Savouring South-east Queensland
Transcription
Savouring South-east Queensland
Pl w an w w fo .co tri yo r mp p — u r m fe o lete vi ne at re cra sit x t ur tr ft.c o a es v m . el .a u O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland Savouring South-east Queensland Map by Susan Cadzow By Jeannette Vermeulen W Follow the needle and thread, button by button, as we make our way around south-east Queensland. hen it comes to perfecting a laid-back lifestyle, nobody does it better than the fine folks in south-east Queensland. With sun, surf and excellent craft shops around the region, it’s a great spot to kick off summer and set off on another On The Road adventure. The tour begins in the peaceful, picturesque seaside city of Hervey Bay, home to Dewdrop Inn Patchwork & Craft. From there it’s on to The Patchwork Angel in tranquil Forest Glen, a great spot for birdwatching and taking in some beautiful scenery. We find The Sewing Basket in Mooloolaba next, before heading on to Warana and its two charming craft shops — Brian’s Fabrics & Accessories and Kimz Sewing & Patchwork Centre. The Moreton Bay region is our next port of call, where we visit Country Beginnings in Bellmere before heading on to Clontarf, home to the fabulous Northside Sewing Centre. Continuing into the outskirts of Brisbane, we call in at Faeries in My Garden in Shorncliffe, followed by a browse at QuiltEssentials in Eatons Hill and the The Quilters Corner in Keperra. The next stop is The Patchwork Tree, a delightful shop just 7km from the Brisbane CBD. The charming Patches Indooroopilly is next on our list and then it’s on to the dedicated teaching studio Urban Sewing Lounge to brush up on our skills and learn some new techniques. After calling in at the well-stocked The Quilters’ Store, The Embroiderers’ Store in Salisbury, it’s time for a lazy sojourn along the coast to Bayside StitchCraft in the vibrant coastal village of Cleveland. We shimmy on down south to say hi to the lovely girls at Thread & Ginger Patchwork Boutique in Victoria Point. Heading further inland, Sewers Delight in Browns Plains is in our sights next, followed by The Country Quilt Co in North Ipswich on the Bremer River and Sew Creative in Gatton. Next, our trip takes us just north of Toowoomba, situated on the Great Dividing Range, to The Quilters Angel in Highfields. Millmerran is the most western point of our tour and after exploring every inch of Pattycake Patchwork, it’s time to head back towards the coast. We stop in Warwick at Glenrose Patchwork before our tour finally comes to an end on the Gold Coast at Patchwork Dreaming in Mudgeeraba. 112 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland W Dewdrop Inn Patchwork & Craft hen travelling to Hervey Bay, the whale-watching capital of Queensland, dropping by the spectacular Dewdrop Inn Patchwork & Craft is a must. The store is centrally located just off the main esplanade in the suburb of Torquay, so you’re sure to have a whale of a time at this big, bright and beautiful shop, which is celebrating its 13th year in business. You can get lost in this Aladdin’s cave packed with inspiring samples and 7000 bolts of fabulous fabrics from all the leading manufacturers — it’s a treasure trove of goodies! Dewdrop Inn Patchwork & Craft also carries a large range of dress fabrics, beads and jewellery, wool and a beautiful range of modern giftware. The friendly staff — Amanda and Linda — are experienced patchworkers who are always ready with helpful advice. Having sewing machine trouble? Not a problem. Rodney has been trained by Husqvarna Viking to solve such problems and he has years of experience in the field. If you’re in the area, why not join in one of the many patchwork classes on offer, for beginners through to advanced stitchers? If you can’t make it to Hervey Bay, be sure to at least explore the Dewdrop Inn Patchwork & Craft online store. Local knowledge: There are many interesting tours and cruises operating out of Hervey Bay, from islands and shipwreck tours to scuba diving and whale-watching cruises. The Patchwork Angel H Address: 4–6 Bideford Street, Torquay, Hervey Bay Qld 4655 Phone: (07) 4124 9320 Fax: (07) 4128 9866 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dewdropinn.com.au Forest Glen oused in a former church just off the Bruce Highway, The Patchwork Angel opened in March 1996. Current owners Penny and David Hornbuckle took over in June 2006 after Penny had worked for the previous owner for many years. The shop specialises in patchwork and stitching supplies, incorporating not only quilts but also bags, soft toys, cushions and clothing, such as some very trendy aprons. Along with the large range of current fabrics available, there’s an astounding range of patterns on offer from both Australian and international designers. “Our