thimblefolk

Another "Hookers" Birthday

2012-02-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

We celebrate everyone's Birthday in our little group of rug hooking buddies. Last night was Mary's, (no ages divulged)and we celebrated at Kathy's. She made goodie bags for all of us, I made the cake....chocolate buttermilk with peanut butter frosting, Rose made a baked chicken dish and a salad of greens, walnuts, cranberries and goat cheese, Kathy picked up a loaf of Judie's French Bread and Steph brought a bottle of red wine. We had such a good time together,as always. We started laughing as soon as we sat down to eat and didn't stop until it was time to leave. A second bottle of red wine appeared and while I can't tell you what we spent the night laughing about, I can tell you my cheeks hurt by the end of the night. We get to do it all over again the end of February......I can't wait.

Who holds your heart???????

2012-01-16T12:07:00.000-08:00

My Valentine pieces for 2012. Click on Items for Sale for details.
Barb

Fairfield-Grace 52nd Annual Rug Show

2012-01-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

I am extremely happy to announce that the Fairfield-Grace Methodist Church will be hosting its 52nd Annual Rug Show this year! Here are the details I just received:

We are pleased to announce
the Fairfield Grace 52st Annual Rug Exhibit.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Fairfield Grace United Methodist Church
1089 Fairfield Woods Road
Fairfield, CT 06825

Guest Speaker: Liz Alpert Fay

We hope to see you there!!!!
Barb

O Christmas Tree......

2011-12-21T15:30:00.000-08:00

....is trimmed. This was the first Christmas since 1990 that Miss Molly Mac, my cat, was not here to trim the tree. No stolen ornaments, no climbing in the steamer truck and no howling her displeasure when she tired of it all and wanted me to cuddle on the couch. I do miss her and having to let her go still makes me sad.

The "hookers" were here on Monday for our annual Christmas get together and we celebrated Carol's birthday. I baked the cookies that had to get shipped and still have baking left to do. The last of my orders shipped today, I have a few ornaments to make for my neighbors, but tomorrow is another day. I think it's a good night to put up my feet and have a glass of Bailey's on the rocks.

Barb

Into the Woods for Christmas

2011-11-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

I've some new items for the holidays, just click on the Items for Sale at the right.
Barb

Christmas is a coming.........

2011-11-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

Country Parlor
20th Annual
Holiday Home Show
in the historic Naugles Barn at the
Hallockville Museum Farm
at the corner of Sound Ave and Herricks
Lane in Riverhead
THANKSGIVING WEEKEND
Friday and Saturday 9 til 3
Sunday 10 til 2

......back to the sewing table.
Barb

What's Coming Up Next.......

2011-10-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

Here's where we'll be in a few weeks. Hope to see you there.
Fine American Craftsmenship Show presented by The Wilton Historical Society

Saturday, Nov. 12, 10am-5pm
Sunday, Nov. 13, 10am-4pm
Wilton High School Field House
395 Danbury Road (Route 7), Wilton, CT 06897

I'll Be There..........

2011-09-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

It was brought to my attention that my name was omitted on the list of vendors for the NYS Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck this year. Sarah and I always share a booth so whenever you see the Paisley Studio....I'll be there, too. I hope we see you there, too.

NYS Sheep and Wool Festival
October 15th and 16th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
6550 Spring Brook Avenue
Rhinebeck, NY 12572

www.sheepandwool.com

We're Wooly Excited.........

2011-08-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

....Sarah and I have added a new Fiber Fest to our schedule this year. We'll be vending at the Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival in September. Here's the link..

http://www.adkfiber.com/

I'm busy executing new BaaBaa designs and planning some new colors to dye.

Hope we see you there.
Barb

Send in the Clowns......

2011-08-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

The circus cars full off animals all shipped to their destinations last weekend and then it was on to the clowns. That's Jerry the Juggler in the photo,don't you think he looks like he enjoys his job????

It's pouring rain here and fairly cool for August. Summer is almost gone, the school buses came down the street last week. New drivers learning their routes. Where is the time going?????

Barb

...the circus came to town

2011-07-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

.....it's under the Big Top for Halloween this year. The animal cars have arrived....the others will be soon to follow. To see the parade click on "items for sale" to your right!!

I hope you are all enjoying your summer.
Barb

Happy 20th Birthday Miss Molly Mac

2011-07-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

20 years ago this gal and her sister came home to live with me. I put her down on the floor and she ran up my leg and screeched in my face.I remember my sister in law saying "your going to have your hands full" and boy was she right.....enjoy your whipped cream and butter cookie crumbs.

