Okay I know this isn't a quilting/patchwork shop but I also knit and
The Wool Company has been one of my favourite wool shops for years [
www.thewoolcompany.co.nz ]. What makes this wool shop interesting and I
believe unique is its selling the wool they've created themselves. All
the knitting wool is NZ wool. However, one thing I should say to you is
if you're a knitter who likes wool crepe this won't be the wool for
you. This is what I'd call more worsted wool.
I'm a knitter who
doesn't use anything below an 8 ply but I've bought 4ply for my Mom and
she says its lovely to knit with. From memory it was the mint colour and
it was pretty true to the colour on the website. I've only used the
Perendale yarn and I've now lost count of how many sweaters I've made
but it must be getting close to double digits. Again when I've ordered
on line I've found the colours to be pretty close to what you see on the
site. I haven't as yet used their possum wool - saving up for that one
- but plan to buy some on my next trip back to NZ.
Try their
knitting needles. I've bought a few pairs for myself and I quite like
them. They're very cost effective and they're also made out of casein
which is something a little different.
If you do have time and
are driving through Taihape (note the shop is to the south of Taihape on
Highway 1 as you head to Wellington) and is well worth a visit. I
don't think I've been in yet and not walked out the door with yet more
wool. If you're not in the area, do use their mail order service.
Everything I've ordered has always arrived well packaged and quickly,
often within 24 hours of my order when living in New Zealand. I haven't ordered anything as yet to be sent to me in Australia mainly due to my being back or my partner being back at least once a year, so I can order and have sent to a relative or friend's place for pick up.
Friday, December 30, 2011
GJ Discount Fabrics, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
One of my favourite fabric stores in Melbourne is GJ Fabrics [
www.gjsdiscountfabrics.com.au ]. For me its the quilting fabrics I
enjoy looking through but if you need fabrics for dance costumes, this
is also the store for you. GJ Discount fabrics is located on Lygon
Street, Brunswick East. Don't make the mistake of thinking the store is
in Lygon Street where all the Italian restaurants are - its not. To
get there, I personally would recommend hopping on Tram #1 or #8 along
Swanston Street and then getting off on tram stop 126 which is right in
front of the store.
Overall, really nice selection of fabrics including moda fabrics and other name brands. They have an extensive selection of brights, novelties, Australiana, some Asian/Japanese prints along with an excellent selection of baby and children prints. You will also find a small selection of Moda pre cuts such as jelly rolls, layer cakes and charm squares. On my last trip there, I bought the Morris Workshop jelly roll to make a quilt design I've picked up off of YouTube.
Also for an expat Kiwi, I've managed to pick up some Kiwiana FQs. Make sure you check out their specials as again, I've picked up some great quilting fabric at fantastic prices including a Kiwiana panel fabric which you would normally pay NZ$24.00 pm and I lucked out and found it in the store's special area for AU$8 pm. Needless to say I bought about 3m which I'll get a lot of use out of. Check out the Kiwiana quilt picture on the blog and you'll see the panel in use.
And another store with friendly and helpful staff. This store also runs workshops though I left Melbourne before I had a chance to sign up for any of them. Also fantastic sales. So if you live locally, make sure you sign up for their email notices so you can hear about their sales ahead of time.
Overall, really nice selection of fabrics including moda fabrics and other name brands. They have an extensive selection of brights, novelties, Australiana, some Asian/Japanese prints along with an excellent selection of baby and children prints. You will also find a small selection of Moda pre cuts such as jelly rolls, layer cakes and charm squares. On my last trip there, I bought the Morris Workshop jelly roll to make a quilt design I've picked up off of YouTube.
Also for an expat Kiwi, I've managed to pick up some Kiwiana FQs. Make sure you check out their specials as again, I've picked up some great quilting fabric at fantastic prices including a Kiwiana panel fabric which you would normally pay NZ$24.00 pm and I lucked out and found it in the store's special area for AU$8 pm. Needless to say I bought about 3m which I'll get a lot of use out of. Check out the Kiwiana quilt picture on the blog and you'll see the panel in use.
And another store with friendly and helpful staff. This store also runs workshops though I left Melbourne before I had a chance to sign up for any of them. Also fantastic sales. So if you live locally, make sure you sign up for their email notices so you can hear about their sales ahead of time.
Pat's Fabric & Plants, Murrayville, VIC, Australia
Discovered this little craft shop on our way home from visiting friends
in NSW in July 11. Murrayville is a very small town on the Mallee Highway that we
passed through on our way back to Adelaide. I love shops like this as
it was a mix of quilting fabrics, a bit of wool, some local crafts and
other interesting bric a brac. In terms of quilting fabric, the store
didn't have a huge range but it did have a little of everything. I
managed to pick up a nice panel of Australiana flowers. If you're
passing through stop and take a peak. I'm a great believer in
supporting small town shops where possible. And if nothing else, every
so often you can find something very interesting to pick up.
Fabricland, West Vancouver, BC, Canada
The next addition is
Fabricland [ www.fabricland.ca ] or more specifically Fabricland at Park
Royal [ www.shopparkroyal.com ] in West Vancouver.
I'll start with Fabricland and then work my way around to Park Royal. If you visiting Vancouver, Park Royal is easy to get too. If you have the time, I'd recommend catching the bus [here's the online schedule [ http://westvancouver.ca/Level3.aspx?id=2152 ] either any bus from the city that has Park Royal on it or even better get the #250 which will take you all the way to Horseshoe Bay. It's a lovely drive and you can get off have a wonder around Horseshoe Bay and then get the return bus back. Even stop off along the way and visit Dundarave or West Vancouver itself.
Once you've done your sightseeing, stop at Park Royal itself. Be aware there are two parts to it. Fabricland is in the South Mall. One thing to prepare yourself for is the store itself is not exactly the tidiest place. I've being go there on and off for years and I've yet to see the place looking its best. Then why do I keep going back I hear you ask? It has a great fabric range both for dress making and quilting. And if you're in the mood for upholstery or curtain fabric you'll find all that there as well.
