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Welcome #Customer.FirstName# to Kiwiquilts Spring Newsletter
Doesn't the onset of beautiful spring weather make you feel 'a million bucks'. The happy faces of daffodils and fragrant freesias are popping up in gardens everywhere. Even our new little cat, Ella, seems to have Spring fever and races around the house at a great rate of knots. She seems to forget that, just maybe, we would like to sleep!!!!
It's a great time to tidy your sewing room after a winter of patchwork, ready for making lovely Christmas projects and gifts for family and friends.
On the other side of the world, you have all the lovely autumn colours to inspire you to start new projects for your winter hibernation.
Below are a couple of projects for you to do. Grab a cuppa and have a read..... |
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Another gorgeous applique Wall Hanging designed by Kids Quilts, in fabric mostly from the Nancy Halvorsen range.
Featuring 5 adorable teddy bears playing in their nursery.
This is definitely a must for the wall in your new grandchild's room.
Available as a kitset which includes a detailed pattern and all the fabric for the front plus binding.
The Wall Hanging measures 55cm x 115cm (21" x 45")
Kit Price: $75.00
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Print sharp, photo-quality images from your computer onto these soft (never rubbery!) fabric sheets. You become a fabric designer as you scan in photos, flowers, love letters, or whatever. Then print, let dry, peel off the plastic backing and soak in cool water for 10 minutes. When the fabric dries, sew!
6 letter size (8.5" x 11") sheets in a pack. Just set up your document as a letter size (not A4) and you won't have any trouble.
200 thread count, 100% cotton, for quilts and labels. Complete instructions included. Washable and dry cleanable.
$37.00 per pack
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Clover's easy to use Fork Pins feature 2 pins in one.
I absolutely LOVE these pins.They're a must in every sewing room.
The pins "straddle" the intersection of the seams and keep the fabric from shifting while sewing.
You will no longer have seams that don't match perfectly. Your quilt blocks will look very precise when you use these.
Packet contains 35 pins.
Clover Fork Pins: $25.80 per pkt
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This is a delightful wall hanging or small lap quilt with very easy appliqued daisies.
It's made easier because ALL the petals are pre-fused with steam-a-seam and are cut out, ready for you to just position and iron on.
Kit includes detailed pattern and fabrics for the quilt top.
Quilt measures 87cm square (34" sq)
Daisy Dots Kit: $99.00 |
Printed by Nutex
These bright red British mail boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes but all are bright red and ready to take your mail.
The background is a beige collage of envelope fronts. The mail boxes are fairly large measuring approximately 5½" x 2" wide (14cm x 5cm).
Mail Boxes: $23.00p/mt
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I'm currently working on getting some of the HUGE stock of fabric that I have in the shop, onto the website.
I have a lovely young lady scanning fabrics for me so
wish us luck, its a BIG job.
I'll let you know when some of it's up.
Until next time, happy stitching.
Ngaire
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October 2013 newsletter
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Kia ora and welcome to kiwiquilts' October newsletter
Welcome to my first newsletter as the very, very proud new owner of Kiwiquilts. My name is Ngaire Finlay. A friend of mine convinced me to join a patchwork class about 8 years ago and I have been hooked ever since. I became so passionate about patchwork, that in 2009 I decided to leave my office job and opened my shop The Crafty Needle.
So wonderful news for all my Kiwiquilts customers, because now there is a retail shop where you can come and look, touch and feel the fabrics before you buy. And the shop is located just 15 minutes from the Auckland Airport. The shop hours are on the About Us page but are Monday – Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm, Saturday 10.00am to 2.00pm, closed Sunday and Public Holidays.
It also means that I have lots (and lots) of lovely fabric here to put on the website so make sure you have a look at the What’s New page each time you open the website. |
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Kiwiana with a twist
This quilt features 18 different kiwiana fabrics with an interesting twist frame around each one.
Kit includes all the fabric for the front of the quilt plus the binding.
The pattern which you receive with the kit also gives you instructions to make five other size quilts - from Lap quilt through to Queen size.
Quick and easy to piece with illustrated instructions.
Kits will be available shortly so please place your order and it will be sent as soon as possible.
Quilt size: 42" x 54"
Kiwiana with a twist kit: $109.00 |
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Tanglewood swirls
A stunning black and white fabric with swirls that look rather similar to korus.
A touch of red is in each white circle.
A great fabric to complement either New Zealand or Australian fabrics.
Tanglewood swirls: $27.60 per metre |
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Aussie Capers
This is a bright new fabric from Nutex. Lots of fun colours and text that relate to Australian icons.
Great for BBQ aprons, edging tea showers, oven mitts etc
Also matches the Kiwi Kapers fabric.
Aussie Capers: $23.00 per metre
Kiwi Kapers: $23.00 per metre |
Magical Dragons Panel: $17.00 |
Magical Dragons
A magical kingdom of whimsical dragons trying to create magic. They might not be having a great deal of success but you will delight a child when you turn this panel and the matching fabrics into a magical quilt.
Here's the full panel. It is .6m or 23½" wide by the width of the fabric which is 42". Each image is 10" deep x 7¾" wide.
I have co-ordinating fabrics at $27.60 per metre. |
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Kiwiana Christmas cross stitch stocking charts
Stitch a christmas stocking with a kiwiana flavour. Three designs to choose from.
Each stocking is 24 cm high and stitched on 14 ct Aida.
 If you're not keen on stitching a stocking, why not stitch a lovely card. Choose from the six designs in the booklet.
Christmas camping: $14.99
Santa down Under: $14.99
Santa at the Beach: $14.99
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 Love Birds Pattern $20.00 |
Owls are extremely popular at the moment.
I have two new patterns for cushions by Sally Giblin - one with applique and one with stitchery. These are really beautiful and would make great christmas gifts for all your family and friends.
Love Birds cushion size 15" x 21.5" includes stitchery and piecing. Pattern: $20.00
Two Hoots cushion size 16" x 21". Pattern: $20.00
If you're in Auckland 1st to the 3rd of November, check out my new stand Kiwiquilts/Crafty Needle at the Auckland Quilt Guild's 'Festival of Quilts' at North Harbour Stadium, Albany. Make sure stop by and say hello.
Buying an online patchwork store is very much a learning curve for me but I'm sure I will be up to speed very quickly.
If you have any queries please note that there is a new email address to contact Kiwiquilts on, [email protected] so pop this email into your address book.
Must go and pack orders now so take care and happy stitching.
Ngaire
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September 2013 newsletter
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Kia ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts newsletter
I had left this paragraph to the last minute so that I could mention we had success in the America's Cup this morning. But obviously today is not the day for victory... not yet, but I'm sure the next race will clinch the Cup. We are so close!!! Certainly makes for nail biting watching and the old national pride comes to the fore.
Makes me very proud to be a kiwi!
However to celebrate in advance I am offering all my wonderful customers 20% off on everything on the website (providing I have it in stock) for the next 48 hours.
So happy shopping. I always find retail therapy a great way to soothe the nerves :-)
Koru Forest wall hanging kit: $43.70
Koru templates and Koru template ideas book: $26.50 |
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Sea Breeze range
For any child that is fascinated with whales and sea creatures then this fun range from Wilmington Fabrics would make a great quilt..... or pillowcases.... or draw-string bags for the beach.
 I have three fabrics in the range - jelly fish on green, shoal of fish and large whales.
The other fabric is a panel, though you can purchase it continuously by the metre. The fabric pattern repeat is 60cm or 24". It has sand at the bottom and waves at the top. Fabulous for curtains if you back it with a thermal lining.
Sea Breeze large whales: $28.80 per metre
Sea Breeze shoal of fish: $28.80 per metre.
Sea Breeze jelly fish: $28.80
Sea Breeze panel: $28.80 per metre. Purchase in .6m increments.
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Nativity 3D scene
This is my final Christmas panel for the year. The time we have left before Christmas can now be spent sewing. I love this panel as it is really a collection of soft toys in the image of Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus, the three Wise Men and some sheep. You also create a self standing stable so that your little ones can reinact the Christmas story without the fear of breaking precious nativity ornaments.
Unfortunately I haven't had time to sew up the panel to give you a photo but I'm sure you can tell what I mean from the image of the panel.
Christmas nativity 3D scene panel: $24.00
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Glimpses of New Zealand book
A fabulous book of 35 unique quilts showcasing our wonderful country - New Zealand. Each quilt is approximately 10" x 40".
Gail has used an amazing array of quilt techniques from piecing, applique, raw edge, fusing, fraying, paper cuts and more.
And what's more, this book is full of photographs that the couple took while holidaying in New Zealand - so it's also a wonderful visual feast of New Zealand.
Glimpses of NZ book: $42.00 |
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Pounamu Wall hanging
Wall hanging size: 13" x 29½" (33cm x 75cm).
