Little Mary Moo's Place

Tree Love

2010-05-17T18:59:00.004+10:00

I often get asked where I got my tree from that I use for my market display. Well this shop is where I ordered it from. Although I do love my tree, being made from recycled cardboard it does have some limitations as a market display and needs to be handled with some TLC. I'm not quite sure how long it will last as it is in a need of some small repairs but hopefully with some care and some strong glue it will last a few more markets to come. It does make a great talking point at the markets and for the price it is well worth the outlay.

Bris Style Mother and Child Market Wrap Up

2010-05-12T19:28:00.017+10:00

The BrisStyle market organisers out did themselves yet again with a wonderful market. The day before mothers day this market was the perfect way to start of a wonderful family weekend. I was lucky enough to share the day at the markets with my fantastic Mum. It was a lovely to spend the day chatting with her and watching the crowds filter through and enjoy all the colourful delight of the market. Below are a few pictures of the day, a few of my stall and some from the other great stall holders.

Rummage

2010-04-13T10:42:00.011+10:00

Why do weekends go so fast? Lots of crafting at home and a few little trips out and about. On Saturday I took myself up to the little Lifeline Bookfest at Caboolture to grab some more Golden Books for some projects for the upcoming BrisStyle Mother and Child Markets. Some lovely finds amongst the very full tables.

Sunday morning started of with a very steamy, foggy outlook. This was the picture from my back door. Which left me plenty of time to laze around before heading into the city for the Suitcase Rummage Sale in King George Square.

The day fined up beautifully and was lovely for us shoppers but the poor Suitcase sellers that had the sunny spots in King George Square were slowly melting. There was a great mix of vintage and handmade on offer. I pulled all the muscles in my hip during the week which made the whole bending down and rummaging a little difficult but it was still heaps of fun.

I met the lovely Holly from Pannikin. Her suitcase was full of so much lovely handmade goodness. I was able to get some of the cutest badges ever from Holly to add to Cait's collection. I was also trying to be very good and not spend much money (due to this debacle) but a dress handmade from vintage fabric nearly got the better of me. Lucky for my hip pocket the dress was gone by the time I made my mind up. Below are a few snaps of the day.

Focus

2010-04-10T08:43:00.005+10:00

I would love to be able to focus intently on just one thing like my Sister's dog Gypsy. This was a photo of her on Easter Sunday waiting for a ball to be thrown. Apparently multi tasking is bad for your health anyway.

I on the other hand are more like my old, lazy dog Ben who has gone to live out his retirement with my Mum. At nearly ten years of age he likes nothing better to do than sleep, sleep, eat and sleep. Doesn't sound too bad at all.

Long Weekends Are For....

2010-04-02T11:27:00.009+10:00

Well I know this long weekend should be for cleaning out a very messy garage, sorting through Moo's room or maybe at a stretch organising the pantry. But no this weekend is for sewing for the BrisStyle Indie Mother & Child Market that is on the 8th of May. The timing is perfect for the Market as it is being held the day before Mother's Day, which makes Mother's Day shopping easy peasy. I'm sure there will be plenty of goodies there that will please the most difficult to buy for Mum (or even the fussy Mother in Law).

This Market has been a lovely incentive to expand my range. Not only will I have lots of purses I have also been working on a range of baby blankets. They are all made will 100% linen, hand screen printed textiles and backed with a beautiful soft hemp and organic cotton fleece.

The kitchen chair piled with the weekends projects.

The above blanket has the most beautiful light steel grey/blue linen. It is a lovely change from the pastel blues for boys.

I love, love, love how this blanket came together. I so wish I had a blanket like this for my girls when they were little. The soft pink in the screen print, the natural linen and the cream of the fleece go so beautifully together. The floral design has made quite a contemporary modern baby's blanket.

14 Sleeps to Go

2010-03-21T13:41:00.002+10:00

Well its 14 sleeps to go or so I'm told until Easter. Not that we are really into the whole Easter commercialism side of things but we do enjoy just a little chocolate indulgence. This year I've finally gotten around to some crafty Easter preps - making fabric Easter Baskets. The pattern is from the "Kidlet Wall Pocket Tidy Tote" by JCasa Handmade. I've made a few of these before for the girls to hang on their doors and on the ends of their beds to keep all the small bits and bobs under control. They have come up really well as Easter Baskets. The best thing is they will be able to use them through out the year too.

The cute fabric on the front is the Eggshells Fabric by Aunty Cookie.

WIP

2010-02-03T10:55:00.004+10:00

The above is the sum total of my very lazy weekend crafty pursuits. I really should be much more organised as the next BrisStyle market is on its way in the beginning of March. I am happy though to find some craftiness I can do while lazing around with the girls on a Sunday watching movies and eating loads of popcorn and the likes. These hearts are for the next BIDM so if you wish to see them in their finished form you might just have to pop along to St Augustines on the 6th of March.

Best Week Ever

2010-01-26T14:05:00.002+10:00

Well this week on Etsy has delivered some very lovely surprises. First I was very, very lucky to be mentioned in the Etsy Finds From a Land Down Under here. I can not quite believe that I was among such wonderful Australian talent. But to top it up today the garland I blogged about in my last post made it to the front page today. Wow, what a week. Back to school tomorrow and back to the sewing machine.

Happy Australia Day to you all!

That Time Of Year

2010-01-19T16:02:00.004+10:00

Yep, it's that time of year when all the hearts come out and its time to remember those we hold close to our hearts. In celebration of my love of hand screen printed fabric I have been finally been able to make good use of some small pieces of Pippijoe's Daisy fabric that I just knew one day I would find something special to use them for. Presenting..... my heart garland. Available in my etsy store now. I just wish I had a bright, breezy widow to photograph it on (all my widows have ugly security screens) to show how pretty it is. But anyway I made do with screeching at the girls to hold the garland still while I photographed it against a boring old wall. Doesn't quite do it justice though.

And keeping with the whole heart theme is a pretty heart purse that is also in my etsy shop. The fabric is the heart fabric by Carly Schwerdt from Umbrella Prints. The colour is Storm Boy Blue. I think it is the whole name of the colour that I love too as Storm Boy was one of my favourite books as a child.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T10:15:00.004+10:00

What a lovely way to start the 2010 with a spot on the front page of etsy with my small Spring Days Purse! I hope 2010 brings you all much happiness and success.

Christmas Bits and Bobs

2009-12-16T18:35:00.004+10:00

Well not long now till the big day. Looking for a lovely lot of hand made pressies? Looking for a huge stash of presents to suit all your loved ones? Oh and the best bit all for free? Then head on over to the wonderful blog Fat Mum Slim and enter her huge give away. But be quick entries close on the 20th December.

Blog posts have been a little slow due to almost drowning under wrapping paper and all the other preps that go on before the big day. So to help with all wrapping and so forth we have had to enlist the assistance of a boy at Little Mary Moo's Place. He's very sweet, always happy, very helpful in the present department, clean and gratefully eats his meals. Being a girl only home its been nice to have a little variety but there are only two problems, one he is just a little slimy and two I have to give him back in a week. So take a little look at the cute boy and his helpful antics:

Little Mary Moo's Place at the BrisStyle Indie Designers Market

2009-12-07T15:50:00.007+10:00

Just a few pictures of my stall before I run out the door again. The BIDM was the most loveliest day ever. Thank you to everyone who stopped by for a chat and to all those who brought something from my little stall. I did enjoy so much talking to you all and seeing you smile. I had a great day next to the wonderful Sally from Flight Industries and Christine from Why Not Street. The little coin purses I made were a huge hit. People had such a great rummage through them and it was so sweet watching everyone's reactions to the different textile designs. I will be back when time permits to show off some of the goodies the girls an I were able to buy. You can see more of the pics over at my flickr stream.

On the Twelfth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-12-04T05:27:00.006+10:00

Day Number twelve and the shopping list is nearly done. Take a wee look for yourself at some more of the lovelies on offer.

Vintage Green Scooter Girl Necklet by Ruby 2 Go Go

Yellow Navy and White Spot I Pod Case by A Creature Strange

Kawaii Kokeshi Pendant by Kimono Reincarnate

Green/Navy Firebird Tee by Salt Sea Tees

On the Eleventh Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-12-03T19:50:00.006+10:00

Day Eleven and boy oh boy I'm getting a little overwhelmed with all the goodies on offer. So the theme for today is my favourite colour, blue just to keep things nice and simple.

Cote D'Azure AAA Cornflower Blue Kyanite Earrings by Bellabijoux

Blue Soleil by SM Boutique

Juicy Blueberry Ice Cocktail Bracelet by Strat Designs

Maxi Messenger Bag by Lemon Ink

On the Tenth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-12-02T16:06:00.007+10:00

Day ten has a little bit for all the members of the family. Sweet children's wear, the loveliest bangle and some lovelies to decorate the house with.

