think it's a pretty reasonable excuse for being a bit of an absent blogger these last few months. Although my life has become a lot busier of late, I hope to be back in the next day or two with more divine dress details.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-14323089586301667192013-01-31T05:21:00.000+11:002013-01-31T05:21:07.220+11:00Fast Forward<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello long-time readers and welcome new followers! It's only been just over a month since my last post, but it seems like an age. Christmas and New Year flew by and I've been sewing like a demon since. I can't say too much about it at the moment - all will be revealed next month - but it is taking up most of my evenings. </div>
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I'm not really a fan of making New Year's resolutions; they always fall by the wayside within a month, so I just don't bother. One thing I do love about starting a new year though, is buying a new calendar. It may seem silly but for some reason I take great pleasure in choosing something which will continually bring me joy as we fly through the months ahead.</div>
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Although I don't feel the need for a calendar, not being at work and all, I found a really awesome one for 2013 that I wanted to share with guys.</div>
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Art Deco/Steampunk style travel posters for destinations throughout the universe. </div>
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Too cool!</div>
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I had hoped to be able to frame some of the images but they're printed over two pages which really won't work at all. Thankfully, the artist, <a href="http://www.stevethomasart.com/about.html" target="_blank">Steve Thomas</a>, has prints available <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/stevethomas/gifts" target="_blank">here</a>. Now, which one to choose...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6mbG6nLyEAw/UQldneWbYuI/AAAAAAAACb8/jwAmyZ_7TzE/s1600/P1050267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6mbG6nLyEAw/UQldneWbYuI/AAAAAAAACb8/jwAmyZ_7TzE/s400/P1050267.JPG" width="313" /></a></div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-15147853869058307162012-12-13T23:52:00.000+11:002012-12-14T02:41:35.025+11:00Feelin' Old Skool<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last month my was 20 year high school reunion - yes, I am that old - and while some people approach these events with dread, I was really looking forward to it. There were a lot of people I had lost touch with over the years and some I had not seen at all; I was excited to be able to reconnect with some of these long-lost friends.</div>
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This beautiful woman and I have been friends since primary school. Our friendship has endured for nearly thirty years and although we don't speak often, when we do, it's like it was yesterday. It's been ages since we've had a night out together, and what a night it was! </div>
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We danced like we were teenagers again, toasting to memorable moments from our past, and before we knew it the night had ended, be it all too soon. It was wonderful to reconnect with the people I grew up with, not to mention the new friends I made; we may have grown older but deep down, people have generally remain unchanged. </div>
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While the reunion has got me reminiscing about the old days, it has also inspired a new sewing project!</div>
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Here in Melbourne, summer has been making its presence felt and I found myself longing for a comfortable, yet fun, all-purpose dress. This adorable 1930s tennis/day dress - Advance 2754 - was the perfect solution and, in honour of my old school days, I chose a blue and black tartan that has been in my stash since last summer.</div>
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As has been my previous experiences with Advance patterns, it fitted poorly and require a fair bit of adjusting of the seams. Besides having to double the seam allowance, it went together really quickly and is extremely comfortable to wear. Mission complete.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our first outing - the Costume Shop sale!</span></td></tr>
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Hello new go-to dress for summer! </div>
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I think we will be spending a whole lot of time together from now on.</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-73156062099079167722012-12-11T23:25:00.003+11:002012-12-11T23:25:45.223+11:00Playing Dress-Ups<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am one of those people who like to read the classifieds/auction section of the newspaper on a Saturday; you'd be amazed at the weird and wonderful things that come up for sale. A couple of weeks ago, I spied an ad for a costume company sale and made a note of it in my diary so as not to forget.</div>
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What a sale it was!! The <a href="http://www.costumesale.com.au/" target="_blank">Costume Factory</a> in Kensington is preparing to move to another site and they are selling off a crazy amount of stuff. There are wigs, hats, shoes, theatre company and former hire costumes, a whole heap of suiting fabrics, pieces of theatre sets and even an industrial overlocker!</div>
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They were offering giant plastic shopping bags as you entered the warehouse, but I declined so as to avoid over-shopping. The prices were extremely cheap so it would have been easy far too easy to get carried away. </div>
