Christmas Cooking - Slow Cooker Fudge Recipe! DELISH

With the festive season upon us - I have taken some time away from the sewing machines and have started cooking up some yummy treats.

By popular demand I am sharing the most delicious fudge recipe around.
Grab your slow cooker (YES your slow cooker) and get ready to be wowed by fudgy goodness.

Little Moo Slow Cooker Fudge

Ingredients:
1 tin of condensed milk
550 grams of milk chocolate (I used Cadbury)
1 Tablespoon Butter
Flavouring: I used vienna coffee liquer, you could use baileys, mint liquer, rum....anything you like. If you don't like alcohol in your fudge you could use vanilla essence instead.

Heat the slow cooker up to high, put all ingredients in and stir continuously so it doesn't stick to the bottom. They will all melt together into fudgy goodness.

O.M.G. YUM!

 

 

Line a slice tin, pour in half of the mix, sprinkle chopped red frogs, mini marshmallows and spearmint leaves (or any other lollies that you like). Pour the rest of the mixture over the top. Refrigerate for two hours.

 

 



 

It's that simple! You now have delicious fudge.

 

We made ours in Christmas tree shaped moulds for the festive season.

Needless to say these will not make it until Christmas Day as they are seriously delish! Oh well, we can just make more right??

 

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and may 2015 bring you peace, joy and all the happiness you deserve.

 

 

Happy Cooking.

Kylie x

Leather and Fabric Sewing - the Willow Tote Bag Pattern

I am sew excited - tomorrow is the day that my brand spanking new pattern is being released and this one is jam packed with options.

Combining my love of sewing with leather and fabric, I designed the "Willow" Tote Bag PDF Sewing Pattern to use as an everyday bag with style and loads of design options.

And here she is - the "Willow" Tote Bag.....not your average bag.....

 

Why does the Willow stand out from other tote bag patterns on the market you ask?

• The Willow Tote features leather (Genuine or Faux) as well as fabric. The pattern is jam packed with tips and tricks to help your sewing with leather become a reality.
• See that zippered welt pocket - there are not one but TWO ways to sew this zip pocket which feature in this pattern so you can try both ways and see which suits you best.
• Digitised pattern pieces complete with cutting instructions and test scale square.
• Measurements are provided in both imperial and metric scales.
• This pattern contains colour photographs and clear step by step instructions to create your own Willow Tote.
• Last but not least - you will be inspired by the inspiration gallery which features in this pattern showing you various fabric and leather combinations to get your imagination soaring with ideas to create your own Willow Tote.



 



 

As you can see the options are endless with the Willow Tote Pattern. Whether your style is retro, shabby chic, modern, classic, floral or geometric you can customise a Willow to suit your personal style.

 

The Willow Tote will be available on 14/12/2014 from 12 noon (QLD time) via my website. It will be on special for $5 (RRP: $8.50) for the first 24 hours.

 

Happy Sewing

Kylie. x

Getting My Christmas Sew On!

With Christmas being just over a month away (SQUEAL!) - I have taken some time out this week to start on my personal Chrissy sewing projects. This includes a bunting, my children's Christmas Outfits and of course teacher's gifts.

Deciding what to make for the beautiful teachers who spend so much time nurturing. teaching and inspiring little people is a difficult choice.

So where better to look for ideas than my favourite sewing E-Zine One Thimble. Issue 5 was released recently and I have to say this is the best value issue yet! Jam packed with so many patterns, articles and amazing discounts! I do love a bargain!
(You will find an exclusive discount on my patterns in this issue also)

Well I decided on the super cute pattern by FlossStyle - The "Sneak Peak Sweet Treat Stocking" as my first teachers gift.

This was such a great pattern! With very clear instructions it was a quick sew with awesome results. I made this little cutie in under an hour.....the hardest part was choosing the fabrics.

I went with purple gingerbread men as my daughters teacher loves bright colours so I thought this was a cute choice.

The clear window makes this little stocking extra special, I love that you can see what is inside. The instructions made sewing with vinyl super easy so don't be afraid to try it.

Once finished, fill this cute stocking up with treats and you have the sweetest Teachers gift. I plan to make more of these in time for Christmas.

One Christmas gift finished.......lots more to go. :)

Happy Sewing

 

Kylie x

Pattern Testers Spruce Up Kitchens!

With the pattern release for the Little Moo Designs "Granny Chic Kitchen Essentials Pack" being only one sleep away I thought I would share with you the designs from my pattern testing team (THANKYOU ladies you are amazing).

