Unusual and challenging sewing techniques

Unusual and challenging sewing techniques

I was having a conversation with somebody recently about the different techniques we use in sewing clothes. So I began to make a list. I'm not talking about the basics like laying out a pattern, cutting, simple darts. They are important for sure, but I'm more...

2026 Sudoku wardrobe contest

2026 Sudoku wardrobe contest

This is an ongoing post, and I'll update it as I go The 2026 wardrobe contest organised by Sewing Pattern Review is the perfect opportunity for me to use up my (huge) stash and also to sew a new wardrobe after big weight loss over the last 12 months. I also need to...

Revisiting my youth

Revisiting my youth

..through the medium of Vintage Sewing Patterns. I discovered this classic deep in my stash recently. Apparently I was a size 12 back when I was 18 years old and sewed this the last time. I loved this pattern, especially the jacket which was so cool. I made it from a...

Garden redesign

I've been shopping for plants at Farmer Gracy for the great garden redesign of 2025. These arrived today and are now potted up, parked in the greenhouse and doing their thing while I get the borders ready. Photos and descriptions from the Farmer Gracy websiteOne...

Recipe: Cloudberry (or lingonberry) fool

Cloudberry Fool  Makes 10 servingsA simple dessert feels like an appropriate ending to such a huge feast. The fool, an easy combination of whipped cream and tangy jam, provides the sweetness and flavor but lacks contrast in texture. To solve the problem, serve it...

Recipe: Sweet-sour red cabbage casserole

RodkolMakes 10 servings Cook the cabbage long and slow for melting texture and sweet-and-sour taste. The cabbage reheats perfectly and actually tastes better when prepared a day or two ahead of time, giving the flavors time to meld. Take a little taste of the cabbage...

Recipe: Gravadlax

Gravlax with Coriander Mustard Sauce Makes 10 to 12 servings Making homemade gravlax may sound intimidating, but in fact it’s a simple and wholly satisfying project. The only real effort involved is slicing the fish. The home-cured version proves cost effective...