Posts
Tomorrow I'm going to Sydney for a couple of days. Yay!
Hope I don't get stuck in a sand storm!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
lovely fashion illustration
I love vintage Bally posters. Especially as they are huge.
They are kind of expensive. The one on the left is from 1976 by Raymond Gid is $700AU while the one on the right is from 1989 by Bernard Villemot and costs $1,100AU.But if you see them as art - they are super value. I would say I would always choose a beautiful poster over a painting any day. That posters had a purpose makes them extra special to me.
These two are available from the Galerie Montmarte over in Australia.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Make Me
Make Me is the name of the small design collective I'll be exhibiting with in mid-november. All our work is very different but we're linked by the handmade element within our work.
We've just started our blog here and hopefully it will become a place to see some really cool and exciting new stuff so please support us and let your friends know about it.
The AUT exhibition, LineDotLine, is where we'll be and I promise it will be full of inspiration and general wow come November 13th.
We've just started our blog here and hopefully it will become a place to see some really cool and exciting new stuff so please support us and let your friends know about it.
The AUT exhibition, LineDotLine, is where we'll be and I promise it will be full of inspiration and general wow come November 13th.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
real life • my work
I realise I haven't really made much reference to what I'm putting my heart and soul in to right now (and blood, sweat and tears of course, there's always tears). I'm in the final weeks of my Bachelor of Graphic Design at AUT (Auckland, New Zealand) and all going to plan I'll graduate in early December.
My final design project is called Atrophy and is an exploration of death as a non-traditional theme in fabric design. I've just this week submitted some of my designs to print and to be honest - I'm terrified. I've spent for ever checking and double checking colours but they still might go horribly wrong.
Anyway, I should really be excited about it all. They may not be everybodys cup of tea - but maybe thats how I like it.
My final design project is called Atrophy and is an exploration of death as a non-traditional theme in fabric design. I've just this week submitted some of my designs to print and to be honest - I'm terrified. I've spent for ever checking and double checking colours but they still might go horribly wrong.
Anyway, I should really be excited about it all. They may not be everybodys cup of tea - but maybe thats how I like it.
new look
I've finally got around to changing the look of my blog to reflect my current work and projects.
It's kind of dramatic and dark. oooh
It's kind of dramatic and dark. oooh
Monday, September 21, 2009
my trip to the spca
Yesterday afternoon I went out to the SPCA Animal Village at Mangere to have a look around.
My sister Gina (who's studying to be a vet nurse) has recently been employed to work at the education centre on weekends and so me and some of my family thought we'd go say hi and see if she could educate us.
Gina has volunteered at the SPCA for a while now (in the hospital) and so knows the place well.
I'm a huge supporter of the SPCA and always knew they did really great work, but still I thought that when animals were seized or brought in to the SPCA that they would primarily live in cages until they were rehomed. I was totally wrong about this. The second an animal arrives at the SPCA their life improves. All animals are of course given food and shelter - but they also get - heaps of space, lots of attention and comfy pillows and there's not a cage in sight.
Most cats are in a unit which consists of bedroom sized rooms with a big window where you can see in. Each room is fully furnished as if it was a bedroom or sitting room, carpeted, with drawers open to lie in, scratchy poles, chairs, beds, sofas, little hide away cat beds etc. It's more like a kitty motel. Each room has between 2 - 5 cats in it and they all looked so comfortable and most were fast asleep - no forlorn miaowing at the window.
The dogs don't get quite as many cushy comforts - but they'd probably rip them up and as a lot of the dogs are young I'm sure it would just be too messy. Instead the dogs have a large room with concrete floors and a glass front, at the rear is a screen with beds behind so that they can rest away from the public eye. There are about 2 dogs to each room and the best bit is - each dog is walked twice a day (by volunteers).
Also at the village is the education centre (where Gina works) which is sort of like a home farm of animals that have been rescued and subsequently adopted by the SPCA for their easy going nature. Here they have bunnies, guinea pigs, hens, goats, a couple of sheep, a cow and pigs which can be petted and used to teach groups the value of animals and the importance of a good quality of life. We were completely taken with the two young pigs - Frank and Ginger. So sociable - they followed us as we looked around and their little tails would wag when you gave them a scratch. I never thought I'd want a pig - but now...
