Saffrons Blog

I'm a fabric designer, mum and creative crafty person. A blog about fabrics, projects, ideas and things that inspire me.

This is what I did for the back of the Magical Lands quilt

Saffron Craig - Tuesday, April 19, 2011
As promised, here's the back of the quilt I made last week. I simply used strips of different fabrics, couldn't be easier to create a striking back and lots to explore for a little baby once it crawls over it...

Saffron Craig Magical Lands quilt back

Saffron Craig Magical Lands quilt back



Do you prefer the back to the front of this quilt?


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2 comments
Diane commented on 23-Apr-2011 12:28 PM
I actually do prefer the back. It really shows off the fabric, which I think is too cute to cut up. The panel with the mountains looks spectacular!
Sharon Feigl commented on 02-May-2011 01:10 PM
Hi Saffron, I just love that back...very yummy

Join the Naked Bed Challenge and sneak peak of my new range

Saffron Craig - Sunday, April 17, 2011
I have just joined the The Naked bed challenge. Have you?

The challenge is to make myself a quilt that I will be well, ahem, naked under. The idea is to replace the doona with a quilt made by you with some of the amazing fabrics available now! Don't you want to sleep under something you made?

This a thought of Sarah Fielke which is now actualized. Thank you Sarah and Cara for coming up with this idea.

Do you sleep under a quilt? If not then rise to the challenge, it will be fun. Not to mention a great idea. The challenge ends just after my birthday at the end of May. Which means I get the added bonus of giving myself a birthday present. Or a few all nighters to get it done.

This is what I have designed so far. Do you recognized the fabrics? Probably not as they're hot off the printers and have just arrived. They're my latest range called Imaginary Flowers and I will let you know more about them this week.

I am in love, the printers did an amazing job. Mmh these fabrics are going to live in my room for sure. Husband approved too.

Here's a few photos of the quilt I'm making for the Naked Bed challenge with my new fabrics from Imaginary Flowers:



What do you think of the sneak peak at my new quilt design? The above picture is a few of the blocks I have been putting together. So much fun for me today. A sewing Sunday, my favourite kind.

You can join the challenge here on Sarah's blog, just scroll down the page:

Bannerblog

I signed up as number 15 and now the group is 94 so go on help to make it 100.

What are you imagining? If you need some inspiration have a look at this flickr group.



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9 comments
Kate Conklin commented on 17-Apr-2011 08:34 PM
Oooh, I love your new range, especially the thick stripey one. Even though I have made a tonne of quilts, I have yet to make a quilt for myself! Sounds like a fun challenge.
Steph commented on 17-Apr-2011 11:30 PM
Oh you had me with the purples... absolutely stunning but of course you know that hehe. What a great challenge and perfect birthday present!! Can't wait to see the finished product hun!! xo Steph
Delilah commented on 18-Apr-2011 12:33 AM
the idea of making a quilt for me was the topic at breakfast this morning. I had planned on making myself a quilt for my birthday/ which is this Thursday. TOO LATE. So I decided to start one now for my birthday next year. I will name it "My naked Challenge"
Bec commented on 18-Apr-2011 07:45 AM
Ahhh Saffron.. your new range is beautiful!! I love the leaves on the flowers... xx I hope your enjoying the holidays..xx Happy Easter! xx
Hilary McFarlane commented on 18-Apr-2011 02:57 PM
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. So glad you are going to Darling Harbour...now I'll have time to save up for a bit of a spending spree! Looking forward to see the finished quilt too!
Rachael commented on 18-Apr-2011 05:20 PM
Your new range is wonderful!! Love the colours and love the theme of flowers. Looking forward to seeing your quilting. I'm so tempted by the naked bed challenge but I've told myself no more projects till I've finished all my WIPs. It's such a great idea
though.
CindyW commented on 19-Apr-2011 06:26 PM
Absolutely love your purple ranges. Loven what you are showing us at the mo, sneak peek. Great challenge
Sharon commented on 19-Apr-2011 11:01 PM
What a gorgeous range - You're newly discovered in my world and I just LOVE your fresh exciting approach to all things - fabric, patterns and style. Very motivating...
Jennifer commented on 20-Apr-2011 07:49 AM
Saffron, I love love love your new range. Cant wait to see more of it. Will have to save up my pennies to get some of it.

