Gathering Stitchers^™ was first thought about as I led a group of crafters preparing for a school fete. Over the years our school fete become well known for their market leading ideas, designs and high quality craft work. During my last few years at the school our craft group became particularly well known for the dolls we produced.

'Esther and the Tea Ladies', the first pattern I produced, was originally designed for my friends and came about following one of the early fetes. As this craft group made Esther she acquired many friends who became known as the tea ladies.

Esther (see photo at right) has since retired. Since then many new creations have been tested by this group - with the results being many of the designs you see on this web site.

Recent Articles About Gathering Stitchers & Rondél

I only made 'patterns' for my friends in the beginning. My real challenge came, however, when a close friend, who runs the 'Patches of Heaven' shop in Temora, asked me to include some of my designs into her shop.

Patchwork & Stitching

(1.3MB pdf file)

Dolls, Bears & Collectables

(0.4MB pdf file)

Australian Homespun

    (request reprint only)

(click on link to read the articles)

I can not believe how the business has developed. I now have new friends all over the world who have made my dolls. I find it hard to imagine that my designs are gracing homes in so many countries. Each doll is proud of their Australian heritage and represents their country as they travel the world.

Each of my designs is unique. I 'see' the design in my mind and usually struggle to get it to come out just as I see it - but eventually it comes. Every doll I make has a story.

I hope you enjoy making my dolls as much as I have enjoyed creating them.

Rondél