tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63364607397121929732024-03-13T12:16:23.262-07:00leftleg designsLeftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-17092955391314903722015-02-17T12:56:00.002-08:002015-02-17T12:56:06.863-08:00Sneak Peek (Co-Creations Exhibition)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't show you <em>everything</em> here before the opening, so is just a little sneak peak. Ceramics by Valerie Stuart, and felting by me. We both like this, and there will be more experimenting to come with this idea!</div>
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We need a name though...Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-56949540227665209912015-02-16T18:13:00.001-08:002015-02-16T18:13:24.413-08:00Renewal 3My part was very minimal in this one - not much felting at all! You can't cover these beautiful colours! I think pictures say it all:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I9poge2ZULc/VOKjPNmNkzI/AAAAAAAABEc/XUK2z9o_8QI/s1600/renewal3_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I9poge2ZULc/VOKjPNmNkzI/AAAAAAAABEc/XUK2z9o_8QI/s1600/renewal3_1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-33956688393456526102015-02-10T17:26:00.002-08:002015-02-10T17:26:48.580-08:00Stitch-O-Coccus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After lots of experimenting with crochet stitches, machine (free hand) stitching, and dissolvable interfacing, I have come up with this. (Also to be part of the "Co-Creations" exhibition coming up next week.) I think its a bit growth like, a bit like bacteria - hence the name "Stitch-o-coccus". I did some research on bacteria names and found the 3 most common types are: spherical (-cocuss), rod shaped (bacillus), and spiral (spirilla). These have been mounted and framed.</div>
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STITCH-O-COCCUS (cotton & sewing thread)</div>
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<br />Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-54275273945324772852015-02-10T17:04:00.001-08:002015-02-10T17:04:30.986-08:00Felt & ceramic sculptureAnother item for our "co-creations" exhibition coming up (21st Feb, 2015) is this:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d5An0Ubm9zM/VNqoq1RTqoI/AAAAAAAABDc/baaeuaU7ozI/s1600/bullhorn_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d5An0Ubm9zM/VNqoq1RTqoI/AAAAAAAABDc/baaeuaU7ozI/s1600/bullhorn_1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The ceramic centre was hand built by Valerie Stuart. A wire was then attached to the end, which can be manipulated to easily. And then felted over. It is tricky to calculate the correct shrinkage items like this. If you start too big you will never get a good fit, but if you start too small then you will never get a good felt. Another consideration for the felter is that some of your favourite fulling techniques can't be used - a good solid throwing of your felt obviously can't be done when there is a ceramic piece inside!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-54074740476399143322015-02-10T16:01:00.001-08:002015-02-10T16:01:26.914-08:003D felting - over a ceramic vase<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0QIzNHbQaM/VNqX3gScp1I/AAAAAAAABDE/Ny4GCwL1Vcg/s1600/VASE_finishedx3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Valerie Stuart (ceramics) & Elanya Selby (felt)" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0QIzNHbQaM/VNqX3gScp1I/AAAAAAAABDE/Ny4GCwL1Vcg/s1600/VASE_finishedx3.JPG" height="480" title="Felted Vases - wool felt and ceramics" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Felted Ceramic Vases - Co-Creations</td></tr>
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So this is the start of "Co-Creations" - combined mediums, two artists working together. My felting and textiles, my mums ceramics. It's the start of a beautiful relationship!<br />
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I have been very busy felting lately. I did a course on felting over 3D objects way back in Easter 2014, and I'm really putting that to the test now. My mum had some ceramic vases she made a while ago, and was getting tired of them, so we decided to try and felt over them, see what I could come up with. The above is the finished product, below are the pictures of the process. The wool I'm using is called a "ready spin", from Bendigo Mills - I know that doesn't say much! It is quite a course wool, and with my limited experience and knowledge on the many different wools, I would equate it to something like a corriedale.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vase to be felted over</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For size comparison - the wool is laid out and wet down</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Design and prefelt stage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the felting stage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start of fitting the felt perfectly to the vase</td></tr>
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Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-3991599100663672482014-09-14T04:57:00.000-07:002014-09-14T04:57:00.934-07:00I Mater cake!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was my nephews birthday party today, and I heard he wanted a Tow Mater cake - so last night I made one for him. My research starter really bad - my skill levels are no-where near a 3D, fondant covered, accurate model of a tow truck! And I couldn't seem to find any 'flat' cakes. But I did find this <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cookievonstercustomcookies/7580382958/in/set-72157622539407687" target="_blank">mater cookie</a> on pinterest that I used as my inspiration:<br />
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<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2d/2f/f6/2d2ff60f8cf45db73e1610060bd58fa7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tow Mater Cookie" border="0" height="200" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2d/2f/f6/2d2ff60f8cf45db73e1610060bd58fa7.jpg" width="184" /></a></div>
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I'm pretty happy with my first solo cake! So here are my steps (photos only) for anyone else who wants to copy.<br />
