Dolls on Parade

Something new

2012-01-26T17:27:00.000-08:00

Something in Red

A sneak peek of a little project soon to be finished. I will update you each step until the pattern is available. But, keep your eyes on this page! When the pattern is released, 2 lucky bloggers will win it free.... I will keep you posted on how to win this sooooo cute new pattern.
Raggedy Red Rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Home from Holidays

2012-01-26T16:37:00.000-08:00

It's great having mu daughter and her boys back from their holidays. The house is now full of the warmth and noise generated by 5 happy people. Love it. xxxx

Am I jealous????

2012-01-21T01:16:00.000-08:00

You bet I am, lol.

My daughter and her two boys have been enjoying themselves on the Great Barrier Reef. What a holiday! Can't wait for them to come home tomorrow with loads of pictures.

a little free stitchery for you

2012-01-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

If you have a lovely garden and spend time in it, I'm sure you'll enjoy sitting amongst your flowers and shrubs, stitching this for yourself.
Go here for the PDF download

happy stitching
xxxx
Stella

What have you done with my pattern?

2012-01-13T19:21:00.000-08:00

I certainly seem to be in blogger mode today! lol.

I have started a page on the website called "What have you done with my pattern?"
As the title suggests, it's a page of 'your' work, how 'you' have interpreted my pattern and made up the doll.
I love nothing better than to see what you make of my designs. Your expressions are very important to me. So, please, please, pretty please, send me photos of the dolls/quilts, etc that you have made from my designs, and I will post them on this page
Please take a peek at what I have so far at WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH MY PATTERNS?

Val's interpretation of Jorja.

a very handy stitchery

2012-01-13T18:46:00.000-08:00

Raggedy Mail hanger - I designed this out of necessity, lol. I kept misplacing all those 'specials' coupons. The combination of redwork on stained homespun with country check fabric, just makes this piece.

new dolls for 2012

2012-01-13T18:16:00.001-08:00

These new dolls were designed and made in 2011 for Country Threads magazine. The patterns are now released on the website at Dolls on Parade. I hope you like them..

Melly - A little cinnamon angel to welcome you home every time you go out.

Little Shepherd tends his sheep. He obviously loves them because his favourite overalls have a sheep applique on the bib. He also wears baby size sneakers and socks.

Katie - 'Your gift of friendship/ is my greatest treasure'. A sweet little doll, just made for a gift for a special friend in your life.

Kitty and Me - an adorable little raggedy with her favourite pet. Which one is Kitty?

I'm a terrible blogger

2011-12-28T17:04:00.000-08:00

I really should blog more often. I can see that fans of Dolls on Parade pop in regularly, but see nothing new here. :(.
Give me a kick up the bum girls, lol, and I will try to do better in the future.
Trouble is, I don't think my daily life is exciting at all! ;).

Christmas was wonderful, but hot. I envy those of you who've had snow.

My new quilt here is called Cottage Garden and is in this months issue of the Australian Patchwork & Stitching magazine. Vol12 #10.

For my friends and customers outside Australia who don't get this magazine, I would like to offer a free copy of the pattern to the first 10 who apply: simply email me on sales@dolls-on-parade.com with the pattern name - Cottage Garden Quilt in the subject line.

I promise to talk more on blog and show you new projects, much more often.
country blessings,
Stella

Made from my free Quilting BOM

2011-10-10T01:21:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous example of my free Quilting BOM, was made by Kate Behrens and her group of quilters in Germany. I am so thrilled to see how they expanded onthe initial design and created much much more to the quilt, and I thank her very much for sending me this photo.
Happy quilting, Kate and friends.

A weekend retreat

2011-03-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

A weekend retreat with Robyn at country Hart in Pt Pirie.
Her special guests were Rosalie and Melanie from Melly & Me.
Robyn's shop is gorgeous. If you get a chance to visit the area, do take the
time to pop in.
It was a fabulous weekend and I had a ball.

Me and Robyn

I was taking a pic of one of the girls' displays and Kirrily hopped in. If I
had been a little taller, I may have got to include her head.

Our projects for the weekend

This bag had some needle applique and chain stitch designs on the front.
It was nice to know there is more than one way to needleturn.
Kirrily and I shared a prize for our start on this project.

My best girls, Ruth and Elaine, with one of Rosalie's projects

It was awesome to meet and chat with Rosalie and Mel. They are such lovely
girls.

To finish off for February

2011-02-19T01:33:00.000-08:00

There will be 2 new dolls coming up in the magazines this year. Not sure what issues at the moment. I will post when I find out.
I have 3 new quilts on the go...phew....must be those new vitamins I'm taking!!
One is a special quilt for my youngest grandson David. He's 6 already!!! I'll post a sneak preview pic when I'm a bit further on with it.
2nd quilt, A cottage garden is just waiting for some hand quilting to be done. And the 3rd is yet un-named, but nearly finished.
After these projects I'm taking a short break because we are moving to Victoria, so I will have to pack up the craft room...eeeek!!!!!!!!
Happy stitching, every one.

"Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever"

More new designs

2011-02-19T01:07:00.000-08:00

I have designed a few new patterns since my last blog and you can get them on the website at Dolls on Parade. Here are previews:

Table topper. 'My Country Kitchen'. I used beautiful fabrics and the amazing variegated thread of ThreadworX to make this table topper.

Table centre piece and coasters.

My garden grows with love. A little wall hanging, incorporating seminole patchwork, stitching and applique.

Little Angel of Hope, designed especially for my dear friend Ruth, whose breast cancer was found in time. This little angel also featured in Creative Country Threads magazine in 2010.

Still on the theme of angels, my gorgeous Raggedy Blessings was featured in Creative Country Threads also in 2010.

Little man Harvey. A grungy little bear.

"Gather only true friends" a roomy tote for all occasions.

"Autumn Fling". Another very toomy tote bag. This is one that I use all the time at the moment. I love it.

"Diamonds Patched". A gorgeous quilt featuring beautiful charm squares. Featured in Australian Patchwork & Stitching magazine 2010.

Count your blessings. Another little wall hanging, featuring beautifully hand crafted ceramic buttons.

HOT February

2011-02-19T00:45:00.000-08:00

Hi girls,
How incredibly slack I am at blogging. I really should start a diary and remind myself to blog.
We have been soooooo busy these last few months. Not only with travelling to fairs and shows, but designing new patterns as well.
It's been a fun few months, that's for sure.
Here are a few pics of our travels and our stall.

The beautiful blue lake of Mt Gambier, south east of Adelaide, South Australia.

The Murray River Queen at Waikerie, South Australia.

Flooding

2011-01-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

Just a note to say that my daughter and grandkids in the flood affected town of Horsham, Vic, are ok. They weren't affected. phew!! I have spent a few restless nights, I tell you. And the bus lines from here to there were closed so I couldn't get to her.

free stitchery pattern

2011-01-15T17:55:00.000-08:00

Good natured gossip is not Gossip.......I prefer to call it 'Chook Chatter'....
a free stitchery for you. Make it into a wall hanging by adding borders?...Enjoy...
Print it off here

January 2011

2011-01-15T16:36:00.001-08:00

In the days, weeks and months ahead when Queenslanders (Australia) are picking up their shattered lives after record-breaking floods, let us all pray for their strength and courage, and wish them sunny and balmy days with angels all around them.

www.dolls-on-parade.com
Some new patterns for you:

Little Angel of Hope, in honour of breast cancer sufferers. She's such a beautiful little thing and incredibly easy to make.

Raggedy Blessings, a christmas raggedy, or a gorgeous addition to any country room.All that I am or hope to be, I owe to my mum and her love for me...In honour of my own mum, who passed away suddenly in 2003, still very much missed. Why not show your mum how much you care, and that you are grateful for her influence on your life.

Friends hang out together. A very useful and sweet tote bag. Charm your friends when you carry it out to lunch with them.

Gather only true friends...another friendship sentiment in a handy tote bag.

Believe in angels ...tote bag. And what little girl doesn't believe in angels?

Goodnight Poppet.... a beautiful bunny all ready for bed.

I hope my new patterns inspire you. xxxx Stella

A cold winter

2010-07-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I haven't posted forever! so it's time I caught up.
3 months ago we moved to Kapunda, which is the gateway to the Barossa Valley, South Australia's wine district.
I love it. Here's a small panoramic view from the outskirts of town, and Davidson reserve, not far from us.
It's peaceful and beautiful, with friendly people. Who could ask for anything more. Well.....perhaps some warmer weather, lol. It's gets very cold at night here...a one blanket 2 quilt cold!!! brrrrrr.

Catching up on other things I've done lately...we have been purchasing stock for our new craft supply business, Thistledown, which launches the second week in August. woohoo, a long time coming! It's has been hectic, what with searching for suppliers, buying stock, setting up for GST and tax, all insurances and registrations...phew...breathless, just typing the list, lol.
But, we are ready to conquer, lol.
I've also done a couple of things for Danielle of Creating Country Threads magazine, so look out for my projects in coming months, starting with this month.
I have also been up to my ears in putting together my first craft book. It is a book full of stitchery designs with some full projects. All stitchery work has now been completed, and photography done for the front cover. It's off to the printers in a week or so. It will be on sale on the web site once I get them, watch out for 'Drawing with Threads'.

Below is a picture of my new design. It's a table centrepiece with coasters. I have used a fabulous product I found, called Peltex, an ultra firm stabilizer. Pure magic!!
I'm working on having the pattern up very soon.