While we were there they had 4 old horses who were all in pretty bad shape. One of them is 32 (!) and two of the others are pregnant (despite being 19 :-(). They look a bit rough now (rain scald has meant they've lost a lot of hair as well as being very underfed) but they were just so gentle. All they need now is a kind retirement home, with food, shelter and some love and I really hope that happens for them soon.
Anyway, this was a really long post but I thought it doesn't hurt to share something different for a change. I'm not one to push charity on to people but if you're in NZ and feel like making a tail wag,
the SPCA (or any animal shelter) always needs more volunteers or donations (if you're a busy bee).
Go to: www.spca.co.nz
My sister Gina (who's studying to be a vet nurse) has recently been employed to work at the education centre on weekends and so me and some of my family thought we'd go say hi and see if she could educate us.
Gina has volunteered at the SPCA for a while now (in the hospital) and so knows the place well.
I'm a huge supporter of the SPCA and always knew they did really great work, but still I thought that when animals were seized or brought in to the SPCA that they would primarily live in cages until they were rehomed. I was totally wrong about this. The second an animal arrives at the SPCA their life improves. All animals are of course given food and shelter - but they also get - heaps of space, lots of attention and comfy pillows and there's not a cage in sight.
Most cats are in a unit which consists of bedroom sized rooms with a big window where you can see in. Each room is fully furnished as if it was a bedroom or sitting room, carpeted, with drawers open to lie in, scratchy poles, chairs, beds, sofas, little hide away cat beds etc. It's more like a kitty motel. Each room has between 2 - 5 cats in it and they all looked so comfortable and most were fast asleep - no forlorn miaowing at the window.
The dogs don't get quite as many cushy comforts - but they'd probably rip them up and as a lot of the dogs are young I'm sure it would just be too messy. Instead the dogs have a large room with concrete floors and a glass front, at the rear is a screen with beds behind so that they can rest away from the public eye. There are about 2 dogs to each room and the best bit is - each dog is walked twice a day (by volunteers).
Also at the village is the education centre (where Gina works) which is sort of like a home farm of animals that have been rescued and subsequently adopted by the SPCA for their easy going nature. Here they have bunnies, guinea pigs, hens, goats, a couple of sheep, a cow and pigs which can be petted and used to teach groups the value of animals and the importance of a good quality of life. We were completely taken with the two young pigs - Frank and Ginger. So sociable - they followed us as we looked around and their little tails would wag when you gave them a scratch. I never thought I'd want a pig - but now...
While we were there they had 4 old horses who were all in pretty bad shape. One of them is 32 (!) and two of the others are pregnant (despite being 19 :-(). They look a bit rough now (rain scald has meant they've lost a lot of hair as well as being very underfed) but they were just so gentle. All they need now is a kind retirement home, with food, shelter and some love and I really hope that happens for them soon.
Anyway, this was a really long post but I thought it doesn't hurt to share something different for a change. I'm not one to push charity on to people but if you're in NZ and feel like making a tail wag,
the SPCA (or any animal shelter) always needs more volunteers or donations (if you're a busy bee).
Go to: www.spca.co.nz
Thursday, September 17, 2009
procrastination is fun
Thanks to my friend Tamzen for introducting me to My Cardboard Life and the adventures of Cardboard Colin. Created by Phillipa Rice there is a new strip every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
I just think they are so cute!
Go see!
I just think they are so cute!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
i love giveaways and the lovely people who giveaway
Today I've entered for two beautiful and generous blog giveaways. I love the whole idea of giveaways (although I feel greedy asking for a gift *blush*) and I that's something I really want to be able to do myself eventually. When I reach 20 followers (though that might be a while) I vow to do a cute giveaway.
In the meantime go visit Bam Bam Creative where you could win this adorable Babe in the Wood. (I love it so don't try too hard ;-). Bam Bam Creative is based in Grey Lynn, Auckland and there's heaps of cute stuff, not to mention Jessica is super nice. Check it out on etsy here!
My faves have to be the hoppity, hoppity rabbits - I want a whole warren full!
The second giveaway I've entered is from La Baleine a Plume for this stunning moleskine. It's the most delicate and ladylike book I've ever seen so I deem it only suitable for the most poetic of thoughts.
(again, please don't try to hard - I like this one too! hehe).
If they aren't enough for you check out the great NZ blog Freedom Creative for a list of some more.
Yays for giveaways! x
My faves have to be the hoppity, hoppity rabbits - I want a whole warren full!
