tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68456191878748791092012-01-30T12:29:16.720ZMaking cards, sewing, knitting, drawing, painting, decorating, taking pictures, baking, cooking, dreaming, bubbles, polka dots, fresh coffee, buttered toast, gardening, my cats, my cottage, my bicycle .... a glass of red wine on a winters' evening in front of a roaring fire .... these are a few of my favourite things and this is where I share them with you.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.comBlogger5361100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-16845524817008603932012-01-26T10:37:00.000Z2012-01-26T10:37:00.292Z

I started the week with a plan to make a dress inspired by a few metres of gingham I found in my very large "to do something with" pile! I then went online and started pinning and several hours later (thanks to pinterest) I was inspired by the dresses below which led to my sketches above and hopefully by the end of the week I'll be showing you (maybe even modelling) my new dress! How is your

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-65545025722640622982012-01-25T20:37:00.000Z2012-01-25T20:37:48.949Z

I've been working away from home a lot lately and drinking lots of take out coffee in yucky plastic or cardboard cups.  If you follow my blog you'll know how fussy I am - I even ask for a cup when I'm out ! So ... on my way home the other day I stopped off at Avoca and bought myself this lovely cup and saucer. Let me tell you the coffee was good, reeeeealy good :o)  Maybe that was to do with

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-77033149767245056212012-01-19T09:19:00.003Z2012-01-19T22:28:30.618Z

I just had to share with you this lovely blog I just found by-ilona.blogspot.com it's full of really cute crochet and super cute makeovers. So in LOVE with this caravan that she made !! Have you found any pretty blogs lately?  Feel free to share ... 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-37546947891926679602012-01-18T20:04:00.000Z2012-01-18T20:04:30.546Z

I know my posts have been few and far between but there's lots going on in the background in my little cottage.  Promise to share all with you soon! I've been working on quite a few commissions over the past few weeks but unfortunately I can't share most of them with you but here's a few I can share ... The cushion and tea cosy set below is made of hessian and gingham .. my new favourite

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-13245552177115884952012-01-17T22:01:00.000Z2012-01-17T22:01:25.313Z

How pretty are these jam jar candles? You can find details on how to make them here. On a totally differet matter ... Is anyone out there on wordpress?  I'm thinking about moving over but not sure, I'm a bit of a blogger lover :O)   Having a big re-jig at the mo and also wondering about my website?  Do I keep it or leave it??  Does anyone use websites anymore?It's so much updating - blog/

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-55474468483749904952012-01-13T16:57:00.000Z2012-01-13T16:57:55.716Z

As lots of you know my cottage is called "An Teach Ban" which is Irish for "The White House".  As I've said before, this is nothing to do with politics but more to do with the fact that I seem to paint almost everything I bring into the house white! However, over the past few years there seems to be more colour creeping in, mostly pink, which surprises me as I never really liked pink but it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-27090678190513591542012-01-10T23:42:00.000Z2012-01-10T23:42:43.103Z

Summer is on the way .... well the Greengate Summer catalogue is out so it can't be that far away :O)   I can't say I was jumping head over heels when I opened it but maybe that's because I've seen so much of it in blogland in the last couple of years.  However, despite that it's still really pretty to look through.  You can see the full catalogue here and all the images below are from that

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-66349237613180535932012-01-06T15:39:00.000Z2012-01-06T15:39:36.195Z

Sound familiar?  I think a vison board might just be for you. If you don't know where to start how about coming along to one of my Vision Board workshops commencing Wednesday 11th January 7-9pmorWednesday 18th January 7-9pm As the New Year approaches lots of us start thinking about New Year Resolutions. We all have dreams and/or visions for what we want in the New Year whether that is a new

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-11276420263956644322012-01-05T19:43:00.000Z2012-01-05T19:43:13.227Z

source It's my little blog's birthday today Happy Birthday michellemadethis.blogspot.com :O) 4 years old today! Wow!  Where did that time go? I started this blog in New York with dreams of living in my cottage in Ireland and eventually running workshops in sewing and knitting.  I'm so happy to say that I've fulfilled all of those dreams.  I'm sitting here in my cottage proof reading ads for

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-32181721831747952062011-12-20T13:36:00.000Z2011-12-20T13:36:44.213Z

Now that my orders are almost complete, just a couple to do! I have yet to catch up and do my own christmas shopping and finish putting up my decorations.  I seem to be getting worse each year.  It's been sooooo busy with Craft Fairs and classes.  Don't get me wrong I'm very happy to have that complaint. I doubt I will get a chance to post over the next few days so I would like to wish all my

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-16391736068560434752011-12-15T17:22:00.000Z2011-12-15T17:22:45.953Z

Sorry for the delay, as promised here are the pics from my open house at the weekend Grab yourself a mince pie and come on through .... My little country cottage was converted into a pop up shop for the weekend.  I had embellished berets, applique cushions, handmade cards, card making kits, printed wrapping paper, knitting kits, corsages, gift bags, teddies, dollies, knitted booties and so

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-28834770275973254002011-12-13T12:19:00.000Z2011-12-13T12:19:07.439Z

source Lately I never seem to have enough timeIt's always slipping awayThe mornings last a secondbefore I know it it's the end of the day I've banned myself from pinterestand blogging for a whileto try and catch up on clearing my very large "to do" pile But today I swayed a littleand found this digital mag onlineI suggest you have a lookit's well worth the time Ho ! Ho! Ho!  Gotta go xx Oh dear

