Tuesday, March 5, 2019

Week 8 book study, free March pattern and giveaway...




Let's begin today with this month's free pattern.
Here in Australia we are joyously welcoming the cool change of autumn...




...whilst in the northern hemisphere spring is about to knock on the door.




So I thought a seasonal mini-quilt would be a perfect free pattern for March.

My new autumn quilt is hanging near the kitchen and over the next little while I'm hoping to add a few more autumnal themed projects. Americans are very big on seasonal decorating but it's not common in Australia and this is something a few of us envy about our overseas friend's homes. 

But of course, it's never too late to make a start. Mind you, I'll never be one to go overboard with seasonal things - I don't even do that at Christmas - but four or five autumnal items at this time of the year would be rather nice and  hopefully remind me that despite the still-hot tropical heat in our end of the state there will one day be a cool change.

The red and lime Spring mini-quilt was designed and made back in 2010 but I made the Autumn mini-quilt yesterday from one older Tilda print for the embroidery background and two yet to be released prints from Tilda's "Lazy Days" range which will be in shops late April. 




The double pattern for my Autumn & Spring Mini-quilts is a free download HERE until March 31st.

Using different colours to represent a particular season of the year was the reason I chose these mini-quilt designs as your March gift, as well as being inspired by our three part discussion on Colour from this year's book study.

So let's complete Colour today with part three...




Here we are at week 8 of our book study and the final section on Colour.  Must admit there’s a pretty cake in this section that I love so let’s start with that…

Cosy Combination

Jane Brocket was programmed from childhood to associate the combination of yellow and pink as a Battenberg Cake, a particular store bought cake that she loved to pull apart and eat section by section –

“I have fond memories of peeling off the marzipan and saving it until I’d eaten the yellow and then the pink squares of sponge.” (page 60)

Later in life she discovered how much more she enjoyed a true home baked version of the Battenberg but before making one of her own she chose instead to knit a large tea cosy in the traditional  Battenberg colours of yellow and pink , but she did not stop there. Yellow pom poms were added and ninety-six gold beads sewn into the sides to create a super-stylish version.




If you’ve not seen or tasted this wonderful cake it is comprised of a yellow and pink chequerboard arrangement, each square glued together with delicious apricot jam, and the whole cake wrapped in a generous layer of marzipan.

I genuinely love this cake, but detest marzipan so I cover my version with thick buttercream instead. Jane shared her own recipe in the book but if you google Battenberg Cake there’s loads of options.
You might even like to knit your own tea cosy?

In celebration of the yellow and pink Battenberg I chose to make a drink coaster for my sewing room. I’ve sewn a cream marzipan-ey border around the chequerboard and stitched in the ditch with orange thread to represent the apricot jam. Oddly enough this colour scheme doesn’t look too bad…




Terribly Terribly English

The last time we looked at paintings in our book study it was as observers of domestic scenes, but now we’re looking at two of Jane Brocket’s favourite artists with colour in mind.

Eric Ravilious (1903-42) painted the England of the 1930’s in an organic, weathered and gentle palette...

“The tones he chooses are those of faded cottons, tweedy yarns, soft blues, greys and greens of landscape…he almost rations colours in the same way other luxuries were rationed in the war years…” (page 62)

In Ravilious’s Train Landscape painting she draws our attention to the...

 “grain of the wood, pile of the diamond-patterned upholstery, the leather of the window strap, the metal of the grate and door lock…” (page 62) 

Jane reflects how the artist had made the scene worn, solid and comfortable and how the watercolour tones in his work produce an uplifting version of wartime domestic English life.



Winifred Nicholson (1893-1981) is another of Jane’s favourite artists with a flair for using colour to best advantage.

“I am bewitched by all her flower paintings with their luminescent coolness and their celebration of simple domestic settings.” (page 65)




Winifred Nicholson  developed a complex theory of colour and created her own colour-table based on the rainbow but made up solely of words and without any colours.


For example, in the blue column you will find colour descriptions such as shadow mist, sea grey, baby ribbon blue, forget-me-not, larkspur or lapis lazuli.

With a table that uses everyday terms such as tomato, cabbage, brass and faded oak, Jane declares...

"Here is a female artist, a mother and wife…who created pure poetry of colour with reference to the very ordinary and the very English." (page 65)



The Dark Side

In the final pages of the colour chapter Jane writes of her foray into knitting with black, choosing a yarn with added pops of lime, cerise, lilac and teal. She found as she knitted these very dark socks (which she named her Goth Socks) that her mood was affected. 




A desire to watch a favourite old black and white movie with the darkest of chocolate and deepest ruby wine she could find was realised but in the process, as the lighting was not the best that night, the pattern of her socks went a little wayward, however Jane still wears them under thick boots or on dark nights.




I’ve really enjoyed working through the Colour chapter in The Gentle Art of Domesticity these past three weeks as it’s given me a few epiphanies of my own with regards to how certain colours make me feel, what colours spark joy in our home, and what colours bring life to my complexion.  Needless to say I’m going through my fabrics later in the week and weeding out the ones that have sat for too long and do not inspire, and then I’ll give serious attention to future decorating of the house as well as removing the clothing I no longer like – and as I do not have many clothes this will truly push me into a different form of sewing over autumn and winter.

