Nostalgia at the Stone House

The Run Up....

2009-12-15T21:53:00.004Z

I hope you had time to enjoy your weekend....reaching mid-December always seems to me to be a turning point in the preparations for Christmas. It can no longer be left for another day...things need to be achieved now for stress-free days later on...

But before I get on to all of that, I'll just show you hubby's handy work that's been achieved at the shop since last time...
Before:

The yucky window niches have now been cleaned, sealed and re-lined in MDF ready for me to paint.

After:

We took delivery of this old glazed draper's counter that I bought from Sue...

(Work to be done on it yet, before I can use it)

And between us, hubby and I built new shelves in two of the alcoves, which I shall start painting later in the week...(Both the shelves and the walls will be painted in Farrow & Ball's 'Old White')

**

I did abandon my post at the shop for a while on Sunday to do some vintage shopping for stock...

It was a successful foray and some of my finds included this adorable wooden weather house...I'm reliably informed that snow is on the way this week! ;-))

Gorgeous retro florals in the guise of tablecloths and pinnies...

Faded roses adorn this lovely old china jug and bowl...

And I found pictures-a-plenty...including these beauties below.

I also found a treasure for myself - Why is it that at this time of year it feels such a guilty pleasure to treat yourself to something? Or is it just me?...

I bought myself this gorgeous hand painted glass dressing table box, which was fresh from France. The panels are trimmed with metal edged silk ribbons and have rosettes at each corner.

All lovingly made by hand many years ago...and I justify my purchase as I know that I'm unlikely to ever see one like it again...so I'm afraid I couldn't resist...you know how I love Frenchy boudoir items...a Christmas gift to myself! Naughty! ;-))

Its been hard this year to juggle Christmas preparations alongside revamping the shop...We still don't have our Christmas tree up at home yet; but then we've always waited until the girls have broken up from school before doing so. My middle daughter is home from uni now, but my youngest doesn't finish school until Friday...the tree will have to wait until next weekend...

I did take a peek inside my dolls house and noticed that Peggy and Polly have started to get festive in their living room...;-))

Their tree, they tell me, cost 20p from a car boot sale, complete with real glass baubles! What a thrifty Christmas deal that was! Isn't it cute?

Hubby took a day off today to go fishing with a friend and they were lucky to catch a large fish each (rainbow trout) - these will be heading off to the smokers tomorrow, to be cured in time for Christmas.

And I've been able to cross another thing off my 'to do' list today...I don't like to think of Christmas as being an extra set of chores that have to be done, but there is a good feeling to be had when something else can be checked off...

Today it was the turn of the mince pies.

Mmmm...Such a lovely Christmassy smell...

And also today, a surprise bouquet of flowers arrived for me from an old friend who I used to work with on the craft fair circuit. She is now a florist, and, amongst other places, sells her hand-tied bouquets and dried flower arrangements at Green Park Station Market, Bath, on Saturdays...so if ever you are in the area, do drop by and say hello to her and tell her I sent you!

**

Hope you're enjoying the run up to Christmas and can enjoy a few moments now and then to do something just for you...it's good to stop for a minute or two when life is so hectic.

Take care,

Niki x

Music and Colour Therapy

2009-12-11T19:54:00.005Z

Yesterday was such a gorgeous December day - mild and sunny - very much a feel-good day. Over the last week my emotions have been in all directions!...when I was finally given the keys to the shop I became frightened...Had I made the right decision and would all this financial outlay be money well spent?...I also kept questioning myself as to whether I was capable of doing all of this on my own; but I do feel that this is the right time for me, this time, and I aim to give it 100% effort.

As I mentioned in the post below, hubby and I started cracking-on with the renovation work inside last weekend and I slowly became more optimistic, but was constantly looking out on to a grey, rainy and very quiet high street.

Then yesterday the sun came out...along with this fantastic busker...He was playing his saxophone right outside my shop, and to have music whilst we worked was such a tonic... suddenly the high street seemed more alive as well. There were many more people out and about and each one didn't fail to smile as they passed by the saxophonist. He had lots of money thrown in to his case and even sold a few of his CD's during the hour or so that he was there.

I started on the interior painting yesterday, whilst hubby continued sorting out the damp windows. It was good to start to get a fresh coat of colour on those walls...it felt more like mine. The warm weather meant that we could have the door open all day, so the music was wafting in. This open door also prompted lots of local people to come in to introduce themselves, to ask what I was planning for the shop and to generally wish me luck. Everyone was so friendly and encouraging and it was like a weight being lifted.

Shepton Mallet had become quite a rundown town and I think that these local people were happy to see another empty shop being taken over. I'm now much happier about the whole prospect and am raring to go...Roll on the New Year!

I would also like to thank all of you for your very encouraging comments, cards, and emails that you have sent to me regarding my last two posts. I feel very lucky to have so much support.

First thing this morning I had a meeting with my landlord. I hadn't met him before, but was pleased to find him to be a fair man and one who has Shepton's best interests at heart. I told him of the problems we had discovered in the window niches and he has agreed to have them completely rebuilt - I am so excited. Any structural changes have to be OKed by the council first, as the shops are in a conservation area and so alterations need to be in keeping...does make you wonder how these two brutes below were allowed to be built in the first place!...(the wonders of poor 1960's/70's architecture and that love of concrete strikes again(!))...thankfully in time they will be replaced with something more sympathetic.

** Today was market day (every Friday) on the market square, and again the Shepton buzz was present...I kept being sidetracked from my painting as I watched people buying their Christmas wreaths, bunches of holly, mistletoe and fir branches, as well as their fruit and veg!

I've given the big double doors that I started painting yesterday their first coat of eggshell, (took me ages cutting in around all those tiny panes of glass!) - but they'll need another coat and I have also painted one of the walls...lots more to do, so I'll be very busy this weekend...

Hope you'll have a more relaxing one! Have fun!

Niki x

Progress Report...And Keeping Festive.

2009-12-08T17:34:00.003Z

Just to keep you posted; I've been at the shop most days since being given the keys and have been busy gutting the place!

Before: ......................................After:
The old shelves and battens have been taken down and I've been filling all the holes in preparation for painting.

Some of the wood will be recycled for shelves that I need elsewhere...

The electrics have been done and new lighting has been fitted. (The funny star lights have gone...they may look cute at this time of year, but weren't really appropriate for what I wanted.)

Window niches before:

The side window niches have had their lower doors removed to let in more light and to allow people passing by to see into the shop more easily. Sadly this led to some unwelcome discoveries...

Over the years the roofs of the two windows haven't been well maintained and so rainwater has got inside. There is a lot of penetrating damp, woodworm and rotten timbers...not nice... :(

If I had been told earlier in the year that I would be spending the run up to Christmas dealing with such things, I doubt I would have believed it...

Once its all been treated and repaired, I'm sure it will be fine...

Elsewhere in the shop; there is this little storage area which I have plans for...the tiled shelf was removed and then the wall was skimmed over in preparation for some wallpapering, possibly...still not made my mind up totally about that yet...

Before.........................................After

I'm sure all of this is very tedious and boring for you, but I wanted to keep everything documented on my blog so that I can see the progress that I'm making in order to keep a positive attitude. It will be good to look back on in a few months time, I think.

What is also keeping me positive is the lovely view from the front windows. The large Christmas tree with blue twinkling lights has gone up on the market place, not far from my shop.

A quick glance outside and I feel happy and festive and ready to crack on with all the tedious preparation. I'm sure once the painting starts, it'll come together quite quickly...first the damp windows to sort though...

Anyway, moving on from those nasty photos of rotten wood and mess...

I did allow myself a little thrifting time at the weekend...I still need my fix, even when there is more important things to be done! ;-))

My latest vintage finds all had a festive feel, too...I was really pleased to find these...lots of kitsch decorations and funny little treasures to add a smile and a reminder as to what this time of year is all about...

*

And as a slight contrast to all that retro glitz, I was treated to a more refined pleasure too.

My hardworking hubby (his enthusiastic wielding of a handsaw to take down the unwanted fixtures in the shop is very welcome!) took me out for a meal last night to celebrate securing the shop. A relaxing evening was spent at The Moody Goose, where we were spoilt for choice with their gorgeous menu.

Ready to face another day of smelly damp windows and woodworm!

Niki x

Patience is a Virtue!

