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In 1942, Australia was at war, yetthere was exciting news for womenon the “home front” – the launch ofAustralian Cotton Textile IndustriesLimited (ACTIL) in Australia, and theHaydonThat product was appropriately calledActil First Line. Actil bed linen soonbecame a favourite with Australianhomemakers.Actil’s quality First Line range of sheetsand pillowcases became a householdname – a “must-have” of the 1950s.Guaranteed 100% cotton, they arehotel quality, durable and soften withrepeated washing. They are still madeRoemerand are now available in <strong>Spotlight</strong>.Haydon 100% Cotton TowelThe luxurious Actil Haydon 100% cottontowel will brighten your bathroom and adda feeling of luxury and comfort. Availablein six colours, these towels are highlyabsorbent and great value for money.


Things we thinkyou’ll love this issue!HOME DÉCORSIMPLIFIED•Expert advice & thelatest productsFrom tricks to makinghome entertaining easierto concise informationon how to decorate yourwindows.WAYS TO SAVE AND WIN• Books, hampers & couponsWin a fabulous home entertainer’spack, pick up a signed book from aleading Australian stitcher. Cut outdiscount coupons.LOTS OF LOVE• Things to make & buyfor folks you love!Make a ‘love’ pillow orgorgeous card for yourValentine, hand makechocolates and create theultimate Mother’s Dayhamper and more.FASHION FACTS AND FINDS• Fabric trends, projects, jewelleryideas & fashionable people ...Start your seasonal fabric shoppinglist with tips from our buyers.2 spotlight.com.au


contents •92creativecontentsQUARTERLYmake10it10 The tailored tableEntertain with unique style36 Repurpose a tea towelIdeas for tea towel projects40 Appliquéd cushioncovers42 Patched heart pot holder44 Buttons with love Cards45 Heart felt brooches50 In love with laceDIY fashion accessories64 DIY dress in an hourTunic dress pattern65 Fashionable bows70 Playing with patternsHome sewing ideas74 Felt button bag81 Hearts & flowers quilt91 Alien softies92 Patchwork elephant96 Hoppy Easter tableEaster table decorating100 Easter egg hunt bags102 Bunny scarfGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 3


• contents104 Knitted bunny108 Seasonal sweetsRecipes & foodie gift ideas115 Decorated gumboots116 Golden globesMake your own glamour jewellery122 Bountiful braceletsSummer beading in fashion colours134 ‘I do’ scrapbook136 Banner mini book142 Valentine pop-up card146 Knitted Mary Janes155 Fabric inspired canvas156 Poppies canvas122product knowledge13 Imagine it, make itDecorate your world withfurnishing fabrics16 Freemake curtains!A spectacular <strong>Spotlight</strong> offering26 Budget-loving windows30 New Fabric for your windows32 Know your jargonWindow treatments60 Hip-hand-me-downs10061 Demystifying sewingpatterns62 Marvellous monochromeElegant fabric update72 Brother NX - 200QESewing machine94 Easter cotton talesFabric news for easter projects107 Cupcake castleParty for a princess112 How to handle hampersTips & tricks for making gifts129 The wiggy bunchWigs for every occasion145 Baby love Knitting for babies150 Discover knitting loomsCompetitions/Coupons87 WIN a Lynette Andersonbook114 WIN a home hamper!159 Shop & save Coupons4 spotlight.com.au


creative words22 Don’t be afraid of homeentertainingExpert decorating advice28 Book shelf48 News & books54 Make it, shop it, feel itAutumn/winter fabric trends157 ‘Our Australia’ makes agreat read Meet children’sauthor Phil Kettle158 The Spotlght inspirationroomnew seasons products14 Au NaturaleThe colours of naturecontents •58 Sons of style Boys Infashion59 Sugar & spiceGirls in fashion63 Stylish wordsMaggie Alderson, author & quilter66 Common Threads<strong>Spotlight</strong> collaborates withindigenous artists in Darwin78 Global QuiltingAustralian Quilt Convention80 Book shelf86 Appliqué in a digitalworld Lynette Anderson88 The hand sewn aviaryAbby Glassenberg95 The accidental Easteregg hunter119 Making it big, keeping itreal Behind the scenes withRiley Burnett127 Book shelf128 Attention beaders!Are you ready for Steampunk?130 I grew up to be ...Meet an opera makeup artist139 From Helen’s deskThe comeback kids140 Visual journalsLK Ludwig148 The world goes crazyfor crochet151 Book shelf152 <strong>Spotlight</strong> on <strong>Spotlight</strong>store news17 Room 4 ChangeOne room, four striking looks18 Spoiled for choiceBree Leech on currentinterior trends20 Hot HuesColour on colour is a key trend24 Makeover MagicQuick picks to dress up your home34 Black & White styleNew lamps and home products46 Valentine’s Day at<strong>Spotlight</strong>84 A garden of quiltsQuilting fabrics and news34133 Le Chateau Collection20Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 5


• welcomeIt’s all about homeentertaining this seasonWelcome to the second edition of our Get CreativeQuarterly magazine.We have been absolutely thrilled with theresponse to the first edition and hope that youenjoy this one just as much. Thank you to allof you who emailed me with your thoughts andsuggestions.As it’s the beginning of a new year, and newseasons are soon to change, we have focussed ourmagazine on bringing you ideas and products toupdate your wardrobe, your home and to enhancethose special occasions when you entertain familyand friends.We have also introduced all the amazing and funthings you can do with our ‘Spartys’ range. Neverhas a party at home been more fun or entertaining.At <strong>Spotlight</strong> we enjoy having fun and believe that noone can offer a better range of party goods.We have continued to look for inspiring people.It’s an extremely creative world out there and we’resurrounded by people who really move us. Readabout the Australian Opera’s head of make-up andwigs, meet prolific Australian children’s author PhilKettle, and find out what author, Maggie Aldersonthinks about vintage fashion and home sewing, andwhy it’s so on trend.On the community front, I am also especiallyproud of the work our <strong>Spotlight</strong> team in Bayswateris doing to raise funds for an orphanage in Kenyaand what the company as a whole is doing with ourStitch in Time program.Please keep the feedback coming; it’s great toread but, most importantly, it is helping us shapethe magazine you want.And finally, on behalf of the team at <strong>Spotlight</strong>, Ihope that 2011 continues to be full of inspirationand creativity for you!editorialcreativeQUARTERLYEXECUTIVE EDITORJono Gelfandjono@getcreative.com.auEDITOR & HOUSE WRITERJacquie Byronjacquieb@getcreative.com.aupublishing, distribution& advertisingPUBLISHER & AD SALESVittoria Bendinellivittoriab@spotlight.com.auMegan Kannegiessermegank@spotlight.com.auDISTRIBUTIONNDD Distribution Pty LtdPh: 02 9381 3100creativeCREATIVE COORDINATORSKaye Wolfkayew@getcreative.com.auGale Wickesgalew@getcreative.com.audesign & styleSENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERKelly RobinsGRAPHIC DESIGNERSLibby HolmesSonia BarrasMonica TuohyJo VaggPHOTOGRAPHYLeah WheeltonMelanie HarrisMarkus WeberEmma PerrySTYLISTCathy ChadwickGRAPHIC REPRODUCTIONGavin HannafordMarkus ZielonkaRomell CatuaanLok LeungcontributersAmanda LefebureHelen BradleyMichelle CurtisSuzie EricksoninformationENQUIRIESGet Creative Quarterly, LockedBag 4321, Sth Melb, VIC,3205. Call Toll Free 1300 662742 (in Aust) or emailinfo@getcreative.com.au.Get Creative Quarterlymagazine. For more, visitspotlight.com.au.Project difficulty legendBe inspired ... Get Creative.Mark GoddardCustomer Advocate & CEOYou can contact me directly on mark.goddard@spotlight.com.au.Whether you’re a stranger to the knitting needle or an expert with the scissorswe have a variety of projects to get you interested and keep you there.EasyIntermediateChallenginge A great project i Reach the next c You’ve done the kfor beginners,13 and over.level by building onbasic skills.time now craftsublime!KidsProjects to keeptiny hands busy.Adult supervisionrecommended.Copyright by Get CreativeQuarterly Publications Pty Ltd.All rights reserved. Publishedmonthly by Get CreativePublications Pty Ltd. For storelocations call Toll Free 1300305 405 (in NZ call 0800276 222) or go tospotlight.com.au orspotlight.co.nzPlease note: Due to variedbuying patterns throughoutAustralia and New Zealandsome stock may varybetween stores or sell out.Ask a <strong>Spotlight</strong> employee atyour nearest store for thebest alternative.6 spotlight.com.au


Pure OpulenInnovation, workmanship, stylingandInnovation,quality areworkmanship,all components,stylingusedand qualityto createareCapriceall components,Curtains andBedding,used to createfor totalCapriceroomCurtainscoordinationandBedding, for total room coordination8 spotlight.com.au


DESIGN DESIGN BELLEVUEDESIGN BELLEVUEDESIGN BELLEVUEDESIGN SKYDESIGN SKYEDESIGN SKYEDESIGN SKYEulenceceFor further information contact Caprice Australia Pty Ltd. Phone (03)8710 1900 Fax 8710 1944 Email sales@caprice.com.auForfurther information contact Caprice Australia Pty Ltd. Phone (03)8710 1900 Fax 8710 1944 Email sales@caprice.com.auExclusive toExclusive toPHOTOGRAPH INDICATES DESIGN AND STYLE. COLOUR MAY DIFFER SLIGHTLYPHOTOGRAPH INDICATES DESIGN AND STYLE. COLOUR MAY DIFFER SLIGHTLYceFor further information contact Caprice Australia Pty Ltd. Phone (03)8710 1900 Fax 8710 1944 Email sales@caprice.com.auGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 9For further information contact Caprice Australia Pty Ltd. Phone (03)8710 1900 Fax 8710 1944 Email sales@caprice.com.auExclusive to


•emake itthe tailored tableExpress your unique style next time youentertain with a trip to the furnishing fabric& craft aisles at <strong>Spotlight</strong>.10 spotlight.com.au


make it •TABLE RUNNERMaterials50cm furnishings fabric of choiceSewing machineMatching threadPinsScissorsIronStep 1 Cut a 35cm strip across thewidth of fabric selvedge to selvedge.From the excess fabric, tear a 4cmwide strip and a 2cm wide strip. Cuttwo 35cm lengths from each of thetorn strips.Step 2 Pin the 4cm wide strip inplace across the table runner 15cm infrom each end and stitch. Then zigzagor straight stitch the 2cm strip to thecentre of the 4cm strip.Step 3 Fold the two long side edgesunder 2.5cm, then fold under againanother 2.5cm and press in place.Stitch along the edges to hold in place.Repeat to hem the ends.PLACEMATSMaterials6 ready-made placemats creamor colour of choiceSewing machineMatching threadPinsScissorsIronLeft over scrap from table runnerStep 1 From the excess fabric fromthe table runner project, tear 4cmstrips across the width of fabric fromselvedge to selvedge.Step 2 Cut six 52cm lengths offabric from the torn strips. Centrethe torn strip on one long side of theplacemat 5cm in from the edge. Foldthe ends under and stitch in place.Step 3 Tear 18 small squaresof fabric from the torn strips andstitch three squares to the cornerof each placemat.NAPKINSMaterials70cm homespun fabricSewing machineMatching threadPinsScissorsIronLeft over scrap from table runnerStep 1 Cut six 35cm squares fromhomespun fabric. From the excessfabric from the table runner project,tear a 2cm strip.Step 2 Cut six 35cm lengths offabric from the torn strips. Stitch thetorn strip to one side of the fabricsquare 10cm in from the edge.Step 3 Fold two opposite side edgesunder 2.5cm, then fold under againanother 2.5cm and press in place.Stitch along the edges to hold in place.Repeat to hem the remaining two sides.NAME PLACE CARDSMaterials6 die cut name place cards(Fred Hoskins)Sewing machineMatching threadScissorsLeft over scrap from table runnerStep 1 From the excess fabric fromthe table runner project, tear a 4cmwide strip.Step 2 Tear six small squares offabric from the strips then stitch onesquare to the square space at the topof each card.Step 3 Write a name on each card.Looking forthe perfectgift idea?SPOTLIGHTGIFT CARDSNOW AVAILABLEIN ALL STORESGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 11


Luxurious feel atan affordable priceGummerson fabrics are produced from high quality yarns andcoloured to meet the current trends and fashions. Create your ownindividual style from the huge range available at <strong>Spotlight</strong> stores.


furnishings •Imagine it,‘Tuscany’fabricMAKE ITDecorate your worldwith furnishing fabricsfrom <strong>Spotlight</strong>‘Rialto’fabric‘Rosemary’fabric‘Linen’fabric‘Audrey’fabric‘Solar’fabricGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 13


• new season productRight: wire circles wall artBelow: ‘circles’ hurricane lampOn the sofa (L to R): Batch cushion,Morocco, Hive, Nobuk faux leather, Tiko,with Natural Shell cushion at front.14 spotlight.com.auSee your local <strong>Spotlight</strong> store for allour great storage solutions.


new season product •See in store for all ourtealight and candle holders- great for creating moodlighting, indoors & out.Tear droptable lampau naturaleThe colours of nature - autumn, the setting sun, rich earthy hues,woven baskets and timber - create warm and inviting interiors.Soft lamp light, flourishing house plants and cut flowers completethis look. Mix patterned fabrics with plain weaves and softfurnishings featuring motifs from the natural world.Saffon quilt cover setMetal treewall artSee <strong>Spotlight</strong>’s massiverange of cushions instore today.Koo Zone Arrow throwsEmma 2 drawer tablePlease note: Due to varied buying patterns throughout Australia and New Zealand some stock may varybetween stores or sell out. Ask a <strong>Spotlight</strong> employee at your nearest store for the best alternative.Eclipse whiteloose dinnerwareGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 15


• product knowledgeYou pay for the fabric,we make your curtainsFOR FREE!It sounds unbelievable but it’s anall-day, everyday new offer at <strong>Spotlight</strong>throughout Australia. We call itEveryday Freemake.Everyday Freemake means you canchoose fabrics from our FreemakeCollection range at <strong>Spotlight</strong>, exclusiveto our stores, and we’ll make yourcurtains for free.With fabrics ranging in price from$18.95 to $34.95 a metre theFreemake Collection range covers aboutique selection of decorator favouritepatterns and heading types. They’reall designed for longevity and forclassic design.Visit your local store to seewhat’s on offer and start planningthe new window coverings youwant made for free.Consultants can come to yourhome and measure for free too.Freemake your way to a fabricfacelift today.Australian customers: To bookyour measure and quote pleasephone 1300 305 405 and speakto one of our consultants today!16 spotlight.com.au


meet the experts •room 4 changeOne room corner, four striking looks - using handpicked<strong>Spotlight</strong> products. Make a statement with our wall artand soft furnishings and your photos & mementoes.Use wall art to co-ordinate roomthemes. Choose from metal,canvas and indoor/outdoorconstructions to give each rooma fresh look.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 17


• creative peopleSome of Bree’s recent work for GodfreyHirst Carpets ‘Wall 2 Wall’ magazineSpoiledfor choice!From the bush to the Bazaar, interior designer Bree Leechloves the global influences in modern decorating.The diversity of current trendsmakes them very exciting. Anything ispossible and it’s easy to personaliseyour interior. Unless, of course, you’relike me and can’t decide on just one.Luckily most of them have connectingkey themes so they work welltogether and you can mix and match.Some of my current top picks are:Modern ruralLike many, Australian decorators aremad about bringing the outside inand every season brings with it newinspiration from the outdoors and thelandscape. Urban dwellers are inspiredby rural living, incorporating influencesfrom the farm, the bush and the ideaof using traditional artisan skillsalongside modern style.Homewares in this theme have a simpledesign aesthetic that is humble andtactile with pieces that have a handor homemade feel. Finishes includeceramics, timbers and reclaimedmaterials. Look for motifs and patternsthat use botanicals and bird life.Tip To keep this look modern andnot just another version of countrystyle, pair your new items withcontemporary, even industrial formsand finishes.Global TreasuresThis is another of my favourites. Theworld seems to get smaller everyday; I know exactly what’s going on indesign on the other side of the globewith a simple click of the mouse. It’sno wonder we are inspired by globalColour me happyOur pick of some <strong>Spotlight</strong> treasures to update your home18 spotlight.com.au


creative people •cultures. Our passion for travel helps,of course.This trend showcases the best ofmany cultures, fusing them togetherin a look that is idiosyncratic andcolourful. The result is an aestheticladen with tones of gold and bronze,combined with enamel or ceramicand metal finishes with a worn orbeaten appearance. Adding depth tothis trend, many products are beingcreated in collaboration with othercultures using traditional methods butin a modern interpretation.Tip The key here is making sureyou don’t take it too seriously oroveruse the look. Avoid the problemby contrasting unexpected brightcolours with more traditional palettes.Colour PopBright colours can provide a sense ofoptimism and playfulness in interiors.They can also be an economical wayto breathe new life into rooms.You don’t even have to make anypermanent changes, just accessorisewith bright artwork, cushions in solidcolour or bold patterns and vases andvessels in brilliant shades.Loving the LetterI know you’ve already seen it buttake my word for it (pardon the pun)- typography continues to be a strongtrend, particularly anything with a vintagenote. You’ll see it on mugs, tea towels,bed linen and tote bags. Not forgettingartwork, hand printed cushions,wallpaper and laminates. Is thereanyone that doesn’t love the letter?About BreeBree Leech is an interior designer and motherof three with extensive experience in colourand trend forecasting. Her company, Texture,provides colour and trend information aswell as editorial, advertising and interiorstyling services. Find out more at www.texturedesign.blogspot.com or follow her blogwww.ispywithmydesigneye.blogspot.com.Make a lovecushionPg 41Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 19


• new season productKOO Illy quilt cover setRound swirlplacemathot huesPurple rosewall art50x50cmBaby, it’s warm outside and inside too this season! Strong,dramatic colours are making their way into our homes. Colouron colour is a key trend. Royal purples or softer lilacs andpinks look great against metallics, slate and grey. Choose big,bold prints on canvas to create a focal point in the bedroomor living room. See in store for further ideas.Above: Ceramic decorator birdsBelow: 150 x 210cm rugAbove: Grid vaseRight: Stem table lampBelow: Regal purplesand pinks on offer inour cushion collectionPlease note: Due to varied buying patterns throughout Australia and New Zealandsome stock may vary between stores or sell out. Ask a <strong>Spotlight</strong> employee at yournearest store for the best alternative.20 spotlight.com.au


new season product •Butterfly tea lightholder, set of3 & mirrored frame,from <strong>Spotlight</strong>Retro sheerAssorted cushions from <strong>Spotlight</strong> includingsequinned embroidered variations.Visit your nearest <strong>Spotlight</strong> store to see our huge array of cushions. Fashion colours add personality toa room and provide an instant update. Coordinate cushions with other soft furnishings & accessories.Cover a canvas with your favourite fabric to create beautiful, colour-filled rooms.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 21


• meet the expertsVicki Poulter (in purple) with fellowDesigning Women.Above: The hallwayThe welcome begins at the front door ...colourful rugs, artwork and lamps all help.Don’t be afraid ofhome entertainingExpert decorating advice toget the good times rollingThere are some people for whom theterm ‘entertaining’ causes migraines,cold sweats or a mix of both. VickiPoulter, a founder of DesigningWomen, says this comes mainly fromthe fact that houses are not designedor decorated with “flow” in mind. Getthe flow right and the rest will follow,she says.“When we first started thecompany in 1992 we were all aboutkitchen design,” says Vicki. “At thetime it seemed people were beingsold cupboards and benches but notsomething designed in the context ofthe rest of the home.” With a team ofaround eight designers behind her – allgals – Designing Women knows a lotabout kitchens and working homes.“We started to think not in termsof selling a kitchen but in designing alife,” she explains. “The kitchen reallyhas to work. It leads to the dining andliving rooms and the flow has to travelall the way out, even to the garden.”Vicki concedes that much of thedesign and decoration one sees inglossy magazines is pie in the sky, notnecessarily suited to family budgets orlives.“People’s dread of entertainingoften starts with the kitchen,” shesays. “You don’t need it to be flashbut you do need space. You wantpeople to be able to help out sothink in terms of work stations. Whenpeople think of entertaining theyalways think of food. Often I’ll hearpeople say, ‘I can’t cook for that manypeople!’ They’re embarrassed becauseeverything’s not as shiny and smart asthey’d like it. Wait for the day when itis and you’ve missed the fun times.”If you’re lucky enough to beplanning home renovations or in themarket for a new home, Vicki saysthe following considerations will helpwith future entertaining: “Kitchens22 spotlight.com.au


meet the experts •Above: Just add guests...Keep surfaces clear, create conversationspaces & make it easy for people to help.Vicki has great cheat ideas forfeeding & seating everyone &creating a welcoming mood:• Small tables can be enlarged byputting a large board over themand dressing them with a gorgeousbig table cloth or you can choosean extendable table. (Vicki saysround and oblong tables helpconversation flow but you need thespace to accommodate them.)• Use the kitchen bench for storingthe platters of food if the diningtable is too small.• Unfinished spaces (her family hasa big shed in the country wherethey hold parties) can be decoratedwith old Persian rugs and lamps,creating a cosy atmosphere.• Floor cushions can provide quickextra seating.• Pick up some spare dining chairsat charity shops.• Lighting is terribly important; lampsare great or use unscentedbeeswax candles to createinexpensive but beautiful ambientlighting.• Colour is inviting. Don’t haveeverything stark white, add some“pops”.• Make space in the bathroom byusing hooks on the doors orkeeping a smart covered laundrybasket at hand for dirty washing.with islands in the centre are perfectfor entertainers. People can floataround them, you can lay food out andeveryone can access it, you can usethem as extra serving areas.“If you can avoid having thedishwasher between the stove and thesink it helps. It allows someone to behelping by stacking or unstacking thewasher without getting in the way ofother activities,” she says.For dining areas, a fresh coat ofpaint always “tarts” things up accordingto Vicki. But you could also considersome quick, new ready-to-hang curtainsor a splash of wallpaper. “To quicklyclear spaces, or keep them clear, usebaskets in small spaces to organisenewspapers, put magazines onshelves and de-clutter. De-clutteringis the first step to happy entertaining.”There are a few tried and truetricks in Vicki’s armoury but she sayscreating a feeling of welcome, thatspecial atmosphere, is what reallymakes visitors enjoy your home.“Welcome starts at the front gate.Make sure the gate works and theentrance is well lit. Ensure the housenumber is visible and that the buzzerworks. The hallway should be the firstglimmer of the welcome to come. Thiscan be achieved by a small consoletable, some art work (done by yourself,the kids or store bought - new orsecond hand), a rug and perhaps alamp. Flowers work miracles too!”she says.“Concentrate on the entertainingareas if time’s against you,” she says.“Don’t be afraid to close a bedroomdoor or two ... keep your focus on theareas where people will sit, chat andeat and at least one decent bathroom.”Vicki warns against blocking furnitureagainst the walls; it limits people’schance to gather and chat. “Bring thefurniture forward, group some chairsand put a coffee table in the middle,then you have a conversation area.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 23


• meet the expertsTips for the guestroom include:• The best linen you can afford.• Bedside table(s) and goodreading lamps.• A couple of books or magazines.• Perhaps a robe hanging onthe door.• Small shampoos or toiletries(Vicki collects them from hotelson her travels).• Clean towels.• Somewhere to hang clothes,just a rail will do.Great for the guestroom: Galaxy robeand Koo 1000 TCcotton sheet sets.Lamps & candles= inexpensiveambient lighting.When first working with a client Ioften get them to help me move theirfurniture then throw down a towel orsomething where we think a tableshould go so they can visualise it.”When it comes to play-dates forthe children she says you need floorspace in the kids’ rooms which can beachieved by keeping bits ‘n’ bobs inbaskets or colourful stacking boxes.As someone who has raisedteenagers, Vicki says don’t overlookthe extra room that a garagerepresents.“We never used ours when the boyswere growing up,” she explains. “Webuilt a carport in front of it becausewe knew it would be a great place forteenage guitar playing. It becamea great entertaining area for them.It can also be decorated by them.A basement is a great option too.”The core philosophy, coined byVicki and underpinning all the workof Designing Women is what shecalls “the fundamental F words”.“Focus first on function, flow, feel andfurniture, family, friends, food andfinances – before fashion, form andfinishes!” she declares.Makeover MagicQuick picks from <strong>Spotlight</strong>to dress up your homeCreate welcoming hallways, living rooms and diningtables when you add some colour ... rugs, scattercushions and coordinating linens achieve this effect.A hamper inthe bathroomlooks neat& simplifieswash day.@www.designingwomen.com.auTel: (02) 9958 191124 spotlight.com.au


• product knowledgeEcology eyelets with Matchstick roll-up blind using 33mm wood pole setHigh style onthe right budgetChanging the look and feel ofyour home is easy with <strong>Spotlight</strong>’scomprehensive and ever-growing rangeof blinds, curtains, sheers, windowfabrics and couch coverings.<strong>Spotlight</strong> has the decoratingsolutions for you.Whether you are:• Updating a guest bedroom orlooking for value options for aholiday house,• Creating the dream redecoration foryour much-loved family home,• Getting ready for a busy homeentertaining period,• Looking to prepare a houseaffordably and stylishly for sale,<strong>Spotlight</strong> has the readymade furnishingsselection to match your needs.26 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Traditions pinch curtain & Regent roller blindLorne roller blindNew products arrive each season,complementing our existing broadrange of decorator basics. In everycategory there are affordable, easy-touseproducts or high quality, designeroptions that create looks you’ll love tolive with for years.The next few months in your local<strong>Spotlight</strong> store see new productsarriving in wonderful, fashionablecolour palettes and in great texturesand patterns.If you love traditional colours andfabrics that create a sense of old worldelegance, cool country grace or cosyand inviting interiors take a look at theTrieste pencil pleats or Traditions pinchpleat curtains and co-ordinating Regentroller blinds.For a clean, modern look – inspiredby urban landscapes, architecturalshapes and patterns and organicelements - make sure you considerthe new Desire range of eyelet andconcealed tab curtains, the Ecologyrange of pencil pleat and eyeletcurtains and Chaos roller blinds.Wander the aisles of your nearest<strong>Spotlight</strong> store and talk to our teammembers to find the best and mostbeautiful accessories to match withyour window coverings.Some of our favourites this seasoninclude:• Genoa roller blind• Ecology eyelets• Hannah pinch pleatWindows to live withat <strong>Spotlight</strong>Remember, we have one of thebiggest selections of readymadewindow furnishing products inAustralasia.• Blinds that change the look andfeel of your home can be found atyour nearest <strong>Spotlight</strong> store. Youcan also pick up all associatedtracks and accessories.• Choose from our curtain collectionwhen you wish to introduce someelegance and sophistication intoyour home. The selection isenormous – come in and chat withthe team, choose from eyelets,tabs, pinch and pencil pleats. Weoffer a versatile range of fabric, frombold, rich colours to smooth neutralsfor an understated look.• Don’t forget sheers. They’reelegant and practical and bring aroom together. Our sheers look justas good when teamed with drapesor over blinds to soften the windowand provide daytime privacy. Oursheer curtaining is availablein a great range of multi-drop designsand prints, as well as variousfashion colours in voile and organza.• DIY lovers can create their own trulypersonalised curtains using fabricsfrom our collections. Choose fromjacquards, linens and damasks, toname just a few.• And don’t forget couch covers. Turnan everyday room into an affordabledesigner triumph when you add anew cover that coordinates perfectlywith the window and otherfurnishings. Whether your preferredlook is suede or twill, polyestercotton or something else, we havethe fabrics on hand to suit yourtaste and decor.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 27


