Voting for the "Dress it Up" Challange

It was August that I was placing an order from Ribbonsmyth. I noticed a little kit for the "Dress it up" challenge. I got so excited to join a challenge!As soon as the kit arrivedhere, I started to work and found this outcome at the end.
If you liked what I've done, please vote for me at Ribbonsmyth's link here.
I also would like to have your comments and critisim, your opinions are so important for me:))

Now, let me tell you a little bit details of what I've done to create this tiny mini dress and its accessories.

As soon as I completed this little dress I wanted to work on the little hanger which is the theme of this challenge. I used acyrlic paints, blended a nice lilac tone and startd to paint.

I used acrylic paints, blended a nice lilac tone as a basement.

I did little flower spray with pinkish tones, at the end I polished it The polish avoided the dull looking of acrylic painting. This is the end of the painting of this little hanger, how can I leave it without a final touch? I added a small rose bud!!!
I used all fabrics that were the contents of the kit, but used an old lace to cover top dark purple part.

I kept going on to embellish....

It was so fun to work on this project, I enjoyed it so much:))

Here is a close up to showyou details of my embellishments on the neck and the belt part of the dress. In addition I crocheted a little hat with neat color. I thought that a little hat should be perfect on this dress:))

After completing my little crocheted hat, I thought a small amulet bag will be also so nice. In addition it should be better to spend rest of the material of the kit.

And, here is the final of my trials...If you liked it please don't forget to vote for me at Ribbonsmyth's link.

Thanks so much in advance.....

Big Surprice

As I told you in my previous post, Santa came to my home with big suprices:)) You should remember my friend Sandy Riggens whose friend came to Istanbul in September. I've shared about Sandy and Patti in my previous posts. This time I had another amazing surprice from Sandy. She had been apply one of my painting onto a mouse pad. I got so impressed upon her her kindness to create such a lovely gift for birthday. Some of you may remember my this painting. It is a reproduction but I've spent long time to complete with acrylic paints. When I opened Sandy's baggie, I couldn't believe my eyes. To see my painting onto a mouse pad was a great surprice:))

This close-up shows my new mouse-pad.

My new mouse pad looks so pretty, isn't it? By the way, finally I have a new laptop, it is my DH's gift for my birthday. I celebrated my 51th birthday at Oct.10th. Suppose to I should organise another drawing as I did last year. But, during my physical therapies I wasn't so well to organise anything.

I'm so much happy with my new surprices, I wanted to share my happiness with you all. I'm so happy that I've stumbled into the Crazy Quilt world, it brought amazing joy into my life and of course, amazing friendships from all over the world.

Love to you all....

Swap baggie

Santa came my home a little bit earlier and brought me wonderful goodies that I want to share with you all here.
We have a lovely international group to swap goodies. We send swap baggies to each other four times a year in a quarterly base. The last baggie contains a handmade goodie. This year, my swap partner is Margreet from the Netherlands. I received this wonderful notebook from Margreet who made this lovely thing for me using an interesting fabric and old laces.

This is so convenient case I can store my some laces in it ,too. By the way, special thanks for these old laces, Margreet.

This photo shows the both sides of my new note book. As you can see, Margreet had been embroidered front and back sides too. This is totally handmade piece done by my swap sister. It was so nice to know her, we built a wonderful friendship, I hope we'll continue this friendship on the coming years too.

New oil painting

How time flies by....It is almost second month over since my last post. I know, I ignored my blog and my follewers during that period. Thanks a lot for your private messages, appreciated. As most of you know, I have to have physical therapy for my current knee problem.

I mostly tried and (still try) to rest as much as I can... Suppose to I should finish all UFP till end of this month, but it looks impossible according to current situation!!! Of course, this too much relaxing affected me negatively to feel a little bit moody:(( You won't believe me but I mostly spent time playing games, such as Farmville!!! (OMG, it is an addiction!!!)

I'm so glad that I started to go to Art Studio again and completed a painting that I started before the summer. It finished yesterday and I wanted to say hello to you all with this oil painting. I'm waiting your comments...but not about my painting, about the quilt on it:)) LOL!!!

Bye for now....

My new goodies:)

Since last night, there was a problem to reach blogspot.com, I think it was related with our Telecom here. I couldn't post the photos of my new goodies early that dear Sandy sent me with Patti. If you've already read my previous post, you know its details. Thanks so much Sandy, special thanks for your thoughtfulness to send me a lovely baggie and for your lovely selections according to my likes.

This wonderful needlepoint bag is made for me by Sandy.

Here is another more close-up photo to show its beauty!

This adorable ornament is another fantastic work, made by Sandy. She knows how much I like Christmasy things, her selections are fantastic to make me so much happy.

Visit of on-line friend

I'm back home after a wonderful travel, our entire trip was great! Suppose to I should share some photos and details about our travel but first off all I want to share another wonderful news with you. Last month, my on-line buddy Sandy Riggens informed me that her friend Patti should come to Istanbul by a Cruise. Of course, I got so excited to meet in person with Sandy's friend here in Istanbul. Its timing was great for me, it shouldn't match with our travel program.
Yesterday, I got up so early to get ready to leave home to meet with Patti. I live in the Anatolian part of the city, I have to pass through the Bosphorus Bridge to go European side where the Cruise lands.
I usually see the arrivals of the Cruises from my home but yesterday morning the weather was foggy, I couldn't notice its arrival in the early hours when I was at home. When I noticed the ships on the dock while we are passing the Bosphorus Bridge I took a deep breath that the ship was there and I should meet with Patti in a short time.
Our meeting with Patti and Jody was so nice, we noticed each so easily:))

We went to Topkapi Palace together. The terrace of the Palace has an amazing panoramic view, in this photo Patti has a lovely smile. I hope you noticed the Bosphorus Bridge at the back ground which connects the two continents, Europe and Asia.

During the coffee break Patti gave me a wonderful package that Sandy sent me. I'll share its details later with another post, I want to show you all those lovely things she did for me. Patti and Jody were so kind to wore my little oya brooch gifts.

Don't I look so happy between Patti and Jody? It was a short meeting but I must admit that I enjoyed it so much, it was so nice to meet with Patti and Jody. Some of you should astonish to see me with short hair in this photo. I got a hair cut just the day before. I envied so much to see all those so short hair cuts during our travel, especially in France and Germany short hair cuts are so trendy this year. As soon as I came back I went to my hair dresser and got a hair cut.

I come from a naval family, I always interested in ships! Especially if she is so beautiful as seen in these photos!!!!These two photos of the Cruise aren't so clear. I took them from the ferry on the way back to my home. The glass of the window wasn't so clean due salty sea water stains.

It was so nice to meet with Patti and Jody, hope to see them again one day.
Wishing a pleasant weekend to you all....

Vacation!

We had another long and hot summer and we almost reached to its end! It was a hard period for my family, we l couldn't find time even though for a short escape.
Finally, we got together and we are going to vacation tomorrow. It will be an interesting tour covering Alsace region of the France, a small part of the Switzerland and southern part of the Germany, lovely Bavaria.
I'll share details of our trip and photos after I come back home. I don't want to have internet access, TV, newspapers...nothing...I just want to focus on our trip and enjoy my time...:))
Good bye till Sept.15th.

Last RR block

This is the last block of our RR. As I've explained before, this RR has a different concept each person makes a specific thing on each block. According to the rules, as being last person, I added all pizazz.... beads, sequins, charms and some other final touches on this lovely block.

This photo shows my additions on Reneta's block.

