Email: judy@punchwithjudy.com.au

In This Issue:-

Unsubscribe

Hi Everyone,

Happy Easter to one and all - hope you are enjoying your few days break and don't eat too many chockies! 

(PS.  I wrote this over Easter but refrained from mailing out on a public holiday as so many receive their Newsletter to their work address and I get bombarded with "out of the office" notices!)

Whew - so much has happened since I last wrote. This is a very long Newsletter as I needed a lot of catching up with you, so read when you have the time to ponder over a cuppa.  It's been so long (three shows in three consecutive weeks in Feb/March) prevented me from having time then and I'm truly sorry for that.  I had full intentions of this reaching you a few weeks ago but then we had very sad news about a tragic, freak pushbike accident of one of our very best friends, another Show Exhibitor, Griff Ennion from Logan's Fabrics, that I just couldn't bring myself to be cheerful in a Newsletter.  Griff was particularly good mates with John, even though there was a huge age difference, with Griff visiting us here at our farm many a time plus ever so many other memories.  We both took it very hard and I needed time to come to terms with the reality.  Griff was only 30.  I look at my black rooster weathervane on John's shed every morning and say "good morning Griff" since he gave it to me as a surprise present at Hobart Show two years ago, knowing just how much I wanted one.  Even had it mounted high above the corner of my stand for all to see.  So thoughtful for one so young!  I'm telling you this as many would know him from the Show Circuit and so as you don't ask at the show stands where is he?  It is hard enough for his mother Margaret to continue alone as it is.  Life goes on for us all........

On a much happier note, I now have seen and held our youngest grandson, Hunter for the very first time.  In fact, Rowan (our son) brought Hunter and his mother, Jess, back to Australia 2 weeks ago and they've been staying here but will shortly move on into a house of their own.  Here's a photo of them all on Hunter's First Birthday less than a month ago.  Hunter now has Aussie Citizenship and an Aussie Passport.  Of course, we're all biased here, but he's rather cute hey?

We seem to be still missing all the thunderstorms that have been intermittently going around us, but here's a photo of a dust storm brewing up over the horizon.  It gathered more momentum and grew much larger than this then hit us with such a force.  Looks like a tornado for sure.  This is dust coming, not rain!  Just wish a little of the rain the NSW coast and northern Qld. has been getting could be shared around thisaway.  Notice how barren the paddock in the foreground looks.  Believe it or not, that's one of our lucerne crops!  For those who always like to know what goes on around our "God's Little Acre", the emu harvest finished with the birds yielding about 15kg per bird which is 4kg more than last year; so even with the drought, Farmer John was pretty pleased.  It's all been sold and delivered already.  Maybe you should consider some of our emu products if you have skin problems or suffer from arthritis.  John sold all but 50 of our sheep before Christmas as he knew there wasn't sufficient feed to support them all.  The farmers around here are starting to sow "dry" with the hope that it just has to rain soon.

I've had several emails from subscribers saying I haven't had a Newsletter for a while, maybe I've been mistakenly dropped off the list, can you check?  No, you haven't, it just takes so much time to prepare these newsy newsletters, that I've decided to give you some information in between times.  You will shortly be receiving short and sweet reminders of products, news events, shows etc. in a one page email that I won't consider a Newsletter as such, just letting you know about "stuff".  I don't want to bombard you with nuisance emails, but I worry about the length of time in between my Newsletters sometimes.  I'll be interested to receive your comments when they start coming, just don't "unsubscribe" if you don't like them, tell me!

Another addition to my website is a section called "Waiting To Be Added" which you'll find on the homepage to the right hand side column.  Again, the reason for this is because I'm not Wonder Woman like so many think and I can't work more than 30 hours a day 8 days a week, so it's my round-to-it section!  Well, that's my excuse.........

Happy Sewing,
Your friend,

Judy

Australasian Quilt Convention Report
The AQC was held at the heritage Royal Exhibition Building this year in Melbourne during February. Another tremendous success for the Organizers, the Exhibitors, the tutors, the delegates and most importantly, those who visited had fun.  Quilts from around the world, local collections and displays highlighted Australia's premiere event.  The highlight is always the Gala Dinner announcing this year's winners of special awards.  From the eight Best of Show quilts from 2008 State Guild Shows, Merelyn Pearce's "Wheelflower Medallion" won The National Quilt Award.  Gloria Loughman was the very popular receiver of the Rajah Award acknowledging the outstanding contribution by an individual to quilting in Australia.  The Lut-Da Award (Lut-Da is an aboriginal word meaning "to give") goes to a quilter who has made an outstanding contribution to their local community via the medium of quilting and this year's award went to Barbara Hallion for her work over the last eight years on the National Fundraising Campaign, Australia's Biggest Quilting Bee.  She has helped raise as the driving force behind this activity (along with many helpers) more than $338,000 for cancer research.  All well deserved and we congratulate these very proud winners.  The Shining Light Award is to any quilter under the age of 18 as an encouragement award for junior quilters, however, this year, none was awarded to keep the standard of excellence as high as is desired.