Well, that's it for now.
cheers
xxxxxx
Stella

March is halfway through!

2010-03-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

Just a little update.
Firstly, we'll be moving house next month, so the crafting has to take a backseat to packing for a while....eeeeeeekk...not my favourite pastime.
Not at all looking forward to packing up my craft room, even for a short time!!
On the other hand....I may find some long lost treasures in there...lol.

On the 'work' front, We have been slowly getting our act together to start the new craft business called Thistledown Craft Supplies, which is taking up lots of money and time with no return at the moment.....but we do have high hopes, once we debut!

I have also been working on my first book. I have some awesome friends stitching away for me, and I hope to have it finished in a month or so...
Thinking of running a competition for you all, with a free copy as a prize.

Sorry there are no new patterns at this stage, but ya never never know....if ya never never go...so keep popping in.

Stella

Mystery Quilt finished

2010-02-14T01:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone. I hope it was special.

Phew, I have only just finished sewing down the binding of the mystery quilt.
For those of you who have quilted before, you probably don't need to download the last step, which is binding the quilt. If you do need instructions on this, here they are:
MYSTERY QUILT FINISHED

And this is my version finished.
I hope you have enjoyed the journey with me, and will pop back in now and again to see what's happening at Dolls on Parade.
Your feedback has been awesome, thank you so much.
til later on then,
cheers
Stella

Mystery quilt step 15

2010-02-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry girls, that I didn't upload yesterday, but I had lost the photographs I took of these last stages of the quilt and so I had to do more.
Well, we're nearly finished, and I really hope you have enjoyed this journey with me as I have enjoyed your company and input.

Here we go for step 15 DOWNLOAD STEP 15 HERE

til next week, or if I have something to say in the meantime,
cheers
Stella

You asked me...

2010-02-03T16:33:00.000-08:00

Firstly I'd like to thank all of you for your lovely comments about the mystery quilt. You have been very kind.

I was asked recently..'what do you do when not designing?..."
When I take a little break from designing (or should I say...have a mental block) I read a book or two (maybe more, lol!).
I also like to take that time to do 'something for myself' from the designs of my favourite artistes.
At the moment I have taken up the 'Under the Sea' BOM stitchery quilt by the very lovely and talented Cheryl Goss. Check out her blog, Willowberry designs, and you'll see why I love her work so much:
Cheryl generously offers this BOM for free.
This is my Josephine jellyfish. The design incorporates embroidery thread plus a clever shading of coloured pencils.
I enjoyed this very much and can't wait for next month!.

Mystery quilt block 9

2010-01-30T18:14:00.000-08:00

It's the last day of January already. Amazing how time flies ...... the shops are already reminding us that easter is on the way...

OK, the final block in our mystery quilt is simple strips sewn together.

DOWNLOAD BLOCK 9 HERE

The next step involves putting together the block tops with the backing and batting.
You will need 1-metre (1 1/8 yd) of 100" wide cotton batting.
For the backing, which also incorporates the back sashing strips, you will need 2.10-metres (2 3/8yd) by width of bolt, fabric of your choice. If you prefer to make the back a truly patchwork design, you will need 6 pieces of different fabrics 17" x 18" and 3 pieces at 15" x 17".
For the front sashing and binding you will need 1/2-metre (4/8 yd) contrasting plain fabric.

Download problem

2010-01-25T14:06:00.000-08:00

I'm so sorry girls. The problem has been solved. I had too many photographs on the file and it took it over the upload limit.
What I have done is put the instructions only on the pdf file and also created a web page with instructins plus photographs. You can print the whole file from the web page too.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS HERE

WEB PAGE INSTRUCTIONS HERE

Problem with step 13

2010-01-25T13:39:00.003-08:00

I'm still trying to fix the download problem with step 13. Please bear with me.

Problem with step 13

2010-01-25T13:39:00.001-08:00

I'm still trying to fix the download problem with step 13. Please bear with me.

You just have to love it!!

2010-01-24T17:00:00.000-08:00

I just have to show you this....if you love stitching, (and getting free BOM's)....you have got to look at cheryl Goss's blog....click on the Willowberry Designs in my 'favourite blogs' list.
This is going to be the most gorgeous BOM called 'Under the sea'.
Intrigued yet?
Go get it.........

Thank you

2010-01-24T16:53:00.000-08:00

A very heartfelt thanks to all of you who follow my blog, listen to my ramblings, try my patterns and comment on my blog. Without you, there would be no me!!
Download this free little stitchery with love. Make it into a cushion, or a panel on front of a bag. Or maybe make a little wall hanging. For yourself or to give as a gift. (pattern not to be sold)
DOWNLOAD PDF PATTERN HERE, FOR FLUTTER BY..
cheers,
Stella

Some new patterns listed

2010-01-24T15:58:00.000-08:00

The following patterns were projects for Australian Country Threads, Patchwork & Stitching and Australian Homespun magazines over the last couple of years.
They are now being offered for sale as e-patterns at only $AUD6.00 each. If you are interested in purchasing any, please email your order and I will send you an easy Paypal invoice. email: sales@dolls-on-parade.com
Click on each photo for larger and clearer image.

