sharlzndollz

Everything Looks Better in Red 3

2012-02-13T03:02:00.000-08:00

Another two redwork framed versions of my stitchery designs from my Etsy store have been added to my gallery. The designs are a deer and a small bird with flowers, two if my personal favourites. The red gives such a lovely finish.

Hopping into my Etsy Store - new stitchery patterns of a rabbit and hopping mouse

2012-02-08T02:49:00.000-08:00

I am just hopping on to my blog (bad pun alert) to show off my latest stitchery embroidery e-pattern: a duo of a hopping mouse and a rabbit. Both are in red (of course) and are simple but appealing.

Bluebird Bunting featured in February's Creating Country Threads

2012-02-07T01:22:00.000-08:00

I just received my copy of February's Creating Country Threads magazine (Vol 12 No 9), and I am delighted to see my project Bluebird Bunting featured. This project is one of my favourites: a lovely mix of soothing blue colours, some cute bluebirds, and I've also added long strips of ric rac and bells so that the project moves and makes music in the breeze. I'd love you to check out this project if you get the chance - the pictures are wonderful.

Everything looks better in Red 2

2012-02-04T17:02:00.002-08:00

This is the second finished redworked version of my motifs - the large butterfly. The change in colour from variegated brown to red gives such a different feel.

Everything looks better in Red 1

2012-02-03T21:39:00.002-08:00

I have wanted to make a gallery of my stitchery motifs all made up in redwork and mounted in simple little red felt frames. Here are the first one's finished: the colonial girl and flapper girl motifs. As with everything - red is best!

Stitch Sneak Peek 5 and A Merry Gnome goes to ETSY

2012-01-31T02:07:00.000-08:00

My Merry Gnome is finally finished and is playing a tune in my Etsy store. He is a very chipper fella with a love of music and mirth.

I think he is almost as much fun as some of the stitcheries I was working on late last year and due to be published this year in Creating Country Threads.

Stitching is all about the fun!

New Girl Waiting in the Rain Bookmark Stitchery E-Pattern for ETSY

2012-01-29T02:52:00.000-08:00

In the glorious soggy Brisbane weather we are having, I was inspired to create a new bookmark of a Girl waiting in the Rain. The motif reminds me of Anne Elliot in Jane Austen's Persuasion, waiting in the rain for Captain Wentworth to notice me. The blue colour is just right for falling rain and puddles.

Girl holding a Flower Bookmark stitchery epattern for ETSY

2012-01-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

Today I finished off a new stitchery e-pattern for my ETSY store.

Its a Girl holding a Flower Bookmark and a tiny girl face sized just right for 38 mm self covered buttons. I have completed both in my favourite redwork.

I have also added some pencil colour to the tiny face buttons which looks rather nice.

Stitch Sneak Peek 4

2012-01-25T01:46:00.000-08:00

I am working this week on lovely ladies in stitchery.

The first is a whimsical country angel in shades of brown.

The other is flower picking girl in redwork.

I can't decide which I prefer more...

New Teddy Bear Bookmark and Mushroom Banner Stitchery Embroidery Epattern Listings for ETSY

2012-01-20T22:32:00.000-08:00

I've finally finished two new patterns for my ETSY store - a bookmark featuring some naughty toy teddy bears stealing from the honey jar, and a redwork mushroom banner.

I think the mushroom stitchery would make up wonderfully as a market stall banner, or some nice luggage tags. The pattern come with three different mushroom designs all worked in red thread.

The teddies are lots of fun. I like the wink on the bottom bear.

Stitch Sneak Peek 3

2012-01-19T02:48:00.000-08:00

I have been working on some of the parts for a banner made up of stitched mushrooms. The red colour scheme works a treat on the white homespun.

Stitch Sneak Peek 2

2012-01-17T02:01:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick look at a new bookmark I have been working on. I've created some cheeky teddies raiding the honey jar.

Butterfly Wings

2012-01-13T20:10:00.000-08:00

I have just finished off my latest pattern design for Etsy - soaring butterflies with wings extended.

The larger of the butterflies I have designed to fit easily onto small hanging decorations (I have made a potpourri holder)

The tiny butterfly is designed to fit a 38mm button (or a brooch).

I love the variegated thread version.

Stitch Sneak Peek

2012-01-10T21:58:00.000-08:00

Today I have been working on a stitchery pattern for a bag as a potential magazine submission. I am very pleased with the colour choices - so cool and crisp but still country. I love linen....

Butterflies and Crinoline Ladies are two of my favourite motifs.

New Bird Bookmark Stitchery E-Pattern for Etsy

2012-01-08T21:28:00.000-08:00

I have just finished a new listing for Etsy - an e pattern for a bookmarks featuring 4 whimsical birds and an additional pattern for mini bird facing left and right and exactly the right size for 38mm self cover buttons.

The bookmark features four little birds, three facing one way, and one beating his own drum and facing the other.

I have designed these stitcheries to be fast and easy and able to be used for many purposes.

Reviewing my published craft patterns 2 - Patchwork and Stitching Magazine

2012-01-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

I was also very fortunate to have several craft patterns published in the excellent "Patchwork and Stitching" magazine in 2011.

They published my "Three Sweet Hearts" pattern in their Gift Giving Special Volume 12 No 9. This was a set of three hanging redwork hearts stitched with bird and flowers.

I also had "Rosa", a cloth doll all dressed in red with a lovely flower in her hair, in the Yearbook edition Volume 12 No 10.

These are some of my pictures of the finished projects. The "Patchwork and Stitching" pictures of the work are just wonderful and are worth checking out.

I have more projects coming in 2012, and I am very much looking forward to working with Stefanie Collins, their new editor, over the next year.

Reviewing my Craft Patterns Published in Creating Country Threads in 2011

2012-01-06T21:59:00.000-08:00

I was very fortunate last year to have a couple of my craft patterns published in one of my favourite publications - "Creating Country Threads".

Last year they published two patterns: "Redwork Baubles" a stitchery of six Christmas Tree Baubles in the Christmas Special Volume 12 No 4; and "An Angel Watching Over Me" - two whimsical scissor holders in the Applique Yearbook Volume 12 No 7.

I have attached some of my pictures of the finished works (I have to say the sensational pictures from the magazines are something I can only aspire to).

I found working with Danielle Tebb, the editor of "Creating Country Threads", an absolute joy. She is supportive on all aspects of the publishing process and all our correspondence (and even one surprise meeting) have been moments I will treasure on my creative journey.

I have more project to come this year, and I look forward to seeing more of their excellent photography.

Some new stitchery e-patterns I've added to ETSY

2012-01-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

I have just finished off a couple of new stitchery e pattern designs for my Etsy store. The designs are easily achievable stitcheries that could lend themselves to many different uses. The first group are of ladies wearing hats - a Colonial Hat and a Flapper Hat. I have worked both in black stitchery with the lips in red. They could easily become cameos.

