Energised by Fleur Woods’ Textile Art Retreat, the Southern Highlands & another

Feeling so energised by day 1 of Fleur Woods’ Nature’s Textures textile art retreat being held at a Green Door Studios where we were hosted by the lovely Zoe and Chester the dog.
Fleur has a such a gentle, encouraging and nurturing teaching style, and it was a thrill to learn so many new things today and just have the opportunity to experiment and play.
Today we focused on creating our fibre bases and it was wonderful playing with punch needle techniques and different fibres. We’re working with natural colours as well have the option to add paint later.
So incredible too to be surrounded by such a wonderful bunch of creative folks including the fabulous Juanette ‪@JuanettesCraftingCorner‬, Rachel ‪@roxycreations679‬ Sarah ‪@roxycreationsbysarah‬ and Juju.
We’re loving our time visiting the Douthern Highlands and the beach I was trying to remember the name of in the video was Shell Harbour.
Working on some little slow stitch pouches to give as gifts. #slowstitch #slowstitching
Here’s a link to the German knotted stitch I’m using in this video: • 17. German knotted and...
Here’s a link to my next piece inspired by coral and rock pools • Stitched nature’s text...
Cheers,
Christine
Create and craft with Christine

[@marthamanigross]

Oh Christine! What a journey you had getting there, between the kidney stones and the aftermath of the meds. So happy for you that it didn’t deter you from getting there and being able to participate in that amazing experience. The ocean and coastline look very much like southern Maine beaches and coastline. I love the ocean and sandy beaches. So fun watching you all enjoy it, especially Travers! Thank you for sharing it all. I have to admit,I’m envious of the workshop, the materials, the learning, and the group you’re able to do that with! Hugs, M ❤

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

I think the pain of Thursday and Friday made the joy of this wonderful week all the more intense and I am also full of gratitude. Fleur has actually said she is open to doing workshops in the US if she could connect with a studio space similar to what is here at Green Door Studios. Zoe who runs it is absolutely amazing. Cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@lindaherrington6291]

Very nice little pouch. So glad you're absorbing and enjoying the experience of your retreat. Lovely filming and still pictures. Hope Alex is having a relaxing time, but Travers certainly looks like he's making the most of the new experience too.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Linda - everyone is having a soul filling time and it is lovely to reconvene in the afternoons and share our adventures from the day. I feel so very grateful for this precious creative time. Cheers, Christine

[@DixieDoodles]

Thank you for sharing your dream retreat with us. I enjoyed every second of this.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thanks so very much - I’m glad you enjoyed 💚

[@joanneurquhart8537]

What a beautiful place to stay love the lush greenery. The beach looked very inviting, Travis sure had a big doggie grin as he was running along the beach , what an adorable boy he is .

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Trav is such a joy and his love of the beach brings a huge smile every time. Right now he is snoring noisily on the couch next to me after another busy day with Alex sightseeing. Cheers, Christine

[@lisazilaro6906]

Fun ! Fun ! Fun ! Thank you so much for sharing 🪡🧵♥️

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

So much fun! So full of joy! Cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@suebulford]

Hi Christine so pleased you are feeling much better, you certainly have had a bit of a rough time The retreat sounds just amazing and you can here the excitement in your voice Travis is such a beautiful dog and so nice Alex and Travis are with you. The scenery is beautiful and listening to the birds there is nothing better. Your pouch is lovely and the german knot stitch adds a little something special. Thankyou for sharing your adventure. Take care and happy creating and stitching 🧵💖👍

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you Sue - I am struggling to articulate just how incredible this retreat is. It is pure joy. Trav sends you a big Labrador lick and it is lovely sharing this part of the world where we haven’t been before with both him and Alex. Cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@giusicoluccia6594]

Spectacular nature! Your starting piece of the workshop is really beautiful and interesting! Wow! I finished my second pouch with you today and looking at yours I'm inspired for another one😅 So happy you are enjoying your trip! Take care! Ciao❤

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Oh Giusi I love that we get to stitch together and I so wish you could be here for this retreat as I know you would love it 💛

[@paulalister80]

Looks like a delightful place to sit and sew in. Thank you for sharing.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

It is a magical place! And Fleur is an absolute delight! Cheers, Christine

[@jeanbawden8071]

Thank you for sharing. The pouch is beautiful.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you Jean. I enjoyed working on this and have finished my other pouches now and gifted them this morning. Cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@karenwatchorn9233]

Oh wow how wonderful and exciting 🤗 thanks for sharing your interesting new project it will be great to see it evolving 💖 and love the pouch, so much stitching I’m still ploughing through my Roxy one!!

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you Karen and I look forward to seeing your Roxy pouch. Cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@candicepierce5726]

Beautiful pouch and retreat project so far. Gorgeous scenery photos. Nature is lovely, isn’t it?