• bookshelfDream Rooms - InspirationalInteriors from 100 Homesby Andreas von Einsiedeland Johanna ThornycroftDream Rooms is a lavish sourcebookfull of ideas for transforming any andevery room in the home. From stylishways to give a living room a new leaseof life to the union of practicalityand design that makes a kitchenthe hub of a house, this book offersa wealth of possibilities. Images byrenowned photographer Andreas vonEinsiedel showcase a huge rangeof rooms and outdoor spaces, whileJohanna Thornycroft pinpoints the keycharacteristics of each look. This bookcan be used as a reference for anyonelooking for ideas or a great coffee tablebook for interiors lovers.Publisher: Merrell PublishersDistributor: The Scribo Group RRP AU$69.99Sewn Spaces: Fresh andModern Projects for YourLife and Home by JoelDewberryWhen it comes to the spaces youinhabit, fabric is the perfect mediumfor personal expression. In this bookJoel Dewberry shows you all the simpleways you can use fabric to define thespaces in your life via 25 projects.These are modern and quirky – froma barista apron to a memo board thatactually brightens your day. Sew ateddy bear (complete with a tummypocket), a yoga mat carrier, a quiltedthrow or learn to re-upholster a secondhand chair find. Along the way find thetools you’ll need to get started as wellas templates and full-size patterns ona convenient tear-out insert.Publisher: Krause PublicationsDistributor: Capricorn Link RRP AU$34.99Food from Many GreekKitchens by Tessa KirosTessa Kiros’s bestselling cookbooks- Twelve, Falling Cloudberries, Applesfor Jam, Piri Piri Starfish and Venezia- have taken lovers of food andarmchair travellers on adventures toher favourite places. Now she takesus on a colourful, magical journey intothe kitchens of her friends and family,cataloguing the traditional Greek foodsfor festivals, feast days and fasting inher own enchanting way.Publisher: Murdoch Books RRP AU$69.95Note: Books available all good bookstores or check online. Australian price guides given where possible.Flower Wheel - Adam WoodhamsDiary date for green thumbsThe world renowned MelbourneInternational Flower & Garden Show(MIFGS), will return with an explosionof colour and design on Wednesday30th March until Sunday 3rd April in2011. The Show takes place at CarltonGardens and Royal Exhibition Building,9 Nicholson Street, Carlton, Victoria.www.melbflowershow.com.auHome decorating ideasfor Perth folkThe Ideal Home Show, Friday 4 Marchto Monday 7 March 2011 at PerthConvention Exhibition Centre.www.idealhomeshow.exibit.com.auTontine’s Fresh Pillow campaignDon’t let your pillow become PART of you!Do you know how old your pillowis? Recent research* revealed thatthe average time the oldest pillowin Australian households had beenhanging around was five to six years.Tontine, one of the biggest namesin pillows in Australia, has decided totackle hygiene habits around the nationwith the launch of its Fresh Pillowcampaign, which recommends thelifespan of a pillow to be approximatelytwo years.In a world first, Tontine is nowstamping pillows with a fresh date, toensure customers know when theirpillows straypast their freshbest.Pick up the only pillow witha freshness stamp from <strong>Spotlight</strong>today. For further information visitwww.tontine.com.au.*Source: A large-scale national study conductedamong Main Grocery Buyers by Galaxy Researchfor Tontine, 6-8 August 2010. Statistically reliablesample, weighted to the national population.28 spotlight.com.au


Sleep fresh tonight withTontine Breathe Easy.Time to freshen up your pillows!Tontine Breathe Easy pillows are suitablefor asthma and allergy sufferers. Nowwith a freshness stamp, so you’ll knowwhen it’s not so fresh anymore.Available in <strong>Spotlight</strong> stores now.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 29


customWe’ll come to you!WE CAN DO IT ALL...• Curtains &Sheers• Curtain tracks• Swags & Tails• Valances• Pelmets• Tie backs• Roman Blinds• Roller Blinds• AluminiumVenetians• TimberVenetians• Vertical Blinds• Panel Blinds• Cellular Blinds• Austrian Blinds• MotorisedBlinds• Outdoor Blinds• Shutters*• Sheer RollerBlinds• Bedspreads* Not available atall stores.CALL 1300 305 405(IN AUSTRALIA)CALL 0800 776 854(IN NEW ZEALAND)to book your FREEin-home measureand quoteor visit us instore foradvice on curtains & blindsNew fabricfor your windowsThe <strong>Spotlight</strong> selection of furnishingsfabrics has grown exponentially in recenttimes. We’ve got windows covered and ourCustom Made offering caters for all tastesand all budgets.Brand names and exclusive houselines are all on offer. There are around 20different brands for you to choose fromwhen it comes to dressing your windows.<strong>Spotlight</strong> can match any quote! Bring inyour quote from a competitor on the samefabric and style and we’ll guarantee you abetter deal.Lose yourself amongst the samplehangers. Spend some time in storebrowsing through our samples and workwith our specially trained team to ensure astylish, affordable look for your home.Our Custom Made fabric selection issourced from all over the world – acrossEurope and Asia.Drapes, Roman blinds, pelmets, swags,tablecloths, even bedspreads – we have thefabrics to coordinate and dress your entirehome in a style unique to you.spotlight.com.au30 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Choose the servicethat suits you• Bring in yourmeasurements and ourtrained team will helpyou choose the fabricsand prepare them forpick up by you.To book your FREE measure and quoteplease phone 1300 305 405 and speakto one of our consultants today!• Request a homevisit from a CustomMade specialist – we’llmeasure on the dayand take you throughour massive fabricselections. We’ll quoteon the spot!Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 31


• product knowledgeKnow your jargon:WindowtreatmentsTracksMade of metal for hand drawn or corddrawn curtains.You can change the look and feel of aroom immediately with the right readymadewindow treatment. Here are a few of theeveryday terms that will help you shop withconfidence.Pictured: Chaos roller blind from <strong>Spotlight</strong>32 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •BracketBLINDSVenetiansMade from metal (aluminium), wood orPVC slats, these come in many widths,colours and sizes and provide excellentlight control and privacy.Day/night Roman blindVerticalsMade from vinyl (plastic) vertical slats,mounted on a head rail with both tiltand draw controls, verticals help reduceheat and sun glare and allow for lightcontrol and privacy, particularly suitablefor large windows and sliding doors.Easy to install, in a 213cm drop inwidths of 180cm, 210cm and 240cm.VerticalsRoller or Holland blindsMade from vinyl or fabric, these comein a wide range of widths and areheight adjustable, offering a full windowview when raised.RomansRomans are drawn up from the bottomto create horizontal folds when raisedand when lowered they are flat andcover the window glass completely.Timber VenetianHolland blindWINDOW HARDWAREBracketBrackets are used to support and holda window covering in place.CordCotton or synthetic, used to holdtogether and lift/draw a blind or curtain.Curtain RodsUsually consist of three main parts: thepole that holds the fabric, finials thatdecorate the ends of the poles andmounting brackets that support the rodon the wall. Made from metal, wood orplastic, rods come in a wide range ofstyles and sizes.DowelA wooden rod available in many lengthsand sizes.FinialA decorative piece made of metal,wood or plastic in many shapes andsizes that is attached to the ends ofcurtain rods.Grommets/EyeletsMetal/plastic rings that have a frontand a back and fit into each other tobe placed on fabric to form a ring holethat will slide over curtain rod.HardwareScrews, brackets and clips for installinga window treatment.RingsMade of plastic or wood, hooked orsewn to the top edge of a curtain andthen threaded through the curtain rod.RodsTrackFinialsGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 33


• new seasons productsAll litupFrom Left to right:LBD 25cm Table lamp,Teardrop 51cm Table lampSquat 21cm Table lamp<strong>Spotlight</strong>’s selectionof decorator lampscontinues to expandFrom Left to right:Dimple 41cm table lampStem 42cm Table lampFrom Left to right:Almond 46cm table lampBottle 35cm table lampTeardrop 51cm table lamp34 spotlight.com.au


Silver bambooboat platternew seasons products •Silver dimple platter& decor ballsCeramic tealightholderKoo Diatz quilt cover set.black &whitestyleBlackscratchvaseSilverbulletvaseMirror glassphoto frame &jewellery boxBlack and white, mixed with metallics, neverfails to deliver a chic, urban effect that is easyto accessorise with ‘pops’ of seasonal colour.Browse through your <strong>Spotlight</strong> store for thebest black and white picks.Basket weavephoto frameAssorted diamantéphoto framesAssorted cushionsPlease note: Due to varied buying patterns throughout Australia and New Zealand somestock may vary between stores or sell out. Ask a <strong>Spotlight</strong> employee at your neareststore for the best alternative.Koo Zuri quilt cover set.Get Creative Quarterly Summer 2010/2011 35


•imake itRepurposea tea towelBag backBag frontInstructions page 3836 spotlight.com.au


• make itGreat gift idea:See co-ordinated teatowel packs in store.Please note: Due to varied buying patternsthroughout Australia and New Zealand somestock may vary between stores or sell out. Ask a<strong>Spotlight</strong> employee at your nearest store for thebest alternative.CUTLERY ROLLPrinted tea towelIronSewing machineGütermann sewing threadScissors1m cotton tapeStep 1 Iron the tea towel to removeany creases. Measure 20cm from thebottom edge and fold over with wrongsides together Stitch down the sidesusing a 1cm seam allowance.Step 2 Sew two rows of stitchingacross the fold for extra stability. Markat 5cm intervals across the fold and atthe top of the folded edge. Stitch fromthe mark on folded edge down to themark on the fold to create 5cm pocketsfor the cutlery.Step 3 Insert cutlery into thepockets. Fold excess at top over tocover the pockets then roll up and tiewith the cotton tape to secure. Cut endsof tape on an angle to prevent fraying.BAGSet of three printed tea towelsIron35cm Pellon peltex– ultra firm single-sided fusible30cm Lightweight iron-on PellonBias bindingSewing machineScissorsStep 1 Iron the tea towels to removeany creases. Iron Pellon onto the mainprinted tea towel (i.e. birds) then cuttea towel in half. Optional - Stitcharound any detail to highlight.Step 2 With right sides facing, stitchthe two pieces together at side seamsand across the base. To create thebase, flatten out the bottom and matchthe side seam to the seam on thebase. Pin together. To create a 12cmbase mark 6cm down from the pointand rule across to form a triangle.Stitch across the end. Trim seam andcut off point. Repeat for the other endof the base.Step 3 At the top edge mark 6cmfrom the side seams on each side andstitch a small seam on the outside ofthe bag from the top down to the pointof the edge of the base on all fourcorners to give the bag structure.Step 4 Take another tea towel fromthe set, cut in half and repeat step 2for the lining. Fold the top of the bagand lining over 2.5cm to the wrong sideand press.Step 5 Measure the front of the bagbetween the small stitched seams onthe corners (33cm). Cut two pieces ofpeltex 33cm x 12cm then 4cm fromthe top edge in the centre of eachpiece cut a 10cm x 5cm rectangularopening. Insert the peltex under thefolded edge on the front and back ofthe bag and fuse in place. Cut a small‘X’ in the fabric in the centre of theopening then insert scissors to cut intothe corners. Fold the excess fabric tothe back and stitch close to the edgeof the opening to secure.Step 6 Measure the base of yourbag, cut a piece of Peltex to fit (33cm x12cm) and fuse it in place at the base.Insert the lining matching the sideseams and topstitch in place aroundthe top edge. Mark the opening for thehandle, cut as for the bag then fold theexcess fabric inside the lining. Stitchto secure.Step 7 Stitch the bias binding ontothe right side of the bag around theopening then fold over to the inside ofthe bag and hand stitch to the lining. •38 spotlight.com.au


•ehome & handiworkAppliquédcushioncovers40 spotlight.com.au


home & handiwork •Celebrate the mostbeautiful word in anylanguage - love - whenyou make your owngeorgeous appliquédcushion set.Cushion inserts comein 36x36cm to 61x61cm.Also available in bolsterand oblong inserts.Love letter cushionMaterials50cm textured cream furnishing fabric– Crossroads or fabric of choiceScraps of fabric in different textures– pinks & redsVliesofixSewing threads assorted colours56cm cream nylon dress zipperScissorsSewing machine with zipper footIronCushion insert– 21” x 14” (54cm x 36cm)Step 1 From the furnishing fabriccut one 60cm x 40cm piece and two60cm x 25cm pieces. Fold and pressunder 5cm on one long side of each ofthe two smaller pieces. Put the zipperfoot on the sewing machine and sewone folded edge along one side of thezipper close to the teeth. Overlap thezipper with the other folded edge, sothe zipper is covered, and sew in placeclose to the teeth along the other sideof the zipper.Step 2 Using the template providedtrace the love letters on to the paperside of the vliesofix. The letters shouldbe reversed as shown, as the Vliesofixis ironed onto the wrong side of thefabric. Iron the letters to the back ofthe chosen assorted fabrics and cutout. Remove the backing paper from theletters and arrange on the large piece offabric. Fuse to fabric then stitch aroundletters as desired. We added extrastitching in the centre of the heart.Step 3 Open the zipper a little andplace front and back together withright sides facing. Sew all four sidestogether using 1.5cm seam allowance.Trim corners, open the zipper and turnthrough. Place the cushion insert intothe cover and close zipper.Option: Square cushionExtra materials50cm fabric40cm zipper41cm square cushion insertStep 1 Cut one 42cm square andtwo 42cm x 26cm pieces. Repeat step1 to insert the zipper in the back ofthe cushion.Step 2 Draw a heart 21cm widex 22cm high on the paper side ofVliesofix. Iron onto the wrong side ofchosen fabric and cut out. Removepaper and fuse to cushion front. Stitchas desired.Step 3 Complete cushion as instep 3. •TemplateEnlarge by 400%Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 41


•emake itpatched heartpot placematsholdersFat quarters are great for smallprojects using short lengths ofcutely coordinating fabrics.42 spotlight.com.au


make it •Materials4 x co-ordinating fat quarters30cm Insul-bright wadding*15cm x 10mm wide cotton tapeMatching Gütermann sewing threadSewing machineIronScissorsPinsTape measure*Insul-bright is an insulated waddingsuitable for lining pot holders.Step 1 - cuttingUsing pattern provided, cut a differentquarter of the heart from each of thefour fabrics. Cut one whole heart fromone fabric for the backing and cut twofull hearts from Insul-bright wadding.Step 2 - patchworkWith right sides facing and using a 1cmseam allowance, sew the centre seamof the top two quarters of the hearttogether. Press seams open. Repeat tosew the centre seam of the bottom twoquarters of the heart together. Pressopen seam. With the right sides facingand using a 1cm seam allowance, sewthe top half of the heart to the bottomhalf of the heart. Press open seams.Step 3 - waddingPin one Insul-bright heart to the backof the patchwork heart created in step2 and baste together 5mm in from theedge. Topstitch through all layers oneach side of the quarter seams on thefront of the heart 5mm from the seam.Place the other piece of Insul-bright onthe back of the whole heart fabric pieceand baste together around the edges.Step 4 – hangerLoop cotton tape and pin ends of loopto the front top right corner of the heartwith loop facing in towards the centreof the heart. Stitch to edge of heartalong basting line.Step 5 - finishWith right sides facing, pin the patchheart to the whole fabric heart and,using a 1cm seam allowance, sewtogether around the edge leaving an8cm opening along one of the straightedges. Trim Insul-bright close tostitching and clip all curves and bottompoint. Turn heart right side out andpress flat. Press seam allowance inalong the opening and topstitch aroundthe heart 5mm in from the edge,enclosing the seam opening withinstitching.Bottom QuarterCut 1 x fabricFlip over andcut 1 x fabricCut 2 x Insul-brightCut 1 x backing fabricCheck out ourhuge range of FlatFats in store!TemplateEnlarge by 500%Top QuarterCut 1 x fabricFlip over andcut 1 x fabricGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 43


•emake itbuttons... with loveRaid the button stashor pick up some newtreasures at <strong>Spotlight</strong> tocreate this unique card.MaterialsWhite Weave cardstockAssorted red, white & pink buttonsCraft glueFine tip permanent markerStep 1 Cut cardstock to measure15cm x 21cm then fold in half to form a card.Step 2 Arrange buttons in a heart shapeon the front of the card then glue in place.Step 3 Once the glue is dry, hand write“With Love” on the card. •44 spotlight.com.au


• make it Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 45emake it •eonto the heart shape. You may chooseto decorate the felt heart by sewingseed beads into the centre of the rosewith the needle and thread. Use asmall amount of green roving to formleaves and needle in position. Finish bysewing the brooch back onto the backof the heart.Pink HeartSteps 1 & 2 As above, usingpink wool.Heart-feltbroochesRed Heart with roseMaterialsFelting needleClover needle felting mat or foam blockWool rovings – red, pink & greenThread, needle & scissorsSeed beadsBrooch backStep 1 Pick up a little of the redwool roving and tease out some fibresand lay them on the foam block in acrisscross fashion. This will make thefinished shape stronger. Pick up thefelting needle and push the needle intothe fibres in a straight up and downaction (if you twist the felting needle asyou push it into the fibres it will snapas the hardened steel is brittle). Pickup the matted fibres and move themon the foam after every few stabs withthe needle or the fibres will becomeimbedded in the foam.Step 2 Put the felting needle down,pick up the fibres in your hands andstart to form the heart shape. Firmup the heart by needling the wooluntil it is compact and has formed anattractive shape.Step 3 Pick up a little of the pinkmerino roving and twist it into a loosethread (or use a wool thread that isloosely twisted). Lay a swirl of thisdown to form the rose and needleStep 3 Pick up a little of the redroving and twist it into a loose thread(or use a wool thread that is looselytwisted). Lay a swirl of this down toform the heart outline and needleonto the heart shape. Finish bysewing the brooch back onto theback of the heart.Hints and TipsSafety: Felting needles are sharpand, because they are made ofhardened steel, brittle. Be carefulwhen using and handling them.Always work away from yourselfand insert the needle into the woolfibres in a straight up and downaction. If you twist the felting needleas you push it in, it will snap.Always use a foam block or feltingmat under your work when needlefelting. Remember to lift your workevery so often so that it doesn’t felton to the foam block.Always store felting needles in adry place, out of reach of childrenand pets.Dispose of broken needles in thesame way as other sharps.


• new season productValentine’s Dayat <strong>Spotlight</strong>Foil balloonsIf you get bitten by the Valentine’s bug thisseason or feel like throwing a Valentine’s Dayparty, <strong>Spotlight</strong> has the product selection toset the mood. Hand make chocolates, decoratewith balloons, make your own cards or wrap upsomething special. See in store for more ideas.Adhesive felt bordersBalloons & inflationservices available inmost stores.Franchevilleacrylic paintStarburstbow46 spotlight.com.auTextured cardDeluxe gift bagsFoil giftroll wrap


new season product •Fondant cremeOil based flavoursSiliconebakewareCupcake &truffle casesChocolate mouldsGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 47


• news & booksGlee quilt cover setGlee cushionGleebeachtowelGet intoGLEE at<strong>Spotlight</strong>Don’t just watch the show...nowyou can live it! Unleash yourinner Gleek and create your ownGlee room with home furnishingsexclusive to <strong>Spotlight</strong>! Instore now.The Sewing Answer Book:Solutions to Every ProblemYou’ll Ever Face; Answersto Every Question You’llEver Ask by BarbaraWeiland TalbertThe question-and-answer format in thissmall book makes it easy to quicklyfind the information you need for bothmachine and hand sewing; it’s perfectfor everyone from absolute beginnersto experienced sewers seeking tips onspecific techniques.Publisher: Storey. Distributor: Capricorn Link.RRP AU$19.99ManStyle on exhibitThis March, the National Gallery of Victoria will showcase the firstexhibition in Australia to focus on men’s fashion from the 18th centuryto the present day. Drawn largely from the NGV Collection, ManStylewill feature over 80 works including outfits and a selection of paintingsexploring influential ideas in menswear over the past three centuries.From the dandy to the peacock,ManStyle charts a course betweenflamboyant display and absoluterestraint, beginning in the 18thcentury with the evolution of themodern suit and concluding withcontemporary outfits from today’smenswear designers.ManStyle will be on display at TheIan Potter Centre: NGV Australia atFederation Square from 11 March to27 November and NGV Internationalon St Kilda Road from 11 March to30 October 2011. Admission is free.www.ngv.vic.gov.au@VIVIENNE WESTWOOD Jacket, jeans and codpiece.VIVIENNE WESTWOOD, London (fashionhouse) est. 1985. Vivienne WESTWOOD(designer) England 1941– . Jacket, jeans andcod-piece 1990. National Gallery of Victoria,Melbourne. Purchased, 1995More Softies - Your gatewayto the glorious world ofhomemade soft toysMore Softies provides instructionsand patterns for 22 original andadorable soft toys that will appeal toadults and children alike. Talentedcrafters from around the world havecontributed their designs to this bookand each unique softie is testamentto their passion and inventiveness.The toys are made using a range oftechniques, from simple hand-sewingto crochet, and there are patternsto suit everyone - from completebeginners to experienced crafters.Each entry includes a list of the toolsand materials you’ll need, as well asdetailed instructions, hints and tips.Publisher: Penguin Australia RRP AU$29.9548 spotlight.com.au


Super FineInterfacingThe very sheerest ofinterfacings is now availableto the home sewer. It iscalled Hymo 8909. Not a veryglamorous name but certainlyan interfacing suitable for themost glamorous of fabrics.What is even more attractiveis that it is fusible, saving timeand effort.This brand new interfacing hails from Japanand is going to be the perfect solution forinterfacing sheer woven fabrics like silk chiffon,silk organza, cotton voile, georgette or indeedany fabric where you want to retain drape orwhich is see through.The fact that it doesn’t alter the integrityor distort any of these super fine fabrics isimportant. The colour is also not altered butrather an opaque look is created in collars,cuffs, pockets and shirt fronts or in other areaswhere interfacing may enhance the garment.Today’s fashion calls for chiffon and chiffon likepolyesters and this superfine interfacing is idealas it won’t overwhelm the look or the handof the fabric. Indeed where more structureis required from a superfine fabric the wholegarment can be interfaced.Hymo 8909 is distributed in Australia throughThe McCall’s Pattern Company.VIP clubmemberVIP clubPresent this coupon at any<strong>Spotlight</strong> Store member to receive20 % offMcCalls Super Fine InterfacingINTRODUCTORY OFFERValid until 30th April 2011


•emake itIn lovewith lace50 spotlight.com.au


make it •International runways and majorretailers alike are awash with lace,used in both casual & feminine formaldressing. Lace is great for jazzing upplain tailoring or adding visual interestto a favourite garment that’s due fora renovation. Here are SIX differentlacey proposals to suit all agesand styles.zipper is centred. Insert one end of thesatin ribbon strap between the satinand zipper at the top end of zipper.Sew zipper in place securing ribbonstrap within stitching.Step 3 Pin the other side of thezipper to the pressed top edge of theother piece of satin fabric, making sureraw edges are aligned with the firstside. Insert ribbon between the zipperand fabric at the other end of thezipper to step 2. Stitch zipper in placeagain securing the end of the ribbonstrap within stitching.LACE & RIBBONGATHERED SCARF2m x 10cm wide cotton lace trim– ivory2m x 38mm wide satin ribbon – blackBlack shirring elasticGütermann sewing thread– black & ivorySewing machineScissorsTape measurePins & hand needleSewing machineStep 1 Pin one end of satin ribbonin the centre on top of one end of theraw edge of lace trim. Fold edges ofthe lace and ribbon under 1cm thenanother 1cm. Stitch hem in place.Step 2 Wind shirring elastic ontobobbin as per instructions on theelastic then insert the bobbin. Threadthe top of the sewing machine withblack sewing thread. Using a longstitch, sew ribbon to the centre of thelength of lace trim.Step 3 Pull the end of the elasticthread to desired gathered length andtie elastic and sewing thread securelyin a knot. Fold over the remaining rawedges of lace and ribbon into a doublehem. Topstitch hem in place securingthe knot in the elastic within stitchingof the hem.HIP BAGTwo pieces of black dress satin fabric15cm high x 14cm wide1.3m x 10mm wide black satin ribbon(for strap)30cm x 10cm wide cotton lace trim –ivory12cm dress zipper – black20cm x 25mm wide scalloped cottonlace trim – ivory2cm x 30cm strip of black tulle10mm ivory sew-through pearl beadGütermann sewing thread– black & ivoryScissorsTape measurePins & hand needleSewing machine with zipper footStep 1 Cut lace into 2 x 15cm widepieces and pin to the front of eachsatin piece, 3cm from top raw edge.Stitch lace to satin fabric pieces bytopstitching across the top straightedge of lace and down raw edges atthe sides. Press the top edges of satinfabric under 1.5cm.Step 2 Pin one side of the zipperalong the top pressed edge of oneof the satin pieces, making sure theStep 4 Undo zipper, turn fabricinside out and with right sides facing,pin bottom and side edges together.Using a 1cm seam allowance, sewtogether from one end of the zipperdown one side, across the bottom edgeand up the other side, finishing at theother end of stitching. Neaten seamsand clip corners. Turn bag right sideout. Press bag flat with a warm ironand a pressing cloth.Step 5 Embellish by hand sewing on alace flower (see bib necklace instructionsfor how to make lace flower).EMBELLISHED TANKBlack jersey tank or t-shirt2m x 25mm wide scalloped cottonlace trim – ivoryGütermann sewing thread– black & ivorySewing machineScissorsTape measurePins & hand needleStep 1 Turn one end of the lace trimunder 1cm and pin to neckline of tankjust behind one of the shoulder lines.Continue to pin the lace trim aroundthe whole neckline. Overlap the endsof lace where they meet, trim and foldunder raw edge to neaten.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 51


