tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26580641397884224942024-03-14T07:33:19.515-07:00Freddie Patmore
<a href="http://www.freddiepatmore.com">FreddiePatmore.com</a> | Author | Knitter | Journalist | PhotographerAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-637163483340413372019-03-07T04:50:00.002-08:002019-03-07T04:50:31.742-08:00Macrame Gold and Silver Cowry (Cowrie) bracelets now on EtsyWell this is a new one! I've always loved seashells, collecting them when I was a little girl. I've always found them fascinating and was secretly disappointed that I couldn't meet the incredible creatures that lived inside.<br />
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No different to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/freddiepatmore?section_id=25577075">my current love of fossils</a> and all things faunatical, I suppose.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/673453424/adjustable-cowry-cowrie-shell-bracelet?ref=shop_home_active_3" target="_blank"><img alt="Seashell bracelet on knotted black cord with gold shell" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVjsps_cIvJdyL4LVTHg4Ij3mv2FtmSpwdu5nXBFmLhnEAOBDrFrVdMQa3U7d3ivpY9ilc-eSnV5g8xESSMvZK5afIgYUPyX4iNOuSxXGFr7FDJ8ra_JWF-MWyTi3-Y-n1spPh5sCGwti/s400/il_fullxfull.1797812458_ta2i.jpg" title="Gold plated cowry bracelet by Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #000032;">So when I started seeing seashell beads and how cost-effective they are, I couldn't resist <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/GiftsByFreddie?section_id=25577073" target="_blank">making a bunch for my etsy shop</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000032;">My mother-in-law is always complaining about fiddly clasps and I must admit, I can't do up a bracelet myself if it's got a lobster clasp. I need help. So I've made these with adjustable pull-knots.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000032;">I did try matching spacer beads instead of glue-sealed knots but they just looked so clunky and heavy I rapidly fell out of love with them and opted for the simplicity of knots instead.</span><br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEircVF2vGfBm7rJLRcFQyJ2FLy_r4mlVi2QxR3I5FTl7yi_-DDfk6gjY2nbnq7ky3kamB41c-Gq1qoOkNHcfOfnTelQ4Nsz5k-u70OrpV9tf1Ibi1vWzk-o3jT7WHgeDDkHgx2kwc-kqlSS/s1600/il_fullxfull.1797815670_amrk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="handmade white, silver and black seashell bracelet on grey background" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEircVF2vGfBm7rJLRcFQyJ2FLy_r4mlVi2QxR3I5FTl7yi_-DDfk6gjY2nbnq7ky3kamB41c-Gq1qoOkNHcfOfnTelQ4Nsz5k-u70OrpV9tf1Ibi1vWzk-o3jT7WHgeDDkHgx2kwc-kqlSS/s400/il_fullxfull.1797815670_amrk.jpg" title="White coqrie racelet with antique silver on black knotted cord" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #000032;">I generally don't wear gold, but I think the gold ones are so far, the prettiest. The antique silver ones aren't 925 sterling silver and the beads are a touch flatter, but they're still lovely. I am currently working on sourcing some more 3D, polished 925 silver versions.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000032;">I experimented with a few different cords before I found one I was happy with. I tried waxed cotton cord that was quite thick, which looked nice but was very chunky and heavy.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxaIUIZMHVxjCSVrVp4RpSe6e2uErPnrILMa-6H05dwCpfAcdBEc06FOXH-TC2K4Q9rKGRE0sl36K07OCigqGqKkEhkFowDcifDlZ2Jz_bL_u51IjxKCujqPG-JrFX8KxWjut8PPLoxyB/s1600/DSC_0618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Candle bracelet friendship gifts" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxaIUIZMHVxjCSVrVp4RpSe6e2uErPnrILMa-6H05dwCpfAcdBEc06FOXH-TC2K4Q9rKGRE0sl36K07OCigqGqKkEhkFowDcifDlZ2Jz_bL_u51IjxKCujqPG-JrFX8KxWjut8PPLoxyB/s400/DSC_0618.JPG" title="Friendhsip bracelet hand-poured soy candles" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch this space for friendship bracelet candles, coming soon.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #000032;">The chunkier cords work well for a single shell bracelet but I much prefer the light finer nylon cords for the more ornate jewellery.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOYH8c5I2Q8lliv8GZjgkbf77VhI3sI8Q-4pUsTdGK1t0kFqzURtuoKVxPG4tlGbucnMq0-nyaa8i7m0wRy4eCtHgYDXCEYgOwcxQKDmfaBW8lMUuRUn2xd6o7Fp73IkDgK7TYN_85FY-_/s1600/il_fullxfull.1797817438_hf5e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White seashell bracelet on knotted black cord on cream background" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOYH8c5I2Q8lliv8GZjgkbf77VhI3sI8Q-4pUsTdGK1t0kFqzURtuoKVxPG4tlGbucnMq0-nyaa8i7m0wRy4eCtHgYDXCEYgOwcxQKDmfaBW8lMUuRUn2xd6o7Fp73IkDgK7TYN_85FY-_/s400/il_fullxfull.1797817438_hf5e.jpg" title="Cowrie Cowry seashell macrame bracelet by Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></div>
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The lighter cord gives me more scope for a finer macramé knot tube at the fastening end. I've also done a<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/673452730/cowry-cowrie-shell-choker-necklace-on?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank"> choker necklace </a>version with a stainless steel adjustable fastening which I'm loving. I just need a sunny place to go away on holiday now - or better still, a boho music festival, where I can show off these bad boys!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsaMyr38XTl5aVJlsdu9ChPxs-lS6WaSwrdqF5GVFTSXQducHcPxLi-OMRuOQrjvkndR99qI78mWTZM_Kykp_ZKLF3juvA0QKsnaa25fiLKWkXY9LUUBHd_YCnK5ZvQJnGTcoAA6vwaoj/s1600/il_fullxfull.1845249049_rxjh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="white seashell necklace on black background" border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="1600" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsaMyr38XTl5aVJlsdu9ChPxs-lS6WaSwrdqF5GVFTSXQducHcPxLi-OMRuOQrjvkndR99qI78mWTZM_Kykp_ZKLF3juvA0QKsnaa25fiLKWkXY9LUUBHd_YCnK5ZvQJnGTcoAA6vwaoj/s400/il_fullxfull.1845249049_rxjh.jpg" title="Cowry choker necklace by Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #000032;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-32424346655096684502019-02-15T08:56:00.001-08:002019-02-15T09:58:02.599-08:00New! Edgy handmade beaded ammonite pendantsPeyote stitch has become a bit of a thing for me as I feel you've probably already worked out by now. A published knitting author and previously prolific workshop tutor, it was while teaching at a Craft Exbilbition up in glasgow that I was dazzled by a participant's necklace from across the room.<br />
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She pointed me in the direction of designer Laura McCabe, and the rest is history. I was hooked!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopMMjlWwwa2wbH5a0AC8nn1Ggzjhpi6wsUcwSMOig7uS6PUj-tbiFFZRzCO8rx8nNLRQwHCGUReWMfNShzfRn4OnykbqJk-Vypw9XGRVchekwEAUtNPyJn2OETvzCzBVTr619Al0N0pgt/s1600/MOV_0576.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="854" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopMMjlWwwa2wbH5a0AC8nn1Ggzjhpi6wsUcwSMOig7uS6PUj-tbiFFZRzCO8rx8nNLRQwHCGUReWMfNShzfRn4OnykbqJk-Vypw9XGRVchekwEAUtNPyJn2OETvzCzBVTr619Al0N0pgt/s400/MOV_0576.mp4" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peyote stittch is the art of weaving beads together to form a meshwork, a perfect way to bezel crystal rivolis, or indeed, anything.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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After wearing my pendant around the office, it wasn't long before I was inundated with orders from colleagues for one of their very own. And that's when <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/freddiepatmore">my ETSY shop</a> was born.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/485386036/diwali-inspired-red-swarovski-peyote?ref=shop_home_active_49" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Red choker crystal pendant on mixed race neck" border="0" data-original-height="831" data-original-width="849" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgklCURta9l_yWQM-kxUzHvK_9Gg6rD3EOGj2EV9KgxuHT1vKutQofcDDjellE9iu6pRWfIZggIAkrLvq2rhKpkA0oClWORwberV-fWUuhwz00tavHblZeWD21sp_zhiuBLVm2EgHY94qNj/s320/15577557_10210108679527791_1283954667_n.jpg" title="Freddie Patmore on Etsy Swarovski Emelda pendant" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/485386036/diwali-inspired-red-swarovski-peyote?ref=shop_home_active_49">My frustration at never finding necklaces in the lengths I want led me to string my own beads from a very young age.</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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Having gained a bit of confidence with the technique of bezelling using Peyote stitch, this year I started bezelling ammonites I had <a href="https://freddiepatmore.blogspot.com/2018/11/fossil-hunting-in-durdle-door-england.html">discovered last year on the Jurassic Coast</a>, as well as others I'd collected from online sellers in Madagascar and India (just because they were pretty, really!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/669149498/swarovski-ring-natural-madagascan?ref=shop_home_active_3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGa-6nZtrcEWnQAGbqDe-CL7EU_8cUUmj1zShHTqaF2RHNxgsblEgabbC4DxvRbXUvtVoFH2PrCqxPwWJyoudc0luD7KxmPPS47GY-kdcfIP65ceJLTgNlj3Vh0UA8OOlg5I0_PSvdbacJ/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-48.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/669149498/swarovski-ring-natural-madagascan?ref=shop_home_active_3">I'd always loved the combination of blue and brown. This ammonite slice inspired me to take it to the next level using a Swarovski crystal ring.</a></td></tr>
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Digging out spike beads from a failed design severak years ago that had been frustratingly shoved under the bed to gather dust, something really special happenned. These edgy, part art-nouveau, part punk pendants were born.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682995099/peyote-natural-madagascan-ammonite?ref=shop_home_active_2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWR4sd6ZoifsIHNp-rWY3qmzfoB2wvJQci346IOXnMq4vXg47oOLLqi0uQDH16YOBz7xRLQmn-IP-BV9P7yTHdJEbyIhicqf2iaInSAHxvHjUKX19PHD2ZPfNR6d0xLRYDn3ooad7XO1T/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-54.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682995099/peyote-natural-madagascan-ammonite?ref=shop_home_active_2">Inspired by the sun and the moon, to protect this limestone madagascan ammonite from damage, I've polished it and added a layer of glitzy gold wax.</a></td></tr>
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I'm pretty convinced I've discovered a personal design style that I'm totally happy with and would wear any time. I've always had a mixture of weird shaped beads that I never knew what do do with. With these, I can be really creative and just <b>let loose</b>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682996003/hematite-ring-natural-madagascan?ref=shop_home_active_1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIB_u6hZeE1RZqrEZD1XHOfYIGx8MevfaEDvz4HykIVpjQI-hYDi4yTnXhJzmR1CgPcpqWKbP0K2cxodw8Dx7QdVWX60mFDhOQC4xHVVTnh3QeMHBRdcpuJnLsAP4OeLnMDuDEZDwAudOH/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-32.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682996003/hematite-ring-natural-madagascan?ref=shop_home_active_1">Hematite ring beads I'd bought years ago all of a sudden found a new lust for life, with a chinese bicone crystal at each centre.</a></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-18182233665680127302019-01-22T04:09:00.000-08:002019-03-07T04:52:09.735-08:00Advice for new candle makersSo I used to make candles with my nan when I was a little girl. I quite vividly remember wandering to Woolworths with my pocket money, buying a milk pan and having a bash on my own (I can't have been older than about 11), and then tipping any excess wax down the sink.<br />
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Needless to say, my mum was<i> less than impressed</i>. And I was rapidly put off making them in case I broke the house by blocking the pipes again!<br />
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So yeah, when I spotted an unloved candlemaking kit knocking around on Shpock, it definitely sparked my interest.<br />
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Without batting an eyelid, I set to work and bashed out two massive batches of soy wax container candles. I used what I realised later, was Eco Wax 464 with a 5% fragrance load.<br />
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Having got enormously over excited at the outset, I'd also ordered a bunch of very unspecific wicks on Ebay. These all got mixed into the batches too.<br />
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So yeah, here is what I learned:<br />
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1. Unspecific wicks are pretty useless for making candles</h3>
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Turns out there's a bit of science to candle making. Wicks that were supplied with the kit I bought, were specific to the type of wax used and the size of container. My duff ones all did something called 'tunnelling' (that is, burning by boring a hole down the centre of the candle and barely melting any wax around the edges) which also meant very little wax was melted and they didn't smell at all.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaz_4D1fqUmyw5Onpyq6YTXwsOGmDI6j_FUZ_ZqQxm6w-qfpwav8_Zwryy_ttFv3qzo8QW_tDByCURs89s3lrgEtSlCQSGw5N50ZAt5RoS-W_FTK0-FE5XjJd1CZFZ2gMKkwz32_2w_rH7/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaz_4D1fqUmyw5Onpyq6YTXwsOGmDI6j_FUZ_ZqQxm6w-qfpwav8_Zwryy_ttFv3qzo8QW_tDByCURs89s3lrgEtSlCQSGw5N50ZAt5RoS-W_FTK0-FE5XjJd1CZFZ2gMKkwz32_2w_rH7/s320/DSC_0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Although my research is yet to indicate what caused the bubbles in this candle, </div>
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this is a better burn than my earlier tests - wax is melting to the edge and the 'milk pool' of melted wax isn't too deep.</div>
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I've since done bunches of research into which wicks I should be using and I'm as good as starting all over again, from scratch.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_gtuQrk_BwXXGq0zFnsfSKAuSRWZijSKzIBr5yXAayky-UIXVv0RAOLcPiC7cpY2ZhyphenhyphenJ-7x-1EWonNNDoHBteH2uursXkaPj4bG1vPAitCJpbTK3KdUenRiijdrm5M2wgB4pJZssA72x/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="901" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_gtuQrk_BwXXGq0zFnsfSKAuSRWZijSKzIBr5yXAayky-UIXVv0RAOLcPiC7cpY2ZhyphenhyphenJ-7x-1EWonNNDoHBteH2uursXkaPj4bG1vPAitCJpbTK3KdUenRiijdrm5M2wgB4pJZssA72x/s320/DSC_0004.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
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Wicks that are too hot for the container will blitz the scent too quickly as they melt too deep a milk pool.</div>
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I've been told 1/4 in maximum melted wax pool is the indicator of a good wick fit.</div>
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2. The same % fragrance load to wax ratio, doesn't work for every fragrance.</h3>
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I just went straight in with my kit instructions and presumed that 5% of whatever scent, added at the correct temperature, would do the trick. It didn't.</div>
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I've now learned that Eco Soy 464 wax is generally a tricky one for getting a decent scent throw. I'm thinking next month I might swap to a different wax type, but apparently everyone has different preferences. I like the idea of soya as it's eco-friendly, but apparently a paraffix/eco mix suitable for containers (as it won't hold it's shape marvellously when used in moulds) might give me a better scent throw.</div>
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<b>Did you know: It can take up to 10 days for a candle to fully cure. Candles lit before this time may have a tendency not to smell at all.</b></div>
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I could totally always try a higher percentage too, apparently 5% is pretty low.</div>
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3. You can't just go out and sell them</h3>
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So there's a few things here.</div>
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Firstly, <b>labelling</b>. You need to display adequate safety information and any safety information about the chemicals you're using as fragrances, which are potential irritants. I splashed around ebay buying all sorts of candle scents from different suppliers and am now retrospectively having to go back to all of them to provide me with the necessary legal information which I must add as a printed label if I choose to sell them. Good to have on file, regardless.</div>
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Secondly, <b>insurance</b>. If someone burns themselves, or worse - starts a fire using one of your candles, you have to have insurance. If they take you to court without any, you're in trouble. UK insurance is pretty decent cost-wise but if you want to sell to America (which is 'high-risk'), be warned - prices skyrocket.</div>
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4. It's going to take quite a lot of experimenting before you have a product you're happy to sell</h3>
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This is pretty much where I'm at. I'm not happy with what I've already produced and I only really sell stuff to raise money for charity anyway. So it's going to be a while before Freddie candles hit Etsy. For now at least! I'll keep you posted on how the process goes.</div>
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<h3>
5. Decorations are potential fire-hazards</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRslvCJEBOzXk12WDn4U4C2_KP1hSvatib-kXmPgxmPb2m0bimUtuI8UZC2_OpfRBNP4Ttk6N5Ph2gwcVckFLrQbSzkgPTZv60R-7h22SJ2L4yINWsjblEFvGT9QiFMp9ArIxZRvuLdpW/s1600/DSC_0618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRslvCJEBOzXk12WDn4U4C2_KP1hSvatib-kXmPgxmPb2m0bimUtuI8UZC2_OpfRBNP4Ttk6N5Ph2gwcVckFLrQbSzkgPTZv60R-7h22SJ2L4yINWsjblEFvGT9QiFMp9ArIxZRvuLdpW/s320/DSC_0618.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
My friendship bracelet idea is still viable - but I need to add printed warnings to make sure people remove the decorations before they light the candles, Shown: Sea Breeze, Sandalwood.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I've got so many ideas for horror film-themed candles, father's day candles and spring botanicals ranges that I've gone off in all sorts of directions. What I've discovered is I need to reign it in and hone the basics first.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So if you're new to this like I am - my advice would be to be patient, do your research and leave plenty of time for curing and testing. Keep lots of notes and get all the information about any scents you buy up front. I'm going to wait until I've perfected the formula before I even start thinking about product design!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Good luck!</b></div>
<div>
<b></b><br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-86181093675909408232019-01-09T02:29:00.000-08:002019-02-15T03:25:26.280-08:00Hand-strung low cost freshwater pearls inspired by JerseyPearls have always caught my eye, ever since I was little.<br />
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But not traditional pearls.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679824017/a-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVTDHiiDryY-iSf_gFzJpCRU9jGuECS7V0RzaC2aNi3IaYz8dsCip9PrA2A6fvcmDg8nWIvb7P0M53vqso1UWmRxkVYJj93QdV0Zz12SEYQiBVGmVEDZHvHp3WLRr4oHu0-5Md2-qtcTN_/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-19.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679824017/a-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_3">I nearly always wear a black choker made from onyx, but pearls are so much more special.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After falling head-over-heels for a black pearl string I came across, I ended up teaching myself how to string them. And I'm happy to be able to now <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/freddiepatmore?section_id=25577083">share my creations with you</a>!<br />
<br />
I was on Jersey a couple of years ago, writing an article for Woman's Weekly (absolutely amazing island, I can't wait to go back). In the airport on the way home, we were delayed, so I was blessed with a good couple of hours or so to parouse the airport shops.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzyhk7wMyJJiS2vDhfSHvPJWnfty9RN4lk9nZxRLmPgZuyJdzOSOh6henOuWG_nQ7lfd2Ggdy644H5_VCGR57zfQTsDsPdRS8v6iWAMAt-zwuxLUXd4JuibYhxMaazpGqZsy0hQQTtCZP4/s1600/e17f94_834f13604bbd4205a312fe20060fd3e0%257Emv2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="755" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzyhk7wMyJJiS2vDhfSHvPJWnfty9RN4lk9nZxRLmPgZuyJdzOSOh6henOuWG_nQ7lfd2Ggdy644H5_VCGR57zfQTsDsPdRS8v6iWAMAt-zwuxLUXd4JuibYhxMaazpGqZsy0hQQTtCZP4/s640/e17f94_834f13604bbd4205a312fe20060fd3e0%257Emv2.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My article for Woman's Weekly magazine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Dazzling in one of the jewellery outlets was a ethereal-metallic black pearl string with an irridescent finish. They totally spoke to me. I don't remember what they cost, but they were well out of my price league. Probably Tahitian pearls. I don't actually remember.<br />
<br />
Those that know me will know I pretty much always wear a choker. I started off beading because I couldn't buy them anywhere in the right length (my neck is pretty narrow), so I gave up and started making them myself.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYH0omb0kDJ4PTNvRDDnu-P-UxI-oN1fX7m5nYXoRro9fy-kpSf3HcB7kskDfW3cvXAUacinKc83ChMBbF8ocEOaipdJceMmpZT83FqAE7V-C3oIfIyS7uoap1arjioGh0CxnJE9oMC57/s1600/Freddie+Patmore+design-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYH0omb0kDJ4PTNvRDDnu-P-UxI-oN1fX7m5nYXoRro9fy-kpSf3HcB7kskDfW3cvXAUacinKc83ChMBbF8ocEOaipdJceMmpZT83FqAE7V-C3oIfIyS7uoap1arjioGh0CxnJE9oMC57/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-21.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naturally dyed using potatoes, these are known as 'peacock' pearls for the subtle and reflective cosmic blue, green and purple hues.</td></tr>
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So after two years of persevering with what I can only describe as an 'extremely fiddly' technique, I've finally got the knack. And I have recreated <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679824017/a-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_3">that most gorgeous necklace</a> that caught my eye.<br />
<br />
I'm completely thrilled to finally be sharing them with you on my Etsy shop! I've found some amazing natural colours of pearl and just keep falling in love with them all. I'm just working on sourcing some nice vintage boxes and hopefully will be able to pack these up in the most amazing box too.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-52358795244274139392018-12-15T08:29:00.000-08:002019-02-15T08:32:04.096-08:00Imperial Bauble by Julie Ashford - a Christmas gift for a friendAfter a very lengthy ordeal with a very incompetent estate manegemtn agency, one of my colleagues exchanged on her brand new house a few weeks ago. I was so excited for her!<br />
<br />