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I used a double quantity of a 'standard' cake size, and cooked it in my <a href="http://leftlegdesigns.blogspot.com.au/2013/06/one-pot-mince-pasta-bake.html" target="_blank">Chefs Toolbox Saute Pan</a> which has a 28cm diameter.<br />
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Made a template, and 'stuck' it to the cake with toothpicks. I changed the shape a little so I didn't waste too much cake - there was hardly any left over/wasted.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nceswkpwUTk/VBV-XPSrw3I/AAAAAAAAA3c/9GleRcUFj0k/s1600/mater%2Bcake_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nceswkpwUTk/VBV-XPSrw3I/AAAAAAAAA3c/9GleRcUFj0k/s1600/mater%2Bcake_2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cut out the cake. (Ate some of the off cuts, lucky I left some though - notice something missing?):<br />
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Iced it with butter cream (chocolate), mixed a small amount of the chocolate icing with a bit of blue colouring gel and used that for rust/dirt:<br />
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Used fondant (from Aldi) for most of the details. The tyres were covered in black, some outlining and the mouth in black, and then the eyes/windshield and teeth in white. It looked like something was missing, so I added the wing mirrors, and some chocolate fingers for more detail.<br />
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Glad this wasn't a pinfail!<br />
It was a hit at the party. I'm racking up those 'best aunty' points!!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-29681124196792654232014-08-19T20:14:00.003-07:002014-08-20T00:36:48.692-07:00Eye Piece - Steampunk AccessoryOf Course if you are going steampunk, then you need a few accessories. Here is my first:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-83Dumqr2VQY/U_QQ10Q_dXI/AAAAAAAAA2w/i1J5JPoHakY/s1600/steampunk%2Beye%2Bpiece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="monocle, mechanical, victorian, leftleg, gears" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-83Dumqr2VQY/U_QQ10Q_dXI/AAAAAAAAA2w/i1J5JPoHakY/s1600/steampunk%2Beye%2Bpiece.jpg" height="300" title="steampunk monocle / eye piece" width="400" /></a></div>
I used a part of a lense for the base of the eye piece - it still spins around. One of the gears is mounted on the inside ring, so it moves around. The gears and 'things' are from the inside of an old clock that I pulled apart a while ago. The (fake) leather pieces were from a belt. And the fancy fasteners on the side (a bit like a hook and eye) were the only things bought (although not for this, I got them because I liked them and thought they were a bit 'steampunky'!). Elastic cord is threaded through the ends of the fasteners.<br />
Outfit is starting to come together, just a few more accessories to go!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-9277811844556473862014-08-19T19:54:00.000-07:002014-08-19T19:54:04.741-07:00Steampunk cage skirtStill on the Steampunk theme...<br />
Felt like making a cage skirt - so here it is:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5jfLljTN3h0/U_QEto92LDI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/Eh5nus-y8ZE/s1600/cage%2Bskirt_steampunk_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="goth, black, boned skirt, victorian, cosplay, leftleg" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5jfLljTN3h0/U_QEto92LDI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/Eh5nus-y8ZE/s1600/cage%2Bskirt_steampunk_2.jpg" height="240" title="steampunk cage skirt" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_YKCmJmxLvA/U_QL9deVB_I/AAAAAAAAA2g/4nh2VhFnBPA/s1600/cage%2Bskirt_steampunk_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="goth, black, victorian, boned skirt, cosplay, leftleg" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_YKCmJmxLvA/U_QL9deVB_I/AAAAAAAAA2g/4nh2VhFnBPA/s1600/cage%2Bskirt_steampunk_1.jpg" height="320" title="steampunk cage skirt" width="240" /></a></div>
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I've gone the 'grungy' look - leaving raw edges and long threads. I didn't have any bias tape on hand, but had a heap of straight cut tape, which I folded in half and sewed (zigzag) down the side (hence the raw edges). I inserted a double layer of boning (just the poly boning, sew-in type) - I was worried that just one layer would not be strong enough to hold the structure. Bottom 3 rows are all the same size, top row a bit smaller. I finished the top edges with a loop - here I have inserted a belt, but you could use elastic and stitch the loops in place.Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-30509913652865981942014-08-05T04:30:00.001-07:002014-08-19T19:55:54.300-07:00Purple Tulle Bustle skirt/pad - Steampunk instructions / tutorialSo I'm really keen on making a steampunk outfit. I love the Victorian look, and have made a corset (more about that later). But for my first steampunk post, here is my purple tulle bustle skirt / bustle pad.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sSK6jDyrpcc/U-BdoDV_SII/AAAAAAAAA1c/97FV-lunyDk/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="victorian, bustle pad, leftleg, cosplay" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sSK6jDyrpcc/U-BdoDV_SII/AAAAAAAAA1c/97FV-lunyDk/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_back.JPG" height="320" title="tulle bustle skirt, steampunk" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5ocBOZbxqM/U-BdnrEaAlI/AAAAAAAAA1U/S1YrPuwT-Tw/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_side.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="victorian, bustle pad, leftleg, cosplay" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5ocBOZbxqM/U-BdnrEaAlI/AAAAAAAAA1U/S1YrPuwT-Tw/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_side.JPG" height="320" title="tulle bustle skirt, steampunk" width="240" /></a></div>
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And a photo to show what it will look like under a corset:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOllBx4l6w0/U-Bdn5I0JwI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/QRCNYSmDwDs/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_w+corset.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="victorian, bustle pad, leftleg, cosplay, tutorial, instructions, diy" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOllBx4l6w0/U-Bdn5I0JwI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/QRCNYSmDwDs/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_w+corset.JPG" height="320" title="tulle bustle skirt, steampunk" width="240" /></a></div>
