ELIZABETH'S ATTIC

Tulle 50s underskirt

2012-02-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

Pink Tulle and a little bit of imagination

I had no idea on how to make an underskirt for my

Horrocks inspired dresses

So out came the scissors and a little bit of imagination

and away I went....

I did google a bit and decided that the best thing would be to make a band

ruffle the tulle into two layers

Being under 5ft 2inches means too full a skirt would make me look like

a cup-cake so just two layers.

The finished skirt was not too bad for a first

This is my next project - the top with the sleeves.

Hey Ginger do you think she can see us?

If I can't see her she can't see me! - 'Oh you are a funny black cat, don't you know anything? These humans are a push over for a a ginger tom like me.....'

Enjoy your weekend - keep nice and warm - See you back here next week.

Beverley xx

Blast from the past....

2012-01-29T08:40:00.000-08:00

Those who follow my ramblings will know that I take care of my elderly mother who has dementia and finding activities to occupy her is sometimes very hard so that is why on Friday I decided to have a look through the old family photo albums.

That's me on the front row with the red-bucket(I know this is black and white but believe me it is red) and sitting next to my mum who is wearing the very fetching cardigan. The four young ladies on my left are very much young women of the 50s don't you agree. Now you are probably wondering why I am not smiling? the reason is the lady in the white jacket and pearls has her arm round me and I can remember distinctly not liking this. How funny that I can remember this point of over fifty years ago (I would be 5 years old) when if you ask me what I was doing last week I cannot remember.....

This is the photo of my auntie Penny (she of Butlins fame) and uncle Les on their wedding day. My auntie Alice is her lady in waiting in a very fetching fur stole.... 1960s

What about these very fetching ladies on a jaunt to Jersey in the early 50s. My auntie Lucy in a very fetching floral dress is the lady on the left sitting in the car. Auntie Lucy was a spinster due to having a career in nursing. She was of the time when nurses could not marry - I expect this would cause havoc in the NHS in this day and age. Auntie Lucy was my fathers sister and I am told the older I get the more like her I become. She was a lady who loved to sew and craft so maybe this is true

The photo below is of my cousin and myself on a wall I think in Blackpool or it could be Isle of Man - I am sure my cousin will know and put me right when she see this blog.

We are with my mum and dad and on this occasion I must have found something to smile about - I remember that bag that mum is holding, it was plastic with lots of flowers and I just loved it. Dad looks very man of the moment don't you think.

Well I hope you enjoyed a trip down my memory lane and it would be nice to see other family snaps so come on gals get out those snaps and let us have a peek into your history.

Until next time and as always keep safe, happy and well.

Beverley xx

http://www.elizabeths-attic.co.uk/

Horrocks inspired tea dress

2012-01-26T06:57:00.000-08:00

I love the 50s and Horrockses Dresses

And here is my tribute to those dresses

I am so thrilled with this dress

I added the sleeves they were not on the original pattern

If you have been following my last posts you will remember that I was making this dress out of a plain dress pattern and adding the sleeves myself. I was a little apprehensive as I have never re-adjusted patterns but I am so happy with the result. I think this dress will have its first outing at the 'Bolton Vintage Fair' in March.

The other images are taken from a book I borrowed from my local library - 100 years of fashion illustration by Cally Blackman.

A visual feast of 400 dazzling images, this book is both a comprehensive survey of the history of fashion illustration in the last 100 years, and an overview of the development of fashion, as seen through the eyes of the greatest illustrators of the day.

I will be posting images within my blogs over the coming weeks so keep an eye out.

I want to leave you with the downside of having a teacher for a daughter - I posted on Facebook and received a late night call from my daughter to tell me I had spelt doesn't wrong..... just hope she is not reading this blog....

Enjoy your day and see you back at the weekend.

Take care, keep safe and be happy

Beverley xx

http://www.elizabeths-attic.co.uk/

Can anyone else smell Spring in the air

2012-01-24T03:13:00.000-08:00

Or is it just me.....

And with that in mind

I thought I would get cracking

On a Spring inspired dress

I am making view 'C' but adding 3/4 length sleeves. Sleeveless dresses are all well and good when the temperature hits 30c but in Northwest England that is very rare so I have taken the sleeve pattern piece from another dress and hopefully all being well will add them into the design. I will be back shortly with updates so until then have a lovely day - enjoy your week and see you back here soon.

BEVERLEY XX

It is surprising what you find....

2012-01-17T04:04:00.000-08:00

When you rummage in a box

at a car boot sale...

Meet 'Lucy'

While out car booting at the weekend with my daughter I came across a pile of odds and ends and sticking out was a little foot. I pulled on the foot and out popped a dirty dishevelled and somewhat smelly doll. I fell in love with her straight away and wanted to take her home and give her some 'Beverley TLC'.

Plenty of soap, water and 'Vanish' later here she is and I have called her Lucy as I think the name suits her.

I am hoping one day I can pass her on to a granddaughter, well I can live in hope....

Enjoy the rest of your week

Take care, keep safe and warm and be happy

Beverley xx

Good Evening Ladies

2012-01-15T09:58:00.000-08:00

Isn't life wonderful - One day you are given a bag of what some would call 'tat'

and on another day you sell the items for 'loads of dosh'

Remember the black bin bag of vintage 'tat' as some one called it

Nylon shirts

off white blouses

silk tops

ETC

All destined for the rubbish

I gave them some Beverley TLC a little stitching here a little button there With lots of Fabric Conditioner and Vanish

Walla.......

It was all sold on eBay when the auction finished today - every item I listed sold the Nylon shirt (above) was listed at 50p and sold for £6.00

This little number was also listed at 50p and sold for £2.99

(without the skirt and brooch of course)

So ladies if in doubt - stick it on eBay you never know what will happen.

On another note I forgot to mention Vintage Manchester in my last post 'Sorry' so I have now rectified that so pop along to Vintage Manchester as it is the place to find all that is Vintage in Manchester.

And on another quite sad note - you may have noticed that Aija from craftysmiles has not been in blog land for quite some time well yesterday I found out that she has been poorly but thankfully is now on the mend. I thought it would be nice if you popped on over to her blog and gave her a virtual hug.... Aija has been a virtual friend for a couple of years, we send one another parcels of bits and pieces just so the postman is not delivering just brown envelopes and I was worried when I had not heard from her in a while especially over Christmas as Aija is a great fan of Christmas. All was revealed when she emailed me to let me know where she had been. She did say she would be Blogging again soon so.....

Aija we love you - get well soon - We miss your smiling blog.

Well folks - Its Sunday evening so it must be Country File and Sherlock so I am off to grab myself a bag of crisps and a G & T.

Until next time

Take care, keep safe and warm, be happy.

BEVERLEY XX

The First North West Vintage Network Meeting

2012-01-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

Was a success and that was all down to

Alison McMath

http://www.alisonmcmath.com/

Or as we know her

Kitty Wink Vintage Permanent Makeup

http://www.kittywinkvintage.co.uk/

http://www.kittywinkvintage.blogspot.com/

Thought I brushed up quite nicely for a vintage '50s' chick

As you can see lots of gorgeous vintage chic ladies

And you can see Clare in her original vintage frock

Clare is better known on the circuit as Dolly Cool

http://www.dollycool.co.uk/

Love the specs Clare

Next to me was Rebecca who owns

Polka Dots and Pearls

http://www.polkadotsandpearls.co.uk/

Rebecca can offer a wide range of services to provide you with the perfect retro or vintage themed event

Vintage weddings a speciality as she organised her own 50s themed wedding, visit her blog and find out all about it.

polkadotsandpearls.info@gmail.com

Venessa who loves and makes handmade items created with love and care

www.etsy.com/shop/DenAtBeechWood

http://www.denatbeechwood.blogspot.com/

You can just see Victoria (long hair) who with her parents run http://www.vibrantvintage.co.uk/ and organises Vintage Fairs

Victoria's mum and myself sharing a joke or two

Caught on camera by Victoria's Dad - not only is he a wiz with the camera he knows a magic trick or two!

Here are links to many more of the team

Kalandra Jane - http://www.kalandrajanedesigns.com/

http://www.catwalkcreativevintage.co.uk/

Bethany Jane Davis - http://www.bethanyjanedavies.co.uk/

Bethany vintage hair and make up artist

Fiona-Rose Lee - http://www.roseandleevintageliving.co.uk/ (as seen in Vogue)

I cannot go anywhere without making my mark and as you can see

Oops guess who knocked over a full glass of water

Yes that would be me.....