customers delight in something new arriving all the time,” Penny says. Being in the church gives a stately air to the shop and the high ceiling means that there are 113 Hervey Bay lots of lovely samples on display at all times. The old church hall at the back of the building makes a fabulous area for display and classes. The Patchwork Angel has a wide range of classes, including machine quilting, basic cutting, clever techniques and UFO classes from in-house and guest tutors. The shop also hosts exquisite morning teas with guest speakers. Local knowledge: An hour north of Brisbane, Forest Glen offers easy access to many Sunshine Coast attractions such as Australia Zoo, the Eumundi markets and Bellingham Maze, to name just a few. Address: 343 Mons Road, Forest Glen Qld 4556 Phone: (07) 5477 0700 Email: [email protected] Website: www.patchworkangel.com.au Blog: www.patchworkangel.typepad.com O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland K The Sewing Basket athryn Chapman has owned this charming store for little over a year now and has loved every minute of it. Living every crafter’s dream, she snapped up the shop while on holiday from Ballina. “I came into the store, as all craft people do,” Kathryn says. “One of the staff told me the shop was up for sale and that was it!” With its friendly environment and very helpful staff who always have a smile ready, you’ll wish you could do the same and stay forever when you visit The Sewing Basket. You’re greeted by the smell of tea and coffee, as well as a beautiful arrangement of quilts and Christmas craft, as you enter the shop, all set to the sound of laughter. There’s a fabulous range of fabrics, threads and patterns to explore and Kathryn’s lovely staff members Robyn, Sonya, Marilyn and Rosalie are Mooloolaba always on-hand to give friendly advice. The shop also carries a range of Janome, Pfaff and Brother sewing machines. The Sewing Basket has excellent class options for all skill levels including patchwork, free motion and hand quilting, children’s how-to, hand stitchery and sewing machine and overlocker know-how. There are also lessons in digitising for 4D/5D and PE8 (Brother). Digitizing Junior (Janome) classes are starting soon as well. Brian’s Fabrics & Accessories T his gem of a shop is a prime example of not judging a book by its cover. Tucked away in an industrial area, it’s Warana’s best-kept secret and any misgivings you might have will disappear the minute you step inside this cavernous fabric wonderland. It’s no surprise that astounding variety is what the shop is known for. There’s a huge range of patchwork and fashion fabrics on offer to suit every taste, all at competitive prices. The room housing the patchwork fabrics will set your creativity into overdrive — “Wow!” is usually the first Local knowledge: In warmer months, The Sewing Basket is open one evening a month to make things for charity. The last project was making pillows for breast cancer ladies. Address: 122 Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba Qld 4557 Phone: (07) 5444 7466 Fax: (07) 5444 8969 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sewingbasket.com.au Warana Lisa Chandler’s gorgeous Passage to India fabric is just one example of the fabulous quality and variety you can expect at Brian’s Fabrics & Accessories. thing people say when they step inside. Japanese, Australiana, fusions, novelty prints, black-and-whites, and fabrics in all colours of the rainbow can be found. With so much choice, you’re bound to find the perfect fabric for your next project lurking on the shelves. Bargain hunters, listen up! As new product arrives, other fabric will often find itself on the discount table to make room so you can nab some high-quality fabric at significantly reduced prices. What could be better? There’s also a selection of threads including Rasant Threads, batting, 114 backings and more — just about all the accessories you could need. Sewing groups often buy their batting in bulk and the friendly staff are always happy to point visitors in the direction of one of these groups to join a sewing day or class. Local knowledge: Warana is a coastal suburb 12km north of Caloundra, where the Sunshine Coast begins. Address: 4/3 Dual Avenue, Warana Qld 4575 Phone: (07) 5493 6826 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland T Kimz Sewing & Patchwork Centre his wonderful shop nestled in the suburbs of serene Caloundra is a stitcher’s haven. Kim Turner first opened the doors just over three years ago in the hopes of turning her hobby into a full-time undertaking. “I was a registered nurse for more than 20 years and have enjoyed sewing, quilting and patchwork over this time as stress relief,” Kim says. With friendly service and a relaxed class atmosphere, the shop is a pleasure to