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I made this to go under another bustle skirt to give it some extra poof at the back. But also looks quite good by itself. Also looks pretty good for a small kids skirt too!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WcNpp-AA3ls/U-CEEGMnobI/AAAAAAAAA10/8fz2muwxQlQ/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_on+Lilly.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WcNpp-AA3ls/U-CEEGMnobI/AAAAAAAAA10/8fz2muwxQlQ/s1600/purple+tulle+bustle_on+Lilly.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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DETAILS:<br />
There are 5 layers of tulle. Each one about 36-40" long, either gathered or pleated down to onto a waist band about 14" long. I would recommend big pleats - easier to do than gathering (less steps) - and do rough gathers, don't bother measuring, just go by eye. Maybe pleat one layer one way, the next layer the oppposite way, and repeat. (If I do another I will do it that way.)<br />
The layers are 14", 12", 10", 8" and 6" wide (bottom to top), with the bottom corners cut on a smooth curve.<br />
To make up, add tape over bottom edge to all layers first (could use lace instead). I used some fabric strip I picked up somewhere very cheaply, it wasn't cut on the bias, so it didn't go around the curves perfectly. But we are after the effect here (and I wanted cheap too), so you would never know if I didn't tell you, unless you looked really closely!<br />
Then gather / pleat the layers, one by one, onto a strip that is about 15" wide. I found it easier to pin the first 3 layers and stitch these down. Then pin the next two layers and stitch again.<br />
Add this onto a tape/band for the waist. I have added it onto a long strip so I can tie it at the front. But you could make a waist band that is the right size for you and add to that. When stitching the band on sandwich the tulle between the waist band and the original 15" strip. This gives a neater finish (and less scratchy if it happens to be against your skin).<br />
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And here's a pdf summary of the instructions for you to make your own! <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bx48AvtjLmC8bVl6UGhlcjNxNkU/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">INSTRUCTIONS HERE</a><br />
<br />Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-54452621620858946782014-07-29T21:50:00.000-07:002014-07-29T21:50:22.998-07:00Some art works for the wall - in yarn!It's been a long time since I've posted anything on my blog. So here I am to break the silence with something I am really proud of, and hope you love it too.<br />
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"Cell Structure" - crochet cotton and resin - 250 x 600mm<br />
I wanted to do something with resin for this project. And I was inspired by microscopic photos of cell structures. This took a little experimenting. My first attempt I didn't like, and put down somewhere. A few weeks later I rediscovered it and decided it did have potential. This is the end result.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5sNyWsXh8bI/U9h2fOPia9I/AAAAAAAAA0s/75CaYQ46ujI/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_CELL+STRUCTURE1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5sNyWsXh8bI/U9h2fOPia9I/AAAAAAAAA0s/75CaYQ46ujI/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_CELL+STRUCTURE1.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4-a20bw053k/U9h2g4TTUKI/AAAAAAAAA00/QGLOjS0i9_M/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_CELL+STRUCTURE2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4-a20bw053k/U9h2g4TTUKI/AAAAAAAAA00/QGLOjS0i9_M/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_CELL+STRUCTURE2.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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"Colony in Red" - mixed yarns, crochet, on plywood - 340 x 1000mm<br />
You may remember "<a href="http://leftlegdesigns.blogspot.com.au/2012/11/red-barnacles-free-form-crochet.html" target="_blank">red barnacles</a>" which was done in a reclaimed frame. I received many comments about the frame. So this time I decided to try them in an organic shape. I was inspired here by barnacle shells crammed into a crack at sea side rock pools.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78oj9W4b13c/U9h2oL4CJII/AAAAAAAAA1E/1NYLiiwqofQ/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_COLONY2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78oj9W4b13c/U9h2oL4CJII/AAAAAAAAA1E/1NYLiiwqofQ/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_COLONY2.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qADIeSCZ85o/U9h2i84f_8I/AAAAAAAAA08/BFu9_0PpPP8/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_COLONY1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qADIeSCZ85o/U9h2i84f_8I/AAAAAAAAA08/BFu9_0PpPP8/s1600/SELBY_ELANYA_COLONY1.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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I have entered both of these into the NSW arts and crafts society's 2014 Emerging Artist - Craft Award (<a href="http://www.artsandcraftsnsw.com.au/award.htm" target="_blank">find here</a>). Good luck to anyone else that enters!<br />
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Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-17784540342848429402013-10-30T00:37:00.000-07:002013-10-30T00:37:41.437-07:00Kids Drawing on a Cushion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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About 2 months ago a facebook friend (old high school friend) changed his profile picture to a drawing of himself, done by his young daughter. I loved the drawing. Having young kids, I also love the evolution in kid drawings - a person is just a big head to start with. Thought it was awesome. So I had to do this...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eRiLrqxxQEs/UnC1Hz6S0rI/AAAAAAAAAxM/AbPFDKlCWdg/s1600/child+drawing_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eRiLrqxxQEs/UnC1Hz6S0rI/AAAAAAAAAxM/AbPFDKlCWdg/s1600/child+drawing_01.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LiBKffEUj2s/UnC1Go9ArpI/AAAAAAAAAxE/lhWO15jjjGw/s1600/child+drawing_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LiBKffEUj2s/UnC1Go9ArpI/AAAAAAAAAxE/lhWO15jjjGw/s1600/child+drawing_02.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MIFOQsQkwW8/UnC1IaB_FsI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/MS8xCwk1AoE/s1600/child+drawing_03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MIFOQsQkwW8/UnC1IaB_FsI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/MS8xCwk1AoE/s1600/child+drawing_03.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've stitched the picture, just with ordinary sewing thread onto some fabric and made that a cushion cover. A nice big cushion cover - 20" x 20" (50cm x 50cm). Maybe I should have ironed it a little better before taking a photo... I'm not a fan of the iron though, so this will do!<br />