* What have you learned about yourself and the colours you naturally gravitate towards over the past three weeks?

* Are you experimenting with new styles/colours which until now you'd not considered using or wearing?

* What changes might you make with regards to colour in your crafts, home and personal style over the coming year?

Next week we begin the chapter on Texture and will be reading pages 69-75.




Every week in the Tuesday book study post I'm encouraging readers and lovers of the gentle domestic life who have a current blog and have blogged about Living the Gentle Domestic Life this year to link their relevant weekly book study post for others to come by, visit their blogs and be inspired. 

 Please do not link to the same post on your blog each week.  Your posts should be new and relevant to the current week's study.

NOTE: If your link is advertising or not a true reflection of the heart for living a gentle domestic life it will be deleted. 


Now to the final bit of fun for today - the March giveaway!




 Two of my absolute favourite books are The Gentle Art of Domesticity (Jane Brocket) and The Hand Stitched Home (Caroline Zoob).

The giveaway for this month is ONE of these books and the best part is that the winner gets to choose which book they'd like to receive.

The Gentle Art of Domesticity is a first edition hardcover pre-loved copy in excellent condition, and The Hand Stitched Home is a brand new soft cover.

Here's just a peek inside The Hand Stitched Home in case you've not seen it before. So many wonderful stitchy projects for around the home dwell within its pages and lots of ideas too...




You've seen much of The Gentle Art of Domesticity so far in our book study posts so no need for any further explanation on it.

Now in order to enter this giveaway you will need to leave a comment on this, and only this, blog post. 
I don't accept entries on social media or via email as it's way too difficult to keep track so leave a comment here with a way for me to contact you should your name be chosen. 
If I cannot contact you I will choose a new winner. 

Giveaway closes on Monday March 11th and I'll announce the winner in next Tuesday's book study post. 

May your week abound with joyous colours that make your heart smile and spark fresh creativity in all you make...

hugs


115 comments:

e l i z a b e t h ♡ said...

Oh, what a lovely post! I just adore your seasonal designs...both the autumn one and the one for spring, both of my most favorite seasons. I'm anxiously awaiting springtime here in Tennessee where we've had loads of rain and grey days, so I'm dreaming of sunshiny days and colorful flowers and birds chirping. But I imagine all the folks in Australia are looking forward to the crispness of cooler temperatures, so do enjoy those {{smiles}}

I would absolutely love to be entered in your delightful giveaway, and I am able to be contacted via email link in my Blogger profile. Thank you for the opportunity to win such a lovely book!

Wishing you a marvellous week! Joy and peace to you ♥
~Elizabeth

Joanne said...

Hi Jenny,

Colour! Green is always a favourite! Gardener green fleece clothing, jeans, blues! Working and volunteering outdoors gardening, this is the clothing of choice! fabrics too...nature prints, browns, greens, blues lots of blue! Over the last year I have been trying to add more florals and brighter cheery shades to clothing and fabrics. You have been a great cheery influence! It's fun adding florals! combines well with green and blue! I ordered a sweatshirt/hoodie in a strong pink colour this year! Should be in soon! I woudn't have thought about that a year or two ago!
This year I'm trying to create a a few items with sewing themed fabrics and patterns! There will be stitcheries from the rewind club included!
hugs,
Joanne

Beth said...

I don't think I'll change much about the colours I like and prefer to work with, although I will still look out for some different coloured clothes to add to the copious amounts of blues and greens currently in my wardrobe.

There is an email link on my Blogger profile if you do happen to need to contact me. I'm pretty sure I know which book I would choose!
Blessings!

Jeanette said...

A lovely giveaway Jenny. They are both lovely books & it will be hard make a choice. My email is available on my blogger profile. Hugs, xx

Delight in Nature said...

Ooh Jenny. You do spoil us and thank you. Lovely lovely designs as always.

I've been finding your comments on colour fascinating and realise that, on moving to a new house, my initial reaction was to have a neutral palette everywhere and to be minimalistic with decor etc. Well that theme lasted about 5 minutes as I soon realised that I transfer the colours of my garden and countryside into my home using soft furnishings including quilted wall hanging. I love the colours of autumn but then I love spring colours too. So the upshot is that I have quilts and throws draped everywhere, cushions piled on chairs and beds, every painting or picture on the wall has a meaning and most are made by friends. Anyway, I've waffled enough.

Please enter me into your prize draw. I can be contacted at george@beetec.co.uk.

Thank you.

Karen said...

I grew up with Battenburg cake in England. Both my Mum and I loved it. I am crushing on the new seasons mini quilts. Wonderful post Jenny xxx

Wendy Duwe said...

I have really enjoyed the different perspective everyone has on colour. I love the bright ones and then some times cream calico is absolutely beautiful for me along with a bit of redwork embroidery. Another favourite is charcoal or pencil portraits. The shadows so intrigue me. Thank you for being so generous with your time and this opportunity. My email is wendyduwe@gmail.com. Love and hugs.

