WINTRY DAYS AHEAD AND TIME TO GET OUT THE SEWING BASKET...

Time to make the most of the cooler climate, put a match to the fire and rummage through the cupboards and drawers for materials, cottons, buttons and other bits and pieces to create a new project.

I always fancied the idea of crochet and finally bought this pattern and got to work. It looks intricate, but not as complicated as it seems... due to the repetitive pattern. Previously, I did my own thing and simply made jug covers in order to get used to handling the hook and cotton.

Not one to do things by halves I decided to make this cloth for my sizeable rectangular table which took a few months to complete. I draped it over this round table as it was easiser to photogragh.

This is one of the earlier jug covers prior to using patterns and was quick and easy to make. I felt inspired to crochet several more... an exercise in itself.

Another earlier attempt resulted in this small cloth, but have not found a place suitable for it yet. Hmm... back to the cupboard for another year or two I guess.

My first attempt at cross stitch was attached to the bottom of a small towel and included a few embellishments. I prefer to sew tapestries to avoid all the counting necessary in cross stitch.

Several small embroidery pieces similar to this have come in handy to adorn cushion covers. Quick and easy to make giving a homely touch and I love the subtle shades of morning glory.

Always a sucker for pansies and all old fashioned flowers. Hmm... delphiniums are a favourite also, especially in the garden.

A couple more pieces for the kitchen when I figure out what to do with them. Meanhile, back to the cupboard....

This photo is much smaller than the tapestry itself for some reason... will post a better one when I figure out what went wrong.....

However, it took a good while to work, but was well worth the effort. Winter is certainly a great time to enjoy the comfort of home and let the creative juices flow as I know so many of you do.

Happy stitching...