• make itStep 2 Place black thread on to thebobbin of the machine and the ivorythread in the top of the machine. Sewtrim in place along the straight edge oflace around the neckline.Step 3 Turn under one raw endof the remaining lace and pin underneckline trim on one side just wherethe neckline is starting to curve inward.Pin lace down tank into a V shape, andthen back up to the other side of theneckline, trimming and folding under tomatch the first side. Stitch in place onsewing machine.BIB NECKLACE20cm round cotton crochet lace doily– ivory1m x 10mm wide cotton lace trim– ivoryGütermann sewing thread– black & ivorySewing machineScissorsTape measurePins & hand needleFor lace flowers (per flower):20cmx 25mm wide scalloped lace trimSew through pearl button or bead30cm x 2cm wide strip of tulleFor satin flowers:Assorted widths of satin ribbonSew through pearl button or beadStep 1 Make lace flowersSew together the two raw edges oftrim to create a loop. Hand sew a longstitch around the straight edge of laceand pull to gather the loop into a flowershape. Tie ends of thread together tosecure flower shape. Hand sew a longstraight stitch across one long edgeof the tulle strip, pull thread to gathertulle into a flower shape and tie ends tosecure shape. Place tulle flower on topof lace flower and hand sew together,with a pearl or button in the centre.Step 2 Make ribbon flowersHand sew a running stitch along one52 spotlight.com.au


make it •long edge of the ribbon and pull threadto gather ribbon. Fold the raw end ofribbon in on angle and hand stitchin place. Slowly curl gathered ribbonaround itself to create the size flowerdesired (the longer the ribbon thelarger the flower). Hand stitch ribbontogether at the back of the flowershape along the gathers. When floweris desired size, cut ribbon and fold endback in on itself and sew in place. Sewa pearl button or bead in the centre ofthe ribbon flower.Step 3 Putting necklace togetherWith the cotton lace doily face down,lay the centre of the 1cm wide lengthof lace trim across the doily just belowthe centre of the doily. Fold the shorterside of the doily over the trim and backonto itself. Sew across the fold in doilysecuring the lace trim in place. Arrangeflowers in desired position on doily bib,pin in place then hand sew flowers tobib necklace.EMBELLISHED JACKETPlain tailored jacket2 x 20cm round cotton crochet lacedoilies – ivory1-2m* x 10mm wide cotton lace trim– ivoryGütermann sewing thread – blackSewing machineScissorsTape measurePins & hand needle*Dependent on length of jacketStep 1 Pin cotton doilies over the topof the shoulders of the jacket and handstitch to jacket using black thread.Step 2 Fold under raw end of lacetrim, pin along the edge of the lapel ofthe jacket on one side all the way tothe bottom of the jacket. Trim end andfold under 1cm, pin in place.Step 3 Topstitch lace trim to lapelusing the sewing machine. Repeatsteps 2 and 3 for the other lapel.BROOCH90cm x 10cm wide cotton lace trim– ivory12cm x 180cm strip of black tulle8cm x 50cm strip of black tulle30cm x 25mm wide cotton lace trim– ivoryLarge feature flower – silverGütermann sewing thread– black & ivoryBrooch backScissorsTape measurePins & hand needleCraft glueStep 1 Sew together the two rawedges of trim to create a loop. Foldthe 12cm wide strip of black tulle inhalf to 90cm long. Lay the 10cm widelace trim on top of the black tulle stripaligning the long straight edges. Sewwith a long straight stitch along thestraight edge, pull thread to gather upinto a flower shape and tie threads intoa knot to secure.Step 2 Gather the 8cm wide blacktulle in the same manner to create aflower shape and sew to the front of thelace and tulle flower from step 1. Gatherthe 25mm wide cotton lace trim into aflower shape and sew to the centre ofthe lace and tulle flower shape.Step 3 Sew or glue large featureflower to the centre front of the flowerthen sew or glue a brooch back to thecentre back of tulle and lace flower.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 53


• product knowledgeImage courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNMAKE IT,Burda pattern#7579Available from<strong>Spotlight</strong> stores.SHOP IT,FEEL ITAUTUMN / WINTER2011 - THE JOURNEYAutumn winter fabric trends at <strong>Spotlight</strong>Cabin checkswool blend54 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Image courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNTextures, patterns, embellishments, surface interest,touch and feel dominate the fabric landscape for autumn/winter 2011. Be excited fashion lovers, budding designersand enthusiastic sewers as the winter fabrics on offer willexcite, motivate and set your creativity to new levels.We love the vintage offering of ditsy flowers, tea stainedcottons, leatherette and fur, cords, checks and surfaceinterest coats. No matter what your taste or style – make ithappen this winter!The journey of winter begins with the transeasonal beautyof the flower. As autumn creeps closer, the textured floweris offered in pretty blouses and dresses in both small andlarge prints. Liberty, especially vintage Liberty, is very muchthe influence for a lot of key looks. The floral print is the linkfor the whole outfit early in the season and it is here you canstart developing your look with one key piece at a time. Asthe season moves forward, the development of floral prints inskirts, pants and jackets becomes prominent as we start tosee printed floral cord and suede adding a bit of weight andkeeping cool breezes at bay.Picture yourself staying in an English country manor. Atouch of preppy style adds cool volume to a country chic look.Flannels, tweed, houndstooth, plaid, corduroy, wool fabrics,denim, twill and velveteen will all set the scene for yourcountry adventure. Don’t be shy to mix and match stripes andchecks with different colours and fabrics. The whole idea isto be comfortable, practical and layered. Finish the look withvelvet ribbons, patches and cool toggle buttons, all availableTraditionalwool blendchecksYarn dyedcheck suitingGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 55


• product knowledgeImage courtesy WGSNFinish the lookwith cool togglebuttons.in the haberdashery aisle at <strong>Spotlight</strong>. Enjoy the hunt!The glamorous world of faux fur looks better than ever.Fur offers colour, texture and style as a foundation for winterstyles. Long and short hair creates an uncompromisingfashion statement that unleashes the glamorous side toyour fashion wardrobe. Do not be shy; make a statement viadetails on collars or cuffs, even on vests or belts.The cousin of fur is shearling in all shades and types.It’s back in fashion. For novice sewers the main choice isfaux sheepskin or lambskin. Try aviator style jackets; thinkAmelia Earhart as she takes to the skies with her ownsense of style. Use it for accents on jackets, all over vestsand, even if you dare, full length coats. (See our article onSteampunk on page 128; there’s a jewellery style that wouldperfectly accessorise this look!)Trenches are now the basic staple of winter, this is agiven, but now we see a move back to the overcoat. Softcashmere, molten, wool and blended suitings create anindividual sleek silhouette that can be tailored to suit yourown shape. There’s a look of quality to a lot of the coatsbeing seen, conjuring images of stylish female spies orladies of the manor on the grounds of their country houses.Go for camel cashmere mixtures or soft neutrals - tobacco,taupe, grey, navy, oyster, white and black. Under the coatis just as important – make a statement with a flatteringmonotone print, sharp pants and signature scarf.Retro influences are seen throughout women’s apparel,with a prim hourglass silhouette making a statement intailoring and dress shapes.Is it the influence of TV series ‘Mad Men’? Is it just areaction to some of the floatier, maxi looks we’ve beenseeing in previous seasons? Who knows? But the trend witha lot of designers is to show the curves in proportion. Lookfor dresses, womanly suits, skirts and coats finished off witha belt. The devil is in the detail with this look. Make it sharpand finished from head to toe.Nomadic layering looks featuring knitwear, cottonjersey tops, blouses, scarves and leather create a loose,sometimes dishevelled look. Have fun with it; pull piecesfrom the existing wardrobe and add a touch of the new. Thecolours are softer and tonal and together it looks like a cosymasterpiece of fabric.One of the biggest trends coming through is the‘coatigan’ – a knee length cardigan coat. Knitters will havea ball creating this wonderful garment and non knittersneed not miss out ... simply buy knitted fabric by the metreat <strong>Spotlight</strong>. Used by every designer, Ponte Di Roma - ormore commonly known as double knit - is easy to cut andsew and looks polished. Go wild with this one and love itscomfortable stretch.Nordic snowflake and Fair Islepatterns can be seen here alongwith cable knits, uneven drapingcardigans and ponchos.This is a somewhat European version of the Englishcountryside. Also appearing is tunic style knitwear for cosyBrushedwool check56 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Image courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNUse lace as atrim on shoesand bags, aswell as in fulllace tops, dressesand jackets.layering, usually belted. Yarn lovers can get busy with theneedles creating knitted berets, bobbles, oversized scarves,and cowls or snoods to complete this look.Androgyny is an enormously strong trend coming through.This is a wonderfully versatile style, adaptable to all agesand body types. A deconstructed preppy look dominatesmen’s and junior retail, with classic pieces updated in newshapes or surprising fabrications and washes. Again this isan easy look to obtain using double knit. Remember, this isnot a structured man style dressing; it is deconstructed, softand minimal. It’s characterised by loose jerseys, monotonecolours and fine details. Think jeans, an unstructured navyblazer, melange grey knit and thin scarf – très chic!LOVING LACE!One fabric you cannot ignore this season is lace.It’s turning up everywhere and on everything,used as a trim on shoes and bags, as well as infull lace tops, dresses and jackets.There is no limit to what lace you use whilefashion is exploring everything from lady-likechantilly laces to heavier more structured cordedlaces. The key silhouette for lace is the tank topand the lace dress in a body conscious shapeor shift style. Major colours to choose in laceare black and ivory with just a hint of nude. Totoughen up the look don’t be afraid to matchthis back to a leather bomber jacket or leatherlookleggings. Or, go wild and pair it with animalaccessories or a faux fur coat.finish the lookwith velvet ribbonsLou lou lace from <strong>Spotlight</strong>Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 57


• product knowledgeBleached washed& stretch denimSons of styleFabric & fashion tips forboys’ garments this seasonPinwale cordImage courtesy WGSNImage courtesy WGSNCottonstretchdrillOne of the biggest and most energeticcategories to get a fresh burstof energy this winter is the boys’market. The change in weather willhave you enthusiastically firing up thesewing machine to make some great,affordable and completely cool piecesfor the little man in your life.This winter checks are going to bethe staple behind the whole kit. Checkshirts, boxers and overcoats will definethe look. Dress them in layers to dealwith changes in climate and tempercolours by using plain coloured knitsand jackets.The jean is prominent as always,but allow for the new soft chinos anddrill as a new foundation. Puffer jacketsand vests will add the extra elementof ‘cool’.There are three major themes forboys this year, all involving the samefabrications, but it is colour andattitude that separate them.Hunter or ‘cabin cool’ will havethe traditionalists excited, with itsabundance of cords, tweeds, cottonchecks and polar. Practical clothing ingreens, oranges and neutral tones canbe seen, along with the preppy coloursof navy and red which give juniors apolished little look.A simple way to get started is toappliqué a check patch onto sleeves ofan existing jumper - cut out an appliquénumber in check fabric and sew it ontoa polo, for instance.Urban style has all the same typesof fabric but the styling and coloursare edgier. Narrower legs in the pants,more detailing on the tops, brightercolours and contrasts make sure yourboy stands out. Hoodies under, over oraround anything add to the ‘cool’.The puffer jacket or vest gives thelittle man his street ‘cred’ plus it’s apractical, stylish winter warmer and anextra fashionable layer that’s not toomuch for milder Australasian winters.Preppy is on the comeback;perhaps the return of Gordon Kekkoand the movie, ‘Wall Street: MoneyNever Sleeps’ is having some effect?Regardless, there is a gorgeous preppylook coming through, forming theperfect antidote for people tired ofsloppy joes and sloppy dressing. Andit’s the kids who are adapting the style!Vests, smart jackets, tailored pants,crisp shirts, all in compact sizes,create a gorgeous look for specialoccasion dressing or for the boy thatsees a corner office in his future.Let your imagination take off. Youwill be surprised just how into it yourboys will get. Involve, engage and enjoythe winter.Highland tartansImagecourtesyWGSN58 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •ImagecourtesyWGSN100% cotton homespunImage courtesy WGSNWindsor, paddington& coral polar fleecePrinted JerseySugar & SpiceFashion & fabric trends for girls thissummer at <strong>Spotlight</strong>They say girls are made of two things– sugar and spice – and this seasonthere are two very distinct trendsunderpinning fashions for them. Insideyour <strong>Spotlight</strong> store you’ll find plentyof great fabrics, patterns and trimsto explore both these strong trends.The choice is yours:Nordic winterFrosted strong colours come aswelcome relief amidst the grey cloudsof winter. Popular with little ladieswill be gorgeous knits, simple basiccoordinating prints that add depth,contrasting checks, stripes and dotsfor achieving a layered look and softpretty plains for creating true fashionlooks. For girls, consider making woventops, smock type dresses in texturedfabrics, knitwear, skirts (team themwith bright contrasting tights) and don’tneglect jackets and coats. They add thefinishing touch to a very bright season.Passion for fashionIn this segment the message is ‘Makeit bold. Stand up and notice me!’ Inthis wonderful season of colours you’llsee purple and green, there are greatstretch cottons, polar fleece and printedcord, often with reflections of theenvironment coming through.Hearts and flowers are approachedin a grown up ways. You can layer thelooks and simply add a print to changethe direction completely.When it comes to coats, jacketsand vests the biggest looks are alsothe boldest. Don’t hide behind blackand greys; <strong>Spotlight</strong> has the best andbrightest range in colours for all yourouterwear needs.For inspiration, browsethrough our wide selection ofpattern books which cover allthe latest looks from Europeand USA, brought to you by thebest international brands.ImagecourtesyWGSNHunterTartansGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 59


• product knowledge11. RUFFLES ADD LENGTHCut a strip in same colour as a top ora contast colour to suit. Fold in halfand sew the gathered fabric onto thegarment.22. patch pocketsSimply cut out the shape of a pocketon existing jean, fold under 1cm hemon each side and sew straight ontopocket. Cross stitch a design on to thepatch to create something unique.3Hip handme-downs3. Leg tubesThere are two ways to get this look:1. Simply buy coloured cotton knit ofyour choice and sew a tube OR2. Cut a sleeve off an old jumper andsew to fit.Give a stylish second life to children’s clothingwith a little creative stitching. A global trendthat’s gaining traction, hand-me-downs appealto the budget & environmentally conscious alike.60 spotlight.com.au


make it •1Demystifyingsewingpatterns42Step 1 Select your preferred style (View A, B, Cor D).Step 2 Refer to the instructions for the patternpieces required and remove these pieces from theenvelope.Step 3 To select the correct size refer to bodymeasurements on the back of the envelope. Cut outthe pattern pieces along the line for the selected size.In the pattern shown here, the sizes are colour coded.Step 4 Double fabric over, right sides together and5place pattern pieces on top,following layout for size, viewand fabric width.Step 5 Follow arrows forcorrect grain by placing ends ofgrain line an equal distance from the selvedge.Step 6 Pin pieces in place and cut out. Before removingthe pattern pieces mark notches, dots, centre front, centreback and fold lines. Cut notches outwards and use a chalkpencil for marking.63Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 61


• product knowledgeMarvellousmonochrome!Always elegant, always in style, the monochromepalette - think neutral, black with white, oralternating all black or all white garments with theopposite contrasting accessories - is great for easytravel dressing, can be updated with hot fashioncolours and is perfect for those who prefer classicto trendy.Look for these fabrics in your nearest<strong>Spotlight</strong> store:Rosette Taffetta in ivory This fabric features daintyroses embroidered all over a taffeta base. A greatfabric for adding volume, choose this when you wishto achieve gorgeous, full skirts.Cotton blend lace in black This one is great formaking simple shift dresses. Experiment withdifferent colour underlays. This season’s dominantcolour is ‘nude’.Black sequin The perfect choice when you’re sewingevening wear or garments with glam, this sequinnedfabric is ideal for use in mini-skirts or a classicshift.Chiffon spot This classic spot fabric is a timelessinclusion in any wardrobe. Chiffon drapesbeautifully so is perfect for creating romanticblouses and dresses. Remember to use a finer,small size needle in your sewing machine toachieve optimum results.62 spotlight.com.au


ookshelf •Stylish wordsMaggie Alderson, author, quilterand vintage aficionadoIn Shall We Dance? author and fashionjournalist, Maggie Alderson, tells thestory of Loulou Landers, a purveyorof vintage fashion in London whois struggling with a difficult adultdaughter and a lover half her age.A lifelong devotee of vintage coutureand a keen observer of social trends,the author says that, in her new book,she’s created the vintage fashionboutique of her dreams.“A shop is the perfect place to basea book,” says Maggie. “You have somany people in and out all the timeand you hear a lot of stories.” Toensure the authenticity of her fictionalstore, Loulou Land, Maggie worked in aclose friend’s vintage fashion boutiquewhere she normally just hangs out.“I think all novelists should get a jobin a shop now,” she says with a laugh.“It’s amazing what you overhear. I tookone scene, with a mother and a grumpyteenage daughter looking for a promdress, directly from a real exchange.”This is Maggie’s sixth book and,until a few months ago, her columnof 12 years was still appearing in TheGood Weekend in The Age and SydneyMorning Herald. For her book tour inAustralia to promote Shall We Dance?she brought along a special collectionof vintage treasures - a brooch, ahandbag, crocodile stilettos, a dressand some scarves - and encouragedthe audience to bring something too.Maggie has loved vintage for years– “I love the joy of discovery, thediamond in the rough,” she says – butnow it is a hot ticket item with fashionlovers of all ages the world over.“Personally I’m not keen on alteringvintage items too much,” she explains.“I think pieces lose their charm if youchange them a lot.” Her rule is that youshould only wear one vintage piece ata time, two at the most, and she likesto camouflage any flaws in garmentsby adding an accessory but she willsometimes renovate an item if it reallyneeds it.“For instance,” she explains, “Idiscovered this fantastic fake leopardskin three quarter length coat but thelining was shot. I had it re-lined withfluorescent pink silk. It’s beautiful andunique. The coat cost me £10 and the“When youmake somethingfor someoneit’s a way ofexpressing yourlove for them”lining cost me £60 but you’ll never seeanother one like it.”Maggie is a dab hand with a darningneedle when required and recentlycovered her six-year-old daughter’spyjamas with sequins for her firstslumber party. “My Grandmother wasIn book stores now, published byPenguin Australia. RRP$32.95a bespoke dressmaker and my sisteris an amazing dressmaker. My niece,Katie, who’s in her mid 20s, is greattoo and she’s been making new vintageclothes lately. She collects vintagepatterns and sews from them.”Maggie has also joined a knittinggroup where she is the only quilter.“I’m making a quilt for my daughterfrom vintage handkerchiefs I’vecollected. It’s a very cool group youknow. One member was a magazineeditor, another used to be wardrobemistress for the Rolling Stones.”Maggie says the popularity ofvintage fashion and home sewing andalterations is about both environmentalconcerns and style. “I think peopleare aware now about the fast fashionthing. You find something really goodin a chain store but everyone else hasit too. If you make it yourself you canbe unique and it’s a real buzz. There’snothing like saying, ‘I made it’.“My daughter’s two godmothers areboth amazing knitters. One loves pugdogs and just made her a fantasticjumper with a pug on it. When youmake something for someone it’s a wayof expressing your love for them.”@www.maggiealderson.blogspot.comTwitter - @MaggieAGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 63


• make itDIYdress inan hourThis flattering tunicdress and belt fromButterick can alsobe interpreted as along top.Ideal for knit fabric, this easy fitgarment is the perfect example ofa ‘Quick Sew’ project that requiresminimal sewing experience.The pattern offers five variations onthis garment. Visit the trims aisle tocreate your own embellishments.Tip: Use textured fabric to createintrigue or add embellishments as itis quite basic.Butterick pattern#B5247Available from<strong>Spotlight</strong> stores.64 spotlight.com.au


make it •Take abowMcCall’s pattern#M5851Available from<strong>Spotlight</strong> stores.Oversized bows are adeliciously dominant look forthe coming fashion season.Big names in fashion such as Chanel, Moschinoand Marchesa have all displayed blown up andblousy bows, often woven into their garments,on international runways. Play with the bow in yourown wardrobe and remember this feminine yetcheeky look can be adopted in more petite anddiscreet ways if that better suits your style.Materials20cm bemsilk fabric in the colourof your choiceSewing cotton to match fabricSewing machineScissorsIronNeedleSew a perfect bowFold the fabric in half lengthways withthe right sides together. Sew all edgestogether leaving a 10cm gap in thecentre to turn the fabric through. Turnthrough then press flat. Hand sew thegap closed. Tie the fabric into a bowthen attach to the garment.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 65


• spotlight on spotlightCommonThreadsSPOTLIGHT COLLABORATESWITH INDIGENOUS ARTISTSIN DARWIN66 spotlight.com.auThese pages: Artists at work at the Babbarra Women’s Centre


spotlight on spotlight •Spurred on by the success of its Stitch in Timeprogramme in Africa and Cambodia, <strong>Spotlight</strong> is nowturning its attention to local indigenous populations,beginning with a group of wonderfully talented femaleartists in the Northern Territory.The Stitch in Time program helpstransform communities, one stitch ata time. The aim is to empower womenand young people with the skills andequipment to earn their own incomesthrough sewing, allowing them tobecome self sufficient and ultimatelyimprove their lives and the lives of theirfamilies.It is estimated that every sewingmachine that is placed into acommunity can sustain the lives of 150people – just through the income it willproduce. So far <strong>Spotlight</strong> has workedto collect and deliver 5000 machinesto various communities and nowDarwin will host the next chapter of theprogramme.Gillian Harrison, the Northern TerritoryManager for ArtSupport Australia, livesand works in the Northern Territoryand she is dedicated to preservingindigenous arts. She has workedclosely with <strong>Spotlight</strong> to establish linksin the N.T community where Stitch inTime can deliver the greatest benefits.The Babbarra Women’s Centre inManingrida, central Arnhem Land,began as a women’s refuge in the1980s. Today, fine indigenous textileart is produced at the Centre and ismarketed in Australia and overseas asBabbarra Designs.While Aboriginal men and women haveproduced practical fibre accessories forthousands of years, theBabbarra artists are producingenergetic, beautiful and respectedart works for an international market.The Women’s Centre providesemployment and trainingopportunities through theestablishment and operation ofsmall business enterprises. It is thiselement that matches so perfectlywith <strong>Spotlight</strong>’s Stitch in Time concept,which concentrates on providingGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 67


• spotlight on spotlightAbove: Fabrics from the Babbarra Women’s Centrewomen, in particular, from challengingbackgrounds and environments with apath to becoming financiallyindependent and self assured.Recently <strong>Spotlight</strong> and Brotherdelivered six sewing machines andan overlocker to the BabbarraWomen’s Centre. Artists therespecialise in producing gorgeous,two to three metre lengths of fabricusing lino-tile and hand printeddesigns. They also print fine silkscreenedfabrics from original artworks. The results are spectacular;loyal to age-old designs and colourpalettes, yet freshly contemporaryand versatile.The nearby Maningrida Arts andCulture (MAC) organisation works hardto develop markets to support thisinnovative and meaningful art form.The Maningrida region is diverse bothculturally and linguistically meaning theworks reflect the different languagesand identities of the makers.By supplying the new sewing machinesand overlocker <strong>Spotlight</strong> helps enableartists at the Women’s Centre tobroaden the use of their fabrics andthe products on offer. It also meansthose women, whose talents lie insewing, garment and object designand construction, can participatemore fully in the programme and reapthe benefits for themselves and theirfamilies.Several of the artists have expressedinterest in travelling to Cambodia tomeet the Stitch in Time sewers at theTogether in Cambodia orphanage inSiem Reap, to compare techniques andstories and they are pursuing fundingfor this endeavour.<strong>Spotlight</strong> is currently examining thepossibility of licensing designs fromThe Bagot textileartists produceeye-catchingfabrics of dark basecolours decoratedwith the use ofbleach and the hotDarwin sun.the Babbarra Women’s Centre to sellfabrics in stores throughout Australiaand New Zealand. Fair Trade termswould underpin this arrangement,further increasing the artists’earning potential and careers.Also in Darwin, and only fivekilometres from its Darwin store,<strong>Spotlight</strong> is making friends with theBagot Community which operates itsown small scale, women’s sewingcentre. The Bagot textile artists68 spotlight.com.au


spotlight on spotlight •Above: A new sewing machine for the Bagot CommunityAbove: Maningrida Arts and Culture (MAC)produce eye-catching fabrics of darkbase colours decorated with the useof bleach and the hot Darwin sun.Maxine, a team leader from <strong>Spotlight</strong>’sDarwin store, will be workingenthusiastically with women fromBagot Community to train them indressmaking and sewing, with the viewto bags being introduced for trial salein the local <strong>Spotlight</strong> store.With all of its Stitch in Timeendeavours, <strong>Spotlight</strong> aims to provideits partners with 20 per cent of theirwork at Fair Trade prices, and supplythem with the resources and skillsto generate the other 80 per cent ofadditional income from their local andbroader communities.Using Babbarra Designs as anexample, with access to the newsewing machines, the women therecould sell not only original designsto the marketplace – fabric lengths,garments and accessories – but alsooffer mending and alteration servicesto people living in the area.If you would like to supportthe Stitch in Time program youcan make a donation in thecollection tins in store at ‘pointof sale’ counters or purchase oneof the Stitch in Time cotton bags,from the Siem Reap programme,when they arrive. All funds raisedfrom their sale will go directly backinto the programme to allow forfuture growth.@ Links:• spotlight.com.au/community• www.maningrida.com• www.babbarra.com.auVisit :<strong>Spotlight</strong> Darwin at 356-362 BagotRd, Darwin. Tel: (08) 8948-2008The story so farLaunched in November 2006the ‘Stitch in Time’ programbegan as a collaboration of<strong>Spotlight</strong> stores and WorldVision Australia and has nowgrown to support a numberof other key charity partners,including the Together inCambodia Orphanage in SiemReap, Cambodia. The initialidea for Stitch In Time camefrom research from the fieldoffices of World Vision thatshowed sewing machines to beone of the top five most neededitems in the developing world.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 69


