Hi there. It is great to see some new fabrics arriving through the door, even if sometimes it takes so long to get here that I have forgotten what I ordered!

This week’s surprise was Oak Alley from the late Di Ford-Hall. I have selected the pinky/red colour options from this beautiful reproduction range which includes border, feature, small and large prints which are now on the Annie’s website.

https://www.anniesquilts.co.nz/cms/index.php?option=com_mijoshop&route=product/search&search=oak%20alley

We also have of Di’s patterns (Bally Birds, and Maling Road) and books in stock, (Primarily Quilts 1 and 2).

This quilt called Route 66 is from the first book. I started it ages ago and put it aside until I could decide on a border that was just right. It is good to finally have it completed and I still like it so that is also a bonus!

It has also been a treat this week to receive a parcel of hand dyed Gentle Arts threads from the US, so give us a ring and let us know if there is anything you need. We are regularly ordering Weeks Dye Works threads and cross stitch patterns, so as long as it is in stock in the US it is generally not too long to wait.

Speaking of cross stitch, it is always exciting when you get to collect your work from the framer, and this one didn’t disappoint. This is Eleanor Rigby from Blackbird Designs which has a moody antique look that I just love! Available as a pattern ($24.00) or a kit ($46.00). If you prefer brighter colours there is also an alternative thread selection shown in the pattern.

Before I forget the winner of the May $50.00 voucher from Annie’s is Lisa Patterson from Timaru. Congratulations Lisa, your voucher is waiting for you in store.

This week’s recipe is at Margaret’s request after I made Passionfruit Cake for morning tea at last week’s wool class. This is actually a large chocolate cake recipe that is super easy and never seems to fail, but you can make it whatever flavour you like substituting the cocoa for passion fruit, citrus or coffee.

Chocolate (or any flavour you like) Cake!

• 2 c flour
• 2 c sugar
• 1 c milk
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 4 eggs
• 5 tbsp cocoa
• 170 g melted butter
• 2 tsp vanilla

Place all the ingredients in a large bowl or cake mixer and beat well. Put in a large greased lined rectangle tin and bake at 175C for 45 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the cake comes out clean. Top with your favourite icing.

Don’t forget to put a ring around Saturday 30th of July on the calendar as Annie’s will be hosting the Bernina Roadshow with some great deals on machines, over-lockers and long arm quilters. There will be an exhibition and you can go in the draw to win a new sewing machine. This is also your chance to ask the experts all those questions you always wanted to ask...and it’s free!

In the meantime, have a great Queen’s Birthday. We will be open Saturday, Sunday and Monday so if you are passing by please do call in and say hello and check out the gorgeous fabrics we have in stock as well as some of the great specials.

Have a excellent weekend and happy stitching,

Rachel

Annie’s Country Quilt Store

03 3076 277

www.anniesquilts.co.nz

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