The second giveaway I've entered is from La Baleine a Plume for this stunning moleskine. It's the most delicate and ladylike book I've ever seen so I deem it only suitable for the most poetic of thoughts.
(again, please don't try to hard - I like this one too! hehe).
Yays for giveaways! x
smug gloat
In my post about the Auckland Vintage Textile Fair I came to the conclusion that it was a lot of overpriced sewing supplies and that a quick rummage at your local op shop would heed a bigger, better and cheaper haul.
Yesterday I proved myself right by finding all these reels of almost unused, really high quality old cotton - for 50 cents each (textile fair price average $5) and 4.5 metres of this great retro fabric for $10 (sorry I was too lazy to spread the fabric out - but it kind of looks like it has lemons and limes on it - in a good way).
These were from an op shop in Birkenhead/Highbury - I can't remember what charity it is but it's a small one and it's not Salvation Army, Hospice or IHC if that helps! (As I'm not quite up to Herald readership numbers just yet I figure it can't hurt to disclose some of my secret shopping haunts :-p)
x
These were from an op shop in Birkenhead/Highbury - I can't remember what charity it is but it's a small one and it's not Salvation Army, Hospice or IHC if that helps! (As I'm not quite up to Herald readership numbers just yet I figure it can't hurt to disclose some of my secret shopping haunts :-p)
x
Monday, September 14, 2009
so, sew
2 elephants for my baby cousins and 3 doggy/kitty beds for my Lucky Stitches shop on Felt.
luckystitch.felt.co.nz
As I'm new to felt my first 5 items have to be approved before public listing - but fingers crossed they'll be on there soon. I hope to add a couple more by Wednesday so that there's a little more selection - I need top take a trek out to spotlight and grab some more stuffing first though.
The most exciting thing that happened today was I got my personalised sew on labels from JennifersJewels on etsy. I ordered 60 and they arrived really quickly - plus they're amazing quality and look great. I quickly got them sewed on to the beds. It's very exciting to have labels!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
the vintage textile fair
I just got back from the vintage textile fair.
It started with touring around the over-filled carpark in the pouring rain desperately looking for a space. Next door at the Auckland Showgrounds was the dreaded Home Show - so it was basically the busiest place in the whole city.
We paid our $5 entry fee (I HATE it when you have to pay to even get the opportunity to shop).
The place was packed both with stalls and people (almost entirely women) and it looked promising but I was soon disappointed. I was hoping for stacks of neatly folded fabrics and bucket loads of inspiration but rather I found (in order of quantity) millions of buttons, way too many furs, old jewellery and racks of 'vintage' (I'm sick of that word) clothing.
This could still have held some interest if the prices hadn't been so astronomical. For example I found several small, old wicker sewing baskets - the kind most Grandma's have (and me) - but they were all at least $40. Half reels of old cotton for $6. I even saw a quilt - priced at $1600 - ouch.
The only pieces of fabric I saw were uninspiring and low quality synthetics and light cottons from the 70's and 80's.
It felt a bit like I was at New Zealand's most expensive op shop for women who have never been to a real op shop. People were handing over hundreds of dollars for the contents of Aunty Mavis' sewing box. If you've ever been to ANY real op shop (and I mean Salvation Army, Red Cross, SPCA) you'd know that sewing, knitting and crochet goods are not in short supply.
I'm not a negative person but there's no point pretending it was great - when it definitely wasn't. It certainly looked like most people were having a good time even if they were disillusioned. I suppose if I hadn't ever been to an op shop or sunday market I might have been more excited and more happy handing over my hard-earned money, because undoubtedly crochet hooks, buttons, trim and old singer machines can hold some appeal when all laid out - especially when intoxicated by the sunday afternoon, estrogen fueled shopping high.
Anyway, despite my complaining I did buy a couple of things!
Firstly I got a few reels of cotton - these were tucked under a table and just $1 each ( a bit of a boring purchase though I know). And, a real impulse buy was this old lampshade - I paid too much and it's for a hanging light - not lamp - fitting, but I couldn't help it. I'll find a good use for it.
Overall, I'd say I absolutely wouldn't bother going again. But realistically, the next one won't be for a year and by then I'll be full of shopping optimism so I probably will. But if you really want this kind of stuff - have a rummage at your local hospice shop.