Halter Top by Made by Miffy

Stripes and Circles Decorated Clothespins by Designs of the Heart

Floral Garden Canvas by Rellish

Red Gathered Shorts by Blossom Child

Ruby and Calcite Sterling Bangle by Shazzabeth

On the Ninth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-12-01T10:50:00.008+10:00

Day number nine and not to much longer to go. You can feel the excitement through the BrisStyle girls. Day number nine is full of lovely accessories to wear as well as something to dry the tears of the unfortunate market shoppers who may miss out on such popular wears.

Rockabilly Retro Sailor Clips by Miss Kitty Boo Boo

Van Gogh Sunflowers Postage Stamp Locket by Mrs Smiley

TypeStyle genuine type writer key bracelet by Up in Annie's Room

Set of Three Hankies by Wicked Child Designs

Lola Buttonhead Brooch by Jettas Nest

On the Eigth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-30T04:59:00.009+10:00

Well day eight brings yet more loveliness. The sweetest coil ring and necklace make the list. A red embroidered denim purse because I do love how red and denim go together. Hot orange earrings, a cushion cover that would be perfect for my lounge and of course I would love a satchel bag too.

Reversible Satchel by Taybian

Orange Bouquet Earrings by Hot Toffee

Hand Screen Printed Pear Cushion Cover by Selvedge House

Cest la vie Necklace by Hungry Designs

Red Embroidered Denim Purse by Chi Designs

Funky Coil Design Ring by Chicuff

Christmas Red

2009-11-29T09:16:00.006+10:00

Lots of red in my preps for the BrisStyle Indie Designers Market. Below is a little look at some of the new red items that I will have with me next Saturday.

Messenger bag made with a lovely indigo denim, featuring Lara Cameron's Roof Top hand screen printed fabric.

New little purse made with Flower Press's new Rick Rack screen printed fabric.

Babushka Doll Purse in red. Fabric from Miko Design.

Ok, so I know the two photos aren't fitting in with the red theme. But this is one of the large purse I have made with the fabric from Blue Ginger Designs. I was so happy with how these turned out. The print is so funny and cute and texture of the fabric has such a lovely natural feel.

On the Seventh Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-29T05:52:00.009+10:00

The Seventh Day is all about pretty things to wear. Some for the big girls and some for the little ones. Pretty bracelets to wear, a brooch to pin, a sweet wristlet to take shopping a the loveliest dress for the little girl in your life.

I noticed I made a mistake yesterday, can I blame market brain? I'm sure that's an actual medical condition. It is only six sleeps from tonight not yesterday. Oops.

Aloha Dress by Tutus and Muddy Shoes

Pretty in Pink Wristlet by Shelly Berelli

Red and Blue Kimono Brooch by Pattern Forrest

Sea Shell Bracelet by Wildlight

On the Sixth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-28T05:02:00.006+10:00

Well half way there today! Only six more sleeps to go until the BrisStyle Indie Designers Market. Added to my list today are more red earrings to help get in the Christmas spirit, a pretty pendent to wear, the sweetest hat to keep that intense Brisbane sun of the wee ones head as the enjoy the market shopping and the loveliest clutch ever.

Green Clutch/Wrist Bag by Bedouin Bags

Billie Bucket Hat by Wimcee

Polka Dottie Hottie in red by Creative Arty Facts

Metallic Blue and Silver Mosaic Pendant by MJ Mosaics

On the Fifth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-27T04:51:00.007+10:00

Day five is here and there is more BrisStyle goodies too put on the list. There are tags to add a wee bit of wit to the gift giving this season, sweet bunting to decorate the house, pretty skirts to wear, a fantastic bag to pop all the market goodies into and lastly but by no means least the prettiest red cluster earrings perfect for this time of year.

Scarlet Cluster Earrings by Perlej

Vintage Chenille Skirt by Bubbachenille

Pink - Orange Midi by Ali Pink

B is for Bunting by My Girl Designs

5 Witty gift tags Vintage Children's books by REread

On the Forth Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-26T04:51:00.009+10:00

Day number four is full of beautiful bits and bobs for the little ones. Maybe mine aren't so little any more but if they were I'm sure some of these goodies would have been much loved. Lovely slippers - for real little fairies of course, toys to cuddle, paper dolls to play with and the sweetest card ever to dress them all up for the perfect gift giving.

Slippers to fall in love with - butterflies by Sun Shadow

Male Hero Paper Doll by Sharlzndoll

Megsie Doll by Made By Maisie

The Snigglebottom Softies by Little Diva

A Day at The Beach Greeting Card by The Seamstress and the Daughters

On the Third Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-25T05:28:00.008+10:00

Day three of my wish list is full of pretty things to dress little ones up, sweet clips, lovely places to sit and play, brooches to dress up ones shirt and very cool retro tags to pop on the presents wrapped under the tree.

Multi Stripe Play Mat by Mimoo

Retro Gift Tag by Jellygnite

Woodlands Fig Tree Brooch by Little Chrissy

Little Girl Daisy Button Hair Clips by EmBelish

Party Knot Dress Butterflies and Flowers by Hot Fudge

On the Second Day of a BrisStyle Christmas

2009-11-24T04:50:00.009+10:00

Now the shopping is hotting up for the second day of a BrisStyle Christmas. My pick for Santa to bring is a sweet mix of bags, jewels, neck pieces and a few goodies for the girls too.

Reversible Handbag - Nana's Trifle by Wheres Beck Bean

Butterfly Flowers Art Print by Twinkle Star Art

(I also heard that Twinkle Star Art will be launching wearable prints at the Market and I do hope that Santa will bring some of those too)

Vintage Button Bracelet by Denim Days

Libby Doll by Retro Bird Designs

heART Peacock Feather Beads by Happily Ever Artist

Gypsy Neck Piece by Violet Rose Designs

Dreaming of a BrisStyle Handmade Christmas

2009-11-23T06:56:00.012+10:00

Only 12 sleeps to go until the BrisStyle Indie Designers Market! In celebration of the impending handmade Christmas shopping goodness I am going to do a 12 days of Christmas list of some of the lovelies from each of the stall holders. So on the first day of Christmas I hope Santa brings to Little Mary Moo's Place:

Hand Embroidered Tissue Cosy by Edward and Lilly

Woodcut Iron Lace Print by Flight Industries

Maudie's Hatbox by Why Not Street

Red Orbs - Ocean Jasper Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Pendant by RocknWrap

Elephant Stuffie by P Byers Design

Sunny Shoulder Bag by Lamp and Motor

To Market to Market

2009-11-22T13:59:00.007+10:00

Yet again another market post. Lots and lots or purse making going on. Below is a little snippet of what you will be able to find at my stall at the BrisStyle Indie Designers Market on the 5th of December. (EEK... less than two weeks to go!)

A small purse with the lovely Lara Cameron's house print.

The two purses above are from the hand screen printed textile range by Umbrella Prints. This is the first time I have had the pleasure of using their lovely fabric. The prints are beautiful and the fabric has such fantastic structure for purse making. Also a a little side note Umbrella Prints also give the most fantastic personalised service too. The girls even made me special little cards for the purses too.

These are my "big boys". A little larger than my usual range. Perfect for cosmetics and the likes.

Image from here

Above is a print from Blue Ginger Designs that I am eagerly awaiting the arrival in the post. The cats are so sweet. I love have they have been captured in their cat poses.

Image from here

Last but not least is the new yardage textile range from Flower Press. I have brought a few of Flower Press's tea towels in the past. I am so chuffed that now there is a textile range to play with too. The yardage is not quite ready yet but you can pre order through Flower Press's etsy shop here.

BIDM Banner

2009-11-10T12:01:00.004+10:00

Today my custom made banner arrived for the BrisStyle Market. I am so excited. I have had the absolute pleasure of working with the very talented etsy seller Love Letter Collage in the design of my banner. Nothing was too much trouble and the banner was designed just the way I wanted it and all in super quick time too. I think anyone who has the patience for that kind of fiddly work is amazing. The letters get pegged up simply on string. I am hoping the dark blue colours will contrast nicely against the white table cloth. Check out another of Love Letter Collage's other beautiful work bellow.

(image from here)

Words of Wisdom

2009-11-09T20:03:00.004+10:00

(Image from here)

Moo enlightened me this morning that it is wise not to skip with a slinky. Okay, thanks for that little bit of valuable advice.

Courage

2009-11-08T14:21:00.008+10:00

(image from here)

I would really like one of these badges some days or maybe just to get this message to someone in particular who doesn't seem to understand. It is seems it is much easier to make really big interpretations about someone (yep that would be me) based on knowing just a snippet. I like being an independent Mum, it is much easier and harder all rolled into one. There are good parents and not so good parents in relationships and doing it on their own. I do try and get up every morning and do my best.... but maybe it is easier for some not to see that. I read an interview with the maker of these badges and she said that these are her top sellers. I find it a little sad. So I'm not the only one who is a little misunderstood.