In terms of quilting fabric, as long as you're prepared to spend a bit of time working through the rows upon rows of fabric, I promise you, you will find some lovely pieces. Designer wise, I don't remember seeing any Moda when I visited there last year. In fact they seem to have a heavy emphasis on RJR, Timeless Treasures and similar ranges. Had a relatively extensive selection of novelty and bright fabrics which of course I loved.
Now one of the secrets about Fabricland is they have fantastic discounted fabric packed into large shelves along one side of the shop. Now if you're not a bargain hunter like me, this will drive you nuts but as I do love to find a great bargain I dove in. I found some great curtain fabric to make some curtain for my sister's trailer for about CAD$2 pm - lovely fabric but boy heavily discounted. And my best bargain was finding Loralie Designs "Sewing Stuff" fabric at CAD$2 pm. Here that fabric runs around NZ or AU 22/24 pm. But as I said you have to be prepared to spend a bit of time digging through the rolls or bundles of fabric to find these bargains.
And another fantastic thing about Fabricland is their Sewing Club. My Mom belongs to it and I made good use of it getting 50% off a 24" by 24" Olfa cutting mat. It was touch and go as to whether I'd get it into my suitcase to bring home but I did, just! And I got even further discounts on both quilt fabric and batting I bought.
Let's not forget about Park Royal itself [www.shopparkroyal.com]. You'll find all the regular stores in the North and South Malls including the Bay, Winners, Future Store, London Drugs etc. There are many individual / unique stores there are as well. Even if Fabricland wasn't there, I would still make it a point to visit at least once when I'm back.
And then there is The Village, a rather upmarket lovely outdoor shopping center which you'll find on the south side of the mall. One of my favourite stores is there, Aerosoles Shoes (one of worst kept secrets, I love shoes), an American chain that you can find here. Super comfortable shoes that are very styley. Also you will find the Whole Foods Market - for the Kiwis who read this, you can find Phoenix drinks and juice there and if you're really lucky NZ fruit such as apples in case you're feeling homesick.
Overall between the shops and the cafes at Park Royal, I'm sure you can enjoy a lovely day there. If you're feeling rather athletic, there is also a nice walk you can do around the sea front from Park Royal to Ambleside Beach or vice versa. If its a nice day, its a lovely picteresque walk.
I'll start with Fabricland and then work my way around to Park Royal. If you visiting Vancouver, Park Royal is easy to get too. If you have the time, I'd recommend catching the bus [here's the online schedule [ http://westvancouver.ca/Level3.aspx?id=2152 ] either any bus from the city that has Park Royal on it or even better get the #250 which will take you all the way to Horseshoe Bay. It's a lovely drive and you can get off have a wonder around Horseshoe Bay and then get the return bus back. Even stop off along the way and visit Dundarave or West Vancouver itself.
Once you've done your sightseeing, stop at Park Royal itself. Be aware there are two parts to it. Fabricland is in the South Mall. One thing to prepare yourself for is the store itself is not exactly the tidiest place. I've being go there on and off for years and I've yet to see the place looking its best. Then why do I keep going back I hear you ask? It has a great fabric range both for dress making and quilting. And if you're in the mood for upholstery or curtain fabric you'll find all that there as well.
In terms of quilting fabric, as long as you're prepared to spend a bit of time working through the rows upon rows of fabric, I promise you, you will find some lovely pieces. Designer wise, I don't remember seeing any Moda when I visited there last year. In fact they seem to have a heavy emphasis on RJR, Timeless Treasures and similar ranges. Had a relatively extensive selection of novelty and bright fabrics which of course I loved.
Now one of the secrets about Fabricland is they have fantastic discounted fabric packed into large shelves along one side of the shop. Now if you're not a bargain hunter like me, this will drive you nuts but as I do love to find a great bargain I dove in. I found some great curtain fabric to make some curtain for my sister's trailer for about CAD$2 pm - lovely fabric but boy heavily discounted. And my best bargain was finding Loralie Designs "Sewing Stuff" fabric at CAD$2 pm. Here that fabric runs around NZ or AU 22/24 pm. But as I said you have to be prepared to spend a bit of time digging through the rolls or bundles of fabric to find these bargains.
And another fantastic thing about Fabricland is their Sewing Club. My Mom belongs to it and I made good use of it getting 50% off a 24" by 24" Olfa cutting mat. It was touch and go as to whether I'd get it into my suitcase to bring home but I did, just! And I got even further discounts on both quilt fabric and batting I bought.
Let's not forget about Park Royal itself [www.shopparkroyal.com]. You'll find all the regular stores in the North and South Malls including the Bay, Winners, Future Store, London Drugs etc. There are many individual / unique stores there are as well. Even if Fabricland wasn't there, I would still make it a point to visit at least once when I'm back.
And then there is The Village, a rather upmarket lovely outdoor shopping center which you'll find on the south side of the mall. One of my favourite stores is there, Aerosoles Shoes (one of worst kept secrets, I love shoes), an American chain that you can find here. Super comfortable shoes that are very styley. Also you will find the Whole Foods Market - for the Kiwis who read this, you can find Phoenix drinks and juice there and if you're really lucky NZ fruit such as apples in case you're feeling homesick.
Overall between the shops and the cafes at Park Royal, I'm sure you can enjoy a lovely day there. If you're feeling rather athletic, there is also a nice walk you can do around the sea front from Park Royal to Ambleside Beach or vice versa. If its a nice day, its a lovely picteresque walk.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Plaza Patchwork, Adelaide, SA, Australia
I've only lived in Adelaide since early March 2011 so haven't managed
to hit all the patchwork / quilting shops in my region. However, I feel
I lucked out with Plaza Patchwork [no website I'm afraid] which is
literally around the corner from where I live in Adelaide and has turned
into one of my favourite shops to visit - don't think I've made it out
yet without buying something.
