Grace Designs

Books for my Reading List

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000+11:00

I will be buying this book, yes ma'am. Although I do have a rough idea of how it will go... Food is such an event to the French that they turn the whole process into an experience... children help shop, prepare and cook - yadda, yadda. Although I do want to hear all the yadda-yadda... I will take any help I can get with my number one fussy eater. We don't snack at our place though, so maybe I have a head start.

Bringing up Bebe sounds like another good read. My friend passed on this article in the wall street journal by former Wall Street Journalist turned Author, Pamela Druckerman. I was practicing my French today - my firm "non"! Enjoy your weekend!

Stylish Dress Book - Yoshiko Tsukiori

2012-02-16T07:00:00.000+11:00

This is the beautiful fabric I mentioned yesterday (lovely light 100% cotton). My intention is to make this dress into a top with less gathering. Both patterns are from the Stylish Dress Book by Yoshiko Tsukiori. I think I have been calling this Happy Homemade - woops. I do have that one too.

I also got this cotton blend, gorgeous pattern, not sure what I will make yet... this dress is cute though. Lots of lovely patterns to look forward to sewing.

IMPORTANT CORRECTION:
Correction: The sleeve pattern piece for Dress Y, pictured p. 34, How to Make p. 82, is missing from the pattern sheet. The Penguin website provides the missing sleeve in a PDF.

Will you Tangerine Tango?

2012-02-15T07:00:00.000+11:00

Photo: Hanneli Mustaparta

Will you be wearing Tangerine this year? I could see my sister in law, Elizabeth pulling off this entire outfit actually... including the micro shorts :-) I know we Aussies haven't quite finished Summer but here is Pantone's predictions on Fashion colour for Spring 2012.

I just purchased some fabric on the weekend in that lovely midnight blue...but no tangerine.

Photography by Patrick Demarchelier for Vogue

Hanneli is a Norwegian model/photographer/stylist who writes a street-style fashion blog among other things. My wardrobe however contains a LOT of black, white and grey....and some red shoes... I have been inspired lately by my lovely friend R to wear some more colour... I am working on it... it may help me get through winter in Canberra.

Triangle Patchwork Cushion

2012-02-14T07:00:00.000+11:00

Inspired by this quilt I made a new cushion cover for the lounge. In my current favourite fabric from Lotta Jansdotter's Echo line, mixed with linen and linen blend. I am not a precise measure-it-all-out girl, so we will call this: Improv triangles :-) I've almost made a couple of pinwheels and zig zag's.

I didn't have any invisible zips left so I just made an envelope back. Nice to have some colour on the lounge. I bought my Lotta fabric direct from her website as it was the cheapest but for the local Canberran's I have it on good authority it is currently in transit on it's way to Addicted to Fabric.

Infant Headband: Photography Prop

2012-02-13T07:00:00.000+11:00

Photos Amanda Keeys Photography

I haven't made any children's headbands for a while but you might recognise this little band on the sweetest model ever, Piper Evangeline. Thanks Amanda for the adorable shots! Don't you just want to inhale all that new baby sweetness, oh those lips and rolls - too cute. Anya would love the oh-so-girly petal 'blanket' - it's pink!!! Although I somehow managed to buy Anya some red converse high tops last week - high-five to me. I hope you had a great weekend.

Food Styling

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000+11:00

Griottes

Do you read Decor8? It is one of the first blogs I followed and I am not bored with it yet (although I would love to see a spruce up on the blog template :) Holly has a new columnist, Emilie Griottes to contribute monthly food styling/crafty ideas posts and with a cake like this one - I am looking forward to it! Emilie is a French Stylist and Author and her blog has the most amazing food photos I've seen in a while. You will need google translate for this one as it is in French. Oh and the cake is sprayed in an edible food colouring, fun huh :-)

We have survived the first week of full days at pre-school and all the other activities that have commenced. I am looking forward to the weekend and finishing a few sewing projects. Have a lovely one yourselves x

Tutorial Review: Lap Quilt/Duvet

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000+11:00

I finally used my gorgeous Lotta Jansdotter fabric on the weekend to make a quick lap quilt. I saw these beautiful lap duvet's on The Purl Bee and was immediately inspired to make one. I made a few modifications, one being the size as I only had one yard of each print, so my quilt is smaller. The other change was I decided to quilt lines down the whole length of my fabric and not just bar tack every seven inches as suggested. The bar tacking didn't look any good on the thinner batting I used.

The yellow and grey material is the Choma Golden Rod fabric from the echo collection and on the back is I used Little Florine Urban Sunrise.

I just loved this quick and easy tutorial, great for beginners - it would make such a divine baby gift with all the beautiful fabric out there. The quilt goes beautifully in my room with my favourite Sugarloop prints. My number one girl is finally back to pre-school this week :-) Longest holidays ever!!!!

Decor for the Home: Thrifted Vintage Mirror

2012-02-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

Good things come to those who wait! I have been drooling over mirrors like these for ages and finally found one for.... $20!!!!!!!!!!!! woooooooooo hoooooooooo It is pretty big and VERY heavy, I'm praying the hook holds. Judging from the wood on the back it was once part of a dresser. Thank you Tiny's Green Shed.

It also reminded me of Amy's quote and I have to say I don't always enjoy the 'process' or the waiting but there is nothing quite like the thrill of finding that piece you have been searching for and to top it off - it is a bargain. My kids start swimming lessons for the first time this week - I am really hoping they both enjoy them without too much drama. Happy Monday to you wherever you are reading from!!

Blogging Advice from Creative Experts

2012-02-03T07:00:00.000+11:00

Braid Creative

While trawling through some Alt Summit links I struck gold as I came across the blog, Jeremy and Kathleen. Kathleen is one of the sisters who co-owns and runs Braid Creative. Aside from LOVING Kathleen's outfits (she has great legs & style!!) I love the advice she and Tara share on blogging and starting out in your creative business... which I think you will love too. Actually the post, Inspiration and Imitation should be for everyone not just beginners. Kathleen and Tara are engaging and authentic, I will enjoy catching up on their archives.

This blog has gotten me all excited about my own creative business again as I have been in a slump for a little while. Thank you girls!!

Vintage Sheet Music Flower

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000+11:00

I made these paper flowers from vintage sheet music to say thanks to my lovely friends for a beautiful birthday brunch last weekend. I was spoiled with some lovely gifts too - each one right up my alley.

On a completely unrelated note... I would love to go to the Alt Design Summit in the US. They put on an amazing event! I would love to attend and it would be a dream event to intern at too - to scratch my event management itch. The Alt Summit blog has lots of post-event buzz. Enjoy!

Paper Flower Headpieces by Eloise Corr Danch

2012-02-01T07:00:00.000+11:00

I would love a gig with Eloise! How cool are these? Made for a Macy's flower show 2009. An incredible amount of work gone into these head pieces.

Something different for Melbourne Cup!! What an inspiration - love your work Eloise.

All images courtesy of Eloise Corr Danch website.

Handmade Flower Hair Accessories

2012-01-31T07:55:00.001+11:00

It is fun to make something different - I thought this looked like a little summer garden. These headbands went off to a friend to say thank you. My new little spool is from ebay.

Hard to see the detail on this one - it looks cool worn across the front of the head like an 'Indian princess'.

The smallest of headbands to fit a wee little one. I don't usually use feathers and bling for babies, this was a bit of fun for a creative mama's new arrival.

Shop Handmade Favourites

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000+11:00

I dropped off my first box of stock to Shop Handmade for the year and took some product shots for the Facebook page. Isn't this the cutest cranky owl you have ever seen? Brenda from Red Stitch Designs has done it again. So unique and beautifully made... The same clever lady who made Anya's bird.

Prim and Pretty have so many gorgeous pendants available at Shop Handmade. Another talented lady with lovely ideas and well-made products.

What an imagination Claire has... packaged up in a wonderful colouring in book! We LOVE Schmooks in our house, available on Etsy too.

I am not sure of the designer of this red leather satchel but I know it is handmade in Australia and available at Shop Handmade - woo hoo. I had an awesome birthday brunch on the weekend with some girlfriends - it was delectable and lovely to be in the company of wonderful friends! I hope your weekend was sublime.

Woven Label Supplier

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000+11:00

In my humble opinion, branding is always worthwhile when it comes to selling your goods. So, on that conviction I finally had some woven tags made for my hair accessories. I used World Wide Label on Etsy and found them great to deal with, they were very diligent in making sure I was happy with my colours. I didn't consult the pantone chart to get an exact match to my business cards but I was happy with the colour.