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Hope my friend and his family love it too!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-10139731839040115702013-06-29T17:14:00.001-07:002013-06-29T17:14:42.197-07:00More Crocheted Pot HoldersI've been a bit flu-y, so while resting on the lounge I've crocheted a few more pot holders:<br />
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1.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9xbTH21IZf4/Uc9zsq7PveI/AAAAAAAAAvI/JCOyuDZcPhc/s1600/pot+holder_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9xbTH21IZf4/Uc9zsq7PveI/AAAAAAAAAvI/JCOyuDZcPhc/s200/pot+holder_6.jpg" width="200" /></a>2.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hC8dp5vnws4/Uc9ztI7EnKI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/cAzJw4jD73I/s1600/pot+holder_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hC8dp5vnws4/Uc9ztI7EnKI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/cAzJw4jD73I/s200/pot+holder_7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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3.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zk65-UWo0VQ/Uc9zyZYR4GI/AAAAAAAAAvc/2Drh_FuTt4c/s1600/pot+holder_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zk65-UWo0VQ/Uc9zyZYR4GI/AAAAAAAAAvc/2Drh_FuTt4c/s200/pot+holder_8.jpg" width="200" /></a>4.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3xBfIfgHvfE/Uc9zz-hrO6I/AAAAAAAAAvk/jSS0938bh6U/s1600/pot+holder_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3xBfIfgHvfE/Uc9zz-hrO6I/AAAAAAAAAvk/jSS0938bh6U/s200/pot+holder_9.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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5.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cqQhB5dZX1E/Uc9zsJLMtWI/AAAAAAAAAvE/RPn7Eb1nl6E/s1600/pot+holder_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cqQhB5dZX1E/Uc9zsJLMtWI/AAAAAAAAAvE/RPn7Eb1nl6E/s200/pot+holder_10.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<ol>
<li>This is just single crochet, but using 3 strands (blue, green, grey). Really liked how this looked (<a href="http://chucksforchancho.com/2012/09/01/chunky-crochet-baby-blanket-tutorial/">http://chucksforchancho.com/2012/09/01/chunky-crochet-baby-blanket-tutorial/</a>), so basically got the idea from her.</li>
<li>Just crocheted some strips. Each strip was 2 rows of Trebles/Double (depending where you're from). Then crochet a scallop edge the join them all together.</li>
<li>I thought this stitch was called 'jumping stripes', but now I can't find it!</li>
<li>This stitch (<a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/done-a-jiffy-baby-blanket-to-crochet">http://www.examiner.com/article/done-a-jiffy-baby-blanket-to-crochet</a>) I really loved the subtle pattern. Just as easy, and probably just a little quicker that #1 above. Again used three strands and a larger hook.</li>
<li>The crochet lattice stitch I found here: <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4623513_crochet-honeycomb-lattice-stitch-pattern.html">http://www.ehow.com/how_4623513_crochet-honeycomb-lattice-stitch-pattern.html</a></li>
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Pot holders are a great way of testing a pattern. It doesn't take long to work up, you get to see enough of the pattern to know if you like it for a bigger project. And if your test piece it a bit too thin, you can always do a second (try another stitch of course) and stitch them together for a nice thick pot holder or pot stand.</div>
Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-83518689514565320072013-06-24T19:52:00.002-07:002013-06-24T19:52:44.263-07:00Crochet pot holder pattern review<div>
I have been trying out some crochet pot holder and/or pot stand patterns (as well as making up my own of course!</div>
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1.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAApQU7t4FE/Ucj9CdGJAnI/AAAAAAAAAuY/my_jcRGzQlM/s1600/pot+holder_1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAApQU7t4FE/Ucj9CdGJAnI/AAAAAAAAAuY/my_jcRGzQlM/s200/pot+holder_1a.jpg" width="200" /></a> 2.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_t1uYgUA9cY/Ucj9CARaw8I/AAAAAAAAAuU/23Ip74lICkA/s1600/pot+holder_2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_t1uYgUA9cY/Ucj9CARaw8I/AAAAAAAAAuU/23Ip74lICkA/s200/pot+holder_2a.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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3.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E5BmmE9_czk/Ucj9CQ1hOlI/AAAAAAAAAuc/BpDHwzIp1Qo/s1600/pot+holder_3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E5BmmE9_czk/Ucj9CQ1hOlI/AAAAAAAAAuc/BpDHwzIp1Qo/s200/pot+holder_3a.jpg" width="200" /></a> 4.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iMT802MUnwQ/Ucj9HlrDeiI/AAAAAAAAAus/JR1wpuAvQ44/s1600/pot+holder_5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iMT802MUnwQ/Ucj9HlrDeiI/AAAAAAAAAus/JR1wpuAvQ44/s200/pot+holder_5a.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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5.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cbZmFIfaFLw/Ucj9IXwA4tI/AAAAAAAAAu0/-7KTZXUFP3g/s1600/pot+holder_4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cbZmFIfaFLw/Ucj9IXwA4tI/AAAAAAAAAu0/-7KTZXUFP3g/s320/pot+holder_4a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The patterns I used are as follows:<br />
