Crafting as a Kid
 Instil your love of craft in the next generation – it could be a passion they’ll hold onto all their lives, and pass on to their children and grandchildren as well. When you’re a child, there’s something very special about seeing your mother or grandmother take simple pieces of fabric or wool and create beautiful items to wear or enjoy. Teaching the youngsters among your family and friends how to craft means their creative flair will always be strong, and they’ll cherish the memories of the time spent together.
Avid crafter Anne Sommerlad grew up surrounded by an abundance of fabric and yarn, and from an early age was exquisitely dressed. “I never owned a bought jumper,” she recalls. “I was always sporting beautiful handmade garments, knitted in the best quality wool, with complicated patterns.”
 Her grandmother did magnificent crochet and knitting and her mother also knitted and embroidered, but fabric was her forte. “Mum and Bernina could do anything together,” Anne laughs.
Her mother would take a good look at expensive garments in the shops and go home and create them for her daughter. Like most children, Anne didn’t fully appreciate the gesture and took for granted her beautifully designed clothes that her mother and grandmother had crafted. “All I wanted was a bought dress,” she says. “My mother relented once and I chose to wear a hideous green-and-white striped ‘cookie dress’ from Fosseys.”
 While Anne wore it proudly, her friends commented on her new look. “They pointed out the fact that I didn’t have my usual nice clothes on,” she recalls.
As soon as she realised she could reach the pedal on the sewing machine, she set to work on her own sewing ideas. “I always had a craft project planned,” she says. “After school exams I couldn’t wait to attack my next reward.”
She also had strong artistic support from her father, a painter and decorator who had a solid creative flair and a wonderful sense of colour.
 Since completing her first project – a smocked cushion made from blue checked gingham – Anne has become a dressmaker, quilt designer and teacher of patchwork. She has made sewing into a full-time job, and couldn’t be happier. “It took me a while to find nirvana but I feel very privileged to be here now,” she says.
It was her mother and grandmother’s early enthusiasm for sewing that first instilled in her a love of craft, and has shaped the person she has become today.
 The skills your children learn when they’re young can have a massive impact on who they are as adults – and crafting is a fun, creative activity the family can enjoy together. Although your kids may not choose a life of craft like Anne has, they’ll always have the valuable artistic knowledge and wonderful memories of your time together when they learnt how to make their first cushion, piece of embroidery or painting – and who knows what kind of creative pursuits or achievements that may lead to later in life.
Learn more about Anne Summerland’s crafting journey in Australian Country Craft Patchwork Special, Volume 20 Issue 9.
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A SMALL STORY
By Kellie Wallace
 Miniatures are imbued with a sense of innocence, a certain fragility that has entranced their admirers for thousands of years. Kellie Wallace explores the history and creativity of the little art that has captivated the world.
They may be small, but they bring a world of joy, wonder and fascination to their admirers. Miniatures have captured the world with their delicate simplicity for thousands of years. Some of the very first examples found, unearthed by archaeologists, were tiny replicas of human figures, animal forms and everyday objects from ancient civilizations. It was initially believed that these miniatures were once toys for children, but further studies revealed the objects actually held religious significance.
By the 15th century, miniatures had evolved into more sophisticated playthings for adults and collecting them was all the rage. But only the very rich could afford to indulge in them as these pieces were often crafted in great detail by famous artists and craftsmen.
 The craze for miniatures spread rapidly and, by the 1700s, they were being used as educational devices and not just heralded as a favourite pastime or hobby. It was believed a young girl could absorb the fundamentals of a household by arranging her mini furniture and tinkering with her domestic utensils – this is how the modern dollhouse evolved.
The earliest known examples of a dollhouse were found in the Egyptian tombs of the Old Kingdom and are believed to date back 5000 years. These wooden models of servants, boats, furnishings and even pets, discovered in the ancient pyramids, were almost certainly there for religious purposes.