(from here)

On a much nicer note, the girls and I have had a lovely crafty weekend. Lots of bits and pieces made for the upcoming BIDM.

BIDM Preps

2009-11-03T13:23:00.008+10:00

Busy, busy, not to much to say but to share a few pics of what I've been up to for my preps for the BIDM. Finders Keepers being the talk of Brisbane over the weekend. If you want to check out some very lovely photos from the Finders Keepers Market see Mark Lobo's site here.

November Is.....

2009-11-01T18:19:00.005+10:00

Well today is the 1st of November. Just over a month till the most exciting date of the year. No it's not Christmas I'm thinking of but the BrisStyle BIDM market. Market preps are in full swing, with the sweat shop girls (aka the children) being bribed with much chocolate for their assistance.

The 1st of November also starts the month of "Movember". Movember aims to raise awareness of two very serious men's health issues - prostate cancer and depression. Check out the official site for all the info of how you can get involved with all the Movember goings on. I am choosing not to grow a Mo (not such a lovely look on a girl) but maybe I shall craft a Mo instead and donate the proceeds of the sale to the cause. Maybe you too want to get involved with some crafty Mos. If you want some inspiration here are some of my favourite Etsy Mustaches:

Wool Felt Mustache by chickbabyrose

The Minature Tiny Mustache Pick by thesmallobject

Super cute Moustache Gloves by wifeofbrian

Support For Young Illustrators

2009-10-30T14:05:00.003+10:00

There is a current competition being held called "Doodle For Google". Children from around Australia were asked to design a logo for Google that reflected their wish for Australia. A finalist was chosen from each of the four ages groupings in each state and voting is currently underway for the National winner. The illustration above is the Queensland State winner for the years 4 - 6 age grouping. This very talented illustrator also happens to be one of my daughter's class mates. The whole school has gotten behind him to drum up support. If you'd like to join in the voting fun or maybe just check out some of the up and coming Australian talents you can head on over here.

Little Bits of Nice

2009-10-21T12:35:00.009+10:00

(image from here)

Lots of bits of niceness going on at the moment. Well that's what I'm telling myself. I was very lucky to win the very lovely brooch by RE-read the other week. You can go and check out the very talented RE-read's goodies at the upcoming Finders Keepers Market in Brisbane next weekend.

Above is a picture of the lovely Fleur who I found all packaged up on my door step last week. She is so sweet how she lies on her belly and looks down at you. My sister made her for my Birthday. It was such a lovely surprise as I had no idea. My sister hand sews every stitch of the bears she makes and they last forever.

Above is a picture of some of the bits I'm getting ready for the BrisStyle Christmas Market. It is lovely to use up all the scrap pieces of fabric that I haven't been able to part with.

Some new fabrics from Ink & Spindle. Yay! I can't quite believe that they have only been around for a year. Happy First Birthday Ink & Spindle.

On a wee bit of an exciting note, I'm involved the the 30 Days of Giveaways Style Collective/Frankie promotion. Every day in November Style Collective will be giving away a prize from 30 Indie Designers. Above is my messenger bag that is up for grabs.

My etsy store has also had a little face lift too. New banner and all designed by the lovely Kate from LalaRose.

Lovely Break

2009-10-06T09:46:00.007+10:00

Why is it that holidays always have to go so fast? The girls and I have just gotten back from the most lovely week down the coast at Burleigh Heads. So much fun to be had. Walking, swimming, more swimming, markets, parks, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, loads of fish and chips and many, many ice creams.

Cait and Moo exploring the rock pools. Hours of fun.

Some members of the family, namely Cait chose to be adventurous holiday activities climbing up on the high ropes course with the birds at Currumbin. It was such a pity that I didn't wear closed in shoes to join in the joy of being harnessed in meters above the ground.

I on the other hand was content to join in this lot in lots of laziness.

Look, we even got a sneak look at her babe.

On another pretty interesting handmade note, Burleigh had quite a few lovely shops selling handmade wears. What a treat. The girls are so funny to take shopping now and can pick handmade a mile off and make sure everyone in the shop knew that they had seen things for sale on etsy or that they were handmade. My favorite shops were Raggedy Anne and Love From Lucy.

Life Under The Craft Table

2009-09-25T08:08:00.002+10:00

Hard life for a dog you know! Poor Lilly relegated to having to lie under the sewing/craft table because no one will come outside and play. All the action seems to happen right about here so where else is a poor dog meant to lie for a little attention. (And no, the phone books aren't for Lilly to contact the RSPCA for craft induced neglect but for the girls when they sew to lift the foot pedal up)

The Small Ones

2009-09-22T14:45:00.007+10:00

Well they're finally ready - my new collection of small purses. Theses purses are just a little smaller then the others that I traditionally make. They close with a 10 cm zip instead of a 12 cm zip. I've also sourced some new hand screen printed fabrics. It is amazing how talented these textile designers are. I've had so much fun working on this new collection to add to my etsy shop.

Blue Doll Purse - fabric by Mikodesign

Little Red Flower Purse - fabric by Hollabee

Small Spring Purse - fabric by Melbomba

Olive Doll Purse - fabric by Mikodesign

Small Blue Bird Purse - fabric by Melbomba

The last two photos are of the the little coin purses I've been worked on too. I'm still tossing up wether I will pop these on etsy or leave them for the next markets I do. They looked so sweet all standing up together.

Places to Go

2009-09-17T05:01:00.004+10:00

I was lucky enough to get a position in the Indie Fixx Galleria which opened yesterday. There are some beautiful Indie shops in there and well worth a look. There just might be a little code in my Gallery Shop to make shopping at Little Mary Moo's Place a little sweeter too.

I've been having a wee bit of a sewfest and I'm nearly ready to bring on the newbies I've been working on.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Pop on over to the very popular Racecourse Road Street Party on Sunday. There will be heaps of talented BrisStyle girls in action at Racecourse Road with their lovely wares. I unfortunately have to go up to the Sunshine Coast for the weekend. Poor me. It will be a little hard to put up with the sun, beach, swimming and all that. Hope you all have a great weekend.

Little Bit of Love

2009-09-04T18:09:00.011+10:00

I've been working on a "little" new collection which I hope to unvail in the next wee while. In celebration of lovely little etsy shops I have put together my favourite items from the other BrisStyle "Little" shops.

Mid Summer's Night Earrings by Little Yellow

Lily Bunny Mini Little Jelly by Little Jellygnite

Diva Dress by Little Diva

Woodlands - Frangipani Tree Brooch by Little Chrissy

Nine

2009-09-01T11:33:00.005+10:00

Sewing has taken a little of a back seat this week as it was Miss Tayla's Ninth Birthday. It always seems that the girls don't just have a Birth"day" but a whole entire Birth"week". Which I don't mind as I get to share in lots of yummy cake.

Miss Tayla's birthday is always a little bit special as she was born at 28 weeks. My gosh look at my big girl now. From the little baby who fit into my hand to the incredible strong, lively happy girl she is now. She has grown from a baby who struggled to breath on her own, to walk, to eat, to talk to a wonderful girl who I have to ask to talk a little less at times, who climbs trees, who out runs me and eats me out of house and home. Not to say it has been an easy journey by any means but that some of the hardest journeys are the ones to be treasured the most. Happy Birthday lovely girl!

Oh and she did love all the BrisStyle goodies I had brought for her over the past few months too.

Happenings

2009-08-23T10:21:00.006+10:00

Another busy week over and done but a good one all up. I had a lovely visit to Nook yesterday. I have wanted to get down to see this most sweetest shop since it recently opened. I wasn't disappointed at all. So much hand made goodness in one place. It was lovely to see some of the BrisStyle girls' wonderful items on display. I'm sure Nook will become a regular haunt for the handmade shopper in Brisbane.

Going to Nook spurred on a bit of inspiration (how could it not!) . While I was going through town I spied a girl with the most gorgeous fabric hand bag. I had to follow her for a little while to get a good peek at it though. (Please tell me I'm not the only crazy person who does things like that.) So below is the bag I made this morning from Thea & Sami's beautiful fretwork fabric this morning. It has been forever since I have made a two handled tote. I think it is my dislike for the handle making part that steers me clear of actually having to make two handles instead of one.

Nook

Clever

2009-08-15T14:51:00.004+10:00

"There is something you always must remember, you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think."

(Winnie the Pooh)

I had to gently remind my eldest of this just recently. Making this little purse this week made me think of Cait. We all need to be told how clever we really are now and then. Have a lovely weekend!

Lovely Weekend

2009-08-10T06:56:00.004+10:00

All weekends should be as lovely as the one I just had. I was lucky enough on Saturday to catch up with the wonderful group of girls for BrisStyle for a meet up. It was lovely to meet some new faces and to get together for lots of crafty talk. At one stage the room was just humming.