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-86179591861338486782011-12-09T14:51:00.000Z2011-12-09T14:51:41.826Z

Dear Santa ...... Forget about the Ipad I asked for Can I borrow some of your elves? The orders are coming in and I need some help. I've been a really good girl ... promise! Michelle x p.s. It's my Cottage opening this weekend you and Mrs Claus are more than welcome to come along. Here's some of the cushions and felt corsages I'm working on. Ho! Ho! Ho! Not long to go

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-2585958080464200112011-12-07T16:54:00.000Z2011-12-07T16:54:36.661Z

pic source Kirstie's Handmade Christmas tonight Channel 4 8pm Repeated at 9pm on Ch4 + 1 I'll be watching both.Yes I know I'm sad but I find she packs a lot in so it's great to watch it the second time round. In this series she's going to New York.  Maybe next year she'll come to my Country Cottage??  I have umpteen christmas decorations that all need hand sewing so I think I'll get that done

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-45140483369808624712011-12-06T13:54:00.000Z2011-12-06T13:54:24.078Z

Apologies for the lack of postsIt's that time of year for meEarly mornings and very late nightsat my sewing machine I've been busy making buntingtree decorations and morethere's material, cards and glitterall over my kitchen floor! The days are flying byit's my annual cottage sale this weekendYou're all invited to come alongand be sure to bring a friend!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-11536996879613435802011-11-19T12:34:00.000Z2011-11-19T12:34:01.523Z

Those of you that have been a follower for a while will know that I'm a big believer in Vision Boards. Every year I do a new one and there's nothing nicer than coming to the end of the year and seeing that most of what you envisioned has happened. This has been one of those years. Way back in January when I put mine together I really wasn't sure that I would achieve half of what was on my

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-74138950456519567932011-11-16T16:08:00.000Z2011-11-16T16:08:13.777Z

After all that work we did it!  I got the certificate in the post today :O)  We broke the record for the largest group of knitters in one place!  Wooooo Hooooo!!! Thank You, Thank You, Thank You to everyone who took part!  The Roscommon Lamb Festival Committee,my family and friends,my AMAZING boyfriend (who even came and knitted on the day), my fantabuloso knitting group The Cast Offs, the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-70090887242994321982011-11-15T12:31:00.000Z2011-11-15T12:31:55.806Z

This weekend I took part in a Pop Up event in Vobe, a gorgeous Interiors Store in Carrick on Shannon.  It was a fantastic weekend with lots of local stores taking part.   My appliqued cushions were a great seller :O)  And the personalised applique frames were also popular. The sewing machine had a lot of interest too and I can't tell you how many people asked me about sewing classes for the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-80591996401994275902011-11-05T09:07:00.000Z2011-11-05T09:07:00.842Z

I recently had the pleasure of being interviewed by Mairead O'Shea for our local paper, the Roscommon Herald. Mairead wrote a lovely article all about me and my little cottage industry, michellemadethis.  So if you want to know how it all started, who inspired me and what exactly I do you can read the full article here. Happy Saturday!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-10572971955646920132011-11-04T18:03:00.000Z2011-11-04T18:03:53.574Z

It's that time of year.  Christmas is a comingmy cottage is a buzzingmy heart is a racing and I'm wondering how am I going to get everything done - yikes!  In between classes my sewing machine is whirring away making lots of christmassy things and I've been spending my nights (early mornings) on the sofa in front of the fire finishing them off. I've finally found the cable to get my pics

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-16570913236386932352011-10-26T14:35:00.001+01:002011-10-26T14:38:51.190+01:00

Sorry for the lack of posts but I was back on telly this week and had lots to prepare for with that and all my workshops.  I was also interviewed by a local paper, will share that with you tomorrow though. Here's a few pics from my slot on RTE's Four Live show (it's an Irish show on live at 4pm in the afternoons).  Unfortunately due to licensing restrictions some of you outside of Ireland may

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-50897083285187871552011-10-19T16:10:00.000+01:002011-10-19T16:10:00.608+01:00

 If you love chocolateI mean LOVE chocolatethese are the buns for youcocoa powder makes up half the mixtureand then there's extra chocolate on the top too! I had friends round for teaand made my usual sconesbut fancied something chocolatey so I made chocolate buns Recipe is from Cupcake Magicone of my favourite booksNot just for when you want to cookbut even just to look :O) Been pretty

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-25558246425333183122011-10-13T11:30:00.019+01:002011-10-13T18:08:50.801+01:00

I was contacted by Confetti magazine a few days ago asking to interview me regarding my Hen Party Crafternoons. You can read the full interview here. If you know any hens, chicks are welcome tooThat are planning a party or a bit of a do who want something differentsomething uniquea party from which they will have something to keep Put them in touchwith yours truly, that's me!michelle at

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-76606696246908392912011-10-12T16:33:00.000+01:002011-10-12T16:33:02.614+01:00

Little Miss Allsop will be back on our screens next week Wednesday 19th October at 8pm on CH4 More details here I'm going to miss it :O( as I'm teaching my knitting class that night.  Moments like this I wish I had Sky Plus Enjoy it peeps! I found another christmas mag (House Beautiful Christmas) - this one is so much better than the last one.  Will share with you soon - busy busy with

