tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7800360375873338282024-02-07T05:06:19.941+00:00polka & bloomCarinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-20284220593151135642013-06-20T20:09:00.004+01:002013-06-20T20:09:49.106+01:00New in the shop: Maybroidery collection<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=24851163"><img alt="Maybroidery collection in the shop" border="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGNg74yqrRUiR_UN6_uqoyZfyiyLERCAdOFlBHux9KmKlZAqEl87a5oNinypV_dZuSxskIw81P6w8W3mqqwtAP4FxgIzN-oiuQK58NmsFWOs2805inmcWkFmJnYtyIz61E7DnYb8UXKI/s1600/MaybroideryCollection-screenshot02-blog.png" width="500" /></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">I stitched (almost) every single day in May! Yay! I think I missed 4 days in total - not bad! </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">It was a really nice project to have. I think I'll do it again! If you ever want to do something similar I have a tip to make it easier - especially at the beginning. Cut out pieces of fabric to stitch on for a few days at a time. It's amazing how cutting a bit of fabric can seem like a chore - and an excuse to not stitch! So cut fabric ahead of time!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">♥ <strong>Maybroidery motif collection</strong> ♥</span><br style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">I had no plans to make these stitcheries into patterns but I've had queries to do just that, so </span><a data-cke-saved-href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=24851163" href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=24851163" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_self">here they are</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">! There are 20 motifs in all - they are quite small. They fit in a 4" embroidery hoop. Some of them are quite simple to do and most of them use stitches you're probably familiar with already. They all take less than 2 hours to stitch, a lot of them around an hour. Perfect for a bit of stitching at the weekend. or indeed if you want to do your own daily project. :-)</span><br style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><br style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">So here is the </span><a data-cke-saved-href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=24851163" href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=24851163" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_self">Maybroidery collection in the shop</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">. <b>And until Saturday you can get it for just $5.00 (that's almost half price!) with this code: TAKEFIVE</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-23393086667677498892013-05-08T19:04:00.000+01:002013-05-08T19:04:02.843+01:00Embellish with Stitches - new class!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8712607237/" title="Embellish with Stitches by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Embellish with Stitches" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8261/8712607237_4c8bc06462.jpg" width="499" /></a></div>
<br />
If you're anything remotely like me you've probably got a few pieces in your wardrobe that could be worn a bit more frequently. Yes? That jacket you used to love but now the love has faded slightly. Or a tshirt that could do with a brightening up.<br />
<br />
♥ Embellish with Stitches ♥<br />
Well, that's what <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=23347164">my new class</a> is all about! It's four weeks of stitchy goodness all focused on giving our wardrobes a bit of a makeover. There will be some fun techniques, new stitches to try and classics like cross stitch. All in delicious happy colours of course! The class is suitable for anyone, beginners and more experiences stitchers.<br />
<br />
Some of the things covered in the class:<br />
• Stitching on jersey (tshirts and similar) <br />
• Couching <br />
• Embroidery on a jacket <br />
• Rhodes stitch<br />
• Designs that will appeal to the menfolk in our lives <br />
• Using soluble canvas <br />
• Embellishing canvas shoes (yes, shoes!) <br />
• And lots more!<br />
<br />
♥ Class start ♥<br />
The class starts on May 20th and runs for 4 weeks. You will have access to the class site after the end of the class and most of the material will also be available as PDFs to download and save on your computer. <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=23347164">Sign up here for the class</a>.<br />
<br />
I hope to see you in class for some stitching fun! :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-15814736906695335062013-04-24T09:19:00.001+01:002013-04-24T09:19:28.134+01:00Polka & Bloom new look!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8657613201/" title="Shop new look by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Shop new look" height="356" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8657613201_592f1471b4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
The <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/">Polka & Bloom shop</a> has a brand new look! I hope you like it. :-)<br />
<br />
For comparison, here's<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8658718780/"> a screenshot of the old version</a>. I think the new look is a nice improvement. Light and fresh. Also, pink! :-)<br />
<br />
As you can see, now there's just a sidebar on the front page - there used to be a menu made up of images, but the sidebar is a lot cleaner and I can update it from the back end of my shop.<br />
<br />