behold. A colourful display of Kaffe Fassett fabrics and quilts grab your attention when you enter, while ladies chatting away in the classroom provide a cheerful soundtrack. All the teachers are experienced stitchers and you can be assured of the best-quality advice when you drop by. There is a stunning fabric selection, including a range of Bali hand-dyed fabrics and bright prints from Kaffe Fassett, Amy Butler and many more S Sea Spray by Moon Shine Designs in Kaffe Fassett fabrics. Patterns and kits available – $250 SB (fabrics may differ). designers. New stock is always arriving, with something sure to inspire on every visit. A longarm quilting machine is available in a separate room for hire. The shop also stocks Janome and Bernina sewing machines and accessories, and holds a variety of classes — just check in store for all the details. Country Beginnings ituated in the gorgeous Morton Bay area, Country Beginnings has been owned by Jodie and Denise since 2008. The pair took an existing business with a focus on country fabrics and turned it into the bright, fresh shop it is today. Entering the shop is an aromatic experience, with the intoxicating Warana Local knowledge: An easy one-hour trip from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast’s beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it well worth a visit. Address: Unit 1, 5 Main Drive, Warana Qld 4575 Phone: (07) 5493 4977 Fax: (07) 5493 4177 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kimzsewing.com.au Bellmere fragrance of candles, sprays and “smellies” immediately setting the scene for a relaxing shopping experience. In this calm atmosphere, you are free to browse the variety of fabrics on offer in bright, oriental and shabby pastel colours. Looking for that perfect gift for someone special? A wide range of gorgeous giftware for every occasion is available. Other services such as machine quilting, scissor sharpening and sewing-machine repairs with weekly turnaround are also offered. Day and evening classes are held at beginner to advanced levels, with a quilt-and-chat class every Friday. Come along and take advantage of that lovely social aspect that sets patchwork and quilting apart from other hobbies. The shop is online as well, catering for those who may not have a quilt shop nearby, and there is a cheerful selection of block of the month programs, patterns, kits and giftware on offer. Local knowledge: Moreton Bay and surrounding islands comprise one of the world’s best whalewatching areas. Address: Shop 6, Bellmere Shopping Centre, Bellmere Road, Bellmere Qld 4510 Phone: (07) 5499 3233 Email: [email protected] Website: www.countrybeginnings.com.au 115 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland T his excellent shop in the charming seaside area of Clontarf is a family business that’s been around since 1964. What originally started as a sewing-machine business expanded into stretch fabric and classes before branching out into patchwork fabric. Current owner Jane Schmidt has been part of the experience for the past 35 years. She is joined in the shop by Cathy and they both have more than 25 years’ experience in the sewing-machine industry, especially with Janome. Northside Sewing Centre is wellknown for its excellent product selection and the helpful staff. As you enter the shop, you’ll find the machines displayed on the left and the fabrics on the right. Bargain hunters will be pleased to know that this includes a large box of fabric on special at only $8 per metre. Jane and Cathy pride themselves on offering an excellent choice of fabrics, T Clontarf Northside Sewing Centre including 40 different types of black-andwhites, Australiana, Christmas and more. There’s something here to suit every taste. Machine-embroidery classes are held monthly and an overlocker workshop is held regularly. There’s also a Janome Club, which is a great opportunity to see new products and get ideas. The shop runs three retreats each year — a sewing retreat in January, a machine-embroidery retreat in May and a four-day sewing retreat in August. Faeries in My Garden he owners of Faeries in My Garden, Lesley and Kevin McConnell, say that as you walk up the paved walkway to their store you might just catch a glimpse of a fairy or sprite hiding in the surrounding gardens. With such beautiful surroundings, it’s easy to believe! The real magic happens inside this romantically decorated shop. With the French furniture, lacecurtained dressers piled high with patterns and kits, walls lined with quilts, bags and cushions, and rows of sumptuous fabrics, you’re sure to be enchanted. The store stocks a beautiful range of exclusive designs by Lesley, who was one of the first designers to seriously incorporate embroidery embellishment in her piecing and appliqué projects. Address: 