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-43711579351237678962011-10-10T22:30:00.000+01:002011-10-10T22:30:20.236+01:00

The votes have been counted and verified  drum roll please The winner is .... X Factor long pause ..... .....  .....  .....  You'll find out in my post tomorrow.  Oh how cruel would that be.  The winner is .... the lovely Kazzy from the delightful blog Country Rabbit Congratulations Kazzy I've emailed you and left a post on your blog so let me know your snail mail and I'll pop it in the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-24398275272000525242011-10-10T17:26:00.000+01:002011-10-10T17:26:31.892+01:00

 I can't help myself! But I can help you. I'm afraid I was very disappointed once I read through it.  Thankfully the mince pie and coffee cheered me up. It's not a patch on the Prima one I told you about here. I'll be back later on to post the winner of the Freya & Fred giveaway. Hope you're all having a marvelous Monday.  It's very dull and dreary here today but I'm catching up on lots of

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-68519414631252297412011-10-06T19:53:00.000+01:002011-10-06T19:53:12.906+01:00

I hosted a Come Dine with me dinner on Monday this week in aid of Western Alzheimers Tulsk Respite Centre.  The event was launched last weekend in Roscommon by celebrity chef Neven Maguire I was a little stressed at the beginning of the night but after a few of these with lots of things seemed to go smoothly. I'm afraid I just got carried away with the cooking/serving and didn't take one

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-47579620891025482542011-10-05T13:14:00.000+01:002011-10-05T13:14:20.515+01:00

I've been waiting to post these but had to make sure the baby's had received them first before I shared them with you all :O) My two lovely friends Lucy & Karen had babies within days of eachother so here are a couple of things I've made for their little munchkins.  Whilst making them I had three orders from other people and have been asked to stock them in a local shop. I'm tickled pink ...

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-12679359955515534642011-10-03T15:08:00.000+01:002011-10-03T15:08:01.613+01:00

Look what I just got ! I couldn't wait to get home and have a read. Of course these stumbled into my basket too Oh I couldn't resist !!! I was so excited that I only unpacked the refrigerated stuff from my shopping ... the rest is waiting to be put away! The minute I got in the doorthe coffee machine was switched on, a mince pie plonked on a plate,turf put on the fireand minutes later I sat

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-12949540335645219822011-10-01T11:51:00.001+01:002011-10-01T11:55:55.311+01:00

First of all I have to say I'm totally devastated. I just spent half an hour writing a blog post about this giveaway and when I went to post it I lost it all. This is the third time blogger has done this recently :o( I know I've teased you about this and I had hoped to post this yesterday but time just ran away with me. Here it is Freya & Fred written by the lovely Janet Clare One of the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-86574605533386483122011-09-28T18:33:00.000+01:002011-09-28T18:33:51.675+01:00

Remember these? I got them from my Dad's cousin Matt (thanks Matt!!!) They were in his shed with all his carpentry bits and pieces.  I had asked Matt to keep an eye out for something similar for me to make a kitchen island and a few days later he arrived at my house with them.  I'm ashamed to say they have sat in my shed since then.  I removed the top part, sanded them down, joined them

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-66272460981308720082011-09-26T18:35:00.000+01:002011-09-26T18:35:21.799+01:00

Busy busy here in the cottage working on a few commissions.  This one I don't want to part with - don't you hate it when that happens.   I've been practising my freehand embroidery writing and I'm getting better ... if I say so myself. Speaking of which ... keep an eye out in the next few days.  I have a giveway! I have a copy of the most gorgeous book full of applique and machine embroidery

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-31114416424050902622011-09-23T17:13:00.000+01:002011-09-23T17:13:20.834+01:00

Tonight is Culture Night in Ireland My contribution to the night is  a free Knit'n Wine event being held in JJ Harlows Bar @ 9pm tonight (The Square, Roscommon, Ireland) All are welcome to come along.  I'll be bringing lots of wool and needles and will hopefully be getting you all to knit little hats for the Innocent Smoothie Big Knit campaign. Right ... better get back to my bunting for

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-17897687751266971412011-09-22T17:38:00.000+01:002011-09-22T17:38:48.803+01:00

A bouquet from my hedgerow Lovely Just in time too - apparently we are due snow in October if this report is anything to go by  !! The ladies attending my knitting workshop have all requested to knit a hat tomorrow night .... I think I'll knit one too.  Looks like we're going to need our hats sooner than we thought. We could be facing this in a matter of weeks ..... Yikes !!!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-23996766070054664592011-09-19T09:00:00.003+01:002011-09-19T21:45:41.433+01:00

It's amazing what you can find in the turf shed! I was up at my mum and dad's the other day and went to get some turf*.   I turned around and saw this cupboard in the corner of the shed. Needless to say the turf was left and this was brought! I knew straight away what I was going to do with it. After a good clean and a bit of polish it fits perfectly in my sitting room  and is the perfect spot

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-67292296668017285482011-09-18T15:38:00.000+01:002011-09-18T15:38:41.127+01:00

It's been the perfect Sunday morningsitting here at homethe music on the stereo and "silence" on my phonemagazines on the countercoffee, croissant and jamI know what you are thinking"How lucky"  Yes I am. This really is my idea of heaven!  After a hectic few weeks getting my workshops up and running today has been a real treat! I love catching up on all the new trends and colours and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-71237637206100580162011-09-17T12:28:00.004+01:002011-09-17T12:28:58.860+01:00

