Friday, May 20, 2011

Sewjourn (again)

yep, I am off to Sewjourn again
and while it would be awesome if you could all come along....
how about I share a bit of "Nikki" with you all instead.
While I am off at Sewjourn with the real-life Nikki, you guys can leave a comment and win one of three copies of her book that I have to giveaway.
Nikki's book has prompted the wonderful Tanya to embark on a Julie/Julia journey and she is sewing her way through the book. Really, can higher praise be given to a craft book? Nikki's book is much like Nikki herself, its good-looking, friendly, accessible and full to the absolute brim with hints tips, and easier, neater smarter ways of doing things.



There is no jumping through hoops required to enter but I would love to hear your experience of Nikki's patterns, the book, or any Nikkiness you'd like to share- even if it is just that you read her blog. I have to say I think I must have made about 20 of Nikki's tiny purse pattern over the years - it is definitely my go-to gift (for those people crazy enough to not want toys).
and right now I am still in my P.J's, everything is piled by the door ready for the car to be loaded, the baked goods are baked and the last minute additions are added, I just need to get myself moving !

119 comments:

  1. Have fun, I love that book...
    Lizzie
    xxx

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  2. That little purse is cute and I would love to have it but if you were giving a gift to me, I'd go for a toy for sure.

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  3. My girlfriend bought this just the other day and hasn't stopped raving about it! Would b enice to have my own copy! :-)

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  4. Whenever I make my own bag pattern I go to my Nikki M Mod Bag instructions to find out how to put it together!

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  5. I have several of Nikki's patterns. So far I have only made the zipper bag ones. I found the instructions are very detailed and easy to follow. I'm looking forward to having a go at the hat.I picked up my patterns from Nikki's old studio at Brunswick(?) on a trip to Melbourne. I enjoyed meeting her staff and looking at all the samples. I was lucky to meet the lady herself briefly at the end of my visit. The ladies were very helpful directing this out of towner to the nearby fabric retail area. I hope she has a lot of success with this book, as she certainly put her heart and soul into it.

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  6. Count me in please! I just love to make things. Grown up things to make sounds great. Have a lovely time. Looking forward to hearing about your adventures.

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  7. Have a wonderful weekend, I'm so envious.

    I have a number of Nikki's patterns and have spent a morning with her learning the minute details of getting a fantastic strap for your bag using "D" rings.

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  8. I need to get that book based on the photo of the skirt alone! Gorgeousness :) Have fun Sewjourn-ing!

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  9. Have fun...as if you lot would dare to do anything else...how are you going to top the undies experience??

    I have no experience of actually making Nikki's patterns (yet!) but does spending hours drooling over her blog and website and wishing the time (darn going to work palaver gets in the way of all my fun) and money (bloody bills - really why do we need electricity? oh yes, sewing machine!!) gods to send me the wherewithal to play at all her classes count?...

    Drive over in your jammies...go on I dare you!

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  10. Ohhhh <3 Nikki's work, have this on my wish list !!!

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  11. I hadn't come across Nikki before but thank you so much for the introduction. Her blog is amazing and I can't wait to try some of her ideas.

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  12. Love that book - bought myself a copy recently. Have fun sewing, don't trash the place - I'll be there next week!

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  13. Book looks fanastic. Thanks for the chance.
    I am yet to get any of nikkis patterns but I do visit her blog:)
    Have a great weekend:}

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  14. Have an awesome weekend!
    I am booked in next weekend for Nikki's pattern free skirt class. Am very much looking forward to it. I've been to Nikki's bag in a day class too and that was brilliant.

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  15. Nikki's book is just as amazing as you described. Haha. I've been to the gym, all the sewing machine cords have been checked and are present and we are nearly ready to run out the door. See you there!

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  16. Ooh, I'd love to make one of those sweet little bags!

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  17. the book looks so good, I have heard many good things about Nikkis patterns but have yet to make one :(. Have fun at sewjourn.