Crowin' about life. (First issue - brand new pattern) A very roomy tote bag for all your craft and sewing needs with sturdy pocket at front featuring a cute crow & pumpkin stitchery. This crow fabric I used was a rare find, but the bag would look equally gorgeous in any of your favourite fabrics.

Love bears all things. A simply gorgeous wall hanging featuring embroidered bears and hearts with appliqued hearts adorned with teddy bear buttons. So incredibly easy and fun to make.

Miss Cat and Rascal rat. A primitive pair, they would still 'scrub up sweet' if you dressed her in pretty country fabrics.

Good friends in the garden of life.What better way to welcome those good friends into your home than with this wall hanging. Using 2 co-ordinating fabrics, I have combined a little patchwork with padded applique, simple backstitch embroideries adorned with the cutest buttons.

cheers,
Stella

link won't work

2010-01-24T15:12:00.000-08:00

Sorry about this link not working, girls. I simply forgot to upload the pdf file through my ftp program. It's all up and running now.
;)
Thank you for pointing this out to me. I do rely on you to keep me up to the minute, you know, lol.

It's rather a large file because I have included quite a few colour step by step photographs.

Mystery Project step 13

2010-01-24T02:38:00.000-08:00

Hi girls, I hope you're all keeping up, lol.
Here is the step 13-block 8. It's a star pieced block with border.

DOWNLOAD STEP 13 HERE

happy stitching

Mystery Project step 12

2010-01-17T15:56:00.000-08:00

Hi all, sorry I couldn't blog yesterday.
Here is step 12, which is block 7 in our quilt.

DOWNLOAD BLOCK 7

If you've had any problems at all with the download links, try these.
DOWNLOAD BLOCK 6
DOWNLOAD STEP 10
DOWNLOAD STEP 9
DOWNLOAD STEP 8
DOWNLOAD STEP 7
DOWNLOAD STEP 6
DOWNLOAD STEP 5
DOWNLOAD STEP 4
DOWNLOAD STEP 3
DOWNLOAD STEP 2
DOWNLOAD Q IS FOR QUILTING

Til next time, happy sewing

Happy New Year

2010-01-09T16:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome back everyone. I hope 2010 is going to be wonderful for you with lots of dreams coming true.

We're on to step 11 (or Block 6) of our mystery quilt.

DOWNLOAD IT HERE

Happy sewing

Christmas break

2009-12-21T01:22:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I will be taking a christmas break,
so don't worry when you don't see
anything further for the Mystery Project for now.
I will upload the next step on the second Sunday in January 2010. Until then, take care and be safe.
hugs
Stella

Step 10 of the Mystery Project

2009-12-13T16:30:00.000-08:00

Step 10 concludes the Embroidery block.
Note the absence of the E. This will be added later, so that it overlaps another piece.
Download the file here

There are 4 more blocks to go, but this is the last embroidery one, therefore the last in the 2-step process.
Next step will be called Block 6.
See you then.

Mystery project step 9

2009-12-06T16:52:00.000-08:00

Step 9 is the 5th stitchery in the project.
E mbroidery
Download the file here

happy stitching

Mystery project step 8

2009-11-28T19:08:00.000-08:00

Step 8 is the finishing up of Block 4.

Step 8 here http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 8.doc.pdf

This is what you should have after finishing this block.
See you next week.

Mystery Project step 7

2009-11-21T20:09:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies,
Before I get into the next step, just a couple of things...
When I first started this, I had no idea what it was going to be nor what each step was going to contain. Well, I think we've all figured out it's going to be a little quilt, either to hang on your craft room wall, or a throw-over. It will have 9 blocks.
I also started off using only a red DMC for the stitchery and then went on to use other colours for the sewing machine block. Which left me in a quandary about how to proceed....and I've decided to mix it up with colours. I'm going to use some coloured pencils to colour the blittle block appliques in the patchwork block to 'bring it in line' with other stitcheries using multiple colours. This choice is up to you though....you may prefer to use red throughout or use multiple coulours....
Also, I've noted that the pdf file when printed may be a little smaller than the original. The only thing I can think of is this......when converting to PDF, the program seems to use a default paper size of the American letter (8x11 inches, I think). therefore, when you set your printer up to print out on A4, it will obviously print the diagram to correspond with the paper size. Unfortunately I have no ink at the moment to experiment with this, so may I suggest that you print up as normal on A4 setup, and then try changing the paper size to 'letter', and see if the diagram turns out a little bigger. The bigger size will be the correct size.
Please let me know how you go with this experiment?
Here is the link for step 7:
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 7.pdf

This is what you will have when done....