Oh and real fur is not vintage cool - it's ugly and the reason there's so much of it - is nobody likes it!
Fur is worn by beautiful animals and ugly people!
It started with touring around the over-filled carpark in the pouring rain desperately looking for a space. Next door at the Auckland Showgrounds was the dreaded Home Show - so it was basically the busiest place in the whole city.
We paid our $5 entry fee (I HATE it when you have to pay to even get the opportunity to shop).
The place was packed both with stalls and people (almost entirely women) and it looked promising but I was soon disappointed. I was hoping for stacks of neatly folded fabrics and bucket loads of inspiration but rather I found (in order of quantity) millions of buttons, way too many furs, old jewellery and racks of 'vintage' (I'm sick of that word) clothing.
This could still have held some interest if the prices hadn't been so astronomical. For example I found several small, old wicker sewing baskets - the kind most Grandma's have (and me) - but they were all at least $40. Half reels of old cotton for $6. I even saw a quilt - priced at $1600 - ouch.
The only pieces of fabric I saw were uninspiring and low quality synthetics and light cottons from the 70's and 80's.
It felt a bit like I was at New Zealand's most expensive op shop for women who have never been to a real op shop. People were handing over hundreds of dollars for the contents of Aunty Mavis' sewing box. If you've ever been to ANY real op shop (and I mean Salvation Army, Red Cross, SPCA) you'd know that sewing, knitting and crochet goods are not in short supply.
I'm not a negative person but there's no point pretending it was great - when it definitely wasn't. It certainly looked like most people were having a good time even if they were disillusioned. I suppose if I hadn't ever been to an op shop or sunday market I might have been more excited and more happy handing over my hard-earned money, because undoubtedly crochet hooks, buttons, trim and old singer machines can hold some appeal when all laid out - especially when intoxicated by the sunday afternoon, estrogen fueled shopping high.
Anyway, despite my complaining I did buy a couple of things!
Firstly I got a few reels of cotton - these were tucked under a table and just $1 each ( a bit of a boring purchase though I know). And, a real impulse buy was this old lampshade - I paid too much and it's for a hanging light - not lamp - fitting, but I couldn't help it. I'll find a good use for it.
Overall, I'd say I absolutely wouldn't bother going again. But realistically, the next one won't be for a year and by then I'll be full of shopping optimism so I probably will. But if you really want this kind of stuff - have a rummage at your local hospice shop.
Oh and real fur is not vintage cool - it's ugly and the reason there's so much of it - is nobody likes it!
Fur is worn by beautiful animals and ugly people!
a smashing plate
While I was browsing blog Hello Sandwich (go check it out - I love it) I found the painted, recycled ceramics by Dutch artist/etsian (of course) Ninainvorm.
(her blog is here and very pretty)
While plates don't usually excite me - this one did - a lot....LOOK!
It says Evie!
Turns out you can commission any name you like, which is good, as I'm guessing not everyone is as excited about an Evie plate as I am. They are kind of pricey at $60 for a custom plate (and between $18-$44 for pre-mades on etsy) but it's one you'd want to eat your toast off for ever. A good investment obviously!
I love the combination of traditional and naive - it's so sweet, perhaps it has to be reserved for cake only.
Then, if I was getting the plate - I'd have to get a teapot as well...
(her blog is here and very pretty)
While plates don't usually excite me - this one did - a lot....LOOK!
Turns out you can commission any name you like, which is good, as I'm guessing not everyone is as excited about an Evie plate as I am. They are kind of pricey at $60 for a custom plate (and between $18-$44 for pre-mades on etsy) but it's one you'd want to eat your toast off for ever. A good investment obviously!
I love the combination of traditional and naive - it's so sweet, perhaps it has to be reserved for cake only.
Then, if I was getting the plate - I'd have to get a teapot as well...
Saturday, September 12, 2009
another one!
save the felt
I know I've mentioned (a lot) that I love felt.
It's hard not to love its no-fray, easy cut, kitchy-cute brightness.
However, while wool felt (and wool blend) is nice and soft the acrylic stuff is mostly stiff and miserable and inconsistent in weight and quality. I've found good quality felt to be hard to find and pretty expensive.
So, I was thinking about ordering some eco-felt from feltorama.