New Magical Lands quilt top - made in a day

Saffron Craig - Friday, April 15, 2011
Yay I found time to make a quilt top!

This one is actually a commission for a close family friend, who is to be a first time mum any day now. Thankfully she loves green. I put together this simple quilt top today using the slash and stack method. It's school holidays here so life is super busy with entertaining the little one(s). Super full and so not in front of a computer blogging, designing or creating. But awesome sunshine has allowed us lots of outside time relaxing and having fun.

Saffron Craig Magical Lands quilt top

Below are a few photos of the process.

From top left:
Cutting the outside border. I wanted to use a variety of colour.
Detail of the slashed and stacked fabric pieces in the final block.
Detail of the fabrics from the Magical Lands range.
Detail of the border. It's only 1 inch and I love how the green Gingko Blossoms work as the sashing or as another border depending on how you look at it.

Saffron Craig Magical Lands quilt top

We went out this morning for a walk and took a few pictures. This one is against the bus stop window. It was a mistake as the sun was to strong and caused back lighting but it shows much about the structure of the quilt. Yep those perfect 1/4 inch seams (yeah right:)!

Saffron Craig Magical Lands quilt top

I have an idea, indeed a plan, to use the Magical Lands for the back of the quilt as well. So I better get cracking with that. Promise to show you more when it is finished.

Hope you're all well and happy.


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5 comments
kate Smith commented on 15-Apr-2011 06:33 PM
Love it! And that shot with DD holding it up for you! Too cute!
Shari commented on 15-Apr-2011 06:36 PM
What a delightful baby quilt! I"m sure your friend will just love it!
Sandy Norman commented on 15-Apr-2011 09:14 PM
Saffron... Wow it looks great. Your friend is going to LOVE it. Looking forward to what you do with the back... Sandyn
Siobhan commented on 15-Apr-2011 09:59 PM
Love the colour palette - works so well together
kelie lowrie commented on 16-Apr-2011 05:26 PM
Hi Saffron, I've just come across your blog & wanted to thank you for inspiring me to get creative again. I actually went to RMIT with you studying fashion design many moons ago & lost the creative bug for some time while I was having my family & juggling
life in general. So, just wanted to congratulate you on doing so well & to let you know that I'll be snapping up your beautiful fabrics to sew up a storm! All the best!! xxx

Free pattern for child's quilted winter coat

Saffron Craig - Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Saffron Craig free child's coat pattern

The coat I made for my daughter last year got a lot of use. Amongst many substances the sleeves were dipped in pink icing and various oozy sticky cakes at parties. The dog rolled all over it it with mud, it got slept in and even went on a trip to the Snowy Mountains.
Each time it went straight into the wash coming out all clean and new. But you know, she is nearly two sizes bigger this year so I had fun sewing her up another one with my current Magical Lands fabrics.
She will be warm in it, comfortable and funky too. As an added bonus I can spot her easily in the park amongst the other kids. Usually she's a pink girl but for the coat she decided on the Snowy Woods fabric with the Blossom Patch in green and blue  on the inside. In between the layers I used organic bamboo batting for snugness and warmth.

I removed this pattern from the website over summer but now with the autumn leaves crisp under our feet here in Australia and the cooler months approaching fast I thought it might inspire you to make one for a little someone in your life.

During the month of April you'll receive this quilted coat pattern for free with every purchase of 1m of fabric or more.

The coat is available in sizes 1-4 (requires 1m of fabric) and 4-7 (requires 1.5m of fabric). It's an A4 PDF, so you simply print it out, sticky tape it together, then cut it out and voila you have a pattern. Seam allowance included. Oh and if you top-stitch the zipper into the coat it is totally reversible. How sweet!

Saffron Craig free child's coat pattern
A reversible coat


Saffron Craig free child's coat pattern
We wandered down to the harbour to take a few pictures

Saffron Craig free child's coat pattern

Saffron Craig free child's coat pattern
We both love a bush walk.

During the month of April you'll receive this quilted coat pattern for free with every purchase of 1m of fabric or more.


