A fabulous new shop

On Friday (on the way to the NOTYQ retreat) Christine and I enjoyed a day of shopping in Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat.  Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow could keep us away from the lure of patchwork shops.

Actually we were like little kids, we were so excited.  We jumped out of the car and played in the snow.

We had a brilliant day and discovered a new shop - The Cotton Factory.  I asked Alison to write something about the shop so I could include it on my blog. Here's what she wrote

A quick rundown of how we started. We are brand new Community focussed Sewing Studio located in Ballarat. It began after a family holiday, where I found myself sitting on the beach watching my sons in the surf. We did this over several days. Sitting there, under the shade of an enormous tree, plastered with sunblock and people watching, I would get out my hand stitching and it was just a perfect time. It gave me time to think. I conceptualised the type of space I would like access to in our town. I envisaged a space where people could share their projects, connect with like minded crafters, attend classes and have access to unique supplies. A space that was accessible to both existing sewers and those that have never sewn before. A space where typical folks and those with special needs were welcome and catered for. The space didn't exist. But it does now. We offer lots of classes, Sit and Sew, Children's programs and host visits from quilting and sewing groups.

We opened our big beautiful green doors on the 14th March. A small old Church Hall (that was also previously a Scout Hall). She is a total ugly duckling on the outside, and an oasis of colour and texture inside. The Community have responded so well. There is huge interest in our class schedule and an unmet desire from non sewers to learn. I list our classes and supplies that we are loving at  http://www.cottonfactory.bigcartel.com

Big thanks to Alison.  If you don't manage to get to Ballarat you will be able to meet Alison, and buy her gorgeous goodies, at our next NOTYQ Quilt Exhibition as she is going to be one of our traders. Hooray.

Here's a picture of my lovely NOTYQ friend Clare.  

She teaches at the Cotton Factory and it stocks her delightful Matching Pegs designs.

The Cotton Factory is 128 Clyde Street Ballarat. Phone 0434 600 817

Here's a great rainbow quilt for you to make

You can find the pattern and a great tutorial HERE at Leedle Deedle Quilts. 

Many many thanks to Leigh for sharing it with us.

Hope your day is filled with stitching fun

Love