a little original

Mama sewing

2011-04-16T12:05:00.000+10:00

So I made myself a top. I can't tell you how exciting that is!

I love peasant tops. They're loose where they need to be and fitted where they need to be. I think the only thing more exciting than having made myself a top, which fits perfectly, and is very 'me', is that I bought this sheet from an op-shop for $3. I heart op-shopping.

My mother-in-law once told me if you find a pattern that works well, make one in every colour. I think this pattern is that. I am about to cut a few more out. It's cool and drizzling here. My husband has taken over the kitchen and the kids are playing with the train set. Perfect time to sew!

The cooler weather and our planned Easter camping trip to a cold place had me sew a hoodie for Mr 4. Not a blue one, not a mini-man one, not a commericialised one that would have my son looking like walking advertising, just a nice hoodie for a 4 year old boy. I also picked this sweatshirt fabric and the ribbing up from an op-shop many moons ago. They go perfectly and have resulted in a hoodie that my boy is happy to wear anywhere.

Lastly, a quick knit just off the needles for Ms 6.5 months. A simple yoke neck cardi with ribbing. Super easy, super stretchy and super cheap when using $2 clearance wool from Spotlight. Buttons from the op-shop too. Oh and how cute is she sitting up! Love <3

An Etsy treasury

2011-04-09T20:43:00.000+10:00

I've been featured in another Etsy treasury! This one is themed 'chocolate' and I'm delighted to be included in such a lovely Eastery treasury!

Ask and you shall receive...

2011-04-01T17:02:00.001+10:00

So many op-shopping bloggers have used this post title! Now it's my turn! I have a lovely shrug pattern sitting here waiting to be knit, copious amounts of divine yarns to choose from, but not the right needles. After kindy drop off today, I ducked in to one of my usual op-shops to have a ferret around in the hope of finding 3.75mm needles. I pretty much only knit on circulars, even if knitting flat, so I was thrilled to find circular 3.75mm needles! Hooray! I picked up some lovely things while I was there.

My op-shop loot from today; a gorgeous big basket, a new bag, two sewing patterns, knitting needles, kids knit poncho and a knit cardi for one of Ms 2's dolls.

I picked up these two patterns for 50c each. They are my style of clothing and I can't wait to find the time to get stuck into them. I actually have a top my mum bought me from Colorado that I had been trying to work out how to replicate because I wear it everywhere, and it's identical to one of these! Hooray!

I have been getting stuck into kids winter knitting and intend to make just about all my childrens' winter knits, but when I see a super cute kids knitted poncho like this, for $4, I can't pass it up! Fits Ms 6 months perfectly. Hooray!

I picked up this brand new Sportsgirl bag for myself. It's a real mummy bag- you know the one- a big bag you can stuff heaps into with pockets everywhere for the millions of things you need to take with you everywhere you go. Brand new faux leather, in a gorgeous green, hooray! And I got something for me! Double hooray!

Sunday market

2011-03-30T09:22:00.000+10:00

I had my usual stall at the Village Life market at Northey Street City Farm on Sunday, along side Fauve Fibres and Dash Robin. And as usual, it was a lovely morning sitting around chatting to beautiful people; catching up with friends and making new ones. I only had Ms 5 months with me and many willing arms to hold her so she was content and so was I. I came home with two new books and a pile of gorgeous yarn. See!

The kids book is a beautiful book about babywearing across different cultures. We're a big babywearing family. Our 4 year old is still back carried at times and our 5 month old just about lives in a carrier, like her siblings did at her age. It's a really lovely book, I'm so glad to be teaching my children about connection and attachment whilst living in a society that models disconnection and violence so well.

The second book is an early 90's baby craft book. It's got some outrageously ugly patterns in it, but it has some very sweet toy and bag patterns as well! Oh and it was free, who can argue with that.

These yarns are all Sally from Fauve Fibres dyeing creations. 50g 8 ply pure wool, 140g 10ply cotton and 200g 10 ply pure wool. I wound the aqua-purple skein last night, intending to make something for winter for Ms 2. The colours are incredible.

Hope you had a wonderful weekend!