Amanda from Twinkle Star Art also brought along a present I had purchased from her for Miss Tayla for her upcoming birthday. The print is currently hiding at my Mum's place as I have a few sticky beaks who might spy it before the big day. It is just beautiful.

We were lucky enough to go around to the wonderful Funky Fabrix store after lunch. What an amazing range of fabrics. I picked up some new ones to add to my currently depleted stash. All of the ones below except the pippijoe black and white print I purchased from Funky Fabrix.

Then Saturday night it was off to Tara Thai in the Valley with the girls from work for a very yummy dinner with much laughter and just a few drinks.

On Sunday morning I headed off to the Boutique Markets at Portside to partake in a grand amount of handmade loveliness. It was the first time I had managed to take a peek at this wonderful market. I had so much fun chatting to many of the BrisStyle girls and Thea from Thea & Sami.

This is the very fun shirt I brought from Thea for Miss Cait. It is so soft and the print is so cute. I just hope that she shares with me.

A friend's daughter has just turned 16. I wanted to get her something little but special also. It a world that is so gadget orientated it is not always easy to find a gift that fits that bill. But Little Jane St had the perfect gift that I had been looking for. This little paper garland is made out of recycled story book paper. Now I'm pretty sure this lovely 16 year old doesn't have one of these.

Etsy Ekka Extravaganza!

2009-08-10T06:47:00.004+10:00

Yay, it's Ekka time again in Brisbane. To celebrate the BrisStyle team are having a massive sale. A perfect way to celebrate the goodness of the Ekka, save some cash and avoid the crowds by shopping at home. To see the BrisStyle contingent that is participating go to here.

Making

2009-08-03T13:08:00.011+10:00

A new fretwork bag from Thea & Sami's most wonderful fabric. I adore this print so much. The last bag I made with this fabric was given to a very dear friend for her 40th birthday. Thea was so generous with her time when I ordered several metres of this fabric the other week. It was printed super quick at a time when she was busy moving studios. Just beautiful!

Little no sew envelopes from this pattern. So much fun.

Yummy bread rolls. The recipe can be found here. This recipe turns out so well. I cooked some up yesterday for lunch when I had five children to feed. It was the first time there was silence all day. Warm, sweet straight out of the oven goodness. I had mine with butter and strawberry jam. Sorry no pics of the finished product as no one would wait long enough.

I have also signed up to SoopSee. I really like the idea of having my etsy shop, blog and bits and pieces together. This is the link to Little Mary Moo's Place. Shall see how it goes.

Hand Written

2009-07-30T05:32:00.007+10:00

With all the electronic communication that we use now it makes the few hand written notes I receive just that little bit more special. A few weeks ago after a ten hour shift I came home on a very cold night to an extremely lovely hand written note from an etsy customer. What a lovely surprise! She was thanking me for a purse that she had brought. I was so chuffed that someone would take the time and effort to send me a thank you note. I get such pleasure from selling my wares on etsy and this was just so unexpected and so special.

Above is another hand written note I received the other week from my youngest. Out of the three girls, Moo is the one that loves to sew the most. I was in my room one morning when I received the above note (please excuse the seven year old spelling attempts). Moo had been sewing a bag and had gone just a little crooked on the seam. Miss perfectionist was not happy at all. There taped to this note was the little bag itself. So I introduced Moo to the pleasures of the seam ripper along with the need to mutter bugger, damn, crap while unpicking. This note makes me smile every time I see it, so it is now being used as my bookmark.

Loving

2009-07-22T16:06:00.010+10:00

I love the new fabric I received from Western Australia designer of paper and thread. I really adore the red trees on the cream hemp/cotton blend. Just so lovely to work with. This is all the sewing I've gotten done in two days as the littlest moo has a real yucky virus that has induced tears on a very regular basis. So I've been subjected to spending my days off watching the High School Musical trilogy with the wee one.

This week I was also very lucky to receive a beautiful order from Thea & Sami but more to come on that another day when my brain isn't humming along to cheesy lyrics.

Library Tote

2009-07-19T11:20:00.003+10:00

The Ruby Swirl Library Tote is in my etsy shop now. The panel is the swirl textile range from Hollabee. I have had this fabric in my stash for the longest time. It is so pretty that it took me ages to make a decision as to what I wanted to do with it. I am really please with how it came together. I still have plenty left. It has such a lovely texture that I would love to make a bag with pleats in it. So stay tuned in about a years time I should have made a decision.

On another wee note I read a very silly article this week stating that plastic bags are better for us than reusable bags because of the germ factor. Hmmm a bit of clutching at straws I think. I was so cross I just skimmed over the article. Ok so on that note, buy a shopping bag you can wash and hang out in the sun on a regular basis. Germ factor all fixed.

Birds of a Feather

2009-07-11T06:13:00.005+10:00

Now where did those two weeks of school holidays go! I managed to do a little bit of sewing with the girls. We used the bird pattern from Spool. It can be found here. I know this pattern has done the full rounds of the blogs but I couldn't resist giving it a whirl. I have never made a softie before so it was nice to step out of my comfort zone. The flickr group has a much better representation of the birds than I have. My birds just hang out on the rail on the blinds above my sewing table but some very talented sewers have made the most amazing set ups to show their birds off.

There is one bird for each of us at the moment. Apparently I am the yellow apple one. You can see this is the one that is a bit saggy, droopy and a little tired looking. Now I wonder why I got assigned to this one. Thanks girls. On a little side note the birds have been stuffed with appropriate stuffing this time unlike previous sewing adventures at Little Mary Moo's Place. Have a lovely weekend.

Sweet Front Page

2009-07-08T16:40:00.002+10:00

(Image from here)

My Sweet Mustard Organic Seeds purse made it to the front page. Huge thank you to this lovely Brisbane girl for letting me know. The fabric used in this purse is from the very beautiful hand screen printed Seeds range by Hollabee from Ink & Spindle. This colour way is beautiful. I love how it is a little different from what is traditionally available. Happy Days.

Feeling Hungry

2009-07-08T07:01:00.007+10:00

"In February 2009 Victoria was victim to the worst bushfires on record, which wiped out entire communities, caused 173 deaths and left thousands without homes or shelter.

The Handmade Help Recipe Book evolved as part of handmadehelpsout.blogspot.comby a group of crafters and artists who wanted to contribute to the recovery effort.

The result is a truly international cookbook, packed with treasured recipes and family favourites, donated by people across the globe who wanted to help including well-known chefs such as Margaret Fulton, Allan Campion and Michele Curtis.

All proceeds from sales of the recipe book will be donated to the Salvation Army."

(Text and Picture from here)

I got my pdf version of this cookbook and I have to say there are some very, very yummy recipes. I love the idea of downloading the cookbook as I usually make such a mess of my hard copy ones. I have only gotten as far as the sweet section in my looking though. So if you too would like a fab cookbook that supports such a great cause go to here.

Well, the girls and two of their friends an I are off to go ice skating today. I have never been before, so I'm hoping that I come home with all limbs intact. Have a lovely day all!

The Amazing BIDM

2009-07-05T09:42:00.032+10:00

The BrisStyle girls totally out did themselves at the markets on Saturday. I hope everyone of them is so very proud of the fantastic effort they put in. All the stalls showcased classy, original, well made, beautiful handmade Brisbane goodness. Well done to you all and a huge thank you for allowing me the pleasure of shopping at such a wonderful market. Below is some pictures of the some of the beautiful goodies I picked up.

This is the beautiful bag that I brought from Beckybean. I have loved this bag for ages. I even took it out with me on Saturday night after I brought it. It makes me feel like a real girl. These sisters again were a real hit (no surprises there) but apparently it was their Dad who too took Brisbane by storm with his great wooden buttons.

The two delightful items above are from Made by Maisie. Jessie, the doll, is for my middle daughter for her birthday in August and the little pincushion is for me. As you can see, I have already started to use the pincushion. It is perfect, just the right size, is stuffed tightly enough to hold the pins at a good angle and sits on its bottom perfectly. I love how the dolls have their dresses sewn as part of the doll. My girls have a thing for undressing their dolls and taking off their beautiful clothes and often loosing them. No worries with a Made by Maisie doll.

The sweet cat collar above is from PretaPawte. Now I don't have a cat at the moment but I live in hope that we will find the perfect kitten in the not so distant feature. Now I can have a dog and cat in matching collars. But I'm kind of thinking that is a little strange but I do love the red star fabric.

The lovely earrings and hair ties are from My Girl Design. This stall was so sweet. There was three of the best little shop keepers too. Thank you girls for your wonderful service.

Wow, Up In Annies Room was hot. There was a fair amount of jostling to get a look in at this stall (but it was well worth it). I did also buy a Scrabble tile from here too but it as found a new home already.

I had the most lovely time at hot toffee's stall. All of her jewellery is beautiful. Classic yet a little pretty too. I brought these earrings for Miss Cait. I did have plans of saving them for Christmas but I have no self control and they are being worn as I type.

