Cut vegetables and fruits into noodles, or curly, paper-thin ribbons with this inexpensive yet robust slicer. We recommend the World Cuisine brand over others because it costs about half or less of the price of similar models, makes nicer noodles, is easy to use and clean, and can slice fairly large quantities quickly, and is quite sturdy. The popular Joyce Chen type slicers can only process small…
Cut vegetables and fruits into noodles, or curly, paper-thin ribbons with this inexpensive yet robust slicer. We recommend the World Cuisine brand over others because it costs about half or less of the price of similar models, makes nicer noodles, is easy to use and clean, and can slice fairly large quantities quickly, and is quite sturdy. The popular Joyce Chen type slicers can only process small…
Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Heavy-duty Pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning. The Lodge Handle mitt has steam barrier, heavy cotton batting, and thick terry lining all combine to provide heat protection to 450° F. Includes one black mitt. Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Features: Heavy duty pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning Steam barrier, heavy co…
Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Heavy-duty Pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning. The Lodge Handle mitt has steam barrier, heavy cotton batting, and thick terry lining all combine to provide heat protection to 450° F. Includes one black mitt. Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Features: Heavy duty pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning Steam barrier, heavy co…
Crochet Geek – Summer Fun – Crochet Pattern Stitch A
Ideal for restaurant and foodservice operations. Whip up to 5x the amount of cream, desserts and more in seconds! Easily portable from prep to service areas. New Thermo Whip keeps recipes hot or cold at room temperature for hours!…
Ideal for restaurant and foodservice operations. Whip up to 5x the amount of cream, desserts and more in seconds! Easily portable from prep to service areas. New Thermo Whip keeps recipes hot or cold at room temperature for hours!…
Celebrate special occasions with family dinners over the Holiday Cornucopia Collection of hand-made table coordinates. This kit contains washable white poly/cotton pre-finished fabric with the design pre-printed in wash away ink, DMC floss requirements and easy to follow instructions. Finished size: 60″ x 90″. Design: Holiday Cornucopia. Made in USA/Imported….
Celebrate special occasions with family dinners over the Holiday Cornucopia Collection of hand-made table coordinates. This kit contains washable white poly/cotton pre-finished fabric with the design pre-printed in wash away ink, DMC floss requirements and easy to follow instructions. Finished size: 60″ x 90″. Design: Holiday Cornucopia. Made in USA/Imported….
Our 100% cotton canvas Turquoise Keep Calm and Carry Yarn Tote Bag bags have plenty of room to carry everything you need when you are on the go. They include a bottom gusset and extra long handles for easy carrying….
Our 100% cotton canvas Turquoise Keep Calm and Carry Yarn Tote Bag bags have plenty of room to carry everything you need when you are on the go. They include a bottom gusset and extra long handles for easy carrying….
How to Knit for Beginners : Types of Knitting Yarn
Easy-to-use dehydrator for drying fruit, vegetables, herbs and jerky. Lay out jerky strips with ease. Includes spices and cure packets. U.S.A. Shape: Square, Watts: 700, Top Mount Fan: Yes, Tray included: 4, Adjustable Thermostat: Yes, Handle Type: Bale, Exterior Color: White, Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 14 1/2 x 14 1/2 x 10…
Easy-to-use dehydrator for drying fruit, vegetables, herbs and jerky. Lay out jerky strips with ease. Includes spices and cure packets. U.S.A. Shape: Square, Watts: 700, Top Mount Fan: Yes, Tray included: 4, Adjustable Thermostat: Yes, Handle Type: Bale, Exterior Color: White, Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 14 1/2 x 14 1/2 x 10…
Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Heavy-duty Pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning. The Lodge Handle mitt has steam barrier, heavy cotton batting, and thick terry lining all combine to provide heat protection to 450° F. Includes one black mitt. Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Features: Heavy duty pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning Steam barrier, heavy co…
Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Heavy-duty Pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning. The Lodge Handle mitt has steam barrier, heavy cotton batting, and thick terry lining all combine to provide heat protection to 450° F. Includes one black mitt. Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Features: Heavy duty pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning Steam barrier, heavy co…
How to Crochet – Part 1 – Basics for the Absolute Beginner
These multi-purpose flour sack towels are lint free and durable. They can be used for drying (fruits, vegetables, dishes and glassware), wiping-up messy kitchen spills, dry-dusting televisions and computer screens, cleaning windows and mirrors. Once you try these flour sack towels, you will never want to use any other brand. Professional quality for every home. Machine wash in warm water with like…
These multi-purpose flour sack towels are lint free and durable. They can be used for drying (fruits, vegetables, dishes and glassware), wiping-up messy kitchen spills, dry-dusting televisions and computer screens, cleaning windows and mirrors. Once you try these flour sack towels, you will never want to use any other brand. Professional quality for every home. Machine wash in warm water with like…
The EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale is a versatile multifunction home appliance. Designed to be highly accurate and aesthetically pleasing, the Precision Pro is manufactured to the highest quality specifications. Weigh items up to 11 lbs quickly and accurately, with results displayed in four different units: grams / ounces / pounds / kilograms.
