The Warped and The Weft

From the desk of...

2012-02-24T15:02:00.005+11:00

For our special friday behind the scenes peek we've bought you some I-spy moments from around our office.

The Insider's Inspiration Wall

This is where it all happens, the nerve centre of the buying team...

Testing out a new machine

...and it's probably nowhere near as glamorous as you think it might be.

Bunny keeps Shoshana sane

Always important to remember our heritage!


Keeping up to date with the latest patterns

Our treasured antiqe Singer machine


Wall o'thread


Quality and colour samples

I can't show you too much... don't want to give away our trade secrets ;) Needless to say it's a hard working, busy (and often a little messy) space full of creativity.

Take this weekend to get out of the office and get creative - then share it with us! Leave us a comment or a post on Facebook.

Have a great weekend! xoxo The Insider

Pretty Little Thing

2012-02-24T09:57:00.001+11:00

Last week we bought you a No Sew Pro in the shape of some very cute Jumbo Motifs. Continuing on the theme of gorgeous things for tots, a Spotlight Facebook friend caught our eye today - Kelly at Pretty Little Thing!

Kelly creates beautiful children's garments with some amazing applique skills - her Monkey Tshirt had us all going gaga!

Such a creative idea for scraps from your stash... I need to find another baby to buy these for!

Why don't you share your weekend project plans with us?

Check out her Kelly's online store here

Lisette has Landed!

2012-02-21T16:11:00.001+11:00

Whoa!
We're super excited to be introducing an Australian first to our Spotlight stores.

Once a designer for top international fashion brands, Liesl Gibson now heads up her own company Lisel + Co. and is bringing her distinctive fabrics and patterns exclusively to Spotlight!

Landing in stores this week, we will be stocking a huge range of Lisette fabrics in Poplin, Cotton Lawn, Cotton Twill & Cotton Sateen - ideal for a huge range of your favourite sewing projects.


Lisette Printed Cotton Sateen, 109cm wide, 100% Cotton

Lisette Printed Cotton Poplin , 109cm wide, 100% Cotton

The prints and colours are just beautiful - and would suit so many great projects! The colours also co-ordinate with our fantastic Cotton Broadcloth, Plain Cotton Lawn and Plain Cotton Drill - already in stores.
We're offering 20% off the Entire Range of Lisette Fabrics from Wednesday 22nd February until Sunday 11th March at all Spotlight Stores!

Lisette Printed Cotton Twill, 114cm wide, 100% Cotton

Lisette Printed Cotton Lawn, 109cm wide, 100% Cotton

Best yet, Lisel has teamed up with Simplicity to bring you an exclusive range of garment patterns - designed espeically to be made with your Lisette fabrics! There are both Ladies' and Girls' patterns available.

Lisette & Little Lisette for Simplicity Patterns

We're offering 50% off the Entire Range of Lisette and Little Lasette Patterns from Wednesday 22nd February until Sunday 11th March at all Spotlight Stores!

Look out in your nearest Spotlight store for these beautiful fabrics- as well as some very inspirational ideas of garments you can make yourself - we'd love to hear about your plans, leave us a comment!

Stay tuned this week on the blog because we'll be giving away some lovely Lisette gift packs.

And the winner is...

2012-02-21T13:48:00.002+11:00

In the interest of fairness (and because I'm easily swayed by a funny pun or a cute picture of a cat) we've decided to pick our Daisy Mae stash winner at random.

So lucky number 10 is our winner- and it's Kuka from Krafty Kuka!

Congratulations Kuka, we will email you directly to organise sending out your Daisy Mae stash.

Thankyou to everyone who entered! Stay tuned because we'll have another fabulous giveaway very soon.

No Sew Pro: I see a motif!

2012-02-17T17:00:00.001+11:00

There's a bit of a baby boom happening here in the office (don't worry, none of the W&W team are preggers... as far as we know...)! With one of the girls finishing up today and ready to pop any second, we've all been talking about ideal baby gifts.
But you, my dear reader, I'm sure knows that the best gifts are the ones we made, with love.

No bones about it, I can't sew a stitch. I can however, iron.
And that's why we love Jumbo Motifs!

How easy is that?!

Our new range of Jumbo Motifs are the easiest way to quickly add some fun to any basic garments to make a fun and personal gift. Add some creative stitching or beading and voila! Instant keepsake.

Click for a close up

I recently got together with a few friends to decorate little onsies for a girlfriend having a baby. The beauty of these motifs is that they are gorgeous on both little boys and girls!

These aren't the ones I prepared earlier!

Click for a close up

They're also great for kids blankets and towels.

How adorable are these Babuskhas?

Hoodie Towels are the best for little seaside friends

Jumbo 'Make It' Motifs, $12.99/pack
In store from Feb 24th

Don't forget to leave a comment HERE to win yourself a stash of Daisy Mae by Denyse Schmidt fabric!

Daisy Mae Madness Continues

2012-02-16T13:58:00.001+11:00

While you're all going gaga for Daisy Mae over here at our DS giveaway, don't forget that the full range hits stores next week!
To celebrate the launch we've created a beautiful free project for you to take home and put your gorgeous new fabric to work.

Our Daisy Mae Zig Zag design!

As you can see, it's a beautifully simple design that could be adapted to use all of your favourite fabrics.

Pick up your free project sheet in store! We'd love to see the results once you've finished...

Don't forget to leave a comment HERE to win yourself a stash of Daisy Mae fabric!

Daisy Mae Giveaway!

2012-02-15T17:45:00.000+11:00

Ohmygoodness! It's inappropriate fabric love here in the office! Daisy Mae by Denise Schmidt lands in stores next week, and you could be the first to get your hands on it!