This is a close-up photo that shows my additions on the sky part, I added a brass bird charm. Afterwords I decided to make a cloud. But, in that white part I decided to make blue color clouds! I should add more sequins but unfortunately they weren't sufficient amount. One of old metallic Gutterman thread with variegated color looked so neat to me! I did some chain stitches on the sky.

In this close-up photo, my additions looks better. I added many beads, little charms, etc. I found many neat color embellishments in my stash to add, I hope Reneta likes her block after our work. But, I really would like to say that the photo doesn't justice its beauty. It so much pretty in person. There are lovely details in that block.

This RR was another different experience with its interesting rules, I enjoyed to work on all blocks. Now, I'm waiting my block's arrival.

New goodies arrived:)

How time goes by....It is almost one month since my last post. It was another hectic period for me! I know, I neglected my blog.
Yesterday I received another order that I was waiting for crazily. I wanted to share a photo that shows some of my new toys. The Ribbonsmyth is one of my favorite online store that it carries wonderful items one crazy quilt needs.
There is also a special item in these goodies, it is a kit for the "Dress it up" challenge. I must admit that this is going to be my first trial to enter a challenge with a special kit. I got so excited to start it, but I have limited time to finish it till our vacation. Therefor I must complete it as soon as possible.
I really got so much motivated after receiving all these lovely items and immediately I sat and started to work on a RR block, there are some embellishments that I would like to add as a final touch and I'll share its final with you soon.

More fabrics arrived:)

As I told you in my previous post, the Fabric.com's speedy service impressed me so much and I placed another order from Fabric.com Thursday night in our time. My order arrived here yesterday morning, Monday!!! It took only 3 days and its two days were the weekend!!! This is a super speedy service that they provide through UPS.
I know, I exaggerated a little bit to buy too many more fabrics. But, these lovely Christmasy, winter theme fabrics are so lovely, I couldn't control myself and placed another order with a high amount:)) The photo shows a small part of my new fabrics, as I told you, I exaggerated but I believe that it was worth. Some of my quilter buddies knows that how much I like goodies related with the Christmas and I love to collect them. I'm so glad that I found a super source like Fabric.com.
These lollipops were in the box, as well. The company must know my childhood side:))

My new fabrics

Last week I've ordered some fabrics from Fabric.com. It was my first trial from that mentioned company and I should almost cancel my order at the last moment when I saw the total shipping cost. But, the prices of the fabrics were worthy to pay for that amount for the total cost and I decided to pay that high shopping cost. Yesterday UPS brought this box, it was full of with my new toys:)) I'm so happy that I didn't cancel my order, otherwise I'll be a real loser!

I would like to share some of my new fabrics panels with you.

This Victorian fabric is so lovely. It is for sure that I'll use this fabric as a whole panel, no way I can cut it into pieces! I never want to waste any piece of it.

This is another one that I loved, I think I'll use it as it is to make a wall hanger. Maybe I can make crazy borders with some embellishments. I still keep continue to collect charms and beads with the winter and snow themes. Its prototype is ready already in my mind. I'm looking forward to give a start when the weather starts to get a little bit cooler. To look at this lovely Victorian skating scene is super when we are having hot steamy weather in the mid of the July.

This is another fabric panel that is my favorite; the sisterhood of quilters, I'll make a small quilt to devote my quilt friends...I plan to make another crazy wallhanger.

I got so much impressed upon super service of the Fabric.com. It is for sure that I'll be their a loyal customer from now on:))

I love to collect charms and buttons and I love to find new sources to have more interesting things. I had some bad experiences in the past with my orders, my two orders got lost! What a coincidence that I couldn't receive my two orders from the same company. I must admit that I didn't care about the nonrefundable money, I got so worry about all those lovely buttons and charms that I was waiting crazily.

Anyway, I'm so much happy for the service of the fabric.com, I'll place another order again with their current super prices.

New Necklace-Set

Most of my CQ'er buddies and customers know oyas only with their little flower forms. But, there are so many different applications of these amazing lace art. Here is a wonderful necklace set with my favorite color. But, as being a CRAZY quilter, I thought it was so simple, to make some attractions with some beads will be nice idea. But, I must admit that I was so hesitant to destroy its beauty, I never want to add any other things on oyas but this time I wanted to try something different.

I started to add neat color pearls and Swarowski beads. The outcome was nice and I kept continue....

Here is the final of this lovely necklace set, isn't it looking much more elegant? A crazy touch always gives a feminine look!!! I added this lovely necklace set to my ETSY. Visit my ETSY or ARTFIRE shops to see other alternatives.

RR block

I'm so quiet for blogging. It is so hot here in Istanbul. I don't have enough energy to stitch and being creative. However, I enjoyed so much to work on a RR block. I've explained the rules of this RR in my previous posts. As being third person to work on this RR my responsibility was to do motifs, embroidery without too much additional decoration. The next person will add beads, buttons, charms etc....I envy her job on this lovely block!!!!:))

Now, let me start to tell you what I did. Melodie's block theme is "Grandfather's Garden". Can you think a grandpa's garden without bird house? I did a bird house with little flowers its underneath.

I embroidered this little bird with blue tones of the silk floss. I thought it should be well looking under the Maureen's beautiful Forget me knots. The seam treatment at top looks so pretty, isn't it?

I wanted to create something like a rose garden on this green part of the block which is the center piece. My roses aren't so successful, the fabric was a little bit tough for the SRE, I couldn't pull the needle easily. My tendinitis problem at right hand still exists. However, I think this part looks fine, what do you think? At last, I added a lace dragon fly, I dyed it with coffee. It should be looking much better with some beads and bugles. I'm sure that Reneta who is the next person to work on this block, she should do wonderful touches.

Willa BC block for 2009

As I always say so, our little oya flowers got so famous in the CQ world after I've used one of them on a Breast Cancer Wallhanging project several years ago.
I would like to share an eye-candy here that dear friend Willa who is also one of my loyal customer, she used small flat type oyas and ceramic roses on her block for 2009 BC Wallhanging project.
She is a purple and lilac color lover like me, please visit her blog to see her lovely block.

Comforting block for Hideko

I made this little comforting heart block for Hideko who lost her mother recently. I waited block's arrival to Japan to post these photos. I wanted to make something different other than a heart applique. I used a heart shape charm on the solid color fabrics and surrounded it with oyas. As you see I used pastel color fabrics and used various oyas with the neat colors. The beaded lace oya is one of my favorite type, I especially used it to make a good contrast with the white patch of the right side.

Here is another close up photo to show you a lovely lace. I used this lovely lace which is from Maureen's store. It looked so pretty on the mist mint color fabric, I added same color small pearls but unfortunately the photo doesn't judge those colors perfectly. If you would like to have this lace you must visit Maureen's site, she offers wonderful goodies.

I wish I could make this block for Hideko with another reason but so sad that this the reality of the world, we lose our precious ones!!!

200th post

This is my 200th post! I've had to deal another family health issues in the past a few weeks, I couldn't have much time for blogging. I was planning to complete some handmade goodies to have a giveaway for my 200th post. Unfortunately, I had to postpone it for a later date!
I decided to devote my 200th post to my dear teacher Nur Cubukcu! So, I wanted to share some photos of my teacher Nur Cubukcu who taught me SRE and CQ. She is master quilter and the author of "The Dance of the Ribbons" book. Nowadays, she gives her full performance for a fund that provides scholarships for the university students. In this photo, you can see me with her in front of the lovely calla flowers at her beautiful garden.
Mrs. Cubukcu was giving silk ribbon classes. If I'm a crazy quilter today, Mrs.Cubukcu is the main reason, because I coincidentally saw a mini CQ quilt at her SRE class and afterwords I crazily learned CQ:)) When she recognized my high CQ interest she gave her full support to teach me CQ principals, including stitch techniques and shared her stash with me.
I was doing sane quilts but the crazy quilting is another passionate interest:)
I would like to thank her once again here that I found a special hobby for my retirement that I was always willing to make something different. Is there any other craft that combines sewing, embroidery, beading, painting fabrics or embellishment with laces, ribbons, charms, buttons?
Dear Nur Hoca thanks so much for your all support to teach me Crazy Quilting. Otherwise I shouldn't post this message, I shouldn't do CQ'ing, I shouldn't have wonderful CQ'er buddies at all over the world.

