Newsletter
April - June 2008
Shop 4, 107 marconi crescent, kambah, ACT 2902
Phone/Fax: (02) 62966240 www.craftyfrog.com.au
ISSUE NO.28 APRIL 2008
Welcome to our first Newsletter for 2008 – for those who have been receiving our Newsletters since we first commenced business nearly 9 years ago, you’ll notice the format of the Newsletter has changed! That’s not all that has changed! 2008 has been a year to remember and we’re only 4 months into the year. On 4th January I put my gorgeous daughter on a plane to the UK where she is working and living in a boarding school in Leicester – she will be away for a year! This is a wonderful experience for her, but a tough one for me. I love having my kids around and found it very hard to encourage her to go, whilst wishing she’d stay with me! On 6th January my baby boy turned 16, and started turning into a real teenager eek! He’s still gorgeous, just such a teenage boy! Then on 13 January we started the move – more about that to come! On 29th January Kirsty celebrated her 18th birthday in the UK without her Mum – that wasn’t easy, for me!
Anyway on to the move! We now have a brand new location! We have moved – from one end of the shopping centre to the other – from a small shop to a HUGE shop. We now have room for Wheelchairs, Walkers, Prams, busloads of people and much more!!! We have gone from having a very small table for our classes, to a separate conference room with very comfy chairs! We have a new staff member - Ruth. We have a number of new teachers, along with our well established teachers, joining us and teaching us many new and wonderful skills! In short we’re revitalised, re-established and raring to go!
From a vacant room, to a shop filled with all sorts of goodies – a huge job, but well worth it!
As you can imagine moving the contents of the shop was a huge and very time consuming job – something that my family and I wouldn’t have had a hope of doing on our own. Thank you very much to my wonderful customers and friends who turned up and spent many, many hours moving from the old to the new shop and then setting up everything for me. An especially big thank you to Bonnie, Kailene, Lorraine, Maureen, Fiona, Jean, Erin, Belinda, Ruth, Christina, Rick, Jake, Karen, Colin, Jenny, Ron, Lexie and my wonderful husband (Ian) and son (Sean) who put up with spending way too many hours at the shop with the only reward at the end of the day being take away food! There is still work to be done, however we are getting there. The “wow” factor has been well worth the effort and whilst I cannot guarantee to not fill the shop to the same extent as the old, I can promise we will endeavour to keep the aisles well and truly accessible! For those who haven’t been out to look at the new premises, it is well worth the trip. For those making the huge trek from Belconnen and beyond, there is now even a lounge chair you can recuperate in!
I will, of course, be increasing the ranges of threads, fabrics, cross stitch and beading items stocked, but this will be a gradual process. We’re all still getting used to being able to see all the stock that we have, and due to us continually re-arranging and re-positioning all the existing stock it may be a work in progress for some time yet! However I’m sure each time you enter the shop you’ll find something else to amaze and entice your creative juices!
The thing that won’t be changing is the free parking at the door, the personal, friendly service and the best selection of embroidery, cross stitch, tapestry, knitting and beading supplies in the Region.
WEBSITE
Unfortunately the website is STILL a “work in progress”. There are approximately 2000 images waiting to be uploaded to the site, but until I learn how to do it myself, the progress is very slow to non-existent! I must admit to being impatient as well. I had contacted a number of companies to inquire about assistance from them however they are obviously too busy, the job is too hard, or they just plain can’t be bothered to reply to my emails. So… all I can ask is for patience! I am continuing to scan all the new products that come into the shop, so when either my husband or son have time, or one of the companies I have contacted finally decide to respond to my email, you might see some more progress! Meantime I have now activated PayPal, so until my site is secure, if you would like to shop online and can’t phone through your details, you will be able to pay using PayPal.
I also have to give a huge Thank You to Christina. She has spent many hours photographing all the class items ready to put up on the Website. Her photography skills are just awesome.
WHAT’S NEW?
Just in time for Mother’s Day we have new Daylight lamps arriving in stock! These lamps are the ultimate gift for Mum. I have been using a floor standing version for over 2 years and wouldn’t be without it. I also recently took a portable daylight lamp on an archery trip with me, thereby ensuring I could stitch in the Motel room – despite their lousy lighting! The lamps produce a beautiful soft cool light that enables me to work at night with ease. I also find that during the day I turn the lamp on as well as I’m now getting to the stage of needing all the help I can get – sad isn’t it, when your body ages, however the mind is still many many years behind!
We also have in stock knitting and crochet bags, many new cross stitch, longstitch, embroidery and tapestry kits, leaflets and canvasses. If you’re still not sure what to get that special Mum in your life, then why not get a Gift Voucher, and let her decide what she would like to spend it on!
If you’re looking for the largest range of Delica Beads in Canberra, come visit us – we have over 800 colours in stock!
STOP PRESS... NEW SERVICE OFFERED!!!
Got a project you want to get started on tonight!!!! Haven't got the time to come in and wait for fabric to be cut and threads pulled off the stand – RING or EMAIL your list of requirements, the time you'd like to collect the goods, along with a phone number in case we have a query and we'll organise it for you!!!