Holiday Travel

2011-06-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

....They arrived at their new homes in time for the holiday weekend.....now it's on to Halloween.

New Noisey Neighbors

2011-06-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

With Long Island Sound just a stroll down the street and the salt marshes behind us,the warm weather brings out the neighbors. There's a constant chatter of the Red Winged Blackbirds, the squawking of seagulls...well, you get the picture. We have a Blue Heron, 8 large white Cranes,several species of ducks and geese and a fox to name a few. It's a pleasure to have the windows open during the day, that is until Thursday. A family of Sandpipers, Willets to be exact, must have been teaching their young to fly. They were so noisey, kip,kip,kip was all you heard in between squawking when someone went near the marsh. We listened to this for two days straight and today they are gone. Either they were quick learners or the fox ate them , maybe they are walking on the sand, perhaps on one of the Thimble Islands. Where ever they are, it sure is quiet here.

Have a Happy Father's Day!
Barb

Happy Flag Day !!

2011-06-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

The Stars and Stripes Forever Lyrics
by John Philip Sousa - 1897

Let martial note in triumph float
And liberty extend its mighty hand
A flag appears 'mid thunderous cheers,
The banner of the Western land.
The emblem of the brave and true
Its folds protect no tyrant crew;
The red and white and starry blue
Is freedom's shield and hope.
Other nations may deem their flags the best
And cheer them with fervid elation
But the flag of the North and South and West
Is the flag of flags, the flag of Freedom's nation.

Hurrah for the flag of the free!
May it wave as our standard forever,
The gem of the land and the sea,
The banner of the right.
Let despots remember the day
When our fathers with mighty endeavor
Proclaimed as they marched to the fray
That by their might and by their right
It waves forever.

Let eagle shriek from lofty peak
The never-ending watchword of our land;
Let summer breeze waft through the trees
The echo of the chorus grand.
Sing out for liberty and light,
Sing out for freedom and the right.
Sing out for Union and its might,
O patriotic sons.
Other nations may deem their flags the best
And cheer them with fervid elation,
But the flag of the North and South and West
Is the flag of flags, the flag of Freedom's nation.

Hurrah for the flag of the free.
May it wave as our standard forever
The gem of the land and the sea,
The banner of the right.
Let despots remember the day
When our fathers with might endeavor
Proclaimed as they marched to the fray,
That by their might and by their right
It waves forever.

This Weather Makes Me Crabby.....

2011-05-19T14:43:00.000-07:00

...here's the fourth in my series of scallop shell pincushions. It's listed for sale in my Etsy Shop and I'll have one with me this weekend. Hopefully the sun will shine.

Barb

Fleece and Fiber.....sheep and other animals

2011-05-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here's where we will be next weekend. Hope you can stop by and say hello.

2nd Annual Long Island Fleece & Fiber Fair
Saturday, May 21, 2011 at Hallockville Museum Farm
6038 Sound Avenue, Riverhead, N.Y. 11901
631-298-5292 hallockv@optonline.net

10 am til 5 pm...in the event of heavy rain it will be postponed until Sunday.

The Long Island Fleece & Fiber Fair is a one-of-a-kind event on Long Island that brings together the diversity of fiber arts activities! Visitors will learn and experience how local artisans craft wool and other animal fiber into beautiful finished pieces of clothing and art. The fair provides a fun-filled day of demonstrations and hands-on learning.

My Americana Sheep Pincushion will be available for purchase there, in my Etsy Shop or email me thimblefolk@comcast.net

Barb

How Much Fun Is This????

2011-05-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

Lots of colors....this package put a smile on my face. I had such a good time choosing the colors of felt. If you are looking for 100% wool felt in various sizes go to feltonthefly.etsy , Janet is a delight to work with and she has wonderful felt. I finally sat down and crafted some pincushion rings....only took a year to do it, but I am pleased with the results. They were a hit at the show this weekend and I've put a few in my Etsy Shop.

Getting ready for the next show, details to follow soon.
Have a great day!!
Barb

Monday I had the blues........

2011-04-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

....Tuesday was rosey and yesterday I was green. Guess what I'm up to again, 3 more bolts to go. I need to replenish my inventory for our next show.