2009-12-04T14:50:00.010Z

Patience, they say, is a virtue, and is one I like to think I possess...but during these last three months, that virtue has been seriously tested! The final hurdle with my on-going saga was to spend two hours at a solicitors office this morning...If I were to have written a comedy sketch show for the likes of John Cleese, who's characters are perhaps used to things not going their way, then this mornings events would have made for a very funny (read frustrating) show.
I won't bore you with all of that now, because I'm trying to forgot it, thankfully with my patience still intact...
Yes, today I have finally been given the keys to my shop-to-be!! Yippeeeee!!!!

Now the hard work begins and the first job on the cards is to order paint and start wielding the brushes...that Barbie pink wall NEEDS to go! ;-))

There is a lot of work to be done, which will need to be juggled with all the organisation of Christmas too...something I hadn't counted on, because I actually thought I might have been open by now if all had run smoothly...

Being realistic, I think it will be the New Year now before I can open for business...a New Year and a new chapter of my life...

I'll keep you posted with progress, for anyone interested....but for now, here is a sneaky peek at the place I shall be calling 'Nostalgia at Number 1'.

****************************************

As a change of subject, here is something I worked on yesterday - a very quick and easy make if you want to have a go yourself...

Shortly after we first moved into our home, it was my hubby's Birthday, and I decided to plant a Silver Birch tree in our garden for him. Over the years the tree has thrived and become very tall and willowy, with beautiful silvery bark.

Sadly, during the high winds that blew last month, a lot of it's whippy twigs were ripped from it's branches and our lawn ended up strewn with many broken stems.

I decided these could be very useful and so gathered them all up in a huge bundle. Enough for a broomstick(!), but that wasn't what I had in mind...

No, I thought I'd make a festive wreath for our front door. These long twigs are very pliable, making them perfect for the job. You could use the stems from a grapevine or a willow too, as these should also be quite pliable at this time of year and not brittle.

Start by making a simple circle to your desired size, winding the twigs around themselves. They should hold themselves in place quite well, but if you have trouble, then a small length of fine wire twisted round will help, as you build on it.

At this stage hubby walked into the kitchen...sighed...and then walked back out! ;-)) You have to be prepared to make a mess, selecting the best pieces of twig to use...

(They do say 'Creative clutter is better than idle neatness'! ;-))

Winding round and round in the same direction will soon build up a thick and strong wreath. By tucking each end into the wreath, it should hold it's shape well.

Stop when you have made the wreath even all the way around and to your desired thickness.

You can decorate your wreath in any way that appeals to you. I decided to keep mine very simple.

A length of vintage white lace was wound round it and tied at the back. (This will help hold all the twigs together too). I tied another shorter length to create the tails.

A wire loop was made at the top for hanging, by twisting a short length through the wreath (optional).

And a single white millinery rose was glued to the bottom.

I used white glue, applied with a brush...

and sprinkled with old fashioned mica glitter...

Making sure to add the frosting where snow would naturally fall and settle.

Including a sprinkling on the rose.

I then left it to dry.

When dry, it was simply hung on our front door, using the wire loop. Ta-da, a wreath that cost me nothing, as I had all the bits and pieces to hand. I was inspired to make this by Natasha, who has been adding glitter to silver birch logs. You can see what she made here.

Hope you have a lovely weekend...I'm off to celebrate, to order litres of paint and make plans....

See ya!

Niki x

The Bright Lights of Bath

2009-12-03T20:35:00.002Z

Photos taken this evening during late night shopping in Bath.

**

**

**

Sleep well,

Niki x

I Can Sing a Rainbow...

2009-12-02T15:15:00.007Z

Where to start with this post?...I know it's in danger of being all over the place you see, so please excuse. (Also, I really shouldn't be sat here typing this, as there are 101 other things that I really should be doing!!)
When it comes to talking about colour, I am generally torn in all directions. Colour has such a powerful effect on our emotions and general outlook, and I personally find that I have different favourites depending on my mood, or where the colour is to be used or enjoyed.

When crafting and sewing, colour becomes a vital component to the piece. Get this choice wrong from the start and the item may never work as a finished product. I think I have used just about every hue at one time or another in my work...and also in our home...in my wardrobe...even in our garden.

When putting together my gift sets, I love to find coordinating vintage treasures; and creating a patchwork of antique fabrics is such a joy.

I do so admire anyone who can stick to a selection of colours and run with them in all aspects of their life; from their interior design, the hand crafted pieces and artworks they create, to their own dress and fashion accessories.

For me, the queen of the strict colour code would be Rachel Ashwell from 'Shabby Chic' - her love for pale pastels, including aqua, pink and minty green, all anchored by white, creates such a calming palette to live by, and one which is easy to add to and mix in with all kinds of vintage treasures.

Andrea at 'Everyday Beauty' always impresses me with her very tight selection of colours of mostly peach, olive and mocha beige/browns - her hand crafted pieces that use this range of hues are exquisite.
Heather from 'Pretty Petals' shares that love for a closely related colour palette, choosing pale pastels and white, but predominantly soft sky blues.

Neutral but never dull or ordinary is Tiina's world at 'Dream in Cream'
Teena of 'Kitschen Pink' works with a wild and zesty scheme of retro brights, but especially magenta pink and cyan!

Sylvia at 'Villa Extra' chooses an ethereal palette with echoes of nature.

Christine from 'White Vintage', shares the passion that many Scandinavian ladies do for a very pared down palette of whites and off-whites, which echo the snow covered landscapes beyond their front door.

And of course any regular visitor to Blogland will know that there are many American girls out there who adore sugary, shabby pinks in a BIG way! Lori at 'Faerie Window' is one of those girls.

And there are many other clever ladies out there too...I know that you will have your favourites.

I'm personally a bit of a fidget and get restless very easily. I've tried sticking to a muted palette of mostly faded French reds teamed with creams/white, but soon find myself wandering from that standpoint. So I guess my work will always reflect my mood at the time.

I was recently given this lovely old box by Teena, who suggested I give it a make-over. The original lining was a black satin, so I felt I needed to work with that.

I love working with black as it creates a dramatic, 'boudoiry' and sophisticated look. I remembered the French hand painted panel of satin fabric that I bought at a recent fair, with its glorious tumbling roses and thought this would be ideal for the lid.

This was carefully glued and smoothed into place.

I then used a C19th faded floral French fabric for the sides and some jet black velvet to cover the base.

The edges were finished with a vintage piping braid.

I think it would make an attractive jewellery box in the boudoir.

Its funny to me how my tastes for certain colours change...this strong colour has been with me for a while now, as I was reminded of a large satin nightdress case that I bought at the V&H Fair from the lovely Amanda (Shabby Chic - from Totnes Flea Market).

The hand painted roses are so pretty and tie in nicely with my new jewellery box.

So, inspired by my rediscovery of black, I also made over an old 50's chocolate box this morning, which came to me via Sue, after the V&H Fair - She thrust it into my hand and told me to do something with it!

I covered the lid in another C19th French fabric and finished the sides in vintage petersham ribbon. Victorian velvet tied in a bow keeps the lid closed and I also added a millinery rose and vintage postcard - ideal as a special gift box.

I'll probably find now, when I settle down to make my next project, that I shall start on a new colour scheme, with black now being out of my system! I also like to vary what I make and soon get sidetracked by new ideas that pop into my head. I do admire other craftspeople who are able to stick at making very similar items over and over...I wonder what their secret is in not finding it repetitive...

As you can see from some of my archive photographs, my stalls at the antique fairs were always bright and breezy and full of colour. I accept that this wouldn't be to everyone's taste, but it was always lots of fun to put together. I always tried to group to colour, so as not to totally overwhelm the colour-phobic! ;-))

A few years ago I was able to buy beautiful vintage hats and accessories from America. The shipping was quite high, but it was nice to be able to offer something a little different to visitors to the fairs.

Just recently though, buying from abroad has caused me a few problems. Sorry, just going off on a slight tangent here for a minute - I wanted to ask any UK girls if they have experienced similar problems as I have with HM Customs? The last three parcels that I have had sent from the U.S.A. have all incurred an extra charge. A card has been pushed through my letterbox requesting the payment before delivery will be made. In one instance it was an extra £26.00.

I feel for those who may be ordering Christmas gifts this year from the States, hoping to save a little money because finances are tight, only to get stung for the added duty.

Back to colour...Those of you have bought copies of my Nostalgia calendar (thank you kindly!) will realise that I have lots of vintage bits and bobs in every colour of the rainbow...I was able to make each month of the year represent a different shade! Most of these items were gathered from my personal collections arranged throughout our home.