An Etsy treasury

2011-03-30T08:35:00.001+10:00

I've been featured in an Etsy treasury! Well, not me, but one of my peacock coloured vintage tops. Very exciting! Have a look...

horse pj's

2011-03-20T16:49:00.001+10:00

My son loves horses. He lives and breathes them. He has been riding since he was 3 after a year of searching madly for a school that would let him start as early as possible. He has an entire farm set up in his room, devoted to horses. We thought it was a phase when his love for horses began, somewhere between 12-18m, but at 4 years and 3 months, he is completely and utterly devoted to horses. It's lovely!

I used to ride when I was younger and his passion for horses has reignited mine. I've promised him when he turns 10 we'll go in an endurance ride together. In our town, there are often international endurance rides on, and I always take the kids down to walk around and soak in the beauty of horses. Miss 2 seems to be picking up an interest in horses as well. She tells me when she turns 3 she's going to start horse riding and she's going to come on endurance rides with us.

So what do you make for a boy completely and utterly in love with horses? Horse pj's, so when he's tucked up in bed, no doubt dreaming of all things horsey, he can be wearing them as well! I love my boy :)

Etsy stocked!

2011-03-16T14:25:00.000+10:00

I've just loaded some winter lovelies to my Etsy shop. Some fun and original kids clothes to keep your little ones warm with the cooler weather that's headed our way. I kinda like having my kids in upcycled clothes. There's a lot to be said for preloved and repurposed clothes keeping them warm as they play outside. But that's just me :)

g r e e n i e

2011-03-04T10:39:00.000+10:00

The only craft I seem to be doing at the moment is knitting. I guess that's because I usually have a sleeping baby on my back and I've got to pace the hallway, or I'm out and about so much that I stuff my knitting into my bag as I'm heading out the door. I'm not complaining, I'm really enjoying putting a huge dint in my wool stash :) Means I can replenish it at some point! I recently finished this soaker for Miss 5 months.

I just adore it. It's 100% organic merino. I don't think I've felt a softer yarn. It is butter soft and oh so divine on the skin. The colourway is Let Us Eat Lettuce and the base is Pandora, from Jolly Jumbuck. I have a few more colourways on this base and am madly searching Ravelry for ideas! I thought the leaf ends went perfectly with this colourway. This Vanilla soaker is completely seamless and a very quick knit.

More knits

2011-02-23T20:39:00.000+10:00

Two posts in one night, that's unheard of! Just getting round to taking some photos of a jumper I made Mr 4 for his birthday. I love it!

This soaker skirty for Miss 4 months is just off the needles.

My knitting bag is so full it is ready to explode. I'm making dresses, soakers, jumpers, vests and cardi's. I'm getting in early this year so I don't get caught out by cold weather and have to buy my children winter woolies!

yarnie

2011-02-23T19:50:00.000+10:00

Today was one of those days where Miss 4 months wouldn't sleep anywhere but on me. So into the Yamo she went, on my back, and I dragged my yarn boxes out to do some winding. It's the one thing I can do happily for hours with a sleeping baby on my back. Mr 4 and Miss 2 were straight over. As usual. Mr 4 is always so eager to try whatever it is that I'm doing, so I showed him how to use the ball winder. I held the yarn for him as I don't have a swift and to my surprise, he wound a pretty decent ball! It's a bit loose, but easily knitable!

Then he wanted to try being the swift for me so I could wind the remaining skeins quickly and make lunch, and again, he held the skein up perfectly and even had the wrist flicks down pat! Anyone who has ever had the joy of hand winding a centre pull ball knows what I mean!

How gorgeous are these two skeins? The rainbow is my kind of rainbow. Bright and fun! The second one is such a stunning metallic shimmer, it's just beautiful. They're both 12ply WOOT, and they're from Fauve Fibres. Love.

I've got some lovely hand painted yarn that I'm going to make into a pair of shorties for Miss 4 months but I needed a co-ordinating colour for the waistband and leg cuffs because I won't have enough of the variegated yarn on its own. So out came the dye pot, the vinegar and food dye. And my audience :)

So all in all we had a wonderful day. Miss 4 months slept for hours, Mr 4 and Miss 2 were busy and happy and I got to dye some wool and cake loads of wool!