Fairfield Grace
51st Annual Hooked Rug Exhibit
And Hook In!!!!
Saturday, April 30, 2011
9AM to 3PM
$5 admission - door prizes

"Color Planning for Rug Hookers"
Presentation by Eric Sandberg

Fairfield Grace United Methodist Church
1089 Fairfield Woods Road, Fairfield, Ct. 06825
203-943-9283

Hope to see you there, with or without a hook!
Barb

My Birthday Slippers 2009

2011-03-24T07:55:00.001-07:00

You're probably wondering why I'm posting about wool slippers from my October Birthday 2009. They were knit for me by my friend...Kathy Blake-Parker. When she gave them to me they were the laugh of the evening as they were about 12 inches long. Mary thought they were the funniest thing. Long story short, they needed to be felted and got lost in my house. I found them again this Christmas and Kathy took them home to felt. I got them back the other night, just in time for the snow that was predicted.

I live in a tiny rental cottage that sits on cinder blocks....my floors are cold. What better gift than a warm, fuzzy pair of slippers...knit with love by a dear friend even though it did take over a year to get them on my feet?

Wishing you warm feet....
Barb

So I'm Not the Easter Bunny

2011-03-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

.....click on Items For Sale for new Easter items.

Barb

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T05:45:00.000-07:00

from Miss McNamara......

First to Leave

2011-03-04T07:39:00.000-08:00

He arrived at his new home yesterday. He is missed by the others.

It's hard to focus on Spring and Easter when it is still so cold outside. I'm longing for purple pansies and yellow daffodils and to be rid of the dirty snow. We are going to have a warm up this weekend but I hear the showers will accompany the warmth. Oh, well.......

Stay warm!
Barb

Three Blind Mice.......

2011-02-03T12:19:00.000-08:00

....well, actually 4. I ran out of 3mm onyx beads, I have 2mm and 4mm.....no 3mm. I toyed with running out to see if I could find some plastic ones. Between my desire for nice glass,agate or onyx and not want to chance falling on the ice I went searching for them on the web. Now I'm waiting on my Merry Mailman to come today in hopes that they have arrived in Branford from Wisconsin. These little guys need to make the trip to Long Island when they are done. I'll also be listing one in my Etsy shop later this evening.

Stay warm!
Barb

Leave Me Alone, I Want to Dye.......

2011-01-21T11:19:00.000-08:00

.....what better way to warm up a cold kitchen. A dye pot on the stove has a dual purpose....keeps me warm and builds my inventory. So much better than dyeing when it's hazy, hot and humid.

I hope you have a fun and creative way to stay warm!
Barb

Feeling a Little Sheepish????

2011-01-13T13:49:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
I know, it's almost the 15th and I'm a little late. But I'm not late for my Valentine update on the Primitive Gathering. Stop by and take a look at my new little friends.

I hope you are all well and staying warm!
Barb

December 1st on the Primitive Gathering

2010-11-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

I'll be updating on the 1st this coming month instead of the 15th.....enough time to fill orders and get them shipped by Christmas.

Silver Bells will be there with her bunny.....a few santas and a set of snowboys. Be sure to join us bright and early!!!
Barb

Country Parlor Here We Come.............

2010-11-20T13:05:00.000-08:00

Beau Jingles and his faithful companion Shiver are out for one last romp before they take the Priority Express to Long Island. Please stop by and say Hello if you are in town.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Barb

Baa Baa Black Feet........

2010-10-04T11:25:00.000-07:00

...take me for a ride. The Owls are off on their Midnight Ride and I had just enough jersey left to make another Pumpkin Head. As we are off to Rhinebeck in a few weeks, I decided I needed a "showpiece". The only problem is, I like him so much I don't want to let him go.The sheep took a full day to make, each curl has been needlefelted to his body, it makes me smile every time I look at it and I love the way he feels.

Hope to see you there!!
Barb

Worst Blogger Award...................

2010-09-26T07:30:00.000-07:00

............I'm expecting it any day now.

I've been so busy sewing, dyeing and filling orders and trying to stay far away from the computer. I tend to get lost and waste a ridiculous amount of time when I get on it.Of course, then I wonder why I'm so far behind schedule.

I just wanted to let you know about our upcoming shows for those of you here on the East Coast.

NYS Sheep and Wool Festival
October 16th and 17th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
6550 Spring Brook Avenue
Rhinebeck, NY 12572

www.sheepandwool.com

Wilton Historical Society Fine American Craftsman Show
November 14th and 15th
Wilton High School Fieldhouse
395 Danbury Road (Rte. 7)
Wilton, Conn. 06897

www.wiltonhistorical.org

So, if you don't hear from me again....I hope to see you at one or the other!!!

