Posted on Leave a comment

Gifts ideas for Christmas …..

New and what’s coming over the next few weeks….

The web site now is the option to have vehicle cushions personalised with your vehicle registration or vehicle name ( up to 8 letters). This will be on a proportionality sized plate added to the cushion before dispatch, there will be an extra £5.00 charge. Select your cushion place it in the basket then select the option to add plate and in the comments state what you would like putting on it.

Also

With lockdown from Covid-19 starting to relax, people are thinking of getting those special family event caught up on so I’ll be looking at how my products can enhance your special Christening, Wedding, Birthday or family get together. My special wedding themed cushions include being able to have a combination of names added. if you really want to push the boat out why not choose the option of working with the designer and we can look to change the design colours to mirror the wedding theme.

Don’t forget the sports nut in your life, they are always difficult to buy for at Christmas

Due out soon….. the NEWENT cardigan.

this simple but eye-catching design will suit a boy or girl and will be available on my web site before any other outlet. why not join my mailing list and be the first to get it. Visit my homepage and a popup will let you register.

As my learning curve of web design is still steep, I’m please to announce I have now included the option for customers to leave reviews. previously I had relied on the expert web designers of Etsy, Loveknitting and Facebook for this option. but I as I move to a bigger and stronger solo position in the market place its now included on my site. its at the bottom of each page.

Don’t forget social media, the different links are at the bottom of the page.

Until next time thanks for reading.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on Leave a comment

Autumn is just round the corner, wedding planning is back and Christmas is on the horizon.

Attention to detail

People ask why I edge my appliqué with a zig-zag stitch rather than the quicker and cheaper to produce E stitch that other craft producers use. I have several reasons the main 2 being…..

  • It protects edges from fraying and increases the life of the cushion.
  • The design jumping out at you rather than bending in.

Slide the bar and compare the finishes for yourself.


Whats New ….

You can now have you vehicle cushions personalised with your vehicle registration or vehicle name( up to 8 letters). This will be on a proportionality sized plate added to the cushion before dispatch. To add this extra to your purchase add the number plate option to your basket when purchasing your cushion.

Weddings are Back……

These new Wedding Themed cushions are the perfect addition to your special day. they are also an ideal finishing touch if you hire out your vehicle to wedding planners. Currently the 4WD and Camper van are amiable but other vintage vehicles will soon be added to the range.


Don’t forget to follow me in Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, alternativly join my mailing list for update and offers. Use the links at the bottom of the page.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on

New Cushion Designs out NOW … Queen Bees and Modern Bikes

The last few weeks have seen me busy with a couple of new designs.

Bee’s are still a popular choice for decor indoors and out in the garden. My new Queen Bee design, is appliqué and embroidery. It has the Queen with her crown and delicate wings fluttering behind her. The design is available on 14”, 16” and 18” cushions and the selection of fabrics and colours will be expanding over the next few weeks.

With the weather improving and cycling season getting into full swing now Covid-19 restrictions are relaxing, this modern take on a cycle themed cushion will fit not only into a minimalist interior design setting, but any environment where you have a cyclist who will appreciate and love the sleek lines and modern dimensions.

What’s coming over the next few months….

Being added to the web site over the next couple of weeks is the option to have vehicle cushions personalised with your vehicle registration or vehicle name( up to 8 letters). This will be on a proportionality sized plate added to the cushion before dispatch, there will be an extra minimal charge. Select the option to add plate and submit what you want on the plate.

  • More designer cushions and bespoke ideas will be coming in the next few weeks.
  • With lockdown from Covid-19 starting to relax, people are thinking of getting those special family event caught up on so I’ll be looking at how my products can enhance your special Christening, Wedding, Birthday or family get together.

Don’t forget to follow me in Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, alternativly join my mailing list for update and offers. Use the links at the bottom of the page.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on Leave a comment

My processes to create Exclusive Artisan Handmade cushions ….

As my past and present customers are aware here at Dizzy Tyke Designs, I make all of the cushions covers here in my studio.

