Shop Handmade Canberra

Shop Handmade Canberra blog has moved!

2010-07-23T08:14:00.004+10:00

Shop Handmade Canberra blog has moved!

Now contained within the main Handmade Canberra blog, you can still enjoy your regular Shop posts, as well as Handmade Market posts and Handmade Press posts, all in one tidy spot.

Just head to the Handmade Canberra main blog and start perusing. At the top of the main blog you'll see buttons that will bring up all Shop posts, so get clicking and see you there and make sure you follow or subscribe!

The Handmade Canberra Team

x

Just Arrived In Store... gingerbread cookies!

2010-07-22T18:41:00.004+10:00

Gingerbread delights in store at Shop right now - don't miss out, there's already not many left! Just divinely decorated and so delicious. How can you resist a bite?

handmade living. - THE COVER!

2010-07-20T14:30:00.001+10:00

We are thrilled to showcase the final book cover for handmade living. - we hope you agree it looks amazing! and certainly incorporates all of the splendour contained within. As we finalise and proof pages, releasing this cover is an emotional and very exciting time for us all.

Enjoy this fabulous cover and don't forget - you can pre-order copies for family and friends now on the Handmade Canberra website.

Hurrah!

handmade living.... the cover is nigh!

2010-07-20T08:40:00.003+10:00

After many hundreds of hours working on the book, Julie, Tania and Tina have actually decided on a gorgeous cover for handmade living. Just wait til you see it - any day now...

And on even more exciting news... handmade living. will actually be available for pre-order at Shop! That's right, you can drop into Shop and pre-order your very own copy. With the enormous interest already being shown in this book, it might be wise to secure a copy or two now, and the first 200 orders will receive a signed edition!

In the meantime, stayed tuned for a cover peek...

Lisa's Pick of the Month, July

2010-07-16T07:05:00.003+10:00

What's your pick?
Boy leg briefs with wide lace trim, $16

Who designed it?
Anna Stockel

Why do you love it?
These knickers are so pretty, but not too sexy and a wonderful wearable cut. In comfy cotton lycra and a delicious range of colours, this style of knickers are comfort gone stylish. Available in sizes 8 to 18, you're sure to get a perfect fit.

Perfect for...
Every day, worn with anything. And also perfect for unexpected moments which result in surprise knicker viewing!

New Look Handmade Canberra Website

2010-07-14T05:26:00.003+10:00

Have you taken a peek at the stunning new look Handmade Canberra website? You might just notice some changes. The astoundingly dedicated and super stylish Julie Nichols has been hard at work creating this amazing new site, with links to designer information and blogs a breeze.

Combining the Market, the Shop and the Book under one new title - Handmade Canberra - the website look has been designed by the über talented Tina Snerling, and this whole new layout has been specially recreated by Julie to make it easier to navigate and access information throughout the Handmade three-part empire!

Great work, Julie! Love it!

Shop Handmade UK

2010-07-12T15:02:00.001+10:00

A big hello back to you Belinda at Shop Handmade UK for her lovely blog post about her visit to Shop Handmade Canberra.

www.shophandmade.co.uk is the UK's largest directory of UK based artists, designers and makers of quality handmade goods. Their aim is to promote the artists, designers and makers listed on the directory and the benefits of buying handmade. In addition to promoting UK based handmade designers.

How very cool is that? Maybe we should do a Shop Handmade in the UK full of Australian designers.....

Tania's Pick of the Month, July

2010-07-08T08:20:00.003+10:00

What's your pick?
Rose and Swallows necklace, $75

Who designed it?
Rockstars and Royalty

Why do you love it?
Harbouring a life-long desire for a tattoo and never being able to commit to a design(!), this tattoo-like necklace is my next best option. I love its combined royal sweetness and rockstar edge.

Perfect for...
Wearing with something conservative like a crisp white shirt, tweed skirt and pumps, just to confuse people.

Posie's Pick of the Month, June

2010-07-02T06:39:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Sheep’s Clothing Australian pure wool knitted beanies and scarflettes

Who designed it?
Stacey Murray, knitting guru, with a little help knitting large orders from her mother and mother-in-law!

Why do you love it?
Amazingly soft yet durable quality, my four children have been Sheep’s Clothing beanie fans for years (they love the “where did you get that??” jaw dropping appeal). I’m just thrilled to have Stacey’s fabulous creations in Shop!

Perfect for...
From the girlie beanies adorned with detachable flower brooches to the boy’s range of handsome rugged knits, plus a variety for adults too, there’s something for everyone to stay warm and stylish this winter.