It's been a week full of knitting and tidying for me as my Autumn Workshops have started. Thursday night was the first of my Learn to Knit workshops in Gleesons then Friday morning it was Knit'n Natter with my knitting group The Cast Offs and last night was the first of my Knit Nights in the cottage. After a morning with the Cast Offs I came home and spent the day cleaning - probably

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-56377343473583430612011-09-15T12:16:00.002+01:002011-09-15T12:17:02.452+01:00

There's a bit of a baby boom going on with my friends at the mo so I've been busy stitching in the cottage.  Making baby bootees and personalised frames.  (More pics when I can find the lead for my camera phone - seriously, the more I tidy up the harder it is to find things) Welcome to the world Emma and Rian xxx In between all that my workshops have started, I've

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-87914136713804860322011-09-13T10:00:00.000+01:002011-09-13T10:00:10.967+01:00

Today is Roald Dahl Day and the 50th anniversary of James & the Giant Peach - 50 !!?  God I feel sooo old now. If you fancy having a bit of a peachy party check out some of the ideas here What was your favourite Roald Dahl book? I think mine has to be The Witches.  I can distinctly remember sitting in my friend Rachel's house reading the whole thing in one day! source

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-12752907334919689372011-09-12T09:00:00.000+01:002011-09-12T09:00:06.325+01:00

Continued on from yesterday ... While the scones are baking lay the table with all things pretty Invite your friends round And enjoy a catch up with afternoon tea & scones :O) Hope you all had a lovely weekend !

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-11513105756566034852011-09-11T09:00:00.000+01:002011-09-11T09:00:06.325+01:00

It's scone time at the cottage ... again! You can find the recipe here. So here goes, step by step with pictures ... Step 1 (above) weigh out the flour. Step 2 (below) add bread soda & bicarb Step 3  (completely optional) Smile and pose for the camera Step 4 - weigh out your margarine.  If like me, you're rubbish at maths i.e. converting grams and ounces, this could

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-77961138057163520262011-09-10T14:52:00.001+01:002011-09-10T14:52:33.169+01:00

It's that time of year ... the nights are getting longer and colder and we're all thinking about night classes. If you fancy trying something new - knitting, sewing, cushion making, card making, making your own bunting and gift wrap or tipping your toes into the world wide web and learning how to use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIN and Skype well you've come to the right place.  I will

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-55190106746393725602011-09-06T22:42:00.002+01:002011-09-06T22:42:30.590+01:00

I know - I can almost hear some of you screaming at your computer screen !!  But it's only 109 days away!  Yes I count ... In fact I started my countdown on 26th December 2010.  Yes I'm being serious. I digress. Sorry my posts have been rather slim of late.  I have been busy working behind the scenes on proposals, my first advert (whoooppeee) and delivering some IT 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-72447344924713536602011-09-03T14:25:00.000+01:002011-09-03T14:25:13.736+01:00

I've been eagerly awaiting the airing of this show since meeting with the producers earlier this year.  Craft Master will air on Tuesday 6th September on RTE1 Produced in association with the Crafts Council of Ireland quite aptly during our official Year of Craft this show follows the creative journey of 15 apprentices in ceramics, woodturning, glassblowing, textiles and blacksmithing. Each

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-51451487505563199762011-08-26T18:20:00.000+01:002011-08-26T18:20:55.553+01:00

Remember these? I remember my mum making one for me when I started in 'big school'.  She got the pattern originally from Womans Weekly (have I mentioned that is my new fav mag? well it is) The most fun bit of this blog post was sharpening all my pencils so they looked nice in the photos.  Gosh I can't tell you how long it is since I sharpened a whole set of colouring pencils, I highly

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-75025367462148959652011-08-22T12:16:00.000+01:002011-08-22T12:16:07.770+01:00

Nothing like a browse around a boot fair on a Sunday morning :o)  Alas we don't have as much choice in Ireland as in London.  I remember meeting my aunt for coffee on a Saturday and we would discuss which one we'd go to the following morning, I think we sometimes managed to get two or three in !    Here though, I have no choice, I only know of one that's near to me, and that is nearly a 50

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-40134260977642348322011-08-17T08:30:00.003+01:002011-08-17T08:30:01.514+01:00

For a while now I've wanted to try this but kept putting it off Then one day I just decided today's the day and now I just can't get enough! This is my first attempt at freehand machine embroidery.  I didn't draw a picture, or have one in my mind, so I'm thrilled with how it turned out.  Then I got a bit cocky and tried writing with the machine ... hmm ... a little practice needed here I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-18598725906949211732011-08-13T10:00:00.013+01:002011-08-16T16:56:49.540+01:00

I know most of you are still waiting for summer but I'm giving up on it and looking forward to Autumn. After lusting over the new park rose print above from Cath Kidston I think I 've started to see a pattern emerging with regard to a new colour combo I like because I'm aslo in love with this from Greengate .... It seems purple, brown and blue are 'the. new colours for this season.    What do

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-69848568636918341582011-08-12T10:00:00.000+01:002011-08-12T10:00:02.102+01:00