As seen in the August 2013 issue of the Australian Patchwork and Quilting magazine. I see that this issue has finally hits the shelves at Countdown.
The kitset includes the pattern plus the fabric for the front, back and binding. All you need to add is the batting and some threads.
The wallhanging is suitable for beginners and shows three pounamu (greenstone) fish hooks or pendants.
Pounamu wall hanging kit: $43.50 |
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Sashiko - kiwi style
I've finally started a quilt incorporating my sashiko panels but alas not yet finished. I have, however, turned one of the panels into a small purse, using the same pattern as my Asian and Liberty purses.
Once you have stitched the designs just treat the panel as you would any other fabric and use it for bags, runners, quilts and more.
Sashiko kiwi style panels: $20 each. I have seven different colours.
Sashiko cream thread: $8.50 per skein
Sashiko needles: $7.70 |
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NZ Batiks jelly roll
 If you love batiks and want to add that extra NZ flavour then the NZ Hoffman batiks jelly roll is perfect. Forty different fabrics - each one 2½" wide x 40" - in each roll. That is 2.50m of fabric.
NZ Hoffman batiks jelly roll: $79.00.
Simple Marks - summer
I still have a few of the Simple Marks - Summer, jelly rolls left. Wonderful oranges, bright greens, reds, teal blues and yellow with the calming influence of greys.
Simple marks - summer jelly roll: $81.50 |
New beginnings.....
Thanks for reading all my newsletters over the past six years.
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This newsletter marks a huge turning point in my life. I have sold Kiwiquilts to a fellow quilter who will continue with the website and bring to you wonderful new Kiwiana fabrics and projects. I am going to spend more time designing - yes, you will still see my Kiwiana designs on the Kiwiquilts website - perhaps some teaching but definitely more sewing and creating. Kiwiquilts has been my life for over six years and I've sent out 11, 300 plus orders to all parts of the world. It has been a pleasure talking to you all via the newsletters and emails plus of course meeting many of you at the various shows I have attended in Australia and New Zealand. If you would like to keep up with my new ventures send me an email to [email protected]
As a huge thank you for your support (and advanced celebration of a win tomorrow...) I am offering you all a 20% discount on any of the products/fabrics/kits etc (that are in stock) on my website for the next 48 hours i.e. until midday on Wednesday 25 September. Please note that I will manually adjust your final purchase figure down by 20%.
It's kind of sad writing this last newsletter but I am really looking foward to the next chapter in my life.
Arohanui to you all. May you always find time for sewing and creating.
I'll miss you all
Mary |
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts July newsletter
This year I promise I'll have my Christmas decorations up in the first week of December! Yeah right!
Every year I try but somehow it never quite works out. However this year will be different as I have already started on some stockings and small wrapping ideas thanks to Debbie Mumm's Christmas stocking and gift tag panel.
I spent a delightful afternoon sewing in the weekend and finished four stockings and a variety of gift tags and the beginning of a collection of gift bags. Easy as and really fun to make
Debbie Mumm's Christmas panel: $23.00 per panel
Debbie Mumm's Christmas Santas: $28.80 per metre. |
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Christmas stocking pattern
If you are planning on making a different stocking for each family member then my Christmas stocking pattern with five variations may be just the answer.
Christmas stocking pattern: $15.00
Christmas stocking koru kit: $32.90
and if you want to add Korus in festive colours to your homemade Christmas gifts/banners/gift tags then my Koru Templates will give you three sizes.
Koru templates: $20.00 |
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Bundle of Joy panel.
There is a never ending supply of children's panels to sew into quick quilts. I couldn't resist this one from the talented Amy Bradley. Just add a couple of borders and you have a wonderful quick quilt for a new born or cut the panel into the individual images and use them for pillowcases, cushions for the nursing chair or a play mat.
Bundle of Joy panel: $17.00
or there are other panels for children under the Fabric Bundles and panel section on my website.
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Animal Alphabet panel
and as the child grows older you will need to sew another quilt to teach them their letters. This panel has the 26 alphabet characters plus matching animals and I also have a contrasting yellow stripe if you wish to add sashing to the individual blocks. Check out the link below to see a quilt made with this panel.
Animal Alphabet panel: $18.00
Animal Alphabet yellow stripes: $27.60 per metre
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Natural World fabrics.
Landscape fabric can often be hard to find so I grabbed these three fabrics which may help.
Natural world stones: $27.60 per metre
Natural world sky and clouds: $27.60 per metre
Natural world forest: $27.60 per metre. |
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Flax and Tui
This is one of my favourite Kiwiana fabrics and it is now available with a black background. There are a number of beautiful NZ bird fabrics on the website which may be just perfect for your quilt or a gift for an overseas recipient.
Flax and tui black: $23.00 per metre
Flax and tui cream: $23.00 per metre |
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Precut fabric ranges
Many of the fabric houses now supply an entire fabric range in a precut bundle of various sizes.
Jelly roll: this is 40 different fabrics from a range and each one is cut the full width of the fabric by 2½". You will find many patterns using these strips. You already are half way to making your quilt as the strips are accurately precut.
Layer cake: This is the entire range of fabric of 42 squares and each square is an accurate 10" x 10". You can further cut these into smaller squares, rectangles or triangles.
Charm squares: Again, another 42 squares but this time the squares are only 5" x 5". Sew these together or cut them into rectangles or triangles to make quilt blocks.
Fat eighth bundles: If you are wanting larger pieces of each of the 40 fabrics in a range then a Fat Eighth bundle - each piece is 10" x 21" - is perfect for a whole host of quilt block patterns.
Check out what I have available - this is a wonderful way to have a range of fabrics without the huge expense of purchasing lots of fat quarters or meterage plus check out free patterns on the web.
Kiwiquilts precut range. |
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Handbag/linen tote bag kit
As it is my Birthday month I thought you might like a special treat of a half price tote bag kit.
The kit includes the pattern for the three variations of the tote bag
plus the natural linen/cotton fabric which is the main bag and lining fabric and a heavier weight cotton which is patterned with a range of stylish handbags in grey and browns with just a hint of maroon.
The kit is normally $66.50 but for the month of July only $38.00.
Linen/handbag fabric tote kit: now just $38.00.
You can also purchase a half metre of the stiff bag batting for just $12.00
Check out my other bag patterns and kits.
A woman can never have enough handbags!
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And another day draws to an end... I don't envy those Aucklanders travelling north today on the northern motorway due to the 'incident' this morning.
Time for a coffee I think and a quick read through some quilt magazines I've been saving.
I'm still taking names for the Best Friends Forever BOM patterns. Just the thing for a night in of stitching and telly watching.
In the meantime, take care, enjoy some 'me' time and share a smile with the next person you meet.
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz |
Gollies - back in stock $23m |
Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts winter newsletter
I've just returned from a week in Sydney - ostensibly to check that my youngest is settled happily into Sydney life (he was fine, it was his Mum who needed reassurance :-) and the timing was perfect to spend a couple of days at the Sydney Quilt show with my sister. Lots of retail therapy was enjoyed and the quilts admired. We especially enjoyed the lace exhibition. Thanks Sydney for the lovely weather.
We've just passed the shortest day so we can start looking forward to summer but in the meantime there is plenty of opportunity for sewing with it being cold, wet and windy or even snowing outside. I just hope that those who have no power because of the nasty weather has it restored quickly. |
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Maverick checkers games from a panel.
 Here's a unique preprinted panel complete with instructions and shapes to cut and sew a draughts game board, the checkers themselves plus two fully lined draw-string bags to hold the game. Perfect winter or holiday amusement for the both the sewer and the recipient. Perhaps you have a child or grandchild who would love a sewing project. Small and very achievable. I really enjoyed making up my sample.
Panel size: .9m x 1.10m
Maverick game panel: $24.00 |
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Best Friends Stitcheries
I've received three more installments of this lovely stitchery project. There are eight in all. If you would like to receive one every three weeks just email me [email protected] and I'll set it up.
Each pattern has white hanky linen fabric with the stitchery design already printed on it. So just fire up your needle and thread and you can start stitching immediately. Each stitchery is part of a quilt-as-you-go hexagon exactly like the instructions that I include in my nesting hexagons acrylic templates - in fact you can use these templates to cut out the hexagons needed for the rest of the quilt.
Each stitchery is a lovely Friends sentiment or flower design. You can use the stitcheries for cushions, bags or even a different type of quilt. Full instructions for the stitcheries and the quilt are included. Each stitchery is 9½" and the finished quilt is 52" x 72" (1.33m x 1.83m).
Best Friends Stitchery BOM Installments 1 to 6 available now.
Each installment or pattern: $29.90. |
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Music to my ears
Finally some wonderful music-inspired fabric that you can add to your quilts for that special musical person. In fact the red and gold fabrics could also be added to your Christmas stash as they are heavily embellished with gold printing.
