.. there are these and these....
These patterns are designed by 'Melly & me', otherwise known as Rosalie Quinlan and Melanie Hurlston, who happen to be sisters and who both have quite a background in quilt design and stitchery. Their bag designs have pretty patchwork details, buttons (love buttons!) and little bits of embroidery (nothing too arduous) which add interest and texture, making them just a little bit different. If you wish to see more of what they get up to, 'Melly & Me' have their own blog which is an active source of 'crafty' inspiration and activity ( a lot of sewing, fabric, quilting and 'crafting'....)
The patterns themselves are printed on paper ( not tissue) and include pattern pieces, fabric cutting instructions where appropriate and making instructions (absolutely appropriate!).
Requirements, listed on the pattern sleeve, detail what they've used to make the bag, toy, or quilt so that you can reproduce exactly what they've made or of course use your own fabric favourites. Some items use quite small fabric pieces so they may be a way of reducing that fabric stash you're hoarding (you are aren't you?) and have something beautiful instead. (Or an excuse for more fabric!)
I so need that monkey.
Just look at these soft toys, aren't they the kind of toy which children fall in love with forever. I've spent so many (intensely stressful) hours retracing steps to find my childrens' lost but deeply loved 'cuddlies'. They've turned up in supermarket drawers, on stiles. I think we even tied my daughter's 'doggie' to her when we boarded a ferry once. Can't remember what we tied her too ... Happy days!
Hi Julia I have not visited your shop yet but will do so later on today - it looks like you have a lot of cool stuff! I have the Melly and Me monkey pattern and had visions of making at least one up for a Christmas present -where is the time going!? ;o)
Posted by: Judy | November 07, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Thanks for popping round to my blog - and the lovely comment :) These patterns look fantastic. They must be hard work to put together - I'll definitely be taking a closer look.
Posted by: Ali | November 07, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Hi I went and had a browse through the shop and it almost tempts me to get sewing again! I am looking for the ultimate tunic top pattern to wear when working. All suggestions welcomed :)
xx chris
Posted by: Chris Linacre | November 06, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Hello, sorry I haven't been round for a while. Just catching up with your posts, congratulations to Andrea on her win. Those patterns look great, wish I had some spare pennies at the moment, I would be buying some of the fabric straightaway. Take care
Kimx
Posted by: Kim | November 05, 2008 at 12:00 AM
I've got the Magoo the Monkey pattern but I haven't made him yet!
Posted by: maria | November 04, 2008 at 12:00 AM
I adore the monkey too!!
Fab patterns!
Posted by: Glamglass | November 04, 2008 at 12:00 AM