You can find Plaza Patchwork at the Brickworks Markets [ www.brickworksmarkets.com.au ]. Note, the store isn't open every day over the weekend so it pays to check this before heading to the shop. I'd suggest calling before you visit the. Ring or text Lynette on 0433 504944 to find out what hours the store will be open over the weekend. Getting to the market if you're in the city is super easy either by car or by bus. Just check the site for details.
Now why do I like this shop? The #1 reason is the lady who works at the shop is lovely. Very friendly and very knowledgeable. Get her to show you some of her work and you'll be blown away by it. Gorgeous. Next, the range of fabrics is probably one of the best I've seen in Australia so far and all to my liking. You'll find all the major brands - RJR, Hoffman, Timeless Treasures, Quilting Treasures, etc. The only brand I've not seen is Moda. Another reason I love this shop is the amount of out of production (OOP) fabrics I've found there. And then lets not forget that all of the fabrics are currently $20 pm - the cheapest quilting fabric I've come across in this country so far for many of these brands.
One service that Lynette provides as well is quilting which I've just recently experienced. I made a quilt for a friend's little boy
and had Lynette quilt it with red flames - the quilt is of McQueen from Pixar Cars - so you can see how it worked. The quilting was fantastic and very reasonable, $81 for the twin quilt. I'll definitely be going back again. Sorry doesn't show up in the photo very well, but my partner thought it was pretty cool - endorsed by a male!
I highly recommend a visit if you're in the area and be prepared to spend a bit of time exploring the shop and having a chat with Lynette.
You can find Plaza Patchwork at the Brickworks Markets [ www.brickworksmarkets.com.au ]. Note, the store isn't open every day over the weekend so it pays to check this before heading to the shop. I'd suggest calling before you visit the. Ring or text Lynette on 0433 504944 to find out what hours the store will be open over the weekend. Getting to the market if you're in the city is super easy either by car or by bus. Just check the site for details.
Now why do I like this shop? The #1 reason is the lady who works at the shop is lovely. Very friendly and very knowledgeable. Get her to show you some of her work and you'll be blown away by it. Gorgeous. Next, the range of fabrics is probably one of the best I've seen in Australia so far and all to my liking. You'll find all the major brands - RJR, Hoffman, Timeless Treasures, Quilting Treasures, etc. The only brand I've not seen is Moda. Another reason I love this shop is the amount of out of production (OOP) fabrics I've found there. And then lets not forget that all of the fabrics are currently $20 pm - the cheapest quilting fabric I've come across in this country so far for many of these brands.
One service that Lynette provides as well is quilting which I've just recently experienced. I made a quilt for a friend's little boy
 |
| Front of quilt - Pixar's Cars |
 |
| Back of quilt |
and had Lynette quilt it with red flames - the quilt is of McQueen from Pixar Cars - so you can see how it worked. The quilting was fantastic and very reasonable, $81 for the twin quilt. I'll definitely be going back again. Sorry doesn't show up in the photo very well, but my partner thought it was pretty cool - endorsed by a male!
I highly recommend a visit if you're in the area and be prepared to spend a bit of time exploring the shop and having a chat with Lynette.
Patchwork by the Sea, Brighton, SA, Australia
One of my early finds is Patchwork by the Sea
[ www.patchworkbysea.com.au ]. The store is very modern and they have a
great range of fabrics including Moda.
For those Kiwis living in Adelaide, this is the only store I've found so far in Adelaide that sells Nutex Kiwiana fabric. Not the cheapest fabric but if you're desperate for some of the fabric for a quilt, the last time I was in their shop, they seem to have a pretty good range. Another range they have which I may need to go back and pick through their Japanese fabric range. I'm currently collecting various FQs or more to design and make a queen or king size quilt for one of my brothers.
The only down side to this store for me is I wish they were a bit closer to where I live as I've been dying to do some classes to hone up on my very home schooled patch working skills. I believe they run classes for all levels of experience.
The other reason this shop is a great place to visit is its location right by the Sea [mmm wonder if that is where they got the idea for their store name]. I highly recommend the fish and chip shop thats around the corner at the end of Jetty Street as you walk down to the sea side.
For those Kiwis living in Adelaide, this is the only store I've found so far in Adelaide that sells Nutex Kiwiana fabric. Not the cheapest fabric but if you're desperate for some of the fabric for a quilt, the last time I was in their shop, they seem to have a pretty good range. Another range they have which I may need to go back and pick through their Japanese fabric range. I'm currently collecting various FQs or more to design and make a queen or king size quilt for one of my brothers.
The only down side to this store for me is I wish they were a bit closer to where I live as I've been dying to do some classes to hone up on my very home schooled patch working skills. I believe they run classes for all levels of experience.
The other reason this shop is a great place to visit is its location right by the Sea [mmm wonder if that is where they got the idea for their store name]. I highly recommend the fish and chip shop thats around the corner at the end of Jetty Street as you walk down to the sea side.
Creative Edge Quilting & Sewing, North Vancouver, BC, Canada
A lovely quilting store on the North Shore is Creative Edge Quilting
& Sewing. Unfortunately they don't appear to have a website so
address and contact details below:
2065 Old Dollarton Rd
North Vancouver, BC V7H 1A6
(604) 982-0088
This is a small shop tucked away in the back roads of North Vancouver. You would probably need a car to get here though I do think you can take a bus.Check www.translink.ca out Trans Link's site for assistance in getting here. The selection of fabrics is not as large as say Fabricland, but the helpful staff are worth a visit. The store also handles quilting orders as well.
I made this quilt for my sister but what I thought I was making, a lap rug, ended up turning into a queen size quilt. Given I was travelling to Vancouver, the last thing I wanted to do was pack a completed quilt into one of my bags - I suspect I wouldn't have got anything else in the suitcase. I had my Mom check out pricing for me. All up it was CA$150 which also included the batting. I supplied the top and back of the quilt and then finished it off. I though that was a pretty good price.
I also bought a piece of Moda fabric - yes I can hear the deep intake of breathe given I've been saying I'm not a huge fan - as well as a couple of FQs. They had some lovely quilts on display including a pretty funky Halloween quilt.
