Appliqué May :: wrap-up!

Hello Owls!

We had such a fabulous time at the Canberra Brown Owls May meeting, that we had to share with you all!

One of our clever owls, Danielle, taught us a cheaty method for needle turn applique.

 Danielle's 'Whirligig', pattern from Sarah Fielke's Quilting from Little Things

It was very simple, and Danielle brought along some gorgeous, and super inspirational examples of her own work - so don't be surprised if you hear there's an applique epidemic in Canberra!

Danielle's 'Lilly Pilly',  pattern from Don't Look Now

This method uses a wash out fusible, which is available online here and here (as well as many quilting shops, I'm sure!)

We can't thank Danielle enough for sharing her skills, teaching and inspiring us!

You can see more of her work on her blog!

Canberra's next meeting is being held on Sunday 17 June, and another of our talented owls will teaching us a quilty skill - Michelle is going to give us a beginners' guide to english paper piecing!

Watch this space for more information on that, and our next few meetings really soon!

Canberra Prefects

x

Brisbane Owls: Craft Caravan Meet Up

Hey there Brisbane Owls! We have two mega meet ups this week as part of the BrisStyle Craft Caravan.

Brown Owls will be set up during two days of the Craft Caravan creative festivities!

Day One
Where: King George Square
When: Friday 1 June, 10am-4pm
There's so much crafting going on at this meet up so put some time aside! Pop in any time for a bit of crafting and a chat, we'll be yarn bombing King George Square (details here), you can learn to knit or crochet,  you can continue with the community bunting project or you can make some sweet little caravan cuteness in the crafting oasis. Plus there'll be BrisStyle indie markets to browse and an opportunity to ask Dr Craft your crafty questions!

Day Two
Where: Racecourse Road Carnival, Hamilton
When: Sunday 3 June, 9am-4pm
It's the same as above all over again (minus the yarn bombing)! So if you can't make it to King George Square treat yourself to a craft day out.

 Look out for the Brown Owls banner!

More details about Craft Caravan can be found on this post.

Dates for Brown Owls meet ups for the rest of the year can be found here.

See you there!

St George and Sutherland Brown Owls - JUNE MEETING

It was a small crew this Sunday...in more ways than one. 

Amelie finally got to attend her first Brown Owls after much pleading and good behavior!

And now it is only 2 weeks till our June Meeting!

Details are:

Sunday 10th June 2012

Buzzbar Mortdale

22 Morts Road 

Mortdale

Also I am taking suggestions and votes for some new venues for the rest of the year! 

Add them to the comments below or the link on Facebook!

See you soon!

Southside Owls ~ venue switcheroo

Hi ladies


We've had to do a little switcheroo of venues for some of the upcoming meets (due to lovely reasons like overseas holidays and babies!)


All the dates and everything else will remain the same.  Here's the update:

Thu 14th June - Miss Jackson

Thu 12th July - Frankie & Swiss

Thu 9th August - Miss Jackson

Thu 13th September - Frankie & Swiss, depending on the arrival of Michelle's baby!

Thu 11th October - Miss Jackson

Thu 8th November - possibly Frankie and Swiss, stay tuned

Thu 13th December - Miss Jackson

Hope you are all keeping warm and cosy and are getting in lots of couch craft time!
See you all in June!!


Cheers
Shannon

St George and Sutherland Shire Brown Owls THIS SUNDAY

HURRAH

There will be coffee, cakes and I will be bringing some AWESOME crochet*!

Sunday 27th May 2012

Buzzbar Mortdale

22 Morts Road 

Mortdale

I hope to see you there! 

Newbies welcome!

*by AWESOME crochet I mean the art itself....whether mine will turn out to be awesome is yet to be determined!

Hi There Owlies, It time for us to get together again. This month is a good opportunity to bring along all those half finished things that sit in corners and annoy you! Bring along your work and show us what you've been up to. The details: Where: Gallery One 1 Torrens Road Mitcham. Ph 08 8272 4504 When: Saturday 26th May 1.30 - 4.00 pm. Cost : $7.00 room hire.

Calling all Melbourne-ish Brown Owlers - Wool for Women

Hi there

Sue here from Brown Owls Melbourne 3000 CBD branch.

