Home Pickled Onions

I've been itching to talk about this one! This is why I blog.. not to get a bunch of followers (though that's nice) but to blab about things where most of my friends wouldn't be able to share my enthusiasm on the topic.

I love pickled onions but my husband doesn't. But who cares?! I couldn't believe my luck when I found some at the supermarket. Since we're moving I'd much rather pack jars full of homemade goods than empty. Gives a bit of excitement. By the time we move and unpack they should be ready to eat. Though I might leave them until Christmas.

I did these the slow way, brining for 12 (or 24) hours before rinsing then stuffing in the jars with pre-spiced vinegar. All cold. I sterilised the jars and left them in the oven to cool before putting everything together.

 The bucket was clean! I've already packed away my big brining bowl.

I couldn't find any pickling spice mix so I made two of my own. The MAJOR bummer with this is that it's impossible to find chunky dried bits of allspice etc. It's all powdered. So I did what I could though it's left the cloudy vinegar to settle with spice sediment everywhere. No matter, it'll still taste good just will be a little stronger over time than I wanted.

 It wasn't until I'd done the two different spice blends that I realised I prefer white vinegar with a dash of malt... nevermind!

Ta Daaa!

Ok so I bought this loooong cardigan on holiday at the Gold Coast almost 2 years ago. Loved the purple colour but not the figure hugging style. A huge NO NO for pear shapes such as myself. So I finally did something about it.
I turned this......(or a similar)

To this!

 I cut the bottom off, hemmed it (WISH I'd have kept the tie belt as that would have made great edging for the bottom) and cut out circles from the off cut. then stretched them out as I sewed the edges in a button hole type stitch so they went all wiggly. Then pinned them on. I wish I had more material to do the whole collar. I haven't decided if I want them all at the front or all down one side so they'll stay pinned for the moment.

So well done me for being brave and going for it instead of looking for ideas on the internet.. then giving up before I've started.
xx