Happy Fall,
Barb

Happy Flag Day....

2010-06-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

.....and tomorrow we update on The Primitive Gathering!! Be sure to stop by for a visit!
Barb

A Little Birdie Told Me

2010-04-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

....there's a Mother's Day, May Day update April 15th on the Primitive Gathering. Just click on the link at the right to get there.
Barb

Here's Where We'll Be on Saturday.......

2010-03-25T07:36:00.001-07:00

Sarah and I will be vending at the 2nd Annual Fluffystuff East End Fiber Festival this Saturday, March 27, 2010, 9 am to 5 pm, at the Inn at East Wind in Wading River, New York. There are vendors, obviously -- demonstrations, knitting and spinning circles, used fiber equipment, and goody bags for the first 50 people to arrive! Click here for more info: Fluffystuff East End. Hope to see you there!

Easter Update Tomorrow

2010-03-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

....stop by The Primitive Gathering to see this felted fellows friends.....
Barb

Primitive Gathering Update

2010-02-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

.....thinking spring. I've updated my page on the Gathering with a few wee mice and a bird or two....the only bird outside my door this morning is the iron bird on my bell bracket, covered with 4 inches of fresh snow....I can't wait to open the windows!

Barb

A Happy Valentine's Day to You!

2010-02-14T16:58:00.001-08:00

Valentine Express

2010-01-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess you can tell what I have been doing since the 15th. We're getting ready to wrap and ship these little sweeties today and then get the dye pots going....and maybe start on Easter??? Oh,my. Time flies.

While I was digging in the wool piles I found a buried basket. It was filled with little bodies and little hearts....never finished. Remember him? Valentine's 2008. I think maybe I will finish a few while the pots are bubbling and list them in my Etsy shop.

Have a great day!
Barb

Silk Stocking Mat

2010-01-20T10:48:00.000-08:00

This mat could be a snapshot of the weather today. It's one of my treasures....a Birthday gift from my dear friend Mary and the latest in my collection. Two of the snowmen in the photo are of my making and the large, handsome fellow was made by Kimberly Whritner. She's a friend and a new blogger....thesheepsnest, be sure to stop by and say hello. He was a Christmas gift from my sister, Sarah. Sad to say, the rest of my snowman collection never made it out of the suitcases this year....a post for next January....hahaha.

Enjoy the rest of the month...it will be February before you know it.
Barb

2010-01-15T05:27:00.000-08:00

What Will The New Year Bring??

2010-01-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

"Another fresh new year is here ...
Another year to live!
To banish worry, doubt, and fear,
To love and laugh and give!

This bright new year is given me
To live each day with zest ...
To daily grow and try to be
My highest and my best!

I have the opportunity
Once more to right some wrongs,
To pray for peace, to plant a tree,
And sing more joyful songs!"

~ William Arthur Ward

2009-12-31T15:43:00.001-08:00

Last 2009 Update on The Primitive Gathering

2009-11-29T15:37:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving......now it's time for Christmas.....December 1st will be the last update of 2009. Stop by and have a look. Mr. Whipstitch has been keeping me on my toes...you can't even find him on my sewing table.

Country Parlor...the last of my shows for 2009

2009-11-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

Here is the information for this year's show. Mark your calendars! Only one week to go!

Country Parlor Holiday Home Show
Thanksgiving Weekend 2009
Friday, November 27 9 am to 3 pm
Saturday, November 28 9 am to 3 pm
Sunday, November 29 10 am to 2 pm

How to get there:
Route 58 Riverhead, New York to Northville Turnpike (3.5 miles east of Tanger Outlets)
Turn left onto Northville Turnpike to end at Sound Avenue
Turn right onto Sound Avenue and head east
Hallockville's Naugles Barn wil be approximately 2 miles east on the left

Simply the best Holiday Show on Long Island!

It's Showtime!!!!!!!

2009-09-22T07:54:00.000-07:00

and I've been in the dye pots. Here are the details....hope to see you there!

LIGRA
Saturday, September 26th 10-5
Presbyterian Church of Sweet Hollow
95 Old Country Road
Melville, N.Y. 11747

631-549-7158

Barb

Meet Sir Oliver....

2009-09-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

.....he's hosting a swell Halloween party on The Primitive Gathering. Do stop by and take a look.

We're getting ready for our fall shows...the dye pots are bubbling and the sewing machine needs oiling again, the little workhorse.I'm waiting for a supply of felting needles as I broke almost all that I had making last months cats and raccoons.

