Wednesday, October 1, 2008

New Books...New Fabric

We have added some new goodies to the store and website again today...here are a sampling!



Now in stock are the much anticipated (at least by me) Family Tree panels. They are well priced at only $8.99 per panel and would make a great family keepsake. My nine year old son and I are already working on one together!




Also this beautiful Oriental print came in that would be wonderful for a One Block Wonder!

Another couple of great new book titles: Not Your Grandmother's Log Cabin and Foolproof Machine Quilting .




The last item for today is Zakka Sewing ... a book that is right up my alley! In Japanese, Zakka means household goods. Referring specifically to hand-sewn items for Domestic use-tableware, kitchenware, Containers of various kinds, even simple clothing. This book contains many patterns from the simple to the simply beautiful to tempt you!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Cute, Cute, and Super Cute

As promised, all the new goodies are starting to roll in ... here is a really cute grouping of fabrics ... some for the girls (of all ages) and some for the boys...they are all only 9.99 and are available in store and online (the links are below the pictures!


Cool New Gadget...The Hedgehog

We have a great new gadget in the store! If you have trouble pulling needles through when doing handquilting (and who doesn't from time to time?) ... if you use pliers or your teeth to yank them through... if you are plagued by sore fingers or arthritis ... then this gizmo is for you!





Also known as the Hedgehog, this import from Holland has an ergonomic design that prevents pain and soreness in fingers since the puller does the needle grabbing for you. This little tool works like a plunger. Also helps to allow for more multiple stitches at one time to be carried on the needle! Here is the link to purchase it online: Needlepuller (Hedgehog)

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Creative Dollmaking With Cheryl Smith

Next weekend we are hosting a Creative Doll Making Retreat with Cheryl Smith. Cheryl is a Nationally renowned Doll Artisan who has taught across the country and participates in the Prestigious Moose Show.

The retreat will begin Friday night from from 6:30 – 9:30 and then will continue Saturday October 4th from 10:00 – 4:00 and finish up Sunday October 5th from 10:00 – 2:00.

Many students will be able to complete their doll during the retreat (depending on the handwork selected) and expect to have results that exceed their expectations!

The fee is $129 and people with all Levels of experience are Welcome. We still have a couple of spots available ... if you are interested please call the store 416 633-8800 to register or hear more about the workshop!

Cheryl Smith would like to invite you and your creative muse to come and explore the fantasy world of doll making. Learn simple yet effective ways to needle sculpt and paint the face, make the body and bring her to life. Stitch her and adorn her with baubles, beads and trinkets. Lots of handwork!

Here is a gaggle of Jesters that Cheryl has made!

Here are two more examples of Cheryl's dolls...to see more of Cheryl's work please visit her website: http://www.magpieartworks.com/gallery.html


Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Under the Heading of Just Plain Weird...

A nice big box of books was delivered to the store today. Like many of you I am addicted to quilting and knitting books so spent a nice leisurely afternoon persusing the new titles! There are lots of great new things but one struck me as ...well...there's only one way to say it ... weird! Maybe now that I am older (thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes and for making the birthday sale such a success) I'm getting stodgy ... but you be the judge.



I saw a new title called "Love to Knit Socks" and since I do in fact love to knit socks I ordered it for the store. I wasn't familiar with the author, Bronwyn Lowenthal, and the cover looked innocent enough so I was in for a surprise.

These definately aren't your basic socks.

The book contains:



  • Flip Flop Socks (keeps the toe thong from rubbing)

  • Doggie leg warmers (that's right leg warmers for dogs!)

  • Lacy Stockings and garters (ooh la la)

  • Striped football socks (like Manchester United and Beano)

  • Ski socks with skull and crossbone motif

  • Gardening long socks (with leather kneepads)

Oh the list goes on and on ... Bronwyn is definately an original! I can't wait to hear what Hilma thinks!

There are dozens of other new books in stock to browse through from the radical to traditional! All of our books are priced at the US suggested retail price or less! Here are just a few:

Pat Sloan's I Can't Believe I'm Sewing

Home Stuff by Linda Lum De Bono

1 2 3 Pillows from Better Homes and Gardens

Applique Quilt Revival

Gifts for Baby and Easy Baby Knits

Quilts from the Selvage Edge (really cool concept) ... for more details check out the website: Selvage Quilts

Also we have Creativ Festival tickets and tickets for the York Heritage show available in the store for purchase now!