Lisa's Pick of the Month, June

2010-06-23T12:43:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Sophisticates Pettiskirt, $89.95

Who designed it?
Gypsy Tutu

Why do you love it?
These 'pettiskirts' are amazing, frothy colour, big bow sash, innocent glamour - what's not to love? The adjustable waist means this dazzler can be worn for years, though we learned (on Shop Handmade's opening night) that they can also be worn by grown ups, girls! Look out!

Perfect for...
Tea parties, birthday parties, picnics in the park. Or another stunning rendition of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" in your living room!

Julie's Pick of the Month, June

2010-06-16T12:45:00.002+10:00

What's your pick?
BaldiBear Art in frame $39

Who designed it?
Justine Brentnal

Why do you love it?
Because these pictures are not only gorgeous but celebrate becoming a Mum!

Perfect for...
The expectant Mum or just to say to Mum "I love you".

Shop Handmade... UK

2010-06-12T06:57:00.007+10:00

Belinda from Shop Handmade UK with shop girl Rachel

How utterly spooky is this...

Just recently, like a few weeks ago, we were trawling the internet doing housekeeping for the Handmade empire, and happened to stumble across this incredibly beautiful and comphrehensive site - Shop Handmade UK.

"Oh my goodness!" we thought to ourselves - "There's another one!?" Of course, Shop Handmade UK is nothing like our little shop... Firstly, it's on the other side of the world, and secondly, it just happens to be the UK's largest directory of artists, designers and makers of quality handmade goods. Can you imagine? Don't you want to just dive inside that website and live there?

But the spookiest thing of all - is that last week, the owner and creator of Shop Handmade UK came to our Shop!! Amazingly, she was visiting Canberra, and Shop was on her to-see list! She's just the loveliest thing and was really impressed with our gorgeous little store... but the absolute spookiest of all these things... she's an Aussie!

Belinda - it was just a joy to meet you. Come back soon to visit us and in the meantime, all the best of handmade goodness to you with your amazing work.

Be sure to visit Belinda's blog... and she's also a talented jeweller - you can see her work here.

Isn't it so wonderful - in a world of professional envy and mindless corporate hoo-ha - to meet and share the handmade world with other beautiful, warm and like-minded souls? After all, that's what the handmade spirit is all about.

Shop in OUTthere Magazine!

2010-06-11T08:16:00.004+10:00

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OUTthere magazine has featured a beautiful article on Canberra, written by Emma Wheaton, who just happened to drop into our beautiful shop during her time in the capital. What beautiful words she had to say about our beloved Shop. Come back again soon, Emma!

Rosalind's Pick of the Month, June

2010-06-10T13:03:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Poppy Field Pouch, $40

Who designed it?
by marie-nicole.

Why do you love it?
I love that it is produced using ethical and sustainable methods and is aesthetically pleasing too!! The poppies draw me in every time I pass it in the shop.

Perfect for...
Versatile size to use as a casual clutch, travel bag for costume jewellery, to hold those miscellaneous bits and pieces in your handbag, etc.

Rachel's Pick of the Month, June

2010-06-07T10:16:00.001+10:00

What's your pick?
Laura Maidement Skirt, $60

Who designed it? Laura Maidment

Why do you love it?
Because it is fun and versatile. I can glam this up with heels or be cool and casual with ballet flats. I can also wear this skirt all year round with funky stockings in winter and fabulous bare legs in summer! Loving the colours, too.

Perfect for...
Looking stylish all year round.

Tania's Pick of the Month, June

2010-06-03T06:56:00.006+10:00

What's your pick?
Riley pencil rolls, $37.50.

Who designed it?
Tania McCartney and Posie Patchwork.

Why do you love it?
Absolutely shameless plug (sorry!) but who can resist these amazing pencil rolls constructed with custom-made Riley fabric and the talents of Jennie McClelland from Posie Patchwork? I love these because they're not only a glorious collaboration, but because they feature my adorable book character... and what more could an author dream of than watching her characters come alive?

Perfect for...
Holding in your hands, unrolling, slipping fat colourful pencils from the pockets... and colouring in like crazy!

Cover Girls!!

2010-06-02T16:17:00.003+10:00

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Julie and Rachel are covergirls!! What a stunning photo, on the cover of Canberra's weekly newsy mag - City News! Huge thanks to Ian and Silas for this amazing feature article. Shop Handmade continues to go from strength to strength with yet more sensational exposure - well done, girls - you SO deserve it!

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Breaking News: Shop in Inside Out Magazine!

2010-06-02T11:54:00.004+10:00

Wowee - what a fantastic mention! Shop Handmade in Inside Out magazine. Thanks for the shout out! and what a wonderful way to let Australia know about our gorgeous shop, and how brilliant our designers are. The piece will appear in next month's Inside Out magazine (unless you are a subscriber and already have it in your hot little hands!).