Until next time....
Barb

Scat,Scat, little cat....

2009-08-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

...be gone from my worktable or your traveling companions will never come to life. It's on to the next on the list of furry friends....6 little Masked Marauders. I promised I would have all my orders finished by the end of the week.....think I'll make the deadline? How many more holes will I put in my fingers? How many more felting needles will I break? Stay tuned..I'll let you know.

More Halloween has come to life......

2009-08-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

...on my page at The Primitive Gathering!!!! Here's a shot of my favorite...Scat the Cat.

Hat's Off to a Jolly Halloween....

2009-07-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

....The first of my 2009 Halloween pieces will be for sale on The Eclectic Artisan Webshow, August 1st 7pm EST.

Here's the link:

http://www.honeysucklelane.com/TEAwebshow.htm

Back to the sewing machine.
Barb

Happy Flag Day!!!!!

2009-06-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

Remember.........

2009-05-25T09:57:00.001-07:00

American Folk Art Update

2009-05-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

....a day late and a dollar short...that's me.

We updated yesterday at American Folk Art....click on the link to the right to get there. The theme was May Apples.....not a theme that translated well for me so my theme is Maritime, a collection of pincushions.

Enjoy your visit and a Happy Mother's Day to all!!!!

Barb

HAPPY EASTER

2009-04-12T07:34:00.000-07:00

TEA Web Show...April 4th

2009-04-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

The Eclectic Artisans are having their first show of 2009 this weekend. It opens Saturday, April 4th at 8 a.m. EST. Stop by and take a look at a our new creations!!

Barb

Happy Spring....finally?

2009-03-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

"And there is pansies,that's for thoughts"
William Shakespeare

Nothing says spring to me more than pansies, I just adore them. This year they were one of the things that didn't work into my budget, so it was to be empty window boxes until summer.

Well, my sister Sarah and I were vendors at the rug show this weekend and she came on Friday to stay at my house.In the door she walks announcing "I brought you pansies!" Now what could be more thoughtful than that? So, my neighbors will be surprised and delighted to find my boxes full of pansies and violas when they come home from work tonight.(I'm known in the neighborhood for my windowboxes and got a few complaints at Christmas time because they weren't done up...)

We had a good show, it's always fun to meet new "hookers" and have old ones stop by to say hello, show new projects and have a few laughs.A few of my hooking friends came later in the day and when the show was over they helped pack us up in a flash so we were on our way home in no time. Thankyou, Kathy, Mary and Stephanie!!!!!

Well, outside to plant my pansies...it's a beautiful, sunny day!

Barb

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!!!

2009-03-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

Primitive Gathering Update..........

2009-03-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

.....so you thought you were getting a chocolate rabbit in your basket. Surprise!!!
The Primitive gathering updates tomorrow, be sure to stop by and take a look at all the new creations!!

Barb

When the Red,Red Robin .......

2009-03-05T09:42:00.000-08:00

comes bob,bob bobin along........you probably don't remember this song. The robins are bobin but the weather sure isn't cooperating. We want spring!!!!

Sarah and I will be at the 49th Annual Hooked Rug Exhibit in Fairfield on March 28th. Be sure to stop by and say hello if you are in the neighborhood.

Here are the details:

Fairfield Grace United Methodist Church
1089 Fairfield Woods Road
Fairfield, Ct. 06825

Saturday, March 28, 2009

9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
$5 Admission--Door Prizes

Guest speaker....Trish Becker, rug hooking supplies and accessories from vendors.
Bag Lunches, Beverages and Desserts available.

Hope to see you there!
Sarah and Barb

Let's go fly a kite.........

2009-02-15T09:57:00.001-08:00

Here's my new little friend...ready for those March winds to lift his kite up to the highest height.(a little Mary Poppins here) He's on my page at the Primitive Gathering.

Barb

Warming up the kitchen...0 calories

2009-02-07T09:55:00.000-08:00

Well, this is a much more productive way to warm things up. Three dye pots going, lots of steam to counteract the dryness of forced hot air. My goal is to dye the 5 bolts of wool that are standing in the corner.....we'll see how I do.

The 15th will be here soon....I will have an update on The Primitive Gathering website.....think spring!!!!!!

Barb

Warming up the kitchen.......

2009-01-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

Another cold and wintry day, we're expecting snow, sleet and eventually freezing rain by tomorrow. I'm tired of it, myself...but what better way to take the chill off the afternoon than baking. Here's a slice of Cinnamon Apple Cake that was so good with a cup of coffee I just had to share.