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7 comments
Siobhan Rogers commented on 12-Apr-2011 08:04 PM
So very very cute, I'm on school holidays at the moment, but keep looking at your recent fabric range it's very cool - It would look great in a zig zag quilt
Rachael commented on 13-Apr-2011 07:19 AM
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Rachael commented on 13-Apr-2011 07:19 AM
What a fabulous coat!! And reversible ? That's so clever! I love the combo of fabrics you've used, they look great together.
Kirstin Bokor commented on 13-Apr-2011 08:39 AM
As your oldest and one of your closest, most loving and supportive (yeah I am flattering, and generally groveling here) friends, I just think you need to make me one. PLEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAASSSSSSSSEEEEEE.
michelle tripp commented on 13-Apr-2011 09:45 AM
I love this little coat....it's sooooo adorable!
I love the 2 way zipper also, so handy for a little girl!!
--Michelle
Tracy Canham commented on 14-Apr-2011 09:03 AM
Wonderful.
Liz walker commented on 15-Apr-2011 04:00 PM
I love your fabric I have lost times how many times i have viewed it on line and thats saying something because I do not go on line a lot! well Done

Sarah Fielke's book launch

Saffron Craig - Sunday, April 10, 2011

Friday night turned into a party for me. Funny, when I arrived the thought in my mind as I crossed the street was "I do not know a single person except Sarah." Eeek! This is the third week in a row I've felt those flutters in my heart.


Big yoga breath and in I went to the venue, the brilliant shop Plume au Vent in Greenwich where the book launch was already in full swing. Some 50 people came along in top form. Sarah being hostess with the Mostest was great at introductions and names. I thought I would be home by 10pm but was still laughing at 11.30pm, might even have been midnight. Such a fun night. Much needed fun I might add. Anyhoo, drinking bubbly is always a favourite past time of mine.


Kim and I ate a few of those amazing cup cakes too. Though I am trying to get down to my wedding weight for my anniversary next week with 2 kilos to lose I am thinking yum! Treats!

Congratulations to Sarah for publishing her third book. She sure is one talented and hard working lady. But don't tell her because she will blush! In fact, blush many times. Humble hey!

On the night I met many amazing people but found myself mostly chatting to Kim who writes a terrific blog and another Sarah who runs a new shop in Balmain called Calico and Ivy. Sarah Fielke will be teaching there this term. If you live in Sydney have a look at the classes, i think it would be amazing to learn from Sarah. Such talent.


The next day I woke up in the dark earrrrly morning with my daughter jumping all over me, "Can you PLEASE get me a glass of water water" I squeaked. Then rolled over and  and enjoyed the memory of Sarah's quilts flashing beautifully in my mind. I have a feeling every one present went home wishing to make them all.


I wasn't too impressed with the blurry images I took with my iPhone, maybe because I could not stop chatting, giggling or because it was night time. Some of the pictures I borrowed from Sarah’s blog thanks to her husband Damien who took a proper camera. Smart.


Sarah's book "Quilting From Little Things" is available in Australia in all good book shops and of course from Plume au Vent in Greenwich. It is lovely. Lovely. Lovely.




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2 comments
elsa hart commented on 11-Apr-2011 12:22 AM
I've been looking all over for her book, only to realize it isn't in the States yet. Really looking forward to the release here!
Siobhan Rogers commented on 11-Apr-2011 04:30 PM
looks like a great party, and sarah has a great track record with books so no doubting this one is fab aswell. Love your new fabric range aswell Xx

Nova's gift and my new address

Saffron Craig - Tuesday, April 05, 2011
It's not every day I go to my post box because it's usually empty! Yesterday though I found a lovely package from Nova inside. How tremendous is this! Thanks Nova, it is a real treat and the oh-so-fun card has such a lovely message inside.





It's just as lovely on the flip side. Can you see the tiny tiny stitches that attached the binding? You can find Nova here at a cuppa and a catch up. She is crafting a lot.

To make it easier for me to visit my PO Box with a tad more regularity I have changed my post office to be on route to the school pick up drop.

So my new address is:
PO Box 4062
Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093

While on the post topic did you note that Australian Post charges went up yesterday? Yikes.
Doesn't mean you should stop sending me gifts everyone...