For cooks – Weigh food items directly on…
The EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale is a versatile multifunction home appliance. Designed to be highly accurate and aesthetically pleasing, the Precision Pro is manufactured to the highest quality specifications. Weigh items up to 11 lbs quickly and accurately, with results displayed in four different units: grams / ounces / pounds / kilograms.
For cooks – Weigh food items directly on…
Plug in Prestos PopLite and the party begins. In less than 2.5 minutes you will have up to 18 cups which is equal to two large bowlfuls of fluffy popcorn with virtually no unpopped kernels. And because the machine uses hot air instead of oil the resulting snack is healthier and lower in calories. Thats not to say you can nott add butter in fact the half cup measuring cup on top of the popper doubl…
Plug in Prestos PopLite and the party begins. In less than 2.5 minutes you will have up to 18 cups which is equal to two large bowlfuls of fluffy popcorn with virtually no unpopped kernels. And because the machine uses hot air instead of oil the resulting snack is healthier and lower in calories. Thats not to say you can nott add butter in fact the half cup measuring cup on top of the popper doubl…
Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Heavy-duty Pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning. The Lodge Handle mitt has steam barrier, heavy cotton batting, and thick terry lining all combine to provide heat protection to 450° F. Includes one black mitt. Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Features: Heavy duty pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning Steam barrier, heavy co…
Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Heavy-duty Pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning. The Lodge Handle mitt has steam barrier, heavy cotton batting, and thick terry lining all combine to provide heat protection to 450° F. Includes one black mitt. Lodge HHMT Max Temp Handle Mitt, Black Features: Heavy duty pyrotex outer fabric resists scorching and burning Steam barrier, heavy co…
Gum Paste and Fondant Tool Set. This tool collection enables decorators to create life-like gum paste and fondant flowers and decorative details. This package contains 1 veining tool with large tip and small tip, 1 dogbone tool with large tip and small tip, 1 shell tool with knife on opposite end, 1 wheel tool with quilting wheel tip and cutting wheel tip, 1 umbrella tool with 6-division side and …
Gum Paste and Fondant Tool Set. This tool collection enables decorators to create life-like gum paste and fondant flowers and decorative details. This package contains 1 veining tool with large tip and small tip, 1 dogbone tool with large tip and small tip, 1 shell tool with knife on opposite end, 1 wheel tool with quilting wheel tip and cutting wheel tip, 1 umbrella tool with 6-division side and …
Protect your dishes in this set of 4 plate storage containers. Any type of dish, from the finest China to seasonal dishes can benefit by the use of these protective storage bags. The quilted Microfiber fabric is sturdy and soft, ideal for china storage. Included in this set are 12′ Dinner Plate Case, 9.5′ Salad Plate Case, 8′ Dessert Plate Case and a 7′ Saucer Case. Each case comes with 8 cushione…
Protect your dishes in this set of 4 plate storage containers. Any type of dish, from the finest China to seasonal dishes can benefit by the use of these protective storage bags. The quilted Microfiber fabric is sturdy and soft, ideal for china storage. Included in this set are 12′ Dinner Plate Case, 9.5′ Salad Plate Case, 8′ Dessert Plate Case and a 7′ Saucer Case. Each case comes with 8 cushione…
Aussie Upholstery and Drapery Fabric is the Best in the World
Warwick is an upholstery and drapery fabric wholesaler and only sells directly to furniture trade customers on a wholesale basis. There are showrooms around Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom that welcome the public and traders.
Since 1966 Warwick has supplied soft furnishing fabrics which have been quality tested to world standards. The Warwick fabric family has always been at the cutting-edge of fabric trends. In the 1960’s and ‘70’s it was vinyl and velvet; in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s it was range development and international distribution. Today Warwick Fabrics is a household name in innovation, quality and service around the world.
With companies based in Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, and global distributors in Hongkong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam, ever-expanding Warwick Fabrics is at the forefront of international design and distribution, exporting interior fabrics and curtain fabrics textiles to over 50 countries.
The first ever Australian-owned company to receive the Queen’s Award for export achievement, Warwick Fabrics (UK) together with Warwick’s other operations continue to meet the challenges of today’s competitive worldwide markets by developing different curtain fabrics, decorating fabrics and furnishing fabrics in partnership with local mills that, in turn, provides enormous benefits for the host domestic industry.
Warwick guarantees to replace any fabric which is found to be faulty as a result of a manufacturing defect that did not pass performance ratings and care instructions.
