Girls Night In

A big thankyou those that were able to make it last night.
We had a good night mainly chatting, some of us were able to multi task; chat, watch chick flick and craft but I was not one of them. I think we all agreed that I shouldn’t take up being an auctioneer as a career but in saying that we did raise $114 for Girls Night In. Thank you Girls for your the yummy food and your very generous donations and making the night a success.

Hand Made by Lucy

Lucy is a very close friend and while she confesses she is not overly crafty she has given many things a try. The first thing she made (that I’m aware of) is a quilt for their bedroom. The quilt was made of large and medium squares from black and white Chinese printed fabric, she borrowed my sewing machine and for her very first attempt did a really good job. Together with her mum they latter made other quilt for her sisters 40th birthday and has since embroidered some napkins and made paper flowers that were simple but stunning. Her sister in-law recently had a baby girl, when they first announced that they were expecting she decided to make a babies quilt. She went to a lovely quilting store in Camberwell where they helped her out with the colours and she set to hand sewing the quilt. The baby arrived a little early so she enlisted the help of Ingrid to quilt it for. For Lucy’s first attempt at hand sewing, I think you would all agree with me that she did a minty fine effort. She confused to me latter that she only plans to make other 2 of these. Keep up the great work Lucy and we look forward to seeing more in the future.

October - Scrappy Christmas Decorations

While our Christmas tree looks great when it’s up, with my colour scheme of aqua/blues and silver there is still quite a bit of green showing though. So I decided that each year I would add at least one Christmas decoration, sometimes homemade and sometimes brought ones or maybe both. So with all the stores starting to display all their Christmas lines I thought it was time to start thinking about Christmas as well.

I would say that I have a bit of fabric at home, with quite a lot of the fabric being scraps left over from work (I work in a fashion house) when we make beautiful garments or from header cards that we acquire from fabric mills displaying their stock fabrics. So with the scraps of fabrics and a couple of other ideas that have been in my head for I don’t know how long, this month I made these scrappy Christmas decorations. Okay one of them doesn’t look very Christmassy but I just love the colours. While the ball is a little time consuming, if you have all your fabric pre-cut and ready to go, it’s defiantly something that can be done in front of the TV. For full instructions shoot me an email.


A number of you wanted to see a photo of my outfit that I was wearing to the hens party that I had to rush off for. Unfortunately in my hast to have lunch and get out the door I forgot, however here’s a photo of me at the hens (sorry not the best). I was very proud to be voted one of the best dressed on the day/night, but still thought the hen looked smashing in her outfit, and the boys agreed.



Happy Crafting
Trina D

Cake Recipe - Lemon Semolina Cake

This recipe is my adaption of the Lemon Semolina Cake from The Complete Cookies, Muffins & Cakes Cookbook.

6 large eggs, separated
1 ½ cups caster sugar
1/3 cup[ lemon juice
1 lemon, juiced and finely grated lemon rind
1 cup semolina
½ cup ground almonds
2 tablespoons self-rising flour
Preheat oven to 170⁰C. Lightly grease a 24cm spring-form tin and line with baking paper. Using electric beaters, beat the yolks, sugar the rind and lemon juice in a mixing bowl for 8 minutes.
Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl with clean electric beaters until firm peaks form. Gently fold the whites with a metal spoon into the egg yolk mixture alternately with combined semolina ground almonds and flour. Take care not to over mix. Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the surface. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the centre of the cake. Leave to cake in the tin for 5 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Pierce a few holes in the cake with a skewer.
Poor over a lemon syrup and serve with thick cream

Happy baking
Trina D

Cake Recipe - Honey and Coconut cake

I've been asked by the girls to post the recipes of the cakes I make for CC&C. Here is my first one Honey and Coconut Cake from The Complete Cookies, Muffins & Cakes Cookbook.

125g unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup raw sugar
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
¼ cup honey
1 ½ cup desiccated coconut
1 ¾ cups self raising flour
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
½ cup milk
Extra ground nutmeg to decorate
honey and cream cheese icing
125g cream cheese, softened
½ cup icing sugar
1 tablespoon honey

Preheat oven to 180⁰C. Lightly grease a 28x18x3cm cake tin. Line with lightly greased baking paper. Using electric beaters, beat the butter and sugar in a small mixing bowl until light and creamy. Add the eggs gradually, beating thoroughly after each addition. Add the vanilla essence and honey. Beat until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and add the desiccated coconut. Using a metal spoon, fold in sifted flour and spices alternating with milk. Stir until just combined and the mixture is almost smooth. Spoon into the prepared pan and smooth surface.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the skewer comes out clean when inserted in the centre. Leave the cake in the tin for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rake to cool completely. Remove the baking paper from the cake. To make the icing, beat the softened cream cheese with electric beaters in a small mixing bowl until creamy. Add the sifted issuing sugar and honey, beating for 3 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Spread the icing evenly over the cake using a flat-bladed knife. Sprinkle the extra nutmeg over the top. Cake can be stored for 4 days in an airtight container.