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1 comments
Nova commented on 06-Apr-2011 06:25 AM
I'm so pleased it made it to you & you love it x I hope it is home to many a cuppa or cooling beverage ;) x

Autumn's ABCD meetup

Saffron Craig - Monday, April 04, 2011
As a business owner I don't have a mentor, someone who I can ask questions concerning my business so I learn a lot attending events such as the ABCD Meetup. I often feel like I live in a bubble in which I do all my crafting, designing, writing and mothering.


I pasted this picture together from the ABCD meet up Facebook page of us girls chatting.

Last week's Autumn ABCD meetup was held in the Three Weeds Hotel in Rozelle, a really great venue. We have an entire lounge area for us to mingle in. All told there were about 30 ladies, most of who I talked to run businesses and have young families, replacing the partying nights with managing their business after hours just like I do.

One lady came very prepared with lots of questions, which she had answered fairly quickly. I took inspiration from that and asked the questions that I have been thinking about. I asked Hayley as how personal do we make our blogs?  She thinks very personal,  Hayley's blog Little Pinwheel is really inspiring and honest and well worth a read. Hearts beware. Oh and many more questions I asked Lisa of Red Threads.

Going to an event like this really takes me out of my comfort zone. I have a method to arrive early and find a very friendly person, one who is chatty, usually a born sales person and let them do all the talking. This time I knew a few faces, which I really helped. Steph and Lisa are also so super friendly that it makes it easier to connect with others. So if you meet me for the first time its not that my silence is rudeness, it's just me getting comfortable. I am sure you know the feeling.

I was lucky enough to receive a goodie bag filled with amazing stuff, seriously generous. When I got home I distributed it around the family.

Here is a peak.. 



Goody bag treasures is a visual explanation of the incredible people who came along. I love  the Rabbit greeting card from Chantal of Chantal Vincent Art and the stationery from Melinda at Paperklip Design. So many more links to be found here at Bondville.



Freddie craft panel from Lisa of The red Thread. Thanks for answering all my questions Lisa.



Stunning tulips from Jessica of Oscar loves Ruby. Mine is sitting on my desk making me smile.

A special thanks to Steph at Bondville and Lisa of Red Thread for organising the Autumn ABCD meetup. Winter one please?


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7 comments
Steph commented on 04-Apr-2011 01:51 PM
Your wish is my command.
Toni Coward commented on 04-Apr-2011 01:53 PM
Ooh - I would have loved to be there. What a great night - and VERY cool goody bag too!!
jessica anderson commented on 04-Apr-2011 04:08 PM

Glad to see the tulip is still hanging in there! Was lovely to meet you last Thurs, and to get your insight into the mind of a bride!
Sandy Norman commented on 04-Apr-2011 05:54 PM
Wow what a great idea... sounds like fun.

Wow Robyn and I must be very friendly people!!!!

Sandyn
Chantal commented on 04-Apr-2011 09:13 PM
It was my first ABCD meetup, but for all the reasons you pointed out above I will definitely be back for another! I found it a great comfort to meet people out like this (yes a bit scary at first too!). Although I find it easy to comment on blogs or have a quick chat on twitter it really lacks the friendliness and the flow of conversation you can get from a meetup like this. Saffron I hope we get to chat at the next event! Thanks too for sharing a pic of the bunny card, very glad you like it : )
Jaclyn Carlson commented on 05-Apr-2011 06:16 PM
great to meet you Saffron - looking forward to the next one! x
Siobhan Rogers commented on 06-Apr-2011 07:53 PM
Three weeds is a great venue! and sounds like it would have been a great experience.

Nova's quilt-as-you-go strip quilt tutorial

Saffron Craig - Thursday, March 31, 2011
Nova from a cuppa and a catch up has a great tutorial on how to make a strip quilt as you go. On her blog she has step by step instructions on how to make this fun quilt with my latest range of fabrics Magical Lands. 


Nova made it in a day. Wow. Thanks Nova. I so have to make one.
What about you, are you a fan of the strip quit? I have to say I am.


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1 comments
Sandy Norman commented on 01-Apr-2011 09:25 PM
Now I know what to do with the fabric I brought from you last weekend...

Sandyn

5 1/2 and 3/4 no more she is 6

Saffron Craig - Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Our little one turned six today. For the last few months she has told all the strangers with dogs who greet her and ask how old she is  "I am 5 and a half and three quarters!!", which I found hysterical. Finally she can say "I am 6."