Winter knits

2011-02-09T08:07:00.001+10:00

I've started this winters knits for my children. I finished this lovely handspun pinafore for Miss 2.

The purple trim is the divine WOOLganics and the gorgeous handspun is from Fauve Fibres. I'll be at the Northey Street markets this Sunday, alongside Fauve Fibres and many other creative souls. Looking forward to a day of great company, great atmosphere and great food!

Bedding to bedding

2011-01-22T19:40:00.000+10:00

I finally did some sewing last night, after blogging yesterday about having to find time to sew! I used one of my op-shop finds from yesterday as well. A lovely single bed cotton fitted sheet that had no elastic left in it. It cost me $2. I turned it into a pair of cotton summer pj's for Miss 2, and have plenty left over. I heart op-shopping. And Miss 2 hearts her new pj's.

So single bed sheet to pyjamas. Easy peasy.

Op-shop bargains

2011-01-21T16:04:00.000+10:00

I went op-shopping with my 3 kiddies today. Check out my bargains!

Op-shop number 1

One of my favourite op-shops, with very low prices and a real mix of everything.

Honourable mentions go to the huge funky dinner plates with red circles round the edge for 50c each, the pink cotton single bed fitted sheet with no elastic that is going to be recycled into a pair of pj's for my daughter for $2, two complete puzzles which will keep my son amused for hours for $5, and a set of gorgeous vintage duck plates for 50c each.

Op-shop number 2

The closest op-shop to me, and it's a super centre. It's HUGE! The kids always head straight to the toys to play and I get to browse around and ferret through everything.

Honourable mentions go to the funky orangey yellow corduroy I found in the fabric pile for $1.50 and the vintage floral woven cotton that seems to match perfectly for $2, a pair of well loved girls Birki's for $6, and a gorgeous handmade dress for $2.

Miss 2 modelling her new dress!

So, as usual, I picked up some lovely fabrics and have wonderful ideas for them.... now just to find the time to make them!

2 months?!

2011-01-08T16:56:00.000+10:00

Has it really been 2 months since my last post? Really? Gosh, where has the time gone?! I might do a quick recap of the last 2 months to fill in the gaps then. What has happened to me in last two months? Well...

I turned 30!

My MIL bought me a brand new fancy pants sewing machine which I pick up in a few weeks, and my family got me this...

... a Nikon D3100! I've always loved photography so my new digital SLR is a much wanted and longed for gift. I'm off on a short course next weekend to learn how to use it properly.

We had Christmas.

I think the biggest surprise for me was my husband buying me this...

... a wool winder! He found the Tangled Yarns shop location online and went in himself and bought it, all without me knowing. He's definitely a keeper! I've had loads of fun winding wool. Loads!

Hmm, what else has happened?

We got a four year old on Boxing Day :)

We got piggy tails!

We went from counting Anya's age in weeks to months!

Otherwise, I guess the biggest thing that has happend is lots and lots of rain! All the river crossings around us are in flood, and for a waterway ecologist like me, there is little more beauty than to drive around and admire all the swollen rivers, inundated floodplains and active birdlife. Except maybe birthing a baby into your husbands hands by candle light at 2am in your own house, surrounded by family and powerful women.

So what's in store for us this year?

We're off to Ballina for our annual Australia Day holiday with the in laws, Mr 4 is off to kindy, we've sworn to do a handmade pledge cross consumption rebellion type challenge and only make or buy our clothes secondhand, loads more revegetation on our block, attending markets regularly and making the most of long weekends and holidays by doing as much camping as possible!

Back in the groove

2010-11-21T19:06:00.000+10:00

I spent this morning soaking in the atmosphere at Northey Street market in the company of my two girls, Miss 2 and Miss 7 weeks.

It was delightful! I thoroughly enjoy being back in the market groove; the hustle and bustle of packing the car, getting to the market, setting up the stall, sitting back and enjoying the vibe and chatting to other stallholders. It's so nice to be in a place where people are passionate about things that matter so much to me- breastfeeding, babywearing, homebirth, sustainable living, ecology, permaculture to name a few.

Northey Street always has such lovely caring people. I met some wonderful people today, and bumped into many friends. I'm looking forward to going back in 2 weeks time with Fauve Fibres.