I really wanted to do something special for her, she's easily one of my favourite people. So when I saw Julie Ashford's brand new Imperial Bauble design pop up on Bead and Jewellery Magazine, I couldn't resist. I knew it was the perfect thing.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVkLLPtHhRg6xbeUo9gY3dd_yaLiM1nhQc0XsI4I8jWXiBy36_ELvRUh__Ptpmyz0Y4JrX3RAMzumTJV04h5Frsq-3UN5NLf0tW0G5ZxmRblh25m53jipALzHZoU5Jv-78F4TATjzeq90/s1600/DSC_0247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="triangle beaded mesh with superduos and crystal rivoli, red and gunmetal grey" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVkLLPtHhRg6xbeUo9gY3dd_yaLiM1nhQc0XsI4I8jWXiBy36_ELvRUh__Ptpmyz0Y4JrX3RAMzumTJV04h5Frsq-3UN5NLf0tW0G5ZxmRblh25m53jipALzHZoU5Jv-78F4TATjzeq90/s400/DSC_0247.JPG" title="Imperial Bauble by Julie Ashford, Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the early making stages, I quickly fell in love with this medieval colourway</td></tr>
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<br />
After ordering a kit from Spellbound Bead Co in the frosty white colourway (will totally make a gorgeous wedding gift for the next pair I know that gets married post-November), I got delving into colour options. I know my most popular colourways are always based on a custom order - usually colours I wouldn't normally put together.<br />
<br />
So when this lovely lady said she was decking her new halls with red and grey, I set to buying every silver and red bead imaginable - whether it was needed for this stunning pattern, or not!<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCz0Y0wGUpvsb8xCcIP_S-Pe8r5p6L1HN9C77Uq1A5K8Zaf_PqjPVhee7O2QNoNdeHNa7Idu-TIF_V2JB7dg695eq9q1cODvMk1_WqyX8AyeCCjWkUUkhyphenhyphen7WiTo6mh6XsYy1OisE8K_Pqj/s1600/DSC_0252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="triangle beaded mesh with superduos and crystal rivoli, red and gunmetal grey" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCz0Y0wGUpvsb8xCcIP_S-Pe8r5p6L1HN9C77Uq1A5K8Zaf_PqjPVhee7O2QNoNdeHNa7Idu-TIF_V2JB7dg695eq9q1cODvMk1_WqyX8AyeCCjWkUUkhyphenhyphen7WiTo6mh6XsYy1OisE8K_Pqj/s400/DSC_0252.JPG" title="Imperial bauble by Julie Ashford Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like, I've never seen Game of Thrones, but this is Game-of-Thronesy, right?</td></tr>
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<br />
I ended up going for a red bauble, with red Swarovski crystal rivolis and pale grey rondelles. And from the bottom of my stash I'd dug out some gunmetal-coloured size 8 beads to set the whole thing off. At least, I thought they were size 8's...<br />
<br />
To form the curvature of the waves around the bauble netting, a variety of different seed bead sizes are used. I've nmever had more respect for Julie Ashford as I now do, having made one using <u>one<i> </i></u>bead in the wrong size.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0GFrINkD2IFoghVab02bY3Q1_umhnNvDL0iRUqK19f2w1RMTjp5BGXskljYh9sruFAVXfk9FodNKzNTEghC9JzzZZGUd_bS2yZmBkbsfL6duGYpfUzveLXp7DM_BH_yvrSbC7ot9kNo3/s1600/DSC_0258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bauble with red and grey crystal beads in-progress with scissors" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0GFrINkD2IFoghVab02bY3Q1_umhnNvDL0iRUqK19f2w1RMTjp5BGXskljYh9sruFAVXfk9FodNKzNTEghC9JzzZZGUd_bS2yZmBkbsfL6duGYpfUzveLXp7DM_BH_yvrSbC7ot9kNo3/s400/DSC_0258.JPG" title="Imperial Bauble by Julie Ashford, Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The superduos stand upwards like a crown around the bauble ring</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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The result of my aforementioned error, was such that the mesh <i>barely</i> fitted around the bauble. Swarovski rivoli backs are foiled, pointed and a little sharp. So the result of squeezing this poor little bauble into the netting, was unsurprisingly, scratches all over the bauble. <i>Doweth.</i><br />
<br />
To shield my lucky recipient from this clunky incompetence, I used some beading glue to hold the rivolis in place over the embarassing scratches.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMV8Jwn_ZZShcQQJ0y0dHdfma9TqOJ8zMMexXFcc7S5n1q3quXScbNw-71I5GZhN7rvHMnqV-QKG_3Y1wKjzbcOsKkxrDrtMhyphenhyphenJCy813_05qpo6YfUvr3yVjHPvlu5dVQrg4NVXdNcLIXX/s1600/DSC_0270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMV8Jwn_ZZShcQQJ0y0dHdfma9TqOJ8zMMexXFcc7S5n1q3quXScbNw-71I5GZhN7rvHMnqV-QKG_3Y1wKjzbcOsKkxrDrtMhyphenhyphenJCy813_05qpo6YfUvr3yVjHPvlu5dVQrg4NVXdNcLIXX/s400/DSC_0270.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Totally worth it. I'm thrilled with the finished result.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, even if the other half decided that it looked like 'something the devil would hang on his Christmas tree'. Why would the devil have a Christmas tree in the frikking first place??!<br />
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Merry Christmas, everyone! Freddie<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-35777695192275771492018-11-10T15:00:00.000-08:002019-02-15T04:47:43.850-08:00Fossil hunting in Durdle Door, England - an attemptAs a child I collected seashells (which alarmingly back then also included corals - thank gooness that doesn't happen any more!). And spent many a summer on the Isle of Wight - which is chock-full-o-fossils.<br />
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I've always loved nature, I guess - now working at ZSL London Zoo, I'm famously the only weirdo in the office more interested in the bee species flying around the Zoo than the large mammals on show. And proudly so.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0Z-0kT6udhsWkxuLdeQT4fliFrvVuWLggztFt44qRS5uIWNROwVcF07PakR6numqUEYlYTNR3Bk7HM_qWBop8feKUDldCwXZoZFGcQtDUrYebh7S4GoABSMAl8fvGgyHGbCGdHd3MCbr/s1600/DSC09922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0Z-0kT6udhsWkxuLdeQT4fliFrvVuWLggztFt44qRS5uIWNROwVcF07PakR6numqUEYlYTNR3Bk7HM_qWBop8feKUDldCwXZoZFGcQtDUrYebh7S4GoABSMAl8fvGgyHGbCGdHd3MCbr/s400/DSC09922.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My unloved wide angle camera lenses got a real run for their money with this breathtaking scenery.</td></tr>
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A trip to UNESCO world heritage site Durdle Door, on the southern Jurassic Coast of England, seemed right up my alley. Foraging for hundreds-of-millions-of-years-old remnants of aquatic creatures against a backdrop of night skies glittering with stars away from light pollution? It wasn't a hard ask.<br />
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I love seeing England anyway. I'm not enamoured by sweaty sunburnt trips abroad.<br />
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We booked 5 nights at a camping pod (even the park owners seemed surprised by that decision) with nothing but a few books, a chess set, my camera and of course each other, to keep ourselves amused of an evening. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT44IzmqOu3ThxcM9zgZOZo8VGjuQNDuo7PQxgxxQly74HwLC8Euvf1ELZjxgplII2WeRBtIihV15GG1Yqr15qxvF6y3vSfXA7OquZogPdZGsEE8p__YkcIwMl5io4t-lAKQYcSejo0rnt/s1600/DSC09968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT44IzmqOu3ThxcM9zgZOZo8VGjuQNDuo7PQxgxxQly74HwLC8Euvf1ELZjxgplII2WeRBtIihV15GG1Yqr15qxvF6y3vSfXA7OquZogPdZGsEE8p__YkcIwMl5io4t-lAKQYcSejo0rnt/s400/DSC09968.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Venturing south in October meant we pretty much had the park to ourselves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was fantastic. Upon arrival we couldn't wait to make the short (but incredibly steep) hike down to the beach to see what we could find.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXI-5hiwn7DvQg-sqpIK6oXHNTN_RIOZLStzWD9OLt_OsMgFw19Qiht_dm6RRjSKCTaWIZtuNYeQi4ADJZ1W4OtpHVwWXZO1PO5xKN-p9LQl4aqPtZMywdtbPSn5cea-09qycDyX3h4lT/s1600/DSC09943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXI-5hiwn7DvQg-sqpIK6oXHNTN_RIOZLStzWD9OLt_OsMgFw19Qiht_dm6RRjSKCTaWIZtuNYeQi4ADJZ1W4OtpHVwWXZO1PO5xKN-p9LQl4aqPtZMywdtbPSn5cea-09qycDyX3h4lT/s400/DSC09943.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beach is filled with rocks to investigate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We spent several hours in our wellies bashing through chunks of chalk on the beach, picking up pebbles and chucking them back. By the time the tide turned to come in, we'd found nothing.<br />
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Or at least, we thought we hadn't.<br />
<br />
Several days after returning, we had a squiz round Google and found that the markings on nearly every stone we found were indicative of treasured trilobites within. If only we'd bothered to look at how to find fossils before we went.<br />
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It's our style to chance things, and I've since found a fabulous forager on eBay who knows what she is doing. Thankfully she is a frequent finder and is able to supply me for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/freddiepatmore?section_id=25577075">my handmade fossil jewellery</a>. Sadly the vision of my finding my own, was short-lived!<br />
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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="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682992805/swarovski-rivoli-natural-pyrite-ammonite?ref=shop_home_active_4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKokGywBaun9ArN4P6rGMHS7cgh2YwbGAA0jI8QN-rb2zprPYkKayLxuZh-Yb8KBneTkNWJb1OnMilT8aN_16t4g6B0gGBjCEVkmQF8Bi1_LvJnRYa3i1SV5jIoQf0jqMeUU1xRI6L76bq/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-61.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682992805/swarovski-rivoli-natural-pyrite-ammonite?ref=shop_home_active_4">This Jurassic Coast fossil had a small hole at the centre which I plugged with an emerald Swarovski crystal.</a></td></tr>
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You should know that there are plenty of tours on offer with fossil-finding experts while you're down on the Jurassic Coast. While I haven't tried one, anything has got to be better than the nothingness we experienced! Give it a go. We had fun regardless but it would be all the more rewarding to actually come back with a find!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-71219382677245297072018-10-12T08:58:00.000-07:002019-02-15T09:31:13.669-08:00Freshwater pearls you need in your life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm not a big fan of pearls. I mean, I am. I admire them mainly from afar. But where my go-to necklace is a black onyx choker that I wear pretty much every day, when it comes to me choosing colours it's <b>go dark or go home.</b></div>
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That being said, I do find myself staring at a string of glowing ivory beauties when someonepairs a string with a vintage 50's dress, or better still, jeans and sneakers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://freddiepatmore.blogspot.com./" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pearl necklace with silver ball clasp wrapped in two concentric circles on a black background." border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdMoszqiPIxb2ZQlbNQCVKWC7st2QricTTG3HEexyaz2k5spNprANgwXfJldsJq9eXOi08MNl_0JD5_almbycvZxPqn1fSZ2HD4QYJPnB7Hxz-2FgXbjahMQWJF2cUVs71WKgUPVK58Gd/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design.jpg" title="Cream freshwater pearl necklace on silver push clasp Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://freddiepatmore.blogspot.com./">Classic freshwater pearl necklace on 925 sterling silver push clasp</a></td></tr>
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When <a href="http://freddiepatmore.blogspot.com/2015/10/revealed-things-i-just-couldnt-leave-at.html">I first bought pearl beads</a>, I bought them because I'd seen a necklace that I fell in love with, and planned to make one myself.<br />
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I wanted it, and I wanted to recreate it. And when I did it, it was worth it.<br />
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I can honestly say that when I did finally get around to learning how to string them (some 4 years later after many failed attempts), <a href="http://freddiepatmore.blogspot.com/2019/01/hand-strung-low-cost-freshwater-pearls.html">the finished pearl necklace was ten times better</a> than the lacklustre original I'd spotted in a jeweller's.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679819357/aa-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_11&crt=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="pink, peach and cream strung pearls on pink silk knotted, on black background" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2prGik_C-osYij6EEKYE4S1XrIl6C_iQk9Kbz-aOXKpb_OeRykLOdrxDSVuXlJxKwLfclFJoLQUPeQIH4LKBtPyU2Dm4-QFcjI9QRVGliRpqA4ZbACogmKO_sQQ_6FkLbyiPe8Xindn_O/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-8.jpg" title="Cream silver pink peach bridal pearls by Freddie Patmore handmade" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679819357/aa-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_11&crt=1">I was amazed at the variety of natural shades available. Pearls really are amazing.</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679819357/aa-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_11&crt=1"><br /></a></td></tr>
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It is always my habit to follow a successful project by binging on materials as if I were going to repeat the process ten times over, which nearly never happens. This particular bead binge really opened my eyes to some of the pearl colours available.<br />
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I don't know why, but I'd always presumed it was just white and black that was available. I hadn't considered anything in between.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679824999/aa-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_12" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="pale grey pearls on knotted grey cord with shiny round silver clasp on black background" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbObV-UMtcpxLJN_UYJYzlkLlhX4xHXHDNslXQlMLwve_-9txdoSNm0fxwULgN3ca8P3oK2km0zj3WJ-xx4zignv2XNGX1MvpXkrZGQgmAl1sjj1qXS-KY6GioYCaeEInLtuep5givCEmS/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-13.jpg" title="Pale grey pearls on pearl silk thread with 925 sterling silver clasp by Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679824999/aa-grade-freshwater-pearl-necklace-in?ref=shop_home_active_12">I adore these pale silver pearls. I have visions of a bride wearing them with a crisp white dress and simple silver earrings.</a></td></tr>
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What helped me fall lustfully in love with the above pale grey pearls, was their perfection in shape and colour. I have never liked gold, I'm very much a silver girl, and these <i>really</i> speak to me.<br />
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I reckon a group of bridesmaids would look stunning wearing these with a satin grey simple gown. They'd look amazing!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoOYRrP0syQNi-dfa16DGXDHP9hBfhc07CrPqnY6-WkK-9Idn_AZUWvGCr0fORVn8ZGS3Ot20Apm5veLJF-brcP562X3lRuiutlUE9FAMN3oPv1NmBYFtJdLjpIIOHniTzZo8bCBLzmxG/s1600/Freddie+Patmore+design-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="mesh silver clasp with dark blue pearls on black paper" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoOYRrP0syQNi-dfa16DGXDHP9hBfhc07CrPqnY6-WkK-9Idn_AZUWvGCr0fORVn8ZGS3Ot20Apm5veLJF-brcP562X3lRuiutlUE9FAMN3oPv1NmBYFtJdLjpIIOHniTzZo8bCBLzmxG/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-17.jpg" title="navy blue freshwater real pearls by Freddie Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This filigree stirling silver clasp really sets off these unusual dark blue pearls.</td></tr>
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And then the colours available in dyed versions are endless. Usually dyed using potatoes, look out for red, black peacock and even <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/679822895/navy-blue-peacock-irridescent-natural?ref=shop_home_active_14">navy blue pearls</a>. Just as authentic as the natural peach, cream and grey shades, these pearls are arguably more modern, vibrant and open the door to some major custom options.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/freddiepatmore?ref=l2-shop-info-avatar&section_id=25577083">What colour would you go for?</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-56923459773184421822017-09-15T17:00:00.000-07:002019-02-15T02:03:02.426-08:00Swarovski Stardust-inspired necklaces and bracelets now in the shopSo I was at a craft show when I learned how to fill nylon tubes with pretty things to create pretty jewellery. They taught me how to crimp the ends and add a clasp - something I've never been able to fasten myself on a bracelet. They're a right pain.<br />
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When I saw that Swarovski were creating something similar, I immediately fell in love with the clasps they'd chosen to use. They were chunky and shiny and pretty, and didn't look fiddly at all.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/485617772/blue-ombre-swarovski-stardust-inspired?ref=shop_home_active_21" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double-wrap ombre necklacxe with silver magnetic clasp" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITbIl8jSUvyIVhvOFEfdeLxEAPspRtCxrKlGutAYRyDP3CTpayMvD8pMAEgM1JoJsEYNG6HvJjaHK2uS9NO-G_UK6f_lcLtXMu_qJ8O-Vn4R0gpRVbe8UTZTYWvuKNj94IniPbAH6BOXB/s400/15555684_10210108679407788_1381362008_n.jpg" title="Double-wrap Swarovski Stardust blue ombre night sky necklace Freddie Patmore etsy" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/485617772/blue-ombre-swarovski-stardust-inspired?ref=shop_home_active_21">The magnetic clasps make life so much easier!</a></td></tr>
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So I started Googling around for some magnetic clasps that would fasten themselves and lo and behold, they're everywhere! I ordered a whole bunch and before I knew it the arthritis-stricken and fidlly-feebled family members around me were all putting in orders for their Christmas pressies.<br />
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I was surprised, I thought that they might look too chunky, but I soon found myself wearing them too. Generally a fan of choker-length necklaces, I quite like them to sit just above the collarbones, so I make them all that length although of course I can customise them for different peeps! Here's me on my birthday (NYE) sporting one. I love glittery things (total magpie) and they go quite naturally with casual outfits as well as smarter ones which are good!<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/_-inciiHn-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Frederica Patmore (@freddiepatmore)</a> on <time datetime="2016-01-01T01:00:15+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Dec 31, 2015 at 5:00pm PST</time></div>
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So yeah, they've been pretty popular. I've got all sorts of ombre versions and silver iterations <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/freddiepatmore?section_id=20645508">now on my etsy shop</a> (and all for £12 and under!). Silver seem to be the most popular colour for tubes although I am deffo a favourer of the jazzier ombre ones! Hope you like them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682095261/dark-silver-black-crystal-swarovski?ref=shop_home_active_2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double-wrap silver Swarovski Stardust bracelet with magnetic clasp" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTnXw2nyO_e5hNL2_aZe38d8VYVI3FTTcxRvYuE8YOgdd814kQ1qynyKF5-ma1nI2IW-MjyZqMnV0vzep5Bic1WGwqSrnN3kjzegE7rVClK7Rce7wJoVit5g8YauFfkWZsagDCo_8nX1S/s400/Freddie+Patmore+design-36.jpg" title="Freddie Patmore jewellery designs etsy" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/682095261/dark-silver-black-crystal-swarovski?ref=shop_home_active_2">Wear them as a double-wrap bracelet or armband, or a single-wrap necklace</a></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-11861659259726631982017-07-07T04:51:00.003-07:002017-07-07T04:54:25.099-07:00How to dye yarn - a guest blog from Heike Gittins of madewithloops.co.uk<h3>
Colour at my fingertips!</h3>
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My love for all things textile began when I was a little girl in Germany and I was taught to knit and crochet by my grandmother’s. Ever since then I have had a close relationship with yarn and colour, and in recent years I have been lucky enough to fulfil a long dream turning my passion into a small business <a href="http://madewithloops.co.uk/">madewithloops.co.uk</a><br />
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Living in Wales has meant being surrounded by sheep and I have watched them being shorn, the fleeces being washed and carded and I have been on a spinning course learning how to transform fibre into yarn.<br />
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<h3>
There was only one thing missing: Learning how to dye!</h3>
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My chance to go full circle came when a friend of mine invited me to accompany her to Denmark where she was teaching a three-day workshop on dyeing yarn using natural and synthetic dyes. Of course I jumped at the chance!<br />
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The Baltic coast holds a special place in my heart having spent many childhood holidays there with my family. To this day I favour simple design lines that are often influenced by Scandinavian styles and I was looking forward to the trip with joy in my heart.<br />
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The venue for the week was high up in northern Denmark in a beautiful setting, with a specially planted dyeing garden, which was in full bloom during the workshop, and even had it’s own dragon spewing water!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRFozmTiO9IuTLSkUqVOPJ8zdghxNtPhgs9bUEeZj6PN9-iDxL9hwfwbPscgPRhd1w8LKhH6LVT8FykcHLfeEcq9m72fxN4vHTK7fkwhRJty59Q2tWxtzxnh7IUhJ8dTT38xPLz-YV8ql/s1600/Photo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beautiful flowers in Denmark gardens" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRFozmTiO9IuTLSkUqVOPJ8zdghxNtPhgs9bUEeZj6PN9-iDxL9hwfwbPscgPRhd1w8LKhH6LVT8FykcHLfeEcq9m72fxN4vHTK7fkwhRJty59Q2tWxtzxnh7IUhJ8dTT38xPLz-YV8ql/s640/Photo+1.jpg" title="How to dye yarn with Heike Gittins for Freddie Patmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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During the next few days we were given an overview of dyeing with natural materials such as logwood chips, walnut and cochineal beetles, as well as using some ready made synthetic powders.<br />
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We were taught the importance of setting up the workspace, dye baths and preparation of yarn ready for dyeing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTT6PJIDWiww_MM4KVDgi9KUStKE6EWFtQIMM0BEFvJgJetX-1GRRd48SRdx7O0sMg8IdsDKIw2Z_Ya8tf_dUg6-ok1kw5_bKZTDOy-57K0xJcHrWFVKS9jQyvYMS0_XJT80ZFulTc0ea/s1600/Photo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to set up a dye bath" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTT6PJIDWiww_MM4KVDgi9KUStKE6EWFtQIMM0BEFvJgJetX-1GRRd48SRdx7O0sMg8IdsDKIw2Z_Ya8tf_dUg6-ok1kw5_bKZTDOy-57K0xJcHrWFVKS9jQyvYMS0_XJT80ZFulTc0ea/s640/Photo+2.jpg" title="How to dye yarn with Heike Gittins for Freddie Patmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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The importance of choosing dyestuff and yarn carefully became clear to us very quickly as we learned that it is comparable with choosing ingredients for a favourite recipe: everything must be in harmony with each other in order to get the result you hope for and end up with beautifully coloured yarn that you will want to work with.<br />
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As I prefer working with natural fibres so I chose two different yarns to dye: 100% Baby Alpaca and an 80% Wool/20% Silk Mix.<br />