Available at www.nostalgia-stonehouse.co.uk

Most of our rooms are painted with white walls and floorboards, which I think helps anchor all the other colours. I do try to restrain myself from running riot - Red is a constant in our home, and I am quite partial to turquoise too...

But then having been bought up in the 70's, I'll always have a soft spot for purples and mauves...

And then there is the faded reds bordering on pinks....
Honestly, what am I like?!

When I say to people that I generally only buy old items for our home, I think they imagine it to be brown and muted. The surprise on their faces is evident when they see the riot of colours that welcome them when they visit for the first time...

Antique doesn't have to mean dull, gloomy, dingy or drab, does it?

And being the fidget that I am, I also struggle to stick to one area of collecting...should it be my antique shoes or boots, the accumulation of flapper ladies...or perhaps the sparkling costume brooches?

Boudoir babes from the 20's?

My vintage/antique fabrics..hmmm, better not go there for now...in my defence, these are all used for my handmade items...

As well as my recycling of old buttons and baubles.

Victorian postcards...at least these can be tucked away in an old album and added to quite discretely!

Can you blame me?..so many pretty ones...

I could go on, but that would be a whole other story...and you probably already think I have a few colour-orientated issues! I put my hands up - My name is Niki and I am a 'colouraholic'!!

Hope you are more well-adjusted than I! ;-))

Niki x

Christmas in Bath 2009

2009-12-01T16:34:00.002Z

Can you believe its December 1st today? - Where has this year gone? They say its a sign that you are getting older when the time flies, but even my youngest daughter says how quickly this year has disappeared...maybe its because we are all so busy now-a-days?

Anyway, seeing December as clear as day on my calendar this morning prompted me to think 'Christmas' again and so I thought I'd take a trip into Bath, arriving fairly early, so that I could find a parking space. Bath is extra busy at the moment, as the Christmas Market is in full swing and is attracting the tourists once again...

I would say that the atmosphere around the Abbey is far nicer in the evening, what with the twinkling fairy lights and that you may feel the excuse to indulge in a hot cup of mulled wine ;-)) - but today was a colder, crisper day of late, so I took the opportunity to weave through the crowds in the search for a few gifts...

Avoiding the temptation to jump on the traditional old Carousel for a ride, you need to walk down the side of the Roman Baths, past the magnificent fir tree, and around the Abbey to the square, where you'll find most of the little wooden chalets.

See, I told you it was busy!

Most of the little rooftops are dressed in festive greenery and berries, with inviting displays inside...

*

I bought some beautiful hand made soaps from this stall, just like I did last year...the scent wafting on the air was gorgeous.

With next door smelling just as delicious with its array of spiced decorations.

It was very difficult to capture many photos; as I said there were a lot of visitors. Many of the stalls are just an extension to some of the shops in Bath, which I find a little disappointing. So I stuck to photographing the festive merchandise where I could...

The market is on until the 6th December for anyone interested.

I'm off now to put my feet up; why is shopping so exhausting?!!

Niki x

A Little Bit of This and That...

2009-11-29T16:30:00.002Z

My in-laws have left for home this morning, hopefully not taking with them the fluey/cold virus that struck me down the day that they arrived! Thankfully I managed to make it through the worst with the help of several doses of these...
and am feeling a lot more like my usual self this afternoon...

I made a quick trip into Bath, to a vintage fashion fair this morning. I wasn't really feeling 100% and so did a quick flit round, finding these treasures on the way, and then it was back home, out of the torrential rain, and to try to catch up with everything that's been neglected over the last few days.

French treasures: Original c1910 fabric panel, a set of 3 pleated silk lampshades and a delicious rose printed fabric covered box.

Thought I'd just show you a couple of other bits and bobs too, whilst I'm here...

Another Edwardian photo collage that I completed, using some pretty antique lace and trims...

*

And talking of antique lace, Louise and I arranged a private swap between ourselves; Lovely lace in exchange for some vintage fabric scraps.

At the top is the beautiful lace that Louise sent to me, along with some other surprise treasures...

Also included were some feedsack patchwork pieces and the retro trims below. Thanks again Louise...and 'happy crafting' with your vintage fabric scraps...when they make it to you across the pond! ;-))

Another parcel also arrived for me this week...this one from Monica, which was a complete surprise. Inside was this wonderful handmade wooden gingerbread man for our festive tree this year. Thanks again Monica...he'll be very much at home with our homespun decorations here at The Stone House! x

That's all for now...hope you've had a lovely weekend and have a good week too! I'm hoping for some good news re: my shop-to-be, by the end of this week...fingers crossed...and I'm also hoping to find the time for a bit of Christmas crafting.

Niki x

Rag doll available at www.nostalgia-stonehouse.co.uk

Vintage Details

2009-11-25T14:24:00.001Z

I'm just sitting here waiting for my mother and father-in-law to arrive...
All is clean, tidy, dust-free (well, as dust-free as it will ever be around here ;-))
and all is calm and quiet...
Just time to take five minutes to enjoy the details on this November day...

*

*

*

*

Niki x

Sweet Sixteen

2009-11-24T14:11:00.001Z

I bought a small selection of old photographs the other day...all a little tatty around the edges...just the way I like them, but also ideal for using in some quick creative makes...

I love this serious little chap in his sailor suit, which reminded me that I had a cabinet photo of a more grown up young man in his sailor uniform in my stash. They seemed ideal placed together and I'm enjoying how they now seem to tell a story within the collage...

An old military cap badge was secured through the card, which reinforces the tale and I also stamped the words 'Our Boy' down the side.

A pretty Sunday School card with a simple motto completes the piece.

I'm working on the other two portraits at the moment, using lots of antique lace and a touch of sparkle...but creative time is a little lacking around here at the moment...

Because today is my baby's Birthday! She's sixteen today...I can hardly believe it - 16 sounds so grown up.

She made her Birthday cake herself, as she loves baking and is also a great animal lover...

Even the scary varieties!

She's taken the cake to school today to share with her teacher and friends. Her form tutor has been with her since year seven, but leaves today to have her baby soon. I know my daughter will miss her.

'Happy Birthday Gorgeous Girl!'

I have my in-laws arriving tomorrow to stay with us for a while, but I'll try to check into my blog when I can.

Enjoy the rest of your week,

Niki x

Waist Not, Want Not!

2009-11-20T17:54:00.001Z

Another busy but non-eventful week...I've been dispatching my on-line shop orders over the last couple of days, so your parcels should be with you soon.

I've also briefly been in conversation with my solicitor again, but it looks like another week has past without any more news on the physical shop...frustrating...but I'll get there in the end...I hope...

I have started to think about some of the items that will be moving in there, once I have the key...

I recently bought this vintage mannequin quite reasonably, because she has a rather large watermark across her hips. This doesn't actually bother me; it shows she's lived a life and has a story or two to tell, but some visitors to my shop may not see her in such a favourable light.

I want to use her to display vintage costume brooches that I will have for sale, which I shall pin across her chest, as well as necklaces, feathers etc - just like Tallulah in my bedroom...

A rather gorgeous vintage corset hides her imperfections and adds another point of interest to my display. I thought I'd try to find another corset or girdle to fit my newest lady, so as to create a similar looking arrangement...

I bought this beauty on-line. It came all the way from France and is completely unused. Unfortunately is is just too large and won't stay on my mannequin. I thought if I really pulled the lacing tight that it would do the job, but it really was designed for a more ample figure!

I love how it is constructed, and to think most women wore these, once upon a time...

This smaller white corset came from Sue at the V&H Fair. I thought it might be borderline size-wise, so chanced it....sadly no matter how hard I pull at the hooks and eyes, its not going to go around my girl's hips...

and the more I look at her, the more I think she wouldn't actually suit a tight, restrictive undergarment. She's a more straight-up and down kind of a girl, probably from around the 1920's/30's, well after the 1800's when women we expected to do awful damage to their internal organs in the name of fashion.

Perhaps I shouldn't inflict this on my poor girl!

As much as I find the old advertisements of the late 1880's fascinating, there is no way I would ever wish to go back to a time when women put their health at such risk.

Having said that, I was rather surprised to find some images on Google which show a few women who practice corset training. A corset is worn virtually around the clock to slowly alter the figure over years. Of course the back muscles become weakened, so the corset can never be removed for any length of time, once this tiny size has been reached.