Designer Interview - by Marie-Nicole

2010-05-27T22:47:00.001+10:00

What is your name? Marie-Nicole (Nic, for short).

What is your design company called? by marie-nicole

What do you make? Beautiful products for everyday living that add to the atmosphere of our lives… extending art into all aspects of living, not just to hang on our walls. Items such as tote bags, eco-sacks, kitchen linen, tableware, brooches and more… some of these are screen printed with my motifs designs.

What’s special about your goodies? Everything I make is done in short runs, in order to minimise waste, and it gives each piece it’s own unique character. My screen printing is all done using a traditional fine art method, with hand sketched designs, and I hand-cut my stencils then print using both eco-friendly materials and methods.

The base fabric I use for most of my works is 100% linen. Flax is an amazing plant that needs a lot less water to grow than cotton and has its own natural pest resistant qualities. Linen is one of the most sustainable fibres to produce, plus it is available in such a wide range of textures and weaves.

Other items I use to embellish some of my works are salvaged items like vintage buttons, ribbons and threads from liquidated stock, off cuts, scraps and misprints; nothing goes to waste here.

What’s your favourite design? It’s really difficult to pick a favourite; my work is always evolving, which is what I believe art is all about. One, which has had a great response, is my LIVE Consciously Tote, not because of its beauty (I would not call it beautiful) but what it represents.

There is so much that takes place several steps back in the production of goods that we are often not aware of, but these are having a devastating affect on the lives of others, which is why I wanted to bring focus to this. It represents the ethos behind my work, not only am I wanting to embellish our everyday lives, but I want to do it a way that is ethical and sustainable.

What inspires your designs? So many things - activities of everyday life, often to do with the simple pleasures in life, a beautiful piece of fabric, nature, ironwork, architecture, a conversation, emotions and feelings from within. When working on my ironwork series, I would just sit and sketch in a way that replicated what I was feeling at that time. These designs are complex and at times chaotic but always have a sense of rhythm and repetition, which is often much like the thoughts that flow through my mind and the activities of my life.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? For a long time I wanted to be a lawyer (I always did like a good debate), but was cured of that during my work experience. Sketching, sewing and photography have been a part of my life since a very young age so I knew I wanted to work in a creative industry but not until I was in my early 20’s did it occur to me that I could actually earn a living doing what I love.

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be? Ideally, working in my studio on a very large property, possibly a vineyard or olive grove in France, Italy or even Spain. I love the culture and lifestyle of these countries. But I am also happy to settle for the countryside of South Eastern NSW.

What’s your biggest designer dream? To continue to grow and evolve the skills required to meet my end goal - creating one-off pieces of upholstered furniture… functional works of art that add to the atmosphere of a home. Selling these pieces in three main cities of the world Paris, London and New York City.

Designer Interview - Tiny Concept

2010-05-24T08:06:00.006+10:00

What is your name? Kristina when I am in trouble, but most people call me Tina (Snerling).

What is your design company called? Tiny Concept.

What do you make? My core business is my unique, one-of-a-kind dolls, but I have been known to create anything from soldiers to sailboats – all from textiles.

What’s special about your goodies? My dolls are one-of-a-kind and have a unique look. I can spend hundreds of hours creating my ‘girls’ using textiles like raw silk, pure wool, French lace or pure cotton. Each one is individually named and never to be re-created.

What’s your favourite design? A doll I created named ‘Elizabeth Ann’. I named her in honour of my Mother.

What inspires your designs? My children, vintage frocks and beautiful textiles.

What did you want to be when you grew up? I changed my mind weekly. Anything from a jeweller, a fashion designer, a florist, an accountant, a stockbroker, a lawyer – I have done almost all of them in some way or another!

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be? Paris, France. It is my favourite place in the world. I would love to have a beautiful little studio overlooking quaint French streets, drinking French wine and eating those delicious baguettes. Oh, but to dream!

What’s your biggest designer dream? I secretly would love to create my own book. But, then along came handmade living. – dream accomplished!

Posie's Pick of the Month, May

2010-05-23T06:56:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Resin bangles, $40 - $55.

Who designed it?
Little Slave.

Why do you love it?
There's not only a range of fabulous shapes, textures, colours and monotones, there's also a variety of sizes!

Perfect for...
Everyday style, weekend safari, seaside resort, dress up a casual look, all round fun and comfortable.

What's in the window...

2010-05-22T17:58:00.005+10:00

Starring in the window this week is a truly beautiful and practical product for baby, handmade by Snugglebug. This sleeping bag is perfect for keeping baby snuggly and warm in the pram, out and about (hey it'll catch the dummy!) or even at home. Made with gorgeous French imported Broderie Anglaise, the style will never date and is suited to boys or girls.

