Celtic Hearts & Hometown Quilting in Kent

I've just returned from a super visit to Kent, where I stayed with my lovely friend Dolores. We enjoyed great quilting time together and her hospitality was the best!

We managed make good headway in planning the quilt she will make for her daughter, who has recently moved into her first home of her own.  

We were given instructions for the colours and also told that it must incorporate a Celtic design as a centrepiece. As I had recently learned how to make a Celtic Braid runner we applied the same techniques and chose a continuing heart design to symbolise the everlasting love Dolores has for her daughter. 

Here it is, not quite finished, with only one side of the binding stitched so Dolores just has to finish the other side. 

Dolores and me proudly showing the result of our efforts

I was treated to several super jaunts and first we visited the lovely city of Rochester. It was decked in  colourful bunting and buzzed with atmosphere as there was a graduation that day, however, this meant that we could not visit the cathedral but I'm sure I'll go back one day.

This gorgeous shop "Hometown" is well worth a visit and is an Aladdin's cave for quilters.

 The staff are so friendly and helpful and this simple frontage opens into a temptingly beautiful layout of nooks and crannies which will so easily help make a pleasurable dent in your bank account. 

Filled with irresistable quality fabrics of every theme and colour we left our menfolk for quite some time....patiently sat on a bench nearby watching all the graduates and their proud families.

 A good range of books available,

 Lots of lovely sewing notions, cards and home accessories...

 Dolores also wanted me to show her how to make some of the easy items I have recently posted on my blog. Diane of the Cheshire Quilter sets me a challenge each month and the results are going to raise funds for Hope House Hospice so we made a few of these.

Cute round zipped pockets for keys or small change

 Handy triangular and oblong pouches

 Tissue pouch and decorations

A happy, sunny, interesting, fun, productive trip but most of all it was so lovely to catch up with a special friend. Thanks so much to Dolores and her lovely fella.

Coming up soon you I will share our trip to Quay Quilters fabulous exhibition so be sure to pop back soon.