Under the sea in an octopus' garden

Have learnt a few things about applique recently including the fact that felt is an excellent fabric to work with and gives a strong colour impact when placed against patterned material. The design is coming together well and when I finally add the beads for the eyes of the sea creatures and the gold sequins to the treasure chest, it should have a sparkle.This is just the cave at the bottom of the sea, and above this will be many other sea creatures swimming in the harbour.

Good news from the art competition - won first prize for the drawing section and several highly commended, but best of all, won the champion prize for 'best of show'. Didn't expect that!

Transformation

In the last month I have experienced an amazing transformation with my vision as I have had cataracts removed from both eyes. Fortunately I have been able to have the new synthetic lens for each eye adjusted so that I will not have to wear glasses for reading, sewing or for other fine work. In between the two operations I was able to complete the drawings and watercolours for the art competition and they are now all framed and delivered to the country ready for the judging later this month. Here is one of the small floral paintings for a preview. (19cm x 14cm/ 5.5inches x 7.5inches)

And my next project? An appliqued and quilted wall hanging of Sydney Harbour for my grandson James. Have finished the design, just need to buy some of the fabrics, and I'm ready to start...