We used to have a wonderful gal in our smocking guild who was from Australia. Her name is Lynn Weekes. Lynn's husband was transferred to the Chicago area by one of the oil companies. Lynn had a smocking and heirloom sewing store in Australia. I met her when she joined our smocking guild and taught at my friend Sharon's
studio. Lynn was the absolute best seamstress I have ever met. She produced a line of patterns for children that were absolutely perfect. I had given up buying patterns made by gals in their homes until I met Lynn. Her instructions and fit were perfect. She wouldn't have it any other way. Well being in the business in Australia she knew many of the good Australian teachers in silk ribbon, embroidery and all the things you see in Inspirations and Australian Smocking magazines.

She had many of them come to Chicago if they were in the states and we were able to take some wonderful classes. They would stay with Lynn while they were in the area. Well all good things come to an end. Lynn's husband retired and they moved back to Australia about
3 years ago. Sharon closed her studio after many years and there is nothing like it in our area anymore.

I have posted one of the projects I made. The class was taught by Lee Lockheed. She bought the pansy buttons from Australia. They were hand made and painted in Oz and were probably as expensive for the 2 as the fabric and ribbon altogether. I have it sitting on a chair in my living room.