rockMYroll

Adorable

2012-02-12T11:21:00.002+11:00

This week my greatest find was these two amazing stools. Aren't they just the sweetest. I adore, adore, ADORE them!!

The last major thing to be completed in my new studio was done yesterday. Now for all the finishing touches - then i get to MOVE IN - and never come back out. I can see these little cuties sitting next to my new sewing chair doing their adorable thing.

Playing along with Flea Market Finds again today

Mxo

Invitation...

2012-02-12T11:12:00.001+11:00

I would love to extend the invitation to everyone to attend my up-coming solo exhibition. If your in the area then please feel free to join me on opening night.

The exhibition coordinator, Josie Hurst, has named the new exhibition New Nanna. The exhibition will be a mix of textiles and traditional 2D works. Josie has done an amazing job of getting it promoted and sorting out the themes and concepts. Sometimes its hard to put into words what you have created through art.

I will post up some more info when I have it at hand but the exhibition is running for two months and will be apart of women's week and a statewide arts conference.

There also was a great write up in the Advocate in Saturdays art section. I cant remember the last time that is was all about me, not the Art Center and not the Market.

How exciting...I'm looking forward to it.

Mxo

Just Call Me Ambassador

2012-02-10T18:45:00.000+11:00

I would like to say a HUGE thankyou to everyone that voted and to announce that I have been selected to become one of the Garnier Ambassadors for this year.

The prize means that $1000 goes back to my grass roots project ArtsCape (our local community art centre) and I have to do some sort of photo shoot - the details are fuzzy but I am sure I will let you know when the time comes (mid next month).

So thankyou again for supporting my project and giving us some much need funding. Also don't forget to pop over (and follow) the centres website. We would love to have you as part of our local arts community.
Mxo

Love Quilt

2012-02-09T08:52:00.002+11:00

Well it seems the saga of the Love Quilt is finally over.

Woot!!

Its been a long process - from finding the poor wreaked thing at a second hand shop - spending many many hours replacing hexagons - to finding then making the right back to go on it.

Old posts on it - here, here, here and here - what a saga it has been.

It sure has been a labor of Love. I have now declare that the Love Quilt is FINISHED, bound, backed and ready to go and hang in my upcoming solo exhibition.

There is nothing like a deadline to make you finish all those UFO's laying about the house.

On a side note my position at Tagari Publications has been wrapped up while the focus goes back to Bill Mollison while he recovers from another stroke. Thinking of you Bill xoxoox

Therefore officially I am again unemployed!! I am unsure if I should just be a stay at home Mum while I study my education degree or actually go job seeking, start my own shop or something along those lines. I'm not deciding yet...I'm going to get some reno's done around the house first - maybe Karma will work things out for me.

Mxo

Playing along with Our Creative Spaces again this week xx

Hippy Fest

2012-02-08T12:36:00.003+11:00

On the weekend I attended the Jackies Marsh Forest Festival. This is the second time I had been. It's a bloody good hippy fest, organised by hippies and set in the most ideal of locations over looking the Western Tiers near Deloraine, Tasmania.

The weather was amazing and the energy was fantastic. I took Miss G with me again and she had great fun in the circus tent and creating some puppets in the craft area.

They have awesome food, mostly "hippie" inspired and craft stalls down the side which are also "hippie" inspired. I guess thats why its affectionatly named "Hippie Fest".

I did a little video just before the nights music started on the completely solar panel run stage...have a look if you like... (app. used 8mm)

Forest Festival from Michelle Walker on Vimeo.

I do have a few little qualms - the music was certainly not as good as last time I went...I dont think they ever really got the crowd going - also the wait between acts was HUGE this year.

I saw a snake sliding through the camp site as soon as we came through the gate - that was nearly a pull the plug incident for me. I also did not go on the arts trail walk through the bush this because I was still so scared after seeing that snake...I just couldn't do it.

Miss G was a lot harder to handle this year, last time she was only 1.5 yrs old. Now she is a 3.5 yr old she is well able to voice her dissatisfaction at staying at a late night music festival - as you can see from the picture below. She was not one happy camper.

Oh well - now to wait another two years till the next one - maybe she will be more co-operative at 5.5 yrs old.

Mxo

Oh Deer Me

2012-02-01T21:57:00.001+11:00

You see I have this solo exhibition coming up and its been yonkers since I have painted for real. It takes me quite sometime to get my head back into painting. So rather than go to all the fuss of that (and the studio is half way through its renovation) I whipped up something on what is very familiar to me right now..my sewing machine. This is working out great for me as my exhibition is really heavily influenced with my sewing and blogland...hooray for having a theme!! I'm thinking - Nanas Rock or Grandma Gone Wild - type of title might suit.

I had the idea in my head for this work and with a little bit of my buddy Google I developed a picture.

I had heaps of fun drawing on the machine...think I might do it again sometime. The back is a fab table cloth that I cut up and reformed the pattern...a little bit of background, some found lace and TA - DA

I'm going to leave all the ends loose and not bind the edge or trim it in anyway...I'm going to embrace the messy side of me...screw it...it works.
Another work down... two weeks left

Mxo

Check out others at Our Creative Spaces here

Bloody Zucchinis

2012-02-01T12:26:00.004+11:00

This is what happens when you go away for the weekend and don't pick your zucchinis for four days...four bloody days!!

After a while people stop saying yes when you ask if they would like one (some!!), therefore yesterday I spent the whole day processing the bloody things. Good thing I have the week off work!

I made zucchini pickles, zucchini slice, zucchini fritters and zucchini bread.

The bread was A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!

So fantastic, in fact, I started to hate those bloody zucchinis a little less..so I had share this recipe for all those in the same zucchini glut that I am...

Zucchini Bread

3 eggs
2 cups sugar
2 cups grated Zucchini
3 cups plain flour
1 cup oil
1 tsp each of salt, bi-carb soda
2 tspns vanilla
3 tspns cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts

Beat eggs until light and fluffy.

Mix in sugar, zucchini, oil and vanilla.
Add dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Fold in walnuts.
Divide into two loaf tins.
Bake approx 1 hour at 200 deg.
Serve with butter if preferred. May be frozen.

Trust me its so moist you don't need the butter.

Lastly I think you better try the fritters recipe too...

Best Zucchini Fritters Ever

1 large zucchini, grated or finely chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
3 eggs, beaten
½ cup (60g) grated Romano cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1 cup (250 ml) milk
2 cups (250g) plain flour
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

1. In a large bowl, mix together the zucchini, onion, garlic, eggs, cheese, parsley, milk, and flour. Season with salt and pepper.
2.Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large frypan over medium heat. Drop tablespoons of the batter into the frypan, and flatten slightly with the back of a spatula. Turn fritters over when the center appears cooked. Cook on the other side until golden brown. Set aside and keep warm. Add more oil to pan as needed, and continue with remaining batter.

(I also added bacon, chilli and sweet chilli sauce..cause that how i roll!)

Sooo goood!! Also if anybody would like my zucchini bread and butter pickles recipe let me know and I'll pop it in another post. I would hate to overload others with my forced zucchini obsession.

Mxo

You Cant Stop the Music

2012-01-31T10:46:00.000+11:00

I know its not an original idea...especially if you hangout in blogland a lot but i just had to make me one of these. I picked up the print for $5 and used contact to block out the letters before painting.

I had trouble when pealing off the letters as some of the print came off as well. Does anyone have any advice on what to do here or maybe I should have used something other than contact?

Any-whoo I love it and i really want to make another but with a pattern instead of words... then again I have so much to say.....

Mxo

Two Dresses

2012-01-30T21:44:00.001+11:00

This week I have been very busy. With a looming deadline hanging over my head I had to get on with some customers orders before I could start on the next project.

My friend Naomi saw this fabric on one of my Madeit dresses and realising I had enough left over fabric from it put in her own order. Her post about the dress is too funny and I kind of get the idea she likes it - just a little bit.

The second dress is completely different to anything I had done before. It actually hurt my head a little attempting a new pattern front and designing a back for it but all in all it was a good learning experience. This is not a dress I would like to make a lot of ... I would have to charge an awful lot to make my time worth it. The client loves it and is planning on wearing it to a music festival, f you see it wondering around a mosh pitt in Tassie then tap her on the shoulder and say hi.

She right though - there will never be another like it.

Goes to show how two dresses and two ladies can be so different.

Now I have to go...I have a a solo exhibition to gets busy for...Arrrhhhh!!!

Mxo

'stralia Day

2012-01-26T10:44:00.001+11:00

Graeme got soul

Graeme got funk

Graeme gots the moves!!

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces today. Bought to you by craft stalkers anonymous.

Happy 'stralia day everyone!!

My favorite holiday - mid summer - Triple J's Hottest One Hundred

Why 'o' Why do i have to work tomorrow???

Mxoxoxo

New Year Revolution

2012-01-25T10:25:00.001+11:00

Ok I think I am ready, The dreaded conclusion to my Dead Wood Post of last year. Still, I am not a fan of New Year Resolutions but this seems the right time of year to make changes.

I just had a read through the last dead wood post and it seems I have done pretty well. I have kept to most of the things that I wanted to change in my head space but it seems the negativity has still been creeping in. Its sooooo{!!!!} hard to be bloody positive all the time, any of the time.

I have continued on my house cleansing and regularly take a Ute load of stuff back to vinnies or the tip. Of course I am bringing things home from my thrifting adventures but they do not stay closed up in my heart and the attachment to objects has been waning. I have even cleared out a lot of things I have been hoarding from my youth. Things that I have been keeping because at the time it was the "best" thing I owned or meant something silly and sentimental to me. I don't need these things to remind me of moments or times in my life...that's what photos and my brain is for.

Another aim was forgiveness....forgiveness of myself and forgivenss of others. With both it seems I FAIL massive, a grudge is one thing I'm actually quite good at. I struggle to let go of the hurt from others and for things that I have done to others. I think that because there has been no resolution to most of these problems I am unable to move past them. Forgiveness is something that I need to work on. I don't know how to get there either.

I want to continue to try to live simply, to stick to the ideals of a Permaculture Self Revolution with out all the new age hippy rubbish. You will not find me in a circle, holding hands and singing to mother earth. I do believe we all need to focus on being self sustaining, all small things make a difference. The Revolution starts at home and with YOU!! I liked this picture and words below. I do not know the original source.

I do have faith that somewhere in the future I will find the happy Michelle and I don't think she is close. There is a lot of work to do here still.

Mary - Mary

2012-01-23T14:50:00.000+11:00

This has become the staple of our weekly lunches. Zucchini Slice, or the vegetable by which is know know in our house as "that bloody zuchinni". We also have heaps of eggs so it make sence to make a big batch each Sunday to use for work lunches.

Every year I plant zuchinnis this happens, every bloody year!! I am harvesting five to six massive ones every four days. Will I ever learn??

The rest of the garden is going great guns too... my cabbages are MASSIVE!

The potatoes are smothering the pumpkins. I am about to finish laying out Bill Mollison's book on potatoes. He will be so proud of these pictures when I show him...it seems I did learn a thing or two from that book.

I found a new way to support my beans, this old lattice. I have spent years with strings and poles trying to support them...what a fool! I just weaved it between some droppers and TA-DA!!! Never will I have to lose time to that consuming task...it takes a woman to think of these things.

Lastly I am really happy with how my tomatoes have done this year..sure beats all the bad tomato moments of last year.

Hows your garden growing??