My new painting, Venice!

I've completed another painting today. This time, I've tried a new thing from Italy. I couldn't visit "Bella Italy" since last year, but I was there while I'm making this Venice painting. I assumed myself there, I was stitching while listening Andrea Bocelli who is my favorite singer. This painting seemed so easy at the beginning. But, its details took longer time than I expected. You can imagine how it is hard to complete a painting like this with lots of details with the acrylic paints. But, I really enjoyed to work on this painting, to work on its small details was great fun.
I'm so glad that I'll be using oil paints from now on. I've had to use acrylics as a preventive action for my health. But, it is "BASTA", as Italians say.
I think, my patience is enough to struggle with these acrylics, it is time to use oil paints:))

Our little Prince doesn't like hot weather like his grandmother! He tries to find cool places to take naps.

This is an interesting cat, he is not a camera shy boy!!!

A few days ago he got lost at home, we looked for him crazily at least five minutes....While we were trying to find him, I recognized that he was watching us from the top the bookcase!!!! Afterwords, I understood that he likes cool places, especially the opposite side of the A/C!!!

He spends all the time at the balcony or window, discovering new things...He likes to watch birds and seagals!!!

We have a visitor:))

My grandson came here two weeks ago. This handsome prince likes my sewing room, you can see how he is posing proudly:))
It is so true that we aren't owner's of them, they are our owners. It is for sure that we'll have a void when my DD takes him back on next week:((
He is so cute, very smart boy.

Victorian image:)

I did too many different cross stitching and needlepoint projects in the past. Recently, I saw this painted canvas at my local quilt store and I loved this lovely Victorian Lady. I have too many UFPs but I couldn't control myself and bought it. I wonder what is she reading???? Guess it!!!
I hope I can complete this canvas this summer. Usually, I'm unable to stitch during the hot summer days but I hope to work on this project will be easier other than work on a CQ block.
I'll share its progress on the coming days.

I worked on a RR block this weekend. This is a different concept other than our known RRs. We are five people, picked a different theme to create our own blocks. When the first person receives the 1st block, does all of the seams with designs in thread. When the 2nd block received, she adds to the seams with some ribbon embroidery and more stitching. When the 3rd one received, the motifs should be doing without additional decorations and when the 4th block received it will be final touch with the adding pizazz....beads, buttons, charms wahatever needed! I must admit that it will be my favorite block!!!:))
This interesting RR was Maureen's idea that I liked, it seemed so interesting. The photo shows the second block that belongs to Shirlee, I received it from Maureen. At first, I was hesitant what to do on this "Oriental theme" block without pizazz. After giving a start I enjoyed so much to work on it.
I think, I did well on this lovely block with the "Oriental theme" according to the rules of this mentioned RR. Its on its way to go to Reneta. Now, I'm waiting 3rd block!

Lilac time in Istanbul

It is another lilac time in Istanbul! I just completed this painting the day before. It is Mother's Day gift for my Mom. Some of you should remember that I've also made her another painting last year with lilacs.
She had a few tear drops, lilacs always reminds her my grandma and their lovely home with lilac trees in the garden. I'm sure that most of you have same kind of old memories related with this lovely flower.
Tomorrow, I'm going to Ankara, I'm so glad that I'll be together with my daughter this year at a special day!
Wishing you all a Happy Mother's day!

Old memories, Tirol Girl&Boy

I know, I neglected my blog in the past few days. I did some spring cleaning! I found some old things that I would like to share their relations with my new doily!!!! I want to show you this lovely Tirol doily today that I've bought it last year during our "Romantic Bavaria tour". As I always say so, I love Alpine mountains and I love to visit both Bavarian and Austrian Tirol's at every possibility. To see all those people who wear traditional folkloric costumes is the another point that I like that areas so much. This doily with its lovely blue tones is so neat with my other accessories at my blue home. My daughter was joking me when she was a teen girl, she was saying that "Mam, I feel myself like a fish in an aquarium in this blue home". But, now a days her own home is started to turn a blue home too!!!
Anyway, I love to use this doily with a lovely folkloric design. Now, I would like to share with you some other memories too.

I quit to work before my daughter's birth and I was at home till she started the school. It was so great that I was together with my daughter as being a full time mother. In that period I tried different new hobbies. One of them was glass painting. When she was sleeping, I was trying new things at my small hobby room. In those years I was subscribing "Anna" magazine, its each issue was full of marvelous ideas. I still keep them, they are super sources for a crafter needs. Unfortunately, it is an uncontinue magazine now. As far as I know, its only "crocheting" is available. I was making wall hangers for my daughter's room. This Tirol couple is one of them that I made at least 20 years ago from a pattern of that magazine.

This is another one that I made in the same period, 20 years ago. As you can see, my love for the Tirol couples with the folkloric costumes comes from the past.

I also want to share this snowy scene that was one of my favorite, its pattern was from the mentioned magazine, Anna. It was a different method that I created in those days. I was doing flowers with doughs in those days. I've prepared a light mixture with a special glue, flour and starch and used for the puffy areas and used glass paints to paint all those areas. It was a special glue that I was buying from the warehouse. I think I was much more patient and enthusiastic in those days to try news things to be more creative!

This is another scene but it is unfortunately unfinished!!! There are some details that I must complete. But, I must buy new glass paints. But, I don't know if they work on this pretty old thing or not!

I must keep continue my spring cleaning....Let's me see, what will I find more to share with you???

Another snow painting:)

We have a lovely spring time here but I just completed this painting of the snowing. It was another hard case for me with a lots of details of this reproduction but I stubbornly completed another detailed work with the acrylic paints!

My Winter RR block back home

As most of you knew that I had my first experience to host a RR with "Winter" theme. It was so nice and easy job with the contribution and support with the group members. My RR block completed its long journey and came back home. I would like to thank my stitching friends once again with their efforts that they created this wonderful block, it is a real treausre, indeed. I also wanted to post some highlights from my block so you may be able to see the details.

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My oyas on a special project:)

As most of you know, I've had hard times due to family health problems since mid of January, I'm unable to follow-up daily blog posts regularly. Therefor I miss so many things....
But, this time, I would like to share you a wonderful news here. Most of you know Hideko from Japan. She is a CQ guru from far east and she shares her exquisite work on her blog "Wind from the East". Recently, Hideko posted a wonderful project about an album that she makes for her mother. I'm so honored that she used my little oya flowers on that special project.
Special thanks to Hideko for using my oyas and I convey my respects to her mother. I wish I could have an opportunity to meet with this charming lady to listen her stories.

"Heart" swap block finished:)

Finally, I completed embellishment part of the little heart that I make for Mary. It is the most fun part so I completed easily. At first, I did one of my favorite seam treatment with long chain stitches, after adding their seed beads, I decided to add a beaded oya trim on the pink patch to make a good contrast with the bottom beige fabric. I didn't want to leave beaded oya trim as it is...I added pearl drops and chain stitches to form little flowers at its top side.

I think, these little antique looking charms looked nice!

I like these little oyas so much and I love to use them at every possibility. I added a few of them on the right side and made final touches with green floss and added small butterlies.