I'm sorry I know so many of you hate the thoughts of Christmas but I just can't wait. For those that follow my blog you will now about my slightly crazy obsession with Christmas.  I just love everything about it.  This year though is going to be extra extra special so I'm looking forward to it even more than ever! I've been sketching and knitting and making and sewing and coming up with all

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-25704277874182742592011-08-11T22:39:00.000+01:002011-08-11T22:39:55.279+01:00

I think Cath Kidston heard my coversation the other day.   Seriously, this can't be a coincidence.  After years of lusting after all things CK the minute I suggest that I'm not she does this?  :O) I was saying to a friend that I'm a bit CK'd out, it's so 'done' on blogs, in shops, in magazines etc. But then I got the email with all their new products and prints and I'm so in love with them !!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-51141944257317878212011-08-09T16:23:00.000+01:002011-08-09T16:23:44.208+01:00

I've been doing a lot of bag making over the past few months and am (almost) ready to share them with you.  After months of sketching and late night sewing (and ripping!) I've come up with a few designs I hope to have made up in time for Christmas! So here's one of my collection, a simple clutch. Without further ado introducing .... Dotty Jean  Dotty jean is dark denim on the outside and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-85234375143870876702011-08-04T12:14:00.000+01:002011-08-04T12:14:47.555+01:00

I can't tell you the amount of people that ask me if I really use baking soda and vinegar to clean since I appeared on Four Live !  Well finally, I can prove that yes I actually do! Pic above (sorry not very pleasant) was my shower head the other day. I simply unscrewed it and placed it in a saucepan with half a bottle of white vinegar and same again of water. Left it soak overnight under

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-81172598142212808532011-08-01T14:48:00.000+01:002011-08-01T14:48:00.685+01:00

My little cottage is a hive of activity this weekend.  In one room I'm sewing up bags and trying out new patterns, in another I'm knitting tea cosies and in the kitchen I'm tapping away on my laptop organsing schedules for workshops and craft fairs. I've also spent the weekend doing my website. I've done it myself, a true "Michellemadethis" product :O) I'd really appreciate you taking a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-84201291908847941282011-08-01T14:08:00.000+01:002011-08-01T14:08:59.008+01:00

For a long time I have lusted after my own thread rack after seeing them in pictures of perfect sewing studios on other people's blogs.  However I never seem to see them for sale, apart from when I was in Paris last year, and somehow couldn't imagine Ryanair letting me through security with it :O)  So, I decided to make my own.  You can too, it's really simple.  Trust me, it took me less

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-52227180785548232692011-07-29T16:42:00.000+01:002011-07-29T16:42:14.445+01:00

I've been meaning to post about this for ages !! A few weeks ago my lovely friend Sarah Browne hosted a pop up Supper Club with Odhran Crowe in her Cookery School in Roscommon. What a night!  At 5.30pm on a glorious sunny Sunday evening we arrived at Sarah's kitchen where we were escorted to a gazebo in the organic gardens situated right outside her front door. Here we were waited on with

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-71919060428888028812011-07-28T14:34:00.000+01:002011-07-28T14:34:51.733+01:00

I started to knit this bag last year with odd balls of wool I had been given, actually I think it was the year before !! It was just one (of many) things unfinished that I put in a 'to do' pile and that pile got moved from room to room, cupboard to cupboard etc etc until this week! I finally sewed it all up and after quite a while laying out fabrics and choosing a lining I eventually made a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-56756596309266769332011-07-27T13:47:00.000+01:002011-07-27T13:47:53.944+01:00

Ho! Ho! Ho! Not long to go !! You all know how much I love Christmas :O) According to the Christmas clock there are only 150 days to go yipeeeeeeeeee!! I know some of you hate it but I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. I'm sitting at the kitchen table flicking through old Christmassy mags with my sketch book and pencils. To say I'm brimming over with ideas is an understatement.  Ho Ho Ho gotta go :O)

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-89400007543264884872011-07-26T14:21:00.000+01:002011-07-26T14:21:43.323+01:00

Looking for ways to incorprate 1 of your 5 a day fruit and veg options? Look no further! Grab yourself :- rich tea biscuits bananastoffee sauce/creme de lecheCreme fraiche/ice cream/whipped cream or even custard!Chocolate Spoon the toffee sauce onto the biscuitsSlice bananas on top of thatDollop on creamy topping of your choiceFinish with grated chocolate.  If you have any, and are partial to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-58745812063404925992011-07-24T15:32:00.000+01:002011-07-24T15:32:54.714+01:00

One of the things I love about being able to sew is that everything has potential.  This proves a problem when I'm shopping though as I can visualise making all sorts out of everything and anything.  However sometimes I do actually get round to making these things (and sometimes not, hence the enormous pile of fabric in my cupboard but that's a whole other post!). This was one of those times

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-5980246826664460462011-07-21T20:58:00.000+01:002011-07-21T20:58:19.237+01:00

Not content with one knitting world record, I'm going for another! You can join in too. Just click here for the details and pattern. Womans Weekly are celebrating their centenary this year and as part of the celebrations they are attempting to set the world record for the longest line of knitted bunting and are looking for people to take part. Click here for further details and a pdf

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-464814172219155182011-07-20T17:10:00.000+01:002011-07-20T17:10:13.787+01:00