Eco-felt is felt made entirely from recycled plastic bottles - so in theory it is pretty much an environmentally friendly acrylic felt which means it's quite likely it might feel a bit horrid. BUT, I was thinking eco-felt is very much a specialist product - not some stock standard bargain basement felt - so perhaps (big perhaps) it has been developed with a superior consistency.
My boyfriend, financial advisor (controller) and (increasingly more committed + serious) eco-guy, Sam, argues that having 'eco' felt shipped to me via air from America cancels out any ecological points scored by the recycled bottles thing. But, it's not like I'm currently buying NZ produced felt - the stuff I buy is surely shipped from China - so it must be better than that, right?
That argument combined with the fact that I can't find any information on the dyes used and their impact means I still don't feel very informed.
I know I should probably just put my my hand in my pocket and pay out for wool felt made from genuine kiwi baa-baas....but I'm curious and I like new stuff so I'll order a couple of pieces as an experiment...
and will update of course!
It's hard not to love its no-fray, easy cut, kitchy-cute brightness.
However, while wool felt (and wool blend) is nice and soft the acrylic stuff is mostly stiff and miserable and inconsistent in weight and quality. I've found good quality felt to be hard to find and pretty expensive.
The 29 colour samples of ecospun felt from feltorama.
So, I was thinking about ordering some eco-felt from feltorama.
Eco-felt is felt made entirely from recycled plastic bottles - so in theory it is pretty much an environmentally friendly acrylic felt which means it's quite likely it might feel a bit horrid. BUT, I was thinking eco-felt is very much a specialist product - not some stock standard bargain basement felt - so perhaps (big perhaps) it has been developed with a superior consistency.
My boyfriend, financial advisor (controller) and (increasingly more committed + serious) eco-guy, Sam, argues that having 'eco' felt shipped to me via air from America cancels out any ecological points scored by the recycled bottles thing. But, it's not like I'm currently buying NZ produced felt - the stuff I buy is surely shipped from China - so it must be better than that, right?
That argument combined with the fact that I can't find any information on the dyes used and their impact means I still don't feel very informed.
I know I should probably just put my my hand in my pocket and pay out for wool felt made from genuine kiwi baa-baas....but I'm curious and I like new stuff so I'll order a couple of pieces as an experiment...
and will update of course!
bootielicious (yes I'm a weird nerd)
I have just wanted this vintage simplicity bootie pattern for the longest time. I think it's because I love felt and they look nice and easy - and kids get all the cute stuff!
I finally gave in and bought it on ebay today (for $6 less than the price at spotlight - and that includes shipping). I figure I can make a couple of pairs for my cousins and ... maybe a pair (or two) for the dog...
booties anyone?
(Simplicity pattern 2867)
sunday outing
Last week I went to the Devonport Craft Market.
This week I'm heading to the 2nd annual Auckland Vintage Textiles Fair.
I can't find much information about it but in my head I'll find stacks of reasonbly priced gorgeous old fabrics. In reality it might be thin, over-priced pickings - but I've got to be in to win!
This is what I know:
AUCKLAND VINTAGE TEXTILE FAIR
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13
10.00 am - 5.00 pm
Tasman Room
ALEXANDRA PARK RACEWAY
Entry $5
Large selection of genuine vintage textile and accessories for sale as follows: fabrics, clothing, hats, linen, accessories, trims, buttons, lace, handbags, jewelery, etc.
I'll update tomorrow with any goodies I find (if I find any).
a rainy saturday and baby elephants
Today it was windy and rainy, I've a super sore throat, a headache and my new contact lenses have been so uncomfortable I gave in and threw them away. Oh and my hair was refusing to lie flat. So I called today a write-off and resorted to stay home in my nerdy specs and comfy house clothes.
I should have been working on my designs but I was feeling far too sorry for myself so wanted to make something fun instead. It just so happens that anyday now my only cousin (Oliver 18 months) will be getting a little brother or sister and I thought it would be nice to make a little something for the both of them. They live all the way in Manchester(UK) so I won't be able to hand-deliver them (or cuddle babies - boo hoo) but still!
I started making Ollie an Olliphant but it's turned out a bit pink so I'm hoping he gets a little sister and I'll make him another one that's a bit more boyish. Problem is, my fabric stash is seriously dominated by pinky/purply hues (Oh no must buy more fabrics).
I drew the pattern straight on to paper and it worked - the olliphant even stands up!
The poor thing has a blanket on his back which I suppose makes him a circus elephant - sad!