When you're looking at the gallery view of the categories, there's a new feature. If you hover over the thumbnail images of the patterns, they will enlarge. This is good because you can see them better before you even click through to the individual pages. Also, it feels kinda like a 3D effect and that's all the rage, right? ;-)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8658718744/" title="Shop new look by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Shop new look" height="360" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8658718744_56a64604e1.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
There is more space overall for the shop layout and that means that the main photo for individual patterns (etc) have become larger too. This is something I was really keen on implementing. It's nice to be able to see things properly! Especially when it's a nice scary fellow like in the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=781558&id=7086408">Calavera Skull</a> pattern there. ;-)<br />
<br />
I've added a few new things that I hope will be helpful. An <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/about.html">About page</a> - in case anyone wants to learn a wee bit about me/Polka & Bloom. And an <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/FAQ.html">FAQ page</a> - this will be a work in progress, I'll keep adding Qs & As to it. So if you have any questions that are somehow related to the shop or anything in it, do let me know.<br />
<br />
I have also moved all my free patterns to live in the shop so it's easier to keep track of them and make updates/changes. The free patterns are now called '<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/category/id=5317041&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">donationware</a>' but they are still free (!) - or you can make a small donation for them if you like. But that is 100% optional/voluntary! I've added some new patterns to that section and plan on doing more soon, so do check 'em out. :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-2233563147501869472013-04-03T14:28:00.000+01:002013-04-03T14:28:06.161+01:00Paris Spring - new embroidery pattern!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8616639608/" title="Paris Spring pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Paris Spring pattern" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8385/8616639608_cb918f8c81.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Happy April! Is it spring yet? It's so cold here in the UK, we're still wearing our winter coats. Where's the sun, the warmth?<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #adcd1d;"><b>♥ Paris Spring pattern ♥</b></span><br />
Atleast with my new pattern, <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=22010925">Paris Spring</a> I can fantasize about being in Paris, sipping a nice beverage at a rickety table on the sidewalk outside a cozy café. Oh if only, right?! :-)<br />
<br />
The pattern is inspired by Paris Metro signs, Art Nouveau (with all its curly and swirly bits) and of course the Eiffel Tower. It's not a naturalistic Tour Eiffel, because that would just be boring! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8616639666/" title="Paris Spring pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Paris Spring pattern" height="492" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8616639666_094a5a6f97.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=22010925">Paris Spring - in the shop now</a></div>
<br />
My stitched version is full of hearts because Paris has that reputation of being all about l'amour. But! If you're in a less romantic mood, the pattern also includes a version without a single heart. And there are also stripped down versions of the Tower, without any decorations. Plus a few frames and borders and a flurry of hearts (très romantique, non?)<br />
<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-55252856935056674052013-03-23T19:35:00.000+00:002013-03-23T19:37:17.558+00:00The patterns of 2012<center><a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/"><img alt="Polka & Bloom patterns from 2012" border="0" src="http://polkaandbloom.com/blogphotos/patterns2012_.png" width="500px" /></a></center>I was thinking earlier that last year I didn't make that many patterns because I was so busy making patterns etc for the book.. So I had a look and the result isn't that bad! 7 new patterns in a year where so much other stuff was going on - that's not too shabby!<br />
<br />
I hope to make more this year! Maybe as many as ten. I can totally do that. I think! ;-)<br />
<br />
Is there anything you're itching to stitch?<br />
<br />
Oh and in case you're wondering about the patterns in that collage, they're: <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=781558&id=15079006">Tree of Joy</a>, <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=781558&id=15887343">Matryoshka</a>, <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=781558&id=10146599">Dandelion Wreath</a> and <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=781558&id=8739127">Fresh Blooms</a>. And of course the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=781558&id=17207145">2012 set of snowflakes</a>. :-)<br />
<br />