12/9–11 Redcliff Gardens Drive, Clontarf Qld 4019 Phone: (07) 3883 1825 Fax: (07) 3284 2423 Email: [email protected] Website: www.northsidesewingcentre.com Shorncliffe A kit for the Precious Memories Keepsake Box is available for $89, plus $10 p&h, or you can receive it as part of the *Gift of the Month* Club for just $39, plus $5 p&h. Also available is a wonderful range of premium-quality Quiltgate fabrics and gorgeous children’s and babies’ fabrics and designs. The shop carries a large range of captivating block of the month 116 Local knowledge: “The Redcliff Waterfront is a lovely place to stroll, see the pelicans and enjoy the beauty around you,” Jane says. programs designed by Lesley, and many are not available anywhere else. Faeries in My Garden was the first to introduce a Gift of The Month club, where members receive a new surprise gift project every month. This concept has proven to be very popular, with many members continuing from last year and many more set to renew for 2012. Local knowledge: Shorncliffe is an historic area of Brisbane featuring grand old homes, parks and picnic areas fronting the bay. Address: 70 Park Parade, Shorncliffe Qld 4017 Phone: (07) 3869 0808 Email: [email protected] Website: www.faeriesinmygarden.com.au O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland A QuiltEssentials crafter’s paradise on the northside of Brisbane, QuiltEssentials has been owned by Claudia U’Prichard for the past eight years. Claudia has always had a love for creating beautiful things across various crafts and enjoys nothing more than sharing her passion with customers. Vibrant colours and the classroom buzz of happy crafters first greet you as you enter, and regular QuiltEssentials customers describe a visit to the store as “like visiting a close friend”. Claudia and her staff are friendly, caring and extremely knowledgeable in all things patchwork and quilting. Service is a priority and they are always happy to assist you with any questions or just have a chat. The shop carries a large range of contemporary fabrics including Kaffe Fassett, Valori Wells, Indigenous, Asian, flannel, modern and classic fabrics. It’s all about colour and you’re bound to Eatons Hill More Farmyard Frolics BOM by Millamac is available for $32.95 per month. Contact the shop for more details. find just the right fabric to spice up your latest project. QuiltEssentials believes it’s important to support and encourage local designers and, as a result, you will find many exclusive patterns here from homegrown talent. Classes are available for beginners to experienced quilters, check in store for all the details. Registrations are now also open for the charming new Millamac block of the month (pictured). Featuring lots of cute farmyard animals including fluffy sheep, hatching chicks and a row of cute ducks, it would make an adorable addition to any home. Local knowledge: QuiltEssentials holds a charity day each week making quilts for a local women’s shelter. On arrival at the shelter, each woman (and accompanying child) is greeted with a beautiful quilt for them to keep, enveloping them with the knowledge that someone really cares. Address: Shop 3, Eaton Central, 8 Bunya Park Drive, Eatons Hill Qld 4037 Phone: (07) 3264 6444 Email: [email protected] Website: www.quiltessentials.com.au O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland A The Quilters Corner quaint little corner store in Keperra, which once housed a butcher and an antique store, is now thriving as The Quilters Corner. As soon as you enter this shop you’ll notice the vibrant colours and displays of beautiful quilts — it’s a feast for the eyes. At The Quilters Corner there are plenty of quality patchwork fabrics in store, as well as patterns and books from leading Australian and overseas designers. Owner Liisa Dawson loves her fabrics and says you just never know what will take your fancy next. “It may be funky retro prints, soft and pretty florals, the new Moda range or even that too-cute cat print we have to have!” The Quilters Corner is continually developing to meet customer needs and interests by offering BOM and strip-club programs, as well as a variety of classes. “We like to offer new classes that showcase new designs or techniques,” says Liisa. “We cater from absolute A A kit for Love Birds by Kellie Wulfsohn is now available. Contact the shop for details. beginners onwards. The most recent newsletter can also be viewed online at our website.” Local knowledge: Keperra is approximately 9km northwest of the city centre. “We are located adjacent to the Grovely railway station for easy access from the Brisbane CBD,” Liisa says. The Patchwork Tree lison James and her husband purchased The Patchwork Tree seven years ago after returning from living overseas. The shop has a proud