I started making Ollie an Olliphant but it's turned out a bit pink so I'm hoping he gets a little sister and I'll make him another one that's a bit more boyish. Problem is, my fabric stash is seriously dominated by pinky/purply hues (Oh no must buy more fabrics).
I drew the pattern straight on to paper and it worked - the olliphant even stands up!
The poor thing has a blanket on his back which I suppose makes him a circus elephant - sad!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
super paper - zealand style
What I didn't realise was that she is based in New Zealand. I'm so used to presuming all these etsyers are American I don't even check. This obviously means I love these cards even more - not necessarily because of any raging patriotism but rather - nothing beats a next day (or next, next day) delivery.
Katydid is also stocked at both the Iko Iko's (K'rd, Auckland + Cuba St, Wellington) as well as a couple of other shops (mainly Wellington but check the site incase you're lucky).
Order from the etsy shop here!
Now I just have to figure out who deserves a card...
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
this little piggy went to (the devonport craft) market
I said I was going to go to the Devonport Craft Market on Sunday and I did!
I took my wee woolly friend the lamb with me and neither of us had budgeted any of our pitiful student income for some Sunday expenditure. This was a big mistake because there were lots of really cute things available - and the worst part is - pretty much everything was really reasonably priced! arrgh
We each got a hairclip from Songbird designs - but really I wanted 20 hairclips and some really sweet, ultra tiny cameo earrings. I loved the crayon rolls from Cat Taylor and Lily's Make Believe charm necklaces (esp the Carrot and Peas).
I should have taken notes because I know there were lots of other things I loved.
It would be great to see the market get bigger still. Nearer Christmas it will be a great place to stock up on stocking fillers (for me haha).
I took my wee woolly friend the lamb with me and neither of us had budgeted any of our pitiful student income for some Sunday expenditure. This was a big mistake because there were lots of really cute things available - and the worst part is - pretty much everything was really reasonably priced! arrgh
We each got a hairclip from Songbird designs - but really I wanted 20 hairclips and some really sweet, ultra tiny cameo earrings. I loved the crayon rolls from Cat Taylor and Lily's Make Believe charm necklaces (esp the Carrot and Peas).
I should have taken notes because I know there were lots of other things I loved.
It would be great to see the market get bigger still. Nearer Christmas it will be a great place to stock up on stocking fillers (for me haha).
swapsies
Of course there was always going to be the trouble with your Mum when she found out you'd swapped your brand new pencil case for a troll - pencil topper - but that was just part of the fun.
Anyway, I LOVED swapsies but I haven't swapped for a very long time. So I was excited to find swap-bot. You can create swaps, join swaps, rate swappers and be rated. There are categories of swaps (and I've found some pretty strange ones) though obviously I'll probably hang around the crafts section (although I could be tempted by shoes!)
The best thing is - most of the swaps are international! Yay international!
http://www.swap-bot.com/
bye
I used Blythe to practise my photography and keep me company on my desk but they're now pretty much abandoned and I need to raise funds for my final exhibition in November.
Boo hoo
Saturday, September 5, 2009
go read this blog!
A blog I really love right now is True Up.
True Up is a blog about fabric for fabrics sake and it has everything a great blog should - interviews, sale alerts, giveaways and tutorials. Theres a lot of focus on unusual and vintage fabrics which is a really fun read when you're all up to date with the big sellers. Right now there's a huge list of links to online fabric shops having Labour Day sales - yay!
My favourite bit?: I found the instructions and links on how to design repeat patterns by hand or using illustrator really, super helpful (So far I only knew how to do this using photoshop which is not my favourite program ). Go here to check it out.
<3
True Up is a blog about fabric for fabrics sake and it has everything a great blog should - interviews, sale alerts, giveaways and tutorials. Theres a lot of focus on unusual and vintage fabrics which is a really fun read when you're all up to date with the big sellers. Right now there's a huge list of links to online fabric shops having Labour Day sales - yay!
My favourite bit?: I found the instructions and links on how to design repeat patterns by hand or using illustrator really, super helpful (So far I only knew how to do this using photoshop which is not my favourite program ). Go here to check it out.
<3
Friday, September 4, 2009
coptic binding
So last night I set about binding my own book using coptic binding (which leaves an exposed spine with rows of braided knots holding the book together).