Comment on this post and tell us why you love Daisy Mae at your Spotlight Store - and we'll pick a lucky winner to receive a stack of Daisy Mae Fabric!

That's right. Daisy Mae. To your door. It's that easy!

~~Get commenting... entries close Midnight (EDST) Sunday 19th February. Available to entrants in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore only.~~

Commenting is now CLOSED. We'll be announcing a winner soon! Stay tuned.

Sew Iconic

2012-02-15T17:19:00.000+11:00

This week marked the sad passing of music icon Whitney Houston (insert joke about needing a Bodyguard here).
It's interesting that she has the name of a place in her surname because...

...Got your passport ready?

Click "read more" to find out...

Introducing Travel Icon Linen! (see what I did there?)

London Calling!

Sorry, I know that was a hideously tenuous link. But, this fabric is so darn cute that I know you'll forgive me.

Bonjour, Paris!

You may have seen Travel Icon Linen in store already - we did a European story covering London, Paris, Rome and New York.
It was so popular that we've extended the story to encompass something a tad closer to home - Sydney and Melbourne.

Sydney Harbour, Opera House, Bridge and Centrepoint

Flinders Street Station, The Shrine, St Paul's, MCG & Arts Centre

The "local" icons include some of our favourite landmarks as well as an unmistakeably patriotic Aussie flag. This whole story is printed on a beautiful cotton linen blend and is great for covering travel journals, making luggage tags or even a cosy cushion to remind you of your travels abroad.

Travel Icon, Cotton/Linen, 112cm, $14.95m
In Stores Mid March

What Icons would you love to see committed to print? Let us know on Facebook!

*Apologies if it's too soon for Whitney references. Whitney, I will always love youuuuuuuuuu....

Great Hair Day

2012-02-14T14:22:00.000+11:00

The hairstylists of South Melbourne have had their hands full this week - with two of us getting hair cuts (and the rest having bad hair days) - so I thought it might be time to put some ~~faces~~ hairstyles to the names you hear on the blog so often!

Let's visit our favourite 1960's hairstyles for a game of "getting to know you"... (click "read more" to continue)

Shoshana was a hairdresser in a former life, and as a result her hairdo ranges from perfect Betty Beehive to elongated extravagence. Today it's something akin to the above...

Elle is always perfectly put together, with what Shoshana refers to as "Princess Mary Hair". Dad just refers to her as "token ranga", which, while accurate, is a bit mean, don't you think?

Dora's hair is as big as her personality. Apparently it's something to do with speaking Spanish and all the exploring she's doing... I think she keeps snacks in that updo?

Madame is famous for her perfectly curated curls. It's not quite as afro-tastic as this image, which is a pity. I'm quite partial to an afro-comb.

Nancy Drew is rocking a newly-styled inverted bob, in gradauted tones of red. I'm not sure if she's trying to challenge Elle in the ranga stakes, but it certainly makes a statement!

Princess Kimmy K's hair seems to be getting longer by the minute, and is every day as shiny and luscious as a Pantene commercial.
Maybe it's a wig. They say wigs are full of secrets. What secrets is she hiding?

Dad has been trying out new hairstyles of late, and keeps claiming that he's taking his inspiration from me. Today it's a bit limp... other days it's a bit more Dylan-esque!

Sonny and Cher are both rocking their 60's specials - though I'm a bit jealous of Sonny's grecian locks. Cher is blessed with dead straight locks - and a straight up sense of humour to match!

I know you're all wondering about me, The Insider, and this week fresh from the barber's chair I'm sporting a bit of a Brando quiff. Somebody called it a quaff on Monday, but I'm sure that's what you do with wine...

Who's got your favourite look? And which famous hairdo would you like to see on one of the W&W team?

Red Hot Gingham

2012-02-13T15:00:00.001+11:00

As you've probably noticed, I get a bit excited when people use our Spotlight fabrics for their projects and then blog about them! The buying team also get a bit hyper when fabrics cross over from one department to the other.
This week's "innapropriate fabric love" comes from Rita at Red Pepper Quilts, who has gone a bit gaga over our beautiful cotton gingham!

100% Cotton Gingham, available from Spotlight

While Shoshana assures me that gingham is strictly for her to wear and not to be shared with "sticky fingered quilters", I reckon that Rita has done an amazing job of quilting up a beauty!

Love the mix of vintage stash fabrics and bright Gingham!

No longer for tea towels, gingham is hot!

We're all about exploring new uses for traditional fabrics here - and I'm sure with all the beautiful things we have dropping in over the season even the purists will be persuaded to try something new.

Have you created a fun project out of a fabric usually reserved for something else? Tell us about it!
And don't forget to check out some more of Rita's projects at Red Pepper Quilts!

Blogs we Love: things for boys

2012-02-10T15:18:00.000+11:00

Describing yourself as a "typical, overtired, stay at home mum" is probably the best way to get your readers onside - especially if they too are typical, overtired mums! That's exactly what Abby at things for boys is striving for.
While I'm not a Mum (in fact we have one Dad and no Mums here at W&W), I definately appreciate the hard work it is being a busy Mum and it leaves us wondering how a lovely blogger like Abby has time to create such a beautiful blog chock full of inspiring projects and yummy recipes (plus a cocktail or two).

things for boys has a great project archive, brimming with fun baby ideas, as well as bits for older kids and even projects to treat Mums themselves!

Baby Roman looking comfy in this DIY Baby Sleeping Bag

For Mum - simple embellished lace tanks

Fantastic vintage tshirt shopping bag!

Abby's projects are simple, fun, and totally practical - and best of all, she's a Spotlight customer! Show her some love and maybe make up one of these for the weekend...

Delicious Peach Sangria!

Over the weekend, why not drop us a line and tell us about your favourite "practical Mum" project? Don't forget to like us on Facebook!