Happy baking
Trina D

Famous Person in Out Mist

Yes we have our very own local famous person in our mist at CC&C.
Christina has made the local paper with her efforts in helping the NEAMI 3D artwork project at the Watsonia Library which is aimed at helping people with mental health issues.

A job well done Christina.

Keep up the hard work.

Monthly Comp

This month’s competition winner is Amy.
She has turned her little Crochet square into a badge and added some little beads. She even felted one of them. Thanks Amy for reminding us to think outside the square.


She also had just finished her Granny Crochet Blanket, which I believe that her cat has taken a liking too.

Well done Amy

September - Fabric Yo-Yo's

More than a year ago I saw a flower made out of fabric, and me being me when home and made my own (not knowing how it was originally made). It was easy and while it may not have been done in the same manner it came out looking pretty much the same. I made a bunch of them and latter I made these fabric squares out of them.

Now you may called me old fashioned but I often feel that we get carried away with technology, making/buying things that make our life quicker and some would debate similar. Over the past few months I have noticed a flood in the market of these products called yo-yo makers. Now I’m not referring to the yo-yo’s on the string like many of you may think; these yo-yo’s are really fabric flowers (like the ones I made over a year ago). Now I don’t know how these yo-yo makers work but I do know that they cost about $10 and they say it will help you make yo-yo’s quickly BUT you will only be able to make one size. Honestly the yo-yo’s or fabric flowers that I make are quick and simple and you can make any size you want and I’m sure it doesn’t take much longer than using one of these yo-yo makers. The best thing is that you don’t have to spend lots of money on different plastic things in different sizes. Just find some old paper or card and make some circles in different sizes to make a pattern; priceless LOL. These flowers I made and turned them into magnets, but you can also turn them into really cute brooches. Feel free to contact me for the instructions.

Until next month, happy crafting.

Trina D

Girls Night In is Going Crafty

This time last year I was very busy organising the Pretty In Pink Pamper Day to raise money for Girls Night In (Cancer Council). I was going to organise other one this year but was unable to secure a function centre as the were all putting their charity efforts this year to the bush fire appeal.

So I have decided that I will organise a smaller event and change the vibe by doing a Going Crafty Night.
I confirmed any details as yet but wanted to let you all know so that you can keep it in mind as your planning the coming weeks/months. It will be in October towards the end of the month on a Friday or Saturday night. If there is anyone that would like to lend a hand to organise it I would love the help.

Keep an eye on this space for more details.
Trina D

August - Crochet

This month’s group pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a zone which would be called nothing less than a frustrated one. Wendy run this month’s demo and proved to be a very good teacher as I can now crochet, okay I need a little practise as my tension is a little tight and not consistent but I will get there. Now that I can crochet I have yet started other project, and for those that now me, yes you are correct I’ve started big. I have unravelled a knitted jumper from Sussans that I love the colour off but after a much loved life as a jumper it’s a little out of shape so it will now begin a new life as a blanket (it’s still going to keep me warm. LOL).

This month Judy also stepped out of her comfort zone of knitting and made last month’s craft project ‘Christmas Ornaments’ and won the monthly competition. Judy, you did a great job and well done for trying something new!!! This is one of the reasons why I started this group, to tease your taste buds and to encourage you to try something different. While Judy has a taste for new things and Christmas the prize was 3 paper mâché Christmas decorations. We are all looking forward to seeing how she decorates them. Well done Judy and good luck!

I’m collecting all the squares that our group is knitting for the longest scarf which is well underway. A big thank you to Margaret who has made over 30 squares and is still going. The girls at the wool shop will fall over once I john them together with the other ones that are made and still being made.

Next month’s demo will be something that can be hung or magnetised and is great for those that like to start and finish a project in an afternoon.

Oh I almost forgot. I have finished my shrug, just in time for the end of Winter. However I was able to wear it twice and I was very happy with the comments I received. I will post a photo or 2 soon.

Until next month, happy crafting
Trina D

July - Christmas ornaments.