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I tried various techniques of dyeing, some more messy (walnut bath) than others, and I also used some of the dye baths more than once achieving strong to faded colours perfect for ombre knitting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BvCaAw4GWKGtQRkYi81qgUE5KYxHrFIk4PZfX3pd3AqQilyuro3ckGDDHEgbcIygYakTj4GWT0WwDD5IrOp-nXsfEz5LkvD9ooLEMkGOe-OOdbMTZtLyDmN5OS88wZoHdTKKP8PZVjMS/s1600/Photo+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Planning colours for yarn dyes" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BvCaAw4GWKGtQRkYi81qgUE5KYxHrFIk4PZfX3pd3AqQilyuro3ckGDDHEgbcIygYakTj4GWT0WwDD5IrOp-nXsfEz5LkvD9ooLEMkGOe-OOdbMTZtLyDmN5OS88wZoHdTKKP8PZVjMS/s640/Photo+3.jpg" title="How to dye yarn with Heike Gittins for Freddie Patmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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After working with natural as well as synthetic dyestuff, practising anything from circus bright’s to subdued and tonal colours, the icing on the cake was trying our hands at indigo dying.<br />
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For this exercise I chose to dye a beautiful lofty Kid Mohair yarn, and not only was the playing with tie-dyeing indigo immense fun.<br />
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The end result was stunning!</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCjBK3qQXF1181TZu_g8az12mZ4Pfgq4f8Hx00oAaVB_h40vek6w9NFngw6Rw_uu3AQROQSEVjsveX5rPfg4F8YrFibjR_MJo-8Kv-goC9u9VV9EsJpPwRw4mOJgDok6E207KiVzm4O3_/s1600/Photo+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beautiful yarns dyed by Heike Gittins" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCjBK3qQXF1181TZu_g8az12mZ4Pfgq4f8Hx00oAaVB_h40vek6w9NFngw6Rw_uu3AQROQSEVjsveX5rPfg4F8YrFibjR_MJo-8Kv-goC9u9VV9EsJpPwRw4mOJgDok6E207KiVzm4O3_/s640/Photo+4.jpg" title="How to dye yarn with Heike Gittins for Freddie Patmore" width="640" /></a></div>
As always when you are having so much fun time flies by and before we knew it we had to tidy and wrap it all up.<br />
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During these few days I made new friends, laughed a lot and learned a lot, and by the end of it I came away with a suitcase full of yarn all hand-dyed by me and now waiting to be made into beautiful items.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmhkUBEIWlpT6yWbazq-Hv73eEeYS1xK8FAPOOuw7_aE3JAQ6hpXCO0cwxa45Vq2HDXI3v54GL7DQdMnv9R-CKa0u7Q-Leym0a28g3d9g7bMSizKAz2E9BZ1O72s9Nu78ZLUbbnHOXLZd/s1600/Photo+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Hand dyed yarn by Heike Gittins" border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmhkUBEIWlpT6yWbazq-Hv73eEeYS1xK8FAPOOuw7_aE3JAQ6hpXCO0cwxa45Vq2HDXI3v54GL7DQdMnv9R-CKa0u7Q-Leym0a28g3d9g7bMSizKAz2E9BZ1O72s9Nu78ZLUbbnHOXLZd/s640/Photo+5.jpg" title="How to dye yarn with Heike Gittins for Freddie Patmore" width="640" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">I better get to it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"><i>Heike x </i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-6140685025152496182017-06-13T05:20:00.000-07:002017-07-02T05:24:52.584-07:00Using Long Exposure Photography at The Ingleton Waterfall TrailI love The Lake District - I've been about three times and can't soak in those amazing views anywhere else in the UK. It's incredibly special. On my last trip I was lucky enough to see some of the geological beauts of the area, notably at the <a href="http://www.ingletonwaterfallstrail.co.uk/">Ingleton Waterfall Trail</a>. <br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbWqY_1xSNXbcI20oM7uhITdzKXjyBoNI01c4ep2TDTMggA_0sqLPZ9XE4xC1d309uPWvoXJSCWZLnEQXWGxX_BSQiBw3DWwxk4sIvp74zbN6x9lLtXJBK7v3TToi3jZE7IwGGQQ1xBMq/s1600/DSC01966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Slow exposure photography of Hollybush Spout waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbWqY_1xSNXbcI20oM7uhITdzKXjyBoNI01c4ep2TDTMggA_0sqLPZ9XE4xC1d309uPWvoXJSCWZLnEQXWGxX_BSQiBw3DWwxk4sIvp74zbN6x9lLtXJBK7v3TToi3jZE7IwGGQQ1xBMq/s640/DSC01966.jpg" title="Hollybush Spout Photography" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hollybush Spout - just getting the hang of the slow exposure here</td></tr>
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I've been banging on for ages now about my misgivings with switching from film to digital photography, so on this trip I was really torn. </div>
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On a long hike (about 8km, not huge but long enough) - I didn't want to be bogged down with loads of gear, so my Minolta Dynax 9, although perfect for the journey - couldn't come with me. It's a mammoth amount of weight to carry. </div>
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I had a nice little travel Manfrotto Compact Action tripod which was perfect. It's the lightest I own and fits snugly into my rucksack.</div>
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Instead, I went for my trusty shoot-from-the-hip Minolta Dynax 60 (it's super light!), my Sony a77ii digital SLR and quite a large selection of lenses including a super-wide and a wide angle Sigma lens. Retrospectively, I probably didn't need both. I ended up using my 12-24mm nearly all of the time.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi42rgcqwP8243KjTNdltdVRSm4ta8bCPwmhSTTNJes1negu0TdhTKih1UjMzC8D1MeelEusgsFlv7a7nOaubAKmnn7IxD8CzKfC59UXrw9iTfjxiHSbFoDR3NcavRsDDtDa0WByvOb-884/s1600/DSC02010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="River rapids approaching Thornton Force Ingleston Waterfalls Trail" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi42rgcqwP8243KjTNdltdVRSm4ta8bCPwmhSTTNJes1negu0TdhTKih1UjMzC8D1MeelEusgsFlv7a7nOaubAKmnn7IxD8CzKfC59UXrw9iTfjxiHSbFoDR3NcavRsDDtDa0WByvOb-884/s640/DSC02010.jpg" title="Thornton Force waterfall slow exposure photography" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quite a few of these pictures were achieved without the use of a tripod</td></tr>
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So I was set! The difficulty with places like these though, and you will see it if you go - is that on such a busy walk (it's very popular), you're very nearly always in someone's way when you stop to set up for a photo.</div>
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I in fact, didn't find anywhere to stop where I wasn't in anyone's way - until nearly halfway round the walk (it's a circuit) that I found the space to put my tripod up.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEED6kwxQIMDt4Yl9pEX_CObFaNUw1BoC9AZFC8rN0G9wP7P7RU1VgKcZytzUkbDpGA0mN33rqNRyqynzst__kBxivg6H-MifTc1REa5ifiQsLWaWT76K8H6bazZVt9-Crpw7VJO7X5e0A/s1600/DSC02021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ingleston waterfall trail Thornton Force taken with slow exposure" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEED6kwxQIMDt4Yl9pEX_CObFaNUw1BoC9AZFC8rN0G9wP7P7RU1VgKcZytzUkbDpGA0mN33rqNRyqynzst__kBxivg6H-MifTc1REa5ifiQsLWaWT76K8H6bazZVt9-Crpw7VJO7X5e0A/s640/DSC02021.jpg" title="Thornton Force Waterfall Ingleston Slow Exposure" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thornton Force was another great place to stop - had a fabulous time playing with both film and digital here</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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So adjusting my ND filter and faffing about with my tripod (which, TBH - probably should have practiced using <i>before </i>arriving here) became very tricky. All of a sudden I found myself reserving the use of my precious camera film and shooting willy nilly, utilizing the Sony A77ii's automatic long exposure settings.</div>
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I now feel like a big chicken. The Thornton Force waterfall, above - had great space. And I'd had plenty of other waterfalls where I'd had time to practice the long exposure settings on the digital camera. So by the time I got here, I felt like I was in a good place to start putting exposures on my Ektar 100 film which I'd purchased specifically for this trip.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdtLNkQ9ObdhewbJxOU6rzywj1kwalPgN8ldkKMukmRfCQ7SG0jeuRfx1JtoFTCcoRdWChosJG0N4GKUvzedTjpWSWBXjdW49IZcBS8KaLDSSydtpzzPT6bukQDhY1d2eKPRfsaM2k4lO/s1600/DSC02049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Thornton Force waterfall with slow exposure" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdtLNkQ9ObdhewbJxOU6rzywj1kwalPgN8ldkKMukmRfCQ7SG0jeuRfx1JtoFTCcoRdWChosJG0N4GKUvzedTjpWSWBXjdW49IZcBS8KaLDSSydtpzzPT6bukQDhY1d2eKPRfsaM2k4lO/s640/DSC02049.jpg" title="Thornton Force Ingleston Waterfall Trail freddie patmore" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was very freeing to not need the use of my tripod</td></tr>
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I took so few, in fact - that I'm now stuck with half a roll of Ektar 100 still in my camera.</div>
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Having read the exposure from my Sony, I was simply copying the settings on my film camera to achieve what I'm hoping are very successful photos. In truth, I have no idea. And now won't until I find another set of green things or landscapes, on which to use up the rest of my film.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDuYRlnR89TUBSLBWHJL9Qm5vCcp77msEaYDRysWnVLOHfMSgLgXjy5lVXbQQNkwCaydpWn8FBxjbkBx_7dXo4kHAocwIPapuE0qbge6wr-ueH5UayEBs6A1BQx8PYPSz921h3RMPLyUm/s1600/DSC02176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Snow Falls Ingleston Waterfall Trail long exposure" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDuYRlnR89TUBSLBWHJL9Qm5vCcp77msEaYDRysWnVLOHfMSgLgXjy5lVXbQQNkwCaydpWn8FBxjbkBx_7dXo4kHAocwIPapuE0qbge6wr-ueH5UayEBs6A1BQx8PYPSz921h3RMPLyUm/s640/DSC02176.jpg" title="Snow Falls Ingleston Waterfall Trail by Freddie Patmore" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow Falls - my favourite of all the shots. Again, no tripod.</td></tr>
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My favourite shot was taken leaning my camera on the edge of the bridge we happenned to be crossing. I only had a minute or two to stop before I would have started holing up the other walkers, but by this point I'd become the laziest ever - and had just the Sony on the go.</div>
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What I really felt I was missing though, was my <a href="https://www.thepod.ca/">The Pod</a>, which, like a total numpty I'd left at home.</div>
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Short of space and on the go, It's a great alternative if you don't have room for putting up a tripod. I could have used it all day.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTqPAzJ2mUZ4HX6xiGpq7eOa3GBzGbmksrxqYC0JsNdf2Slsdf8ja0Y19omfuxbi5zbdTtLCL5-ghOGZwcBrAf_wCAwzanKiwXYSSDkkbgsfDPN6WfeFqyVjkfNRKLj9SNx9FWaNXM54r/s1600/DSC02194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ingleston Waterfalls Trail long exposure" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTqPAzJ2mUZ4HX6xiGpq7eOa3GBzGbmksrxqYC0JsNdf2Slsdf8ja0Y19omfuxbi5zbdTtLCL5-ghOGZwcBrAf_wCAwzanKiwXYSSDkkbgsfDPN6WfeFqyVjkfNRKLj9SNx9FWaNXM54r/s640/DSC02194.jpg" title="Slow exposure photography on dripping water" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was just a trickle - one of my fella's favourites of all of my shots</td></tr>
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My overall opinion is that the Sony a77ii's long exposure setting is pretty darn lazy. You do need to have some knowledge of how to use your polariser and ND filters before you go at it though, so I don't feel like a total dummy.</div>
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Take a beanbag tripod with you - it does need a certain amount of stability. But the ability to preview how your exposure will look, means that swapping over to manual settings becomes incredibly psychic.</div>
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Yes, I have a bit of colour distortion from the long stops I was using. I don't mind it, I think they're pretty moody. But please please please don't give up on film completely. It would break my heart!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0Broadwood Entrance, Carnforth LA6 3ET, UK54.154348 -2.471462999999971533.758073499999995 -43.780056999999971 74.5506225 38.837131000000028tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-70104985022138432017-04-13T04:37:00.000-07:002017-07-01T04:39:28.144-07:00Freddie Patmore - the Harrow photographerAlthough my speciality has and always will be, knitting and crochet, those of you who know me well will know that I've been photographing in and around Harrow in NW London for decades.<br />
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Ever since I studied photography at Harrow College, I have had periods of total obsession with my camera. It's my second set of eyes.<br />
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How the fella ever put up with me following him around poking a Minolta Dynax 60 in his face when we first met, I'll never know. But 12 years later he's still here, and I've got some great shots of him from back in the day. Mostly in and around Harrow.<br />
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My favourites were one of my first shoots with him, a kick around in Byron Park.<br />
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They're pretty basic. I went armed with a nice roll of Ilford HP5 400 B&W film (the bestest in the business), my cheapo'beercan' zoom lens purchased at a second hand camera shop in Rayners Lane and a fast shutter speed. That's all it took.<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3lnXmcmRZU-jWn9ToftnlmS9JH9e9JazrR1N4_wVIH67V3jONIsPrIsZ7SWo5S_p36ObVjGFcQlcDrYx8233SV46l3C5_WcklgY64EonAllkfgJtKSVgc2ehWQWJPB83B5oRqSTGKu5U/s1600/04580008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="playing football in byron park man with ball" border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3lnXmcmRZU-jWn9ToftnlmS9JH9e9JazrR1N4_wVIH67V3jONIsPrIsZ7SWo5S_p36ObVjGFcQlcDrYx8233SV46l3C5_WcklgY64EonAllkfgJtKSVgc2ehWQWJPB83B5oRqSTGKu5U/s640/04580008.jpg" title="football in byron park harrow freddie patmore" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favourite ever shots of Ben. I love the look of film photography and always have.</td></tr>
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All that remained was to find a good view point.<br />
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<i>By the by, I acknowledge the vignetting in the above shot - know that I was 18/19 and had no idea how to handle this extremely long lens. I like how it frames it, actually. </i><br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPqpslQb02L0y95yW_k5bC1py2V4gk-Xz_OCDHCemQEmAKWjcRa1RD64RUUUPZ4YqMLvn7ImlV3z55lCvNNfNJDvQaxUWmy_vNPJ8VKR9YN_L_8bd2DihVurQb4Y4i145OoybP4GoXzpS/s1600/04570011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="man dives for football save" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1061" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPqpslQb02L0y95yW_k5bC1py2V4gk-Xz_OCDHCemQEmAKWjcRa1RD64RUUUPZ4YqMLvn7ImlV3z55lCvNNfNJDvQaxUWmy_vNPJ8VKR9YN_L_8bd2DihVurQb4Y4i145OoybP4GoXzpS/s640/04570011.jpg" title="goalkeeper football byron park harrow kickaround freddie patmore" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ant was always landing in interesting positions, they made for fab pics.</td></tr>
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I won't lie - there were times when I feared for the safety of my camera. One swift hit of a ball on my gear could have all been the end. But my was it worth it.<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsVfBbjxCZj3PHHXmR5-s8sbFx7ZnVxbbKaAI7eiiinZbcvd7_ZM1vhnoTXM1yPiSzJwenO5Xq152O5Y6gegLp5Bt2tFTtQX4vJyWZCFz71-0ch4ebibB_2OYcxOFOaX3JxlFPvioBlPT/s1600/04580006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="man playing keepy uppy in the park with football" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1061" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsVfBbjxCZj3PHHXmR5-s8sbFx7ZnVxbbKaAI7eiiinZbcvd7_ZM1vhnoTXM1yPiSzJwenO5Xq152O5Y6gegLp5Bt2tFTtQX4vJyWZCFz71-0ch4ebibB_2OYcxOFOaX3JxlFPvioBlPT/s640/04580006.jpg" title="keepy uppy in byron park freddie patmore" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I recently rediscovered the scanned negatives on disc - so glad I thought to do it back then.</td></tr>
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I have recently made the swap to digital and although I was trepidacious at first, the expensive cost of film developing recently really has left me with no option.<br />
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I can't ditch film completely, it's what I know and love. I know how to handle it. But it's about time I stepped into this century and kept up with the game.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiev50hI-viCNQ1srAVvifKYLu4Kary_RsYqpoSyK6qeGNU_AbwvV5h_D3bYGYVvhqJxaxy7QyNMegeTAuJlJOq98WQsGpl2y0OT5y32BJuzRxJRayVC0MYbzfVrzHJBA_UEcAUPjDNaWPa/s1600/04570019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="man falls down in goal byron park" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1061" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiev50hI-viCNQ1srAVvifKYLu4Kary_RsYqpoSyK6qeGNU_AbwvV5h_D3bYGYVvhqJxaxy7QyNMegeTAuJlJOq98WQsGpl2y0OT5y32BJuzRxJRayVC0MYbzfVrzHJBA_UEcAUPjDNaWPa/s400/04570019.jpg" title="harrow football byron park goalkeeper freddie patmore" width="265" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFjwyOnt-7XLxrCKEo1TvOJNqmIgwBA2_5RPyNTB3aRSYirrGmezxZkovGWKdgHcr5m6afCyxougP-ABUtlBJkOo2v-PMcjMQxyf3ffO5Xaw9YuDdfY-e7clW0HodU0v6nsksqlfZZQ20/s1600/04570006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="goal keeper throws ball in byron park harrow" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1061" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFjwyOnt-7XLxrCKEo1TvOJNqmIgwBA2_5RPyNTB3aRSYirrGmezxZkovGWKdgHcr5m6afCyxougP-ABUtlBJkOo2v-PMcjMQxyf3ffO5Xaw9YuDdfY-e7clW0HodU0v6nsksqlfZZQ20/s400/04570006.jpg" title="Goal keeper throws ball in freddie patmore" width="265" /></a></div>
Since then I've gone on to do weddings (good fun, actually) and the occasional portrait shot. But the camera did have a few years of sitting in a dusty box until I could musterf the budget to pay for pro film developing.<br />
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A recent play around with Kodak Portra 800 left me with an eye-watering bill of over £60 to develop two rolls with an extra set of each. It's an awful lot to pay if you're not even sure you're happy with the final outcome.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGYejst_OCLnWCHqJm0cXI4VfKk8DAKJE1Y7ueCF8iS5KD_qZN9t0kcHsh671VJn2apT2o6_QA9jZA-NTejiyW1e2tKwACYMaCfsPnwcYYfpr1z7JPYaJ61MUTYyWuoLOOqaAMSe2yxCu/s1600/04570008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="professional photograph of two men playing football in the park" border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGYejst_OCLnWCHqJm0cXI4VfKk8DAKJE1Y7ueCF8iS5KD_qZN9t0kcHsh671VJn2apT2o6_QA9jZA-NTejiyW1e2tKwACYMaCfsPnwcYYfpr1z7JPYaJ61MUTYyWuoLOOqaAMSe2yxCu/s640/04570008.jpg" title="playing football in byron park harrow by freddie patmore" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting a low viewpoint lends a more dramatic composition</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But luckily with these, I was. Harrow is a great town and I love to call myself a Harrow photographer. I've had a great many opportunities to capture the beauty of the place I grew up in, and relish any opportunity to go on doing so.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0Byron Rd, Harrow HA3 7TE, UK51.5959381 -0.3301718999999820951.5860741 -0.35034189999998211 51.6058021 -0.31000189999998207tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-46997230430023259512017-03-23T05:26:00.002-07:002017-03-23T05:44:30.175-07:00Knitting and crochet workshops I'm teaching 2017<style>
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<span lang="EN-US">I'm very excited. starting in April I've got a whole bunch of upcoming knitting and crochet workshops running in conjunction with <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Text_links&utm_campaign=freddies_blog_post_workshops&utm_content=article_link">The Knitting Network</a> and <a href="http://www.womansweekly.com/events/learn-knit-crochet-workshops/?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Text_links&utm_campaign=freddies_blog_post_workshops&utm_content=article_link">Woman's Weekly Magazine.</a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">All held at our sparkly new headquarters at Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf - do drop in for a fun workshop if the mood strikes you, it would be great to see you. Details below</span><span lang="EN-US"> (links to book are on the dates, or you can ring 0800 024 1212 and book over the phone).</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Learn To Crochet </span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US">Fridays <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/learn-to-crochet-workshop-for-the-beginner-friday-28th-april">28th April</a> and <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/learn-to-crochet-workshop-beginners-friday-23rd-june">23rd June</a> (10.30 - 4.00) </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I really love teaching these - it's so rewarding watching people who have never crocheted before learn to tame a hook and create fabric.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"> </span><i><span lang="EN-US">This jam-packed day is a start-to-finish
introduction to crochet for those who have never held a crochet hook before, or
who’ve tried but need to check their technique or get a refresher. Join
our experts for our most popular workshop – places fill up fast – so book your
spot before they’re all gone.</span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Arm Knitting Afternooner</span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US">Wednesday 9 August (12-4pm)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I was totally not convinced by arm knitting at first but it has it's place for super speedy, humongous projects. It's certainly a fun and very sociable activity, many people come as a group for this one. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span><i><span lang="EN-US">Join me to <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/arm-knitting-afternooner-no-knitting-experience-required-wednesday-9-august">ditch the needles and go all arms</a> for this fun new technique for giant and super speedy knitting. Be
prepared to get your upper body moving with many people preferring to stand
while their giant pieces of fabric, form. Make yourself a snood and try your
hand at some other shapes and sizes. No knitting experience required!</span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Professional Finishing For Knitters
(Intermediate) </span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/finishing-tips-and-tricks-for-knitters-for-intermediate-knitters-friday-14-july">Friday 14<sup>th</sup> July</a> (10.30am –
4.00pm)</span> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">This is a classic rehash of an old favourite. Professional Finishing is a great course if </span><span lang="EN-US">you've started knitting garments</span><i><span lang="EN-US"> </span></i><span lang="EN-US">but they're looking a bit wonky. This day tends to shape itself around the questions posed by those attending so it's quite flexible.</span><i><span lang="EN-US"></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US">Aimed at those of you who know the basic
knit and purl and can read and understand a pattern, this is a great day out to
sort out any niggles you’ve come across at the final stages of a project. Learn
to pick up stitches without forming any gaps, banish bizarre buttonholes,
master invisible seaming and get your teeth into some spectacular shaping exercises.