This is the final of the little block. Now, I'll applique it on the muslin that Mary sent me with her swap baggie. I made my heart according to its original size as she drew on the muslin. Afterwords it will be ready to start its long journey.

I have another RR block to complete as of Wednesday than I'll start a new project. I'm so excited about it. Of course I'll share it here with you all:))

Paper pieced method small CQ heart

As you know, recently I received a wonderful heart from Mary. I decided to create my heart for her according to paper piecing method. I drew two pieces 6" size heart shape crazy design. I drew two of them because use one of themto be used as the base and the other one will be cut of for each piece.
My fabrics were ready (ironed), I started to cut at the bottom piece to prepare the first part of the heart shape CQ block.I cut the first piece of the paper and reversed it on the back side of the fabric and pinned.


I precisely cut the fabric, leaving proper seam allowances and started to baste. I have a suggegstion for the newbies. Always start to baste from shorter side and never forget finger press when folding the fabric before stitching!

I kept continue same work clock wise direction.

I prepared them in a short period. Afterwords, I started to stitch each piece from their back. When I've completed to stitch all pieces, I ripped off the basting threads to remove papers. But, I recognized that I have to repeat one thing! I had to baste borders once again!

This is the final of the little heart shape CQ block that I made for my swap partner. I tried to explain what I did to create my little heart. Now, it is time to embellish it:)

Some of you may think that this is long way to create a small heart, but this is the best method I do to create a heart shape CQ block!!!! In addition, I wanted to be sure to create a nice thing for my partner.

Another stormy day

We had constant rain in the past days. Last night, we had a strong wind. I took these photos from my window in the morning. Poor seaguls were trying fly in that strong wind!

My ArtFire Studio

Isn't so nice that one item from my ArtFire Studio is at the ArtFire Artisans' site? It was a real surprise for me, one of my item chosen among all those wonderful things:)
I suggest you visit http://moonstone.tumblr.com/ to see wonderful items that they created by ArtFire artisans..

My new online store, ARTFIRE

I joined to ARTFIRE community with my new on-line store. My store mainly have oyas but I plan to sell my new CQ creations on the coming days.
I've noticed that there are many friends there, there are many familiar names too:)
Please take a peak when you have time... you can reach my store through the Artfire button at the right side.

My New Fabric Panels from U.K.

Last week, when I was trying to find new fabric vendors, I found Fabric Inspirations from U.K.

I've ordered six pieces of panels with different themes. Yesterday they arrived. I think there is no need for the any other word to tell my happiness when I saw them. They are so lovely, and arrived in short time.
But, I still keep continue to find interesting panels with the Victorian era images. I especially seek themes, "Tea-Time", "Victorian Ladies", "Holiday Season" etc.... Any suggestions will be deeply appreciated.

Heart Swap:)

I also would like to thank Mary so much for sending a thimble along with those lovely things from Texas. I've already put my new Texas thimble into my collection. Special thanks Mary for your thoughtfulness:))

Dear friend Mary from Austin is my swap partner, she created a heart for me. She told me about her creation but didn't send me photo. I must admit that I was expecting a simple heart.. Her baggie arrived here yesterday, when I opened the enveloped I found these lovely things. I must admit that the photo never justice the beauty of that cute heart Mary made for me. I loved her wonderful work. The postcards are lovely, especially the one with bluebonnets inspired me to create a painting:)) You know, I love bluebonnets!

Last block of the Winter RR

This is the last block of our Winter RR that I've just completed. I did two snow flakes and two seam treatments on Sandi's lovely block. As always do, I used various sequins and seed beads on the seam treatments. Time to time I critise my work for the repetitions but I like to use Chevron and Herringbone stitches to make different combinations using various beads and sequins:))
Sandi's block is ready for its long trip to MA. So, we came to end of the "Winter RR" that was the first RR that I hosted. We completed RR smoothly and with a great harmony. I would like to thank all participants once again, we had great fun all together and learned a lot from each other.

Another Give-away:)

Cynthia from Cynthia's Cottage is having a giveaway. Go there to look at the beautiful signs she is giving away. Plus, you get to choose which one you want. She has a wonderful selection.

My 2009 ArtBra Block finished

As you know, I was working on a special project for the Women Wellness, I finished it today. I would like to explain a little bit more about the block once again. Each year we make individual blocks that will be assembled into a wall-hanging quilt and donated to a breast cancer center. We want to inspire women by the message of caring and support represented in the wall hangings. I just wanted to share my completed block for this years wall-hanging, with the "Rose" theme. It is ready for its long journey to go to the USA to get assembled with the other wonderful blocks. When the quilt is finished it will be donated to a women's cancer center for display.

Is it possible to think a CQ block created by me without any oya?

I used locally produced variegated ribbons to create web roses. I used Ribbonsmyth's undyed ribbon for the white web rose. I did chain stitches to cover the asseble lines, afterwords I did seam treatments.

It is tea time:)

It is another cold and rainy day. I just had my green tea. I wanted to share my lovely new tea cozy with you all. This lovely tea cozy with my favorite colors is so cute and it keeps my tea pot warm. Especially in these cold days, it is a fantastic piece.

This lovely tea cozy is a creation my dear friend Candi. She creates wonderful things but my lovely tea-cozy is favorite:))

I suggest you to visit her lovely blog and her Etsy store to see her fantastic works.

Candi, thanks so much once again for this lovely tea cozy.

My Combined Painting Exhibition

As most of you know, I attend an art studio and take painting lessons. We had opening cocktail party of our first combined exhibition at Feb.21th, Saturday. I joined the exhibition with six paintings. My paintings are all acrylics among all other the wonderful oil paintings but I must admit that I got very nice feed backs and compliments during the cocktail that I never expected. I hope I'll be able to open my own exhibition soon. My dear family and friends shared my happiness except my precious daughter. She couldn't come to Istanbul due to bad weather conditions. In this photo, I'm together with my mother in front of my newest painting.

Here is a highlight of my last painting that I've completed last week to display at the exhibition. It is another reproduction with lots of details that seems impossible to make with the acrylic paints but I did it again! It is a reproduction but I never stop to reflect my craziness to put some additions. Have you notice a Christmas tree at the second floor window?

Beautiful Block Award!

I am honoured that you visit my blog and appreciate the comments on my work.It also is very nice to get awards because there are so many talented and inspiring people in blogland.

Thank you Marilyn for this lovely award. But, I'm sorry for being to late to pass this award, I couldn't spend time for my blog in the past days. Now I would like to pass this award on to a few others who's Blogs are Beautiful & I enjoy to visit. There are so many blogs that I love to folllow-up.... I have to chose only five of them to pass this award, well, it is pretty hard to make a choice among them....

My awards goes to;

Emmy

Orinda

Elaine

Marilyn

Sandra

Art Bra 2009 Block-Progress

I've started to embellish the block:) I have too many things in my stash with neat colors to use on the block. I used soft pink color silk floss to make the Chevron stitch. That olive green floss that I made lazy daisies on top of the chevron stitch had a long journey to arrive here! I belong to an international swap group since two years. First year, my swap partner was from Brazil, she sent me those wonderful flosses, I was keeping them to use on a special project.

I wasn't aware that I had almost the same color beads with the fabrics, I really astonished so much when I got them together. The photo doesn't judge the colors so well, I must admit that I liked the outcome!

Art Bra 2009 Block-Progress

I want to use some handmade beaded oya trims, therefor I used all solid color fabrics around the rose motif. I'm a a little bit hesitant to use white one at the below but I liked the pink and the other one at the right side. It is one of my favorite trim that I like to use much. My oya artisan lady created this one with my favorite colors, it is so nice that I'll use it for a special project.