 By the end of the 19th century the romanticism of miniatures was lost; the fashion wavered and they finally succumbed to the needs of children, becoming more toy-like. Mass production, during this time, led to flimsier, poorer pieces and by the time interest in quality miniatures was revived in the 1920s, the demand had dwindled.
Today, miniatures are enjoying a popularity never before seen. Fever has spread all over the world, resulting in an abundance of books, magazines, clubs and even miniature fairs. A new breed of collector has emerged and these miniature enthusiasts are always keen to show off their newest creation or share secrets.
All devotees will, at some time, have come across the term miniaturist. A miniaturist creates art in small scale – normally in 1:12 or 1/44 size – some can even make a whole house fit in the palm of your hand. Skill is the key to styling and creating these amazing works of art, and miniaturists draw from a wide range of materials and techniques. Woodworking, needlecraft, sculpting, artistry, metalwork, electrical installation, painting and papercraft – almost any talent or hobby can be applied in a scaled-down format.
 Kathy Brindle, from Western Australia, is an avid miniaturist with a passion for creating beautiful pieces, specialising in flowers. She started out twenty-five years ago, after bringing up seven children, and has a real flair for it. Her first creations were made in a makeshift studio in her home and, before long, she was teaching classes and meeting other ardent miniaturists. She loves the opportunity the craft gives her to create something beautiful and individual.
Kathy understands that starting out can be unappealing when the first miniature you make isn’t the most glamorous. She persuades beginners to keep their earliest prototypes as a reminder of where they started, and admits the first miniature she completed, a bed, fell to bits in her hands the very moment she picked it up. It can be a challenge to keep encouraging yourself after a failure, but Kathy believes it’s worth it in the end.
She considers miniature making to be a multifaceted craft; it exercises every skill from painting prowess to electrical dexterity, but most important of all you need patience. She has now written three books on how to make your own miniature flowers.
*DID YOU KNOW*
The first known miniatures were found in the Old Kingdom in Egypt. They’re believed to be over 5000 years old! Studies have revealed these miniatures held religious significance.
Where Miniaturists Meet
When enthusiastic miniaturists started meeting at one another’s homes to showcase their art and swap secrets and stories, miniature associations began popping up everywhere.
There are now thousands of known organisations operating in Australia and across the globe. Many of these associations offer open or exclusive memberships, workshops, newsletters, books to buy, and even television shows.
The Australian Miniature Enthusiasts Association Incorporated – or AMEA Inc – was formed in 1995 and is a not-for-profit organisation. Based in Sydney, they have members both in Australia and around the world. Their aim is to promote miniatures and share their enjoyment of the craft with others. Most states in Australia have similar organisations that will gladly assist if you’re starting out in miniatures or simply have a question. In the accompanying table, we’ve compiled some of Australia’s best miniature associations.
AUSTRALIAN MINIATURE ASSOCATIONS
Australian Miniature Enthusiasts Association Incorporated
www.amea.org.au
Victorian Association of Miniature Enthusiasts
www.vame.org.au
South Australian Miniature Enthusiasts Inc
members.fortunecity.com/sameclub
Show off!
Miniatures have a rich history dating back from the Egyptians to modern times where their craze has taken off in epic proportions. If you’re keen to meet other miniaturists, show off your own creations, or spend a day marvelling at these tiny works of art, popular miniature fairs are held in Australia throughout the year. New South Wales has the renowned Sydney Miniatures and Doll’s House Fair – sure to tickle the fancy of miniaturists and doll fanatics alike. It runs during the first weekend in May at Sydney Olympic Park.
South Australia holds an annual South Australian Miniatures Fair, starting on the 2nd weekend of August. Since the debut of the SA Miniaturists Enthusiasts Club in 1983, this fair has been held in numerous locations. For information on the next venue, contact Festival Coordinator, Verna Cannon, on cannonjc@dove.net.au
Victoria also has a lot to offer the miniaturist and runs its own annual miniatures fair on the 2nd weekend of July. This year, it’s to be held at Mt Waverley Community Centre. For details, contact Jan on talbotfamily@optusnet.com.au
These fairs are an amazing breeding ground for talent and they provide a great way to pick up new techniques and make friends.