•emake itPlaying withpatternsThe great thing about home sewing is that yourgarments can express your own unique ideas & style.Here we show you how to adapt a skirt pattern throughappliqué & fabric painting.70 spotlight.com.au


make it •DENIM SKIRT WITHCONTRAST POCKETSMaterialsKwik Sew pattern #3098 (View C)Denim fabric as per patternrequirements35cm x 112cm printed cotton fabric(for contrast pocket & pocket insert)25cm x 60cm fusible interfacingGütermann sewing thread– denim colourGütermann topstitch sewing thread– colour to match printed cottonScissorsTape measurePins & hand needleSewing machineIronFollow the step by step instructionsfor pattern view C with the followingchanges:1 Cut out pattern pieces 1, 2, 9 and10 from denim fabric.2 Cut out pattern pieces 7 and 8 fromprinted cotton fabric.3 When pattern indicates doubletopstitching, use contrasting threadthat matches printed cotton.HAND PAINTEDEMBELLISHMENTAPPLIQUÉD DENIM SKIRTMaterialsKwik sew pattern #3098 (View C)Denim fabric as per patternrequirements depending on size25cm x 60cm wide fusible interfacingGütermann sewing thread– denim colour18cm dress zipper – denim colour1 hook & eye setGütermann topstitching thread – redScissorsPinsTape measureHand sewing needleSewing machine with darning orfree-motion quilting footIronHand painted embellishmentsCo-ordinating cotton threadsStep 1 Make skirt according topattern instructions.Step 2 Arrange hand paintedembellishments on garment. Peel off thebacking paper and arrange the design onyour garment, then fuse in place.Step 3 Fit the darning or free-motionquilting foot to the sewing machine,drop the feed dogs, and select straightstitch and co-ordinating cotton thread.Free motion machine stitch the designsadding details such as veins to theleaves and centres on the flowers.Change thread colours as needed.Change to zigzag stitch and sew aroundthe outer edges of the designs.HAND PAINTEDEMBELLISHMENTMaterialsSetaskrib marker – blackSetacolor paints – shimmer electricblue, shimmer purple, moss green,shimmer pearlDrill fabricVliesofixIronScissorsStep 1 Draw your design onto thedrill fabric using the Setaskrib pen.Step 2 Paint all over your designusing the paints, blending coloursif desired. When paint is dry, addhighlights using the Setaskrib pen andlighter coloured paints.Step 3 Heat set according tomanufacturer’s instructions. IronVliesofix to the back of the designs andcut out. Peel off the backing paper andarrange the design on your garment,then fuse in place.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 71


• product knowledgeMeet theBrother NX-200QESewing MachineRoad testmachines at a<strong>Spotlight</strong> store &find the modelthat suits youthe best!The Brother NX-200QE is amulti-purpose computerisedmachine with a convenienttouch-pad operation panel.With 50 built-in stitches andan extra large sewing bed iteasily handles large articlessuch as bed linens and quilts.The presser foot levellingbutton ensures consistentstitching over changing fabricthicknesses, and the includedaccessory compartmentneatly holds all the items thatcome with the machine.67151058911412141321. LED display screenShows at a glance informationabout the stitch chosen2. Adjustable stitchlength & widthAdjustment sliders length 5mm,width 7mm.3. Stitch selector buttonChoose from 50 stitches,including five buttonholes at thetouch of a button.4. Drop feedFeed dogs are easily lowered forfree motion sewing when quiltingor for embroidery.5. Quick-set bobbinEasy top loading, drop-in bobbin.6. Flat bed/Free armRemove accessory compartmentto convert to free arm.7. Automatic needlethreaderThread the needle with a onestep action.8. Needle stop positionSelect needle ‘up’ or ‘down’when the machine stops.9. Reverse buttonSecure ends with reinforcementstitches.10. Presser foot levellingbuttonEnsures the presser foot is keptlevel for smooth stitching acrossvarying fabric thickness.11. Six-point feed dogsAllows fabrics to be fed smoothlyfor accurate and effortlessstitching on any weight of fabric.12. Speed control slideAllows you to adjust your sewingspeed; slow for precise work,and faster for more generalsewing.13. Presser-foot pressureBy adjusting the pressure of thepresser-foot it is easy to stitchwrinkle-free seams on the mostelastic of fabrics.14. One-step automaticbuttonholerProduces perfect buttonholesevery time.15. AccessorycompartmentNeatly holds all accessoriesincluding these presser feet:Zigzag foot (with levelling button)– general purpose presser footfor all sewing with straight stitchand zigzag, and most utilitystitches; Zipper foot (adjustable);Buttonhole foot (automatic);Overcasting foot; Blind Stitchfoot; Monogramming foot; ButtonFitting foot.72 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Bring onthe buttonsButtons - they’re not just for fastening clothes you know! <strong>Spotlight</strong>’sbig bevy of buttons are great for use as decoration too whether youuse them on homewares - for canvas art, to make fun clock faces, onnapery and more - or in your papercrafts and other creative projects.You can combine them with embroidery, decorate clothes with them oruse them on toys for older children. Our range is constantly growing.Visit the haberdashery aisle and be inspired.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 73


•emake itfeltbuttonbagMake a tiny toteusing buttons inyour favourite colourscheme.Materials30cm wool felt30cm cotton fabric for liningAssortment of buttonsHand sewing threadHand sewing needleScissorsSewing machineMedium-heavy iron-on interfacingScrap of fusible PeltexStep 1 Cut two 20cm x 23cm piecesfrom the felt, the lining fabric and theinterfacing. Iron the interfacing to thefelt. Cut a 2.5cm square from thebottom corners of both the felt andlining fabrics (refer to diagram).Step 2 With right sides facing, stitchthe felt together at the side seams andat the base using a ¼” (6mm) seam.Match the side seam with the baseseam and stitch across to form thebase of the bag. Turn through. Turn thetop of the bag over 2cm and stitch inplace. Repeat for lining.Step 3 Sew an assortment ofbuttons onto the front of the bagby hand; stack some buttons ontop of each other to create a moreinteresting look.Step 4 Cut two strips of felt 7cmwide x 40cm long. Fold both long outeredges toward the centre then fold inhalf. Stitch to secure, leaving 3cmopen at each end. Stitch open endsto bag 5cm from side seams on frontand back. Cut a piece of Peltex 4cmx 16cm and iron to the base of thelining. Insert lining into bag and handstitch around the top to secure.20cm23cm2.5cmsquare74 spotlight.com.au


home & handiwork •Cot PanelsPre-printed panels are perfect for projects. Chooseco-ordinating fabrics for the backing on cot quilts or playwith panels to create decorative nursery items.Beginner sewers will love cot panels.They provide straightforward sewingopportunities for baby’s bed.Experienced sewers can browsethrough the co-ordinating fabrics atevery <strong>Spotlight</strong> store to fire up theirimaginations.Cot panels can be used to make lampshades, cushions, softies, wall artand more.Come in to store to see our largerange of 100% cotton fabrics featuringnovelty prints. Choose from prettyfeminine prints, cute boyish designsor lovely unisex options.Owl - PinkSafari - GreenFlying - BlueBear Head - PinkBear Head - BlueGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 75


EffortlessSewingSimplicityADNS-1016 built-in stitches3 automatic buttonholes.Built-in easy needle threaderFunctionalityWhether you are new to sewing or re‐discovering the pleasure that hand madebrings, spoil yourself with any one of the NS series sewing machines fromBrother.Computerised sewing at it simplest puts you in control with features including:• Speed control• Needle up and down position setting• Useful utility and decorative stitches including blanket stitch• Excellent fabric control with 7 point feeddogsThe NS Series makes it easier than ever to take your creativity further.Brother have been making sewing machines for over 100 years– the NS Series puts all of our experience in your hands.NS-3070 built-in stitches7 automatic buttonholes.Built-in advanced needlethreader76 spotlight.com.auHop online today to find tHe BrotHer sewing macHine tHat’s rigHtfor you and wHere you can purcHase it, brother.com.au


• home & handiworkGlobal quiltingunder an historic roofEvery year, at Melbourne’s Royal ExhibitionBuilding in Carlton, quilters converge for theAustralasian Quilt Convention, Australia’s largestdedicated quilting event. As organiser JudyNewman tells us, quilts and historic settings area fitting match so it’s hard to imagine a betterlocation for this first-rate event.78 spotlight.com.au


home & handiwork •Clockwise from above: TheRoyal Exhibition Buildingis the venue for Australia’spremier quilt event; Sunlitby Carol Taylor; GloriaLoughman will teach her artquilt techniques; EnchantedJourney by Kay Haerland.“The historic Royal Exhibition Building(REB) is built over two levels andfeatures magnificent domed ceilings, apainted frieze and panels, decorativetimberwork, majestic porticoes anda highly polished timber floor. A briefinvestigation of the history of thebuilding is bound to intrigue – when itwas built in 1880, it was Australia’slargest building.Following the glory days of hostingexhibitions, which were designed in thelate 1800s to put Melbourne on theworld map, the REB went on - in 1901 -to host the opening of the first FederalParliament. In later years it served as avenue for art shows, bicycle races, dogand poultry shows and was even takenover as a hospital for patients sufferingfrom the influenza virus during thepandemic of 1919.Local Melbournians still recalltaking their school and universityentrance examinations at the REB, andattending home shows, motor showsand rock concerts. During the midtwentiethcentury, the building becamedilapidated and it was not until the1980s that the historic significancebecame apparent. Restoration began in1985. The building is now in the careof Museum Victoria and is protected bya World Heritage listing.The building has two levels and, whenthe Australasian Quilt Convention(AQC) is held, the upstairs area isdedicated to the convention aspectof the program. Keen quilters fromaround the country book their four dayprogram of classes to learn with someof the best tutors on the internationalquilting circuit.Downstairs, thousands of peoplecome for a few hours or to spend aday viewing the quilt show, shoppingwith dedicated quilting retailers andattending short seminars. This is noordinary quilt show though – thesequilts are all hand-picked, many areprize winners, and often specialexhibitions are flown in from overseas,or around Australia. This collection ofquilts will not be replicated anywhereelse so it is a one-off opportunity.But AQC is more than the sum of itsparts. Entertainment by impersonators,magicians, comedians, opera singersand dance bands has all been partof the social events, delighting andsurprising guests. Each year quiltersattending comment that they come forthe whole experience; the Gala Dinneris attended by around 400 guests andfor the last few years has been bookedout well in advance.In 2011 the program will feature anumber of new quilting tutors as wellas some firm favourites. Classes willgive students opportunities to exploretraditional designs in new ways, toextend and perfect their quilting skills,to get the imagined design in theirmind into reality in fabric, to exploresurface design and art skills.New Zealander Anna Williams, isan expert in creating faces in fabric.From the UK, Christine Porter focuseson geometric designs, often with abasis in tile patterns. Carol Taylor fromthe USA state of New York will explorecolour and line in art quilting. JennyBowker from Canberra will teach herpopular Broken Star design and shareher secrets of free-motion quilting.Victorian, Margaret McDonald, willguide students in perfecting theirpiecing skills and Kay Haerland fromNSW will teach students how to createa “landscape in fabric.”@The Australasian Quilt Convention ison from April 14 to 17, 2011. For thefull program, visit www.aqc.com.au.About JudyJudy Newman is an accomplished craftdesigner and book author, former Craft Editorof several national women’s magazinesand is now one of the organisers of theAustralasian Quilt Convention and Craft &Quilt Fairs in Australia and New Zealand.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 79


• book shelfAppliqué your wayby Kayte TerryThis book features 35 stitching projects from crafterextraordinaire Kayte Terry. Master decorative stitches,create original templates, and much more. The bookis designed for easy use with a lay-flat binding and ahandy back pocket that holds pattern and templatepieces. There’s all the information here you need tocreate a Gone Dotty A-line Skirt, a Reverse AppliquéMarket Tote, a Felted Faux Bois Scarf, and 30+ moreprojects ranging from the sublimely simple to the ultrachic.Kayte Terry is a writer and stylist. She lives andworks in a tiny Brooklyn apartment with her husbandand their rabbit/muse, Potato.Publisher: Chronicle Books Distributed by: Hardie Grant RRP AU$35.00Quilts en Provenceby Kaffe FassettNarrow, medieval streets full ofcolourful old buildings form thebackdrop for another collection of 20new quilt designs from Kaffe Fassettand his chosen team of designers.Kaffe’s technique is not abouttricky piecing but about the joyoususe of unexpected colour stories.Subsequently, these quilts show howtraditional piecing can be interpretedwith a modern twist. You’ll find a galleryof quilts, shot on location, along witha reference photo, materials list andfull written instructions, illustrated withcoloured diagrams. Templates for thequilts appear in the appendix to thebook.Distributed by Sally Milner PublishingRRP AU$49.99Made in France: Blackworkby Sonia LucanoThis book takes a modern approachto the ancient art of blackwork with50 projects that show how simpleembroidery stitches, worked on acontrasting background, can be used toembellish a multitude of charming gifts,accessories and homewares. Followthe easy instructions and learn howthe repetition of a few basic stitchesresults in an endless variety of intricatepatterns and designs.Publisher: Murdoch Books RRP AU$34.95Sew Serendipity - Freshand Pretty Designs to Makeand Wear by Kay WhittKay Whitt, a licensed designer forMcCall’s and regular exhibitor atspring and international quilt showsas Serendipity Studio, has beendesigning and selling patterns for thepast 10 years. Included in her bookare tissue pattern inserts for the skirt,tunic/dress and jacket, each withsix variations detailed in the book.Three basic patterns multiplied by sixvariations equals 18 ways to showoff your skills and style! Included aremaster instructions for each basicgarment, plus individual instructions forunique looks. Each pattern is gradedin seven sizes. Use the ‘CustomFitting’ section of this book to learnhow to measure yourself and adjust thepatterns to get the best possible fit.Publisher: Krause PublicationsDistributor: Capricorn Link RRP AU$39.99Note: Books available all good bookstores or check online. Australian price guides given where possible.80 spotlight.com.au


hearts &flowers quiltmake it •eExperiment with lights,darks & mediums tocreate a quilt withclassic charm.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 81


• make itQuilt measures:66” x 66” (168cm x 168cm)Materials5.7m Light background fabric– A (includes backing)1.1m Light fabric – B50cm Medium #1 fabric – C1.4m Medium #2 fabric – D (includesbinding)40cm Dark #1 fabric – E1.1m Dark #2 fabric – F2m x 240cm wide cotton Sew Easycotton batting (wadding)Matching Gütermann 100% cottonthreadTemplastic50cm VliesofixRotary cutter & quilter’s rulerCutting matPencil & fabric markerQuilting pins, tape measureScissors, seam ripperHand needleSewing machine with ¼” foot &walking footAll fabrics should be 100% cotton,washed & pressed.¼” seam allowance used throughoutunless otherwise indicated.Read all instructions carefully beforecommencing the quilt.CuttingAll strips are cut across the width offabric unless otherwise stated.• From fabric A cut – 1 x 12 7 / 8”strip,crosscut into 2 x 12 7 / 8” squares,then cut in half diagonally to make 4triangles; 1 x 6½” strip, crosscut into 4x 6½” squares; and 7 x 2½” strips.• From fabric B cut – 4 x 2½” strips;3 x 6 7 / 8” strips, crosscut into 18 x 6 7 / 8”squares, then cut in half diagonallyto make 36 triangles; 1 x 6½” strip,crosscut into 4 x 6½” squares. Fromthe remainder of this strip cut fourflower centres for the flowers in roundtwo.• From fabric C cut – 4 x 3½” strips.This fabric is also used for the heartsin round three and the flowers for thecentre block.• From fabric D cut – 8 x 2½” strips;1 x 6½” strip, crosscut into 4 x 6½”squares; the remainder of this stripcan be used for the four hearts inround one.• From fabric E cut – 1 x 17½” strip,crosscut into 1 x 17½” square; theremainder of this strip can be used forthe flowers in round two.• From fabric F cut – 8 x 2½” strips;3 x 6 7 / 8” strips, crosscut into 18 x6 7 / 8” squares, cut in half diagonally tomake 36 triangles; the remainder canbe used for the centres for flowers incentre block.• Trace the flower and heart templateson to templastic and cut out.Quilt TopPress all seams as you go.Centre Block1. Make four flowers by tracing aroundthe petal templates and centres ontothe paper side of the Vliesofix. Cut outleaving a 2cm border around the edge.Iron the petals onto the wrong side offabric C and the centres onto the wrongside of fabric F. Cut out petals andcentres, peel off backing paper andiron onto the right side of the four largefabric A triangles. Hand or machineDiagram AFabric FFabric AFabric FDiagram BFabric AFabric FFabric A82 spotlight.com.au


make it •appliqué around the edge of the petalsand centres.2. Sew the four fabric A triangles to thesides of the fabric E square. Attachthe four 3½” strips of fabric C to theedges of the centre square, trim off theexcess as you go.Round One3. Trace heart template onto paperside of vliesofix and iron onto wrongside of fabric D and cut out. Peel offbacking paper; iron onto right side offabric A squares and appliqué aroundheart.4. Make two strip units using the 2½”strips of fabrics A and F as shown indiagrams A and B. Crosscut diagramA strips into 40 x 2½” rectanglesand diagram B strips into 20 x 2½”rectangles.5. Sew one diagram A rectangle toeach side of a diagram B rectangle tomake 20 nine-patch blocks as shownin diagram C.6. Join the blocks together to makefour strips of five blocks and sew onefabric A 6½” block to each end oftwo of the strips. Sew the two shorterstrips to the opposite sides of thecentre block, and then sew the stripswith added blocks to the remainingopposite sides.Round Two7. Make four flowers by tracing aroundthe petal templates and centres ontothe paper side of the Vliesofix. Cut outleaving a 2cm border around the edge.Iron the petals onto the wrong sideof fabric E and the centres onto thewrong side of fabric A. Cut out petalsand centres; peel off backing paperand iron onto the right side of thefour large fabric D squares. Hand ormachine appliqué around the edge ofthe petals and centres.8. Make four strip units using the 2½”strips of fabrics B and D as shown indiagram D. Crosscut each strip unitinto a 42½” length. Sew one fabric D6½” block to each end of two of thestrips. Sew the two shorter strips tothe opposite sides of round one, thensew the strips with added blocks to theremaining opposite sides.Round Three9. Trace the heart template onto paperside of Vliesofix and iron onto wrongside of fabric C and cut out. Peel offbacking paper; iron onto right side offabric B squares and appliqué aroundheart.10. Make 36 x 6½” squares by sewingtogether one fabric B triangle andone fabric F triangle. Join the blockstogether to make four strips of nineblocks and sew one fabric B 6½” blockto each end of two of the strips. Sewthe two shorter strips to the oppositesides of round two, and then sewthe strips with added blocks tothe remaining opposite sides.FinishingLayer the backing, batting andquilt top, baste together and quiltas desired. Attach binding. Attacha label or sign and date your quiltTemplateEnlarge by 200%Diagram CDiagram DFabric DFabric BFabric DGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 83


• new season productsA gardenof quilts‘Rose Garden’ is a new collection of quilting fabrics at<strong>Spotlight</strong>. Foliage, buds, small birds and butterflies -these images continue to be popular in quilting circles.Perfect for creating homewares to accent interiors withtimber or traditional elements, or for softening andfeminising starker spaces, consider mixing and matchingthese pretty designs with earth toned fabrics from thebasics range.Don’t just think quilts! Sew your own cushion and chaircovers, wall hangings, placemats, oven gloves, basketliners, even knitting and crochet bags.If you would like to tackle a complete quilt, these fabricswill be divine in an autumnal bedroom or on the veranda,thrown over your favourite reading chair.Include some appliqué to add visual interest to yourrose garden and highlight sections of the design. Selectcertain elements of the fabric to be enhanced withstitchery and embellishment. Use your own unique styleto create a fabric garden like no other.84 spotlight.com.au


News •Crafty NZdiary dateCraft Expo is coming to Auckland forthe first time from 17 – 20 March,2011. Whether you want to sew, quilt,make cards, do scrapbooking, knit,crochet or make your own jewellery,there’ll be something for you. See theinteractive workshops where you cantry craft techniques and test drive newcraft products. Click on the Aucklandbutton on www.thecraftexpo.com.auto find out more.Quilter winsBest ofAustraliacompetitionin USABelinda Betts from New South Wales had her quilt, ‘Tuesday’s Folly’, named for theBest of Australia prize at the World Quilt Competition XIV in New Hampshire, USA,towards the end of last year. Ten Australian quilts toured the States. They were alsoseen at the Pacific International Quilt Festival XIX in Santa Clara, California and theWorld Quilt Show Florida in West Palm Beach, Florida.@ See Belinda’s work at www.erquilting.com.au.See all the 2010 World Quilt Competition XIV Winners at www.quiltfest.com.EastwoodPatchworkQuilters 2011Exhibition11 – 13 March, 2011 at Brush FarmHouse, Lawson St, Eastwood, NSW.Feast your eyes on a great display oftraditional quilts made by the membersof Eastwood Patchwork Quilters whilevisiting historic Brush Farm House (builtaround 1820 by Gregory Blaxland).Refreshments, light lunches and quiltand craft stores will all be on hand.Are you a modern quilter in Melbourne?Modern Quilt Guild, founded in the USA, has spawned its first international branch right here inAustralia. The Melbourne Modern Quilt Guild (MMQG) was created in May 2010 and, as its namesuggests, it’s for modern quilters in and around Melbourne.Defining modern quilting as a style that focuses on “fresh colours and simple patterns ortraditional blocks with a modern twist, young designers and old favourites, contemporary toolsand techniques”, MMQG says that, while modern quilting is steeped in quilting tradition, there areno rules. It offers “creative freedom, accessibility and exciting new ideas”.The Guild maintains a website where members can interact, it holds monthly sewing days andother special events. www.melbournemodernquiltguild.com.@Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 85


• creative peopleAppliquéin a digitalworldLike many a stitcher Lynette Andersondiscovered patchworking around thesame time she discovered nappychanging – after the birth of her firstson. These days, and three more sonslater, Lynette has her own patchworkand quilting shop behind her and nowruns a thriving Internet and wholesalebusiness. Her designs are in demandworldwide as are her teaching skills.She travels the world, needle in hand,but still calls Queensland home.Lynette was born in Dorset, England,but moved to Australia with her familyin 1990. She began designing andproducing books and patterns for thepatchwork and quilting industry in1995 and, with her Mother, Ruth, byher side, she went on to open a retailstore called The Patchwork Angel.“I’d attended an adult educationclass on patchworking when myeldest was born but I had alreadylearned from my Grandmother. I likepatchworking because there are no realrules. I prefer appliqué and ‘stitchery’.I’m not really suited to the precision ofpiecing,” says Lynette.After almost a decade running herstore Lynette decided to focus her timeon designing and now has a highlysuccessful online business, plus sheis a published author and a soughtafter tutor in Australia, the UK, the USA,Sweden, Norway and beyond. This yearshe will also teach in France and Spain.Lynette’s pattern range is constantlygrowing and, today, as well as patternsfor quilts, ‘stitcheries’ and quick projectslike bags and aprons, she also producespunch needle designs. She has alsoentered the world of fabric design.She is well known for her motifs ofcats and dogs, plus her real-life pooch,Hugo, and three feline housemateswho regularly appear on her blog andinspire her work. New projects andproducts are evolving from this creativedynamo every day, including handpainted wooden buttons in the shapeof Hugo himself!“I guess you could say the imagesare childish or naive but I like to put thatdown to the fact I had a good childhood,”says Lynette. “We were allowed to havecats, dogs and rabbits.”When she spoke to Get CreativeQuarterly Lynette had just returnedfrom The Festival of Quilts inBirmingham, England, the largestquilt show in Europe and was cookingup plans for her next trip to theInternational Quilt Festival in Houston,Texas, later in the year.Lynette shared a stand in Birminghamand also travelled to The Lakes District,86 spotlight.com.au


creative people •Suffolk and London to teach while shewas in the UK. She usually goes tothe USA twice a year, a trip she’s beenmaking for almost a decade.A great communicator who is readyto embrace new technologies, Lynettehas a much-read blog and plenty ofcorrespondents and she is a regularcommentator on Twitter and has aFacebook page you can join.“Often I will talk to other designerson Twitter so followers can see thekinds of things we’re up to,” sheexplains. “I often get feedback from myblog readers in particular that they startthe day with a cup of tea and ‘sometime with Lynette’. They complain if Idon’t write for a while and leave thesweetest messages,” she says with alaugh. “I think I do well because I don’tpretend to be something I’m not. Have alook at my work and if you like it, great!”Her new book, It’s Quilting Catsand Dogs, features a collection of herdelightful character-filled, quilted projectsand it’s perfect for cat and dog lovers.“Initially I was invited to be part ofa group book called The Quilt Makerswith publishers, David and Charles,”explains Lynette. “Then they invitedme to do a book of my own. I have totell you, when I saw it on Amazon itwas very exciting. Now it’s even betterbecause David and Charles have soldit to French, Dutch and Hungarianmarkets, all just based on the plans ofthe book, not the finished publication.Apparently this is very uncommon.”Several large quilts are featured inthe book along with bags, pincushions,pillows and needle cases. It takesreaders through Lynette’s wonderfulstitch and appliqué techniques,showing you how to create herdistinctive designs. Other techniquesfeatured include piecing and punchneedle.The book has a lovely, cosydesign that further captures the heartwarming,quirky style she is known for.@ www.lynetteandersondesigns.typepad.comWIN!We have 10 signedcopies to give awayIt’s Quilting Cats & Dogs: 17Stitchery & Patchwork ProjectsFor You To Treasure PublishedBy David & Charles (Uk),Distributed In Australia ByCapricorn LinkRRP $29.99For your chance to win a copy of It’s Quilting Catsand Dogs write your name, <strong>Spotlight</strong> VIP Clubmember number, address and contact phonenumber on the back of an envelope and postit to Locked Bag 4321, South Melbourne, VIC3205. Deadline is Friday 29 April 2011.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 87