Zip up the hood or keep it flat, on these cold cold nights, there's only one more thing I need to know... does it come in my size?!! I wish! Snugglebug available now at Shop Handmade.

What's Happening in Shop, 19 May 2010

2010-05-21T13:04:00.001+10:00

I nipped into Shop early on Wednesday morning to drop off and pick up a range of goodies to photograph for handmade living., including a lightbox from Posie... it's just so exciting seeing the book come together.

I love popping into shop because there's always so much treasure to see, new and old. And it's also fascinating to hear tales from the shop girls about how products are simply marching out the door.

Here's a peek at what's happening in Shop... what's new and what is faithfully restocked (almost daily!).

(Above: amazing snuggle knits for kids by shop girl Rachel! They go around the neck and won't hang down and get caught in bicycle wheels or anything kiddly like that. Perfection, and gorgeous, too!)

Earl Grey in Cosmic Collars

2010-05-20T22:30:00.002+10:00

They call me Earl, Earl Grey.

Just delighted to receive these priceless pics of designer Danielle Kathleen's puddy tat, Earl Grey, modelling the latest in designs from fellow Shop designer Cosmic Collars.

Elegant, super-stylish, with that highly-elusive feline je ne sais quoi, Earl Grey and his lustrous coat and supermodel/international spy attitude are the perfect showcase for his Cosmic bow tie and angel wings.

"The bows and wings were $5 each and the collar $10," said Danielle of her purchases. "I've bought three more collars as well, because I love them so much!"

Looks like Earl Grey is setting the style scene with his growing collection of neck bling. Just goes to show you don't need to skimp on the style stakes just because you're covered in fur. Good news for cool cats (and dogs) everywhere.

Angel. Poised for flight

Designer Interview - Allana C

2010-05-19T06:07:00.000+10:00

What is your name? Jodie Wilton

What is your design company called? allana C. - named after my lovely little niece and nephew.

What do you make? Mostly soft toys - elephants, turtles, penguins, giraffes, owls... but also pretty dog leads, camera straps and belts.

What’s special about your goodies? The toys are all really cute - I like cute, they make me happy as I make them! The fabrics I use are generally very bright and colourful.

What’s your favourite design? I love the camera straps. Boring black replaced by pretty patchwork fabrics - I love making these.

What inspires your designs? Beautiful fabrics certainly play a big part in my inspiration. A lot of my work starts with me spotting a fabric and then thinking about what I can make. With the soft toys, I am inspired to make my favourite animals - I love giraffes, elephants, turtles and penguins. They are all so cute.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A nurse. How funny - I'd be hopeless!

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be? With winter approaching I'd have to say somewhere warmer - Townsville, perhaps, with my lovely sister and her family. They moved from Canberra to Townsville a couple of years ago and while they love it up there, I miss them terribly.

What’s your biggest designer dream? I'd love to be able to give up my day job...

Lisa's Pick of the Month, May

2010-05-16T05:17:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Coral and red necklace, $120.

Who designed it?
mysweetmuse, designed by Eva Carter.

Why do you love it?
It's made with authentic vintage metal flowers, layered in delicious colours - and teamed with a super chunky chain. I love the layering, the asymmetry and the unique and glamour - I adore her style and covet the entire collection!!!

Perfect for...
Adding a vintage inspired statement piece to your red lipstick event - or even to your work day - whatever you do!

Designer Interview - Little Slave

2010-05-15T09:04:00.006+10:00

What is your name? Amanda Nakalevu.

What is your design company called? little slave It’s how I describe that compelling inner feeling of desire for beautiful things. No actual slavery is used, although my partner may beg to differ…

What do you make? I design and handcraft beautiful resin jewellery.

What’s special about your goodies? From the moulding to pouring to the hand finish of sanding and polishing - every piece is completely crafted individually. No two items are identical. I also have a signature ‘unfinished finish’ which reflects my love for the culture of made-by-hand and lends a more organic feel to my work. Little slave bangles come in a range of sizes to cater to a broader market as well.

What’s your favourite design? The ‘Urchin’. Not only because of how sensorially inviting it is, but I know how much work went into this design.

What inspires your designs? Anything and everything! It could be a landscape, a song, a piece of fabric, a friend, or art. My designs are constantly evolving because of my desire to create a different story with each collection.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A performer. I loved an audience.

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be? Somewhere sunny with a beautiful uncrowded beach, a cocktail bar and housekeeping. Because in my world, these three things make for a happy family holiday.

What’s your biggest designer dream? To develop little slave into a brand of recognition and desire. To be accessible without being pedestrian.

Tania's Pick of the Month, May

2010-05-14T09:44:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Chopping board, $150.

Who designed it?
deepwood building services.