A smaller size wouldn't go astray for my smaller pieces but these are great for now. Grace Designs production has slowed down a little to balance life out, so they should last even longer... or until I have a brand-overhaul :-)

Australia Day Celebrations

2012-01-26T15:15:00.000+11:00

Australian Flag

Happy Australia Day! It just happens to be my birthday too :-) Canberra was kind enough to put on a show for me... ok it may have been everyone but we were glad to be there and enjoy it.

I got a glimpse of the Governor General inspecting the troops. The Prime Minister, Julia G was there too but I didn't see her nor did she invite us to morning tea.

The FA18 Hornets did a very noisy fly over followed by six canons firing. Finally Anya doesn't scream the place down like she used to, Josiah thought it was great!

If only photos had audio....trying to get a family photo was fun - we made do with this one. My very exciting birthday present was a flash for my Nikon!!!! finally.... so thrilled. Hope my Aussie readers enjoy the public holiday.

Quilt Inspiration: Grey, White, Yellow Triangles

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000+11:00

Crafty Blossom

Do you think if I wished hard enough this divine quilt would materialise on my bed??!! The colours are awesome and I love the way it is quilted.

The Good Report

This is the confetti quilt by Leslie, from The Good Report, some inspirational modern quilts on this blog.

Carson Too on Etsy

Really enjoying these colours at the moment, so happy with a dash of serious to even the playing field.... Happy Birthday to my mother-in-law, we are off to do something special this morning. Our birthdays are a day apart :-)

Upcycled Vintage Painting to Chalkboard

2012-01-24T14:06:00.002+11:00

The day after posting Amy's quote on my blog I found this vintage frame at a local reuse facility. I have been looking for one for ages, even if the idea has been flogged to death!! The frame had to be just the right size, not overly ornate and made of wood.

Our youngest artist

I made my chalkboard the lazy way, I just painted over the original painting. It is getting harder to dust off though, so I will probably replace the canvas with a smooth piece of board instead.

Gordon

Perhaps it will be our 365 Grateful project!! We are all enjoying taking turns to be the artist for the day. Today's board says, "Welcome Nana" - my mother in law is arriving tonight for a visit. Hoorah for Grandmothers and a second set of hands.

Mine

Too Many Projects, Not Enough Time?

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000+11:00

La Farme via Style Cookie

Hubby forwarded me this post by Frugalbabe. They were familiar thoughts. I have been pondering over a few of her points lately myself. I laughed out loud when I saw this cool print... I have definitely had times where I want to get my creative on, then spent all my time looking at what I could be making instead of getting to it! I can be very easily distracted. I came away from reading that post on Frugal babe with a timely reminder for the start of another year to be practical, choose projects with intention, make it useful.... and ENJOY - that's all - the end.

Go Anywhere Bag by Noodlehead #2

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000+11:00

Go Anywhere Bag- Front

Back

I made this for my sister, Jenn for Christmas. This time I used the magnetic closures like I should have in my bag. They were easy to put in, look so much nicer and I know she isn't getting scratched like me - don't use velcro! I added an extra pocket inside. I love the fabric, haven't a clue who it is by? From my local fabric store and it wasn't cheap!! But hopefully will be robust - it's a home deco weight. Happy weekend to you.

Decorate Book Review

2012-01-19T13:45:00.002+11:00

Decorate by Holly Becker & Joanna Copestick

My favourite Christmas present! I have really enjoyed thumbing through this book. One thousand professional ideas and five hundred gorgeous images, there is alot to love.

This Amy Butler quote was just for me! Decorate is filled with great quotes! The book is broken into four sections; Space Matters, Setting your Style, Room by Room and Attention to Detail.

There are lots of thoughtful layouts and suggestions for all areas of your home. I think the book covers a broad range of styles too. Personally, I would love to see more ideas for small spaces.... in the next book! I do tend to think that not many of these beautiful homes photographed have children living in them!!!! I love so many of the ideas and layouts but know they are not practical for small children. In saying that - it is still a book worth buying and gleaning ideas from.

Amy Butler Doll's Quilt

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000+11:00

It's been a bit like show and tell around here lately :-) You can tell I have been spending way more time on personal projects than business. I did however drop my sewing machine off to be serviced, *sniff* and a week feels way to long to be apart - ha ha. Back show and tell - I made my first doll's quilt for Anya for Christmas! It was on the long list of things to make but the only thing that got finished on time.

A love note to my best girl, her favourite part. The quilt has been well loved and used already.

The quilt is made with all my left over Amy Butler quilt fabric except the spots. It was a quick project with not much planning but a lot of fun to put together... and addictive.... did I mention addictive?! I have been on the look out for a small second hand wooden dolls cradle for a while! As of yesterday we now have one on loan from my lovely friend Christine and it came all the way from Germany, cool!

Don't forget Amanda's special offer on the light actions finishes today.

Free Cloud Fabric Decal or Cushion Pattern

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000+11:00

These fabric wall decals were made early last year after seeing the Thompson Family: home tour. A paste made of cornflour and water holds these babies on the wall (tutorial on How About Orange). Easy peasy to put on and my hubby drew these lovely clouds for me as mine were not as pretty! I have shown these before but have taken some better photos since then and now have the cloud 'pattern' to share with you.

Cloud two and Cloud one. Cloud two takes four sheets of A4 and cloud one takes three. I think they are a great size for a cushion too, so I'll add that to the 'things to sew' list! Happy Creating!

Don't forget Amanda's special offer on the light actions finishes tomorrow.

Up-cycled Lampshade to Decorative Children's Mobile

2012-01-16T08:56:00.001+11:00

I finished another little project in Anya's room which was her mobile re-model! We thrifted a lampshade from Tiny's shed (if you are local and haven't been it has the best stuff)! This is the before shot below.

This is a nice simple project, just strip off the existing lampshade cover, then I washed the wire base and when it was dry I cut thin strips of fabric and wrapped them around the wire. It helps to have some double sided tape to hold the start and finish of the fabric. I need to tie some cotton to a few loose pieces.

Doesn't the shade have a lovely shape? It was also a great place for the sweetest little bird in Canberra....

The butterflies on the wall are fabric decals I made myself, like my clouds a while back. I am un-decided if I will hang anything from the lampshade - it is supposed to be a mobile after all but for now, I like it how it is. I hope you had a lovely weekend!

Giant Paper Flower

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000+11:00

I realised I hadn't ever shared this photo on my blog! The photo was taken by Maddie from Etta Photography from a styled shoot she did last year. I think the flower now resides in her daughters bedroom and was the flower mentioned in the princess party earlier this week.

Oliver and S Bear Carrier: Pattern Review

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000+11:00

The bear carrier was the first project I made from the Oliver and S book I purchased last year. It ended up being a belated Christmas present for Anya. Isn't her dress gorgeous thanks to one of her lovely uncles! Anya picked it herself, I was pleasantly surprised and welcomed the change from PINK!!!

Ok, down to the pattern. Overall I was happy with this pattern but if I was to make it again I would make some changes. I would make the four curved points at the front of the carrier square, not round. Sewing so many curves in a small area felt a bit unneccessary, I think a beginner sewer would struggle. I cut the straps off to where the buttons are but now wished I had of kept some length for flexibility, although this is probably the biggest teddy Anya would carry! I did find it hard to angle the straps nicely (coming out from the bottom of the carrier piece) as the pattern suggested. There isn't a lot of room and they really need to criss-cross to sit nicely when you cross the straps at the back. That would probably be too bulky to sew through though. I am being pretty picky but they are my thoughts on the pattern. It is very cute and I used Amy Butler home deco weight fabric.

Happy 9th Anniversary GG

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000+11:00

Happy Anniversary babe! You have exactly one year left to finish our wedding album :-)

Tastefull Princess Party Inspiration

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000+11:00

Maddie from Etta Photography not only takes stunning images but she has themed her daughters birthday party beautifully. Maddie integrated her own love of 'brown paper packages tied up with string' with her daughters pink princess obsession and it turned out perfectly! I would even call the colour combo/theme calming.... not a word that usually goes with pink princesses. I tell you, just take OUT the 'Disney' branding and you are set.

You might recognise my big paper flower top left - a prop I made for Maddie from this shoot.

All photos courtesy of Etta Photography. Make sure you check out the rest of her photos and read about the details of the party, very sweet.

Discount Light Room and Photoshop Actions

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000+11:00

'Pretty Basic' Action Set

Happy New Year lovely people. I hope you have had a delightful Christmas break, ours was bittersweet as you may have read but with lots of lovely family time and the joy of Christmas.