This is Cathie Jung, who has her place in the Guinness book of records for being the woman with the smallest waist with a measurement of just 15".

Yes, moving on...

I've decided to call my new mannequin Clara, after the stunningly beautiful Clara Bow.

I've tried several options today to dress her up a little, but have decided to go for a simple idea. I'm going to tie a wide pastel coloured velvet ribbon around her waist and hips and I shall tuck lengths of lace, handkerchiefs or vintage head scarves that I have for sale at any one time into it. This should create almost a flapper, handkerchief point hemline, which I think will suit her far more than any corset would!

And I can still pin the brooches and hang necklaces across her front.

Fingers crossed that I'll soon be able to try it out when she moves to her new home on the Market Square.

Have a lovely weekend,

Niki x

Rag Dolls for Sale!

2009-11-18T09:24:00.003Z

I have updated my on-line shop this morning - I hope that you will enjoy taking a look when you have a moment...

It includes several rag dolls, some fairy folk and the last of my 'Nostalgia' calendars for 2010.

Happy Shopping!

Niki x

PS: On another note - I am sorry if I owe some of you an email - I have had a few computer problems and have lost some of my recent correspondence.

Friends from Far and Near...

2009-11-15T20:44:00.006Z

The Friday weather forecast was spreading doom and gloom, with talk of heavy, prolonged rain, gale force winds, with severe weather warnings advising people not to travel during the night and early hours of Saturday morning, unless absolutely necessary...very well timed! - Because, of course, that very next morning was the much anticipated 'Vintage & Handmade Fair'.
As I lay in my bed on Friday night I could hear the high winds whipping around our house on the top of the hill. I kept telling myself that I must get to sleep, as the alarm was set for 6am.
That alarm bell came around quick enough, but straining hard, I could no longer hear the whistling winds...quite a relief, I can tell you.
By 7am hubby and I headed off for Chipping, half expecting to come across fallen trees, or at the very least, debris in the roads...but no, all seemed clear. We arrived early at the Town Hall car park and thankfully were not unloading in the pouring rain as we had also expected to, the evening before.
As was anticipated though, was my usual arranging of my stall, finished with just minutes to spare before the visitors were due to come in. (In my defence though, I do have a double pitch...well, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it! ;-))

I was just able to climb up onto the stage and snap this quick shot of the main hall before the lovely people piled in (as can be seen through the double doors at the top.)
I love how most of the stall holders had chosen white table coverings for their stands...it gave a look of continuity, but was a complete happy accident - a refined festive look, for a classy event!

The weather warnings did seem to put some people off travelling - I have since had a few emails from people I know who were due to come, but unfortunately changed their minds at the last minute.
But one person who was not put off was this lovely lady below...let me introduce you to Maria, and I ask you the question, 'was she the furthest travelled visitor to the V&H Fair on Saturday?'
I met Maria and her husband for the first time at the last V&H fair in May, where we struggled to have a conversation because Maria is from Italy!
She emailed me a couple of times this month to say that she had decided to visit the fair again in November, as she had enjoyed herself so much at the last one.
So we met again, this time with a kiss on each cheek, and another for luck, the Italian way I am told ;-)), and a little parcel was pressed into my hand.

Maria makes these adorable buttons and decorated pins herself. I was so touched by her generous gesture and wished dearly that my Italian was not non-existent, so that I could have expressed my gratitude to her more clearly.

Maria had picked up a little more English from her now regular visits, and so was able to say to me that she thought the whole fair was 'beautiful', said with her very infectious smile.
If you read this Maria, thank you for letting me take your lovely photograph, for the pretty gift that you gave me, and for the purchases that you made on my stall. I hope that you had a safe journey back to Italy.

I am of course very grateful to all who came to say hello and who bought from my stand. Hubby had a wonderful time chatting to all the lovely ladies too! ;-))

Here are a few shots that I was able to capture of my display before it got too busy.

I found this time that most shoppers were looking for smaller gift items. China was popular, along with my brooch pillows, pin cushions, calendars and Christmas tree crystals.

Consequently, some of my larger items, such as a few rag dolls, have come back home with me. I am going to try to list some of these items for my on-line shop this week, as I have had requests for some of the goods in my previous preview post. As long as things don't move all of a sudden on the physical shop front, I should just about have time to do this, so thank you for your interest. I am always humbled when someone wishes to buy something I have made myself.

I had masses of stock - two tables is quite a large area to fill, so next time (if I am allowed to have a stand next time) I think I shall just book one. Having said that, I do possibly over-fill my stand and could easily leave half of it at home! What can I say, I like to offer choice! ;-))

There is a Christmas tree somewhere under that gaggle of fairies!...

Rag dolls were sitting two abreast on a little chair!

And piles of plates were piled with pin cushions!

And these two had to sit by the side of my stand when I finally had to admit that I had run out of space!

Anyway...enough about my stand! Hubby held the fort briefly while I took a few shots of the pretty nearby stalls...
This is Jane's...her one-off pieces are truly exquisite.

Christine's, where I bought a tiny handmade French fabric bag and some adorable little Christmas cards.

And her friend Gertie's space next door...which includes her dreamy hand stitched purses and jewellery wraps.

This is Nicky's stand, of course, with her 'stop, look at me' collection of mohair modelled characters...which to adopt?

Lucy's perfectly presented prettiness...now there is a very organised lady...and someone who shares my love for fairy folk, vintage roses and floral fabric!

Not forgetting my buddy Sue, who worked like a Trojan manning her double pitch of fabulous antique treasures, all by herself.

Sorry that I wasn't able to capture photos of all the stalls, but there are plenty of pictures to be seen on the V&H website, and some of the other stall holder's blogs. Also, images can also be enjoyed in 3D via Isabelle's blog, where her clever hubby Alan has uploaded his special pics... here, here and here - Have those cool specs at the ready! ;-))

Have a happy week,

Niki x

The Countdown is Over...

2009-11-13T09:59:00.004Z

Here is just a small selection of some of the handmade items coming with me to tomorrow's Vintage & Handmade Fair at Chipping Sodbury. I don't do a mock-up of my stand like many others do...I'm not that organised and end up winging-it on the day! (Last time I was still putting items out on my stand as the doors opened for the lovely people to come in! Ooops ;-))

I have lots more smaller stocking filler items not shown, but the weather this week has been very gloomy for taking photographs, so all of these will be a surprise for the visitors. (There are however, a few other photos on my other blog here) I also have plenty of vintage goods of course, including pretty china, small cupboards and a few festive treats.

First up is my new line of 'torso cushions' ideal for sitting in a chair to display brooches and necklaces, with a lace pocket on the front for keepsakes. (All my items are made from antique or vintage fabrics, lace and trims.)

*

A patriotic cushion.

Pretty brooch pillows for the dressing table.

Smaller quilted brooch pillows, each with a vintage marcasite brooch.

Display frame for more brooches and keepsakes.

A selection of my patchwork bags - this time including a real vintage postcard encased in the front.

Country cottages...

A romantic couple (includes one of the postcards that I bought back from France this summer)

and Christmasy gift bags to spoil a loved-one.

And here are the fairy folk to adorn your festive tree...

My large one-of-a-kind rag dolls include:

Octavia,

Chloe,

Pomona,

Heather,

Elspeth,

Olive and

The patriotic girls;

Britt,

Gloria,

And Queeny!

Hope you can make it along to the fair tomorrow - Michele and Jayne have worked hard to make it bigger and better than the last one (if that's possible!) - it should be a wonderful day!

***

May I also just say a BIG thank you for your kind comments, supportive emails and all the encouragement that I received to my previous post. I'm very excited about my new venture and am thrilled that you feel I am doing the right thing! Incidentally, I may have confused some of you; I have no intention to stop Blogging!! - Just I may not have quite so much time to do so.

Have a lovely weekend,

Niki x

'Nostalgia at Number 1', Market Place.

2009-11-12T09:16:00.004Z

The seed was planted back in May of this year when I had my stand at the Spring Vintage & Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury. I was reminded that there are many women out there who all share my passion for vintage, or for the pleasures of owning something lovingly created by hand. It was also a reminder to me of those days when I sold on the craft fair circuit (around 20 years ago now) and also at the DMG antique fairs at Shepton Mallet a few years ago; the camaraderie amongst the stallholders that went with the good days and the bad is something that I miss. I have some wonderful friends in the antiques trade, but being just a buyer at the fairs, detaches you somewhat from the network.