Participants will need to bring 3 x DK 10cm knitted squares in stocking stitch.</span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/first-steps-in-crochet-for-the-total-beginner-friday-11-august">Friday 11<sup>th</sup> August</a> (10.30am –
4.00pm)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Similar to my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Learn To Crochet</i> day, this full-day course is also aimed at total
beginners. But there's some bonus things if you fancy doing both this and the following course.</span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US">Get to grips with how to handle your crochet hook and yarn, master a
variety of stitches and tackle reading patterns with a selection of projects to
try in the afternoon. Those attending the course on the following Monday (see below) will
be assigned some bonus activities (yes, there's homework) to take away with them and practice over the
weekend.</span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Motifs, Mandalas and Granny Squares
(Beginner to Intermediate)</span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/motifs-mandalas-and-granny-squares-for-beginners-to-intermediates-monday-14-august">Monday 14 August</a> (10.30am – 4.00pm)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">An ideal next step from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">First Steps In Crochet</i> day (above), join our
experts to put the basic stitches which you already know into practice with
some stylish circular projects to develop those pattern reading skills.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Add a
flourish of colour and texture to a variety of granny squares, circular
mandalas and pretty motifs. A perfect day to pop along to if you’re partaking
in our current Collect and Create series in the WW Knit and Crochet Monthly.</span>
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<span lang="EN-US">Knitting With Colour – Fair Isle and
Intarsia (Intermediate)</span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/knitting-with-colour-fair-isle-and-intarsia-for-intermediates-friday-6-october?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Text_links&utm_campaign=freddies_blog_post_workshops&utm_content=article_link">Friday 6 October</a> (10.30am – 4.00pm) </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Last time I taught this course we had a ball! No pun intended, of course.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">The day kicks off with a comprehensive morning of Fair Isle techniques (it's tricky, so best to do this while you're fresh!). There are three main ways to hold your yarn while working and I like to let everyone try all three, and then move on to pick one which suits them.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6GWFrJDhx7lcqW5jGd1nE4rzpbd84THhR2wwqCvXw_0aQ_lvLVkLuhE4IX4xf1uSda-qt1oodW2PG6EOr-oguaomhYKt4mON0K3RHcy7QY9YU6mqlJJNNuLKr6wagV9cxydgpl5zNCRG/s1600/10005882_10206626147066656_9027797240557737473_o.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6GWFrJDhx7lcqW5jGd1nE4rzpbd84THhR2wwqCvXw_0aQ_lvLVkLuhE4IX4xf1uSda-qt1oodW2PG6EOr-oguaomhYKt4mON0K3RHcy7QY9YU6mqlJJNNuLKr6wagV9cxydgpl5zNCRG/s640/10005882_10206626147066656_9027797240557737473_o.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In the afternoon, we ease off into Instarsia country. Starting with knitting an initial of your choice, and hopefully finishing it when you leave.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Never be bothered by a complex looking picture knit or complex colour project, ever again. I always think this day is pretty fun.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Qbh0WqqYv7Fe3xhnDRoWjZrrm78yjAoT4kvgn5ZDeibmSiB7wVEl-9JzL6wH9zLZI31vFyJRQWQlrqNSBjpreSCVcz975RLds7ZT_0MnKxTdmHI2fzt-gR8rivvS7at7wzhKHKdmKlQM/s1600/Shot-4-0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Qbh0WqqYv7Fe3xhnDRoWjZrrm78yjAoT4kvgn5ZDeibmSiB7wVEl-9JzL6wH9zLZI31vFyJRQWQlrqNSBjpreSCVcz975RLds7ZT_0MnKxTdmHI2fzt-gR8rivvS7at7wzhKHKdmKlQM/s320/Shot-4-0013.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">First Steps In Crochet (Total Beginners)</span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"> <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/first-steps-in-crochet-for-total-beginners-thursday-9-november?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Text_links&utm_campaign=freddies_blog_post_workshops&utm_content=article_link">Thursday 9<sup>th</sup> November (</a>10.30am –
4.00pm)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Similar to our <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Learn To Crochet</i> workshop, this full-day course is aimed at total
beginners. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Get to grips with how to handle your crochet hook and yarn, master a
variety of stitches and tackle reading patterns with a selection of projects to
try in the afternoon. <i> </i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i>Those attending the course on the following day will be assigned some
bonus activities to take away with them and practice overnight, if they wish.</i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i> </i></span>
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<span lang="EN-US">Poppy Brooch Crochet Workshop (Beginner to
Intermediate)</span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidssZzae9bqPFKB9S9adxnBL8-5nPfgWM6OLJGeLOddyOY1lZSZdlHZJP49qi_xkztQSfQEpjfADs6-pL7eAGiV5k0qn0_VRrnT5tGSBT6RL8YN3Y9lAQhVQX-wckxWwq_vtzSWK0N-I4M/s1600/FREE+Poppy+-+Knitting+and+Crochet+Patterns+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidssZzae9bqPFKB9S9adxnBL8-5nPfgWM6OLJGeLOddyOY1lZSZdlHZJP49qi_xkztQSfQEpjfADs6-pL7eAGiV5k0qn0_VRrnT5tGSBT6RL8YN3Y9lAQhVQX-wckxWwq_vtzSWK0N-I4M/s320/FREE+Poppy+-+Knitting+and+Crochet+Patterns+3.JPG" width="237" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/workshops/products/poppy-brooch-crochet-workshop-for-beginners-to-intermediates-friday-10th-november">Friday 10<sup>th</sup> November</a> (10.30am –
4.00pm)</span> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">An ideal next step from our <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">First Steps In Crochet</i> day , join our
experts to put the basic stitches which you already know into practice with
some very special flower brooches to develop those pattern reading skills. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Proudly wear your WW Poppy in memoriam for Armistice Day, (the following day). </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Those
who finish their poppy during the day will have the opportunity to make more
than one, or choose from a variety of other pretty flowers to make.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-43410129369300144732017-02-28T07:04:00.003-08:002017-06-29T03:04:48.981-07:00Reconnect or cut off from film photography?<style>
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<span lang="EN-US">I studied film photography at A level and LOVED it. So in my teens I got hooked on
manual photography controls and developing film by hand.</span></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuyQHEsy0dzN7LIpSz695V_HO77aAG3s7I-7zxxpLZLi3aPFq7nA2B01-_VwArI3oxJn5BNvVOhG0PKsUQ5ZG-pcBE4erKCgzF0EMnD9V5QhD3IpeKJy2leEqQOBrGQtnGMoBcFLMcu5_z/s1600/226727_1040505727186_6125_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="rainy night in harrow photographed by frederica patmore bhs" border="0" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuyQHEsy0dzN7LIpSz695V_HO77aAG3s7I-7zxxpLZLi3aPFq7nA2B01-_VwArI3oxJn5BNvVOhG0PKsUQ5ZG-pcBE4erKCgzF0EMnD9V5QhD3IpeKJy2leEqQOBrGQtnGMoBcFLMcu5_z/s400/226727_1040505727186_6125_n.jpg" title="Harrow At Night By Frederica Patmore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my first prints was of Harrow Town Centre (BHS on the right)</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span id="goog_296359550"></span><span id="goog_296359551"></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">It was empowering to
have such immense control over an exposure.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Some of my earliest stuff is still my
favourite – with many shots being of total strangers. I really loved learning
on Ilford black and white films.</span></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4Wy0-vkF6mXvmvp4YSDf7GIU1Nl8orxB5SfvoKF85pLDzP02NGYYOcfCmVOazpmWrSS7rNgVt8rUNA9Tox_jqOPV-IUwkIoV9Id8p7khJ9-TPbqN24-Bd9ObLrMH2luYdIC4HbSlqrPD/s1600/221712_1040506527206_2586_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="man and boy walk holding hands in hyde park by frederica patmore" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4Wy0-vkF6mXvmvp4YSDf7GIU1Nl8orxB5SfvoKF85pLDzP02NGYYOcfCmVOazpmWrSS7rNgVt8rUNA9Tox_jqOPV-IUwkIoV9Id8p7khJ9-TPbqN24-Bd9ObLrMH2luYdIC4HbSlqrPD/s400/221712_1040506527206_2586_n.jpg" title="father and son in hyde park" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken at Regents Park, these chaps were out for a stroll</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">Having cut my teeth with manual photos, my dad
treated me to a cheapo automatic film SLR which I later upgraded to a Minolta Dynax
60, which has now been on my hip for a solid 15 years.</span></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_S8ao_r5gJ1Qd0YC0-eo-KasUR-v6LjTmIjaYF6czxvhtH7tN7d0VYf9hYRNM7sBeW70yKv5HnFRx6dZ-h7JJTe8u9JkbhPffHw175RHiTV-h31muhLyRYO-QL0qT6OHPCqe-qtNKspzM/s1600/190455_1002106847238_4468_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="football in byron park wealdstone by frederica patmore" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_S8ao_r5gJ1Qd0YC0-eo-KasUR-v6LjTmIjaYF6czxvhtH7tN7d0VYf9hYRNM7sBeW70yKv5HnFRx6dZ-h7JJTe8u9JkbhPffHw175RHiTV-h31muhLyRYO-QL0qT6OHPCqe-qtNKspzM/s400/190455_1002106847238_4468_n.jpg" title="Playing Keepy Uppy In Byron Park" width="264" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My partner must have got fed up of me carrying my camera all the time.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">Armed with a few basic lenses, including a
75-300mm Minolta Tele Zoom (used in the football shot, above), my trusty 35-70mm Macro zoom and a couple of
others, I’ve recently invested in some wide angle lenses to keep my kit
versatile. </span></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrScXL-zMHN1sB_ZwKSpl66-infRJ0KgwwMfYmDbvbnc7ewoiZF2Q3cVTwRRAfkuV9LOdZ7GOdI8lg7dazjO15QgV8x3ZAsjxdkNJn1TssOIJUKhddXCmdGKaYa8hRgyqa6vQT9mjRfnxC/s1600/225087_1040506447204_1886_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Eden Project by Frederica Patmore" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrScXL-zMHN1sB_ZwKSpl66-infRJ0KgwwMfYmDbvbnc7ewoiZF2Q3cVTwRRAfkuV9LOdZ7GOdI8lg7dazjO15QgV8x3ZAsjxdkNJn1TssOIJUKhddXCmdGKaYa8hRgyqa6vQT9mjRfnxC/s400/225087_1040506447204_1886_n.jpg" title="The Eden Project, Cornwall" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Eden Project, Cornwall</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US">I've never been good with landscapes and now I know I just needed a wider frame. As much as I love the above, it's quite close in.</span></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAPeD7uL0fMf5f21vWEc9Yuf68GUx0ryC7dWiayKObnMxjZJcJ6nZUWsCNwqdsMIyar5CgEMZj2CJAeUzOfdOYOc6M3V7yArQSdL4UpqExIdSwzdr_WKqggr2rS5oMVf1wM52ZKzrDlcF/s1600/188231_1002110247323_1289_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rowing team on the thames in Hammersmith by Frederica Patmore" border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAPeD7uL0fMf5f21vWEc9Yuf68GUx0ryC7dWiayKObnMxjZJcJ6nZUWsCNwqdsMIyar5CgEMZj2CJAeUzOfdOYOc6M3V7yArQSdL4UpqExIdSwzdr_WKqggr2rS5oMVf1wM52ZKzrDlcF/s400/188231_1002110247323_1289_n.jpg" title="Rowers on the thames, Hammersmith" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Landscapes were fine if I'm far away but now when I'm much closer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">It's started to dawn on me though, that in order to be versatile, I really
ought to be considering making the digital switch to a digital SLR.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf316B7b6JJ-8W2m-KPHIvyqoEoV2khp4kpY6gktFC6TY9aNBS5FeyUl4as4LAQAcuC5d6_nmAY7bxlIORmsEbYRjyU21NStpgegQGOxhTL-IkAFjhyphenhyphenJifT9P75f9e2Em6c70kl_mCd0L8/s1600/225157_1040506887215_5926_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Hammersmith bridge sunny afternoon by frederica parmore" border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf316B7b6JJ-8W2m-KPHIvyqoEoV2khp4kpY6gktFC6TY9aNBS5FeyUl4as4LAQAcuC5d6_nmAY7bxlIORmsEbYRjyU21NStpgegQGOxhTL-IkAFjhyphenhyphenJifT9P75f9e2Em6c70kl_mCd0L8/s400/225157_1040506887215_5926_n.jpg" title="Hammersmith Bridge by Frederica Patmore" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvuesoTNJPfS7qXj4qol9MQEBGZmdj_pYycYcpRZv8ishsqs5kZCCYAcw8ygECwWo64XADtt8-zejVv9rJtQDhvi3zLd2DAbOlB01sgdimIRMo1TVspP02-UQX-86ZoUAjoNugq5xGdD0/s1600/188431_1002107207247_1862_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Hammersmith by the thames by Frederica Patmore" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvuesoTNJPfS7qXj4qol9MQEBGZmdj_pYycYcpRZv8ishsqs5kZCCYAcw8ygECwWo64XADtt8-zejVv9rJtQDhvi3zLd2DAbOlB01sgdimIRMo1TVspP02-UQX-86ZoUAjoNugq5xGdD0/s320/188431_1002107207247_1862_n.jpg" title="Hammersmith by the thames" width="216" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"> </span>
<span lang="EN-US"><i>Above: pictures from a sunny stroll along the Thames when I lived in Hammersmith </i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I’ve really struggled in the past without
the ability to change ISOs at the flick of a switch, so that prospect does
tempt me over to the shiny electronic side. But the throwaway disposable nature
of digital images fills me with real disgust.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QC6oyXUMRCYPF4sNnMZBJC840fkhUg_4HItKCMQEx0k8_xdFw3VV2H-tAp0B2awAk08CBcrAdnM-E2TAZ6wWLons7gVTxbLytydvN8QsDhsZNwpX8GmBGrT9PUmUeaPphLsoTAeU4nIs/s1600/5176_1165072801285_2685284_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Red and white flags in bari Italy by Frederica Patmore" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QC6oyXUMRCYPF4sNnMZBJC840fkhUg_4HItKCMQEx0k8_xdFw3VV2H-tAp0B2awAk08CBcrAdnM-E2TAZ6wWLons7gVTxbLytydvN8QsDhsZNwpX8GmBGrT9PUmUeaPphLsoTAeU4nIs/s400/5176_1165072801285_2685284_n.jpg" title="Bari, Italy flags" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bari, Italy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">It’s just made everything too easy which
has made the art, is in my opinion, dismissive and lazy.</span>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">However.</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">When I recently took some Kodak Portra 800
for developing at Snappy Snaps I was in for a whopper of a developing bill. It
struck me that recently offering to photograph a close friend’s wedding was
perhaps a higher bill than I was willing to pay.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiexT97CIeFOUqm0xX9D6kXh9pJcAvMqsU7BNhUev8RmtPG636y_QoNRUNfccNs7kvOWAr69SMFSUXtO-B0piarMLhxButPoDFrpFjxLDjw3tf_TwPLVk02eLu2h1Gs3jycPA_VyrMoJD0L/s1600/189307_1002106767236_3821_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bee on lavender Hammersmith London by Frederica Patmore" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiexT97CIeFOUqm0xX9D6kXh9pJcAvMqsU7BNhUev8RmtPG636y_QoNRUNfccNs7kvOWAr69SMFSUXtO-B0piarMLhxButPoDFrpFjxLDjw3tf_TwPLVk02eLu2h1Gs3jycPA_VyrMoJD0L/s400/189307_1002106767236_3821_n.jpg" title="macro shot bee on Lavender" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My macro lens would occasionally come in handy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">But at least they’d have had prints.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">Then again, a recent trip to meet my new baby
nephew (the photos I took to Snappy Snaps), I ran into another whirlwind of
problems.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtUorjR4hpalr4So_mweYWUzoxgVCew2H_6OWO8k3NemXagcNzcx_FbuFc3Qcm1k80KfGMdShf9qlkJ_TiljeOuVf1wFkHkk_Jhm19REdXsQrKEk1kPuCFq3ceiqSlQzyknw7ieqh-DJn/s1600/12795245_10207619261293891_5044975555553954801_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Horse riding at Bushey riding school on a misty morning" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtUorjR4hpalr4So_mweYWUzoxgVCew2H_6OWO8k3NemXagcNzcx_FbuFc3Qcm1k80KfGMdShf9qlkJ_TiljeOuVf1wFkHkk_Jhm19REdXsQrKEk1kPuCFq3ceiqSlQzyknw7ieqh-DJn/s400/12795245_10207619261293891_5044975555553954801_o.jpg" title="Horse riding portrait Bushey riding school" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My kit lens was fine for portraits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> </span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">T</span><span lang="EN-US">he first, not anticipating the fluorescent
light at the hospital (silly error really – I should have packed my FL-D
filter) so my nephew’s pics are twinged with green, sadly. Don't worry though, I've fixed them in post. Got them put on a disc so I could do some manipulations.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0k-mPVzXoS_shwOae-QIJr1dP0mKqxKZ4UbPWSMTfDpb2S-h_OCYuUfYqfAn8rhc7Fwv60N6O7WfCyhRYC-I5f7zr8GhnruUPnKTylKUlV1PzaIWtwrX56UMNKz150xYQZajToxg3-3U/s1600/000030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Baby portrait FL-W fluorescent light Portra 800" border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0k-mPVzXoS_shwOae-QIJr1dP0mKqxKZ4UbPWSMTfDpb2S-h_OCYuUfYqfAn8rhc7Fwv60N6O7WfCyhRYC-I5f7zr8GhnruUPnKTylKUlV1PzaIWtwrX56UMNKz150xYQZajToxg3-3U/s400/000030.JPG" title="Baby portrait FL-W" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upped the magenta and downed the green in photoshop to achieve this balance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"></span> <span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">And then my far of shoving a flashgun in
his adorable, very very new face – meant that all the other photos that day
have come out either blurred (too lazy to carry a tripod, I am – I won’t be
making that mistake any more) or too dark. A high price to pay for dodgy
prints. </span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">But for the most part, there are some
beautiful ones in there.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I’m not totally pleased to hand over my
prints to the happy couple to be honest, I’m embarrassed as a photographer to
have been so thoughtless with such basic rules.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Maybe my new found laziness means I ought
to switch to digital?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Or maybe I should be working harder to
rekindle my love for film photography, and just, y’know, do it right? Like I used to...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M-o5WJ38aVRXSqHYE7RvvjrMU5YhLg2Gdk4Jm_idCJSzBqTOaamEKAEmZbN_fe6E6GG4VY3FnSjKLZPS7seUGm_2nJ847B75ey7vu6FJO0tlqK9d37U7fOP3h2YIVjb-GUGkBGfMUjag/s1600/196165_1002109727310_4074_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Climbing a tree harrow on the hill" border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M-o5WJ38aVRXSqHYE7RvvjrMU5YhLg2Gdk4Jm_idCJSzBqTOaamEKAEmZbN_fe6E6GG4VY3FnSjKLZPS7seUGm_2nJ847B75ey7vu6FJO0tlqK9d37U7fOP3h2YIVjb-GUGkBGfMUjag/s640/196165_1002109727310_4074_n.jpg" title="Harrow on the hill tree climbing" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whatever happens, I am still a good old fashioned <a href="https://www.freddiepatmore.com/wedding-photographer">cheap photographer in Harrow</a>, London. Happy to take on events and portraits, <a href="mailto:freddiepatmore@gmail.com">get in touch</a> if you fancy a shoot and I'd be happy to consider it. I do it for the love of film.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-50078275491983076572017-01-30T14:17:00.000-08:002017-01-30T14:25:59.195-08:00Heath Ledger cross stitch project - out with the old, in with the newI am extremely thrilled to be able to announce that I've finished my longest ever standing, cross stitch project.<br />
<br />
I'vee talked about my phases before and I'm not ashamed of having a minorly short attention span when it comes to sticking to one craft or another. They all remain very dear to my heart, which is the one and only reason I managed to get this 7 year project, finished.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxi05aGNcwx73Y9KyWD_6zsF4bl8HcykoLYGcp6WZtCi6iIX6nK5ElA7PFFM6KgOpOVwEkHOghcbcD-xYnSEbzDnxm4cGODpEfDGzhW-Ce3WDatFNntwJYYuYzV_-WF62L_b1k722aJsSG/s1600/16441537_10210537523488622_1591697025_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Heath Ledger Joker Cross Stitch In Progress In Wooden Ring" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxi05aGNcwx73Y9KyWD_6zsF4bl8HcykoLYGcp6WZtCi6iIX6nK5ElA7PFFM6KgOpOVwEkHOghcbcD-xYnSEbzDnxm4cGODpEfDGzhW-Ce3WDatFNntwJYYuYzV_-WF62L_b1k722aJsSG/s640/16441537_10210537523488622_1591697025_n.jpg" title="Heath Ledger Joker Cross Stitch In Progress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After years of struggling along, it was only in the past few months I learned the value of guide lines</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had real trouble with this kit - it was really hard, on dark fabric with 30+ colours in various shades of brown.<br />
<br />
All of these colours looked the same to me, I'll be honest. I couldn't identify them by eye, so it was very easy to go wrong.<br />
<br />
The patterned areas were the hardest - those are the areas where all of the colours become very sinilar indeed, with a veritable lack of contrast to add to the already challenging design.<br />