Music to my ears: $23.00 per metre
All that Jazz: $28.80 per metre
All that Jazz red: $28.80 per metre. |
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Flying birds
This is the first of several echino fabrics from Japan that will be arriving. The fabric is 1.50m wide and perfect for cushions, skirts, home decor, lampshades as well as bags and quilts.
It is a heavier weight 100% cotton decorator fabric.
Echino flying birds ecru: $39.00
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Martha Negley
I have long admired this designer's wonderful colour sense and illustrations.
I have two of her rose garden fabrics in stock. Just gorgeous.
Click here for a link to Westminster Fabrics webpage. You can download a couple of quilt patterns plus spend some wonderful fabric inspired minutes browsing through their latest catalogue for ideas and a massive fabric fix.
Martha's rose buds: $28.80 per metre
Martha's pink roses: $28.80 per metre |
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Chef's apron panel.
Just arrived! So thought I had better include it with this newsletter. A wonderful apron panel which will be a cinch to sew into a fabulous gift for a foodie friend. Complete with neck and waist ties and an almond cake recipe printed onto the panel.
A heavier weight cotton twill fabric.
Actual apron measures 23" x 35"
Chef's apron panel: $25.20 |
I still have the $50 mystery fabric packs available. You can choose 5 x half metres or 10 x fat quarters. Yummy fabric! |
While in Sydney I finally visited the Chinese Gardens opposite the Exhibition Centre. Well worth a visit for some peace and tranquillity right in the heart of the city.
Next quilty event in New Zealand is the long anticipated NZ Quilt Symposium in Taupo 18 - 23 July. This time I am attending as a student instead of a merchant. Even if you aren't attending classes there are always the world class exhibitions to see and of course retail therapy at the merchants mall. Certainly hope that the weather is beautiful. I love looking at snow covered mountains but don't fancy having to deal with snow and cold.
Wishing you warmth and happiness no matter where you are in the world. Take some time for yourself for some contemplative stitching or just sorting through your fabric stash. Who needs exercise for endorphins to kick in when fabric stroking is much kinder on the body!
Arohanui
Mary Metcalf
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts' June 2013 newsletter
I'm sitting in front of my computer with a green tea and a chocolate bar - I'm sure that's a healthy combination - with the heater on, although if I was a gardening lady I would be outside in the sunshine!
10 June is the start of the Maori New Year with the rising of Matariki, the star cluster otherwise known as Pleiades. My wallhanging shown opposite is a celebration of this event. Here's a link to our Ministry for Culture and Heritage that will give you more information on this celebration. Rather an interesting site. I think the new moon is also a great time for planting... eek more gardening!
Matariki wall hanging kit: $48.90 Size: 14½" x 20¾" (37cm x 53cm) |
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Wash day retro fabric
This lovely collection of four fabrics arrived last week. Brighten up your ironing board or make yourself a peg apron.
Here's a link to a free peg apron pattern.
Or slip some of this fabric into a modern quilt.
Wash day irons: $27.60m
Wash day pegs: $27.60m
Wash day raindrops: $27.60m
Wash day laundry: $27.60m |
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Oink a doodle panel
Animals are always a favourite with young children and this panel and matching fabrics have all the farm animals you need to teach animal noises, new words and play. Border the panel for a quick quilt.
Oink a doodle panel: $18.00 Panel size: 23" x 42"
Oink a doodle moo blue: $27.60 per metre
Oink a doodle farm scene: $27.60 per metre |
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Comma by Zen Chic
If you are into modern quilts then this fabric range is perfect. Fresh mustard yellow, grass green, oranges, blacks and greys. I have jelly rolls and fat eighth bundles in the complete range. If you're not sure what to do with a jelly roll then here's a free pattern from Moda for a quick and easy quilt that would look fabulous in all sorts of fabric ranges.
A Jelly roll is made up of 42 strips of fabric cut 2½" wide x the width of the fabric - typically 42" long - which equals 2.7 metres of fabric! You can recut the strips into triangles, rectangles and squares depending on your pattern. A great way to have a taste of every pattern and colourway in a fabric range.
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A Fat eighth bundle is made up from rectangles of fabric cut to 10" x 20". A perfect size if you are wanting to make a quilt from larger pieces of fabric but you still want a taste of every pattern and colourway in the fabric range. Usually 40 pieces in a bundle.
Comma jelly roll: $81.50
Comma fat eighth bundle: $138.00
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PB&J Basic Grey
A completely different range of fabric which I have in layer cakes and jelly rolls.
A sweet treat of banana yellow, strawberry red, greys and duck egg blues.
A Layer cake is 40 squares of fabric cut 10" x 10". Once again a piece of every pattern and colourway in a fabric range and you also receive instructions of how to cut your layer cake into economical squares, rectangles and triangles. Great for patchwork blocks.
PB&J layer cake: $81.50
PB&J jelly roll: $81.50 |
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Simple Marks - summer
If you are wanting a fresh, happy fabric range to brighten winter then these jelly rolls are perfect. Wonderful colours of oranges, bright greens, reds, teal blues and yellow with the calming influence of greys.
Moda have a wonderful website and selection of free patterns that are specially designed by jelly rolls, layer cakes and fat eighth and fat quarter bundles.
Moda bakehouse will keep you entertained and inspired.
Simple marks - summer jelly roll: $81.50
Check out my fabric bundles and panels section for more precuts.
Or my Jelly rolls and patterns. |
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Best Friends forever Stitchery BOM
These patterns have it all - stitcheries, hexagons, lovely sentiments, your choice of fabrics and Block of the Month challenges.
Each pattern has four stitchery designs preprinted onto offwhite hanky linen so you can get stitching immediately. Complete instructions for embroidery and colours. Each stitchery becomes a quilt-as-you-go hexagon just like my nesting hexagon set which you can use or they also provide you with a paper hexagon pattern. There are eight instalments in all - so that's 32 stitcheries. I have the first three at the moment.
Best Friends Forever Instalment One: $29.90
Best Friends Forever Instalment Two: $29.90
Best Friends Forever Instalment Three: $29.90 |
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I've been out to the letterbox and it is indeed a glorious day. So I'll finish now with my $50 mystery fabric bundles except that now for $50 you can also choose to receive 10 fat quarters - an even better way to increase your stash!
Check out my 'What's New' section as there are more fabrics listed that have just arrived and I haven't even mentioned.
Plus I've made a new section called 'Almost gone'. These are products that have only one left! So check this out regularly as they will change quickly.
Arohanui and happy gardening! I guess I could pull a few weeds or make a coffee and read a quilt book....
Cheers
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz |
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts May newsletter
After such a long dry summer, Auckland is now overflowing with water - the grass is having a field day and looks like new spring growth rather than a slow down of autumn. I'm enjoying our new lawn mower - a great way to enjoy the outdoors and I can clock it up as exercise and then happily return to my sewing room. (Forgot to mention that our lawn is fairly miniscule so I'm back sewing before the heart rate has even been raised a notch). Walking is next on my to-do list....
I've put together all my end of bolts and now offer them to you at a very special price. Five x half metre pieces for just $50. That's just $10 for half a metre of premium quilting fabric which were up to $28.90 per metre! You can choose a mystery pack or a colour theme and I'll have fun choosing the fabric just for you. I can even gift wrap it if you want it for Mother's Day or for a special treat.
$50 fabric pack: 5 x half metre pieces. |
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Hex on the Beach quilt kit
Here's a kit with all 1,008 fabric hexagons pre-cut for you (and each set of hexagons are in individual plastic bags) plus 100 paper hexagons and the pattern. The fabric range is Salt Water by Tula Pink. Opposite is the quilt hanging at Houston late last year. I just couldn't resist and neither could others when I put it up on the website. So now I only have four kits left, so be in quick if you want to snare one.
Quilt size: 43" x 60" (1.09m x 1.52m)
Hex on the Beach quilt kit: $225.00
and if you want binding or backing I have three fabrics from the range
Salt water coral sea stripe: $28.80
Salt water tortoise seaweed: $28.80
Salt water tortoise aqua: $28.80 |
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NZ Bird cushions
Chevrons are 'in' at the moment and I wanted to use them with a NZ theme. My bird silhouettes have been designed for some time just waiting for a fabric to sew them to. The bird appliques are cut from wool felt and sewn onto the chevron fabric and the batting so you are stitching and quilting at the same time. The pattern for the 15" square cushions includes the applique for all three birds - tui, piwakawaka (fantail) and morepork (owl).
NZ Bird cushion pattern: $18.00
Chevron fabric: $27.60 metre You only need .5m for the front and back of one cushion.
You can also use scraps of fabric to make interesting backs for your cushions and I also added my new red chevron grosgrain ribbon as an embellishment.