Hope you find time to visit these sites and blogs

You will be so glad you did.

As always take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

How do you start your day

2012-01-08T03:29:00.000-08:00

As I sat having my morning coffee enjoying the morning quietness I began to wonder if others had a morning ritual. I cannot start my day without a large cup of tea which I take back to bed and read for at least half an hour. I then get myself up to have breakfast and while my coffee is brewing I go into the garden to feed the birds. I love to sit and look out on the garden watching nature at play and watching the Seasons unfold.

It was whilst feeding the birds and picking up stray carrier bags (Have you noticed how many supermarket plastic bags find there way into the garden) that I came across these little beauties.

So its seems we have gone from poinsettias to daffodil bulbs in the space of one week.

And not only do I have bulbs sprouting in the garden I spied a Rose bud on a tree - How's that for Global Warming.

Today is the first 'North West Vintage Networking Meeting' and I am off for a visit to Lymm so will come back with lots of photographs (hopefully) of Vintage Ladies (well not actually Vintage ladies but ladies dressed in Vintage) and Vintage gossip.

Enjoy your day whatever you have planned

As always, take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

One week down 51 to go......

2012-01-06T11:35:00.000-08:00

What a dreadful week weather wise

But

what a good week crafting wise.

As most of you know lots of vintage fabric came into my possession late last year and I have been sorting through to decide what to do with it. This is my first project a little 'handy' bag for taking out when I do not need lots of 'lady' stuff.

The exterior is a dark plum wool and the interior is a brushed cotton (I think that is the term) with sprigs of roses - very stylish and very 1960's pinafore dress fabric.

The bag charm was made out of a necklace given to me by my cousin for Christmas her friend makes them - It did come with a silver chain but it is quite heavy so I thought I would re-cycle and use it for an embellishment for the bag. I hope you approve Kath.....

Summer 2010 saw me making plaques out of white ceramic tiles that were about to be taken to the 'tip' and this is my latest design which I think is cute and very true.

When browsing http://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/ I came across this leaflet for cup candles and as I had seen a few at the vintage fair in October and loved them I thought I would have a go at making some. I have a few individual tea cups and saucers that would be ideal for this project so watch this space for the results.

I did not tell you before Christmas but I had a sad few weeks as unfortunately I had to have my cat Sophie euthanized (not sure if I like that word) as she had developed an ulcer on her eye and as my regular followers will remember two years ago she had an eye removed due to ulcers. She had not been herself for a few weeks and if you remember I posted a photo of her curled up in a straw basket and this is what she was doing more and more, finding a dark place to hide and sleep. It was a Sunday evening and she just lay on my lap not wanting to be touched round her face just wanted to lie quiet. That was when I knew her time was coming to an end. I took her to the vets on the Monday morning and that was when I saw just how bad her eye was. She must have been in such pain but now she is at rest and pain free and I had the honour of cradling her in my arms when she took her final breath.

I have added Sophie's picture to the side bar she was a wonderful cat and friend who never gave me an ounce of trouble and she is sadly missed.

Sophie 1993 - 2011

On a lighter note I saw this saying in a book I was reading and I am thinking of having a t-shirt made with this on the front.

Be unafraid

Be very unafraid

A good thought for 2012 don't you think

Until next time - take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Over for another year

2011-12-29T06:07:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful restful Christmas and are now looking forward to

New Years eve

and the dawning of

2012

I thought you might like to see some of my Christmas gifts

As you can see people know me very well

(Upside down book)

Diane Coopers book on Ascension with Vintage fashion and in the background an oversize tea cup

Three things very dear to my heart

My sons girlfriend bought me a lovely silver angel necklace

The book right way up this time and the book Start and run an Internet business should come in very useful.

These lovely Next P.J's are most welcome on a cold winters night

Now I thought you would like to see my baby Christmas tree.... the thought behind this tree is I love to have real Christmas trees and one I bought over 15 years ago is now in my garden. (see below)

This tree started not much larger than the first tree and now it stands mega high so as they say

from an acorn grows - but in this instant from a baby fir grows.......

Well I am off to listen to a meditation CD as feeling a bit frazzled due to Sale's shopping with my daughter

Have a lovely New Years Eve no matter what you are doing and see you all next year.....

Take care, keep safe out there and be happy.

Beverley xx

Merry Christmas to one and all.....

2011-12-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

To all my followers

Wishing you a wonderful

CHRISTMAS

And Many Blessings for

2012

Thank you for persevering with me over the last year

So.....

Eat, drink and forget the calories

Beverley xx

The weather outside is frightful....

2011-12-16T07:50:00.000-08:00

I think my cat Sophie has the

right idea

It maybe snowing outside

But Sophie found the warmest

place in the house....

Enjoy the last weekend before

the fun, stress and over-eating begin.

Take care, keep safe and warm, be happy

Beverley xx

A taste of the 70s

2011-12-13T12:40:00.000-08:00

Another little taste of retro Britain

Here is a piece of fabric out of the vintage stash

And this is what I turned it into.... sorry for not ironing the skirt before photographing but I could not wait to show you.

Another 70s vintage shift dress

I call it coffee and cream daisy and it will be one for the Spring vintage fair.

I read this little piece this morning and I thought I would share with you:

In Italy for thirty years under the Borgia's they had warfare, terror, murder and bloodshed - but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo de Vinci and the Renaissance. In Switzerland, they have brotherly love, five hundred years of democracy and peace and what did they produce? the cuckoo clock

Graham Green

Just something to think on :)

Enjoy the rest of your week

Take care, keep safe and warm, be happy

Beverley xx

1970's Hot Pants

2011-12-10T01:58:00.000-08:00

I promised that I would show you the vintage garments as they are restored to health and so as promised

Early 1970s Hot Pant Suit

Most of the vintage clothes have little alterations and fixing needed. This little beauty needs some TLC on the waist band of the shorts, but the top is fine.

1970s Shift Dress

I quite fell in love with this dress but unfortunately it is a bit big for me

(oh how I did like saying that....)

This is just a quick post to show you I have started on the TLC and will keep you up to date with my progress.

Enjoy your weekend

Take care, keep safe and warm, be happy

Christmas came early to the Holland house.......

2011-12-07T11:17:00.000-08:00

If asked what kind of day have you had? most of us reply 'same old same old' well not for me.... Last night I received a telephone call from a stranger (who turned out to be Santa in disguise) and her question was ' You don't know me but I have been told that you sew vintage dresses - would you like some vintage fabrics' After picking myself up of the floor my answer was 'YES' - Let me tell you I don't need asking twice when it comes to fabrics as you all well know.

Today I went to pick up what I thought would be a couple of bags of fabric - Oh my word..... I was in heaven, at least 6 bin bags of vintage fabrics and clothes would you believe. I crammed them all into my little KA and high tailed it back home. As I was going Christmas shopping I just dropped them off home to look through when I got back.

The following photos are as I pulled each little treasure out of the bags. There are 40 photos in all but I will not put you through sitting for the next hour, I have picked out 15 of my favourite and over the coming weeks I will be washing, sewing, ironing and posting pictures of what I have done with the fabric and clothes. I hope you will follow me on this mammoth journey as I turn the generosity of Ann into lovely items to be cherished.

The dresses have taken me back to the 60s/70s and the 60s Hot Pant Suit I will leave up to you what you think of it and get in line if you want it my daughter has had first dibs.

So come along on a journey back in time and enjoy the experience.

I told you that you would fall in love with this beauty

There is much, much more but you get the idea

I am so thrilled and thankful that Ann has trusted me with her fabrics and dresses and I hope that I can do her proud and use the fabrics to make lovely items that would make Ann proud.

I am now off to find homes for all these lovely treasures - Enjoy your evening and see you back here soon.

Take care, keep safe and warm, be happy

Beverley xx

A wet weekend in Bolton

2011-12-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

It is surprising what you can achieve in one weekend....

Horrocks style Tea Dress

This 'Horrocks' style dress was made from a flat floral sheet and a piece of plain aqua fabric

As you can see the lining of this tote was the left over fabric from the 'Horrocks style' dress and the main body was a remnant left over from another project.