Why do you love it?
Not only visually stunning, but totally practical, if I dared slice anything on it. This is a lifetime investment - a solid, exquisitely handcrafted piece that I can hand down to my chopping, dicing, juilienning kids.

Perfect for...
Chopping, dicing, julienning, oohing and ahhing over.

Best Stock Delivery - EVER!

2010-05-12T07:30:00.004+10:00

Shop girls Julie (centre) and Rachel enjoyed their most exciting shop delivery ever - a visit from shop girl Ros and her beautiful new baby boy - Josiah! Nothing like a cuddle with a gorgeous little new newborn.

Ros - you look fantastic! And congrats again on the safe delivery of your beautiful little man.

Julie's Pick of the Month, May

2010-05-11T13:53:00.006+10:00

What's your pick?
Bags and firewood carriers, $30 -$40.

Who designed it?
Blue Mallee.

Why do you love it?
Sturdy, super stylish and in great colours and a fabulous price. The satchels are super über urban chic - perfect for your bloke.

Perfect for...
Lugging my firewood - would feel very stylish!

handmade living. in the Canberra Times!

2010-05-11T07:08:00.001+10:00

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So fabulous to be mentioned in the Canberra Times on Sunday - our gorgeous book is becoming the talk of the town! We're so excited about this glorious project. And, of course, the Shop gets a huge mention for being so utterly fabulous... which it is! Gorgeous shot of Louise Hall from Mrs Sew and So's!

Rachel's Pick of the Month, May

2010-05-10T07:16:00.001+10:00

What's your pick?
Escape and Discover dress, $302.

Who designed it? andie.

Why do you love it?
It is so classic. It's a piece that is innovative and so completely now in the style-stakes but something I could wear for the rest of my life. I'd feel like Jackie Kennedy in this dress.

Perfect for...
Feeling like Jackie O.

Meet the Designer Evening!

2010-05-08T10:25:00.017+10:00

You don't often see them, because they're too busy running the show, but here are the gorgeous founders and operators of Shop Handmade - Julie Nichols and Rachel Evagelou... all blossomy and happy at our fabulous Meet the Designer evening last night.

After working a full, busy day (making record sales in the lead up to Mother's Day, PS), the gals were thrilled to welcome at least a dozen local designers to shop, who took the opportunity to showcase their beautiful wares to a ravenous public.

From 5pm to 8pm, with a peak time of around 6.30pm - when one could hardly move for all the Shop lovers! - shoppers enjoyed a festive atmosphere and the glorious opportunity to schmooze with their favourite designer and learn more about their inspiration and processes.

It was also a real pleasure for some of the shop girls to meet and greet and put names to faces!

5pm in Shop - before the onslaught!

Anna-Maria of The Shopping Sherpa and Eva of My Sweet Muse

Jodie Wilton of Allana C with shop owner Rachel

Lori Korodaj with Louise Hall of Mrs Sew and So's

Sarah Rebbeck with Anne-Maree Kape of Reecreations

Ann McMahon, Kathryn Gulan of La Ruche Designs and
Rachelle Stannard of Prim & Pretty

Yogendra Mistry and photographer Taira Vora

Jodie Wilton of Allana C, Heidi Ross of The Curious Chocolatier and Angela Maher of Splatter

Left:Wandering food tempters from Sour Cherry popped in to feed us!

Right: The ever-stylish Barbie Robinson, trying on (and purchasing!) some bling

Jodie from Allana C (above) made off with Tiny Concept's newest dolls, just arrived in-store. Yes, there were tears, but she still took her home!

What a sensational, successful evening - so very special to have Shop designers instore.

Shop in the Canberra Weekly!

2010-05-05T12:55:00.004+10:00

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Well... look at us! Thanks, Canberra Weekly!

Rosalind's Pick of the Month, May

2010-05-03T10:49:00.004+10:00

What's your pick?
Vine Greeting Card, $7.

Who designed it?
Poppy Letterpress.

Why do you love it?
Letterpress stationery is divine to run your fingers over and gaze at. It was hard to pick just one design out but the Vine design takes my fancy!

Perfect for...
A Mothers Day card that is frame-worthy... a piece of art!

'Meet the Designer' Exclusive Shopping Event!

2010-05-02T08:16:00.011+10:00

Meet the Designer!

-: late night shopping evening :-

Friday 7 May

-: 5pm to 8pm :-

Come along and enjoy a glass of bubbles, a sensational shopping

experience and the chance to schmooze with our incredible designers!

All shoppers and designers warmly invited to come along to share wonderful wares, ideas and design experiences.

Open to everyone, just drop in... and tell your friends!

-: just in time for Mother’s Day :-

20 Allara Street, City Walk, t: 6156 3274

Tania's Pick of the Month, April

2010-04-30T14:01:00.001+10:00

What's your pick?
Owl pin cushion, $20.