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-61171317146910164372013-03-14T20:32:00.000+00:002013-03-23T20:33:01.582+00:00Test<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2522502/?claim=3yfb9cc4zdq">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-24465749330850685502013-02-13T19:33:00.003+00:002013-02-13T19:33:45.458+00:00Valentine's Sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8470742087/" title="I Heart You by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="I Heart You" height="262" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8522/8470742087_f178acfd9f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #ff3399; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #ff3399; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">♥ <b>Valentine's Sale</b> ♥</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">There's a wee sale in my shop to celebrate Valentine's! </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: #ff3399;">15% off all <a href="http://wardi.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acd1b91f1b1ed0a028743a00f&id=e5b7a8ba5d&e=a51723be06" style="color: #336699; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">patterns</a> and <a href="http://wardi.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acd1b91f1b1ed0a028743a00f&id=20e40f773e&e=a51723be06" style="color: #336699; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">ebooks</a></span></strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">. Simply use code </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: #ff3399;">HEARTYOU</span></strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> at checkout. The sale ends on Friday!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8449842515/" title="Blomkrans embroidery pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Blomkrans embroidery pattern" height="491" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8229/8449842515_7406868d0a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: #ff3399;">♥ New pattern</span><span style="color: #ff3399;"> ♥</span></strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">And why not put that discount to good use on this new pattern called </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><a href="http://wardi.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acd1b91f1b1ed0a028743a00f&id=7ab9f4b408&e=a51723be06" style="color: #336699; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Blomkrans</a></strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">? It is inspired by Swedish folk embroidery. The name means 'Flower wreath' in Swedish - in case you were wondering! The pattern includes 15 extra motifs derived from the main pattern so there's plenty to mix and match and do your own thing. :-)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Happy stitching - and happy Valentine's!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">xo, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #ff66cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Carina</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #ff66cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">PS </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">- </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Are you on Instagram? I'd love to see what you're up to - stitchy or otherwise! </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Find me as <a href="http://instagram.com/polkaandbloom">polkaandbloom</a>. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">And I'd absolutely love if you'd share what you make from Polka & Bloom patterns. :-)</span>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-61718855096373051242012-12-04T18:29:00.001+00:002012-12-05T08:35:04.878+00:00Embroidered jewellery + a sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8220032055/" title="Stitched jewellery by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Stitched jewellery" height="344" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8489/8220032055_8836080db9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
A few bits of news to share! I have made a collection of <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/category/id=4122024&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">embroidered jewellery</a> which is in the shop now. There are brooches, pendants and even a pair of earrings. All lovingly handstitched by yours truly. :-) There is only one of each. <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/category/id=4122024&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">Check 'em out here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8148179984/" title="2013 calendar - Polka & Bloom by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="2013 calendar - Polka & Bloom" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8475/8148179984_d421b3d1bc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<strike>The 2013 calendar panels are almost all gone - and I will not be ordering more, so if you want one, now's the time to strike!</strike> :-) Eep! The calendars have completely sold out now. Thank you very much!<br />
<br />
If you're planning on using any of the goodies from the Polka & Bloom shop as Christmas presents, then these are the recommended posting dates from Royal Mail. And posting sooner rather than later is best of course, because all sorts of interesting things can happen to slow down mail... especially this time of year! ;-) <br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: red;">December 5:</span></u> </b>Africa, Asia, Australia, Caribbean, Central America, New Zealand and South America<br />
<span style="color: red;">December 7:</span> Africa, Caribbean, Central America, Middle East and South America<br />
<span style="color: orange;">December 10:</span> Canada, Eastern Europe and USA<br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">December 12:</span> Western Europe<br />
<br />
- I will of course do my bit and get the goodies posted to you ASAP! :-)<br />
<br />