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  18. i so want this book. i love nikkis blog and have made some hats and bags! she gives great advice re interfacing and structure. i hope i win i have borrowed my friends copy of this book and do not want to give it back!!!

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  19. Have heaps of fun and just LOVE Nikki's book - would love to win one - thanks!

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  20. It goes without saying, I'm totally envious of your creative weekend at Sewjourn. Have fun!!

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  21. Nikki's patterns & creations are simply inspirational! I love seeing what she's up to next on her blog & I meant to buy her book last week but I forgot & now I don't have any money lol, so I'm going to cross my fingers & toes!

    Have fun at Sewjourn Lovely!

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  22. Have fun! That purple vest/overshirt - that I never noticed before, but all of sudden, must have!

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  23. did you see that busle-ish skirt she made over on her blog? And that funky top with that neck I love but would never wear because of the bazoombahs? I luff her, just like you.

    Am jealous of your departure - smooch Sooz for me 'K?

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  24. Have to admit that I am new to Nikki, but this book looks fab!

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  25. Have a wonderful time - wish I could come too!

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  26. I haven't made any of Nikki's patterns before but I am tempted to seek this book out and give some a go. Love the cover!

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  27. Have a great time yet again Jodie!

    I have really loved what I have seen in this book on the web. Waiting for it to hit my local book shop (or waiting to get myself back there again!). I have only heard great stuff about it : o ) Who does not want her book!!!!

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  28. This isn't an entry, but I just wanted to say "Have massive fun" (I suspect you don't need to be told!) with the 'real life' Nikki and those other 'real life' wonderfuls. May it be a restoring and inspirational weekend. Really- there are people who don't want your toys? weird.

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  29. I'd love a copy of the book - the cowl top looks fabulous! Enjoy your Sewjourn!

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  30. I love her work and am excited to see the book! Crossing fingers I win.

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  31. I love Nikki's attention to detail and the finish of her bags, also the quirkiness of some of the fabrics she uses. Just lovely. Would so love a book to be able to make some of her lovely stuff. Thanks.

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  32. I too have been eyeing off this book - thanks for the chance to win won! Have a great time :-)

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  33. Ooooh, yes please! I need to sew myself some skirts this winter, and could definitely do with all the hints and tips in the book. I am a bit slap dash when it comes to following sewing guidelines, I mean rules! Enjoy your weekend away.

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  34. This is my first time hearing about Nikki, thank you so much! and I adore her little purse pattern, and her book looks great!

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  35. I've never heard of her or this book before! The book looks great. Her blog is super interesting, lots of things I'd never even think of on there. So cool, thanks so much!

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  36. I haven't seen this book yet but I'm sure I'm going to love it!

    thanks for the offer, have a lovely weekend away.
    dxx

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  37. After my last few projects have been rejected by my oohhh soooo picky 2yr old. I think the time has come to start creating for myself. This book would just be the beginning of a new obsession though but that's OK...isn't it?!

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  38. I'm yet to try any of Nikki's patterns but can't help but be tempted by this book given the high praise it's getting in the bloggy world - and I've seen a few of the toddler sun hats being whipped up and would love make my kids hats rather than fork out for them at the shops!!

    (Oh, and I do read Nikki's blog and was so sad to read about the nicked bag).

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  39. It was lovely to meet Nikki last year at SIT. I have sewn a sling bag or 2 & would love to try a purse or 2. I haven't seen the book yet but I'm sure it is wonderful just like her :)!!
    Have a super weekend Jodie.

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  40. I have never heard of her, or her book, but judging from what I've read here, and from my peek over on her blog I seriously need to be updated. What a great book! I hope you have a good time, and don't mind about the pjs. I didn't put on a bra today until well after 5:00 pm. :)

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  41. I would love to win her book. I had a quick look at AQC but didn't get back to the stall to purchase it. I did however buy a purse kit from her.
    Cheers
    Anne

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  42. Wow, der Rock schaut so toll aus, und die kleine Geldbörse ist auch so schön.