It has been a most horrendous wet weekend here in Bolton so I thought I would spend the weekend catching up on some dressmaking as it is always sunny in my sewing room.....

Saturday evening was spent at my local theatre the Octagon were my friend and myself watched a most unusual adaptation of 'The wizard of Oz. The Octagon Theatre decided they wanted their audience to experience 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz this Christmas so the Theatre commissioned a new version for the Bolton audience. The Theatre was inspired by the bravery of the producers of the MGM 1939 film who commissioned 20 writers to pen the film all those years ago. With this in mind, the Octagon commissioned a team of playwrights to write a new adaptation, book and lyrics. This collaborative writing process was led by the Head of New Writing and the production's Director, Elizabeth Newman. Eight playwrights took up the challenge; these are professional playwrights who are currently on attachment at the Octagon. The Octagon decided they couldn't have a new book and lyrics without new music so original music had to be composed, therefore they asked Barbara Hockaday, also Musical Director, to create a magical new score. Like many other versions, the new adaptation doesn't start in Kansas. it is clear this creative team have the same mission as Baum: to combine magic with the everyday that young people recognise. This is why this version relocates the drama to Bolton, the home or close to the home of its audience.

Dorothy was played by Ellie Paskell who's television appearances include Waterloo Road, Ashes to Ashes, Justice, Shameless, Casualty, The Bill, Holby City, Doctors and Burn it.

My favourite was the Scarecrow played by Paul-Ryan Carberry who mostly appears in theatre productions including As you like it, Merlin and the woods of time at the Grosvenor Park Open Air.

http://www.octagonbolton.co.uk/

Although it was a Christmas production aimed at the younger end the audience was a mix of all ages with gasps of surprise when walking into the auditorium and seeing 'Bolton Market' and not a Kansas Barn on stage.

And finally before I sign off for the night I want to share with you this wedding horseshoe that I found in a drawer at mums when cleaning out a few things last week. It belonged to my Aunt who was mums sister and the wedding date written on the back was 1947.

What a wonderful piece of family history.

Until next time have a lovely week and I hope the snow misses your part of the world.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Horrocks inspired day dress

2011-11-20T06:05:00.000-08:00

I seem to have gotten my sewing mojo back this weekend.

I found this fabulous fabric in my local charity shop last week

and turned it into

HORROCKS INSPIRED DAY DRESS

I have had my moneys worth from this pattern and made a number of dresses not to mention a couple of skirts.

But I have to admit this dress is my favourite so far.

I would also like to share with you a magazine I have been receiving for a few months now Cygnus Review.

Cygnus Review is a magazine that reviews books and also has articles on 'heal your body, feed your soul, free your mind and love your planet. www.cygnus-books.co.uk. I came across it by pure chance and have loved receiving the free magazine and reading about new books that are not always in the book shop. One book that will be at the top of my wish list this Christmas is Am I being kind by Michael J. Chase. Would you like to discover a secret to creating unlimited joy (I sure would) inner peace and the life you've always dreamed of? (that as well).

Am I being kind is a simple transformational mantra that Michael Chase received in meditation, around which he has developed a unique programme for increasing happiness in your life.

Another book that will also be on my wish list is 'Call me when you get to Heaven' by one of my favourite ladies of all time Jacky Newcomb. This book is a moving and compassionate memoir, in which angel and afterlife medium Jacky Newcomb and her sister Madeline celebrate father-daughter bonds, both in this life and beyond, telling their father's life story and then sharing the communications they have received from him since he passed away in February 2008.

There are lots of books on the art of mindfulness, the spiritual path, Enlightenment in the world, health and healing and much much more. I am not promoting this magazine for any other reason than I just love to read and know more about this wonderful world we live in. As I have always maintained 'there is more to this world than we know or understand'. My thirst for knowledge has often gotten me in trouble with my fellow church members as they have one belief and do not have open minds which is wonderful for them but it is not how I feel - I have a thirst for spiritual knowledge and enjoy reading other points of view. So if like me you enjoy reading, exploring yours or others spirituality and enjoy just being in the driving seat of your life have a look at this magazine.

Until we next meet - May you always have an angel by your side.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Up-cycling at its best.....

2011-11-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

Just to let you know I am still busy sewing.

The two skirts have been up-cycled from two rather

boring items into more modern styles.

The skirt below was a mid calf length skirt that I transformed into

The latest 'Skating Skirt'

Below this lovely Hucke skirt was a 'just below the knee' length

now it is 'just over the knee' and would look great with

wool tights and boots

Both these skirts and other 'Beverley' makes can be found on

www.elizabeths-attic.co.uk

Before I sign off for the week I would like to give a review on the film

'The Help'

It is not often I go to the cinema but this film caught my eye and I thought why not, I was in need of a little diversion therapy as my mum is not well at the moment and it is quite distressing and stressful. My daughter came with me and was quite perturbed when she found out how long the film was (146 minutes) but was pleasantly surprised that the time flew as the film was excellent.

It was an uplifting tale of friendship, courage and chocolate pie set in 1960s Mississippi. It's 1963 and the Civil Rights era is dawning in the USA. Fresh out of university, privileged Eugenia 'Skeeter' Phelan (Emma Stone) returns home to small town Mississippi and dreams of becoming a writer. Skeeter finds herself becoming increasingly uncomfortable about the treatment of the town's black 'help' by their white employers, and decides to record their stories. She begins with Aibileen (Viola Davis), a nanny who has spent her life raising white women's children. Next is the rather more outspoken Minny (Octavia Spencer), a talented cook who has been fired by malicious local queen bee Hilly Holbrook (Bryce Dallas Howard). All The 'help' begin one by one giving their stories even though they know it is against the law. If you want more then go and see this wonderful film for yourselves.

Well my cat is calling me - I think she is hungry

So until next time

Enjoy your weekend whatever you are doing.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Cards on the table.

2011-11-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

Yes ladies its that time of year again - when we get writers cramp from all those Christmas cards we send to people that we never speak to during the year. Why do we do it? I have been reading an article and would like to share (as I do) the thinking of a Psychotherapist.

What is that Christmas greeting really saying? If you use a silver or gold pen to write your cards apparently You are fully embracing the spirit of Christmas in fact your probably on your second bottle (cheeky....) if you use a fountain pen and bless you write with calligraphy you have a lot of time on your hands and oodles of taste (well that's me out then) If you use laser-printed sticky labels you are saying 'I hope to work with you in the coming year. Who are you again?' And if like me you use Biro scrawl you are saying 'Damn! I didn't think you'd send me a card. Whats the last posting date before Christmas? Who thinks these things up?

Now for the actual cards. If you choose to send a reproduction of some Renaissance masterpiece, usually the Annunciation of the Adoration of the Magi. Not much smaller (or cheaper) than the original you are saying it's not all about Santa but then again if it's an art-gallery special at five pounds a pop you might just be showing off.... No!..... not my blogging friends surely?

Now down to the bargain box-set. If you receive a badly drawn deer, standing in the snow next to a poinsettia, on card that feels like a biscuit wrapper (I won't judge....) this means in the opinion of Psychotherapist Rachel Morris - 'A cheap card may represent the value the sender puts on your friendship, but so many people are struggling financially these days and this person still thought you were worth the price of a stamp. Is that a good thing or a bad, I can't quite make out what she is getting at.

A black and white windswept beach, scattered with virgin snow. Or a close up of a leaf, lying on the frosted ground with no message (my type of card - great for scrap booking but I digress). Arty cards say I'm too cool for Christmas but I'm not quite brave enough to stand by my convictions and look what good taste I have (really I just thought you got them in the M & S Sale just after Christmas last year) The person who sends these cards apparently by 'In the know' dear old Rachel cares more about what you think of them than what they think of you.

Oh dear..... what twaddle...... Christmas cards are in my humble opinion not so much a statement as a celebration of the holiday if you are not Spiritual and Christs birthday if you are.

I make my own so what does that say about me do you think? I am sure Rachel would have something deep and meaningful to say.

What would dear old Rachel say about a Christmas Card with a picture of these cheeky chappies and more to the point what are these cheeky chappies saying about dear old Rachel?

Your comments please on a postcard (or Christmas card).

Until next time

Take care, stay safe and Be happy.

Beverley xx

7 billion and counting.....