I'm having a sale in the shop, running from now until Friday, December 7th. Use code STITCHMAS to save 20% off <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/category/id=781558&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">embroidery patterns</a> (including pattern sets!), <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/category/id=781559&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">embroidery ebooks</a> and the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/category/id=4122024&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">embroidered jewellery</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8245276138/" title="Polka & Bloom Last Sale 2012 by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Polka & Bloom Last Sale 2012" height="281" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8065/8245276138_b6ff814471_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-62109249957782181202012-11-11T14:38:00.003+00:002013-02-01T19:34:55.983+00:002012 Snowflake Collection is here!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8175233102/" title="2012 Snowflake collection by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="2012 Snowflake collection" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8478/8175233102_44fd2dfd7d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
The <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=0&id=17207145">2012 snowflake collection</a> is here! And for a limited time you can even buy all three for just $10!<br />
<br />
Find the flakes individually here: <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/id=17207131">Red</a>, <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/id=17207141">Blue</a> and <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/id=17207142">Purple</a>.<br />
<br />
Do pop over to <a href="http://carinascraftblog.wardi.dk/2012/11/sublime-floss-and-giveaway.html">Carina' Craftblog</a> (my other blog) because I've got a wee giveaway going on - you could win some Sublime Floss - the new embroidery floss from Sublime Stitching! :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-16370707620072334402012-11-06T10:39:00.000+00:002012-11-06T10:39:07.923+00:002013 Polka & Bloom calendar panels in the shop!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8148179984/" title="2013 calendar - Polka & Bloom by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="2013 calendar - Polka & Bloom" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8475/8148179984_d421b3d1bc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
The 2013 Polka & Bloom calendar panels are in the shop! Or rather, pre-orders of the second lot, because the first lot has sold out already!! I can't even say how happy that makes me! Every new design feels like a bit of a gamble... "will people even like this?!" I'm always so happy when it turns out that people do like it. :-)<br />
<br />
There are two colourways: <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=1891741&id=16431547">grey outline</a> and <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#!/~/product/category=1891741&id=16431537">colour outline</a>. The calendar is inspired by colourful Scandinavian embroidery. Lots of flowers, leaves and a few hearts too!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8148189452/" title="2013 calendar - Polka & Bloom by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="2013 calendar - Polka & Bloom" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8333/8148189452_73d322ac11.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
You can of course embellish the calendar as much or as little as you like. I've started filling in some of the leaves with satin stitching. And highlighted our wedding anniversary with a wee box. A slightly wonky box... but never mind.. ;-)<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8121877987/" title="2013 Polka & Bloom calendar preview by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="2013 Polka & Bloom calendar preview" height="448" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8121877987_f7e89a3e64.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-45886747152134829022012-10-15T08:38:00.002+01:002012-10-15T08:42:01.573+01:00Matryoschka - new pattern! Plus a sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8077629309/" title="Matryoschka pattern - detail by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Matryoschka pattern - detail" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8196/8077629309_92cc223bc5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
There's a new pattern in the Polka & Bloom shop: <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=product&product=15887343">Matryoschka</a>!<br />
<br />
The idea has been in my head for a little while, but the timing just wasn't right. Too many matryoschka things were available at one point, and then I didn't have time and couldn't quite the design just so.<br />
<br />
But now I have and I'm so pleased I waited, took the time to do it when it felt right. :-)<br />
<br />
In other news: I'm closing the Artfire<a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/polkaandbloom"> 'branch' of Polka & Bloom</a>, so through this month I've got a sale over there. 20% off everything! You don't have to enter a code or anything, the prices are already reduced. :-)<br />
Not all the most recent patterns are in the Artfire shop, but you can find most of my 'old' patterns etc. Great opportunity to stock up if you're missing something in your Polka & Bloom collection! ;-)<br />
<br />
My other shop isn't going anywhere, in case you were wondering!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/8077620024/" title="Matryoschka pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Matryoschka pattern" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8196/8077620024_f2cefd71c1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-90766374913544926892012-09-11T11:19:00.002+01:002012-09-11T11:19:55.263+01:00Tree of Joy - new pattern!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7975866912/" title="Tree of joy - new pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Tree of joy - new pattern" height="417" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8442/7975866912_a1f57bc0f7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
