Lesson in Gathered Ribbon Flowers

I love to use these little flowers in most of my embroidery as they add a touch of nostalgia to your work, especially when they are encrusted with rosemontees, chatons or beads. My favourite ribbons to use are the Mokuba picot edged ombre or metallic 7mm. ribbons. Any ribbon can be used but the wider the ribbon a longer length is required. The ombre ribbons will give a loverly shading if you alternate the gathering along the dark or light edge. See the blue flowers in the main picture.

Cut the Mokuba picot ribbon into 5mm. pieces. This ribbon can fray easily so you may wish to seal the cut ends with a little Fray Check. Fold the two cut ends together and sew a seam, end off. Run a gathering stitch along one edge and gather up tightly, end off. Sew a rosemontee or seed beads to the centre and position on your work. They are very easy!

Happy Jumping Hare

The Happy Jumping Hare is almost finished. I just need to applique the lower edge of the hills and add some embroidery then decide on a border and quilting style. I'm very pleased with the flower motifs and they were a joy to stitch. It has the same wonderful freedom of stitching that you find in crazy patchwork and you can use all your favorite silk threads and trims. You can see the detail in the stitching in the close-up of the flower.

The stitches are basic with interesting combinations and well within the ability of most embroiderers. I have been working hard to produce very comprehensive instructions in colour for better identification of the threads and stitches used.

Email me if you are interested in working this Block of the Month - info@larainesoncapri.com.au

Flowers to Brighten the Day

I'm starting the pattern drawings today for the Hare applique quilt and it's such a grey day outside I felt I needed some colour to add cheer to the day. The Camilla bushes are loaded with flowers at the moment so I picked a small bunch to sit by my easel while I draw. I know they won't last long but they make you feel fresh and inspired.

Ribbons, Trims and Threads

It was great to catch up with so many of you at the Trading Day. It was an exciting day for me to be able to show you first hand all the latest gatherings, plus all the old favourites that we are renowned for. ( I forgot to take my camera so there's no pictures)
We'll do it again before Christmas with lots of new decorating and inspirational gift ideas. I'll have to get busy!
It's my pleasure to announce that Vivienne Clifford from Coffs Harbour is the winner of our Hare Pincushion competition. Congratulations - the little parcel of wool, threads, ribbon and buttons is on it's way. I hope you enjoy making it. (Competition was run through our Newsletter - sign up for all the news on the Home page http://www.larainesoncapri.com.au/)

Colour Your World

We have the most splendid colour range of ribbons, threads, trims, hand dyed silk velvet, felt, organza and crinkle chiffon to stir your creativity. All these colours make me feel squeeky inside and I just want to play with them.

Next post I hope to have a tutorial for you on my signature Hanah Silk Ribbon Flowers and my applique quilt is almost finished - so keep in touch.

Creative Stitching

Laraine Lord