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<li> <a href="http://olavas.blogspot.com.au/2009/08/oppskrift-pa-fargesterk-grytelapp.html">http://olavas.blogspot.com.au/2009/08/oppskrift-pa-fargesterk-grytelapp.html</a> This pattern in is German (I think). You could use a translator - look in the comments, there are a few links to translators there. But I found the photos were enough for me. This pattern sat pretty flat, but I did press it to make it look better. This is only a single layer (as opposed to #3 below) but you could easily double it up if you wanted to.</li>
<li><a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/blooming-flower-cushion.html">http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/blooming-flower-cushion.html</a> I know this says it's a cushion, but if you only do to the size you want, why not make it a pot holder? The pattern is very easy to follow, she has great photos, and because you crochet each round of petals as you go, you can make it as big or small as you want. Furthermore, the pattern works really well (for me anyway). The circle sat beautifully flat.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/flower-potholders">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/flower-potholders</a> I think there are quite a few of these type of pot holder patterns around. I'm pretty sure this is the one I used for this. (NB. you need to be a member of ravelry to see this, but it's free, and there are heaps of free patterns too.) This didn't see too flat - I think I will try it again, but with a bigger hook, that might fix the problem. This is doubled, so it is nice and thick. It was a little tricky doing the finishing of the petals down the center, but the gap to do this in is quite small (the gap for #1 is much bigger, and therefore easier).</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/KnitterlyThings/the-wool-eater-blanket">http://www.ravelry.com/projects/KnitterlyThings/the-wool-eater-blanket</a> Another one from ravelry. But you can also get it from the creators website here: <a href="http://sarahlondon.wordpress.com/2009/08/25/wool-eater-instructions/">http://sarahlondon.wordpress.com/2009/08/25/wool-eater-instructions/</a> Great instructions and photos. She shows you the first 2 rows, you can add as many as you want! Sarah suggests it may be more decorative than functional because of it isn't really thick. But I made this one first, and have been using it for a day or two and it's not too bad. I might make another one using two or 3 strands, and a bigger hook - that might thicken it up.</li>
<li>This is just based on my rainbow beanie. I had my basket with all my yarns in there ready to go, so I gave it a go. Love how it turned out. The 'puffs' add a good thickness. Anyone what me to try and write out the pattern?</li>
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So thanks for having a look, and thanks to those people took the time to take the photos, and write the instructions, and publish on their blogs!</div>
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I'm sure there will be more of these to come! I hope to cover a section of wall in the ICAN@7 gallery with pot holders soon.</div>
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<br />Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-84714285741087113222013-06-23T19:47:00.001-07:002013-06-23T19:47:16.387-07:00One Pot Mince & Pasta BakeThis is how easy it is to cook with Chef's Toolbox equipment. Here is a mince and pasta bake that I did the other night, step by step:<br />
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Prepare the Vegies you and and Chop (for disguising purposes, I chopped mine finely):<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8EonYApwPUE/Ucewcn-_Z_I/AAAAAAAAAtE/Zbh2E23PYL0/s1600/pasta+bake_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8EonYApwPUE/Ucewcn-_Z_I/AAAAAAAAAtE/Zbh2E23PYL0/s200/pasta+bake_1.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woF67WWc7hY/UcewqW3W44I/AAAAAAAAAtM/wqIhtEQOCwg/s1600/pasta+bake_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woF67WWc7hY/UcewqW3W44I/AAAAAAAAAtM/wqIhtEQOCwg/s200/pasta+bake_2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Brown the mince:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tJtE4bYtSxA/UcexNVzxKrI/AAAAAAAAAtc/hQHbxkXkVAY/s1600/pasta+bake_3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tJtE4bYtSxA/UcexNVzxKrI/AAAAAAAAAtc/hQHbxkXkVAY/s320/pasta+bake_3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Then add the vegies and cook for a bit:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iwKUpETPB0c/UcexM6pwzwI/AAAAAAAAAtU/0KY0BDmSJF0/s1600/pasta+bake_4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iwKUpETPB0c/UcexM6pwzwI/AAAAAAAAAtU/0KY0BDmSJF0/s320/pasta+bake_4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next add some tomatoes and any other flavouring you like, let this cook (simmer) for maybe 20mins:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pWrfy6htCP4/UcextCFXqDI/AAAAAAAAAt0/Qk7baHPW_Qc/s1600/pasta+bake_5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pWrfy6htCP4/UcextCFXqDI/AAAAAAAAAt0/Qk7baHPW_Qc/s320/pasta+bake_5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Add some cooked pasta, and stir it in:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpBTYHaLjl4/UcextA4sWTI/AAAAAAAAAts/5UbM0ht0gq0/s1600/pasta+bake_6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpBTYHaLjl4/UcextA4sWTI/AAAAAAAAAts/5UbM0ht0gq0/s320/pasta+bake_6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sprinkle with cheese, and put straight in the oven:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cqlxbTNxXfw/Ucexs0CnstI/AAAAAAAAAto/tFc6CXPQFeI/s1600/pasta+bake_7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cqlxbTNxXfw/Ucexs0CnstI/AAAAAAAAAto/tFc6CXPQFeI/s320/pasta+bake_7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
And here's your wonderful meal!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4OB4uBVWWc0/UcexwYWJr4I/AAAAAAAAAuA/PxGYB5xl3k0/s1600/pasta+bake_8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4OB4uBVWWc0/UcexwYWJr4I/AAAAAAAAAuA/PxGYB5xl3k0/s320/pasta+bake_8.JPG" title="Saute pan, one pot pasta bake" width="320" /></a></div>
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Best thing is that you have only used one pot for the pasta, and the saute pan. Clean up is a cinch with the non-stick surface (guaranteed for 10yrs too!). Usually for this type of meal you would be using the pot for the pasta, a frying pan for the mince and sauce, and a casserole dish that takes forever to clean because the cheese has stuck to the side!</div>