2011-11-03T06:33:00.000-07:00

So it seems we have reached the seven billion people on this lovely planet of ours. Many people see it as a disaster but there are several arguments that can be used against this view. The most important one may be 'What a miserable, gumpy, cynical, snobbish ,wretched way to look at the world. The idea that an increase in population is inevitably a calamity doesn't make economic sense either. Because 5,000 years ago there were probably only around 100 million people on the planet, so if it is true they must have been rolling in it, buying second mud huts as holiday homes. Twenty thousand years earlier there were even fewer people, so they must have been disgracefully decadent, which explains why the Neanderthals died out, as the only species to have partied themselves to extinction. The mistake the pessimists make is in seeing each of us solely as consumers, while forgetting that most of us can also produce. Maybe environmental problems start when some people consume more than they produce. That could be people such as Russian foot-ball club-owning billionaires with 500 million pound yachts, or it might be those Africans who have such little understanding of economics they have the cheek to be cheerful if they manage to stay alive. But it will always be a topic worth discussing and if we could all live in harmony that would be a bonus.

eBay weekly listing

If there are seven billion on this planet lets hope they all visit my web or eBay page ......

If you remember in my last posting I mentioned a new guide to getting the most out of life. 'Dangerous Women - The guide to modern life by Clare Conville'. I thought I would give you a few more of her little insights to ponder. Jewellery for fat days: Whether it's a vintage silk floral corsage or a fabulous bit of bling, jewellery is the best form of armour. Each piece tells a story - and they're great ice-breakers at parties. Use them to dress up an inexpensive outfit or hide behind them on a down day. Who cares if you're wearing the black tent dress again. Excuse me...... black tent dress - I don't think so!

Gossip: If you know and love Les Liaisons Dangereuses, you'll surely agree it's time to bring back lace fans. These are by far the most becoming way of dispensing gossip (which, in case you have forgotten, is what makes the world go round). If you want to become a great gossip, feign ambivalence about everything you hear and everything you say, no matter how juicy. Being blase, in other words, is key. Be sure of your sources at all times but never name names. Preface everything, from behind the proverbial fan, with a comment such as 'You didn't hear it from me,' or 'it might be totally untrue but....' After all, the biter never wishes to be bitten. And there I was thinking a fan was just for a lady of a certain age having a power surge.

And finally Taxis: Never begrudge money spent on cabs. They can save you time, rescue your hair/wardrobes/shoes or all three on a rainy day - and provide an important psychological breathing space in a stressful day. Now there was I thinking a Gin and Tonic or Bar of Chocolate was the answer to a stressful day!

Well that's it from me for today but just one more thing before I leave you all to ponder life, I have just sold my first item from my e-shop and it feels totally fantastic - One of the 7 billion paid my shop a visit and went away a totally happy bunny.

Until next week

Take care, stay safe and be happy

Beverley xx

eBay listing of the week

Go tell it on the mountain.....

2011-10-25T02:16:00.000-07:00

Over the hills and everywhere - Go tell it on the mountain - Beverley has cracked her site....

Well friends I have finally cracked the workings of my e-shop. The site has actually been up and running for over a month but I just could not get to grips with posting garments onto the site. For some reason it just did not compute. I have to say that Mike my web designer has been most patient with me but I am sure in private he has been tearing his hair out as I know I was a pain. The thing is I need to know how things work, I get bogged down in the detail and I know it. But yesterday on Northwest news there was a part showing 'Give an hour' and people had been giving an hour to show the elderly how to get on line. My hero Gordon Burns said that he drives a car but he does not know the mechanics of how the car works and that is what you must do with the computer just get on and not worry how it works. This hit home with me and I thought that is precisely what I am 'sweating the small stuff'. So this morning bright and early I told myself today I will crack the code and post at least two items.

Huck Woman - Wool Skirt

Here is my first item - Vintage 80's 'Huck Woman' wool swing skirt with front diagonal panel.

Fully lined - UK 14s

This skirt has been up-cycled from a mid length skirt (Midi) to just over the knee. In my opinion it would look lovely with thick black tights and boots.

Navy and Cream full skirt

My second posting was this lovely M&S skirt that again I have up-cycled into the new 'Skating Skirt' length. It is a lovely fit with lots of fabric.

UK 14s

High heels would turn this into a lovely evening skirt.

Both these skirts would not break the bank at £4.50

On a different note I was chuckling to myself over the weekend after reading an article 'Women look their best for just two hours and 23 minutes after leaving the house in the morning'

That long..... I should be so lucky. By the time I have put out the washing (weather permitting) made sure the cat is safely indoors by looking under every car within a half mile radius usually in the rain and in which case I forgo the washing on the line but need to feed my bird friends. rushed up and down stairs at least four time because by the time I get upstairs I have forgotten what it is I was rushing up for so come down only to realise when I do get down it was to find my mobile, keys, purse etc... So up I go again. This is usually enough to put paid to the notion that there is actually a point to owning a hairbrush.

I was also reading at the weekend (Ladies take note) Allure: this has nothing to do with looks, (good job see previous paragraph) Know who you are, and like who you are, and you'll get all the attention you desire. Celebrities don't have true allure - But you can. How I hear you all shout well go read Dangerous Women, The guide to modern life by Clare Conville. Do you think she will have a paragraph on how to look good with your head under a car shouting 'Sophie.... Puss Puss?

Have a truly wonderful week and see you back here real soon.

Beverley xx

The new old world of Vintage

2011-10-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

Since embarking on the vintage trail and setting up my own store I have found in general choosing a vintage dress can be more economical, they cost from as little as £5 which in today's climate makes a whole wardrobe of sense!

I am finding the most popular era and style of dress seems to be the 1950s. Its a fun period (and the best people were born in that era) It's a fun period with great music, dances and cars and the fashions felt very liberating after the war years. Tea length/ballerina length dress styles from this period are flattering for most with the full circle skirts using lots of net and lace underskirts.

With period fashions now a prominent feature on the catwalk, high street and small screen (The house of Elliot is on its third re-run and still pulling in the ratings). Increased demand for vintage clothing, coupled with that of collectors and museums eager to snap up original pieces, confirms that the market is a healthy one to invest in.

The Mad Men factor has contributed significantly to demand for mid-century fashions, such as 1950s sun dresses, 1960s shifts and lady-like handbag's. With contemporary designers recently reviving the styles of the 1970s, original maxi dresses and jumpsuits are also enjoying a peak in popularity.

Lady-like handbag

Dont forget the vintage emporium its all about cosy living - mixing the old and traditional with new vintage style. And as they say

Vintage it's all in the detail.....

Choose from the real thing, vintage inspired or from the high street

Now is a fun time to be in the world of fashion.

Enjoy your world and until next time

Take care, stay safe, Be Happy

Beverley xx

The world is such a small place

2011-10-10T08:03:00.000-07:00

I found yesterday just how small our world is - I have been following a blog and little did I know that the young lady who's blog it was lived local to me www.vavavoomvintage.blogspot.com so pop on over to see the photo's of the vintage fair I participated in. the pictures on her blog are far superior to mine. Also visit Clare at http://www.dollycoolclare.blogspot.com/ another Northern Lass from my home town. Clare was my neighbour at the fair and gave me lots of free advice and made me feel right at home. She shared selling space with her sister Elaine who made lovely smelly candles, the lavender aroma 'wafting' up from their corner was enough to make everyone in the room feel nice and relaxed.

You can tell by my photographs it was my first vintage fair 'Vintage Fairs by Victoria Claire' but I will be more organised at my next one.

I have had such a busy few months what with setting up my web shop www.elizabeths-attic.co.uk and at the same time sorting items for the fair - when I finally got home yesterday I began to realise my mind and heart are 21 but my body and spirit are 58 and oh boy did I need a large G & T.

Before I finish for today I want to tell you vintage chicks out there that there is a new magazine on the circuit called Vintage explorer. www.vintagexplorer.co.uk issue one Winter 2011 was given out free at the fair yesterday and it is a most amazing magazine - The best of Vintage in the UK they even have a section for 'Mantiques' which would be good for all you ladies with boyfriends and husbands who might be interested in such things. If you like the magazine and subscribe you will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a 1930s Kaiser Idell desk lamp worth in excess of £200 now that can't be bad can it?