It's my new pattern! <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=product&product=15079006">Tree of Joy</a>! It's called that because it is sort of a tree design - a sister design to the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:mode=product&product=3316645">Tree of Life</a> and the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:mode=product&product=3316659">Tree of Love</a> patterns - and I think the colours are quite joyful. :-)<br />
<br />
It was not my intention, but the pattern feels kinda Christmas-y.. Maybe it's the sort of triangular shape.. or the colours? A pretty nifty thing about this pattern is that you can use it like this - or upside down! <br />
<br />
And I think this pattern would also lend itself very well to being stitched with more strands of stranded cotton than I have used here. I used two strands as with all my patterns. But this one... would be smashing with the extra colour saturation that more strands would give... :-)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=product&product=15079006">Tree of Joy</a> is in the shop now for your stitching pleasure. :-)Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-6155187826582310972012-09-03T13:00:00.001+01:002012-09-03T13:00:24.362+01:00Embroidery needle lenghts<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7920760230/" title="Needles by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Needles" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8042/7920760230_e5a3ee0c7d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
I'm working on the writing part of my book at the moment. I'm including a wee section needles and as I was writing it I got to wondering "say, how long is a number 6 crewel/embroidery needle really?" Because those numbers just seem completely random, don't they?<br />
<br />
So, I put everything else aside to measure. my. needles. So sad. But also so kinda satisfying. In case you've wondered the same thing, but aren't quite so sad that you will actually measure your needles, here's that info for ya. Well, for those needles I had to hand. If I had time I might actually find all my needles and make a proper chart of their measurements.. but right now I have better things to do! ;-)<br />
<br />
<br />
Size 1 = 48.5mm<br />
Size 3 = 45mm<br />
Size 5 = 41.5mm<br />
Size 6 = 38.5mm<br />
Size 7 = 37.5mm<br />
Size 8 = 34mm<br />
Size 9 = 34mm<br />
Size 10 = 32.5mm<br />
<br />
If you want the inch-y equivalent of these measurements, just put "xx mm in inches" into a Google search box and the answer will be given to you within seconds.
<br />
<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-90690946566560741932012-08-31T21:55:00.002+01:002012-08-31T21:55:15.188+01:00Book sneak peek<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7902262588/" title="Sneak peeks of my first book by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Sneak peeks of my first book" height="381" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8181/7902262588_5b14846096.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
A few sneak peeks of what is going to be in my book (will be published autumn next year). All the stitching is done. I'm glad that part is done. Not that I mind stitching! But it was a lot of stitching in a fairly short period of time! Glad to have a bit more time to stitch other things. :-)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;">* * * * * *</span></div>
<br />
Don't forget the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/">Polka & Bloom</a> sale ends tonight! <b><span style="color: red;">20% off</span></b> all embroidery patterns and ebooks. Go on, grab a bargain! Enter LUNCHBOX at checkout to apply the discount. :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-61111413466800310722012-08-24T19:18:00.001+01:002012-08-24T19:18:09.060+01:00Polk & Bloom Back to School Sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7852279130/" title="Polka & Bloom 2012 Back to School Sale by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Polka & Bloom 2012 Back to School Sale" height="319" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8291/7852279130_4521f5dde7_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's a sale in the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/">Polka & Bloom shop</a>! And it's a big one, yo!<br />
<br />
Take 20% off all <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=category&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">patterns</a> and <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781559&mode=category&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">ebooks</a> between now and August 31 (included). The discount also applies to <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=2858017&mode=category&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">pattern sets</a> and ebook sets!<br />
<br />
All you gotta do is enter this code at checkout: LUNCHBOX - get it? School, lunchbox! ;-)<br />
<br />
So. 20% off. Until August 31. Go grab yourself a bargain! :-)Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-64732169746018165862012-08-07T20:30:00.002+01:002012-08-07T20:30:59.138+01:00Christmas Stitches 2012 - sign up now!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7734894882/" title="Christmas Stitches Class 2012 by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Stitches Class 2012" height="329" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/7734894882_0a05769102.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Ho ho ho!<br />
<br />
No, the heat hasn't gone to my head - it's because the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=6761558">Christmas Stitches class</a> is here! I know, you're probably thinking "Christmas?! There's ages until I have to start thinking about Christmas!"<br />