Mxo

Another Life

2012-01-22T11:04:00.000+11:00

Does anybody remember these?

They were from Tupperware and I swear they had not entered my thoughts until I stumbled across them in an oppie this week. They have pull apart parts and as far as I can tell there were no other "characters" made. I totally had one of those revelation moments as my childhood flooded back just for a little second. I have never seen these in an oppie before and each had all its parts...amazing.

I grabbed them off the shelf and saw they were only $1 each. I nearly squealed. I may have been a little bit excited as I saw the lady behind the counter give me "that" look. The look that they should have had more on them if I was showing that much excitement over my find...hee hee sucks to be them.

Joining in with Flea Market Finds again today.

Mxo

First Love

2012-01-20T11:23:00.000+11:00

made with love market, january 2012 from Naomi Fenton on Vimeo.

Would you like to have a walk through of our market?? Have a little look at this video that Naomi put together for us.

Video by Naomi

And also don't forget to check out her lovely as always photo set for this month.

A week ago I also announced that my Art Centre has been short listed to receive a grant BUT we need your support...If your on facebook then please click on this link and give us your vote. The art centre is where we host our market and we would love to see it grow and grow. The centre is a community run initiative and it is amazing on what the committee has achieved with no budget. Its time for us to move forward and hopefully get some support we deserve.

Naomi wrote some lovely stuff about us HERE.

So please VOTE!!!

(Pretty Please xo)

Mxo

Moves Like Jagger

2012-01-19T11:31:00.000+11:00

Meet the newest family member of the Graeme family - Disco Dave.

He is a regular at Studio 54, experiments with some questionable drugs and can pull off some hip moves on the dance floor.

He likes his shirts with big collars and always wears his skinny black tie.

As one of my friends (in real life and on Instagram) said - he moves like Jagger.

On a side note that has nothing to do with Dave - a big announcement that may effect my blogging. Last week I accepted my letter of offer into teaching. It has been something I have wanted to do for a while and I am pretty excited to be finally doing something that may use my other degrees, I mean what the point in having a Masters in Contemporary Art if I cant use it in my local region.

I am scared SHITLESS of all the time consuming activities that go along with study but know it must be done. I fear my blogging, my sewing and my art may again have to take a back seat as most of my "free time" will now be overtaken by the books.

I'm not prepared mentally to go through study again yet but perhaps once i get my readers in my sweaty hands I might just take back to it like a duck to water fingers crossed.

Mxo

Summer Sound Track

2012-01-18T11:19:00.001+11:00

This summer I have found the perfect music to become the sound track to 2011/2012.

I "invested" in Triple J's - Like a Version Vol 7 album and The
Black Keys - El Camino. Do yourself a favour and "invest" in these two. You wont regret it.

Angus and Julia Stone - Say it Right

Gosling - Dance the Way I Feel

The Black Keys - Lonely Boy

Graeme, Greg and a Wild Thing

2012-01-17T09:52:00.002+11:00

One thing I have been busy doing in my holidays is making dolls...lots and lots...I have ideas bursting in my head for future characters. I can't wait to just make them all.

The accessories that were recently sold with my first Graeme doll will become optional extras in the future as they take me a long time to make and I just cant justify the price and time.

Now I would like to introduce Farmer Greg along with my first doll Hiker Graeme. Farmer Greg likes to tend to his chickens, drive his tractor and grow lush veggies.

I would also like to show you my new doll based on the character Max from the book "Where the Wild Things Are"...one of my favourite books. Little Max is all dressed in his wolf suit ready to cause a rumpus. He has a removable crown so that he may become King of the Wild Things.

I don't really like using the term "Dolls" or "Softies" for these little guys but I am yet to find a better term for them. Any suggestions??

All dolls are now in my Madeit shop.
Mxo

Finders Keepers

2012-01-16T10:13:00.002+11:00

There is this awful habit developing where people are getting married on week days. I think they do it because it costs them less money to have the wedding, not being prime Saturday time in the summer. Unfortunately for the rest of us working people it costs us more. Taking days off work , especially casual work like mine loses loads of cash and for permanent workers effecting their holidays at best...but oh well that's the wedding parties call I guess.

One of the benefits of a weekly wedding is that shops are open. That awful time between the ceremony and the reception can be filled in with a spot of thrifting. As soon as it was social acceptable I urged my immediate company to go for a rummaging through secondhand shops in lovely dresses, suits and high heel shoes, this does make for a little bit of scene and generates lots of looks apparently.

In one shop I found this beautiful fire place cover, hand embroidered and in immaculate condition for its age. How much you ask??? 30 bucks I say, BARGAIN!! Even though we don't hardly use the open fire at all least in now looks pretty. The white tree in the picture "glows", it was really hard to capture, maybe just take my word for it.

I also scored some old tourist teaspoons for .50c each and put them above the kettle with my re-purposed cake stands. Fruits better for you than cake i'm guessing...

I'm linking this post back to lovely Sophie and Flea Market Finds. I hope you all had as much luck this week as i did.

Mxo

Please Vote!! xoxoxo

2012-01-13T16:43:00.000+11:00

On the spur of the moment I entered a contest to be come a Garnier Ambassador that is aimed at suppoting grass roots projects. My project, my baby, is the Wynyards Artscape, our local community arts centre. I was picked down to the final 20 and now must get to the final 10 to win. Good odds!

More than ever we are in need to prove ourselfs to the community and local council. We need to gain support to ensure the projects becomes sustaining and long term. We currently have been running for 7 plus years and we are growing and getting better at our arts practices every year. This is a grass roots project, it runs on community power alone with no funding. This is why support from a company such as this will be vital for our future sustainment.

Please click on this link to vote for us and then please share, share, share(!!!) with everybody you know and even those you don't.

I would be forever grateful. This art center is also the home to our Made with Love Market Bazaar (on tomorrow by the way) and has be come a very important home to the arts in our regional community. I would love to for everyone to get on board and throw their weight behind this project...even if its is just by clicking and linking. I feel all our hard work will be worth it then.

I must appoligise to all my facey friend in advance...i will bullying them into voting everyday till we win (its only open for a month guys , so no fear)

Mxoxoxoxo

Wedding Season Dress

2012-01-11T12:28:00.002+11:00

This summer I have a couple of weddings to go to. I don't have time to shop and wanted one of my new designs to have in my wardrobe..so I made me a dress. Yes it is Hawaiian shirt material (thrifted of course, brand new and maybe four metres worth)...I feel this is more my style, more "rock" than the thrifted florals I usually use. You should see how swishy it is...it's fab, tailored to fit and super comfortable.

Now to just find the perfect heels...I'm thinking ridiculously tall, black and shiny material...I'll let you know how the hunt goes...man I love shoes...and clothes...and sewing...

Mxoxoxo

Craftervaning and Beach Bums

2012-01-08T12:39:00.000+11:00

Make a doll a day while on holiday. Meet my new softie inspired by "Where the wild things are"

Buying Homemade in Beaconsfield. Crochet beach bum top and leather wallet

"Beach Huts" and Greens Beach

For the first time this year we are away in the van. I am still on a blogging "break" but its back to work on Tuesday so I think my blogging will fall back into some sort of routine (hopefully).

So for a quick update we are beaching, sitting and crafting (well not the husband but ME!).

I am thinking and nearly ready to do a wrap on on the Dead Wood post. ...nearly.

Talk soon

Mxo

Genuine Retro

2012-01-02T13:37:00.001+11:00

So I have been busy sewing my butt off on my holidays. Like a woman possesed I tells ya..well not really I actually have been holidaying as well as squeezing in the odd bit of sewing.

I found some more Home Journals this time WITH the patterns {Hooray!!} and stumbled upon the most perfect dress to make next. It has a scooped back with a bow tie feature. It is very much like what I had been making previously with the neck line changed and no capped sleeves. I love it. I made one of these for myself as I have a few weddings to attend in January. Unfortunatly I didn't like the finished material on myself so it went into the shop along with a the other new ones.

Never fear though, I have found even better material to make my very own scooped back dress - more me that is. While I am making that one I will be doing up some more lightning bolt dresses as I have none left in stock.

So if one of these lovelies catch your eye make sure you pop over to my Madeit shop to check it out. Lots of sizes!!

I hope you guys had a great Christmas and new year. Thankyou to all my followers and readers from 2011 and cheers to another good year in 2012. I love reading your comments and I love our interactions online...so a HUGE thankyou to you all. You inspire me...

Mxo

Taking a Break

2011-12-29T15:06:00.001+11:00

Its not very often the small person and I hang out at home together for long periods, if we are on holidays it usually means we are camping away from home. Sure there are the weekends but its nothing like three weeks together 24\7. Now she is older I am really enjoying it. We have built her a brand new playground {lucky thing!!} and have been spending many - many hours there.

I have also been taking a break from blogland - not on purpose - but I have been avoiding anything that I have made into "work"...and sometimes blogging is like that. Heading towards the end of the year I also feel I have to wrap up my "Year of Dead Wood" post - there are some important evaluations to make - therefore lots of thinking time. Perhaps soon I will pluck up the courage to write it - but not yet, someone is calling to me from the playground.

Mxo

Four Leaf Dress

2011-12-22T13:08:00.002+11:00

I really love this style, I personally have four of five dresses and tunic tops in this pattern. It has puffy sleeves, over sized pockets, a scoop neck line and a free flowing dress. The other advantage of this design is it can stretch out or shrink in just by the tie feature. It would fit a Size 12 - 16. It makes you feel all girly and stuff and great for when you eat too much at Christmas dinner.

I have had this fabric in my stash for quite a while. It was a full double quilt cover in pristine condition. I felt slightly bad about cutting it up. On the bright side I now have two of these dresses. I think everyone will love the fabric and floaty dress..hopefully... I have no idea what sells these days ha ha..oh well that's the joy of creating. Available in my Madeit shop or at the next market.

It's getting close to the big day!!! Merry Christmas Everyone.

Mxo

Graeme Pillows

2011-12-20T11:21:00.003+11:00

I just realised I never shared with you my Graeme pillows.

Every pillow is completely original as i am not going to use a template. Every Graeme will have a personality of his own and no two will be alike.

They are backed with a grey military blanket.

Available in my made it shop or perhaps one might pop up in your Christmas stocking (look out family!!).
Now I'm off to sew, hooray for holidays!! My store is looking a bit empty after a few dress sales and I also sold all my Graeme dolls so better make some more of those too. I have a few more doll ideas to experiment with...woooo! I am a bit intrigued with all this doll making and can't wait to make some more lighting bolt dresses, should be some constructive holidays, fingers crossed.

Mxo

Last Love

2011-12-19T11:05:00.001+11:00

My first ever Santa picture

On Saturday was our last Made with Love Market for the year, and after the initial joy at being finished everything for the year I am was slightly sad that it was over. We had a great day, great sales and a great crowd.

Everyone was in a happy mood - stall holders, the clients and "most" of the kids....not so much the kids visiting Santa (see the video ha ha). Santa was an amazingly generous and patient person and was so great with the kids. Thankyou Santa for looking after us so well.

I sold ALL my Graeme dolls so now I must make some more...I'm also running low on dresses after a few sales so I think I will be hitting the sewing machine hard over my holidays.

I am ever so grateful to everyone that has supported us over this year and to the girls who dig in and help out market after market. We are so proud to be bringing this kind of event to such a small community and that they embrace it so well.

Look towards next years plan I think I will be looking at some shops to stock in this year as well as the market and online... it would be nice to spread my stuff a bit wider.