Who designed it?
Red Stitch Designs.

Why do you love it?
I adore pin cushions. I sew but I'm not prolific nor brilliant at it, so I make up for my ineptitude with gorgeous pin cushions. I have loads - many of them from China, but this little owl is like nothing I've seen before. Loving the colours, the fabric, the handstitching, the excellent craftsmanship. He even has a little embroidered word on his back - 'OUCH!' Love. You just want to squish him.

Perfect for...
Kissing, ornamentation, sewing, voodoo.

Lisa's Pick of the Month, April

2010-04-29T09:41:00.006+10:00

What's your pick?
Hazelnut Chai Milk Chocolate and Mint Dark Chocolate & Raspberry, $10.94

Who designed it?
Curious Chocolatier, local to Canberra, you know.

Why do you love it?
The entire range is a dangerous mix of fashion and glamour in a slab of chocolate... what more could a girl possibly need? The mint/raspberry chocolate has real pieces of raspberries in it (I die) and the chai spices melt me. I can not be stopped. My hips will be sorry, but my lips say MORE PLEASE!!!

Perfect for...
The chai hazelnut blend is going to be my best friend this winter, curled up with a movie. I just hope no-one expects me to share it! And when I'm done collecting them all - those illustrated boxes are a piece of art!

Designer Interview - Cheeky Textiles

2010-04-29T08:11:00.007+10:00

What is your name? Anastasia de Grave but mostly known as Stacey. Anastasia sounds grand and royal. I try to convince people I am a long lost Russian princess from a Tsar family. I used to hate Anastasia at school... now I don’t mind it at all!

What is your design company called? Cheeky Textiles. Cheeky because I think it’s a cheeky thing to do with textiles... turn them into wall art. And I am also a little cheeky at times, too…!

What do you make? Fabric wall art and a few cushions, using traditional Mariemekko fabric and now a range of others. My favourite is the more simplistic pictures of nature, birds, trees.

What’s special about your goodies? They are all fabrics I have been drawn to at one point or another. A diverse range of fabrics and colours. Bright and bold, feminine and natural.

What’s your favourite design? Winternest by Kristen Doran, a local Sydney gal. A stunning picture of a tree in winter with a bird and nest, on natural linen and hand-printed. Just gorgeous!
What inspires your designs? My current likes. Friends and people.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A teacher. I just love kids!

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be? Somewhere warm, say Dubai. I have not been there but my girlfriend lives there and I would love to see her. She has a maid... I want a maid…

What’s your biggest designer dream? To travel around the world purchasing and sourcing fabrics, and also design and hand-print my own fabrics.

Designer Interview - Gifts Created

2010-04-28T07:23:00.004+10:00

What is your name? Sarah Saliba

What is your design company called? Gifts Created

What do you make? Woodland creatures, birdcages, baby mobiles, toys, and most importantly toadstools.

What’s special about your goodies? There is something about making childrens toys and deco that makes me re-live my childhood everyday. My items are full of whimisical creatures and are centred around the woodlands. And I would have to say that colour is by far one of the most important parts in my design process. I feel that the best designs are achieved through colour.

What’s your favourite design? My snails would have to be my favourite design. Each one, although similar, seems to have its own personality.

What inspires your designs? Harrison, my 2-year-old, has become my inspiration, as the things he finds in the garden become soft sculptures in his rooms to play with… His influence is endless…. I also love looking at sculptures; there is something about the three-dimensional work that touches me much more powerfully than a painting can. I try to sculpt pieces out of fabric and stuffing. I find handling soft materials very relaxing.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A mother. I had given up all hope of having a child as my husband and I had been trying for eight years and suffered many complications and six miscarriages. When I fell pregnant with Harrison, I was in shock as we were intending on doing a second round of IVF and found out that we were in fact four weeks pregnant.

During the pregnancy, I was on bed rest and couldn’t paint due to the fumes and was itching for something more to create. I then found appliqué and quilting. My first project was a nursery rhyme quilt for Harrison and that was it - I was hooked. I got out my sketch book and Gifts Created was born…

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be? Right here right now. Surrounded by family and friends. I never live my life in the future, I live it in the moment and right now in my life I’m happy doing something I love with friends and family I love that little bit more!

What’s your biggest designer dream? To be successful and known around the world for what I do.

Julie's Pick of the Month, April

2010-04-27T05:32:00.003+10:00

What's your pick?
Silver Blossom Earrings, $80

Who designed it?
Kidson Jewellery

Why do you love it?
They are so delicate and glamourous.

Perfect for...
Perfect for everyday and then to wear out at night.

Designer Interview - Look Mama!