The purses and hot pack are from Bubba Chenille. This stall was amazing and I'm glad I didn't leave it too long to call back and make my purchases. The hot pack reminds me of the bedspread I had as a child. Mmmm good memories there. The little purses are perfect for the girls. They have a neat little metal clip on the top, so I will be able to pin them into their school bags so they can keep their ice block money safe and sound.

Badges for me from Miss Kitty Boo Boo. So sweet and will be perfect for my lanyard at work.

Spinning tops from the most lovely Eliza from Elvenhair. Oh my gosh, these are so much fun. A friend came over for afternoon tea on Saturday afternoon and these didn't stop on the table. But you know I really did buy them for the girls and occasionally I share.

A beautiful pencil holder for Miss Tayla's birthday from Wicked Child Designs. Perfect!

A fabric panel from Red Seed Studio. I have such a hard time resisting hand screen printed fabric, especially in red.

Another beautiful ring from Ruby2GoGo. I love these rings so much. This one is perfect as it goes with my much worn black cardigan over winter.

Last but certainly not least, this beautiful dress from Hot Fudge. I have had my eye on this dress for the longest time. It looks so lovely on the Littlest Moo. Who can go past red and denim.

I did also buy some goodies from Raspberry Pink, Lauren even sold me the ring off her finger. Too funny. Thanks heaps. The turtle ring is much loved and hasn't been taken off the recipient's finger.

Thank you again to all the wonderful BrisStyle girls for making this the most enjoyable day. To all those too that I ran out of money to buy from, I did have a lovely time oohing and ahhing over your beautiful wares. It was great to see them in person. I have many on my list for the next markets.

Full Steam Ahead

2009-07-04T05:57:00.004+10:00

Hooray, a week of crafting has been had. Well little snatches of crafty time may be a better description. Above is a new purse made with the seeds range by Hollabee from Ink & Spindle. I love this colour way and the fabric texture stood up really nicely with some interfacing and the structure of the purse.

Above is a new bag I made for me. I wanted a bigger bag to take to the BrisStyle Markets as I have a feeling I may make a few purchases. I also needed a new bag to take to work on the train to fit my lunch, a jumper, book and all the other essential crapola. I was over lugging two bags with me, so this was my solution. I used the seeds range again from Hollabee. I adore the charcoal colour way and it goes so well with the black denim.

Ok, so I may have been a little slower then usual on the crafting front but I did go and source myself a new sewing table. It is huge 1.5 m square, so there is plenty of room for us all to sit and create. More often then not most the chairs and stools in the house find there way to position around it. I picked it up at a seconds store and because it has a crack 1/3 of the way down, the table didn't cost much at all. But I don't mind about the crack. Some things that are a little broken turn out to be our most treasured. I'm thinking about just gluing a tape measure along the crack to cover it up, hmmm what do you think? So with the new table, the dining table is now free. I thought this would mean more space for actual meals but I was wrong. The sewing machine might now how its own space but the dining room table is now just space for more crafting. Oh well, more inside picnics and eating at the bench to come.

Have a lovely weekend all!

The Best Place To Be This Weekend

2009-07-03T19:00:00.003+10:00

Now could there be any better place to go tomorrow! I am so excited about the BrisStyle Market. Going on the success of the last BrisStyle Market, I'm sure this one could be equally if not more fantastic. No stall for me this time but I am going to get a head start on my Christmas shopping this year. There will be plenty of handmade goodness to get me well on my way to being organised for once. I wish all the stall holders the best of luck (they won't need it though because all their stalls will be beautiful for sure).

Simple Lessons

2009-06-23T12:14:00.002+10:00

(image from here)

There is so much about this to love and so much in it that I need to aspire to. Feeling a little lost with the lack of crafting in my life for a little while but this is just what I needed to read to brighten my day. Happy day to all the crafty blogging community!

Just For Fun

2009-05-27T11:00:00.008+10:00

I have been very slow on the sewing front of late. It was nice to do a little sewing last week just for fun. This is the padded Nintendo ds case that I made for Cait. I was able to use up some of my scraps which I was really pleased with. Super easy and quick. I really liked how the little "cookie" looks on the front. I was a little naughty and cheated with the Velcro closure instead of doing it properly and putting in a clasp. Oh well, can't do it all.

What to Do

2009-05-21T05:54:00.002+10:00

(Image from here)

So poor old Brisbane was very, very wet yesterday. In celebration of the torrential rain I brought this little pendent from Rain Cloud Studio. Super cute. My delemar today is whether work or school will be going ahead. I got a wee bit of a panicked phone call at 11.30 yesterday from the girl's school that it was going under and they were evacuating. So much excitement to be had. The tuckshop ladies even made sure the kids got their tuckshop orders before they evacuated, how sweet is that. As I was leaving the Principal was saying that school may not be on tomorrow. Littlest Moo is adamant that there is no school on (hm wishful thinking maybe). So do we get ready for school and work and chance it or stay in bed for the day? It has stopped raining now so I'm kind of thinking it will all be on.

Treasures in the Mail

2009-05-19T16:31:00.005+10:00

I got home from work last night to very excitedly find this beautiful pendant from the very talented Eliza from ElvenHair waiting for me in the mail. It was all specially wrapped up. I love the colours in the wood. Eliza is raising funds for her very sweet medical assistant dog Gem who needs an operation on her leg. So it is well worth the effort to buy some lovely wooden treasures and support such a wonderful couple.

It has been poring rain here today so I've had the time to finish of this bag for a lovely BrisStyle girl. It has been a lovely day of cubbies, pancakes, pizza and sewing. Life would be a dream if everyday could be so sweet.

The Upside of Insomnia

2009-05-07T09:26:00.004+10:00

Ok can someone please reset my body clock. I have the most awful habit of waking at 3 to 4 am at the moment. I am terrible at getting back to sleep, it takes me hours and by that time I have to get up and start the day anyway. There are a few upsides though. I like the darkness and quite of the house. A coffee in peace, while reading emails and checking out blog happenings. Also time to cut out patterns and fuse interfacing.

After the Stitches and Craft show I have had a surge of inspiration. I have done very little bag sewing this year but the Fretwork fabric by Brisbane boutique textile designer Thea & Sami was just needing to be turned into a messenger bag. I had this one all cut out and ready to go by 6 am yesterday morning. I love red and denim - I guess I have said that before though. I am so very happy with how this turned out. This bag was popped into my etsy shop this morning.

Mega Stitches and Craft Post

2009-05-04T09:37:00.022+10:00

Wow, what an incredible show this was. So fresh and vibrant. I adored the incubator section. Just fabulous. Not just because there were some very, very talented BrisStyle girls there but because it showcased such wonderful, original, Australian handmade goodness.

Of course I made a bee line for the sensational Ink & Spindle stand. It was so lovely to meet these three super talented girls. They were so warm and friendly. Definitely one of my highlights. It was wonderful to see all the fabrics in person. Some I haven't yet had the pleasure of seeing for myself except via the computer screen. Just beautiful. Above is the selection I was able to bring home for my stash. Thank you Ink & Spindle for my little extra too!

This is the little additions to my stash from Amitie Textiles. I love the vibrant orange in the prints. I picked the little animal one up for the girls to play with.

I was also lucky enough to finally get my hands on some of Thea & Sami's wonderful hand screen printed fabric. Thea & Sami is a small Brisbane textile design studio that print some of the most beautiful eco friendly textiles. I love the selection I picked out, especially the red. I think the red will go beautifully with an indigo denim I have in my stash at the moment.

It was also love to see Kristen Doran's fabric at the show. More hand screen printed goodness here too. I have never used this fabric before (but have wanted to for the longest time). I can't wait to start crafting with this lot above.

Well I couldn't pass up a stop by to see the fabulous Louise in Miffy's World. I had so much fun chatting to Louise and buying up some new clothes for the two little girls. They look so lovely in their new Miffy's World attire. I was also able to get some fab hair tie packs from Louise to sew up.

And wasn't I lucky to stop by at Ruby 2 Go Go and find these perfect matching scooter girl badges to go with the girl's new clothes. Hmmm have Louise and Helen been in cohoots? The girls adore the scooter girl badges, I will just have to be really careful they don't accidentally end up in the wash.

I was also very, very lucky to be the recipient of a Miffy's World apron. I love this apron so much. You know I have never worn an apron before but I am a true convert now. Thank you so much Louise for your generosity. Miffy's World rocks. Here the girls and I are this morning having a little fashion to do.

But wait - there's more. I also brought myself the must have T-Shirt Transfer for Ruby 2 Go Go. Just have to find the perfect shirt to compliment it now.