Thanks to the generosity of Amanda Keeys Photography.... I am starting the new year with a special offer for all my readers... Did you know that you can buy Light Room and Photoshop actions for processing your photos to make them look amaaazing?

Creamy B&W from the Essential Black and White Set

This black and white action gives the photo a completely different look and the creamy black and white makes it look like Sepia!

Bliss Action from the Journey Set

Love this one, so soft yet cheery - OK I love them all. You do need to have Adobe Photoshop or Light Room to use these. Check out Amanda's FAQ's.

SOOC - Straight Out Of Camera

This was my original photo before cropping and processing. Which do you prefer?

Amanda is offering you a 25% discount on any action purchase until the 18th January 2012. Just use the code GRACE25 when you check out. Thank you Amanda!

Celebrating the life of my Grandfather

2011-12-23T14:48:00.003+11:00

Aged 21

My dear Grandfather went home to be with his maker last week at age 87 and we celebrated his life this week in a joyful family-oriented service that gave glory to God, just as his life did. A beautiful, humble, dedicated, prayerful man who had a great sense of humour and loved each grandchild (19 of us and 19 great-grandchildren) like we were his only grandchild.

Both he and my Grandma have been such wonderful examples to us in marriage and life. I remember my grandmother telling me a story about Grandpa copping a bit of flack from her family for not having a second job and earning more money as Grandpa chose to spend time with his wife and five children instead. I am grateful for that decision and what a profound impact it has had on my entire family. A family that value one other and relationships. It was a very emotional day but wonderful to be surrounded by family and friends, people that understood just how I was feeling.

Happy Christmas

2011-12-18T11:50:00.000+11:00

Tabitha Emma

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas from my family to yours! Thank you to all my lovely customers and readers for your patronage for another year. I wish you a fulfilling and happy New Year. I'll be back after the 9th Jan 2012 :-)

Screen Printed Christmas Panel

2011-12-15T08:27:00.000+11:00

I eyed this beautiful panel off by Kristin Doran last Christmas, so after a sale in my etsy store at the start of the month I went straight over to Kristin's shop and bought this!

I backed it with white cotton and used some batting to give it some weight! If I was thinking I would have given it a really good iron before I put my batting in...... derr. I think I was so enthusiastic to get it done and put up.... but here is where I need your advice...

I found the least 'country craft' looking hanger possible - not sure if I should spray it silver too or leave it black. The black might be a welcome contrast for my all cream walls. Pondering if I should embroider around the main shapes... but don't want to wreck it! I also sewed this extra piece into the top specifically for hanging... but this hanger doesn't allow much room to hang?! I think I will just hand stitch it to the ends.

Ok I am rambling now...I have a very sick grandfather in hospital and my thoughts are all over the place... my blog provides a great distraction for me... don't you love blog browsing for that very reason!! A welcome but temporary distraction from life and that's ok by me.

Christmas Craft DIY: Sequin Tree

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000+11:00

Sequin Christmas Tree

Anya hard at work

Yesterday was supposed to be 'take Christmas photos' on our advent calendar but I did a little swap-a-roonie and we did a Christmas craft instead. Anya's concentration waned after the first three rows of sequins but I encouraged her to keep going after a few breaks - I filled in her gaps, so it was a bit of a mummy/daughter project!

We bought two packets of sequins (maybe used a third of each pack), one small polystyrene cone and one packet of shirt pins (hardened and polished standard ball point by Birch)... the pins incidentally made this a much more expensive craft than it should have been (I got them at Spotlight and I am sure there are cheaper ones out there). Push pins in through sequins onto your cone - that simple! Make sure you point the pins down the higher you get so they don't poke through.... ouch.

The happy crafter

Our new little tree is keeping our nativity scene company - quite the juxtaposition :-)

Artist Leah Duncan

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000+11:00

Cushions

Prints

I found Leah Duncan's work through Make Something. Leah started her career as a graphic designer before turning to fabrics. Her native American roots are reflected in her designs as is her love for folksy and modern design. A really diverse range can be found in her online store. Simply beautiful.

Tea Towells

Scarves

Handmade Christmas Cards

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000+11:00

We downloaded these cute Noel cards from Mer Mag blog then decorated with water colour thumb-prints! I love working with water colour paints over kids paint!

Anya has been writing her own name lately without assistance but had me gobsmacked yesterday when she asked how to spell Papa and promptly wrote it herself?!?! What the???.... All that reading has paid off. So she was as pleased with herself to sit down and write all her friends' and teachers' names on their cards. I was grinning as much as she was... it isn't something we have pushed her to do, she just really enjoys reading and has been able to recognise the alphabet for a while now. Not bad for someone who has just turned four!

Friday Cushion Round Up

2011-12-09T08:44:00.001+11:00

I laughed out loud at this cushion by Yellow Bug Boutique!

Cushion awesomeness by Auntie Cookie... Bargain Cushion and Addition Cushion in Yellow - currently on sale.

Gorgeous range of cushions below by Salvation Jane - you may have seen them doing the rounds in the Aussie press, yes that is actress Jane Hall!

Enjoy your weekend!

Handmade Hair Accessories

2011-12-08T07:00:00.001+11:00

Some new pretties that went off to Shop Handmade this week! I made a little feather bow headband like this for my niece's school farewell.


Chiffon Blossom

These blossoms sit low on the band to give you the "I just plucked a flower from the garden and put it behind my ear" kind of look.

Only a few of these antique-look, brass hairpin sets and headband. Something different for me... although I apologise there won't be any available in my Etsy store for Christmas. However if you like them and are interested for birthday presents for next year then please let me know.

Birdcage and Book Installation: Prop and Display Ideas

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000+11:00

Gordon spotted this fabulous installation while walking to our hotel last weekend. It was at Angel place, next to City Recital Hall! It looked amazing in real life... Unfortunately I didn't take my Nikon with me, boo!

Another magnificent install, sadly captured on the mobile phone was, this piece of art. A waterfall of books cascading down through the shopping centre. There were large paper mache ornaments throughout the display also.

Cool huh! I liked the way these pages were displayed in the shop window below. They look like they hang from the ceiling, to the top of the shelving units. I left Sydney feeling very inspired and creative.

Australian Markets: Finders Keepers, Sydney

2011-12-06T13:10:00.001+11:00

On the way home from the city we dropped into the Finders Keepers Market! It was pretty busy and we didn't have a whole lot of time to stroll around but I could have spent a whole lot longer there. The live band was fabulous and really added to the atmosphere!

The above stall is Bespoke Press which I hovered around the longest and the only store I bought from, aren't the old printing press drawers awesome? I forgot to go back to Attia :-(

Gorgeous artwork by Beth Emily, I loved her stall sign, even though it wasn't very big, it was visible and easy to read! So many stalls let themselves down with bad signage (in my humble opinion).

The Story Book Rabbit had an eye catching display - height is key at an event like this otherwise it is just a sea of heads and backs, especially if you can't get to a stall.

Quirky draws me in every time! Not sure of the name of this stall? But I wasn't left guessing with the stall next door.

I would definitely recommend getting to the next one...especially with the farmers market on outside - double the reason to go. Speaking of markets, our very own Handmade Market is fast approaching in Canberra on 17th & 18th of December at the Convention Centre... A fabulous venue, free parking, free entry and a whole lot of lovely stalls.

Birthday Night in Sydney

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000+11:00


Love of my life

View from our room


Didn't get back to try one :-(

Just a few pics off hubby's mobile phone ;-) We stayed at the Four Seasons at the Rocks - brilliant (got a better deal direct from their website as apposed to the last minute type websites). We dined at Sailors Thai and LOVED it, I was just sorry I forgot to ask for my prawn and coconut curry to be mild and had to swap with Gordon, I did get through a small portion! Thanks to my lovely cousin Gret for the recommendation! We popped into Finders Keepers on the way home, more about that tomorrow.

New Etsy Store: White Mouse Creations

2011-12-02T09:45:00.001+11:00

My Sewing Box

My cousin Yana has finally opened her etsy store - White Mouse Creations. Yana does beautiful needlework, so anything you purchase from her will be top notch! I think this is a gorgeous gift idea, especially for someone just getting into sewing!

Pocket Tissue Holder

I have one of these tissue holders and it is wonderful! It also sometimes houses my mobile :-) Yana uses beautiful linen fabrics and a lot of hand-printed materials.

Have a wonderful weekend! Hubby and I are having a child-free night in the city and to say I am excited would be an understatement! woooo hoooo!