7/8" chevron red grosgrain ribbon: $6.50 per metre
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Nature Study
Some time ago 'bugs in jars' quilts were all the rage and I designed and made a larger version of this Nature Study quilt with fruit and vegetables. So when the Rainforest buzz fabric arrived I though what better way to 'capture' these critters than in patchwork jars.
Quilt size: 51" x 63½" (1.30m x 1.62m)
Nature Study quilt kit: $124.00 includes pattern, fabric for front and binding.
I also have some of the Rainforest Buzz fabric left if you wish to add backing to your quilt of the same fabric. |
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Geekly chic - vinyl records
Retro is all the rage but the new designers are putting an extra colour twist to the old patterns and images. I just loved the background colour of these old 45s.
Geekly chic - vinyl records: $27.60 per metre
I have other new fabrics being added to the website all the time so don't forget to check out
What's New on the website. Plus I've updated the Gallery page if you need some inspiration. |
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Cotton pompoms
I managed to get these cotton pompoms by the metre at a special price and I'm passing the savings on to you. These bobbles/pompoms are wonderful sewn around cushions, edges of bags and children's clothing. The pompoms are thick and luxurious on a cotton braid.
Cotton pompoms sunshine: $7.50 per metre
Cotton pompoms blue: $7.50 per metre
Cotton pompoms grape: $7.50 per metre
Sage green silk flowers on elastic: $8.50 per metre Love these!
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Batiks
I've just added some more batiks to my website. Some are in lighter shades of the popular NZ leaves, birds and text themes and one in particular (see opposite) is rather like tie dye patterns on a bronze/green/earth background.
NZ Batiks: range from $25.00 to $29.00 per metre |
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Owl cot quilt panels
Just arrived are two owl panels. One is a growth chart panel and one a cloth book panel. You can also turn either of them into quilts by adding some sashing and borders. Lovely retro colours for a modern baby. Each panel is 24" x 42".
Owl growth chart panel: $18.00
Owl soft book panel: $18.00
Wishing you all a very happy Mother's Day, whether you are celebrating yourself or taking your own Mum out for a coffee. My Mum is surprised when I tell her she has five children, so before any of you get to that stage of old age, enjoy your children while you remember them!
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz |
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts 22 April newsletter
The drought has broken in New Zealand with flooding in Nelson and Waihi. Watching people sweeping muddy water out of their homes and businesses certainly reminds you that nature is a pretty powerful force.
If the weather is keeping you inside then Kiwiquilts has a whole host of new fabrics and gadgets for you to try.
Latest NZ Quilter magazine: $10.50
Vignette Magazine No 9: $22.95 |
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Sewline TrioColours and Styla
The Sewline ceramic fabric pencil now comes with three interchangeable leads. So one pen but a pink, white or black lead can used - all at a twist of the pen. Plus it has an eraser built into the cap.
Check out this YouTube video
Sewline Styla is a water erasable blue ink. A super smooth ceramic rolling ball point gives smooth movement across fabrics without snagging, fraying or damaging the weave. Readily seen on white and light coloured fabrics. Erase with water.
Check out this YouTube video
Sewline TrioColours pen: $29.00
Sewline Styla pen: $9.50 |
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Return to Atlantis
These are amazing fabrics - if you look closely you can see silhouettes of fish, seahorses, coral, turtles and other sea life. In the end I chose three fabrics which are quite stunning and would add life to your stash.
Designed by Jason Yenter for In the Beginning Fabrics. Check out the website as there are also lots of free quilt patterns.
Return to Atlantis spirals: $28.80 per metre
Return to Atlantis spots: $28.80 per metre
Return to Atlantis sea anemones: $28.80 per metre |
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ANZAC mini quilt
There is still time to stitch this memorial mini quilt to honour and remember our relatives and fellow countrymen and woman who lost their lives fighting for our freedom in the First World War.
All you need to supply is a scrap of batting.
ANZAC mini quilt kit: $18.00 |
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Linen/cotton fabrics are all the rage
If you love linen and spots then a lovely selection of linen/cotton and spotted fabric has arrived. I've used some in my contemporary tablemat kits and they go so well in modern quilt designs or home decor. The slightly heavier weight works beautifully with the ordinary quilting cottons and adds that extra touch of texture.
80% cotton 20% linen rainbow spots: $29.80 per metre
You can see the range under my What's new section and in the Japanese section as most of these fabrics originate from Japan. |
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La Belle Fleur from French General for Moda
The fabric ranges designed by French General have been a huge hit and I've purchased many fat quarters to add to my stash so thought it was high time that we had a choice of the whole range. I've purchased charm squares and layer cakes plus a decadent fat quarter bundle in the latest range called La Belle Fleur.
Bliss!!
La Belle Fleur charm squares - 42 x 5" squares: $23.00
La Belle Fleur layer cake - 42 x 10" squares: $81.50
La Belle Fleur fat quarters - 40 x fat quarters: $276.00 = to 10 metres.
Remember to check out Moda Bakehouse for lots of ideas for quilts and runners using charm squares and layer cakes. |
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NZ Bali batik jelly roll
Wow, this is great news. Fabulous Hoffman batiks all with images of New Zealand birds, ferns, abalone and motifs in colours ranging from greens through to browns and back to blues. Each jelly roll has 40 x 2½" strips x 42" - enough to make a quilt.
I'm itching to get started on a quilt using these fabrics. Most of the fabrics can also be purchased by the metre - look at the fabrics under the NZ batiks section.
NZ Bali batiks jelly roll: $79.00 each |
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Juggling Summer fat eighth bundle to the rescue
I sewed these hexagons over two days at a Sarah Fielke class the other weekend. I grabbed a Juggling Summer fat eighth bundle instead of spending hours scouring my stash, loaded the car with the cutting board and sewing machine and then spent 12 delicious hours, cutting and sewing. This may be one UFO that won't linger too long in the 'to do' pile.
The Juggling Summer bundle had wonderful tonal values, snappy designs and interesting colour combinations, so all my hexagons will turn out differently.
Sometimes these fabric bundles are just the impetus you need to start on a new project.
Juggling Summer Fat eighth bundle: $145.00 |
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Sleepy bunny and mini quilt pattern
Loved this pattern - it may have been the gorgeous baby on the cover - but the sleepy bunny soft toy and matching quilt for a todder to put the bunny 'to bed' was too cute to resist.
The pattern is well written and I'm tempted to put all aside and make one just for the fun of it.
Sleepy bunny and mini quilt pattern: $22.00
My youngest son flew out today for the start of his OE - first stop Sydney. The house suddenly seems too big. I've decided to busy myself decluttering and the thought of moving my sewing into the empty large bedroom is rather tempting....
Time will tell... in the meantime I'll start another project - it's amazing how many UFO's I've uncovered but new fabric and a new pattern always beckons and seems far more exciting.
Wishing you lots of happy sewing time and space
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz |
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts April newsletter
With all this wonderful warm, sunny weather my hibiscus think they are in the tropics and then I discovered my autumn crocuses in full flower. The seasons are as confused as we are with this weather.
If it is time for some hunkering down in preparation for winter then I have lots of lovely new fabrics, new panels and some beaut tablemats to whip up for visitors or as special gifts. |
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Sue Spargo panel
You have probably all heard of Sue and or even been lucky enough to attend a workshop when Sue visited NZ last year. I love her use of fun embellishments and application of patterned cottons, hand-dyed velvets and threads to create her unique folk art applique. If you need a hand in this department then Sue has just released her first fabric range and I have the wonderful panel with a turquoise/teal background. You can add applique and stitching to her shapes or just quilt the panel as is.
Sue Spargo folkloric panel: $20.00
Rows of houses matching fabric: $28.50 per metre
Click here for Sue's blog and scroll down a little to see all her wonderful, gorgeous embellished stitcheries - oh for more hours in the day! |
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Gollies
You may remember fondly your favourite Golly or even the story books about them.
Golliwogs (also known as gollywogs or golly wogs) were created by Florence Kate Upton in 1895. She illustrated a book called Two Dutch Dolls and a Golliwog. Amazing what information you can find on the web!
Gollies fabric: $23.00 per metre. |
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Aotearoa Tablemats
These lovely kiwiana fabrics in bright blues and yellow-greens are often little utilised in our kiwiana quilts. They needed a turn in the limelight so I've create these very easy-to-stitch tablemats and added a linen/cotton blend to 'rest' the eye and to give extra body to the tablemats. I've also made them fully reversable and used Naturally NZ as the backing fabric.
Tablemat size: a generous 12" x 18".
Aotearoa tablemats kitset: $62.00.
This includes all the fabric you need for four tablemats - front fabrics, linen/cotton fabric, binding fabric and the backing. All you need to add is the batting.
Contemporary tablemats kitset $69.00
I loved this pattern so much I've also created them in a more modern colourway and used a natural linen/cotton and also made them reversable. |
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Architexture
Four very different fabrics by Carolyn Friedlander, one of the modern quilt enthusiasts.