The other is a pair of lovebirds or blue birds holding flowers - one facing left and the other right.

New Bird with Flowers and Deer Stitcheries E-Pattern Added to my Etsy Store

2012-01-05T02:26:00.000-08:00

I have just finished off my new e-pattern for sale on ETSY. It's a cute bird with some flowers and a deer.

I have made the stitcheries as hanging wall decorations, but I have made them up nicely before as Christmas tree decorations, and I also think that they would look nice as luggage tags. I tried orange for them but they also look great in black and in red work.

Stitch Bit 3

2012-01-04T02:35:00.000-08:00

Here's a little more of what I have been working on recently...

Mini Stichery patterns for ETSY

2012-01-02T00:43:00.000-08:00

I have created three stitchery patterns to add to my ETSY store.

The crinoline style lady is a simple little stitchery as my own interpretation of this classic embroidery design.

The Kewpie style doll figure, a bit like the old Carnival dolls from fairs and exhibitions, is a full figure stitchery.

I have also created three Kewpie style doll faces, each with different expressions.

The three patterns have been created as a basic stitchery pattern at a basic price that could be used in many different ways and using many colourways. The patterns come with a page of hints on embroidering, and basic instructions to make up as a banner or flag if desired.

New backpack using Spoonflower Babushka print

2011-12-31T23:18:00.000-08:00

After the success from my critics (the same one's who I make school lunches for), I decided to make another backpack. This time I used a strip of my Babushka print. I am liking this fabric. It has been such a versatile print. Perhaps I will make more......

This backpack features Osnaberg fabric, a stripy lining and press stud fastening.

Dalek Backpack

2011-12-30T23:54:00.002-08:00

Today I finished off a backpack for my daughter for school. Being a mega Doctor Who fan, I just had to go with this wonderful Spoonflower Dalek fabric from Dalex. My daughter is super pleased with the results (although she now wants a matching pencil case ... oh well)

I think I may have to experiment with this backpack pattern. It was so quick and easy.

Stitch Bit 2

2011-12-30T00:31:00.000-08:00

This is some more of my stitch musings for today.... I love little blue birds (almost as much as Babushka Dolls)

Stitch Bit 1

2011-12-29T00:24:00.000-08:00

This is a peek at what I have been stitching today...

I normally love redwork, but I think the Chocolate and Plum combination looks really good together. I can't decide which I like best.

Cloth bookmarks

2011-12-26T22:52:00.000-08:00

Today I whipped up some handy bookmarks and book garters using the small sized versions of my Spoonflower doll and Babushka prints.

I combined these with lace daisies, elastic, and ribbon to complete each look.

These are so fast to make but work really well. I especially love the book garter - no coming off even if you drop the book!

Babushka Christmas inspired tote

2011-12-21T22:33:00.000-08:00

Today I sewed up a little tote and matching phone case in Christmasy colours, ready for the holidays.

I used my Babushka fabric from Spoonflower to create the bags and brought out the Christmas season using red highlights and lining. Now I am ready for Christmas fun (and the sales afterwards too!)

Shopper Tote Using Spoonflower Fabric

2011-12-21T00:08:00.000-08:00

I have just finished a tote made up from some of my Spoonflower "I Love to Shop" fabric. This design was based on one of my original paper dolls.

The tote was super easy to make up and I am very pleased with the results. I reckon the colours work really well - grey back, black frill, lining, and handles. I will have to think about adding a flower though...

I am in creating paradise

2011-12-19T21:35:00.000-08:00

After a long break from Blogging, my creative juices are starting to run over and I have the need to write about it and share.

I have been busy recently creating my own pattern designs to sew and stitch. I have been lucky enough to become a contributor to the wonderful Australian craft publications "Creating Country Threads" and "Patchwork and Stitching", and I have had several of my doll and stitchery patterns printed this year. I'd love you to check out the magazines. They are "Creating Country Threads" Vol 12 No 4 and Vol 12 No 7, and "Patchwork and Stitching" Vol 12 No 9 and Vol 12 No 10.

Pop into you local newsagency to see the current issues of each or go to the Craftlovers website: http://www.craftlovers.com/

I have also been trying my hand at designing fabric. I am using the services of Spoonflower, a great service for those who need to make their own fabric. I am very pleased with the initial results.
Here are some finished pieces I made up from my Carnival Dolls Trio and Babushka Floral Gal.

I am especially pleased with the way the Carnival dolls go together. I have printed fronts and backs.

All you need to do is:
1. line up the fronts and backs on a lightbox or window,
2. mark a stitching line at the edge of the design using a 2B pencil,
3. stitch around the design with a small stitch leaving a 2cm opening on the leg
4. Trim back to 5mm seam allowance (with pinking sheers is best)
5. Turn through using a chop stick
6. Fill with clean filling to you desired firmness
7. Stitch close the turning hole
8. Enjoy.....

Check out my designs on Spoonflower: http://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/sharlenejm

Goodbye

2010-04-19T03:15:00.000-07:00

I am taking a creative hiatus. Thanks for stopping by.

Texture Tuesday

2009-10-13T03:23:00.001-07:00

I havebeen looking at some pix I took on a hike recently. The country has wonderful - dry, hard, beautiful. It brings to mind the requirement for water, the changes on the environment, the need for change. It flows through to my art - a new paper doll made from a topology map of the Pacific sea floor. A vision of a world without water.

So Brown the Weather

2009-10-05T00:14:00.000-07:00

After finishing de-dustifying everything today after the dust storm of the 23 September, I decided to check out the pix I took during the storm. Yuck! No wonder there was so much reddy brown water when I was finished

I'm even seeing brownish when I'm creating - these new badges seem to be affected by the muted tones. Well, at least they look like they should be that colour.

Pelican Friday at Redcliffe

2009-10-02T02:35:00.001-07:00

Today we went to the pelican feeding at Pelican Park Redcliffe. The Redcliffe council do the feeding every day of the year at 10:00 am and it's great to watch. The bird are so tame and they are amazing and HUGE up that close.
We had a great time watching them and then checked out the bat colony in the botanical gardens at Redcliffe, and finally watched a man walk his pet pig in the park! What a place for wildlife.

I also collected some rocks that are just right for my pictures with my new brooches.

Wonderful Surprise from Handmade Magazine

2009-09-09T04:34:00.000-07:00

I just opened a package I received from Handmade magazine, and what a treat it is. I emailed them a letter late last year about a slightly scary cooking experience and then forgot all about it. What a surprise to find my letter is their star letter in Handmade Vol 26 No 12 and I won a fantastic prize pack. Its got two papercraft books, some lovely textured papers, stickers, rub on's, super sized brads, and patterns too! So perfect for me. I can't wait to get playing.