Another innovation from Warwick is the annual Dreamweaver Design Award, a woven textiles and decorative fabrics competition sponsored by Warwick for current design students and graduates to showcase their talents on the world stage. Encouraging students and emerging designers while promoting Australian made fabric and textile design in local and overseas markets; entrants must design woven upholstery or furniture fabrics suitable for domestic furniture and make a presentation to a panel of industry representatives. Three finalists will be selected to work with a Warwick design team before having their fabric commercially woven at Bekaert Textiles. Finally, the woven designs are manufactured into a piece of upholstered furniture by Colby Furniture for presentation at the Furnitex Exhibition in July where the winner will be announced.
The Dreamweaver Award winning designer travels with Warwick to Belgium to experience the world’s largest upholstery fabrics exhibition, Decosit. Grand prize includes air tickets, 5 nights’ accommodation, $500 expense account, Decosit show entry and mill visit. The winning design then becomes the property of Warwick Australia.
For more on quality fabrics, visit http://www.warwick.com.au/.
About the Author
A computer professional who works on the internet helping Warwick increase its viewers through optimization. For world class hospitality fabrics visit us online at www. warwick.com.au.
The Original Dish Drying Mat is the new solution to the age old tradition of placing dish towels on the counter when hand washing pots, pans, dishes, and glassware.
The unique, laminated design combines a thin layer of foam between two layers of high quality, super absorbent microfiber.
Measurements: 16″ X 18″ (40.6 cm. X 45.7 cm. and Comes in single item packages.
The Original Dish Drying Mat is the new solution to the age old tradition of placing dish towels on the counter when hand washing pots, pans, dishes, and glassware.
The unique, laminated design combines a thin layer of foam between two layers of high quality, super absorbent microfiber.
Measurements: 16″ X 18″ (40.6 cm. X 45.7 cm. and Comes in single item packages.
CARE:
For best results, machine…
Extra weft fabric with Arahne textile design software
One of most confusing aspects of learning needlepoint is deciphering the many stitches that are available. If you are working from a kit, it generally isn’t a problem. Each kit will specify which stitches should be used and where. However, if you are creating your own project from scratch, where do you go to get help? At www.stitchopedia.com needlepoint stitches are separated by type and each stitch is explained and demonstrated. The following is a breakdown of the types of stitches available:
Cross Stitches are probably the most popular type of stitch used today. Crossed Stitches are a principal stitch used in needlepoint tapestry. They are exactly what the name implies – stitches that are created by crossing the threads over each other. The size of the crossed stitch can vary, depending on the thickness of the thread and the gauge of the canvas. It is important, however, to make sure that each crossed stitch covers the canvas. A few examples of crossed stitches are the cross stitch (obviously), fishbone stitch, herringbone stitch and waffle stitch. There are, however, many, many more…
Straight Stitches, again, are exactly what the name implies – straight stitches! These stitches are worked either vertically or horizontally on canvas. They look best when worked on single canvas. They are a great stitch for working large pieces of canvas. However, do not create a stitch that is too long. Some of the more popular straight stitches are the long stitch (aka straight stitch), florentine stitch (aka bargello), and the back stitch.
Diagonal Stitches are stitches that are worked, yes you guessed it, diagonally (at a slant). It is especially important to maintain an even tension when working diagonal stitches. This will help prevent your canvas from warping. Some of the more popular diagonal stitches include: the diagonal stitch (you probably saw that one coming), the basketweave stitch(aka tent stitch) and the continental stitch. Again there are many, many more diagonal stitches available.
Composite Stitches are stitches that use more than one type of stitch. Composite stitches are generally large. Because of this, the yarn may not always cover the canvas completely. To help remedy this, try not to pull the yarn too tight when making the stitches. Some composite stitches include the star stitch (aka the algerian eye stitch), the leaf stitch, and the triangle stitch, plus many more.
Looped Stitches are also called “Pile Stitches”. All of these stitches create a texture with a 3-D look. The pile surface is created by the loops contained in the stitches. Some stitches remain with the loops intact, some require the loops be cut. Although looped stitches are generally used in rug making, they may also be used in any needlepoint project that requires a 3-D or “pile” look. Some of the more interesting looped stitches include the loop stitch, the shell stitch (a very exciting stitch) and the velvet stitch. Again, there are many more available.
These are the main types of stitches available today. The final decision of which stitches to incorporate into your piece will depend on the gauge of the canvas/material you are working on and the type of yarn/thread you are working with. However, we can discuss that subject at another time…
Stitchopedia…an encyclopedia of needlepoint stitches…
Stitchopedia is an instructional site that demonstrates needlepoint stitches including straight, cross, looped, composite,& diagonal plus the basics of needlepoint. Each stitch has illustrations and step by step instructions. We have also included a “printable version” of each diagram – for those of us who do NOT enjoy stitching our projects while sitting at the computer.