<br />
But no. Now's the time to start planning and making - especially if you want to make your Christmas presents or decorations. So the class starts on August 20th to give you plenty of time to make things. You can sign up right now, <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=6761558">right here</a>.<br />
<br />
Click on over to <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=6761558">the shop</a> to see all the details, but here's the skinny:<br />
<br />
Class starts on August 20th and ends on September 16th. All materials will be available until November 30th. The projects are a combination of embroidery patterns and sewing projects. Beginners are very welcome - all stitches are explained and illustrated. <br />
<br />
To save 5% sign up between now and August 11th. Enter SNOWMAN at checkout to apply the discount.<br />
<br />
I hope you'll join me for some Christmas fun in <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=6761558">the class</a>! :-)<br />
<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-62043079973334440482012-08-02T18:55:00.001+01:002012-08-02T18:55:08.587+01:0010% off all patterns!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7699157754/" title="Love bikes! by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Love bikes!" height="371" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7274/7699157754_de9c65d502.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Maybe you don't know this but I loooove the sport of bicycling. I've watched the Tour de France for 20 years - it's just such a fascinating sport! Chaps on bikes braving mountains in sun, wind and rain. The sport of real champions if you ask me! ;-)<br />
<br />
Well, you may have heard that some English/UK cycling chaps have had a bit of success recently? First winning Le Tour and then gold in the Olympic Road Race and Team Sprint. That's worth ringing your bike bell for!<br />
<br />
So, to celebrate, there's <b><span style="color: red;">10% off</span><span style="color: lime;"> </span></b><a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=category&offset=0&sort=addedTimeDesc">all embroidery patterns</a> in the Polka & Bloom shop between now and Saturday (included). Just enter LOVEBIKES at check out.<br />
<br />
And if you want to stitch up some bikes, well, I've got you covered - there's two different sets of bike patterns in the shop: <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781561&mode=product&product=3316642">Keepin' Steady</a> and <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781561&mode=product&product=3270847">Freewheelin'</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>PS: The <b>Christmas Stitches class</b> will start soon - perfect for making stitchy presents this year! More details on Monday.</i> :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-12931043204933423992012-07-21T23:37:00.000+01:002012-07-21T23:37:15.871+01:00New flowery pattern + a discount<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7602948056/" title="Nature's Jewels embroidery pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Nature's Jewels embroidery pattern" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8003/7602948056_3bd92189ba.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
A quick post to let you know that the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=13047679">Nature's Jewels pattern</a> is now available in the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/">Polka & Bloom shop</a>!<br />
<br />
And to celebrate that I sent off all the projects for my book last Monday, there's 16% off everything in the shop until (and including) Monday, July 23rd. 16% because last Monday was the 16th. ;-)<br />
<br />
Enter the code PHEW16 at the checkout. :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-85640074319982572952012-07-15T15:47:00.000+01:002013-01-07T12:52:25.464+00:00I need your help! :-)<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7574899050/" title="Polka & Bloom by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Polka & Bloom" height="126" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8151/7574899050_ece69bac95.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
As you may know, I'm working on a book - to be published some time next year - and for one section of it, I'd love your thoughts. What would you like to know about embroidery basics? Or maybe you wish someone had told you when you were new to embroidery..? It could be about pattern transfer, needles, fabric.. etc.<br />
<br />
It's important to me that the book, apart from having nice patterns and projects of course(!), also be really useful. Especially if you're new to embroidery, but also that it has great tips for more experienced peeps.<br />
<br />
I'm especially looking for your input on the content of the book, not the appearance, since I may not have *that* big a say regarding that.<br />
<br />
Please leave your thoughts in a comment on this post - or email me if you prefer. :-)<br />
<br />
<i><b><span style="color: #00b2ee;">And now for something completely different-</span></b></i><br />
<br />
For a while I've been considering putting together some kits with pre-printed panels (so you don't have to fiddle with pattern transfer, yay!) and embroidery thread etc.<br />
<br />