How to Decorate a Christmas Tree

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000+11:00

The Prop House - Brisbane

A few years back I worked for The Prop House in between studying, it was only one Christmas but that is where I learnt to decorate a Christmas tree! The Prop House do Christmas VERY well! I was also lucky enough to purchase our tree there at a great discount along with some lovely decorations!

Via Flickr

The first thing you do is fluff your tree, yes, fluff it people! Make sure there are no gaping holes in the greenery then put your lights on starting from the top. I have some beautiful 'crab lights' which look like tiny crab eyes and they are really pretty, I like them far better than normal fairy lights.

Nordic House

The next step is putting on your baubles (or the one consistent shape, style ornaments you have), smaller ones at the top and grade them down to the bigger ornaments at the bottom. I break that rule when it comes to breakable ornaments! My lovely ceramics go up out of reach of small hands :-)

Purl Bee

Then you add the next style of ornaments, I have silver star bursts which just pop in between the branches - they get placed around in between baubles. Then we add the odds and ends. Oh.... not forgetting your star or angel at the top! Trees look beautiful when they are colour themed, i.e: gold & red, silver and blue, all white etc.. I'm not such a fan of tinsel either but I know kids love it - my children just think it belongs at the shops :-)

We play Christmas carols and make it a lovely festive activity - the kids have so much fun. Happy first of Dec everybody... we get to flip our first shipping tag over today :-)

Personalised Calligraphy Stamp

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000+11:00

ampersandity: hand-lettering services & goods

Last month, I bought a good cheer deal through, Oh Hello Friend. $50 worth of product for $28! After much mulling over every product in Ampersandity's store, I finally decided on the self-inking flora fauna address stamp.

Card - Pepe's Paperie

I really love it and it looks gorgeous on brown kraft paper don't you think! The beautiful card is from Pepe's Paperie, designed by a local Canberran designer for Pepe's. I left the $4,000 pen of the year on the shelf though, slightly out of my budget :-)

Handmade Weddings: Book Review

2011-11-29T07:00:00.000+11:00

Authors: Eunice Moyle, Sabrina Moyle and Shauna Faust. Photography by Joseph De Leo

I seem to buy a lot of books online (specifically crafty ones) and find I do miss thumbing through books to get a good idea of what I am buying. So if you have had your eye on this lovely book by some clever ladies, here is my overview with a few photos!

The book is broken into six themed sections with approximately nine crafts per section. Each book has a little guide on how to put the look together.

The rest of the themes are:

I realised I missed photographing a section called, Found - it is for the eco-conscious! So there really is something for everyone's taste. The projects vary in budget and skill level along with a timeline of when you should start. The book has crafting tips, suggestions for sourcing materials and inspiration. A few samples of what you can expect are:

Clipboard Menu's from Found

Embroidery Welcome Hoop from Retro Homespun

Calligraphy from Modern Classic

Button Seating Cards and Favors from Happy Graphic

Ruffle Roll Purse from Girly Romantic

Of course you don't have to be getting married to use this book as a resource! The book can be used as a wonderful start to plan a themed event, projects for around the home or to give as gifts. Sure there are a lot of free tutorials around the web but it is nice to pull something off your shelf and pore over the beautiful photos and be inspired. Enjoy!

Christmas Craft: Easy DIY Advent Calendar

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000+11:00

Advent Calendar

I made my first Advent Calendar on the weekend. It was an easy project with minimal cost and I think it looks great. It took more time to think of 25 things to do for Christmas :-) I did get a few ideas here. We wrapped a piece of 5mm foam board in wrapping paper, taped on five pieces of twine, stenciled 25 shipping tags and then wrote the activity for the day on the back.

Materials:

Foam board - Eckersleys or Office Works
Shipping tags - Office Works
Mini wooden pegs - Eckersleys
Stencil numbers and black felt pen - Office Works
Twine - me :-)
Gift wrap - Pepe's Paperie

We included:

Decorate Christmas tree
Put up the nativity scene
Read a Christmas story
Play a Christmas CD
Find some toys to donate to Salvos
Color a Christmas picture
Choose something from the Compassion Christmas gift catalogue
Go to Civic and see the big tree
Make Christmas Cards
Do Christmas baking
Go to Christmas Carols
Hand out Christmas cards to friends at pre-school
Take Christmas Photos
Do a Christmas Craft
Hang up Christmas stockings
Go out for a Christmas treat
Make a new Christmas decoration
Make a treat and take it to a friend
Sing at Christmas Carols with Mini Music friends
Watch a christmas movie
Do something nice for someone
Go out to see the Christmas lights
Have a campout in front of the Christmas tree
Hang stockings and read twas the night before christmas
Christmas day - read the true Christmas story!

Sweet Christmas Inspiration: Sweet Paul Magazine

2011-11-25T07:00:00.000+11:00


Sweet Paul Magazine

So much to love about online mags, just view them in your off-peak times :-) This Sweet Paul issue is full of recipes, DIY ideas, gift ideas etc.. Sweet Paul blog is always full of goodness too.

Wreath Inspiration

Beautiful gift ideas and Imagery

I love this hot choc idea and think it will be our teacher gift for pre-school... even though we are coming into summer - we still drink hot drinks :-) I found some great mason-type jars at the two dollar store (in Gunghalin, near woollies - if you are local). Any other teacher-gift suggestions?!

Resin Jewellery: Canberra Christmas Sale

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000+11:00

Luna Bowl

Alexandra from Polka Luka has her annual Christmas sale/exhibition happening at the Front Cafe in Lyneham starting Dec 8th 2011 for those lucky enough to live nearby. If not, the good news is you can shop online! Both product and price are fabulous - make sure you head over and say hi and get some resin goodness for Christmas gift or treat yourself!

Reverie Ring

Exhibition Opens 6pm Thurs 8th Dec 2011 (with drinks & music) @ THE FRONT CAFE & GALLERY, LYNEHAM SHOPS, CANBERRA. Exhibition open everyday 10am-7pm until Fri 23rd Dec 2011

Wattle Bud Bracelet

Fashion: Princess Mary in Australia

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000+11:00

Princess Mary or her stylist has great taste. I liked the ruffled detail on this blouse. Wouldn't be too hard to copy, oh and I'll take one of those hats and a pair of those legs too :-)

This stunning vintage dress was my favourite and I loved her shoes. A perfect outfit. I didn't even know she came to Canberra today until my Mum told me tonight. I tell you, Canberra's no snooze fest - ha ha.

Photos: Harpers Bazaar

Cheap Childrens Dress Up Costume: Tinkerbell

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000+11:00

We went to a little dress up birthday party on the weekend and Anya had her eyes firmly set on being Tinkerbell!

I bought a men's singlet from Best & Less for $3 - it was a size 20 but ended up being way too wide! A smaller size would have done. $4 wings from the two dollar shop, we added a bell I already had so she could 'tink' about and pom poms to sew to her jiffy's and a wand from Lincraft $3. The pompom's were eighty cents, so make that a $10.80 costume :-)

I cut used the over-locked (serged) trim from the armholes to make her straps, sewed a narrow seam then turned them inside out with my loop turner. I gathered the waist in by using elastic in my bobbin (which you just hand-wind on) and sew normally with a slightly longer stitch, it gathers up as you go. The only thing I would do differently next time is possibly pop some bias along the front bodice seam as it was a little floppy at the front and stretched a bit with all the trying on! Oh I did use the elastic in the side seams too when I took the dress in. Super easy, super cheap and better than a synthetic costume from Big W any day!

Thoughtful Christmas Shopping: Help to Fight Poverty

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000+11:00

Compassion

There are many aid agencies you can go through to purchase some thoughtful, poverty-fighting gifts this Christmas! We sponsor a couple of kids and one is through Compassion - they are a great agency.

TEAR

I have also bought through TEAR's Useful Gifts catalogue and they have a diverse range of gifts from $5 up to $10,000!!

World Vision

Our other sponsor child is through WV and we have used this catalogue too. If you are unfamiliar with this concept, you basically purchase a gift through the online catalogues and they will send you a card stating what you have bought and you can give them as or with a gift at Christmas. A great idea for those hard to buy for, something different for teachers... and I particularly like them for children! It's never to early to teach kids what it means to help others - especially in poverty stricken countries!! I have enjoyed watching Anya help us choose what we will buy this Christmas. So, why not make it a family activity, jump online and choose a few special gifts for those in need - every bit counts.