These fabrics would add a dash of texture to a quilt or if you have someone who is an architect or design student then incorporating these fabrics would have special meaning.
Architexture fabrics: $28.50 per metre. |
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Koru Templates
I've been playing with my koru templates and opposite is a small wallhanging I've almost finished. You can use these templates for applique shapes as well as quilting designs. My Koru templates Ideas booklet will give you lots of examples and ideas to create further shapes and patterns.
Koru templates: $20.00 fluro acrylic, 3mm thick.
Koru templates Ideas booklet: $6.50 |
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Sashiko panels - Kiwi style
I recommend these as a relaxing, stitching project while watching TV or while chatting at your quilt group. Robyn has completed the earth panel and turned the panel into a large runner complete with tassels. Bags, cushions, tablemats, quilts and more can all be created with these hand stitched panels.
You can further the kiwiana feel to the panels by edging/sashing/backing the panels with the wonderful range of New Zealand fabrics I have on my website.
Each panel has four preprinted kowhaiwhai designs 9" x 13" on beautiful moda bella 100% cotton fabric.
Four colourways are left - black, red, earth and rust.
Sashiko panels-kiwi style: $18.00
Sashiko cream thread: $8.50
Sashiko needles (optional): $7.70 |
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Lest we Forget!
With ANZAC day on the 25 April there is still plenty of time to sew this mini ANZAC day remembrance quilt. You may like to add the names of your relatives that fought in the First World War with stitching on the front or back of the quilt. This year I have a fabulous poppy fabric that is perfect for the quilt. You could also further embellish the poppy with beads and hand stitching. Mini quilt size: 8" x 11"
 ANZAC mini quilt: $18.00.
Complete kit all you need to add is a scrap of batting.
This photo shows you the back of the mini quilt. |
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Silk Road cushions
I've been on a roll and made several cushions with the fabric featured last month.
These cushions were inspired by the circles on the Silk Road fabric range and while I was sewing dresden plates I thought a yellow and black cushion would be great with the Loralie Bee Happy fabric.
 You need approximately half a metre for the cushions - front and back and fat quarters from the other fabrics in the range.
Silk Road fabric: $27.60 per metre
Loralie Bee Happy fabric: $27.60 per metre.
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If you are like me and enjoy piecing blocks and quilt tops and then come to a juddering holt when it comes to the quilting, then you may need to be inspired with the quilting patterns I have available online.
There are my Koru and Godzone NZ quilting patterns plus CDs from Electric Quilt - Vols 1-8. You only need a computer to open the CD and then print out the quilting pattern/s to whichever size will fit your quilt. You don't need any other software.
Let's hope a little more rain falls over the country and alleviates farmer's woes.
Wishing you all happy stitching
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
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Dry farmland in the Waikato. |
Kia ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts March newsletter
Rain in Auckland! A welcome sight to parched farm land, gardens and my sister's water tank in Hunua! Pity we have to pay so dearly for fabulous summer weather.
With cooler temperatures and the Easter break on the horizon we can start delving into our UFOs and fabric stashes. If you need a new project then I'm sure you will find something on the Kiwiquilts website or check out the following wonderful new additions.
Plus there's a pre-Easter treat for you..... |
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Lazy cats
If you're a cat lover then this fabric will bring a smile. A really lovely blue background with great illustrations of cats getting up to all sorts of mischief.
For other cat fabrics on my website click on this link.
Lazy cats: $28.70 per metre. |
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Girlfriends
I love the colourways in this fabric. A lovely sea egg blue or a white background with co-ordinating bright lolly pink spot. The fabric would also look great stretched over a canvas and hung on the wall as a fun poster.
Girlfriends surf: $28.70 per metre
Girlfriends tropical: $28.70 per metre
Girlfriends lolly pink spots: $27.20 |
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Precuts - great way to kickstart a quilt project
More precuts have arrived. A stunning new charm square pack called Summersville Spring. A very modern collection of pattern and colour.
Sommersville Spring: $23.00 charm square pack.
Check out all the different types of precuts I have. Some have only limited stock.
Wondering what to do with charm squares and other precuts?
Check out Moda Bakeshop where they have patterns for all the different types of precuts or my sister found this blog with a great chevron quilt pattern just perfect for any of the charm square packs.
If you want a little more than just a square of fabric then a bundle of fat eighths is perfect. Each fabric piece is 9" x 22". I have a wonderful bundle called Juggling Summer. Very modern and fabulous colours 33 pieces of fabric for $145.00. |
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10,000th customer!
Not long after my last newsletter was sent out, my 10,000th order arrived and Helen from New Plymouth was the very happy recipient of the $100 Kiwiquilts voucher.
Congratulations Helen and many thanks to all my loyal customers.
I really do enjoy packing your orders (with wonderful help from Robyn and Emma) and wondering what lovely projects you are starting or completing. Thanks ladies.
OK, there were some men in there as well :-) |
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Lest we Forget!
With ANZAC day on the 25 April there is plenty of time to sew this mini ANZAC day remembrance quilt. You may like to add the names of your relatives that fought in the First World War with stitching on the front or back of the quilt. This year I have a fabulous poppy fabric that is perfect for the quilt. You could also further embellish the poppy with beads and hand stitching. Mini quilt size: 8" x 11"
ANZAC mini quilt: $18.00. complete kit all you need to add is a scrap of batting. |
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Sashiko - kiwi style
The response to my printed sashiko - kiwi style panels has been amazing so I'm looking forward to some photos of your finished projects for the gallery page later this year. No pressure!!
I have been stitching furiously so that shortly I will have some quilt patterns to inspire you.
Five different colours - rust, grass green, black, earth and red $18.00 each panel.
Sashiko thread: $8.50
Sashiko needles: $7.70 |
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Clematis
The last time I had a delicious purple/mauve flower fabric it flew out the door so when I saw this lovely set of fabrics I thought you might like a second chance if you missed out the first time.
Clematis flowers purple; $27.60 per metre
Pink and purple small clematis flowers: $27.60 per metre
Butterflies on mauve: $27.60 per metre
For more butterfly fabrics click on this link. |
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Free postage - Easter treat!
Hard to believe it is almost the end of March and stock-take time. As it coincides with Easter and I can't send you an actual Easter chocolate treat then the next best thing is free postage anywhere in New Zealand until midnight 28 March.
For those in Australia, half price postage until midnight 28 March and you have the added bonus of a generous currency difference :-)
Wishing you all a very happy Easter spent with friends and family or just taking some much needed R and R for yourself. Blessings to you all, in whatever form of religion you practice.
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz |
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts' February newsletter
I'm madly cutting and preparing for the Craft and Quilt Fair in Palmerston North next week. This is going to be a biggie. If you are anywhere around the Palmerston North area on Thursday 14 February through to Sunday 17 February then call into the Arena Manawatu, 61 Pascal Street for a feast of all things quilting, patchwork and crafts. Kiwiquilts will be on Stand B25. Call past and say Hi. Each day at 1pm I'll be taking a workshop using my Koru templates. No need to book, just take a seat in Workshop One.
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Precuts Galore!
I've had several deliveries of precuts so I've finally loaded them all onto the website. An absolutely delightful way to get a small frisson of pleasureby just looking at those lovely precut bundles - jelly rolls, fat eighth bundles, charms squares and even mini charms.
If you're not sure how to use these precuts then check out Moda Bakehouse - full of wonderful free patterns and ideas.
I have only a limited supply of some of the precuts....
Click here to see them all. |
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Spot the Pohukutawa
A rather interesting fabric which has black spots of various sizes overlaid with a really lovely illustration of a pohutukawa blossom branch.
Spot the Pohutukawa: $23.00 per metre
If you are looking for even more Pohutukawa fabrics or other native NZ flowers check these out
NZ Fabrics - trees and flowers |
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Exciting new product!
I'm off to the printers shortly to collect my latest new product. All top secret at the moment but it will be launched/unveiled/presented at the Craft and Quilt Fair in Palmerston North.
We are busy stitching samples but the arthritis is not helping my fingers fly. Oh, to be young again!
Still, I'm hoping you will all be wowed. Quite exciting really!
Watch this space! |
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Valentine's Day and Waitangi Day
Hearts seem to sum up both events and my mini quilt kitset - I love NZ - could be just the ticket for a spot of patriotism.
I love NZ mini quilt kitset: $19.80
Celebration hearts: $27.60 per metre
Sweethearts: $27.60 per metre |
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Teacup toss and butterflies
An unusual combination but I loved both fabrics, especially the periwinkle blue.
There are lots of fabrics with coffee but not many lovely ones depicting cups of tea so you might like to add this one to your stash.
Teacup toss: $28.20 per metre
Periwinkle butterflies: $28.20 per metre
Greens and browns butterflies: $28.20 |
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Vignette # 9
The latest Vignette issue #9 has finally arrived, via the north pole I think. I have a couple of back issues. Lovely magazine, so well worth the wait.