Naomi Fenton yet again did some amazing shots for us and put together this little video for the kids having their pictures taken..its a wee bit funny so make sure you check it out.

Mxo

Ho Ho Ho from Naomi Fenton on Vimeo.

Hiker Graeme

2011-12-14T21:47:00.003+11:00

make gif

Phew

He's finished.

Hiker Greame likes camping, chopping wood and the odd spot of fishing. He loves nothing more than to snuggle up in his swag, with the fire blazing, while watching the stars.

Now available in my madeit shop.

Miss G is getting one for Christmas...i hope she likes it.

iPhone Bling

2011-12-14T09:35:00.005+11:00

Have you seen those kits where you can cross stitch your own iPhone case? Well you can buy them on line but being ~~a tight arse~~ thrifty I decided to make my own. A good bit of spray paint, cotton and needles will turn any holey old iPhone case into the cutest new accessory!!

Steps are as follows:

Spray paint cover (wait to dry drumming fingers)
Find the centre and stitch your first mark
Build it, build it up with no direction and squint a lot in the fading light and because your glasses were left in the car.
Tie off ends (I wont show you the "back work" on it—it's disgraceful)
Attach to phone

TA—DA!!!

Mxo

Home Love

2011-12-13T09:45:00.000+11:00

Sarges Opening

2011-12-12T11:02:00.000+11:00

If you live local then you will know Sarge. He is a visual artist that paints with his feet. Born with no arms it is fascinating to see how he can work and what he can achieve.

ArtsCape was packed to the brim for Sarges opening and is a true testament of the work Sarge has done over the year and the respect he has around town. He was muchly helped our by his carer Rebecca to get this work shown and to the standard of a well curated exhibition. Sarges painting are wonderful - his lino cuts amazing.

The art centre will be open from 11 till 3.30 daily so make sure you pop into view this great exhibition. There is only one week left to view this work and finished on the 16th of December

Artscape is well and truly happy with the results of this exhibitions and we hope this sets the standard for future exhibitions coming in from the public {if you would like to have your own exhibition in our centre then contact me or jump over to our ArtsCape page for more info}.

Thankyou to Sarge and Rebecca for creating such a wonderful event. You indeed should be so proud of yourself.

PS You should really go and join our ArtsCape site and show your support for our local art centre...seriously..... :)

Gladdish About Surprises

2011-12-11T11:37:00.000+11:00

What a funny thing all this technology is. I am a bit of a fan of Instagram {like everyone else with an iphone} and follow as many Tasmanians as I can...like on my blog also.

One lady I had been enjoying is Grace Gladdish. She has a beautiful feed of Tasmanian landscapes and is a visual artists to boot.

Last week she happened to pop over to my blog and see my score of Home Journals minus the patterns. Remarkably she had a stack of the a fore mentioned Journals WITH the patterns...a little bit of wee came out I was that excited.

Generously she offered to send me some patterns as she was not a sewer herself. Literary a day later I got some lovely mail with not only the BEAUTIFUL old patterns but a hand-painted card and a hand designed postcard from her very creative self.....I was blown away by the generosity.

It really is a funny technology advanced world we live in. Without it I would have no connection to the artists and crafters in Tasmania let alone the world. I am forever grateful to be living in our day and age and have an on-going affair with technology...sometimes we fight but mostly we love each other.

Thankyou Grace...thankyou universe..we are indeed very lucky to live in the country we do and this sort of unparalleled goodness in peoples heart give me hope that there is kindness still left in the world. Keep an eye on your letter box Grace I will be popping something in there soon.

Mxoxo

Going Bush

2011-12-10T11:22:00.002+11:00

All we hear about is Christmas, Christmas, and Christmas.

...and here's some more for you. HA. This week I have had an idea brewing that just had to be created. These are little camping men coming together. I just love them. I am making three, one for Georgie for Christmas and two for the market or to go online. I am going to include a little sleeping bag and a fold out fire to complete the camping set. I was trying to wait to show you the whole package altogether but i couldn't...impulsive!!

We struggle to get boys stuff at our market (at any market lets be honest) so hopefully this can qualify as a "boy product"...regardless i know my little girl will love them.

Mxo

Threads of Feeling

2011-12-08T09:46:00.000+11:00

If you are interested in textiles, history and art then you have to go and look at this amazing exhibition. I couldn't tear myself away from the images as they flicked by...in fact I wanted them to slow down.

This exhibition contains images of 18th Century textile tokens left with abandoned babies at the London Foundling Hospital.

These tiny scraps of fabric have so many stories behind them. Even though these babies were abandoned by their family's they were left wrapped and dressed in the most beautiful and often hand created garments. You can see the love in the detail in the fabrics. The babies may have been abandoned but this doesn't mean they were not wanted or loved. What a heart wrenching decision to give your baby away.

You really should go and check the online exhibition out yourself...I suggest having a box of tissues close by, it really does touch your heart. So many stories to be discovered here...

Mxo

Ferment and Human Nutrition

2011-12-07T10:42:00.002+11:00

Old Cover

Ferment and Human Nutrition — New cover

Work in progress

The first book I have EVER worked on The Permaculture Book of Ferment and Human Nutrition is finally out and for sale to the public. This book has hit cult status because of its rarity and content, it was even fetching $500+ on Amazon. Well no longer will people have to pay that amount...its available for what I consider a great price of $59.95 on the Tagari Website.

We have overhauled the whole book and I am pleased to say we have bought it up to scratch and it looks very professional. Yay go us!! Pretty much the content of the book was handled by myself and another co-worker. We did not however create the front cover — therefore we cant take credit for that, but only that.

As much I have had a love-hate relationship with the process I think this book has some amazing content of storing, preserving and nutritionally enhancing your foods. All done the "old" ways, traditional recipes and good old basic knowledge passed down from generation to generation.

I now have my very own copy...already signed by Bill...lucky me!!

"The wait is over — The Permaculture Book of Ferment and Human Nutrition by Bill Mollison is now available for you to purchase!

This book has been out of stock for a few years and has become a much sort after publication. Ferment and Human Nutrition is back with a brand new look, updated content, photos, illustrations and interior. If you missed out on an older version of this remarkable book then this is your chance to own a copy.

Written by Bill Mollison, it explores the traditional ways of storing, preserving and increasing the nutritional value of foods. Ferment and Human Nutrition contains valuable information and has been collected by Bill on his travels and through vast researching of cultures. The book is compiled into 14 Chapters that covers subjects such as Meats, Dairy, Fermentation, Vegetables, Fish Products, Brewing, Fruits and many useful facts on preparing your life to be simple but effective.

This book will not only be a great addition to your kitchen but to your household. The information is priceless but yet comes from the most basic of beginnings — before refrigeration and often from the folklore of the traditional peoples of this world. It is a pleasure to read and will inspire you to return back to the uncomplicated routines of food preparation, storing and preserving."

You can view the book further on the Tagari Website

Thanks Bill and Lisa for letting me apart of this re-birth of an amazing book.

Mxo

Break on Through...

2011-12-06T10:03:00.003+11:00

OOOOO I totally had one of those moments yesterday..those moments when all the sudden you just "get" stuff. I know its been a long time but my old-time readers may remember this quilt that I rescued and had been doing up. The first back of the quilt I attempted turned into its very own quilt and the hexagon one remained "backless".

A while ago I had a real crack at putting one together and the STUFFED IT UP major. Ok I'll explain but this may get confusing...I borrowed some large letters from Claire that spelt the word love. I had all intentions of making alternating fabrics in a big square that spelt LOVE. Unfortunately after sewing the individual letters on their individual backings I realised I had laid it out in a line to alternate the fabric and when put back in its square shape the colours where on the same sides...FFS!!! I was wild with myself for being so stupid and completely chucked it, refusing to make two new letters to replace the bottom row of VE. Seriously that was a full day of sewing and a lot of wasted precious vintage fabric.

I couldn't believe after looking at it for so long that i didn't figure out the solution earlier...turn the two bottom letter upside down to mirror itself ...TA-DA!!! A solution was found and one i could totally be happy living with. I now have the back to my hexagon/love quilt.

The next moment of working it out in my head I must have room to think about the next quilt project..a proper one for Miss G. That day even without working on the hexagon/love quilt I rushed to the op shop and raided my stash to lay out some new fabrics for her. I really want to make a beautiful quilt that she can cherish for ever. I am thinking of making it inspired by a Dottie Angel look - whites, blue, lace and lots of hand stitched details.

It should be fair to say that we should never need another quilt in our house EVER again. Hee hee well I guess we will see...I never in a million years thought I would do one quilt or know the techniques behind quilting. I promise to show you the hexagon/love quilt when I am finished...us sewers have to show off these things you know.

Mxo

Ring-a-Ding

2011-12-05T10:42:00.001+11:00

I found this cute little tute at Upcycle Your Life on Aile 3 to make these giveaway rings. They are meant to be instead of business cards and also a little extra something for your clients. Being impulsive as I am they were made by that night. I did vary a little from her original suggestions of materials but I just coped with what I had around the house. It worked well enough, the main change was printing onto calico painting sheets then attaching it to the fabric via a double bond interfacing....and Ta-Da!!

I've often thought about those people that do one thing well over and over again..where as I do many things adverage, but I cant help it..there is so much to create...{sigh} to be one of those committed types.

I also got inspired by Our Creative Spaces this week and made some of these clay tree ornaments {I'm sorry i cant quite remember who to reference for this idea...but thankyou}.

They are now hanging on the tree.

Miss G had fun helping me...

While the clay was out i got some of my letter stamps and made some new swing tags for my dresses.

I had to find a temporary measure for re-branding them after the change over of names. I think they turned out a bit cute...and a great temporary solution.

I hope your weekend was just as constructive.

Mxo

Finders Keepers

2011-12-04T17:42:00.001+11:00

When do you say that you have enough stuff?? How can you say no to such lovely stuff you happen across in an oppie... I guess the sensible person would say "just don't go" but i can't help it. I am very conscious of bringing bags of stuff in the house and never taking bags of stuff out of it.

Oh well what can one do but become "one of those hoarders" with nineteen cats.

Regardless I will share a some special things I got this week.

Above is the most gorgeous wool hat and shoes, from two different oppies, but matched so nicely. I will have to wait till winter before i can wear the hat but i have already put the shoes to good use.

I also picked up a small stack of Home Journals from the 40's and 50's. Its seems this magazine had patterns included...sad face..mine weren't..oh but to dream!! Pretty sure I may actually wet my pants if I had found the patterns with them.

What I love most about old magazines are the ad's...intriguing...I don't think advertisers these days would agree to words such as "deforming fat" and suggest you tame your husbands alcohol problem by "secretly" giving him medicine.

I have plans for these images - I want to do some collages, some fabrics for spoonflower and I am thinking of packaging them up to give away on here as a digital file {photoshop stamps, thumb images, etc} so stay tuned if your keen for some free retro propaganda.

Today I'm going to link up with Flea Market Finds..its been awhile.

I might even do some oppie stalking over there and hopefully save myself some cash during the week...tis better to look than buy so they say {rubbish!!}.

Mxo

Music Muma

2011-12-03T11:58:00.001+11:00

Some music to get your weekend pumping....

Sophia - Laura Marling

Tongue Tied - Grouplove

Video Games - Lana Del Rey

Good Intent - Kimbra

Wish list

2011-12-01T15:27:00.004+11:00

No one ever knows what to get me for Christmas...so here is a hint in the right direction. Hopefully this makes it easier for people to get an idea of the things I like. Obviously a lot of these items are out of my price range (and yours) but a girl can dream...can't they?