Sorbet Summer

2012-02-09T15:21:00.000+11:00

Despite me spending most of last week lamenting the cold snap and telling you all about our upcoming winter warmers, it's still very much summer here in Melbourne.The annual St Kilda festival is running all of this week and is a timely reminder of the beachside, sun-soaked lifestyle so many of us take for granted here.It's also got me looking forward to next summer, as we start to plot out our colour palettes and ideas.

The official program guide of the St Kilda festival is festooned with beautiful ice cream colours - what a better way to ring in the hottest month of the year!

Sorbet and sherbert tones are a pop alternative to last year's pastels - warmer and more fun than ever!

Don't they remind you of Mediterranean escapes and sunny spring mornings? But these tones are designed to last you from morning right through to that iconic St Kilda sunset...

Bring on the sun!

xoxo
The Insider

Stash Solver: Wall Art!

2012-02-08T16:33:00.000+11:00

I thought I was being the best brother ever when I bought my sister a bundle of fat quarters for Christmas this year. After inquiring as to why she had a puzzled look on her face, she expressed "I really like the fabric, but they're not big enough to make a full quilt".
Well, clearly, I couldn't afford to buy her a WHOLE quilt, that would just take the fun out of it.
So it's got us thinking here in the office - what do you do with those fat flats, gros quarts, jelly rolls and fashion bundles that you accumulate in your stash? And what great projects could we bring to you to utilise those fabrics you love and just can't quite use?

So introducing Stash Solvers Project Guide! (You can also file today's entry under "New Sew Pro" - no sewing required)

This week: Fabric Wall Art.

Fabric Wall Art is a quick and easy way to instantly bring a pop to your room! Wether it be a fabric collection or just an assortment of your favourite prints, arrange a group of fabrics on a wall to create a three-dimensional talking point.

There are a couple of different methods for creating your fabric art.

1. Stretched Canvas
Tidy Mom brings us the instructions to quickly cover artists canvas with fabric and a staple gun. Couldn't be easier!

2. Cereal Boxes
What?! Covering Cereal Boxes with fabric was once a pastime reserved for kindergartens. Check out Sew Mama Sew for a practical guide to using up that recycling pile!

I'm sure there are many other ways - including framing your fabric, or stretching it over embroidery hoops, to display your favourites. What have you done with yours?

Some more inspirational ideas at Baby Lifestyles

Pepper Design Blog

Sneak Peek: Time for Taffeta

2012-02-06T14:48:00.000+11:00

Shoshana came across an absolute gem of a book last week: In Vogue: 50 Years of Australian Style. It's chock full of fantastic images from the last 50 years of the style tome.
A couple of pictures got our radars ticking - and Boutiques Buyer Elle pulled out some samples of the most incredible printed taffeta!

Printed & Plain Taffeta - here's one Elle prepared earlier!

They say what goes around comes around and despite the pictures in the Vogue book being firmly entrenched in the 80s and 90s, I have to say I'm pretty excited about the possibility of a bit of outrageously coloured frou frou.

Check out our favourite Taffeta Time Warps from the book along with some sneak peeks at our upcoming lines after the jump!

I'd like to know when fishtail skirts stopped being cool.

That candy pink skirt looks good enough to eat!

I warned you, they're bright!

BRIDESMAID SHOULDERS.

Sneak Peek 1 - Blue, Lilac, Fawn Spot

Sneak Peek 2 - Turquoise Spot, Green, Blue

Sneak Peek 3 - Black/White Spot, Red/Blue Spot, Black/Red Jumbo Spot

Keep your eyes peeled in stores - we'll update you when these hit your shelves.

*All photographs from In Vogue: 50 Years of Australian Style are (C) 2009 News Magazines and are used without permission. Spotlight does not claim ownership of any third party images shown.

Get Husky

2012-02-03T11:53:00.000+11:00

You Asked for it...

Brand spankin new Polar fleece! Husky Polar is just one of our exciting new polar fleece ranges that is dropping in from Mid February.

This isn't the scratchy, squeaky polar fleece like my Dad wore in the 90s. Seriously, that stuff made my toes curl, like fingernails down a blackboard!
Husky Polar is gorgeous soft and warm anti-pill fleece. Ideal for kids outfits, cosy blankets, or dare I say it...

A snuggie?

Husky comes in a great range of 14 colours - all of which co-ordinate back with our new Printed Polar fleece ranges, and also with our exciting new winter cord ranges.

AU$4.99/m, in stores early-mid February.

What will you whip up with polar fleece this winter? Share your project ideas with us in the comments section, or leave us a post on Facebook.

Feeling Bookish

2012-02-01T14:13:00.001+11:00

A cold snap has hit us here in Melbourne, and after a wave of a very hot past few weeks, I'm excited to be busting out my trusty cardigan in the office.
Shoshana tells me I look like I should be working in the state library...so I opened up a suitably vintage-looking book and what did I find?

Wonderful Wool Blanketing!

This gorgeous 300gsm wool/nylon blanketing will be dropping in soon. Trust me, it feels as soft and warm as it looks. In beautiful vintage-inspired checks and fantastic solids, it's a sure fire winner for your winter coats, sensible skirts and wrapping up by the fire.

Find it in store from Mid Feburary for an amazing $19.99m in 10 colours.

Feeling inspired? This fabric would be perfect for a 50's inspired coat! Try Vintage Vogue pattern #2401

Stay warm!

xoxo
The Insider

Monsoon Wedding

2012-01-30T13:07:00.000+11:00

I'm not sure what I can write about the wedding we attended this weekend, other than it was absolutely beautiful! The pictures really speak for themselves...our warm congratulations to the happy couple! The office is a bit subdued this morning as we all recover from a fabulous two days.
(As usual, click on the pictures for a larger version!)