Magda said...

Love the post and study. I am a blue and white girl, especially when it comes to china, spode, delft ware and willow. However I also love the greens, reds, pinks, purples etc for my clothes and cushions but saturated colours nothing wishy washy for me unless it is small doses. I am trying to source the hanky linen for the embroidery projects I want to start on but am having difficulties finding it around here. At spotlight they didn't seem to know what I was talking about. Love the giveaway books and my email is magda.kvn@gmail.com. Love and the Lord's blessing

Sheila said...

Enjoyed your post and the embroidery is beautiful.
Sheila at Gmail dot com

Kezzamac said...

Jenny, each book study has become such an enjoyable exercise to read, mull over and to fall deeper in tune with the notion of Gentle Domesticity. I hope to receive your email at kerrymackie51@gmail.com. You have my admiration for every challenge you face so graciously. God bless you.

Bubba and Nana said...

My color is red. I remember when I was a new wife (42 years ago) telling my mom I wanted my kitchen to have red and white gingham valances and to have antiques around. She said good luck...yes that is exactly what I have and feel very comfortable surrounded by this color and the feel of country around me. Blessings to you and your family. mmccloskey2@juno.com

Debbie said...

Jenny, your free patterns this month are really pretty, as usual. If I were to win the book giveaway, I would choose The Hand Stitched Home. Thanks. pyleverhoeven at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

Jenny, thank you so much for your inspiration! I'm a newbie of all your crafts and gave tried very hard to be good for all I do. There are days I think ..what to do today.... I pick up your blog and a source of energy spars my need to be proactive. Again, thank you for all you do...it certainly helps us newbiesn to keep trying

april dawn said...

I’m not big on seasonal decorating and since my kids are grown I don’t go overboard on Christmas decor either. I love the stitchery book.

Joyce Frazier said...

I love this post Jenny! I love color! I tend to lean towards turquoise, teal, raspberry, coral, reds, greens etc. but love all colors. Mother Nature gives us such a vast array of colors! Thanks for the opportunity to win one of these lovely books.

Cheryl's Teapots2Quilting said...

With winter here in the states, I'm gravitating towards brights. I'm tired of white, and dull colors of winter. I'm ready for greens and flower colors. Thanks for the Spring/Autumn mini. I don't do much seasonal decorating, but these would be great to have around.

Jane said...

I have been enjoying reading along with you. Anxiously awaiting springs arrival in Alberta, Canada!!!

Kaye said...

I really don't have one favorite color. I do love fall colors. All the shades of gold, yellow, orange, and reds. That is my favorite time of the year for decorating. In my flower gardens I tend to lean towards reds and yellows. In my house I use a lot of red accents. After writing this it seems I do have a favorite. It must be red since I use a lot of it. Isn't it funny the things we can learn about ourselves even at 64. I like to have clothing of different colors and shades. I don't always have every color but a variety anyway. I did notice I am very tired of the clothes in my closet. I will be glad for a new season so I can wear something different. Thank you, Jenny for "thoughts to ponder" and for the giveaways. Kaye at kayew54@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Loving the little seasonal mini-quilts, simply adorable & really like the 2 layer design! Here in northern Minnesota we are still firmly locked in winter & waiting for any sign of the approach to spring. We have snow piles everywhere & more snow is predicted for this coming weekend. Enjoy the book sharing & your take on some of the crafts & baking, so fun to be able to share from the other side of the globe. Technology has made communication so amazing! - Diane from Minnesota jackson@gvtel.com

Linda Clark said...

This blog post has inspired me to pull out my sock knitting loom and try knitting a pair of socks similar to Jane's but using the loom, as I never learned knitting with needles. I can crochet, but I prefer knitted socks. My email is lindag0404@yahoo.com. I would love to win The Hand Stitched Home. Have a lovely day.

Kristy said...

I love your new stitcheries. They are so sweet! I have enjoyed learning about color as well. Paintings are so interesting to study and learn from. I have been playing with acrylic pouring on tiles. It is very addicting! Thanks for all of your beautiful blog posts and I am so glad your house stood firm during the recent monsoon. Thanks so much! K- lkw2x6-apq@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Beautiful work yet again.I love the ideas of mini quilts. Colour is so important to our lives and it is lovely to try a new combination. Although I am very much a purple type of girl but love to wear different colours. Beverly -milberly@gmail.com

Dorothy Matheson said...

I live in the South US so our spring has started. Green grass and yellow flowers and bright red bud trees. Still a very cold start to this week. Such a lovely give away and my birthday is next Tuesday. Your March stitch patterns are so very lovely.

Bobbie said...

Color is my guilty pleasure. I love color and revel in all of them. But I do know that I am happiest in brighter colors in my wardrobe. I’m excited for the little quilts that you are sharing with us as I am on of those Americans who love to decorate seasonally. Even though I mostly use the same things every year, it gives,e great joy to change everything out with the seasons. It makes everything feel new and fresh. I’m so looking forward to adding these two mini quilts to my decorations. Thanks again Jenny for your sweet generosity to us all!

