I was very surprised - everything fitted in the car beautifully. Jan and I arrived in Melbourne with time for a little shoe shopping. I resisted only because I couldn't justify another pair in less than two weeks, but was more than happy to help Jan choose hers. If you're not buying then the next best thing is to have a friend who is! There was only time for the shoes, a bite to eat before setting up.
It took just over four hours to put up and came down in less than one!
I'm just about ready for the AQM this weekend. Now all I have to do is pack the car and hope there is enough room for Jan and I and our bags! I'm putting this job off; that's why I'm posting a blog instead. It seems to take forever making the boxes, bags, and those loose bits that don't fit in a bag or box slot together for a well packed boot!
The new quilts were one of the first things packed.
Soon followed by these Christmas designs.
I did manage a little sewing yesterday on one of the projects in next year's club called Red Treasures. I had high hopes of completing it today but the only thing I've done with it is carry it to another room.
No more procrastination, I'm off to pack the car.
Here are some pics of my stand at the AQM. I must have been busy as each day just flew past. What took hours to go up took just minutes to pull down.
I finally got the chance to meet Lyn from Moore Patchwork & Quilting.
A big thank you to Jan for all her assistance leading up to the weekend and over the weekend. It really does take two!
Sweet Heart Birdies, the pattern I taught at Mamre House, was released at the AQM.
Here it is in blue. I can't decide which I prefer. I guess it depends on my mood. The blue would make a perfect bridal gift. Stitch the bride & grooms names and wedding date on the back for a lovely keepsake.
The pattern for Pear Tree, a felt needlecase and pincushion was also finished for the AQM (also a Mamre House project).
It's always very encouraging and delightful to hear my designs inspire, but sometimes there is a downside, when a pattern is purchased and the concept used for teaching purposes. If you like a pattern, you are welcome to teach it, as long as each student has purchased a copy.
The weekend was full of 'firsts' for me. First time exhibiting at the Australian Quilt Market, first time driving in the city - only took two wrong turns, first time meeting shop owners I'd only ever spoken to on the phone or emailed and first time meeting many other talented Australian designers.
I'd been a little concerned I wouldn't have enough samples to fill the wall space. It wasn't a problem. As you can see I do love Christmas.
None of this would have been possible without Jan's help. A huge thank you to Jan for her invaluable assistance and companionship. We had such a good time we've decided to go again next year.