More pictures after the jump...

Summer Sun

2012-01-27T14:31:00.002+11:00

The sun is streaming in through our office windows this morning, and Dad is looking tanned as ever - at least that's what he tells us it's from.

We all know it comes from a can, right?

The kind of summer glow that can't be bottled up has landed on our desks this week in the form of the new collection from DS by Denyse Schmidt, "Daisy Mae".

"Daisy Mae" Blue/Red Colourway

The gorgeous combination of Deco shapes and quirky florals has got us all all feeling fun and fresh! Denyse's designs are always a hit with our customers and we can't wait for this gorgeous story to hit stores.

"Daisy Mae" Green/Orange Colourway - selected stores only

The two distinct colour stories are absolutely beautiful and totally versatile! Check in stores soon for a brand new quilting project featuring this fabulous fabric.

We all know how popular the last DS Quilts "Salty Aire" giveaway was...stay tuned and you may be able to get your hands on this beautiful collection too!

License to Quilt

2012-01-25T12:00:00.000+11:00

You may have noticed our Dr Seuss fabrics in store recently. We've recently been lucky enough to find some more gorgeous childhood memories commited to fabric!

Cat in the Hat - the first of our Dr Seuss stories

We're adding onto this range of children's storybook classics with a few more names - The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Maisy, Spot the Dog, Gumnut Babies and the classic Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit.

A Sneak peek at the Peter Rabbit Collection

What are your favourite childhood storybooks? Have you made a quilt or a project inspired by them?

I'm obsessed with Gumnut Babies - an Aussie classic!

We'll have these beautiful fabric ranges dropping into store towards the end of February - keep an eye out for them!

Spot the Dog

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Maisy

Does your Dad Sew?

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000+11:00

My Dad has never picked up a needle in his life, I'm sure of it, although he does maintain he can stitch on a button in dire circumstances.

Similarly, our Dress Business Manager - whom we will refer to as "Dad" - has plenty to say (don't all Dads?) on the subject of sewing - but when pressed probably wouldn't know his bobbin from his buttonhole foot!

But one Dad has particularly impressed us this week - Quilt Dad!
Quilt Dad is a 36-year old married father of three from North Carolina who creates some amazing, modern quilts - hardly a daggy dad at all!

Sew awesome! Check out Quilt Dad's Blog Here

Do you know any crafty Dads? Is your old man handy on the Janome? Or perhaps your hubby / boyfriend / son / brother is a swift old stitcher?

Tell us about it! Head over to The Warped &The Weft On Facebook and let us know!

xoxo
The Insider

Wedding Bells

2012-01-24T12:59:00.002+11:00

One of our darling buyers will be getting married this weekend, but it's far from your average white wedding...

We're going Indian! It's a two-day extravaganza of henna, bollywood dancing and gorgeous, gorgeous saris!

Does your wardrobe look like this?

Sari Silk freshly dyed and drying in the sun in Goa

It's got me daydreaming about luxurious silk and embroidered beauties. The vibrant colours are so appropriate for this summer heatwave (and personally, I can't wait to get dressed up on the weekend!)

The way the light captures the silk is absolutely gorgeous

The gold leaf on these is so graphic and bold!

Have you ever created something unique out of sari silk? Perhaps you've even made your own bollywood goddess outfit? We'd love to hear about your creations.
If you've "Liked" us on Facebook, why not post something you've made on our wall?
The Warped & The Weft On Facebook

xoxo
The Insider

It's Lunchtime...

2012-01-23T16:22:00.000+11:00

...and Dress Business Manager T is, as usual, wowing us with his culinary arts.
Today, cheese and corn.

Cheese.

And Corn.

Nothing else!

...now you know what really fuels creativity.

This isn't it. This looks better.

It's a New Year...

2012-01-23T15:27:00.000+11:00

...and with it comes new resolutions, new attitudes, and maybe even a new bundle of fabric goodies on your doorstep!
For us here in the buying office it means a bit of an overhaul - we've welcomed some new team members, farewelled some others, and now have a beautiful view out over the Melbourne skyline - all new inspiration!

This year will also see some minor changes to The Warped & The Weft - most importantly more of us bringing you, dear reader, more updates, more goss, more sneak previews and more giveaways.

For now, search for The Warped & The Weft on Facebook and it "like" - I reckon it should be "love"! Or follow us on twitter @warpedweft

Sew Inspired,

The Team

Sun & Inspiration

2011-12-29T14:36:00.000+11:00

I'm soaking up the sun but still managing to get my daily dose of web inspiration.

Here's what I'm coveting...

All the work by Leslie Oschman! You need to visit her blog to few her amazing bags and chairs made using vintage canvas'. If only I could justify shipping her chairs to Melbourne.

Her latest work incorporates some of her favourite oil painting portraits screen printed to make these linen clutched.

Portrait Clutch by Leslie Oschman

Super cool photographic print top from Anthropologie

Anthropologie Top

Shane Waltener's amazing installations, in particular his doily cob webs. If only all cobwebs were this pretty.

Summer time reading...

2011-12-23T09:19:00.000+11:00

It's our last day in the office before we break for a long Christmas weekend and I'm starting to write to my holiday 'To Do' list. My list will include the usual boring tasks which I will no doubt not do but I'm hoping to get some sewing done and finished those half completed projects.

We've got some new books in store which I'm hoping I can draw some inspiration from too....

