So my name is Fluffy, although many also call me Fluff or Fluffball. Some of the high-plains cowboys, who don't concern themselves too much about being polite, just yell "dog" really loudly when they want me to do something (but in those situations I try to pretend that I am asleep, so didn't hear them). 

 

Last night was spent enjoying the company of my friends Lesley and Jo.  The evening was fairly typical for when we get together and was spent discussing animals and hobbies etc.  This evening was slightly different as Jo has just bought a new house so much of the discussions we around what needed to be done to new house.  These conversations lead onto crafts that can make something nice for the house while occupying your mind for long periods of time.  Personally I have alway sound knitting to be perfect for this as I can do it without thinking, while talking to friends or watching the TV and it keeps my hands busy so I am not tempted to bite my nails.  Unfortunately in this case knitting was not suitable as the project may need to be left at short notice.

Let me introduce myself.  My name is Rosemata (or Marty to my friends).  I have been invited to enlighten you all through this blog, with a unique view of the crafting world which comes from about 14 inches off the floor.  Although I think I misheard as I was sure we were discussing a block of cheese. Hopefully this blog will entertain and amuse you.  You may even learn something!

Don't you just love spring time.  That first burst of colour to the garden.  The blossom on the trees.  The number of variations of the colour green you can see in the hedgerow.  The world just comes to life again in a sudden flash pushing away the dormancy of winter.  Even for us spring brings new energy and vigour.  Makes you pleased to be alive.  That first glow that comes as you feel the sun on your back pushing away the winter chill.  Suddenly everything changes, the need to prepare for the summer...  to bring out those summer clothes although deep down you know it is still too cold sir a sun dress and sandals...   to spring clean the home and dust off the BBQ...   eating your lunch outside in hat, coat and gloves.

Have you ever noticed the odd things that inspire you. Ideas for colours and textures can come from the most unexpected places, a cup of coffee, cream on the top of a hot chocolate, a fallen leaf, a tree covered in snow.

I have to admit it, my stash of wool is currently a little on the large`side.  From 3 ply to mega chunky, through the colour spectrum of red to violet with white and black,to brushed soft  fluffy, craft cotton and textures in between, most areas are represented.  I don’t however feel that I have too much wool.  Is there such a thing as too much wool?  You never know when you mayneed an emergency ball of turquoise double knitting or need to knock up an ecru dishcloth, at least I know that  should either of these scenarios or many others occur I’m well prepared   

Whilst at a horse trials recently it struck me as to how artistic and creative course designers and builders can be.  Of the sponsored feature fences four in particular stood out.

We went to visit a local small town arts and craft fair recently. It was about the size I love with perhaps about a dozen stalls including a plant stall doing a brisk trade and someone else selling some pictures and household bric a brac. Prices of goods ranged from 50p to over £100 

I’ve just been given a really sweet cross stitch print as a present.  Its of a little puppy and so reminds me of one of my dogs when he was a puppy.  Needless to say it also reminded the donor of him as well which is why she bought me it.  Fortunately I have a good supply of embroidery silks so sorting some to use is on the agenda over the next couple of weeks.  I’m also wondering if I can adapt it into a rug.

We are having a spell of warm sunny weather. The dogs are enjoying basking in the warmth whilst I’m relaxing on my garden swing generally reading or knitting.  A couple of the cushions on the swing are starting to look a bit shabby and could do with new covers.  I think it is time to think about measuring up and either making a trip to the fabric shop or a good rummage through my wool stash to see if anything is suitable.