summer sewing

There is something whimsy and dreamy in sewing up delights in the midst of Summer.  Today the temperature is set to reach the forty degree mark.  The curtains have been drawn, the fans on high rotation and "inside" games and crafts are scheduled.  A salad announced as the answer to "what are we having for lunch/dinner" questions.  So whilst I had a few moments of energy before the heat leads us to the local watering hole, I took some time to organise my stock for an upcoming summer night market this weekend in the peaceful location of the local golf course.  A few newbies to add tags too....  A collection of summer scarves adorned with pom pom trim and a few girls summer skirts completed as well.  Once tagged and pressed they will be diligently packed away in vintage suitcases.

How are your summer crafts going?

Joining in with these creative lovelies 

a years worth of weetbix giveaway here 

getting our craft on {my creative space}

Crafty-ness seems to comes in waves in this house.  It's full steam ahead...all systems go...five hundred and seventy three projects going on OR there is nothing.  At the moments it's the former.  I've got motivation, assistance, piles of fabric and craft boxes oozing with goodness that are constantly being turned into something!  Not to mention some invitations to some lovely craft markets over the next few months.  It's the most loveliest form of flattery...them ringing you asking if you will exhibit at their market!

I'm attempting a handmade approach to Christmas presents this year, so am hopefully giving myself plenty of time to get things in place.  So this week has seen us already embark on Christmas Craft for the kids....some fabric covered baubles (see copious amounts of modge podge!).   I've started making napkins for teacher gifts and my friend and I have booked in a jam making session in the next few weeks.

I am hoping to make myself a few items as well and even get some tutorials posted here on the blog.  Am I in over my head?  who knows...but like always..crafty-ness has to be close to crazy-ness!

Are you planning to make Christmas gifts?
When it rains creativity at yours, does it pour? 

Well it's pouring with creativity at this lovely spot! 

xx

the market magic

badges

key fobs

bird and owl mobiles

movie quote art

buntings

Last Saturday I participated in my first outdoor country market.  Simply put, it was magic.  And even though I've done markets before, it's been quite a while (a year nearly) since my last market and I think I lost my knack!

I think the things I love about markets is the sociability.   The interaction with other stall holders and the connection with those that come to wander.  I had some lovely comments thrown my way and I gobbled them up and will keep them as confidence boosters when I get a crafty slump.  One lady in particular made such a lovely comment about the quality of my goods, my fabric choices and of course my mum piped in that I make all the products myself and look after my two adorable children.  Kudos mum!

I think that's the magic of a market.  Sure it's nice to sell things on line or stock you wares in shops, but seeing someone's face light up because they buy a key fob and realise that they wont lock their keys in the car anymore (well i hope not), or they find a perfect little gift for a grandchild, or even a little something for themselves.  Well, it makes my day.

I was delighted to pick up a bag of local fresh apples, chestnuts we roasted the next day and some lovely hand made soap.  I also scored the most amazing vintage platter for the stellar price of $6 thanks to my mum yet again.

Do you love markets and what do you love about them?


*my made it shop is now open again after a long vacation, but I'm slowly adding items on! 

Sugar and Spice...

It is with regret that I have had to cancel my stall at the upcoming Sugar and Spice Children's Market this Sunday at Woodend.

A family emergency means that I am needed elsewhere.

Sherryn has done an amazing job organising what will be the 1st Birthday of the Sugar and Spice.  I hope that you can make it there and support such a wonderful country market.

And I know you will understand if my blog is a little quiet for a while!

xx

at my house .....

It's been a big weekend, so trying to find some time to just chill out and take it all in....and get on with some chores!

{yummy treats from Cathy}

On Saturday I got to visit a market that I have been meaning to check out for some time.  I meet some familiar faces (blog host Lou of course) and finally was able to meet Cathy and taste her delectable goodies!  The Made in Thornbury market is a cute handmade market, so be sure to check it out next time it rolls around!  I was able to purchase some lovely goodies for the official beginning of my Christmas Shopping!  I'll post more about them later!

And today is my mum's birthday, and seeing as she lives a bit far away me and the kids skyped this morning and sang Happy Birthday and there was plenty of screen kisses and clapping.  Happy Birthday Mum/Grandma (or dam-ma as the little one would say!).  I wont show you what I made her yet, as it hasn't been posted because I'm yet to do some final touches!  So more will be revealed later in the week.

Hoping to enjoy some lovely sunshine this afternoon! What is happening at yours today??  Join Lou and check out what others are up to!

my creative space...

I tend to over-think things too much sometimes, and this is one occasion!  I am preparing my stock and making new items to take with me to the Sugar and Spice Market which will be held at Woodend on the 20th June.  I am very excited which has transpired into motivation but also over analysis!  You see, usually I am the market goer, not the stall holder, so now that I am the stall holder, I must not forget to think like the market goer....have I lost you yet??  My philosphy is pretty simple (i think).  My aim is offer great products at reasonable prices, but also something a little different, made with love and care and also to cater to everyone's budget.  Not all people plan to go to craft markets and some may have $20 in their pocket, other's $2. And lets face it....everyone loves to walk away with a little purchase (don't they??).  

So as I battle with pricing, packaging and products, I sometimes just ignore it all and take pictures.  

This is one of many little skirts that will come with me to the market and hopefully find a new little waist to call their owner! 

check more creative spaces here!