So here is a recap on this pattern:

 Get your ‘granny chic’ on and make a fun and funky kitchen pack to brighten up your kitchen! This PDF pattern contains instructions and pattern pieces to sew a hanging towel and double pot holder set. The pattern gives you two options (round or straight edge) for the hanging towel.

Make a set to match your kitchen, in Christmas fabrics for the silly season or make them for friends and family! They make such a practical gift idea.   

 

 

Here is what my amazing pattern testing team

created from this pattern:

 

 

By: Melisa Jane

 

By: Sewn By Leanne

 

By: Gracious Princess

 

See how versatile this pattern can be! Brighten up your kitchen and make them as gifts for Christmas they are fantastic.

So how can you get this pattern: Tomorrow the pattern will be available via my pattern shop and for the first 24 hours it will be at the CRAZY sale price of $3.50!

(RRP: $6.50)

That is less than the cost of a take away coffee!

 

See you tomorrow for the big release.

Happy Sewing.

Kylie.

 

Kitchen Must Haves Sewing Pattern Release.

Finally I can share with you the next amazing sewing pattern that is almost ready for release!

Is your kitchen needing a bit of funking up? Some new accessories to make your kitchen 'POP'? Then this is the pattern for you.....

The "Granny Chic Kitchen Essentials Pattern" is a modern take on some old fav's!

Here is the rundown -

Get your ‘granny chic’ on and make a fun and funky kitchen pack to brighten up your kitchen! This PDF pattern contains instructions and pattern pieces to sew a hanging towel and double pot holder set. The pattern gives you two options (round or straight edge) for the hanging towel.

Make a set to match your kitchen, in Christmas fabrics for the silly season or make them for friends and family! They make such a practical gift idea.   

 

 

 

 

See - a funky addition to your kitchen don't you think?

But wait there is more....I want to introduce you to my new mascot -

 

 

 

Meet “Lola” – this vintage chic Little Moo lady encompasses all that this pattern is about. Bringing an old fashioned favourite into the present and giving it a fresh modern twist and a touch of Little Moo flair. Stylish, practical and fun!

 

Release Date: Monday 27th October

Watch this blog for a special discount code for the first 24 hours and pictures from my amazing team of pattern testers.

 

This pattern has been so much fun to create, I can't wait to share it with you very soon.

 

You can shop for my current patterns via the Little Moo Designs Website.

 

Happy Sewing - Kylie x

 

 

 

 

Around The World Blog Hop.

A few weeks ago Jen from the amazing sewing e-zine One Thimble nominated me to take part in the Around the World Blog Hop. I met Jen a few months ago when I contributed my Busy Block Pattern to Issue 4 of One Thimble (You can still purchase your copy via the One Thimble Website today).

This is my first "Blog Hop" and I am excited to give it a go, I hope you learn a little more about me as you read this.

Blog Hop Questions:

1. What am I working on?
I am currently working on Surfing Santa Shorts orders for Little Moo Designs, as well as two more awesome sewing patterns. This is all keeping me super busy.

2. How does my blog differ from others of its genre?
My blog is a look at the behind the scenes of Little Moo. It gives me the opportunity to expand more on how my sewing patterns and other designs come together.
3. Why do I write what I do? I like to talk.....so why not write ;)
Explaining what I do and how I do it is an integral part of my business. My customers can expect high quality, unique designs and my blog allows me to explain this in greater detail.

4. How does my creating process work?
I have one huge notebook, it has sketches, notes, ideas and lots of scribble for pattern ideas in particular. Between this and a spreadsheet on my computer I haphazardly manage my creative ideas this way. A lot of my creative process happens at 3 am (makes it hard to sleep :)) so I wake up, draw a picture or write the idea down so I can come back to it when I have time.

Next week I'd like you to visit two other bloggers who've are excited to take part in this blog hop:

Lauren from Molly and Mama - Not only is Lauren a lovely friend of mine, but she has a beautiful blog full of stunning pictures, fun projects and a gorgeous applique pattern range that is to die for.

Kylie from Willow & The Owl  - One of the hottest Australian Made Labels around - check out Kylie's gorgeous nursery sets and while your at it her banana bread recipe! So easy and yummy (recipe on her blog)

Happy Sewing
Kylie x

My baby turns 1!

My youngest baby turned the big 1 this week! It was such a great week of celebrating with family and friends, a 'hoot' cake, lots of giggles and gifts.

I really wanted to share with you these amazing images my beautiful friend Mel from MiaMia Photography took in a recent shoot. I think they are simply stunning, and so precious to me.