So as I said, the seed was planted and I have been making decisions and plans since that wonderful day. I have been a stay-at-home Mum for 22 years now!!! Gulp! Well, that's apart from doing the odd antiques fair and always trying to fit my on-line business in when I could; my family have always had to come first. This is a long time to be at home, alone with ones thoughts, day in, day out, and it can become quite isolating. Having been a Mum for all that time (youngest will be 16 in November) I have recently had an urgent need to find ‘me’ again…whoever she may be…That’s ‘me’ the person I am inside, rather than the Mum, provider and carer.

I did trial a shop for year, back in 2003, which was joined to the side of our house. My youngest was only 10 years old at the time, so it was very difficult to juggle family life with the tie of running the shop properly, particularly during the school holidays, and with weekends never being our own. Having said that I dearly missed my shop when I closed it and aimed to keep it alive by selling similar goods on-line, which is what has led to my somewhat isolated lifestyle.

So earlier this year I began considering opening a physical shop again. I decided that opening the room on the side of our house was no longer an option…besides, I’m rather partial to the kitchen being there now and the space it gives us when the girls and their friends all descend upon us.

No, for it to work for me this time I needed it to be away from our home, to give me the detachment and the ‘me’ time that I crave. I realise that I possibly could have chosen a better time to be contemplating opening a shop, given the current economic climate, but advice that I have received has been full of encouragement and has helped me to see clearer.

I began my search by looking at a vacant premise on a main ‘A’ road, a few miles from our home. The building was very appealing, but with its location with no other shops around and its need for ‘a change of use’ to be granted, it was soon struck from my list.

During the summer, the town of Wells provided me with a very successful viewing. A recently refurbished shop, which had previously had a thriving business running from it for around 20 years, was very tempting. It was a large premise with three sales rooms as well as a kitchen and loo! I ended up walking away from this shop though, mainly on the advice of a friend whose opinion I sort, who knows Wells well! The location wasn’t ideal and my friend had a feeling about Wells not having the right customer base for vintage. I respect her judgement, so decided against it.

I left my search for a while, until September when I stumbled upon this blog. It is written by Belinda who runs a beautiful antique shop called No.21 in Shepton Mallet, which she opened with her husband back in May. Shepton Mallet is a small market town, once quite affluent with its links centuries ago to the woollen trade and also by the breweries that existed there during the C19th. Over the years it has had its problems; with ‘a well known corporation’ opening a large supermarket at the top of the town, being the final straw that broke the backbone of the high street. I admit that I didn’t actually know the town of Shepton Mallet that well, despite it being only a 25 minute drive from my home, so I thought I’d pay it a visit and also call in on Belinda whilst I was there.

Photo courtesy of: http://atowninsomerset.blogspot.com/
Belinda’s shop is very easy to find in the pedestrian area of Town Street – and I have to say that it is the smartest shop in town! She has filled it with tasteful items of furniture and beautiful accessories for the home. We soon got chatting upon my visit and it was clear to me that Belinda is passionate about the rejuvenation of Shepton. She told me of the Shepton21 scheme that is running with a dedicated committee, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce and many non-profit organisations, which has already made leaps forward in bringing back a vibrant and sustainable future to benefit residents, businesses and visitors to the area.

It also seemed to me that visitors to the town expect to see antique and vintage shops, with it having such a strong link with the Bath & West Showground and the antique events that are held there, just five minutes down the road - but there are actually very few of them. I decided to give Shepton a chance and had a good look up and down the high street…there were quite a few shops vacant/for lease, one of which really appealed to me.
On my return home I gave it a lot of thought and then arranged a viewing of the shop that I had seen. It is only a small premise (enough for one person to cope with on her own!), a corner position, and in a prime location on the market square – so no cars going past all day, just pedestrians, with the market stalls there on a Friday. Outside it, stands the beautiful 50 foot high Market Cross, which dates from 1500.

So, the viewing went ahead and I had a very good feeling about the visit. Sums were worked out when I got home (between you and me the financial side SCARES me!!!)

Image from Psycho (1960)Directed by Alfred Hitchcock

and I decided I wanted to give it a go…I submitted my offer to the agent and waited…let me tell you, there was no ‘Kirsty and Phil moment', where five minutes later a phone call comes through and the buyers immediately know if it’s a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’!!

Location, Location, Location presenters Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp

Oh no indeed…the agent decided he needed a holiday and I didn’t hear if my offer had been accepted for 5 days!!! Talk about stress??! It was agony! But finally, on a Tuesday afternoon the news came through…the vendor suggested a counter offer, which was basically take it, or leave it, as he now had other parties interested!! This, after the shop being vacant for a year! Unbelievable…I was really tested to question if this was what I really wanted….then the vendor went away on holiday for 2 weeks!! Aghhhh….
It’s now several weeks on from those rather stressful negotiations and I had been itching to tell you of my plans, but was worried that things might fall through along the way…

Although I've still yet to sign the contract, I am on the homeward straight and would hope to do so in the next couple of weeks...I'm sitting here with everything crossed right now though; until I have that key in my hand, it is difficult to think of anything else. Who knew commercial leases were so complex?!

I’ve always been a bit of a purist and personally dislike repro-vintage, preferring the genuine article whenever possible. It has become much harder to find pretty vintage pieces, compared to when I had my little shop back in 2003, mainly due, I think, to the current ‘fashion’ for all things vintage, but I am confident that with the contacts that I have made over the years, that I will be able to keep my new shop stocked with a good assortment of authentic pieces, as well as my hand made items. I intend to have my sewing machine in the shop and to work on making things during the quieter times. I honestly believe that this will work better for me, rather than me working from home so much. I find it a struggle to keep motivated at home sometimes, especially during school/uni holidays, and other distractions. There have also been a lot of new vintagey websites set up over the years and so competition has increased. I work alone, rather than working with my partner like many others, so it can be hard to compete when I have to do all aspects myself. Hand making the stock always seems to be way down on the list, with emailing, listing, despatching etc. taking over and becoming the main focus. Finding time to think about new lines is a struggle and so I am often left wondering if what I do makes me happy…
I do intend to keep my on-line shop, but will probably only list my rag dolls on it for a while, until I get settled in at the physical shop. This is a big step for me and I need to get it right.

I have had my on-line shop for over 7 years now and am grateful for all the cyber-friends and customers that I have met over that time and want it to be known that I am not looking to turn my back on you – I appreciate your past custom and hope that you consider I am making the right choice in this next chapter in my life. I will do my best to keep up with my blog too, but the time when I'm away from the shop will need to be family/home time which is still very important to me. (I do not intend to have a PC at the shop, as I need the hours that this should free-up for sewing etc.)

The next few weeks will involve lots of paint (the Barbie pink above will be the first thing to go! ;-)) and shifting of furniture and fittings, as well as moving stock into the shop (I have LOTS AND LOTS!) As soon as I am open for business I will let you know and hope that if ever you are passing, that you will pop in to say hello…(I’m really hoping I’ll be ready some time in December) So, although I am taking a big risk, I do feel that I am doing the right thing to make me happy. (I’m tied into quite a long lease, so am there for the long term.) It also feels good to be doing my very small part to help with the regeneration of Shepton Mallet town centre, by occupying another shop that has been empty for a year, and to hopefully bring some custom to the town. Shepton Mallet deserves better, given its ancient history which would be of interest to both locals and tourists, and its troubled recent past that it needs to emerge from. I hope it will encourage other small business owners to come and join the ranks too, as Shepton starts on its climb up out of the doldrums.

Although my new venture has been on my mind an awful lot over the last couple of months, I have not neglected my sewing machine and have lots of new items to take with me to the V&H fair on Saturday. (I’m sorry to those who have asked when my on-line shop would be updated, but I had to draw the line somewhere and so it has remained somewhat ignored. I hope you can forgive me and I will do my best to re-stock the catalogue early next year, if not before) I am very excited about all the stock that I have managed to acquire so far for my new venture, not least because I could buy everything that ‘spoke’ to me, rather than me first having to consider if it was suitable for posting. But it’s the V&H Fair first, so tomorrow I shall share with you some of the handmade items that I shall be taking with me.

Sorry for this long post, but I felt obligated to let you know what my plans were, having been a part of the Blogging community for a long time now and gaining so much support from you all over the years, for which I shall always be grateful.

Be back tomorrow,

Niki x

Built to Last

2009-11-09T14:57:00.002Z

Good foundations are a vital first step....