I am now off to write more descriptions for items going into my shop. I feel my web designer has become my N.B.F. and I will miss him when I take my first steps into the world of 'Web Design'(after a tutorial I might add) but it is exciting if a little scary.

Enjoy the rest of your week -

And a Big North West Hug to my new visitors.

Take care, Keep Happy, Stay Safe

Beverley xx

Elizabeth's Attic Up and Running

2011-10-01T03:30:00.000-07:00

Today Elizabeth's Attic goes live

Please pay me a visit and leave me your comments.

I hope to source and create vintage inspired garments, accessories and home ware at affordable prices.

My hand made garments will be sourced from re-claimed, vintage and new fabrics made with love and care just for you.

If like me you adore vintage I hope to see you in my shop.

http://www.elizabeths-attic.co.uk/

These are just a selection for more visit my website.

Until we meet again

Take care

Beverley

Surprises in the post

2011-09-22T05:10:00.000-07:00

In my last post I mentioned that I had received a lovely parcel

of vintage thread from Verna and here they are

it was so kind and thoughtful of Verna to think about me when she stumbled upon all this thread.

They winged all the way from Georgia USA and will be adding style and authenticity to my

Inspired Vintage Collection

You have probably heard of a butter mountain or meat mountain well here is my fabric mountain

and growing by the week.

My Vintage Fair rail - oops not one of my better photos

I am getting rather excited if not a bit anxious about the fair - and on top of all that I am having a new website created something I have been toying with for a while. As most of you know I sell on eBay but I wanted somewhere I could showcase my dresses and other vintage garments (Made or bought) and now it seems that it is to become a reality. I will keep you all informed of progress but until then.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Pretty in Purple

2011-09-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

As promised

My final Dress

Pretty in Purple

The following photos are of my latest design this sumptious faux silk fully lined

50s tea dress.

This ballet length dress is fully lined and constucted from re-claimed fabric.

Curtains would you believe.

The dress hangs wonderfully and feels devine and would be ideal as a prom or wedding outfit.

If it was not destined for my stall at the vintage fair next month it would have winged its way into my wardrobe..... sob sob.

I would also like to thank Verna Mason for the fabulous aray of threads that arrived yesterday. These vintage spools will add authentisity to my creations.

'Vintage Inspired'

Elizabeth

More about the thread and fabrics in my next post but I did not want to overload you good ladies.

Have a lovely Sunday

Until next time

Peace, Love, Joy always.

Beverley xx

Swinging 60s

2011-09-13T13:28:00.000-07:00

Carniby Street

Petty Coat Lane

Camden Market

Bolton Vintage Fair.....

Swinging 60s shift dress

60s Mini Dress

These are my latest creations

The shift dress was made out of a piece of fabric rescued from under a table at Saturdays table top sale. It was all scrunched up but after a bit of TLC made this wonderful little dress. This is the first time I have attached sleeves in many a year and I am so pleased with the result - This may find its way into my wardrobe and not the fair.

The two mini dresses complete with cutout shoulders and patch pockets are constructed from cotton sheets so not bad for £6.00 the pair. My daughter has her eye on the red one but she must get in line no favouritism in this game.

'House of 'Elliot'

Eat your heart out there is a new designer on the block.

One more creation to show you

A purple Silk prom dress

But you will have to wait a while my 'treadle foot' has gone to sleep.

Until next time

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley

Anyone for tea.....

2011-09-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

And here is the final

dress in the 50s style

The photo is not one of my best

and unfortunately you cannot see the print very well as it is a small floral pattern but just cast your mind back to your summer school dress and you will get the picture.

My next project will be the 60s mini so those should be fun.

I hope you have enjoyed seeing my

'Vintage Inspired' dresses made from reclaimed fabric and vintage patterns.

If you would like to see all four dresses just click on my Vintage Inspired page.

Thank you for your support

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

And Another .....

2011-09-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

50s Inspired Dress

The fabric for this one was a thicker cotton and I am not sure if it is the right fabric for this sort of dress but you live and learn - my next and final 50s dress is in a lovely blue cotton and I am looking forward to making this one up.

The main body of the dress will be in the flowery fabric (you can just see it peeking out to the left of the photo) and the embellishment is the more intricate fabric you see.

All will be revealed next week but I am having a day off sewing and concentrating on the 'H' word today

Yes you got it 'housework'.... Apparently Autumn is the new Spring when it comes to cleaning. After the children have gone back to school (but not in my case) and the summer sun has gone (what Sun?) it makes us all want to baton down the hatches give our homes a good clean in readiness for the 'C' word... and I will not mention that just yet.

Have a great weekend and do whatever you are doing with a smile.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

3nd Dress in the dressathon.... 50s style

2011-08-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the 3rd Dress in the

Dressathon

I am very pleased with this dress

and it is such a shame that we are

now in Autumn

(not that we had any summer to speak of)

this would have been a dream to wear

on hot sultry evenings.

Those who are following this saga will know these dresses are being made from vintage fabric supplied by my daughter (out of the loft of her new home) See previous blogs

When I showed this dress to my 87 year old mum she remarked that I would have done very well during the war as they made dresses and coats and such like from any fabric they could lay there hands on. If anyone managed to snag a parachute then it was all hands on deck for silk underwear.

So if any of you thrifters at home and abroad see a parachute by the side of the road please remember me.....

Until my next instalment which will be a

60s 'Twiggy look' dress

Have a wonderful and peaceful week.

Beverley xx

problem leaving and receiving comments?

2011-08-28T01:42:00.000-07:00

Is anyone having trouble

leaving and receiving

comments?

I seem not to be able to leave comments on my favourite blogs. it is since I changed to my new laptop - so if anyone else is having difficulties or have had difficulties but sorted them out

please email me as I am missing leaving comments to you wonderful people. I have tried to find a contact number or email for blogger but it seems to be hiding :)

Thank you and have a lovely Sunday.

Beverley xx

Bank holiday weekend (so soon)

2011-08-26T01:19:00.000-07:00

It is the last bank holiday weekend before Christmas - How time flies when you are wearing your wellies with your summer frocks..... As most of you know I have been blogging for ages and one of the bug bears of mine is the photo's. I am rubbish or should I say was rubbish. But now a friend 'Step up Lynn and take a bow' has shown me a few rudimentary steps to taking photos and I am getting a bit better. How was I to know that if a red hand was in the corner of the screen it meant my photo was blurry.... come on it could be saying 'STOP' that's what red lights usually mean and I just thought no camera of mine is telling me when to stop taking photos.....

One of the wants on my 'Freecycle' wish list was a tripod and never in a million years did I think that someone would list a camera tripod on freecycle but.....

Looksee.... what Beverley got yesterday

I may not be lucky in love but I sure am lucky with Freecycle and I have been out and about snapping photos and not a red hand in sight so here are a couple for your delight.

And no tripod picture would be complete without a self photo... (is there such a word)

My daughter said I am a fashion disaster with the orange/black combo but hey what does she know? right!

Enjoy your bank holiday, and if its a rainy one don't grumble, just think we could be having it worse, we could be having a hurricane. Love, prayers and thoughts to our cousins in the USA.

Until next time

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

2nd Dress in the dressathon....

2011-08-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

Here is the second in the

Vintage Dressathon

I am pleased with this dress more

than my first

The side panels on this dress are in block pink (from the pillow cases) and the arms and neck have been bound rather than using facing as with my last dress. This gives the neck a 'boat' shape rather than round. It is very 50s.

You can see the neck better in this photo

You can see the side panel a little better in this photo.

Now for a something completely different. I have a friend all the way from Meerkovo and his name is Bogdan. He arrived at my door last week when he was picked up by the postkat in Meerkovo on his long journey to the UK (although postkat have worse sense of direction than penguin in Sahara) Captain Borislav brought him on his ship the Meer-maid were they navigated cold, unforgiving, mongoose-pirate infested waters all way to UK. Bogdan is a local pup who studies at Meerkovo primary. Since his favourite website crash with people looking for insurance he has started to act naughty and get bad grades. Bogdan also holds record for longest time under dunce cap.

Yakovs toy shop 'Bogdan'

Don't you just love him and you can have a friend all the way from Meerkovo if you know your meerkat from your market...

Enjoy the rest of your week

Peace Love and Joy always

Beverley xx

From quilt to dress in one afternoon

2011-08-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

I promised to let you see the finished

product from the vintage

fabric (quilt) recently received.