How can I not share the cake! No I did not make this, my super talented brother in law did and it was delish as well as looked amazing!

Time really does fly when your having fun and the past year seems to have shot by in a flash. I am so grateful for amazing images to treasure these fond memories, as you only turn 1 once. :)

Happy Sewing (and cake eating)
Kylie x

Testing, Testing.....1,2,3.

Pattern testing is such an important part of any pattern being released. The team I had on board for this pattern are the most amazing bunch of ladies. This post will be less talk and more images for you to enjoy.

These gorgeous ladies took time out to create their own Everyday Messenger Bags from my new pattern and provide me with valuable feedback to make this pattern the best that it can be.

So without further adieu (I have always wanted to say that) - here are the bags from my pattern testers!

 

Gracious Princess

 

Melisa Jane Handmade

 

Made By Jack's Mum

 

Sewn By Leanne

 

Crystal Leigh Creations

 

 

In case you missed the details of this PDF pattern release, check out this blog post for all the details including a great giveaway and discount price for the first 24 hours. You won't want to miss this!

Start dreaming up what your Everyday Messenger Bag will look like as release day is almost here.
The PDF Pattern will be available via my website.

Happy Sewing
Kylie. x

The Everyday Messenger Bag Pattern Release is on the way! As well as an awesome giveaway!

This awesome bag pattern has been brewing in the background for the past three months. I wanted it to be perfecto so have taken my time getting it to be exactly how I had pictured from the beginning. Well I am excited to say it is all ready to launch! Woohoo!

So here is the low down:

The "Everyday Messenger Bag Pattern" contains instructions and measurements to sew a fully lined adults sized messenger style bag.

This bag features an adjustable shoulder strap, a large back pocket to fit a tablet/iPad and internal pockets. Whether you are a parent, student or looking at making them to give as gifts this over the shoulder bag can be customised to suit your everyday needs. This bag is also perfect as a small nappy bag and hangs neatly over the handle of a pram.

Finished bag size approximately: 15” X 12"

 

Now what would a pattern launch be without a huge discount and a fantastic giveaway??

Well if this interests you then I suggest you keep reading......

Launch Date: Sunday 14th September 2014 8.00 am QLD AEST.

For 24 hours only the pattern will be available via my website at the discounted price of $6! (Usually $8.50).......How does that sound?? Well wait there is more......

 

 

How would you like the opportunity to win a fabric and handbag hardware kit (RRP: $49) to make your very own Everyday Messenger Bag???

All you will have to do to be in the running to win this amazing prize, is purchase your copy of the everyday messenger bag pattern for 1 entry, for a bonus entry simply sign up to the Little Moo Newsletter via my website.

The competition will be open from Sunday 14th September 2014 8.00 am AEST and ends Monday 15th September 2014 at 8.00 AEST

(To be in the running you would need to purchase the pattern and if you wish to get a bonus entry, sign up to our newsletter -  within these timeframes)

1 winner will be selected randomly on Monday 15th September 2014, and contacted by email. Once the winner has confirmed their details with me, I will publish the details via a blog post.

**Competition is open to Australian residents only and standard post is included Australia wide as part of the prize**

Are you excited yet? Well I know I sure am!

I look forward to sharing loads more pictures over the next 5 days which will get you inspired to make your own everyday messenger bag. (My pattern testers are a very talented bunch let me tell you)

Happy Sewing

Kylie x

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why choose a Little Moo Hobby Horse ?

I thought today I would write a little bit about what you get when you purchase a Little Moo Designs Hobby Horse, what makes them unique, why they stand out in the stables?? So here goes -

 

Since 2010, Little Moo Designs has specialised in designing and creating unique hobby horses and children's designs. They are handmade with love and attention to detail. Hobby horses have been our top selling product since our business began and continue to be hugely popular as birthday, Christmas, Christening and other special occasion gifts.

Little Moo Hobby Horses are made from top quality designer fabrics, they are made with the vision that they will be cherished for years to come. With many designs to choose from, we can tailor a Little Moo Hobby Horse to match your child's bedroom, favourite colours and personality.

They stand approximately 1 metre tall and the head is sewn onto the fabric covered pole.  The heads are triple stitched for children's safety and longevity of the product. You can choose eye colour, love heart eyes, wool or fabric manes and extras such as applique letters can be added. Little Moo hobby horses are made from our own pattern, handmade right here in Queensland Australia. Each hobby horse takes 4-5 hours from start to finish and is made with love and attention to detail.

