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...

A party frock

A party frock

I’m involved with fundraising for The Birks, a fantastic outward bound and field centre in he Lake District that was bought by the local school back in the 1980s for the pupils to use, and anyone else who cares to hire it when the school’s not there. This...

Sewing a winter wardrobe

Before you read: This has become long and wordy, and I apologise for the lack of photos. I promise to post pics as I work my way down the list. I’ve been clearing out my clothes and chucking out all my fashion faux pas…which has left lots of space in...

Fast diet: getting into a routine

I’ve been fasting 2 days a week through July, and a routine is beginning to emerge. I don’t find the fasting difficult, especially when I’m at work and occupied. but the 2 small meals thing is tricky for me..once I start to eat it’s hard to...

Christmas timetable

October: bake Christmas cakes.Make chutneys for presents and for the table. Make candied peel and caramelise the orange slices. Freeze in bags. Make and freeze ahead; Stuffing Cranberry sauce Brandy  butter Vetebrod/danish pastries Terrine Soup for boxing day Evening...