<br />
But hey ho, I've finished it - and I'm thrilled with the results, even if he most certainly needs a wash, and the loving touch of a caring custom framer. His time will come.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguN1syXG-dd61wt3WDWLj7m_7bn7A6s-gaaJjEQkX1vP7StnOMhL7d-lLRehbMcsrY3R44nPcM6zw98jQxEAt4wxrICUcLxWW_Z2q90vFktS9i5HAC4KujsMG9VhzFQPF2Sv7dMjH0IGng/s1600/16395482_10210537517728478_1970870295_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Heath ledger as the joker needlework the dark knight" border="0" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguN1syXG-dd61wt3WDWLj7m_7bn7A6s-gaaJjEQkX1vP7StnOMhL7d-lLRehbMcsrY3R44nPcM6zw98jQxEAt4wxrICUcLxWW_Z2q90vFktS9i5HAC4KujsMG9VhzFQPF2Sv7dMjH0IGng/s640/16395482_10210537517728478_1970870295_n.jpg" title="Finished heath ledger joker cross stitch" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This crumped masterpiece has a few minor pixel errors, but I'm still extremely proud to have finished such a tricky kit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I learned throughout this project just how much a symbol of our generation, Heath Ledger had become.<br />
<br />
It sounds silly but at least once a week, the girls in the office and I recant excerpt from Ten Things I Hate About You with very fond memories - <i>mostly</i> teenage girls at the time.<br />
<br />
The dark ending of Heath's career in the Batman film was bitter and twisted - a very sad end to a troubled young man of great talent. I have selected a quote from The Dark Knight in which Haarvey Dent talks about how one should die a hero, and not live long enough to become the villain.<br />
<br />
A fitting brass plaque to accompany him I think.<br />
<br />
So yes, glutton for punishment I sure am.<br />
<br />
I've picked yet another kit from the same photo-realistic designers, <a href="http://designsinthread.co.uk/">Designs In Thread</a>. I guess I'd liken it to picking another epic.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphOzPQ98qumbzuvzWZpSC0aMrt0W3oPIYA15LeI18POqkkxnI55S76czqcV2pZ0ffBKF2nxhRaS0pcvKfGYeS2os-qNh-L0KAbXrsoUNL2Uh1KkwhpcvD6FkEqQX5aDqqnUCzjgyuEZ0E/s1600/16359119_10210537514768404_743727014_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Photorealistic john lennon in progress cross stitch" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphOzPQ98qumbzuvzWZpSC0aMrt0W3oPIYA15LeI18POqkkxnI55S76czqcV2pZ0ffBKF2nxhRaS0pcvKfGYeS2os-qNh-L0KAbXrsoUNL2Uh1KkwhpcvD6FkEqQX5aDqqnUCzjgyuEZ0E/s640/16359119_10210537514768404_743727014_n.jpg" title="John Lennon cross stitch in progress" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heavens knows why I've gone from working black-on-black to white-on-white. Not intentional, I swear it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
John Lennon's poetic lyrics have spoken to me since I was very young, and this felt like a good time to pick a real idol of mine to immortalise in another needlework project.<br />
<br />
As a huge fan of Stephen King, I also have a kit for IT the clown, but the fella won't have it - he says there would be nowhere suitable to hang it [fair enough].<br />
<br />
Instead a pallette of cool greys and not warm browns, I'm thinking that picking an accompanying quote for the final framed piece could be rather fun.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRy2mGD-tZmB62wOO1ZrEY7r2ZNxd0K_wXql78chmieXIt6vRQA17rE0LjCaLJUJmwXTMdD0moa2DALE_R8cIwPo9DTBsr0tmF0ucCpuFuLOJTFL8QLLC3jJHubgGp2jRkGRdsAlK8wEs2/s1600/DSC_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="John Lennon cross stitch kit, page 1 with guidelines thread" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRy2mGD-tZmB62wOO1ZrEY7r2ZNxd0K_wXql78chmieXIt6vRQA17rE0LjCaLJUJmwXTMdD0moa2DALE_R8cIwPo9DTBsr0tmF0ucCpuFuLOJTFL8QLLC3jJHubgGp2jRkGRdsAlK8wEs2/s640/DSC_0065.JPG" title="John lennon cross stitch in progress designs in thread" width="360" /></a>My favourite recording of his at the moment has got to be the Real Love recording, sneakily recorded by Yoko and butchered in a cover for a John Lewis advert years later. I've never liked Tom Odell. Was it Tom Odell? Whatever, those guys all sound the same to me.<br />
<br />
I am starting to get the impression that I've started with the best bit of this kit - with Heath Ledger I started at the nose and seemed to work anti-clockwise from there, filling the corners.<br />
<br />
With John there's lots of hair to be stitched, and that's all very dark and quite hard to see.<br />
<br />
I've had to put it down this evening for lack of not being able to see the damn thing in domestic light (must, must, must invest in a decent craft light). And having a very stiff neck for no placable reason.<br />
<br />
This one is only four pages where the previous was 9 - and a hefty 45 x 45cm where John will most certainly be much smaller.<br />
<br />
But there's no danger of the artist dying while I make this one - Heath did, sadly. So I sort of ended up making it in his memory although thatg was never the original intention.<br />
<br />
So in the meantime while I have probably another four years to pick a quote from a Lennon song to accompany this cross stitch project, here is Real Love - the way it should be heard. I wish i could pick Real Love as the quote but erm... it's a bit short, don't you think?<br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-73843798193973755812017-01-02T14:15:00.000-08:002017-01-22T02:27:37.540-08:00Sleeper Train To Edinburgh - Our Journey To HogmanayMy birthday is New Year's Eve and we never do anything - at my decision. So for the big birthday last year, I figured I ought to do something at least once, and do it big. Hence, we swanned off to the Hogmanay festivities in Edinburgh for a fun-filled four day trip. It was GREAT!<br />
<br />
We had two real highlights on our trip and the first was the sleeper train journey up there. So let's start with that.<br />
<br />
I had always really really wanted to do<a href="https://www.sleeper.scot/" target="_blank"> the Calendonian Sleeper</a> train, and walk past them docked at Euston all the time so this seemed as good a time as any. We couldn't do a sleeper train it both ways because the check-in and check-out times with our accomodation wouldn't have worked out.<br />
<br />
I was prepared for it to be a bit cramped (it was) and we got around the high cost by investing in a <a href="https://www.twotogether-railcard.co.uk/" target="_blank">two-together railcard</a>. For £25 (I was offered a discount, I think it's usually £30 - the card lasts a year), we ended up saving something like £150 on travel all-round so it was worth it. You don't have to be family members, any two people can register for one of these and you can be listed on several. So I think I'll be registering for a few with other family members, too.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRUnaB5pXOoF_tPuQwwfYTRloK9kjb9kfd9tf-nOnaf-gvQ1JJYOn6sj_t9-BF-K-f8e-mJS8qYrHb0JErj8Rsu91OQU-KtIEL4E5wPy7S43g19z36xtNx642KZ6q0N9Bjqq8Xc1JmGp-Q/s1600/DSC_0193_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRUnaB5pXOoF_tPuQwwfYTRloK9kjb9kfd9tf-nOnaf-gvQ1JJYOn6sj_t9-BF-K-f8e-mJS8qYrHb0JErj8Rsu91OQU-KtIEL4E5wPy7S43g19z36xtNx642KZ6q0N9Bjqq8Xc1JmGp-Q/s640/DSC_0193_1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad packed me a little birthday present to keep up busy on the sleeper train and it was great fun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With such a big saving, it was tempting to go for First Class but as soon as I found out that all First Class rooms only have one single bed in them (not bunks), so it kinda sucked the fun out of travelling with my partner completely. I don't think I'd have coped in the shared bunk room with a total stranger though. Not a lot of room to get around. <br />
<br />
I've since learned that my annual gold card (the bit of paper that goes with my annual London travelcard) also gives you a massive saving on sleeper train tickets - so tick both boxes if you have both, as discounts can be applied for more than one railcard.<br />
<br />
Boarding doesn't start in London if you're only going to Edinburgh, until about 11pm. So we chose to go and hover at Euston station with a couple of pints. That is, until I remembered that the pub inside the station had vanished, that is..<br />
<br />
A quick Google search suggested an alternative within a few metres of the station (us with our heavy luggage didn't want to go far) and although I couldn't picture where it said it was (I go through Euston quite often and I'd never seen it), we chanced it and followed Google Maps.<br />
<br />
Hidden away, <a href="http://www.doric-arch.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Doric Arch</a> is a cheeky little pub tucked between Nandos and William Hill (out of Euston's exits and towards the left), and was totally empty when we got there at 9pm. We did have to lug our heavy suitcases up the stairs though, so beware if you have accessibility issues - but it's a nice little pub with some lovely ales to keep you going while you wait for a train.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BIKj5c1Aff1/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by DoricArchPub (@doricarchpub)</a> on <time datetime="2016-07-22T13:13:29+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jul 22, 2016 at 6:13am PDT</time></div>
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<br />
We boarded in good time - at the earliest possible opportunity (11pm for an 11.50pm departure). Greeted by a member of the Caledonian Sleeper staff who confirmed the brekfasts I'd pre-ordered and asked which drinks we'd like in the morning.<br />
<br />
As you can see, there isn't much room to move around in there - negotiating our suitcases up the narrow corridors wasn't much fun either but we managed it within a few minutes, and before it got too crowded.<br />
<br />
Over night was fine - we had special christmas soap gifts from the Caledonian Sleeper company. I'd brought a bottle of wine so there was no need to bother with the dining car - I did wander up there to nab plastic cups and let me tell you, it's TINY. So buy your snacks and drinks before you get on, as space is prioritised for first class ticket holders. And there isn't much of it.<br />
<br />
Yes we could hear through both walls so had to be mindful to keep our voices down. We could both sit quite happily on the top bunk to play games and share a drink.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbRMrAMVJFivI0hAeejB4ZT-dmDS6jrHFV1Fo7NgRpLSaLTwhelf-8r_fr32dXoaBnIf4n1rPUYgCVdQ1vFcZnq_AFMUq0KUH-OyNAEHutt8WFZPeWot1EPMTPSOq5Se5Y705Yjqy7NPV/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbRMrAMVJFivI0hAeejB4ZT-dmDS6jrHFV1Fo7NgRpLSaLTwhelf-8r_fr32dXoaBnIf4n1rPUYgCVdQ1vFcZnq_AFMUq0KUH-OyNAEHutt8WFZPeWot1EPMTPSOq5Se5Y705Yjqy7NPV/s640/DSC_0188.JPG" width="360" /></a><br />
It was totally dark so don't expect to spot anything outside the window on the journey. All we saw was blackness and a few distant lights.<br />
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We got a few hours sleep on what were suprisingly comfy beds and the bathroom wasn't far although it was filthy so there was no washing going on in there. I waited to do all that when we reached our accomodation.<br />
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Breakfast came at about 6am - we ate it and went back to sleep for another hour. My bacon roll had no sauce and Ben's poor 'full Scottish' was pitiful - it looked like it had been trodden on. Nothing like the Instagram pictures had led me to believe!<br />
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The train booted us off at about 7.45am despite me having read somewhere that we were safe to sleep in til 8. But that was fine, it was a bit weird staying in bed when we knew we had reached the station and the train had stopped.<br />
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On arrival in the city it was very easy to find our bus even though it was dark. You literally disembark the sleeper train in the middle of the city centre so there's not far to go if you've got somewhere to get to nearby. It's <i>very</i> early in the morning though. Not a lot was open.<br />
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We managed to negotiate with our accomodation, to let us in about half an hour later. Luckily they didn't have people staying overnight the night before and over Hogmanay, so we were extremely fortunate. Be prepared to pay for an extra night if you need to do this during busy periods.<br />
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The alternative is to <a href="https://www.left-baggage.co.uk/" target="_blank">leave your luggage with the Left Baggage facility at Edinburgh Station</a> - which would have weighed in at a cost of £25 for our two suitcases - a cost I'm happy we avoided!<br />
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I would do the sleeper train again, it was a great experience in good company. But I don't think I'd want to brave it on my own. Part of the fun was having my partner with me.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-31509766018080605472016-12-27T02:49:00.000-08:002017-01-22T02:52:19.109-08:00Peter Rabbit Knitting Pattern - A Christmas MakeThis Christmas, I dug out my old Peter Rabbit knitting pattern from the 'archives under the bed', for a very special mum-to-be, my brother's girlfriend Monika. <br />
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Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas for me if I didn't have some handmade gifts to make. Granted with my charity handmade jewellery sale, I was a little short of time this year but luckily I started the knits a little earlier so that was alright. And this year there were more than just knits - I decided to do some Christmas cross stitch too.<br />
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But Peter Rabbit was the special one. <br />
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Peter Rabbit </h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6OTspat97pKSz8wJHre4YijjTbx3YrmzzzO0ILKtjh6th_SCDRPeyVYPHPGX1QJO-U2yHdj77bCJjrXGD-r99bX9kYlsXma-NHBqL7bsP5yPFARxbb8tnsICkEPPxrfq7cSOTnuVQ-St/s1600/DSC_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6OTspat97pKSz8wJHre4YijjTbx3YrmzzzO0ILKtjh6th_SCDRPeyVYPHPGX1QJO-U2yHdj77bCJjrXGD-r99bX9kYlsXma-NHBqL7bsP5yPFARxbb8tnsICkEPPxrfq7cSOTnuVQ-St/s320/DSC_0171.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
It just so happens that my brother and his girlfriend are expecting a little baby boy this coming February.<br />
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I always struggle to know preciseley when to gift knitted things to people and invariably nearly always do it too early or too late. But Christmas seemed a good opportunity to give gifts to the 'bump'.<br />
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I picked Peter Rabbit because mum-to-be is a big fan of Beatrix Potter, particularly our cotton-tailed friend here. And my personal speciality has always been knitting toys. It's where I cut my knitted teeth, if you like.<br />
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Thankfully I've been hoarding knitting patterns for toys since I was about eight, so in amongst my stash is my Peter Rabbit knitting pattern as well as knitting patterns for the rest of the Beatrix Potter clan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2lsjU3p2mp5-ZpxThkxiHBwc1UBe8PNEIu4vCPj83fNFBajwlsdTLLC6ADv4fQsXIKYvmKGcJlOaZh2QuLGJhLHVlraGOpkG_FBoHFtl7sCtoKvdD6y-ck7WsKG1JAd3rP503QXw5bG8/s1600/DSC_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2lsjU3p2mp5-ZpxThkxiHBwc1UBe8PNEIu4vCPj83fNFBajwlsdTLLC6ADv4fQsXIKYvmKGcJlOaZh2QuLGJhLHVlraGOpkG_FBoHFtl7sCtoKvdD6y-ck7WsKG1JAd3rP503QXw5bG8/s320/DSC_0174.JPG" width="180" /></a>It's no coincidence that I'm now working at Woman's Weekly Magazine, as I've been an obsessive fan since I could read. My late grandmother used to help me make the toys and it's nothing that I've shaken off.<br />
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Sadly, for copyright reasons, the Peter Rabbit knitting pattern is no longer available unless you're able to snag a copy from eBay (worth watching, they do pop up from time to time).<br />
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I used Stylecraft Special DK which is pretty handy because they've got every colour known to man, and I added a few embellishments, a couple of brown Trimits safety eyes and a big pom pom for his tail.<br />
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I initially bought a pom pom from TOFT, having asked them at Ally Pally whether or not it would be baby safe - they said it was but I soon realised that it probably wouldn't wash, so opted for a synthetic one from Rico instead.<br />
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The sewing up and stuffing took some time - I shredded the stuffing and really went to town with puffing out his cheeks and shaping the face. As with all Alan Dart patterns, the shaping and sewing up was extremely complex but worth getting right and undoing if needed. I was thrilled with the outcome and I'm pleased to say that mummy-to-be was, as well.<br />
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Apparently she sat with it in her arms for most of the day on Christmas - not believing that a knitter could produce such a thing. Which is cool, because this is the first thing I've ever knitted for her and it's hard to tell whether or not non-knitters are gonna love the handmade thang....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-50612648223584485892016-11-09T11:21:00.000-08:002016-11-09T11:39:21.175-08:00Sparkly Bezelled Beads For A Dreary DayIt's almost a running joke in the office about the craft phases I go through. I have so many crafts that I do, but I only tend to stick to one for a few weeks and then move on to something else. They're like clockwork, and last about six weeks each. Knitting is not the current phase, it's something slightly sparklier.<br />
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<i>Cross stitch is another frequent recurring phase...</i><br />
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Last Autumn, I went on a bit of a tour around the country teaching various workshops with ICHF and Woman's Weekly. I visited Birmigham, Exeter, London, Manchester and Glasgow for a few days each, all over three months and although was totally shattered by the time I returned, I had an AMAZING time.<br />
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...but I brought a new phase back with me. One I hadn't done before.<br />
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The first stop was Exeter where I purchased my very first beaded bauble kit in between teaching classes (ahem, in between actual work, that is). I'd seen the kits from afar at various other shows in years previous, but never actually got around to buying one. They just looked too complicated. Turns out, they weren't!<br />
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>And then by the time I reached Glasgow (penultimate on the tour if I remember correctly), I was zipping around the SECC in between teaching classes to buy random beady bits from all the sellers. I didn't really know what I was going to do with them, I just knew I'd caught the bug!<br />
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Into one of my full-day crochet classes, wandered Lesley - one of my 'students', wearing the most stunning pendant you have ever seen. So much so, that while I was trying to teach the group, I just kept getting distracted. It was so sparkly, the more I think about it, the more I blame the 'magpie' effect.<br />
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She told me how to make one [I'm all like 'you actually <i>made</i> that?!'] and at Glasgow airport on my journey home, I ordered all the kit on my phone and had a go at it a few days later.<br />
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I had to try and remember the colours she used from memory (in my honest opinion, colours aren't something that memory records very well - I should have just taken a picture of the thing). I gave it my best - and despite a couple going wrong, I did alright!<br />
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You start off with a single Swarovski rivoli stone in the middle (for this one I picked a cool dual coloured one - but most of them are just one solid colour) and then weave beads around the edge in different sizes to enclose or 'bezel' the stone...<br />
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I made up a little woven strap loop to hang them on some pretty ribbon cords I get from eBay. The strap uses super tiny beads (size 15s if that means anything to you), so they come out really fine.<br />
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Excuse the blue fuzzy background, these are special bead mats which stop the beads from rolling around, they're like a velvery kinda surface.<br />
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Next comes stitching on columns of accent beads around the edge - one row of bicone-shaped beads in a large size (4mm)..<br />
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...and then another row of smaller ones (3mm) on top. The results are mesmerising. Not a day goes by where I wear mine and nobody comments or asks about it. I got caught out in Sainsbury's today with someone very kindly passing compliments. <i>Thank you!</i><br />