This is the fabric and pattern

Vintage inspired dress

Not quite the same as the picture on the pattern, perhaps its because there is no Hat....

Unfortunately 'Doris' is on the

large side so the dress was

just pinned to the form

but it did the trick.

So what have you been up to this weekend?

Have a lovely Sunday

See you all soon

Peace Love Joy Always

Beverley xx

All for me.....

2011-08-17T07:57:00.000-07:00

I promised you some photos

of the lovely vintage

items my daughter

gave me

so as promised

One of the many padded coat hangers

There are many more these are just a few

Curtains (isn't this fabric just Divine)

Two embroidered pictures (so sweet)

There are many cotton sheets and quilt covers that are hand made far too many to photograph but for those of you who have been following my ramblings you may remember last summer I did the fabric challenge. I used up all my fabric stash by making lots of items. This is my new challenge to turn all the fabric into vintage style dresses and skirts and post each one in the making so watch this space.

Finally can anyone tell me what this is?

I have absolutely no idea what it is

Could it be an LP stand (for you younger people records)

A pat on the back for anyone who can tell me what it is.

So until next time

Peace Love Joy always

Beverley xx

Vintage inspired dress

2011-08-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Thank you Elizabeth

For the wonderful fabric

that inspired this dress

This chic and stylish dress made from a simplicity pattern

just came together in an afternoon

Unfortunately there was not enough for the bodice lining so

a little inspiration was needed when fixing the collar

So Elizabeth I hope you approve and once again thank you.

Until we next meet up

Peace, love and joy always

Beverley xx

Monday musings

2011-08-15T00:03:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all you bloggers and thrifters it is a while since I was able to do my blogging while drinking my morning tea. My old laptop was in such a sorry state that it took me ages to just log on to retrieve my emails, never mind writing down my musings and other stuff. I now have this lovely new laptop and Internet life will be much quicker, but also much more expensive as it will be easier to browse, click and spend.....

Many months ago I received a lovely 'give-a-way'this lovely piece of fabric. Now this will sound so dumb but I forgot who I got it from so if that person is reading these musings will they please get in touch.

I made a lovely dress with the fabric which I will post when I have taken a picture. If the weather stays dry I will be out in the garden with 'Doris' clicking and snapping away so come back to take a look.

On my travels to check out vintage items for my up and coming fair I visited my local Sunday Car boot and came across this wonderful little unit.

The photos do not do it justice but the stock was remarkable. When I got chatting to the owner he told me that most of his sales came from selling at themed nights, 40s and 70s dance nights, and also vintage weddings. He took his stock to the venue on the themed night and people bought from him, very enterprising don't you think?

I was amazed at just how many people were browsing (and buying) his wares. I had my eye on a lovely sewing basket full of cottons and lace and I just hesitated for a split second and someone grabbed it so here is a lesson 'You snooze You loose'.

Well folks I am off now to get my breakfast and start my day. I wish you all a Lovely and Blessed week and I will be back here with the picture of my crafting skills (60s dress) very soon.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

What a difference a new computer makes!

2011-08-12T04:45:00.000-07:00

Vintage Blouse by Rene Derhy

I have treated myself to a Samsung Laptop but

Now all I need is a decent camera for taking decent photos.

But on a more personal note my daughter and partner are moving this weekend into there new home. From an apartment to a 1950s semi and I am thrilled with all the junk oops sorry vintage items that are coming my way. The lady who had the house before had an attic full of vintage fabric, cotton's bedding, pictures and the list goes on and guess what - Yes that's right it is all coming my way. I only wish I could take the tiles off the kitchen walls before the hammer gets taken to them as they are 70s retro orange (Oh the mouth waters) and the kitchen cupboards and walk in pantry are to die for. I could move in as it stands but alas it is not me that is moving into this house.

The garden is huge and I have laid claim to my bit at the bottom which I will be turning into a vegetable patch (with my daughters consent of course) and I am already looking at greenhouses for next year.....

So once I have a decent camera I will be out snapping pictures to show you the before and after and with a bit of luck and an east wind I may even get the tiles off the wall without smashing..... fingers crossed girls....

So on this wet and blustery 'Summer' day I will sign off and wish you a wonderful weekend and don't do anything I wouldn't do.

Take care,keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Bolton Vintage and Retro Fair well and truly happening....

2011-08-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

I trust you all had a lovely weekend enjoying the sunshine which was a welcome change from the rain of recent weeks.

I can now inform you that 

Bolton's first Vintage/Retro Fair is well and truly happening

On the Sunday 9th October 2011

The Mercury Hotel

Bolton

I am so looking forward to this my first fair, and knowing I had a hand in organising the event makes it so much more exciting.

For those of you who can make it to the North of England please know that you will be most welcome.

Now all I have to do is source my stock......

I am also selling vintage and retro on eBay starting with one or two items but hopefully by the end of the year I will have ramped it up to much more - so please keep on popping in to see what I am offering in the way of bargains.

This little beauty will be winging its way to my eBay and just so you know the flower is hand made silk sourced from a lovely lady in Wiltshire.  The hat is cream from 'Next' not exactly vintage but vintage looking (very 1920s)

Until next time have a lovely week keep on thrifting

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Please feel free to contact me on holland8bw@btinternet.com

if you have any queries

Treasure among the Trash.....

2011-07-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

This is my

Monday (well actually my Sunday)

Find....

I have always wanted one of these

work boxes ever since I was

a little girl and my

Gran had one.

I would play with it for hours

and that is exactly

what I did today

What have you found today?

Keep hunting

Keep Safe

Be Happy

Beverley xx

Good Morning on this bright and sunny day

2011-07-23T00:35:00.000-07:00

I am feeling very uplifted today, the sun is shining and all is well with the garden and world

After a good old tidy the flowers are beginning to look less bedraggled and rain soaked

But I have one confession to make

I have the mother of all impulse buy.....

From this to ......

This......

In one weekend.....

Oh well a girl has got to treat herself sometimes

And chocolate puts on pounds.

So until next time I am off out for a drive.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Retro Rocks

2011-07-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of my charity shop finds

Firstly these lovely 70s coasters in the usual brown and orange

Secondly a 60s Mallod Tea Tray

Lovely Retro Brown Swirls

These and more can be found on my ebay by clicking on the ebay tab at the top of my blog

I hope you all enjoyed the lovely sunshine pity it won't last through to the weekend

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Watch out there is a hedgehog about

2011-07-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

What a shock when I went out into the garden to put out the rubbish..... this little fella was helping himself to the cat food I had put out for a stray cat that had been visiting us (or was it the stray cat that had been eating the food).

It was such a shock as I had never seen hedgehogs around the garden before and this little fella can not be that old. I am not sure if it is OK to feed them cat food but he seemed to be enjoying the feast. But when Sophie (my cat)came home along the fence She stopped dead when she saw this interloper and as she approached, the little man rolled into a ball and was completely still, so Sophie head in the air strolled on past and into the house.

So if anyone knows how to take care of hedgehogs please feel free to give me your instructions but until I hear to the contrary I will keep on putting out food and water and keeping an eye out for the little man.

So up to date I have a one legged pigeon, a scruffy blackbird a stray ginger tom and now this little fella to keep me busy....

One things for sure when these berries ripen there will be plenty of food for all my feathered visitors.

Until next time

 Take care, Keep safe, be Happy

Beverley xx

Who said car insurance was simple?

2011-07-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

I just want to warn you ladies not to take the first

quote for car insurance that comes your way.

I received my car renewal today and was amazed

to note that it was near enough £700.

Do I drive a Jag

NO.... I drive a Ford Ka 2002

I was devastated so decided to let my fingers do the

walking and went to

WWW.comparethemarket.com

For a few minutes of work I saved myself

£300

Simple...

 Ebay Listings

I have as you all know been trying to

learn how to add links within

the body of my blog well I think I 

have finally figured it out.

ebay listing 

If you click on the above it should take 

you to my ebay page and a lovely

vintage 'festival' dress I managed

to source from my favourite

charity shop

Bolton Hospice

I hope you like the dress

and as you can see 'Doris'

models it wonderfully

Now all I need to do is find out

why my photos sometime

become blurry....

Until next time

Take care, keep safe, keep driving and most of all

Keep happy.