Structural support to provide stability...

With additional supports and trusses, just to be on the safe side.

Cavity wall insulation for comfort, along with fully functioning amenities...

Decorative brickwork patterns for a pleasing design...

Quality materials in generous quantity for a long lifespan.

Additional extensions of good proportions and well integrated.

High spec finish...

And not forgetting those finishing touches for a well presented exterior.

Built to last, to be enjoyed by future generations.

Compact and bijou; suitable for a petite lady with no more than a 22" waist!

**
I have been studying this beautiful dress that I found on a recent buying trip and am astounded by the workmanship, both inside it and out. It was probably designed as a theatre costume, possibly back in the 1930's or 40's. The fitted bodice is made from the softest silk velvet of a rich mauve and has been hand beaded with tiny silver glass beads, front and back. The boned structure inside would have been made-to-measure for a very tiny lady indeed. But I think she must have been quite a strong lady, as the dress is really quite heavy and would have taken some effort to wear.

The beautiful circular skirt is made from fine chiffon/crepe in a paler purple shade. It is fully lined in a soft peach taffeta, with the extra flounces and drapes also lined in peach, which creates the stunningly fluid silhouette. I would love to have known of its past; where it may have been worn and by whom...its a little damaged and soiled, but the careful craftsmanship of its maker at least means it has survived the decades relatively intact.

I hope you enjoyed taking a look,

Niki x

Remembrance Sunday

2009-11-08T08:31:00.001Z

Lest we forget.

Niki x

Feeling Festive?

2009-11-06T16:13:00.005Z

No, me neither, if I'm being honest!
But I have my in-laws coming to stay very soon, and so I need to have a lot of my Christmas shopping done by then, so that they can take the presents back with them when they leave for the other side of the country...
Also, next weekend is the V&H fair, where hopefully there will be lots of shoppers looking for special presents for loved-ones, so I tried to get into the spirit today by hitting Bath high street...would you like to come too?...

'Vinegar Hill' had got into the vibe early.

And what about 'Paperchase's new paintwork?...very vintage-green, don't you think? I love it.

'Vintage Living' is a smart shop in Broad Street...but not really vintagey enough for my liking.

(There is very little authentic vintage.)

'Rossiters' across the road is always a safe bet for elegant and sophisticated gift ideas.

They have a lovely Christmas department too. Sorry about the reflections in the glass on most of my photos...still, it could be worse than to have Baths beautiful historic architecture reflected, couldn't it?

You know who! ;-))

A touch of understated glamour at 'Phase Eight'.

And a shop where it's Christmas all year round, is 'December 25'.

'Jack Wills' always make an excellent effort with their displays.

And to help put you in a happy frame of mind, you are never far away from street performers in Bath. This cheery group were singing and dancing beautifully and created quite a crowd of onlookers.

Bath has a new shopping centre in construction at the bottom end of the city; the first phase was actually opened just two days ago.

I think they have done a pretty good job in creating new buildings in keeping with the surrounding historical ambiance of Bath. There are two more phases to 'Southgate' to be completed over the next couple of years.

I really wanted to share with you a photo of this shop's window displays, (below) but just couldn't get a decent shot...you know how it is when you're in a high street surrounded by shoppers and they look at you as if to say 'why are you taking a photo of a shop window?' Anyway, it is a shop called 'Allsaints' - every one of their windows were full, top to bottom, with rows and rows of vintage sewing machines - it was fabulous, and must have taken someone months to collect them all...now you know why I wanted to share it with you ;-))

...this was the best I could do...Its really striking 'in the flesh'.

And in between all the photo taking, I did manage some shopping, but can't really show you what I bought, as you never know who might be peeping... ;-))

Even though Bath now has its snazzy new shopping centre, I'd still rather nip down the road to my friend's junk shop and buy an old chair like this one. This was my bargain of the week, which I recovered in a vintage Sanderson floral fabric last night. You won't find anything like that on the high street!

Have a lovely weekend, and good luck if you are going shopping!

Niki x

Please to Remember...

2009-11-05T08:25:00.001Z

Have a Happy Guy Fawkes Night!

Be Safe,

Niki x

Artful Blogging

2009-11-02T16:50:00.006Z

I've sewn for as long as I can remember...many years ago, when I was a child, it was my way of discovering and fulfilling my creative side...and, of course, as a way of keeping my teddies and Sindy dolls well dressed! ;-)) Jumble sale finds were cut up and fashioned into miniature outfits for them, or dress-up clothes for myself.
When I became a Mum for the first time, finances were very tight and my sewing ability became a way to keep my babies in pretty clothes. It was always surprising to me what could be run-up out of an old floral cotton pillowcase and a simple dress pattern during the few hours whilst baby napped - (Yes, my little girls really did wear pillowcase dresses! - with matching frilly knickers!)
Today, sewing is still a passion of mine, but its generally a way to keep the house looking good rather than myself. Curtains, cushions and useful accessories can be found throughout the house, all made from recycled vintage fabrics. I am a jeans and sweater kind of a girl and don't usually give clothes much of a thought, so when I read about Natasha's 'Revamp it' Challenge on her blog earlier in the year, I thought it would be fun to give it a go - It was indeed going to be a challenge for me, as it had been a long time since I had given an item of clothing a second thought. (My revamped piece can be seen here)

(Before)

(After)

The fact that the nylon nightdress that I worked on has now ended up in 'Artful Blogging' magazine (Nov/Dec/Jan 2010 edition) is unbelievable to me...I created my make-over purely for fun, with the aim of achieving something that one of my girls could wear to a themed party or for a school play.

Now that it is considered 'artful', I can only smile...

I would like to thank Natasha again for organising the challenge and for submitting the details to 'Somerset Studio'. And to congratulate her, not only for this, but another article that she has in the same magazine! (That's her lovely prom gown painting on the front cover too!)

Thanks, to Stampington & Company as well, for sending me a complimentary copy of the mag. It is a beautifully put together magazine, the like of which we would struggle to find in the UK. There are pages and pages of articles, photographs and inspiration, rather than pages and pages of advertisements! A refreshing change...and all printed on quality paper, making it more like a book than a magazine. An added bonus is that you can flick through and spot people that you 'know' in the world of Blogging, as well as discovering new talent.

I shall be curling up on the sofa tonight with my copy...I may even consider looking through my wardrobe and giving that a bit more thought than it would normally receive! But don't worry, I'm not about to start sewing roses, buttons and tulle to all my sweater necklines!

Enjoy your evening too,

Niki x

Half Term...

2009-10-31T10:32:00.003Z

Its been a busy week here at The Stone House, but not the 'exciting-busy' when it comes to writing a blog post...but here's a taster anyway ;-)) ,as I don't like to stay away too long...

I'd been buying the ingredients for our Christmas cake over the last few weeks and storing them in my large 'baking basket' in the pantry until I had all that was needed...

Youngest daughter was on hand to give me some help with the mixing...

And three hours later the cake was cooked. A weekly spoonful of brandy drizzled over the top will help it mature and darken before the festive hols. (My family recipe can be found here)

The half term break has also involved some rainbow watching...

Masses of laundry...

But some of the nicer, vintagey kind too. I love pressing old linen and lace.

And then there was all the pricing up to do.

I've also laundered several eiderdowns...

which are now airing around the house in the autumn sunshine, along with a few quilts and blankets.

Some vintage clothes were given a freshen-up too.

I've been doing some more painting...more about that another time...

Along with some high-street shopping with my daughter (yes, I do some of that occasionally!) - with the best buy found on the way back to the car. I called into the charity shop and found these fabulously kitsch potted silk roses...kitsch enough to be cool, I hope?! ;-))

And talking of roses, I thought I'd just mention the mirror that I made a few weeks ago. The putty method seems to have held the china flowers in place. If they start dropping off over time however, I shall let you know!

There's also been a bit of this going on around here...

My daughter's scary clown pumpkin!

If you like to celebrate All Hallow's Eve, then I hope you have lots of fun!

Enjoy your weekend,

Niki x

Spur-of-the-Moment

2009-10-26T18:01:00.001Z

At the beginning of this month we thought we'd check to make sure that our central heating was in full working order before the colder weather arrived...sadly the radiators refused to heat up, so an engineer was called...he came, but couldn't fix it. We were told that the system needed flushing-out and we'd need to book an all day appointment, but that a plumber couldn't come out for at least a fortnight.