Cino Vino has found some room upstairs for us to spread our self’s out and enjoy the freedom of talking wildly over our craft projects without upsetting their other customers. I sure I’m not the only one that thinks the extra room is great, I just need to work on providing more lighting for next month. Christmas in July was the theme this month so I brought out my little candy canes and beaded icicles. These little Christmas decorations are simple but are truly stunning and your friends will want to know where you brought them (you can keep is a secrete if you like) These little treasures are will not only save your wallet but if you have children it’s a great activity to do with them. Kits and instructions are available upon request tn06@bigpond.com.au.

I have been asked a number of times about my little re-enactment of my wedding. Well not quite re-enactment as there was no groom but I did have a bridesmaid. A friend of mine is doing a photography course and asked me to assist her in one of her assessments. In true friendship I pulled in other one of my friends to ensure there were more than a laugh or two (plus she is more photogenic). The twist on this little photo shoot was that the accessories and bouquets were all made from vegetables. Ahhh the fun one can have if you only think outside the veggie box. LOL

This is my favourite

The Longest Scarf

Coffee Cake and Create is helping the Watsonia Traders Association knit the Longest Scarf

This special activity will be launched at the Winter Wonderland event outside the Watsonia Wool Shop. A table will be set up outside the Watsonia Wool shop for me and anyone else that would like to join me knitting on the day.

The scarf will be revealed next year at the same time, by laying the LONGEST SCARF, along Watsonia Rd. The finished product will be presented to a worth while Charity, which will be announced at the Winter Wonderland event.

Launch Date: Saturday 1st of August
Time: 10.00am – 1.00pm

You can help by knitting 6 inches x 6 inches [33stitches on 4mm needles, 8ply wool]. If knitting more than one it would be appricated if you join them together. These strips of 6 inch squares will then be all joined together to help us produce the longest knitted scarf

Over the year, you can pass your sqaures to me for processing and drop off to Watsonia Wool Shop.

The more people involved the longger the scarf will be.
So talk to your friends and start knitting.

June - Rubber Stamping

I’m not sure about you, but this month has been a busy one. Lucky we took some time out when we did, because the next few months look like they may be even busier. Anyway enough about me and more about Coffee, Cake and Create.

This month I had a guest presenter, Mel from Dragonfly Crafts be http://dragonflycrafts-dragonflycrafts.blogspot.com/ and the cake was a very moist Raspberry and White Chocolate cake mmmm (mouth watering at the thought of it!). Mel demonstrated a couple of quick stamping techniques that can turn a simple card into a card with impact. I love them both, there is no way I can chose my favourite. Let me know if you would like the instructions.
A reminder to all those interested in taking part in this month’s competition. Use 1 or more items from your welcome pack to create a product using the stamping techniques that Mel demonstrated and have your product or a photo to me before 19th July (see entry details included in your welcome pack). The winner will receive this fantastic gift pack from The Habby Goddess http://www.thehabygoddess.blogspot.com/. It contains 2 pieces of quilting fabric, pin cushion, lilac ric rac, assorted buttons and toggles, assorted beads, dusty rose lace, 13mm bias tape, elasticized frill, pink bias tape, aqua elastic, crochet rose, pink embroidery thread and an iron on transfer.

Shrug progress – my knitting is coming along slowly now that I have settled back into a busy life style, after a long relaxing weekend away. But I’m happy to report that I have approximately half an arm’s length left. Not sure it will be finished by the end of the month but I will give it ago, very keen to start wearing it .

Next month is Christmas in July, so bring your Christmas cheer.
Until then
Trina D

Long Weekend - Portland

We took advantage of the long weekend last week and headed off to Portland for a little R&R but to also celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary (oh how we needed it). I was hoping to come across some lovely craft shops on our travels, but found that the road to Portland was more of an antique road show. So for those of you that love to shop for antiques, take a long weekend and head for Portland. First stop would have to be in Winchelsea where you will find 4 antiques stores (3 of them are really worth a look, the other one you can't find a place to walk let alone have a good ferret). Winchelsea also has a cute little tea house, it just needs a horse and cart out the front.

In Portland we stayed at this perfect little B&B, we were made to feel so comfortable (a home away from home, even better when you don’t have to cook breakfast). The current owner is selling the property, however I’m sure it will stay much the same as the people who are buying it are somewhat sort of locals, and love it the way it is. So if you ever get the chance to get away we can highly recommend Victoria House http://www.babs.com.au/vichouse/ or vichouse@hotkey.net.au

Sunroom/reading room.

Along with the road to Portland, the town itself is full of very old buildings. My husband; who has many nick names but for my blog I will refer to him as Buster (my first pet name for him) loves old buildings and churches, so the camera is full of blue stone. One could easily mistake that the camera had a long weekend away by its self; there is not one photo of us (how sad).