    Alles Liebe
    Simone

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  43. The closest I can get to some 'Nikkiness' is that I have seen and admired a friend's efforts to make a couple of Nikki's bags now and am impressed. I would love to try these for myself..and if I had her book..!

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  44. I am off with "my girls" next weekend for a sewing weekend so I know the anticipation you are feeling. Have a ball.

    I bought myself....er, *cough* hubby bought the kids a copy of Nikki's book for me for Mother's Day but I have a crafty mother-in-law who would adore a copy if I was lucky enough to win!

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  45. I have not used one of Nikki's patterns - yet. But I have bought things from her online shop, and every time they are so helpful and prompt with postage.

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  47. Wow! Hope you get another happy weekend with loads of laughter. I always read Nikki's blog but I have to say my favourite bits are about the wee girl. I find it amazing to see her progress. I've got to say I would love Nikki's book so I can pick her brain but am happy to see someone more worthy - as in harder working - than me get it too. Cherrie

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  48. Yes, please count me in! I love seeing what Nic does through her blog, and am trying SO HARD not to break my self-imposed 'no more sewing books until I've sewn at least one thing from all the others" ban - coz that book looks great!

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  49. Gasp!! How have I not come across Nikki before??? Loving the skirt - I reckon I could nearly find the motivation to whip one of them up (or enough to purchase the fabric definately!).

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  50. I'm jealous I'm not invited to Sewjourn but would be consoled with a copy of Nikki's book. Particularly love the patternless top and the skirt.

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  51. Have fun at sew journ. I've looked at Nikki's blog and she comes across like someone with great ideas. Thanks!

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  52. Hi Jodie have fun at sew journ. Had a flick thru the book today it looks great I was tempted to buy it but didn't have the cash on me today. Love the skirt and a couple of bags. christine

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  53. I love Nikki's blog - I found it about 2 months ago but must confess I haven't tried any of her patterns yet because I have so much else on the go. I'm definitely a beginner when it comes to sewing these types of items (started off a a quilter). Thanks for the opportunity!

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  54. I've never used one of Nikki's patterns, but that may well change soon!

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  55. Missed AQC and the book looks interesting! How generous with the give away!

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  56. Oh dear... no experience of Nikki or her patterns... am I allowed to comment? have a great w/e Jodie.

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  57. Have seen Nikki's book. There are so many patterns in it I would love to make, both bags and clothes. I love that she uses local designers fabric.

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  58. Would love a copy of that book. her blog is amazing

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  59. I've made loads of her Dress Bag pattern, it's always gorgeous, I've made it in fancy Japanese linen, Katie Jump Rope, Prints Charming stripes, and others. It's a good size too, carries enough stuff but doesn't use too much fabric. Planning on making another with some delicious echino!

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  60. The book looks awesome! I'd love to win a copy.

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  61. awww!! lovely giveaway...

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  62. I love that little purse you linked to. I've never taken the plunge to try working with frames.
    And the cosmetic bag in the picture?? I need to start wearing more make-up to justify making this for myself. :)

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  63. Me please! I would love to win a copy of this book!!! I read her blog, but until now, I have only copied her idea of making a belt for a wheat bag in case of back pain. It works great! I haven't dared to start sewing clothes - am stuck with pillowcases, easy patchwork blankets and easy bags. I think I just need to get over my fear - and this book would most certainly help!

    Thanks for the chance!

    Fine

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  64. Wow, great giveaway, thank you for the opportunity to receive a wonderful book. eve

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  65. Nikki is fantastic! I've used a couple of her patterns, and they are so clear and easy to follow with step by step instructions, AND pictures for those of us who are very much visual learners!! I've also got quite a collection of bits and bobs from her shop and they are such great quality and really help to give your sewing a "professional" look. Love the book! Need the book! It's on my list (but if I WIN it, I'll have more pocket money to spend on purse frames, zips etc to sew into little wonders!)

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  66. Nikki is fab.

    My story? She says I get to join you at Sewjourn this weekend by telepathy ;-)

    I'm waiting for Book Depository to get that in so I can order it.