Last but not least look at the cool button ring I got from Ruby 2 Go Go. How fab is this. Made from vintage fabric and all. Just excuse my dry, pale, old lady looking hands which don't do this ring justice at all. I haven't brought myself a ring in years but I'm really loving wearing this one. I was also lucky enough to be around when the reconstructed fashion parade was on and catch the Beckybean bags taking pride of place on the runway. They were just beautiful.

Huge thanks to everyone at the show for all the effort and making it so much fun. Hope you are all enjoying a much deserved rest.

Busy Busy

2009-05-03T05:56:00.003+10:00

(photo from here)

I've been keeping myself busy making some little bits and pieces for this most wonderful shop. Tangled Yarns is a new shop in Newstead that stocks the most amazing range of yarns and so much other goodness that goes with handmade. To walk in here, you feel like you are walking into another world - one where handmade rules! The shop is so bright and airy and there is so much wonderful colour and texture that it is very hard to walk back out the door and go home, definitely not a shop you can just pop in and out of. So now I am so very lucky to have some purses and pencil cases from Little Mary Moo's Place stocked in Tangled Yarns. Hooray!

Off to the Stitches and Craft show today, can't believe that I've been able to make it as it is the last day of the show. More Hooray! There are so many BrisStyle girls that have been busy at the show and from the sounds of it they all have been a huge success but that comes as no surprise. I just hope that they have some of their handmade goods left for me to buy.

The other thing that has been keeping me hugely busy is my eldest Little Moo who has had gymnastics competitions the last two weekends. I have lived in a fog of glitter spray. I apologise in advance for the brag (not usually my style) but on such a very exciting note - she qualified for State Championships! She trains so hard and puts in so much effort it is nice to see it pay off and for there to be some icing on the cake. These girls are so brave. They get out there and do these amazing routines with judges watching every little thing and then they are given a score for it. I was also very impressed with the fantastic sportsmanship buy all the girls that were in her team. They all cheered each other on and were there with a shoulder to lean on when things weren't going so great. I have no photos of my own as my hand shakes to much - there is always a little part of me that wants to yell out "young lady you get down from there before you hurt yourself!" but luckily for everyone I don't. But there are photos here and here of her in action.

Visitors and More Goodness at Little Mary Moo's Place

2009-04-19T06:31:00.008+10:00

Look at the sweet little visitor we had at Little Mary Moo's Place last night. About seven o'clock Cait walked down the hall to her room and there peeking out from the internal door from the garage was this little fellow. When she called me to come and have a look at the frog in the house I thought she was pulling my leg as we have never even seen a green tree frog around let alone trying to hop down the hall. But there he was sitting there just like he'd been invited for a cup of tea.

After much oohing and or look isn't he so cute business from the four girls at Little Mary Moo's Place as well as a little bit of a flash photography session he decided to go and hide behind a folded up deck chair in the garage. Luckily he decided to jump onto the chair and I was able to carry him outside to the grass on the chair.

On a sewing note, Cait, my eldest made this very nifty purse over the holiday break. It has a very cool ipod pocket at the front constructed from a scrap of Pippijoe fabric. Cait made it all herself except the zipper.

On a very exciting note I received a wonderful gift over the week from Sydney Etsy seller Flower Press. I brought one of Flower Press's hand screen printed tea towels for a friend as a house warming present and Flower Press very generously sent me two tea towels that had been printed slightly off center to play with. How very lucky am I! These are so beautiful. Flower Press also has a wonderful blog that is well worth spending some time at.

Pretty in Pink

2009-04-18T19:44:00.004+10:00

So I've never been much of a pink girl but I do love the very sweet musk pink used in the textile designs from Of Paper and Thread and Lara Cameron. As Mother's Day is approaching I thought these might make a nice addition to my etsy shop.

This purse above is the Birch fabric from Lara Cameron. The colour way is an exclusive to Kelani Fabric. I love shopping at Kelani. The service is above excellent and Kelani has the most wonderful range of Australian textile designers.

Sewfest

2009-04-11T05:33:00.005+10:00

Yesterday was a full day of sewing. I made six purses and one laptop bag. The purse above with the red print (Pippijoe fabric) and the aqua blue bird purse (Lara Cameron fabric) are for my sister for her birthday. Mum and I are taking her out for lunch today. I am so looking forward to a lazy lunch with lots of yummy food and a good giggle and a much needed catch up. My brother in law has kindly offered to wrangle my children and my niece and nephew so we can really have a grown up lunch. Yay!

On another sewing note, a friend of mine has three girls as well who are all early teens. We share a lot of babysitting and always seem to be swapping kids back and forth but somehow it always seems to work. Her middle daughter who is 13 wanted to come over to my place and learn to make a bag on Thursday afternoon. Now this was the first afternoon of the holidays. I have to say I was pretty chuffed that she wanted to hang out with me and sew on her first afternoon of holiday freedom. Her two sisters were jibbing her that she wouldn't be able to make a bag as she is more sporty than crafty. Well she did a beautiful job. We kept it really simple, no pockets or clips or flaps but she made it all except the handle. A dark denim with a pretty pink stripe inside. It was so nice to see how happy she was to have something cute, unique and funky to use that she can can say she made herself. It is also nice to see handmade being cool in the teen age group.

(photo from etsy listing)

In truth all this sewing has just been a way to curtail my strong desire to pop on over to another BrisStyle shop - Wheres Beckybean to buy the Macchioto Shoulder Bag. I'm loving these bags made with recycled coffee sacks from Merlo coffee in Brisbane. The colours, the style, well really everything.

On another great BrisStyle note it is lovely to be able to go and hang out at the very fab new blog of Ruby 2 Go Go. This blog will sure to be a fave among many a crafty blog reader.

Happy Easter to all, may it be full of lots of chocolate and hot cross buns.

The Bug Has Bitten

2009-04-05T14:16:00.004+10:00

Well my esty store crafting has been brought to a little bit of a hault due to having to share the sewing machine. Little Moo has been totally bitten by the sewing bug. This was Little Moo at 7 am on this morning - Sunday and all fed and showered, teeth and hair done (this can be a wee bit of a battle) all so she could get back to the machine. So I think I have finally found my bribe.

Little Moo is into making pillows at the moment. For some reason this has also co insided with the decrease in the amount of toilet paper available in our house. Apparently toilet paper makes great stuffing because one can't wait for their Mum to make a trip to the shops to purchase some more appropriate means of stuffing a pillow.

I did however manage to edge my way onto the machine and make this little purse above. I've never used Pippijoe's Orchard fabric for a purse before just the bags. I have to say that I am quite please with how it has come together as a purse.

I Would Like

2009-03-29T06:53:00.003+10:00

(Image from here )

Isn't this the best door ever!

I Heart Saturdays

2009-03-28T17:33:00.007+10:00

Saturdays are for curling up on the floor when you are so tired from the week and having a lovely nap with the sun streaming in through the window. Poor Little Moo was too tired to even make it to her bed this afternoon. (excuse the blurry image but you never want to wake a sleeping child)

I also have had lots and lots of fun playing with the wonderful Birch fabric by Lara Cameron. It has been so lovely to see the success of Lara and the girls at Ink and Spindle. We really are so lucky in Australia to have such talented textile designers.

I love the deep red in the screen print and how it co-ordinates with the black/gray denim. It has been at least six weeks since I have sewn a bag and this was such a lovely way to get back into it. I'm still trying to find a place that I like to take my photos in my new house. I have to say that I am struggling with this some what and I am not altogether happy with the light. I'm sure I'll work it out in time. But for now this bag has taken up home in my etsy shop.

My sister's 40th Birthday is just around the corner. I was really struggling with something to get her that she didn't have and that she might use and enjoy. I ordered her some of these lovely Moo Postcards last week. They have her address on the back for when she sends them out. I love all these prints and I hope she is happy with them. There is nothing more exciting then opening the mail box to see something just for you (that isn't a bill!). These prints are so sweet and I'm sure she will go on to make her friends and family very happy when she sends them off.

Mixed Bag

2009-03-21T16:17:00.007+10:00

Finally managed to get a photo of Lilly wearing her very fab collar from Pret a pawte.

This was not an easy task so you will have to excuse the head in the bucket pic but it was the only time she would be still enough to get a decent shot without her fur covering the collar. I have to say that she does look quite smashing and it is the only collar she has ever been happy enough to wear and keep on.

On a much sadder note Little Mary Moo's Place Employee of the Month for January, Oscar the cat passed away very suddenly. We all miss him very much. I miss having him come and sew with me and steal my bobbins - he did love to wrangle more than the odd bobbin. Silly how they become such a comforting part of daily life. We got Oscar from the RSPCA as a kitten just over three years ago when life was a little bit tough and we all needed some fun and laughter and boy did he deliver.

Yay!

2009-03-19T06:01:00.004+10:00

What a nice surprise to wake up and find my Crafty Cookies Purse has been hanging out with such lovely handmade goods on the front page of etsy.