Now the other cool thing about this shop is its a great stopping place on your way to Deep Cove:
Deep Cove is a lovely sleepy suburb of North Vancouver. It has great cafes and a couple of lovely home ware shops. And for the family members who collect coins and stamps there was a great little shop there but not too sure if its still there.
2065 Old Dollarton Rd
North Vancouver, BC V7H 1A6
(604) 982-0088
This is a small shop tucked away in the back roads of North Vancouver. You would probably need a car to get here though I do think you can take a bus.Check www.translink.ca out Trans Link's site for assistance in getting here. The selection of fabrics is not as large as say Fabricland, but the helpful staff are worth a visit. The store also handles quilting orders as well.
I made this quilt for my sister but what I thought I was making, a lap rug, ended up turning into a queen size quilt. Given I was travelling to Vancouver, the last thing I wanted to do was pack a completed quilt into one of my bags - I suspect I wouldn't have got anything else in the suitcase. I had my Mom check out pricing for me. All up it was CA$150 which also included the batting. I supplied the top and back of the quilt and then finished it off. I though that was a pretty good price.
 |
| Front of quilt |
 |
| Back of quilt |
I also bought a piece of Moda fabric - yes I can hear the deep intake of breathe given I've been saying I'm not a huge fan - as well as a couple of FQs. They had some lovely quilts on display including a pretty funky Halloween quilt.
Now the other cool thing about this shop is its a great stopping place on your way to Deep Cove:
Deep Cove is a lovely sleepy suburb of North Vancouver. It has great cafes and a couple of lovely home ware shops. And for the family members who collect coins and stamps there was a great little shop there but not too sure if its still there.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Quiltaholics, Adelaide. SA, Australia
My latest find is Quiltaholics (www.quiltaholics.com.au )in Magill in
the eastern suburbs of Adelaide. Its taken awhile for me to finally
get to this store and I'm really pleased to finally get there. They
have an extensive range of fabric. They've done a great job in setting
the store up to make it easy for you to find what you're interested in.
So if you like novelty prints, kids/baby prints, Asian/Japanese prints,
etc. they're all there. And yes even Moda fabrics particularly jell
rolls, etc.
Did I buy anything? Most definitely. Quiltaholics have a great range of panels and I bought two that I'd been looking for, for awhile and some Pixar Cars fabric to finish off a quilt for a friend's little boy. Price wise the panels seem to be between $13 and$16. The panels I saw seem to be in the novelty range including animals, fairies, solar systems, etc. The fabric price range was the around the $22/$23 per meter mark, fairly standard I've found with quilt shops in Australia.
And if you're after books to help you with your quilting/patchworking/appliquing, they had a good range to select from. Along with these books you'll also find a good range of patterns that should tempt you. I also took a peak into their classroom, a good size room with good light. On my list to check out their class offerings.
Did I buy anything? Most definitely. Quiltaholics have a great range of panels and I bought two that I'd been looking for, for awhile and some Pixar Cars fabric to finish off a quilt for a friend's little boy. Price wise the panels seem to be between $13 and$16. The panels I saw seem to be in the novelty range including animals, fairies, solar systems, etc. The fabric price range was the around the $22/$23 per meter mark, fairly standard I've found with quilt shops in Australia.
And if you're after books to help you with your quilting/patchworking/appliquing, they had a good range to select from. Along with these books you'll also find a good range of patterns that should tempt you. I also took a peak into their classroom, a good size room with good light. On my list to check out their class offerings.
Ballarat Patchwork, Ballarat, VIC, Australia
To begin with,
check out the Ballarat Patchwork's website www.ballaratpatchwork.com.au . The website
will give you all their contact and address details.
Fabric wise, heavy on the Moda, Kaye Fasett and Amy Butler fabric. For those of you who've ready my previous blogs these aren't my favourite fabrics so I didn't end up buying anything. For those of you who do like these ranges, lots to choose from. And they have a reasonably extensive range of patterns as well.
You'll find the shop in a converted house (For those who are from Wellington, New Zealand and/or have been there, think converted villa you would see in Tinakori Road, like Nancy Embroidery's old store). It's very compact but the owner has done a lovely job of decorating the house. Fabric is easy to pull out and look at. And let's not forget what I think was a lovely touch, the resident cat. Had to laugh when the owner's cat popped out from under a table as the customer's went past. That was definitely a first for me.
Overall, well worth a stop when you're in Ballarat next.
Fabric wise, heavy on the Moda, Kaye Fasett and Amy Butler fabric. For those of you who've ready my previous blogs these aren't my favourite fabrics so I didn't end up buying anything. For those of you who do like these ranges, lots to choose from. And they have a reasonably extensive range of patterns as well.
You'll find the shop in a converted house (For those who are from Wellington, New Zealand and/or have been there, think converted villa you would see in Tinakori Road, like Nancy Embroidery's old store). It's very compact but the owner has done a lovely job of decorating the house. Fabric is easy to pull out and look at. And let's not forget what I think was a lovely touch, the resident cat. Had to laugh when the owner's cat popped out from under a table as the customer's went past. That was definitely a first for me.
Overall, well worth a stop when you're in Ballarat next.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Some more of my Quilts
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| A play with colours |
 |
| A bit of bling for another four legged member of the extended family |
Some of my Quilts
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| Queen size quilt for my sister |
 |
| Rug for my four legged niece Amra |
 |
| My very first quilt |
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Horsham Sewing Center, Horsham, VIC, Australia
A stop on a recent road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne was Horsham Sewing Center in Horsham,
Victoria. Unfortunately, they don't have a website. However, their
contact details are:
34 Firebrace Street
Horsham, VIC 3400
03 5381 1525
The shop has a great range of fabric including RJR, Kaufman and lots of others. And this is the first shop I've been to ages that actually had several Loralie Designs. In fact, if you're in Horsham in the near future, check out the beach bag in the window. Loved it. I also some great novelty and brights along with a small but good range of children's fabrics. Also they had a small range of flannel fabric for the kids. There was also a small range of patterns and a reasonable range of books.