Before I go ahead with this, it'd be really helpful to know if there's an interest in this. So if you think this is something that you might perhaps maybe be interested, I'd be grateful if you'd <a href="http://svy.mk/MLtWpw">take this quick survey</a>. Thank you!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://svy.mk/MLtWpw"><img alt="take embroidery kit survey" border="0px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmxFiEqwQLx8gsLGN9pxHGHQobblLxutGkcfzztFGFPwLobdtNTOz2_-_8NrPNQy0QT3lssnGq-FLYmzG1kzIys-WpQSdUIoUpvQE1gKsd-JDR8ZTJesBbEJ6UuGE15ZH8W8ain5INmGQU/s1600/surveybutton_.png" width="160px" /></a></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-9792796170610849092012-06-28T06:40:00.000+01:002012-06-28T06:40:30.425+01:00Review to win<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/6109554553/" title="Untitled by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6065/6109554553_6db06af35f_z.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>As you may know you can <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/leavefeedback.html">review your purchases</a> from Polka & Bloom and be automatically entered in a drawing to win a free pattern. Apart from the fun of randomly being able to give a free pattern to someone, it also means a lot to me to hear what you think of the patterns or ebooks you buy from Polka & Bloom!<br />
<br />
Sadly, though, I've been running absolutely behind with the picking of such winners lately! So here are three in one go. Randomly picked of course!<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/3661090856/" title="Tree of Life embroidery by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Tree of Life embroidery" height="270" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2440/3661090856_8a67c3303d.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/4515882124/" title="Tree of Love by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Tree of Love" height="270" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2759/4515882124_f8a050e6f4.jpg" /></a></center><br />
ERL said this about the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=2858017&mode=product&product=5981484">Tree of Life + Tree of Love set</a>:<br />
<blockquote>Beautiful patterns and I appreciated the free one that came with the purchase.</blockquote><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/4901961237/" title="August Blooms by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="August Blooms" height="498" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4098/4901961237_43ddf1e4ef.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
Sara L reviewed the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781560&mode=product&product=3326172">August Blooms pattern</a>:<br />
<blockquote>This was the first embroidery pattern I ever attempted. I'm sure I could have picked something less intricate for my first time out, but I wanted to choose something beautiful that I would want to keep when I was finished. I love it so far! I spent 2 hours working on it this evening, and it's just great. I love the design and the colors, so beautiful! I can't wait to make more!</blockquote><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7007339420/" title="May Flowers embroidery pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="May Flowers embroidery pattern" height="486" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5331/7007339420_ac41ceb002.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
Egl has this to say about the <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781560&mode=product&product=11562520">May Flowers pattern</a>:<br />
<blockquote>I needed a pick me up, and when I saw May Flowers on your blog, I knew it was just the thing! Love the airy design and colors that are quietly happy. Also loved the smaller patterns that were included. Thanks for a wonderful spring design!</blockquote><br />
Thank you all for taking the time to tell me what you think!<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-91190293623595213572012-06-18T21:34:00.001+01:002012-06-18T21:34:09.893+01:00Christmas Stitches ebook is live!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7396544226/" title="Christmas Stitches Ebook by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Stitches Ebook" height="381" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5452/7396544226_6f1f9f3c69.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Yay! The<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=12696026"> Christmas Stitches ebook</a> is done and it's in the shop!<br />
<br />
I really was annoyed that I had to postpone its launch, but I'm glad I had to because it's so much the better for it! Or, that's my humble opinion anyway. ;-)<br />
<br />
Big thanks to <a href="http://blog.followthewhitebunny.com/">Nicole</a> for help with proof reading and such! :-)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7396544874/" title="Christmas Stitches Ebook by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Stitches Ebook" height="381" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8011/7396544874_ab09f6a13d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Here you can see the content of the ebook. There's 9 projects, all with templates. And 16 embroidery patterns. Plus you get instructions for doing all the stitches used in the patterns, including the super fun shisha (mirror) stitch.<br />
<br />
Christmas Stitches was originally an online class which I taught in 2010 and 2011 - and may teach again this year. But now all the content is available in one handy volume - and much cheaper than taking a class. ;-) <br />
<br />
<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=12696026">Buy Christmas Stitches</a> before June 22 (included) and save 15% with this code: SNOWFLAKE<br />
<br />