The Oster branded meat tenderizer from acme international! Tenderizes steaks, chops, veal, chicken breasts and more. This not only makes meats tender but also allows marinades and toppings to flavor them more fully. Dishwasher safe. Features: * Color: black. * For meats and poultry. * Stainless tenderizing needles. * For steaks, chops, roasts, veal, chicken and more. * Di…
The Oster branded meat tenderizer from acme international! Tenderizes steaks, chops, veal, chicken breasts and more. This not only makes meats tender but also allows marinades and toppings to flavor them more fully. Dishwasher safe. Features: * Color: black. * For meats and poultry. * Stainless tenderizing needles. * For steaks, chops, roasts, veal, chicken and more. * Di…
What is special about Aubusson rugs – quite a lot really !!!
The rugs are steeped in 300 years of history with a reputation for the highest standard of craftsmanship and quality.
I’ll explain to you about the history, and the method of production and also the reason why they can make your home feel like a palace.
Maybe like myself you have walked around stately homes and gasped at the beautiful architecture of the plaster ceilings, it was a few years ago when I did this myself and then I looked down and realized that the extremely large rug on the floor mirrored the ceiling and that it had all been handsewn over 100years ago – it took my breath away, when I looked at the colours, designs and the fine needlecraft. This was when I realized that I wanted to know more about these rugs. I now consider myself very privileged to liaise with expert weavers, interior designers and customers in a process that unites together to provide the customer with a bespoke handsewn rug based on beautiful aubusson designs.
Firstly I will explain the name Aubusson. If you have difficulty pronouncing Aubusson – try this method – pronounce the AU as O and add a little magic of a French accent and your almost there.
The French accent is quite important as the name is from a small French medieval town on the banks of the river Creuse. In the 16th century this town became the capital of French tapestry and rug making. The rugs became large fine crafted tapestries that were hand stitched in a flat weave, in fact they became so renowned and desirable that in 1665, Louis XIV awarded the title of “Manufacture Royale des tapisseries d’Aubusson” to all the Aubusson towns weavers. Even a royal court painter was appointed to assist in the designs, in this era of history the subjects would usually be based on biblical stories or historic events.
A change happened in the rug patterns when the style of Baroque became popular, it was an extravagant and romantic style with many flowers and scrolls as part of the designs. It began to be used in the architecture of decorative ceilings and wall panels in grand houses. This was followed by the Rococo period of design. Rococo was also a decorative style favoured in interior design, painting, and building design. Rococo was formed from a new period of thought within society were the formality of previous years changed and became based on the pursuing of personal amusement and happiness. The movement with its idyllic and charming approach to design was also represented by the artist Francois Boucher, who created paintings and designed tapestries for the French royalty and nobility.
The movement portrayed the life of the aristocracy, using themes of romance, mythology, fantasy and everyday life rather than the old designs of historical events and religion. The style was light, ornamental, elaborate, and very curvy in designs. Other elements of the style included graceful movement and delicate use of colouring. making it right for interior decoration. The Rococo style was also used in art, furniture and tapestry design. It is sometimes considered to be the end of the Baroque period.
The Aubusson weavers designed rugs with Rococo features of flowers and intricate scrolls woven in delicate pretty colours and so was born the legacy of ‘Aubusson’ which has remained till this day.
Today credit for these beautiful rugs are the combination of a very skilled and dedicated workforces. Starting with the artist and stylist who produces the sketch, which form the complicated rug designs these are called ‘cartoon’s’ they are used by the diligent weavers. Then there is the wool dyer who arranges the wools and colour palette required for the design, and of course the expert weaver who will complete the tapestry. each process carried out by experts. The Aubusson colour palettes are usually all muted colors that blend easily with the surrounding decors there can be up to 60 different colors and shades of wool in the larger rugs. This demonstrates the complexity of the designs.
As you might imagine in todays market the labour involved to make these exceptional rugs is still extensive. This is why they are not mass produced. Whether these rugs are made in France or from further afield the craftsmanship is commendable and exceptional.
The palatial traditional designs always scream quality and can be used in a modern setting as the focal point of a room or in a traditional timeless setting. The flatweave means that they keep there look well, and will last many years.Maybe even turning into an heirloom that can be passed through generations like the French antique rugs.
By cutting down on my overheads I am able to offer all our customers the very best price for the rugs they order.
If you would like to walk into a room where your rug has been made especially for you in a timeless design and subtle colors then Aubusson designed rugs are for you. If you want further advise then please give me a call or email me at Gina@needlepointrugs.co.uk
About the Author
Gina Cartwright
Aubusson and Needlepoint Rugs.co.uk
Aboriginal Ethnic 100% Hand Stitched Textile ArtsThis marvelous piece of embroidery tapestry is hand stitched by a senior Yi Tribe lady who has been a local embroidery expert for many years. Ethnic Yi lives in the remote mountainous Southwest China, and has long tradition in handcrafting embroidery, lacquer ware and silver accessories. This large piece took approximately two to three weeks to hand…
Aboriginal Ethnic 100% Hand Stitched Textile ArtsThis marvelous piece of embroidery tapestry is hand stitched by a senior Yi Tribe lady who has been a local embroidery expert for many years. Ethnic Yi lives in the remote mountainous Southwest China, and has long tradition in handcrafting embroidery, lacquer ware and silver accessories. This large piece took approximately two to three weeks to hand…
How to Needlepoint a Tapestry : Setting Mood with Color in Needlepoint Tapestry
Patchwork quilts are the preferred choice of many because they create a vintage look for your bed. Patchwork quilts are now sold through online stores. Find the best collection of quilt online by analyzing their quality, size and design. Patchwork quilts set made of 100 percent cotton is the most popular of all. They add maximum comfort to users. Cotton quilts are filled with 100 percent cotton batting, so they are able to offer maximum warmth during the harsh winter.