1 3/4 cups sugar, divided
3/4 cup (6 ounces) block style cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 cups chopped, peeled granny smith apples ( about 2 large)
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Beat 1 1/2 cups sugar, cream cheese, butter, and vanilla at medium speed of a mixer until well-blended (about 4 minutes). Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition, set aside.

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add flour mixture to creamed mixture, and beat at low speed until blended. Combine 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon mixture and apple in a bowl; stir apple mixture into batter. Pour batter into an 8-inch springform pan coated with cooking spray, and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon mixture.

Bake at 350 for one hour and 15 minute or until cake pulls away from the sides of pan.Cool cake completely on wire, and cut using a serrated knife. Yield 12 servings.

Stay warm and safe!!!
Barb

YES WE DID !!!!!!

2009-01-20T17:44:00.000-08:00

I don't need to elaborate....such an awesome moment in our history.

Barb

Valentine's Day Friends

2009-01-15T15:30:00.000-08:00

The Primitive Gathering is still on holiday so I've updated my album on Picture Trail. There are 4 new friends to meet, hope you'll take a peek. Just click on the Picture Trail link on the right side of the page.

Stay warm, stay healthy and stay happy!!!!
Barb

for Marilyn.......

2008-12-20T12:49:00.000-08:00

It's trimmed.....sorry it wasn't done when you were here the other night.

....now I need to deal with the Christmas cookies.

Barb

I found Mr. Whipstitch........

2008-12-14T10:12:00.000-08:00

....and boy was he dusty. It's cleaning time here now that the sewing is done for a few weeks. I finally cleared my dining table which has been a work table 24/7 for the past 5 months and there he was. Hiding behind piles of wool and baskets of tool and boxes of patterns...it's good to see his face again. He's nice and clean now, however, I have been getting a few complaints from some of the other residents.
.

The little rag doll in the photo above seems to be having an asthma attack because the dust is so thick up there, the dogs look like they are turning grey. And then there is Jolly in the photo below who looks like he's got a frosting on his hat and shoes.....hold tight, kids. I'll be there with the vacuum soon.

The tree still isn't trimmed...the "Hookers" ( our little rug hooking group) are coming Tuesday night for our annual Christmas get together. Though I think I need another month to clean the way I want to , I only have another day to get it all done and bake a birthday cake. So, till I'm done...................
Barb

Candy Cane Santa

2008-12-11T09:26:00.000-08:00

....my last special order and of course, I messed up the face so I'm starting from scratch. I'm not a very patient painter, I prefer to use a needle and thread. When I outlined the eyes last night I used a MicroPigma Pen and when I sealed the face it ran. I'll be happy when this is done and he's on his way. I'm itching to start making some new pincushion designs.

I guess I should get started on a new face, then maybe I can trim the tree which has been sitting in it's stand since the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.

Barb

To You and Yours

2008-11-27T11:03:00.001-08:00

It's that Holly Jolly time again.....

2008-11-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting here with a second cup of java waiting for some cotton batting to dry so I can finish my creation for the TEA Webshow November 24th. There are little bodies in the oven...I hope I don't burn them, I still have another show Thanksgiving weekend.

It's very cold here in the Northeast today, they say we may have some lake affect snow......the Christmas music is cranked up and I need to get back to the sewing machine.

So, til next time............

Home from Rhinebeck.........

2008-10-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

We're back.....this post is a bit late but I came home to orders from The Primitive Gathering that needed to be made and shipped.

It was a beautiful and busy weekend. It was great to see old friends and make some new ones. Sarah posted great pictures on her blog...the Paisley Studio and on out other blog...Hallowed Hill Primitives. You can find the links at the right.

Speaking of old friends....a funny story from our first year at Rhinebeck, I sold a turkey similar to the one above to a very nice woman. When I got home a few days later there was a message on my answering machine from her......could I send a new set of wings for her turkey??? Seems her dog got ahold of it and chewed the original wings off. She stops by every year to add a new piece to her collection and this year asked if I had another turkey.I hadn't made any in a while but I told her I would make her one and ship it. While I had the pattern out I decided to make two, so I listed one for sale in my Etsy shop.

Well, it's on to Christmas.....one more show to go. Also, an update on The Primitive gathering on November 15th and our last webshow with The Eclectic Artisans on November 24th.

Barb

We're heading to Rhinebeck......