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So recently, in this phase, I've been experimenting with different colour mixes for some really fun designs. I've done a few custom orders where I can pick and blend shades according to the personality and preferences of an individual. Those are always fun. But these are just me playing with colour, which is also great fun.<br />
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One of my freinds who I made one for recently suggested I try selling them at an annual charity benefit we have in our offices each year. They invite members of staff with 'making' skills to bring their handmakes to sell, and donate a bit to charity. So I've been experimenting with all sorts of colours and styles.<br />
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The itsy bitsy beads around the edges are called Czech Charlottes and although are described as a size 15, are considerably smaller. I've invested in a few different ones, although the bronze are my favourite, I've also got some gold and silver plated ones for a more luxurious finish.<br />
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Another lady told me recently that they looked like something Imelda Poldark would wear, which didn't mean anything to me at the time as I don't watch it, but I looked it up and lo and behold, not far off at all!<br />
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I must watch it one day. Period dramas aren't really my sort of thing but I could always give it a go. I might get some inspiration, who knows!<br />
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Anyway, any left from this charity sale at work [if it happens - we're currently moving offices], I'll be selling them off for charity anyway. So if you see anything you like, or you fancy a custom order, proceeds will go to<a href="https://www.myeloma.org.uk/what-we-do/" target="_blank"> Myeloma UK</a> in memory of my grandmother who sadly passed after a short battle with the illness earlier this year. Just <a href="mailto:fredericapatmore@hotmail.co.uk" target="_blank">let me know</a>.<br />
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I do think that 2016 has been a SHOCKING year for all of us, especially today. So I just thought I would talk about pretty things and enjoy a bit of healthy escapism before The Missing starts (love that show, and David Morrissey is goooorgeous).<br />
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Have a lovely evening, all - and look at it this way, 2016 is [thankfully] very nearly over.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-41918654080079528592016-10-13T03:43:00.000-07:002017-01-22T04:33:21.420-08:00Easy Crochet Patterns - My Designs From 2016I've been working on a few new designs for The Knitting Network, which is really cool because they appeard in Love To Knit And Crochet Magazine, and now they're going up online. So I just thought I'd share a few of them with you where I perhaps haven't shouted wenough about what I've been designing this year.<br />
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Essentially, building design time into your work time in an office environment is tricky, so they're simple and quick easy crochet patterns but there's some great stuff here if you're a beginner.<br />
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Kicking right off with my pride and joy;<br />
<h3>Slash Neck Womens Top Knitting Pattern</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkVmK-vqhYjBdZDWh5MO5zaz1eqt2uoiT3uZ7e-39RuRels0As3K9_cxZYm4NHW8r65WRR3DibkoquZzRkhXx3sRrKizhNWOhXeupvCEeUsx-uJQLHFMqrt-sbmumNlOFe44Mqosu8WS3/s1600/Slash_Neck_Womens_Top_Crochet_Pattern_b73c4cbd-3bc4-46e7-becf-d03f88e10479_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkVmK-vqhYjBdZDWh5MO5zaz1eqt2uoiT3uZ7e-39RuRels0As3K9_cxZYm4NHW8r65WRR3DibkoquZzRkhXx3sRrKizhNWOhXeupvCEeUsx-uJQLHFMqrt-sbmumNlOFe44Mqosu8WS3/s320/Slash_Neck_Womens_Top_Crochet_Pattern_b73c4cbd-3bc4-46e7-becf-d03f88e10479_1024x1024.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>This one is very special to me because it appeared as the cover shot on issue 2 of Love To Knit And Crochet magazine.<br />
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It's essentially two big squares with some felt-style mesh side panels which gradually turn opaque towards the neckline. I had all sorts of mad ideas for this one including all-mesh with an opaque strip around the bust, but in the end went for this more subtle effect.<br />
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The shoulders are tied at the top with crocheted chains so really for this one, all you need to know is how to crochet a double-treble and a chain, all pretty simple stuff. I used Stylecraft Cotton Classique DK, a cotton which has gone on to become a favourite in the crochet cottons of my mental design pallette.<br />
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Download your easy crochet top pattern from <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/crochet/products/slash-neck-womens-top-crochet-pattern?utm_campaign=easy_crochet_patterns&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Freddies_Blog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Knitting Network</a> website. I have got some Sirdar Cotton DK put aside for me to make one for myself in navy blue - with some AB Purple knitting beads for the front panel - I thought this might give it an evening-y look.<br />
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<h3>Striped Scarf With PomPom Trim </h3><br />
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I don't get many opportunities to design in 4ply (it just takes too long when I'm on a deadline), but with this which was set to be a slightly smaller project, I had the chance to fill my boots with some delectable Rowan Super Fine Merino 4ply.<br />
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Really lovely stuff to work with for a soft scarf against your skin.<br />
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The brief was fun because myself and several other designers including <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/products/ladies-embroidered-gloves-knitting-pattern?utm_campaign=easy_crochet_patterns&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Freddies_Blog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Anna Nikipirowicz</a> and <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/collections/crochet/products/beaded-womens-collar-crochet-pattern?utm_campaign=easy_crochet_patterns&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Freddies_Blog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kath Webber</a>, were each given a pack of embellishments including beads, pompom trims and embroidery threads, and asked to design a knit which showcases these little flourishes.<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BMWe3DzgQuL/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Knitting Network (@knittingnetwork)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-11-03T14:25:56+00:00">Nov 3, 2016 at 7:25am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
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I kept it simple with this easy crochet pattern for a filet striped scarf - it's all trebles and chains (speaking the UK abbreviations speak here), so you can't go wrong if you fancy making my lovely, easy pattern. <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/products/striped-scarf-with-pompom-trim-crochet-pattern?utm_campaign=easy_crochet_patterns&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Freddies_Blog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download the easy scarf crochet pattern here</a>.<br />
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<h3>Womens Chevron Poncho</h3><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_krcAtRlm8ncNyJOb87sGEXs-0CJuPml8ffTt3697Mv6ahDczHG_lXO98ZbRTLnxZTrL4vQcfp-FbZukLi2nOofEyBevMJ48IuVWXsgqsC_svCBSlVagrV_x6p2MKe010dMkvkyya0fS/s1600/Issue+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_krcAtRlm8ncNyJOb87sGEXs-0CJuPml8ffTt3697Mv6ahDczHG_lXO98ZbRTLnxZTrL4vQcfp-FbZukLi2nOofEyBevMJ48IuVWXsgqsC_svCBSlVagrV_x6p2MKe010dMkvkyya0fS/s640/Issue+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had lots of fun and slightly mad ideas for this one</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUb02bHFPKPA5Jn8-RhNCS8gT7XHAzLLXU-9sM3fgODRdZceQ-DKoK0yvrQ7uEPjkmvtU31M_a9Y_wCih6OmDe5E_4AYG3JScmob-8wGthGEo1WGMqgw6Xl4dxnvuivrHer8PTrEo8d6ak/s1600/Womens_Chevron_Poncho_Crochet_Pattern_53de40ce-e807-42b1-a156-863bc4cbacd5_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUb02bHFPKPA5Jn8-RhNCS8gT7XHAzLLXU-9sM3fgODRdZceQ-DKoK0yvrQ7uEPjkmvtU31M_a9Y_wCih6OmDe5E_4AYG3JScmob-8wGthGEo1WGMqgw6Xl4dxnvuivrHer8PTrEo8d6ak/s400/Womens_Chevron_Poncho_Crochet_Pattern_53de40ce-e807-42b1-a156-863bc4cbacd5_1024x1024.jpg" width="266" /></a>Briefed to create a beach cover-up, I'm always a bit of a lover of design sketches. I love to draw, having studied the sculpture of anatomy and faces at high school.<br />
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Sadly my tinge of green in the above sketches didn't quite make it to the chopping block, and as such I ended up doing a design in just the duck egg and yellow [which is a little sharp on the eyes to be honest - but you can do it in whatever colour you want, of course!].<br />
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I managed to crochet the finished poncho in two and a half days, so this really is designed to be a quickie. I remember the conversation in the office about how good this particular design would be if you were heading off to a festival and needed something quick.<br />
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I added armholes just for the sake of being practical - I can't bear snoody and poncho things where you can't get your arms in.<br />
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Made in Lily Sugar n' Cream, this is a worsted/aran crochet, which you might think would be really heavy - but with the granny-square style finish, technically the fabric is 'half-empty', so it's surprisingly light. And as the finished item is a big square, it makes a pretty decent beach blanket too. Download this<a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/products/womens-chevron-poncho-crochet-pattern?utm_campaign=easy_crochet_patterns&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Freddies_Blog" target="_blank"> easy crochet poncho pattern</a> from The Knitting Network.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-84215875838571545202016-09-03T06:24:00.000-07:002017-01-24T12:09:29.433-08:00Walking With Wolves In The Lake DistrictThis is probably the most special day trip I've ever been on. I
investigated activities in the area nearby where we were staying at <a href="http://freddiepatmore.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/the-best-gypsy-caravan-to-stay-at-in.html" target="_blank">The Blue House B and B</a>. And I mean <i>really</i> nearby - and stumbled across one of the greatest animal experiences I have ever encountered. It looked incredible but boy was I in for a surprise - this is an up close and personal hour of getting to know about two very exciting creatures.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sadly we were out of focus but the trip was amazing!</td></tr>
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Just around the corner from where we were staying, is The Predator Experience. With my famously terrible sense of direction, I still managed to take us off in the wrong direction but you'd have to be blind not to see it. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAUKwgegCz6W_fSr-WicihldQqAj5XUFf8PQZUo5YbpMrH_rjqvbuQOJx5VTeYDQI_QpH-ZHLBxQMGubnr5CfxCTv0haFE0Vte6iwRHTh1PUKeZri9C55Rz1jzCzWYCX_qMJW5NFtCpxMd/s1600/12500024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sign reading Welcome To The Predatpr Experience, Cumbria" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAUKwgegCz6W_fSr-WicihldQqAj5XUFf8PQZUo5YbpMrH_rjqvbuQOJx5VTeYDQI_QpH-ZHLBxQMGubnr5CfxCTv0haFE0Vte6iwRHTh1PUKeZri9C55Rz1jzCzWYCX_qMJW5NFtCpxMd/s320/12500024.JPG" title="The Predator Experience - Sign" width="212" /></a><br />
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As you can see though, we got there in the end, allbeit slightly late.<br />
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To preserve the beauty of the area, there are no signposts but you soon spot the sign on a peaceful, residential looking plot, We had no idea there were big predators in there!<br />
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We met hosts Dee and Daniel at their door who popped us into a jeep and drove us off to where we'd be walking with the wolves. Or so I presumed. Dee pointed to something behind us and we turned our heads to reveal two gargantuan (and gorgeous) wolves, Maska and Kajika, sat in the boot behind us!<br />
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It was then that it dawned on me that we were going to be walking at a nearby lake with these two beauties on leashes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZ0AWkoPb8q9-3w-VVcdoUlkSw3kh2FqhxcV-7u-Xmyvoa0apRhVxmYn2FTTocspvU5-7KLemUHdTKHHEcAplmobTNpYG_owkxx79QNcAm_di4qhYEv9QtMfUElOe56y_KKqHoslcqakQ/s1600/12500034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wolf drinking from the lake with handler Dee from The Predator Experience" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZ0AWkoPb8q9-3w-VVcdoUlkSw3kh2FqhxcV-7u-Xmyvoa0apRhVxmYn2FTTocspvU5-7KLemUHdTKHHEcAplmobTNpYG_owkxx79QNcAm_di4qhYEv9QtMfUElOe56y_KKqHoslcqakQ/s640/12500034.JPG" title="Walking With Wolves Dee and Kajika" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The walk was set against magical scenery</td></tr>
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As soon as we hopped out of the jeep we were briefed by the impressive and knowledgable guides. I was very excited, and a bit scared at this point and went very quiet. I suppose it had never crossed my mind that we ourselves would be handling the wolves (with help, of course) and I came over very, very nervous. They're a lot bigger than your regular domestic pooch, and a little bit intimidating.<br />
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After a few minutes of walking Kajika with one of the guides (Ben has Maska for the first half of the trip), I was fine and totally enamoured.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maska and Kajika are incredible creatures</td></tr>
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It was raining (that horrible misty rain), and I'd brought my trusty old fossil of a camera but when you've got your hands full with these extremely strong, amazing wolves - there's not a lot of time for photo taking.<br />
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Luckily the guides had already thought of this, they stopped for a photo op and continued their presentation before we turned around and came back. They also very kindly took our picture although my camera couldn't focus in the rain (boo!).<br />
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And as a bit of an enthusiast, I can tell you that this is one of the best wildlife photography opportunities I've ever had. I love photographing animals. I've not seen anything better anywhere else and camera lovers would be silly to pass this up if they're staying nearby.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't be fooled - these amazing wolves aren't like dogs at all</td></tr>
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The round walk lasted about 45 mins to an hour and Dee and Daniel taught us all about these hybrid wolves on the journey. They usually take groups of four but as I was covering this for Woman's Weekly magazine, it was just Ben and I on this one (and my, did we feel priveleged!).<br />
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Dee told us that the wolves' sense of smell was exponentially more sensitive than a household dog's. And we saw it in action - Ben took a tumble on one of the grassy banks on the way up, and on the way down, Kajika went to sniff the area and came over to have a whiff of Ben to make sure he was alright. It was very sweet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91uERip4Yn0yfN3bF0aiMtOJNw9tKA29jQc_51283dqVe5RASsx4tY7-TdsYn6CsItJAyct9uB-8sN6IQYBwYquiedK8vxBRgGc4tw_mKIVG8Wzl-AytrbkRnOuOVotdmTVwUwKmX_wVH/s1600/12500036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Man plays with two wolves on a Walking With Wolves tour" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91uERip4Yn0yfN3bF0aiMtOJNw9tKA29jQc_51283dqVe5RASsx4tY7-TdsYn6CsItJAyct9uB-8sN6IQYBwYquiedK8vxBRgGc4tw_mKIVG8Wzl-AytrbkRnOuOVotdmTVwUwKmX_wVH/s400/12500036.JPG" title="Daniel from The Predator Experience interacts with the hybrid wolves" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The guides have a fascinating relationship with the wolves</td></tr>
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The social behaviours were fascinating, and you can tell that guides Dee and Daniel are very much 'part of the pack'.<br />
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These hybrid wolves are exceptionally smart and although we were allowed to pet them (on extremely thick, waterproof fur, I might add - I was jealous of them on this walk!), we were told that they wouldn't 'get it' or respond (shock horror, they didn't!). But hey, we still got to touch these amazing creatures - how many people can say they'd done that?<br />
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We learned all about the fascinating mythology behind wolves raising children, big bad wolves in horror stories and werewolves.<br />
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I won't spoil it all because you ought to go, really - but did you know that when The Plague was rife, wolves would be seen emerging from the pits where the bodies were stacked?<br />
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You can imagine on a misty night to paranoid dwellers that this might look like the dead arising and coming back to life... as wolves. Hence werewolves. So many fascinating stories like that had me engrossed.<br />
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I don't spend much of my time quiet (ask anyone in the office) but I was gobsmacked for the duration of this trip. I just couldn't believe that we'd spent our morning in such close proximity to such wild animals.<br />
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They don't do tricks or anything, they are very much their own entity and I have the utmost respect for them. I do feel stupid for thinking that they were just big dogs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDJKr31xdwJZ3KPMjucsfE5XbzB5Prv9BDB7MEaNCP_sn2vb8g6sxQv_yPQZRvuLlpd6U3j6a1tsveLUphnJ0h9CP92jtAjt9KrCVd4v6X4ao2eTffrMmEw1NP3p9wbvBlIYjibQWoSkd/s1600/12520001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Two wolves with handler in the lake district on The Predator Experience" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDJKr31xdwJZ3KPMjucsfE5XbzB5Prv9BDB7MEaNCP_sn2vb8g6sxQv_yPQZRvuLlpd6U3j6a1tsveLUphnJ0h9CP92jtAjt9KrCVd4v6X4ao2eTffrMmEw1NP3p9wbvBlIYjibQWoSkd/s640/12520001.JPG" title="Hybrid Wolves on the Walking With Wolves Tour The Predator Experience" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All budding photographers should make sure they get to this if they're in the area. Not to be missed.</td></tr>
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My other half has got a dicky shoulder and the guides were able to support him with this - they do help you hold the reigns and the terrain wasn't too bad, we quite like a decent walk. But if the weather is anything like it was on our day, make sure you put walking boots and waterproofs on!<br />
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Obviously make sure you have a camera - and something on which to record video. Because the tour ends with something you won't be able to see anywhere else.<br />
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When we strolled back to the jeep, the wolves hopped in, and Dee continued to educate us about the social nature of these creatures. She introduced us to the idea of the 'social bonding howl', which she starts to do and the other wolves joined in. I was so moved I was in tears! Check it out...<br />
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Honestly, it's probably the best thing I've ever done in the Lake District ever. Don't be put off by the price, it is worth every penny (and more!).<br />
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To Dee and Daniel; thank you for having us, you have completely changed my outlook on wolves and gave us a spectacular morning which surpassed all expectations. I'll be recommending it to everyone I know who goes up there! All the best in the future.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-59976411352222916602016-08-16T05:16:00.000-07:002017-01-22T05:19:51.109-08:00Kaffe Fassett At The Garden Of The RoseSo guess what I did yesterday?<br />
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This was a thrilling trip and I was very honoured to recieve an invitation to pop along and meet Kaffe Fassett at <a href="http://www.rnrs.org.uk/visit-us/" target="_blank">The Gardens Of The Rose</a> in Saint Albans, which is not too far from me.<br />
