little strokes fell great oaks

a great deal

Very much; to a great extent; a lot; lots.

a little bird told me

I received the information from a source which I am not prepared to disclose.

a little bit of bread and no cheese

Used to represent the song of the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella).

a little from column A, a little from column B

A combination of two factors or reasons.

a little of something goes a long way

Only a small amount of something is usually required to produce a great effect.

broad strokes

Major features or key points; outline.

down to the short strokes

In the final steps or decisive phase of an undertaking, especially one which has been lengthy or laborious.

go great guns

To perform particularly well; to be particularly successful.