Here's another couple of sneak peeks at the ebook - click on them to view larger on Flickr.<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7396542958/" title="Christmas Stitches Ebook by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Stitches Ebook" height="183" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7231/7396542958_dbf6cc1d78_m.jpg" width="240" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7396543584/" title="Christmas Stitches Ebook by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Stitches Ebook" height="183" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7238/7396543584_3295c35a7b_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></center>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-6470929399165123612012-06-15T20:24:00.000+01:002012-06-15T20:24:14.566+01:00Ebook delayed...<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7190323759/" title="D'oh! by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="D'oh!" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7211/7190323759_2b582317a8.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
D'oh! Indeed. You think you have everything under control and then it turns out that you don't.<br />
<br />
The Christmas Stitches ebook will be a bit delayed. It needs a bit more work than I had originally thought, so it will be a bit longer until it's available.<br />
<br />
Which is frustrating, because I said it was going to be ready this week but now it won't be and... that annoys me! Yes, I could have pulled all-nighters just to finish it when I said I would but I don't think that'd be doing anyone any favours - least of all the ebook!<br />
<br />
So I'll just have to have patience.. it'll be ready when it's ready. Soon! But just not quite yet.. :-)<br />
<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-72290533479722608032012-06-04T18:36:00.002+01:002012-06-04T18:36:39.809+01:00New ebook coming soon!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7337101594/" title="Christmas Stitches ebook coming soon! by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Stitches ebook coming soon!" height="395" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7223/7337101594_d75d1991c8.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The last couple of years I've taught a class called Christmas Stitches, it will very soon be available as an ebook! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's been almost finished for quite a while, because I've been busy working on my book. But now the Christmas Stitches ebook is almost here! Seriously, for real! :-) </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Just a few more things to tweak and then it's all done. Yay! :-)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Some time next week, hooray! And if you're a subscriber to the <a href="http://eepurl.com/cn5Ef">Polka & Bloom newsletter</a> you'll even get a nice discount on the ebook.</div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-28158742932015436692012-05-07T19:58:00.001+01:002012-05-07T19:58:18.839+01:00May Flowers pattern in the shop<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7153428821/" title="May Flowers - detail by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="May Flowers - detail" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/7153428821_3ca5944532.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
This is my new pattern: <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=product&product=11562520">May Flowers</a>. I really like the colours of this one. It's so very spring-y! Which is funny because I actually started it in December or something. Maybe I was dreaming of spring then...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7153427681/" title="May Flowers - detail by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="May Flowers - detail" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7246/7153427681_fd79fe99c2.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=product&product=11562520">May Flowers</a> is a fairly large pattern, about 8" wide! You need a pretty big hoop for that - if indeed you use a hoop. It just fits in 9" hoop! The pattern also includes a smaller version in case you want something that's Not Quite So Large!<br />
<br />
Oh and there are 5 smaller elements in the pattern too. :-)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7153427217/" title="May Flowers - detail by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="May Flowers - detail" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/7153427217_e43e7f4338.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7007338086/" title="May Flowers - detail by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="May Flowers - detail" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8006/7007338086_2494476a52.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Get <a href="http://shop.polkaandbloom.com/#ecwid:category=781558&mode=product&product=11562520">May Flowers</a> in the Polka & Bloom shop now.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7007339420/" title="May Flowers embroidery pattern by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="May Flowers embroidery pattern" height="311" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5331/7007339420_ac41ceb002_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-780036037587333828.post-69122426979135983532012-05-07T15:45:00.004+01:002012-05-07T15:45:59.130+01:00Too many colours<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wardi/7152617239/" title="Sometimes it's hard to pick colours... by Carina » Polka & Bloom, on Flickr"><img alt="Sometimes it's hard to pick colours..." height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7086/7152617239_801d608202.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
Is it just me, or is it sometimes really hard to pick colours for embroidery projects? You'd think having lots of colours would be a good thing but sometimes... it's like being a kid in a candy story, you just don't know what to get! :-)<br />
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11699369469154660850noreply@blogger.com4