We love stripes in any scheme

You can use a simple colour scheme and patterns to give you a fresh look. Just make some new cushion covers and Voila! 

If you can't afford to get new furniture and redecorate the entire room - just make cushions and accessories. A cost effective method to boost your spirits. Recover your old cushions rather than buy new ones. We did these on a very small budget.

Earthquake Reaps Carnage in Christchurch

Several years ago I have the privilege to spend the day in this beautiful city, Christchurch New Zealand, as part of a Princess cruise from Australia to New Zealand. It was a really nice spot that had the feel of a country town and the people were very friendly and nice to talk to. We shopped for a few hours, checked out the nooks and crannies of the city and had some great food.

Many people in the area have lost their lives from the earthquake. I would like to express my sincere sympathy for all the people impacted by this natural disaster.

Two Queens In Sydney Harbour

Wow. I woke up to the sound of the horns of the ships arriving in the harbour today. Glorious. The Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Elizabeth have both majestically made their way through the Sydney heads and will bring over 6,000 visitors to our city. Today will be buzzing.

 If you have never been in this city it is one for you to put on your list of "To Do's". More about Sydney in a later blog.

Does your car make a statement about you?

Okay, I have to admit, I love this car! I want one. I love vintage and I love flowers.

What if you could choose your favourite pattern and have it all over your car - assuming that you have one that you want to dress up. Which fabric would you choose as your inspiration? I have to think about this . . . Post your comments about how you would dress up your car, inside or outside.

This photo belongs to Clarke & Clarke. Check out their website for beautiful products! I have not included the URL but Google it. Happy Shopping!

Tell me what you would like on your car! I am still thinking about mine.

Erica Wakerly Funky and Retro

London based designer, Erica Wakerly, has some really great fabrics and wallpapers. Check these out. You are certain to make a statement if you use any of the designs in her collection. Can't find a supplier near you - I can help.

How good is this large fan design. Very effective!

This pattern comes printed on Poplin that can be used for curtains, pillowcases or other soft furnishings but there is also a fabric that can be used for light upholstery or cushions. Oh, so cute.

And what about this one. Don't you just love the simplicity and repetitive pattern.

Teepee makes a great statement both as a fabric and wallpaper. There is also a Mini Teepee.
My store can supply both fabric and wallpaper from Erica. If you need help post a comment about locating a product and I am happy to help you find it.

Are you mad about black and White

Part 1 of the search for Black and White.      I am looking for inspiration. Send me your ideas. Only Black and White and absolutely no colour in the design.

 Happy hunting.

Does Fishing Stuff Inspire - You be the judge

My paternal grandfather made fishing lures and travelled around the USA selling them in the summer months. Later in the year I will be posting more about his life. I have always been surrounded by colour in so many ways. I am inspired and feel the love that goes into so many things that make up the diversity and patterns of our lives. Not just mine but for others. I love vintage pieces and also find beauty in the tattered and torn objects. Just look at the fishing things that can be used for inspiration for a holiday home in the country. Don't you wish you were somewhere that you could just feel that squishy mud between your toes or the sand on the beach that moves as you walk along. A selection of Ralph Lauren fabrics like the ones here could be used in your space to make it feel cozy and welcoming.

The colours of Mexico - And Oh How Practical Too

For those of us who simply LOVE colour we must have some of this practical but fabulous oil cloth. Check out these patterns which also come in various colours. We love Ben Elke who has supplied us with such a nice range of Mexican oilcloth. If you were wondering what to put on that outdoor table then here is the answer. You don't even have to sew it - just cut it to size. Easy.

Apples

Bouquet

Eden

Flourish

Hibiscus

Gingham

Mini Gingham

Mums

Oranges

Polka Dots

Polka Dots on White

Poppy

Strawberries

Stripes

Cherries

Chalk cloth

Zebra

The hard part is which one to choose or "What can I make with this?". Check out these items.

Apron

Lunchbag

Computer bag

Tote

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can buy it online from my web site by going to www.spottedmagpiedesignstudio.com.

 

 

 

Are you hooked on Pop Culture

Do want to incorporate some Pop Culture into your scheme? If you do then check out these great Iconic pieces.  (Photos courtesy of Unique Fabrics.)

50's Get A New Voice

Wow. How exciting to see the 50s designs coming back into our new collections of fabrics, wallpaper and accessories. Has the TV hit series Madmen inspired the world? (Go to www.amctv.com to explore the look) You betcha. Sanderson has introduced a eye popping new collection. Have a look for yourself at these new designs that are sure to make a statement in any home or office. Be bold and get the look. If you love Retro then you are sure to agree that these are to die for. Dandelion Clocks has been a hit and now there is so much more to choose from.

Atomic Wallpaper

Brackley Wallpaper

Dandelion Clocks Wallpaper and Fabric

Festival Fabric

Hayward Fabric

Fifi Wallpaper

Miro Wallpaper

Mobile Wallpaper

Portobello Wallpaper

Rya Wallpaper

Wrappings Wallpaper

Perpetua Fabric

A nice mix of Retro and modern in this bedroom by Sanderson.

And how about putting your next party on using this fabulous china. What would your guests talk about?

If you want to find out more then go to www.sanderson-uk.com or check out my web site www.spottedmagpiedesignstudio.com to purchase some of these items.