I assembled my ArtBra 2009 block. Now, my favorite session starts, embellishments!!!!

Happy Valentine's Day:)

Wishing a wonderful Valentine's Day to you all....

Art Bra 2009 Block

The Art Bra Ladies started to work again - We'll have another quilt in the works for 2009 with "Roses" theme. Our individual blocks is to be done in Victorian Colors based around a piece of soft dark pink sent out by our organizer, Barbara Blankenship.
When I learned the theme of this year, I immediately remembered an old fabric that should be perfect selection for the "Rose" theme. It was my mother's dress, tailored for her at least 35 years ago!!! In those days Chine silks were so famous with nice, elegant prints! My mother gave me that old dress when I've started CQing in 2004. I used a small patch of that fabric on a RR block with "Rose" theme a few years ago, I've also sent small pieces to my RR buddies, most of them used that small patches on their blocks as well. Once again I'll use a small part of this fabric for a special project, ArtBra 2009.
I decided to use mostly pink tones and beige and gray to make a contrast with the my fabric with the rose print. Now, it is time to go get pieces together to create a nice block, 8x8" size. I want to add SRE and other things to have heavily embellished block. I'll share its progress:)

Valentine Heart Swap

Due the my Father's sickness I've had to postpone my commitments but I'm so glad that I've completed the small crazy style heart that I was making for the "Valentine Heart Swap", ETSy Cottage style group. The baggie for my swap partner Char started its long journey several days ago. But, I've just found a time to share its photos here with you. I wanted to put some interesting pieces into Char's baggie. I added a hand made oya brooch along with a handmade daphne soap that has a special place in the Anatolian mythology. According to legends Ladies are used daphne soap to have wonderful long hair, still too many people uses daphne soap to have strong and bright hair. I added another box of soap roses that I loved their color, I thought it will be a nice selection in the baggie. In addition I added four different type handmade beaded trims. I hope she likes my selections.

After completing the embellishments I precisely sewed the borders, I left a small place to put fibers and sewed the rest. All of them are hand stitch, I never used machinery!!!

The size of the little heart is 5". I used pink fabric and I covered front side with an old lace that was a piece of wedding dress. I made a spray with my little oyas, added leaves with dark green color silk ribbons. I like that color ribbon because it is almost the same color with the oya's basement tone so it makes a wonderful combination. I kept continue to add some embellishments. At last I added some bugles with various colors to give different sparky look.

Valentine Swap baggie arrived:)

I was quiet in the past weeks. Unfortunately my dear Father a serious health problem. I've had to deal with him, I would like to thank to all my on-line buddies for their concerns and prayers. I always believe the power of the prayers, appreciated to all prayers from all over the world.
I'm so glad that I joined "Etsy cottage style-Valentine swap", I received these lovely pieces from my swap partner, Char. The cottage style little box is so pretty, I've already put some of my ear rings in it. I wanted to share these lovely things with you all, I started to celebrate Valentine Day earlier. Special thanks to Char for her wonderful selections to send me.

Traveler cat:)

Afterwords we came back home!!!

Babig took only short naps during our drive of 450 km, our smart cat never wants to miss details, wants to stay awake!

We awaked to wonderful day, yesterday. After snowing, temperature was a little bit high and sun was shining, Babig was watching outside from sunny window.

Babig was happy to see his grand parents!!! He showed his happines laying down on the new puzzle!!!! He grows up in an intellectual home!!!

There are some spots on the photos, unfortunately they are drops on the windshield!

I'm so happy my precious DD is coming home Tuesday with her cat to spend two weeks with us. Her little cat is sick and antibiotic cure since last week, we thought that to travel by plane may make him feel uncomfortable and we decided to go to Ankara to bring him back here. It was heavily raining when we left Istanbul. Afterwords it turned to snowing at all the way long.

Winter RR-Last block

I completed my work on Shirlee's beautiful block, as being last person I wanted to cover left below part and I did some extra work. So Shirlee will have only a small part to complete her own block. It was great fun to work on this lovely RR block with "Winter theme". I would like to thank you for your all lovely comments about my little houses on the seam treatment. I couldn't decide what to do under the ric-roc trim. Then I thought, is it possible to think a Holiday season without gifts packs???? I made gift packs:)) I kept working on the Shirlee's wonderful lace. I used red metallic (Kreinik) thread to catch a nice harmony with the top patch and added the same color flat sequins and beads. I made a chain stitch with metallic gold thread to cover the assembly line of the two patches. Now, the last block block of "Winter" theme RR is ready to start its journey to MA, USA.

Back to stitching:)

I visited my bead shop the day before. I found new little charms:)) I used two different types with seed beads. I especially liked the little four petal metallic beads/charms (whatever you call them:), I used blue color seed beads to mount them.

Finally, I'm back to stitching after a long time. I've started to work on Shirlee's wonderful "Winter" theme RR block.

I've ordered some kits from Eveningstardesigns.

I received a wonderful Patterns&Instructions sheets along with my order contents. I inspired from a CQ stitch combination to make this seam treatment for Shirlee. I plan to add some other beads, I'll share its progress.

A Wonderful Friendly Award

I have received an award from Marlyn at Our Victorian Cottage . Thank you so much for thinking of me. You are so kind and thoughtful for thinking of me for this award.

Here are the guidelines for this award:'This blog invests and believes in the PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships. These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers' aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes for self-aggrandizement! Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers!'These are some very wonderful gals to visit. They are thoughtful, friendly and have so many wonderful ideas.I am supposed to pass this along.

Kathy at kathyscrazymoments

Candi at Quilts N Things

Cheryl at Cheryl's Chatelaine

Nikki at RavioLee Dreams

Lorenza at Crazyvalsusa

"Invitation to Tea"

Today, I've recognized that I didn't share my gorgeous birthday gift with you all. My dear friend Kathy, made me a wonderful surprise with this so lovely small wall hanger at my birthday. She knows my likes so well. I loved what she have done on this block, I treasure this lovely gift. Special thanks once again for her exquisite work with a special theme that I like so much.

Some of you may remember my puzzle. It is special design of Judy Koenig. I'm so glad that "Gibson Puzzles" has a wonderful collection for us who loves Victorian era. Finally, my puzzle is ready to be hang on the wall of my small sewing room.

First day of the new year!

This is the first day of 2009. I hope that 2009 brings us a year full of health, wealth, happiness and global peace!
I wanted to start this year with a little bit change on to my blog. I changed the "header photo"! I hope my visitors likes this header, too.
We give gifts to each other for the New Year, here. I wanted to share my gift with you all. The photo shows my dear daughter's gifts for me. I loved her wonderful selections with these lovely mugs, tea pot and serving plate. She knows very well how to make me feel happy.

Happy New Year

All good wishes for the coming year. May 2009 bring wonderful things for each of us:)

Vintage Ornaments and little angels

Today I took some photos of my home decoration for a buddy as I've promised and I wanted to share some of them here with you all too. This is my most favorite vintage ornament, I keep it precisely. This little ball is older than 35 years old and only this piece left! I have some other older ornaments but this is my favorite one, nowadays it is pretty hard to find something like this. There are so many things with but none of them looks pretty for me like this one!

