2011 was an eventful year for Viñuela Sew and Sews, we sadly lost two members, Lesley Jones died in April and Joyce Wilkinson in October both were active members of the group they are fondly remembered and much missed.

Dee and Joyce Smith moved back to the UK and members who have seen Dee say that she has happily resettled. When she was in Spain briefly in December Joyce told us that she is busy renovating her home in Derbyshire but still finding time to sew.

We have had a number of enjoyable group meals out, the last just before Christmas when approximately 35 members attended. I am sure I speak for all the group when I say thank you to the organisers of these occasions. Also our thanks to Rachel, Jan and Kath for their continued enthusiasm and commitment to the group.

We have had an active program of workshops during the year; some stunning work has resulted from these days, check members galleries to view the results.

Further workshops are planned for 2012 the first will be on the 20^th January ( note change of date) when Jan will be giving instructions to make a ‘Stained Glass‘ wall hanging. B.O.M. workshops are continuing, the next on 27^th January when the 6^th block ‘Dresden Plate’ will be constructed. If any one wishes to come along to make an individual block, they make great cushions, they are very welcome just let me know before the date.

I have put a piece of my own work as the Gallery of the Month; it is a small wall hanging, a Christmas gift for my son and daughter-in-law. It is my interpretation of an original Barbadian painting which they admired. They married in Barbados and have one of the artists painting. To view the painting and wall hanging see my gallery. Constructing this wall hanging was a new undertaking for me, one which was time consuming but very enjoyable. When sending photographs to be added to the web site it would be interesting for other members if brief background information was included.

Looking at web sites there are many beautiful new fabrics available and many great sale offers, Doughty’s (doughtysonline.co.uk) have some vibrant African prints at 5.99 per metre. I have not yet succumbed to purchasing any although one of my New Year resolutions has already been broken that of finishing at least one UFP before starting another new one.

Information about Thistle Quilters has now been archived. It can be reactivated if requested.

Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy 2012 and a great sewing year.

Christine

January 2012