Big Gadget Love!

Some time ago, I purchased a new and much-needed machine to replace my old sewing machine. This was the first machine I purchased when I started working at the tender age of 19.   As you can imagine, I was very reluctant to admit that its retirement was very much needed. 

So after months of yearning, soul searching and trying to justify the cost I decided to purchase a Brother Innov-is 350 sewing machine. This gadget promised to do absolutely everything for me....well, it doesn't make my coffee, so maybe not everything.  However, I am certain about one thing I was like a kid with a brand new toy.  I know, it isn't top of the range and I know, that a lot of crafters don't rate the make, and would favour others over this one, but after owning my old Brother machine for over 22 years and not once having any problems, I decided to stick with the brand.

My old faithful sewing machine had been my constant companion and had served me well over the years; perhaps this was due to me lovingly cleaning and oiling it when necessary. Yes, it had played tricks on me,  losing its foot pedal once, which was renewed, only for the old one to turn up a month later. Then it started developing other little quirks, some, that it didn't have before, that's when I knew it was time to upgrade and move on. Too reluctant to  retire my old machine to sewing machine heaven I had it serviced, so I could store it not only for backup, but for sentimental value too. I know it seems silly to be so attached to an inanimate object, but it has a lot of wonderful memories; my beautiful Aunt that we lost to breast cancer in 2001 at the age of 42 was an accomplished seamstress. She helped me chose my first machine. And, I think she would be proud to hear my family say I have her creative flair and knack for manipulating material.  I wonder if she gets fed up when I talk to her and ask for guidance when a project is vexing me? I don't suppose she does, as my projects nearly always turn out just fine. 

So with a heavy heart, I say "Goodnight old faithful, enjoy your rest, you deserve it."

Resurrection

I always think of myself as an individual and heaven forbid anyone that is similar to me. However, as a crafter I am sure there are others out there who are hoarders (just like me) and who never throw anything away...that's not to say I'm messy,  I have my hoard stashed away neatly in boxes or tins.  Now, every so often I will tell myself I need to go through my treasures and reduce the size I'm hoarding.  However, when I do start I then say to myself "I can't get rid of it I might need it one day."  Well, today Saturday was one of those days, there I was searching through my stash to put into a swap parcel when I came across the material, sewing equipment, wool, craft gadgets and other bits and pieces that I can honestly say I haven't seen before or can't remember buying. I always act surprised when I find these little treasures, and  I get a warm glow, my mind starts racing and before I know it I have ten projects in my mind.  I also come across projects that I have put on hold, but I can't remember why they've been shelved. Well, the item in the photo above is one such project that I shelved in 2010!!!!! I wasn't bored of it, so,  I don't know how it ended up in a box. The item in question is Polar Chullo  a gorgeous looking hat, very cosy for this weather and would be great for playing outside with the children at work.  My version just needs two things the knitted cord and then a wash to partially shrink and felt it. So today I have brought something out of hibernation and back to life and do you know I might just go raking tomorrow again to see what other treasures I can find.