Beverley xx  

Beverley's Big Giveaway

2011-07-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

1991 Singer - Sewing Projects for the Home

Over the weekend I had a good sort through my book shelf.  I have hundreds of books fiction and non fiction.  I came across this lovely book that was given to me by a retired needlework teacher when she kindly gave me lots of fabrics through the freecycle network.  I am offering this book to whoever can give it a good home.  I also have a number of 2010 Threads magazines so if you just leave me your details either by leaving a comment or email and I will post either the book or the magazine (I have 5) to whoever is interested.

Saturday was the day I had my stall - It was one of the hottest days of the year and although we thought it would be great for us it turned out not so good.  We think that the sunshine made people think of gardens, ice cream, seaside, and beer and Not walking round various stalls in a church hall.

Elizabeth's Attic Vintage

I did quite well considering and when I came home my next door neighbour had a rummage and bought a necklace, cream throw and a punch bowl from the USA which has been cluttering up my attic for 10 years so I am glad that went to a good home.

On a slightly different note - You either love them or hate them. What is your preference.

Ready, Steady, Go...

Move over darling

Excuse me!!!! Why is it always my turn for Cat patrol?

Run......... 

Until Next Time

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

New Tabs Added To My Heading....

2011-07-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have added new tabs to the top of my blog

page. I seem to be getting to grip

with this new technology (At last)

Here are a couple of photo's of Sophie to brighten your weekend.

Now you see me

Now you see me again.....

Enjoy your weekend and see you back here soon

Take Care, Keep Safe, Be Happy

Beverley xx

Give away at - Zootsuitmamablogspot......

2011-06-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to say click on the title above which should take you to Zootsuitmama for her pirex giveaway

Good Luck

Beverley xx

Thrifty Wednesday

2011-06-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

I thought I would join in thrifting Monday but as it is Wednesday I am sorry I am a couple of days late

Above on Dorris (yes I named her Dorris) is an exquisite Cirro Scarf bought for 30p

How do you like this 1919 Limoges Porcelain side Plate (jewellery mine) bought for 50p

And finally this tranquil green leaf 'Crown Derby' saucer come shallow dish (again jewellery mine).

All these items came to less than £2.00 and can be found on my eBay from tomorrow.  

I am finding that eBay is much more profitable than Etsy even though Etsy has lots more vintage and crafty items than eBay. But for some reason and this may only be my perception, both times I have tried Etsy I just do not seem to be able to break into the 'gang' so its back to eBay for me and at least I do sell frequently.  I have just posted five small 70s orange and white ramekins to Norway and it gives me such a buzz knowing that these items will be in another country and another home and I helped them to get there.

Well folks I am off to get my tea - so until next time as always

Take care, keep safe be happy

Beverley xx

I MADE IT TO 70.......

2011-06-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

I did it - I made it to 70

I know this is nothing to you bloggers who are up in the thousands

but I have been on 69 followers for what seems like an eternity and I just wanted

to get to 70 so a big thank you to number 70

Miss Magpie

Lots of you have been asking what is my intention for my 'Dummy'
(Those of you who have not been to see me before it is a Dummy I was kindly given)

The answer is:

I am hoping to start organising Vintage Fairs in my home town and although
We have a University and diverse population this is something that I feel
is missing, so I thought I would see if I could arrange something.

I have sent emails to the local newspaper and a few secondary schools who
hold community days to see if they may be interested and then I will see who I can rope in to join me.

There is a young lady in the area who has just started as a vintage trader on one of the local markets
her name is Victoria and believe it or not she has given up being a Barrister to set up this new venture

Vibrant Vintage by Victoria Claire

I am not sure if she has a web site or blog but just watch out for her in the future.

So it seems that Vintage may be coming to Bolton.....

So the 'Form' or 'Dummy' will come in very handy.

I also sell on ebay so again this will be good for display purposes.

Now before I finish I just want to show you something I made today.

I like to cut out pictures from magazines or newspapers or anything really that has something that catches my eye.

Can you guess what this is from?

No......

Well what about this

Still not got it

Maybe this will help

OK.... I will put you out your misery

Its from an advert of

Naughty Alice by Vivienne Westwood......

I just love Vivienne Westwood fragrances so it is my tribute to her.

Well that's it my blogging friends

Until next time

As always

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Pot, Paste and Paper

2011-06-22T07:54:00.000-07:00

Old plastic utensil pot

When I was clearing out a few cupboards at my mums the other day I came across this old plastic pot that my mum has had for many years.  I was about to consign it to the 'bin' when I thought hold it!!!! recycle, recycle recycle.

Marilyn Monroe wallpaper

In my stash of 'May come in handy' I had some Marilyn Monroe wallpaper (courtesy of a viking raid on B & Q) which I thought might do for covering the pot.

More wallpaper

And as you can see - It came in very handy.....

I am not sure what I will use the pot for but I am sure something will come to mind.

Until next time 

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

If You Don't Ask - You Don't Get

2011-06-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

As they say if you don't ask

 You don't get!

And as you can see I got

When I travel home from my mum's I pass a building that houses a sewing and design company.  When held up in traffic I gaze into the windows and many a time I see the young designers beavering away at designer stuff.  I also see many of these dummies just standing around doing nothing.  So today I decided to ask if they had any that they no longer needed.  And guess what my blogging chums.

THEY DID.....

Not only that, but the kind man even put it into my car for me

 So a lesson learned here

If in doubt 

ASK

Have a lovely week

And until next time take care, keep safe, be happy (and lucky)

Beverley xx

Happy Sunday with (Inn on the prom)

2011-06-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

A typical June Friday in Lytham St. Annes

Or is it????

As Frank Sinatra once said 'In England if you wait a minute the weather will change' or something like that....

Well in this case he sure was correct. Friday afternoon was bleak and black and everyone had jumpers and macs to keep out the rain and cold - Hey! but wait what is that over the horizon? Yes you guessed the sun....

Mrs. Puddle Duck was feeling the heat

Where on earth did I put it?

And last but not least the bedroom

Before the jumble of clothes took over.

On Thursday my daughter invited me to go along with her to Lytham St. Anne's as she was going on an overnight work related course. The whole course was run in a lovely hotel 'Inn on the prom' and if you want to see the hotel in all its glory I have linked it in with my blog title. This is the only way I know how.

While Beth was on the course I had a browse round the shops and it was nice that a local church was having an open day and craft fair so that was nice. I had a walk along the pier and ate ice cream which no seaside day trip would be complete without.

So thank you Bethany for the invite - A good time was had by all.

Until next time

Take Care, Keep safe, be happy,

Beverley xx

From table top to fire plinth... In one afternoon

2011-06-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

Please accept my apologies for the state of this photo but you will get the gist.....

Those of you who follow my blog on a regular basis will remember that earlier in the year I managed to bag myself a 'free' fire from our local 'freecycle' and you will also know that it did not give out much heat.  I was advised by one or two people to lift it off the carpet a little as the heat comes from the fan underneath.

I have been wondering how to do this on a 'shoe string' and came up with the following:

Pictures getting better - table top

Having an Ikea basics table hidden under the stairs (as we all have...) I decided that perhaps I could put the top to use.

One pack of B&Q tiles

Off I trotted to my favourite store of all times and bought myself a pack of self-adhesive floor tiles in a slate style.  But when the packet says 'self-adhesive' do not believe them because every time I turned around one had fallen off - so out came the 'No Nails' and the job's a good'en as my old dad would have said. Not that they had 'No Nails' in the 50s and his idea of sticking two things together was a nail and a hammer.....

'Pretend' Slate Plinth

And as you can see not bad for an afternoons work and all for under £12......

So friends It seems Miss make do and mend is back - Now what else can I transform?

Until we next meet

Take care, keep safe, be happy.

Beverley xx

Prayer Chair and Contemplation

2011-06-08T01:56:00.000-07:00

Those of you who have followed my ramblings for many a year will recognise the above chair and how I recently covered it with a vintage M & S (Marks and Spencers for the uninitiated) bed sheet and how it had been changed many times over the years .  What I have never told you was how this chair came into my possession and why when I finally pass this chair on which I no doubt will need to do in the foreseeable future as I am in the middle of downsizing, a hugh part of my heart will go with this chair. 