One of our lovely owls, Stacey, is involved with a project that I thought you might be interested in. Stacey will be at the Melb 3000 gathering next Tuesday 29th May (see previous post) for more information or collecting donations. Very look forward to seeing you there.

over to Stacey:

Hello everyone,
As a fellow crafter, attending Brown Owls 3000 from time to time, I wanted to let you all know about a program that Aware (a small Melbourne based not-for-profit that I direct) is running in Cambodia this June - Wool for Women.

Partnering with Dorsu, Wool for Women will provide skills and teacher training to women in Kampot, Cambodia. Aware will complement and add to the amazing work that Dorsu is doing to establish sustainable and creative livelihoods for these women, through crochet and wool crafts, in an area where education and employment opportunities are scarce.

I am hoping to clear out your cupboards for you, by taking any spare wool, crochet hooks, buttons and sewing in needles to Cambodia with me, turning them into something really positive.

I will be attending next Tuesday's brown owls 3000, if you are able to donate anything that would be AMAZING, and i can take it with me from there. I'm happy to chat to you all about it on the night!

For more information please see:
www.awareglobal.org
awareglobal.wordpress.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aware/270738002976145

Brown Owls Melbourne 3000, May gathering

Hi!

Look! I finished my clipboard cover, I only started it about a year ago at the first ever Brown Owls! goodness, my UFO's are getting out of control.

Its been a super long time, i know its only been a months break but it seems like so so so very very long. So we're definitely due for a catch up.

Come guys and gals, newbies and regulars, experts and novices, lets all have a jolly super time.

There's a few potentially interesting things to talk about too!

when: Tuesday 29th May 2012
at: 6.30 - 9pm
where: The Parlour, Madame Brussels, level 3, 59-63 Bourke St, Melbourne 3000
bring: BYO project of your choice
cost: no fee for attendance but you may like to purchase a drink or a delight from the Madame Brussels menu, by way of a thankyou for room usage
RSVP: in the comments section below please - indicating your name eg. Sue H

 

Very look forward to meeting / seeing you.

Sue x

PS. some future dates for your diaries - plug 'em in:
Tuesday 26th June
Tuesday 24th July
Tuesday 28th August

Canberra Brown Owls: Applique May

Hello Canberra Owls!

This month we have a bit of a treat for you - one of our lovely local crafters, Danielle of petits elefants is going to show us the art of applique!

Danielle has done some gorgeous applique pieces - check the detail in her stunning whirligig quilt (on her blog here)

You can applique on so mnay things: bags, big or small, tshirts or onesies, skirts, cushions or just for something decorative. I'm a bit of a fan of these lovelies displayed in sweet embroidery hoops! (although of course these are machine sewn, and we will be using hand sewing techniques)

Danielle has been collecting a few things over on her applique board on Pinterest, or try searching Flickr for all sorts of inspiration.

What you will need:
a glue stick (just a regular kids one will do)
short sewing needles
thread to match / contrast with your project
pins
fabric scraps
something to applique onto - linen is good, but anything is fine
a pencil for tracing onto the fusible
small scissors

You will need fusible stabiliser like Floriani stitch n wash - it is available at various stores around town, but we will have some available for a small cost on the day. 


All the important details to remember
 
When
Sunday May 27, from 1pm – 3.30pm

Where

Downer Community Centre

Don't forget to bring:

• $5 for room hire and a couple of dollars for fusing if you need it. 
• a plate of something to share for afternoon tea if you’d like.
• anything you'd like to share with us for show and tell!

And please RSVP in the comments so we know you're coming! This is especially important if you would like to purchase any supplies on the day - we need to know how much to have on hand!

Please let us know if you'd like any more information!

Canberra Prefects xo

Brisbane: Calling all crafters to yarn bomb King George Square!

Calling all Brisbane crafters, craft groups and collectives to unite on 1 June to yarn bomb King George Square, Brisbane CBD!

"Brisbane nights are gettin' chilly! Calling all crafters to yarn bomb us with some winter woollies!"

As part of BrisStyle's Craft Caravan Festival Brown Owls and all Brisbane crafty groups and individuals are invited to yarn bomb King George Square!

When? Friday 1 June, 10am-4pm

Where? King George Square, Brisbane CBD

How does it work? 

You can either yarn bomb by yourself or as a group to your heart's desire! If you're feeling a little timid drop your knitting or crochet off to the crafting oasis, Brown Owls will be having an all day meet up during the Craft Caravan Festival, keep an eye out for our Owl-y sign.