In fact for the first time, I found some "In the Beginning" pattern books. For those of you who are not familiar with this fabric range, check out www.inthebeginningfabrics.com . They have an interesting fabric range that is very different from say Moda fabrics. Their fabric themes range from Camelot inspired to folk art. Check them out.
Needless to say I left the store after buying a few pieces of fabric. I found a great range of Australiana fabric - bought a couple of pieces to add to my collection. I also found some New Zealand fabric which rather surprised me. The piece was of Wellington villas. Very unusual and have absolutely no idea how this ended up in Horsham. Must be a fair few Kiwis in the town?
My only criticism of the store is it is a bit untidy. I almost tripped a couple of times on the fabric that hadn't been put away, something the store's owner needs to be careful of.
34 Firebrace Street
Horsham, VIC 3400
03 5381 1525
The shop has a great range of fabric including RJR, Kaufman and lots of others. And this is the first shop I've been to ages that actually had several Loralie Designs. In fact, if you're in Horsham in the near future, check out the beach bag in the window. Loved it. I also some great novelty and brights along with a small but good range of children's fabrics. Also they had a small range of flannel fabric for the kids. There was also a small range of patterns and a reasonable range of books.
In fact for the first time, I found some "In the Beginning" pattern books. For those of you who are not familiar with this fabric range, check out www.inthebeginningfabrics.com . They have an interesting fabric range that is very different from say Moda fabrics. Their fabric themes range from Camelot inspired to folk art. Check them out.
Needless to say I left the store after buying a few pieces of fabric. I found a great range of Australiana fabric - bought a couple of pieces to add to my collection. I also found some New Zealand fabric which rather surprised me. The piece was of Wellington villas. Very unusual and have absolutely no idea how this ended up in Horsham. Must be a fair few Kiwis in the town?
My only criticism of the store is it is a bit untidy. I almost tripped a couple of times on the fabric that hadn't been put away, something the store's owner needs to be careful of.
Hettie's Patch, Port Adelaide, SA, Australia
The first time I went into Hettie's Patch, I thought nice shop, well
laid using the features of the old building they were in well but way
too much Moda fabric for my taste. However, a couple of weeks ago, I
popped in for a second visit as I was after a template and thought there
was a good chance they would have it. So while there, I had another
look around and was pleasantly surprised that they did have fabric other
than Moda and I even missed a whole section of the shop which I hadn't
realised was there.
While I was looking for the template I was after, I discovered the back part of the shop where they had more fabric on display and what I found a pretty good selection of toners and backing fabric. In terms of fabric range, I would still say they have a heavy emphasis on Moda fabrics including layer cakes, jelly rolls, charm squares, etc. They do have a small range of brights and some novelties. They also have a sales room and I saw some good bargains in there bummer was nothing I was interested in.
Compared to other shops, I didn't notice a large range of patterns and books but I may have simply missed where they keep them in bulk. They also had a small section of templates and other quilting tools. And let's not forget some interesting little knick knacks. Overall, a lovely shop and worth a visit.
I did pick up a class list. When I was looking at the back section of the shop, I found the class area as well. Very large. Unfortunately, Hettie's Patch seem to have a more drop in and join type of class vs. the more structured class that I'm looking for. If you're after meeting like minded quilters and a more casual class atmosphere this may suit you. Overall though, give Hettie's Patch a ring and check out their classes. You never know, it may suit you.
My one note of caution is regarding returns. As I discovered when I ended up returning the template I bought (turned out out not to be quite what I needed for the pattern) apparently Hettie's Patch has a no returns policy. Fortunately, my money was returned to me but as I advised the person serving me, I wasn't told this when I bought the template nor did I see any notifications regarding a no returns policy. My advise is make sure you ask when you purchase items other than fabric.
Details on Hettie's Patch can be found at www.hettiespatch.typepad.com . They're located at 295 Port Road, Port Adelaide, SA and can be contacted on 08 8346 0548.
While I was looking for the template I was after, I discovered the back part of the shop where they had more fabric on display and what I found a pretty good selection of toners and backing fabric. In terms of fabric range, I would still say they have a heavy emphasis on Moda fabrics including layer cakes, jelly rolls, charm squares, etc. They do have a small range of brights and some novelties. They also have a sales room and I saw some good bargains in there bummer was nothing I was interested in.
Compared to other shops, I didn't notice a large range of patterns and books but I may have simply missed where they keep them in bulk. They also had a small section of templates and other quilting tools. And let's not forget some interesting little knick knacks. Overall, a lovely shop and worth a visit.
I did pick up a class list. When I was looking at the back section of the shop, I found the class area as well. Very large. Unfortunately, Hettie's Patch seem to have a more drop in and join type of class vs. the more structured class that I'm looking for. If you're after meeting like minded quilters and a more casual class atmosphere this may suit you. Overall though, give Hettie's Patch a ring and check out their classes. You never know, it may suit you.
My one note of caution is regarding returns. As I discovered when I ended up returning the template I bought (turned out out not to be quite what I needed for the pattern) apparently Hettie's Patch has a no returns policy. Fortunately, my money was returned to me but as I advised the person serving me, I wasn't told this when I bought the template nor did I see any notifications regarding a no returns policy. My advise is make sure you ask when you purchase items other than fabric.
Details on Hettie's Patch can be found at www.hettiespatch.typepad.com . They're located at 295 Port Road, Port Adelaide, SA and can be contacted on 08 8346 0548.
Tranquility Crafts 'N' Supplies, Moonee Ponds, VIC, Australia
Another shop I visited a few times while still living in Melbourne
was Tranquility Crafts 'N' Supplies in Moonee Ponds. They can be found
at 37 Holmes Road in Moonee Ponds just past the railway station. Note
the shop isn't in the main shopping area but if you're in Moonee Ponds
for wander around the shops (recommended - some great shops there and
cafes!)just keep heading up Puckle Street and cross over the railway and
another block up on the road and you'll find the store.