A UV exposure screen printing kit

This beautiful necklace

A Blythe Doll

Spotlight vouchers

Magazine subscriptions Peppermint, Frankie, Yen, Grass Roots.

Old school glasses necklace

Pinking shears (good quality) to finishing off sewing edges

Tall ugg boots with a walker heels.

A Digital slr with a macro lens. Small modern snout type..no idea on the brand.

A digital cutting tool

World of Geek craft - Book

Bento box Lunch Kit - Not exactly this one - there are plenty of funky ones about

REd OMGpwnies Computer Bag

Beauty Vouchers - Massage, Laser hair removal, Body Shop

See i don't want for much {actually i have plenty more ideas - maybe another post hee hee)
Mxo

Rock the Frock

2011-11-29T17:00:00.002+11:00

Recently i got a special order to do a bridesmaid dress - but a dress that could also be worn afterward as well. I think this one is perfect. I would love to see what kind of wedding allows a bridesmaid to wear a lightning bolt in the back of the dress. That bride must be way cool.

I thinks its a bit cute... have a lovely day Fiona.

Mxo

Home Grown

2011-11-28T22:16:00.002+11:00

Its such a long time since i have blogged about my garden. Last year I was shattered by my bad growing season and barely grew any winter veggies. It seems like a lot of people were in the same boat in Tassie.

Frost - Bastard.

This year however is MY year. The year to cut sick and grow as much as I can. I can now safley say that i have planted out my beds FULL to the brim of beautiful organic goodness.

Above is little picture of one of the tadpoles turning into frogs. I had heeeeaps in the new pond till the day we now refer to as Black Thursday. This was the day the ducks got into the frog pond and near wiped out my taddie population.

Ducks - Bastards.

It's fair to say my herb spiral has been a success. Ok ...its out of control. My main enemies in there is the mint and the chamomile.

Chamomile is now my least favorite herb. Seriously it took over my whole path. It has now been mostly moved to under the fruit trees where it can do what ever it wants.

Bastard.

Hoot.

My potatoes are now safe in their own patch and really taking off. Nothing like new potatoes on Christmas day. Till this year i had not planted potatoes for three years. Potatoes seems to be another vegetable that is sent to haunt me. Year after year it kept popping up, at least i was never without potatoes. You might know that tomatoes and potatoes can share the same diseases. Gardeners really should keep the two apart and rotate them on at least a four year system. This becomes hard when you have four main beds and one always contains tomatoes.

Bastards.

So tomorrow I am back to work at Bill Mollison's place and I can't wait to show him a picture of my patch. At the moment I am at the end of finishing off his new potato book {its fair to say i know a bit about potatoes and Bill is forever excited about potatoes}. We are also waiting for Ferment and Human Nutrition to return from the printers. I am super-duper excited that a book i have worked on is about to be released back into the world.

How exciting all this Permaculture stuff is.

Peace be with you and your veggies.

Mxo

2011-11-26T23:53:00.002+11:00

Just a little film i was in.

Mxo

Vintage Bride

2011-11-26T12:56:00.000+11:00

Marina + Andy's Wedding in Stop-Motion | Melbourne, Australia / NYC from Bayly & Moore on Vimeo.

I want to be this couple and have this wedding.

Frock On

2011-11-23T09:14:00.002+11:00

Vision - 1950's

Housewife extraordinaire...

Cuppa worthy...

... and yet comfortable enough to scrub the floors to a sparkling clean {you know like in the ads}.

Reality - Just a bit of fashion love from a past era. Frock on..rock on.

More Seersucker Love

Free - Floaty - Blissful

If only the image fitted the reality...oh well, one can try.

Go on and check out the other crafty peeps and potential house wife's at Our Creative Spaces...you wont regret it.

Available in my Madeit shop.

Mxo

Dollicious

2011-11-22T22:09:00.001+11:00

A little peak at Miss G's Handmade Christmas.

These adorable dolls were made by A Little Vintage

She makes them to be "inspired" by yourself. These dolls are Miss G and myself...nawwww
They are even more beautiful in real life I love the solid feel to them as well. Thankyou lovely lady for making them for me Miss G.

They are now wrapped and under the tree.

Mxo

Music Muma

2011-11-22T10:47:00.001+11:00

360 featuring Gosling - Boys like you

The Jezabels - Trycolour

and an old favorite before the band turned to shit...

Kings of Leon - Fans

HM {Christmas}

2011-11-20T16:53:00.000+11:00

I am trying to continue on my theme of a Handmade Christmas. A totally Handmade Christmas will be un-achievable, especially when it comes to "boy" presents but I am going to try my darnedest.

I was totally sick of all the tinsel and glitter that had collected in my Christmas storage bag and left most of it in the bag. I replaced it with some good old traditional paper chains to decorate the tree. Miss G "helped", thank goodness she needed a sleep today so i could finish it. Staplers aren't her thing apparently.

In my studio you can see more {than usual} evidence of my hoarding past, art supplies/paper and card are a huge weakness. Seriously...I had gotten rid of a lot but I am so pleased I had kept these papers. They were perfect for turning into a Christmas paper bunting for the fire place.

Last year I made a Parliament of Owls and got to put them back on the tree...naaaw they are a bit cute. Pretty sure the tute i used for these owls came from Burda Style.

I also placed some of the pressed washers on the tree for the first time. I have two others that say peace and love as well as this one.

I may look like a Christmas freak but i can tell you I am usually far from it. This is the earliest i have ever put up the tree and we weren't home last Christmas and had some family tragedy to deal with so I feel like I need to get a bit more festive this year. Especially for the little person of the house. ...It's always worth it.

Joy - Peace - Love

and all that....

Mxo

Seersucker Love

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

I have been doing a bit of sewing {for whats seems to be the biggest break for me EVER} and I whipped up a couple of seersucker skirts. My love for seersucker is growing, maybe it's the summer zing they have.

The top one has to huge hidden pockets in both sides...I just looove pockets on skirts and dresses...it's great to carry all that ~~crap~~ stuff on your person.

The bottom one has a large outer pocket made from a lovely doily I found and binded in my handmade binding.

Both are free size so they could be adjusted to fit nearly anyone. If I can find the right outfit to work around one I am keeping it for myself. I will defiantly be putting some into my madeit shop though.

They are a bit cute.

I have found lots of lovely tablecloths, recently, to turn into more skirts and the ones with terrible stains are being put away to make a quilt cover soon... stains ruin a good bit of cloth, sad face.

Don't forget its also craft stalking Thursday so pop on over to Our Creative Spaces for a look-see.

Mxoxoxo

And then we were one...

2011-11-16T19:35:00.004+11:00

On the weekend our little baby turned one. I cant believe our Made with Love market bazaar was started a full year ago. I am so pleased by how much we have grown. If you had gone to our first market you would of seen our attempts as styling our tables. Compared to what we are doing now I think we have changed dramatically.

It was a bit funny to see someone on their very first stall this weekend...don't get me wrong they did a great job but i bet you any money things will be improved next time...it was like watching yourself a year ago.

As a thankyou to everyone we shared some lucky door prizes, free homemade lemonade and some props to use in our photobooth. It's a bit funny..i made heaps of different props but nearly everyone chose the 'tashes.

Our usual (lets not call her normal..lol) photographer Naomi was extremely busy with work so we asked another promising lady to help us out.
You may notice the change in style..you can check out her other work on her site Danah Gillam Photography...and also on our facey page.
Thanks for stepping in Danah and doing a great job for us. x

It was a bit cute seeing everyone have a turn at the mustaches

A HUGE thankyou to all our stall holders, our clients, supporters, online fans, buskers, and lastly and most importantly the committee (Sarah, Claire , Lisa, Nardia, and others through the year) who keep the wheels turning over and over again each month.... Love you guys and thankyou for making my job a whole lot easier. Till next month....

Michelle xoxoxoxoxo

Music Muma

2011-11-12T15:59:00.000+11:00

Lisa Mitchell - So Jealous

I woke up with this in my head this morning..its still there...what does this mean??

I will blog about the market later...so tired right now..and i have a work dinner to go out to tonight. Yee Gads i am far too old for all this partying...(s'if).

Mxo

Happy Birthday MWL!!

2011-11-09T10:20:00.001+11:00

This weekends Made with Love Bazaar is our FIRST BIRTHDAY!!! My how we have grown and evolved from our first run. We have experienced the highs and lows of market management and feel we are really hitting our stride in terms of organisation and confidence. Plus i think we are pretty rad to have created such an amazing regular event for our sleepy town.

This weekend we are going to make it a bit more special and give back to our customers with FREE home-made lemonade (made by Claire), a silly vintage photobooth (organised by Sarah) and some home-made giveaways. I really couldn't do without these two lovelies and we must find a way to convince Sarah that Hobart is not a better place to live next year {suggestions anyone?}.

I can't wait to share these pictures with you..i am sure its going to be hilarious...stay tuned.

Personally i have been preparing some lovely new skirts. I cant wait to revel them to you..but quite not yet.

If your in Wynyard town make sure you pop in and say hi or join up to our Facebook page to check out the market goss and photos as soon as it happens.

Mxo

{Rock} of Ages

2011-11-08T10:58:00.000+11:00

Think i might invest in this kit....(notice how i said invest like its a positive...)

{Broom Broom}

2011-11-07T15:06:00.000+11:00

So you may remember I mentioned Stanley had some beautiful little shops to Ooooh and Aaaaah over. There is one in particular that i enjoyed and it was The Brown Dog. This place used to be an artist co-op that manged to survive for quite a while but is now a more up-market gift shop with looovely things.

This little thing in particular I spotted a while back at Nest in penguin but the last time i went back to claim my own she didn't have any left in stock, sad face. So when i found it again I snapped it up. It's a little vintage car and caravan brooch set by lovehate.

I never intended it to be an actual brooch, i don't really wear many brooches. It now resided on my wall in an embroidery hoop next some other art works. I may just change the doily yet but it was fine for the picture to show you guys.

Another piece of art has gone up on my walls...you may recognise it as one of my works from the Mad Hatters exhibition. The exhibition has ended at the Wonders of Wynyard Building and has moved over to Artscape for November and will be put up after the market this weekend. Any-hoo some of the larger works had to come back to the owners so my tea towel work is looking all fancy on my wall. Please excuse the wood panels {it makes me head tick a bit, they are all through this house}. Slowly I am paining them all white and I am sure the wall hanging will look amazing in that spot once it sits on a freshly painted wall.

Did you get arty this weekend?

Mxo

Holiday at Home

2011-11-06T23:51:00.000+11:00

We got off the boat from Melbourne - washed some clothes - picked up our new caravan (it's fancy) and took off for the long weekend to holiday 45mins from home in Stanley. Talk about holidaying at home!

We had some good weather and we had some windy weather but unlike last year at least it wasn't a wash out.

Stanley is famous for the nut but has lots of quaint shops and beautiful beaches (when it's not windy). Its also a bit historic....I'm not a tourist info booth..but apparently the first phone cable to Tasmania landed here...there's a lot of old stuff about.

There was fishing and a beautiful feed of flat head, not caught by me because i bragged of my skills before heading out and didn't even get a bite {karma anyone?}.

Sometimes gloves and beanies are a necessity for eating tea but doesn't that fresh air make you feel alive...damn! Back to work next week...good lord its going to be a long week.