• creative peopleMeet Abby Glassenberg,award winning soft toy maker & authorPhoto: Brad Bartholomew,copyright 2010 InterweavePress LLC88 spotlight.com.au


creative people •Right: Abby & her new bookthat shows others how tocreate her winged friends.Over 100 birds of every variety havecome to artistic life at the handsof soft toy and sculpture maker,Abigail Patner Glassenberg. Based inMassachusetts, USA, Abby has beenmaking her creatures and creationssince 2005, selling them in galleries,boutiques, craft shows and online.Her work has also been featured inmagazines, sewing, craft, and softsculpture books. Now she is the proudauthor of The Artful Bird: FeatheredFriends to Make and Sew…GCQ: Tell us how your book came about.Abby: I have been sewing soft sculpturein my home studio in Wellesley,Massachusetts, for five years nowand writing about my creations onmy blog, www.whileshenaps.typepad.com. Three years ago I had a showat our local library and made over 50soft toys, including a few birds. Thebirds got lots of positive attention andI became interested in trying to makemore, of different varieties. I spent thenext two years exploring this idea.My blog has really been vital tomy creative process. Participating inthe online craft community inspiredme to push myself to design and sewevery day. As a result, I made a wholemenagerie of birds over the years –everything from penguins to cranes tolittle larks. I got wonderful feedbackabout my birds and many emails withquestions about how they were made.With original patterns for more thana dozen bird varieties I realised thata book showing step-by-step how thebirds are sewn, how I get them tostand on wire legs, and how to createand embellish their wings would befantastic. I wrote a proposal and sentit off and was so pleased to work withInterweave to make this dream a reality!The book is available in bookstoresin Australia and New Zealand fromFebruary onwards.Where did you develop your interest insewing and soft sculpture? Have youstudied along the way?I have always been a maker. Evenfrom an early age I loved origami, clay,drawing, painting, and collage. And Ialways loved to create things I saw innature. I took art classes in schooland, as a teenager, studied art afterschool with a local teacher. I went toJohns Hopkins University in Baltimorefor college where I was a history major.Hopkins did not have an art program atthat time but I took the few classes theydid offer and won the senior art awardwhen I graduated. I went on to becomea teacher and get a Master’s Degreefrom Harvard in education, but I wasalways crafting in my spare time. Whenour first daughter, Roxanne, was bornin 2004 I became a stay-at-home Mumand found that I finally had the time andcreative energy to really pursue anddevelop my artistic interests. I turnedto the sewing machine that I’d boughtwhen I was 13 and had toted aroundwith me to every apartment and houseI’d lived in ever since and decided toreally learn to use it. When Roxanneand I would visit the public library forstory time, I would dash upstairs tothe craft section and check out asmany soft toy sewing books as I couldcarry. Most of these books dated fromthe 1960s and 1970s and were full ofwonderfully quirky patterns. I read allthe how-to sections and sewed throughdozens of patterns and then I startedmy blog to document what I was workingon and share it with others. Through allthis experimentation I began to learnhow to sew and how to design patternsfor three-dimensional plush toys.When I became brave and confidentenough, I began to design my ownoriginal sewing patterns. Creatingsomething completely new andseeing my vision become a real,three-dimensional object in fabric wasaddictive. Soon I started an Etsy shopto sell my work (www.whileshenaps.etsy.com), did some local craft fairs and builtup an overflowing fabric stash. I was onmy way!What’s the unique appeal of birdsto stitchers?In nature there are thousands ofvarieties of birds, each adapted to itsown particular environment. This arrayprovides a seemingly endless set ofchoices for wing and beak shapes,Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 89


• creative peoplePhoto: Brad Bartholomew,copyright 2010 InterweavePress LLCfeather colours and body sizes.A bird is like a mini canvas for creativeexploration of colour and surfacedesign. I am attracted to the relativelysmall size of birds. If you make thecolouration and shape realistic enough,a soft sculpture bird could be mistakenfor a real bird and I think that is reallycool. It is so much fun to create agrouping of birds that resembles ataxidermy display in a science museum.The book includes patternmaking,turning and stuffing, wire legsand feet so is this book aimed atfairly experienced sewers or couldnewcomers take a stab?I think both new and experiencedsewers will find The Artful Bird ofinterest. For those who are newto sewing, there are photos andinstructions that take you through thefundamentals of successful softiemaking. Several of the projects can bemade in just a few hours and, once youget the hang of it, even less time thanthat. For experienced sewers, creatingthree-dimensional soft sculpture birdscan open up a whole new creativeavenue. I suggest multiple ways topersonalise and expand each project,including dyeing your own bird-makingfabrics and embellishing wings withbeading, paints and lace. And some ofthe projects, like the wading birds, aremore complex to sew and balance. Afteryou have sewn a few of the birds, youhave the fundamentals you will need tocreate your own original sewing patternsfor birds, which I think is really exciting.What other mediums do you work inand how do you manage to fit it all inwith raising a young family?I enjoy creating assemblages withfound objects and I am inspired byJoseph Cornell’s shadow boxes.I think it is especially fun to shrinkdown some of my bird patterns so thatI can sew up a little bird to include inthe box. I also keep a sketch bookwhere I draw ideas for new softiedesigns. And I still love origami!Crafting with my children is really funfor me. I was a teacher and still enjoycoming up with creative projects thathelp my children to explore new media.We recently made papier-mâché fruittogether and Roxanne loves to handsew little pillows and pouches. Bothmy daughters love my scrap bag andcome up with endless uses for thelittle bits of leftover fabric that are allover the studio floor.My blog is called ‘While she naps’because, when I began sewing inearnest, I was doing it during thebaby’s nap time. Those 90 minuteswere my time to play and have funand just be me ... when my daughterswere little and still napped I guardednap time fiercely. As time passed andRoxanne and Stella grew a bit older,I was able to sew while they went toschool. Now we have a new baby girl(born in November) so I will be back tonaptime sewing!What’s the state of sewing andhandcrafts in America currently?I am definitely seeing a renewedinterest in sewing and handcrafts.Here in my own community there areso many other Mums I meet who reallywant to learn to sew. Many of themhave sewing machines but don’t reallyknow how to use them and wish theydid. I have hosted some craft nightswhere a group of women get togetherand sew and chat and it’s fun.The Internet has created acommunity of sewers who canshare resources, ideas, patternsand inspiration. This community iswonderfully motivating and inspiringfor me and it has been marvellous towatch many of these crafters createbeautiful sewing books and amazingnew fabric lines. All of this creativity isspilling out into the mainstream craftworld and I am thrilled to be part ofthat movement. •@www.abbyglassenberg.comwww.whileshenaps.typepad.comwww.whileshenaps.etsy.com– birds for salewww.josephcornellbox.com90 spotlight.com.au


make it •Alien SoftieseLet your imagination enternew galaxies when youmake your own simplespaced-out critters.Materials2 felt squares – main colourScraps felt in contrast coloursCrystal safety eyes – 12mmPlastic animal nosePerle thread or Embroidery floss incontrasting colours to the feltLarge needleScissorsCraft glueSafety pinsHobby fillPaper & pencilStep 1 Draw an alien shape onthe paper and cut out. Use this paperpattern to cut out two shapes in maincolour felt.Step 2 Cut out some interestingshapes from the scrap felt and positionon the pieces from step 1. When happywith the arrangement glue or stitchthese shapes in place.Step 3 Using the pencil mark theposition for eyes and nose on thefront of the alien then make a smallhole at each mark using the point ofthe scissors. Push the stem of theeye/nose through the hole to thewrong side and push on the washer tosecure.Step 4 Pin the front and back of thealien together using the safety pinsmaking sure all edges are aligned.This will hold the pieces together forsewing.Step 5 Thread the needle with onestrand of perle thread or all 6 strandsof embroidery floss and whip stitcharound the outside edge leaving asmall opening for stuffing. Stuff firmlythen stitch the opening closed.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 91


• make itiPatchworkelephantplacematsGreat for scraps & fat quarters.DID YOU KNOW? An elephant is pregnant for 22 months!Hit the beach orthe streets thissummer with asewing projectthat won’t breakthe bank.Materials4 x co-ordinating fat quarters(patch body)30cm x 112cm co-ordinating printedcotton fabricCo-ordinating ribbonsScrap of pink feltLarge buttonHobby fill30cm medium fusible pellonMatching Gütermann 100% cottonthreadSewing machineIronScissorsPinsTape measureHand needleStep 1- patchwork bodyCut a total of 40 x 10cm squaresfor the patchwork elephant’s body(20 squares for each side). Arrange20 squares in 4 rows of 5 squares.Using 1cm seam allowance, sewsquares together in rows, then sewrows together. Press seams flat.Place elephant body pattern overthe patchwork fabric and cut out.Repeat with the remaining 20 squaresfor the other side of the elephant,remembering to flip the pattern over tocut out the other side.Step 2 - trunkFold co-ordinating fabric in half right92 spotlight.com.au


make it •sides facing and cut out trunk (as fabricis double there are 2). Using a 1cmseam allowance sew one trunk to eachpatchwork body. Press seam flat.Step 3 - eyesCut 2 x 6cm diameter circles fromfelt scraps and topstitch one toeach patchwork side. Cut 2 x 4.5cmdiameter circles from co-ordinatingprint and topstitch over the centre ofthe felt circle on each side of the body.Hand sew a large button to the centreof the fabric circles.Step 4 - tailCut a 7cm x 9cm piece from coordinatingprint. Press under 1cm alongone short edge and along both longsides of fabric. Fold in half, wrong sidestogether, matching pressed edges. Cut8cm lengths from co-ordinating ribbonsand fold each length in half. Insertthe raw ends of the ribbons into theshorter pressed end of the fabric. Pinin place and topstitch the fabric 3mmin from the folded edges, securing theribbon loops within the stitching.Step 5 - legsCut 4 pieces of co-ordinated print fabric20cm x 10cm. Cut 4 pieces of fusiblepellon 9cm x 7.5cm. Fold the fabricin half (10cm x 10cm), wrong sidestogether, and press the fold. Place apiece of pellon in the centre of oneside butting up to the pressed fold line.Fuse to the wrong side of fabric. Withright sides together and using a 1cmseam allowance, sew along the twoside seams, leaving the top edge open.Clip corners and turn right side out.Press flat. Repeat for the other threelegs. Place legs on top of patchworkbody aligning raw edges of legs withbottom raw edge of patchwork bodyand legs facing inwards. Baste legs tobody 5mm in from outer edges.Step 6 – earsFold co-ordinating fabric in half rightsides facing and cut out a pair of ears.Cut out one piece of pellon. Fusepellon to wrong side of one ear. Withright sides facing and using a 1cmseam allowance, sew ears togetherleaving the front straight seam open.Clip curves, trim seams and turnright side out. Press seam allowancein along opening and topstitch thecurved edges of the ear 5mm in fromthe outer edge. Pin ear to patchworkside of elephant. Topstitch ear in placealong the straight edge of the ear and4cm up along the topstitching line onthe top of the ear (this will stop the earflopping forward). Repeat for the otherear on the other side of the patchworkbody.Step 7 – finishPin the raw ends of the tail to theback of one of the patchwork bodypieces with the tail facing inwards.With right sides facing pin the bodypieces together. Using a 1cm seamallowance, sew all edges togetherleaving an opening between the legsof the elephant. Clip curves, trimseams and turn right side out. Pressseams. Stuff the elephant to desiredfullness using hobby fill and hand sewopening closed.TemplateEnlarge by 300%Elephant trunkCut 2Elephant earCut 2 per earElephant bodyCut 2 frompatchworkGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 93


• product knowledgeEastercotton talesVisit your <strong>Spotlight</strong> store and ask about the LILLE printed, 100%cotton poplin range, perfect for Easter projects.94 spotlight.com.au


crafting with kids •The accidentalEaster egghunterOne Easter a few years ago, when my kids were youngtoddlers, we had an Easter egg hunt on Easter Sundaymorning in our back yard. Easter Bunny had visited ourhouse overnight and left lots of yummy chocolate eggs andbunnies for the kids to find. It was great, but at the time wenever thought of repeating the event.The following year, a few days prior to Easter Sunday, Ioverheard senior child telling junior child about how excited shewas that Easter Bunny was coming on Saturday night becausehe was going to leave chocolate eggs in the garden again.And there and then the Easter egg hunt tradition was born.It was a fun event for a couple of years but as the childrengrew it became a bit boring and predictable for them. It alsobecame a little unfair for the youngest as his big sister alwaysfound more than him and our fun tradition seemed to endin tears rather than the happy sounds of children munchingon chocolate. So last year a shared basket came into playrather than separate baskets with all the found eggs sharedamongst everyone. Happiness was restored!Now we’ve been lucky over the past five years with ourEaster egg hunts as the weather has played in our favour.We haven’t come across rain yet, but if it’s not heavyrain, it might actually add to the excitement with the kidsthrowing on a raincoat and some boots. Now hot weather isa different story. Sun and heat do not agree with chocolateeggs. My advice for a hot Easter is to freeze the eggsovernight and hide them at the last possible moment. Anddon’t make a mistake that I made one year. Count how manyHave you ever wondered whoactually begins a family traditionor why? Well apparently I starteda new Easter tradition in our housewithout even realising it.eggs you hide in the garden and check that the kids havefound them all. Otherwise you might discover a new ant nestunder the back hedge building around a forgotten egg.I’m not sure how many more years this tradition willplay out in our household as kids don’t stay young and naîveforever. This year I might add a different spin. My childrenare older, eight and five, and the Easter egg hunt of old wouldprobably last a good four minutes. But I heard that, this year,the Easter Bunny is doing a treasure map hunt with a map andclues. This egg hunt sounds like fun, hopefully lasting at leasta good half an hour ... weather pending!Happy hunting. •About AmandaA freelance stylist, projectdesigner and creative consultant,Amanda Lefebure is a qualifiedvisual merchandiser and a crafterpar excellence. Her work appearsin publications such as New Idea,That’s Life and Total Girl and she’sa regular project contributor tothe Herald Sun Home Magazine.Amanda has two children, agedeight and five, and still sews onher Mum’s old sewing machine ...25 years and counting!Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 95


•emake ithoppyEastertable96 spotlight.com.au


make it •FLOWER GIFT BAGSMaterialsSmall paper gift bagsAdhesive white feltFelt square – pink dotKaisercraft wooden coaster – flowerCraft GlueScissorsPencilOptional for adult use– craft knife & cutting matStep 1 Place coaster on top of whitefelt and trace around shape with pencil.Step 2 Using scissors (or, foradults, use a craft knife), cut out flowershape from felt. Peel off backing sheetfrom felt flower and stick to front ofpaper bag.Step 3 Cut a circle with a 4.5cmdiameter from pink dot felt square and,using craft glue, stick felt circle to thecentre of the white felt flower on bag.FLOWER PLACEMATS& COASTERSMaterials per settingKaisercraft wooden placemat – flowerKaisercraft wooden coaster – flowerKaisercraft acrylic paint – candy12” x 18” Sheet stiff felt sheet – white12” x 18” Sheet stiff felt sheet– neon limeFelt square – pink dotPaint brushCraft glueScissorsPencil & rulerOptional for adult use– craft knife & cutting matStep 1 Paint the side edges of thewooden placemat and coaster withcandy paint, allow to dry.Step 2 Place the coaster andplacemat face down on the back ofthe white felt and trace around shapeswith the pencil. Using scissors (or, foradults, use a craft knife), cut out flowershapes from felt. Stick felt flowers tothe top of the placemat and coasterusing craft glue.Step 3 Cut two circles from pinkdot felt square, one with an 11.5cmdiameter and one with a 4.5cmdiameter. Stick the small circle to thecentre of the coaster and the large tothe centre of the placemat.Step 4 Cut a 30cm square and a13cm square from lime felt. Stick thecoaster to the centre of the 13cmsquare and the placemat to the centreof the 30cm square.FELT EASTER EGGTRAY/BOXMaterials12” x 18” stiff felt sheet – kelly green12” x 18” stiff felt sheet – neon limeFelt square – pink dotFelt flower stickersSmall buttonsDark green raffiaClothes pegsCraft glueScissorsPencil & rulerOptional for adult use – craft knife& cutting matStep 1 Cut the kelly green felt intoa 30cm square. Mark 7cm from eachcorner along one side and make a 7cmlong cut straight up from the edge.Repeat on the opposite side of the felt.Step 2 To make the box shape, foldthe uncut sides in towards the middle,folding the ends in to make side tabs.Fold up the shorter sides and glueto the side tabs. Hold in place withclothes pegs until the glue is dry.Step 3 Cut two pieces of lime greenfelt, each measuring 16cm wide by10cm high. Cut a grass pattern at thetop edge of each lime green piece.Glue felt grass to each of the shortersides of the box.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 97


• make itStep 4 Embellish felt grass with eggshapes cut from pink dot felt and feltflower stickers. Glue buttons in thecentre of the felt flowers. Fill box/traywith raffia as desired.FLOWER TIN TABLECENTREPIECEMaterialsTin bucket – hot pink2 x small wooden flower wands1 x medium flower wandKaisercraft acrylic paint – candyJo Sonja acrylic paint – green lightAdhesive white feltFelt squares – pink dot & neon lime dotJumbo buttonsChenille sticks – green1.5m x 38mm wide ribbonDouble-sided tapeDark green raffiaFloral foam block in round plastic bowlPaint brushCraft glueScissorsPencil & rulerOptional for adult use– craft knife & cutting matStep 1 Paint the side edges andback of the wooden flower wands withcandy paint. Allow to dry. Paint thestems of the flower wands with greenlight paint. Allow to dry.Step 2 Place the flower wands facedown on the back of the adhesivewhite felt and trace around flower withpencil. Using scissors (or an adult canuse craft knife), cut out flowers fromfelt. Peel off backing sheet and stickadhesive felt flower to front of wands.Step 3 Cut two circles with a 5cmdiameter from pink dot felt square.Stick in the centre of the two smallflower wands. Cut a 7.5cm diametercircle from lime dot felt square andstick to the centre of the medium sizedflower wand. Glue a jumbo button tothe centre of each flower and leavewands flat allowing glue to dry beforestanding flowers up.Step 4 Using a pencil draw an eggshape on the back of adhesive whitefelt and cut out. Cut out the same sizeegg from a pink or lime dot felt square.Peel the backing off the adhesive feltegg and place 2cm at the top of agreen chenille stick onto the base ofthe egg. Place the wrong side of thedot felt egg onto the sticky side of thewhite egg, pressing firmly to secure thechenille stick between the felt layers.Wrap the remainder of the chenillestick around your finger to curl intoa spiral shape. Repeat to create thedesired number of eggs.Step 5 Place round plastic bowl withfloral foam block into the tin bucket.Unravel raffia and place on top of andaround the foam block.Step 6 Push the stick of the mediumflower wand into the centre of the foamblock then push the sticks of the twosmall wands into foam on each side ofmedium wand on a slight angle.Step 7 Place chenille stick eggsaround the tub to achieve desired look.Step 8 Tie ribbon around the tubusing double-sided tape to hold inplace, and tie in a big bow at thefront of tub. Trim ribbon ends into aninverted V shape.98 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Easterkits &cutenessVisit your local <strong>Spotlight</strong> store for allkinds of Easter goodies including bunnycraft kits, foam critters, bunting & more.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 99


•emake iteaster egghunt bagsScrapbooking embellishments,buttons & ribbons all comein handy when it comes tocreating one-off gift bags.100 spotlight.com.au


make it •BUNNY EARSTEMPLATEenlarge by 200%TALL WHITE BAG WITHFLOWERSTall paper gift bagLarge & medium paper/fauxflower heads3mm wide co-ordinating ribbonsCo-ordinating buttonsScissorsCraft glue or hot glue gunStep 1 Thread 3mm wide ribbonthrough button and knot ribbon to thefront, trim ends of ribbon.Step 2 Glue button to middle ofmedium flower head. Glue mediumflower head to the middle of the largeflower heads.Step 3 Repeat above steps tomake desired number of flowers. Gluedecorated flower heads to front ofpaper bag.SMALL GREEN BAG WITHBUNNY EARSSmall paper gift bag – green or colourof choiceAdhesive white feltPink & white spot felt square80cm co-ordinating ribbonScissorsCraft glue or hot glue gunStep 1 Using pattern provided, cut2 x outer ears from white adhesivefelt and 2 x inner ears from pink andwhite spot felt square. Glue the pinkand white spot inner ears to the centrefront of the white outer ears.Step 2 Peel paper from the back ofthe white outer ears and stick ears tothe front of the gift bag.Step 3 Cut 2 x 35cm lengths ofribbon. Remove the tape handles fromthe bag, thread the ribbon through theholes on the sides of the bag and knotribbon on the outside of the bag. Trimends to neaten.SMALL WHITE BAGHAPPY EASTERSmall paper gift bag – white or colourof choiceAlphabet foam stickersCo-ordinating ribbonsScissorsStep 1 Stick alphabet foam lettersto the front of paper bag in desiredwording.Step 2 Cut 2 x 35cm lengths ofribbon. Remove the tape handles fromthe bag, thread the ribbon through theholes on the sides of the bag and knotribbon on the inside of the bag. Trimends to neaten.Step 3 Tie another ribbon aroundboth handles to bring them together atthe top. Tie in a bow and trim ends toneaten.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 101


•emake itbunny scarfbunny scarf102 spotlight.com.au


make it •BUNNY TEMPLATEenlarge by 250%See our rainbow rangeof polar fleece fabricsin store.This project usesVliesofix, a doublesided fusible webfor use in appliqué.Iron it between twofabrics & it stickspermanently, makingit a lot easier thanjust sewing.Materials50cm x 150cm wide polar fleeceFat quarter printed cotton withwhite backgroundScraps of co-ordinating fabrics for ears,cheeks & nose30cm x 90cm wide VliesofixPinsScissorsPencilMatching Gütermann sewing threadSewing machineIronStep 1 Cut two pieces of Vliesofixslightly larger than the bunny patternprovided. Iron each piece onto the backof the white background printed fabric.Trace the bunny shape onto the backingpaper of the vliesofix and cut out.Step 2 Fold the polar fleece strip inhalf to get a 25cm wide strip.Step 3 Peel the backing paper offstep 1 and centre the fabric bunny inthe 25cm width of the polar fleece,aligning the raw edges at the baseof scarf. Cover the fabric bunny withbaking paper using the iron fuse topolar fleece. Repeat with the otherbunny on the other end of the scarf.Step 4 Iron Vliesofix to the backof one of the co-ordinated fabrics forinner ears. Trace inner ear shapesonto paper side and cut out. Peel offbacking paper and fuse to top of thefabric bunny. For the cheeks, iron asmall amount of Vliesofix to back ofanother co-ordinating fabric and tracecircles from pattern provided. Cut outand fuse in place.Step 5 Unfold polar fleece to singlelayer and using a blanket stitch on thesewing machine, edge stitch around theouter edges of the bunny, inner earsand cheek shapes. Cut a small triangleof fleece or fabric for nose. Stitch tobunny face and straight stitch mouthas per pattern. Straight stitch eyes inplace as per pattern.Step 6 Fold polar fleece in halfagain with right sides facing, andusing a 1.5cm seam allowance sewthe two long edges and one of theshort edges of the fleece together. Clipcorners and turn right side out. Fold inseam allowance on the open end andtopstitch opening closed 5mm in fromthe outer edge. Topstitch 5mm in fromthe other short end.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 103


•cmake itknitted bunnyCelebrate Easter ina woolly way withthis gorgeous bunnydesigned exclusivelyfor us by AustralianCountry Spinners.104 spotlight.com.au


make it •MeasurementsChest (approx) 36cmHeight (approx excluding ears) 38cmMaterials3 x 50g balls Cleckheaton Country 8ply(M – 2190 mauve)1 x 50g ball Cleckheaton Country 8ply(C – 2267 pink)1 pair each 3.25mm & 3.00mm knittingneedles or size needed to givecorrect tension1 stitch holderHobby fillYarn needle for sewing seams & faceembroideryLength of ribbonNote: Use only the yarn specified.Other yarns are likely to producedifferent results. Quantities areapproximate as they can varybetween knitters. Check the ballbands to ensure all yarn is from thesame dye lot.Tension28 sts x 38 rows to 10cm overstocking st, using 3.00mm needles.To work a tension square, using3.00mm needles, cast on 42 sts, work58 rows stocking st. Cast off loosely.Check your tension carefully. If less ststo 10cm use smaller needles, if morests use bigger needles. Note: This toyhas been worked on smaller needlesand at a firmer tension than normallyrecommended.Abbreviationsbeg begin/ningC contrast colourcont continuedec decreasefolls follows/inginc increaseK knitK2tog knit 2 sts togetherM main colourpsso pass slipped stitch over(the knitted st)PP2togremsl 1st/spurlpurl 2 sts togetherremain/derslip onestitch/esBody - Back & Front(both alike, beg at base)Using 3.00mm needles and M, cast on4 sts.1st row: Inc in each st to end … 8 sts.2nd row: P3, inc in each of next 2 sts,P3 … 10 sts.3rd row: Using C, inc in first st, K3, incin each of next 2 sts, K3, inc in last st… 14 sts.4th row: P6, inc in each of next 2 sts,P6 … 16 sts.5th row: Using M, K7, inc in each ofnext 2 sts, K7 … 18 sts.6th row: P8, inc in each of next 2 sts,P8 … 20 sts.7th row: Using C, inc in first st, K8, incin each of next 2 sts, K8, inc in last st… 24 sts.8th row: Purl.9th row: Using M, K11, inc in each ofnext 2 sts, K11 … 26 sts.10th row: Purl.11th row: Using C, inc in first st, K11,inc in each of next 2 sts, K11, inc inlast st … 30 sts.12th row: Purl.13th row: Using M, K14, inc in each ofnext 2 sts, K14 … 32 sts.14th row: Purl.15th row: Using C, inc in first st, K14,inc in each of next 2 sts, K14, inc inlast st … 36 sts.16th row: Purl.17th row: Using M, K17, inc in each ofnext 2 sts, K17 … 38 sts.18th row: Purl.19th row: Using C, inc in first st, K17,inc in each of next 2 sts, K17, inc inlast st … 42 sts.20th row: Purl.Work 20 rows stocking st in stripes of4 rows M and 4 rows C, AT SAME TIMEinc one st at each end of 3rd row, thenin every foll 4th row twice ... 48 sts.Working in stocking st stripes of 6 rowsC and 6 rows M for rem, dec one st ateach end of next row, then in every foll4th row until 40 sts rem.Next row: P16, (P2tog) 4 times, P16 …36 sts.Next row: K16, (sl 1, K1, psso, K2tog),K16 … 34 sts.Next row: P15, (P2tog) twice, P15 …32 sts.Next row: K2tog, K12, (sl 1, K1, psso,K2tog), K12, K2tog … 28 sts.Next row: P12, (P2tog) twice, P12 …26 sts.Next row: K11, (sl 1, K1, psso, K2tog),K11 … 24 sts.Next row: P10, (P2tog) twice, P10 …22 sts.Cast off. Join back and front bodypieces together at sides, taking careto match stripes and leaving cast offedges at neck open. Fill with hobby fill.Head (beg at neck edge)Using 3.00mm needles and M, cast on45 sts. Work 4 rows stocking st.5th row: * K2, inc in next st, K2, repfrom * to end ... 54 sts. Work 3 rows.9th row: * K2, inc in next st, K3, repfrom * to end ... 63 sts. Work 3 rows.13th row: * K3, inc in next st, K3, repfrom * to end ... 72 sts. Inc one st ateach end of every row until there are84 sts. Work 3 rows. Tie a colouredthread at each end of last row. Decone st at each end of next row, then inevery foll 4th row twice ... 78 sts. Work1 row.Shape Sides Of FaceNext row: K2tog, K5, (K2tog) 13 times,K12, (K2tog) 13 times, K5, K2tog ...50 sts. Dec one st at each end ofevery row until 40 sts rem.Shape Top(right side of head)Next row: K2tog, K10, K2tog, turn.Cont on these 12 sts for right side ofhead. Dec one st at each end of everyrow until 2 sts rem. Cast off.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 105