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<br />Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-34371157018840697322013-06-23T19:13:00.003-07:002013-06-23T19:13:55.880-07:00DIY Studded Bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So here's my 'before' bag:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GwcfRqPI-R0/UcepZi3-91I/AAAAAAAAAss/UTZWLhFLfKk/s1600/stud+bag+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GwcfRqPI-R0/UcepZi3-91I/AAAAAAAAAss/UTZWLhFLfKk/s320/stud+bag+before.jpg" title="Stud bag DIY before" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's just a $25 bag from Trade Secret. Liked the colour. Kind of liked the little bit of stud work on the end, but I wanted more. So I added my own! Here's the 'after':</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wxuFrykjhdw/Ucepal7fVuI/AAAAAAAAAs4/TqTkoVdXPwU/s1600/stud+bag+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wxuFrykjhdw/Ucepal7fVuI/AAAAAAAAAs4/TqTkoVdXPwU/s320/stud+bag+after.jpg" title="Stud bag DIY after" width="320" /></a></div>
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These studs were easy to add. They are the 'prong' type studs. On the back they have 4 prongs. You poke the prongs into the fabric and bend the prongs over. It's easy enough to do with just your fingers. (Although my fingers were a little sore the next morning after all of these!) And if your careful enough, you can bend the prongs in without catching the lining, so it looks like it was made like this! (The studs were under $10 I think, for a box of 100 - from ebay.)Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-64535167444508255092013-06-23T18:48:00.000-07:002013-06-23T18:56:38.223-07:00Rainbow Beanie & CoolerWell I know I haven't been around much lately, but I have some time for a bit of a catch up, so here we go!<br />
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Firstly, I've started crocheting some coolers, which are in the ICAN@7 Gallery. Lovely Courtney from the Red Kitchen made a request - she wanted a rainbow cooler, with a matching beanie. So this is what I came up with:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4KYJQytV7Jw/UcekAru-iXI/AAAAAAAAAsM/WnlzEDtrLeY/s1600/rainbow+beanie_inst.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4KYJQytV7Jw/UcekAru-iXI/AAAAAAAAAsM/WnlzEDtrLeY/s320/rainbow+beanie_inst.jpg" title="Rainbow beanie and cooler, crochet" width="240" /></a></div>
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Don't you just LOVE the texture of the beanie and the cooler?!<br />
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I've done a puff stitch, and spiraled the 6 colours around (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple). The puff stitch I used is: 4xTR in stitch, remove loop from hook, insert hook at beginning of 1st st, pick loop back up and pull through. I started both with a magic ring, with 2 TR of each colour (ie 12TR in the magic ring). By the way, the coolers are made for the 'girly' drinks, like Cruizers, which are smaller than a standard can.<br />
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Oh, and here's a 'in progress' shot of the cooler:<br />
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Notice that I am working with all colours at once? Center pull yarns are great for this - stand all your yarns together in a basket, so all the "center pulls" are free to come out the top.Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-76521558080853278972012-11-24T02:17:00.001-08:002012-11-24T02:17:38.605-08:00Red Barnacles - free form crochetYes, I know I have been slack in my blogging for the last couple of months, but I haven't been slack in my making. I am making a conscious effort to catch up on my blogging at the moment. So here is my "Red Barnacles".<br />
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There are about 15 different reds, and well over 200 'barnacles'. They are all done in SC (single crochet), with various sizes. No pattern was followed, I made them up as I went. For about 3 months there was always a ball of red yarn and a crochet hook in my handbag! I really love the texture this creates.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NN2i29N1ASA/ULCcEg6v3fI/AAAAAAAAArI/lGSKktFX5Gk/s1600/crochet_red+barnacles_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NN2i29N1ASA/ULCcEg6v3fI/AAAAAAAAArI/lGSKktFX5Gk/s1600/crochet_red+barnacles_1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is currently hanging in the ICAN@7 gallery. I'm pretty sure it will end up in my lounge room when it's finished - unless, someone likes this more than me (is that really possible?!).Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-64448276275844426842012-11-23T04:02:00.001-08:002012-11-23T04:02:28.377-08:00Wearable Art - Video StarI entered the Wearable Art Showcase this year, held at Port Kembla. (<a href="http://www.facebook.com/RedPointWearableArtShowcase?fref=ts" target="_blank">Red Point Wearable Art Showcase</a>)<br />
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My idea developed over a long time (just ask my husband - I'm sure he will tell you!). I started off weaving video tape to see what it looked like. Then I got a bit stuck on how to get the weaving off the cardboard I wove it around!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-18Hew9JClmA/UK9iJKL1xKI/AAAAAAAAAq4/BNuH1h525zM/s1600/video+tape+dress_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-18Hew9JClmA/UK9iJKL1xKI/AAAAAAAAAq4/BNuH1h525zM/s1600/video+tape+dress_a.jpg" height="320" width="290" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xGD2S98H1yw/UK9gvGS7uAI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/59NYBL4j2ms/s1600/video+star_show_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xGD2S98H1yw/UK9gvGS7uAI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/59NYBL4j2ms/s1600/video+star_show_small.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a></div>
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The hole dress is made from discarded video tape. And yes it sparkles!<br />
The top of the dress is knitted video tape, the skirt is woven, and the train is crocheted (it's about 2m long!). There is no lining. There is just some elastic around the top & bottom edges of the knitting. The necklace is a band of crochet video tape, and the stretched tape tied onto it (when pulled the right way, the video tape curls in on itself, like a strip of jersey fabric, and becomes stiff enough to hold it's own weight).<br />