Friday Favourites: Fabric and Gocco Prints

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000+11:00

Lotta Jansdotter

Gorgeous fabric in my current favourite shades! We have a little bit of yellow and mustard going on downstairs at our place, it's so cheery and fresh. Lotta Jansdotter is a fabric designer/author, with Scandinavian roots and a really refreshing approach to life and design, which makes her work desirable in my eyes. I'll be heading to my favourite local fabric store to see if they stock this!

Nesting Birds by Sugarloop

Citrus Birds by Sugarloop

Inspired by Lotta Jansdotter is artist Bernadette Sipkes who is the talent behind Sugarloop! I recently purchased these babies to adorn my walls and bring me joy! I haven't found another artist who's work I adore quite so much.... apart from Children's artist Sarah Jane.

Oh and our vaccination experience yesterday was awful! Anya screamed the Dr surgery down, Josiah cried and I cried too :-( Fortunately we had a birthday party to attend shortly after... a great ending to an distressing morning. Thanks for the well wishes and enquiries! Have a relaxing weekend.

Decorating Ideas for Your Home: Furniture

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000+11:00

Via Apartment Therapy

I am inspired by all these furniture make overs I see around the web, giving quality but drab furniture a new lease on life! I think this green and white combo is a winner. It looks so fresh. My first project is going to be my little laptop/sewing desk that is an ugly brown veneer, thrifted-desk. I am using the same colour scheme as above :-) No surprises there.

Natty By Design

Natty by design has some inspiring images on reviving furniture and great tips on painting.

Centsational Girl

Centsational girl has LOTS of tips on painting all sorts of surfaces, furniture makeovers, covering chairs etc.. It makes me want to rush out to the nearest hardware store! I also bought some stripper for my Nanna's antique chair that is a drab dark brown begging to become a fun new shade of yellow (hubby's suggestion) :-) Wish me well this morning, taking Anya for her four year old needles - booooo.

Self Drying Clay Christmas Decorations

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000+11:00

Anya and I made these Christmas decorations with self drying clay from Bunnings . The white sold out early last Christmas so you might want to get in quick!! They are the same as the style we made last year, except I let Anya do all the stamping! We drilled a couple of holes in the roof and screwed in some hooks and suspended our branch with fishing line.

Basically roll out the clay, make sure it's not too thin, cut out your shapes, we used a chopstick to put a hole in the top for our fishing line, press a texture on them, then leave for 24 hours to dry front and back. I did contemplate painting them silver and glittery but I do like the all white, maybe we will change it up for next year? Our tree isn't up yet... this is the first Christmas installment!!

Decorating Ideas for Your Home: Screens

2011-11-14T09:59:00.001+11:00

Howkins Screens

This one is in polypropylene but they come in brushed aluminium too

I imagine this is in a Hotel Lobby

I imagine these screens would be a good solution for privacy or to add some texture to the overall design of a room, be it residential or retail etc.. I like the brushed metal screens.

Did you see Holly from Decor8 had a similar post on window film last week? It must be getting popular - do you think window film will replace wall decals as a trend?

Noodlehead - Go Anywhere Bag: Review

2011-11-10T19:06:00.002+11:00

What a great, well-priced pattern! Three cheers for Noodlehead's, Go Anywhere Bag! The pattern was much easier to make than my Amy Butler, Birdie Sling. There wasn't much interfacing (handles only, as I used a home decorating weight) and overall it felt less complicated.

I loved that I got the PDF instantly and could get to work on it straight away. The hardest part was turning my handle inside out with the interfacing - it was very stiff. I have a metal hooked loop turner (not sure if that is the technical term :) which finally got the job done. I used Velcro on the outside big pocket but probably would have been happy making two compartments, like the other side (where there are three sections on the outer pocket). I was too lazy to get a magnet for the inside but I think it will be fine without. I'm very happy with it and took it for a roast test today, no complaints here. I highly recommend the pattern for a sewer of any level (well assuming you have basic sewing knowledge).

My fabric is Amy Butler: Floral Couture in Charcoal and River Shine in Cinder.

Displaying Childrens Art

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000+11:00

Sarah Jane has some lovely freebies on her blog to help you get your 'creative' on. The swallow template was the perfect shape to display one of many finger paintings brought home from pre-school. I've used a deep frame, possibly from Ikea and kept the white mat close to the glass instead of sitting on the painting, it looked ok either way. Sitting next to my gorgeous Schmooks print!

On another note... I got excited when this turned up in the post. Thanks to all the lovely things Kristen has sewn from Oliver & S, I finally bought this book.

Anya has gone through and picked a few favourites she would like me to make her...and then I have my own list... some cute stuff.

Decorating ideas for your home: Window Film

2011-11-07T11:14:00.000+11:00

Emma Jeff's window film makes a nice change from a curtain don't you think? Not 100% block out but a nice replacement for rice paper.

Make it Perfect: Versatile Wrap Skirt

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000+11:00

Make it Perfect - Versatile Wrap Skirt

My second Versatile Wrap Skirt by Make it Perfect. This time it fits so much better as I actually measured myself and made the right size! Fabric is a cheap Voile from Spotlight, which I lined with a light cotton in red. I also top-stitched both top and bottom catching both layers.

Looks like Nana's tablecloth - Love it.

My little man was 18months old yesterday! He has been doing a lot of this lately - clinging to my legs accompanied with plenty of whinging!!! Due to an explosion of teeth and a couple of colds I think.

Looking a little happier here!

A Handmade Christmas: Next Handmade Market Dec 2011

2011-11-03T07:00:00.000+11:00


Handmade Market

The handmade market will be spread over two days once again this Christmas, for easy access and a more relaxing atmosphere. It also means the things you miss or deliberate about on day one you can go back for on day two (providing the stall-holder is there for two days :)

Hipster Baby Gifts to Buy and Make

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000+11:00

DIY Vintage Cateye Glasses Onesie from Ashley Ann

Pink ruffles and blue sailboats aren't everyone's cup of tea, so here are some fabulous ideas to set your baby gift apart from the rest!

Rock Your Baby Tatto Onesie

Pebble Vest by Nikol Lohr via LuvintheMommyhood

I can't knit but this is very cute and there's my favourite colour again :-) These nappy (diaper) holders pictured below are great too. My lovely friend Claire gave me one that she had made and I have used it a lot.

Gorgeous flour sack hat by the ever talented Amanda Keeys, you can knit your own or buy one pre-made in her Etsy shop.

Cool bibs by Cirque Du Bebe using tutorial by Sew She Sews. Really you can take any tutorial, add fabulous fabric and voila.... cool baby gift! My favourite DIY is Ashley's nanna glasses :-)

Apologies if you are reading this in google reader and the formatting is wonky! Working on a solution!

Vintage Inspired Hair Pieces

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000+11:00

Newly listed in my etsy store is this vintage-inspired piece. More photos of the beading detail on the etsy listing.

Also listed is this cream bow headband with diamante buckle. For the grown up girls or little ones. Lovely photos by Etta Photography.

Vintage Props and Decor

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000+11:00

By Lisa Occhipinti

I had to include this cool vintage book mobile for the graphic artist or typography lover, made by Lisa Occhipinti. Available in her Etsy store.

Sunday Collector Blog

Sydney-based prop buyer/ interior stylist, Briar Stanley has some wonderful links to some of her prop buying haunts. So if you want some inside knowledge of cool places to source vintage goods around NSW or cool new wares, this is a great start.

Image via Pia Jane Bijerk

Stylist Pia Jane Bijerk also has some links to some cool places around Sydney and all over the world! And if you live in Canberra the Salvo's at Mitchell is my favourite place to get thrifty. I have picked up a few great finds there. Visit the Shopping Sherpa's "I op therefore I am" blog to get the skinny on more local ACT places.

Speaking of vintage... the Happiest of Birthdays to my very own Mama J for today :-) Love you!

Friday Favourite: Nature Inspired Jewellery

2011-10-28T07:40:00.000+11:00

Lilium Jewelry on Etsy

Dorte Dietrich works from her studio in Leipzig, Germany designing and making this beautiful jewellery inspired by nature. Dorte is an art graduate and goldsmith by trade, she also makes enamel objects in her second etsy store, Purpurpilio.

Aren't these stunning! I think this ring is my favourite :-)

On another note, my friend Jordan's buffet tags were featured on Amy Atlas this week, a Tiffany inspired dessert theme. Jordan organises amazing event buffets too and did this beautiful rustic, Perfect Pair Baby Shower for her sister last week who is expecting twins!!! A really sweet theme, she has 50% off this new theme (labels etc) in her shop this week. I love that the buffet on this party is a mix of sweet and savoury!