2010-04-25T08:32:00.003+10:00

What is your name?
Gillian Worrall

What is your design business called?
Look Mama!

What do you make?
Greeting cards with a new offshoot in the pipeline—funky pinback badges based on our card designs and other bits and pieces. Too soon to tell, but I can say we have finally succumbed and done some really sweet designs.

What’s special about your goodies?
I think mostly the sense of fun in these products makes them special. I like the fact that they are quirky and irreverent without being shocking in a crude, in-your-face way. I like the fact that some require a bit of thought to get the message but that’s a conscious choice on my part. I like to get people thinking and enjoying themselves on an unexpected level.

I don’t want to focus on purely decorative pretty work—I do some of that, it’s true, and it can be particularly useful when giving a card to a person you don’t know well or who you know has no sense of humour! Generally, though I like something with a bit of substance behind it. Not all our cards are funny, some are quite moving and beautiful in their sentiment or in the way they help us reconnect with an idea of a simple life or a beautiful moment.

That said, our main rule of thumb is that if you can laugh about it some day you may as well laugh about it today.

What’s your favourite design?
Tricky question…I think Believe in Your Own Truth (with the intensely tattooed lady) is right up there. To have the courage of your own convictions and to choose your own path even if it is not quite what other people would choose. That really speaks to me. If there is no path to choose—make your own!

I even have her pinned on my crowded office wall as a reminder. Right next to a picture of Kenny Everett, a Degas postcard and the words for the song 'Lydia the tattooed lady'.

What inspires your designs?
Generally, I always have a few ideas kicking around in my head but then they all come out with a rush. When I see a particular photo, something will just pop into my head. It may start with a quote from a book or a movie or from something someone has said to me. It often needs reworking and tweaking to get it just right, but if I see an image that makes me light up, I know it’s in there with a chance.

Our other range of cards is illustrative and that’s around more for me to have fun in a different medium and expand Look Mama’s overall appeal. There will be more illustrated lines happening this year.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A vet. Always wanted to be a vet. Working at a surgery for a few years as a teenager cured me of that. I used to spend my afternoon in reception drawing pictures of animals on the office envelopes.

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be?
England. Where I’d be meeting Stephen Fry. I’m afraid I’d be tongue-tied and have to spend the rest of my life thinking of all the clever things I could have said. I’d give him a pack of our cards and hopefully he’d be laughing so much I wouldn’t have to say a word. It is, after all, important to know when to shut up.

What’s your biggest designer dream?
To exhibit with grand accolades at the New York Stationery Fair. It is the summit of the greeting card world.

Rachel's Pick of the Month, April

2010-04-24T08:05:00.002+10:00

What's your pick?
pARTy Cakes cookies, $4.50 ea

Who designed it?
pARTy cakes

Why do you love it?
I have never seen a biscuit that has made me want to cry because they are sooo beautiful, and then after getting over it and actually biting into the visual perfection... the taste sensation that absolutely takes your mouth, body and mind to another universe is out of control amazing!

Perfect for...
Anything. Stunning for weddings, so personal for a loved one's birthday, baby shower, bridal shower, colleagues farewell, I can go on and on... or just a lovely afternoon tea with your lovely friends.

I Stock At Shop Button

2010-04-23T13:33:00.000+10:00

Get your super-exclusive Shop button now!

Delighted to make this lovely I Stock at Shop button available to all Shop designers - a great way to let your clients know you stock at Shop Handmade. Simply right click and save onto your own site and link to this blog.

Easy peasy and super cute!

Designer Interview - Little Mad Hatter's

2010-04-22T13:52:00.000+10:00

What is your name?
Please call me Una.

What is your design business called?
Little Mad Hatter’s

What do you make?
I mainly make Mini Top Hat Hairclips/Fascinator. But I also make mini cowboy hats and brooches.

What’s special about your goodies?
They are TINY hats! One of the smallest hats you could find in Canberra I would say. They are designed and created to be unique hairclips and I believe because they are so petite, people draw attention to my hats.

What’s your favourite design?
My ‘Lady Top Hat’ series! I made them in Pink, White and Black and they are always the one being the most popular. I guess whatever you make with love is also being loved by others.

What inspires your designs?
Everything. I try to stay tuned all the time. Seasonal changes, famous characters, new materials etc. That is the reason why all my hats have their names. For instance, ‘Miss Minnie’ series was inspired by Disney’s character, Minnie Mouse, and ‘Golden Pinecone’ was created to celebrate Earth Day. Also another favourite of mine, ‘Flower girl’ series, as the name suggests, was inspired by lovely flower girls.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Well, my dream has not expired still and I wish to work for the Disney Company. Always did, always will. It is the biggest cartoon character corporation that aimed for goodies for kids, and it would be my pleasure to create something that kids and parents would love. I know, it is not really craft-related but still it is my only dream.

