Introducing: Westfalenstoffe

First of all, I would like to thank ALL of you for your kind and heartfelt comments to my previous post. I have forwarded them to my dad. I know he will take great comfort in them. Thank you for your support. I'm so glad I'm part of this great blogging community!

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I will be doing a series of posts highlighting European textile companies. Maybe it's fitting that I start off with a famous German textile company: Westfalenstoffe AG. I happen to live only about an hour's drive away from their headquarters and outlet store! This company was founded 75 years ago by textile artist Hanne-Nuete Kaemmerer, born 1903, famous for her intricate and, at the time, quite innovative cross-stitch designs. Many of her early textile designs have been reproduced, and are popularly used to decorate kitchens, given them a typical country house feel. Perhaps most notable is that these fabrics are made from 100% natural cotton, and do not contain formaldehyde or synthetic resin. All the colours are non-toxic and therefore suitable for children's clothes and bed linens. Westfalenstoffe produce a wide range of checks (Vichy), stripes and floral prints - which can easily be mixed and matched. They also produce a variety of very distinctive cuddly dolls! To find international retailers click here for more information.

R.I.P. Jenny

My father's dog passed away last night. Thirteen years ago, Jenny was found with a rope tied round her neck and a plastic bag around her snout :( My dad took her home, cleaned her up, had her vaccinated and neutered. Despite her trauma Jenny turned out to be the sweetest, most kind-hearted and loving dog imaginable. We're going to miss her so, but I'm glad after her initial ordeal she had a happy and stress-free life. Rest in peace.

New handbag

Here's a new bag I designed. It's made with one of my favourite prints. Actually I made it to match a sleeveless A-line tunic in the same bright red I made a while ago, which I still have to take a picture of. Up until now it was always too cold to wear...I hope to show it off soon! The handbag closes with a magnetic snap button. The strap is reinforced with a special type of interfacing I had wanted to try out for ages (it works), and it's the perfect length for carrying on your shoulder without slipping off (like so many other bags do). Wishing you all a great week! Till next time,