    Utterly jealous of your actual real life sewing weekend. Please to be having waaaay too much fun.

    Cheers,
    AJ

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  67. I sew wish I lived in Australia to go to all these neat places to craft!

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  68. Would Love the book! Looks like something my girls and I would enjoy!
    Sue Lavell

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  69. This book has been on my wish list since you first mentioned it. It would be great to have it jump from my list to my collection.

    Have a gret time at Sewjourn.

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  70. I bought this book for a friend's daughter for her 21st birthday (I've been teaching her to sew) and now that I've held it in my hands so briefly I want one for me!!! I did a wonderful class with Nikki a few years ago and still use the wee bag with butterflies on it in summer - it makes me feel fresh and fun (even if I'm tired...) Such a lovely giveaway. Enjoy craft camp!!!

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  71. I want this soooo bad, everything about it just looks fab.

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  72. I only just heard about Nikki but this book looks fabulous and I am definately checking out her blog and taking a look at her patterns. Thanks for the heads up and the chance to win her book.

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  73. Have heard wonderful things about this book. Excited!

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  74. My only Nikki experience is buying magnetic clasps from her on-line. Great service (but a very dull comment)! Please let me win so my comments won't be so boring.

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  75. I'm obviously way behind the curve because I have no idea who Nikki is! But Im sure if you love her book, I will. I <3 your blog!!

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  76. I just ordered Nikki's book, and waiting for the post to arrive. So, I feel I shouldn't enter this comp - but then I'd have a spare book to pass onto my sister, wouldn't I!?

    Some Nikki-ness...... Well, everything I've ever experienced about the beautiful Nikki is that she is generous, giving, always smiling and offering assistance and a kind word. And so inspiring and ingenious. Such a rare talented lovely woman!

    I hope you all enjoy your weekend Sewjourn. I am totally jealous. (as usual).

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  77. I'm very jealous of the weekend away too. I would love to win Nikki's book. Of course I have made lots of her patterns and the many of the little purses too.

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  78. I read Nikki's blog regularly, she is so clever - and I would LOVE to win her book!

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  79. Oh I love this book! I saw it in real life at the ABC Shop!

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  80. It took me a bit of effort to buy her City bag pattern here in London, but it's now my next project to make. I'd love a copy of her book.

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  81. I know very little of Nikki, but her book looks awesome so would love to learn more, gonna check out her blog in a mo. x

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  82. Truth be told, she's a new one for me, but I'd love to learn more! her stuff is super cute!!

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  83. I'm yet to try one of nikki's patterns, but am dying to get my hands on her book!!!

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  84. My nik-a-lisous experiance has always been blog reading, and thanks to taht a now yearly sewjourn trip with my sewmies ( my name for hommies that sew). thanks lovey nomes xxx - mcnomes17@yahoo.com.au

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  85. Thanks for a great day at Gisborne! Nikki's book looks awsome. xxR

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  86. oohh! How have I missed this one? Would love to share details of my experience with Nikki's designs but truth is I have just discovered her through your blog! Will definitely have to get myself a copy now though!

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  87. Have made one of her hats and also one of her purses - would love to win a copy of the book!

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  88. I have that Kristen Doran fabric and had no idea what to do with it! Please help me find guidance and direction in my sewing life with this book. Pleeease pick me!
    Regs
    Emily

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  89. Oooh, I love the top and skirt especially! Really cute! Thanks so much for the giveaway!

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  90. Oooh throw me in to win! Nikki's book looks fab and it would look even better on my bookshelf :o)
    I have a draw of doo-dads to add to bags, feet, clasps etc. I bought most of these from Nikki at her studio when we played there before Sew It Together. I bought so much stuff because I was half pizzled on the champas!!! Excellent sales technique by her.
    Ab xx

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  91. Hope you packed extra undies for the tena lady fail moments. We will miss you next weekend for sures.

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  92. Great Accomplishment Nicki, Great giveaway Jodie. I am looking forward to trying the cvlthing ideas having successfully completed a lot of the bags in the past.