Looking for the best patchwork design in quilts? Well, you can find a wide array of designs in patchwork quilts to gratify your tastes. If you are keen to decorate your home in style, go for some of the unique designs that are creating sensations everywhere. But you should not sacrifice the quality of these quilts while opting for the perfect design. Look for the cotton quilts set that is made in 100 percent cotton fabric that is pre-washed and pre-shrunk.
Get the perfect quilt online that is capable of meeting the demands of your family in winter. A cotton quilts set which has cotton batting inside can protect your family from the harsh cold. The cotton batting should be designed in such a way that it retains the shape and softness of the quilt for a long time. Online quilt shops offer the best quality designs suitable for modern homes. These quilts are designed in such a way that they offer maximum functionality while also offering maximum comfort to users.
Patchwork quilts for sale are available in different sizes: king size, queen size, and twin size. The king size quilts for sale measure 108 inch x 90 inch. Queen size quilts set measures 90 inch x 90 inch whereas twin size quilts set measures 68 inch x 86 inch. When it comes to design, patchwork quilts surpass all other quilts available for sale. Look for the beautiful patchwork designs like blue and red star king size quilts, bright stripe quilts, moose medley quilt, kettle grove cotton quilt, flip flop on the beach nautical quilt luxury king quilt, sail away coastal decor nautical quilt king bedding ensemble, and more.
About the Author
This article is written by the author whose aim to provide you complete information about best quality of King Quilt Size, patchwork quilts, online for you. Find more information about Patchwork Quilts here.
Protect your dishes in this set of 4 plate storage containers. Any type of dish, from the finest China to seasonal dishes can benefit by the use of these protective storage bags. The quilted Microfiber fabric is sturdy and soft, ideal for china storage. Included in this set are 12′ Dinner Plate Case, 9.5′ Salad Plate Case, 8′ Dessert Plate Case and a 7′ Saucer Case. Each case comes with 8 cushione…
Protect your dishes in this set of 4 plate storage containers. Any type of dish, from the finest China to seasonal dishes can benefit by the use of these protective storage bags. The quilted Microfiber fabric is sturdy and soft, ideal for china storage. Included in this set are 12′ Dinner Plate Case, 9.5′ Salad Plate Case, 8′ Dessert Plate Case and a 7′ Saucer Case. Each case comes with 8 cushione…
For most quilts, it is best to use pure cotton fabrics. These wash and iron well, are easy to sew, take a crease well and do not fray excessively. Generally, all fabrics used for a quilt should be of a similar weight and weave. Using fabrics of different weights may result in some areas of the quilt wearing more quickly than others.
It is possible to use other fabrics, such as velvets, silks and satins, for a more luxurious effect. If using such fabrics, do not wash them before use. If they need ironing, do so at a low heat setting on the wrong side of the fabric. Quilts made from such fabrics should be dry cleaned, not washed.
Fabric can be solid (a uniform colour, without a print or pattern); printed; tone- on-tone (having a background printed with a design of the same colour); or checked. Printed fabrics are divided into four categories: small, medium, large and directional.
Small prints may look almost like solid fabrics from a distance. Medium prints are more distinct and are often used to add visual texture. Large prints have very distinct patterns that stand out from the background. These are often used in quilts as borders or feature prints. Directional prints have a very distinct pattern that runs on one direction. Large directional prints, such as stripes, can be very effective when used in a border.
When choosing fabrics, give thought to both the balance of prints and plains as well as the tonal values of the fabrics; that is, the mixture of light, medium and dark fabrics. You will also find that the effect of a fabric may change according to the other fabrics surrounding it, with often surprising results. Experimenting with colour, tone and pattern is one of the pleasures of quilting.
Preparing Fabrics Many quilters prefer to wash, dry and iron cotton quilt fabrics before use. Wash each fabric separately in warm water with a scrap of white cotton fabric to test if the colour runs. If it does, the fabric should be discarded or used for another purpose. Otherwise, when the quilt is washed, the colour may run and ruin the quilt.
Washing pre-shrinks fabric and removes all finishes added by the manufacturer. Such finishes can make the fabric stiffer and easier to sew; if you wish to restore the stiffness, spray the fabric lightly with spray starch before sewing. Before sewing, remove the tightly woven edges (selvages) from all fabrics; if left on and included in seams, these may cause the fabric to pucker and bunch.