Here are some detail photos:<br />
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I'm very happy to say that I won the Recycled section and the Peoples Choice awards!!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-52356717898625619222012-11-23T03:30:00.000-08:002012-11-23T03:30:37.977-08:00Stove top Scones - Chef's Toolbox Saute Pan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Na73I-fMaIQ/UH6KWcFQzbI/AAAAAAAAApg/rMeGs586cmY/s1600/stove+top+scones_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Na73I-fMaIQ/UH6KWcFQzbI/AAAAAAAAApg/rMeGs586cmY/s320/stove+top+scones_01.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hr4lYRQjdHA/UH6KY5JpQ9I/AAAAAAAAApo/MAzpvqslQr8/s1600/stove+top+scones_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hr4lYRQjdHA/UH6KY5JpQ9I/AAAAAAAAApo/MAzpvqslQr8/s320/stove+top+scones_02.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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And here is my next trial - lemonade scones. But I didn't bake them in the oven, I cooked them on the stove top - 7min with the vent closed, 5 min with the vent open. These were so light and tasty. I really love the versatility of the Chef's toolbox Como Advanced range. And how easily the pans clean out!!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-10882547535675344572012-10-17T03:34:00.002-07:002012-11-23T03:31:11.631-08:00Stove Top Cake - Chefs Toolbox Saute Pan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuqoOLOTM1I/UH6GqoSU3XI/AAAAAAAAApA/J3kvVjiMxpQ/s1600/stove+top+cake_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuqoOLOTM1I/UH6GqoSU3XI/AAAAAAAAApA/J3kvVjiMxpQ/s1600/stove+top+cake_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuqoOLOTM1I/UH6GqoSU3XI/AAAAAAAAApA/J3kvVjiMxpQ/s320/stove+top+cake_01.JPG" height="180" title="Stove top cake using the Chef's Toolbox Saute Pan (28cm)" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p0so-wjPnH4/UH6Gwzn5PzI/AAAAAAAAApQ/LJ96q4A1ro8/s1600/stove+top+cake_03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p0so-wjPnH4/UH6Gwzn5PzI/AAAAAAAAApQ/LJ96q4A1ro8/s320/stove+top+cake_03.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKfg5eOTA30/UH6Gt0VrgQI/AAAAAAAAApI/ERpRCA52m0U/s1600/stove+top+cake_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="non-stick, induction, gas, electric, stove or oven" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKfg5eOTA30/UH6Gt0VrgQI/AAAAAAAAApI/ERpRCA52m0U/s320/stove+top+cake_02.JPG" height="180" title="Chef's Toolbox 28cm Saute pan" width="320" /></a></div>
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Excuse my absence lately, I've been somewhat busy. Hopefully I can make it up a bit!<br />
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So I tested a stove top cake using the Chef's Toolbox Saute Pan. This is a HUGE cake!! And just as delicious & lovely and moist. Since making this at home I have done it while camping! (How awesome, and flexible are these cooking pans!!) The second photo shows the Chef's Toolbox bread knife - great for cutting cakes too. The last photo shows the the pan, straight after the cake has been removed, before cleaning - the non-stick surface is really good!<br />
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Keep watching - there is more to come!Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-26650721907290244392012-06-27T05:52:00.000-07:002012-06-27T06:00:56.781-07:00Design your own tea cozy tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJktpRB615I/T-r9whifdqI/AAAAAAAAAoY/gbjqVgpnskE/s1600/tea+cosy+art_04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJktpRB615I/T-r9whifdqI/AAAAAAAAAoY/gbjqVgpnskE/s320/tea+cosy+art_04.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are heaps of patterns out there for a plain tea cozy - admittedly more so knitted than crocheted - choose one of these for your base. Basically your are going to make two squares/rectangles that are the height of the teapot from the base to the top of the handle, and the width big enough to go around the teapot when joined together. Then join the two square together and knit/crochet in the round, decreasing to fit over the lid nicely. Here's my naked tea pot (a small 2 cup cheapy at $5), and crocheted base (charcoal):<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmV-ZAVWkmw/T-r9tjzDyNI/AAAAAAAAAoA/1pvvrQBkgPY/s1600/tea+cosy+art_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmV-ZAVWkmw/T-r9tjzDyNI/AAAAAAAAAoA/1pvvrQBkgPY/s200/tea+cosy+art_01.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8opvp-R9Cs/T-r9urnVptI/AAAAAAAAAoI/CC-FAUaik54/s1600/tea+cosy+art_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8opvp-R9Cs/T-r9urnVptI/AAAAAAAAAoI/CC-FAUaik54/s200/tea+cosy+art_02.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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I then added a 'frill' to the handle end. To do this chain a length that is as long as the opening of the handle (up the side + across the top + down the other side). Turn, ch1, and 2sc (or dc) in each chain, turn again at the end and 2sc in each stitch again. To make it more ruffly do more sc per chain/stitch. To make a less full ruffle, do less sc in each stitch (maybe increase only every 2nd stitch).:<br />
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Now add some fun texture! Here I have done some barnacle like shapes. Use a magic ring to start the center of each shape - maybe 15 to 25sc in the magic ring. Then working in rounds sc in each stitch. In the first few rounds you could increase 3 to 6 stitches per round to give a more 'pointy' barnacle. Make them all different - have fun - don't stress them, just make it up as you go! So here is my final tea cosy! A little Loani Prior like, but definitely my own style!<br />