Please Note: The 2010 sixth AQC has moved a little later in the year to overcome the challenges of the cooling of this very fine building (yes, it was hot this year!) and will now be held from 29th April to 2nd May at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton, Melbourne.  Plus, the Gala Dinner will become a moveable feast taking guests on a mystery destination each year.  This year we had the pleasure of viewing the MCG from the inside where the brilliant Gala Dinner was held and John (plus many others) got a thrill of being photographed with that holy cricket ground as the background from the high level where we were.

Newcastle Craft & Quilt Fair
Again this year's event held in February was an outstanding success.  This is simply a courtesy for your future planning of advising next year's show dates are set to 19 - 21 February 2010.

Craftfest Sydney was held for the first time late February at the Olympic Dome, Homebush and you'll be pleased to learn that next year's show has been increased from 3 days to 4 days.  Will be held 11 - 14 March, 2010.  Also note, that Craftfest Melbourne to be held for the first time later this year has now also been increased to a 4 day show.  New dates are 8 - 11 October, 2009 to be held at the Royal Exhibition Buildings, Carlton.

Brisbane Stitches & Craft Show
Just a reminder that Punch with Judy is NOT attending ANY Stitches & Craft Shows this year.  We will NOT be at the Brisbane Stitches & Craft Show to be held from 29th April to 3rd May.  I had so many emails after the Melbourne S&C Show held in March so disappointed we weren't there.  We haven't attended Melbourne or Sydney for a few years!  So again, we WILL NOT be in Brisbane either.

However, the good news is, Punch with Judy WILL BE at the new Show only a few weeks afterwards so you can catch up with us there. 

The very first Textile Art Festival will be held from 29 - 31 May at the Brisbane Exhibition Centre and if you have a passion for fibre, yarn or fabric, you MUST attend.  There'll be lots to interest you in knitting, crochet, felting, quilting, sewing, fashion and so much more.  There'll be something for everyone with a love of textiles: classes, workshops, seminars, demonstrations, presentations, shopping, displays, fashion parades, PLUS, you'll see US there!  This is not just another Craft Show but a specialty event similar to the AQC really.  Our stands are not permitted to be as large as with the Craft & Quilt Fairs, so remember if you need anything in particular brought up for collection, you should ask me a week prior to the event.  We will not be holding any daily seminars or hands-on classes for this show.

Perth Craft & Quilt Fair is our next show, being held at the Perth Exhibition Centre from 13th - 17th May. We will be attending in our usual position of Stand A01 and holding daily workshops and hands-on classes - details following.  John will be driving over quite early, so I will need any special orders from you before 5th May please. 

I announced last Newsletter of a special Industry Day I was holding for the ASG, giving product demonstrations for a fun day's education, prior to the show, so here's a reminder if you wish to attend. Saturday 9th May at Balcatta from 10.00am to 4.00pm.  Contact Irene Beadle on (08) 9447 7595 or email irenebeadle@iinet.net.au to book.  Cost is $15.00 which includes light refreshment, BYO Lunch.  The ASG (Australian Sewing Guild) invites non-member to attend also, but please, bookings are essential so as they can be organized with numbers attending. Payment and Registration Form is from Irene.

PLUS, I am pleased to announce that Bernina Perth are kindly co-operating in allowing us to hold some pre-show hands-on classes since the Show Organizers are no longer holding such classes.  Sandra Chandler from Just Curves USA will be my guest at the Show demonstrating the wonders of her invention the Curve Master Presser Foot, so we are fortunate to be announcing the following: 

Patchwork, the Just Curves Way with Sandra Chandler from USA will be held at Kennedy's Sew School, 7-13 Queen Street, Perth on Monday 11th May at 10.00am to 1.00pm for "Carolina Favourite" plus another class from 2.00pm to 5.00pm on "Dresden Plate" (all pieced with NO appliqué).  Both using the Curve Master which we will supply on loan for the class.  Each class will cost $45.00 but if you wish to attend both then it is $80.00.  You will also receive a $10.00 Discount Voucher from the purchase price of any Just Curves Template Set. 