I found this tutorial on youtube and while usually I stay right away from video tutorials (they make me feel all awkward and squirmy) I managed to follow this one right through and it worked!
The actual binding process is quite quick and simple (though mine could be a bit tighter) the most time consuming thing for me was arranging my pages and trimming them to size - but this was because I was using printed pages - rather than blank folded sheets of paper.
The fabric on the cover is my own print - which I got printed locally, but I asked for quilting cotton and they printed it on cotton knit (t-shirt fabric) grrrrrr so it does'nt look as polished as I'd hoped. but oh well - next time I'll give myself more time and use spoonflower.
I'm inspired now how easy it is to bind at home so I'll definitely try again and I've seen some really gorgeous examples of coptic binding - so know it can be done.
The best tip I found was to use the open Yellow Pages to hold each signature(section) while you poke your holes.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
my most favouritist fabric ever
I've been studying fabric for a while now as part of my final design project - and while a lot of it has turned in to one big old-fashioned chintzy blur, a couple of designs have become one big obsession.
These fabrics and wallpapers are from the Scotland based design outfit The Timorous Beasties.
They've been described as 'William Morris on acid' and when you look closely you see why. At first glance their London toile looks like a traditional albeit pink toile de jouy. However, these aren't idealised pastrol scenes but images of the underbelly of contemporary London - muggings and prostitutes.My other favourites include the Devil Damask (can you see him)
and Oriental Orchid (can you see them!?)
They're stunningly designed as well as providing a brilliant and witty visual joke for your unsuspecting house guests. I desperately want some. Order from timorousbeasties.com
even though I rarely wash the dishes...
I just found this teatowel from Skinny LaMinx on Etsy and I love it. It's called the "I Wish we had IKEA teatowel" and features hand drawn illustrations based on the Ikea catalogue.
It may seem strange to those of you who are not lacking in Ikeaness but I have an unhealthy obsession with Ikea. So much so that I almost moved to Sweden this year. If you don't have it - your decor feels all sad and either/both - badly furnished or overpriced. If for example I just want a new lamp - It's an insanely difficult/costly task to try and find one that doesn't look completely dull.
If you are lucky enough to live remotely near Ikea - I don't want to know. It will make me too sad.
I know I'm sad.
Anyway, back to the point - I think this teatowel is super fun
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
felt on felt
Sounds kinky. But it's not - it's super cute!These super felt creations are from cuckoosnest on felt.co.nz.
I love owls, I love Deer, I love Felt - perfect. My favourite is the pink cuckoo clock (above) which is going straight on to my Christmas list/wist.
I'm also finding myself strangely drawn to these gorgeous teacups and am desperately trying to figure out who I could buy them for. (I lack friends under 5 right now who I think would fully appreciate them).
Would I be weird to have them on the window sill? No......surely not...
i can not forget...
to go to the Devo Craft Market this Sunday.It's shocking that I still haven't been yet considering I could walk there in 10 minutes. But you know what Sundays are like.
I'm not sure what to expect but it's very cool to have a contemporary craft market so close to home so I'm excited.
I love this poster too. Birds + Pattern = Win!
handmade made easy
This listing came up on Etsy finds: Pulp Fiction earlier in the week and I went :-0 oooh!
I love the look and the idea of screen printing but it's always seemed completely daunting, time consuming and expensive but now I can give it ago at home thanks to screenprintstudio on Etsy.
Screenprintstudio offers to make up your screen, send it to you with some nice easy instructions - and you're ready to go! No evening class necessary.
She offers a variety of (smallish)sizes at various (very reasonable) prices.
I think this would be a great way to print a design with a small unit of repeat and I fully intend to try it.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
fabric printing
So while searching around I found this very cool finnish site called bonbonkakku.com (i know, super fantastic name). On Bonbonkakku you can upload fabric designs - people vote on them and the popular designs become available for sale - currently for around 20 euro a metre. Sounds super! but...
The downside...they only ship within the EU :-(.
(Though with some serious inspiration I wouldn't be beyond forcing my England based Grandma down to the Post Office with a nice fat parcel).
Also, unlike Spoonflower they offer no selection on base fabric and your repeats should be large scale - more for large scale home interiors than the smaller designs common at Spoonflower.
It's a fun site with some really crazy designs and if you have the means to get it - the pricing is pretty good too. It's great to see more fabric print companies arising - a bit of competition is healthy.
Check it out!
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