If you’d like more information on miniatures or classes, contact Kathy Brindle
email: kbrindle@dodo.com.au
Tel: (08) 9725 9147
website: kathyb.synthasite.com/
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Les Indiennes
Indian dyers originally started the practice of producing painted and printed cotton fabrics that were lively in both colour and design, but this centuries old art known as Les Indiennes wasn’t just popular, it was controversial.
Words by Belinda Crestani
The word Indiennes translates to mean Indian chintzes, tracing back to the first century BC. As these cottons were in such demand, the view was they were threatening local weaving industries and so were banned from being produced. In France and England during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries it was prohibited that any of these fabrics were to be worn. The French were so strict that they implemented harsh penalties for breaking the law, including the death penalty.
 The Kalamkari Process
Les Indiennes are made in much the same way kalamkari fabrics were created 400 years ago. Due to high demand, the Dutch East India Trading Company set up shop to develop these vivacious prints. Both Les Indiennes and kalamkari prints are the inspiration for French provencal fabrics. “Mary’s designs are different though,” explains Kevin Henderson of Les Indiennes by Mary Mulcahy, “as they have a background of ‘natural white with airy patterns of big, single-color motifs’.”
“This is Mary’s unique innovation,” he adds, “there’s a lot of Kalamkari fabric out there, but there’s only one Les Indiennes.” The process of making Les Indiennes involves 13 steps, relying on nature – weather, sunlight and water – to create the finished product.
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY
The beautiful French countryside is home to a household establishment of a wondrous production of fabrics and the development of printing techniques. Curator Jacqueline Jacqué at Musée de l'Impression sur Etoffes, The Museum of Printed Textiles of Mulhouse in France talks exclusively to Australian Country Craft and Decorating on the history of Les Indiennes, its appeal and the changing face of fabric.
 What is the history of these centuries-old fabrics?
Since the first century BC Indian dyers had uncovered the secret of dyestuffs. They worked for different markets – India being the first – before exporting these fabrics to many commercials products in Asia. They produced, painted and printed cottons fabrics with lively colors. Since the late 16th century they arrived in Europe, with the boats of the Indian Company. They delivered the prints to the Portuguese first, followed closely by the English, Dutch, and the French. During the 17th and 18th centuries the growing trade with Asia meant there was a demand for all types of cotton to be mass-produced. In India, with the help of European designers, the artisans began selecting patterns that they knew would be popular in the western market. For example, European patrons commissioned pieces bearing their coats of arms or were inspired by the engravings of printed motifs.
 What is the appeal of these prints?
The Europeans particularly liked exotic and elegant plant motifs, part of whose wonderful strangeness lay in its two-dimensionality. These fabrics became very popular among the upper echelon of society, and in 1670 the central figure in Moliere’s Le bourgeois gentilhomme expressed his pride in an indienne that he had made for himself. The desire of the Europeans for the Indian textiles persisted until the end of the 18th century and, in the middle of the century, the textile printing was born.
What makes these prints unique?
The important thing is to understand the novelty of the technique that was used. If you look at the compositions, they are dominated by reds and blues, made by two plants: Madder and Indigo. Europeans carried out a series of investigations into the dyes and techniques used, and a huge–scale transfer technology took place. European textile printing was entirely based on industrial espionage, and this dependence on India was apparent even in the vocabulary that was used: for a long time, until the mid-19thcentury until well into the industrial revolution, printers were known in French as indienneurs, their industry as indiennage, and their products as indiennes.
The Indian chintzes are unique because of the colours and the motifs used in the prints that are inspired mainly by flowers and trees, by branches, flowers and birds.
About the Museum
For more information on the Musée de l'Impression sur Etoffes, The Museum of Printed Textiles of Mulhouse in France visit its website at www.musee-impression.com
To get another perspective on this tradition of fabric, Kevin Henderson from Les Indiennes by Mary Mulcahy tells Australian Country Craft and Decorating readers why the craft has kept in the spotlight for so many centuries.