Last year, we went to Spandau during our Germany visit. It was only a few days before the Christmas, I found those lovely angel ornaments from a small shop in the Spandau. They are my Guardian angels:))

Swap baggie

I received the last swap baggie of 2008. We have an international swap group, we send each other swap baggies four times a year. My swap partner was Wilma from the Netherlands. To receive this personalized lavender sachet with my favorite color blue made me so happy, indeed.
Wilma's this so meaningful wonderful gift reminds nice memories from my childhood. There was a small pillow at my grandma's home. It was mine, no one could touch it!!! That small pillow had a blue satin border, it was making that pillow so special for me!!! I still remember its wonderful lavender smell. I'm sure that there are some specific smells from your past for you too:)

Happy Holidays

Raffaello Puzzle

After telling about my new "Raffaello puzzle, I wanted to show you my little cherubs that I've bought them from Germany. Kathe Wohlfahrt is a famous Christmas shop in Germany, it has shops at different places that I love to visit at my each travel. Last year I bought these lovely cherubs from Kathe's Rottenburg shop with lots of other things. We realized "Romantic Tour" in last June, we started our journey from Heildelberg, I loved Kathe's that shop, too. Kathe's "Deutsche Weihnachtsmuseum" is at the Rothenburg is a fantastic place, indeed. I also like their Oberammergau and Garmish-Partenkirshen stores as well, because I love Bavaria and awesome Alpine mountains at every possibility.

I would like to share this lovely "Raffaello" image with you. My precious daughter made this 1000 pieces puzzle for me. Its dimensions are 68x48cm. We bought a wooden frame from IKEA . I tried to make its a clear photo but its glass part shines, reflects the shadows. At least this photo should give you an idea about my new gift that I liked so much.

A full moon at a frosty night:)

Here is my another painting that I've completed yesterday. I wanted to take its photo at day light but we have a gray and misarable weather today. I couldn't take its photo as I wanted. This is another an old reproduction I copied but unfortunately I couldn't find its originator. As you know, I still use acrylic paints, it is pretty hard to make this kind of paintings with the acrylic paints but I'm stubborn, I worked on this painting stubbornly and completed yesterday. I wish I could be using oil paints soon after my Doc.s approval. I'm looking forward to mix oil paints and create my paintings with spatula strokes.

Nora Creeach

I'm so sad that to hear about Nora's passing. I've never met her in person but I was knowing that she was always there to help us and to give her full support. Whenever I have a question she could help me with her usual cooperation and great support.
When I was started to learn SRE at 2003, I didn't have any idea about the related on-line sources.
One day, as being a blue color lover, I was trying to find some info about the bluebonnets that are one of my favorite flowers with their lovely colors and shapes.
I've coincidentally found "Crafty College" of Nora Creeach. To find her Bluebonnets and on-line SRE class was a great suprice for me. I enrolled her on-line class. It was my great chance to take that on-line class and also it was my honor to be able to meet with Nora. She individually helped me to teach how to make bluebonnets. I always appreciate her efforts.
We, all CQ lovers are grateful for her all efforts she put in starting CQMag On Line and now to the courageous gals who are carrying it on, especially Rissa, Allie, Barbara and many others....
I also would like to share my other so important memory with you here.
I believe that, CQMagOnline is a great source for all of us since its first issue. When I've learned Nora's annual contest in the last quarter of the 2004, I was so hesitant to join. But, I wanted to try it with a project that I was working on it. CQ was a new passionate interest for me in those days, I was trying to do my best on my first big project. It was worth to try...I joined the contest!
To be selected as a Novice First Place Winner, 2005 was a great honor for me, indeed. I still remember my happiness when I learned the results...to be selected among from all those talented ladies by Nora and the other jury members was a great honor and great motivation to create other CQ projects for me.
Afterwords, we've contacted with Nora several times, she always encouraged me for new projects.
How tragic that she and her husband passed away in the same week. I've never met with Nora in person but she was a great friend that I'll always remember her. She and her husband may rest in peace.
Today, I received a lovely card from dear friend Nicki. There is so meaningful quote on that lovely card. I want to share this quote of Saint Thomas Aquinas with you all;
"There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship".

New Projects for my Etsy store

In the previous months I made several CDPK for my swap partners.
If I use circular CD's to create CDPK, why shouldn't I use their cover as well? I tried one, I liked the outcome. I used same method to create my bigger size pin cushion. As you know, standard size CD cover is 5,5x5". My this new project can be used as a wall hanger and/or as a nice plate with holder.
I really enjoyed to create them, I've already made three at total and added them on to my Etsy store. Many buddies insist me to create CQ blocks to sell. This is going to be my first trial to sell my CQ projects. There must be a beginning.

Stormy weather and sun-set

After having wonderful Indian Summer, we had a strong storm Friday and yesterday. It caused serious damages in the city. The colors of the sun-set was amazing in that stormy weather, I wanted to share its beauty here with you all.

I've been tagged:)

I have been tagged by Pat Winter. When I've started Crazy Quiting, her site was the first site that I've visited with a great admiration. She has a special place at the beginning of my CQ journey.
Pat has graciously included me in a fun little MeMe. Actually, I must admit that I am honored to be chosen by her.
The rules are that list 6 obscure or unknown facts about yourself, than tag another 6 person. You let these people know by listing them and their blogs on your blog, then e-mailing them then they tag other six people...Here are 6 more obscure things about me...

1. I love to visit snowy mountains at every possibility. I love to travel by plane but I have height scare! I scare to look at the ground after 5th floor!!! Isn't is a dilemma??? LOL (I'm so glad that I live at four storey building:)

2. I can't watch a movie when there is a snake or crocodiles in it. I can't breathe so I have to close my eyes and ask someone if they are finished.

3. I love to exercise but I always find an excuse to skip! I must change this bad habit.

4. I hate to read intructions to learn the tricks of new devices! I wish I could be more patient to read them at least to learn other functions of my new cellular phone:))

5. My dreams are colorful and some of them gets realized! This makes me feel so uncomfortable time to time.

6. I'm so selective to eat! If the smell, taste and vision doesn't match, I don't eat!!!

I tag~~

Candi,

Kathy

Maggie

Simona

Lorenza

Wilma

I'm sure that you'll have great fun exploring all these fantastic blogs.

Give Away

Wow, Kristen is having a wonderful give away.... be sure to stop by her blog Retro Cafe` Art and enter.....I just uploaded this photo that shows what the prize is!!! :))

Sun-set from my window

We still have Indian Summer here, in Istanbul. This beautiful sunset is like an indicator of the next coming sunny day. I took this photo yesterday. Really, today was another lovely day with a bright sun shine. I just wanted to share this lovely sunset view with you all.

Another painting with white work doiley

I've started this painting in May but afterwords I didn't go to art studio in the hot summer days and I wasn't mostly here in the past weeks. Today I went there and completed my this unfinished painting. It is another reproduction I made according to my teacher's method. I don't know its original owner. But, I enjoyed so much to work on it as the previous one. I still use acrylic paints. I'm sure that if I've had used oil paints, outcome should be much more better. This painting is the friend my other painting with laces:))
I still couldn't decide about the frame for these paintings. My furnitures are rustic and the wall papers are dark blue, I guess rustic or vintage wooden frames will be nice? What do you think? I would love to have some suggestions:)

Giveaway for 100th post

I'm a follower of Cathy's Pincushion Shoppe , she does a giveaway for his 100th post.
There are two prizes.I have been excitedly waiting to do this giveaway. I love her pin cushions. Three more days for her announcement for the winners...:))

Winter RR-3rd block

This photo shows my work on Melodie's lovely block. I was so busy in the previous days, couldn't have much time to stitch. I enjoyed so much go back to stitch with this lovely block:)

Recently I placed an order for the "Creative Stitchery Success Strips" .They arrived here so fast and I started to use them with a great pleasure. I just practised them on a RR block to create a seam treatment on the top of little bells that I made them with the metallic gold thread. I did a chain stitch as a base with the same metallic thread then started to make seam using my new strips. The kit has very good instructions and special pen with a lovely pattern.