Simple Party Decorating

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000+11:00

Simple Garland by Pretty Chic Blog

The simplicity of a design can be just as beautiful as intricate details... especially when done en masse....

Vellum Lanterns

These sweet lanterns look pretty easy to make even if you don't speak Danish! Both ideas from the newly discovered blog, Pretty Chic Blog - Modern Scandanavian Weddings! Just gorgeous.

Wall Murals for Interiors

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000+11:00

Dripping Wall Murals by Ben Slow via My Modern Metropolis,

Stencil Barcelona via Kireei

Hotel Wall Mural by Matt Saunders

Everyone's favourite nerd by Design Mom

Mural by Rudy San Pedro Via Desire to Inspire

Do you like any of these? Some fabulous talent on the walls.... not forgetting this cross stitch painting either. I am not sure if the second image is painted but the rest are. The dripping wall murals are incredible.

The Magical Music of Lior

2011-10-24T07:00:00.000+11:00

Lior

We went to see Lior Saturday night at the Street Theatre in Canberra and he was his usual brilliant self. It's my third time I have seen him and he never disappoints. If you have never heard of him, he is an Israeli-born Australian singer-songwriter who writes beautiful music and has a voice that will transport you to a happy place. Listen to one of my favourite songs here.

Amy Butler Anna Tunic: Help with Attaching Yoke

2011-10-23T22:01:00.001+11:00

We all understand instructions differently depending on how we learn. I think attaching the yoke on the Anna Tunic has the potential to challenge any sewer! So, if you are here you are likely having trouble attaching the back of the yoke to the tunic. Hopefully these photos will help.

Step 6: G

Where I am pointing is the bottom of the center back edge which is about to match right sides together with the clip you made in center back panel of tunic.

Step 6: H

Lining up my notch on the left with the top of arm hole and the center back seam as above. Fold right side of yoke towards you to it sits on top of right side of tunic... this is where you do the little tricky bit.

Step 6: H

Pin in place from underneath if that makes sense.

Step 6:H

How it looks from the back once you have pinned the yoke to the tunic.

Step 6: H

About to do the other side of the yoke.

Step 6: H

Step 6: H - lots of photos of this part!

Step 6: H

What it looks like from the back, when pinned on both sides - ready to sew.

Step 6: I - About to sew

Still pinned but you get the idea of what it would look like sewn

Step 6: I - view from inside before sewing

Step 6: I - another view before sewing

Please contact me if you have any further questions, I am by no means the yoke queen.

I have to confess I tried this on before I did Step 6: I and have decided I don't like the green yoke! I am going to unpick the front and put a white one on. I also noticed the armholes are too tight, boo :-( I measured properly and everything! So, before I attach the yoke I am going to have to fix that too! This will probably be too for summer in Canberra for me and I wished I had left off the lining and used bias around the arm holes... Not sure if I have the heart to un-pick the lining too. You can see this was a well thought out project, hmmmmm.

Friday Favourites - For Little Girls

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000+11:00

Amanda Keeys - Squishy Love Cowl pattern on etsy

Re-Purposing Stained Shirt into a Shrug

Bubble and Sweet via Polkadot Prints

Gorgeous 'Paper Doll' Cookies - Bubble and Sweet

We don't push the princess factor in our house but I did take my children down to the lake to see the real deal - The Queen of England! It was all very last minute, such a glorious day - why not... I thought Anya might be a bit chuffed - she was more interested in playing with the rocks (I think Mum was a little bit chuffed instead). Oh the perks of living in Canberra ;p Enjoy your weekend!

White Feather Flower Fascinator

2011-10-20T13:50:00.000+11:00

Newly listed in my Etsy store a lovely handmade flower fascinator with wispy ostrich feathers, perfect for a spring wedding or day at the races...

Beautiful Beaded and Lace Jewellery

2011-10-19T07:50:00.002+11:00

Green Turquoise Necklace

Holly from Decor8 put me onto Emma Cassi's beautiful jewellery. I have been wanting to mix lace and Swarovski elements for a while, so it was a great inspiration to see Emma's work.


Aventurine Bracelet

Yellow Square Earrings

Most pieces are made from crocheted bases (flowers etc) and embellished with beautiful stones, Swarovski crystals and glass beads. It's always refreshing to see something unique, I haven't come across pieces like this before. See Emma's beautiful work in progress on her blog.

Spring Collection

All photos courtesy of Emma's website.

How to Price Your Handmade Wares...

2011-10-18T07:00:00.000+11:00

I re-posted this post with permission, over at the Handmade Blog last week but thought it was worth mentioning here too. Please go and read the original post if you buy or sell Handmade. It might help adjust your views on Handmade being 'too expensive' or place more value on your own hard work!

Online Shopping - Paper Dolls and Go Anywhere Bag

2011-10-17T13:54:00.000+11:00

Sarah Jane

If you have been around these parts for a while you know I love American artist, Sarah Jane! My children have her prints in their bedroom and I bought these adorable paper dolls for Anya for the grand total of $3 :-) Sarah Jane does also have some great freebie printables on her blog too.

Noodlehead

I also bought the "Go Anywhere Bag" pattern from Noodlehead for a total sum of $8 - woot. My Amy Butler, Birdie Sling is well past her retirement, frayed, faded and grubby. Noodlehead has some freebies too and did you know you can buy the license to sell some of her patterns domestically? I love when artists do this... a great business idea.

My hubby took Miss four for an 8km!!! bike ride yesterday and my son actually slept for 3 hours so I got to cut out the Amy Butler, Anna Tunic which I am trialling in a dark grey voile for summer and another Versatile wrap skirt by Make it Perfect - which I recommend the pattern is very easy. If you are looking for some sewing tips a few of my favourites are: Habby Goddess, Make it and Love it, MADE and recently discovered Sewaholic.

Friday Favourites

2011-10-14T13:26:00.000+11:00

Dottie Angel


Chocolate Creative

Some favourites finds from around the interwebs for your viewing pleasure. Have a great weekend!

Skirt as a Top

A ppree

Feather Hair Accessories - Racing Season Fashion

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000+11:00

I have a couple of new pieces heading to Shop Handmade for the upcoming racing season or for the start of party season... which ever you prefer :-)

A pretty bunch of forget me knots that won't wilt in the sun... something borrowed, something blue perhaps?

Vintage Fashion - Hair Accessories

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000+11:00

Marion Cotillard - Midnight in Paris

I saw Midnight in Paris last week and LOVED the costumes when the movie slipped into the 1920's! Apparently the costumes were sourced from vintage stores over Europe and South America.


Via IMDB

Source

I wanted to pause the movie when it got to the party scenes as the hair pieces looked amazing.. like this gold cap below. Not a bad flick from Woody Allen and some beautiful Paris scenery to enjoy.


Image source

Stress Free - Children's Birthday Party

2011-10-10T09:13:00.000+11:00

I love a beautifully themed and executed children's birthday party as much as the next Mum but more 'on screen' than actually pulling one off myself at the moment. It's not that I'm incapable of putting on such a party, nor does the thought of one scare me - I just know the reality of the work involved and..... I also enjoy being married :-) I know how I can get when I am in 'organise/execute' mode and I can hear a certain somebody saying, "who is this party for anyway?" A lovely simple gathering can be just as nice. We started by downloading Amy's picnic invites from Eat, Drink, Chic. A casual picnic at Floriade was the plan!

But of course it rained for most of the week so we decided to hold Anya's 4th birthday at home. I had bought a healthy selection of food in little individual packs that the girls could choose from the basket with a few goodies too - so we still had our picnic but just indoors on a rug - the girls thought that was wonderful! As it turned out it was lovely and sunny the morning of her birthday and we could enjoy a few games, along with crafting outdoors.

My daughter had played pin the tail on the bunny at a previous party and when I asked her what games she wanted to play at her little gathering, she said pin the propeller on the Gup-A, ummm ok - so specific. Thank goodness her Dad can draw! You'll understand the reference if you know Octonauts. Knowing we were going to be at home I had to really resist the urge to to make a grand cake... I sat on my hands and stuck to the original plan of cupcakes in the shape of a 4.

We only invited the same amount of friends as the age Anya was turning, one couldn't make it so it was a lovely small party of four, very manageable. We played good old-fashioned games, (freeze, free-style dance party, peg game, hopscotch) with no prizes! ohhhhhhhhhh - scandalous :-) I bought some face painting crayons from the art store and drew flowers and butterflys on the girls faces. I didn't fill the kids up with sugar but I did send them home with some :-) One of my daughters favourite activities of the day was going to town drawing all over me once our guests had gone. Don't discount the simple, stress-free, back-to-basics - the kids will love it and so will you!