Mystery Project step 6

2009-11-15T15:30:00.000-08:00

I'm late, I'm late...
Was it the white rabbit that said that?? lol
Sorry girls. Again, it was just too hot. Yesterday was the end of the heat wave, but apparently we have more hot weather to come. So, keep cool.
This is what you should have done to date....

To finish off this block, download step 6 instructions here:
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 6.pdf

Mystery Project step 5

2009-11-08T00:07:00.000-08:00

Hi girls, Sorry it's taken me so long to put up this weeks part, but it's been so hot and sticky today, that the less movement the better!
Ok, here we are at step 5, which is another stitchery in your Q is for Quilting project.
I hope you like it.
You can download the pdf file here:
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 5.pdf

til next week.
keep cool

Mystery Project step 4

2009-10-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

I hope you are enjoying yourselves so far.
Here is the next step and a pic of what the finished block should look like.
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 4.pdf

On to step 5 for me...............

Mystery Project step 3

2009-10-17T23:48:00.000-07:00

Time for step 3.
You can access the file here:
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 3.doc.pdf

I've checked the link several times and, at last, I've mastered the trick, lol.
This step is a 'Patchwork' one.......................
have fun.
I forgot to take a picture after step 3, so you won't see mine until next Sunday, when I put up the finished block in step 4.

End of Step 2

2009-10-11T19:11:00.001-07:00

This is what you should have...

Problems downloading files?

2009-10-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

Some of you have had problems downloading the pdf files.
They've been tested and do take you to the appropriate file. Are you copying the link exactly as it is written? Don't forget, the link is not embedded, which means you can't link from the http: as written, you must copy the whole line and paste it in your browser.
If you still have problems, please email me and I will send the link that way.
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting.pdf
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 2.pdf

Dolls on Parade: Mystery Project step 2

2009-10-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Dolls on Parade: Mystery Project step 2

Mystery Project step 2

2009-10-10T18:46:00.000-07:00

Step 2.is available for pdf download now.Copy and paste into your browser.

http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting step 2.pdf
I will post my pictures of step 2 in a day or so.

For step 3 you will need:
A 10" square of the cream tonal fabric, the same in flannelette or pellon, and the red DMC you have used.
~ ~ ~
I have fully designed the project now and I will tell you that it is not a weekend project. There will be at least 14 steps each of which will be posted every sunday. Of course, you don't have to do each step weekly as I do. You can download the file for later use, but do remember that once the final step has been posted, you will have only 1 week to collect all files before the project will be closed and files no longer available.
Have fun.

Mystery project update 1

2009-10-07T21:28:00.000-07:00

Response has been great, girls. I hope many of you will jump in and play.
I have decided now what it is going to be.....................
1st clue: the tonal fabric used for the stitchery? Get some more - couple of fat quarters.
2nd clue: Grab a bundle of scrap fabrics, no smaller than 2 1/2" x 5" each.

Step 2 on Sunday....
hugs

Step 1 for mystery project

2009-10-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

This is what you will have after step 1 is done.

PDF LINK

2009-10-06T16:56:00.001-07:00

The link for the free mystery pdf file is not an embedded one, so you will have to copy and paste into your browser.

FREE MYSTERY PROJECT

2009-10-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

I thought I would give you a whole project step by step instead of just a pattern.
You will be working along with me; I haven't even decided the design yet. That is for step 2.
I hope you will join in.
Here's the link for the pdf file:
http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Q is for quilting.pdf

Pattern will be available free only until I have finished designing and making it for you. Once the last step has been posted, you will have 1 week to take the files.

Free pattern

2009-10-05T17:18:00.000-07:00

A free pattern coming up especially for you.
WATCH THIS SPACE

CROWIN' ABOUT LIFE

2009-10-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

Finally, I finished the project with the crow fabric. I made a bag big enough to carry a small quilt plus all I need to work on it.
I hope you like it. Pattern will get written up in a few days.
Til next time.

More of the crow fabric project

2009-09-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

This fabric is so gorgeously bright and 'full of life'. I'm having so much fun with it. can you guess yet what I'm making??

New fabrics, new design

2009-09-16T23:44:00.000-07:00

I picked up ese three designs of gorgeous 'crow and cherries' fabric a little while ago, simply because I liked it.
The brain has now clicked into gear with a project using them and my own yellow hand dyed fabric. It incorporates a stitchery, which I've just drawn up, ready to stitch.
Keep watching for updates!!