(daylight lamp is in the corner, you'd hardly notice it ) The following is a review of the Daylight Company's floor standing lamp. Full details of the lamp can bee seen here on their website.  The following is my own personal review. Daylight lamp I love you You make things crystal clear You simply are the best thing I have received this year (um besides my ducks!) Before you came along I used

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-91708635166069118062011-07-16T16:27:00.000+01:002011-07-16T16:27:15.338+01:00

The tea cosy is complete! Well almost. I'm not too keen on the rose on top. I'm making some little flowers instead. I'm super happy with it considering it's my first chart design (aside from lettering).   I've been bursting with ideas and sketching like crazy in kids sum copy books. You know the ones all done out like graph paper with lots of squares. They are perfect for drawing out

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-86032700010017916982011-07-04T18:35:00.000+01:002011-07-04T18:35:06.318+01:00

Like many of us I'm watching the pennies not only with shopping and crafting but in the garden too. As you seen in my last post I've been using alternative pots for some of my plants and I found some more today. I found this kettle out in the yard and thought "I have something that will look perfect in that" and ta dah!  I think it works. The polka dot cushion in the background was made

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-36638116889400064532011-07-01T23:30:00.000+01:002011-07-01T23:30:18.777+01:00

These boots were made for walkingand that's just what they didbut after all the walkingthey just started to give! I filled them up with soiland some pretty plants tooI think they're just lovelyHow about you? No guessing what I've been at today?  I have the dirty finger nails to prove it.  Apparently if you dig your nails into a bar of soap 'before' you start gardening it keeps them clean.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-23000852767843555602011-06-29T18:00:00.001+01:002011-06-29T18:00:00.916+01:00

Like most other crafty peeps out there I'm tring to use up what I've got before I buy anything else.  I can't say I'm sticking to it rigidly but I am trying! I've been wanting to make a tea cosy for a while (not that I even drink tea!) and whilst sorting out my wool stash these fell out onto the florally cushion above and I thought voila!  Love those colours together.  I originally planned to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-29456645504065406212011-06-28T17:58:00.000+01:002011-06-28T17:58:52.557+01:00

owning a cottage like this! Imagine popping down the garden and hiding away in a place like this :O)  I love the description for this image.  It's up in the loft and the husband of the lady that owns the cottage can't get to it as he has a bad back.  Coincidence?  :O)  I think not. All these images, and more of the cottage, can be viewed here. Where do you go to hideaway when you need a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-62647933847828115322011-06-27T18:31:00.000+01:002011-06-27T18:31:44.446+01:00

Just when I thought I had got the best prezzies ever for my birthday these two arrive. Introducing Mr & Mrs Puddleduck.   Aren't they adorable? The lastest residents at An Teach Ban. They are Call ducks so they don't grow any bigger than this. Unfortunately my girls weren't very welcoming when they first arrived ..  (warning! - you may want to turn down the sound) I'm happy to say

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-21035859902447726092011-06-17T15:39:00.000+01:002011-06-17T15:39:24.731+01:00

This is my all time favourite flower in my garden.  Actually it's not really in my garden.  It grows along the boreen (aka driveway) down to my cottage.   I have no idea what it's called but it's been here for as long as I can remember.  It's got the most beautiful scent and is always blooming with flowers.  I've tried countless times to get something similar in the garden centre but nothing

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-57618703421047153582011-06-09T17:05:00.000+01:002011-06-09T17:05:19.137+01:00

I've been hit with a bugwell actually twoOne I'm not happy with The other woooo hoooo! My nose is all blockedI've not tasted food for 6 days :o( but my head is just buzzingin so many ways I've been sketching and sewingand knitting too the ideas are just overflowingwooooo hooooo hoooo hoooo!! I've had meetings and talksabout all of my plansI'm repeating my mantra daily YES I CAN ! Because of

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-60899347160838483252011-05-26T09:00:00.001+01:002011-05-26T09:00:00.556+01:00

As always when I am limited on time and have endless lists of things to do rather than stick to the lists I decide to .... b a k e of course! My favourite scones are such a great standby.  So easy to make, so quick to bake and better still there's so much mixture that half it get's popped in the freezer for another rainy day :O) You can find the recipe here As my girls have been very generous

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-88107549523062676722011-05-25T11:49:00.000+01:002011-05-25T11:49:17.575+01:00

I'm an old fashioned girl in lots of waysBut especially so when it comes to cds Despite working in ITand being surrounded by geeksI never got into downloadingI'd rather wait weeks Why? I love to have something to hold for which I have paidNot just a file on my laptopwhich is so easily mislaidI like to have the lyrics of the songthat let me sing alongI like to read the thank you noteson the back

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-82949028637523574092011-05-23T12:07:00.000+01:002011-05-23T12:07:49.993+01:00

Just when I was controlling my magazine purchasesI find something newMollie Makes magazineWhat is a girl to do? Filled with pretty picturesIdeas and patterns tooI couldn't leave it in the shopCould you ?? Mollie Makes is just lovely, especially on a wet, wild and windy day like today!  It's the perfect crafty mag for all you blogettes.  You can view images and links to projects from the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-16170852330735952112011-05-22T20:31:00.000+01:002011-05-22T20:31:58.724+01:00

I can't help itI'm drawn to florals like a buzzing beeMy face just lights up when I see themand I recite "this is so me" ! It's gotten so bad that my friends do it tooThey call me from shops and say "this is so you"! So when I walked into Tescoand saw all of theseI just had to have them all becausethey are just so me :O)   So how are all my lovely blogettes?  I know I've been missing on and off