When I became divorced nearly 20 years ago I left the marital home and did  a moonlight flit - This is not important but what is important is that I left with what few possession's I had in a transit van and what I could fit in my then car, a mini metro (oh what a car! - do you know you can get 7 supermarket shopping bags in the boot of a mini - bet you didn't know that ?)

I had very few pieces of furniture and had to start all over again, my dining table set was one of those plastic white garden tables with four plastic chairs.  It was very versatile especially in the summer..... but when browsing the second hand shops I came across this chair and fell in love with it.  I did not know until many years later that it was from Ikea when I was giving it its first make over, I spotted the tag and who would have thought that an Ikea chair would last this long - 'Lets give Ikea a cheer'....

As time went on I began to accumulate furniture (as you do...) and this chair was then down graded into my kitchen I just could not bring myself to actually get rid of it, it was such a comfy chair and it knew too much about me - yes this was the chair I laughed and cried in but always felt a sense of calm when sitting in it.

Time passed and it was then I began to notice that whoever came to see me and for whatever reason they would always graduate towards the chair.  Many times I would be stood in my kitchen while the person who had called sat in this chair, and I never felt the need to tell them 'to move into the lounge' I would stand and chat while they sat.  Usually they came to ask advice or just talk over something that was important to them.

When I began to discuss my move and how I would need to downsize and maybe it was time for the chair to go my daughter asked if she could have it - Now my daughter as some of you might know is a very trendy modern young lady and this was the last thing I would have expected from her.  When I asked why she surprised me by saying that she always felt safe when sitting in the 'Contemplation' chair and things never seemed as bad when talking about them sitting in the chair..... 

It has led me to 'contemplate' were did this chair originate and who had it before me?  Because it is too much a coincidence that so many people have passed through my home and so many of them have sat in the chair and far too many of them have said how they feel better to ignore.

Has anyone else ever come across anything like this?  If so we would all love to hear, there is too much doom and gloom in the world and something uplifting would be a welcome change.

Speaking of uplifting things - I fell asleep yesterday (not in my chair) on the sofa and had the strangest dream and here it is:  I was sat in the lounge and my daughter barged in through the door at high speed to ask do scarecrows have ground up sticks for hair? to which I replied don't be silly its hay and for someone who has a degree in business law (which she does by the way) I would have thought you would have known that.

Now what on earth was all that about - anyone out there able to make sense of it for me?

Until we next get to together - take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair

2011-06-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

Judy's Vintage Fair Leeds

Hello my blogging friends,

I am just back after a lovely afternoon with my daughter in Leeds. I am a big follower of Judy's Vintage Fair site and today there was a fair in Leeds. I went along with my daughter thinking I would initiate her into the Retro Vintage way of life but heavens above she was like a child in a sweet shop. She was here there and everywhere and it was just so nice to have something that we both enjoyed.

I was enthralled at the dresses 'that I wore many moons ago' and Bethany was dazzled by the handbags and jewellery and we both enjoyed watching the people dressed in retro and vintage milling around.

I would have liked to get a few pictures of these 'retro' people but with privacy laws being what they are I thought I would just keep my photos general.

Corn Exchange Leeds

The Corn Exchange in Leeds is a fabulous building and not only did it house the Vintage Fair today but it also is home to lots of individual shops selling lots of individual items. Beth was keen on a store that sold clothes from the USA and a red maxi dress was a hit - myself I thought it looked like something from the 'flake' advert and all was missing was a straw floppy hat - but hey what do I know.

The whole experience brought back happy memories of the days gone by when my mum made most if not all my clothes and I am sure if I had had more time and really hunted through the rails I would have come across one or two of them.

I am so looking forward to Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair rolling into Manchester now that will be something to see.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend and until we next meet

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Home Safe and Sound

2011-05-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

View of Malaga Castle from the park

Ladies I am back! and glad to report a good time was had by all.  The weather although mixed was much better than you all had back here in Blighty.

View of 'Spanish Flea Market'

I felt right at home at the local 'flea market' and had such a lovely time rummaging through all the goods on sale.

 Lots on offer 

It was so odd seeing all the different things on sale from the usual 'mobile chargers' through to lots of ethnic items and in between lots of Spanish antiques but one item that I really wish I could have brought home with me was a large (and I mean large) framed picture of Audrey Hepburn this was on a retro stall - yes they even have retro on the 'Costa del a Sol'.

Before I love you and leave you I want to let you know that the 2nd Anniversary Blogging give a way goes to Louise of Sew Scrumptious.  So thank you all for your lovely comments and here's to another two years of my ramblings.

Sorry this is such a short post but I have just set my MP3 player on fire...... well not on fire but I smelt burning and noticed it had melted whilst on charge.....

Oh well - back to reality.

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx 

Happy May Day

2011-04-30T23:03:00.000-07:00

As another Birthday Approaches

I have well and truly crossed over to the other side....

And I now need to take note of

My own words....

Yes my dear readers this month brings another birthday for Beverley... and when browsing in Dunelm Mill I saw this pretty shopper and I thought 'What an appropriate item' for a lady who not only loves pink, spots, anything quirky and needs that little bit more help with the shopping..... My son was mortified and said 'If I thought I was using it when out with him, I had another think coming' now ladies I thought my son had more class than that and as for my daughters comments well I just could not harm your ears.....

And as most of you know I have been blogging for nearly two years and did promise a little while ago that I would be giving away a few surprise items. As you can see from the little taster below I have put together a few bits and pieces so if you would like to be in with a chance of 'bagging' yourself a surprise package just leave your details and if you could maybe add my link (not sure how you do that but you very clever ladies will know) to your own blogs then maybe others could be in with a chance too. I will be picking the lucky winner when I get back from my travels in a couple of weeks.

Have a wonderful relaxing May Bank Holiday

Weekend

And see you all back here real soon

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xxx

He is Risen....

2011-04-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day we had today for our first ever

Passion Play

The crowds started arriving from 11am jostling for a good spot. The play was being shown on the town hall steps with two big screens on either side.

Children from local schools entertained us with singing - they were magnificent

It was then the turn of the grown-ups - This performance has been two years in the making

Actors and Back Stage Staff from all walks of local life

Professionals to Novices

Everyone was involved

Jesus was played by Jog Maher

He was superb

I am just sorry I could not get photos from the steps and only on the screens

But I hope you feel the energy and PASSION

Town Hall Steps - Golgotha

I jostled through the crowds just to get this one picture

When the cross rose - the sun went behind a cloud and a young girl behind me drew in her breath and that said it all for me.

I not only felt proud to call myself a Christian

But also part of the family of my town

BOLTON....

Well done Bolton.

Until next time - Enjoy your Easter Sunday the best day of the year....

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx

Sewing, Thrifting, Crafting where now?

2011-04-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Hello again

What a lovely day it has been today

The weather is wonderful here in the North West of England

Long may it stay.....

I thought you might like these images to make you laugh or cry depending on what era you come from

I myself remember my husband giving me a colander for Christmas one year

But he did say I could change the colour if I did not like it

(It was orange)

There is a story behind it, I set fire to the one I already had (It was plastic).....

Hence he is now my EX....

I am at a loss at the moment what to blog about,

I have not done any sewing since Christmas

My thrifting has been sporadic

Crafting apart from the tile/plaques is few and far between so where now?

I love my garden and I have shown you pictures during the years

But nothing new as yet.

I have taken up bird watching and these lovely binoculars were gleamed from freecycle along with

this bird watching book but is 'twitching' interesting to others?

A Birthday is looming so maybe that is why I feel unsettled

I am at a cross-roads and the roads all look long

(and interesting)

But I am not sure which one I will go down

So until I decide

I will leave you with this

'Making a commitment to yourself means listening to your

feelings from moment to moment

and acting on what is right for you

in present time'

But until next time my dear friends

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Have a Happy and Blessed Easter

Beverley xx

Wow I did it.....

2011-04-19T08:36:00.000-07:00

Do you like my new layout?

Thank you Leelou for your clear instructions

And now I would like to invite you to visit a wonderful site.
I am not promoting this site I just love the clothes and found her by chance on a perusal round the net.

So go visit

http://www.cutesalad.com/

You will be glad you did.

Now after all the excitement of changing the layout I am going to lie down in a dark room

Normal Blogging will resume shortly.

But until then

Take care, keep safe, be happy

Beverley xx