Heres a little insight into the processes I undertake to create my exclusive designs and how the cushions covers are produced.

Stage 1 – Create Design Element

Using the BROTHER PE design program I create a design that represents the picture I want to create. Ensuring the pieces are attached in the correct order and stitches give the desired effect. this is then uploaded into the sewing machine ready for sewing.

If you have an idea for a pattern and its not available, drop me a line and if its something quirky for you I can give you costings, if its something I could add to my web site I can always look to absorb the cost for the design element away from the price.

Stage 2 – Fabrics

I try to use repurposed but new fabrics where possible. Many of the cover fronts are excess stock curtains. Whist the backs vary from good quality cotton sheeting, blackout backing curtains and curtain linings.

A lot of the appliqué materials are offcuts from a local upholstery manufacturer.

Creating card templates of each design element allows fabrics to be selected and cut to correct shapes before they are sewn into place.

Stage 3 – The Machine

I use a Brother PX1050x machine which hold up to 10 colours at any time.

Once fabrics have been chosen threads come next, whether I’m looking for contrast or harmony I have a wide selection of Kingstar polyester threads to choose from, they are then loaded onto the machines and threaded ready for sewing.

Stage 4 – stitch out design

Then starts the process of stitching out the design. Once all the elements are stitched in place. The edges are embroidered in a zigzag stitch to stop edges fraying.

Stage 5 – Create the cushion.

The backs are cut to shape, raw edges overlocked and a zip attached under an overlap to conceal it on the finished cushion. The Zip is typically placed 2/3 inches from the bottom of the cushion on the back.

However, some cushions are created using the envelope style and have buttons forming part of the design on the front.

The back and front are then sewn together and lastly the edges are overlocked to prevent fraying.

Stage8 – Finishing

The covers are then checked over, strands of cotton removed and tidying around appliqué to give clean lines.

Stage 7 – The Final Product

The cushion covers are then pressed, have a temporary filler placed in them for photographing. The filler is then removed and the cover placed in storage until it is sold.

You may wonder why temporary fillers are used. This is because they take a beating putting them in and out of different covers and pummelled into place for the photograph. So keeping a few fillers just for photographs allows every cushion that is dispatched to have a brand new filler placed in it ready for its new home.

All the fillers are solid to me as hypoallergenic, however are I can not guarantee all the fabrics I use are hypoallergenic, so I do not market them as such.

What’s coming over the next few months….

  • Summer knitting ideas start to make an appearance
  • More designer cushions and bespoke ideas
  • With lockdown from Covid-19 starting to relax, people are thinking of getting those special family event caught up on so I’ll be looking at how my products can enhance your special Christening, Wedding, Birthday or family get together.

Don’t forget to follow me in Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, alternativly join my mailing list for update and offers. Use the links at the bottom of the page.

Thanks for taking a look at my update and site.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on 2 Comments

Bespoke Orders

Bespoke orders

Don’t forget here at Dizzy Tyke Designs , I can work with you to come up with personal and imaginative designs for that special gift.
All the cushion designs at Dizzy Tyke Designs are exclusive to my label and shipping is worldwide.

This pair of cushions were a special something for a cycling loving couple. The mirror images cyclists and bikes were colour coded to suit the couples kit.
This bird and flower design with a hint of skull, was commissioned as a gift for an ageing rock chick who now lives in a country cottage.

Both of the above designs will be making an appearance on the for sale page soon, but if you are desperate to get one early drop me a line, using the link at the bottom of the page..

Astley Beret

The Astley Beret is designed to fit a 6 to 12 month old child. Its knitted flat and has no complex stitches.

The tassel creates a fun finishing touch and the instructions on how to make it are below.

