Hi there, and yes we are back down to earth again with a thud after our international travels.  But it is good to be home to some warmer weather and fresh summer fruit and vegetables.

Japan is an amazing place which I am sure will be transformed in another couple of months with the cherry blossoms, spring flowers and festivals…aside from that I have one or two or quite a few, new projects that I brought home to add to the never ending “to-do” list which is exciting too!

I have a couple of new small projects that I have finished recently which I would like to show you.  The first one is a cloth book called “Woodsy Wonders” that I have embroidered and embellished with charms and different threads to add a bit more interest and texture to the pages.  Fun to do if you have a small person in your life, and you are only limited by your time and imagination as with most things!  It comes as a panel which are $27.00 and you just need some scraps of batting of pellon to go with it.

The next one is a hanging mobile featuring teapots and cups using Tim Holtz fabrics that I have put together as a kit for just $12.50 each in the two colour options.  (Minimal sewing required.)  They hang up and are weighted at the bottom with some vintage buttons (not so easy to photograph, but I hope you get the idea).

Our regular weekly classes at the shop have started again, and if you are keen to grab a last minute spot in the Tuffet class on the 18-19th February, we have a couple of places spare due to cancellations.  This is a great class and you will go home with a finished handmade piece of furniture which is unique to you.  There are pictures on the Annie’s website and Facebook page if you need some more inspiration.

We also have our next (monthly) Wool Applique class coming up on Saturday 25th February (10.00-4.00).  Give us a ring at the shop if you would like some more details or check the class page of the website.

On top of all that, it is all very exciting as work has begun on our new machine service workshop and office space at the back of the shop.  The concrete foundation will be poured on Monday and it will be all go after that.

Before I forget, our January winner of the $50 voucher from Annie’s is Eleanor Marr from Rakaia.  Congratulations Eleanor!

Now for a quick recipe…and one that is great for BBQ weather as an easy dressing for a green salad

 Easy Vinaigrette Dressing

• 1 tsp each of brown sugar, salt, crushed garlic and coarse mustard
• ½ tsp each of coarsely ground black pepper and dried mustard
• A handful of fresh herbs or a tsp of dried ones
• 1 c light salad oil
• ½ c spiced or herb vinegar

Blend together and store in a jar in the fridge.

Happy stitching

Rachel