4 Percy street, the Portland Inn (1840) the oldest recorded building in Victoria still on it's orginal site (now a private home)

On the Sunday we took a drive to Casterton were Buster's Godfather lives. This little pup is called Nunkeri Larry (a Male Border Collie 6mth) and was part of the working dog auction, which is held every June long weekend as part of the Casterton Kelpie Festival. He was the cutest out of them all, shame I don't have the space or the sheep for him to be happy.

I was very excited with myself, I found that I could knit in the car without having any issues with travel sickness. So the shrug that I have been knitting grew and grew. I now have an arm’s length left to go, I’m starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

While in Portland I had a bit of a ferret in a few op shops and come across some great crochet doilies. These I will dedicate a special entry in time to come when they are turned into something a little more special. So stay tuned.

Until the end of the month, happy crafting.
Trina D

Shinny And New

After picking up my shinny and new sewing machine, I have finally found time to play.
I know, what you’re saying; finally what is she talking about, who picks up a new machine and doesn't rip the box apart and play with it straight away.
With my sister celebrating her 21st birthday (a weekend away), work (to pay the bills), CC&C (for pure enjoyment) and sleep (if only I didn't need sleep) I just haven't had the time.
She needed quality time, time to talk to her, listen to her and understand her.
Like any good long lasting friendship, we need to spend a lot more time together.
Now that won't be very hard, she's a dream!

Sewing Corner - Place Mats and Coasters

After walking into many stores looking for the perfect place mats and coming out empty handed, I decided to make my own. I was then only limited by fabric.

Only problem was choosing which one, with sooooo many options..

But when I laid eyes on this fabric I knew it was THE ONE.

I'm now busy making a matching table runner.

I'm happy to take orders if you would like a table setting made to your fav colours.

RIP Little Husqvarna

After many years of sewing, my little Husqvarna is resting quietly in the corner of the room. It's poor little heart (cam) gave out after about 30-35 years. I'm sure it could tell you a story or two, especially since it has given much pleasure not just me, but also my Auntie.

Little Husqvarna, after sewing many garments, quilts and I'm sure patches may you rest in peace.

A long shrug

In the rush to get out the door to set up for CC&C I left my knitting at home.
So by request I've posted a photo of how my shrug is taking shape. There was even a request for a weekly photo post. I really would be more than happy to for fill this request, however the weekly photos would look much the same.
I only seem to find time to knit few rows a week.
Maybe a monthly post would be better. LOL

I've just past the half way point

May - Fabric Bowl

We are certainly starting to take over Cino Vino, aren’t we girls.
Other great morning all round with lots of crafting and chatter across up and down the table. There were 4 new comers so a big welcome to you all and hoped you enjoyed our company as much as we enjoyed yours and we look forward to seeing you next month hopefully in the upstairs room all to ourselves.


I know other bowl, trust me I don't have a thing for bowls, I just loved this and couldn't wait to make it and show it off! It's sooooo easy to make and with the right fabric scraps they can look fantastic.



Check out one of my fav web sites Craftstylish for the instructions. http://www.craftstylish.com/item/33825/how-to-sew-a-fabric-bowl


Some specail notes from me to you.

• In Linda’s instructions she uses a cotton clothesline. I used some cheap rope (the type that Bridget Jones used to make her blue meal for her friends, but mine was green), which worked quite well. So have a look around your home before you go out and buy special rope for this project.


• Linda uses a binder clip. I’m not sure what this is but a pin works just fine


• You will use a lot of fabric strips so have plenty ready.
  It’s a lot easier and quicker if your rope is wrapped and ready to go. I have a TV in my sewing room and found it easy to wrap the fabric around the rope while watching my favourite show.


• These bowls are perfect to use selvages from your favourite patch working fabrics. They are also prefect to use leftover fabric from your other craft projects, cut the strips as you go or store the scraps for latter.


• Once finished if the bowl has too many frayed threads for your liking give it a little hair cut.

Okay Okay, I hear you asking about the cake, hehehe
Orange and Poppy Seed Cake this month, and before I even say it, you know it was wonderful :)


Until next time, happy crafting
Trina D

Monthly Competition

Those that attend CC&C days know that I run a optional monthly competition. To date no one has entered, however I'm sure that will soon change. CC&C friend "The Haby Goddess" is putting together a gift pack as the June prize. Visit The Haby Goddess to see the types of goodies that may be in the prize pack.
http://thehabygoddess.bigcartel.com/
Or visit her at her blog

http://www.thehabygoddess.blogspot.com/

April - Birdy Paper Mâché Bowl

The cold weather is starting to set in, but that didn't stop the ladies from coming out and enjoying an ANZAC cake, as we remembered the brave men and women who risked their life (and still do), so we can enjoy ours. "Lest We Forget"

Wheatear it's the weather or the portableness of it, knitting seemed to be the choice of craft today. There is one particular lady that I would have to say is the "Knitter" of the group. She not only knits for herself but also for others (charities). Here are just some of the items that she has knitted lately.