• make itSlip next 12 sts onto stitch holder andleave for gusset. With right side facing,join M to rem 14 sts.Next row: K2tog, K10, K2tog. Cont onthese 12 sts for left side of head. Decone st at each end of every row until 2sts rem. Cast off.Work GussetWith right side facing, join M to 12 stsleft on stitch holder for gusset. Work14 rows stocking st. Dec one st ateach end of next row, then in every foll6th row until 2 sts rem. Work 1 row.Cast off. Fold head piece in half andjoin front seam from neck edge tocoloured threads. Sew gusset evenly inposition over top of head, ending at tipof nose (coloured threads). Fill firmlywith hobby fill and stitch head to body,noting to place centre seam of head tocentre front of body and adding extrastuffing as necessary.Ears (make 4 pieces, beg atbase of ears)Using 3.25mm needles and M, cast on14 sts. Working 12 rows stocking stin stripes of 2 rows M and 2 rows C,AT SAME TIME inc one st at each endof 3rd row, then in foll 4th row once... 18 sts. Work a further 12 rows ofstripes, AT SAME TIME dec one st ateach end of next row, then in foll 10throw once ... 14 sts. Working in M onlyfor rem, dec one st at each end of foll9th row, then in foll 8th row once ... 10sts.Work 5 rows. Dec one st at eachend of every row until 2 sts rem. Castoff.Join 2 ear pieces together alongthe side edges, leaving cast on edgeopen and taking care to match stripes.Close opening at cast on edge. Gatherup cast on edge slightly to form baseof ear and stitch securely in positionto top of head as pictured. Repeat forother ear with remaining 2 ear pieces.Legs (make 2, beg at top)Using 3.00mm needles and M, cast on26 sts. Work 2 rows stocking st. Incone st at each end of next row, thenin every foll 4th row until there are 34sts. Work 21 rows without shaping.Dec one st at each end of next row,then in every foll 4th row until 28 stsrem.Work 1 row.Shape FootInc one st at beg of next 6 rows ... 34sts. Work 2 rows, dec 2 sts in centre of2nd row ... 32 sts.Next row: (Sl 1, K1, psso, K4, K2tog) 4times ... 24 sts. Work 1 row.Next row: (Sl 1, K1, psso, K2, K2tog)4 times ... 16 sts. Work 1 row. Castoff.Join leg and foot seam, leavingcast on edge (top of leg) open. Fill feetand legs with hobby fill. Close openingat top of leg. Run a gathering threadaround ankle to define foot, draw upand fasten off securely. Stitch tops oflegs to base of body as pictured.Arms (make 2, beg at top)Using 3.00mm needles and M, caston 8 sts. Work 2 rows stocking st. Incone st at each end of next 8 rows ...24 sts. Tie a coloured thread at eachend of last row. Work 2 rows (withoutshaping). Work 14 rows. Dec one st ateach end of next row, then in every foll4th row until 14 sts rem. Work 1 row.Next row: (Sl 1, K1, psso, K3, K2tog)twice ... 10 sts. Work 1 row.Next row: (Sl 1, K1, psso, K1, K2tog)twice ... 6 sts. Work 1 row. Cast off.Join arm seams from coloured threadsto cast off, closing cast-off edge. Fillarms with hobby fill. Sew tops of armsto body as pictured.TailUsing 3.00mm needles and M, cast on4 sts. Working in garter st, inc one stat each end of every foll alt row untilthere are 10 sts. Knit 5 rows garterst. Dec one st at each end of next row,then in every foll alt row until 4 stsrem. Cast off. Run a gathering threadaround edge, draw up firmly and fastensecurely.To make upDO NOT PRESS. Using C and satinstitch, embroider mouth, nose and eyesas pictured. Sew eyes together throughhead and knot firmly so that eyes sinkslightly into head. Sew tail in positionto body. Tie a length of ribbon in a bowaround bunny’s neck, as pictured. •106 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •CupcakecastleDelight the little princess in yourlife when you present this towerof delicious cupcakes at her nextbirthday party.With Spolight you can create an instant princessparty, using this bright three-tier cupcake stand,fun decorative topper, colourful baking cups andFun Pix®! Kit includes 12x15in. highstand, 24-2in.diameter cups and 24-3in. high pixs. Holds up to24 cup cakes.PicksCupcakebaking cupsCupcakedecorating setCupcakestandDecoratingicing & gelGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 107


• make itAboutour chefFind out moreabout our chef &author, Michele Curtis,at campionandcurtis.com. See her websiteto find out whenMichele is cookingnear you!Heart shaped siliconecases can be found in theSpartys area of your local<strong>Spotlight</strong> store.108 spotlight.com.au


make it •SeasonalsweetsCUPCAKES - Makes 12Materials175 g butter150 g ( 2 / 3 cup) caster sugar1 tsp vanilla extract3 medium eggs225 g (1 ½ cups) self-raising flourStep 1 Preheat oven to 180°C.Step 2 Grease 12 x ½ cup (125 ml)heart shaped silicone cases.Step 3 Cream butter and sugar untillight and fluffy. Add vanilla, then eggsone by one, fully incorporating eachone before adding the next. Sift flourand fold in carefully. Spoon mixtureinto the cases. Bake for 15 minutes oruntil a skewer inserted into the centrecomes out clean. Cool completely.Step 4 Decorate as you wish.TURN OVER:For Shortbread Hearts &Anzac BiscuitsUse Wiltons pre made icing in a tubewith the decorative screw on tips tocreate different designs in icing ontop of the cup cakes.Decorate with pre made heart andflower shapes. Add finishing toucheswith the coloured decorative gel ina tube.DecoratingflowersSiliconebaking cupsDecorating icing,gel & icing tip setGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 109


• make itShortbread hearts- makes 30Ingredients255g (1 3 / 4 cups) plain flour100g ( 2 / 3 cup) rice flour250g soft butter, diced110g ( 1 / 2 cup) caster sugarPinch of saltWater, if requiredHeart shaped cookie cuttersBaking paperStep 1 Preheat oven to 170°C.Step 2 Line baking trays withbaking paper.Step 3 Rub together the flours,butter, caster sugar and salt. Kneadwell until combined. Add a little waterif the mix is very dry. Roll to 5mmthickness and cut into assorted heartshapes.Note: If threading onto ribbon use askewer to make a hole in the centrebefore baking.Step 4 Place the biscuits onto theprepared baking trays. Bake in thepreheated oven for 10 – 12 minutes,until crisp. Remove from trays andleave to cool on a cooling rack.Anzac biscuits- makes 20-24Traditional Anzacs are crowd pleasersand easy to make.Ingredients100g (1 cup) rolled oats70g (1 cup) desiccated coconut185g (1 1 / 4 cups) plain flour130g ( 2 / 3 cup) brown sugar125g butter80ml ( 1 / 3 cup) water2 tbsp golden syrup1 tsp bicarbonate of sodaBaking paperStep 1 Preheat oven to 180°C.Step 2 Line 2 baking trays withbaking paper.Step 3 Mix the oats, coconut, flourand brown sugar together in a largebowl. Place the butter, water andgolden syrup in a small saucepan andbring to the boil. Remove from heat,add bicarbonate of soda and stir untilthe mixture becomes frothy. Pour thefrothy mixture onto the dry ingredientsand mix quickly.Step 4 Roll the mixture into smallballs and place on the prepared trays,allowing some room for spreading.Press down gently.Step 5 Bake in the preheated ovenfor 15–20 minutes, or until goldenbrown but still slightly soft. Allow tocool for 5 minutes. Remove from traysand leave to cool on a cooling rack,then store in an airtight container.110 spotlight.com.au


• Creative IdeasHow tohandlehamperstips & tricks for makinga perfectly personalisedmother’s day giftIf you know the Mum in your life has aprivate passion or hobby, this could be theyear to give her a one-off, themed hamperwith gifts chosen especially for her.Here are a few tricks of the trade to helpyou achieve the best results:ABOVE:The ScrapbookerChoose a container to serve as the hamperthat can actually be used aftwerwards.Here we’ve chosen a paper carrier, withembellishments removed from their wrappingsfor a decorative touch. Place the largest itemsat the rear of the hamper and tie papers withribbons that can then be used in albums.LEFT:The Quilter We’ve chosen a plain bucket herewhich can then be used in the laundry, craft room orbeyond. Pack the bottom of the hamper with tissuepaper to elevate smaller items. We’ve popped somefabric into an embroidery hoop for decoration andfilled in blank spaces with coordinated tissue paper.A pretty coloured tape measure brings it all together.112 spotlight.com.au


Creative ideas •don’t forget the cellophanePut the finishing touch to the hamperwith cellophane from the papercraftaisle. Place the hamper on thediagonal, pull the sides in, tuck in ortape any loose edges and tie the wholething up with a gorgeous ribbon.RIGHT:The Bathing BeautyWe love this indulgent hamper, overflowingwith facewashers, handtowels andbath towels from <strong>Spotlight</strong>. We’ve alsoincluded <strong>Spotlight</strong> candles, oils, incenseand tealight holders. Create facewasherflowers by folding the washer into atriangle and rolling.LEFT:The Coffee LoverA wicker basket is a gift in itself.Packed with great homewaresfrom <strong>Spotlight</strong>, we’ve chosento include napkins, espressocups, placemats and tea towels,all in complementary colours.Consider adding coffee, biscuitsor gourmet chocolate coveredcoffee beans if you like.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 113


SHOP &WINa homeentertainer’spack!Now is a great time of year to entertainfamily & friends at home. <strong>Spotlight</strong> haseverything you need to make your tablelook great, serve your treats in style and addaffordable pizzazz to your home.Here is your chance to WINone of FIVE hampers worthover $230 each.Step 1 - Simply show your VIP Card whenspending $25 or more in any <strong>Spotlight</strong>store within Australian, New Zealandor Singapore.Step 2 - Make a copy of your proof of purchaseStep 3 - Fill in the entry form belowStep 4 - Mail completed entry form withproof of purchase to <strong>Spotlight</strong>Support GroupWith thanks to Capricorn Link Australia and theauthors for these wonderful books, valued at$34.99 each & available at good bookstores.Simply fill out the entry form below and post it to us at<strong>Spotlight</strong> Support GroupGCQ Magazine WIN A HAMPER CompetitionPO BOX 1135 Market Street,South Melbourne, VIC, 3205Include your name, address, <strong>Spotlight</strong> VIP Club cardnumber and phone number.All entries count from Tuesday 1st February 2011 to Saturday 30th April 2011Winners will be drawn on Wednesday 18 May, 2011, at 3pm at <strong>Spotlight</strong> support group, level 6, 111 Cecil Street, South Melbourne, Vic, 3205. Winners will be notified by phone on the day of the drawand in writing within five business days. Winners’ names will be published on spotlight.com.au and the Australian newspaper on Wednesday 25th, May 2011. The promoter is <strong>Spotlight</strong> Pty Ltd, locatedat 111 Cecil Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205. Log onto spotlight.com.au for full terms and conditions. <strong>Spotlight</strong>’s shop to win 1 of 5 <strong>Spotlight</strong> Home Entertainment Packs competition.Permit Numbers: ACT: TP 10/05434.1, NSW: LTPS/10/12014.ENTRY FORMName:Address:Contact Phone Number:Postcode:VIP Club card number:Full terms and conditions go to spotlight.com.au, spotlight.co.nz or spotlight.com.sg114 spotlight.com.au


make it •egussied-upJazz up the ‘wellies’ thisseason with your little one’sfavourite colours & designsMATERIALSRubber/plastic boots1.5m x 10mm wide decorative ribbon20cm x 3mm wide satin ribbonDecorative buttonsFoam butterfly stickersLarge doll needleSingle hole punchScissorsStep 1 – punch Using a singlehole punch, punch two holes at thefront of each boot, 5mm apart and1cm down from the top edge. Repeatpunching two holes at the back of eachboot and at the same height. Punchanother two sets of two holes on eitherside of the boots, spacing sets evenlyapart and at the same height.Step 2 – thread Starting fromthe holes on the outer side of eachboot towards the back, thread thegrosgrain ribbon around boots throughall sets of punched holes, ending upback where the ribbon started. Threadribbon through a large button and tie ina knot to secure. Then tie the ribbon ina bow and trim ends to desired length.Step 3 – embellish Thread alarge doll needle with 3mm satin ribbonand make a set of two holes whereyou would like other decorative buttonsto go. Secure button by tying ribbonin a knot at the front of each button.Trim ends to desired length. Furtherembellish boots with foam stickers.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 115


• make itigoldenglobesFor glamorous looks thatare easy on the pocket, trymaking your own jewellery.This glowing necklace isgreat for beaders lookingfor a new challenge.116 spotlight.com.au


make it •1A1B1CMaterials1 pkt each Brandcorp gold pearl beadsin three sizesGold tiger tail1 pkt gold crimpsGold lobster clasp & jump ring1 pkt gold eye pins1 pkt gold head pinsRound nose pliersWire cutting pliersFlat nose pliersBead boardNECKLACEStep 1 Thread a medium size beadonto an eye pin. Place the pliers at thetop of the bead grasping the pin. Bendthe pin over at a right angle, changethe position of the pliers to grasp thecorner where the wire is bent. Wrapthe remaining wire around the pliersto create a loop. Release the pliersfrom the loop and grasp the loop inthe pliers and wrap the remainingwire around the base of the loop. Trimoff excess wire. Repeat to create 34medium wired beads with a loop ateach end.Step 2 Thread a large bead onto ahead pin and create a loop at the topof the bead in the same way as before.Repeat to create 16 large wired beadswith a loop at the top.1DStep 3 Cut a 60cm length of tigertail. Thread on one of the mediumbeads from step 1 followed by a singlesmall bead then repeat, alternatingmedium wired beads and small beadsuntil there are 17 medium and 16small beads, beginning and ending witha medium wired bead.Step 4 Cut a 30cm length of tigertail. Thread through the bottom loop ofthe first medium wired bead on the firstrow of tiger tail, then thread on a crimpfollowed by a new medium wired beadand a small bead. Then thread the tigertail through the next medium bead loopon the first row followed by anothernew medium wired bead and anothersmall bead. Continue along this row inthe same manner alternating the beadsto the end of the first row. Thread onanother crimp before the last loopedbead.1EStep 5 Cut another 30cm lengthof tiger tail and repeat the process asbefore, threading through the bottomloop of the new beads on the secondrow but threading on the large beadedhead pins to alternate with mediumbeads. Use the diagram on page 18as a guide. Include a crimp after thefirst looped bead and before the lastlooped bead.Step 6 To secure the tiger tail at theends of the short rows, loop the tigertail around the first and last loopedbead, pass the end back through thecrimp then clamp together using flatnosed pliers. Thread 16 small beadswith a crimp in between each bead, oneach side of the long length of tiger tailusing the crimps as spacers. Attach alobster clasp at one end and a jumpring on the other end, secure using thecrimps.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 117


• make itEARRINGSMaterials16 x medium Brandcorp gold pearlbeads16 x gold head pins2 x large gold jump rings2 x gold earring hooksRound nose pliersWire cutting pliersFlat nose pliersBead boardStep 1Thread a medium size bead onto anhead pin and create a loop at thetop of the bead. Trim off excess wire.Repeat to create 16 medium wiredbeads with a loop at the top.Step 2Open a jump ring. Thread the loop of8 of the medium wired beads onto thejump ring.Step 3Thread on an earring hook and closethe jump ring. Make a second earringthe same.Diagram keyTiger tailCreated loopsSmall beadMedium beadLarge beadCrimp118 spotlight.com.au


creative people •Makingit big,keepingit realBehind the scenes with Australianhandcrafted jewellery brand,Riley BurnettThere are a lot of people bentover their dining tables or kitchenbenches right now playing away withcolourful beads and baubles, creatinghandmade jewellery and dreaming ofmaking it big. Jennie Riley has alreadyachieved that goal, hand in hand withher partner Jason Burnett. Today RileyBurnett sells to stores from Horshamto Hollywood and everywhere inbetween but a team of hand makersin NSW still power the brand’s uniquemanufacturing style and Jennie’s eyefor the unusual is still essential tothe designs.Riley Burnett is a name familiar tomany Australian jewellery lovers.Based in the NSW coastal town ofLennox Head, Riley Burnett’s sterlingsilver collections are memorablefor their use of distinctive stones,semi precious gems and distinctiveornaments, elements collectedthroughout the world or dreamed up byJennie Riley who designs the jewelleryand runs the business with her partner,Jason Burnett.The recognisably handmade natureof Riley Burnett pieces, the fact no twoare identical and the use of bold colour,stones of scale and unusual texturedelements and charms means that,in the last five or six years, stockistsfor the jewellery have popped up allover Australia and New Zealand, theUSA, Canada and Europe. The brand’sconstant originality makes it attractiveto those who prefer to steer clear ofmass produced or disposable fashionjewellery.Jennie Riley originally came from atextile and weaving background but,she says, texture and colour werealways her primary interests.While travelling in Italy in 2004 thedesigner began making jewellery usingsterling silver and stones she wascollecting on the road, then she andJason successfully began selling it.Back in Australia the duo continuedthe fledgling business under the RileyBurnett name. Unlike most buddingjewellers, this company commencedlife with international customers inplace but Jennie is astonishinglymodest about a journey that’s seen herwork finish up in local and internationalfashion magazines and in stores inLondon, New York, Florence, LA andother fashion hubs.“I’d been making some jewellerybefore we went overseas so it seemedLeft: Riley Burnett’s Gemalicious collection.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 119


• creative peoplenatural to keep on with it,” says Jennie.“The overseas thing just kind ofhappened. We didn’t really plan it.”Mother to two boys now aged 10and 11, Jennie says earlier years weredevoted to being a Mum amongst otherthings and so one gets the impression“It’s the piecesI have collectedwhich inspireme. I just startthreading andlet the beads dothe talking.”that the business has developedorganically, powered by Jennie’s eye fordesign and Jason’s creative energy inthe marketing and business arenas.“I guess I have the philosophy that ifyou should be doing something you willdo it. Admittedly when I do something Ialways do it big,” says Jennie.The couple spent some timein Victoria getting the companyestablished before making the seachange to Lennox Head, not far fromByron Bay. “From here we can go tothe city centres as often as we want,”says Jennie, “but I don’t think I couldlive in the city again. I would be toodistracted.”While she would prefer to bunkerdown in the workshop and concentrateon making new collections, a significantportion of Jennie’s time is spenttravelling. In recent years she haswitnessed numerous folk trying to copyher work but she says she no longercares about this, saying, “We just moveon. It’s like an artist copying a painting.It’s never really going to be the same.And, because I do four to five big tripsa year – to Europe and Bali – no onecan collect the pieces I do that will gointo each new collection.”Jennie says she’d love to delegatethis part of the job to someone elsebut concedes that it’s her eye that isthe cornerstone of the brand. “Thetravelling is definitely not my favouritepart, the making is,” she says.“I’m not someone who does lots ofpre-sketching and the like. I’d love theluxury of peace and quiet to design butthis is a business and I have to get inand get it done. It’s the pieces I havecollected which inspire me. I just startthreading and let the beads do thetalking.”These days she has 20 people inthe Lennox Head workshop. Jenniedesigns the pieces but oversees themaking of them by her staff. She iscompletely realistic about the demandsa business like this makes on thecreative spirit.“To build stockists we do tradefairs and they’re hard work,” shesays, though word-of-mouth hasalso been one Riley Burnett’s bestmarketing tools. The company hasnever purchased advertising space inmagazines but maintains an extensivewebsite. “We’ve done fairs in Londonand the USA but frankly it’s notsomething I’m that desperate to push.120 spotlight.com.au


creative people •I’m happy to stay closer to home.”She’s learned by experience when itcomes to jewellery making techniquesbut also when it comes to choosingstones, gems and components andrealising where profits are made andlost.“It’s easy to fall in love withdifferent, special pieces but not beable to recoup the money you spendon them. Occasionally I will use suchpieces and do a couture range whichpeople are happy to pay more for.But generally our work retails from $50to $400.”Jennie says her customersare looking for something special,something unique with a wow factor.She is no slave to fashion and thinksit’s actually a mistake for independentmakers to try and produce fashionjewellery. “You’re up against the chainstores then,” she says, “and you’llnever be able to compete.”“It’s easy to fall in love withdifferent, special pieces but notbe able to recoup the money youspend on them.”Top: Riley Burnett’sGemalicious collection.Left: Jason & Jenny alongsidefamous customers, ElleMcPherson & Wynona Ryder.@ www.rileyburnett.comGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 121


•emake itbountifulbraceletsGreat seasonalcolours anda clever useof beads andmemory wirecombine in thesegreat pieces.122 spotlight.com.au


make it •Beaded braceletBEADED BRACELETMaterials1pkt x JF159 Ribtex Tiger Tail – silver1pkt x SB042 Ribtex Glass Seed BeadsSolid – red 3.6mm1pkt x SB039 Ribtex Glass Seed Beads– turquoise 3.6mm1pkt x SB036 Ribtex Glass Seed Beads– red 3.6mm1pkt x JF293 Ribtex Round Crimpers– dark silver 2.5mm1pkt x JF471 Ribtex Jump Rings– 7mm dark silver 40pcs1pkt x JF208 Ribtex Four Hole End Bar– silver1pkt x JF762 Ribtex Floral ConnectorToggle – silver1pkt x WB006 Ribtex Wood RoundBeads – walnut 12mm1pkt x WB018 Ribtex Wood RoundBead – natural 8mm1pkt x PST327 Ribtex Round StoneBeads – moonstone 6-8mm1pkt x PST331 Ribtex Round StoneBeads – tiger eye 6-8mm1pkt x PST348 Ribtex Stone Leaf– imitation coral 24x26mmRound nose pliersCrimping pliersWire cutting pliersBead boardStep 1 Cut four equal lengths oftiger tail long enough to fit around yourwrist – allowing extra to loop throughend bar.Step 2 Take a length of tiger tailthread two crimpers on one end thenthread it through the first hole of theend bar and back through the crimpers,creating a loop attached to the end bar.Press the crimpers flat to hold in place.Repeat until all four end bar holes havetiger tail attached.Step 3 On the first length of tigertail thread the following: 10 x red glassseed beads, then 1 x 8mm naturalwood round bead, 1 x 12mm walnutwood round bead, 1 x 8mm naturalwood round bead, 10 x red glassseed beads, then 1 x 8mm naturalwood round bead, 1 x 12mm walnutwood round bead, 1 x 8mm naturalwood round bead, 10 x red glassseed beads. Thread on two crimpers,loop through the other end bar andback through the crimpers. Press thecrimpers flat to hold into place. Cut offexcess tiger tail with wire cutting pliers.Step 4 On the second length oftiger tail thread the following: 13 xturquoise glass seed beads, then 1 x6mm round stone bead - moonstone,14 x turquoise glass seed beads, 1 x8mm round stone bead - moonstone,14 x turquoise glass seed beads, 1 x6mm round stone bead - moonstone, 9x turquoise glass seed beads. Threadtwo crimpers on the end, loop throughnext hole on the other end bar andattach as before.Step 5 On the third length of tigertail thread the following: 14 x solidred glass seed beads, then 1 x 8mmround stone bead – tiger eye, 6 x solidred glass seed beads, 1 x 6mm roundstone bead – tiger eye, 9 x solid redglass seed beads, 1 x 8mm roundstone bead – tiger eye, 10 x solid redglass seed beads. Thread two crimperson the end and attach to the other endbar as before.Step 6 On the fourth length oftiger tail thread the following: 15 xturquoise glass seed beads, then 1 x8mm round stone bead - moonstone,14 x turquoise glass seed beads, 1x 24x26m stone leaf, 14 x turquoiseglass seed beads, 1 x 8mm roundstone bead - moonstone, 10 xturquoise glass seed beads. Threadtwo crimpers on the end and attach tothe other end bar as before.Note: Vary the number of seed beadsas the size of each individual bead isdifferent and also your desired length.Step 7 Using round nose pliers openone jump ring and attach to the loop onthe end bar and the loop of the clasp.Repeat again on the other end bar.Amber and Jadememory wire braceletAMBER & JADE MEMORYWIRE BRACELETMaterials1pkt x JF212 Ribtex Memory Wire– silver1pkt x PST328 Ribtex Round StoneBead – green jade 6-8mm1pkt x GB911 Ribtex Glass Beads withMetallic Stripe – lime 4-8mm1pkt x CUB003 Ribtex Glass Cube Mix– black 4-8mm1pkt x GB863 Ribtex Glass Flat Oval– amber 7x10mm1pkt x CHM205 Ribtex Daisy Spacer– silver 6mmGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 123