2009-09-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

Hello again.
2 days in a row, lol. I'm good.
It's raining here today, in Adelaide, but I just have to tell you about the funniest thing I saw yesterday.
I came home from shopping and sat out back with a cuppa. These 2 little birds came swooping down onto one of my birdhouses - I have loads of them in the yard, made for me by my lovely brother in law. Anyway, one bird was at the foot of the birdhouse and the other was on the roof......the one down below was really flapping her beak at him, lol...I thought...aw, a married couple and she's giving him hell for not fixing the roof properly, lol. His little head was bopping up and down.....perhaps he was saying...yes dear, yes dear......awesomely funny. I hope she was saying.....watch your footing, tweetie, it's a long way down, lol......by the time i got back out with my camera, they were gone.
Ya have a bitch of a day then something like that happens to take your breath away.
Don't you just love birds. The trees around my place are just singing with them. I love the sounds of the little ones, but the bigger birds can get on my nerves a bit, especially if it's just all day long.
Last summer I caught a Rosella sitting on the jasmine on my back fence one day. I think she must have escaped a neighbour's aviary.
She inspired my Good Friends birdie wall hanging. I love those birds. They are so colourful and graceful, I wanted to capture the essence of her. I say 'her' because she was so lovely, hehe.
The 'good friends to be treasured' and 'forever friends' are for the lifetime friends I left behind when I moved from the country to the city. The other verses are for the new friends who have come into my life, both online and off.
until next time, my friends!
xxxxxxxxxxx

Ramblings and Ruminations

2009-09-14T18:59:00.001-07:00

It's been so long since I have blogged. And I've been told off for it! lol. Ive never been one to use a diary of any sort, so getting into the habit of writing daily thoughts is not going to be easy, but I promise to try harder from now on, to let you know what's happening here at Dolls on Parade.
Last week I sent off 3 items to Danielle at Country Threads. No sneak peeks, but look out for a table runner, an angel doll and a teddy bear in future issues.
I'm just about to finish another project for CT. Boy, this girl keeps me busy - lol. I love it!!!
Many years ago I designed a bag for a swap group, with 3 appliques on it. The pattern then went 'walkabout' and I thought it was lost. When rummaging through an old box of papers and fabric scraps recently, there it was. I was amazed and delighted. I then decided to make them into stitcheries rather than the original applique. The bag design is new as well. Can you guess who is on the bag?
Danielle has snapped it up for a future issue, so stay tuned.
Today is shopping day, so I'd better get a move on. There's lots more to talk about, so I will be back soon.
lotsa love

Rosie Redapples

2009-04-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

Look out for a little doll in this months issue of Australian Country Treads magazine due out 8th May.

Death of a computer!!

2009-04-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

My computer is dying!!
Actually it's been dying for several months now but today it seems to be gasping for whatever a dying computer gasps for in it's last days.
Luckily I have a new one on layby, but let's hope this old banger lasts another couple of weeks.
My burgundy quilt is coming along. I have had some problems with choices of fabrics for the backing, so that has slowed up construction a bit. But have fabric ordered now. The front is finished, batting waiting. As soon as backing fabric arrives, I hope to give myself 3 days to finish it.

Rainy days

2009-04-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

Rainy days in South Australia invite the opportunity to spend some worthwhile hours in the craft room.
I have a quilt on the go, for a magazine project, plus 2 witches, 2 cows, and various stitcheries. There's also a new quilt in the head, waiting to be grafted to paper.
I just love rainy weather.

http://www.dolls-on-parade.com

A new quilt

2009-03-31T18:56:00.000-07:00

Another sneak preview. A new quilt I'm working on, in rich burgundy and pink. A little patchwork, a little needleturn applique...

DEBUT - ONLINE DOLL MAKING CLASS

2009-03-31T18:45:00.000-07:00

This is a project I've been putting together for a few months, and finally we are ready to debut.

Faith - A funky Angel is now an online class. Pattern, full instructions and over 100 step by step photographs make this a great class for beginner to best!

Take a look at her page for full details and colour photographs:

http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/Faith_signup.htm

Here she is in 2 different colour schemes.

2009-03-31T18:41:00.002-07:00

As promised a sneak preview of one of the stitcheries going in Country Threads in the next few months. Not giving much away am I? :)

A lazy Saturday

2009-03-06T23:36:00.000-08:00

I'm having a sort of lazy day today. Just sitting back watching cricket with hubby, doing a bit of stitching.
I have a new project for Country Threads on the go, which includes stitchery. All I'm going to say now is that it's about friendship and birds.
There might be a sneak preview in a couple of days ;0

Rue is a very happy little raggedy

2009-03-04T17:04:00.000-08:00

Finally, Rue's pattern is done. I found the pieces and original notes. Not telling you where they were stashed :O.

Her pattern will be up on the website soon, and she has a little friend called Stephie with her. I hope you will enjoy these little girls

February whirlwind

2009-03-02T01:08:00.000-08:00

What an incredible month! The profile and pictures in Country Threads magazine turned out beyond my expectations. Danielle and her team did a marvelous job. I am incredibly humbled by the response I've had. Thank you all.
My teddy bears picnic pattern has just about gone through the roof, lol.
The quilt the teddies are sitting on is my Raggedy Love Quilt which will be in CT in June.