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Nature is truly wondrous! Cheers, Christine 💚

[@kimberleymaloy1728]

You've got your own little secret garden there, and it's lovely! I am so glad you were well enough to attend the workshop, I know how much you were looking forward to it. Day one's work is beautiful and looking forward to see what the rest of the week brings. Have a great time!

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Kim - I am so very grateful and having such a joyful week! Sending you much love, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@dawnmeldrum1267]

Sounds amazing. I can hear your excitement. Wish I was there.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

I really do wish everyone could experience a workshop like this - the experience is so nurturing and inspiring so much creativity. Cheers, Christine

[@artyfartyannie]

Wow that sounds like a fabulous retreat Christine, wish I was there with you - I can hear the excitement and creative energy in your voice. Love your emerging rockpools and I think you're right, those covered buttons would fit in there perfectly, like little barnacles or sea urchins or something. Must be wonderful to spend time IRL with the Roxy Crew too. The pouch looks beautiful oooh and lovely to get a peek at the beach and that sweet cottage - what a perfect holiday in every way, enjoy every minute and thanks for sharing some of it with us :)

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Annie - and happy birthday as I am a bit belated in responding to my comments. I think you would absolutely love Fleur’s workshops and I’m also so lucky to have such lovely workshop companions. We are all thoroughly enjoying our the here including Alex and Trav. Cheers, Christine

[@joanneurquhart8537]

Love your project bag and I do like that interesting German knot stitch . Exciting day one at the retreat love your work so far , sounds like a fantastic day learning from one of the best . Take care of yourself health wise I do hope things settle down for you. Oh how lucky you are to meet the lovely Rozy ladies. Enjoy your time at the retreat my friend.❤

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you Joanne - the wellness has flowed right in and I am feeling great in mind, body and spirit 💙🧵🪡☀️💚

[@bestcrossroad]

Oh my! You brought me the spirit of summertime: sea, sunny afternoon, Travis frolicking with happiness and ‘greeneries’ and a lovely summer cottage! Thank you, Christine❤. What a beautiful place you’re surrounded with! You did a lot in the workshop on the 1st day. It’s great you’re provided with materials in a nice case too. Needle punch I’ve seen demonstrated but didn’t attempt as of yet. I’m sure when you’ll introduce it to us, we’ll be enticed in discovering it😊. I’m glad that your kidneys are behaving ( knock on 🪵 wood). Sorry about the diverticulitis. Hope your health will be better now that you’re on holiday. I’m currently stitching a part of a tote bag using your favorite (as well as mine), Ainu stitch. This, while you’re enclosing your beautiful pouch with German stitch. Thank you for the 100+ (?175) stitches you’ve patiently taught us. Oooh, I’ll stop now. Handsome Travis looks like he likes the seashore . Have fun. Be safe. 🌷tess

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Tess - I love that you’re using one of our shared favourite stitched and I still treasure the community we created while all stitching or chatting together through the stitch along. Trav certainly loves the beach. Having the most wonderful time here all round 💙🧵🪡

[@JuanettesCraftingCorner]

It has been an absolute delight to meet you, Christine. I’m so glad that I was able to come. Australia is such a beautiful country and of course you’re stitching is impeccable.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

It has been an absolute thrill to be in your presence and I am so grateful that you travelled all this way to join us and be part of this wonderful experience together 💚 cheers, Christine

[@judymarkel8029]

This looks like so much fun. Thank you so much for sharing. I loved seeing the kits and other things that you were sharing. Oh how I wish I were there

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

So very special to be learning new things and having new tools and supplies to experience my with. Cheers, Christine

[@elainelim325]

I will never be able to attend a Grand Retreat like this because of distance, but did order Fleur Woods’ book so I can be there in spirit. Christine, your work is lovely.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you Elaine and I am certain you will love Fleur’s book as it captures the essence of her nurturing approach to creativity. And so many delicious images. I’m happy too that you’re here in spirit 💚

[@suebrown3194]

The German Knotted stitch makes for a beautiful joining stitch. Glad to see it used that way. There's nothing like a stitching retreat/workshop. Happy for you that your digestive issues settled down in time for you to enjoy yourself.

[@suebrown3194]

and thanks for the video of the beach (and Travers) and the garden!

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Sue - this is my first real retreat or workshop so I am absolutely revelling in it! Cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@snoppynewall4922]

How exciting. I wish I could be there just imagining all that talent and buzz in the room must be heavenly. I could just sit and people watch and feel happy for them ❤

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Oh Snoppy I wish you could be here too and if I win the lotto I’m being you all together in this nurturing place for sure. 💙🧵🪡

[@kimshrader743]

Christine, what a lovely opportunity for you to meet others and to learn from Fleur! I'm so glad you are on the mend in time for this beautiful 5-day adventure. Love the pouch you finished and thank you for sharing the sights and sounds of your world for these 5 days. What a beautiful paradise for a workshop and much deserved R&R. Can't wait to see what creations you make from your workshop.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Kim - it is such a wonderful opportunity and I am so very grateful for every moment of this retreat and also the beautiful scenery we are able to enjoy - such dramatic landscapes and so very lush. Cheers, Christine 💚