history as one of the first in Brisbane and has now been established for 24 years in the century-old building. Step inside and you will be greeted with fabric as far as the eye can see. Keperra Address: 269 Blaker Road, Keperra Qld 4054 Phone: (07) 3855 2222 Email: [email protected] Website: www.thequilterscorner.com.au Alderley There’s an overall country feel, but a variety of other styles are stocked including batiks, novelty, children’s, Japanese, Kaffe Fassett and a wonderful year-round Christmas selection. There are also lots of Moda fabrics including all the pre-cuts: jelly rolls, charm packs and layer cakes. The Patchwork Tree loves supporting local talent. Books from many Australian designers are stocked including Hatched & Patched, Red Brolly, Lynette Anderson and Natalie Bird, to name a few. There’s also a great selection of kits to choose from. Alison, Roxanne and Jenny work together to provide excellent service and the trio run a variety of classes ranging from the beginner machine to lap and large bed quilts, as well as smaller projects that can be completed in one or two classes, like bags. The Patchwork Tree is open Monday to Saturday, 8.30am to 5pm. Local knowledge: Alderley is one of Brisbane’s older suburbs. A landmark of the leafy area is the heritage-listed Farrington House, a graceful timber home built in 1882. Address: 43 Denman Street, Alderley Qld 4051 Phone: (07) 3356 3866 Fax: (07) 3856 2822 Email: [email protected] Website: www.thepatchworktree.com.au The Love Home & Family BOM runs over 11 months at $35 month, including p&h. Contact the shop for more details. 118 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland A Patches Indooroopilly s one of Australia’s largest and oldest patchwork and quilting shops, Patches Indooroopilly stocks more than 4000 bolts of gorgeous fabrics and a large range of quilting books and supplies. The shop first opened as a general arts and crafts shop in 1986 and is located in air-conditioned premises on Moggill Road, within walking distance of Indooroopilly Shoppingtown and the railway station. In addition to rows of fabric lining the walls and samples for classes, many of the completed quilts and wallhangings on display are available as kits. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with experienced, helpful staff on hand to assist with fabric selection. The shop has an inspiring wall of colour that makes it easy to select the perfect coordinating fabric. Patches Indooroopilly is a Bernina dealer and offers a large range of classes and clubs for all levels of patchwork, P From the designers at Kansas Troubles, this easy-to-follow pattern is great for beginners. The eye-catching quilt measures 50in x 66in when finished. The pattern is available for $12, plus p&h. quilting, sewing, embroidery and smocking. There are day, evening and weekend times to suit customers. Urban Sewing Lounge lato said that knowledge is the food for the soul, and when it comes to patchwork, it’s easy to believe. After all, isn’t it immensely satisfying to master a new technique? Linda Mahoney, the owner of Urban Sewing Lounge, is here to help with that. Linda taught beginners’ classes at Thread & Ginger Patchwork Boutique before opening her own teaching studio Indooroopilly Local knowledge: Patches Indooroopilly holds a in-shop Patchwork Extravaganza each year with prizes for participants. For the month of July customers are invited to participate in 30-minute mini-sessions exploring all aspects of patchwork and quilting. Address: 273 Moggill Road, Indooroopilly Qld 4068 Phone: (07) 3878 1228 Fax: (07) 3378 9177 Email: [email protected] Website: www.patches.com.au East Brisbane in March 2010. “I now teach regularly in both locations and I still get enormous pleasure out of what my students achieve,” she says. Situated in a lovely turn-of-thecentury Queenslander, the studio is a little oasis of creativity close to the city where customers can enjoy small classes or personal tuition. Linda offers a supportive environment where students can work on any project of their choice. She specialises in teaching classes on how to sew for absolute beginners of all ages — you are never too old to learn. She also offers after-school and school-holiday classes for children over seven years old. Other classes include basic patchwork, quilting, fabric gifts, handbags, home decor, soft toys and more. There are a number of great sewing machines available for use and the class fee includes tuition and use of any equipment. Accessories and basic items, including patterns and books, are available to purchase for a reasonable price. Local knowledge: The studio is easily accessible by car or bus and is within easy walking distance of Woolloongabba Antique Centre. Address: 5 Longlands Street, East Brisbane Qld 4169 Phone: (07) 3391 6904 Email: [email protected] Website: www.urbansewinglounge.com.au 119 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland The Quilters’ Store, The Embroiderers’ Store L ocated in the leafy Brisbane suburb of Salisbury, The Quilters’ Store, The Embroiderers’ Store combines two shops in one to create the ultimate shopping destination for any stitcher. With a breathtaking collection of quilting and embroidery supplies displayed in a whopping 400sqm store, you could very easily spend an entire afternoon wandering through the rows of beautiful threads and gorgeous fabrics. The range consists of more than 10,000 bolts of fabric including wools, wool felts, silks, coated fabrics, chenilles, minkees and plushes, as well as a large range of needlework fabrics, a huge collection of embroidery fabrics and more than 30 different brands of embroidery thread including Presencia, DMC, Thread Gatherer, Crescent Colours, Kirra, Appleton, Anchor and Cosmo. At The Quilters’ Store, The Embroiderers’ Store you’ll find a great selection of haberdashery, patterns, M books, magazines, accessories, embellishments and trims. A variety of quilting, patchwork and embroidery classes are also held. With its warm atmosphere and knowledgeable service, a visit to this family-owned business is simply a must. Local knowledge: Nature lovers, stop by Toohey’s Forest. Only minutes away from Salisbury, it has extensive walking tracks and more than 400 different plants and animals. Bayside StitchCraft argaret and Michael Vose have been the proud owners of Bayside StitchCraft since 2000. Margaret, the in-store manager, has been an enthusiastic quilter all her life and has spent much of her working life in the industry. A dazzling shop of open space and stunning displays, Bayside StitchCraft provides a large variety of goods and services including more than 4000 bolts of 100 per cent cotton patchwork fabrics. The shop is an authorised dealer for four major sewing and embroidery machine brands: Janome, Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff and Bernina. Embroidery threads, haberdashery and quilting and embroidery accessories are also stocked. Bayside StitchCraft’s experienced, helpful staff consists of Selina, Maria, Charlotte and Peter, the on-site Salisbur y Grab the complete set of This & That patterns for $45, plus p&h. Also available as a pattern of the month for $7.75, plus p&h, per month for six months. Address: Unit 4, 286 Evans Road, Salisbury Qld 4107 Phone: (07) 3875 1700 Fax: (07) 3875 2911 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tqes.com.au Cleveland Bayside StitchCraft staff from left to right: Peter, Margaret, Selina, Maria and Charlotte. sewing-machine master technician qualified to service and repair all stocked sewing-machine brands. “Creative sewing is their passion and they have an enormous range of combined knowledge to assist you with your own creative sewing work,” Michael says of the staff. The shop offers a wide variety of classes and clubs catering for all interests and skill levels. Local knowledge: “Cleveland is a lovely spot,” Michael says. “There are our museum, art galleries, historic buildings and lovely harbourside and restaurants to visit.” Address: Shop 2, 140 Ross Court, Cleveland Qld 4163 Phone: 1300 SEWING (1300 739 464) Email: [email protected] Website: www.baystitch.com.au 120 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland I n 2003, Angela Moore bought a small sewing-machine shop at Browns Plains and in just a few short years, the business was transformed into an absolute paradise for sewers, embroiderers and quilters. Now in a bigger premises and a new location, the shop has more room for all the great products it has become so well known for. Sewers Delight stocks Brother, Janome, Singer and Husqvarna Viking sewing machines and Horn sewing cabinets. The store also carries a great range of fabrics including Australiana, Aboriginal, Balinese, Oriental and children’s prints as well as Sewers Delight Browns Plains blenders, fat-quarter packs, jelly rolls and charm square packs. A great range of embroidery threads, books, magazines, patterns and haberdashery is also available. Sewers Delight offers a variety of classes in beginner and intermediate quilting, software and computing, dressmaking and specialty quilting workshops. Local knowledge: Browns Plains is located just 15 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. While you are in Brisbane, make time to stop at the city’s popular tourist spots, such as the beaches, restaurants and picnic spots of South Bank, the Mt Coot-tha lookout, the Brisbane River and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. McKenna Ryan’s gorgeous Chrissy Down Under is just one of many designs you’ll find at this enchanting shop. Address: 2/6 