 Why do you think Les Indiennes is so popular and appealing to people?
There's a simplicity and elegance to them that's unique. The organic cotton, ayurvedic/natural dyes, and the beautiful patterns just appeal to people -- there's enough variety in the Les Indiennes line to satisfy many different tastes -- whether you like a busy pattern like Fleur or something like our India fabric, a large and very popular pattern.
What do you love about these prints?
They are such a godsend to the interior designer as they work in so many different scenarios, looking as good in a room of antique furniture as they do with the most modern Scandinavian designs. They add a unique flair to any room you put them in. Also, it’s the feel of the fabrics themselves is something you have to experience. Once people see them and touch them, they're interested.
What makes your business unique?
We offer fair trade, Control Union Eko-certified organic cotton fabrics, with a design aesthetic and style that is available nowhere else.
Furthermore, Les Indiennes fabrics are made in South India, strictly adhering to the ancient Kalamkari method of printing that imparts the subtle edges and small imperfections that gives every length of fabric a unique personality.
What do you love most about your business?
Everyone at Les Indiennes loves working in a place that makes such beautiful products, while at the same time improving the lives of a village in India on the other side of the globe, and helping an ancient lineage of artisans to preserve this craft, Kalamkari, which is really a living treasure.
For more information on Les Indiennes, visit its website www.lesindiennes.com or its webshop www.lesindiennesshop.com
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For The Love of Country
There are so many different styles of country – from New country to Victorian style – and we love them all!
By Jamie-Lee Hogan
 Rustic, timber and comfortable pieces are the perfect way to create a much-loved country-style home. With such an inviting and warm feel, it’s no wonder we just adore everything country, although there are a variety of different styles! They may all have many similarities but they also have a few differences too. Either way, they’re all gorgeous.
Classic country is comfortable and functional – a characteristic of this style is usually cherished pieces of furniture which has been passed down through the family. The variety of colours used to create the Classic country look includes yellows, blues, greens and peach, apricot and cream. All of these colours are timeless and as they’re toned down, they look simply stunning. And to compliment such colours, a collection of throw rugs, blankets, cushions and quilts, all in different fabrics, are usually selected. The Classic look is best achieved with framed embroideries, while collections of either china or crystal are usually found as well.
We can’t ignore the elegance and charm of the Victorian style. It’s simply beautiful and quite ornamental. This type of décor was preferred by Queen Victoria herself and regular features include ebony timber furniture – upholstered with fancy woollen and silk fabrics – together with collections of china and silver. And when it comes to craft, tapestries are standard, while floral prints came into favour in the era. Popular colours for the Victorian style include creams, olives, burgundy and pinks.
For those who prefer a little more colour, the New country style will be rather appealing. Fresh and boasting a selection of beautiful pastels, lavenders, blues, pinks and greens, this style is light and inviting. Coined ‘shabby chic’ by Rachel Ashwell, the collections and crafts favoured by New country include glassware, quilts and items such as corkboards, curtains and embroidered bedspreads. Floral fabric and artwork is usually displayed and everybody can achieve this style. Items can be found at flea markets and garage sales – simply sand them back and paint them white!
 The style which appears to blend the popular features of new and classic country is Country cottage. Interestingly enough, it emerged as most cottages were rather small – with such little room, items like cooking utensils had to be hung from the rafters while pots were stored on bench tops. Boasting a warm and cosy feel, this style is achieved by clutter, and homes are usually decorated with homemade items including quilts and patchwork cushions, as well as traditional pieces like crocheted milk jugs and embroidered doilies.
With so many different country styles, all of which are simply stunning, it’s just too difficult to choose a favourite. Instead, you can opt to create a unique style for your own home décor – and the beauty of this is that you’re free to mix and match colours, furnishings, fabrics and decorations to suit your taste. Many country styles are hybrids, with their themes continually overlapping and merging. So decide what you love most about all of the different styles of country and combine your favourites into one!
