• We have 11 beautiful projects including a gorgeous quilt from Anne Sommerlad, an embroidered cushion from Helen Dafter and a stunning silk print from Jan Bergman – see more about these lovely projects below.

• In Along the Way with Rick Rutherford, Rick talks about how the different ways we tackle challenges can have a big impact on the journey of life.

• Editor Marianne Roberts shares her top tips for successful ribbon embroidery, including choosing your needles and scissors, using fabric markers, transferring your designs, techniques for threading needles and best ways to knot your ribbons.

• Avid antique collector Jeanette Moles describes her favourite hobby and talks about its interesting background.

• Plus all your favourites including Take Note, Web Watch and Faces and Places – and much more!

All this and more in our special Yearbook issue of Australian Country Craft and Decorating. VOL 20 NO 9 – ON SALE NOW!

PROJECT:

	Cathedral Windows Sewing Companion Throughout history, the elegant architecture and exquisite stained glass windows of churches and cathedrals have inspired many a craftsman to design and create works of art. Quilter Merrilyn Whittle has used Cathedral Window blocks and three fabrics to create a three-dimensional effect, which add interest and texture to this lovely sewing bag. Accuracy is the key to success with this style of patchwork.
	Jackie’s Sampler – Part One, by Anne Sommerlad Anne Sommerlad’s friend, Jackie Saunders, was lamenting that although she had been quilting for years, she had never made a patchwork sampler. As Jackie was already an experienced quilter, a beginner’s-style one didn’t seem appropriate, so Anne designed this medallion sampler for her, using traditional pieced blocks. It also met another of Jackie’s requests – to use fabric from her stash. Jackie’s sampler is a very enjoyable project to hand-piece – especially the centre star and sampler blocks.
	Travel Miser This bag designed by Jenny King is ideal for overseas travel. It will hold a passport, cash, credit card and lipstick, and can be worn under clothing for security. Its lovely, beaded trim and decorative rings make it very stylish and it can easily be worn over the shoulder.
	Spring Garland Roses, daisies and dainty filler flowers make this lovely design by Helen Dafter a delightful centrepiece for a comfy cushion. She added a soft bow as a focal point and a spider web for good luck.
	Golden Tulips Silk prints can be stunning in their own right, but when embroiderer Jan Bergman sees one, she can’t help but envisage the extra dimension silk ribbons would give the image. Here, she’s added some subtle thread embroidery in the background and luxurious ribbons to give the blooms fullness.