Now you have no reason to put off starting that project you're itching to do tonight!!!
If you can't collect, we can post it out to you. Generally you will receive it in the mail (within Canberra) the next day!
HOUSEKEEPING
If you have received this Newsletter by Snail Mail, but have access to the Internet, PLEASE save lots of trees, money and time by changing to receive it by email. Also if, for whatever reason (including gremlins in the system) you have received the Newsletter and no longer wish to, just ring me at the shop and I'll remove your details immediately. Please also be aware your details are not given out to anyone without your prior approval.
Layby is available at the shop and there are now “Terms and Conditions” available for anyone wanting to avail themselves of this service.
Please note that orders will no longer be placed without a Deposit. I will also be enforcing the “deposit” rule on all classes.
CLASSES
Thought for the month: “Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” Ella Fitzgerald
Crafty Frog welcomes Helen Dafter, Fiona Hammond, Elizabeth Myszka, Ruth Kelly, Julie Collins and Suzanne Clarke as our new teachers – although Helen did teach in the old shop many years ago! Along with our existing teachers, Lexie, Belinda and Christina, this year is going to be filled with many new projects and directions! I am taking expressions of interest for Helen’s class as she is unable to give me a definite date at the moment.
Please note all original designs taught remain the property of the teacher concerned and Crafty Frog. Whilst we are happy for you to make and give items taught in our classes, you must ask permission of the teachers before selling completed items and patterns or being paid to teach others.
Class Costs: There has been a small increase in class fees from $30 for three hours to $35 for 3 hours.
I’m also endeavouring to make classes appropriate for the time of the year. So in the lead-up to Mothers Day, we are making items that would be wonderful to give to that special person. This, of course, doesn’t mean that you can’t give the finished gifts on other special occasions such as Birthdays, anniversaries etc. We will also be having “Christmas in July” and to this end we’ll be starting on Christmas decorations and gifts to ensure heaps of time to start and finish your chosen project.
Stitch’n’Chat: Wednesday evenings (please note the change of night!)
Time: 7 – 9pm Cost: $5.00
Great opportunity to get together, have a chat, whilst completing some of those projects. Please ring first to check availability. Please also note this is not a class, more just an opportunity to stitch, bead, knit or whatever, with like-minded people!
Silk Ribbon Card with Belinda
Date: Monday 21 April OR Thursday 8 May Time: 10am – 1pm Class Cost: $35
Belinda will teach you the basics of Silk Ribbon Embroidery with this beautiful card.
Learn to Cross Stitch with Laura
Date: Tuesday 22 April OR Tuesday 6 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Whether you’re a complete beginner, or just wanting to iron out a few problems, Laura will guide you through step by step
Embroidered Glasses/Mobile Phone Case with Belinda
Date: Wednesday 23 April Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Using the display model as a guide, learn basic embroidery and silk ribbon techniques in order to complete a lovely gift for Mum, or a special friend.
Beaded Phone/Handbag Bling with Lexie
Date: Thursday 24 April Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn how to do Herringbone Stitch whilst making this cute little lady. She can be used to hang off your phone, handbag, or perhaps as an addition to a special dolls house!
Shadow Work Lingerie/Shoe Bag with Belinda
Date: Monday 28 April Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
This beautiful gift is sure to become a family heirloom. Learn the beautiful technique of shadow work embroidery.
Beaded Lariat Necklace with Suzanne
Date: Tuesday 29 April AND Tuesday 13 May OR
Saturday 14 June AND Saturday 28 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $65
Suzanne will teach you basic Spiral Stitch to work this stunning piece of Jewellery. Keep it for yourself, or give it to a special friend, mother or daughter. Great beginners course
Classy Herringbone Bracelet with Lexie
Date: Wednesday 30 April Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Lexie has once again produced a truly stunning piece of jewellery. Whether you’re wanting to learn Herringbone, or just create another piece of art this course is for you.
Earrings & Bracelet Set with Lexie
Date: Thursday 1 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
This basic beading class will have you leaving with a completed set of earrings and a bracelet ready to wear out the door.
Embroidered Needlecase or Towel with Belinda
Date: Friday 2 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn the basics of embroidery and leave the class with an embroidered towel or needlecase.
Basic Beading with Lexie
Date: Saturday 3 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
All the basics and more! Learn how to make bracelets, necklaces and earrings, attach findings and much more.
Basic Knitting with Julie
Date: Monday 5 May OR Monday 2 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Want to knit your own garment this season, but don’t know, or can’t remember the basics. Then this course is for you.
Needle Felting with Ruth
Date: Wednesday 7 May OR Thursday 29 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
OR Date: Saturday 5 July Time: 1-4pm
Learn the techniques of this amazing craft whilst completing a scarf and journal cover (time permitting).
Loom Beading with Lexie
Date: Friday 9 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Pull out the loom from the bottom shelf and learn how to use it whilst completing a lovely bracelet.