For those of you interested in how I'm going with my knitting, I've knitted almost 60cm worth of the shrug which will be approx 130-140cm long. I started about 5 times before I was happy with the start and was too far along to unravel it if I made a mistake. The shrug had a little operation early on, one of the ladies (which happens to be a neighbour) fixed up some mistakes and put me back on track. After a number of rows we worked out that it wasn't going to be wide enough so I'm in the process of added an extra stitch every row, so by the time I'm knitting the area that will cover my back, it will be wide enough to keep my kidneys warm as my father would say.

This month’s demo was this paper mâché birdy bowl. It's a great craft project for children (of any age) as long as an adult does all the cutting of the birds with the craft knife. If you would like to make your own, send me an email and I will forward you the instructions and birdy pattern.

Until next month

Trina D

March - Easter Bunny

I'm generally excited about how well the group is forming and continuing to grow each month (in numbers but more importantly, depth. hmmm, not sure if that is the correct word, I hope you know what I mean).

As promised we all enjoyed a lovely New Yoke cheese cake along with our fav hot drink. I would have to say that it was my fav cake so far. Keep up the good work Bronwen!!!

The demo this month was an Easter inspired bunny. With only 1 tricky bit to the method of construction this little bunny is a must for those that love making, giving or receiving softies. As always kits are available just send me an email tn06@bigpond.com.au

I even became the student this month, with one of my girls teaching me how to knit!!!
Both my grandparents knitted like most ladies only 1 or 2 generations ago. But when I failed knitting miserably as a little girl, I didn't have the heart to go back to either grandparent and ask them for help (especially my Nan). Now many years latter I thought I should give it other go. So I pulled out a shrug that I wanted to replicate (any many ways is just a wide scarf), my Nan’s knitting needles and brought some wool. It turned out that I needed different size needles than what I had, never mind the girls said; as one handed me the right size to borrow until I brought my own. They worked out how many stitches I would need and started teaching me how to cast on and then knit 2 pearl 2. After the CC&C I tried at home but forgot which way to flick the needles. Lucky for me, one of the girls lives 3 houses down my street, she put me back on track and I'm click clicking again. Now I'm just hoping that it will be good enough to wear. Nan, if you’re watching down on me, you better close your eyes for a while!!!

Once finished I will post a photo for all too see (I wonder if the photos will make it look better than what it actually looks like, hehehe).

Before I sign off, as the last Saturday falls on ANZAC day next month, we will be meeting on the Sunday from 11-2pm.
Until next month
Trina D

February - Wallpaper Box

The ladies must have enjoyed themselves last month as they all come back and with a few newbie’s the group doubled in size. I'm not sure if it was the group or the lovely coffee and cake that brought them back, either way it was good to see everyone again and to introduce them to the newbie’s.

This month we enjoyed mud cake with the hit of caffeine. The ladies are loving the cakes that are supplied by Bronwen D. A special order was placed for next month so if you’re a lover of cheese cake, then March is your month. While the ladies sat back and enjoyed their coffee and cake I explained how to turn a old shoe box into this lovely box. These recycled shoe boxes cost about $15 to make and are perfect for keeping your special memorabilia in or for placing that hard to wrap gift into. If you would like the instructions, send me an email at tn06@bigpond.com.au.



The Australasian Quilt Convention was one of the topics at this month’s group, which naturally flowed into the up and coming Stitches and Craft Fair. A few of us are looking forward to attending on Sunday 15th so I’m sure there will be plenty of girls doing a bit of a show and tell at March’s get together.


Until Next month
Trina D

January - Welcome, Folding Album

Welcome to my blog that is all about the craft group "Coffee, Cake and Create". It's the place to be if you aren't able to make it to the monthly get together at Cino Vino. The group meets the last Saturday of the month and all are welcome, the only requirement is that you need to be interested in craft. Whether you’re new to craft world are a craft veteran; Coffee, Cake and Create is the perfect group to learn, share and to meet new friends. Oh and you can't beat the cakes.

This month was the first get together of Coffee, Cake and Create, so apart from coffee and humming bird cake there was plenty of talking while the ladies started to get to know each other. While the ladies sat back and enjoyed their coffee and cake I explained how to make this folding mini brag book/photo album. If you would like to make your own, instructions are available free of charge or kits available for purchase. Send me an email at tn06@bigpond.com.au.

Until Next month
Trina D