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  93. This isn't an entry as I got the book last week - can I just say that, as with all of Nikki's patterns, this book is great. Made my first project last week: the wristlet and it was easy to make and looks fabulous!!

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  94. I have quite a few of Nikki's bag and hat patterns and love the shop!

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  95. Who wouldn't want a whole collection of your toys?? Still in love with them. This book looks great- If I don't win it is going on my book wish list. =)

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  96. I love Nicky bags most, and I'm even a fan of her on Facebook.

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  97. I'm a big fan of Nikki's. Would looove to win a copy of the book!

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  98. I've made a number of Nicole's bags over the years. I live her patterns and will continue to make them. Can't wait to see the book!

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  99. I thought the skirt patterns in the book looked great, flattering, unfortunately other financial priorities meant I could not buy the book, but it was a lovely book

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  100. I Love Nikki's stuff. I love her Blog - it's my turn-to for inspiration and ideas, as well as help!! I love to make her little purses!. So yes, I would LOVE to win a copy of her book!!

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  101. I've had the opportunity to join Nikki in supporting a good cause and spent a lovely day with others making her bag designs. Much fun and such a generous talented young lady.
    Hope the weekend was absolutely fabulous.

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  102. Looks like a great book! Hope you're having a good time.
    ps are you still collecting selvedges?

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  103. Hi there
    I hadn't heard of Nikki until I spied her stand at the convention.
    I was given a lovely piece of fabric from a fiend and I saw that she uses that same range of fabric, now i can see what possibilities I have to use it well. I will be making a bag from my precious fabric.
    Cheers
    Jillian

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  104. I have to admit to not knowing who she is. I foresee a good hunk of time being spent at her website, though!

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  105. Oh gosh, where do I begin? My little bag making biz wouldn't be where it is without Nikki. It started with her finding some hardware I needed many years ago. Since then, almost every bit of good technique I know, was learned from the blog, or the patterns that I've purchased, or from straight out advice that Nikki has given me. The access that she gives us to top quality supplies is amazing as well and I know I couldn't get the finish that I do without them.

    I am so thankful for Nikki's generosity when it comes to both advice and encouragement and am so thrilled that she has been able to publish this book!

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  106. I could (and frequently do) rave rave rave about the fabulous customer service that Nikki's online shop provides to us deprived crafters on the remote west coast ... one day I will make it to a class ...

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  107. I want a copy of Nikki's book - I need a copy of her book. I went into my local ABC shop last week to buy one and they didnt have any :-(

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  108. This is freaky! I was in a bookshop this morning and got my first look at this book, and added it to my 'to buy' list! Awesome book, funky patterns, and if I don't win it here i'll have it soon.

    Have fun!

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  109. Thanks for the chance to win Nikki's book. For xmas presents last year all my inlaws & nieces got purses (using Nikki's pattern, purse frame and interfacing). I loved the clear instructions and every one of them turned out beautifully.

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  110. I would love to win the book, as I can't justify buying it myself as I have 2 patterns of hers waiting to be used. (I bought them a couple of years ago at Stitches and Craft show).
    I also read Nikki's blog.

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  111. I haven't used any of Nikki's patterns, but her shop is AWESOME! And I would really love to try her book.....

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  112. Have just started getting back into sewing clothes,etc, for a cute little girl we now have in the family, but now have been inspired to make myself some clothes like everyone says they are raving about her book so count me in for a chance to win. Thanks

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  113. wow this book looks amazing..would love to own a copy...

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  114. I just came across your blog, and then spent time at Nikki's. I have not seen her patterns before but they look wonderful. Would love to win the book and get started with Nikki.

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  115. Oooh! I would LOVE that book, just love the look of those skirts. I've made a few of Nikki's bags, would love to try something else

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  116. I would love to win her book! I've recently started following her blog and what can I say? I'm hooked.

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  117. I've never seen Nikki's book before but after visiting the blog, I'd love to try some things out! Please enter me!

    clderwee at gmail dot com

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