On June 5th this year I took a holiday and one of my destinations was Amsterdam. 

 I absolutely loved that city and the many other places I visited for a few days.

Being a quilter a visit to a quilt shop is a must, so I went to Petra Prins Patchwork and Quilting shops. It comprises of 2 adjoined shops with slightly different styles but totally beautiful.

I was lucky enough to meet Petra Prins and she kindly agreed to have her photo taken with me.

A 'bit' of shopping took place and I came out on a high from such beautiful fabrics and store. 

Melbourne Craft and Quilt Fair

 Last weekend I attended the Melbourne Craft and Quilt Fair.  This is a yearly event that brings a lot of crafts under one roof as well as over 150 quilts on display.

I have been a quilter for over 20 years but this year at the last minute I was encouraged to display some of my quilts to be judged under the banner of Victorian Quilters Inc. I entered 2 quilts quite different from one another.

This quilt (Kim Diehl pattern) is made from wool and cotton, using machine and hand applique. I quilted on my long arm.

 

I was lucky enough to get a ribbon "Highly commended first time entrant"

The other quilt that I submitted was all machined pieced and quilted. 

Basket with Embroidery

 

Making these bags/baskets with fabric scraps, beads and some decorative appliques made from cotton and wool is so fun. Once I start stitching a panel, my imagination takes over and I can't stop.

Even the inside is made from scraps decorated with machine decorative stitches

My garden is now 'waking up' as Spring has began...