2008-10-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

The New York State Sheep and Wool Festival is this weekend. We will be vendors there again for the 3rd year.Our booth is A29...same as before.

It is a great weekend for leaf peeping in the Hudson Valley and there is so much to do at the Fairgrounds it will take a full weekend to see it all. We hope you stop by to say Hello.

New York State Sheep and Wool Festival
October 18th and 19th
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
Rhinebeck, New York
Saturday 9-6 Sunday 10-5

There is also an update on the Primitive Gathering October 15th....be sure to take a peak at all the new creations.

Barb and Sarah

Trouble in the mailbox.........

2008-08-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

......the September/October issue of Victoria arrived today, just what I needed to get me off track. It's full of autumn....pumpkins...cranberry tartlets....apples....shops....quilts.......I had to put it down so I get something done today, like filling all the orders that came in over the weekend. I can't wait until tonight to pick it back up and savor every page.....the center spread sums my feelings....

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking successive autumns.
--George Eliot

Back to work....
Barb

Primitive Gathering Update.......

2008-08-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

....new designs for Fall 2008 are available....take a look!!

http://www.theprimitivegathering.com/hallowedhills.htm

Enjoy,
Barb

A Goldilocks nightmare thought Brown Bear......

2008-08-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

....as he continued to search for the perfect place to take up residence. He thought he would like the companionship of the wee bears that lived in the clock....so we went for a visit...."Barb, I might be able to wear that chair on my head but I don't think this is a good place for me." So, we had tea and a visit and will spend some other day looking at other options....the cradle? the top of the cabinet? We'll keep you informed of our travels.

Until we meet again.......
Barb and Brown Bear

Happy 4th of July !!

2008-07-04T07:51:00.001-07:00

Can he come live with you??????????????

2008-06-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Several months ago this was the question my friend Kathy asked when I answered the phone. My reply.........excuse me???? I thought maybe she found some stray or maybe was trying to get rid of her husband. "He" is actually Brown Bear....a scruffy little mohair bear that belonged to her husbands uncle and is almost 100 years old. You see, Kathy and David are downsizing big time....the last of 3 children is off to college this fall and they are putting their house on the market. Kathy has been having some issues parting with some things.....well anyway, she thought he would fit right in here with all the other scruffy little things that reside with me and that he needed to go somewhere special.....

So, he finally arrived this week. Talk about sparse mohair.....I was hardpressed to find some on his little body, boy this guy was well loved. Both his ears look to have been restitched to his head at some point, maybe even a few times judging by the number of different threads. His right foot is missing most of the foot pad and excelsior...someone stuffed a piece of black and white silk in there and his pajamas and night cap are so faded and full of holes. His little nose is falling off, too.

He's been introduced to Mr. Whipstitch already and in the coming days will be escorted through town to meet the Thimblefolk and other forlorn toys and dolls. We'll keep you informed of exactly where he decides his permanent place of honor will be.

Until then.......

Happy Flag Day !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-06-14T05:04:00.000-07:00

Have a Great Memorial Day !!!

2008-05-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the weekend everyone,the parades, the tributes and the picnics.

Barb

New for Mother's Day

2008-04-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

My sister and I share a seller name Hallowed Hill Primitives.....we sell rug hooking patterns, wool and other supplies at shows and in our Ebay Store that we just opened. I also sell on The Primitive Gathering, a co-op website under the same name. We update on the 15th of each month with new items.........this month I have Mother's day items available. Stop by both places and our blog for a visit soon.

Barb

I'm dyeing for spring.....................

2008-03-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

Well, actually for our upcoming rug show. We could use a little sun and some warmer temps, it has been the rainiest, dull and dreary winter I can remember and I've been around a few years .

We made a run up to Dorr last week for wool and I picked up a bolt of "Primitive Natural" to try. It's a bit heavier and coarser.....shrinks up a bit more.......but I love the way it takes color. I've been playing with some new recipes too. It certainly has helped to brighten up these dreary days.

Sarah and I will be vendors at the 48th Annual Hooked Rug Exhibit on Saturday, March 29th, 2008. It is presented by Fairfield Grace united Methodist Church in Connecticut. We'll have wool, patterns and other rug hooking supplies as well as needlepunch supplies. We hope you will stop by and see us if you are in the area.

Here is all the info...............

Fairfield Grace United Methodist Church

1089 Fairfield Woods Road Fairfield, Conn. 06825

203-374-6528

Saturday, March 29. 2008

Bag lunches, beverages and desserts

9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

$5 Admission -- Door Prizes

We hope to see you then !!!