Block Party—The Modern Quilting Bee
The quilting bee gets a modern makeover
• From the creators of popular blog, blockpartyquilting.com
• Let go of “the rules” with 12 fun, funky, and improvisational projects
• The fundamental techniques are outlined-from fabric selection to quilt tops to binding
• Projects are perfect for both beginner and experienced quilters

Modern Mix

16 Sewing Projects that Combine Designer Prints & Solid Fabrics

• 7 Quilts + Pillows, Bags & More

• Quilters and sewers of all skills can confidently mix and match fabrics for a fresh, clean look

• Something for everyone - home décor, fashion accessories, and delightful gifts

• Learn more about colour and design within your fabric selections

Sweetwater's Simple Home

Sew Something Handmade for Every Room • 35 Projects

• 35 beginner-friendly projects, including quilts, pillows, table linens, and accessories - many can be made in a day or less

• Fresh, modern ideas for making things pretty and practical

• Bring Sweetwater's popular signature style to all your sewing and craft projects

• Learn simple, creative techniques for decorating with appliqué, stenciling, stamping, and embroidery

Ric Rac Roses

2011-12-09T16:38:00.000+11:00

We finally got some much needed Jumbo Ric Rac into the stores in about 10 colours. At the same time I placed the order I stumbled across this great project to make a Ric Rac roses.
It’s so effective and could easily be converted into a cute brooch. I might even have sometime to whip up a couple as last minute Chrissie presents.

All Aboard!

2011-12-06T12:36:00.000+11:00

With the holiday season fast approaching, I'm day dreaming of travel adventures.
The below range was inspired by worn vintage suitcases and a well travelled passport!

World Traveller $16.95mt - In store NOW!

Salty Aire - Giveaway!

2011-11-11T15:59:00.000+11:00

To celebrate the pending delivery of "Salty Aire" into stores, we have another giveaway.
The bundle contains all 14 of her new designs. Each piece is approx 30cm x 112cm.

To be in the running, simply leave a comment on this post anytime between now and Tuesday 15th November at 10.00am, Melbourne time. One comment per reader only please. A winner will be drawn at random and announced next week. Giveaway open to Australian, New Zealand and Singaporean residents only.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED:

Congratulations Heather on your win! We'll email you directly to organise delivery.

Our Forest Friends

2011-11-07T17:21:00.000+11:00

We've been so busy lately that we've been neglecting our blog. The office is finalising next Winters fabric ranges but as we do our workspace fills with the coming months deliveries. Squeals of joy from all the office peeps as we unpack them!

This is my current favourite is "Hoot Chirp Tweet".
I'm particularly smitten for the fox design. In store this month.

Hoot Chirp Tweet $16.95mt AU

Those were the days...

2011-10-21T16:02:00.000+11:00

Ok, I admit. We've been a bit obsessed with vintage style prints latley but there is just something so irresistable about them. These ones have just arrived in store!

$16.95mt AU

Charmed, I'm sure.

2011-10-19T13:48:00.000+11:00

I'm always admiring hexagon quilts but not sure if I have the patience to make one.

Our new hexagon charms have just arrived into store and take all the hard work out of cutting perfect hexagons and might just be the perfect way for me to actually make this style of quilt.

$16.95 each (120pcs; 10 designs x 12)

Each pack of hexagon charms contains 120 hexagons plus a free pattern to make a quilt (you will need 2 packs to make the pattern included).

In the same range we also have Triangle charms. The project with this range is a super cute shopping tote (only 1 pack needed)

$16.95 each (120pcs; 10 designs x 12)

So now there’s no excuse to not to get quilting! M

Riding my push bike, honey.

2011-10-13T17:03:00.000+11:00

This range was inspired by my bike which I ride to work everyday. She's a beauty and as the weather warms up it's even more enjoyable to cycle away the days stress on the ride home.

This range is printed on a beautiful cotton/linen blend in 2 colourways.
It'll be riding into store early November.
Enjoy! M

Bikes $14.95mt

PICKLED ONIONS ON SAVOYS

2011-10-12T15:44:00.000+11:00

Very excited about our new range of Retro ‘Montreaux” Drill which has just arrived in stores.
Iconic bold graphics, a throwback to a time that brings back a nostalgic smile (for me at least, the Gen Y girls in the office just think I have lost another brain cell!).

$10.99mt AU

This collection is a cocktail of color with whimsical style that creates immediate recognition to an era that automatically screams fun and innocence. I remember the party’s my parents used to have when I was very very very young – in fact, I am sure my mother had the same big spot dress on as in the picture! Big color, Big Hair, Big Laughs and Big Memories. Fabrics like these tell a story – open the book! T

Wise Owl

2011-10-06T09:44:00.000+11:00

The owl trend doesn't seem to be disappearing anytime soon. With this in mind, we are launching a super cute new range at the end of the month.
I particularly love the unusual colour combinations in this range, making it ideal for kids of all ages (even big ones!).
See here for a free quilt pattern

Wise Owl Quilting Range $16.95mt AU

Salty Aire by DS Quilt Collection - Sneak Peak!

2011-09-29T17:42:00.000+10:00

I know a lot of you have been curious to know what Salty Aire collection looks like, well wait no longer!

Below is the complete collection available very late October in Australia and early November in New Zealand & Singapore.

A flash of Yellow

2011-09-28T13:27:00.000+10:00

A flash of Yellow always adds that touch of knowing & purposeful style!

No matter what guise yellow is used in, it reflects a bold bright and inspirational

personality whether it be interiors or as part of your wardrobe! Be daring and mix it up.

Stars in Yellow confidently lead the way.

1. Yellow Door via 2. Yellow Wall via 3. Cushion via 4. Flowers via

Mellow Yellow with a touch of blue!

2011-09-27T17:27:00.000+10:00

It’s amazing how some things can inspire you to no end, last week we had a meeting with a very inspirational creative director who is an unbelievable talent in this country! He presented an awesome look at the color yellow which has prompted us to have YELLOW WEEK! We have become passionate about yellow, and all it it encompass' Follow our journey down the yellow brick road! Some of our summer fabrics in store!