The birthday girl enjoying some presents.

The Market Skirt Tutorial: Review

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000+11:00

The Market Skirt is my latest personal sewing project and probably the last one for a little while now as I keep up with my shop and custom orders for Shop Handmade. I don't have much of a stash for personal sewing but did find some fabric that 'little miss fussy' approved - red and white polkadots, she 'approved' the pattern too! I had some white left over from my quilt and used it as the trim, it looks so crisp and fresh. I made it bigger as she is almost four but I found my fre-styling ways made it way too baggy around the waist. So I un-picked - ughh and made a smaller waistband and it turned out fine.

Photo - courtesy of MADE

I folded the white trim over so I didn't have to hem the skirt! Loved that. It is a nice easy pattern. We did the gathered pockets, buttons, the works. I recommend this pattern again, nice and easy for beginner sewers and if the pockets look too hard just leave them off.

I have to share my typical Anya moment with you, I am sure some can relate... I presented the spotted skirt with much excitement to Anya, expecting that she would match my enthusiasm. She looks at it and with a deadpan look on her face says, "It doesn't have buttons" - *sigh*, I inwardly rolled my eyes, trying to play it cool. So, we added love heart buttons, I let her know it was good for twirling and happy days!

Media Coverage: Homestyle Sewing Magazine

2011-10-05T07:00:00.000+11:00

Homestyle Sewing Magazine

Apart from a cameo appearance in Cookie World Magazine, I was thrilled to be included in Elizabeth Leight's favourite new finds in the latest issue of Homestyle Sewing Magazine. With a nod to Downton Abbey I have a lovely little feature on page 33, thanks Elizabeth. Thanks also to my lovely friend Vanessa who sent me a copy from England! You might recognise Etta's photo from this shoot.

Handmade Market Favourites - Part Two

2011-10-04T09:33:00.000+11:00

Hideyo paper creations

Aren't these fabulous! How can you go wrong with re-purposed paper! I don't have a photo of it but they had a magnificent pinecone under a glass cloche yesterday, just stunning. You can check it out on facebook though.

Ruby and Sage

Another resin jewellery maker that I really loved (along with Polka Luka and Drift Gifts). It's amazing how people use the same component and make such different things! I love the business name and Ruby was a favourite girls name for us if Josiah turned out to be a girl!

I bought a couple of fat quarters from Posie and she had some beautiful new Kristen Doran fabric in stock. A fabulous crochet print! You can see the blue cushion made up below - front left, too cute.

Posie Patchwork

I was very disappointed to miss a few stalls when I did the photography for the market. One of them was Sunday Morning Designs. They had the softest organic knit fabric I have ever felt, beautiful designs, the pillow cases were delicious and gorgeous big balls of stretch knit 'yarn' to crochet with - very cool.

Photos courtesy of Sunday Morning Designs

I was happy to see Mooza back, although I didn't get to them either as they had lots of people there everytime I passed. All in all, it was a great market, with lots of fabulous stall holders and I think December is going to be a great place to find unique gifts and support handmade, small business.

Canberra Handmade Market favourite stalls

2011-10-03T09:47:00.002+11:00

Mookah

One of my favourite stalls for presentation and products at last weekend's Handmade Market was Mookah. The gorgeous Spring colours drew me in and once I was there, the products were just as fabulous as the set up. Using a mix of their own lovely screen printed fabric and designs along with well-known Australian designers like Ink and Spindle - the floor cushions were among my favourite. Thank fully they have an online store, so if you missed them last weekend you can feast your eyes here.

Another fabulous store that I couldn't keep my eyes off was 4 Leaf Clover. Fiona, the lovely lady behind this great company has a background in textiles and I love the way her prints start from original photographs. Luckily if you missed her on the weekend she will also be in the Handmade tent at Floriade in the final week.

Fiona doesn't just do prints, she has a beautiful textiles line, bags, make up bags, cushion covers and her prices are very reasonable. I don't think the make up bags have made it to the online store yet.

Curious Chocolatier

I was kind enough to share these with my family! We tried six flavours and the pistachio, salted caramel and lime and coconut were my favourite! mmmmmmmm


Mohini Jewellery

I couldn't even get close enough to this stall for the people to have a proper look! I love these silver floral earrings - so pretty. The little collection to the right of the silver ones were gorgeous too. Really different. Ok, that might have to do for this morning... I might have to continue tomorrow with more delicious finds. Enjoy your long weekend if you are fortunate enough to get one!

Free Printables

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000+10:00

Who doesn't love a free printable? I know I got excited to see this Indie site on A Subtle Revelry called Feed Your Soul, the free art project. I have downloaded a couple of prints to use for decorating. The cute tea cup picture above is one of them.

Lost and Taken is a site worth visiting too, free texture downloads including the water colours above. Found via How About Orange... make sure you check out Jessica's section called Useful Resources as there are plenty more great links there too.

Have a great weekend! My parents are in town for some Floriade and Handmade Market action... Oh and I snapped up this good cheer deal over at Danni's! She is a clever blogger :-)

Bedroom Interiors Inspiration

2011-09-29T07:00:00.000+10:00

Lonny Mag

I am still looking for bedroom inspiration... I don't think I could do walls this dark as we have a darkish wooden bed and I'd be worried about the room feeling too small? We now have a gorgeous white quilt cover which I love. The pictures look fabulous above the bed on that shelf and really pop with the dark walls.

Really love these colours at the moment. This gorgeous cushion is from Elkhorn - they were stallholders once at our Handmade Market (which is on this weekend by the way - mega market both Saturday and Sunday) back to the cushion... I love it dearly but couldn't part with $115 for it! It is such a beautiful print.

O'Verlays

These are decorative fretwork panels you can attach to your own furniture - in moderation! I love the idea.... Laser cut balsa-wood or perspex might work too (if you happen to have a laser cutter) ha ha! I also love the idea of pressed metal, it would be awesome left silver, then paint it for a new look.

Image via Design Sponge

We have an old metal chest at the foot of our bed like this. It was my husband's grandfathers from the war, he was in the Air force. It is complete with serial number and name painted on. Gordon's dad put some caster wheels on it - it's still heavy but I love it. I really like the 'collection' approach of photos above the bed done on a large scale too.

Via Design Sponge

How wonderful is the 'tree' clothes rack! That would totally work in a bedroom if you wished to have your clothes on display - or had limited cupboard space. I love bringing nature indoors! I have some blossom buds/branches that had been trimmed by council I'm guessing that I pulled over on the side of the road for! Shoved them in my boot (fun ;) they are waiting patiently in my backyard to be thought into something wonderful! Hubby is under strict instructions to NOT throw out!

Dogstar Clothing

2011-09-28T07:00:00.000+10:00

Although I don't own a piece, I really like Dogstar clothing! I popped into their shop frequently when I lived in Brisbane. It exudes fabulous, comfort and so darn COOL!

You can buy their gear online too. I'd be adding a pop of colour with my favourite coloured shoes - Red! Their model looks a little like Mrs Pitt don't you think? Yay for another fabulous Aussie company.

The Not Wedding

2011-09-27T07:00:00.000+10:00

The Long Farewell

Chelsea Patricia Photography and Installation by Amy Osaba

Adorned Event Design

Gertie Mae's Floral Studio

Have you heard of The Not Wedding? It is basically a bridal fair in the form of a wedding! What a superb idea, being able to attend a 'non wedding' having an awesome night and really getting a feel for what the vendors will bring to your special day. It beats roaming around a convention centre picking up leaflets and business cards I say. Thinking outside the box.....'brilliant', vendors and photography....... 'brilliant'..... execution of brilliant idea.... I think the images say it all. There is a video worth watching too.

Knee Pad Pants Tutorial: REVIEW

2011-09-26T07:00:00.000+10:00

The very talented Dana from Made has a bevy of free tutorials on her blog. I recently made her Knee Pad Pants for Josiah who is just starting to take consistent steps but still crawling a LOT. We have gone through about 7-8 pairs of trousers/leggings/trackies etc... of course he starts walking when I finally make these pants.