• make itTurquoise and coralmemory wire braceletAmber and Jade memorywire bracelet1pkt x CHM211 Ribtex Spacer TurbanBall Bead – silver 8mm1pkt x GB862 Ribtex Glass FacetedRound – amber 8mm4pkt x BD002 Ribtex Bead with MetalCentre – turquoise 15mm1pkt x JF836 Ribtex Round MetalSpacer – silver 6mm1pkt x HEM109 Ribtex HematiteMagnetic – grey 6mmLong round nose pliersWire cutting pliersBead boardStep 1 Cut 3½ loops of memorywire using the cutter pliers. Usinground nose pliers create a loop in oneend of the memory wire.Step 2 Thread onto the wire the twocombinations outlined below in thefollowing order: A, B, A, B, A, B, A, B, A.Combo A – 1 x Hematite magnetic, 1x round silver spacer, 1 x round stonejade bead, 1 x daisy spacer, 1 x limebead with metallic stripe, 1 x daisyspacer, 2 x round glass amber bead, 1x spacer turban ball, 1 x bead charm, 1x spacer turban ball.Combo B – 1 x Hematite magnetic, 1x daisy spacer, 1 x amber flat oval, 1x daisy spacer, 1 x amber flat oval, 1x round stone jade, 1 x spacer turbanball, 1 x bead charm, 1 x turban ball, 1x black magnetic, 1 x daisy spacer, 1 xblack cube, 1 x daisy spacer.Step 3 Using the long round nosepliers create a loop in the end of thewire.TURQUOISE ANDCORAL MEMORY WIREBRACELETMaterials1pkt x JF212 Ribtex Memory Wire– silver1pkt x PST110 Ribtex Precious StonesChips – turquoise1pkt x PST339 Ribtex Stone Donut– turquoise 20mm1pkt x PST109 Precious Stone Chips– imitation coral1pkt x PST326 Ribtex Round StoneBead - imitation coral 6-8mm1pkt x JF605 Ribtex Round Plastic– bright silver 10mm1pkt x JF602 Ribtex Round Plastic– bright silver 7mm1pkt x SB032 Ribtex Glass Seed Bead– silver lined clear 3.6mm1pkt x GB612 Ribtex Bead GlassChunks – solid turquoiseLong round nose pliersWire cutting pliersBead boardStep 1 Measure out 60cm ofmemory wire and using cutter plierscut from roll. Any excess wire can betrimmed at the end. Using round nosepliers create a loop in one end of thememory wire.Step 2 Thread onto the wire theseries of combinations outlined belowin the following order: A, E, A, E, B, E,C, E, D, E, D, E, B, E, C, E, A.Note: This series alternates onecombination of coral beads (ComboE) with 4 different combinations ofturquoise beads (Combos A, B, C & D).Combo A -Turquoise Stone: 1 x 10mmround bright silver, 5 x precious stonechips turquoise, 1 x 10mm round brightsilver.Combo B -Turquoise Spike: 2 xprecious stone chips turquoise, 1 xglass chunk, 2 x precious stone chipsturquoise.Combo C -Turquoise Donut: 2 xprecious stone chips turquoise, 1 xstone donut turquoise, 2 x preciousstone chips turquoise. For a moredecorative effect thread a turquoiseprecious stone chip through the middleof the donut.Combo D -Turquoise Leaf: 2 x preciousstone chips turquoise, 1 x glass chunk,2 x precious stone chips turquoise.Combo E -Coral Combination: 1 x 7mmround bright silver, 1 x glass seedbead, 1 x 6-8mm round stone beadcoral, 2 x precious stone chips coral, 1x 10mm round bright silver, 1 x 6-8mmround stone bead coral, 1 x glass seedbead, 1 x 7mm round bright silver.Step 3 Using the long round nosepliers create a loop in the end of thewire.124 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •pearlbeadsBrowse the beading aisle of yournearest <strong>Spotlight</strong> store to seewhat kind of faux pearl creationsyou’ll try next.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 125


126 spotlight.com.au


ook shelf •30-Minute Earrings: 60Quick & Creative Projectsfor Jewelersby Marthe Le VanThis 60-piece collection showcases anarray of projects that don’t demand alarge investment of time or money, butdo give jewellery makers the pleasureof sharpening their skills and enjoyingimpressive results. The imaginativeand diverse designs feature everythingfrom elegant gold, pearls andsterling silver to non-traditional andrepurposed materials.Publisher: Lark Books Distributor: Capricorn LinkRRP AU$29.99Embroidered Jewellery byShirley Anne SherrisIn this inspirational book, embroidererand textile artist, Shirley Anne Sherris,reveals the secrets of her exquisitejewellery pieces, all created usinghand and machine embroidery. Over30 innovative techniques are explored,inclusive of technical information abouthow to calculate sizes, alongside tipson surface embellishment with beadsand sequins. A wealth of differentmaterials is used, including sheerfabrics, cut lace, felt, leather and foundobjects such as metal rings and gardenmesh.Publisher: Batsford Distributor: Capricorn Link RRPAU$49.99Blogs to watch:• www.tafta.org.au(The Australian Forumfor Textile Arts)• www.kaotickraftkuties.blogspot.com• www.thetiaraproject.com.au (a Not For Profitorganisation providing freeformal dress loan to girlsattending school formals,debutante balls, weddingsand other special events,who couldn’t otherwiseafford it)• www.etsy.com/shop/sparrowsalvage• artistcareer.com.au• www.glenysmann.• viviti.com• www.craftcitymelbourne.blogspot.com• www.incube8r.com.au(home to more than 90 ofAustralia’s top crafters).one stitch at a timechange a life!Show your support with a coin donation with all proceedsreinvested back into Stitch In Time supported communities.More details at spotlight.com.auGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 127


• book shelfAttention beaders!Are you readyfor Steampunk?Ever heard of Steampunk? It’s a popculture movement that combinesromance and technology withinfluences from the Victorian era andfuturistic writers of the 19th century.Think Robert Downey Junior in theSherlock Holmes movie! Influencingfashion, film, interior design andnow beading and jewellery making,Steampunk is being celebrated bybeader and author, Jean Campbell,in her wonderful book, Steampunk-Style Jewelry: A Maker’s Collection ofVictorian, Fantasy, and MechanicalDesigns.“Mad Max Meets Jane Austen”is how Jean likes to describe theaesthetic. Steampunks often makeor modify everyday objects to fit theirneo Victorian vision. This could meanmaking a wood and brass cabinet fora PC or a mock ray gun suitable foran adventure with Jules Verne. Type‘Steampunk’ into etsy.com and you’llcome up with more than 60,000 hits.Handmade crafts suit the style.Jean Campbell, designer, authorand founding editor of Beadworkmagazine, came across Steampunkjewellery produced by Melanie Brooksof Earthenwood Studios in the USAa few years ago and proposed aSteampunk project as part of a largerbook proposal.“The publisher liked that projectso much that they decided to make awhole book on the theme,” says Jean.“It didn’t take long to get my fingersinto the Steampunk community; theyare very tightly knit and very willing toshare and support each other.”Jean “adores” Steampunkbecause of its accessibility. “OverallSteampunk pieces can be done with‘cold’ techniques like stringing, gluing,hammering, and wirework. In general,Steampunk is born from a very do-ityourselfplace (think mad scientist ina Nikola Tesla-style laboratory!), sothere’s lots of room for experimentationand play,” she explains.Away from the laboratory, Jean canbe found teaching beading classesthroughout the USA and has yetanother book hitting the shelves, thisone called Creating Glamorous Jewelrywith Swarovski Elements. “This onecontains 25 of my original designs - allintermediate to advanced bead weavingprojects influenced by Hollywoodglamour pusses of the 1940s, 50s and60s,” she says. “It’s a complete 180degrees from Steampunk, but that’s“In general,Steampunk isborn from a verydo-it-yourselfplace, so there’slots of room forexperimentationand play”what makes my job fun!”Living and working in the USA as acornerstone of the beading community(she is a ‘Create Your Style CrystallizedElements Ambassador’ for Swarovskiand writes a popular weekly blog onBeading Daily), Jean is in the perfectposition to gauge current trends in thebeading world: “All I can say is metalmetal metal! Maybe it’s about thecathartic act of hammering away thoseeconomic frustrations?” •@ Visitwww.jeancampbellink.comwww.beadingdaily.comwww.earthenwoodstudio.comAbove: Jean Campbell, her new book andsome of her own beaded creations.128 spotlight.com.au


party products •TheWiggyBunchNo matter what theoccasion, <strong>Spotlight</strong> has yourwig needs covered! See ourrange in the Spartys sectionof your local store.


• creative peopleAndrew Keshan. (Photo by Branco Gaica)I grew up to be a ...Makeup Artistfor the OperaMake-up artistry and the theatre were not on the list ofrecommendations that Andrew Keshan’s career advisorgave him when he encouraged the young man to trygraphic design. Today, however, aged 44, Andrew- who’d never stepped foot inside an opera house beforehe started working in them - is Head of Performance,Wigs and Make-up for Opera Australia.It’s common for Andrew to beworking on three or four productionssimultaneously - ‘Marriage of Figaro’,‘Rigoletto’ and ‘Der Rosenkavalier’were in the works when we interviewedhim. Sometimes the shows are inrehearsals, sometimes in full flight.“It only really gets confusing if acast member is in more than one ofthe productions,” he says. “Normallyit’s pretty streamlined. We photographeverything along the way so there arereferences to work from and the chorusmembers are experienced in doingtheir own make-up.”When he finished high schoolAndrew had no strong careerambitions. His parents took him to avocational guidance counsellor andfrom there he was launched on thepath to graphic design. Along the wayhe developed a love of photographyand particularly of faces and eyes.“Actually I’d always had a thingabout eyes,” he says. “My schoolbook doodles were always eyes andI would often embellish the eyes onMum’s magazines.”Because of the photography Andrew130 spotlight.com.au


creative people •“I love being able to help theindividual cast members createor become their characters.”undertook a short makeup courseand was hooked. “I suddenly felt likeI’d fallen on my feet,” he says. Hecompleted a year’s full time study ata Bondi school now known as ‘Themake-up technicians (TMT) school ofmake-up’ where he now serves as aguest lecturer.A lover of heavier styles of make-up,Andrew gravitated towards theatre andopera while fellow students chose towork in film, television and fashion.“With opera you have to make theperson look realistic on stage as theircharacter. Performers are cast for theirvoices, not because they look like thecharacter. I love being able to helpthe individual cast members create orbecome their characters,” he says.A collaborative job that requiresartistry and flair along with an eventemper, attention to detail and stamina,Andrew is assisted in running themake-up team by one full time deputy.The rest of the staff – eight or sopeople – works on a contract basisbecause Opera Australia divides itstime between its Sydney base andhome-away-from-home, Melbourne.Andrew will normally be briefedby the production designer on newshows but some productions willrevisit hair and make-up styles frompast performances. Recent excitingchallenges undertaken by Andrewinclude creating make-up that made theperformers look like actors in a blackand white movie.“The show was called ‘Girl of theGolden West’, Puccini’s version of aspaghetti western. The productionoriginated in South Australia with twomain characters in glorious colour andthe rest of the cast in black and white.I had to get rid of all skin tones. I lovedthis challenge!”Andrew designed make-upconcepts, applied them to himself thenphotographed them and sent them tothe director who loved them. He wasflown to Adelaide to work with theteams there, teaching his concept andensuring it worked on stage.“Seeing it all under the lights andhaving the director and the designerturn to me with big smiles on theirfaces, that is the most satisfyingthing,” he says.Recently Andrew travelledto Edinburgh, Scotland, for theInternational Festival where he createdthe make-up for ‘Bliss’, a new all-Australian opera including Australianvernacular and accents. He workedwith Scottish make-up artists for theduration, creating looks from Australiain the 1980s.He loves the life of the opera butadmits it brings with it odd hours andunique pressures. “People don’t reallyunderstand the amount of schedulingand planning that goes on,” he says.“It’s a fast industry. If you’re not up forthat then it’s not for you. We normallyallow half hour slots for each castmember, hair and make-up. Bigger,more complex shows mean we startthings two hours before curtain up.”Sound like a nightmare? Andrewloves it: “Often when we’re on touror I’m just walking in to work in theafternoon (the Sydney Opera House) Ithink what a great job this is,” he says.For those thinking of following inhis footsteps, Andrew has this advice.“Once you’re working within a companylike ours, it’s not a competitiveenvironment. In fact, team work is soimportant that competitive souls makeit more difficult.” He recommendsCatherine Carby andthe silver rose in ‘DerRosenkavalier’. (Photoby Branco Gaica)Paul O’Neill as the Duke of Mantua andAlan Opie as Rigoletto in Opera Australia’s‘Rigoletto’. (Photo by Branco Gaica)people study a make-up artistry courseand look for work experience withamateur or semi-professional theatresin their regions.“This is a word-of-mouth industry,”he says. “If I need someone Ialmost never advertise. I need to getrecommendations from someone Itrust. New artists need to be talentedbut also fit into the team.”@ Visit www.opera-australia.org.auTicketing: (02) 9318 8200Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 131


REWARDYOURSELFRegister your birthday as well as youremail address to receive a $10 <strong>Spotlight</strong>Gift Voucher on your birthdayIt’s our gift to you on your special day!3 EASY WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR DETAILS:• Simply log onto spotlight.com.au/vip-club/update/and update your details.• Ask our friendly team members in store for a changeof details form.• Phone 1300 305 405 and speak to ourCustomer Care Centre.So what are you waiting for? Tell allyour friends and update your details today!OTHER VIP CLUB BENEFITS• Chance to WIN a Cash prize every 3 months• Exclusive VIP club member only discounts• 10% off all paper patterns ALWAYS• 10% off all non-sale items on your Birthday• Invitations to special events• Email only exclusive specials• Free Get Creative Quarterly magazine onpresentation of your VIP card in store132 spotlight.com.auAUSTRALIA spotlight.com.au or call 1300 305 405NEW ZEALAND spotlight.co.nz or call 0800 276 222SINGAPORE spotlight.com.sg or call 6733 9808


product knowledge •Welcome ToLe ChateauKaisercraft’s new Le Chateau collection of papers and embellishments,now available in <strong>Spotlight</strong>, is a romantic, somewhat vintage lookingarray in gorgeous subdued tones with lots of distinctive illustratedelements like delicate bird cages, chandeliers and old fashioned keys.With tones of pale blue, black and yellow-gold, inspired by classicFrench designs , these papers seem perfect for old world andhome-related projects. Explore the collection in store and be inspiredby rub-ons, papers, stamps and more.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 133


•escrapbook it“I do”scrapbook ...Some of our most treasured photographs comefrom weddings. Commemorate the big day foryourself or a friend with these pretty schemes.134 spotlight.com.au


scrapbook it •‘JUST MARRIED’MaterialsWeave cardstock – spinachWeave cardstock – whiteKaisercraft scrapbook paper– Ever Blooming BellflowerPaper Chic jelly stickersCo-ordinating paper flowersAdhesive rhinestonesDouble-sided tapeCraft glueScissorsCraft knife, ruler & cutting mat15 x 25cm colour photo – portraitStep 1 Trim 5mm from all edges ofthe Bellflower paper. Cut a 14cm widex 22.5cm high window in the centreof the Bellflower paper, cutting aroundthe large flower prints on the paper.Trim photo 13.5cm wide x 22cm high.Mount onto the centre of white weavecardstock. Stick Bellflower paper overthe top of the photo, adjust positionand trim white card if necessary sothat the photo is centered in thewindow of the bellflower paper.Step 2 Cut a 4cm high x 12.5cmwide strip from the Bellflower paperthat was cut out to make the window.Cut a 3cm high x 12cm wide strip ofwhite weave cardstock. Stick whitestrip to the centre of Bellflower stripaligning ends on right-hand side.Step 3 Stick jelly sticker to the whitestrip 5mm in from the left edge. Stickmounted sticker to page 6cm up fromthe base of the page, aligning rightside edges. Further embellish pageby layering paper flowers and gluingto page with adhesive rhinestones ascentres. Randomly stick rhinestonesto page as desired.‘YOU & ME’Materials2 x weave cardstock – blackWeave cardstock – robin’s eggKaisercraft scrapbook paper– Tulle ArgentellaKaisercraft scrapbook paper– Chantilly ArgentellaKaisercraft rub-ons – Prairie Lane black30cm x 23mm wide black grosgrainribbon45cm x 12mm wide co-ordinatingribbonCo-ordinating paper flowersDiamond stickersDouble-sided tapeCraft glueScissorsCraft Knife, ruler & cutting mat20 x 25cm colour photo – landscapeStep 1 Trim 1cm off the top andright-hand side of the Tulle paper.Starting 1cm up from the bottom edgeof the Tulle paper and using a craftknife carefully cut around the patternon the left of the paper for a height of23mm (width of black ribbon. Measure5mm from the end of the first cut andcut around pattern again for a heightof 23mm. Measure up another 5mmand make a cut around the pattern fora height of 6cm. Adhere the Tulle paperto the centre of one black cardstockbut do not stick the patterned area ofthe paper to the black card.Step 2 Cut a 26cm x 21cmrectangle from the robin’s eggcardstock and adhere the phototo the centre. Cut a 27cm x 22cmrectangle from the other sheet ofblack cardstock and attach themounted photo to centre. Insert thebottom left corner of the mountedphoto into the top cut along thepattern in the Tulle paper. Straightenand square up photo and stick toTulle paper. Cut a wording strip fromthe Chantilly paper and trim 5cm offthe left-hand edge. Insert the left endof the strip into the middle cut alongthe pattern on the Tulle paper aligningthe other end with right–hand edge ofpage and stick strip to Tulle paper.Step 3 Insert one end of 23mmblack ribbon into the bottom cut in thepattern of the Tulle paper then stickacross the width of the page. Tie a bowusing co-ordinating ribbon and stickthe bow to the middle design of thepattern on the Tulle paper. Trim the leftend of bow and leaving the right sidelong stick the end of the ribbon to themiddle of the black ribbon. Trim ends atright-hand edge of page. To embellishpage stick on paper flowers and adddiamonds stickers to centres. Rub ondesired wording above the photo.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 135


•emake itball gamebannerMake this fun banner stylemini book to celebrate afavourite little guy in your life.136 spotlight.com.au


make it •Materials6 chipboard book pages2m x 5cm wide grosgrain ribbon14 small book rings3 sheets of coordinating patternedpaper (1 x polka dot,2 x argyle checks)2 paper clip embellishmentsAcrylic sheet with datesMetal charmsRhinestone bradAssorted foam lettersChipboard lettersGlitter glueSmall adhesive faux pearlsRed adhesive meshRed jewelled flowerMetal swirlsRhinestones3 yellow buttons3 metal flower bradsPink acrylic paintGreen markerBlack felt tip penDimensional adhesive such as GlossyAccents or Diamond GlazeAssorted photosHeavy duty hole punch suchas Crop-o-dileAdhesive foam dotsScissorsPaper trimmerCraft knife & cutting matPrepare the pagesStep 1 Lay out the pages of thebook with the flat ends at the top– pages left over from other bookprojects work well. Punch two holesat the top of each page of the book.Cover the bottom three quarters ofeach page with patterned paper – weused argyle checks.Step 2 Cut the remaining sheet ofpaper into wavy pieces and adhere overthe tops of the pages making sure thatthe waves move from what will be page1 across to what will be page 6. You’llneed approximately three strips of wavypaper all of which can be cut from asingle 12” x 12” sheet of paper.Step 3 Paint chipboard lettersto spell the book title – we used‘SOFTBALL’. Paint with sufficient coatsto give a good coverage.Step 4 Mark around the edges ofthe letters with green felt tip pen togive them an edge, then cover withGlossy Accents or Diamond Glaze andset aside until dry.Here’s how we decoratedeach page of the book.Page 1 Trim photo with a narrowwhite border. Adhere to the page andadd three small brads overlapping eachother. Affix the first two letters of thebook title.Page 2 Cut three photos to thesame shape. Adhere to a sheet ofwhite paper and trim around the edges.Handwrite journalling below the photosthen adhere photos to the page.Adhere three buttons down one edge ofthe page and rhinestones on top. Affixthree letters of the book title to thebottom of the page.Page 3 Cut three photos intosmall squares and one into a largerrectangle. Stick each photo on a sheetof white paper and cut out leaving aGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 137


• make itGrosgrain ribbon comesin varying widths andcolours, some withpatterns and stripes.narrow border. Affix three metal swirlsdown one side of the page and gluerhinestones over the top of each.Adhere three small photos overlappingdown the left-hand side of the page.Affix a paper clip to the larger photoand fix it to the page using foam dotsto raise it above the page surface.Affix remaining three title letters tothe page.Page 4 Affix a strip of contrastingmesh across the page. Cut a photowith a narrow white border and add apaper clip accent to it. Affix the phototo the page and add a contrastingbeaded flower.Page 5 Cut a photo with a narrowwhite border and affix to the page. Addletters to spell name and wrap namein curly braces. Apply glitter glue overthe curly braces. Apply additional foamshapes down the edge of the photoand embellish with faux pearls andglitter glue.Page 6 Cut three photos to thesame size, affix to a sheet of whitepaper and trim. Affix photos acrossthe page and trim around the edgeof the page. Add an acrylic overlaywith the date on it and circle the datein permanent marker. Affix charmsto a rhinestone brad and adhere tothe page.Assembly Re-punch holes throughthe pages if necessary and affix bookrings to the pages.Lay the pages out in order. Find themiddle of the ribbon and starting withthe right-hand edge of page 3, knotthe midpoint of the ribbon around thebook ring. Continue to knot the ribbonaround each of the book rings checkingat each knot to ensure that the bannerwill hang correctly.When you’ve worked back to page1, continue from page 4 in the otherdirection.To finish, fold the remaining ribbonin half, loop it through one of theremaining book rings and tie in anoverhand knot. Trim the ends to makethree loose cut ends and then repeatat the other end of the book.The book will now hang in a shallowloop from the book rings. •138 spotlight.com.au


from Helen’s desk •The Comeback KidsIt’s time to try off register printing,banners & old fashioned filmLately I’ve been inspired by old thingsgiven a new twist, like old style printingeffects for instance. While printersof the past probably despaired overoff register printing, today’s stampingartists just love the results.Artist, Claudine Hellmuth, has a newrange of nested stamps that let youcreate wonderful off register effects.Her stamp sets combine a foam fillerstamp and a clear stamp overlay.They’re designed to print unevenly whenyou stamp one on top of the other sothey guarantee even beginner stampersachieve wonderful, uneven results.I’ve also been inspired by old styleflag banners being given a new twistby paper artists. I’ve seen them a lotlately and you can see an example onpage 136 of this issue in my bannermini book. Banners are ideal for bookslike these. I love that you only needto work on one side of the page soyou can poke things through the bookpages without worrying about what ishappening to the flip side.While traditionally banners aremade from triangular panels, thesedays anything goes and you can createa banner of same size, same shapepages from any chipboard book anda fist full of book rings. You can alsotake a more creative approach anduse different shaped pages leftoverfrom other books or go the green routeand cut them yourself from recycledcardboard.Retro photo looksIn the photography arena I’m seeing alot of retro things happening includingresurgence in the use of film and anentire subculture developing aroundvintage and reproduction cameras.At the heart of this for artists is theImpossible Project, so named becausethe business owners are attempting torecreate peel-apart film to replace thefilm lines that Polaroid has stoppedmaking. These films are prized bycamera enthusiasts and artists andrecently PX 100 – the first of these newfilms - was released. It is testy to workwith but produces wonderful silveryprints.Of course to use this film you’llneed an old Polaroid camera and mycamera bag now boasts a beautifullyrefurbished Vintage Polaroid SX-70 LandCamera originally made somewherebetween 1977 and 1982 and whichuses this new Impossible Project film.But you don’t have to search aroundfor an old camera to get up close andpersonal with film. Other film camerasthat are making a comeback, andwhich I also confess to owning, includethe Holga - a cheap plastic camerawith a plastic lens made in China witha reputation for having light leaks.Provided you still know how to wind filmonto a spool and you can find a placeto process it, you’re almost guaranteedto get wonderfully imperfect and artisticshots from this bargain basementcamera.The beauty of taking grainy, artisticphotos with older film cameras isthat you get to use them in your craftprojects. So, whether you’re totally intodigital or you’re experimenting with thecreative possibilities of film, make sureyou invite your photographs to play inyour craft projects. Promise yourself -as I do - that you’ll forgo store boughtcards and show everyone that you careenough to make it yourself! •@ Claudine Hellmuthwww.collageartist.comThe Impossible Projectwww.the-impossible-project.comAbove: PX 100 Silver ShadeTop: Claudine Hellmuthcanvas Centre: Polaroidcamera Bottom: PX 100Silver Shade Lia SaileAbout HelenAustralian-born, Californian-basedHelen Bradley is a globetrottingphotography, computer andPhotoshop whiz with a penchantfor paper crafting and jewellerymaking. Her projects appear onpages 140 and 154 of this issueas well as in countless publicationsinternationally.@See: www.http-design.comand www.helenbradley.com.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 139


• artist’s reportVisualjournalsbeautiful & addictive!By LK LudwigI have kept a journal since I was sevenyears old, but I didn’t start keeping avisual journal until, in my early thirties,I enrolled in the art program at theuniversity where I worked. Keepinga visual journal was required as partof the program. We were to draw,paint, mark, glue, collage on pages,of course. We were also sent off tothe library to research the work ofparticular artists we would be assignedindividually based on our own work.As part of this process, I rememberpasting down pieces of photographsand proof sheets. Eventually, my blackjournal became so thick the wholespine was made of duct tape. I carriedthat book in my bag everywhere; Itwent- to classes, of course, but also towork, meetings, appointments, lunches,dinners, out for coffee ... working in itwhenever I had the opportunity.Because of that first journal Ifell head-over-heels in love withworking with my art inside a book.As someone who approached artthrough photography and then addedpainting, my journals typically focusedon those two mediums. Even now, Iuse these art forms to create visualjournal pages. I create journals frompapers I have painted and add photosto this surface. Altering the photoswith a wide variety of art media is oftenmy next layer, followed by whateverthe page seems to need - writtenjournalling, mark-making, collage,added embellishments, or additionalpainting.I travel to various places in theUnited States to teach workshopsand one thing I hear repeatedly is adesire to create art journal pages thatare more than pretty. Keepers of artjournals are looking for ways to enrichthe content and meaning of theirpages in personal ways, to create moreauthentic journal entries. Entries aremeant to be personally meaningful,to record some aspect of our lives,regardless of whether the journal entryis written or visually expressed.One amazingly easy way of addingrich, personal content to your journalpages is to use your own photographs.Digital photography is accessible to somany and incredibly portable. Even ourcell phones have cameras! Carrying acamera everywhere you go allows youto act on those moments of seeing andcreate a photograph for later use inyour journal.You shouldn’t limit yourself todocumenting your day; considerincluding whatever strikes your eye.Later as you sit down with the photoand your journal, think about what itwas that drew your eye to that scene,what it was that made you push theshutter button. Your daily activity mostlikely had nothing to do with why youliked what you saw enough to make aphotograph. Chances are the photoreflects a memory, a feeling, a thought,or idea and those concepts are perfectfor creating rich visual journal entries!LK Ludwig’s newest book, CreativeWildfire, in good bookstores now.LK Ludwig... is passionate about creating rich visual journal pagesand intriguing artist books. She has authored four books:Mixed Media Nature Journals, True Vision: Authentic ArtJournaling, Collaborative Artist Journals, and Creative Wildfire:An Introduction to Art Journaling Basics and Beyond. LK is afirm believer that by working with what we know and usingaccessible art materials we can create wonderful, meaningfulartwork. With studio spaces that are in the middle of herfamily’s life (the entry way of their home and an island in thekitchen of their river cottage), with small children, an artisthusband,and a puppy underfoot, LK works each day, inspiredby what she sees through her camera lens and with her heart.Visit: gryphonsfeather.typepad.com@140 spotlight.com.au


It’s theirworldLike you, we believe thateverything in your baby’s worldshould be beautiful, fun andpractical but above all, special...That’s why at <strong>Spotlight</strong> we takeextra care to design all of ourcollections with quality andcomfort in mind as well as toensure they look fun and stylish.From the cot sheets, comfortersand throws, to the bibs, babywraps and towels, we haveeverything you need to makeyour baby’s world a place youboth love...