I think the country cats photographed really well, too.

Little Rue lost

2009-02-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

You're never going to believe this, but I've lost my notes and original pattern for Raggedy Rue.
Although, this will come as no surprize to those of you who know me well, lol! I craft in chaotic clutter that usually serves me well - until now............
I'm so upset. I wanted to debut the pattern for Rue and her sister Little Steph today.
I've turned the craft room upside down! I've even looked in places that craft items shouldn't be!!
Well, obviously there are places, boxes, files and folders I haven't searched yet, so that is how I am going to spend the rest of the day.
Please wish me luck, lol.
Unbelievable!!

What a handsome fellow

2009-02-14T00:12:00.001-08:00

While snapping aphoto of little Rue, I thought Tommy would like a shot. He sits here with his friend little Ted, and he is all dressed up in a lovely knitted suit. He is such a sweetheart.

February's Australian Country Threads magazine

2009-02-12T19:36:00.000-08:00

I'm told that this issue of CT is out already, and my first customer called about the 2-page spread of my calico bears, to request a pattern. I haven't received my mag yet, so have no idea what the spread is like. I was told they look gorgeous.
Patterns are available for these bears at $17.00 AUD, plus postage $1.50. I can also put together kits for $52.00 plus postage.
As soon as I get the magazine, I'll post a pic.

I'VE BEEN TOLD!!

2009-02-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

Well, Miss Raggedy Rue made comment that I haven't posted a photo of her, except for her 'butt'. A most indignant pose, she claims. I have been duly chastised for my tardiness, and post a pic herewith!! LOL. bossy little boots she is.

Her pattern will be available soon.

A new commission for Homespun

2009-02-09T16:03:00.000-08:00

Miss Cat and Rascal Rat. A little foray into prim. She will go into the Australian Homespun magazine in October of this year. I really enjoyed staining her and making her all 'grubby'. You have to wait for the mag to see her.

Patchwork and Stitching

2009-02-01T00:33:00.000-08:00

I thought I might give you a sneak preview of a little wallhanging quilt going to be in Australian Patchwork & Stitching magazine Vol 9 #11 due out in May.

It has 2 gorgeous girl and boy teddy stitcheries plus hearts and cute buttons!!

Not telling you anymore just yet ;0

A new Raggedy called Rue

2009-01-31T17:53:00.000-08:00

I was sitting in the lounge room, pondering whether or not I had the energy to head into the craft room (air con doesn't reach in there, so not terribly enticing, lol). I looked over at a new raggedy doll I've just made and thought I might just give you all a sneak peek. She has such a cute little butt........the rest to follow, lol. Her name is Rue, and she loves to welcome all her raggedy friends to play.

Who's got energy?!!!

2009-01-31T15:28:00.000-08:00

Who can work in this heat??!! We're into our second week of temperatures over 40 degrees celcius. There are alot of projects on the go, but I have to work on them a little at a time. This extreme heat really saps my energy.
Am going to spend some time browsing blogs, but I promise to get some new info from Dolls on Parade, up here as soon as I regain my sanity with cooler temps. lol. cheers

2008-12-07T14:31:00.000-08:00

Oh dear!! Haven't blogged for a while.
We have recently moved from the country to suburban Adelaide, so getting re-settled has really been a chore this time. But it's worth it. I love being near my kids, grandies and my lovely sister Jo.
The Take Time Out Quilt was a debut success. I had some lovely phone calls from ladies who were going to make it. Unfortunately, the team at Country Threads forgot to put in the numbers on the stitcheries, which has confused a few people. We have rectified that mistake. Danielle (editor of CT) has put a correction up on the magazine's website, and I have on my website too.
If you've made the quilt, I'd love to see a picture. I'd love to post them on the website.
Next project in the magazine is the Quilting Companion trio. A set of 3 bags - for your mat, ruler and all your wulting essentials.

I made it in awesome bright fabrics (not my normal choice, but I'm glad I did).
This month features Trudy, a long thin doll who can sit or hang. I hope you will all give her a go.
I've been incredibly blessed that Danielle loves my work so much that I have yet more projects to be featured :))
Thre are some country cats going in soon. A cute little group of cats in a bag for your country home. Easy peasy to make. You'll love them.
Also on the country theme, there will be a quilt I call 'Country Life'. This quilt incorporates country stitcheries and patchwork. It was a joy to create. This will be in 2 parts

Also, learn a little about me in the profile coming up soon (not sure which issue).The profile will feature my gorgeous calico bear family on a double page spread.