At the show, Sandra will hold a daily Trunk Show entitled: Curved Pieced Quilts Made Easy at 2.30pm in Workshop 1. The Trunk Show demonstrates how those challenging concave/convex, inside/outside curves of so many beautiful quilt blocks is made so easy using the Curve Master Presser Foot - invented by a quilter for quilters.

My daily workshop at the Show is at 11.00am in Workshop 3

Westalee Design Adjustable Rulers
Judy will explain how to achieve maximum potential from the Westalee Rulers, Winner of the 2008 People's Choice Award on ABC TV's The New Inventors.  Use no-maths, no-guesswork quilting to achieve perfect patchwork piecing results. PLUS, introducing the new Multi-Angled Wedge Ruler from Creative Curves.  This fascinating ruler will leave you spellbound with inspiration with all its versatility.  Those attending my workshop will be entitled to a special offer too!  Leonie West, the inventor, will be our special guest on the first two days of the show only.

My workshop has been very well received at the three shows I've done this year and, of course, I add lots of tips and tricks giving you always more than what's on the agenda.

Daily Make It & Take It on Kumihimo - Japanese Braiding with Liz College at 1.00pm in Circle 2 making a funky braided zipper pull.  Cost $10.00, Book on our Stand A01.

Don't forget your Show Coupons too. Print them and collect your discounted products or receive your FREEBIES.  The ones being offered this year include a fabulous offer from Olfa Rotary Cutters, Sue Box Embroidery Collections, Outback Embroidery Threads and Westalee Design Rulers.  Too good to miss.  No coupon, No Offer.

2. RETREATS

There will be a Patchwork, the Just Curves Way with Sandra Chandler from USA Retreat using the Curve Master Presser Foot from 30th July to 1st August, which will be in between the Melbourne and Canberra Shows.  What we have planned is learning new ways for old favourites using Sandra's unique system of acrylic templates and the Curve Master Presser Foot.
For those who attended our Retreat in 2008, Sandy has some new projects for you to sew which are very exciting. You won't be repeating anything.  Refer to our website for further details in the Retreats section.

Machine Embroidery Retreat will be held from 15th - 17th September, 2009, immediately following the above as I know some wish to do both..
If you own a computerized machine embroidery machine, this is a must! Everyone learns so much whilst having a great time with other fellow enthusiasts. What we've done with this particular Retreat is update it completely with many new Projects.  The industry is advancing in leaps and bounds, so we've taken on board lots of new Stabilizers & Techniques, mainly because I've just written a long editorial for Machine Embroidery Magazine entitled an Update on Stabilizers.  We will be supplying you with designs to upload so as everyone will come to the Retreat fully prepared so as ALL the time will be spent sewing and learning.  Anyone who has attended one of our previous ME Retreats held over the last 5 years, this is different with no repeat projects.  More to be added, but view full particulars on our Retreats section.

3. ONLINE CLASSES

It became obvious to me during Show Seminars I held recently that many customers had purchased Pleaters but were not using them to their fullest versatility, plus, many more customers did not understand the concept of using pleats for so many crafts.  So, I've been working on some Online Classes for you over the last 12 months and I'm now ready to launch these, sharing not only how to use your Pleat Makers, but to expand your creativity with them.  These classes are designed to lead you from how to use the Pleat Maker properly to a whole new world of excitement for their use.  Full details and enrolment will be available later this week on my website. But because I'm so excited about these, thought "my subscribers" should be the first to know!

PLEAT MAKER ONLINE CLASSES with Judy Hall commencing 1st June, 2009.   Six lessons, issued fortnightly on 1st & 3rd Monday of the month – giving students ample time for class exercises, projects, experimenting and communicating with others via our chat group.   Cost is $65.00

These lessons will take you through from how to use your Pleat Maker correctly, manipulating your fabric, having fun with frills & trims, flowers & embellishments and using your Pleat Maker for patchwork.   Come join me on a wonderful path that will change your sewing ideas forever!

4. WHAT'S NEW

Aprons are back!  Remember how Grandma always wore an apron?  If you love aprons, then you'll love the new retro-styled ones from Rebecca Anderson, under the name Rebecca Ruth Designs. Also, read at the end of this Newsletter the prose about aprons - just brings back so many memories, hopefully, for you too.

Just love all of the patterns from By Annie, in particular, the Laptop Computer Case, new Bookin' It! Book Bag and the Executive Carryalls.  These three now have Kits available for the hardware to make it easier for you, saving searching the shops for the bits and pieces that complete the bags.

Two new bag patterns from StudioKat Designs who keep coming up with amazing bag ideas. The Boho Baguette will be a best seller for sure and the little Polso Pouch is sure to be a hit with the young at heart.  We now have some two-slider, closed bottom zippers for the Trifecta Bag too, though they could be used for others.