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-56203852767109351312011-05-10T17:32:00.000+01:002011-05-10T17:32:20.966+01:00

We did it !!! After months and months of organising, hours and hours of knitting, days and weeks campaigning and copious amounts of radio interviews, emails to newspapers, tv shows and knitting-related businesses it all came together. On 30th April 2011 at 1.00pm Roscommon broke the record for the largest group of knitters knitting simultaneously in one place with 1,147 knitters!!! Thanks a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-27960773341341823642011-04-26T08:32:00.002+01:002011-04-26T11:23:26.837+01:00

Theres's just a few days to go until the big eventand I'm telling you now1000 knitters are wanted! We want them all to gather in RoscommonOn Saturday afternoon at half past eleven If you haven't registerd just go onlinefollow this linkthere's still time! Come alongand be part of the knittinghelp spread the wordand keeeeeeep stitching !!!! If you're new to the blog I'm organising a knitting

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-37757082673322281962011-04-25T11:25:00.000+01:002011-04-25T11:25:28.647+01:00

I know it's been agesalmost four weeksbut I've been busy knittingsquares and little sheeps We've been knitting the squaresin cream and green tonesto cover my carfor the Easter parade float It seemed like a greatidea at the timebut a few days agoI was starting to whine When the car looked like this I started to fretBut my lovely knitting ladiesall came out to help After weeks of knittingand

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-62420894139633734722011-04-25T10:58:00.000+01:002011-04-25T10:58:21.595+01:00

Wishing you all a fabulous fun filled Easter.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-8260893076805444522011-03-31T19:02:00.000+01:002011-03-31T19:02:17.626+01:00

I walked into the charity shop and this little thing caught my eye I knew at once I had to have it so the shelf I did buy I brought it home and looked at it and wondered what to do then saw my pile of rings nearby and said I know what to do with you .... Best of all - it only cost 2 euro! Have a great weekend x 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-14143557374618982842011-03-20T08:11:00.001Z2011-03-20T08:11:00.394Z

When life get's to much and your to do list is overflowing Stop! Bake scones Get your friends round Drink coffee Put the world to rights Smile and be happy :O)   The most delicious scones ever! 1lb plain flourpinch of salt1tsp bicarb of soda2 tsp cream of tartar1oz caster sugar3oz sultanas4.5 oz butter1 beaten egg9fl oz buttermilk These are my fav scones ever!  They are really light and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-26061182840276652762011-03-19T15:59:00.000Z2011-03-19T15:59:25.821Z

As part of the build up to the Knitting World Record Attempt I've been organising lots of Stitch'n Bitch mornings, Knit'n Wine nights and even an interactive knitting window display :O) Here's a few pics of me and some of the ladies knitting in Frances' shop window in Roscommon from last weekend.  It was great fun! I laughed so much.  The reaction on people's faces as they walked past was

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-10636952221699574812011-03-15T21:35:00.000Z2011-03-15T21:35:40.086Z

What a gorgeous day! The sky was blueThe birds were singingThe hammock came out of storageand it it I was swinging :O)

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-20375627713507303622011-03-02T08:30:00.003Z2011-03-02T15:43:41.720Z

One of my girls laid a rather strange looking egg the other day. Thank you to the wonderful worldwide web I've discovered that eggs and light bulbs actually have a lot in common.  Well according to this article they do. How strange? It's not just my girls that are laying strange eggs.  My friend Sarah has had an even stranger one ... an egg within an egg! Check out her blog here. Have you

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-89525228049502183812011-02-28T18:32:00.008Z2011-03-01T19:49:30.591Z

I am currently knitting obsessed! I eat, sleep and breathe it at the minute. Not only is it my chosen theme in my painting assignment at college and the bulk of my Communications aassignment but I'm also organising an attempt to break a world record for the largest group of knitters in one place!  I think there should be a full stop in there somewhere but I'll leave it out because reading it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-54887246179669847942011-02-28T15:01:00.000Z2011-02-28T15:01:15.550Z

It seems Spring has finally arrived. The garden is looking a little better and there are lots of buds appearing. This weekend I was woken up by the sun beaming in my window. The girls and I assessed the damage in the veggie patch and they helped with a little (ok a lot) of the weeding! The veggie patch is looking pretty grim but in amongst the weeds there's some rhubarb coming through :O

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-82347386071711066352011-02-17T13:28:00.000Z2011-02-17T13:28:18.980Z

Had great fun at our first Knit'n Wine Night last night.  I'm sure we will have no problem breaking the record for the largest group of knitters at the Roscommon Lamb Festival this year. Quite impressed at the amount of guys we had knitting but of course they were a little camera shy.  More pics on our facebook page. Meanwhile I'm here working on a college assignment euggh!So looking

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-29340453530424643252011-02-15T19:13:00.000Z2011-02-15T19:13:07.343Z

Calling all you fabulous knitters out there. Do you fancy taking part in a Knitting World Record? If so how about joining us on 30th April 2011 in Ireland as part of our Roscommon Lamb Festival in an attempt to break the record for the largest group of knitters in one place. Knitting was once synonymous with Ireland but like many traditions it's becoming a lost craft.  I don't want it to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-86542570498587923632011-02-15T18:57:00.000Z2011-02-15T18:57:40.780Z