Mxo

Selling Love

2011-11-02T12:15:00.001+11:00

With a heavy heart i have to declare that we are selling our lovely vintage van. We are upgrading to a white monster. Why? Because of the amount of traveling we plan to do and the ease of a newer van for quick pack ups and set ups. This van is great when you set up for a few days or more but it became a bit too much work for a couple of day change of camp sites, all in a row on big trips.

I really love the character of the older vans and there is nothing like traveling in one. Of course my beloved has a few niggles but don't all objects of age? I am going to be so sad to see her go.

With the money i recieve from the sale i will be buying an older van to do up for my market shop {a little project for me} and also will be buying a door for my new sewing room ...so all is not lost.

If you are interested in more details i have so far posted it on Gumtree. If its taking to long there i will move it over to ebay.

Look how lovely she is....

Don't forget it also features a bit of art work on the side...original designs painted while coping 100 mossie bites. I'm hoping to prove my husband wrong..that people will love the are work and not think it has down graded it at all {hee hee fingers crossed}

Mxo

Towel Oragarmi

2011-11-02T11:18:00.001+11:00

Elephant

It's a rabbit i swear...

Turtle

Animals positioned for early morning surprise.

I'm the oldest in our family and on my Mums side my baby brother Daniel is 10+ years younger than me. Together we sometimes cause a bit of mischief, but damn we are funny.

A previous year i came home from a night in Adelaide with my cousin, convinced Daniel into helping out and re-aranged the house on Mum, think lawn mowers in the lounge and couches in the kitchen. It was hilarious..my Mum wasn't suitably inmpressed and totally confused me when i got up the next morning to go to the toilet and everything was back in the right spots, did it really happen?? The next morning when i was proper awake and with a suitable hangover i went out to the lounge like a naughty school child where Mum told me she had found the houses state in the wee hours and reorganised everything back...opps.

This time i am waaaay more mature and spent the last night of my trip making origami towel creatures with Daniel who again needed little convincing, you can find lots of tutes on youtube..go on have a look...hilarious!

I am pleased to say i still giggled like a school girl while setting them up for the surprise the next morning but at least i didn't get in trouble like one. Thanks for the trip rAderalide. It was great seeing my family again and catching up with special people. See you all again soon.

Mxo

{Car Craft}

2011-11-01T11:14:00.003+11:00

It's official. I can't sit still. I have been on holidays for a week and i have driven from Melbourne to Adelaide and back. I am so pleased i bought my car crafting kit with me. It a long trip just looking at the scenery {yawn}.

What better car craft than crochet. I have made metres and metres of crochet ric-rac but decided that i should make my first Amigurumi Doll. I wanted to start adding to Miss G's eclectic collection of handmade toys. Its free tutorial i got off line {Ravalry - I'll link to the pattern when i bloody find it again!!}. Isn't he adorable.

I also got Goth Alice finished, she was the softie i bought from Spoonflower. I thought she was looking quite unusual but the finished product came out much better than i expected. I added buttons on the arm joins and she moves lovely. I love her little toy rabbit she carry's with her and in the other hand she has a large watch. She has tattoos all up her arms and she is super hipster.

With the Mad Hatter and Alice doll coming home from the exhibition soon and "A Little Vintage" homemade dolls we {she is} are going to end up with a fantastic collection.

Two thumbs up for car craft.

Mxo

clothes {haul}

2011-10-30T21:09:00.002+11:00

Along with my fabric hoard i have also ticked off some clothes finds i have been hoping for. I even went against my "don't spend too much at vinnies" rule to get these beauties. I have been after bomber/biker jacket for a long time and picked the above one up for twenty-five but i paid it because not only was it in good shape, had an extra 20% off but also zipped up really comfortably at the front {bloody boobs}. Its going to be mighty handy on the farm in winter! Do you think that standing next to a moped makes me look more or less like a biker??

The second lovely green dress is proper vintage { i even have a couple of repairs to do on it!} but i unfortunately didn't find it thrifting but in a reclaimed store in Glenelg for twenty-eight bucks. I saw it there, tried it on, went ooooo and bought it. Its a bit cute

and i also scored a lovely bit vintage jewlery - a brooch and a ring {that fits perfect!}.

Its fair to say i have had a good bit of luck in rAderlaide..thankyou

Mxo

PS did you notice i have a new URL sporting itself at the top of the page? {How clever!!}

Handmade Christmas

2011-10-29T18:13:00.000+11:00

I know its evil to talk about Christmas this early but if your planning a handmade Christmas {like i am hoping to do} then it isn't to early to start making, handmade Christmas's take longer of course.

I don't plan to make everything myself but if i can't make it then i want to be able to buy handmade from some one special.

I ordered these lovely dolls off A little Vintage and hasn't she done us proud. They are a Mummy and Georgie doll...naaawwww. I gave in and showed Georgie on the screen but she wont be able to hold the actual doll till the proper day. Thankyou Jennie for my lovely dolls. xo I really do adore them.

I think we need to do a linky thing so that we can all get a few ideas for a handmade Christmas. Especially funky ideas for men and teens. Lets be honest women and children have the market covered. So if you have a fab idea for a gift then please leave it in a your comment below. If i get enough comments i will post about them in full. It would be lovely to give everyone a push towards creating their own handmade chrissy's

Mxo

There's a change in the air...

2011-10-28T16:52:00.001+11:00

So you may have noticed yet another blog header logo change {sorry sorry sorry}. Its part of my swap from Belly Designs to my new brand name of rockMYroll. I never really clicked with Belly Designs and feel i could safely move away from it without upsetting the balance of things too much.

I have been changing my blog header so much lately because i have been trying on new looks. Like changing clothes - finding the right image. I wanted to create something i really clicked with before i locked anything in place. Yesterday i finally had an idea and used a few hours trying to make it come true. Of course the final product in not anything like the first image i had but i have this huge crush on this new design.

I have had a fiddle with some new fabric label ideas {above} but need to keep working on it till it's perfect.

I also renamed my madeit shop and bought the domain name rockmyroll.com

I am going to do some new business cards and swing tags and then i feel i can finally throw off the Belly Designs debacle.

I'm feeling good..i'm feeling positive..all systems go....woo hoo!

Mxo

{Haul}

2011-10-28T10:23:00.004+11:00

Miles from home and oppe shopping on the road. I love finding new stomping grounds and those little dirty old op shops down some little side alley full of long lost goodies.

I went into town and spent a whole day thrifting only to come home with little and bitching about the price they were charging {tell them they're dreaming!!}

I was still angry till i opened up my car boot to do some sorting and i had forgotten the things i had found on the road to get here. I had a massive haul!! Hoorah!!

I have a pile of fabrics..mainly table cloths to be made into skirts...

I adore this table cloth find...

And metres and metres of this edging...who's a lucky girl??? ME!!!

I have had a few finds around here but mainly in the dirty unorganised stores where you can still shock the granny's with what you will be turning a sheet into...i'll never get sick of that dazed look as they process the idea of how that fabric could be something other than a sheet, like it had never even entered their minds....

Lets start a campaign to bring back the dirty-unorganised oppe shoppe!! Let me hear you roar....{??} two thumbs up to them.

Mxo

{Goth Alice}

2011-10-27T11:04:00.001+11:00

I'm on Holidays in rAderlaide!! ...there has been a bit of sewing action. Along with some car craft of ric-rac i have been putting together my Spoonflower Goth Alice.

I am doing ok but i think the pattern has probably not been tested much before. It sits kinda weird and i can't find anywhere on the net that says how the leg is attached (ie. what angle its meant to be at) or even a finished doll for me to stalk. At this stage i have pinned it together but i will join it once i am happy with how the limbs are sitting. I will use buttons so that the joints move a little bit more free range.

Well that's only a little bit about what i have been up too...cant wait to show you the next post of my current Op shoppe haul...who's been a lucky girl?? (ME!)

Don't forget to do you Thursday Craft Stalking

Mxo

{Wet}

2011-10-25T10:44:00.001+11:00

{Isla}

2011-10-24T18:18:00.001+11:00

*Warning - Photo Heavy Post

Little Isla and my Miss G.

Isn't she just a doll!!

There is nothing like getting some pictures of your new family and i only wish i had got some pictures like this done for us. This new family are very special people to me and i had a ball taking these images for them. I couldn't help but post up some of my favorites....aren't they just so beautiful xox

Mxo

A special quilt for a special little lady

2011-10-21T19:20:00.001+11:00

I was asked to make this little cot quilt for a special little new born. Its a bit cute...i hope she likes it.

Mxo

Mad Hatters Opening

2011-10-20T19:07:00.002+11:00

There was cake....

There was exhibition guides...

There was tea {and cute tea cups}

and lots of lovely peeps helping us celebrate the opening of our Mad Hatters exhibition

...be it a week late. Thankyou lovely ladies for all your hard work you have put into the exhibitions. What a WOW we have created. Thankfully i think most of my work here is done...sigh...

Mxo

New on {madeit}

2011-10-19T20:59:00.000+11:00

Yes i have been missing. Not its not my fault {insert swear words about Telstra here}. I literally have four posts waiting to put up for you and more developing {whisper - i'm on holidays...woo!}

Most of all i wanted to post my new creations on madeit and show it off here...so here you go..one new dress and one old sewing creation that i thought it was about time i put in my shop.

Both are thrifted materials, the top from a Hawaiian material that's a bit cute . The Tea Dress is a size 10 and the Jacket is an 18 but there is more information on them in my madeit shop.

I shall be posting more regular in the next few days {hopefully} woo!! I have so much to share with you.

Mxo

{Spoonflower}

2011-10-13T10:52:00.002+11:00

I have loved having some free time since the Tulip fest madness and you may have noticed i have been a little quiet this week on my blog. Its been good to not "have" to do anything.

A few weeks ago i decided i didn't have enough to do and uploaded some of my paintings to Spoonflower, a print on demand fabric site. I had been wanting to do this for ages and i am now inspired to upload some new designs so watch this space.

This design isn't mine but i found this softie Alice in wonderland fabric, all the bits to make your own Goth Alice. I think it may be a great "in the car" job for our big road trip back to Radelaide next week.

To start your fabric selling you have to order small samples to make sure you agree on how they will be presented to the public. I have been happy with the result and are very true to the photo and even the original paintings.

As i said before i plan on uploading some more designs soon..and i have some more samples in the mail of already uploaded designs. This could be a bit of fun.

A few notes: I ordered Alice in the cheapest fabric and i wish i had of gone for a heavier fabric but i didn't know at the time. It's just a bit thin for my liking. This is also what the fabric samples come in ...so just a little word of warning when ordering your fabrics from spoonflower especially if you are a quilter. One more negative was the huge shipping time as they come from America, or maybe i was just impatient, expect a four to six week turnaround.

So feel free to pop over to Spoonflower and check out there site, its pretty rad. You could get lost in there with all the choices.

Mxo

{Pheeeew} market wrap

2011-10-09T12:09:00.001+11:00

Yesterdays market was the final project i had to finish before i get a break {of sorts}. It's fair to say i did not cope with all the stress of the last few weeks very well. I still have not got quite the stress relief i need but a big sleep did help some what.

Regardless we had a great day yesterday with soooo many people coming in to visit us. Again we were spoilt by Naomi's lovely photographing and you can go view the full set on our Made with Love facey page.