Chris said...

Reading about knitting socks has me thinking about revisiting knitting. Last thing I knitted was probably a simple vest or hat at least 35 years ago. Maybe learning to turn a heel could be a new challenge. I do not decorate seasonally unless you consider multitudes to colourful hats and mitts littering the farm kitchen with grandchildren living here in wintery Canada decorating.

Dee said...

I'm a seasonal girl so my colors change as the seasons do. Here, in the South spring has arrived so pastels are in for me. I can't wait to start my spring quilt. Best wishes Jenny. Dee

Susan said...

My color palette for clothes is toward the dark side as dark colors look better on me. I like pastels for accents. I like to say my favorite color is rainbow. I used to decorate a lot for holidays, but being hit with a chronic illness 18 years ago has kept me from doing that much as it is too draining. Especially Christmas. I have found that I focus more now on the real meaning of the holidays.

Denise in southern California said...

As usual with you, a most generous offer! On Facebook I am Denise Barr Penn.

wendy said...

Dear Jenny, thank you for the new project! I am definetly looking forward to Spring! We are still covered in snow and the temps are very cold. I have a love for pastels...all throughout the year! In my home, clothing and the quilts I make. {Unless they are a gift for someone else.} Hand Stitched Home looks like a lovely book!

Germaine Robison said...

I would love the Gentle Art....really sweet of you. Thank you for the free patterns as well. I have a daughter named Autumn so yay!

Karen said...

I love your sweet seasonal projects. The trees are lovely. I have also enjoyed the comments on the book and what not simple things can bring.

GeneGribouille03 said...

Merci Jenny deux très beaux minis patch et une très belle article sur la couleur belle fin de semaine Geneviève de France

Beverly said...


Thoroughly enjoying all the posts, but this one is really special. I am in the USA and I do see signs that Spring is on the way. There are daffodils, and camellias blooming their hearts out right now. We are in one of the, hopefully, last spurts of cold weather right now, and then wonderful Spring. The weeds already think it is Spring as they are everywhere right now. I love the thoughts of stitching for my home. Thanks for the giveaway. missyb52.c@aol.com

Brenda said...

Hello Jenny, I have been learning quite a bit with these lessons and enjoying each one. Through quilting and hand embroidery, I have been taking a much broader look at the mixture of colors and patterns. Resulting in some fabulous combinations and not so great ones, yet just having fun along the way. If you were to choose my name, I believe I would chose The Hand Stitched Home. I have discovered how much joy I get when I create for our home or make a gift for someone to use in their home. Thank you also for the lovely stitch designs. I look forward to creating them both! Have a fabulous day!

rosemaryschild said...

What a beautiful way to look at at colors, and you are so right! I gravitate towards darker colors lately, which is appropriate for my life living at this moment! However, brightness & lighter colors are already beginning to call to me, signs that my future life living will bring with it hope & joy! Thank you, Susan

Debby in Kansas USA said...

I love your seasonal trees! I need faster hands to stitch everything I want to!

Jane's tea cozy and cake were spectacular. I must admit that I'm not a marzipan fan either and have considered trying it with buttercream. That tea cozy is swoon worthy. I'm not a fan of pink, but something about that finished item just tickles my fancy.

As for your questions, I think I've learned that I'm a big fat ol' chicken when it comes to colors and spend so much time playing it safe that I disappoint myself! I look at spring green and bright colors and rush them like a hungry bee.
But in the end, I end up grabbing the beige item because I'm afraid. This is primarily in decorating. We're doing some subfloor repair on our home and then need new carpet & a new sofa. I'm definitely going for neutrals in those two items, but only because I have plans to burst from my beigedom and use some bold colors for pillows, throws, etc.
I always go for beige summer sandals, but this year, I want some green ones! Spring green. I hope I find them! I think they'll look fabulous with my poppy orange pedicure, don't you?!

Rebecca - winston Hills said...

Your spring and autumn stitcheries are gorgeous, and now in my POP (Pile Of Projects) folder. Colour choice was, is, and probably forever will be my biggest dilemma, and generally the reason for delays in starting new projectS. My email address is rebeccakon(at)yahoo.com

TerriSue said...

Dear Jenny, Autumn is my daughter and my favorite season. Even though I am in the U. S. maybe if I started now I would be able to get it stitched up in time for her birthday in September. I am also working on a number of things for her fourth baby due in July that take precedence. Thank you so much for your generosity. The Hand-Stitched Home looks quite interesting.

Rita Lynn said...

I changed my colors a few years ago. I went from very pale tones to richer deeper color. I love the change. I would be quite interested in The Handstitched Home book. As always I've enjoyed this weeks blog. Rita_l_39212@yahoo.com

africanaussie said...