Fabric grain Fabric has three grains. The lengthwise grain runs the length of the fabric from top to bottom. The cross grain runs the width of the fabric, from selvage to selvage. The bias grain runs at a 45-degree angle to the straight of the grain.
Both the lengthwise and cross grains are straight grains. When cutting fabrics, most instructions and templates will tell you to cut on the straight of the grain. For borders, this is usually the lengthwise grain, to allow for greater length. Rotary-cut strips are usually cut on the cross grain. An arrow on the template or pattern piece shows you the direction in which the grain should run when cutting out the fabric. Cutting fabric on the bias will cause the cut edges to stretch; this is undesirable when piecing but can be useful if you need to make the fabric curve, as when making bindings for a quilt with a curved border or when making bias strips for curved sections of appliqué.
Equipment
Not all of the items listed below are essential; some simply make the work easier. The quilts in this book are pieced by machine, but can be adapted for hand-piecing.
Sewing machine and accessories
For the projects in this book, you will need a sewing machine in good working order that is capable of straight stitch. Before you start sewing, clean out the machine’s bobbin with a brush or a lint-free cloth, and oil the machine, if it needs it. Insert a new needle; a dull needle can prevent stitches from forming properly.
Sewing machine feet and needles
For piecing, you need a foot that gives you an accurate ¼ in (6 mm) seam. Most patchwork uses the imperial system rather than metric (see page 15), but most sewing machine dealers will be able to provide an accurate ¼ in (6 mm) foot. For older machines, there are feet that can be adapted. If you cannot acquire a ¼ in (6 mm) foot, place a ruler under the machine’s needle and mark ¼ in (6 mm) from the needle to the right, then draw a vertical line at this point with a pen or with masking tape. Make sure the seam is accurate by sewing pieces together and then measuring the seam before starting a project.
For machine quilting, you will need a walking foot and a darning foot. A walking foot is used for all straight-line quilting. It allows layers of fabric to move through the machine without shifting. A darning foot is used to do free-motion quilting by dropping the feed dogs so that you can manoeuvre the quilt in any direction.
For general piecing, the best needle sizes to use for cotton fabrics are sizes 70/10 and 80/12. For machine quilting, use a size 75/11 quilting needle for thin and/or natural batting quilts and a size 90/14 quilting needle for quilts with high loft and/or polyester batting. Sewing machine threads
Match the thread to the fabric when piecing; for example, when using 100 per cent cotton fabric, use 100 per cent cotton thread. If using a multicoloured fabric, use a neutral thread, such as grey or beige, to match the tone of the background. Don’t use a polyester thread for a cotton fabric; over time it will cut through the fibres of the cotton. The same rule applies when choosing thread for machine quilting.
Monofilament thread, which is transparent, is the most appropriate thread for quilt tops, as it takes on the colour of any fabric that it is stitched or quilted over. Although made of nylon, monofilament thread has the elastic quality of cotton. Monofilament thread should be used as the top thread in the machine. A quilting thread that matches the backing fabric should be used in the bobbin. The top tension in the machine should be eased off so that the heavier quilting thread will anchor quilting stitches in the batting, or anchor appliqué stitches to the back.
When machine-piecing, the best stitch length is about 2.0; this should produce 12—14 stitches per inch (2.5 cm). For hand-piecing (see page 18), aim to make 10—12 stitches per inch (2.5 cm).
Rotary cutting
Rotary cutting makes it easy to cut fabrics quickly and accurately. Several layers of fabric can be cut at once.
Rotary cutters
A rotary cutter is a round, razor-sharp blade attached to a handle, protected by a sheath. Many styles of cutter are available. The standard size blade is 1¾ in (45 mm). This is suitable for most cutting tasks, but for cutting templates the most suitable blade size is 11/8in (28 mm). For cutting through multiple layers, a 2% in (60 mm) or 2½ in (65 mm) blade gives best results. A cutter with a blade this size is also easier to hold.
Rotary cutters are held in the hand in much the same way as a knife. The handle should rest comfortably in the palm and the index finger should be placed on the top edge of the cutter handle. There is usually a ridged section in this area to help provide grip. The blade side of the cutter should face the body and cuts should be made away from the body, using a smooth, firm motion, to provide control and prevent cuts to the body.
Safety should be a priority when using the rotary cutter. The blade should be exposed only when a cut is to be made (this can be done with the thumb) and the protective sheath should be replaced as soon as the cut is finished to protect you and to prevent the blade from being damaged. Never leave rotary cutters lying about where they can be found by children or pets. A rotary cutter is essentially a circular razor blade, so treat it accordingly.
Rotary cutting mats
A cutting mat should be used with a rotary cutter to protect both the blade of the rotary cutter and the work surface. Rotary cutting mats are made from self-healing plastic that allows cuts to mend. The size of the cutting mat depends on the size of the work area, but the mat should be able to accommodate a quarter of the width of the fabric (approximately 11 in/28 cm). The bigger the mat, the longer the cut you will be able to make. Rotary cutting mats should be placed on a firm surface, stored flat and kept away from heat, which causes them to warp.