Webber Drive, Browns Plains Qld 4118 Phone: (07) 3806 9600 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sewersdelight.com.au O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland A The Country Quilt Co diverse city, rich in heritage and culture, Ipswich is home to The Country Quilt Co, a charming patchwork shop that’ll make you feel welcome. Suzanne Conroy first opened the shop four years ago, taking pride in looking after the vibrant and growing local craft community. “I wanted to work with people who are creative and help them create something truly fabulous,” Suzanne says. Known for its friendly, knowledgeable service, the shop boasts an excellent range of fabric, patterns, books and threads. There’s a great range of fantastic quilt kits as well as inspiring block of the months. Suzanne is always around S There’s always something new to enchant you, with stock and samples changing regularly. If you’re looking to get your mojo back, you’ll certainly find it here. Local knowledge: In light of the flooding the region experienced in early 2011, the shop has done its part to help raise funds and continue to offer muchneeded support to those affected. to help with any questions or even just for a chat. This, combined with the polished-timber furnishings, gives the shop such a warm, homely atmosphere that you’ll want to stay all day! A mix of classes is also offered, from beginners to intermediate stitchers. Sew Creative ew Creative is a delightful store run by three grandmothers who are all passionate about patchwork. Gail Chalker, Jennifer Harch and Janelle Deite’s motto is “service like the good old days” and, in their store, each customer is greeted with a big smile and a friendly welcome. Nor th Ipswich Gatton Sew Creative specialises in appliqué and stocks a great range of quilting notions. It is best-known in the local area for its wide range of reproduction fabrics and its own range of patterns. There’s also a fabulous selection of Sue Garmin and Amy Bradley designs on offer. Gail travels to America at least once a year to catch up on recent trends, see the latest patterns and learn current techniques, so there’s always something new to discover at Sew Creative. Gail, Jennifer and Janelle also offer a wide range of sewing 122 Address: 2 Pine Mountain Road, North Ipswich Qld 4305 Phone: (07) 3294 7000 Email: [email protected] Website: www.countryquiltco.com.au groups and classes in everything from hand appliqué through to machineembroidered quilts. Sew Creative is pleased to announce that from May 24–27 2012 an international tutor will be joining the Quilt School to teach lots of techniques for hand appliqué. It promises to be a fun event; contact the shop for more information. Local knowledge: Sew Creative hosts a Community Quilts group that supports the local community by making quilts. They recently made bags for the Christmas shoe-box appeal and made bandanas for cancer patients. Address: Shop 4, 35 North Street, Gatton Qld 4343 Phone: (07) 4562 2401 Fax: (07) 4633 5910 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sewcreativegatton.com.au O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland I The Quilters Angel n September 2004, Marion Marshall turned into reality her long-term dream of opening a quilt shop and creating a place where her customers could come to escape, relax, enjoy themselves and be inspired. The Quilters Angel is certainly all these things and more! Approaching the entrance you can feel a sense of excitement brewing as you survey all the goodies on display on the large covered verandah. Stepping inside, you feel transported to another time as dark polished-timber floors and high ceilings provide an old-world backdrop to this treasure trove of content. Hundreds of bolts of fabric line the walls while old-fashioned cabinets house laces, braids and trimmings, with racks of patterns and kits as well as an array of haberdashery. Marion has made sure there’s something for everyone and every available gap is filled with delightful giftware. T Marion hosts two annual events each year: The Girls’ Stitch-In in March and the Stitchers’ Dream Day Out in September. Both events are held in a beautifully decorated marquee overlooking breathtaking views and include new designers each year who create brand-new projects for the event, a wonderful gift bag, lunch and a kit to begin hand stitching on the day. Visit The Quilters Angel website for more information on these events. Pattycake Patchwork his gorgeous shop in Millmerran is something of a labour of love for Steve and Jolanda Webb. They have owned Pattycake Patchwork for three years and have recently re-opened after losing everything in a devastating fire on Easter Sunday. Jolanda fell in love with patchwork after her first class and worked parttime in