So, first, after spending all of May setting up my new business venture – you know, registering the business name, setting up a new bank account, PayPal, Australia Post account, etc, etc, etc – I went on an amazing holiday. I spent two weeks in Israel. First time. Blew me away!

I came back on 13th June, and after recovering from a bit of jet lag, I devoted most of my time to getting things up and running on my new shopping cart site. It’s ready to go now, so… TA DAH!!!

Do you like it? You’re probably thinking to yourself, “what’s with that name?” I’ll leave you to guess.

This site is for all of you who like to sew bags for yourself and others, or to make clothes, hats, kids hats, etc. I’ve started the shop by filling it with all of Nicole Mallalieu’s ‘You Sew Girl!’ products. Have you used them? You may already know that I’m a huge fan. Her sewing patterns for bags, hats, and clothing are amazing. There’s so much to learn from her detailed tailoring instructions, and so much scope to customise your item to your own needs and liking. Her hardware is fantastic. Bright shiny silver nickel, or gorgeous antique brass products that really give a professional finish. Anyway, you can tell, yes? I’m very thrilled to be able to stock them for you.

In time, I’ll include other products, but for now, for all things by Nicole Mallalieu, it’s a one-stop-shop. I’m getting her downloadable patterns too. Should be on the site in the next couple of days.

Oh, and you can follow Stitch 56 on Twitter if you like, and like the Facebook page. You can even sign up for the Newsletter.

So, that’s all for now. Happy browsing. I’d love to hear your comments, feedback, questions, any errors you’ve found, etc. And feel free to shop There’s a 10% discount for all 25reasons readers on your first order. Simply type “25reasons10off” into the coupon code box when you’re checking out. (Valid till the end of June)

Now back to catching up with everyone! I haven’t read a single blog post in weeks!

x Helene