I think what i like most about the market are the older ducks coming in and being {a good} shocked with how we re-interpret their era. They seem to be the most amazed. One quote from a particular pair of ladies made me smile, "There's some pretty things here Dorothy, isn't there??"...too cute.

My two new dresses are now sitting in my Madeit store as they didn't sell but i did sell my recycled cardi and a table cloth skirt so that was lovely.

My dongles got a lovely response {yes it does sound rude on purpose Naomi ha ha}...

and i probably should put this jacket up in my store soon too.

I have only used my pictures from Naomi's set today but as i said please pop over to our facey page for the full overview.

Thanks everyone {Claire, Sarah, Stall holders, foodies, buskers and patrons} for making it another fabulous day. We have truly created something really special.

Next market is our first birthday...my how we have grown!! I simply cant believe how far we have come in just a year.

I have so much gratitude {hiding under all the stress}, thankyou.

Mxo

{Oooo} new dresses

2011-10-07T21:56:00.000+11:00

Market day tomorrow and i have been sewing up a storm with some new designs. I feel happy going down a new branch on the sewing tree. I feel that i may have just started creating dresses that are more "me".

I found two huge sheets of this amazing fabric {so i have enough for one more} and I put a lightening bolt feature in the back...trust me you are going to see more lightening bolts on clothes to come.

The second dress came from one of those "laying in bed moments". The next morning i went in search of the perfect Hawaiian shirt and turned it into this little baby. It even sports an environmental/political statement. Since i took the picture {i was scared of losing light} i have added a Hawaiian pocket on the bottom front. I am super pleased i didn't make it in my size because it wouldn't be for sale right now if i did. After the market i will be popping them into my madeit shop.

Make sure you pop in and say hi tomorrow if your in the area, its going to be an amazing day.

Mxo

a little bit of {Design}

2011-10-06T12:19:00.002+11:00

Its here!! My design work for the Mad Hatters exhibition and an actual paid job for the Tulip Festival this weekend. I have put a few at the WOW building and i will be giving them out at this weekends market. I am so pleased to be able to finally publicly reveal my work...TA-DAAAAA!!

What a mad week of creating it has been...You can see by the photo montage how the booklet opens out to reveal three different areas: the front and back, the middle tree section and the final "poster" that covers the whole center panel. The middle section has some quotes from the Hatters Tea party...not that the exhibition is all about the Hatter but still it fits in. I am quite happy with the results.

The second document was a RAF grant that we received through my arts centre "ArtsCape". It will be handed out to take advantage of the visitors in town this weekend and make sure they visit ALL the art in town.

I have a feeling i might be quite exhausted on Sunday. Fingers crossed for a massive sell out market this weekend to fund my up-coming holiday.

Mxo

{More Creative Spaces Here}

exhibition {OPEN}

2011-10-03T21:33:00.004+11:00

Naomi Fenton
Jaclyn Poke
Sandra Forest
Julia Rodgers

Sandra Forest
Sandra Forest
Lisa Haas
Michelle Walker

Lisa Haas
Anna-Jane Gordon
Sandra Forest
Lisa Haas

Michelle Walker/ Naomi Fenton
Michelle Walker
Michelle Walker
Sandra Forest

Today was "up" day. A couple of us spent the day setting up the Mad Hatters Tea Party exhibition. There is something about seeing all your hard work finally on white walls...i love white walls.

Next weekend is the Tulip Festival so there will be plenty of visitors and locals alike viewing the works. We are also getting another newspaper article in tomorrows paper featuring "Grace of Autumn"....yay. It's all happening!

My little girl has been desperately sick so set up was challenging but i did manage to get the exhibition guide to the printers today as well...phew, thank goodness for the internet and emails i tells ya!! Pretty sure i just felt a mountain move off my shoulders.

So I am sure i will be posting more about this exhibition but i hope you can get a look at some of the works by these pictures, or if your in town get your butt down to the Wonders of Wynyard building.

Do it..i know you wanna ...mxo

Thanks to Pugsly Pixel for the frames xo

Pick'n

2011-10-01T10:09:00.001+10:00

Don't you just love the highs and lows of thrifting. I seem to have not got anything for ages then two trips in a row i got the best scores...luff!! xo.

All the following was just from one rummage. I have yet to upload the 50's cups and church pew i have picked up on my second trip...$15 for a church pew!! I just stood there open mouthed (seriously) until one of the ladies asked if i would like to take it home...yes..yes i would thanks!

I scored bundles of fabric and lovely doilies...the best find was the blue placements in the top picture. They are packet-new and have six separate placements in the set.

A new pinnie and set of crochet hooks (a "thrifting" score from ebay)

Two bags - a Blue Bowling type and a brown full leather one from the 80's which i wasn't sure if i liked but couldn't leave it there for some reason. The blue one come with a "free" pen knife, quite cute. This is the stuff that my childhood dreams are made of - finding lost treasure.

And three amazing retro dresses that don't actually make me look like a granny!! Hooray. Unfortunately the brown one got caught in the car door yesterday as i was walking away and now has a big tear in it. I also had to walk around the supermarket with the a fore mentioned tear...how embarrassment.

Mad Hatters Exposed

2011-09-30T13:59:00.002+10:00

Our exhibition is getting set up on Monday and i am super excited to see it all together and looking complete. This week we got a lovely article in the Tulip Festival Program. The program is delivered about town and was sent out in the coasts rag so i guess it has seen its fair share of publicity.

I am super happy about what they wrote and they seemed to have gotten all the words right, which is lovely. Also it features two of my works so i am pretty happy about that.

Expect a lot of pictures after Monday about the final set up. Its going to look fab.

Mxoxox

The article says:

What do a giant crochet teapot, a wall hanging of tea towels and Alice in Wonderland and Mad hatter Dolls have in common?

They are all being featured in the mad hatters tea party exhibition.

The works are predominantly made by a local craft group, who run the well known Wynyard market Made with Love and the group aims to highlight the way in which craft techniques can be used to create art.

Curator Michelle Walker said the Mad Hatters Theme will be reflected throughout the display

There will be tea based pieces with a quirky vintage nature, she said. Mrs Walker said that vintage was a very popular trend for craft at the moment

Vintage is a pretty and feminine style, she said.

And people love it because it is not mass produced and made in China, it is individual.

Mrs Walker said that crafts currency has grown in recent times due to the need for more sustainable living.

“It defiantly has a recycling and environmentally friendly aspect which is important in today’s society.

The exhibition itself is not presented in the typical way. “it is not just a series of art pieces hanging on the wall, but an interesting display throughout the room,” she said. “ It’s a very special event and even non-art lovers will appreciate it.

The exhibition will appeal to people of all ages and interests. Young people will appreciate the quirkiness and older people will appreciate the craftsmanship.

On Sale - Original Art

2011-09-28T23:17:00.000+10:00

The time has come..its time to try to do something with my aging mound of old art works...so i am having a little facebook sale. Pop over if you would like a little look and perhaps purchase something not made in China while helping me achieve a bit of space for new works. You could do us both a favor..hee hee

Clicky clicky

Mxo

Greatful

2011-09-28T21:54:00.000+10:00

There is nothing quite like a surprise. They are few and far between in this world and its so nice when someone goes out of their way to do something for another. Today i received a parcel from Nancy packed full of retro patterns. i already have favorites.

What a lovely thing to do.

Thanks Nancy...i am very greatful..seriously it was lovely.

Mxo

Un {Confidence}

2011-09-28T10:28:00.001+10:00

People think that I am extremely confident, opinionated and strong willed....but am I?? Who believes the illusion? Who judges the illusion?

People think I have "made it" in the local art world? Who believes that illusion?? Not I...

People think I am comfortable with my weight: because I care about my fashion choices? Because I seem to be accepting of it? Because I dare to show my face in public looking like I do?

People give the illusion that everything is ok in their life but does anyone know what really going on in their head?

When I was young I was extremely shy, as I am sure many were. It carried into my teens where I landed a hairdressing apprenticeship. I was forced to talk to people, on any subject, even when I didn't feel like it. Five years later I was an expert on any topic (even sports!!!) and could usually arouse a conversation from even the hardest of clients. Public speaking does not come naturally to many, after years of standing up and doing presentations I still feel uneasy and sick about it. Speaking to new people is still a hard thing to do regardless of the illusion.

When blogging I write whats on my mind but often forget that people read it, read things into my words and think that this is my confidence overflowing into the world. It's not the case, I don't want a acclaim and worship for my life choices, I enjoy what I do and that is all. I blog for my own pleasure not for anyone else's (not that I want you to stop reading, just take it with a grain of salt...and I love your comments BTW.) My blog is not a "standard" for anyone else's achievements, I do not expect anyone to be as busy as me (or wish it on anyone). I feel though that this sometimes effects my friendships but I guess if they can't accept what I do then I guess its better that we are not friends.

I have been told numerous times that I have "made it" in our town and have no need for the help other emerging artists receive. An illusion of success? All the work that I have done for arts in the town was for the communities benefit, not mine. I spend more time promoting other peoples work than I would ever my own. I do the newspaper articles and interviews to get the "arty word" out there...it's just my face that keeps popping up beside it. I just wish that one day my turn will come and I will land that "dream job" or that "special break " that's just about my work. Jealousy always wins when I see it happening naturally to others, but it doesn't last for long before I become genuinely happy for them. Everyone deserves a dream.

I know that I am curvy (i'm not saying obese or anything, i'm not quiet that delusional) but i hate the way clothes hang on me. I love seeing those skinny rake girls that clothes hang beautifully on and i imagine how disgusting it would look draped over the massive girls on my chest. I have been told I can pull it off because of my "confidence"...ha...little do they know.

When it comes to my opinions that's exactly what they are....my opinions. If yours differ then lets have a discussion...not an argument...but why can't people talk about their thoughts without getting all "antsy" and "broken friendship" about it. We can still be friends and have different thoughts you know...its what makes us unique, and who wants to be a clone of everyone else. If everyone liked the same things then who would marry all the ugly boys and wear the horrid tacky clothes (see that's "my" opinion, don't send me comments on ugly boys and tacky clothes).

Un- confidence is everywhere, skinny girls think they are fat and beautiful girls think they are ugly its just the degree of perception and acting ability that change. Social interactions are hard...hard work.

I saw a nice saying today, "Holding a grudge is like letting someone live in your head rent-free". Its so true, underneath any confidence is a head thinking, worrying, self doubt and blowing things out of proportion. Grudge-holding wastes precious time on building up our own confidence. We should worry about our insides rather than everyone else's perceptions. Live and let live, I think. Let people live how they see fit, make the relationships they want. Everybody deserves to be treated equal under the law and in the community.

This rant has not gone where i wanted it to...I don't really know where it went wrong and i am not going to start again. I guess what I want to say is maybe we shouldn't judge people by their appearance only their actions. Genuine people always show their true colours and have nothing to hide. In the end its always up to peoples perception and what you they want to believe. Personally no one can control others perceptions but we can stop judging others.

END OF D&M..thanks for listening xo

Monday {bloody} Monday

2011-09-27T10:02:00.000+10:00

I am so in love with my new binding pegs. Too bad i have run out of pegs and still have meters of fabric to wind. Apparently spotlight in Burnie haven't been able to get them in for months...great...

How does Hobart have heaps and Burnie have none??

Really have to start worry about my state of mind...whilst in the "la-spotylight" yesterday i got everything bar what i needed...always the way.