Vintage pink

2010-11-20T10:26:00.000+10:00

I made this cute summer top for Miss 2. It's a Breezy bamboo/cotton knit bodice (pattern by Shannon) and an upcycled cotton skirt. I really surprised myself with this. Firstly, by making my daughter something pink, then secondly by actually liking said pink item! It's very sweet and perfect for our hot Brisbane summers.

I ordered some Bendigo cotton to make more of these and am hoping it holds its shape better than this Moda Vera bamboo/cotton blend. This is lovely and soft but just doesn't hold its shape at all! If the Bendogo cotton bodice works out then I'll be making some for markets.

Vintage sweetness

2010-11-04T17:44:00.000+10:00

Big shout out to the rain for keeping my husband home today so I could finish a few more things for the BrisStyle ECO market :)

I'm working my way through a pile of crafty goodness but realising that I'm just not going to get all that I had hoped to get done, done. I'll just keep working away when I can and build up for the BrisStyle designer market on the 4th December.

These sweet vintage peasant tops are made from upcycled vintage fabrics and one features a recycled doilie and French lace my grandmother gave me. They are so sweet!

November ECO market

2010-10-27T07:44:00.001+10:00

The next BrisStyle ECO market is on 6th November. I'll be there, sharing a lovely outdoors marquee with Kate from dash robin, with a whole host of upcycled, recycled and repurposed kids clothing and accessories. I'm making what I can, but progress is a little slower than usual, thanks to three adorable but very time consuming individuals, in particular Miss 3 weeks, though Mr almost 4 and Miss 2 do a pretty good job of distracting me as well :)

Look.At.This.

2010-10-26T06:49:00.000+10:00

Look at this. Just look at this!! 125g of handspun, hand dyed rainbow gradient BFL, given to me yesterday by Sally from Fauve Fibres. I love it so much I could scream! I love bright, I love rainbow, I love handmade. And this is all that, plus more! Just because she's awesome and knows I prefer bulky/chunky yarns, it's a 12/14ply to top it off. Now, the big question, what to make with it?

And then there were 5...

2010-10-01T16:22:00.000+10:00

Our third baby and second daughter joined us earthside at 1.53am on the 30th September. She was born by candle light into her daddy's hands in our lounge room. It was a beautiful birth, being a night labour and birth by candle light, with lightning, thunder and rain storming outside. A beautiful way to welcome the last member of our family.

Our other two children were woken to be there when she was born so it was another lovely family birth for us. She took 9 hours to join us, weighed in at 3.96kg (just under 9lb) and was born with her hand on her face, just like her sister. So far she has been as quiet and calm as her birth was, and needless to say the entire family is completely smitten with her!

Welcome Anya.

My last market

2010-08-13T09:27:00.000+10:00

I'm really sad to say that I'm doing my last market on Saturday night. Well, the last before this baby is born. I'll be at the launch of Mumatopia, which promises to be a night filled with handmade and environmentally aware products and most exciting, birthy goodness! It's quite symbolic, I think, that my last market is a celebration of birth and community.

I'm almost 32w, my first was born at 34w and my second at 38w, and she was overdone. She had been trying to birth from 35w, so the only thing I'm sure of, is that I have early babies. Meaning, it's time for me to slow down and rest up before I have this babe. Which is weeks away! We're all very excited, it's another homebirth for our family and this will be our last baby. So I'm going to do my best at resting as much as I can.

I'm hoping to be back into the swing of things as soon as I can, and will definitely be taking our newest addition to the Northey Street markets when I feel up to it. In the meantime, I'll be listing all my market stock on etsy so if you've seen something you like at one of the markets I've been at, that's where you can find me for now.

Thanks for your understanding :)

Basket of ducks for market day

2010-08-07T19:54:00.001+10:00

I've got this basket of nested ducks, each with three ducklings tucked safely in their wing pocket, ready for market tomorrow. I'll be at Northey Street City Farm in the morning, sharing a stall with Fauve Fibres and looking forward to a morning of good company, music and the Northey Street vibe.