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There were quite a few costumes from the <a href="http://www.nla.gov.au/selected-library-collections/williamson-collection" target="_blank">J.C Williamson Company</a>, which was formed in 1904 and controlled a network of theatres across Australia and New Zealand. They organised successful tours by Dame Nellie Melba and Anna Pavlova in the 1920s and later brought the Ballets Russes and the Bolshoi Ballet to Australia. </div>
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Australian readers will recognise <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fat_Cat_and_Friends" target="_blank">this guy</a>...</div>
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This lady gave me a giggle - a hat with feathers and a pair of legs sticking out the bottom. The hat she had scored was in amazing condition and one of the staff even filled her in on its history.</div>
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Below are my two purchases: a pair of military jackets. I had just watched '<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0808244/" target="_blank">Easy Virtue</a>' (for the umpteenth time) - the thirties fashions in it are divine - so when I saw the white jacket, I knew I had to take it home. It was a bit grotty but I stuck in the wash when I came home and it came up a treat. Not bad for $20! </div>
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The khaki jacket, I picked up for only $5! It's in reasonably good condition - there's a small hole in the front pocket and a few wear marks - but there's nothing that can't be repaired. </div>
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There is one more day of the sale remaining - Wednesday 12th Dec from 9.30 - 5pm - and all stock must be sold. So, if you're in Melbourne and you've some spare time tomorrow, get down to the <a href="http://www.costumesale.com.au/index.php/directions-to-the-sale" target="_blank">Costume Factory</a> at 290 Macauley Rd, Kensington and grab a bargain. </div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-42441706143296977522012-11-16T00:35:00.000+11:002012-11-16T01:36:32.088+11:00Coat of so Much Comfort<div style="text-align: justify;">
And, here is my lovely new coat dress! I must say, lining up all those button holes nearly killed me but it was well worth the effort. I didn't end up using the vintage buttons I found at <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/button-bonanza-bounty.html" target="_blank">Buttonfest</a> - they were too large - but I managed to find some suitable ones in Lincraft. </div>
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Those of you with a sharp eye will notice there appears to be a button missing, I forgot to do it up! Unfortunately I didn't notice 'till we were done and there was no way I was going to take the photos again, so just pretend they're all there.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cz_FB51QqYg/UKOok5FjtoI/AAAAAAAACWU/Sr3Kwi4Fb2s/s1600/P1050015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cz_FB51QqYg/UKOok5FjtoI/AAAAAAAACWU/Sr3Kwi4Fb2s/s400/P1050015.JPG" width="278" /></a></div>
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The welted pockets are not all that functional. They're placed a little high to put your hands in for any length of time but they will come in handy for carrying little things. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uSbl7MuxDR4/UKOn4sNAAiI/AAAAAAAACWM/nqLOtOdVwb8/s1600/P1050016.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uSbl7MuxDR4/UKOn4sNAAiI/AAAAAAAACWM/nqLOtOdVwb8/s400/P1050016.1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The tab collar is just one of the many things I love about this dress. To begin with it was a little too bulky for the button to fasten properly - it needed to hold down six layers of fabric! I ended up using a large press stud to keep the neck closed, sewed the button on the <em>outside</em> and the tabs now sit perfectly. Too easy!!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oy_zy8WAtFE/UKOo_iu-QqI/AAAAAAAACWc/QYz9K0JuszE/s1600/P1050022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oy_zy8WAtFE/UKOo_iu-QqI/AAAAAAAACWc/QYz9K0JuszE/s400/P1050022.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>
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Oooh, just look how the back skirt swishes!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lArtOWPo7v0/UKT6nT04ykI/AAAAAAAACXA/bOI-G2M9A80/s1600/P1050018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lArtOWPo7v0/UKT6nT04ykI/AAAAAAAACXA/bOI-G2M9A80/s400/P1050018.JPG" width="287" /></a></div>
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My 50s coat dress is so comfortable; it's likely to become the 'go to' outfit for outings on cooler days. And, being spring in Melbourne, I may just end up getting to wear it a few more times before the warm weather sets in. Fingers crossed!</div>
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- Tamara</div>
<br />Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-50198766894048475812012-11-14T11:57:00.000+11:002012-11-15T01:09:01.079+11:00Making it Work<div style="text-align: justify;">
Several weeks ago now, I was browsing Ebay late one night when I came across a pattern for a button front coat dress. While I have my <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/snap.html" target="_blank">Bernie Dexter flasher coat </a> pattern, this one required much less fabric - roughly three metres, which I had in my stash.</div>
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Sold!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2FyqSMAePyg/UKOSH8nVmkI/AAAAAAAACT8/u9tk6cQVjek/s1600/img969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2FyqSMAePyg/UKOSH8nVmkI/AAAAAAAACT8/u9tk6cQVjek/s400/img969.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Simplicity 4427</em></span></td></tr>