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Lovely Lavender
 Whether you adore the sweet smell of lavender or love to admire its beauty in the garden, it’s safe to say it’s a favourite flower amongst decorators.
By Jamie-Lee Hogan
Dried or fresh, lavender flowers are simply beautiful – planted in gardens world-wide, they can be used in a variety of ways and are extremely versatile. Used for both its splendour and perfume, the lavender plant is the perfect choice of flower for craft enthusiasts. Not only is lavender inspiring and charming, but it looks stunning when replicated on quilts, pillow cases, bags and more. Create everything from lavender moisturiser to gorgeous painted accessories for the home – any project featuring the delicate cottage-garden blooms instantly resonates a sense of calm, splendour and charm.
It’s no wonder lavender is just so popular – it even retains its perfume longer than any other flower and has been enjoyed for thousands of years for its sweet perfume, beauty and medical properties. Just like the Romans – who used lavender’s perfume in their baths – you can use it to indulge and soothe your body of aches and pains.
It is undeniably gorgeous, so decorate your home with lavender-inspired projects, whether they’re cross-stitch, quilts or embroidery, and ensure your house is infused with the delicate smell by displaying lavender in vases. If you’d prefer to take a more simple approach, hang bunches of dried lavender in various rooms of the house – the scent is sure to bring a smile to your face. Add a touch of elegance and tie a pretty ribbon around the stems! And, if you want your clothes to smell delightful, hang it in your closet.
 Avid gardeners can take advantage of this wonderful plant and create a beautiful envisage in their very own backyard. Achieving a country-feel with lavender is simple – grow it alongside a rustic pebble path, relax on your wooden garden bench and inhale the sweet scent. If you have linen or sheets drying on the clothesline it may even be imbued with the aroma and thoroughly enjoyed when you place them on your bed – just like those in the Victorian and Tudor times as they used lavender as a hedging plant, draping their sheets and linens over the bushes to dry.
Get the whole family involved and create a bevy of lavender accessories– there are many fun and easy things to make at home. Kids will especially love making lavender bags! Gorgeous and simple, just fill a small pouch with dried lavender and use a bow to secure it. Pop the bag in your drawers or under pillows – they smell divine while also soothing headaches and aiding restful sleep. Or let the kids spoil you by making homemade lavender bath bombs. They’re easy to make and you can treat yourself to a warm scented bath.
It’s no wonder the aromatic qualities of lavender are popular and much-loved – homemakers can produce their very own oils and soaps, while decorating the home with lavender and enchanting projects and those who enjoy spending time outdoors can revel in its undeniable beauty.
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One of our great contributors, Linda Collins of Designer Stitches filled us in on the Australian women who continue to inspire her in this issues Craft Chatter section. She sent us this great poem she’s written that we just had to share with you all.
How many Quilts?
After being asked how many quilts I’ve made,
Who I’m making this one for or that one for,
Or why and how many quilts do I think I need,
I came to the following conclusion.
I am a creator, an artist,
Just as much as a painter is.
Does anyone ask a painter who he is painting for?
Or why he is painting yet another landscape?
How many pictures/portraits has he painted?
How many canvases or paintings does he need?
No!
Does a painter stop wanting to paint because he has
reached some number that symbolises the end of his need
to paint?
“Okay that’s #100, I’m done now.”
I create because I am driven to create.
My medium just happens to be fabric and thread
Instead of oil or acrylic on canvas.
But I create for the same reason,
To express myself, to share myself, to experiment.
Even if the quilt doesn’t have a purpose, a recipient, a reason,
Quilting is my voice.
I quilt, therefore I am!
Choc-full
It's wildly believed that chocolate is an aphrodisiac and that some dark varieties are good for you, but most of us don't need a scientifically proven excuse to devour it - the delightful taste is reason enough.
Click to Choc-full (PDF file 279K)
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