They are so useful and great time saver, I completed my work so easily in a short time.

Our Republican Day, Oct.29

October 29, 1923 is a fateful date in Turkish history. On that date, Mustafa Kemal, the liberator of our country, proclaimed the Republic of Turkey. Today, we celebrate 85th anniversary of our republic.

A movie launched today with the name of "Mustafa", who is our big leader, Mustafa Kemal, Ataturk. I thought once again that how he was a big leader and how he had a big vision and power to realize all those things for us. He launched many reforms to give Turkish women equal rights and opportunities.

Ataturk greatly admired the support that the national liberation struggle received from women and praised their many contributions, he stated that " In Turkish society, women have not lagged behind men in science, scholarship, and culture, perhaps they have even gone further ahead." He gave women the same opportunities as men, including full political rights. Although Turkish women were given the right to vote in 1934, ahead of many other countries in Europe. I always remember him with great appreciation and I always remember his saying "Everything we see in the world is the creative work of women."

A Give Away for Breast Cancer Awareness

Giveaway for Breast Cancer Awareness
There is a signed original art work that is matted and framed, giveaway here for breast cancer awareness. It is so meaningful give away for the BC awareness. The drawing is November 1st.
I'm grateful for every effort related with BC Awareness because I know the importance of the early detection!

Bead stores at Ankara

I spent long time in this store that they carry wonderful products. In addition, this lady creates so nice, elegant necklace sets. Her exclusive designs are so nice, indeed. I wish I could have more time to watch her amazing work.

I lived in Ankara in the past at my youth and I visit it frequently now. But I must admit that I've never been there, at Vakif Sulu Han.

"It was built in 1511 by Hasan Pasha while Ottoman Emperor 2nd Sultan Beyazit was in power as a foundation..it has got 63 rooms to stay, shops and double hamams as a big caravanserai of that era..it was renovated in 1980's, now its rooms gives service as bead and artificial flower shops."

It is an amazing place for a CQ'er, like me. I was losing my mind when I saw all those colorful beads there. Unfortunately, my time there was so limited, however I took photos, met with very nice people, all shop owners were so friendly.

I got so impressed in that huge, old building, its authentic, exotic atmosphere and beads, charms, thousands of different materials... It seems that I'll be visiting this authentic place at my every Ankara trip.

Results:)

In my previous post, I forgot to add photo. This photo shows the results of my drawing. I believe that I realized it so fairly:))
Be better to prepare another baggie for the next year with "51" pieces with lots of interesting things from now on.
I've already contacted with the winners, I'll be sending their baggies before this weekend.
I would like to thank all of you once again for your sincere wishes for my BD, you all made my BD so special.

Drawing Winners:)))

I'm two days late to announce the winner of my drawing. I was at Ankara with my precious daughter, I just came back home:) I hope, you all understand my excuse...
I would like to thank you all here for your all lovely messages, nice wishes about my birthday through my blog and my mail accounts, appreciated. You all made my day so special.
I've realized once again that CQ is a wonderful thing, it brings people together from all over the world.
Thanks so much for each of you for your interest to join my drawing. I must admit that I never expected a high participation like this:) So, I decided to prepare another two (small) baggies, as well:))
The winner is, Rhonda....
Karrin and Dee Shaw will have small baggies:))
Ladies, I'll contact you privately for your addresses. I hope you all like the contents of the baggies.
Thanks for joining my drawing once again.
Much love to you all...
Rengin

DRAWING

As you all know, ladies never want to tell their ages...But there are some important ages that they are milestones in our lives!!!
A half century! It is pretty hard to believe that I'll celebrate my 50th birthday on October 10th:)
I decided to have a drawing with "50 pieces" of goodies...and I'll keep continue this drawing traditionally with an increased piece for each year:)
How to join the drawing??? You can just make a comment on this on this post to be included in the drawing till Oct.10th, I'll announce the winner on Oct.11th.
Crazy Quilting is a special love of mine, it answers to my many interesting in the same time. Is there any other handcraft combines embroidery, sewing, silk ribbons, laces, beads, sequins, buttons and painting? I'm a real keeper and I built a good stash since 2004. I would like to share some of them with this special drawing.
Happy stitching.....

Kreativ Blog Award

I received another nice surprize:)) I received "Kreativ Blogger Award" from Simona.
I would like to thank Simona for thinking of me to give this award, I'm so honored.
The rules for the Kreativ Blogger Awards are:

- the winner must put the logo on her blog;
- put the link to the person you received the award from;
- nominate 5 blogs;
- put links to the blogs;
- Leave messages to your nominees.

My nominees are:
Candy
Nicki
Stephanie
Leslie
Jo

Winter RR -

I worked on another beautiful block of our "Winter" theme RR. It is a lovely stocking, special design with lots of vintage laces.
At the beginning, I made a snowflake, afterwords I used my fantasy to create a snowing scene and I added small charms and white beads that reminds me snowflakes.
I tried to catch an old looking as much as I can. I'm glad that I had neat small charms to add my seam treatments.
I like Chevron stitch and I use it almost at my each work. This time, I made it with metallic variegated Kreinik thread. I wanted to have red beads more apparent between the stitches therefor I used that thread. This time, I used metallic flat sequins that they looked lovely on the dark colors and they gave a vintage look.

Puzzle - "Invitation to tea"

My CQ'er buddies knows that I like "Tea Time" theme. I was collecting charms, silk prints since two years to make a big size wall hanger. I couldn't realize this project yet but I found a puzzle with "Invitation to Tea" theme during my recent trip to Ankara. Judy Koenig is one of my favorite artist. I like her art so much. To find a puzzle with her painting was a great surprise for me. I'll have 14"x19" size puzzle on the wall of my sewing room before a CQ wall hanger. By the way, I also just recognized that Gibsons Puzzles carry super things for us who likes Victorian era and vintage.

Winter RR-2nd block

I worked on another RR block. This block belongs to a gal from Sri Lanka, I did snowmen from buttons, embroidered their hats. I made a seam treatment, using contrast colors of sequins and seed beads. They looked more apparent with contrast colors! At the bottom side, I also used buggles and neat color beads to the background.

Winter RR

After having a hot summer, it is time to stitch again. I host a new RR with "Winter" theme. This is my first trial to host a RR, we are two groups, both groups have talented and experienced ladies.I'm so glad that both group activities runs so smoothly, so friendly.
To work on a RR block was great after a long time. I couldn't stitch much during the summer. I enjoyed to work on that lovely block, now, it is on its long way to go to Sri Lanka. I started my work on that lovely block with a chevron stitch. I added beads, sequins to catch a Christmasy decoration look. The green patch was a great background to make a poinsettia. A small SRE looked so neat. I thought that nine small deers will be neat at the bottom:)) Is it possible to think a Santa without deers?

Brillant Web Blogsite Nomination

I have been honored with the "Brillant Web Blogsite Award" by dear friend Cheryl. Many thanks to Cheryl for passing this on to me.
The rules for receiving this award are:
1. The winner can put the logo on his/her blog. 2. Link to the person you received your award from.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs. 4. Put links of those blogs on yours. 5. Leave a message on the blogs of the people you’ve nominated.
I haven't been active blogging for the past few days. But I've been enjoying the blogs of others. Here are a few blogs that are award winning to me. Enjoy!