Meanwhile just finished some Twilight inspired bookmarks.... love that toothy experience!

I Spy a Spider -Giveaway on Sarah Jo Sews

2009-09-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

I found a link to this fantastic givaway on Sarah Jo sews - some slightly scary and yet rather cute spider fabric. Also you will love badges - I am in a badge mood at the moment.

This suits the Twilighty zone I am creating in at present.

Go check it out: http://ideyspidey.blogspot.com/

Twilight Delight

2009-09-05T22:29:00.000-07:00

I have bowed to public pressure and have just about finished reading the Twilight books. And they are as wonderful as I had been told. Like all readers I fell for the charms of the dazzling Edward and felt the need to create a bookmark to match the reading experience. I sketched up Edward and got a lovely stamp made up. Today I finished the collages for the bookmarks - due soon in my Etsy shop, along with some ACEO sizes. I am most pleased - now I can go a read the final 40 pages!

Stamp Duty

2009-08-16T01:07:00.000-07:00

A while ago I thought about creating some art stamps. I had some drawings I had done about 20 years ago that I thought might look good as stamp images (these ink pixel drawing took ages - its lucky I loved Blake's Seven enough to spend the time doing the pix). I went to Argee Stamps Brisbane and they created some brilliant art stamps for me at a very comparable price to the usual cost of art stamps and within a week. They were wonderful. Now I just now have to work out how to use the new images.

Upcycled Denim Market Apron

2009-08-10T03:09:00.000-07:00

At the last Brisstyle designers market I was very jealous of a number of the market aprons other girls had. I was resolved to make one, and I wanted it to be as low impact as possible.

Yesterday I whipped up this apron and I have to say I am pleased with the result. The apron consists of the front panel of an old pair of jeans I had previously used the back of for another project. The jeans front is simply slit and rejoined flat and then a small insert of additional denim from further down the pants leg is added. Edges are left unseamed and will fray over time nicely (just a line of stitching is added).

The additional pockets came from an old men's op-shop shirt I had used part of for something else and are just right with their tab tops. The apron ties at the back come from the cuff bottoms of two jeans legs inserted into the gaps at the waistband. Total cost = $o. Total time around 1 hour (including forraging through overstuffed boxes to find the bits in my work room). Not a bad use of a Sunday morning and I can even attach my keys to the belt keepers on the apron. I can't wait to use it now!

The BrisStyle Ekka Extravaganza Etsy is on Again!!

2009-08-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

The Brisstyle Team (including me) is having our Etsy EEE (EKKA Extravaganza Etsy) Sale on again.
The Ekka Extravaganza Sale runs from Thursday 6th August to Saturday 15th August (ending 12 midnight etsy time). Participating shops are offering a variety of great deals like percentages off, free postage and bonus gifts.

Here is a list of the participating shops – check out the beautiful BrisStyle stores and their great deals!
Beckybean - 10% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Bettsy Kingston - 15% off store-wide
Bubbachenille - Buy one item and get the second item half price
Chi Designs - Free postage in Australia
Chicuff - Free gift with every purchase
Create and be Happy - 10% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Designs of the Heart - 15% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Edward and Lilly - 10% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
EmBelIsh - 15% off store-wide (excluding postage)
Hey Harriet - Offer 1: Purchase 2 prints and receive a 3rd print free. Offer 2: Purchase 4 prints and receive a free small-scale original artwork.
Jellygnite - Free postage in Australia plus free set of gift cards with purchases over $25 (excl. postage)
Jetta's Nest - Free set of 4 cards with every purchase plus free postage in Australia
Little Chrissy - 15% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Little Jellygnite - Free postage in Australia plus free set of gift cards with purchases over $25 (excl. postage)
Little Mary Moo - 10% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Love Janie Lou - Free postage in Australia
Made by Maisie - Free postage in Australia on all Maisie dolls
Nosovich - 10% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Not Sew Shabby - 10% off store-wide
PretaPawte - Free postage in Australia
Raspberry Pink - Free gift with purchase over $10 from
Raspberry Pink and free instructions and assorted findings with the purchase of three or more blocks of clay from Metallic Silver
Ruby 2 Go Go and Ruby Red Studios - Both offers apply to any purchases across both "Ruby" stores. Offer 1: Get 20% off your second item (discount applies to the lesser priced item). Offer 2: Get any 3 vintage button earrings $20.
Sharlzndollz - Buy one paper doll set and get a free bookmark
Shazzabeth - 10% off store-wide plus free gem stone earrings with all purchases over $100
SMBoutique - Free postage in Australia
Twinkle Star Art - Buy 2 get 1 free plus free postage in Australia
Up in Annie's Room - 15% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia
Wicked Child Designs - 15% off store-wide plus free postage in Australia

The sale is because of the ‘Ekka’ - the annual agricultural show held in Brisbane, Australia. It is a fun-packed 10 days of bright lights and rides, local produce, entertainment and cute animals! We thought it would be a perfect excuse to have a sale on etsy to promote our BrisStyle team and our talented members, as well as a chance for lovers of handmade goods to snap up some great bargains!

With so much great stuff on offer I think it might be time for early Christmas shopping.

Sunday Stuff

2009-07-29T03:01:00.000-07:00

After half a week at work it's nice to look back and reflect on the stuff you did on the weekend - lazy coffee breaks in the sunshine, a spot of gardening, some bargain op-shopping, some time to play with the family,and a touch of craft!

Why Am I Still Doing Homework!

2009-07-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

The weekend comes and you want to get into your craft. I want to be making my new bookmarks. They are fun and I like the way they are coming together. But then I get the note from school. Can the parents for next week (this is Friday afternoon we get the notes):
1. Press some flowers and leaves,
2. collect items from around the house to be used for wind-chime making,
3. find something orange for show and tell,
4. get your child to do their reading, their writing practice and their math homework, and
5. Go take some photos for various line, texture, colour and shape examples, print them out, and get your child to bring them in for a presentation. And this is only grade 1!

So below see my homework pics.

BIDM Saturday Fun

2009-07-05T01:48:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday was fantastic at the BIDM (Brisstyle Indie Designers Market) at Hamilton. This was a wonderful event with a magnificent attendance and so many great artisans with their wares on show. It was inspiring, exciting, great fun meeting so many peaople, and a bit (really a lot) exhausting. I was so grateful for the feedback from those that visited my store. I have lots of ideas for the future and now I want to get into more crafting - after a short rest of course!

Saturday is BrisStyle Indie Designers Market Day

2009-06-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

The BrisStyle Indie Designers Market is on this Saturday!