If you would be anywhere right now, where would it be?
I actually can’t wait to go to Tokyo where I planned to go at the end this year to checkout fancy Disneyland and delicious Japanese cuisine!

What’s your biggest designer dream?
Mad Hatter’s world! Like Disney World. A place where you see nothing but mini hats!

Rosalind's Pick of the Month, April

2010-04-22T12:50:00.000+10:00

What's your pick?
Black Bird Cushion, $55

Who designed it?
Red Stitch Designs

Why do you love it?
It is beautifully made in neutral colours, which is great for a gift! I love the natural materials used (linen blend) and the hand-stitched detail - a perfect item for Shop Handmade and a perfect item for your home!

Perfect for...
Loungeroom, reading corner or your bed!

Drooling over the Shop Handmade Dessert Bar

2010-04-20T23:37:00.000+10:00

Just HAD to share with you pics from the divinely delectable Amy-Atlas-inpired dessert buffet created by the lovely Ros Grace (forthwith about a week from baby due-date, watch this space!). I promised you all a closer glimpse at her supreme styling talent and enormous effort, even with baby belly in tow.

Let's just say the media contingent who enjoyed this spread (and the lucky shoppers who snaffled some of the same treats on opening day!) were boggled at the beauty. It was a shame to eat it!

From the spectacular New York cheesecake to the jars of white candy and eye-boggling pARTycakes cookies - all laid out on a duck-egg blue spotted table, I hope you enjoy this lustrous peep at the treasure created by Ros for Shop Handmade's media event.

Handmade bliss!

Stunning work, Ros!

(Stayed tuned for a baby announcement... any day now... another addition to the Shop family...)

Spotted: La Ruche on TV

2010-04-20T19:07:00.000+10:00

Spotted on Prime news, as worn by the ever lovely Jessica Good...

Could it be... The Geranium Heart's Desire Ruche brooch by La Ruche?

Absolutely gorgeous and available now at Shop Handmade, this range of brooches have an extra special trick up their sleeves...

...do ask your fabulous shop girl when you visit! xxx

Posie's Pick of the Month, April

2010-04-19T16:50:00.001+10:00

What's your pick?
Bird Cage acrylic pendant, $35

Who designed it?
Danielle Kathleen Jewellery

Why do you love it?
I’m allergic to most metals/necklaces and clasps, so this ribbon pendant is perfect. I love bird-themed products, this is light weight, stylish and fun! I get lots of positive comments on it, too!

Perfect for...
Everyday wear. You can adjust the length from short to plunging, depending on your neckline, making it suitable for casual or evening. I’ll be wearing it in Shop; I bought it in the first hour of trade!

Shop Handmade in the Canberra Times

2010-04-19T10:08:00.001+10:00

click to englarge

Just take a look at us! Full page social article by the fabulous Lyn Mills in Sunday's Canberra Times. Lyn pinpointed one of the many highlights of the evening - Barbie Robinson gadding about in one of Gypsy Tutus' creations. Glorious!

So wonderful to have some of our wonderful designers also showcased, and very tempting to keep a permanent dessert bar on display, as suggested by Lyn... but alas, it looks like we're going to need to fill that space with more designs!

Come on into Shop and see for yourself.

Introducing... handmade living.!

2010-04-18T16:00:00.000+10:00

We are thrilled and proud to announce the next stunning instalment in the Handmade name... our first ever publication.... handmade living.!

Totally inspired by the huge success of both Handmade Market and Shop Handmade, handmade living. will be a glamorous, hardcover book jam-packed with stunning photographs, glorious products and projects, how-tos and heavenly inspiration. Basically, it will feature... you!

Want to know more? Have questions? Head spinning? Just head to our brand new site - and all will be revealed!

Handmade bliss.

Sold sold sold!!!

2010-04-18T15:09:00.000+10:00

You know those sales tactics salespeople use to get customers instore? Well, it seems Shop Handmade doesn't need to rely on such tactics - people are packing in... Julie and Rachel had a Handmade Market experience (ie: chockas!) for three hours over lunch on Opening Day and things were pretty consistent either side of that, well into the evening.

Saturday was similarly packed and designers - your goodies are flying out the door. Too many sales to list right here, but here's just a TEENSY glimpse at the bits and pieces happening on the shopfloor...

I'm not kidding when I say if you want to snaffle some unique items - do not hesitate - and I mean that without a sales tactic in sight. Several of my Wants have already disappeared and the gals are phoning and emailing designers as we speak, asking for restock.

Get along to Shop and see for yourself. It's a delight to see our goodies evaporating quickly. Happy shopping!