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It took just over a week to ship from the US and believe it or not, I cut it out the very same day! I can't explain why, the pattern itself is not that spectacular and now the weather is getting warmer, the opportunities to wear a fully lined coat dress are diminishing.</div>
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My chosen fabric was a medium weight, wool-blend I scored for a song at Spotlight several years ago. It was originally intended for more of my <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2011/11/more-caplets-than-super-heroine.html" target="_blank">40s caplets</a>, but I got tired of making them after sewing three and put the leftover fabric back in the stash.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xV_uUsVZ3_c/UKOZRAklcNI/AAAAAAAACUY/UGnztoVtIV8/s1600/P1010864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xV_uUsVZ3_c/UKOZRAklcNI/AAAAAAAACUY/UGnztoVtIV8/s400/P1010864.JPG" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">As you can see, there was a lot left over.</span></em></td></tr>
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This fabric has been great to work with, although it does fray quite a bit which means a whole lot of overlocking. I've read it's not necessary to finish inside seams if you're going to line a garment but the lining for this dress isn't attached at the bottom and I had visions of bits falling off everywhere I went.</div>
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The back pleat in the skirt was a little tricky but the only real issue I had making this dress was working out how to put the lining in. You see, there's a nifty design feature in back which helps the skirt sit out, a support strap of sorts, unfortunately it's joined in the centre back. How to get the lining to sit underneath it....?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f1xRjqb5L5o/UKOc0Sgex-I/AAAAAAAACU0/DDTI4h87CEY/s1600/P1040905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f1xRjqb5L5o/UKOc0Sgex-I/AAAAAAAACU0/DDTI4h87CEY/s400/P1040905.JPG" width="303" /></a></div>
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Time to get out the unpicker! </div>
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After a bit of puzzling, I decided to leave a slit on either side of the lining and pass the main dress pieces through.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jk_DYUC8eTc/UKOfPmUGTPI/AAAAAAAACVQ/U8B-o9Hbzc8/s1600/P1040907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jk_DYUC8eTc/UKOfPmUGTPI/AAAAAAAACVQ/U8B-o9Hbzc8/s400/P1040907.JPG" width="312" /></a></div>
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I then refastened the main pieces and hand stitched the lining in place.</div>
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Problem solved!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oikjLgtSsLw/UKOfujSmiFI/AAAAAAAACVY/SqcShU99VM8/s1600/P1050035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oikjLgtSsLw/UKOfujSmiFI/AAAAAAAACVY/SqcShU99VM8/s400/P1050035.JPG" width="306" /></a></div>
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Long-time readers will know just how much I hate button holes - there are ten down the front of this dress and they were supposed to be bound! No freakin' way was that going to happen, regular button holes would have to do. I was so particular about the spacing that I managed to bugger it up and had to resew all the button holes below the waistline. Thankfully, my fabric is very forgiving and they're barely noticeable, unless you're looking for them.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Marcel was tired of button holes too.</em></span></td></tr>
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Stay tuned tomorrow for the finished project, but until then here's a sneak peak...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UyHTbixVjOE/UKOkmy5KnkI/AAAAAAAACV8/aNdJUiuEsAo/s1600/P1040799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UyHTbixVjOE/UKOkmy5KnkI/AAAAAAAACV8/aNdJUiuEsAo/s400/P1040799.JPG" width="257" /></a></div>
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- TamaraTamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-72875031922169015112012-11-08T23:54:00.000+11:002012-11-09T00:34:45.715+11:00Old Fashioned Love Songs<div style="text-align: justify;">
Has anyone else noticed how fast the days are going by now we're approaching the end of the year? So much to do, so little time... I've quite a bit of catching up to do on the blog front; there have been several outings to report and even a bit of sewing. Time's a wasting so let's get to it!</div>
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I've been a huge fan of the Canadian chanteuse <a href="http://www.jillbarber.com/about.html" target="_blank">Jill Barber</a> since discovering her music back in 2009. My former workplace used to have staff sales of CDs and books which had been sent in for review, the proceeds of which were then donated to charity. When I spied 'Chances' among the offerings, it was love at first site.</div>
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I had no idea what the music was like but judging by the cover art, it was likely to be to my taste. Boy, was I ever right. From the moment the I heard the first couple of notes of the intro, I was hooked Listening to this collection of songs, it is amazing to think they are all original compositions. The sweeping strings and dramatic orchestrations combined with Jill's unmistakable voice takes one back to kinder, gentler times. She captures the feeling of times gone by; to quote one reviewer: '<em>she has a voice that stops time'</em>.</div>