How to Create at Tassel

What you need (A) Yarn, Cardboard, Scissors and a darning needle

  1. (B) Cut piece of cardboard template 5” wide, (C) Wrap yarn around cardboard 15  times.
  2. (C)Thread tapestry needle with yarn, pass between yarn and template, tie round yarn snugly. 
  3. (D) Thread tapestry needle with of yarn and wrap around tassel 6–10 times, snugly. Then pass through the center of the tassel and out of the head. 
  4. (E) Remove from cardboard and Cut ends of yarn .
  5. (F) Trim tassel ends evenly if necessary.
  6. Attach to desired location .
A
B
C
D
E
F

What’s coming over the next few months….

  • Christmas decorations start to make an appearance
  • More designer cushions and bespoke ideas
  • More bridge are looking for that special something to show off their rings and make their wedding album a bit different, so a new range of ring cushions will be here before the Autumn.

Don’t forget to join my mailing list for update and offers.

Thanks for taking a look at my update and site.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on Leave a comment

Early July Update

The WESTON Cardigan released last week is proving a big hit. The clean lines and easy construction makes it an ideal go to patten for any occasion. I have has a number of enquires about the cape clasp on this design and will be starting to stock them in the next few weeks once my suppliers are fully working after lockdown.


For those wanting to purchase a finished WESTON Cardigan.

I am now taking orders for commissioned work. drop me a line of the size and colour combination and I will be happy to provide you with a price and timeline for supply.

What’s coming over the next few months…..

My update later in July will have a link to this cute Beret Pattern and for the first 2 weeks it will be FREE on my web site. so why not make sure you get a copy and join my mailing list to find out when its released.Displayed here on my cute sheep manakin, its designed to fit up to approx 2 years old. Knitted flat in 4ply, there is one simple seam down the back.


Watch out for the Astley release date.

Thanks for taking a look at my update and site.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on Leave a comment

Camper Vans Galore.

In anticipation of a limited Camper Van season starting soon, I’ve created a range of luxury cushions to suit any decor combination.

All edges of the cushion are salve edges or overlocked to prevent fraying. The appliqué itself has no raw edges, although this dramatically increases the stitch count of any design it gives not only stunning outlines, but also longer lasting finish.

Like many other items sold by Dizzy Tyke Designs, the materials are ethically sourced to not only prevent good new fabrics going to waste, but to nurse the best prices possible are passed onto customers.

This means there is a limited supply of each designs and or colour combination, but on a positive note you are getting an individually designed and hand made product made using exclusive designs created in my studio.

Here’s a quick sneak peak of the WESTON a new a pattern that will be released in early June as soon as I get it back from the final test a knitter is doing at present. This cute cardigan is Knitted in baby Aran and easy to create, there are no button holes but a simple toggled fastener.

Don’t forget my handy Needle Conversion Chart for US and UK sizes.

Join the mailing list to be amongst the first to get a copy.

What’s coming over the next few months…..

  • A FREE pattern for a child’s vest, with a front pocket, prefect for pocket toppers to change the season and theme with one sweater.
  • Hopefully a review of the Malvern Quilt show, COVID19 permitting.
  • A quick knit winter cowel pattern.
  • I’m looking to start a you tube channel with knitting and sewing tip, with particular help for left handed crafters.
  • Look forward to Christmas, quick trimmings to make and gifts to purchase

Later this week this eye catching Land Rover Discovery Design will be added to my cushion range. The VW Camper was such a hit Ive been working on this brand new design that is the perfect gift for anyone who loves everything ‘Landy ‘ .

Thanks for taking a look at my update and site.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on Leave a comment

Stash Busting Times…

The relaxing of Lockdown may have started, but for many not much in life will change for a few weeks. As may small yarn suppliers have had limited opportunity to reach their customers, why not use patterns that need smaller amounts of a number of different yarns. This is an ideal way to bust some of your stash and get some colour combinations you may not otherwise have considered.

The Eastnor Scarf looks very different in these blues and greens compared to the original Christmas colours.


If your having trouble getting just the right buttons for your project. Why not check out my new Range of Buttons, they come in a variety of shapes and colours.