How to Knit/Garter Stitch Once  you have mastered your slip knot and cast on your stitches you are ready to knit.  Just follow this quick tutorial and you will be knitting in no time. Enjoy!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-19184282421759348832011-02-15T18:52:00.000Z2011-02-15T18:52:08.644Z

How to Cast On There are various methods of casting on stitches in knitting but I am using this method as I will be taking part in an attempt to break a knitting world record at this years Roscommon Lamb Festival and the rules are that two needles must be used at all times.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-39337984235616739392011-02-15T15:51:00.000Z2011-02-15T15:51:29.299Z

How to make a slip knot The first stitch you will ever need when knitting is a slip knot. A video may seem ridiculous for some of you but you would be amazed how often I get asked how to do this. So here you go, in just over 20 seconds  - you're first step to knitting. Enjoy!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-59780931819643375272011-02-06T15:50:00.000Z2011-02-06T15:50:11.221Z

I'm pretty sure I posted the same thing this time last year? I may aswell apologise now for the lack of posts in the last week or so and for the weeks to come.  It's that time of year again, approaching mid term which basically means end of term is almost here and of course I'm knee deep in adding finishing touches to assignments and sketch books (and drinking too much coffee!).  Don't get me

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-36037629277818745932011-01-30T13:50:00.000Z2011-01-30T13:50:58.203Z

image source Those of you that have been following my blog for a while will know that I am involved in our local town festival The Roscommon Lamb Festival. Last year we organised a Wool Craft Village.  The marquee was brimming with all sorts of yarn and knitting notions.  Not to mention interactive demonstrations in spinning, weaving, knitting and crochet and we even had some live sheep shearing

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-11892397962135821642011-01-27T16:04:00.000Z2011-01-27T16:04:06.123Z

First of all thank you so much for all the comments and emails on this post.  I'm sorry I'm only replying but I've been away for a few days.  Just as well as it's given me time to think about what to do and I've dedided to leave it for now.  Today the sun has been shining and my hyacinths are blooming so I'm not going to let it get to me. In the meantime I've found some really interesting posts

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-33206331497498385022011-01-24T11:00:00.000Z2011-01-24T11:00:01.440Z

Sign up for the michellemadethis newsletter here Sign up for the newsletter and be the first to see the Spring Summer collection for 2011. Keep up to date with workshops, tv and magazine appearances and receive free tutorials too!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-9947892601903710182011-01-23T10:20:00.000Z2011-01-23T10:20:00.569Z

I just had to share.  I'm sure some of you have seen this but I only recently discovered this fabulous blog called Sweet Paul which you can find here. Honestly I can't believe I've only come across this now! To add to the excitement there's an AMAZING online magazine that comes out a couple of times a year too.  The Spring issue isn't ready for 2011 yet but here's last Springs' issue available

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-33882483137945583272011-01-22T13:18:00.000Z2011-01-22T13:18:44.959Z

Remember my trip to Paris? I promised to share pics from the fab flea market we visited at Porte de Vanves. Hopefully this is a case of better late than never :O)  The market even has it's very own blog here. I love that the French are so 'crafty'.  There were so many vintage sewing supplies on the market.  Such a shame I was flying with Ryanair ... certainly not an airline that encourages

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-716414185023783262011-01-20T10:55:00.000Z2011-01-20T10:55:45.848Z

I'm actually more than a little annoyed but I make a point of not blogging to moan about things.  My blog has always been my escape and it's my "ideal world". The place I get to spend all day sewing or card making or painting or basically doing whatever craft I want, gardening, cooking, drinking coffee with friends and all that.  However today I need to have a little moan.  There are a few

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-40548025080233083302011-01-19T13:22:00.000Z2011-01-19T13:22:11.959Z

It's coming soonValentines DaySo here I amworking awaymaking cards with lots of lovefor you to give on Valentines Day xxxx

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-1304056523060188892011-01-17T18:00:00.001Z2011-01-17T18:00:00.708Z

Ever have one of those days? You sleep inYou've not got time to wash your hairYou need petrol in the carYou're late for collegeYou forget your homeworkYou miss your afternoon appointmentYou rip your tightsYou do all your grocery shopping and get to the till and realise you haven't got your purse because you were so keen to use your new gorgeous bag that you forgot to swap ALL the contents from

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-13281788175119278082011-01-14T10:00:00.022Z2011-01-14T19:16:02.529Z

At last! After living here for how many years, I think it might be 3!!  I've finally got a proper craft room.  No more cluttering up the kitchen table and being up all night tidying when guests are coming (hmm we'll have to see about that).  Mind you I had to give up my lovely bedroom for it, but it's oh so worth it. So come on through and let me give you the guided tour ... As you walk in on

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845619187874879109.post-39660121379669792112011-01-13T10:29:00.001Z2011-01-13T10:29:00.337Z

If you're feeling peckish and leftover croissants you do have follow this little recipe you'll be really glad you had :)  Just cut the croissant in half and grate on some chocolate   Place in a baking dish (cute polka dot dish optional) Bake in preheated oven 180 degrees for about 5 mins and voilayou've got yourself a deeeeelicious chocolate croissant. Try adding chopped hazlenuts too

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07355253003563909246noreply@blogger.com4