Saturday Afternoon Sewing

2009-03-14T18:00:00.004+10:00

This purse has just been added to my etsy shop. It is made from wonderful hand screen printed fabric from Lara Cameron. I love the sweet little birds on their birch branches on the deep chocolate fabric. The texture of this fabric is just beautiful to sew with too. I'm sure there will be more of these little gems to come.

Life's Hard At Little Mary Moo's Place (As told by Lilly)

2009-03-10T12:03:00.005+10:00

What a terrible morning I've had. I was sound asleep after having a hard morning being hydro bathed and chasing the cat and that bossy lady who lives inside woke me up. She told me that deck chairs aren't for dogs. Honestly she expected me to sleep on that dog bed after all that pampering. (I'm not really a dog you know - just a person caught up in a dog body). Deck chairs are after all the perfect fit for a big Golden Retriever.

Then the bossy lady told me that she had planned to sit on this chair with a steaming hot cup of tea to enjoy the cooling cyclonic breezes. "Really? I think you must be joking" I said.

So then when the bossy lady again told me to get my furry but off the chair with a little enticement from a smacko I decided I best oblige. She did after all buy me a new collar from this cool BrisStyle etsy shop. (You know these collars are soon to be stocked in a boutique in New York! How lucky am I.) I am so looking forward to the collar arriving in the mail that I make sure I bark extra loud at the post man everyday.

Starting to Feel Like Home

2009-03-08T18:31:00.004+10:00

Today I finally got to dig my sewing machine out and make these two little gems for my etsy shop. I have a beautiful place to sew with huge windows on three sides of the room. Lots of lovely natural light. Nice to get some normality back into life.

Admiration

2009-03-08T06:03:00.003+10:00

The above print is from Dazey Chic's illustration and mixed media etsy shop Studio Mela. I do love this shop very much. The simplicity of the designs are just lovely and the reason I haven't brought any yet is that I am terrible at making decisions and there are so many prints to admire in this shop. Dazey Chic's blog is also worth a peek at.

Due to life changing so rapidly at the moment I've had a bit of a rethink of my etsy shop and where my focus will lie. For the time being I think I will head towards making the purses/pouches made mainly with independent Australian Textile designer's fabric. They are achievable in a shorter time frame than the bags and are really the most popular of the lot. I still want to keep the momentum going and get my etsy shop to fit in with everything else. This is not to say that I will not make bags at all but that I will have to shift priorities. So stay tuned!

Saturday Afternoon Catch Up

2009-03-07T17:28:00.005+10:00

I have had a lovely afternoon catching up with some of the great crafty and design blogs that I haven't had a chance to hang out at for some time. So over I popped to Whip Up and there was this great tutorial from Clever Girl.

The tutorial is how to refashion a men's shirt into this fab women's shirt. How cute would one of these look with some jeans as the cooler months ebb in.

(photos from Whip Up )

Super Girl

2009-03-07T15:14:00.007+10:00

Back in January I blogged about my dilemmas photographing my eldest on the trampoline in this post. Maybe choosing an easier subject would be a solution but I do really enjoying watching Cait and it is a challenge to photograph her doing something she loves so much. This clever BrisStyle girl gave me the idea of hopping up on the trampoline with her but to be honest I haven't been quite brave enough to (working on the whole brave thing). But this is the latest photo that was the best of the last session.

The lovely Cait is super in more than her ability to fly. I know I'm biased being her Mum and all but she really is a great kid. I took the littlest Moo out for a few hours this morning while Cait stayed at home with my Mum and I came home to this note:

"Dear Mum,

I have cleaned all three rooms, washed the dishes, cleaned the fridge, kitchen, art corner, pantry, tea area, fish and skool bag area, both bathrooms, your room"

God Bless her cotton socks. All without being asked and everything. How very spoilt am I.

Peace and Happiness

2009-03-06T05:23:00.003+10:00

Are you too looking for some peace and happiness in your life. Take yourself for a peek at Hey Harriet's TtV (through the view finder) photos in her wonderful etsy shop. Just amazing. There has been some very recent additions of some fab seagulls that are sure to give you a giggle and take you to sitting on the beach with hot chips burning your lap. Wish I was there. I brought the two above photos just before I moved and I adore them. Hey Harriet explains the whole TtV business better than I ever could so I leave it to you to read.

Peace and Happiness are two things that seem a little far off for now. Not enough hours in the day and all that crapola. Then again compared to many in the world my life is full of peace and happiness. Just wish my bones didn't ache with the tiredness off it all. Maybe if I wasn't so stupid and do stupid things like put my coffee cup three quarters full on the uneven part of the lounge I wouldn't have quite as much work to do. Oh well the stain will probably just blend in to all the others to get the lived in look - right?

Back on Board

2009-03-05T13:12:00.005+10:00

So the best thing about moving has to be the plethora of large boxes to play in doesn't it! The park around the corner has a huge grassy hill that the girls have been begging to slide down on the flattened boxes. Well that sure is one good way to reuse and recycle.

All moved, done and dusted. I still have about 10 boxes left to organise and a very messy garage but I am nearly sorted. Most importantly the fabric stash has been given a brand new home. I can't wait to sit and sew and look after my neglected etsy shop again. I really miss it now.

Looking for something fun to do? Head on over the fab BrisStyle blog for a wonderful giveaway.

Little Bit of a Break

2009-02-07T15:12:00.001+10:00

Due to moving house and all the excitement that goes with it, this little blog will be having a temporary holiday.

Grateful Day 10

2009-02-03T19:07:00.004+10:00

Grateful for the challenge of making something new and making someone happy. Wish I'd had a nappy bag like this. This person deserves so much happiness and I hope this year turns out to be all that she hopes for.

Grateful Day 9

2009-02-01T17:25:00.003+10:00

Sunday afternoon ice cream vans that deliver the drippiest ice cream ever. I still get excited when I here Greensleves.

Grateful Day 8

2009-02-01T07:17:00.002+10:00

This is really yesterday's post but my badly behaved Internet connection wouldn't play nicely. I'm grateful for not the clock (even thought it is cute) but for time. It always seems as if there isn't enough, too much, time goes to fast or it goes to slow. In the end it is just what it is. Enjoy it!

If You Dare

2009-01-30T15:05:00.004+10:00

OK, I understand this is not in the spirit of being grateful or handmade fabric loveliness. But I'm more than a little cross. Becoming a mother didn't mean I became a brainless twit or did it?

Grateful Day 7

2009-01-30T12:57:00.002+10:00

I'm grateful that this chick lives at my house. Her name is Lisa and she was handcrafted by the super talented Made by Maisie. Will lovely dolls, toys and clothes of this nature still be around in the future with the CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act)? I admit I don't know very much about all the issues related to CPSIA. There is a cool post here and another here. I hope there is a solution for all the sellers of handmade children's items in the near future.

There is a swing horse that is under my Mum's house. It was built by the builder who built her Mother and Father's house in Wilston in the 1930's out of scraps left over from the house. This horse has been loved and ridden on by three generations and I'm sure there will be future generations who enjoy it just as much. That's true handmade product testing.

Grateful Day 6

2009-01-29T19:53:00.002+10:00

I'm grateful to have these pair of shoes. I'm not really a shoe girl - more a handbag one, fancy that. These are my favourite pair of shoes. They are so comfortable and a little funky. So do you live in Brisbane and are looking for a great pair of shoes? Go and check out Children of the Revolution in Adelaide St. Unreal service and such a fab range of great quality, unique comfortable shoes that last (which is great if like me you don't buy many).

Grateful Day 5

2009-01-28T11:58:00.004+10:00

I'm grateful that my girls can see materials as one thing and make them into another. Some of you who do know my little etsy shop know I have a love for Pippijoe's Orchard fabric. When I cut this fabric, I try to use every bit I possibly can. I hate throwing away even the smallest bit. The artwork on this fabric is so unique and engaging it seems such a shame for any of it to go to waste. Recently I did have to cut these small strips to fit the pattern square on a bag. Well they were pounced on by Little Moo. I think she has been just waiting to get her hands on some. So with much excitement with her treasured gift she busily set about creating wrist bands with the left overs and good old Velcro. Sweet. Apparently they even have special powers or so says Little Moo. I wonder if that includes getting children to brush their teeth and eat their vegetables?

While the cats away

2009-01-27T19:52:00.003+10:00

Ok so the girls were all off to school today, so lucky me was able to hang out with these lads working on a very special project. The skipping boys are from Sprout Design. If you'd like some of these lads too to hang out with you can find them here.

I love the vibrant red in the ink and the happy, smiling faces on the boys. So much fun.

Grateful Day 4

2009-01-27T19:40:00.002+10:00

Of course back to school. Grateful I caught their funny, cheesy grins. Missed the noise and the chatter but they caught up on all of that as they came in the door. Happy back to school for all the kids and of course all the Mums and Dads.