I love the different ways that colours are described, and that painting looking out the window with the gently billowing curtain just gave me such a sense of peace. I definitely tend towards brighter, vibrant colours. I love the colours you chose in your spring stitchery. I would probably choose the handstitched home book should I win, because you are so thoroughly going over the gentle domestic life. I am a HUGE lover of marzipan! When I was at college my dear Mom negotiated with a local coffee shop to buy my marzipan fruits, and most evenings were spent forming said fruits, painting and packing them into little paper cases. I have been busy doing gardening this week - starting my little seedlings, so wont have a link up this week, as my blog post for the week is gardening related.

Alison Ryan said...

Hello Jenny, thanks for the stitching pattern, gorgeous as always and I love the layered quilt effect for making up. I can never decide which season I like best, Spring or Autumn as love them both for different reasons. I would love to win the Handstitched home book. My e-mail is alisonmryan@yahoo.co.uk Love Alison xx

vetta said...

I love your book reviews and your embroidery patterns.
vetta@nrbchurch.com

Kezzie said...

Thanks, Jenny for the free patterns. As usual your patterns and colour choices are gorgeous-and they are colours that make me feel happy and joyful.
The book study is great; and I have never thought of putting the pink and yellow together as Jane has suggested but I agree with you that the combination actually does look really good together.
Blessings to you

Kerrie

Tammy said...

Love the spring and Fall & Autumn designs. They all look so pretty and the color palettes you chose to work them in. Thank you so much for the lovely patterns you have gifted to us this month. Years ago I detested red. I loved black and Aqua...... Then I started liking pink. Now slowly as dishes and things for the kitchen and panty break I have found myself adding red...And I just realized a couple weeks ago I have must have gone mad as I am now desiring lots of red in the home. So Much so that when husbands coffee maker died and he went to replace it and reached for the black one I said hmmm... lets get the red instead. It looks nicer in the kitchen . He looked at me like I had lost my mind: quirked his brow and asked are you sure you want red. I said yes I am it will liven the kitchen up...After it was home and he had it in place and hooked up he said well hope you still like the red. I said actually I do..It looks great. I said what about you? He said yes it does look better than the black you were right

Judy1522 said...

Thank you so much for the pattern. Both of your mini quilts are beautiful and I love the polka dot buttons on the red one.

www.seasonedwithgraceblogspot.com/ said...

Thank you so much for this lovely giveaway. This series on The Gentle Art of Domesticity has been so inspiring. I would love to win the book. Email is Cpriddy2011@hotmail.com, thanks

Jenny said...

I've struggled to keep up with the book study in the past week or so but thankfully I had read quite a bit ahead of you so I'm still good! I especially like that you let us know what pages you'll be covering in the next post.

I'd love to win either book!

Marion Shaw said...

Thank you for doing this book study. I just received a copy of it and I truly will enjoy it. I would like The
Hand Stitched Home is I am lucky enough to win!!
shawm@rogers.com

Unknown said...

I found your blog by accident and just keep coming back to read your posts. Great article on colors. I am currently working on a capsule wardrobe with winter colors: greys, whites, blacks. I am looking forward to combining happier spring colors

Ondrea said...

Thankyou for your lively stitcheries which I am eager to start. I have also enjoyed Jane's chapter on colour and shall put a new blog post up in a few minutes.

GranChris said...

I love the chapter on color. The stit projects are delightful. Thank-you for the inspiration. Jmikebalou (at) aol (dot) com

Karen J said...

I am creating a mini quilt calendar that I will change out every month with a new quilt. These will definitely be added to the rotation.

Dede said...

I am so enjoying this discovery of the art of domesitcity-I am looking at my life and art and living from a whole new perspective! Thank you Jenny for leading us on this journey!

Lorrie said...

I love colour. I've tried to do the neutral route in both my home decor and my wardrobe and sooner or later a bright cushion or scarf makes it way into the scheme. Colour just makes me happy, especially cool, clear colours like blue, pink, and green, all with generous doses of white or pale grey. This is a wonderful study, Jenny, thank you so much for leading it. I'd love a copy of either book, but would likely choose Jane Brocket's.

Su said...

Oh I hate Battenburg and I live in England! It's the almond essence, I really don't like it, it also means that I don't like marzipan, so Battenburg is a double whammy.
I've actually already gone through my wardrobe and had a big clear out, I'm trying to be much more organised about my clothes rather than having a mish mash of things that don't go together. So I have a colour palette and accent colours and a plan of what I want to knit to complete it all!
I've even made a decision about how to decorate my living room, it's going to have white walls ( I need the light that white brings) with sunny yellow woodwork and I can't wait to start, though I'll have to, things need doing first.

Lin said...

Thank you for the two delightful spring and autumn designs Jenny - I want to make them both. I am enjoying the book study and my copy of Gentle Domesticity so should I be lucky and win your give away then I would love a copy of Hand Stitched Home! xx

Debra Davis said...

Thank you for the free patterns, and the giveaway. I have such a hard time choosing "my color" as I just love colors of all sorts.

2K3bgranny said...

Sage green is my favorite color, tho I have little of it in my home. I have enjoyed the book study, I've flipped ahead and enjoyed thumbing thru the book. I love reading your comments, it brings the pages to life and makes me look at it differently. Thank you

Anonymous said...