I also got half my hair cut off...i couldn't bring myself to go the full way just yet. I would love to go back to my messy bob....but not quite in the right mind set yet. There is nothing like sitting in the chair rather than standing behind it. I also have some great oppy scores to share with you as soon as i upload the pictures.

Mxo

New on {madeit}

2011-09-24T12:49:00.001+10:00

I have some new stuff on madeit...

This pamper pack....

This sewing notions bundle...

...all hand made.....

and Vintage Binding Pegs...

Brooches

and lastly...rings.....
Nawww so cute...

More to come..all at the next market also...

Mxo

{Guide} to being Mad

2011-09-21T13:21:00.001+10:00

My work load is my guide to being mad...

Bring on the end of October when everything goes back into a state of calm creating.

I do not like this forced creating, my typical inside artist hates being told when to create...a trait i am trying to rebel against and encourage others to do the same....have i mentioned managing arty types is always "challenging".

So here is a little peak at the exhibition guide for the "Mad Hatters Tea Party" exhibition. I have been getting my hands on loads of work for the exhibition and i can tell you now it is going to be amazing. I am so proud of our local artists and crafters.

Good thing i am well practiced with photoshop and indesign these days, i have had moments of true creative flow and moments of sheer frustration in trying to bend the programs to my whims...i will win!!

I cant wait to reveal the whole exhibition to you...expect it to be a big post.

Mxo

{Others Creative Spaces Here)

{pendants and pins}

2011-09-20T09:56:00.001+10:00

I have been on a mission since i have got home. There is nothing like being away from your "stuff" and having ideas pouring into your head. It makes me more productive when I finally get going again. I have even surprised myself.

I sat down to do a project to make into gift packs and ended up creating a whole new line...i am in utter shock. Sarah is going to hate me at the next market for shiz ha ha ha ha {I say all the time i am not making new stuff for the market then turn up with bucket loads of new stuff, sorry Sarah}

So the first thing i was going to do was custom pin heads for dress makers pins. The pins now have teeny tiny spots, flowers or stripes on them...cute...i am planning a unique sewing notions kit to sell on madeit and at the designers market. I couldn't get a good picture of the pinheads so you will just have to trust me about their cuteness.

Then i got inspired and made pendants...many pendants. All original designs and can be used on a necklace, keychains or as a charm. I have heart shapes, free form shapes and multilayer ones.

I really want to create some characters ones as well...see ....tooo many ideas....i don't have time for this ha ha.

So if you like them you can get them off madeit instantly or wait till the market. I have a few more surprises to get together before i can show them off...soon though. I haven't uploaded all of my pendants but if your interested then let me know and i upload more. Have a great week peeps....

Mxo

Sigh {hobart}

2011-09-19T11:20:00.000+10:00

Did i ever mention i got offered a job {twice} in a gallery in Salamanca? Unfortunately circumstances would not allow me to take it, the second time was two weeks after i had my little girl....oh well there must have been a reason to stay on the N/W coast.

I love Hobart, i adore Salamanca. I love its dress sense, i love its art, i love its uniqueness.

I don't like its hot and cold snobby waitresses however....attitude much??

I love Cold Rock ice cream...

I finally made it to MONA. I already need to go back. I have this fear i missed something. The building was amazing, the scenery gob-smacking, the art work...well the art work leaves me confused.

This truck outs side of MONA had to be my favorite. So elaborate - so solid.

There was lots of shenanigans, eating out and sore heads.

I found out a retro fair was on {how convenient}, next time i feel like we should do a Stitch n Bitch girls trip to see it {nice excuse for a get away anyway}. Most of the stall holders were from Melbourne...quite disappointing they couldn't get more Tassie's on side. The dresses were amazing but WAAAY out of my price range. I found my dream coat...not in my size..not in my price range {by a long shot} and i will think about it often. The coat will be come my white elephant...i need to find one for me....soon!

The retro fair even had an exhibition featuring clothes and stories from some of the survivors of the Titanic. The entry fee was worth seeing just that.

I found a vinnies stores open on Saturday!!! Then i had the most amazing score..this massive curtain for $4.50. SCORE!!!!

I need more than a weekend down there. I love that place. Thankyou again Hobart..till next time

Mxoxoxooxxo

New {gift idea}

2011-09-15T09:44:00.000+10:00

I haven't been able to sleep latley due to all the ideas running around in my head and frustration on not having hte time to whip them up. After October things should start looking normal in my sewing space again...hopefully.

One of the things i am putting together are little hand made gift packs. This one includes a pair of yellow and purple upcycled mary jane slippers, an eye mask and a wheat heat pack infused with rosemary out of my very own garden.

I have intentions of creating at least two other gift pack lines, a sewing notions kit and some make your own softie kits. I am a bit excited about it. I also want to work on my new design for my custom made dresses....if only there were more hours in the day!!

You can find the gift pack in my madeit store. There will be no more sewing for me this weekend as i am off on a girls trip to Hobart. I am super excited for MONA, Salamanca market and general party shenanigans. Woot!! See you on the flip side of naughty!!

Mxo

Music Muma

2011-09-14T09:32:00.003+10:00

I love this song, it sounds a little bit like an old uplifting nineties song, but don't let that deter you.
The Jezabels—Endless Summer

And something completely different ...
Wiley—Numbers in Action

And different again...sending good vibes for my Hobart Trip this weekend....
Noah and the Whale—Tonights the Kinda Night

And another Noah and the Whale—L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N

Lastly Gotye—Somebody That I Used to know
Isn't there always someone that used to be in our life that we all feel this way about....

{tea party} finished

2011-09-12T23:08:00.001+10:00

I have to apologise to those that watch my instagram feed for the recent overload of creepy doll pictures. I can now safely say that i have {finally} finished my Mad Hatter and Alice dolls. It was fun making them but {my} what time they take to make. I am mostly pleased with how they came out. Sometimes i like that they look a little bit "Burton" but mostly i cant believe that things like this were created by me.

I can't wait to put the rest of the exhibition together. It am starting to receive exhibits and it is looking good. Now just fingers crossed that everyone else comes through with their goods. Managing artists is sometimes a very challenging business.

I promice Alice isn't nearly as scary in real life

Mxo

{Disco}

2011-09-12T18:40:00.001+10:00

Disco Fever from Naomi Fenton on Vimeo.

Yet another fantastic market on the weekend. Thanks to Naomi for taking our pictures again....oh and we are totally funny..well least we have fun doing it ha ha
Mxo

{Alice} and {Hatter}

2011-09-08T09:27:00.000+10:00

Things are really getting busy around here!! We are heading so fast towards October deadlines that my head is spinning and i am feeling a little over whelmed. In October our town host the "Bloomin Tulip" Festival which sees a massive influx of people to our area. Given that you want to make the most of this i have several events i am working on. The Mad Hatters Exhibition is one i am starting to panic over, i am stressed that people aren't replying to emails so i can't get a clear picture of what the exhibition will look like. I have the exhibition guide to work on and my own projects to finish before entry.

I have also been asked to put together an "Arts Trail" document to hand out to visitors to make sure they view all the arts events while in town. I have the market to organise for that Saturday morning and Artscape business that i must attend to, such as reports, logos and the bloody website which refuses to play nicely....AHHHHH!!!!!!

So back to my creative space...i cant show you a lot of the computer design i have been doing...surprise and all that, but i can show you where i have got my Alice and Mad hatter dolls too. I have started to clothe Alice but she is still lacking shoes and embellishments. Mr hatter has only a hat at the moment but i plan on giving him some black shorts, red braces and a furry vest, he's going to look so hipster.

All i can say is i hope i still get time to blog over the next month but if i go quiet you will understand why. I hope your creative space isn't as stressful as mine.
Mxo

disco {disco} disco

2011-09-07T09:54:00.001+10:00

It comes around so fast but its Made with Love Designers Market weekend again!!! Hooray!! I was so pumped after the last market that i was super keen for the next one to happen. The atmosphere was amazing, The stall holders wonderful, the weather fabulous and the buzz just keeps getting louder. Over night we cracked 400 likers on the facebook page. I am so appreciative of everyone supporting and loving what we have created. Thankyou so much... mmmmmwwhhhaaaa.

This market has a "Disco" theme...i don't have an outfit yet...i am not sure if i have the time to get one either but i am sure i can make my hair big enough to compensate. We announced yesterday our exciting new plan for the market...Made with Loves very own Cafe....with real coffee, tea, seating on the deck and food by Buttercup cakes. I am still working on a busker which i am hoping we can pull off at the last minute. One thing i have noticed are patrons coming to the market and still seeing them there over an hour later...it shocks me that they can spend so much time with us..but i love it...i guess we must be doing something right. I feel like the cafe is somewhere that will attract even more people to "hang out" with us. I would really love to put together a crafternoon lesson in conjunction with the market as well...perhaps this will be combined with our summer programing.

So if your in our little town of Wynyard this Saturday between 9 till 1 make sure you pop into say hello to our designers and soak up the atmosphere. We would love to see you.
Michelle xo

{Chilli Jam} Recipe

2011-09-04T12:31:00.003+10:00

I looove chilli jam...i use it in everything...stir fries, risottos, soups, casseroles...you name it. So being in the same predicament as my Beetroot Marmalade i decided to make my own. I researched on the internet a few recipes but decided to make my own from things i had on hand and a slightly different version that i found online.

So here goes:

3 cups of sugar
1 cup vinegar
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tins of crushed tomatoes
4 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons ginger
20 dried chillies or fresh, whatever you have on hand (to taste..i like it hot)
Jam Setta (don't have to use if you dont like, but i really like a proper "jam" consistency)

Now this gets very technical so hold on tight......Plonk everything in to a pan and bring to the boil, stir to make sure sugar dissolves and doesn't stick. Reduce heat and cook a little above a simmer for as long as you can (i did about an hour and a half, would have liked it longer). Bottle and keep in a dark spot.

Ta Da...enjoy..i know i will.
Mxo

token {SPRING} post

2011-09-01T09:22:00.001+10:00

Yay its the first day of spring!! I have my first asparagus through (ever)....

The daffodils are out!!!

The weather has four seasons in one day (but i had to concede it has been a very mild winter)....

And i have frogs eggs in my frog pond for the very first time!!!

Things are looking up...missed you summer..mmmmwwaahhh xoxoxoxo

Mxo

Indie Radio

2011-08-31T12:25:00.005+10:00

The thing about radio is that you can't listen to all the music you only like, on the other hand i HATE listening to the same ten songs ALL day. Commercial radio is also that...one big commercial. Combine it with irritating presenters and the teeny bopper programming commercial radio gets one big eye roll from me. I also like to be introduced to new music, i need to fulfill that need of the new. I also like an eclectic mix. I love everything from folk to rap but detest anything country or hard core metal.

The only radio station that i have found that has even come close is of course Triple J. I have been listening to them since grade 9. There have been times when i cringe at what i am listening too but also rejoice in the new bands and music that they have introduced to me.

Yesterday i was introduced to an independent radio station coming from our sweet Hobart, Edge Radio. I have been listening to them today have been quite impressed thus far. No teeny bopper music and mostly stuff that fits in with my taste. While their playlist is relatively new to me i think that just takes some more listening to get my head around their stuff, same as when you first come off a commercial channel, start listening to an independent station and literally knowing not one song being played.

I became aware of this station because i was asked to do an interview on their Thursday Craft is the new Black segment. I am so happy that they feature stuff like this. Today i have been listening to another hour of programming by a roller derby enthusiast. I have a great feeling about this radio station.