I hope I don't leave it this long again before 'keeping you in the loop'.

til next time

country blessings

Stella

Take Time out to smell the flowers quilt

2008-07-02T00:45:00.000-07:00

Not long now and my little quilt will makes it's debut in Australian Country Threads magazine. Vol 8 #10. Not sure if that's august or September.

Have just designed and almost finished another little wall quilt called Country Life. I hope to have the pattern for that out soon.

Now I think it's time to get into some dollmaking. There is a witch on the way. I made her some months ago for a doll swap in a doll club I'm in. And now she's knocking on my head demanding to be put into mainstream pattern sales.
OK. I hear ya!!
Shoppa Docket will debut soon.
that's it for now.
cheers
Stella

Picture of Tommy Dean

2008-05-10T20:08:00.001-07:00

Did I tell you this gorgeous guy was named after my grandson Tommy Dean Whittingham, who lives in Tasmania, Australia.

May issue of Homespun magazine

2008-05-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

Tommy Dean has finally arrived on your doorstep (if you buy or subscribe to Australian Homespun mag).
I love the way they have photographed him. He is so handsome, lol.
I hope you will give him a go. He is reasonably easy to make, just a little messy with staining and varnishing, but loads of fun.
Go on, I dare you.....and send me pics of him when you finish.
love you all
Stella
ps. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO EVERY MUM IN THE WORLD

An olde-worlde teddy bear

2008-04-14T19:30:00.000-07:00

I think I may have forgotten to mention this:
My olde-worlde leather look teddy bear called Tommy Dean will feature in May's issue of Australian Homespun magazine.
No photos yet, but I will keep you posted.
hugs

We're halfway through April already

2008-04-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

The most amazing thing happened. Lynelle Slade from Australian Country Threads magazine has seen the new quilt I'm in the middle of and would like to commission it for her birthday edition.

I'm working really hard to get it done by her deadline.

The top is finished, now we are ready to quilt

Here's a sneak preview
Will keep you updated on this project

What's happening in March?

2008-03-15T02:19:00.000-07:00

Well, apart from my March Madness crazy pattern offer, I have a new baby to show off soon.
She is a little sitting Raggedy called Brodie. It's her birthday, and she hold a cake and a gift from a special friend, with a card that says "happy birfday Bwodie".
She will make her debut in the next couple of days, when her pattern will be available.
That's all for now on the Parade.
But on a more personal level, I am an auntie again!! woohoo. My neice Noni has given birth to a lovely little boy, Heath, brother to 2 yo Ava.
I looove babies.

Happy easter to all of you, and please drive carefully.
Stella

First post for February

2008-02-04T22:28:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, no matter what you touch, it goes awry! And yet at other times, the path couldn't be smoother.

I speak of designing dolls of course.

I woke up this morning (Tuesday) at 4.30 (uggg!!) with a doll inside my head demanding to be designed and made up. I just couldn't get back to sleep with this 'knock, knocking' inside my head, so I got up and went into the craft room. I have a customer who asked me to design some more angels. And so, Faith - A Funky Angel was desperate to be born!

I cut off a great strip of tracing paper, sharpened my pencils and got stuck in.

About 2 hours later the design was finished, doll and clothing were cut out of their respective fabrics, but I had to get more sleep - was getting cross-eyed with fatigue!!

Grabbed an hours sleep and went straight back into the doll. I took a break for brekkie and lunch, lol.

It just doesn't happen like this often, let me tell you, but she was just perfect every step of the way, and I just couldn't put her down.

I finished her this afternoon, and she's had her 'photo shoot'! For more images and close ups take a peek at:

http://www.dolls-on-parade.com/faith_a_funky_angel.htm

til next time

Stella

23rd January

2008-01-22T22:20:00.000-08:00

Just a little note on frustration!!!!
I was designing a lovely little floral stitchery on Paint Shop Pro, when it shut down on me. :(((
Had I saved anything?? NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
Better go do something else or the puter will fly out the window.
xxxxxxx
Stella

January 22nd

2008-01-21T22:58:00.000-08:00

Just got back from a few days in Adelaide. Hubby had sales meeting, so I took the chance to go visit my sister Jo.

Had a great time as always. We talk about craft. Is there any other topic of conversation??

I was extremely lucky this visit to receive my (late) chrissy pressie from her. I'm just thrilled. I love elephants, and have a small collection.

This beautiful lap quilt is my prized posession. Isn't it gorgeous. I will hang it up and have a small table underneath with my collection on.

cheers til next time

Stella

post 2

2008-01-05T15:47:00.000-08:00

I started my blog with Bravenet, but found it a little hard to use, so I have changed over. I hope this is easier for me.
*S*

January 2008

2008-01-05T15:25:00.000-08:00

Hi, and welcome to my Blog, ruminations of a doll maker, daily diary, news spot, etc.I hope to keep you updated on what's happening on the Parade.I look forward to your comments and any queries you may have.
hugs
Stella