Square Rose has two new bag patterns - Peaks & Points Bag is really different with unique shapes and a flat, square bottom.  The Flat Bag has been designed specifically for embellishing and includes the Crazy Patchwork designs shown on the cover.

Because of their immense popularity since we're had samples on display at the shows, I've added more to the range of Southwind Designs which give curves in 3D effect without any curved sewing!  Intrigued?  I thank my good friend Carol for all her hard work making the patterns up and allowing me to have "on loan" for you to see.  This is so easy everyone, do have a go.

A few more miscellaneous bag patterns are in the What's New section, plus tablerunners, quilts, a Jumbo sized Yo-Yo Maker from Clover and so much more.

Clover has several new products too which have already been absolute "sell-outs" at our shows this year.  A range of great crafty items for making Bow Makers and Sweetheart Rose Makers. 

These make excellent embellishments and I'm sure you'll have fun playing with different ribbons, fabrics & braids.

Do you remember making Puff Quilts or Biscuit Puffs?  Clover has added new meaning to the technique with variations that really are fascinating when worked with stripes or "shot" fabrics.  Absolutely delightful.

Quilting Arts Magazines are now available from our website and I have quite a few back issues for you to choose from.  These have a brilliant amount of expertise and ideas in every issue for everyone who likes "playing" with fabrics and other mixed fibres.

Brilliant little Mini Steam Iron is now available for travel, classes or beside your sewing machine.

Ever feel like you need more grip with your fingertips but don't wish to wear gloves or other finger covers? LickityGRIP is a grip enhancer developed specifically for sewers and crafters for our specific needs.  It licks your fingers so you don't have to!   Just rub your fingertips on it. 

For those who have the latest HP Printers, Bubble Jet Set Company has released a new version of Bubble Jet Set just for you.  HP Bubble Jet Set 2000 is a one-of-a-kind formula that will hold up to 95% of the inks in the fabric.  While we're on photos to fabric, the same company has Miracle Fabric Sheets in A3 size so we now have them for those who've been asking.

Mistyfuse Ultraviolet is the sheerest of all fusibles available.  I gave some sample of Mistyfuse in the Delegate's Bags for the AQC this year and several have emailed thanking me for the introduction to such an excellent product.  Have you tried it?

The Original Gypsy Gripper™ Ruler Handle now has an extended family.  The Incredible In-Between Gripper™ is virtually a handle with suction and the Amazing Little Gypsy Gripper™ is the smallest version.

I have some more fabulously exciting new products on their way too.

5. MADE IN AUSTRALIA

Glenn Harris has added Australian Icons Vol. 1 to his collection, depicting 12 very familiar Aussie images.

Jenny Haskins has a new Machine Embroidery Book/CD released called Sharman's Vintage Garden which is another stunning king-size quilt with 20 additional projects. Excellent value.

Julie Hall has released several new CDs which will be added to the website within a week.  Fourteen of them, in fact!  Slow down Julie!

6. SPECIALS

Mother's Day is not very far away.  Always popular are products from Daylight Lamps, Ott-Lites and Slimline Light Boxes.  All have specials to tempt your dollar.  I have 6 only, Slimline Light Boxes for offer post free anywhere within Australia. 

Another great idea would be the Bendable Bright Light.  Can be used in ever so many places, not just on your sewing machine.  These are 240v with "our" plug, so no need for adaptors or transformers within Australia or New Zealand.

There are some great specials on selected Yazzii Bags though a few are now nearly sold out, so may I suggest you check them out before you miss out?

The Madeira Thread Treasure Chest is always a popular Mother's Day Gift and though these have been out of stock since Christmas, my supplier assures me they'll be delivered by the end of April.  So you could order one for assured delivery for that second Sunday in May. $300.00 off RRP too!

The 3 Piece Trolley Bag Set is another firm favourite this time of the year.  Available in choice of three colours and only $12.00 freight anywhere within Australia.

The Westalee Design Ruler Starter Kit was an extremely popular Christmas present, so maybe this could be a consideration.  See the last entry at the end of this Newsletter!

Of course, there's always a Gift Voucher allowing Mum to choose what she would really like.  Maybe she should show you her Punch with Judy Wish List if she's a registered customer? 

7. STITCHES SUBSCRIBER OFFERS

If you are a Sewing with Stitches Magazine Subscriber (formerly Australian Stitches) please remember I always have a few month's subscriber's specials available on my website, even though the magazine does give an expiry date to offers.  Just for you, I leave them open for 3 months or until sold.  The current offer is for Magvu Handsfree Magnifier.

You recoup your subs fee in no time at all, plus you have all that wonderful reading and knowledge shared.