[@beyesh3760]

❤ Wow thanks for sharing the awesome scenery 😊😊. Project bag coming along nicely. Looks like a great class, look at all those wonderful textures and yummy thing to work with. Have a great time.😊😊

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

So much deliciousness all round! Cheers, Christine

[@christinacreatesau]

I had such a lovely day with Rachel, Sarah and Juju. It was great to meet Fleur as she popped in to say hi. I will now pretend I am still there and live vicariously through your videos. 😂😂 (Loved having a pat and cuddle with Chester 😊) Hope all is good with you re kidney stone now.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

I am so happy you got to enjoy the time with the girls (including Juju) and also your time with Juanette too. Green Door Studios is such a wonderful place and Fleur is such a wonderful teacher and all round good human. I’m happy you can join us in spirit through the videos we’re sharing - I know the girls are planning some more videos sharing their work and experiences from the workshop. Cheers, Christine

[@christinacreatesau]

@@createandcraftwithchristine yes and I am enjoying seeing what you’re getting up to this week 😊

[@cherynmawdsley4508]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I have been so excited for you (and envious) What a creative adventure you are having. It’s been such a busy time for you at work for so long this will be just what you need. Looking forward to more glimpses and the evolution of your piece. Have a wonderful time.

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you dear Cheryn and you are so right that this retreat is just what I needed 💙🧵🪡

[@edwinarigby4727]

Lovely video! 😄Well done!

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you Edwina - I enjoyed sharing the daily videos while at the retreat and am busily working on my next texture piece now 🤗 cheers, Christine 💙🧵🪡

[@Vanessa-mz1cs]

Wow! How exciting. The backyard looks so peaceful and relaxing 😊

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you - it is such a lush and beautiful part of the world, plus waterfalls it seems at the end of every road (almost). Cheers, Christine

[@TinekeGelder]

Thank you for sharing . Love seeing Travis, he is such a lovely dog. I am looking forward to seeing your work. Would love to do a course with Fleur Woods but I live in the Netherlands in Europe a bit to far and expensive for me 😅. Have fun !

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you so very much and Trav sends you a nose boop to say thank you 🐾 I hope Fleur may travel overseas and share her workshops for others to enjoy as she really is such a nurturing and incredible teacher. Cheers, Christine

[@creepycutiecrafty]

What a brilliant project! Those patches make me think of the rock pools I used to explore on Lyme Regis beach here in the uk - and the buttons look like whimsical barnacles! Could you use clear buttons, beads or silvered thread to create the impression of water droplets? I love the colours you’ve used in your pouch design. The blues are both dramatic and gentle at the same time. So much amazing creativity at work!

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you my friend - it is amazing what we can create with fibre and other materials. This week has made me look at materials in whole new ways and it has been lovely as we have all been sharing materials we have in our little stashes from home as well. I added a little spider web to my piece and added beads as little water droplets. Love your ideas too. Cheers, Christine

[@janillingsworth7478]

Ooh I love that German knotted stitch. I hadn't come across that before. I am working on my huswif as I watch you. I am making my huswif with an Eastern theme rather than traditional. This just happened because of the fabrics I took a fancy to on the day. Its a nice change. I am so glad you are recovering from the kidney stones. They really do take it out of you. Anecdotally I was told not to drink sherry and increase the amount of water I drink. I dont drink sherry but my father did and he had quite a few bouts of kidney stones. Morphine doesnt affect my tummy but anti inflammatories are diabolical. I am glad you are having fun. I am so enjoying seeing your work. Arohanui from me in Aotearoa New Zealand ❤

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Thank you so much and a beautiful part of the world you are from. I hope to one day make it to a Fleur Workshop in NZ 🤗 I look forward to seeing your huswif - so you share photos on the Roxy Facebook group? Kidney stones are definitely no fun! I don’t drink alcohol at all but unfortunately I am predisposed to them it seems. Cheers, Christine

[@janillingsworth7478]

@@createandcraftwithchristine I will share my huswif. Its taking longer than I thought because of some little mandalas I am stitching for decoration. Also I got distracted dying my own variegated thread with inktense pencils and making beads from my jar of thread off cuts. It makes life such fun though.😊

[@rachellee.9389]

Are you allowed to bring Mr. T. into the plates you go? There are signs everywhere here in Central Oregon that read service dogs only but we are also known as a dog city so everyone ignores the signs and it's lovely to see dogs everywhere. Heck, sometimes the dogs are better behaved that the people!

[@createandcraftwithchristine]

Haha dogs certainly are often better behaved than the people for sure! We can’t take Travers into national parks but we have been taking turns to stay with travers so both of us can visit the sites. The waterfalls here and landscapes are absolutely incredible 💚