With 50 market stalls, gourmet cupcakes, hot coffee and acoustic music, this is a day of indulgence not to be missed!The BrisStyle Indie Designers Market has moved to a new venue this year at St Augustine's Church Hall in the heart of the uber chic Racecourse Road, Hamilton on Saturday 4 July, 9am - 2pm.

I am so very excited to be participating in this market with all the other super talented BrisStylettes and so very many of them have been working super hard on making this a sensational market.

Brisstyle Gets Featured on Great South East program (Channel 7)

2009-06-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

I was watching the Great South East on the weekend and voila Brisstyle was featured on the show. Coming so soon before the Brissstyle Indie market this Saturday at St Augustine's Church at Hamilton, it seems as if Brisstyle is everywhere. Check out the feature at : Brisstyle.blogspot.com.

Market Mayhem!!!

2009-06-28T02:43:00.000-07:00

The Brisstyle Indie Designers market is on Saturday at St Augustines Church, Racecourse Road, Hamilton and I am in the last stages of preparing my stall for it. As you can see I have had to share my set up space in the living room with my daughter's toys and the furniture, but at last the stall is coming together, including a neat new banner and some new stock - Venus book marks and Sunbonnet Doll magnets.

The day should be fantastic with over40 participating stalls from various Brisstylers with lots of different independant wares. My big problem is putting away the wallet so I don't spend all my proceeds on other participant's fab makes.

Just now I hoping for super fine weather and a clear blue sky for Saturday. Call by and see the market on Saturday!

What I have Been Sewing This Week

2009-06-15T02:48:00.000-07:00

This week I have finished off a new boiled wool jacket in time for the cold snap. Its from a Vogue art pattern and was nice and quick to make. Boiled wool is so great to sew. It does not involve finishing on the edges and so I have gone with a zig zag edge around the jacket. I have gone with a Kilt pin for closing instead of a button to increase the ways it can be worn.

Oh, and I am still making Venus bookmarks. They are so much fun!

Travelling Time

2009-06-10T03:08:00.000-07:00

This is a photo montage of my new paper doll collection, based on Art Nouveau fashions. The collection is created from collaged images from recycled sources combined to create delicious dresses. I have them packaged in an Art Nouveau inspired vellum envelope. Coming soon to my ETSY shop in two sets....

Getting on top this weekend

2009-06-09T04:44:00.000-07:00

I have been soooo busy with work and family stuff recently I have let my craft slide a bit, but this weekend I have finally gotten on top of stuff and made progress. I have been putting supplies together for our Brisstyle craft swap.

I have also been working on some new dolls based on the fashions of the Art Nouveau period created by my favourite collage techniques. And I've managed to put together some fun bookmarks.

All this, six loads of washing in the sun (remember this thing), and the Bookfest in one weekend!!! I need to go back to work now for the rest.

My Dad's Wash Stand

2009-06-01T02:00:00.000-07:00

I have to share the wonderful washstand my dad's made from a recycled bit of marble. It's just stunning!

Redcliffe Kite Festival 2009

2009-05-20T01:53:00.000-07:00

We went along to the beautiful Redcliffe Kite Festival on Saturday. This is a stunning event with marvelous kites from all over Australia and some even international. The weather was perfect for the event and the effect of the kites blowing in the wind was just sensational.

Brisstyle's May Meet up

2009-05-18T04:29:00.000-07:00

Picture perfect Brisbane Sunday morning at Racecourse Rd, Hamilton - such an ideal spot for a Brisstyle meet up. We sat, we chatted and shared ideas and stories. We ate yummy brunch and we checked out the site for the Brisstyle July Indie Market over the road at St Augustines's Hall.

Inspiration and creative recharge as well as a chance to reflect on how far we have come since the last market. What can be better for a crafter in Brisbane.

We discussed the upcoming craft swap and market. The future like the weather is just fine!

How Charming

2009-05-13T04:08:00.000-07:00

I have found some lovely jewellery charms recently that are so nice on the dancer paper dolls. They make a lovely headpiece for the dolls and would even be nice on a bracelet too (tee hee)

Going Postal

2009-05-11T02:47:00.001-07:00

I was a postage stamp collector from way back in my youth, and while searching for ephemera for my Paper Dolls I came across my stamp collection. Some of it came from my dad and granddad but there is a lot of an eighties feel to the stamps in the collection. There was a catalogue from 1936 even.

I have managed to combine some stamps into my latest range of dancers with more to follow.

Sometimes it's good to never throw stuff away. That way you can say your art is going Postal!

A-Doran some of Kristen's Designs

2009-05-06T00:04:00.000-07:00

I got some of Kristen Doran's wonderful prints from the Stitches and Craft Show here in Brisbane last week. They just called out to me. Mad sewing rush later and here are some of the goodies on their way to some lucky twin bubs I know. Check out Kristen at www.kristendoran.com for an awesome Aussie design experience.

Comic Families Luggage Tags

2009-05-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

I found this great card game of Comic Families. I don't know how old they are but they look circa 1940's.

The designs were crying out for luggage or bag tags and so that's what they became.

The tags are a print of the cards transferred to fabric and matched up with a retro print back. They have a loop at the top to hang from a bag or from a necklace and come on a small string loop. They also have a retro button accent on the back.

I love to find really cool bits of nostalgia and if it can become part of your art all the better.

Brisbane Stitches and Craft Show 2009

2009-04-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

I went to the Brisbane Stitches and Craft Show yesterday and came away so inspired. This is the best show I have been to in a decade. The show was so fresh and fun and as you can see from the pix, I got some fantastic stuff.
Here are some of the highlights for me: The incubator section obviously, this is so full of fun talent and I am only slightly biased because of the significant Brisstyle presence there (hello to Ruby to GoGo, Trishalan Designs, and Scampsville, as well as Made by Miffy and Helen from Ruby to GoGo doing an interview on centre stage). I absolutely fell in love with Kristen Doran's great robots and Babushkas, and I had to pick up my Mixtape magazine subscription. I loved the Biddy Bags from Samantha,and I really enjoyed Creative Arty Facts stall.

I was so inspired by the parades as well particularly the clothing upcycling and the skills of the BurdaStyle team. I have got to check out their site now.

I loved the art throughout the space - the giant knitting needles with fish net knit, the artificially turfed table and chairs, and especially the selvedge arts all were wonderful. I so wish I had my camera there.

I came away from the tired and inspired and went straight home to create, so stay tuned for where that will lead. But if you get a chance over the next couple of days, you must inspire yourself with a dose of the Brisbane Stitches and Craft show.

Bubbly Babes

2009-04-19T02:41:00.000-07:00

My daughter has been wanting a paper doll that is easy for here to make clothes for. I have also been fascinated by the Bubble Head characters around now. Together these to ideas became these new Bubble Babe Paper Dolls. I haven't finished all the details yet, but the doll has a simple body form with two interchangeable heads (one blonde and the other brunette). I have also come up with a selection of patterns to create your own fashions for the dolls. My daughter and I came up with girly dresses and funky jeans, cool boots and lots of bling. There are so many options you can create. We like 'em. Now all I have to do is finish the packaging!