The store is absolutely packed with fabric. I don't think on the several visits I've had there that I've managed to work my way through everything they have. This is also the shop where I managed to find some quilt labels - which of course I quickly purchased. They also have some Loralie Design fabric which was a pleasant surprise for me. I'm not sure I'd necessarily say this is a store that is either heavy on the brights or Aunt Grace or civil war, etc. fabrics. I found they had a bit of everything.
Price wise, pretty well on par with most quilt stores I've visited in Australia, around the $22 p.m. and upwards. They did have some bargain fabrics last time I was there but as seems to be my theme a lot, nothing I was interested in. They had a large range of patterns - something I want to check through next time I'm back in Melbourne - though I don't recall seeing many books. The staff are very friendly and very helpful. And if you're a local, they offer classes as well.
Tranquility Craft 'N' Supplies don't have a website but you can call them on 03 9375 3575 if you have any questions. And they're also a good place to ask where the local quilt and/or craft shows are. One of the last times I was there, they were attending a local quilt show which as Murphy's law would have it, I couldn't attend.
And if you're visiting Melbourne, easy to get to. Simply grab a train on the Craigieburn Line and get off at the Moonee Ponds station. As you come out, turn right to go up Holmes Street to the shop and once you're done, wonder back down to the Moonee Pond shops for further retail therapy and/or a nice cup of coffee and a piece of cake to relax with. You can grab the train back to the city or just continue wandering down Puckle Street (NOTE Puckle Street = Holmes Street, they're the same street) and grab a tram back to the city.
The store is absolutely packed with fabric. I don't think on the several visits I've had there that I've managed to work my way through everything they have. This is also the shop where I managed to find some quilt labels - which of course I quickly purchased. They also have some Loralie Design fabric which was a pleasant surprise for me. I'm not sure I'd necessarily say this is a store that is either heavy on the brights or Aunt Grace or civil war, etc. fabrics. I found they had a bit of everything.
Price wise, pretty well on par with most quilt stores I've visited in Australia, around the $22 p.m. and upwards. They did have some bargain fabrics last time I was there but as seems to be my theme a lot, nothing I was interested in. They had a large range of patterns - something I want to check through next time I'm back in Melbourne - though I don't recall seeing many books. The staff are very friendly and very helpful. And if you're a local, they offer classes as well.
Tranquility Craft 'N' Supplies don't have a website but you can call them on 03 9375 3575 if you have any questions. And they're also a good place to ask where the local quilt and/or craft shows are. One of the last times I was there, they were attending a local quilt show which as Murphy's law would have it, I couldn't attend.
And if you're visiting Melbourne, easy to get to. Simply grab a train on the Craigieburn Line and get off at the Moonee Ponds station. As you come out, turn right to go up Holmes Street to the shop and once you're done, wonder back down to the Moonee Pond shops for further retail therapy and/or a nice cup of coffee and a piece of cake to relax with. You can grab the train back to the city or just continue wandering down Puckle Street (NOTE Puckle Street = Holmes Street, they're the same street) and grab a tram back to the city.
Tricia's Discount Fabrics. Melrose Park, SA, Australia
Yet another quilting find,
Tricia's Discount Fabrics which you can find in Melrose Park a suburb in
Adelaide SA. Unfortunately, the store doesn't have a website so here
are their address and contact details:
11-13 Price Street
Melrose Park SA 5039
Ph: 08 8177 1041
In terms of opening hours, the store is open seven days a week - YEAH! I love Adelaide but it can be difficult to find quilting stores open on Sundays, Saturday yes, but very few on Sunday.
Next thing to tell you about Tricia's Discount Fabric is make sure you have plenty of time for a good look around the store. I didn't realise how big it was and with a husband waiting in the car, even after 20 mins, no way had I had a good look through the whole place. Are you starting to get the sense that this is a big store? If you haven't then, take it from me that this store is more like a small warehouse than your usual fabric/quilting shop.
So what sort of fabric did they have? To be honest, after nearly 30 mins there, I still didn't get a real sense of whether the store specialise in one type of fabric or another. All I can tell you is that I'm pretty confident that no matter what your taste, I'm sure you will find something you will like. I know I did. I ended up walking out with some Christmas fabric to make a table runner for our new dining room table; and a few other pieces I discovered. Yes they had novelties, seasonal, juvenile, floral, and so much more. If you want flannel, they had the biggest selection I've seen to date.
In terms of patterns and books, unless they had them hidden elsewhere not as much as I've found at other shops. Saying that, I just received their latest newsletter and it said they had new patterns in stock. If you need thread and other notions, they definitely had a very good selection.
Overall, definitely worth a visit - I got my husband to save the store in our GPS!
11-13 Price Street
Melrose Park SA 5039
Ph: 08 8177 1041
In terms of opening hours, the store is open seven days a week - YEAH! I love Adelaide but it can be difficult to find quilting stores open on Sundays, Saturday yes, but very few on Sunday.
Next thing to tell you about Tricia's Discount Fabric is make sure you have plenty of time for a good look around the store. I didn't realise how big it was and with a husband waiting in the car, even after 20 mins, no way had I had a good look through the whole place. Are you starting to get the sense that this is a big store? If you haven't then, take it from me that this store is more like a small warehouse than your usual fabric/quilting shop.
So what sort of fabric did they have? To be honest, after nearly 30 mins there, I still didn't get a real sense of whether the store specialise in one type of fabric or another. All I can tell you is that I'm pretty confident that no matter what your taste, I'm sure you will find something you will like. I know I did. I ended up walking out with some Christmas fabric to make a table runner for our new dining room table; and a few other pieces I discovered. Yes they had novelties, seasonal, juvenile, floral, and so much more. If you want flannel, they had the biggest selection I've seen to date.
In terms of patterns and books, unless they had them hidden elsewhere not as much as I've found at other shops. Saying that, I just received their latest newsletter and it said they had new patterns in stock. If you need thread and other notions, they definitely had a very good selection.