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You can imagine my excitement then, when I discovered I would finally get the chance to see Jill perform live. She was touring Australia for the release of her most recent album 'Mischievous Moon' and Melbourne was the final show. Woohoo!! The venue, <a href="http://www.bennettslane.com/" target="_blank">Bennetts Lane</a>, is nice and intimate and is billed as a '<em>listening venue</em>' so patrons are respectful and keep quiet while the artist is performing. It was refreshing to be able to go to a gig and hear the entire performance for a change.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GYfVEaezsuY/UJuVea8fdPI/AAAAAAAACSY/oyjfKiBXPTQ/s1600/P1040978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GYfVEaezsuY/UJuVea8fdPI/AAAAAAAACSY/oyjfKiBXPTQ/s400/P1040978.JPG" width="275" /></a></div>
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The first half of Jill's set featured mainly songs from 'Chances', she sang all my favourites first which pleased me no end. Then it was time for a costume change for the lounge era sound of 'Mischievous Moon'.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6N5fPuJb2_Y/UJuVnh3OmFI/AAAAAAAACSg/Q-Vxzd68OPU/s1600/P1040979.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6N5fPuJb2_Y/UJuVnh3OmFI/AAAAAAAACSg/Q-Vxzd68OPU/s400/P1040979.1.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
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I had been dying to hear Jill sing live and it was everything I had hoped for and more. She sounded even better live than the recordings and was genuinely appreciative of the audience taking the time to listen to her songs; she has been writing songs since she was a teenager. She was even gracious enough to stick around and sign CDs after the show - I took my copies of both her albums for just such an occasion. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4V7AjKSGT_g/UJuuZH1nL7I/AAAAAAAACTg/7rJoa482-eU/s1600/P1040982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4V7AjKSGT_g/UJuuZH1nL7I/AAAAAAAACTg/7rJoa482-eU/s400/P1040982.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2011/08/proud-humble.html" target="_blank">Once again</a>, I managed to get an extremely very flattering photo of myself with an artist I admire - damn you 'Self-portrait' setting! Thankfully Jill was patient enough with me to allow a couple more goes and I managed to one decent one of the two of us - even if my boof-head takes up most of the frame.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wCfeXt61c8I/UJuWBw_uglI/AAAAAAAACSo/DWIIaUqCMr0/s1600/P1040981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wCfeXt61c8I/UJuWBw_uglI/AAAAAAAACSo/DWIIaUqCMr0/s400/P1040981.JPG" width="312" /></a></div>
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If you've not heard Jill Barber's music, you can listen to tracks on her <a href="http://www.jillbarber.com/music.html" target="_blank">website</a>.</div>
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She really is lovely.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-67598589075924687042012-10-31T11:37:00.000+11:002012-11-01T00:32:29.991+11:00Happy New Year!<div align="center">
I've been feeling strangely spiritual this week so please bare with me,</div>
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normal transmission will resume shortly.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16wxrrE8JJ8/UJEglEg6hjI/AAAAAAAACR8/FMzBdagJLuo/s1600/img408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16wxrrE8JJ8/UJEglEg6hjI/AAAAAAAACR8/FMzBdagJLuo/s400/img408.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
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Celtic tradition begins the Wheel of the Year at Samhain (Halloween), commencing a season of darkness where the veil between the worlds are at their thinnest and the souls of those departed can commune with those in this world. It is a time of assessment, of making the final arrangements that will help the village survive the winter. </div>
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Samhain is also a time of introspection, a time to acknowledge our weaknesses and divest ourselves of traits we no longer need. Let go of past failures and sadness, banish fear and prepare for renewal and good fortune. The winter may be long and harsh, but the Son will rise again.</div>
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It is tradition on Samhain night to leave a plate of food outside the home for the souls of the dead. A candle placed in the window guides them to the lands of eternal summer, and burying an apple in the earth 'feeds' the passed ones on their journey.</div>
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Blessed Be!</div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-63589550923705468932012-10-16T16:34:00.001+11:002012-10-16T16:34:41.398+11:00Be a Saver, not a Spender<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I mentioned yesterday, there weren't enough sewing related stalls at the Love Vintage Summer Show for my liking but, surprise, surprise, I still managed to buy something. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jhl4UNl9ukg/UHzktwjUp4I/AAAAAAAACQE/O_kpSlSj9Ls/s1600/img980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jhl4UNl9ukg/UHzktwjUp4I/AAAAAAAACQE/O_kpSlSj9Ls/s400/img980.jpg" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Australian Home Journal, April 1st, 1946.</em></span></td></tr>
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The seller I purchased this April 1946 edition of the Australian Home Journal from had loads of these for sale - in varying condition and she even had multiple copies, which is almost unheard of. They all came complete with their patterns but were sealed so you couldn't get a look at the condition inside. </div>
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Ordinarily, I don't like to spend more than $10 on these magazines, especially if I don't get the chance to woman-handle it first, so $18 for this one was a bit excessive. But look at that dress on the left! Would you have been able to resist?</div>