So Very Wet This Weather

2009-04-17T03:02:00.000-07:00

Over the Easter long weekend the North Pine Dam rose from around 51% capacity to over 71% in the four days. We have been so very wet here over the holiday long weekend and so the boredom set in. Here are pics of water, and what being stuck inside creates.

At least the bad weather gives you a chance to craft and to update the photo collection for my paper doll work.

Lazy Easter Days

2009-04-11T17:36:00.000-07:00

Four days off. How great to have family time, fun time, craft time. Eggs everywhere, I get a chance to play with some Robomen! They are a mixture of collage, paint, ink, and use the face designs from my male paper doll set - all inspired by Doctor Who.

I have also fiddled with some more babushka dolls. I am thinking of building them a special house. Stay tuned.

Egg Stories

2009-04-01T02:56:00.000-07:00

One of my work mates is a real Mother Hen and she owns the chooks to prove it. Here are her lovely home made eggs for sale. The chooks are spoilt rotton, the eggs are super fresh and they come in decorated boxes with stories about the gals. The only thing she is missing is a chandeleir for the chook shed, and this is due shortly. I am just grateful to enjoy the cackleberries as my gran calls them.

But I do have to share a scary egg story between Mother Hen (MH)and the Blonde Waif BW) at work:

BW: "How do I get chicks from these (packaged) eggs?"
MH: "You can't. I don't have a rooster".
BW: "What do you need the the rooster for?"
MH: " Well a mummy chook and a daddy chook who love each other very much...."
BW: "Wow, I didn't know roosters had willies!"

and now on that note here are the blocks I have been playing with recently.

The blocks are recycled kids wooden blocks from the op-shop and the images are collaged from old kids story books. The only new thing is the glue and varnish.

And they are even fun to play with

My Sewing Space Exposed (Quite Shocking, May Need Warning)

2009-03-24T03:01:00.000-07:00

Recently members of the Brisstyle Street Team have been blogging to share their work space. I have been amazed and astonished by the clean organised spaces on show. I have told people that I may not be quite this organised in my space. They did not believe it. So here is the evidence.

On show are some of the highlights of the workspace including the cutting and design centre (that's the floor really - its the only bit you can see a surface for and it doubles as a play area). I also have a carefully thought out filing system based on Mother Natures model . I like to call it sedimentary storage. You just keep piling stuff on top of other stuff until the weight on top squishes what is underneath. In the shot above you can see my dress dummy. She carefully camoflaged by my daughter to survive the dangers of my sewing space.

You can actually see my sewing machine in the shot below. Look carefully it is under the sewing machine cover (handmade in a moment of trying to get organised). I do also have an overlocker but I could not sight it. I may have to get the model with the built in GPS next time!

Below is actually my cutting table and I even bought a table that can be tilted up for drawing at. Like it will ever leave the vertical state! I think if I did try and clear it and then attempt to adjust the angle of the top, I would have WWO Wildlife Warriers turn up to rescue the spider colonies that have evolved in isolation beneath the surface.
I find that you can do you best art at the kitchen table anyway. The sewing room must be left to another day (or week possibly) when I feel stronger. I may have to go into training to build up to the cleaning job.

I Need a Hero

2009-03-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine wanted a romantic companion for her paper dolls but was unhappy with the boys available out there. So I created some new Hero style male paper dolls. The images are from retro sources - old kids adventure books, maps, etc, and the styles are based on the hero concept. As always I have made them interchangable: Heads, accessories, body parts can swap around so that are literally dozens of variations on the Hero theme.

A Space Adventurer
Prince Charming
Pirate King
Harlequin

Brisstyle's March Featured Artists

2009-03-02T03:09:00.000-08:00

Love this Bubba Chenile Purse:http://bubbachenille.etsy.com/ - You could win it, or...

This is wonderful apron from http://littledivacrafts.etsy.com/.

I just checked out what the girls have as giveaways on the Brisstyle blog (http://brisstyle.blogspot.com) this month and as usual I am blown away by the talent of other members of the group. I just love the retro fabrics and funky designs and I learnt so much about how the other girls work and create - now I am feeling inspired! But don't take my word for it. Go and comment at Brisstyle and you could be an awesome winner.

The Inside Page

2009-03-01T01:40:00.000-08:00

I was looking for some nice backgrounds for a paper doll photoshoot.

I discovered the sensational inside flaps of some old kids books.

Aren't these lovely!!

Fairy Tale Paper Doll Set

2009-02-28T03:39:00.000-08:00

This great new set is a fantastic play set for those young at heart (it’s really too complex for young children).

I have designed a paper doll set you simply cut out and join together with brads following my instructions to create simply gorgeous paper dolls. Their sensational clothes are all created from collaged images sources from retro childhood images and decorative papers. The paper doll faces are hand drawn and coloured by me and as such are unique.

On the sheets are parts to make one doll body with five different heads, six dresses, two shirts, two skirts, two sets of gloves and seven pairs of shoes (– which gives you literally dozens of combinations! ) as well as a fabulous envelope to store your paper doll pieces that has been created from a print of a collaged sheet and a length of ribbon to secure the envelope. All you will need to have is sharp small scissors and a cutting blade or scalpel.

The finished doll height is 25cm tall (that's around 9 inches).

Each Fairy Tale Paper Doll Set is sold and shipped in my unique packaging and you could even use the label for a bookmark!

Bearly Containing Enthusiasm

2009-02-23T03:30:00.000-08:00

This collection of little bears in various costumes was adopted recently by my daughter from the Lifeline shop in Brendale. Looking at them you can see why we had to have them! There is no shame in loving large groups of cute bears.

Birthday by the Lake

2009-02-22T01:29:00.000-08:00

We had the sixth birthday party for my daughter on Saturday. We had the party at a park on Lake Samsonvale. Despite the overcast conditions and threat of rain, we had a wonderful afternoon and my daughter loved her cake - a Barbie inspired Dolly Varden.

Wedding Belle

2009-02-18T02:02:00.000-08:00

Here is another in my series of lovely paper dolls found at the Lifeline Bookfest. This beauty is also a comparison of wedding dresses from 1847 and 1988. She was created by Lorraine Morris for National Doll World from May/June 1988 (page 31,34). She is my daughters favourite from the dolls we found, but then she is a romance-aholic.

How to Beat Artists Block

2009-02-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

I found a link to this great list today and it is so worthwhile to read and be inspired by that I had to share:

http://clicks.robertgenn.com/irwin-greenberg.php

The artist is called Irwin Greenberg. His complete Words to Paint By are posted on the Painters Keys site at the bottom of the above page. Here is a sample of them, and it is worth the visit.