Hi Jenny. Faye Hill here.
Thankyou for your inspirational and thoughtful blogs. At the moment this is my sanity link to a quieter life when the world is exploding into action in a million directions. I always feel a sense of connection and peace after reading your posts. Colour is very important and seems to reflect my stage in life. At present it is the summer brights.I believe many of our colour associations begin as babies and toddlers and the strong emotions and connections this invokes. My mother was a prolific sewer. My grandmother a prolific knitter ( she had 13 grandchildren all of whom had a new handmade sweater every winter and not plain but very detailed ones). I see colour combinations ( and pattern combinations ) and a swirl of many happy and precious memories appear. My daughter is 30 today. She is having a disney themed party to celebrate. I made my Queen of hearts apron out of black satin scraps from the special dress I made for my own 30th birthday! Continue to brighten and calm my life special lady . Please enter me in your give away. Hugs Faye . My email address is facome@westnet.com.au

Unknown said...

Thank you Jenny for a wonderful give away, they are both fabulous books. It's hard to believe we are in week 8 already.
If I were to win I would choose "The Hand Stitched Home" Hugs Kaylee

Michelle said...

Such fun, a giveaway. Thanks for your generosity. Can't wait till you start your new "BOM."

Kim said...

Ever since I lived in the Philippines which only had two seasons - rainy humid and humid, I've been fascinated with seasons, so I love your stitcheries with them. Also, you're very generous to offer one of those beautiful books!

Julie said...

Your autumn stitchery is beautiful Jenny - thanks for the pattern. I also adore you battenberg drink coaster & I remember (last year I think it was?) when you made a battenberg cake! Many thanks for the opportunity to enter your generous giveaway. Both books are just gorgeous.

Susan said...

Thank you for the lovely spring and autumn designs. The autumn tree has such grace that my eye keeps going back to it. The spring is also beautiful. I'm definitely ready to warm up a bit, and some sunshine would be very nice! I'm behind on the book, because of vacation, but I hope to start catching up soon.

Terry said...

Love the free stitcheries...thanks so much for sharing them! Is there a summer or winter to match? I'd love to make a small wall quilt with all four seasons. Thanks for the giveaway too. :0)

Erica said...

Spring is almost here in France and the trees have a lovely soft green tint of new buds. I love Spring.

Abby said...

I’m a real neutral person but I love the greens of fresh foliage. And I have a bit of a soft spot for jade greens but it’s more about texture for me. I’d love to read the the gentle art of domesticity having read your posts the last few weeks.

Unknown said...

When I first looked at Train Landscape Painting by Eric Ravilious I thought that the horse in the background was really poorly done. Then I realized, from the book, that the horse is actually part of the hill, not standing on it! I'm learning a lot!
Thank you also for posting some of the photos on the blog. My edition of the book is different and had different paintings and did not have the word color chart in a picture form, only in the text.
Please put me in for the book drawing too.
Am enjoying both the bookstudy and your blog. Thank you.

Jenny of Elefantz said...

The colour chart was not in the book. I found it online to share in the post. :-)
I cannot enter you in the giveaway as I do not know your name nor have any way to contact you.
blessings
Jenny

Janet Long said...

My sister is the one who introduced me to your Facebook page & blog. She is an incredible embroiderer. She has given me a sample & I love it. I'm just getting back into embroidery after a long, long lapse. This is a great blog.

Helena said...

La simplicidad de tus trabajos tienen el toque especial de lo sencillo pero hermoso. Hace feliz trabajar en ellos y ver el resultado.

Kezzie said...

Jenny, thanks for the free patterns. How sweet of you to do an Autumn one for all us Aussies as well as a Spring one for those on the other side of the world who are waiting for the burst of spring to arrive.
Jane's comments on colour are certainly an interesting springboard for thinking about my views on colour.
I find that I am always drawn to similar colours that you use in many of your patterns; such as deep pink/reds and aqua along with the palate cleanser of white.
I bought a couple of fabric panels to make cot quilts for my expected twin grandchildren due in August and while selecting the backing I was surprised to discover that a grey patterned fabric picked up the small amounts of grey in the fabric panels. I never choose grey but I am planning to back and bind the panels as the grey really makes the panels pop. It just shows that a colour I have never used is the one that is just perfect for these projects.

Kerrie (kezzie.k@hotmail.com)

Little Quiltsong said...

Thank you for the lovely patterns. Our Spring will still be awhile, but the days are getting longer, which is so wonderful to see. When I see the cover of the Hand-Stitched Home Book - it reminds me so much of what I grew up with. Stitched pillow cases (I still have cut off ends of them because the stitching is so, so sweet) - hmmmm, might have to incorporate them into a quilt now :)! I also remember the multitude of doilies my mother crocheted and that had to be restarched with sugar water whenever washed. Handmade items all around the home - personal touches. Now it is my turn in my own home :)!

Outback Crafter - Debra said...

She much info about colour.

I love reading your thoughts.

Beth in NEPA said...

I thoroughly enjoyed this post. So many things to think about. And the mini quilt patterns of my favorite seasons. Thank you for that.

crochetgirl said...