That appointment finally came round and our central heating system was flushed through...but even after that, we were still without heat when it didn't solve the problem, so another engineer was booked to call on the Friday just gone...
The man that came on that occasion actually made things worse; not only did he not fix our central heating, but her broke the hot water system too! He said we'd have to be without both all weekend, as someone else with the spare parts wouldn't be able to attend until Monday.

That was the last straw! We'd got used to wearing an extra layer and lighting the fire in the living room every evening, but to not be able to have a hot bath all weekend...
So on the spur-of-the-moment hubby and I decided to book a B&B and go off for the weekend. Luckily our youngest had already arranged to stay with her friend over the weekend, so we were free to choose where we'd like to go...not a difficult choice...it had to be Devon, didn't it? A few quick clicks on the www and we were booked in for the Saturday night at Ashburton.

Bright and early on Saturday morning we headed off on our not-so-long-anticipated holiday!
We arrived in the town mid-morning and after a quick cuppa in our favourite cafe it was time to visit the lovely Ros at 'The Snug' - My absolutely favourite shop, run by this gem of a lady.

Sat in the window at the back of The Snug is this gorgeous and glamorous gal (not for sale, or I would have been first in line...;-))

A beautifully put together red and cream corner...

and a lovely assortment of vintage treasures next to it...some of which came home with me!

After saying our farewells to Ros, we took a leisurely wander along the rest of the high street.

Ashburton really is a relaxing little town, where all the shop keepers are very friendly...we even managed to get some insider information about the local car boot sales that would be running on the Sunday from the lady in 'The Shambles' - a fab antiques shop near to Sara's Lavender Box.

The weather made us feel very welcome too...hours of warm sunshine and blue skies.

Later in the afternoon we checked-in to the B&B, then went for a short walk along one of the public footpaths before our evening meal.

(That night, having a centrally heated bedroom took a bit of getting used to, but the hot bath was most welcome!)
**

Sunday dawned and we checked out of the B&B and headed to the car boot sale at Newton Abbot racecourse. There was a mixture of stalls, some very expensive, but I did come away with a few treasures.

After that we then went to Totnes and a walk along the ramparts to The Guildhall.

Then back to the high street for a light lunch.

It was then off to another car boot sale, near Paignton, which opened at 1pm (very civilised!) I bought a very pretty pair of Victorian hand painted pictures on glass, which I shall show towards the end of this post. It never ceases to amaze me what turns up at car booties!

And was that the end of our little foray? No, we packed in more!! (Sue is always saying how one night away equates to one week in her book, as she has so little time-off from work, and I can see what she means...its surprising what can be done with a few hours away from it all.)

Our next stop was Stoke Gabriel, a pretty village where we have holidayed before, and a hot cup of tea sat looking out over the estuary...

Whilst we were there, a RNLI lifeboat was called to rescue the ferry boat, thankfully not the ferryman, which they towed out to safety.

And then all was quiet once more...

Finally, our journey home had to begin, but we did so by calling in at Budleigh Salterton for a quick walk along its pebbly beach before the sun went down...

Bliss.

Back home and the gas engineer came back again today (this time bringing the boss as well!) and we now have heating AND hot water!! Joy! We have to invest in some new radiators, which will be fitted next month, but at least for now we are warm.

Whilst they were in my workroom working on the boiler, I sorted through my purchases from the weekend. This is the pair of Victorian paintings on glass that I mentioned. I'm very pleased with those...

A pretty pair of paisley eiderdowns came from Ros.

As did this beautifully hand embroidered linen tablecloth.

This adorable plaster figure was from The Shambles.

And some of my other treasures included some striped cotton sheets and pillowcases...

A framed wedding photograph from a century ago (wouldn't you just love to be able to see what colours these ladies were wearing? - I'm sure they would have all been so pretty in their lace embellished outfits and millinery creations)

And an old book from a similar time to the wedding photograph was another of my favourite finds and the perfect souvenir of a special weekend away with my lovely hubby.

Hope you had a fab weekend too!

Now I need to catch-up on some work after having so many days with central heating engineers working in my space this month...I have two more rag dolls I really need to finish off before the V&H fair on the 14th. Working on them without me having chilly fingers will be most welcome!

Niki x

Reminiscing...Please Indulge Me!

2009-10-22T08:25:00.003Z

I was reading one of Lucy's posts yesterday about window dressing and how she felt it was an art form, and one that could document well, the changes in fashions over the years. She has some fabulous photos of 1950's mannequins and 30's millinery heads that are each so evocative of their era.
As I read her post, I was transported back to my college days and have had fun reminiscing and remembering that happy time in my life.
I left school at 16 (for various reasons) and applied for a two year course in 'Display & Design' at Cassio College in Watford. Thankfully I was accepted and it was the best decision I could have made - I loved every minute of every lesson...
I have been delving into our attic today to fish-out my old photos from that time, and have taken photos of them with my digi-camera, so I'm afraid the quality isn't great! This was back in the very early 1980's, so please excuse the following set of photographs, as digital cameras weren't invented then! - We were expected to take photographs of the displays that we created as part of our on-going assessment.
The year began with 'static' goods and we learnt how to put a good display together using bases to give height to the merchandise and props to add interest or to set a theme.
I'm still confused today as to where a display of 'Tetley' tea bags would have been welcome, but I guess it was to just get us practicing to start with.

Most of the 'windows' were actually cubicles in a studio, where the sides could be moved in and out to make larger or smaller spaces. The studio also had 4 'real' windows too, which I loved using whenever I had the opportunity to do so. They weren't very popular to use, for some reason, perhaps because your work was on full view for the rest of the college students to see, but I didn't mind that...I saw it as good experience for the real world.
I even chose to do my first big assignment in one of them. This was my 'Xanadu' perfumery window for Christmas. I made an expanded polystyrene king bearing a perfumery gift as my prop and painted several apple crates in white emulsion paint.

We later moved on to working with other merchandise of varying shapes and sizes.
Love that retro kitchenware!

Towards the end of the first year, we began to learn techniques for working with manipulative merchandise, such as this nice set of brown bathroom towels!

Fashion accessories were a lot more exciting than some of the other goods that we were given to display...even if some of the items had been in the studio storeroom for at least 20 years...we weren't talking high-fashion here!! ;-))

One of the assignments that we were given had the brief 'Spring in the City'. I chose to do Dublin and made the sheet music prop at the back - 'In Dublin's Fair City...' We also had to learn lettering and would paint all our own show cards and location cards, as if we were working for a large department store.

At the end of the first year our final major project was 'Buy British - Buy the Best'. I decided to use my favourite window again and went for a footwear display. I remember having to drag the wooden bench from outside in the college gardens and hauling it up into the window space, rather than using the felt covered bases that were so often used. It was worth the risk though and I passed my first year.

I also remember the laughs us girls used to have, and we'd often pose with the mannequins in the studio. That's me on the right with one of the 1960's mannequins...I think the college used to get shop's cast-offs...this girl obviously wasn't popular with her weird pose - I can just imagine her at a 60's party dressed in psychedelic fashions and being away-with-the-fairies, shall we say?! ;-))

And if the teachers weren't looking, we'd also try on some of the stiff mannequin wigs! -Something that was absolutely forbidden....but we did so at every opportunity, of course, and would always find it hysterical!

During our second year we were each given two weeks in-store work experience. Three of us were selected for a placement at 'Liberty of London' and I was one of those lucky ones. It was one of the best experiences of my life and I still treasure the memories of working, albeit briefly, in such a magnificent store...the fact that it was during the run up to Christmas made it even more of a thrill...even if getting a tube train home in the evening from Oxford Circus was a complete nightmare. We often had to queue up at street level, all the way down the stairs/escalators, and then onto the platform, being jostled in all directions, due to the shear volume of Christmas shoppers all heading home at the end of the day- quite scary at just 17 years old...it would be several trains in and out of the station before we finally all made it onto a train heading for Euston.

(I loved the Christmas window displays all round the outside of the store - look at this lovely lady with her Grace Jones 80's look - fabulous! Sorry, this pic was taken in the dark one evening when we were heading home.)

The Christmas colour scheme chosen for that year was a dramatic scarlet and purple. We were given quite a few hands-on prop making tasks, such as painting pedestals and urns in rich gloss paint...

(Me wielding a paintbrush, wearing a dustbin-liner apron and sporting my short 80's hair-do!!)