Words to paint by (Irwin Greenberg)

1. Paint every day.
2. Paint until you feel physical strain- take a break and then paint some more.
3. Suggest.
4. When at an impasse, look at the work of masters.
5. Buy the best materials you can afford.
6. Let your enthusiasm show.
7. Find the way to support yourself.
8. Be your own toughest critic.
9. Develop a sense of humor about yourself
10. Develop the habit of work. Start early every day. When you take a break, don’t eat. Instead, drink a glass of water.
11. Don’t settle for yourself at your mediocre level
12. Don’t allow yourself to be crushed by failure. Rembrandt had failures. Success grows from failure.
13. Be a brother (or sister) to all struggling artists.
14. Keep it simple. 1
5. Know your art equipment and take care of it.
16. Have a set of materials ready wherever you go.
17. Always be on time for work, class and appointments.
18. Meet deadlines. Be better than your word.
19. Find a mate who is really a mate.
20. Don’t be envious of anyone who is more talented than you. Be the best you can be.

Shrinkie Dink Fun

2009-02-15T01:15:00.000-08:00

I remember Shrinkie Dinks from the 70's - little pieces of plastic from your cereal that you coloured and shrunk in the oven. I still have a K-9 from Doctor Who and The space ship from The Black Hole movie somewhere. They were fun and made great beads.

So I thought I would play with the more modern Shrink Film to print out some of my Paper Dolls and check them out in miniature. The images were easy enough to copy on and to cut to shape, but the ink can get a little sticky, so the idea probably needs some further play. But who knows!

Giveaway on Love, Janie Lou Blog

2009-02-12T22:14:00.000-08:00

I just had to spread the word. Love, Janie Lou: http://gypsysisters.typepad.com/lovejanielou/2009/02/janielous-birthday-party-its-gift-giving-time.html#comments is holding a sensational birthday giveaway of a super lovely doll and a so cute journal. If you are like me must win these items, go leave a comment (but if you don't I may then win. Hmmmm....)

Enjoy a Good Doll Show ?

2009-02-11T03:25:00.000-08:00

I found a flyer for this years Northside Doll, Bear and Craft Show and I can't wait. The show is on Sunday 22 February at the Lawnton Show Grounds Gympie Road Lawnton from 9:00 to 3:00.

I went to this show last year and was thrilled by the bargains, the variety and the skill of the display creators. Now I know where I'll be on the 22nd!

A New Paper Doll 3 - Dressing Up Fun

2009-02-10T03:35:00.000-08:00

The wonderful thing about creating clothes for paper dolls is that they look great in anything - even paper bags, or old books! I have been using a veritable treasure trove of images found in the kids book section of the last Lifeline Bookfest. It's fun combining images into collages while taking a trip down memory lane. And rescuing books that would otherwise be thrown away and turned into something else feels good.
I can explore my inner Marilyn
or princess!

Beauty in Blue

2009-02-09T02:28:00.000-08:00

Here is another of those stunning madame Alexander Paper Dolls by Elaine Shants as featured in National Doll World in November/December 1989 (pg 34-35). The dress is a Gainsborough Gown and the dolls name is Jacqueline - very chic.

A New Paper Doll 2 - Building a Body

2009-02-07T19:11:00.001-08:00

I feel a little bit like Michaelangelo, a little bit like Dr Frankenstein and probably a lot like Meryl Streep in "The Devil Wears Prada". I am building a body for my new doll and it's a lot to think about.

What do you think of her!

I wanted her to be strong but long and lean(so that she can be dressed of course). That is a bit of a trade off. She must be demure but capable of carrying off fun looks. And she needs to be able to be posed.

I am quite happy with her. I've gone with a vintage paper to keep with the nostalgia theme and sepia ink.

While you are here, enjoy a dose of the Good Ship Lollipop with this retro Shirley Temple Paper Doll. She was created by Loraine Morris in 1989 and featured in National Doll World December 1989.
Did you know Shirley's full name was Shirley Jane Temple and that in Depression ruined 1935 she was earning $4,000 USD per week?
She won a special oscar in 1935 that was made miniature just for her.
And she could sing and dance as well!

A New Paper Doll 1 - The Face

2009-02-06T02:55:00.000-08:00

I feel it is time to create a fresh new doll - an evolution from the previous paper dolls I have done. I want the doll to remain jointed, but I also want the doll to be able to be dressed up. I want to include some wonderful found images from old childrens books and I want a nostagic feel.

Sounds like a lot to combine.

I am going to share the paper dolls evolution starting with the face. I am using the face image that has followed all my work. The face is drawn in pen and then coloured with pencil and ink. The hair is from different paper sources.

Here are the first few head images.

So Cool I've Won!

2009-02-05T21:36:00.000-08:00

I just visited the magnificent softies central blog: softiescentral.typepad.com and found out I won a quote competition. I'm stoked! If you've never been to check this site out you MUST go - you will be ohhing and ahhing in no time. This is just a taste.

Paper Doll Pleasure 2

2009-02-05T03:10:00.000-08:00

This has got to be my favourite paper doll found recently. The doll is from National Doll World magazine December 1989 (pg 70) and was created by Raphael Tuck. The artwork is really detailed and lovely and the cleverness of the design - the separate head you just slide onto each outfit. The design is pure nostalgia. I can't wait to put this one on the Christmas tree this year.

Lavender Lovely Giveaway on The Brisstyle Blog

2009-02-03T21:51:00.000-08:00

I just checked out the latest Brisstyle blog and they are featuring a new segment - an interview with one of the artists. This month it's Edward and Lilly. The interview is a great insight into the creative process and to boot there is a great giveaway of a Lovely Lavender Scented Bird. This would be a great win because you can fulfil the senses of touch, sight and smell. Check it out at Brisstyle.blogspot.com and check out other Edward and Lilly stuff at edwardandlilly.etsy.com.

Oh You Beautiful Doll

2009-02-02T02:11:00.001-08:00

I collected quite a number of vintage doll magazines from the Lifeline Bookfest this year and many had really lovely paper dolls in them. I wanted on a recurring basis to share some of them with you starting with Coco Melanie and Wendy. These two paper dolls were from National Doll World Magazine, Wendy in Ivory from May/June 1989 (Page 31 ad 34), and Coco Melanie in Blue from January 1990 (page 34 and 35).
Both dolls and their costumes were created Elaine Shants based on real Madame Alexander Dolls (Coco Melanie 1966 and a Wendy composition bride). The art work is wornderful and the dolls look graceful and elegant and demure.

I copied the images and then pasted them onto card stock, cut out, and coated them in lacquer. My daughter loves playing with them. The artist should be very proud of her fantasic work.