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While the quality of the inside pages left a lot to be desired, I did happen upon a couple of lovely knitting patterns and adverts I'd like to share with you guys. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_qJp1ERQsg/UHzoX8XLyjI/AAAAAAAACQc/EY9n3x0FZ80/s1600/img981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_qJp1ERQsg/UHzoX8XLyjI/AAAAAAAACQc/EY9n3x0FZ80/s640/img981.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
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Even though the weather here is on the improve,</div>
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I want one of these two-tone jumpers!</div>
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It's so freakin' cute!!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPfdUJrTpFQ/UHzolHZmx7I/AAAAAAAACQs/YiiaKVBhufg/s1600/img985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPfdUJrTpFQ/UHzolHZmx7I/AAAAAAAACQs/YiiaKVBhufg/s640/img985.jpg" width="491" /></a></div>
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This is the rest of the instructions for both the blouse and jumper</div>
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should anyone out there want to knit one up.</div>
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Oh, and before I forget, this was what I wore to the Show (sans hat).</div>
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My all time favourite dress; a Madeleine Faith design from Saks Fifth Avenue. </div>
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It cost me a small fortune but it was well worth it, it fits like it was made for me.</div>
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¡ Qué belleza!</div>
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<span lang="es">¡ es hermoso!</span></div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-86870997344072171542012-10-15T23:52:00.000+11:002012-10-16T00:39:17.391+11:00Summer Lovin'?<div style="text-align: justify;">
I had hoped to do this post last week, but things got crazy 'round here - several unexpected visitors, evening activities and the like - and before I knew it, the week had disappeared.</div>
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Last weekend was the Summer edition of the <a href="http://www.lovevintage.com.au/" target="_blank">Love Vintage Show</a>, you may recall the <a href="http://anewballofstring.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/gotta-love-vintage.html" target="_blank">winter show</a> was held in mid-May. I hadn't intended on going this time, but the weather turned nasty and all outdoor plans for the weekend were abandoned. Plus, we had nothing better to do. </div>
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Although I had been assured there would be more stalls at the Summer Fair, things really weren't all that different from the previous one. The sellers were all still crowded up one end of the building and there only seemed to be one or two new stalls. I don't know, maybe it's all starting to look the same. There were also some sellers who were super-protective of their merchandise with regard to taking photos - I was very nearly crash-tackled by one when I tried to snap a pic of a pretty dress! Poor form I say, it's never been a problem before.</div>
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Thankfully, not everyone was that militant...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">An adorable take on the vintage poodle brooch by <a href="http://erstwilder.com/" target="_blank">Erstwilder</a>.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Gorgeous vintage inspired head wear by </span><a href="http://www.dandylonglegs.com/Webpages/about%20collection.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dandy Long Legs</span></a>.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This compact/cigarette case combo almost makes me</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> want to take up smoking, just so I can use it!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A pretty green party dress. I would have liked to </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">have tried this beauty on, but we were on our way </span><br />
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While there were still lots of lovely things to look at and it was a pleasant day out, I don't think I'll bother to attend the next one. There were nowhere near enough sewing stalls!</div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-56576560060896398342012-10-03T23:10:00.000+10:002012-10-03T23:10:39.824+10:00Button Bonanza - The Bounty!<div style="text-align: justify;">
As anyone who sews knows, the right buttons can really make an outfit. I'm currently working on a 1950s coat dress and went to Buttonfest hoping to find the perfect fastenings to finish it off - unfortunately I neglected to take into account I'd need <em>fifteen</em> identical ones. Large quantities of vintage buttons are a rarity (apparently), but I was lucky enough to find some buttons I could work with and they were only twenty cents each!</div>
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While I don't really have any projects in mind for the rest of my treasures, at five cents to one dollar a piece, they were too good a bargain to leave behind. Plus, you can never have too many notions in your stash.</div>
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Can you tell I have coats & jackets on the brain?</div>
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Some random black & reds...</div>
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For some reason, the pink & brown buttons at the front </div>
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make me think of ice cream.</div>