Millmerran Haberdashery. “We didn’t have to think twice to purchase Highfields Local knowledge: The Village Green is a picturesque spot overlooking the escarpment and is an idyllic setting for The Quilters Angel and other specialty shops. Address: 10475 New England Highway, Highfields Qld 4352 Phone: (07) 4630 8062 Email: [email protected] Website: www.quiltersangel.com.au Blog: http://blog.quiltersangel.com.au Millmerran the business when it was offered to us,” she says and so Pattycake Patchwork was born. The shop is large and airy while the friendly country-style service gives it a cheerful atmosphere. You’ll find a huge variety of fabric styles to suit all whimsical tastes with a good range of fabulous backings to complement them. The shop also carries the full range of Magnum 8-ply and 4-ply Baby Soft knitting yarn, as well as haberdashery, Fiona Jude cross-stitch kits, ribbons, laces and novelty buttons. Classes for beginners to intermediate quilters are held throughout the year, including stack-n-slash, sampler quilts, mystery quilts, as well as one-day bag, runner and accessory classes. There’s also a great fabric club with a $35 membership that entitles customers to a 10 per cent discount on all patchwork fabric, stitcheries, patterns and books. Local knowledge: Millmerran has plenty to offer tourists throughout the year, including the Hot Rod Run, sheep races, Chisholm Trail and the biennial Camp Oven Festival. Address: 6 Alfred Street, Millmerran Qld 4357 Phone: (07) 4695 1566 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pattycakepatchwork.com.au 123 O N T H E R O A D – S outh - E ast Q ueensland F Glenrose Patchwork or Glenis Pugliese, opening a patchwork shop seemed like the best way to conquer empty nest syndrome. “My children had all left home and I was very upset,” Glenis says. “My husband suggested I open a patchwork shop and work from home.” She did just that six years ago and today Glenrose Patchwork is still going strong. The shop is part of Glenis’ home, taking up the large extension at one end of the building. As such it has a very homely, welcoming feel and you will always be greeted warmly when you visit. There are lots of wonderful samples and displays to peruse, along with a large selection of fabrics, patterns and patchwork haberdashery. Glenis goes above and beyond to try to accommodate everyone and there’s a good range of products on offer to please various tastes. It’s no surprise that many of the shop’s regular customers have dubbed it “patchwork heaven”. P Glenrose Patchwork hosts social “chat and sew” days and different classes are held throughout the year. Fabulous quilting retreats are also offered with guests staying in four-and-a-half-star cottages and sewing in a large, bright workroom fully set up for quilters. Local knowledge: For the past three years, Glenrose Patchwork has held an “Airing of the Quilts”, with profits going to breastcancer research. Last year’s event raised Patchwork Dreaming atchwork Dreaming has been leading the way in all aspects of patchwork and quilting on the Gold Coast for more than 10 years. Calling an old Queenslander in the historic and quaint village of Mudgeeraba home, it is the only quilt shop between Brisbane and the border of New South Wales, so if you’re heading south, take the chance to stock up! As you walk up the stairs, you are greeted with a friendly smile. Quilts of Warwick over $9000. Along with gorgeous quilts, there are four acres of beautiful awardwinning gardens to wander around, a band, guest quilter and dancers. Address: 138 Ogilvie Road, Warwick Qld 4370 Phone: (07) 4661 7476 Email: [email protected] Website: www.glenrosepatchwork.com Mudgeeraba all varieties cover the walls, soft music plays and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingers in the air, providing a relaxing shopping experience. There’s also a chaise longue for the men to relax and enjoy a cuppa while the friendly and experienced staff assist you with your latest project. The shop carries more than 3000 bolts of fabric in the latest designs and colours, along with a comprehensive range of haberdashery, threads, patterns and kits. If it’s not in stock, the staff will do their best to get it for you. Workshops are held every day and two nights per week. These consist of beginners to experienced classes for quilting and patchwork, machine embroidery, dressmaking, hand embroidery, bag making, knitting and so much more. Local knowledge: Only 15 minutes from Surfers Paradise by car, Patchwork Dreaming will provide you with a sewing machine and all the tools necessary so you can get away from the crowds to do your favourite thing. Address: 5 School Street, Mudgeeraba Qld 4213 Phone: (07) 5559 2930 Fax: (07) 5559 2931 Email: [email protected] Website: www.patchworkdreaming.com.au 124