 

                                           Images by MiaMia Photography

Just some of the feedback we have received from our lovely customers:

"We love out Little Moo Hobby Horse so much we now have a tradition in our family to give them as a first birthday gift to each niece/nephew"

"ADORABLE, we love our hobby horse so much, the detail and quality is amazing thank you"

"Personalised buttons, tiny hearts in the eyes, eyelashes! How can this get any better thank you for this gorgeous personal design it matches my daughters bedroom perfectly."

 

If you would like to order a custom hobby horse, pop me an email at lilmoodesigns@hotmail.com or visit my Etsy store for ready made horses.

Kylie x

 

 

Today is the day! Issue 4 of One Thimble is available.

Woohoo! Today is the day!
You can purchase your own copy of the amazing sewing e-zine One Thimble.
Jam Packed with awesome articles on sewing, tips, tricks and discounts and 10! Yes that's right, 10 PDF Patterns. All for just $25.....(that makes each PDF super duper cheap)

And as part of this edition, you will receive my very own "Busy Block Pattern." Available exclusively in this edition of One Thimble! These make fantastic gifts for baby showers and new bubs.

                                       WAIT NO LONGER IT'S HERE!!

To purchase the parts to make these busy blocks I have some available in my Etsy store.

How can you get your hands on this amazing e-zine you ask?
Affiliate Link: To the right of this post - or click the One Thimble Website.

Happy Sewing
Kylie  x

Busy Block Pattern Release- in the next edition of One Thimble.

So if you have not already heard.....Little Moo Designs is part of the amazing Aussie pattern design team in the next edition of One Thimble e-zine.

To say I am excited is an understatement. Today all was revealed....and the pattern I am releasing is a "Busy Block Pattern." So yes you will be able to make these fantastic soft blocks for babies for yourself!

So here is a little bit more about the pattern -
 

Designed with sensory play in mind, these blocks have loads of customisable options making them the perfect gift for babies.

Busy blocks are designed to encourage sensory play, the six different sides are designed to give lots of options which can be customised to suit your babies likes. Chew rings, ribbons, different textured fabrics, crinkly sounds, rattles and pockets make this soft cube a great toy to keep babies entertained while learning through sensory play.

This pattern is aimed at a confident beginners level, however can be customised to suit your sewing skills as they grow. The beauty of this pattern is you can make your block as simple or as complicated as you like! And it's a perfect way to use up your scraps as well. You could add applique letters, handstitching, lace, interactive pockets and so much more. Let your imagination run wild!

 

So how do you get yourself this fantastic pattern??

Well you have to hand tight until the release of One Thimble on August 15th as it will be available as part of your purchase of the e-zine or independently via their website. There are so many amazing patterns in the next edition, make sure you check out the website for all the details.

 

 

See! Babies love them...well mine does anyway.

 While your waiting for this pattern to be released, check out our others in the Pattern Shop on the website.

 

Stay tuned for the big release of One Thimble!

Happy Sewing.

Kylie

 

 

Introducing a newbie - The Little Moo Designs Travel Wallet Pattern.

I am so excited to release this practical, fun and funky new design to my pattern shop.

You know when your at the airport, you have your luggage in hand, your handbag, keys, passport, travel documents, coffee, wallet......waiting in line, your suddenly called up to check in your baggage.....then BAM your digging around for paperwork and looking totally unorganised....Well this is me to a tee. :)

So in an effort to become more organised when travelling, I developed this super practical and fun travel wallet! No more losing paperwork, keys or your passport. Have them on hand and organised in a Little Moo Designs Travel Wallet!

Here is what they look like -

The Little Moo Travel Wallet features pockets to hold your passport, business cards and travel documents. They also have a swivel clip which is perfect for holding luggage keys and a wristlet for extra security. The pattern has instructions on adding a button and elastic closure, however it can be customised to add a magnetic closure if you prefer.



Check out what my amazing pattern testing team came up with using my pattern -

Made by: Sewn By Leanne

Made by: KBS Designs

Made by: Allegra Jane Clothing (These designs have amazing embroidery added to them what a gorgeous personalised feature!)




How can you get yourself one of these travel wallets?
Check out my Etsy Store for ready made travel wallets

How can you make a travel wallet for yourself?
That's easy - this fantastic pattern is available for instant download via
My pattern shop
Or
Etsy shop

This pattern is suitable for beginners and yes you can sew to sell, just please acknowledge the pattern source in your listings as per the cottage licence instructions in the pattern.

I would love to see what you make with this pattern!

Happy Sewing
Kylie