At 6.10 am 6 years ago she was born. She has continued to be up and about at that early hour ever since even though it is pitch black at the moment.
We were up well and truly in the dark opening presents this morning, the best one being a guinea pig she decided to call George. Training on the obstacle course has already started.



I finally started a blog called colourby to house Sequoia's tremendous drawings. Have a peek!


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2 comments
Sandy Norman commented on 29-Mar-2011 04:52 PM
Hello Saffron....

A Big happy birthday to your daughter who is now 6!!! What a great present too.

Sandyn
nicole vos commented on 29-Mar-2011 07:49 PM
Happy Birthday Sequoia!!! (hope I spelled that right!) George is very cute, I'm sure you will take good care of him and give him lots of cuddles :)

Sew it Together - sharing my experience

Saffron Craig - Monday, March 28, 2011
Sew it Together- a room full of like minded bloggers made for a great day. I met a lot of great people and sat at a fun table. Shared stories learned about people's lives and families.

I had a very inspiring class with Kathy and Cath from Material Obsession, whose advice was if you have a big fabric stash buy tools. So I bought a wedge ruler after she showed us how to use it and how she had designed many beautiful quilts using this tool. You can read Kath's blog here. I think that their presence made the day super. Kathy mentioned a designer class on a Wednesday's so I am hoping that there is a spot for me.




Sandy and Robyn hand stitching.


Baby bunting for a christening. Too sweet.


Our table.



I took my machine. Finished the new dog softies. made a scarf and a pot holder which I will show you later.




Throughout the day several of us had a stall. Thanks to everyone who bought fabric from me. Made my day super special.


Sheridan showing her stitching for the day. A few more than last year.

I am looking forward to more catch ups and fun in the future. All thanks to Sheridan who put it all together. I nabbed this picture from The material obsession blog post as I forgot to take more pictures




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10 comments
Amy commented on 28-Mar-2011 12:33 PM
Hi Saffron, It was lovely meeting you on Saturday. It was such a great day wasn't it? I am loving the fabrics I bought from you, now I just have to decide what I am going to make with them! Amy xx
Kelli Hynes commented on 28-Mar-2011 03:44 PM
I am quite sure I saw you with your smiling little girl in a crochet magazine! It was you wasn't it, such a lovely surprise!!
Sandy Norman commented on 28-Mar-2011 04:07 PM
Dear Saffron...

I really enjoyed meeting you. You are an inspiration to me. LOVE all of your fabrics. Thanks for sitting on our table. You made our day even more special.


Sandyn
Rachael commented on 28-Mar-2011 05:44 PM
That sounds like such a great event!! You'll have fun with that wedge ruler and your fabrics. The little dog softee is so cute.
Jennifer commented on 29-Mar-2011 08:30 AM
Hi Saffron, lovely to meet you on Saturday and purchase your lovely fabrics. I have been coveting quite a few of them for awhile, now I just have to think what to make with them.
Kayscha commented on 29-Mar-2011 03:47 PM
Hi Saffron, great pics! I wish I had taken photos! It was lovely to meet you and to add some more of your beautiful fabrics to my stash. I have no idea what I will do with them, but am more than happy to ooh and aah over them for a while. Have a beautiful day x
Wendy commented on 29-Mar-2011 05:51 PM
Hey Saffron - Great to meet you & spend time on Sat at our table! Was a wealth of sharing & inspiration wasn't it! See you another time!
Take care .... I'll be watching for when your new fabrics are out!
Cheers
Wendy
Claire Waring commented on 29-Mar-2011 08:06 PM
So great to chat to you on Saturday Saffron, hopefully we'll see you at craftroom!
Lara Finlayson commented on 31-Mar-2011 09:40 PM
I really enjoyed meeting and chatting to you Saffron. It was a wonderful day, and your fabrics are very special. Hopefully we'll meet up again one day!
Megan commented on 08-Apr-2011 09:48 AM
Hi Saffron,
Was lovely to meet you, I absolutely love your work and was great to have you at SIT. You had a very productive day it would seem, good on you, next year my aim is to be much more productive! Hope to see you there too.


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