Kathy
Pam Kellog
Judith
Karrin
Judy
Veri
Pierrette

Another crocheted basket:)

I'm so glad that finally I've completed another UFP. Suppose to it should be finished long time ago:(
Now, I post only one highlighted part of the mentioned block to show my other crocheted small basket:))

A small crocheted basket

Sometime ago one of my CQ'er buddy sent me a vintage crochet magazine, published in 1979. I'm so grateful for her thoughtfulness to send me a special copy with full of very nice crochet patterns. I must admit that I didn't have any idea about Elisabeth Hiddleson before. I've just tried this little basket motif to use on my QC work. It is so easy, I just completed in a hour and I liked the outcome:))
To try crocheted new goodies seems a good idea in these hot days...
Today,Istanbul is so hot...I'm looking forward to have cool, live able days...

My Balcony is colorful again:))

My two balconies gives me chance for balcony gardening:) One of them gets direct sun light starting from mid of the day till sunset. Direct sun is excellent for the snap dragons and geraniums but burns others easily. Therefor my other potted plants are in the front side balcony that gets sun light later in the afternoon. I'm so glad that my glaxonia is blooming this year too. As far as I remember its 6th or 7th year that its blooming in the same pot.

My DD's new kitty:)

I would like to share photos of this little prince. He is my precious daughter's new kitty:))

New seam treatment

After a long time, I worked on a UFP:))
I usually like to use solid color fabrics to create my CQ blocks. On this block that I'm still working on it, I've used some fabrics that they have designs with pastel colors. I've made a new seam treatment on to one of this mentioned patch. I used white buggles and small pearls to catch triangle look. At top of the both sides, I used almost the same color seed beads. Their candy pinkish color looked neat with the fabric and SRE work at the bottom side.

Austria, Innsbruck, Kitzbühel, Elmau

I'm sure that most of you had a special place for "Heidi" in their childhood. I'm one of them:)) I really don't remember, how many times I've read that lovely book, and dreamt Heidi's lovely, huge mountains when I was a little girl. I raised at the sea-side but I always loved to go to mountains at every possibility.
It was my first time in the Kitzbühel, Austria. It is magnificent place, indeed. It is a trendy winter resort in the province of Tirol, surrounded by high Alps. I'm sure it is much more beautiful under the white blanket too.

My oven:))

I loved these when I saw them at Ulm, I decided to buy this oven and accessories as well but I couldn't figure out how to bring them here by plane :) LOL!!!

Rothenburg, Germany

Rothenburg before the sun set.

Dinkelsbuhl, Germany

The Romantic Road (Romantische Strasse)is an amazing journey starting from Wurzburg thru Fussen in the southern Germany. All those wonderful historical places are worth to visit. I wish we could stay longer to visit each place on the mentioned long road. We paid a small visit to Dinkelsbuhl on our way to Rothenburg. This lovely town lies in the Wornitz Valley, it is also Sister of Rottenburg. The town's preserved walls and incredible patrician houses are so nice that I loved. But, so sad that the traffic negatively effects the amazing atmosphere of this historical town of the 15th century.

Deutsches Apotheken Museum, Heildelberg

To visit Pharmacy Museum in Heidelberg, was so much interesting. But, I must admit that I interested in too much with all those storage cases, porcelain stuff, etc. I loved the pill boxes as well. I stood there to review the details of the all those wonderful wood drawers, of course, I thought how to organize my own stash if I've had one of them:))

Final of the CD Pin keeper swap :)

This time I stitched two CD's with same method again, I stitched them with blanket stitch but this time I used pearl instead of beads.

CD Pin keeper swap

I added silk leaves, and a small SRE work. I used 4mm ribbons to for the French knots to make little buds. At the final I added small butterflies and little ribbon bow.

CD Pin keeper swap

Started to make another pin keeper for a swap. I have good experience from previous swap:))
I used our traditional hand dyed fabric "meydane" and I used two different kind of oyas with neat colors instead of making a spray with silk ribbons. I had a nice corduroy with nice flower design. I thought it should be a perfect choice for the back side. I prepared fibers at proper sizes.

Another Ethnic RR block with Africa theme

I completed my work another RR block. It is Christi's lovely block with Africa theme. I made three seam treatments and used glass seed beads with contrast colors. The orange color of the seed beads are almost the same with the bottom patch. They looked so neat, unfortunately the photo doesn't judge. Also the green beads gave another authentic look with the wood beads. At last, I added jewellery set on the African Lady motif:)) I was so fun to work on this block.

My final work on the RR block, Ethnic theme

I completed my seam treatment work on Kathleen's RR block. I decided to use turquoise color seed beads after several trials. They look neat with the ribbon and yarn because all of them are almost the same color. I found another dark blue beads with the same color with the bottom flowers. But, the beads were only 5 pieces!!! I found a way to use them symmetrical.

I have another lovely African RR block... I've already decided what to do on it, I'll start to plat with another block:))

Progress of the Ethnic RR block

I keep continue to work on Kathleen's block. Is it possible my work without any bead??? I had dark blue wood beads, I put them on the top motifs...I sewed them at both sides with an old thread.
I wanted to catch a good harmony with Kathleen's gorgeous fabrics, I tried to find neat threads to use. The turquoise color yarn that I made squares is very old one that I was keeping for a long time. Also the orange color thread is very old one, too. It is from my mother's youth that she gave me sometime ago.
I added red color glass seed beads on the red cross stitches. I want to add some other beads, but I couldn't decide which color should be neat!

A ladybug in my kitchen

This morning I had a visitor in my kitchen:))
I love ladybugs. When we saw a ladybug in my childhood, my mother was saying that it should bring us good news!!! Hope this little one brings good news too:))

RR block

I'm working on Kathleen's wonderful RR block with ethnic theme. The fabrics of the block from Mexico and Guatemala. I wanted to make something like cross stitched gorgeous Mexican embroideries. I started to make a seam treatment with cross stitches with red color. Afterwords I thought a turquoise color will be nice contrast. I made running stitches with 4mm turquoise color silk ribbon on top and the bottom. And then decided to repeat same thing vertically with bright yellow thread. I have some other ideas....I'll share progress....

Tutorial for CD pin keeper

I brought two back sides together and started to sew them with blanket stitch. I used variegated purple cotton thread. I used a bead at every stitch. Those beads are almost the same colors with the silk ribbons. They really looked so neat and pretty. It was my first trial to make a blanket stitch with beads. I must admit that I liked this method so much...




I used a thin layer of fiber at the both CD's that I used them for the front and back sides. I cut the fibers in circular shape with the same size with CD's. I folded them precisely and sewed tightly. I guess, to glu them will be much more smart and easy idea but I scare to have a stain!!! I prefered an old method to avoid any possible problem.




I used pale lilac color ribbons to make fargo roses at the both sides. In the middle section, I added small type oyas that they gave a different look. To add leaves with different green tones was the final. At last, I added a small bow charm at the bottom, it gave another a nice sparky look.



I started to make my first CD pin keeper. First off all, I selected a solid fabric with a soft lilac color, cut two squares. I always add a muslin piece at the back side. It is pretty hard to get a good SRE result without it. I ironed both of them.

CD Pin keeper swap project

I made this CD pin-keeper for my swap partner. It was my trial for using CD to create a pin keeper. I've tried to make an elegant thing as much as I can. By the way, it is also possible to use it in another way with a holder as shown:))
Today my server is so slow, I'll post a tutorial later for what I've done to create this pin-keeper.

A beautiful doggy:)

I wanted to share photos of this lovely doggy that I've taken these photos some time ago:))

Painting of roses and lacy cover

This is another painting that I've completed. It is a reproduction that I loved at first sight and wanted to paint. It wasn't so easy to make this painting with the acrylic paints however I enjoyed so much to work on the lace details... I tested my patience once again:))
I've already started to make another one with almost the same theme... this time table cover is white work instead of lace!!!!