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<br />Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-27245832074097979052012-03-20T18:37:00.000-07:002012-03-20T18:37:38.830-07:00Customised Play Tent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9AGceVJ4f5s/T2kv51wKrSI/AAAAAAAAAn4/opbxb488J-o/s1600/play+tent_customised_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9AGceVJ4f5s/T2kv51wKrSI/AAAAAAAAAn4/opbxb488J-o/s320/play+tent_customised_02.JPG" width="212" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzcy_vkKsBE/T2kv4hX2AQI/AAAAAAAAAnw/9yDcK7DIF6U/s1600/play+tent_customised_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzcy_vkKsBE/T2kv4hX2AQI/AAAAAAAAAnw/9yDcK7DIF6U/s320/play+tent_customised_01.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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Here is a tent that I made for someone who ordered it at the ICAN gallery / shop (at Redpoint artspaces in Port Kembla) - just finished it this morning, and I am really happy with how it turned out!<br />
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The customer like the example I have at the shop also with hexagons, but wanted a retro boy feel to it. I stuck mainly with the blues and oranges - some great retro reprint fabrics were used.Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-45043161218212715192012-02-12T15:31:00.001-08:002012-02-12T15:31:39.784-08:00A New Dress For Me - Retro Style - Simplicity #7888<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aC-IpPfoMeE/TzhIS0kCQbI/AAAAAAAAAnY/gA1DlzFRv0k/s1600/wrap+dress_pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aC-IpPfoMeE/TzhIS0kCQbI/AAAAAAAAAnY/gA1DlzFRv0k/s320/wrap+dress_pattern.jpg" width="202" /></a></div>
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This is the pattern I used - I found it on ebay. It is a very easy pattern. There is the front (cut twice), the tie (cut twice), back bodice (cut once), back skirt (cut twice), a collar (cut twice), there is also a pocket you can add, and the usual facings around the front and neck.<br />
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I constructed mine a little different to the instructions, using more modern methods, but the outcome would look the same. And instead of putting a hook & eye for the inside of the wrap, I just added a small tie to the side seam. It took me two nights (after the kids were in bed!). And to be honest I only straight stitched the seams (no overlocking - because Troy got to my overlocker and de-threaded the whole thing and I couldn't be bothered fixing that on the weekend; and no zigzag - quick results are good!). The seam allowances on these older patterns is quite large (1.5cm), and I doubt this fabric would fray that much anyway.<br />
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The below photos are how it turned out, quite happy really! I'm pretty sure I will make this again. One variation I would make next is a rolled collar.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gTIkpqYRH8/TzhImRjl6FI/AAAAAAAAAng/cH_TzYMKeZQ/s1600/wrap+dress_03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gTIkpqYRH8/TzhImRjl6FI/AAAAAAAAAng/cH_TzYMKeZQ/s320/wrap+dress_03.JPG" width="212" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QVTPrxy0jFQ/TzhIn2_KozI/AAAAAAAAAno/AGC3nBKEWzE/s1600/wrap+dress_04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QVTPrxy0jFQ/TzhIn2_KozI/AAAAAAAAAno/AGC3nBKEWzE/s320/wrap+dress_04.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-88635522774332332452012-01-25T14:35:00.000-08:002012-01-25T14:35:03.511-08:00Easy Lace Skirt Free Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1mWTLOOGX5A/TyCAES-nWWI/AAAAAAAAAnA/jzbu9FmXnes/s1600/easy+lace+skirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1mWTLOOGX5A/TyCAES-nWWI/AAAAAAAAAnA/jzbu9FmXnes/s320/easy+lace+skirt.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is so easy it takes under an hour to whip up!</div>
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<li>Find cheap skirt - I got a stretch knit skirt from Supre for $10</li>
<li>Find lace to attach - mine is a lace trim from an old curtain</li>
<li>Work out how many layers of lace you need. Overlap the lace by a bit so that you don't see any stitching - I only needed 2 layers, and overlapped mine by about 1.5"</li>
<li>Work out how long you need each circle of lace. If it's a non-stretchy skirt you can just measure width of the skirt, double it, and add 1" for a seam. If it's a stretchy skirt you may want to make your lace circle bigger and stretch the skirt as you stitch it on - check how much your skirt stretches when you walk. (Note - if your lace is quite stiff, it will probably not hang nicely if you have to stretch your skirt too much when sewing) - my lace circles were only 4" or 5" bigger than the skirt.</li>
<li>Sew the seam for each lace circle, and press seams open.</li>
<li>Attach the lace circles to the skirt. The bottom row should be attached so the lace is longer than the skirt. The top row should be attached just below the waist band. For a non stretchy skirt you can use straight or zig-zag stitch. For a stretchy skirt use a wide zig-zag stitch. Quarter the lace circle and the skirt, pin together and stitch.</li>
<li>Wear with pride! </li>
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<br />Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6336460739712192973.post-22714748963591913942012-01-23T23:49:00.000-08:002012-01-23T23:49:01.483-08:00Funny FacesHere are just a few funny faces I have snapped over our Christmas and New Years break ...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cousins:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sVAoz7LMvs/Tx4zlWVVVBI/AAAAAAAAAmI/dEycdrTNjCc/s1600/funny+faces_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sVAoz7LMvs/Tx4zlWVVVBI/AAAAAAAAAmI/dEycdrTNjCc/s320/funny+faces_01.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZJz2wrfg20/Tx4zmrevyKI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/b9HBhUIff6w/s1600/funny+faces_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZJz2wrfg20/Tx4zmrevyKI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/b9HBhUIff6w/s320/funny+faces_02.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Troy at Christmas:<br />
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Troy's first birthday - love chocolate cake mum!:<br />
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Big sister Lilly brushing Troy's hair; Troy about to fall asleep!:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bykxISx-wUE/Tx4zqnncj-I/AAAAAAAAAmw/G557Tlq7qgA/s1600/funny+faces_06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bykxISx-wUE/Tx4zqnncj-I/AAAAAAAAAmw/G557Tlq7qgA/s320/funny+faces_06.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>Leftleg Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09050369794854680543noreply@blogger.com0