"We'd love some leg warmers to brighten up all those tourists' photos on 1 June!" 

What is yarn bombing anyway?

We like to think of it as a non-permanent crafty style of street art that will warm up the heart of Brisbane's CBD. For some yarn bombing inspiration from around the world check out the Brown Owls Pinterest page.

I don't know how to knit or crochet, how can I take part?

We can teach you! At the next Brown Owls meet up held at Imogen's Art Space on Monday 28 May at 6pm we'll be teaching crochet and knitting. The details of the meet up are here. 

You can also learn to knit and crochet at the Brown Owls all day meet up on yarn bombing day, 1 June at the BrisStyle Craft Caravan crafting oasis, King George Square.

"I'd love a bit of colour to brighten up my day" said lion number one. 

"I'd like a big beanie!" said lion number two.

Let's spread the word far and wide, feel free to pass the link to this post on to everyone and anyone (or group) you know that might be interested in getting involved. 

The BrisStyle Craft Caravan promises to be an awesome day of crafty workshops, demonstrations, markets, and more! 

Details about the Brown Owls all day meet up at the crafting oasis on the day will be posted soon, in the meantime mark your diaries and we'll see you at the knitting meet up!

Got more questions or want to chat about the yarn bombing? 

Email brisbanebrownowls@gmail.com

P.S. Did you know that King George Square is also full of luscious trees now which are begging to be warmed up with your UFO (unfinished object) crochet and knitting!

 

Brisbane: knitting for yarn bombing!

RSVP now for the next Brisbane Brown Owls meet up at Imogen's Art Space!

When: Monday 28 May, 6-8pm

Where: Imogen's Art Space, 9 Morgan Tce, Bardon

Craft Along Project: Knitting for Yarn Bombing

In the lead up to International Yarn Bombing Day we'll be meeting up for some knitting (and crochet for those who prefer it). Bring along your knitting needles and yarn or if you're an absolute beginner we'll be on hand to take you through some knitting basics plus we'll have some extra needles and yarn if you don't have your own.

What are we bombing?
King George Square! Brisbane crafters will unite on Friday 1 June to bomb King George Square throughout the day between 10am-4pm as part of the BrisStyle Craft Caravan, a full crafty festival of workshops, market stalls and more. All crafters are welcome to contribute to the yarn bomb so get out your knitting needles and get to work!

Crochet is also (as always) welcome :)

RSVP for the meet up at Imogen's Art Space by leaving a comment on this post or email brisbanebrownowls@gmail.com by Saturday 26 May.

Tea and coffee will be provided but feel free to bring along a plate of nibbles.

May Southside Brown Owls at Miss Jackson!

Hello everyone! The past month has flown by and already it’s time for May South Side Brown Owls! This month the lovely Shannon from Miss Jackson in St Kilda is our gracious host. Tucked away in a quiet St Kilda side street away from the hustle and bustle, Miss Jackson is a wonderful space for relaxing with a bit of crafty goodness:)

Date: Thursday10th May
Time: 7:30pm onwards
Venue: Miss Jackson, 2/19 Grey Street St. Kilda (through the big rusty gate)
Close to the #16, #96 and #112 trams, and nearby parking.

Craft: Crochet! Bring along your crochet hook and yarn. (and of course, BYO projects are always welcome as well!)

Granny squares, crochet flowers, cushions and quilts, there’s no end to the multitudes of crochet loveliness! Pip from Meet Me at Mikes has a wonderful series of crochet tutorials here.

Sweeties: We will have tea, wine and baked goodies, please feel free to bring something along if you would like to show off your baking skills!

RSVP: Add a comment to let us know you are coming along! Feel free to email me or tweet me with any questions.

See you all next Thursday!!

Brisbane Brown Owls: Dates for 2012

About Brisbane Brown Owls

Brisbane Brown Owls meet once or twice a month in various locations throughout Brisbane. At each meet up we either learn a new craft or you can bring along your own craft to do. It's all about sharing crafty knowledge and skills, meeting crafty people and having a cuppa.

How much is it?
Brisbane Brown Owls is usually free unless there is a special crafting project where a small fee will be charged to cover materials costs.

How do I join?
Joining Brisbane Brown Owls is easy, just email brisbanebrownowls@gmail.com and ask to be put on the mailing list. You can also check out our Facebook page www.facebook.com/brisbanebrownowls.