And making various pot arrangements using shiny red cardboard boxes and purple ribbons that were placed in various positions throughout the shop.

Occasionally were were allowed out of the basement studio and onto the sales floors.

For this display below we were asked to suspended red boxes, to continue the theme, using silk ribbons amongst mannequins dressed in cosy winter woollens in one of the fashion departments.

Whilst in London we visited Selfridges and took a trip to Santa's grotto...purely for research, you understand! ;-)) That year it was a wonderfully nostalgic 'Rupert the Bear' themed grotto that was so dreamy and pretty. The year previous to that was a stunning Muppet Christmas one, complete with the real Muppets, all animated and providing Christmas cheer to all who visited. (I did take lots of photographs at the time, but for now they seem to have been misplaced.)

After the two weeks work experience was over, we returned to college to work on our own Christmas grotto. We all chose to go for a Cinderella Pantomime theme, which was later open to the local nursery and primary school children to walk round.

This was the entrance, welcoming visitors to 'Hardup Hall'.

We all worked in small groups to create displays that told the story of Cinderella. My two friends and I worked on the scene where Cinderella tries on the glass slipper...

We dressed a seated mannequin in rags and surrounded her with country style kitchen pieces, making the dresser ourselves from wood and expanded polystyrene...Ahhh, I remember going home from college many times with a headache bought on by the fumes from the hot wire polystyrene cutter!!

And here is her Prince...we didn't have many male mannequins in the studio, so we adapted a kneeling female one, giving her a moustache and wadding wig! Well, it was pantomime style, I suppose!

And these two 'lovely' ladies were the ugly sisters that we dressed in ballroom finery, 80's style!

After the Christmas hols were over, it was back to work, with the pressure of final exams looming. We began working more with manipulative merchandise and also fashion.

Crisp cottons were best displayed in pleats, either on a basic mannequin above, for an in-store style display, or on a fashion mannequin for a window display. Here 3 meter lengths of cotton fabrics were pinned and manipulated into shape - we weren't allowed to cut the fabric in any way, as would be the case in a proper shop, so that the fabric could then be sold after it was removed from the promotion.

Working with fabric was my favourite merchandise (some things never change! ;-))

This is a French national costume design that I created, again from usable lengths of dressmaking fabrics.

The more fluid satin fabrics could be draped and bolder displays could be created. My first attempt was this one...

After that, I would always use the lovely drapey fabrics for my displays when given a choice.
This elegant lady was dressed in the softest evening satins...certainly a move on from Tetley tea bags!

We also needed to know the correct ways for displaying fashions...which I use in the loosest term...we had to bring in clothes from home to supplement what was on offer at the college!

These mannequins have both been wired to the floor, (rather than standing on their integrated bases) which was always scary to do, as they could so easily have fallen until they were secured...and how many times were we reminded how expensive they were?! This meant that they could wear 'proper' shoes, rather than the ones that came with the mannequin and were completely unflattering!

The seated mannequin was always a popular girl, as she could wear any shoes without needing to be wired. She was also perfect for use in the high-rise windows, where a standing model would have been above eye level and so would loose you valuable marks...we always had to bear in mind eye-levels and what customers would initially be drawn to when viewing a promotional display - an eye catching focal point was vital to draw the attention around the display.

And when working with more than one mannequin, they needed to look as if they had just had an argument, rather than a cosy chat...I don't know why this always looked better, but it definitely was the case, where they seemed to be ignoring each other, rather than there being some mothers-meeting going on behind glass...

And if a shop couldn't afford to buy mannequins? - Then a broom handle suspended by fishing line was a perfectly good alternative! Scarecrow style!

The brief that we were given for our final major project was 'The California Connection'. I realised fairly quickly that California was known for growning cotton and that I would be able to base my project on fabrics again...

I decided to work on creating a night scene and made wooden signs to resemble neon lights. Two plain white mannequins were used to display the printed cotton fabrics, which I fashioned into their outfits. The tight group allows the eye to wander, but not too far and so the customer is drawn into seeing what you want her to.

At the end of the two year course I was very sad to leave. There's something about working alongside like-minded people and it was something I knew I would miss.

Sadly the retail wages and the cost of trains into London were poles apart and so to work at my dream job was out of my reach. I did however get a job with the John Lewis Partnership in Watford, later transfering to the Bristol branch when hubby and I moved to the west country some 23+ years ago.

If you are still here, thank you for reading my long post and for indulging me whilst I shared a few of my nostalgic memories.

Have a lovely day!

Niki x

All The Small Things...

2009-10-19T19:11:00.002Z

A sale that I attended recently had been a little lacklustre on the vintage front for most of the morning, until I noticed a cardboard box under one of the stalls. It appeared to be full of old postcards, mostly views around Britain during the 1970's, but on delving a little deeper, I came across this little treasure.

It is a small pocket-sized diary from 1877.

Inside the front cover are useful snippets of information, such as how much you should expect to pay for a journey in a London cab, as well as a table of high water times at London Bridge!

OK, all useful stuff in its day, I'm sure, but the rest of the diary had been somewhat defaced...

It had been used to create a mini album for pretty little greetings cards of the time. Its a shame the old diary had been defaced, but it did mean that the cards stored inside had been pressed and kept so well, that they looked as fresh as the day that they had been printed...

And there were lots of them!

I love these Easter cards - The one on the right being my favourite...

Just look at those lovely snowdrops and forget-me-not flowers.

More Easter greetings - these ones printed with white lilies on a rich gold background.

And then there were these tiny cutout Christmas cards...

with a simple greeting on their reverse.

More shaped cards, pristine and unused.

*

*

Beautiful sentimental keepsakes from a romantic era.

And, as if that wasn't enough, I also found this tiny embossed card needle case at the bottom of the box of postcards. Its embroidered front and back in silk threads

and fastens with the red ribbon.

This larger card opens up to reveal the fresh springtime posy inside.

And finally I also found these unused baptism and marriage certificates, probably from the early 1900's.

Just scraps of paper really, some might say, but they make me happy and are a joy to look at.

I am left wondering why the little cards were never sent, though, and kept so carefully in the one shilling diary.

Hope you enjoyed seeing them,

Niki x

Lovely Lacock

2009-10-17T19:43:00.002Z

Hubby and I decided to scuttle-off to the picturesque village of Lacock today, with its attractive lime-washed and half-timbered stone houses, many of which date from the 13th century. It's been used as a TV and film location many times and includes appearances in Pride and Prejudice, Cranford, Wolfman and Harry Potter.

But, first things first, before our tour could begin, there was something important to do...

Yes, you can't go for an energetic walk round a picturesque village without first having a cup of tea you know! ;-))
Oh dear, how did that get there? You didn't notice that chocolate brownie sitting on my plate, did you?

Thankfully no one else did, as we were the only ones in the tea rooms at elevenses!

The logs in the lovely open fireplace at one end were looking a little reluctant to get going, so hubby went over to see what he could do...yes, its a primeval man thing, I think...

Anyway, a few strong puffs and hubby looked a little red in the face, but it got going nicely...just in time to impress the waitress, who gave us our cakes for nothing as a reward!! Well done hubby, you can act all macho as often as you like if that's what happens! heehee!

Before we left, I had to take a quick snap of this lovely collection of blue and white china on the old pine dresser, before the tea room started to fill up with other customers...they'd obviously heard that there was a good fire roaring inside and wanted to warm up. ;-))

So, refreshed, we went off for a wander around the pretty village and stumbled upon the place that supplies the tea rooms with their cyclamen plants, I think...
Such a stunning display and you could help yourself to the beautiful plants and put your payment through the letterbox of the house next door!

I love old fashioned places like this that still have trust for people.

It was then on to Lacock Abbey which is owned by the National Trust. It was founded as a nunnery in 1232 and later converted into a country house in the 1540's.

A walk through the grounds led us to the botanical gardens, where there was still a surprising amount of exotic blooms on show...

*

As well as beautiful autumn colour.

Following the winding pathways, we arrived at the Abbey itself.

It is in the cloisters where much of the Harry Potter movies were filmed.

Its a very beautiful and atmospheric place and is easy to see why it was used for the film, rather than trying to create scenery from scratch. Much of the medieval cloisters and sacristy are completely intact.

Hubble bubble...

Back outside again now and into the warm autumn sunshine.

Hope you enjoyed the quick tour.

Niki x

I also just wanted to thank everyone for the kind and reassuring comments that were left on my previous post - it means a lot.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend, Niki x