Barb

My fondness for pincushions..........

2008-03-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

........goes back many years. I collect them, not the mint condition, pristine should be in a museum kind...........the much loved and well used are what I like. You know, the ones with character and history. The pincushions I use the most are wool, one was a pumpkin and the other an apple. They have since lost their leaves....but they are sturdy little workhorses....even held their shape after being thrown across the room in a fit of frustration when the sewing machine doesn't do what I want it to.(I prefer to stitch by hand with tiny needles) I colorize my pins and have been made fun of on numerous occasions for doing so.......there aren't many in the pincushion right now, they are holding little critters that are waiting to be sewn together.

So, imagine my joy while browsing through a local antique shop I found this old velvet tomato.............I pick it up and turned to my sister........."look, someone else colorized their pins". She rolled her eyes and continued to look at the antique books. I bought it and brought it home.....I have a kindred spirit somewhere in time, I thought. Not only did they colorize their pins, they arranged them by size..........

Yesterday the new Home Companion was in the mailbox. I brought it in and sat down with a cup of coffee and started to spend time doing something other than what I should have.............and lo and behold. I came across this ad and while it is a lovely ad and product, my excitement came from the pincushion..................another kindred spirit. It's nice to know you're not alone in the world

I guess I should get back to work so I can colorize my pins when I put them back in the pincushion.

Barb

The Eclectic Artisans Webshow

2008-03-04T15:32:00.001-08:00

My sister Sarah and I belong to a select group of artists called The Eclectic Artisans.....we are Hallowed Hill Primitives together. Whendi Meagher of Whendi's Bears will be hosting a Webshow April 7th, 2008. Click on the banner above to see all the talented artist who will be participating and to find out the details as they become available.

We hope you will stop by to see the show!!!!

Barb

New Friends......I'm ready for spring....

2008-02-22T15:33:00.000-08:00

It snowed today, the first time we have had real snow along the shore this year. As beautiful as it is, I have had enough of winter and long for pansies, ranunculas and tulips. I'm also ready to see the sun more than twice a week.......enough complaining I guess. Back to the sewing machine.

Barb

100th Posting Give-Away !!!!

2008-02-19T09:51:00.000-08:00

Lorraine of PieCakePrimitives is celebrating her 100th post by having a Give-Away. Visit her blog to see the gift and to enter. You have until February 24th!!

Barb

Hippity,hoppity Easter's on it's way..........

2008-02-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

Here's a glimpse of one of my offerings on The Primitive Gathering which will be updating on Friday the 15th. I share the seller name Hallowed Hill Primitives with my sister Sarah so that's how you will find me. Be sure to stop in early and take a look at all the wonderful new creations.

Now it's back to the dye pots..........there's a Hookin on Saturday. Click on Hallowed Hill Primitives for details.

Have a great day!!

Barb

Staying warm and busy................

2008-01-30T08:57:00.000-08:00

I don't know where the time goes, here it is almost February. I was sure I would be good and post at least once a week and already a month has gone by.

I have been keeping the house warm with 2 dye pots going......steaming up the windows and giving myself a cheap facial.

I started selling my hand dyed wools on Ebay under seller name Hallowed Hill Primitives, a name I share with my sister Sarah who is an amazing hooker and sells her finished pieces as well as patterns. Take a peak at her blog....thepaisleystudio.......she posted her finished hooked laptop case. I also have listed a few pieces in my Etsy shop........

Sarah and I will be vendors at the Fairfield Rug show in March.......the info is on our blog ,

Hallowed Hill Primitives.......maybe we will see you there.

Back to the pots..............

Barb

A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU !!

2008-01-02T10:38:00.001-08:00

It's only taken me about 6 months to pay some attention here..........time for a new start for everything!

Let me introduce you to Mr. Whipstitch, the mayor of the Thimblefolk. ( Oh, how I wish there really were thimblefolk at my house to help me sew and stuff...) I designed and made him for my logo, he is about 12 inches tall and he sits on a giant tomato pincushion I made from vintage wool. I needle felted his face......not bad for my first time needlefelting??? He wears a pewter thimble shotglass on his head for a hat....he sits on my sewing table and keeps me on my toes.

I need to thank my sister for making my banner, I have yet to master the computer, especially graphics. We share a blog together.......hallowedhillprimitives.....and she has a blog.....paisleystudio.

Be back again soon,
Barb