I have recently contributed to two upcoming special features, so watch the issues for one on Mail Ordering and the other on Pressing.

8. FREE PROJECTS

In this section we have wonderful FREE Projects for you. To coincide with the release of some new Clover Products, I have a wonderful Puff Chair Cushion added to this section for you.

9. DAMAGED & DISCONTINUED

The last group of these I offered went so quickly, so this time, email me "fast".  I am offering 2 WedgeWorks Books by Cheryl Phillips, Brandy's Fabric Marking Template 1" Shapes, Marti Michell's 60 Degree Triangle Ruler plus her 8" x 24" My Favorite Mitering Ruler, Westalee Design 18" Adjustable Ruler and a Hoop-It-All Cap Hoop.

These are all are bargain prices because they have been damaged in transit somewhere along the way. Simply visit Damaged & Discontinued, order whichever you please, then type in the Additional Comments section of your order that you wish to purchase the one from the D&D for such and such a price as the normal retail price will be showing on your order.  Don't worry about that, we'll adjust manually. 

10. TIPS & TUTORIALS

I've recently added some more tutorials that may be of interest to you if you own these products or even if you have been considering same.  The Creative Feet Tutorial will certainly open your eyes; it is in 4 parts.  There is a new one for the Kwik Bind, one for the Zip Bind and one for the Stitch n Ditch. You'll find the last three at the very end of the list on the Tutorials page.  Of course, there are many others in the tutorials section on our website to help you too. You can print them and use them side by side as your work.

11. GALLERY

This is the place where I display some of your work.  Maybe you have a photo to send me of something you've done using our products.  Dale Hoh did just that.  She made up the pattern Home Sweet Home  and sent me several photos of the complete house, however, I've chosen this one to share with you because the photos on the wall of this room are of her family and I thought what a great idea. This appliqué pattern from Joan's Own Creations is often referred to as the "doll's house" and is an extremely popular one.

12. DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that there is something to collect all the threads from your carpet after sewing?  The Thread Collector does.  I received an email from Pat this week as follows: Judy, just a quick note to say I received my order and I just love the Thread Collector; my machine is on carpet and vacuum cleaners do not pick up all the threads and pins, but this tool is fantastic.

Did you know that choosing the correct Stabilizer for your machine embroidery at hand can be so critical to the end result?  Of course, you did!  BUT, have you tried any of the new ones?  I've just completed a technical Stabilizer Update for Machine Embroidery Magazine which will be a special technical issue in a few months time, so watch out for it.  In the meantime, to make it easier for you to choose from our range between tearaways, cutaways, washaways, meltaways, toppers or hoopless embroidery, I have grouped our Stabilizers into such categories.  I hope you find this easier.

Did you know that in an upcoming April episode of ABC's New Inventors, Leonie & Bill West will be featured as a follow up to Leonie winning Voter's Choice Award for the best new invention for their program during 2008?  Of course, this was for the Westalee Design Adjustable Rulers. Hasn't been announced which date yet, but only a couple of weeks to go, so watch each week.  They visited their "factory" and filmed a short episode to find out how they were going. 

Did you know that the wonderful APRON that Grandma wore from the moment she got up in the morning till she went to bed at night, is witnessing a resurgence of popularity?  When my children were toddlers, I made hundreds of aprons, selling them for $1.00 each, for my "pocket money".  Do you know the history of the common apron?  Bethol from W.A. kindly sent me this to remind me and I thought I'd like to share it with you.

The History of the Apron

I don't think our kids even know what an apron is...

The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath, because she only had a few and it was much easier to wash aprons than dresses.  Also, they used less material, but along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.

An apron was wonderful for drying children's tears and on occasion was even used for cleaning our dirty ears.

From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks and sometimes half-hatched eggs to finish hatching in the warming oven.

When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.

When the weather was cold, Grandma wrapped it around her arms.

Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.

Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.

From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables.  After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.

In Autumn, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.

When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.

When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.

It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that old-time apron that had so many uses.

Time marches on and things change.........

Whilst Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool......

Her Granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw out..........

PLUS, they would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron!  But I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron!

So, are you smiling?

13. GOLDEN OLDIES

I like to tell you about some of my favourite products that I personally use and want to share their attributes, as one sewer to another. Here's another.

Do you suffer from Arthritis in the hands or maybe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendinitis or any Hand Fatigue?  Handeze Therapeutic Craft Gloves just may help you.  They are indeed a very comfortable way to reduce hand stress, cramping and pain associated with all sorts of activities, craft, gardening, golf or any other sports.  Excellent for computer operators.  Why not try some?

Till next time,
Judy