From Left to Right
1. Vintage Poplin $12.99 AU
2. Montreaux Drill - Lemons $10.99 AU
3. Zig Zag Knit $15.95 AU
4. Plain Drill $7.99 AU

This weeks inspiration - Yellow!

2011-09-26T16:18:00.000+10:00

This weeks inspiration is all things yellow with today's focus on yellow with greys and linens - YUM!

Via One Flew Over

Sunny Quilting Range $12.95mt

Via Purl Soho

Cute Christmas Fabrics

2011-09-23T14:41:00.000+10:00

Another taste of our current Christmas range which has just hit stores.

We've used the double border design from the "Gingerbread" range, which is ideal for tablecloths to form the skirt panel of the dress. We think it's a perfect little Christmas day dress and our little model is pretty cute too!

Inspiration!

2011-09-19T16:00:00.000+10:00

Monday inspiration...

1. via Design Sponge

2. via Cafe Cartolina

3. via Decor8

FUR & FURGERY

2011-09-14T17:07:00.000+10:00

Back in the office for a couple of days now after a brilliant trip to find the latest fabrics – (think you will all be very excited of what is coming in for Winter), the girls in the office have frequently said that it was lovely and quiet without me!! What’s does that mean when they say it on the hour every hour? As I said to them – “Suck it up – I am back so deal with it!

Centre image; http://www.heartachesandhandbags.wordpress.com/

One of the most important items in fashion now and in the future is FAUX FUR. Not just for Apparel, but also for Home Decor, Craft and Soft Furnishings. We have got some of the most amazing furs in every shade, color and fur type available now and coming in the near future! Today the faux fur is so realistic with many of the same features and benefits as its real cousin, but much more humane!

Not only do we have fur by the meter, but we have our new range of FUR FAT ¼ just about to hit the store. Pre-cut and ideal for fashion trimming or that latest craft project, just grab and go – simple as that!

SEW Creative Apron Giveaway!

2011-09-13T13:45:00.000+10:00

To celebrate our return to the office, we're having another giveaway! (apologies for the long delay between posts)
We have 5 SEW Creative aprons to giveaway! - as seen on the cover our the current Get Creative Quarterly magazine.

To be in the running, simply follow us publicly & leave a comment on this post letting us know. If you already follow us, please mention that in your comment.
Giveaway closes 20th September 10am, Melbourne time.
One comment per reader only please. Winners will be drawn at random and announced next week. Giveaway open to Australian, New Zealand and Singaporean residents only.

*Giveaway Closed*
Congratualtions Sue, Sharon & Megan! We'll email you directly to organise postage.

NEW YORK NEW YORK

2011-09-02T09:06:00.000+10:00

WOW, the last week has passed too quickly!
Exciting news - we're in New York preparing for next Winter. We were lucky enough to avoid hurricane Irene (just) but upon arrival we both got knocked down with the flu.
We have been exploring the shops, analysing the latest winter trends and visiting our favourite New York based suppliers and getting some great new ideas to develop. We think you will be delighted with what we have found.

Here's a snap shot of some of our favourite stores in New York...

Purl Soho a very cool Quilting & Yarn shop that just oozes inspiration on all levels. Get in early as it gets busy all day as no one leaves! Really helpful staff with the latest and best quilting and yarn products.

Mood Fabrics made famous from Project Runaway, this is a fabric haven for designers and home sewers alike. 3 floors of unbelievable apparel & home furnishing fabric choices. These guys don’t just have 1 colour of beige cashmere coating- they have 20 colour variations. This is our mecca - we spent 4 hours in store just checking out the new variations, colours and latest trends. It was lights camera action as they we also filming season 9 of the US project runway whilst we were there! Very cool store!

Anthropologie by far our most favourite store because it simply attacks all your senses! The eclectic mix of clothing, homewares, footwear, artwork, books all thrown together with style, taste an element of DIY. They are one of the most creative retailers when it comes to display. Powerful visual displays used from everyday objects recycled - worth a visit just to marvel at the creative genius behind it all!

J. Crew is not everyone’s cup of tea and not cheap, but they really are hitting the mark with colour, design, fabrication and trending. Visually they are way more progressive than any other chain retailer, taking fashion risks and its working for them - they look great!

What a Hoot!

2011-08-25T15:25:00.000+10:00

Feel like a quick and easy project to get you in the sewing mood?

If so, these super cute 'Christmas Owl' apron panels are just for you!

Each panel includes all the fabric you need to make the apron as well as easy to follow instructions.

'Christmas Owl' adult apron panel $12.95ea AU / Kids apron panel $10.95ea AU

A FABRIC FOR ALL SEASONS

2011-08-23T17:19:00.000+10:00

I love this time of year when we start to smell the weather changing! In Melbourne we are enjoying the most beautiful Spring days and the office is bubbling with anticipation of Summer. (I told the girls its way too early for flesh yet – hold back on the strapless dresses)

To go along with the summer theme I wanted to show you these beautiful Printed Cotton Voiles in store now. 'Carnival Stripe' & 'Candy' Voiles 112cm $12.95/m AU

Dress inspiration from Oscar De La Renta

Whilst on the other side of the Tasman Ocean, “P” our Mr popular planner has gone over to beautiful New Zealand for a skiing holiday where they have seen record amounts of snow, and it struck me that what we do better than any other retailer is have great fabrics for all climates all the time. So whilst Spring teases us, you can rely on us to keep those shoulders covered until its warm enough to really get undressed! Still available in store are these beautiful Brocades @ $9.99m AU/ Denims from $9.95m AU and Furs from $14.95m AU

Barrel Of Monkeys

2011-08-22T12:45:00.000+10:00

I couldn't wait any longer to share our latest quilting range which is about to hit stores

- it's SO cute!