Now My Dollies Can Be Happy

2009-01-26T02:25:00.000-08:00

After going to the Lifeline Bookfest I had a collection of vintage kids fairy tale books and I recently bought a second-hand cabinet to store my (or possibly my daughters) doll collection. An idea formed. What my vintage cabinet needed was some lovely fairy tale art to get in the mood for the dolls. I cut and decoupaged a collection of images on the inside of the cabinet. The dolls look on enviously. They cannot wait to move in.

Long Long Ago ...

2009-01-21T23:21:00.000-08:00

I have loved Star Wars since I was 7 years old and saw the first movie (at that time) at the movies. I can remember my sister and I dressed up in our finest matching dresses with orange swirls and our Avon Cosmetics animal necklaces we had got for Christmas. The movie made me fall in love with Science Fiction movies for ever.

Now my daughter is old enough to enjoy Star Wars as well and we have been watching the movies over and over.

My favourite Princess has now crept into my paper dolls. The memories just keep coming.

The Delights of the Bookfest Revealed

2009-01-20T02:41:00.000-08:00

After the feast of the book I have been recovering from over the last few days, it is time to reveal some of the fantastic finds I made at the Lifeline Bookfest on Saturday. As you can see my dining table is groaning form the bag loads of fantastic treats. I got more than 150 magazine on craft, sewing and dolls. I have enough paperbacks to last several months on train rides, and I captured an enormous pile of pop-up kids books (one of my passions).

The biggest thing I got was a kid's book containing a 1.2m long pop-up space shuttle, the weirdest a wonderful wooden book containing handmade blank sheets of paper, and the most frightening - a paper doll of Barbara Bush (George W's mum) in her undies (this is not pictured because some things are best not experienced).

The prices were as always amazing. With kid's books at 4 for $1.00, I managed to grab lots of decoupage materials - and I've just started applying the first of the fairy tale book images to my new dolly cupboard (more to come next time).

If you haven't been you've still got until Sunday. Who knows I may even go back!

At Last - the Lifeline Bookfest is on Again!

2009-01-15T03:29:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! The Lifeline Bookfest is finally here again and my bookshelves are almost hanging the front door waiting for the new recruits.

The book lust is an incredible thing. There is much anticipation - what will we find, will there be the things missing from my collection, will we need to beat old ladies to get to the bargains!

Stay tuned for shots of the finds.

Details

What: The universe’s largest second-hand booksale, now in its 19th year.

Why: The Lifeline Bookfest raises much-needed funds for Lifeline Brisbane's free 24-hour Crisis Counselling Telephone Line, free face-to-face counselling services, and support programs for women, children and families.

When: January 17-25, 2009

8am-8pm January 17-18; 24

9am-5pm January19-23; 25

Where: The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Merivale St, South Brisbane

Check out the website: www.lifelinebookfest.com

Dancing Queens

2009-01-08T04:02:00.000-08:00

I really loved the advert of the late Eighties/early Nineties of the Swan lake dancers eating Smiths Chips. The dancers were delicate, poised, demure images - who then chomped in crisps and burst the bag!

The ads were unforgetable. They have influenced my love of dance and and now have sprung up in my new paper dolls.

The dolls I want to create are traditional in general image but rendered in non-traditional colours and patterns in paper.

The Amazing Generosity of Online Friends

2009-01-05T02:48:00.000-08:00

Today I arrived home and opened a package sent from a wonderful lady called Sharon I met online. Sharon is from the ABC Doll Club and she had sent me the most beautiful gift for Christmas (curse Australia Post in their slowness). The gift contained a fabulous Barbie T and cap (already snaffled by my daughter), some yummy clothes as modeled by one of my preloved Barbie finds, and finally the most radiant and stunning Barbie resplendent in pale blue satin with a Wintery treat stole. I was gobsmacked and speechless when I received this gift, particularly as Sharon had been so kind to me already. You see, I met Sharon through the marvelous ABC Doll Club: Websitehttp://www.abcdoll.org/index.html , because I was seeking help with a hairy question: how do you fix the hair of preloved dolls who are having a bad hair day. I wanted to rescue old Barbies and make them like new again but this meant fixing cut, matted and missing hair. I contacted the Doll Hospital only to be told that it is not worth fixing hair, its better to replace heads (how painful). I explored online and came across the ABC doll Site. It was so helpful. They have links and information on re rooting doll hair as well as lots of hint and tips, galleries, and so much more. Through the club site I found a local lady to get the equipment to do the reroot and I used the tutorials available though the ABC Doll site to complete the task. I was stoked at the two dolls I did. The pictures are in one of my older posts. I let Sharon know how helpful the site was. I got involved in the online forums which are full of insightful not to mention entertaining doll chat. And now Sharon has just sent me this wonderful gift. I am humbled by the generosity and caring natures of our great online community. Sharon, I am sending some of my paper dolls your way. I hope you like them half as much as I love your gift.

Happy New Year

2009-01-04T04:12:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the New Year. I hope your holidays were fabulous. For me I finally had time to play with a few ideas.

For a new year I have been working on a new range of dolls. The design is pure Babushka but with a twist - arms to move and a reversible handbag to shop with. The faces are slightly different as she is more about folk style.

Babushka's have been everywhere recently, and I thought it was time to develop my own. But because I have been watching a lot of Married With Children over the holidays they have developed a Peggy Bundy-esque feel. And because Peggy could shop at the Olympic level I felt a reversible removable handbag was necessary
Don't you love the creative process and where it takes you.
Can't wait for the next one to appear.

My Bag in Homespun Magazine

2008-12-22T19:55:00.000-08:00

I have just been exploring and found one of my bags has been made an honourable mention in the Australian Homespun Magazine Create a Bag Competition. It's the one on the bottom left of the screen. Cool!

Check out the link to: http://www.completecraft.com.au/ and follw the prompt for the bag competition winners.

The Long Thread - Check out this Handmade Haven

2008-12-22T19:21:00.000-08:00

I have just followed a link in the lastest Australian Homspune magazine (vol 9,12) to a wonderful blog called http://thelongthread.com/. There you will find fantastic handmade craft and patterns. I loved this site! Check it out.

Introducing the Paper Bubz

2008-12-22T03:39:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a new range of paper dolls and I want to introduce the first of the Bubz. The Paper Bubz are inspired by my recent reading of the Anne of Green Gables books. The design is about free hair, fun clothes and bare feet running through pastures. I have made the Bubz so that the legs can be turned in or out, the shift dress reversed for a wardrobe change and of course the parts can be reversed. The faces are slightly different as she is more about childhood and innocence. I hope you like her.