•emake ittattoo stylevalentineMake your own ‘tattoo style’Valentine’s Day pop-up card.Card front142 spotlight.com.au


make it •Tattoo card TEMPLATEenlarge by 200%12Materials30cm x 15cm pink weave cardstock30cm x 15cm black patterned paper30cm x 10cm yellow patterned paper15cm x 15cm pattern paper– green, pinkSmall piece patterned paper– mauve, blackTim Holtz Distress Inks by Ranger – OldPaper, Vintage Photo, Black SootInk applicatorBlack felt tip penOld paint brushPaper adhesivesCraft knifePaper trimmerScissorsStep 1 Use the template above forthe heart, wings and arrow. The heartshould be no more than 13cm tall. Cutthe heart from pink patterned paperand the wings and arrow from thegreen patterned paper.Step 2 Ink around the edges of boththe heart and arrow. Make a stenciltemplate from cardboard to use to inkthe curved design on the wings. To getthe black lines on the wings, use anold paint brush with your ink pad.Step 3 Cut a ribbon and a crownfrom the yellow and mauve patternedpapers. Ink the edges of all shapesand assemble the crown.Step 4 Trim black patterned paper to30cm x 15cm and fold in half. Fold theheart down the centre and place on thecard – all shapes will fold inwards asthe card is folded.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 143


• make it34B 5Position the crown so it will beinside the edges of the card when it isfolded and adhere the crown and wingsto the black paper. Mark where thetabs for the heart will go (making surethe card closes flat) and then make thecuts with craft knife. Slip the tabs fromthe heart into the slits.Step 5 Trim pink weave cardstockto 30cm x 15cm and cut a small heartfrom black paper. Fold the pink card in4Ahalf, ink the outside edges and affix theblack heart to the outer bottom rightcorner.Line up the ends of the arrow andensure that when they are adheredto the heart it will still pop-up withoutinterference and the card will closecorrectly. Adhere the ends of the arrowto the heart. Stick the assembled blackcard inside the pink card.Fold the paper ribbon and write thewords ‘I Love You’ on it in black pen.Front of cardIf the paper is not double-sided, inkthose inside edges that show underthe folds.Fold the ribbon in half and affix it oneach side of the heart tucking one endin under the edge of the heart.Before gluing pieces in place makesure that the card will fold inwardsperfectly flat and also that the heartand ribbon pop-up and out when thecard is opened. •144 spotlight.com.au


product knowledge •Bella BabyParadeBabyloveBella BabyColombina<strong>Spotlight</strong> has long been the place to visit foranyone looking for a comprehensive selectionof yarns suitable for knitting garments, bedcoverings and toys for new arrivals.Knitting for babies offers quick gratificationfor the knitting lover as the projects tendto be small and swift to make. Drop intoyour nearest store to browse through ourknitting pattern book selection. Novice andexperienced knitters alike will find somethingthat suits, whether you wish to make highlyintricate, sophisticated christening shawls orhone your plain and purl skills on a simplelayette or blanket.Yarns such as the ones pictured here, inthe soft, dreamy colours synonymous withtraditional babyware, are perfect for booties,hats, cardigans, jumpers and every othergorgeous thing you can dream up.After all, what better gift to give a new babyin your life than a gift you’ve made by hand,with love.Bella BabyLayettePatonsDreamtime3 plyPatons BigBaby 4plyGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 145


•emake itknitted mary janesGo beyond the bootie thisseason & knit these trulygorgeous coverings fortiny, ticklish toes.146 spotlight.com.au


make it •Materials1 x 50g ball Cleckheaton MerinoBambino 4 ply – MC1 x 50g ball Cleckheaton MerinoBambino 4 ply – CC1 pair each 2.75mm & 3.25mmknitting needles or size needed forcorrect tensionYarn needle for sewing seams2 buttonsMeasurementsAge (approx) months3 6 12To Fit Foot Length (cm)8 9.5 12Cleckheaton Merino Bambino4 ply 50g ballsMain Colour (MC–2201)1 1 1Contrast Colour (CC–0003)1 1 1Note: Use only the yarn specified. Otheryarns are likely to produce differentresults. Quantities are approximate asthey can vary between knitters.Tension28 sts x 36 rows to 10cm overstocking st, using 3.25mm needles. Towork a tension square, using 3.25mmneedles, cast on 42 sts. Work 54 rowsstocking st. Cast off loosely. Checkyour tension carefully. If less sts to10cm use smaller needles, if more stsuse bigger needles.Abbreviationsbeg begin/ningfolls followsK knitK2tog knit 2 sts togetherM1 make one (pick up loop beforenext st, place on left-handneedle and knit into the backof loop)psso pass slipped stitch over(the knitted st)P purlP2tog purl 2 sts togetherrepsl 1st/sWSyfwdrepeatslip onestitch/eswrong sideyarn forward.Shoe with sock(all in one, make 2, beg at sole)Using 3.25mm needles and MC, caston 41 (47-53) sts.1st and foll alt rows (WS): Knit.2nd row: [K1, M1, K19 (22-25), M1]twice, K1 … 45 (51-57) sts.4th row: [K1, M1, K21 (24-27), M1]twice, K1 … 49 (55-61) sts.6th row: [K1, M1, K23 (26-29), M1]twice, K1 … 53 (59-65) sts.8th row: [K1, M1, K25 (28-31), M1]twice, K1 … 57 (63-69) sts.Knit 13 rows.Shape Instep1st row: K33 (36-39), sl 1, K1, psso, turn.2nd row: K10, sl 1, K1, psso, turn.Rep 2nd row 7 times.Change to CC and beg sock as folls –10th row: P10, P2tog, turn.11th row: K10, sl 1, K1, psso, turn.Rep 10th and 11th rows 4 times, then10th row once.Next row: Knit to end.Next row: Purl across all sts to end …37 (43-49) sts.Work 21 (25-29) rows stocking st.Using MC, purl 2 rows.Cast off loosely knitways.StrapsUsing 2.75mm needles and MC, caston 17 (19-19) sts.1st row (WS): Knit.2nd row: K14 (16-16), yfwd, K2tog(buttonhole), K1.Knit 1 row.Cast off loosely knitways.To make upJoin leg and foot seam. Sew strap inposition at side edge of each shoe,placing buttonhole to outside of shoe.Sew button onto each shoe.Find this project andothers in Cleckheaton’sBonnets & Bootees book(no. 424).Love knitting for babies butthe children are all grownup? Most hospital auxiliariesneed knitted items forpremature babies or to sellfor fundraising purposes.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 147


• crochet reportBelow: Inside the lair,Jenny’s shop inMarcoola, QLD.A selection of Jenny’s designs being preparedfor the upcoming crochet revolution.The worldgoes crazyfor crochetMistress of the hook, Jenny King,explains how crochet is capturingworld fashion markets.My daughter says I’ve been predictingthe new crochet fashion revolutionfor years. She was only a teen whencrocheted flares filled the magazinesand a crocheted wedding dress wasa much longed-for item. Finally myprediction seems to be coming true!Hold onto your hooks, search theop shops for 1970s crochet patternsand get crocheting.My friend Amanda Cox is anassistant merchandiser for a largeclothing company in the UK. When Isay large I mean the company usuallyorders 10-12 thousand pieces tostock over 600 stores in the UK andEurope for each of its six or sevenclothing labels.One of these labels is Top Shop, aname familiar to anyone who knows theUK market. Amanda says that crochetis “the new knitting” and crochet, asseen in the 70s, will be back - theflorals, the lace, the dresses, tops andwaistcoats will all be crochet.Crochet sleeves in garments,crocheted flowers and embellishmentsare also looking good. “Flirty andfeminine, with a slightly peasant style”was how Amanda described things.Unlike knitting there are no crochetmachines to do the work. Every piece“This is the perfectopportunity to putcrochet hooks intothe hands of a newgeneration”has to be made by hand. The companyAmanda represents may not be able toget enough crocheters in China to fill theorders. Could there be a crochet crisis?Experienced local crocheters shouldbe on high alert to field requests fromloved ones who are desperate to wear acrocheted garment. This is the perfectopportunity to put crochet hooks intothe hands of a new generation.In fact the crochet revolution ismaking me realise we need morequalified crochet teachers in Australiaand New Zealand. I’m going to flyArnetta Kenney, Associate Professor atthe Fashion Institute of Technology inNew York, to Australia in the middle ofthis year to right this situation. Arnettawill be offering a certified instructor’scourse for both crochet and knittingfrom the Craft Yarn Council (CYC).This course is the only internationalcertification available for peoplewho would like to teach knitting andcrochet or who would like the CYCqualifications. It will be held in winter,on the Sunshine coast, beside thebeach. Sounds terrible doesn’t it?148 spotlight.com.au


crochet report •Above: Jenny King’sbook ‘Learn to doBavarian Crochet’.“...you can betI’ll be gettingon to somenew patternsfor spring andsummer tocome”.I am a professional member of theCrochet Guild of America and did mycertification to teach crochet courseswith Arnetta in 1998 in Seattle.Now everyone’s mad for crochetyou can bet I’ll be getting on to somenew patterns for spring and summer tocome. It’s going to be all hooks a go-go!Jenny King (in orange) with her new partner, Leah, at the opening of their shop in Queensland.About JennyA member of the Crochet Guild of America & a crochet artist with 30 years experience in making,designing and teaching, Queensland based Jenny King has had her work published both here andin the USA. Visit her website at www.jennykingdesigns.com or her shop at 1/932 David Low Way,Marcoola QLD 4564. Tel: (07) 54507077.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 149


• product knowledgeKnittingflower loomVisit <strong>Spotlight</strong> to see these four-piece knittingloom packs which include:· Four looms – 13cm, 18cm, 23cm and 29cm- plus hook and needles.The Loom is very much like a Knitting Nancy butlarger and is great for making hats, scarves andmuch more. The perfect gift for crafty children!Knitting loomFun loomPick toolPompom makers150 spotlight.com.au


ook shelf •Crobots by Nelly PaillouxA craze that began in Japan but has now definitelygone global, amigurumi - cute little stuffed dolls -are fun and fast to make and can be customisedeasily to give each one a personal twist. The 20original designs in this book are based around tinymechanical creatures called crobots, each with hisor her own qualities and abilities: from Babybot, whois just growing into his silver suit; to Geisha, with herdowncast gaze, blushing pink cheeks and efficientdemeanour. There is also Dogbot, a crobot’s bestfriend, who sports a natty white face mask and ajauntily upright tail. These crobots are easy enough tobe made by a crochet novice and curiously addictive.Publisher: Murdoch Books RRP AU$24.95Knitted Homestyle: Over20 Chic, Stylish and CosyProjects for the HomeThis book represents a collection ofgreat home knit projects from TheArt of Knitting magazine and containsideas for knitters of all abilities. Insideyou will find knitted pictures, pillows,throws and pet blankets, plus smallerand more delicate egg cosies anddecorations. All techniques are clearlyexplained and easy-to-follow for eventhe novice knitter.Publisher: David & Charles Capricorn LinkRRP AU$19.99Wacky Baby Knits 20Knitted Designs for theFashion-conscious Toddlerby Alison JenkinsMost baby knitting books are sweetand precious, not this one! Wacky BabyKnits features unique projects that willhave hipster parents and those with asense of humour knitting away. Ideasinclude an Elvis outfit, a Mohawk anda cupcake hat, monster booties, furrybear feet with matching mittens and arobot suit and hat.Distributed by Simon & Schuster AustraliaRRP AU$24.99The Encyclopaedia ofScrapbooking Techniquesby Susan PickeringRothamelFrom cropping and mounting to addingembellishments and borders, thisis a step-by-step guide to creatingbeautiful scrapbook pages. Learn abouttechniques such as stamping, colouring,embossing, paper piecing, and punchart, discover how to make beautifulbackground papers, crop and mountphotographs and embellish your pageswith everything from fabric and ribbonto eyelets and foil. Hundreds of themedpage and layout ideas are included.Distributor: Search Press AustraliaRRP AU$30.99Artful Paper Dolls - NewWays to Play with aTraditional Formby Terry TaylorTerry Taylor—the bestselling authorof Altered Art—brings the same keensense of imagination, design, and playto a classic favourite: paper dolls. Thesecreatively constructed versions areall grown up and influenced by AlteredArt’s wide-ranging and wildly populartechniques. From representationalto abstract, human to animal, theinterpretations are limitless.Publisher: Lark Books Distributor: Capricorn LinkRRP AU$24.99Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 151


• store newsFrom Bayswater to Kenya,<strong>Spotlight</strong> is helping out& you can too!The team at <strong>Spotlight</strong> Bayswater isputting its sewing skills to good use andcreating garments for the children at theDago Dala Hera Orphanage in Kenya.The Orphanage is a non-profitorganisation that it is situated in thewestern community of Dago Village.The area has been seriously affectedby the global challenges posed byHIV/AIDS, poverty, diseases andunemployment.The orphanage is currently hometo 36 girls and functions as a daycarefeeding facility for primaryschool children.Bayswater <strong>Spotlight</strong> in Victoria heardthe orphanage was in desperate needof school uniforms and clothing for thechildren and decided to step in andhelp by making pinafores. They’ve alsoenlisted the help of customers whohave joined this sewing challenge.Would you like to help?Anyone who would like to take part inthis wonderful community activity canvisit <strong>Spotlight</strong> Bayswater, borrow thepattern for free, purchase some suitablefabric and then drop the finishedpinafores and pattern back to the store.This is a great project for anyone whoenjoys sewing in their spare time and aworthy cause working towards improvingthe quality of life of these children.<strong>Spotlight</strong> Bayswater, 224 - 234Canterbury Rd, Bayswater, VIC 3153Phone: (03) 9729-8077152 spotlight.com.au


store news •<strong>Spotlight</strong> onFind out what’s happening at a store near youSpringRacingHats<strong>Spotlight</strong> Dubbo team member KerrinMann’s passion for creativity becomesevident each year during Spring RacingCarnival as her fabulous millinerycreations start appearing in storedisplays.Kerrin designs hats in all shapesand sizes, inspiring customers andteam members alike to make theirown Spring Racing Carnival hats withproducts available at <strong>Spotlight</strong> or topurchase the readymade ones.A true advocate of crafting of alltypes, Kerrin is the team member whorushes to the dock to have a look atany new product arriving each weekand her passion creates excitementin the store every time new productsarrive. This passion is infectious too -as she assists customers by helpingthem to make their crafting vision areality!Meet Kerrin and the team at 235 CobraSt, Dubbo, NSW. Tel: (02) 6884-4666Beaniesfor BabiesAs a region, <strong>Spotlight</strong> stores in SouthAustralia recently decided to involvethemselves in a community projectcalled Beanies for Babies.Following the birth of his daughter,Kaylee, last year, Regional ManagerDarryl Cotter received a present fromthe hospital in the form of a hand knittedbeanie and baby blanket, knitted bymembers of the local community.Inspired by this story, the SouthAustralian team began their campaign,knitting gifts for two local hospitals, theLyell McEwin Hospital and the Women’sand Children’s Hospital for childrenundergoing treatment for cancer. Thedecision to knit for the littlies undergoingchemotherapy came from the desire tobrighten the children’s day – and warmtheir heads - with cute and practicalbeanies.The campaign was launched viacolourful posters that were sent toall stores in the State to be put up intearooms alongside simple to advancedpatterns. Team members were invitedto copy these and each store has beendonating suitable yarns to get everyoneup and running.Eventually a ‘friendly’ competitionhas been set up between the stores tosee not only the most creative Beanieproduced but also to determine whichstore can knit the most beanies andtoys for the cause.Team members in some stores haveenlisted the help of their Mums andcustomers are getting involved too.This should certainly boost the numberof finished items that <strong>Spotlight</strong> is ableto donate to both of the hospitals.For your nearest SA <strong>Spotlight</strong> store visitwww.spotlight.com.au or call 1300 305405 (local call cost within Australia).Bathurst Crazy DayCrazy Day is an annual event within the localBathurst community to bring a little bit of funand merriment to the town. To enter, participantsneed to dress up in a madcap way – an effortthat Cheryl and her ‘Crazy Bathurst Team’ say isnot so hard to achieve in their <strong>Spotlight</strong> store.<strong>Spotlight</strong> Bathurst has participated inCrazy Day for three years and has won bestdressedstore for the day two years in a row. Theprize money goes towards <strong>Spotlight</strong> Bathurst’ssocial club.Visit this store at 143 Bentinck St, Bathurst,NSW. Tel: (02) 6331-7055Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 153


• store newsWarrnambool<strong>Spotlight</strong>Fashion ParadeEmily goes Gaga and wins!Warrnambool, a regional city locatedon the south-western coast of Victoria,is famous for its beautiful Great OceanRoad location, but the city’s <strong>Spotlight</strong>store is also known for its talented,fashion designing clientele. In recenttimes the store held a fashion paradeand competition and 16-year-old EmilyAndersson wowed the audience witha Lady Gaga-inspired dress that wethought deserved a bigger audience.Hence we present to you thewinning design style of the young MissAndersson. Whilst completing year 10at Brauer College, Warrnambool, Emilybegan studying VCE Textiles so shecould complete the unit in Year 11 thisyear.Says the budding designer: “I’vehad an interest in the textiles areaever since year 7 and have studiedthe subject every year since then.I’m interested in pursuing a career infashion in the future.”The dress she entered in the<strong>Spotlight</strong> fashion show (picturedright) formed part of Emily’s VCE UnitTwo Textiles which required that it beconstructed of at least 50 per centcotton and to be a part of a collection.“My dress was 50 per cent cottoncorduroy for the bottom half, with arose embroidered polyester fabric forthe top,” she explains. “The skirt andsleeves were stiffened with hose inorder to create the shape I wanted. Thedress was fastened at the back with asingle welt zipper.”Emily’s imagination, skill and focusdefinitely make her a talent to watchon the Australian fashion scene in thefuture.Visit <strong>Spotlight</strong> Warrnambool at 84Raglan Parade. Tel: (03) 5564-2500.JOIN OUR VIP CLUB TODAYIT’S FREE!• Exclusive discounts• 10% OFF all sewing patterns• $10 birthday voucher on your birthday• Chances to WIN Cash Giveaways• EMAIL ONLY exclusive specialsAUSTRALIA spotlight.com.au or call 1300 305 405NEW ZEALAND spotlight.co.nz or call 0800 276 222SINGAPORE spotlight.com.sg or call 6733 9808154 spotlight.com.au


make it •iFabricinspiredcanvasTry recreating yourfavourite fabric prints ashand painted wall art.POLYNESIAwhitePOLYNESIAgreyMaterialsCanvasSemco paint – white & coloursto match fabricPaint brushesPaint palettePrinted fabricStep 1 Find a favourite fabric with aprint you would like to enlarge. In thisinstance we used a furnishings fabricwhich we will later make into cushionsto complete the room. Prepare thecanvas with a coat of white paint.Enlarge the print using a grid andtransfer onto the canvas.Step 2 Block in the lighter coloursfirst and work your way through tothe black paint. It may require a fewcoats of each colour to get the desiredstrength/depth of colour. Add thepainted dots last so they don’t getsmudged during the painting process.Step 3 Using the end of a paintbrush add dots to the centre of flowersto add depth if desired.Get Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 155


•emake itpoppies canvasVisit the art suppliesaisle at your local<strong>Spotlight</strong> store andunleash your innerVan GoghMaterialsCanvasFrancheville acrylic paints – white, blue,green, red, orange/red, black, yellowRound tip paint brushesPaint paletteStep 1 Prepare the canvas with awhite base coat.Step 2 Paint in the horizon linewith a mixture of blue and white andcontinue upwards to fill in the sky.Block in the lower canvas with amedium green. Then go over the greenwith varying lines of green in all shadesto indicate the stems of the poppies.Step 3 Block in the head of eachpoppy with red. Go over the red withorange/red and white to indicatehighlights as desired. Outline eachpoppy in black if necessary. Add blackto the centre of each open floweras well as thin strokes of yellow toindicate the stamen. Use the end ofthe paint brush to dip into the yellowpaint and add to the top of the yellowlines to finish off the centre of theflowers. Finish off by adding highlightsto the grass with yellow and black toadd depth.156 spotlight.com.au


paper & paint •Philgets thekids reading!Many little Aussie readers, and their parents too, will knowPhil Kettle’s name. He is the highly prolific author of bookssuch as the Too Cool, Boys Rule, Girlz Rock and Billy Koolseries. Phil specialises in encouraging reluctant readersto fall in love with books, using sporting themes and bellylaughs to begin the process.Phil knows the value of reading andcomes to his literary life with a 17-yearteaching history behind him. “From myown experience as a teacher I knewyou had to give the children topics thatengaged them. There was not a lot ofmaterial around at the time that wasunashamedly for boys.”Sporting adventures in his initial booksallowed readers to become heroes fora while. Despite his writing success,Phil himself still harbours AustralianFootball League dreams. “My backyardwas the MCG when I was a kid,” hesays. “I was the captain of Richmondand we’d always beat Collingwood by apoint.”The underlying themes of his writingare individuality, freedom of thoughtand positivity. The author grew up ona farm outside Mildura and credits hislife there for his own positive outlook.“There was always plenty to do, plentyto eat, and time for lots of adventures.The farm was a place where I coulduse my imagination all day, every day.It was where I first started to create mystories,” he says.“My passion for reading and writingcame from my Father and from ateacher called Mr Witham. Living in thecountry you did not have TV, you hadbooks. I originally started with booksfor boys because, while some mightnot be interested in reading, most areinterested in sports.”In recent times the AustralianGovernment has noted Phil’s approachand his unique style is now beingapplied to a series of books that willexpand young readers’ knowledge ofAustralia’s history and geography.“From my own experienceas a teacher I knew you hadto give the children topicsthat engaged them”An Ambassador of the Premier’sReading Challenge, Phil has nowpartnered with Australian Geographicon a series of books called OurAustralia which the Federal Governmenthas decided to make part of thenational curriculum.A passionate believer that Australiankids need to learn about their country,history, key locations and Australianthemes, Phil maintains an exhaustivenational touring schedule reading toand listening to children in schoolsand says he isoften dismayed at how little juniorAussies know about their country andits story.“I want to give kids just enoughinformation to get them excited enoughto go and found out more. By havingthese books on the national curriculumit also means they’re included in thingslike the Premier’s Reading Challenge,”he says.Eight Our Australia books werelaunched in 2010, to be followedby another eight this year and eightmore in 2012. Our Australia takesreaders on a fun and informativejourney around Australia with a youngboy called Taha, an Australian boy ofGreek heritage, and his Mum. Eachbook reveals information on geography,local industry, history and the cultureof each region and there is a newlocation in every book. They each comewith a CD-ROM containing teacher’snotes, including photographs of eachregion, activities and other relevantinformation.@ www.philkettle.comwww.australiangeographic.com.au/educationGet Creative Quarterly Autumn 2011 157


ScrapbookThe <strong>Spotlight</strong>Inspiration RoomYour online crafting community whereyou can share projects, teach othersand gain new ideas every day.THESPOTLIGHTINSPIRATIONROOMMitred cornerson bindingModern ChristmasQuiltHow to – CrossstitchSanta sackKnitting: Howto cast onEmbroideryTHEDecorateCanvas wall artSPOTLIGHTINSPIRATIONROOMWith the Inspiration Room,you can...Share your inspirationswith friendsPost photos, videos,projects and blog poststo your room and share itwith the people you know.Canvas paintHow to -700+inspirational projectswaiting for you rightnow in the <strong>Spotlight</strong>Inspiration Room!Connect with people with similar interestsJoin the discussion in a group or share yourthoughts on a blog post or video you saw.Inspiration Room QuickTour VideoWatch our 3 minute tour video to peek into theworld of the <strong>Spotlight</strong> Inspiration Room. Simplyclick the Quick Tour button on the homepage.Knitted scarfJoin inthe funGo tospotlight.com.aunow!JewelleryRic Wallis, photographer, courtesy of ACSNext issueWarm inside!As May approaches and the colder months move in,it’s the perfect time for indoor projects, cosy craftingand interior updates. Join us next issue when we’lllook at wonderful things to do, sew, cook, craft andindulge in when the temperature drops. Look forwardto articles and projects such as:• Yarn couture - high fashion knittedgarments & accessories to make• Winter papercrafts - learn to celebrate& decorate your life• Party people - insider tricks on creatingmemorable moments• From oven to table - products & recipesfor delicious one pot cooking• Funky families - sewing for style& savings• Warm windows - insulating the home withwindow dressings• Quilter’s corner - news, trends &projects from around the worldIn stores May 2011Information: Get Creative expressly grants you theright to copy the patterns, designs, and writteninstructions, and to construct the projects forpersonal use only. Please always take the time toread all manufacturer’s instructions and warningsbefore using any product. Please keep all harmfulor dangerous products out of reach of children at alltimes. Copyright – all rights reserved. No part of thismagazine may be reproduced by any means withoutprior permission in writing of the publisher.158 spotlight.com.au

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