Rotary cutting rulers
Rotary cutting rulers (sometimes called quilters’ rulers) are made of acrylic and are transparent. Designed to be used in conjunction with rotary cutters and mats, they have markings at 1/8 in (3 mm) intervals. To make the quilts in this book, you will need a 6½ x 24 in (16.5 x 60 cm) and a 6½ x 12 in (16.5 x 30 cm) ruler. The first ruler is for squaring up the fabric and cutting long lengths of fabric for borders. The smaller ruler is for cutting smaller strips of fabric.
Always measure and cut using the lines on the ruler rather than those on the cutting mat; if you cut too many times along the same lines on the mat, you will both damage the mat and erase or blur the lines, making them inaccurate.
Square rulers, which come in various sizes, are handy but not essential. The larger sizes make it possible to cut large squares in one movement. The smaller square rulers are good for cutting small pieces of fabric and for trimming up.
Accessories
Various types of pins, scissors and other accessories will make your quilt-making easier and more efficient.
Pins
Long, fine pins with heads that lie flat against the fabric are recommended, as they will go through layers of fabric easily, and allow you to sew up to and over them without the stitching puckering. Fine pins are preferable, as thick, large pins cause the fabric to bunch up and the piecing to be inaccurate. Pins should be placed at right angles to seams. For appliqué, special appliqué and sequin pins are available; they are very short (½ in/8 mm) to prevent the thread becoming caught around the appliqué pieces as you sew them down.
Scissors
You will need three types of scissors for quilt-making: a pair of fabric shears or a large pair of scissors to use exclusively to cut fabric; a pair of thread clips or small scissors to clip threads when sewing; and a pair of scissors to cut templates from plastic and paper. Don’t use the same scissors for fabric and paper, as the paper will make them too blunt to cut fabric easily. Templates and template plastic Transparent template plastic is used to trace shapes onto fabric in much the same way as cardboard templates. The advantage of template plastic is that it is much more durable than cardboard, so it can be drawn around numerous times without the shape becoming distorted. It comes in a plain version (for freeform shapes) and a grid version (for geometric shapes). To use template plastic to create a fabric block, trace the block template onto the plastic then, using a craft knife or paper scissors, cut it out. Template plastic can also be used for appliqué. Commercial templates are also available. These are made of rigid plastic and come in various shapes and sizes. Their advantages are that they are durable, so they can be used over and over again, and very precisely cut for greater accuracy.
Useful bits and pieces
There are many small accessories to make patchwork and quilting easier, such as: Erasable pencils: Used for tracing quilting designs onto the quilt top that can later be erased. Some pencils are also water soluble.
Fabric markers: Fine-tipped felt pens with an ink that vanishes automatically over time, or that can be rinsed out in cold water; test them on a scrap of fabric before using.
Quilter’s quarter: A perspex rod ¼ in (6 mm) square and about 12 in (30 mm) long, used for tracing precise V4 in (6 mm) seams along the straight edge of a template.
Seam tracers: Two connected pencils with their tips ¼ in (6 mm) apart; one is held against the edge of a template and the other is used to trace a precise1/4in (6 mm) seam around the template.
Another type of seam tracer is a small metal disk with a hole in the centre and a groove around the outside. You put a pencil into the hole and the edge of the disk against the edge of the template, and trace around it to produce a precise ¼ in (6 mm) seam. Both types of seam tracer are particularly useful for tracing around curves.
Thimbles: There are two types, leather and metal. Leather ones are used on the fingers of the underneath hand when quilting, to prevent the needle constantly pricking the fInger when it is pushed to the underside of the quilt. A metal thimble is used on the middle finger of the upper hand to push the needle through all the layers of the quilt.
Fusible interfacing: Useful for stabilizing fine or slippery fabrics, or those that fray easily, before piecing.
To source all of this equipment you’ll need to find a local haberdashery shop, or an online equivalent.
Protect your dishes in this set of 4 plate storage containers. Any type of dish, from the finest China to seasonal dishes can benefit by the use of these protective storage bags. The quilted Microfiber fabric is sturdy and soft, ideal for china storage. Included in this set are 12′ Dinner Plate Case, 9.5′ Salad Plate Case, 8′ Dessert Plate Case and a 7′ Saucer Case. Each case comes with 8 cushione…
Protect your dishes in this set of 4 plate storage containers. Any type of dish, from the finest China to seasonal dishes can benefit by the use of these protective storage bags. The quilted Microfiber fabric is sturdy and soft, ideal for china storage. Included in this set are 12′ Dinner Plate Case, 9.5′ Salad Plate Case, 8′ Dessert Plate Case and a 7′ Saucer Case. Each case comes with 8 cushione…
RANDOM HOUSE-Potter Craft Books: Wendy Knits Lace. At last; gorgeous lace projects you can knit and wear every day. When you are new to lace or a more adventuresome knitter; you will find plenty to occupy your needles. From a delicate camisole for layering a pullover sweater for fall or pretty hats; scarves; shawls and socks author Wendy D. Johnson invites you to knit lace pieces that are perfect …
RANDOM HOUSE-Potter Craft Books: Wendy Knits Lace. At last; gorgeous lace projects you can knit and wear every day. When you are new to lace or a more adventuresome knitter; you will find plenty to occupy your needles. From a delicate camisole for layering a pullover sweater for fall or pretty hats; scarves; shawls and socks author Wendy D. Johnson invites you to knit lace pieces that are perfect …
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Consider a journey plug.