Vignette #9: $22.95
Guess I had better get back to the cutting and stitching.
I feel very blessed that in Auckland we are not threatened by drought, fires or floods. The news is horrific for those in Australia and Canterbury. I can't imagine the horror of seeing my house engulfed in flames or water lapping up to the ceiling. Where, or how, do you start to rebuild?
On that rather sombre note I wish you all peace and happiness and extra doses of courage to those who find themselves faced with abnormal challenges.
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
PS: If you aren't in Palmerston North check out my events page to find other quilt shows closer to home.
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Kia ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts first newsletter for 2013!
The Christmas decorations are in a pile to be filed away for next year, I've toyed with New Year resolutions but decided that nothing really appealed, coffee is back on the agenda, the sun is shining and I've even managed a couple of picnics with my 'other half'. I'm keen to get stitching and the 'to do' projects pile is threatening to self destruct.
A new shoe fabric arrived just before Christmas so I've stitched a couple of shoe bags. Thought you might like the pattern as well, so I'm enclosing a copy with every order over $50 (excluding postage). If you love the fabric as much as I do, then I have a few kits to make two shoe bags plus the pattern for just $16.50. Of course you can always use other lovely fabric to match the recipient or the shoe occasion. Check out the other two fabrics in the Dress Up range. |
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Sewline Stain Maid
Another wonderful product from Sewline. Stain Maid is a blend of orange oil and natural ingredients with a proven ability to dissolve and effectively lift oil-based stains, grease, pencil, food and substances such as coffee, tea, blood, lipstick, ketchup.
Works just like the glue pen, you wind up how much you need. There's a quick video to show you how to use it and it would be a great addition to your travel or sewing kit.
Sewline Stain Maid: $10.90 |
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Seaside Vintage Quilt kit
If you're into soft retro-type fabrics then this new cot size quilt would be wonderful. A warm vanilla background with red, blues and a hint of avocado. A very simple snowball block highlights the fabric range, while the main fabric of two children playing with a bucket and spade on the beach is used in some blocks and the border.
Excellent quilt for a beginner sewer.
Quilt size: 41½" x 53½" (1.06m x 1.36m).
Seaside Vintage Quilt kit: $99.50 |
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Bush Life of New Zealand
Nutex continues to produce quality New Zealand and Australian quilting fabrics for us to enjoy. The latest NZ fabric is Bush Life and it is teeming with birds, ferns and wonderful greenery.
Bush Life: $23.00 per metre
Check out the latest in wonderful aboriginal dot patterns.
I may not be able to pronounce the name but I love the fabric design.
Mugungalyi Stripes and circles: $23.00 per metre |
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The Simple Life
Perhaps this fabric range has been in response to our wish to declutter our lives. The lovely line illustrations in red on white conjurer up feelings of peace, tranquillity and space.
There is is even a free pattern you can download from the designers. There's a link to the pattern on my website.
There are seven fabrics in the range including a panel.
The Simple Life panel: $17.00 per panel
The Simple Life fabrics: $27.60 per metre |
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Busy Builders
What little boy doesn't stand fascinated for ages watching diggers, trucks and cranes. Now you can make them a quick quilt with the Busy Builders panel and then while they are snuggling under the quilt you can read them the Busy Builders book, stitched from the book panel.
Busy Builders panel: $17.00
Busy Builders book panel: $27.60
Busy Builders fabric: $27.60 per metre
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Sew Retro
If your sewing machine needs a new cover, or the cushion on your favourite stitching chair needs a freshenup then you might like to choose one of the fabrics from the Sew Retro range.
I especially like the cotton reels, they remind me of the cottons Mum had in her sewing drawer.
Sew Retro Cotton reels: $27.60
Sew Retro vintage pattern: $27.60
Sew Retro accessories: $27.60 |
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Grab a coffee or a cool drink and sort out some new stitching projects for the coming year. Peter Rabbit and friends has also arrived and this fabric makes wonderful unisex baby quilts. I'm off to wallow in some of my new fabric purchases. I have owned up to the fact that I'm a fabric lover/hoarder and my husband's response was that I should now stop! What! no way, I've only just started...
If you ever feel uninspired then take a quick look through Pinterest or Etsy and you will feel the creative juices flowing. There is so much talent and wonderful ideas floating around in cyber space. Almost as wonderful as reacquainting yourself with your own stash of quilt books/magazines.
If you are wanting a bargain I have some New Year specials and there's the clearance section as well. I've updated the gallery page so new quilts are there to impress and inspire.
Enjoy the summer break.
Happy stitching
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
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Twelve Days of Christmas at Kiwiquilts.
Twelve days of great specials and gifts for yourself or a special quilting friend.
Check the website out each day for the latest
Christmas special. |
Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts' December newsletter
Today was summer! Blue skies, warm temperatures and the pohutukawa trees are magnificent. The photo opposite was taken this morning down by the motorway. You just have to smile when you see the trees - nature's Christmas decorations! No tinsel in sight!
I am not as well prepared this year for Christmas. My Christmas quilt was hung tonight and my nativity scene was laid out on my Rollup stars Christmas runner and so far that's it! Not even the Christmas cake baked... If you're a bit like me then a list and a countdown to the big event might help. Many retailers have a Twelve Days of Christmas countdown and I thought that it might help you (and me). So, for those of you who have been checking out the websit, we are now officially on Day 3 of my countdown. But you haven't missed out as the specials will remain while stock lasts or Christmas is here! |
Limited kitsets available.
Table mat size: 12 ¾” x 19” (32.5cm x 48cm). |
Octagon Christmas table mat
Nothing like a deadline to get me sewing. I have had this border print Christmas fabric for well over a month for something special and I finally found it in a free pattern from Jinny Beyer. Thanks Jinny!
It took me less than an hour to cut, sew and quilt.
Octagon Christmas table mat kitset: $24.90.
The kitset includes the border print fabric plus a lovely matching Christmas text print for the back and of course Jinny's free pattern. All you need to add is some batting and thread.
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Island Batiks - new shipment
I've just received a wonderful set of nine new batiks from Island Batiks. Superb quality and luscious colours.
Sunshine yellows, pohutukawa reds, lush greens and blues and mauves to reflect our sea and sky.
If you can't decide, why not have the
9 x fat quarter bundle set for just $62.10
Or I have meterage available at just $ 27.50m
You'll find all nine fabrics under NZ Batiks. |
A few seams later and you have transformed the bed and armoire into a pillow base and the Princess is now sleeping in her bed and her clothes in the armoire ready for another day of dancing.
What a fabulous gift for a wee girl. Bit of a stepup from the paper dolls we loved to colour in and cut out. |
Princess Pillow panel
 This is just so adorable!
One panel has the complete wardrobe of eight gowns, one crown and two wimples and the lovely Princess. Plus you also have the bed and the armoire printed on the panel.
Panel size: .6m wide by 1.12m
Sewing instructions are included on panel.
Princess pillow panel: $17.00
Matching fabric for back of cushion: $27.60 m. |
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ABC 123 book panel
Here's another quick but wonderful gift for a new baby.
This vintage printed panel can be quickly stitched into a soft cloth book. I added some batting to the front and back covers. Full instructions are printed on the panel and it was super easy to sew.
Great for new sewers.
Panel size: .6m wide by 1.12m
ABC 123 book panel: $17.00.
I still have some ABC 123 charm square packs left of the same fabric range. Perhaps you could make a small cuddle quilt to go with the book. |
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Country Touch - Roosters
Roosters are always a favourite and this range of fabric from Wilmington Fabrics is a wonderful quality 100% cotton fabric.
I have four fabrics in the range including a panel of 7" squares - .6m will give you the full repeat and you can also download a free pattern sheet from the manufacturers.
All the fabrics in the range are $28.70 per metre and you'll find them under 'What's New'. |
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I've saved the best till last!
We all know and love Liberty fine cotton lawn fabrics but the price is fairly prohibitive. I have a treasured, small stash of liberty scraps that I am slowly turning into hexagons for a yet un-named project. This fabric from Robert Kaufman looks and feels like Liberty lawn but without the hefty price tag.
I've chosen five from the London Calling range that I love and hope you do too. You'll find them all under the 'What's New' section and all are just $28.20 per metre.
This fabric looks wonderful smocked for little girls' dresses and makes fabulous nightgowns as well as quilts. |
Keep calm fabric: $27.90m. |
and another year ends...
my sincere thanks to all those who have contributed photos for the gallery page, sent me friendly, supportive emails, purchased from my website and a special thanks to my friend Susan and my sister Annie for the endless cups of coffee, encouraging support and a listening ear.
I love it when the reps call with their enticing fabric samples, when I spot a 'must have' quilting gadget for you and the lovely ladies at the Post Office when they comment on the daily pile of parcels to quilters all over the world.