Overall, definitely worth a visit - I got my husband to save the store in our GPS!
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Piecemakers Country Store - Costa Mesa, CA, USA
I don't know where to begin with Piecemakers Country Store for
Quilting - www.piecemakers.com ....maybe how to get there? To be honest, you're going to need a car unless you're a local and are familiar with bus system but for us poor tourists, definitely a car. Okay you
need either GPS or have worked out directions via Google Maps (my
personal preference) or by whichever direction site you like. This shop
isn't in a shopping center or strip mall but it is well worth the visit.
I originally found this shop as part of my "intel" for my usual shopping soire in LA post visiting my family in Vancouver. I have to admit I did wonder if it would be worth a visit but given I'd decided to stay the night in Newport Beach instead of my usual stay at the Holiday Inn in Buena Park it wasn't too far away.
When I arrived I did wonder where I had ended up but once I entered the shop all I can say is wow...it was like entering the Aladdin Cave of quilting. The inside is very set up like an old country store and then the fabrics, WOW again!!! Absolutely huge range of fabric and of course everything you would need for quilting - hand or machine. No way had I anticipated being there for long but I swear a hour of my day just went *poof* as I worked my way around the shop. In general probably not as much brights/novelties as I usually like BUT that didn't stop me from buying several yards of fabric to bring back to Australia.
The staff were friendly and helpful. I observed them with other customers and they didn't appear to mind how complicated the question was or how basic. They did their best to answer and in one case actually show a customer how to resolve an issue they were having with a block they were working on. The other thing I liked about the staff was they weren't afraid to recommend people to other shops. For example, when I was getting my fabric cut, one of the staff was dealing with a caller who was interested in wool/yarn. They didn't have a lot and the staff member said is as much and recommended a yarn shop to the caller. Was annoyed I hadn't paid attention as I like to knit too!
Overall, if you want to lose yourself wondering through a shop, pulling out fabric to look at and just experience some good old fashion service, then do make the time to visit Piecemakers Country Store in Costa Mesa, California.
If you want to stay in the area, I'm a big fan of Motel 6. They generally a basic, secure and inexpensive option stay. In this case, I stayed at the Newport Beach Motel 6 - www.motel6.com :
This particular Motel 6 was probably on the higher end of the Motel 6 price range. However, my room was spacious and they had free WiFi access when I was there and location wise, was only 10/15 min drive to the Piecemakers Country Store. Another great thing about Motel 6 is I can book online even being overseas. Haven't had any problems to date with any of the bookings I've made.
Also in the are was a Joann Fabrics store located not too far away which I popped into as well. And even better found some fabric I wanted:
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft, # 1847
2200 Harbor Blvd Ste H
Costa Mesa, CA 92627-5891
949-642-2340
I originally found this shop as part of my "intel" for my usual shopping soire in LA post visiting my family in Vancouver. I have to admit I did wonder if it would be worth a visit but given I'd decided to stay the night in Newport Beach instead of my usual stay at the Holiday Inn in Buena Park it wasn't too far away.
When I arrived I did wonder where I had ended up but once I entered the shop all I can say is wow...it was like entering the Aladdin Cave of quilting. The inside is very set up like an old country store and then the fabrics, WOW again!!! Absolutely huge range of fabric and of course everything you would need for quilting - hand or machine. No way had I anticipated being there for long but I swear a hour of my day just went *poof* as I worked my way around the shop. In general probably not as much brights/novelties as I usually like BUT that didn't stop me from buying several yards of fabric to bring back to Australia.
The staff were friendly and helpful. I observed them with other customers and they didn't appear to mind how complicated the question was or how basic. They did their best to answer and in one case actually show a customer how to resolve an issue they were having with a block they were working on. The other thing I liked about the staff was they weren't afraid to recommend people to other shops. For example, when I was getting my fabric cut, one of the staff was dealing with a caller who was interested in wool/yarn. They didn't have a lot and the staff member said is as much and recommended a yarn shop to the caller. Was annoyed I hadn't paid attention as I like to knit too!
Overall, if you want to lose yourself wondering through a shop, pulling out fabric to look at and just experience some good old fashion service, then do make the time to visit Piecemakers Country Store in Costa Mesa, California.
If you want to stay in the area, I'm a big fan of Motel 6. They generally a basic, secure and inexpensive option stay. In this case, I stayed at the Newport Beach Motel 6 - www.motel6.com :
Motel 6 Newport Beach #4460
2274 Newport Blvd.
Highway 55, Exit #3
Costa Mesa, CA, 92627
Phone: (949) 646-7445
FAX: (949) 631-5537
Highway 55, Exit #3
Costa Mesa, CA, 92627
Phone: (949) 646-7445
FAX: (949) 631-5537
This particular Motel 6 was probably on the higher end of the Motel 6 price range. However, my room was spacious and they had free WiFi access when I was there and location wise, was only 10/15 min drive to the Piecemakers Country Store. Another great thing about Motel 6 is I can book online even being overseas. Haven't had any problems to date with any of the bookings I've made.
Also in the are was a Joann Fabrics store located not too far away which I popped into as well. And even better found some fabric I wanted:
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft, # 1847
2200 Harbor Blvd Ste H
Costa Mesa, CA 92627-5891
949-642-2340
Cushla's Village Fabrics, Devonport, New Zealand
If you find yourself in Devonport in Auckland, I recommend that you take the ferry over to Devonport from the waterfront in Auckland (more on that in a moment) and go and visit Cushla's Village Fabrics - www.cushlasvillagefabrics.co.nz
Two reasons why this is a lovely store. First, great range of fabrics including Kiwiana fabrics. Once you step through the door the biggest decision you'll need to make is where to start exploring. I would highly recommend you allow yourself a bit of time to do the circuit of what you'll find is a surprisingly large store. Secondly, take the time to look at some of the quilts they have on display. Definitely gets me excited at what possibility I can explore as I continue my quilting journey. The saff are helpful and appear to know their stuff when it comes to quilting.