Why I Love Softies Central - What a Wonderful Blog

2008-12-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

I have been a fan of Softies Central for more than a year now and with the wonderful and wacky world on display there who can blame me. Check them out:

http://www.softiescentral.typepad.com/

And the Winner of the Christmas Paper Doll Giveaway is ...

2008-12-21T01:58:00.000-08:00

Well, what an busy week it's been building up to Christmas. All the last minute shopping, menu planning, planning visits for Chrissy day, oh and of course a winner of my first ever giveaway. I loved reading all the comments and possible names. There are so many creative people out there who can express it through names and ideas. But I've put all the name's in the barrel and drawn a winner. Its Hot Fudge! I'd like to thank everyone who entered and hope you all a have a wonderful Christmas. And keep watching for new doll experiences in the new year.

Mighty Market Roundup

2008-12-16T21:36:00.000-08:00

At last after a hectic couple of days I have the time to consider the simply sensational Christmas market I participated in as part of the Brisstyle team at Hamilton Town Hall on Saturday the 13 December.

I was blown away by the number of people that came along and their appreciation of handmade items. We had a marvelous turnout of stall holders selling bags, dolls, jewellery, designer baby wear and baby goods, retro ephemera, OOAC art works and prints, fun stuff, food, and so much more. Our team is so talented with all the work being of great quality and diversity and all at the cutting edge of the nouvelle craft scene. The patrons really saw the value in it and it made me feel really proud as a creater of craft items to see appreciation from my audience.

We had a wonderful atmosphere, with people milling about in the courtyard chatting and comparing purchases. there was music, kids playing, and great eats. Even in the sweltering Brisbane summer the vibe was still fantastic.

As for my stall, I was so pleased and humbled to sell so much of my work. My paper doll selection is now sadly (or not sadly) depleted as I sold many of my lovely ladies to new hopefully happy homes. I also got some great and useful feedback that will help me develop my range further and take packaging and the whole concept to the next level. I was very pleased with my stall layout and position and it was so wonderful to be so near to people to be able to engage them even if they were just browsing.

As for the Brisstyle team, it was fantastic to put faces to the names after talking online for so long. It turns out everyone is as nice in real life as they appear in print and by having so many supportive people around me it was possible to handle the days length and heat and still be smiling at the end. It was also great to be able to buy from sellers whose work you have admired for a long time and to also see how their work is developing.

In all this is by far the best and most fun market I have ever been involved in.

Lovely Article About Moi - Makes me feel so Proud!

2008-12-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

I am so excited. Trish from http://trishalandesigns.blogspot.com/ has just finished a wonder ful article about me. She makes me sound sooooo good! Please go and read and while you are there check out ther wonderful wraps. BTW while you are here, please go and enter my competition for a free Paper Doll Giveaway just below.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2008-12-03T03:39:00.000-08:00

I am getting into the full Christmas mode. I have been shopping madly for last minute gifts, wrapping gifts like sticky tape is going out of fashion, and of course preparing for the awesome Brisstyle Christmas Market at Hamilton Town Hall 13 December.

And while getting into the final preparations I realised I needed Christmas Dolls, and so here is the first.
She is the next generation of Paper Gals All Dressed Up. She is wearing a fun reversible shift and is in the groove for Christmas.

Now all she needs is a name and home... and so for Christmas I want to do a Giveaway.

To enter this giveaway, all you need to do is help me name this Gal and tell me where she will fit in your life. I will pick a winner at random on the 19th of December just in time for Christmas.

Good luck and go with the Christmas cheer!

New Age Barbie Man Grooming

2008-12-01T03:25:00.000-08:00

"Before my brave new hair implant"
"The new groomed me"
"Am I Hot or What!"
"You look so good let me have a go"

I have just finished trying out rerooting (ie replacing) doll hair on two of my daughters sad preloved Ken Dolls. The results I think are great! The tools and hair were from rerootdoll.com, and I've got to say that they were easy and quite fast to do. Sue at rerootdoll was very helpful and she provided useful instructions. I also checked out the tutorials that the ABC doll club site had links to. In all this is a successful process and much fun (although long hair is much easier to style than short I have to say). Next time the problem may be narrowing down from the many colours of hair to use. If you have sad preloved dolls in need of stunning new hair, give it a go.

Coming Soon on madeit.com.au

2008-11-29T04:24:00.000-08:00

I have decided to list on madeit.com.au and have been busy creating a shop presence. Hopefully, I can list some items soon...

I have also been crazy rerooting barbie doll hair and they are looking pretty good. I will be bringing photos soon. Stay tuned!

Sweet SMS stuff

2008-11-26T18:55:00.000-08:00

I have been exploring on SMS and have seen some lovely, lovely things to share. Here are some:

http://sewitbegins.blogspot.com/2008/11/christmas-ornament-exchange.html (a gorgeous bird Chrissy decoration)

http://dixiemango.wordpress.com/ (a fantastic softie)

http://blissfulbyquenna.blogspot.com/2008/10/scrapbusters-long-strips-wristlet.html (some cool wristlets)

I am becoming Modern (slightly)

2008-11-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

I have just found a fantastic online sewing forum. There is so much to explore here.... I cannot wait to start.

http://sewmamasew.com/forum/index.php

Brisstyle Hamilton Market Saturday 13 December 2008 9am-4pm

2008-11-23T17:23:00.000-08:00

As part of the highly talented Brisstyle ETSY Street Team, I am pleased to announce our first ever Market Stall.

If you are a budding ethical consumer who is looking for gifts that are unique, well-made, with a little soul, and a lotta style, then The 2008 BrisStyle Christmas Market in Hamilton is the place to Shop.

Find a magnificent selection of handmade goods at the BrisStyle Christmas Market.
The Historic Town Hall in Hamilton creates the perfect environment for this boutique event. Ample Street parking & easy access via the Rivercat, the hall has wheelchair and pram access as well as plenty of shade.The gourmet food stall in the leafy courtyard is catering for the Brisbane summer with cool drinks and traditional Christmas treats.
Meander through the stalls of the distinctive and the fresh, chat to the makers and learn about them, and their wares, while the soothing sounds of the acoustic entertainment kindles your Christmas Spirit.You’ll find something very different here.

Like most sellers on etsy.com, the BrisStyle designers take great pride in adding that little extra for their customers. Whether it’s beautiful packaging, personal gift wrapping, little cards, or extra gifts, it’s sure to be something that touches the heart.This Christmas the artists and designers of BrisStyle will also give their support to various charities with the hope that through your gift giving, you and they can make even a small difference to someone’s life.

So embrace the BrisStyle enthusiasm, support your local community and shop ethically this Christmas.Location: Hamilton Town Hall, Cnr Rossiterand Racecourse Rd, Hamilton, BrisbaneDate: Saturday 13th December 2008Time: 9am – 4pm

PARTICIPATING SHOPS