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I popped along to cover the event for Love To Knit And Crochet Magazine, with my personal knitting advisor - my mum.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gardens were sprinkled with Kaffe Quits amidst stunning floral displays</td></tr>
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It's always good to have a second opinion on knitting events which is why I always make sure she is with me. That way I make sure to get a balanced view of whatever the event might be. And it's fun for us to do these things together. I owe her the fact that I'm knitting at all. <br />
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I had no idea this pretty little gem had been hidden in such a local area - and on one of the hottest days of the year, it was possibly the most beautiful garden I'd ever had the pleasure of visiting.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The press area gathered at the Pavillion near the entrance</td></tr>
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Having worked for Rowan for a good many years before moving on to publishing, it was a lovely opportunity to catch up with some old friends. I was not expecting a glass of fizz and a goody bag with some yummy Rowan Cashmere popped in (this is earmarked for a hat for the fella - it's his colour).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJhzPYObyJe3uS5JR8t3N82lHkaSqNmb2ekv5gyVXDjFhL_GTWkzMQUemv0sA5i7dPGRVUwZ-fSRntAuziu2X2HO4Frg9GaBPJUNi1c6XRe5-ELyxZtNai1KFfIPEecDui0wv3tEOTaIl2/s1600/DSC_1666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJhzPYObyJe3uS5JR8t3N82lHkaSqNmb2ekv5gyVXDjFhL_GTWkzMQUemv0sA5i7dPGRVUwZ-fSRntAuziu2X2HO4Frg9GaBPJUNi1c6XRe5-ELyxZtNai1KFfIPEecDui0wv3tEOTaIl2/s640/DSC_1666.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the excitement was in the tent, where the fashion show was held</td></tr>
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The highlight of the trip was the fashion show - telling the story of 30 years of Rowan. The first magazine came out the year I was born, so it has a very special meaning for me. I remember reading the mags and looking at the glossy pictures before I could understant the words.<br />
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The fashion show most certainly did not dissapoint. We had great seats and a fabulous view of the stunning garments.<br />
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It was really sweet as well because the huge crowd (it had to be fully booked, it was rammed in there) all came together when the older garments started coming round - especially the iconic Kaffe designs. All of a sudden we were all reminiscing about where we were the first time we'd seen certain garments, right down to where we were when we bought the magazines.</div>
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It was an amazing day which ended with Kaffe planting a Rowan Tree to commemorate the 60th Rowan Magazine (they do a Spring/Summer and an Autumn/Winter each year). Although sadly we couldn't stay for that bit.</div>
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If it ever happens again, I wholeheartedly would recommend you attend. I've also since found out that The Society Of The Rose also host as a wedding venue and let me tell you, I can't think of a better backdrop on a nice day for your treasured wedding photographs.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-38636292856132652952016-08-12T12:06:00.000-07:002017-01-24T12:19:05.736-08:00The Best Gypsy Caravan To Stay At In The Lake DistrictThis summer, we took a trip to Cartmel for a week of fun and frolics. Even with rainy weather, we were delighted to find that the cost-effective gypsy caravn at <a href="http://www.bluehousebedandbreakfast.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Blue House Bed And Breakfast</a> we stayed instead in
their gypsy caravan which is on-site and a few metres from the house.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKLtl0YrTw51zsKCq7fzYT5IPxuSgRkDEZpxGLErHBWiUE8OxtDoaQ4KiEsljKLCzYezFm6SMzUsLAQysKyLGfAFmEQhZtFCAWNXzMZcKWY2h8zcd_1ZqOccrDRT4Qt_XoT20VcKlQArP/s1600/12520013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="romany gypsy caravan set against lush greenery" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKLtl0YrTw51zsKCq7fzYT5IPxuSgRkDEZpxGLErHBWiUE8OxtDoaQ4KiEsljKLCzYezFm6SMzUsLAQysKyLGfAFmEQhZtFCAWNXzMZcKWY2h8zcd_1ZqOccrDRT4Qt_XoT20VcKlQArP/s640/12520013.JPG" title="Romany Gypsy Caravan At The Blue House Bed And Breakfast" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'd booked it as a surprise, secretly really worried that my other half would find it a bit too hipster and girly. There's no electric to the caravan so it's back to basics! I'd spent months keeping it a secret, which was intensely difficult for me. So it was a bit of a gamble when we turned up.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaut7ulxLQvFS9ZQSWi_xYffLEwlqn_s5E3q-TazAXy0rWlDoXFe1ChHp07HS8hZUyXQGyADcTJItYSxRISGdtnnaQB1WF3wU13KqFhE8xakY7XBwEJ-L4WMyaRUhBchU0iE6B1eHUfiyG/s1600/12520024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Small house bed and breakfast set in against rolling mountains in Cumbria" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaut7ulxLQvFS9ZQSWi_xYffLEwlqn_s5E3q-TazAXy0rWlDoXFe1ChHp07HS8hZUyXQGyADcTJItYSxRISGdtnnaQB1WF3wU13KqFhE8xakY7XBwEJ-L4WMyaRUhBchU0iE6B1eHUfiyG/s640/12520024.JPG" title="The Blue House Bed And Breakfast" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nuzzled in picturesque countryside, The Blue House is the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway</td></tr>
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When we turned up, our friendly driver dropped us at the entrance which is at the back of the property, where the car park is. I was hoping to sneak him in without spotting the caravan, but alas, it was the first thing we saw. I was completely relieved when I turned my head - a big grin was on the mister's face. He was sold.<br />
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Owner Tina was wonderful - she let us in early where our previous accomodation had a fairly early check out. Luckily the caravan hadn't been occupied the night before.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGaX0sUDckh77qWMdmELVM7TUSLqPeGMGWX8hN-lXy5W3QcARf1unLL-3kytQxAkoCdLrMxCsG4xry6pVPaxsHpcO8tHcCk1Xe-trQ9yUtF6aS7r5sv4PKgQCPCk-iuL2JRRw6akGVO0Dp/s1600/12520014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Romany gypsy caravan holiday" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGaX0sUDckh77qWMdmELVM7TUSLqPeGMGWX8hN-lXy5W3QcARf1unLL-3kytQxAkoCdLrMxCsG4xry6pVPaxsHpcO8tHcCk1Xe-trQ9yUtF6aS7r5sv4PKgQCPCk-iuL2JRRw6akGVO0Dp/s640/12520014.JPG" title="Gypsy caravan guests at the blue house bed asnd breakfast" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He was totally game and we had a very romantic three days with no TV or phones, just each other.</td></tr>
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Tina was extremely accomodating, as it happened - I don't drive so lugging a lot of things around on long journeys is not my strong point. She was able to hold on to a couple of parcels filled with goodies which I'd posted up in advance to keep the secret well and truly schtm. This included colouring books, mini novels, a chess set and marshmallows for toasting on the fire pit. Thank you, Tina!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4MaTUMDWP9uTEWqQMYHn6w2pMpaa1ByS8VJAT8FC1a45Yh6QDf1-yZ5i-pyE_fR6jzpZWaigb_Af_Wh71NZSIXtMuWVxQcpk5x-bzcV70FJ8AyRoo9V7zrPnrHeNnJvov5nbrjj08kjH/s1600/CIMG2531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lots of candles and wine" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4MaTUMDWP9uTEWqQMYHn6w2pMpaa1ByS8VJAT8FC1a45Yh6QDf1-yZ5i-pyE_fR6jzpZWaigb_Af_Wh71NZSIXtMuWVxQcpk5x-bzcV70FJ8AyRoo9V7zrPnrHeNnJvov5nbrjj08kjH/s640/CIMG2531.JPG" title="Candles keep the light in the gypsy caravan" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candles in all shapes and sizes will keep you lit and cosy</td></tr>
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We were far from living like animals in there, with a lifetime supply of candles and a plethora of candle holders to keep the place lit, and warm! It was raining for our entire three day stay and far from warm outside, but our conversation, the candles and a glass or two of vino kept us plenty warm inside the caravan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnl_Xxaj0aPoxTh9QO0gXs4l486rNRwSazHO7tVxnIotVGVGZexvZQ5FfXwG3tUGirRgnpM99CDN1YqF41fwh-_gmMTdBjxpsY7Q1vQIKfgcvw5-L30WYue-TGeF8e64pbTvjEpxw5yUko/s1600/12520009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="inside a gypsy caravan" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnl_Xxaj0aPoxTh9QO0gXs4l486rNRwSazHO7tVxnIotVGVGZexvZQ5FfXwG3tUGirRgnpM99CDN1YqF41fwh-_gmMTdBjxpsY7Q1vQIKfgcvw5-L30WYue-TGeF8e64pbTvjEpxw5yUko/s400/12520009.JPG" title="Interior gypsy caravan blue house bed and breakfast" width="265" /></a>The bathroom is off inside the house, separate from the double rooms, next to tea and coffee making facilities. It's also where we could charge out electric cigarettes and squeeze a few nibbles into Tina's fridge.<br />
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There's just enough room for two chairs and a small table up inside. Which is perfect if you're up for some board games. Even with the candles, we did need our torches though - we packed and brought them with us.<br />
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The bed is very warm and comfortable, my fella is about 6 foot 1 and he managed to sleep fine in there. We packed knitted socks and kept ourselves very warm!<br />
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At the back of the caravan there is a little hidey hole which we put our beers in to keep them cool. You could keep a suitcase in there if you wanted but we just plonked ours under the bed - it's the perfect spot to tuck things out of the way.<br />
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Included in the tiny £60 a night bill, is a delicious home cooked breakfast. In the morning, we sauntered over to the main house where residents of the B and B were staying, there are two double rooms in there. The company was good and the food was delicious.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_FQkC1NbQHHrgjjN8pLIpvXsb9Bbr88qbPA_rmuOZfiK0nVpjqfIhmPyMBqWD6FG9Ctr5MXYPhizuFjgKyTNnjvfqlpScww9HvHfXwcF16V-5WDJR-MjmqhNVxaxtBwJu6y3xilXGERM/s1600/A__700F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="blue house bed and breakfast gypsy caravan and dogs" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_FQkC1NbQHHrgjjN8pLIpvXsb9Bbr88qbPA_rmuOZfiK0nVpjqfIhmPyMBqWD6FG9Ctr5MXYPhizuFjgKyTNnjvfqlpScww9HvHfXwcF16V-5WDJR-MjmqhNVxaxtBwJu6y3xilXGERM/s640/A__700F.jpg" title="Gypsy caravan The Blue House Bed And Breakfast" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were never short of a little canine company</td></tr>
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Tina's two dogs made for very pleasant company and were extremely well behaved. We had a disposable barbecue on the go covered in posh sausages one night and they didn't bother us at all.<br />
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They did pop by to keep us company from time to time though, and we were very lucky to see their brand new puppies!<br />
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Although the location is very much secluded, there is a bus stop a few minutes walk away to get you into Grange-Over-Sands.<br />
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And next to the bus stop there's a lovely pub calle <a href="http://www.thecrowncountryinn.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Crown</a> which has some great food in hearty portions. We proudly boast that our best steak ever eaten, was eaten there. And I'm not kidding.<br />
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Round the corner is the very exciting Predator Experience which is a fabulous once-in-a-lifetime treat, if you get the chance to go. <a href="http://freddiepatmore.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/walking-with-wolves-in-lake-district.html" target="_blank">We did the Walking With Wolves experience</a> and it changed out outlook on these fascinating creatures!<br />
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In short, we loved our little trip in the best gypsy caravan. The rain was not aa problem - if anything the pitter patter on the roof made the atmosphere even more romantic, and as city-dwellers, we couldn't do much more to get away from it all.<br />
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So if
you're agile enough to get up a few steps to hop into bed and you don't
mind gettig cosy with you're roommate, I can't recommend this enough. At the price they're asking, you can't afford not to go.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-85639474258938604432016-06-09T04:31:00.000-07:002017-01-22T04:31:26.589-08:00Cider Holder Bag Pattern For Festivals - My New Design<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had great fun with this design because my mini duffel (which doubles as a perfect carrier for a bottle of cider if you're headed to Glastonbury), was the perfect opportunity for me to bash out a design in the round.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLuVxZE6t-N83Ch3eCrSgUP0c0_qp0REke_a4LLTt4MB1faIrw6sm5tqN-tch1o35RxkvwHxqRPs-E6vG8fAL1xQeyhv1FU8E8Vmc5AzQ3J1NbCV6fCAvjTM_cnLu78m7iremfVuAXeR7/s1600/bag1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLuVxZE6t-N83Ch3eCrSgUP0c0_qp0REke_a4LLTt4MB1faIrw6sm5tqN-tch1o35RxkvwHxqRPs-E6vG8fAL1xQeyhv1FU8E8Vmc5AzQ3J1NbCV6fCAvjTM_cnLu78m7iremfVuAXeR7/s640/bag1.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My initial design ideas drew from Aztec Inspiration from The British Museum</td></tr>
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I'd always wanted to design a Fair Isle pattern in the round, so with an effort to keep this knit quick and seamless, that's what I went for.</div>
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It was tricky to find the colours I fancied all within the same range, so shock horror, I ended up turning back to my fond favourites from the Rowan Yarns range. With sturdy Handknit Cotton holding up the structure of the bag, there are flashes of the Anchor Artiste Metallic for a bit of added texture and sparkle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVsSRngvnbQtlj04Uo1v3iVLlebrJGRJNDHgQPHrE8xW90Xe8IDR157YD1G0GSEEp8-2bS0QvenBfQ0BrHoWMM4t1u8PxlnqwHelwNyOgLcEEMdrGZmGPIjOATNdcQG6FpPiGYd4_Xk9p/s1600/Patterned_Drawstring_Bag_Knitting_Pattern_bc9b773a-7e75-41bc-81a3-f04b0e0a5cf2_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVsSRngvnbQtlj04Uo1v3iVLlebrJGRJNDHgQPHrE8xW90Xe8IDR157YD1G0GSEEp8-2bS0QvenBfQ0BrHoWMM4t1u8PxlnqwHelwNyOgLcEEMdrGZmGPIjOATNdcQG6FpPiGYd4_Xk9p/s400/Patterned_Drawstring_Bag_Knitting_Pattern_bc9b773a-7e75-41bc-81a3-f04b0e0a5cf2_1024x1024.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
I'm really pleased with how it came out except the bulkiness of the Handknit Cotton has meant that the drawstring won't pull the opening closed all the way.<br />
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Originally this was envirioned as a bag which you could put some cash into, maybe a disposable camera; just something small which you could fill with bits and navigate the crowds at a big festival. <br />
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Once I'd seen that it didn't close though, I started to look at the cicumference of the opening more closely - and soon realised that it would be better suited for carrying a bottle of alcohol. I a bottle of wine or cider would fit quite nicely. Hence why I've now decided in myh mind that this really is more of a cider holder bag pattern.<br />
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Although I'm allergic to crowds, and therefore would probably never go to a big festival (hats off to you people - I don't know how you do it), I have always wondered how you cart your cans around. Well I suggestg this yearf you ditch them, knit yourself one of these guys instead (or get a very kind knitter friend to do it for you).<br />
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You start off at the top of the bag and work downwards, with stranded colourwork in the round (the Fair Isle technique), before swapping down to dpns (double pointed needles) for the base shaping. I'm a lover of technical knits, they just get my juices flowing - so this is a good one if you're a bit like me and like a knit to keep you interested. Get your <a href="https://www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk/products/patterned-drawstring-bag-knitting-pattern?utm_campaign=easy_crochet_patterns&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Freddies_Blog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cider holder bag pattern</a> for instant download.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-91309269132347344292016-05-31T06:37:00.000-07:002016-05-31T07:34:26.793-07:00Introducing - Love To Knit And Crochet MagazineSo I've been saying for ages that I had a bit of news. Well the time has come where I'm safe to blab.<br />
<b><br />
</b> <b>I'm very pleased to announce that I am now writing and designing for Love To Knit And Crochet magazine!</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BEgcuiWhiWV/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Knitting Network (@knittingnetwork)</a> on <time datetime="2016-04-22T15:08:32+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Apr 22, 2016 at 8:08am PDT</time></div>
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There's actually been two issues now, they come out at the end of each month and every issue comes with a free gift. We've been making a few videos teaching you how to make them, including the first one which was how to crochet an amigurumi cat;<br />
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The top that I'm wearing is one of the knitting patterns from the inside, a multi-textured handknit designed by Pat Menchini that I have 'adopted'. It's so easy to wear and very comfortable. S-wish!<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BFQ1-NGhiY1/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Content Editor @freddiepatmore is looking swish in the multi-textured knit #teepattern from this months issue of #lovetoknitandcrochet magazine. Knit yours now! #knittersofinstagram #knittersofig #knittingpatterns #knitpattern #teeshirts</a></div>
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A video posted by Knitting Network (@knittingnetwork) on <time datetime="2016-05-11T10:12:41+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 11, 2016 at 3:12am PDT</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="https://platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>Love To Knit And Crochet is aimed at a fresh and modern audience, so it's been great fun linking up with bloggers for interviews. My first was with Ruby of <a href="https://frankandolivecrochetblog.com/" target="_blank">Frank & Olive</a> fame. A fab design house boasting workshop retreats and collaborations with big brands such as Patons.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BEonBEfCHu5/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">So thrilled with this, one of my favouritest features I've ever written, a four page #interview with Ruby McGrath of @frankandolive. Grab your copy of #lovetoknitandcrochet, it's a great little mag! Who will it be next month? 😯 #Crochet #crochetersofinstagram @make_it_coats_uk</a></div>
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A photo posted by Frederica Patmore (@freddiepatmore) on <time datetime="2016-04-25T19:12:23+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Apr 25, 2016 at 12:12pm PDT</time></div>
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Issue 2 landed in shops last Friday, and featured a fun granny square phone cover kit. It's great fun too because so far each freeb kit has come with a colour-coordinated crochet hook and I'm in love with this pink one.<br />
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It's a really extra special issue for me this second one, and it sounds completely silly I'm sure but see the crocheted tee on the cover?</div>
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You know, the one being modelled by a real-life grown up adult model? That super-easy crochet design is one of MINE and I was squeeing in the office for a good couple of hours at least, when I'd discovered that I'd made the front cover. What an honour!<br />
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I never thought I'd say this but I seem to be designing more
crochet than knitting these days - weird considering knitting was always
the one I was madder about. It's great fun though. These new challenges
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And what a lovely model!</div>
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I also had the pleasure of getting to know <a href="http://www.emmaknitted.co.uk/" target="_blank">EmmaKnitted</a> for the interview in this month's issue which was a real honour. She's super nice and has a very distinctive style. Love her pattern detail.</div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BF8eNywRySf/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Had an amazing interview with @freddiepatmore for @knittingnetwork #lovetoknitandcrochet magazine this month, I can't thank them enough! ❤️😊Spending my Saturday morning having a read and finishing some crochet 👌 #emmaknitted #emmawright #knittersofinstagram #knittersgonnaknit #knitstagram #knitmagazine #knittingnetwork #yarnaholic #yarnaddict</a></div>