2 years ago I was enjoying a cruise around Norway, Iceland, Faroe and Shetland Isle, where I met a group on an organised craft holiday. With yarns and fabrics available in every port and enough downtime to knit the Madresfield Shawl.
Covid 19 has devastated the live craft show program for this year, along with the craft cruises and crafting holiday breaks many had planned. Many artisan shows have took the bull by the horns and had online virtual shows, getting the crafting commuting chatting, buying and keeping motivated and active, both physically and looking after there mental health in these trying times. This surge in online contact and community sprit has been reflected in communities across the country during these unprecedented times.

Just before lockdown, I was so lucky to have spent a day foraging for fabric, this has kept me busy, expanding my cushion range. Some are available on Etsy, but the full range are on my site And if you buy direct you’ll get the best prices. These beauties (except the brown van…sorry that sold as soon as I posted a picture on Instagram), will soon be on my site.


Many Thanks for Visiting and having a look at my update.

Deb (The Dizzy Tyke)

Posted on Leave a comment

Update…..

Over the past few weeks I’ve been exploring WordPress and it’s it’s plug-ins and how to modernise the look of Dizzy Tyke Designs web page along with ensuring all purchases are fast and secure. So your going to see a few changes around the site.
I’ve started to add Haberdashery and Artisan Cushions to the site.

So come in and have a look around ….


Many of the fabrics I use for cushions and applique are end of role or repurposed new products ( e.g excess store stock such as new curtains or throws), along with fabric sample books from stores that are replacing. This style of material sourcing enables me to minimise production costs and to put perfectly good materials back into the production cycle in this throw away world. However, this does mean there may only limited stock / production of each material combination.

New Knitting Patterns Coming Soon….

Birtsmorton

The Birtsmorton is a child’s cardigan that gives warmth whilst keeping individuality and fashion that can’t be ignored. It has a wide boat neck and shaped front panels. The cabled sleeves and edging create detail without overcomplicating the finished look.
Recommended to be  knitted on 5mm (US 8) needles.  
Whilst the sports weight Brinksty is a simple yet stunning shawllette, perfect for any occasion. It,s created with a tweed effect stitch, shorts rows, a contrasting scolloped border and a single button. Having a  shorter length in the back makes it ideal for sitting or an extra layer on long journeys. 

Brinksty

Anything else I can help with……

Please note, due to the nature of electronic devices the actual colours of goods may vary. This is due to computers, phones, pads and monitors displaying colours differently and everyone can see these colours differently. We try extremely hard to ensure our photos are as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual colour may vary slightly .

Posted on Leave a comment

Cushions Galore…

The New Year is looking bright here at Dizzy Tyke Designs. Late last year I  branched out into embroidery work to compliment , embellish and enhance my  knitting designs and products.
 The arrival of Bertha a Brother PR1050X a couple of weeks ago has meant I have been able to review my production costs of  embroidery and appliqué, these price reductions are now starting to filter through to my web site and soon to be on other on line shops including Etsy and Folksy.  The savings have been further enhanced as I have changed my preferred postal service to Hermes, who are delivering trackable parcels in 48hours.

So keep an eye out for new cushion  designs and knitwear embelsihments including this yoga inspired design with a tartan theme.

Many of the  fabrics I use are end of role or repurposed new products ( e.g excess store stock such as  new curtains or  throws), I also source fabric sample books from stores that are replacing them, these make amazing appliqué fabrics. This material sourcing process enables me to minimise production costs and to  put perfectly good materials back into the production cycle in this throw away world.  However, this does mean there is only limited stock and production of each cushion and material combination.

Release of the  Birtsmorton and Dunhampton patterns have been delayed for a few weeks, but I anticipate they will be launched well in time for easter and the arrival of spring. The Birtsmorton is a delightful spring cardigan with a cable detail and the Dunhampton is a cape inspired by the new Frozen film. Join my mailing list , just tick box and add your details to be the first to ge these patterns when released. 

How Cute !
Birtsmorton

 

Happy Crafting

Dunhampton

 

Deb
The Dizzy Tyke