Meeting dates for 2012
There will be a blog post before each meet up with further details including how to RSVP. Dates are subject to change and we'll be adding more meet ups as the months go on so check back on this post regularly or join the Brisbane Brown Owls mailing list by emailing brisbanebrownowls@gmail.com.


Saturday 28 July, 10:30am-12:30pm
Indooroopilly Library, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Level 4, 322 Moggill Road, Indooroopilly
Four projects over four meet ups, details here http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/07/brisbane-four-projects-over-four-meet.html

Friday 10 August, 5-7pm
Brisbane Square Library, 266 George Street, Brisbane CBD
Four projects over four meet ups, details here http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/07/brisbane-four-projects-over-four-meet.html 

Saturday 11 August, 10:30am-12:30pm 
Sunnybank Hills Library, Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown, Cnr Compton & Calam Rds, Sunnybank Hills
Four projects over four meet ups, details here http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/07/brisbane-four-projects-over-four-meet.html 

Tuesday 14 August, 6-8pm
Indooroopilly Library, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Level 4, 322 Moggill Road, Indooroopilly
Four projects over four meet ups, details here http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/07/brisbane-four-projects-over-four-meet.html 

Sunday 2 September, 10:30am-12:30pm
Carindale Library, Westfield Carindale, 1151 Creek Road, Carindale 

Saturday 29 September, 10:30am-12:30pm
Banyo Library, 284 St Vincents Road, Banyo
Crochet with the best! Sam from Jetta's Nest will be leading this meet up, click here for details.

Saturday 6 October, 10:30am-12:30pm
Toowong Library, Toowong Village Shopping Centre, 9 Sherwood Road, Toowong
Make your own rubber stamps! Details here.

Sunday 14 October, 10:30am-12:30pm
Imogen's Art Space, 9 Morgan Terrace, Bardon
Felt Making with SMboutique
RSVP essential, details here 

Saturday 27 October, 10:30am-12:30pm
Brisbane Square Library, 266 George Street, Brisbane CBD
Embroidered cards, get started on some sweet designs before Christmas!
http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/brisbane-owls-and-brisstylers.html 

Thursday 8 November, 6-8pm
Wynnum Library, 66 Bay Tce, Wynnum Central
Make sweet paper boxes and gift bags, perfect for Christmas!
http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/brisbane-make-your-own-gift-packaging.html

Sunday 18 November, 10:30am-12:30pm
Carindale Library, Westfield Carindale, 1151 Creek Road, Carindale
T-shirt crafts: Recycle your old t-shirt into a fab new creation!
http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/11/brisbane-recycled-t-shirt-craft.html.

Saturday 15 December, 10:30am-12:30pm
Brisbane Square Library, 266 George Street, Brisbane CBD
Eco gift toppers, making the most out of your paper scraps and junk mail!
Details here http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/brisbane-owls-christmas-meet-up.html  


Updates and further hints and tips from our meet ups can also be found on the Brisbane Brown Owls Facebook page.

Happy crafting!

The Incredible Shrinking Owls (Hobart Brown Owls)

Hobart Brown Owls met again on Saturday in our lovely little clubhouse.  Not sure if it's the busy pace of life (down here in bustling Tassie) or the change in the weather and the seasons, but our numbers are dwindling a bit.  Having said that, it's always lovely to catch up with whoever and get in amongst a bit of crafty action.

Hilary scored a win against the pile of UFOs out there - finishing a very cute christmas tree embroidery; Liz made some super funky skill garland things for a day of the dead type pagan celebration - whilst answering myriad questions on owning various farm animals.

Isabelle tried on her nearly completed cardigan (though I wasn't fast enough to picture her actually wearing it) and seemed happy with the work so far.

Maybe the cat scared away the owls...

Issy "helped" by keeping the cat busy and making various cubby houses for it from chairs...Tea was drunk, a plan was made for next time and I allowed myself to cast on a new project despite UFO mountain

Caught in the act of not finishing something off

Next time we are going to try our hand at making a few of these owls (seemed appropriate):

http://curlsofsunshine.typepad.com/curls_of_sunshine/2009/03/new-free-amigurumi-owl-crochet-pattern.html

There is no plan for the finished owls, but the sight of this little guy was enough for those of us who were there to sign up!  Who's in?