I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and I hope you can find some time to sneak off to read and relax with a quilting magazine or book and to dream of 2013 quilting projects and the loved ones that will inspire you to create them.
Ngā mihi mō te Kirihimete
Wishing you a very Happy Christmas
And if your Christmas preparations falter (like mine have), then the fabric opposite made into an apron or an ironing board cover, may just make you smile and grit your teeth to face the next challenge ...
Aroha nui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts November newsletter
I can finally get my car back in my garage after putting away all the 'stuff' from Festival of Quilts. What a wonderful, wonderful show. Heaps of merchants to keep everyone happy. I purchased some lovely hand dyed cotton fabric from Liuxin that I will one day do something with.... (no rush is there??).
Fabulous quilts - my sister won a prize for her quilting and Susan who quilts all my samples also won a Judge's choice award for her quilting, so I really enjoyed the prize giving evening.
The show is superbly run and it is just so lovely to meet you all. Thanks to those who introduced themselves and a very warm welcome to all those who have joined my newsletter for the first time. I hope you enjoy the gorgeous fabrics, nifty notions and unique kiwiana patterns and kits that I have on my website. |
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Christmas Stockings
Since my boys have long grown out of their Santa sacks I have been meaning to create some special Christmas stockings for them. Probably none of these will appeal to them but I enjoyed making these five stockings all with different techniques.
The pattern gives you the instructions for the five stockings and I have kits for some as well.
You could also purchase the English piecing starter kit to inspire you to create quick and easy hexagons or strip piece your stockings from left overs or in fabrics to reflect the recipient.
Chevrons are the latest craze so you could make a whole swag of simple fabric stockings in the latest fabrics or use any of the Christmas fabrics I have online.
For a real kiwiana stocking, use my Koru Templates and hand dyed wool to make a unique stocking.
Christmas stocking pattern $15.00
Lynette Anderson hexagon stocking kit: $31.80
Koru stocking kit: $32.90
Chevron stocking kit: $29.50 |
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 Willow quilt
As soon as I saw this range of soft pink and grey fabrics I wanted to make a quilt.
I've used the traditional dresden plate block but made the 'petals' chubby like a healthy, cuddly baby. I've machine appliqued the dresden plate to the chevron grey pattern and then rotated the blocks to form a new pattern.
Quilt size: 1.14m x 1.37m (45" x 54")
The fabric I had only made seven kits, so be in quick if you want one of these.
Willow baby girl quilt: $117.00
Willow quilt pattern: $15.00 |
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Sashiko panels
There is something wonderful about Japanese indigos and the lovely patterns formed by sashiko stitching. Now you can enjoy the stitching without the hours spent transferring the design to the fabric.
 These preprinted panels can be a lovely hand worked project and come in two colours - dark indigo and rust red.
With a simple running stitch and the special cream sashiko thread you follow the printed lines. Then cut the individual blocks and create quilts, wallhangings and cushions combining your stitched panels with other Japanese fabrics.
Panel size: 1.08m x .98m
Dark indigo panel: $36.80 Rust red panel: $36.80
Sashiko thread: $7.70 - you will probably need two skeins.
Sashiko needles: $7.70
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Stitch-in-time Quilter's Tote kit
Talking about stitching, you may wish to make this quilter's tote for your favourite quilting friend or perhaps gift them the kit to make it themselves.
I decided to make my own and enjoyed using some cream textured curtaining fabric for the inside pockets and followed the directions using the three panels and the continuous zip. I then added some tan decorative thread stitching to personalise my tote, so I'm ready for my next class!
Stitch-in time Quilter's Tote kit: $37.30 - includes the pattern, three panels and two metres continuous black zip.
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Pohutukawa - NZ Christmas tree
The buds on the pohutukawa trees are about to burst into blossom. Our street is lined on both sides with pohutukawa trees and they are a picture when they are in bloom.
Make your Christmas a special kiwiana Christmas and incorporate our NZ Christmas tree in your quilting projects.
Coastal blossom fabric: $23.00 per metre
Pohutukawa blossom on cream: $23.00 per metre
Pohutukawa wallhanging kit: $99.50
Pohutukawa Christmas table runner kit: $50.70
and my classic Pohutukawa runner kit: $55.00
or some funky pohutukawa fabric: $23.00 per metre |
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Koru templates now in fluro yellow!
I kept losing my templates among all my fabrics so the obvious answer was to produce them in a colour I couldn't miss - fluro yellow.
I enjoyed the workshops I took at Festival of Quilts and judging by the amount of templates I sold, you all thought they were marvellous as well. I keep thinking of new ideas to use them for and my Koru Templates Ideas booklet will certainly get you started on designing your own koru designs.
Koru Templates in fluro yellow: $20.00
Koru Templates Ideas booklet: $6.50 |
Check out The BIG Quilt Show, Northart Gallery, Northcote, Auckland 3 - 23 November. |
Still time for some gift making
As usual I only seem to kick start my gift making this close to Christmas but check out my FREE Patterns section and you will see a number of quick and easy projects especially the Christmas Star decorations using my nesting hexagons templates.
The fabric holdalls are great - only a few of these kits left now - I saw an advert for some similar fabric baskets - three for $99!!
You could make some Kiwiana placemats or Australiana ones. Easy to make and great for posting overseas.
I'm off to Melbourne for a Quilting trade show at the end of November so watch for some new products early next year. I'm going with my two sisters so we are planning on some serious retail therapy while we are there. Can't wait!
Thought I would leave you with this photo of Milo, our cat, who was not going to give up my sewing chair easily!
Enjoy the lead up to Christmas, it's a wonderful time of year for caring and sharing.
Arohanui.
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
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October 2012
Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts October newsletter
It's that time of year when I feel the need to clean, file, tidy and rearrange. Unfortunately I'm not too keen on the housework part of the above but I had lots of fun clearing out some Kiwiquilts shelves and I've added the goodies to the Spring Clean sale section on my website. Sometimes there's only one of the item so first in, gets the specials.
I'll be adding more during the next couple of days so keep checking back.
PLUS, an added bonus of free postage on any order to a New Zealand address. |
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Book panel and bag
I actually sewed last weekend (in my new sewing room - bliss) and enjoyed making up the ABC Primer book panel and then I couldn't resist making a cute wee bag to carry it in. When you purchase half a metre of the ABC primer allover fabric I'll send you the free Fat Quarter bag pattern.
ABC Primer book panel: $17.50 comes complete with sewing instructions
ABC Primer allover fabric: $27.60 per metre Free bag pattern if you purchase at least half a metre.
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Wonderful new fabrics have arrived
More gorgeous butterflies and a fabulous leaf patterned fabric. I just can't decide on which colourway to indulge in.
Butterfly carnival: $28.80 per metre
Buttefly carnival matching blue motifs pattern: $28.80 per metre
Rain forest multi: $29.10 per metre.
Check out the other two colourways under 'What's New'. |
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Hexagons make a comeback
You probably know that hexagons are making a huge comeback in the quilting world and even the 'modern quilters' are incorporating hexagons in their quilts.
I've mentioned before the wonderful difference the Sewline glue pen makes in quickly assembling the hexagons before stitching them together.
I've even produced a video on YouTube that demonstrates this technique.
So to inspire you to give it a go, I've put together a Hexagon starter kit for just $30.00, saving you $2.60 if you purchased the products individually.
4" acrylic hexagon template. This is the perfect size for quickly cutting your hexagon fabric shapes with a rotary cutter. Because the acrylic is clear you can also fussy cut your hexagons to make even more wonderful patterns.
Pack of 50 precut 1½" hexagon paper shapes. These fit perfectly with the fabric shapes you have cut above. These papers can be used several times over.
Sewline Glue pen and refill. Quickly glue your hexagon fabric shapes to the precut paper shape and then you can get stitching. The glue is washable and easy to peel off so that the papers can be reused.
Hexagon starter kit: $30.00 saving you $2.60. You'll be hoooked!
The bag opposite is a sneak preview of a new bag pattern I'll have ready shortly. |
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Dr Seuss - The Lorax panel
Create an environmentally friendly quilt with 'The Lorax' the tree lover and this panel which is beautifully printed onto quality organic cotton fabric. I also love the colour scheme they have used.
'The Lorax' panel: $21.00
Panel size: 42" x 23"
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Chevrons - latest pattern craze
You'll spot chevron designs everywhere - bags, quilts, cushions, lampshades, curtains, clothes and more. Wonderful and funky and they give a real lift to your designs.
Small grey chevron: $27.60 per metre
Large black and white chevron: $27.60 per metre
Love this one! Multi large chevron: $27.60 per metre |
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Lazy Daisy panel
If you would rather something calming and gentle, then this Lazy Daisy panel and matching fabrics could be perfect. You could stitch over the designs or leave them as they are. Soft, gentle pinks, blues and greens.
