We have become a household of tea drinkers. With the colder weather, the teens have been joining me in a cup of tea and we are sampling lots of new blends and flavours. I had a request to make a Tea-Rex Mug, so that has been my quick craft this week. … [Read more...]
Ways with Fresh Mint
We have a flourishing mint plant near our clothesline. It doesn't get much attention, just a bit of water now and then but it always gives us a good supply of fresh mint. What we love about mint is that it has a fresh, aromatic, sweet flavour. It is … [Read more...]
Winner of Piper Misses Pattern Giveaway
Thanks to everyone who entered our recent giveaway to win the Piper Misses instant download pattern from Violette Field Threads. Congratulations to the three lucky winners - Elizabeth C, Jessica W and Susan B. We have sent you all an … [Read more...]
Lemon Bundt Cake
We are very lucky to have a friend with a few citrus trees who gave us a bag of lemons, limes, and mandarins. You know what they say - "when life gives you lemons" - bake a cake (or something like that ). We love using lemons in our baking - they … [Read more...]
Violette Field Threads – Piper Misses Pattern Giveaway
Violette Field Threads have recently released their popular Piper sewing pattern sized for women. The Piper Misses can be made as a romantic dress or stylish top and has a number of variations which make for a versatile pattern. The lovely feature of … [Read more...]
Men’s Shoe Bag
The man of the house travels occasionally for business. I have been meaning to make him some drawstring shoe bags to keep his shoes separated from the rest of his clothing within his suitcase. Last week when I saw him pack his shoes into a plastic … [Read more...]
Almond and Cardamom Pound Cake
Cardamom is the world's third most expensive spice, after saffron and vanilla. It has a distinctive taste and aroma and it is used in some Nordic baking recipes, Indian sweets, and Middle Eastern sweet dishes, as well as a flavouring in tea and … [Read more...]
Cross Pillow
Sometimes simple design features work best and it really lets the fabric shine. I have been playing around with some patchwork pillow designs this week, but in the end decided to go with a simple appliquéd Swiss cross or plus symbol. … [Read more...]
Books for Bakers and Cooks
Are you still trying to think of the perfect gift for Mum for Mother's Day (or need a hint to drop to your family)? How about a lovely baking or cook book? Some beautiful volumes have been sent to us recently to review. There are so many lovely new … [Read more...]
Anzac Biscuits
Last week we celebrated Anzac Day and Sarah baked a big batch of Anzac Biscuits. Anzac biscuits were originally baked to send to our soldiers in World War One. They had to pack well and keep during the long voyage to the front line so were made … [Read more...]
Make Your Own Linen Napkins
Beautiful cloth or linen napkins add a touch of luxury to your table. It is the little things in life and sweet little touches that can make an occasion feel special. Linen napkins are very easy to sew and are a great beginner sewing project. All you … [Read more...]
Easy Apple Tart
If you are after a quick dessert or afternoon tea treat, you can't go past this easy apple tart. Apples are in season at the moment and are cheap and plentiful. This apple tart is easy to make using ready made shortcrust pastry sheets. It is filled … [Read more...]