And let's not forget Devonport itself. If you're staying in the Auckland CBD then walk down to the ferry terminal at the bottom of Queen Street and take it to Devonport. Once there visit some interesting shops including Cushla's Village Fabrics. If you like to knit then pop into Wild and Woolly which is down the street. To find out more visit www.devonport.co.nz or www.fullers.co.nz/tickets-fares/timetables/devonport.php
And lets not forget the cafes...lots of choice to sit and think about your purchases.
Two reasons why this is a lovely store. First, great range of fabrics including Kiwiana fabrics. Once you step through the door the biggest decision you'll need to make is where to start exploring. I would highly recommend you allow yourself a bit of time to do the circuit of what you'll find is a surprisingly large store. Secondly, take the time to look at some of the quilts they have on display. Definitely gets me excited at what possibility I can explore as I continue my quilting journey. The saff are helpful and appear to know their stuff when it comes to quilting.
And let's not forget Devonport itself. If you're staying in the Auckland CBD then walk down to the ferry terminal at the bottom of Queen Street and take it to Devonport. Once there visit some interesting shops including Cushla's Village Fabrics. If you like to knit then pop into Wild and Woolly which is down the street. To find out more visit www.devonport.co.nz or www.fullers.co.nz/tickets-fares/timetables/devonport.php
And lets not forget the cafes...lots of choice to sit and think about your purchases.
Jo-Ann's Fabrics - USA
Okay if you're traveling to the US and you have some time to shop then I
highly recommend Joann's Fabrics. For those of you from Australia/New
Zealand, think of Spotlight but on steroids in terms of fabric, etc. www.joann.com
Over the years, I have found Joanne Fabrics a great source of dress fabric and now for quilting. Make sure you check out their website before leaving (NOTE - LA, for example, not great on the internet cafe front though if you have your own laptop/iPad lots of free wireless places] and check out their weekly sales flyer (check the bottom of the site) as you can often find some great coupons to take along with you. Some of the deals I've found are by one yard (And yes people the US doesn't do metric) get one for free or 50% off a specific purchase, etc. It all helps.
Over the years, I have found Joanne Fabrics a great source of dress fabric and now for quilting. Make sure you check out their website before leaving (NOTE - LA, for example, not great on the internet cafe front though if you have your own laptop/iPad lots of free wireless places] and check out their weekly sales flyer (check the bottom of the site) as you can often find some great coupons to take along with you. Some of the deals I've found are by one yard (And yes people the US doesn't do metric) get one for free or 50% off a specific purchase, etc. It all helps.
Sunshine Coast, BC, Canada
On my last trip home to
visit my family, my sister and I had a girl's only trip for a couple of
days
to a lovely area called the Sunshine Coast
This picture was taken from a BC Ferry on the way to Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast. To give you an idea of what it was like staying in this area, this is what my sister and I woke up to our
first morning there
Now the quilting shops. The main one I visited in Gibsons, BC as Carola's Quilt Shop - www.carola.ca. Although a small store, it had a nice mix of fabrics from your traditional prints to your brights. The staff were very friendly and informative. Well worth a stop by as you make your journey through to Powell River, BC.
Address details are:
Carola's Quilt Shop 7 - 1161 Sunshine Coast Highway Gibsons BC V0N 1V4
Tel : 604 886 1245 Fax : 604 886 1294 Toll Free : 1 877 886 0033
to a lovely area called the Sunshine Coast
This picture was taken from a BC Ferry on the way to Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast. To give you an idea of what it was like staying in this area, this is what my sister and I woke up to our
first morning there
Now the quilting shops. The main one I visited in Gibsons, BC as Carola's Quilt Shop - www.carola.ca. Although a small store, it had a nice mix of fabrics from your traditional prints to your brights. The staff were very friendly and informative. Well worth a stop by as you make your journey through to Powell River, BC.
Address details are:
Carola's Quilt Shop 7 - 1161 Sunshine Coast Highway Gibsons BC V0N 1V4
Tel : 604 886 1245 Fax : 604 886 1294 Toll Free : 1 877 886 0033
Welcome to the Travelling Quilter
Hi and welcome to my first ever blog, the Traveling Quilter.
Over the coming weeks and longer, I'll be providing you with information on a quilting / patchwork stores in a number of countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand and USA. Maybe more depending upon where my travels take me.
So why this blog? Whenever I travel whether for personal or professional reasons, if possible, I like to check out quilting / patchwork shops in the area. I often find some interesting fabric and if I really luck out, sometimes out of print of fabric (I'm great at buying OOP fabric....). I personally favour brights and novelty prints rather than the traditional civil war, Aunt Grace, etc. type prints. Saying that, I've seen some lovely stores that stock just that type of fabric just a shame nothing appealed to me.
To get the blog up and running, I slowly build up information on a number stores I've visited in the 18 months or so I've been quilting. Where appropriate, I'll also drop in a few snippets about the area and things that may be of interest to you. And even though this blog is about quilting primarily, where I've found some other gems re knitting, scrap booking, etc. I'll let you know.
Hope you enjoy my blog,
TQuilter
Over the coming weeks and longer, I'll be providing you with information on a quilting / patchwork stores in a number of countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand and USA. Maybe more depending upon where my travels take me.
So why this blog? Whenever I travel whether for personal or professional reasons, if possible, I like to check out quilting / patchwork shops in the area. I often find some interesting fabric and if I really luck out, sometimes out of print of fabric (I'm great at buying OOP fabric....). I personally favour brights and novelty prints rather than the traditional civil war, Aunt Grace, etc. type prints. Saying that, I've seen some lovely stores that stock just that type of fabric just a shame nothing appealed to me.
To get the blog up and running, I slowly build up information on a number stores I've visited in the 18 months or so I've been quilting. Where appropriate, I'll also drop in a few snippets about the area and things that may be of interest to you. And even though this blog is about quilting primarily, where I've found some other gems re knitting, scrap booking, etc. I'll let you know.
Hope you enjoy my blog,
TQuilter
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