I ended up tracing my pant pattern from from a pair of Josiah's trackie pants and did something I never do, made a trial pair in some old daggy material (I'm a "rush in and sew, ask questions later"- kind of girl)! I followed Dana's directions for the trial pair and they worked out great. These are a little long for him even though I trimmed them but they fit nicely and I like the frayed look around the knee pads - I sewed around the knee pad three times, then did half a dozen lines horizontally. What a cutie pie, he is now sixteen months old. I recommend the pattern and think it is great for a sewer of any ability.

Canberra Wedding Photographer - Kelly Tunney

2011-09-23T07:00:00.000+10:00

Doesn't this just take your breath away! Imagine having your wedding photos somewhere like this, overlooking the cliffs in Santorini. Local Canberra photographer, Kelly Tunney is the talent behind these amazing photos. The scenic shots gave me goosebumps, so many gorgeous frames to choose from. You will have to go and see for yourself.

What a great tradition - the bridal procession, I saw a procession in Romania years ago and thought it was a wonderful idea. Enjoy browsing Kelly's website, you'll be there a while! Have a great weekend.

Photos used with permission

DIY - Sequin Bracelet and Fabric Confetti

2011-09-22T07:00:00.000+10:00

Evie S

A found this lovely blog via one of my daily reads, Ashley Ann Photography. This is a super simple DIY but very cute and I know my daughter would love it, me too. A good little craft for primary aged girls at a birthday party don't you think and twine would be a sweet to add colour. Evie S is a talented graphic artist and has a lovely free download section worth visiting.

Twirling Betty

Another simple but fun tutorial. Betty makes gorgeous cake bunting too! So many ideas, not enough time in the day, week, month...

Polkadot Bride Blog Feature

2011-09-21T12:50:00.001+10:00

Head on over to the lovely Australian blog, Polkadot Bride where my new range is featured today! Thanks Ms Polka! I am just home from a whirlwind overnight trip to Sydney, that story for another time! My bed is looking rather inviting right now, if I can just get Anya to 'rest' with me.

DIY: A-Frame Tent Review

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000+10:00

I followed Ruby-Ellen's tutorial on making an A-Frame tent and this is how it turned out. Our wood is a little wider than the wood Ruby recommended which makes the frame a tad heavier.

You will notice I have put an extra piece of dowell on the top so that our thrifted sheet covering is nice and taut. The tent cover draped in too much for my liking and the elastic slid up the legs. A possible solution to slipping elastic may be to cut a slit in the bottom of your wooden frame legs so the elastic can slide in. We don't even own a hand saw but I will grab one next time I'm at the hardware store and try this.

The other major point I would stress is not to drill your holes too big. Even though I had the correct sized drill bit for the size dowell I think I wiggled the drill around too much and it widened the hole. My holes don't have a tight grip on the dowel as Ruby suggests, therefore the tent can only be set up on carpet otherwise the tent legs do the splits! I may need a couple of clamps. It is easy to set up and pack down and I would recommend making it providing you follow the directions closely. Thanks Ruby for a fun project - I enjoyed using the power tools!!

Riley and the Grumpy Wombat Book Launch

2011-09-19T07:00:00.000+10:00

We went to Tania's book launch yesterday for her new book, "Riley and the Grumpy Wombat, A Journey around Melbourne". It was a lovely, well-attended morning for our favourite local children's author. Anya enjoyed making her wombat headband and wore it all day with pride. She was thrilled to cuddle the 'grumpy wombat' for the entire book reading and we were lucky enough to actually win a door prize! A children's party :-) Thanks Tania! More photos here.

Wombat Burrows :-)

Tania doing her thing

Grumpy Wombats

I hope you had a lovely weekend! The weather here was perfect. I popped in to Floriade to see the completed installation of which I posted some photos yesterday. I also got to do some tidying up around the place... here's to patient husbands :-)

Paper Chandelier and Lantern Display

2011-09-17T14:08:00.001+10:00

Handmade Marquee display at Floriade

My lovely chandelier

Poppies for Spring

2011-09-16T07:00:00.000+10:00

Aren't my Poppies lovely!! They are starting to open and shed their hairy, paper-like shells. Almost as addictive as popping bubble wrap :-) I am a massive fan of my macro lense. I haven't photographed flowers for a while... and the detail this lense captures excites me every time.

Oh thanks for letting me know about the niggles on my site- I have discovered the new template goes a little crazy when I post twice in one day! Throws out my layout.. must get technical adviser onto that. I haven't seen it yet but some of my handmade pieces are supposed to be in the Homestyle Sewing magazine in the UK, released today, I can't wait to see it! My first magazine - woo hoo, it is a Downton Abbey inspired issue. Have a fabulous weekend - I am off to Floriade.

Giant Paper Coffee Filter Chandelier - sneak peak

2011-09-14T21:07:00.001+10:00

Made from hundreds of industrial sized coffee filters, shaped into bells and slowly sewed together over the last 5 weeks I am pretty happy with the results! We strung this baby up today in the Handmade Canberra marquee at Floriade, in preparation for Saturday's opening.

More photos of the completed installation to come. Unfortunately the inside of the marquee isn't looking too sexy in these photos but you get the idea! For my Aussie readers I bought the filters from Coffee Shrine and they were very reasonable. If you go to Floriade make sure you pop in and visit the Handmade marquee located in the Floriade village, in between the Chilli tent and tea place.

Sewing for Home - My First Lap Quilt - Finished

2011-09-14T07:00:00.000+10:00

Amy Butler - Soul Blossoms in Passion Palette

Ta-da!!!!!! Here it is, all finished. I am really happy with my first ever quilt and christened it last night while I read blogs and drank coffee :-) My little helper also had a snuggle in it this morning.

Front


Back

I made the quilt out of a bundle of fat quarters from Hawthorne Threads, some extra white cotton and then one yard of Temple Doors in Basil and one yard of Peacock feathers in Blush for the back.

I basically cut my entire pack of fat quarters into three inch strips and sewed together, repeating the pattern for all eleven designs of fabric, four times. As mentioned here, there are two different types of white fabric, then the binding is just made from the remaining three inch strips, sewn together. I found a simple to follow tutorial on you-tube 'how to attached and make quilt binding' by Crafty Gemini. I didn't hand sew either, all machine and the binding is stitched in the ditch.

My quilt is wonky is places and by no means perfect but I know it will be useful, loved and hopefully may become an heirloom for my family.

Interior Love

2011-09-13T07:54:00.002+10:00


Ara Design Studio

I am really drawn to mirrors without much of a frame around them, like the above, it's quite a statement piece. So is this spectacular tiled, bathroom wall. Ohhh, so much love - I would really appreciate showering in this room.

Via Dress, Design, Decor

Photography - jeroenvanderspek

Via Dress, Design, Decor

We have been in our place for one year now and I am finally getting around to doing something about our bedroom. Decorating is a slow process and I think some mood boards are in order. I finally replaced our quilt cover and it is all white, which is so fresh and crisp - I smile each time I walk in the room. I didn't think I would get around to making this one as much as I would have liked to. I have been pondering a colour to go with but also like these white rooms!

Grace Designs "Evenings" Range is Officially launched

2011-09-11T13:31:00.000+10:00

"Hannah" - Headband

Without further ado... my "Evenings" range is officially launched! Thank you to my wonderful, patient husband who has worked on re-vamping my site and big cartel shop for many nights after coming home from long days at his own job! I really, really appreciate all your work and willingness to do these love jobs for me!! Love you!

Another shout out to my fabulous photographer Sam Thies and talented make up artist Kate W and gorgeous model Hannah!

Feel free to spread the word!

Creative Online Magazines

2011-09-10T14:27:00.000+10:00

Autumn - Issue Two

Did you see issue two is out of Victoria's magazine, "Styled"? I had a leisurely browse through while enjoying a coffee this morning.


Tickle the Imagination

One of Amanda's photos of mine featured on the Tickle the Imagination blog a little while back. I did have a little trouble viewing the magazine in the above link but you might have more luck viewing the magazine via the blog. In saying that I think the problem may be at my end? Although Jordan gave it a glowing review!

Vintage-Inspired feather hair comb

2011-09-09T11:10:00.001+10:00

Coquille Feather Comb with Diamante Brooch

New in my etsy store today, another one off piece for your taking! This is one of my favourites and I am very tempted to keep it.

I have been in a bit of a creative slump of late... we have had lots going on with friends and family that you just take one day at a time and do what you can. You know what I am talking about! I hope your weekend is peaceful!

More Sewing Inspiration

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000+10:00

Peony dress

Loving this new pattern by Colette Patterns, I like it with and without the sash. The black sash is rather striking! I haven't bought a Colette Pattern before? Have you? Any tips from those that have?