Beaded Beauty Bracelet with Fiona
Date: Saturday 10 May Time: 10am-4pm Class Cost: $65 includes lunch
Fiona Hammond will teach you how to make a special bracelet that drapes beautifully over your wrist and feels wonderful to wear. This bracelet is made using the traditional Russian beading technique called St Petersburg Chain.
Learn to Crochet with Lexie
Date: Wednesday 14 May Time: 10am-4pm Class Cost: $35
Learn how to read from a pattern or a chart and crochet a beautiful doiley.
Basic Wool Embroidery with Belinda
Date: Thursday 15 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Belinda will introduce you to the basics of wool embroidery needed to stitch this wonderful gift
Wool Embroidered Blanket or Knee Rug with Belinda
Date: Saturday 17 May OR Wednesday 16 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
With Belinda’s help create an heirloom baby blanket or knee rug. If needed, more classes can be arranged to complete this project.
Embellished Prints with Belinda
Date: Monday 19 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Choose from one of the many prints we have available to embellish, then with Belinda’s help you can use either silk ribbon or threads (or a combination of both) to complete this project.
Crochet on the Double with Elizabeth
Date: Tuesday 20 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Seen all those wonderful reversible patterns, and not been game to try – Elizabeth will teach you the basics. From there you can create your own scarf, blanket, or whatever else you might like!
Beaded Ladybird with Lexie
Date: Wednesday 21 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Yet another of Lexie’s amazing designs!
Beaded Cabachon Bracelet with Lexie
Date: Friday 23 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn how to bead around a cabochon, and how to do herringbone stitch for the strap!
Beaded Ring with Christina
Date: Saturday 24 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
This beautiful piece of bling could be a stunning ring, or a brooch, or an adornment on a bracelet.
Wire Knitted Necklace with Julie
Date: Monday 26 May Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Amazing what you can do with a pair of knitting needles, a reel of wire and an assortment of beads.
Bead Embellished Brooch with Fiona
Date: Saturday 31 May Time: 10am-4pm Class Cost: $65 includes Lunch
Fiona will show you how to make her bead-embellished brooches. You will create one brooch in the workshop. Several bead-embellishment techniques, and construction techniques for the brooches, are taught during the workshop. Fiona will also explain how these techniques can be used in other jewellery (e.g. necklaces and earrings) and on your quilts or other textile art pieces. Templates will be provided in the class notes, but you may also create your own shapes and designs if you prefer. Come along and have some fun with beads and fabrics, and let your creativity soar.
Bead Crocheted Necklace with Lexie
Date: Thursday 5 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Using beads, thread and a crochet hook work this beautiful necklace.
3D Flower Bracelet with Lexie
Date: Saturday 7 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Combine basic stringing with fabulous beads to make this stunning bracelet. Sure to be a show stopper.
Leafy Earrings with Lexie
Date: Wednesday 11 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Many people have commented on my most worn earrings – now you can learn how to make a pair for yourself!
Beaded Beads with Lexie
Date: Monday 16 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn Peyote Stitch to create these beautiful beads, which can then be used in earrings, a bracelet or a necklace – choice is yours!
Spring Bling Beaded Blossom Brooch with Fiona
Date: Saturday 21 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Fiona Hammond will teach you how to make your own Spring Bling Beaded Blossom Brooch featuring a dichroic glass cabochon with peyote-beaded bezel in the centre of the flower.
Learn to Tat with Lexie
Date: Friday 27 June Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn the art of Tatting and create your own handkerchief edges, bookmarks and more!
Dodecahedrons with Christina
Date: Saturday 5 July Time: 9.30am-12.30pm Class Cost: $35
Learn how to make these fascinating beaded balls using right angle weave. Use them in necklaces, bracelets, or as Christmas Ornaments.
Blackwork Christmas Tree with Laura
Date: Monday 7 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn the basics of blackwork and complete this card in time for Christmas
Sunrise Necklace with Suzanne
Date: Tuesday 8 & 15 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $65
A combination of Spiral Stitch and Brick Stitch are used to work this beautiful creation.
Beaded Christmas Stocking with Lexie
Date: Wednesday 9 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Brimming over with toys this beautiful Christmas stocking brooch will be worn with pride throughout the festive season.
Embroidered HandTowel with Belinda
Date: Thursday 10 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn Basic Embroidery techniques to embellish a handtowel for a special friend.
Beaded Christmas Bear with Lexie
Date: Friday 11 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
An oldie but a goodie. This gorgeous little bear is all decked out ready for Christmas.
Beaded Christmas Baubles with Lexie
Date: Saturday 12 July OR Monday 14 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Each and every one looks different, depending on the beads chosen. A stunning Christmas decoration and gift.
Beaded Christmas Wreath Brooch with Lexie
Date: Thursday 17 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
A beautiful Christmas wreath brooch sure to be admired by all who see it.
Learn Candlewicking with Belinda
Date: Friday 18 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn the basics of Candlewicking.
Beaded Rivoli Necklace with Christina
Date: Saturday 19 July Time: 10am-1pm Class Cost: $35
Learn Circular Peyote whilst creating this beautiful necklace.