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The holes in the blue/grey buttons have been made on an angle which means when they're sewn on, they'll sit asymmetrically. I can't wait to use them! Oh, and the green buttons on the right are carved glass and were $1 a piece! Hello, 1930s blouse? </div>
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And lastly, my favourite find of the afternoon,</div>
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pale blue glass with gold accents.</div>
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So pretty & shiny....</div>
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- Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-15172060791629635902012-10-02T23:25:00.000+10:002012-10-02T23:25:00.080+10:00Button Bonanza!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last week's school holiday workshop was quite the success! We had twenty three participants and the lone male ended up being the star of the afternoon. Personally, I would have liked there to have been a bit more structure to the class, with a few quick demonstrations to get them started, but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. My group was apparently a bit too over-simulated after we'd packed up and were asked to wait outside for their parents - what did the organisers expect after feeding them biscuits and soft drink for afternoon tea?</div>
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This weekend The <a href="http://www.vicbuttonclub.com.au/" target="_blank">Victorian Button Collectors Club</a> held their annual 'Buttonfest' event and what an event it was! This year's theme was buttons from three related eras, each with distinctive styles - Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco. I purely with the intention of shopping for buttons, I had no idea there would be Art Deco loveliness on display!</div>
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Be prepared to 'Ooooh' & 'Aahhh' over these beauties, some of them were even for sale!</div>
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As you can imagine, I came home with quite a haul so stayed tuned for another pic heavy post tomorrow when I share my bounty.</div>
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- Tamara</div>
Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-580828609192849407.post-46100714112314423182012-09-25T01:02:00.001+10:002012-09-25T01:02:12.146+10:00Idle Hands<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today was the beginning of two weeks of holidays for school children across Victoria and with next to no activities available locally, the majority of kids here are sorely in need to something to do. I can't tell you how excited I was when I saw an advertisement in the Community Newsletter for a workshop to teach young women to re-fashion clothes. I too have a whole lot of free time on my hands, I contacted the organiser and offered to volunteer.</div>
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The workshop is being led by a crafter from Geelong - I couldn't really find out much about her so I'm not sure what to expect - and is aimed at the 10 years plus age group. The local Community Bank has generously donated some money toward the class, but from my understanding, it is largely self-funded. </div>
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June and I re-fashioned some Op Shop clothing for a small display in the local Library, in the hope of generating a bit of interest, and I'm pleased to say, we've managed to get nearly 20 participants! We even have one boy! With so many people interested, we have the potential to offer more workshops and possibly even gain some government funding. But that's a long way down the track, we've got to get through tomorrow first.</div>
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I didn't manage to get any pics of the Library display, but I made sure to photograph my two contributions - a neck warmer and matching beret and an embroidered cardigan, both made from Op Shop jumpers. They are simple for beginners and (hopefully) funky enough to appeal to young teens. What do you think?</div>
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As you can see, I just unpicked the collar from the existing jumper for the neck-warmer - it's the reason I chose it in the first place - and the beret is cut from the front and back. I used an early 1960s hats pattern which consists of two pieces - one circle and one half circle - and a simple casing threaded with elastic gathers it in to fit your head. Too easy!</div>
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Next, take one large, powder blue Target jumper...</div>
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Follow <a href="http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Grosgrain</a>'s wonderfully easy <a href="http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com.au/2010/11/embellish-knit-month-day-6.html" target="_blank">tutorial</a> from her <a href="http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com.au/2006/10/embellish-knit-month.html" target="_blank">'Embellish Knit Month'</a> back in October 2006 - I might be a bit late to the party, but it has really given me some great ideas for more projects.</div>
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Then, add a wee touch of embroidery to the front to create interest...</div>
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And you've now got yourself a cute, vintage style cardigan!</div>
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I think I might have to keep this one.</div>
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I'm needed for the workshop from midday 'til five tomorrow (now today) so I best get to bed. Wish me luck! I'll let you know how it goes.</div>
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-Tamara</div>
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Tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03703863890101335979noreply@blogger.com1