Sock Monkey $12.95mt AU

Free Quilt Pattern .

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT

2011-08-18T13:03:00.000+10:00

Yesterday we had the pleasure of attending the final presentations of the RMIT UNIVERSITY YEP retail projects – 6 amazing groups of students that not only inspired us no end, but presented by teams of competent, talented and creative individuals who passionately sold their vision and business plans to us.

Over the last year these wonderful RMIT students have worked on 3 hard core retail projects that were challenging with a real purpose (no blue sky stuff here!). There were so many components that Spotlight as a business can put into action right now, and several recommendations that we will be adapting both short term and long term for our business. We can’t tell you all yet what these were yet as we have not announced the winning group – but all groups should consider themselves winners, and whatever these students choose to do for careers – WATCH OUT they are explosive!! Thank You RMIT.

Giveaway - DS Quilt Collection by Denyse Schmidt "Winding Roads"

2011-08-17T09:32:00.000+10:00

We have a little bundle of the new "Winding Roads" range from DS Quilt Collection to giveaway - yay!

The bundle contains all 14 of her new designs. Each piece is approx 30cm x 112cm.

To be in the running, simply leave a comment on this post anytime between now and Tuesday 23th August at 10.00am, Melbourne time. One comment per reader only please. A winner will be drawn at random and annouced next week. Giveaway open to Australian, New Zealand and Singaporean residents only.

Good Luck!

Giveaway Now CLOSED
Thanks to everyone who entered - it was a great response for our first giveaway.
The winner is "Toad Stool Dots! We will email you directly to organise delivery. Congrats!

Impressions By Kaeli

2011-08-16T15:29:00.000+10:00

We always love a good story behind a fabric range especially when the artist is so young and talented (she was only in high school when she designed this range!)

We discovered Kaeli Smiths work earlier this year and was blown away by her sincere passion for color in her artwork. Her multidimensional technique in her original works of art is reproduced in exquisite detail in her Giclee watercolor prints. Her paintings are

inspired by her love of colors and the Chesapeake Bay area.

Her debut fabric range titled "Impressions By Kaeli" has just landed in store.

A TOUCH OF VITAMIN D GOES A LONG WAY

2011-08-11T12:17:00.000+10:00

Apologies for the lack of posts over the last couple of days - we have been attending our annual store Conference up on the Gold Coast! Brilliant weather and content has been very empowering. No doubt the office is bubbling over with excitement of our return, probably blowing up the balloons and making cakes right now!

So continuing with the Sunshine and Queensland feeling, today we feature our magnificent "Ptd Tribal Linen". As always with Linen, the more relaxed, crinkled and textured, the more comfortable it becomes. The Prints are oversized and dramatic - perfect to use for not only great garments, but craft and furnishing projects - Bring on summer!

$16.95mt AU. In store now- second collect due early Sept.

55% LINEN 45% RAYON

100 layers of Love

2011-08-05T14:25:00.000+10:00

“Loved you yesterday, love you still, always have, always will”

In our eternal quest to search for the latest, most inspiring images, projects & ideas – we came across this most beautiful blog from the US http://www.100layercake.com/blog/. If you’re getting married or just want to be blown away with brilliant ideas, check this post out in particular http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2011/08/03/rustic-handmade-wedding-in-colorado-jess-tj/.

We loved the fact that they used a magnificent quilt to warm the Bride & Groom and again used a quilt as a backdrop to photograph their guests – Its exactly why we love fabric, it can change something from pure visual to total meaning! Enjoy

JOIN THE DOTS...

2011-08-05T13:00:00.000+10:00

1. "FiFi" Taffeta

2. "Europa" Stretch Sateen Cotton

3. "Summer Chill Cotton Voile

One of the most enduring prints of all time is spots in all shapes and sizes. With summer around the corner, the look is fresh, innocent and new. Just seen in the new AUSTRALIAN VOGUE and there are pages of spots before your eyes! It’s the “IT” print for kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for it we will be sure to have it with the choice available this year! (In fact “MD” my assistant made me a polka dot bow tie for an event coming up for our conference – needless to say I saw spots when it was declined – Good try MD!)

A Very 50's Christmas

2011-08-04T10:38:00.000+10:00

Sticking with our vintage theme of late, below is some our 50's themed Christmas fabrics which is about to hit stores any day now. We sourced these from a gorgeous little vintage shop in Texas and couldn't wait to translate them into our range.

I particularly love the kittens in the mittens. M

100% PURE

2011-08-02T16:55:00.000+10:00

'Metro' Yarn Dye $19.95mt AU - In store Sept

One of the most requested fabric items asked for by stores & customers is LINEN. 100% Pure.

Do we have it? When are you getting it? How much?

Our Range of 'METRO' Yarn dye Linen give that naturally textured, cool look that makes Linen so wanted- relax, unwind and enjoy!

Metro 100% linen plains are in store now ($24.95mt AU). 16 gorgeous colours to choose from!

MORK & MINKY

2011-08-01T13:40:00.000+10:00

You asked for it and we listened, our new Minky Dot is hitting stores next month and the first drop includes some gorgeous nursery colours.

Let us know what colours you’d like to see next?

VINTAGE IS BACK

2011-07-28T17:45:00.000+10:00

New Print in Japanese Lawn - Due Sept

Reflecting one of the most influential and enduring trends to hit both fashion runways and real life wardrobes in the past few years, vintage fashion – both fabrics and patterns – is being embraced in an unparalleled way by Spotlight.

Whilst on a buying trip to New York in recent times I spied a collection of vintage Diane von Furstenberg wrap dresses that were being re-released to a new generation of women.