I just love your blog Jenny. It is so full of encouragement and joy to all who read it, and thank you so much for your free patterns and giveaways! I can always see the Holy Spirit guiding you in everything you do and say, so thanks be to our God as well!
Blessings, Lynn

KingsailK said...

Dear Jenny,many thanks again,sitting in a coffe shop in Lisburn Co.Down,readind your LOVELY blog while having a rest!I too lovee colours,I love the work of the 2artists you mention.Blessings Mary-Lou

Nancy in IN said...

Sunday we spring forth (time change). Daffodils are budding. Spring is coming.
I'd like The Gentle Art of Domesticity.
Thank you.

Tammy said...

Thank you for sharing your patterns. Home-stitched Home looks like a wonderful book.

GailM. said...

Thank you so much. I would have never thought of the different seasons in the world at the same time. So thoughtful.

Lydia said...

Thank you for the beautiful patterns. I think the Hand-Stitched Home looks like a winner.

Barb Neiwert said...

Jenny - I do believe I enjoy stitching and quilting so much because of what you said: "joyous colours that make your heart smile and spark fresh creativity in all you make". Feels so good to make my heart smile. Thank you!

Jusmom1 said...

I so love color in my home! Since I already have Gentle Art of Domesticity I would love to have the Hand Stitched Home. Thank you SO much for this wonderful giveaway and for everything you do!

Nancy said...

Jenny, your blog is always a ray of sunshine in my day! Thank you for sharing and for this wonderful giveaway too! I would like the Hand Stitched Home if I were to win. Have a wonderful day! <3 Nancy

Anonymous said...

Jenny - I so enjoy your emails, posts and lovely designs. I would love to have your book. Thanks so much! I can be reached at ksksdr@fuse.net

Lee said...

Beautiful post - Thank you so much. Winter still in full power here in areas of US so I loved seeing a Spring project! Just lovely!
Thank you for the generous giveaway also! Enjoy your weekend!

Verna G said...

PLease enter me in your give away. It would be a hard choice- both of the books look great.

earth visitor said...

your posts are so uplifting and I thank you for sharing you love of The Lord and the joy you find in Him

Carrie P. said...

When it comes to my clothing I pretty much stick with blues. Maybe because I have blue eyes. I do wear pink and purples and some greens. I think it has to do with my skin color too. I hate to shop for clothes but will have to this spring for some more summer clothes. I have literally worn out my favorite clothes.
If I were to win the giveaway I would like the Hand Stitched HOme. Thanks for a chance.

Farm Quilter said...

I'm with you on not decorating for the seasons!! Since I'm in the northern hemisphere, I guess I'm an anomaly! My color palette tends towards the cool, pure colors. That may be influenced by becoming an adult in the 70's where the colors were more on the warm side of the color spectrum. Have you ever seen a house with wall-to-wall carpet in a lovely shade of golden orange? Yeah, my parents' home and that lovely carpet (now 43 years old) is still in two of the bedrooms!! Is it any wonder I use very little orange even in my quilts??!!

judi said...

I love the seasonal mini quilts. So sweet! That tea cozy is very impressive! In contrast to many of my fellow Americans, I really don’t like coffee so I’ve been pursuing a richer tea experience. I think a cozy and a tea pot need to be part of that.

Elaine said...

A few years ago, I went through my fabric stash and donated to a girls school what no longer appealed to me or projects that had passed their time. I live where we definitely have 4 seasons and spring won't really come for a few more weeks - we are waiting for snow to start right now. The quilts I have done for home have been mostly dark as I suppose they seem more cozy, and I love them.
I did have a duvet cover in pastels. I have converted part of it into a quilt to throw over the couch which is done in a floral chintz. Currently, I am quilting a crib size piece of Dresden Plates made of 1930's reproduction fabrics stitched onto yellow gingham. I am definitely enjoying the spring-like colors.
I read Jane's book quite a few years ago and sadly it is no longer available in our library system, so these posts have been such lovely reminders of her work. Thank you!

Elaine said...

sigh... I did read the directions, just too quick to post! snow_lightt@yahoo.com, when I win the giveaway! ;)

carol said...

Colors are very important to me. I think that is why I fascinated with scrap quilts that have such a variety of colors, values...I like color in my clothes also. I miss having color hair. And I know - be thankful I have hair and I do.

Carol said...

Thank you for all the inspiration on color! I think I'm all over the board with color for myself.

Unknown said...

Inspiration and calm is what comes from your posts Jennifer, and embroidery has come out in front of my chosen activities these days...satisfying...thank you so much.🧵🤗

Unknown said...

I will certainly be stitchin the new patterns, thank you, and I would very much like the art of demosticity thank you

Slrw said...

These are great patterns, thank you Jenny! I like the stitching book, since I do wool applique too!

Christy said...

Hi Jenny! I am new to your blog, having recently picked up embroidery again after a long hiatus. I adore your blog & patterns, they warm my heart. Thank for all of the lovely free patterns & for sharing your faith. I would love the opportunity to win The Gentle Art of Domesticity.
Christy
Bc4burrows@gmail.com

Kim Stewart said...