You can listen if your in Hobart to it via 99.3 FM or stream it by going to their website (which i have been doing today). I also adore their "themes" and their look. There is a vintage feel through our their website and promotions. I love that they also focus heavily on arts and indie work, how nice is that. Rock on Hobart.. and you go girlfriend Tassie... thankyou.

Mxo

{Jazz}

2011-08-28T11:40:00.002+10:00

Dear Jazz,

I am sorry you had to leave us, i miss you every day, but there is a calm that has come over the house since your departure and i must say it is very nice.

You came to us as a bad pregnancy buy, i was six months and felt we just had to have you. I was wrong. The first night you whined allllll night and the second was only slightly better.

The moment I put you on the ground when we bought you home and you charged inside, stuck your face into Denis the Cat who was sleeping and proceeded to clawed you in the eye. That quick incident had us taking you to the vet every week and cost us a fortune. I guess it was great you didn't lose your eye you would never see out of it again.

I remember the first time you were running too fast with me on your blind side and took my legs out from under me. I was pregnant still, your weren't fully grown but already you could bowl me over. When you were bigger you did it to me repeatedly. You never even knew it was you that knocked me down, you were just so strong.

In summer you used to over heat so easy and lay in the pond to cool off and drink at the same time. You used to come in and be roll on the floor with Baby Georgie. You were so gentle with her and i appreciate it.

I was so sad the first time you killed all my chooks, the second and third times were just as bad. For some reason you started to know that this made me very angry and upset and you mostly left them alone. Then the missions of neighborhood destruction begun. You repeatedly wiped out neighboring chook houses. Once i had to whip my eight week sleeping baby up to run up to the neighbors house to see what damage you had done.

We could never trust you, you would wonder off all the time and i hate keeping dogs chained up day and night. Its not fair to anyone.

You love to get in cars and often surprised visitors by charging at them to get in their car and then sit happily next to them. The worst but slightly funniest time was when you got in Nana's car to sit on their old lady friend in the back seats lap. She ended up with bruises, i had to see them a week later when she pulled down her pants to show me. Thanks.

You terrorized the cats, the neighbors, the children, the cars. You couldn't be trusted to just sit out side without destroying property, animals or taking yourself off on a walk. You made it very hard to like you some days but still you had a good heart and i knew of your soft loving nature. I still miss having you around the house...sometimes.

The day the dog catchers arrived you had been locked up for two weeks after wiping out the neighbors chook house in half and hour. I let you off for a run because i felt sorry for you. A nasty neighbor rang the catchers (without talking to us first) the instant they saw you off. At that point I was at my wits end with you, i didn't want a dog i couldn't trust to stay at home and behave so regretfully, with tears dripping on the page, i signed you over to the pound.

I was assured you would find a good home. I hope you have. Without chooks around and a secure backyard i know you could be very happy. You have a beautiful heart and i hope someone else can see that about you.

I am sorry to say that there is this amazing calm over the house now. The chooks are safe, Winston no longer needs locking up with you everyday, Georgie can get out of the car without getting knocked to the floor, the cats are free to walk up to the house and not get mauled.

I am sad without you Jazz but also relieved. I hope you are happy and i am very sorry that we could not do any more for you. The three years you spent with us were tiring and i truly hope that we have done the right thing by you. Its taken me four weeks to get the courage to write this post but i wish you good luck Jazz were ever you are.

Love always Michelle xoxoxo

{Alice} duo

2011-08-25T00:08:00.001+10:00

Poor Alice got a bit goth-like and needed a make over...so with a little bit of makeup i tried to cheer her up. Alice still looks angry but maybe not in a "slash your wrists" type way. I even think she is starting to look a bit glamorous maybe a smoldering 1940's? I can't wait to work on The Hatter and the rest of the bodies...and lets not even get started on the clothes!!

I have never made a doll before and i am learning along the way. I haven't researched any methods i have just been winging it. I thought i was doing a fairly good job till i came across this amazing work from another Tasmanian. ..you should really check her out...and i adore most of all this give-away doll..my favorite of the lot.

I also had to share this knitting picture i found on the net...it has to make you giggle a little...right?

Happy craft stalking day!!
Mxo

{Alice}

2011-08-24T09:45:00.001+10:00

Alice??? Is that you??? I think it is......comon..you know you wanna.....

Time to start on the hair and bodies tonight
Mxoxoxox

Next project please...

2011-08-23T13:53:00.001+10:00

All i want to do was to make some original dolls...i did not want to create another project for the "Mad" Hatters" exhibition. Unfortunately Mr Hatter seems to be appearing in the first one....oh dear i think i like it.

The head is made out of air drying clay and painted with acrylic. Next it will be the hair, body and clothes...and yes i have plans...kind of...

Mxo

Weekend Baby

2011-08-21T20:00:00.002+10:00

What a difference a little sun can make, and what a great weekend it turns into. Today was magic but i now fear that this tease of summer will make the rest of the winter seem longer....sad face. The sun allowed me to get down to the foreshore market and stalk my favorite fruit tree sellers and stock up. I am still expanding my "Food Forest" so i am planting for the future...these trees will still take a long time to get to proper producing stage. I bought nine new fruit trees...a bit of everything and one chestnut tree that i will probably never see to it full magnificence. As Bill Mollison says, "us gardeners plant like we are going to live forever". It was very satisfying getting them into the ground today.

I also managed to finish my "Mad Hatters" paining of the tea cups. I love that part when you finish and sit back and look...i always put it in a spot i glance at it every so often. This is also the part where it either grows on you or you see all the mistakes. I photographed the painting near my rocking chair so you can get an idea of scale and given you a close up so you can see the shadow detail...still i think it is next to impossible to give you a proper look at it...sigh...and i see stuff i want to change already ...sigh.

I hope your weekend was as productive as mine and bring on the sun shine...hasn't winter lasted for like three years already?

Mxoxoxoxo
PS. Did you recognise me with the new layout?? xo

Tea Party Cups

2011-08-18T09:13:00.001+10:00

Last night i spent my third session with my HUGE work for the Mad Hatters Exhibition. This painting is 1m by 1m, acrylic on canvas. Its really hard to get a true indication of its size by the picture but hopefully soon you will be able to get an idea.
I am happy with how it is going now but came to a crisis point last night of pure hatred. I always forget when painting that you have to battle through it rather than rip the paint back into it and start again. Thank goodness i came out the other side with few scars.
I have a few more details to add then i am finished. One more project to complete before the exhibition and the exhibition guides graphic work then i can sit back and work on "normal" stuff again....Phhheeewwww.

Happy craft stalking day everyone.
Mxoxox

Interviewed

2011-08-17T11:53:00.001+10:00

Jill from "Creating my way to success" has invited me to post on her blog today. She has given me a couple of questions to answer. Thankyou Jill for this opportunity.

What do you create? Personally my two main passions are sewing and design. Design encompasses so many genre: painting, drawing, digital images and permaculture.

Why do you create? I have the need to create. I have always felt it. I only create for others with commissions orders, i mostly create for myself. This makes my designs very personal to my tastes. Perhaps this is why i don't sell bundles of work..but i would rather do what i feel is right than to try to make something that is just like everyone else's work.

Do you sell your creations? If so, how? Where? And is it profitable? Yes i currently sell some of my sewing on Madeit and at the market Made with Love. In my studios i have piles of art works i would love to unload but i find i don't have the time to be pushing the product enough to sell. Check out my blog and on the page original art works, most of which you can see is sitting gathering dust at my house....perhaps the family might get them for next Christmas hee hee. Its nice to clean out stock as i find i need to clear the old design ideas away before i can progress towards my next project. Making space for the new is a great way to take the next step. I guess this is the reason i sell. Its obviously not for great profit, while i do fine at the market i would hate to depend upon it to support my family. Designing should never be about profit but a bonus if it happens. How nice would it be to get to quit my day job to design...i guess we all have this dream and very few of us get to experience it.

What mistakes have you made or lessons you have learned? I learn the hard way. My gung-ho attitude always gets me in trouble. While its a great "no fear" way of creating but jumping in with both feet can sometimes go terribly wrong. This is how I learn, I just hope that I haven't got too far into a project before i realise and have to turn back or start again.

What, to you is success? Have you achieved it yet, or are you on your way towards success? Even top designers would never consider themselves to achieve success, they are never satisfied with their creations. Some of my completed projects that i think are a success i can barely look at three months later. The mistakes come out of the shadows and all i can see are changes i would like to make. This is partly because as a designer you are constantly changing your ideas and techniques, what you would do one day you would not to the next. I don't think i will ever be successful in a modern context but i am happy creating and i couldn't go a day without doing it. Success is just a possible by-product of creating. If other people enjoy what i do and come along for the ride then that is success and therefore happiness with your craft. I guess its always nice when other people get what you do.

Rock it like a Mod

2011-08-16T09:47:00.001+10:00

This weekend was the Made with Love market bazaar with the theme of "Sixties Mod". It was such an amazing market. We had a packed house of stall holders and a quite nice day to allow for our paved area to be bustling. I was missing my room buddy Sarah so had to stay in my room for most of it but i was itching to get out and talk to everyone. It's probably getting old but i cant help saying how much i adore what we have created and the energy is just perfect....sigh.

Naomi did our photography again...thankyou Naomi. Not only does she take a great picture, love doing it, makes us look great and saves me from running around trying to grab shots on the day.

We had a constant flow of people through, there was no mad rush hour which makes me so happy not to have to worry about room...next market i fear it may be a different situation as many old stall holders are returning and we have had an influx of new lovely ladies...i just wont think about it for another week or two...

I have a very exciting announcement to make about food at our market but i think i might keep you in suspense a wee bit longer all i can say is that it is going to be amazing.

Our new cake lady had a sell out of a stall. She was from "Butter Cup Cakes" and made the most delish cupcakes. So nice to see such a young girl doing everything right and to fit into our themes soooo well. Outside we had our Asian food and a sausage sizzle for charity that also did really well.

When i got home my news feed on Facey was abuzz with people going to the market, trying to find the market and exclaiming about the lovely goodies they bought from there. I am soooo proud to be apart of this and without everyone involved and supporting it we could never be where we are today.

Thankyou everyone sooo much....i cant say it enough....lub you guys.
Mxoxoxoxooxxo

Materially challanged??

2011-08-12T21:59:00.000+10:00

image

Ok I am at my tether with worry about the looming fabric shortage that myself and other lovers of vintage fabric are facing. There is simply a dwindling supply locally and even though i have a nice stash happening i think we need to be thinking about other options.

So here's the proposal....i will be running a one or two day weekend workshop in fabric printing and dying at the art centre in November. I haven't got costs worked out and what materials may be included in the charge but would like to know if anybody is interested in attending.

At the end of the weekend/day i would like everyone to be able to take home some new skills and some new (original) fabrics to work with.

Skills i think we should have a go at are silk screening and dying practices. I am thinking tie dying (especially the coffee plunger method) and some experimentation with natural dying.

Not only do i want to do this i think it would be great to do this as a group...i am pretty sure the Stitch n Bitch girls will be keen so let me know if you would like to join in soon. The Art centers space fills up very fast and i couldn't see being able to cater for more than 12 to 15 (especially as the tools themselves will require some room).

I'm also thinking we should get someone to cater lunch as part of the price so we can really spend all our time concentrating on the important stuff.

So put your hands up if you think you might like to get involved, email me: michellewalkerdesigns@gmail.com.

Mxo