All of a sudden a light went off in my head I thought about Spotlight and our ability to research, inspire and source great fabrics and decided a vintage collection of fabrics – based on genuine pattern samples from the 1950s, 60s and 70s – was something we could do like no one else.

Now, when you visit your local Spotlight store, you can see the results of this ‘light bulb’ moment with the wonderful collection of re-issued vintage prints on offer, exclusive to Spotlight. These are backed by re-issued vintage Vogue patterns that utilise the fabrics perfectly. Or you can adapt fabrics to modern fashion and accessory designs.

Vogue’s decision to re-issue classics from their collection is savvy. In the online world sellers are offering original old patterns (often now out of print) for $50 and above.

Our Buying team spent countless hours researching and sourcing original patterns from fashion’s heyday, not to mention exploring the company’s own 36-year fabric heritage. Dealing directly with skilled printers in Japan and elsewhere we now has a dedicated collection of classic fabrics to capture the imaginations of home sewers.

UNDER THE PUMP

2011-07-27T18:03:00.000+10:00

The Spotlight Conference begins in 2 weeks where the store team and the support team met like one great big melting pot! It is an unbelievable, exhausting and exhilarating week as we all nut out the year ahead! Needless to say, we have a lot of preparation to take care of to ensure the stores get the answers and we are well versed with what’s happening!

My trusty side kicks “MD” & “AM” who at the best of times are like cattle musterers with their whips have been churning through the work more than usual as the work load builds! “MD” has been cracking that whip with gusto and it was with no surprise that when I asked for today’s BLOG content, she swept down like an Eagle. So politely today I offer a simple project before I get another stare!

This is a brilliant and effective project, use your remnants, scraps and left over’s to create that designer look! One of the best selling Patterns McCalls 6344 – this is a pattern to keep.

PASS THE TZATSIKI!

2011-07-26T17:27:00.000+10:00

Our Adonis of the office, long hair “N” is heading off to Greece tomorrow for what will be 5 weeks of whatever Greeks do on the beach- Regardless I am jealous! We wish him a safe happy and relaxing jaunt on the Mediterranean!

In recognition of his trip – have a look at this Stretch Cotton Sateen Collection “Mosaic”! If we can’t be there in body, we can be there in spirit.

Hurry Back Nick – our team is getting fewer & fewer!

CHRISTMAS IN JULY!

2011-07-26T10:52:00.000+10:00

It’s Christmas most of the year in our office, we are either planning it, buying it, raising orders for it, approving samples for it, planning advertising for it and then we start analysing it!! Before Santa even comes down the chimney – we start doing it all over again!!

We are particularly exciting about this year’s Chrissie ranges which has arrived in store for Christmas in July! Our current favourite is the “Scandi Collection” which was inspired by vintage wrapping paper we picked up in America last year.

Range due in store; any day now...

DRILL IT DOWN

2011-07-25T16:38:00.000+10:00

We are all starting to prepare now for Buying next Winters Fabrics, and from the little we have seen so far - it is going to be a very exciting season for Fabric junkies like us! Because it’s still cold and chilly, it’s a great time to start the preparation before we head overseas and look at what else we need to make our offer even more perfect for next Year.

But even with our heads thinking about next winter, and outside being a little bit chilly – it’s very exciting when we receive new Summer ranges that are bright and Fun.

Take a look at this brilliant range of Printed Drill that will be Instore for Summer! Printed on 100% Drill its perfect for Aprons, dresses, shorts, bags – where ever your imagination takes you. (We have already had many of the team in the office put their hand up to take the sampling off our hands – always a good sign!!)

JUST LANDED & NOW TAKING OFF

2011-07-22T16:17:00.000+10:00

Once in a while a print comes by that you know will just take off! We just received the sampling of our newest “Illustration Cotton Voile” – part of our Flora & Fauna Collection arriving in store September 2011.

Over 16 screens of color on a beautiful soft cotton Voile, Get in quick for this one as it will Fly!

On the office front, today we lose our Allocator J who is leaving us after 2 years and spreading his wings! We wish him all the best in love, life and career and hope he remembers the craziness that he has well and truly contributed too. GOOD LUCK J

Winding Roads by DS Quilt Collection

2011-07-22T12:34:00.000+10:00

The talk continues about DENYSE SCHMIDT and the unbelievably popular DS quilting Collection!

Fresh across my desk has just come the new DS Collection called WINDING ROADS!

We were so excited; we wanted to share a sneak peak with you!

Photographed is the patchwork bags which were inspired by Denyse’s free bag pattern available from her website www.dsquilts.com

Denyse’s bag makes use of a "cheater print" (it's one piece of fabric printed to look pieced), but we have made up some bags to replicate the look.

Watch out for her new range in store early September.

Price will be around the $16.95m mark in Australia / $19.99 in New Zealand and $19.95 in Singapore!

Let us know what you think. WE LOVE IT!

Welcome to our Buying Office!

2011-07-21T17:17:00.000+10:00

We are the passionate Buying Team members of Australias largest Fabric & Quilting Retailers in Australia & New Zealand - SPOTLIGHT.
Over the last 6 months we have been planning this Blog for people who are just as passionate about Fabric & Quilting as we are! We plan to give you a candid look at not only what happens in our office and Buying Trips, but a look at all the latest fabrics, trends and developments that are happening across the world!
We are a creative team of 13, comprising of different ages, nationalities and personalities which all fairs well for a diverse melting pot of emotions, tastes and opinions. Over the next couple of weeks you will be meeting and hearing about each of the team and how they contribute to our day!
The posts will broadcast from us the Buyers M & T, it will be our posts that you will follow, react to and hopefully be inspired by. We encourage your feedback and trust you will enjoy our Blog!

The Warped & the Weft