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A photo posted by Emma Wright (@emmaknitted) on <time datetime="2016-05-28T08:51:40+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 28, 2016 at 1:51am PDT</time></div>
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Part of the fun of the mag is simply that it uses both knitting and crochet so there's something for everyone, in a wide variety of sizes. Plenty for the total beginner up to much more challenging designs that you can get your teeth into. <br />
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It's a very exciting time working with such a refreshing, vibrant team on this new project. I can't wait to see what's around the corner with Teresa Conway at the helm (Previously of C + B).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teresa (above, right) and I at a press launch for Pompomania, a super-fun book by Christine Leech aka <a href="http://sewyeah.co.uk/" target="_blank">SewYeah</a></td></tr>
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She has more ideas in her head than I'd previously thought possible and I'm greatly looking forward to learning a lot from her.<br />
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...and as much as I want to tell you more about what's in the mag, I can't! Go buy one. Don't take my word for it, either - Katherine Lymer has done <a href="http://www.knittingwithkatherine.com/blog.html" target="_blank">a great review of our first issue on her blog</a> (thanks, Katherine!).<br />
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I'd really like for you to get involved - find the new mag on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/knittingnetwork" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/knitting_net" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/knittingnetwork/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/knittingnetwork" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>. If you're a yarn company, a blogger or designer, come say hi. Ideas and feedback always welcome.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-21053129623464986762016-03-07T14:07:00.002-08:002016-03-07T14:16:37.160-08:00I hated the idea of Arm Knitting, but now I love it!!! I show you how<br />
I think Arm Knitting was probably mentioned in the office about a year ago, and I'm pretty sure I screwed up into a big raisiny face at the time.<br />
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<i>Arm</i> knitting? What bollocks! Surely no knitter would admit out loud that they have ditched their needles and gone for the gimmick. Surely not.<br />
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Previously pooh-poohing the notion to be another social media flash-in-the-pan technique that would come and go, that it would never be taken seriously in the knititng community, I'm now starting to realise I was probably wrong about that.<br />
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It came up again recently and I felt it was high time I had a go, even if it didn't go anywhere. If nothing more, I ought to at least learn how to do it. Another string to my bow and soforth.<br />
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Playing with it at my desk with my headphones on (bare in mind I work around a lot of journalists who are not knitters), as soon as I built up some speed, I realised I'd attracted a crowd of spectators. They were fascinated!<br />
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It was just so massive and so quick, and SO fun. Everyone wanted to see what I was doing. <br />
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Having worked out how to do the arm knitting, it's surprisingly easy! Essentially using your arms as needles (well, duh!) and 'knitting' a regular row before working a row in reverse. Arms are big needles, so the thing grows super-quick!<br />
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...perfect for HUGE things.<br />
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It's all very <i>me</i> anyway, because I knit backwards instead of working purl rows in stocking stitch, something strange which just happenned to me when Learning to knit as a child. Works for me though.<br />
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I found the most AMAZING yarn - Premier Yarns in America do this great [and sparkly] stuff called <a href="https://www.premieryarns.com/product/premier%26%23174-+couture+jazz%26%23174-+yarn.do?sortby=ourPicks&from=Search" target="_blank">Couture Jazz</a>. I have a secret weakness for anything sparkly. Tinsel included. But this is, y'know, <i>tasteful</i>.<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;"><div style="padding: 8px;"><div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div></div><div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/_nu_IYzY3N/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Linds & Chad (@the_gloedes)</a> on <time datetime="2015-12-23T04:25:48+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Dec 22, 2015 at 8:25pm PST</time></div></div></blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
Obviously, anything super-thick will work. There are plenty of these scarfy yarns around that will be fine - someone on Facebook said earlier that Tiger have started selling something you could use.<br />
<br />
So without further stalling, allow me to introduce me introducing the concept of Arm Knitting. Below is a little taster and then the full video is <a href="http://ow.ly/Za7Kr" target="_blank">here</a> (it's free, I just can't embed it here!). I warn you now, my hair is doing something almost as crazy as my coffee-fuelled excited self, but enjoy nonetheless!!<br />
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<div class="fb-video" data-allowfullscreen="1" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/knittingnetwork/videos/1575681299418700/"><div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/knittingnetwork/videos/1575681299418700/"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/knittingnetwork/videos/1575681299418700/"></a><br />
Unbelievable! Make this cosy throw in a few minutes - no previous knitting knowledge needed (yes, really!) See the full how-to video here http://ow.ly/Za7Kr<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/knittingnetwork/">Knitting Network</a> on Monday, 7 March 2016</blockquote></div><br />
<br />
In this video I'll show you how to knit a blanket with no knitting experience, in 15 minutes. You should know I did it in 10, but when you do things deliberately on film in a way that's clear to see, it often takes a bit longer. We didn't want to lie, so we said 15. But you could <i>totally</i> do it in 10.<br />
<br />
If you've seen the video and fancy having a go, join me and <a href="http://www.victoriamakes.co.uk/" target="_blank">Vicki Walker</a> to <a href="http://www.sewingshow.co.uk/craft_network.php" target="_blank">Arm Knit your very own snood</a> at the Sewing For Pleasure show at Birmingham NEC from the 17th - 20th March. Anyone can do it and you should leave with a snood to boot! Just what you need in this chilly weather.<br />
<br />
I guarantee you'll catch the bug, I sure did!<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658064139788422494.post-82463630439014762812016-02-29T06:07:00.001-08:002016-02-29T16:27:17.104-08:00What makes a good crochet along? Thinking about the Stylecraft CALsIf you haven't yet heard, the days are quickly counting down to <i>the</i> brand new crochet along (CAL) with Stylecraft Yarns - and they've secured the design talents of the very lovely Jane Crowfoot yet again, with another tempting blanket design. Introducing Frida's Flowers.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;"><div style="padding: 8px;"><div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div></div><div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BCJNqhviHug/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Frederica Patmore (@freddiepatmore)</a> on <time datetime="2016-02-23T21:31:36+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 23, 2016 at 1:31pm PST</time></div></div></blockquote><br />
You probably remember Jane's design for Stylecraft's 2015 crochet along and if not, you'd know a Lily Pond if you saw one. Recognise this? <i>I thought so.</i><br />
<br />
<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="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ed/c4/7e/edc47eb970ed74af874093d437d0f0a3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ed/c4/7e/edc47eb970ed74af874093d437d0f0a3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last year's Lily Pond CAL was designed by Jane Crowfoot and hooked crocheters everywhere with it's addictive design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I guarantee that if you are a knitter or crocheter, you or someone you know has posted something somewhere on Intsagram, Ravelry or Facebook about progress on a crocheted Lily Pond.<br />
<br />
The online chatter with last year's blanket was phenomenally noisy and people are <i>still</i> making them, finishing them and talking about them (including me, I'm hooked!).<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;"><div style="padding: 8px;"><div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div></div><div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BCU9_uSxMD-/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Lonneke (@bitterkoekje)</a> on <time datetime="2016-02-28T11:05:34+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 28, 2016 at 3:05am PST</time></div></div></blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
I know crochet and knitalongs are really popular on Ravelry but I'd never witnessed such a huge community form around one particular design. Something that we all forget was a completely alien concept if you asked us 10 years ago! Makes you realise how far we've come.<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvD6EJeIPAdAtv8qdHO2sem5uYjTbRUyuiqY_ili77vTjLweRti7cesSwTgberaZqtn41WyU8N23lNt6etQlZqb4weVQcKsiGFkOhQ8Ii4Yk-0IdZmKV7GcTpckQF4dYZaUBe2hxSE18d/s1600/DSC_0914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvD6EJeIPAdAtv8qdHO2sem5uYjTbRUyuiqY_ili77vTjLweRti7cesSwTgberaZqtn41WyU8N23lNt6etQlZqb4weVQcKsiGFkOhQ8Ii4Yk-0IdZmKV7GcTpckQF4dYZaUBe2hxSE18d/s640/DSC_0914.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mine continues to grow - slowly!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>All of the buzz seemed to center around Facebook which I think is really clever - if there's one social media site you use, above all others, it's probably Facebook.<br />
<br />
Annabelle Hill, Sales Director of Stylecraft Yarns thinks that, 'Crocheting can be a solitary occupation, so it is nice for crocheters to feel like they belong to something and can access help and advice if needed', much like a knitting group, right? Just online.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXQnBuWHIJ3oYsFFFayVyIVGRgdHqP_FucK2vMuKQg88ZfiOJ21BCruqvIK0YvaOeYAQom_v-4rKstEoFDKLRkeKoLxYB77RSKbgor7NZKYeqeC-MEKhTnb4EgaxuzSXbNx-u0pD42NYs/s1600/WP_20150511_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXQnBuWHIJ3oYsFFFayVyIVGRgdHqP_FucK2vMuKQg88ZfiOJ21BCruqvIK0YvaOeYAQom_v-4rKstEoFDKLRkeKoLxYB77RSKbgor7NZKYeqeC-MEKhTnb4EgaxuzSXbNx-u0pD42NYs/s640/WP_20150511_001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Technology now allows you to talk about what you are making from the comfort of your own bedroom instead of venturing out to a physical knitting club</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Stylecraft created<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/835757743161069/?fref=ts" target="_blank"> a dedicated group</a> where people could chat about the project and share their progress. It now boasts nearly 10, 000 members and a year on, people are still posting about <a href="http://www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk/Crochet.htm" target="_blank">this pattern</a> (which is free and still available by the way!).<br />
<br />
It's completely fascinated me and got me thinking about exactly <i>why</i> Jane's blanket was such a massive hit - people start crochet alongs all the time but a good design doesn't necessarily make you jump on your computer to post pictures of every tiny amount of progress you've made.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkJgjkViHfj49w7X80zQbdsp-cMk4wdktw_nsCW8Nj435aZ-MOm6N2EEPA0x3GW2RrmmeVoqy8QC5v1GMat0q7xU7AeUI3IEc2JV8ouKWu-bx7QLP5clk82-WfxdkslWZRYDaCFQPoBYh/s1600/DSC_0915.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkJgjkViHfj49w7X80zQbdsp-cMk4wdktw_nsCW8Nj435aZ-MOm6N2EEPA0x3GW2RrmmeVoqy8QC5v1GMat0q7xU7AeUI3IEc2JV8ouKWu-bx7QLP5clk82-WfxdkslWZRYDaCFQPoBYh/s640/DSC_0915.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I decided to make mine much much bigger than the original, which of course takes much longer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anticipating that Frida's Flowers will encourage even more social interaction, I stopped to ask myself just why that is. What is it exactly that got everyone talking, where others have fallen flat?<br />
<br />
There's a few answers that I can think of and although they sound pretty obvious, in practice it's really difficult getting all of this stuff together - there's a huge amount of work gone into bringing these CALs to you, for sure!<br />
<h2>1. Each square is more tricky than the last</h2><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnDg9wKwDWyLxs5-kj4fnDfqTIPRasbAJmjlAG_F0bBb4eqZxDo4y719pXYYsVNpB0cXfRBMqrZgnM8DhFe4-fhsZyQxVXy0pHv7rgnSOQPyccC7zyvhEZR19wxXOHU-ttNYNV7f6C-sP/s1600/DSC_0916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnDg9wKwDWyLxs5-kj4fnDfqTIPRasbAJmjlAG_F0bBb4eqZxDo4y719pXYYsVNpB0cXfRBMqrZgnM8DhFe4-fhsZyQxVXy0pHv7rgnSOQPyccC7zyvhEZR19wxXOHU-ttNYNV7f6C-sP/s640/DSC_0916.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Although many of the flower squares are similar there are subtle differences</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It sounds pretty obvious but building up the technique as you go to me is much the same as working on any challenge - a video game, a puzzle - things get harder towards the end. It helps to keep you interested, too.<br />
<br />
The fact that each square is so different makes them easy to identify at a single glance when you post pictures to the net, so people can get on board with exactly where you are. <br />
<h2>2. Patterns are delivered in regular, manageable chunks</h2>Patterns for the 2015 CAL arrived once every two weeks with four squares to make before the next arrived. Now four squares in two weeks is not much at all. CALs start to fall flat when nobody can keep up.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsm9M3-vzTgFzE3f3LtTKzFUtTkruIjg52wVrPB0YpLugDZqxRLb_aMi1hW0_hyphenhyphenIZK78dSgJ4QpVuJPYHZus7dI51IboiiKzJxYcnq1b8YA6zQP7MLNxnQHg-LjitVSba51KnHxmDvd90P/s1600/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsm9M3-vzTgFzE3f3LtTKzFUtTkruIjg52wVrPB0YpLugDZqxRLb_aMi1hW0_hyphenhyphenIZK78dSgJ4QpVuJPYHZus7dI51IboiiKzJxYcnq1b8YA6zQP7MLNxnQHg-LjitVSba51KnHxmDvd90P/s400/Capture.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The progress tool on Ravelry is a handy way to keep track</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
As soon as people start to fall behind, that IMHO is when they stop interacting, and the project ends up in a box under the bed. To dig myself out of a similar slump, I created a very dorkly spreadsheet to track my progress - or you could use the progress tool on your Ravelry project's page.<br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhT_9_9mbrlEb22J_RXCLOo0rzl0yErAoikZWIy9wDcXTAj7cSmBMbzBvLpzyQnA9iIZyAWTziyCemITceySxYJrxMk1svwtRrVW6izCC3T7XkgpJVoPRgWMRgWk-RejDYavT34r8lsUQR/s1600/Example+Spreasheet+Screenshot.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhT_9_9mbrlEb22J_RXCLOo0rzl0yErAoikZWIy9wDcXTAj7cSmBMbzBvLpzyQnA9iIZyAWTziyCemITceySxYJrxMk1svwtRrVW6izCC3T7XkgpJVoPRgWMRgWk-RejDYavT34r8lsUQR/s640/Example+Spreasheet+Screenshot.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I built myself a complex spreadsheet to help measure my progress in tangible figures. It's whatever works for you.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><h2>3. The yarn is available everywhere</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.philpotts.com/ekmps/shops/philpotts/images/stylecraft-lily-pond-blanket-yarn-pack-for-crochet-along-workshop-18932-p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.philpotts.com/ekmps/shops/philpotts/images/stylecraft-lily-pond-blanket-yarn-pack-for-crochet-along-workshop-18932-p.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>And I do mean everywhere! There are a couple of options for yarns you to choose from depending on your budget - which come in a ready-made pack so you can order it in one click (dangerous!). All the good stockists had them [and promptly sold out, I might add].<br />
<br />
<i>People are already lining up for their Frida's packs....</i><br />
<h2>4. It's pretty</h2>It's not just pretty, it's STUNNING.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;"><div style="padding: 8px;"><div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div></div><div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/72B25Fm44M/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Jacqueline Holden (@topstitch_fleetwood)</a> on <time datetime="2015-09-20T07:34:30+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 20, 2015 at 12:34am PDT</time></div></div></blockquote><br />
We're all proud to show off something this beautiful and say we made it. It's interesting to look at while you're making it, and it looks good in the room it ends up in.<br />
<br />
Not only that, but you're proud to show it to your friends and most importantly, your social media community!<br />
<br />
<i>You know what I mean by 'proud', we've all had that one project we'd rather not show anyone!</i> <br />
<h2>5. Every miniscule stage is broken down with pictorial instructions</h2>This is a HUGE task. The lucky person has taken 8 different squares and stopped to take photos of each individual step. And then written a small paragraph to accomapany each photo. Some of these go on for >5 pages. Huge, huge job. Bearing in mind the pattern is free. We've been well and truly spoiled!<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;"><div style="padding: 8px;"><div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div></div><div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BB3Ed9CkJoQ/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by @shazzeth</a> on <time datetime="2016-02-16T20:24:55+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 16, 2016 at 12:24pm PST</time></div></div></blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
This means that there's no getting stuck and therefore no major obstacles with this constant pictorial resource to have to hand.<br />
<br />
Even if you do get stuck, there is someone in the Facebook group who will be able to help. There's so many of them there, it doesn't even take very long to get an answer. And they're there to encourage you to keep going and get the thing finished, too.<br />
<br />
This is the first CAL I've ever really had a go at - I've done sock knitalongs before, but a blanket is a bit of a bigger commitment. I have been trying to understand the mentality behind blanket-alongs for years - they've really taken off and now that I've joined in with one, I completely understand.<br />
<br />
If you are like me and you're new to crochet-alongs, now's the perfect time to have a go.<br />
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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="https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fimg.evbuc.com%2Fhttp%253A%252F%252Fcdn.evbuc.com%252Fimages%252F18854267%252F121385736601%252F1%252Foriginal.jpg%3Frect%3D0%252C23%252C650%252C325%26s%3Db5f6e35970e2b02a37ad9964440d5ffc?h=230&w=460&s=fb234f1bb53f00c167737d3a14f25252" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fimg.evbuc.com%2Fhttp%253A%252F%252Fcdn.evbuc.com%252Fimages%252F18854267%252F121385736601%252F1%252Foriginal.jpg%3Frect%3D0%252C23%252C650%252C325%26s%3Db5f6e35970e2b02a37ad9964440d5ffc?h=230&w=460&s=fb234f1bb53f00c167737d3a14f25252" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspired by Mexican Artist Frida Kahlo, the finished blanket is constructed from hexagons</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This blanket will be more rectangular at 110x90cm, and is crocheted using Classique Cotton DK (a yarn I'm really looking forward to trying). Jane decided to use Classique Cotton because of the extensive colour palette and the way the yarn really captures the folkloric embroideries of Mexico.<br />
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I've just ordered some to design a garment with, too - watch this space!<br />
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Keep your eyes peeled on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1555519964767343/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk/" target="_blank">the Stylecraft Website</a> for more info and how to get involved. If you're on Instagram, make sure to watch out for the right hashtags so that you can be part of the community too.<br />
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406560100671474292noreply@blogger.com0