Lazy Daisy panel: $17.50 panel size: 42" x 23"
Blue stripe with tiny pink roses: $27.60 per metre
Flower sprays on green: $27.60 per metre |
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Baby elephant cuddle fabric
This fabric is almost the same on both sides, so you could just bind the edges and have an instant cuddle rug. Or use it as the backing of a baby quilt - you wouldn't need any further batting - and you'll have a luxurious quilt. Fabric width: 1.50m. Extremely economical.
Baby elephant cuddle fabric: $23.00 per metre |
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Still time to whip up Christmas runners
The four Christmas tablerunner kitsets I have available have been selling well and are easy to make in a couple of afternoons of happy sewing.
Kiwi Christmas runner kitset: $50.70
Traditional Christmas runner kitset: $55.80
Pohutukawa runner kitset: $55.00
Christmas stars extra long runner kitset: $39.50
Plus Lynette's Christmas tree mini quilt: $43.50 |
Perhaps I'll see you at the Festival of Quilts?
Auckland Patchworkers and Quilter's Guild annual quilt exhibition and merchant mall.
Not to be missed!!
North Harbour Stadium
Oteha Valley Rd, Albany
Auckland.
Friday - Saturday
2-3 November
10am until 5pm and
Sunday 4 November
10am until 4pm
Kiwiquilts will be in their usual spot - top of the stairs and turn right. |
Thanks for all the lovely photos and emails you send from around the world. One never needs to be lonely if you're a quilter.
I've now added my Newsletters online, so you can always check them out from the home page or the top menu bar.
Also, just a reminder, on the top menu bar there is a search facility. If you don't know where I placed a particular fabric you can type in the name of it or whether it had birds or flowers for example, click on the little magnifying glass and you should have a list of all the products that have the words you typed in.
Enjoy the shopping, remember to check back over the next few days as I add more goodies and take advantage of the free shipping New Zealand wide until midnight 9 October 2012.
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
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September 2012
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Kia Ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts' September newsletter
A very warm welcome to all those new subscribers from the Hamilton Craft and Quilt Fair. What a wonderful buzz we had each day and the great news is they are bringing the Fair to Palmerston North 14-17 February 2013. Kiwiquilts will be there, so mark your calendars for a great four days shopping.
The koru templates went down a treat in my workshops and I've now produced a small booklet with 30 original quilt and applique ideas that will further inspire you.
Koru templates and Koru template ideas book $25.00
Koru templates only $18.50
Koru templates Ideas book $6.50.
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Sewline needle threader
For those of us who find threading fine needles a hassle I now stock the Sewline needle threader which is perfect for threading needle sizes 9 - 12. Perhaps that is why I now prefer wool embroidery - no problems (yet) in threading those needles!
Check out the video - The magnet on the end is an extra bonus.
Sewline needle threader: $25.50. |
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Kiwi Christmas table runner
My original Christmas table runner has been extremely popular, so I thought I would sew one in more Kiwiana colours. Here's my new version - black and white meets kiwi christmas pohutukawa.
This pattern is great for beginners and if you are more experienced then you'll be happy to whip up a few for Christmas presents. The kitset includes all the fabrics you need including the lovely Coastal Blossom fabric for the backing - you can even make this a reversable tablerunner. All you need to add is some thread and the batting.
Kiwi Christmas table runner kitset: $50.70.
Traditional Christmas table runner kitset: $55.80
Christmas table runners pattern only: $15.00 |
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Lynette's Christmas tree mini quilt
Lynette Anderson has quite a following with her unique applique designs and now Christmas fabric in her trademark murky reds/olives/browns.
I've designed this mini quilt adapting her style and using all her fabrics. I completed mine entirely by machine but you could easily use simple embroidery stitches and needle turn applique.
The kitset includes the pattern and all the fabric for the front, back and binding. All you need add is some threads and the batting.
Mini quilt size: 13½" x 17½" (34cm x 44.5cm)
Lynette's Christmas tree mini quilt kitset: $43.50
Lynette Anderson's 6 x fat quarter bundle: $48.30
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Stonehenge Christmas Traditions panel
Gosh, I'm on a roll today with all these Christmassy projects and fabrics. Guess I'm getting an early start this year.
I really loved this panel. Not too cutsy and the colours are wonderfully traditional. Lots of gold overlay but tastefully done.
Panel size: 24" x 42". Add some pieced or plain borders and you have a gorgeous, quick Christmas quilt or wall hanging.
Stonehenge Christmas traditions panel: $17.00 |
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Midnight rush - big bold flowers by Camelott fabrics
These fabrics are stunning. Oversized blooms - fabulous for cushions, bags etc as well as a quilt.
I'm showing the largest of the blooms to the left but there are two others in the range.
Midnight rush - red blooms: $27.60 metre.
Limited stock, so if you are wanting some, I wouldn't wait too long. |
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Farm Scene fabrics
And now for something completely different....
Two new panels - I couldn't resist the cute sheep looking out from under his curls - and some rather lovely farm prints.
Add these to your 'I spy' collection or create a quilt for your favourite farmer.
Farm scene tractor panel: $8.50 for 30 cm.
Farm scene animal panel: $8.50 for 30 cm.
Farm scene fabric bundle: $37.70
Farm scene stripe fabric: $27.60 metre |
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New Tote Bag kitsets
Mega spots tote bag kitset and a sophisticated handbag print which is combined with a 20% linen and 80% cotton natural fabric.
Roomy bags and easy to stitch. Perfect for beginners. Detailed instructions.
Mega spots tote bag kitset: $51.80
Handbag linen/cotton tote bag kitset: $66.90
Tote bag pattern only: $15.00
Spring is sort of here in Auckland, plenty of rain, a drop in temperature and then blue, blue skies. Can't seem to make up its mind but with daylight saving starting shortly I can't wait for the warmer weather and longer sunshine hours. There's nothing better than having the sun stream into my sewing room, music playing and my machine humming..... bliss!
Wishing you time to sew, read or spend special time with loved ones.
Nga mihi nui *
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz
* With best wishes. |
August 2012
Spring flowers courtesy of my sister Annie's garden. |
Kia ora and welcome to Kiwiquilts Spring newsletter!
The first week of Spring! So lovely to have more daylight after 5pm and to get the washing dry before the sun disappears over the neighbour's roofline. I was bouncy this morning when I started this newsletter (well, thinking about the newsletter) but as the day worn on I seem to have flagged. This 'one coffee a day' business is not the best for my energy levels, there is only so much chamomile and honey and ginger tea I can drink! |
Another use of the Koru template! |
New! Tote bag in three versions
I've designed a new tote bag that is really easy to make. I've made three so far and every time I see an amazing fabric, I think 'that would look great as a tote bag'. I've gone to town on the instructions so that this pattern is perfect for a beginner as well. I got so keen on one of the Tote bags that I clean forgot to sew on the inside pockets. Version 3 was born!
You can mix and match the inside and outside pockets. It is fully lined - but not tricky at all - plus you can lengthen or shorten the handles.
I've also discovered bag batting. This is much nicer to use than needlepunch, it is thinner but sturdy and soft to touch. It really gives the bags body, which means that if your chosen 'must have' fabric is a little on the thin side it can still be successfully used in the bag.
Tote Bag pattern only: $15.00
Bag Batting 50cm x 80cm: $12.00 - this is all I needed for one tote bag.
Koru Tote bag kitset: $59.20 - includes fabric and pattern but not batting
More kitsets will become available as I choose luscious fabric. |
Mega spots are just perfect for this bag. |
Craft and Quilt Fair in Hamilton
Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 September 10 am to 4.30pm. Not to be missed!
Kiwiquilts will be there with a fresh new look and a fantastic gadget demonstration table - so come and see the Mighty Light, Quick Ripper, Quilt Halo, Sewline glue and fabric pens, Pinmoors, Supreme Sliders, Seam rippers, koru templates and more.
Plus we'll have a basket of red hot specials and all the wonderful kiwiana fabrics and even some new products that haven't yet made it to the website...
We are in Aisle C #22. Please call past and say Hi. I'm doing a workshop at 12 noon each day showing you all the wonderful uses of the koru templates.
Actually a lot of the designs are still in my head so I really do think lots of coffee and a few late nights will get some samples sewn pronto. It really is a nifty little template and great for quilting designs. But all will be revealed in the workshop.... |
Claudelands Events Centre, Cnr Heaphy Terrace & Brooklyn Road, Claudelands, Hamilton
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Hopefully I'll meet a lot of you in Hamilton. It is so much fun to be surrounded with wonderful fabrics, ideas, happy quilters, friends, coffee and just some time to yourself to be fully immersed in this wonderful hobby/craft that we all enjoy. What do people do who don't sew!!!
Enjoy the sunshine, the spring flowers and your loved ones.
Arohanui
Mary
www.kiwiquilts.co.nz |
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