Thanks for such a wonderful post and giveaway! I love color in my wardrobe and My home! Two years ago we painted our front door a bright apple green. Makes me smile every time I pull into the driveway. I think I would greatly enjoy the needlework book.
mytupkim2003 at yahoo.com

Lori said...

Jenny, your blog is like entering the home of a sweet friend! Thank you for letting us in. I love to decorate seasonally. Right now I am still looking at snowmen decorating the mantel and various tucked-in corners of our home. Alas, and much to the chagrin of the children, no snow here in our part of Texas this year! So, with Daylight savings starting this weekend, I am ready to put up spring decor and get to planting and seeing growing things!
Thank you for the pattern and the chance to win a lovely book. Since I have the Gentle Art of Domesticity, I would love The Handstitched Home. Blessings! journyoffaith at gmail.com

Mary Ann said...

I have enjoyed your blog for a long time. Forgive me for not commenting more often. I was sad to see all the problems from the rains but inspired by how you took it all in stride. I would like to be in your drawing too if you don't mind. Maybe this is what I need in my life. Simplifying and learning to appreciate more the things I have.

Debby said...

Jenny, I am thoroughly enjoying this book study! I love color, typically leaning towards blues and greens with a lilac or lavender thrown in. But, I have found I am branching out into some other color harmonies . . . . getting ready to warp my loom with forest and sage greens, rust, and way outside my usual colors, a yellowy orange! Thank you for leading this study and for your generosity to share!

Elizabeth Bailey-Mitchell said...

I own second-hand copies of Jane Brocket's Stitching, Quiltmaking, and Knitting books. I sent off for a second-hand copy of her Domesticity book, but it got lost in the mail and there were no other copies to be had. So I make do with what you post and am thankful. Very intrigued by the Battenburg cake. When my children were little, we always had special cakes for special things, like the first day of school, etc. Wish I'd known about Battenburg back then. Going to try my hand at it. My mother recently passed away, and she always made lovely fun cakes for my sister and for me when we were little. She would have loved the Battenburg.

Sherry said...

Thank you Jenny Dear for the Spring/Autumn designs. I was very disappointed when I went to my local library and they do not have Jane Brocket’s books. Neither did they have her other books she liked in a previous study. I am enjoying your reviews dear. Blessings and our Spring is near...xo

Beth said...

As a quilter it feels as if I am always thinking about color. I find that with the season I change my preference more in value (or maybe I mean tone...) but that I always prefer red, blue, and yellow in our home, just differing in the amount of lightness or intensity with the seasons. Makes me think of the stories my mom told of how Grandma would change out the linens in her living room when spring arrived, to have a brighter, more sunny room, going so far as to have a new couch cover, even when things were very tight, budget-wise. I suspect she justified it by thinking that using something half the year kept the couch from wearing out, but now I think she might have been like me and wanted her room to reflect a more light, seasonal feeling.

SueC said...

simply lovely! Thank you for another great pattern to have fun and relax while stitching!

Wilna said...

Thanks for inspiring us time agter time.

eileen said...

I make quilts using bright colours, adding purples and greens and red highlights. Enjoy spring and summer for the bright colours, winter seems so drab! The hand stitched home book looks full of ideas. Thanks for the embroidery freebies!
Eileen ekmvalencia@gmail.com

hennies.pennies said...

What a wonderful post, as usual! Thank you so much for the Autumn/Spring pattern; They're simply lovely! Be especially blessed today and always! Katherine (hennies.pennies@yahoo.com)

cerato said...

Oh Jenny! How beautiful giveaway!!
Thanks for the cute mini quilts patterns.
Hugs

Winifred said...

Another lovely post Jenny. I remember Battenburg cake, my Mam used to buy it & I'm sure it had almond paste not marzipan around. Like you I hate marzipan it's so gritty & that yellow colour is gross, but I do like almond paste. Your coaster is so sweet and your edging is like creamy almond paste, much nicer!
I love the mini quilts, mine will have to be shades of blue. I've got lots of stuff on the go at the moment but would love to try these designs. I don't do seasonal styling & decorating I'm afraid, I'd put both up together.
I love that train carriage painting, I remember that type of carriage. They were great if you got nice people in your compartment but not so nice if they were a nuisance.
You are so generous offering a choice of books. The Hand-stitched Home would provide me with lots of inspiration. My email is in my Blogger profile.
Have a happy day Jenny.

Caroleen said...

Since this is my birthday week I’d love to win one of these books. I’ve enjoyed your blog for a few years now. You do beautiful work. You can reach me at caroleensplace@embarqmail.com. Thank you my sister in Christ.

Sew Lydia said...

I am really enjoying the hand embroidery revival this past year with you. I am able to work on projects at multiple doctors office visits the remind me of my childhood love of all things handmade and I love each one. lydiasews@gmaildotcom.

Denise8 said...

Sweet patterns, sweet posting. The Hand-Stitched Home looks very appealing! I am never certain if bloggers can see my email address, so will include it: denisenash1975@yahoo.com