Grateful Day 3

2009-01-26T06:26:00.003+10:00

This little guy came and sat on my deck this morning. What could be nicer on Australia Day. He was even polite enough to sit there while I went and changed my lens so I could get a closer shot. Happy Australia Day everyone. I am grateful that I live in this great country, with such beautiful wildlife.

Grateful Day 2

2009-01-25T07:40:00.003+10:00

Today I was grateful to wake up to a wet, rainy morning. It has been so dry that the grass was crackling. This was what it looked like standing on my front veranda. The rain has stopped now but I do hope there is a little more to come (it makes for good sewing weather).

Ho Hum

2009-01-24T12:11:00.009+10:00

School holidays are nearly over. I am not a happy camper when getting all the back to school crapola ready. I really should have home schooled the girls except for the fact that a: I am severely lacking in the patience department b: I do have to earn some money from an outside income c: fabric shopping, hanging out at the library, swimming and the likes doesn't count as a full education. The theory of it all is very cool but I know the reality of my limitations.

I know I should be positive and embrace the back to school thing but I am a little over it all. Honestly there has been over 60 books between them! OMG when are they going to bring in laptops for every child and save the likes of me from impending doom under a pile of brown paper and revolting contact. It's not to much to ask is it? Just think of all the trees. Maybe they could go all retro and go back to using a slate. I did have dreams of being well behaved and neatly decorating all their books but now they will have to be happy with their name printed on them.

I thought I would be clever and use so of the wrapping paper that came in an issue of Frankie for my eldest in year 6 to cover some of her note pads. But oops when I had the books all covered I realised that the pictures may be a little inappropriate for the year six preteen age group as the girls on the wrapping paper all have their nipples drawn in. I can see all the giggles and blushing now. Oh bugger it, I'm sure I'll get called to the principals office if there is a problem. I should except the fact that I'm not clever and trying to be is really a recipe for disaster.

The one true bit of coolness I did find in this whole back to school shmozal is these very, very fab free Aunty Cookie bags tags. Go check them out here.

So as part of my minor grumps I've decided it is time to start my 365 days of grateful. Above is my picture for today. I am utterly grateful that I only have this box left to complete of my torture. I promise the next picture will be something much more interesting.

Yay!

2009-01-23T14:59:00.001+10:00

I was lucky enough to have my Organic Teal Seeds purse on the front page the other day. I was very spoilt to have it amongst such great items.

Requests

2009-01-23T06:19:00.003+10:00

I love getting custom requests through etsy. The bag above is a library tote that I finished yesterday for a very loyal and super lovely customer. I love working with this customer so much. She is always so polite, kind and supportive. She knows what she likes but leaves me enough creative freedom to work with. The design for the bag above is one that she essentially came up with herself. I am really happy with how it came together.

I have another request that I am working on at the moment but it is a new design and a little bit of secret squirrel business. All I can say that this request has been very special and fingers crossed that it turns out to be just what has been dreamt of.

Great Day Out

2009-01-20T13:53:00.006+10:00

On Sunday my eldest daughter Cait and I went off to Southbank for the Baby and Kids market. There was plenty of people out and about and we did a little oohing and ahhing. Fellow BrisStyler Salt Sea Tees had a fab set up. I love these swimmers and next year when the girls are due for new togs, this is the etsy store I will be going to. They are sunsafe, in great colours (good for kid spotting at a busy pool or beach) and have very cool designs on them. After loving Salt Sea Tees we went down through this pleasant crowd:

and found ourselves here:

Mimoo another BrisStyler was at the markets selling her very beautiful baby items. Handmade, fresh and very original. These were the goods to buy. Mimoo certainly was one of the hot stalls to shop at.

So after all the excitement of the markets, Cait and I headed over to the convention centre for the Lifeline bookfest. Oh boy was this fun. We spent hours going through all the books and found some real gems. Above is one of my faves. It is older than I am but very cool. There is even a pattern in here to sew an Alpaca Sweater "this sweater can be made for a man or a woman, and it makes a great golf sweater". I just need to find myself an Alpaca and learn to play golf. Playing golf for me is probably going to be harder than finding an Alpaca because the thought of chasing a little ball around a big green hilly, watery paddock does my head in. Maybe being in Brisbane I could just give the Alpaca sweater a miss.

There were so many people at the bookfest just enjoying the whole shhbang. The best bit was seeing so many bookfesters sitting along the sides of the halls engrosed reading their finds. I so wanted to take a picture but I was afraid I would look like a wee bit of a dill.

Go Outside and Play

2009-01-18T05:52:00.002+10:00

I have to confess that we are probably one of the few families that don't own a huge television and a fang dangle gaming console. Not that these are something I don't believe in but they just are something that doesn't figure into our lives. We did however get a new, bigger trampoline for Christmas. It saves my sanity. Yesterday when the cool change came through, I took my camera downstairs and this is the result:

Miss Cait never stops long enough to get a full frame capture (or maybe that's my lack of photography skills)

Little Moo's sticking her tongue to the side is a very important element in her jumps.

A very windswept Miss Tayla.

Love Is....

2009-01-16T18:37:00.001+10:00

Love is a morining nap in the sun with your best friend and teddy.

Newbies

2009-01-16T07:19:00.003+10:00

These two purses are now in my etsy shop. I finally purchased some fabric from Ink & Spindle. Both of the fabrics are from Hollabee. I do adore the textiles that are being created at Ink & Spindle and I am sure we will see many exciting and original designs come from here. It has been very interesting watching the progress of Ink & Spindle. Pop on over to their blog for a fantastic insight into some extremely talented Australian textile designers.

Little Mary Moo's Place Employee of The Month

2009-01-15T14:34:00.002+10:00

Look who snuck up on the table yesterday and made himself a wee bit comfortable. Oscar was just taking a rest from his bobbin wrangling (yes, he does adore chasing bobbins and has been known to slobber all over a newly wound bobbin). Honestly it is very hard to get good help.

Bookfesting

2009-01-15T11:02:00.003+10:00

(image taken from here)

Can you feel the excitement!!! I LOVE the Lifeline Bookfest. This is were the girls and I will be heading this weekend. I'm lucky that I have to catch the train to and from because it curtails my minor book addiction. Having to carry them all home limits the amount I actually buy - which is a good thing as I am running out of space for all my books. I can't wait to find for some treasured reads.

Fabulous Fun

2009-01-14T16:52:00.003+10:00

Yesterday I took the girls and my Mum to the State Library to see 31 Circus Acts in 30 Minutes. Oh my this was so much fun. It was fast, funny and very entertaining. The performers were all hugely talented and put on such a great show. The performance went so fast and was so great there was no time for boredom or fidgets. Its on till the 25th of January, so don't miss out.

There was heaps of fun activities after woulds at the State Library all with the circus theme. The girls made crowns and took part in a Grand Parade. We also tried our hands at juggling and plate spinning. There was also hula hooping but to maintain my eldests non embarrassing Mum status I left that activity for the kids.

Talking of my eldest, she turns 11 next month. (Oh my the teenage years are around the corner). How can my little one be this old! She originally asked for a sleepover party with 12 friends. OMG, OMG, OMG. I have managed to talk her down to Sunday afternoon tea instead. How I ever did that I don't know. Holly molly I think I would need to take some prescription medicine to deal with a sleepover party. We have however decided to order a cake from the The Cupcake Company. Below is a picture of one of their creations. I'm a crap baker, I've tried and failed on many an occasion. So hand it over to the experts I say.

(Photo from The Cupcake Company blog)

I am going to make a little purse for each of the party attendees. Any ideas of cute, fun, easy to make and of course cool goodies to put inside would be greatly appreciated.

Handmade Fanatic

2009-01-12T09:32:00.003+10:00

I think I've created a monster. Above is picture of my youngest who is becoming a wee bit of a handmade snob. While going through her Christmas presents she picked up a headband my Mum (know as Mama to the girls) gave her. She turned around a said "oh good, I think this is a handmade headband Mama gave me". Ha, too funny. This is the same child that at the end of the school year took a bag to school that she had hand sewn and took several orders from the other year ones. Nothing like a little enterprise.

The three girls all think its a bit of a great joke Made by Miffy's flyer that she gave us that said "Mall is a four letter word". The two little girls don't quite understand by my eldest gets a real kick out of it. It's great to see the next generation on handmade makers and consumers.

Very Exciting News

2009-01-11T15:47:00.004+10:00

I have been so very fortunate through etsy, BrisStyle and blogging to meet some of the most wonderful people, be given some amazing support and I have been exposed to some great opportunities. One extraordinary opportunity I have been given is from the new website Style Collective. This site is just amazing and I'm sure to spend quite a wee while exploring all the great stuff that is on offer here. The amount of work that would of gone into this would have been phenomenal.

You can read my interview here. You can also find me in the Indie Shopping Directory. You will also find a few other BrisStylers there such as Made by Miffy and Ogekko. There are some other wonderful etsy shops in the directory and well worth the time to explore.