Well being:
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is expected from travellers above one year of age coming from contaminated spots. Website visitors are recommended to just take pre-arrival precautions in opposition to malaria (exists in selected rural locations, no danger on Rodrigues island), hepatitis A, polio and typhoid. Other wellness considerations incorporate significant continuous humidity (might have an effect on people with arthritic problems) sinusitis and hay fever (Jul-Aug) influenza (risk during the calendar year) and diarrhoea.
LANGUAGE:
English is the official language and understood through the island. French is also a principal language and Creole is spoken by all locals. Oriental and Indian languages are also spoken.
PUBLIC Holidays:
New Year’s Day (1 Jan) Day just after New Year’s Day (2 Jan) Chinese New Year (22 Jan) Abolition of Slavery / Thaipoosam Cavadee (1 Feb) Maha Srivatri (18 Feb) Good Friday (9Apr) Labour Day (one May well) Assumption (15 Aug) Ganesh Chaturthi (18 Sep) All Saint’s Day (one Nov) Arrival of Indentured Labourers (2 Nov) Deepavali (twelve Nov) Conclude of Ramadan (14 Nov) Xmas Day (25 Dec)
Shopping:
saris silk shirts Indian fabrics basketwork knitwear hand-embroidered tablecloths macrame get the job done wood carvings pottery product boats, diamonds, jewellery informal put on. Small price ranges limit bargaining.
SOCIAL CONVENTIONS:
Extra than 50 % the population is Hindu, so respect their traditions and religion. Dress appropriately when going to religious shrines (no shorts, mini-skirts, and many others.) and remove sneakers when getting into mosques and temples. Clothing is beachwear by day and informal use at night.
TIME Variation:
GMT +4
TIPPING:
A ten % Authorities Tax is extra to all hotel and restaurant expenditures. Tipping is not compulsory and remains a gesture of appreciation left to the guest’s discretion. Tipping taxi drivers is not customary.
Leading 10 Attractions DESCRIPTION:
Port-Louis:
Money and principal port of Mauritius French colonial properties e.g. the 18th century Federal government Dwelling and Municipal Theatre All-natural Heritage Museum industry Edward VII Avenue Fort Adelaide The Throughout the world Masks Museum the Caudan and Port-Louis Waterfronts.
Pamplemousses
The gardens are known to naturalists in the course of the planet for their significant collection of indigenous and exotic vegetation, incl. the large Victoria Amazonica drinking water lilies and a lot of species of palm trees of specific curiosity is the talipot palm, which is mentioned to flower as soon as each sixty ages and then dies.
Grand Bassin:
One of the island’s two natural lakes, resting in a crater of an extinct volcano and is the position of pilgrimage for Hindus, primarily on the situation of Maha Shivaratree.
Chamarel:
A mound of undulating land stretching in contrasting layers of colour the patches of blue, green, red and yellow earth are thought to be the outcome of weathering the nearby waterfall emerges from the moors and primeval vegetation and is startlingly wonderful.
Trou Aux Cerfs:
An extinct crater 85m deep and more than 200m huge get pleasure from an substantial see of the island from the rim.
Souillac and Gris-Gris:
Modest seaside resort with stunning cliff scenery and no bathing in the south is the common viewpoint of Gris-Gris, in which you can see the waves crashing into the dark, hollowed-out rocks.
Domaine Du Chasseur:
Around Mahebourg, a forest park with magnificent vegetation together with wild orchids and animals e.g.
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WILTON-Fondant and Gum Paste Mold. There’s no better way to add color; dimension; and excitement to a cake that with fondant or gum paste accents. Silicone molds make it easy to create detailed shapes in exciting designs that are ready to place on your cake and they are available in a wide variety of themes to fit any and every occasion. This package contains one mold in the Macrame theme. Fondant…
WILTON-Fondant and Gum Paste Mold. There’s no better way to add color; dimension; and excitement to a cake that with fondant or gum paste accents. Silicone molds make it easy to create detailed shapes in exciting designs that are ready to place on your cake and they are available in a wide variety of themes to fit any and every occasion. This package contains one mold in the Macrame theme. Fondant…