I've got these ducks, chicken cushions, hairclips, clothes and kids mei tais, all made from upcycled, recycled or repurposed materials. If you're about, please come on over and say hi!

Soulful Spring Sounds

2010-08-02T09:27:00.001+10:00

A few weeks ago I was accepted as a stall holder for the markets at the very first Soulful Spring Sounds Music Festival at Warrego Wines, near Marburg. It looks to be a wonderful day out. It'll feature a local handmade and organic market plus live jazz, blues and roots acts. Warrego Wines is QLD's only certified organic winery.

You can read more about the festival on their Facebook page, but details are;

Saturday 11th September
10am-5pm
Warrego Wines
Cnr Warrego Highway and Seminary Rd, Marburg
Free Entry

Weekend of rest

2010-07-31T08:48:00.000+10:00

Today is Saturday, 31st July. I'm meant to be set up at the Red Hill Fair, enjoying good company, the lovely weather and a fun day out. Instead, I'm at home, still in my pj's, with a strained abdominal ligament, whilst 7 months pregnant. So sorry to miss those of you who were going to pop in and say hi.

I'm having a quiet day of resting and knitting. I've almost finished a gorgeous rainbow gradient knitted dress for my daughter and am going to make some newborn things for our new babe, due sooner than we are ready for! So in some ways, being forced to rest and take it easy at this point is a good thing. I look forward to being back at the Northey Street City Farm Village Life market next weekend.

Red Hill Fair

2010-07-15T09:53:00.007+10:00

The Red Hill Fair is on Saturday 31st July. It looks to be a fun day out, especially for families. There'll be rides, sideshows, food and over 40 craft stalls... including me!

I'm really looking forward to it, especially after the fun of the BrisStyle Indie Eco Market. I had a ball on Saturday, sold out of a few ranges and had loads of lovely visitors. I probably won't have space for kids clothes at this market, but I will have nested ducks, hanging doves and chicken cushions with me, and whatever else I can squeeze onto my table.

Oh that reminds me, I didn't get time to share the doves and chickens with you before the market, so here they are;

Hanging doves

Chicken cushions...

... and their patchwork backs.

All the birds are made out of recycled fabrics. The hanging doves were uber retro, made out of op-shopped fabric I had been hoarding since I was a teenager! The chickens had more of a vintage feel, some featured doilies as wings, others had pocket wings with lace trim and others just had big, funky, oversized pocket wings.

So, a heap of handmade birds and other upcycled crafty goodness, and myself, will be at Red Hill Fair on Saturday 31st July, maybe we'll see you there :)

Weekend creations

2010-07-05T09:23:00.000+10:00

I'm realising that I'm not going to have all I had hoped to have made in time for Saturday thanks to a sick babe. But, that's ok. I'm still really happy with what I have and think it will be an awesome market, what's not to love about an eco-friendly market loaded with upcycled and recycled handmade goodies?

So these are the items I finished over the weekend; 2 hanging bird mobiles and some crochet brooches. The dove mobiles are made from recycled fabrics and old embroidery hoops I picked up in an op-shop, only their stuffing is new. They're contrasting spots and stripes.

I made some crochet brooches out of left over hand dyed wool I had. My children were cloth nappied, and I dyed and knit their wool nappy covers and have these scraps of gorgeous dyed wool left over, I'm glad to be able to use them. I made several before Christmas for a twilight market and enjoyed making them again. They're so bright and cheerful!

Upcycled boys tunics

2010-06-29T15:20:00.001+10:00

Finally, something for the boys! These long sleeve tunics are made entirely from upcycled fabrics and come in sizes 1-5. They're headed to the BrisStyle Indie ECO Market with me and are perfect over a short or long sleeve t-shirt on a warm winter day, or over a t-shirt in spring. They could even be worn to the park or beach as sun protection in summer.

I made these with boys in mind, but as my husband pointed out, my version of boys clothing isn't your stereotypical boys stuff, so quite a few of them are unisex. I don't see why boys clothing is always so limited. What's with boys only ever having cars, trucks, trains or planes to choose from? Or blue? My son isn't interested in any of that. Give him animals and rainbows anyday. I also get really frustrated to go to markets to find a huge range of handmade clothes for girls, and just about nothing for boys, so I'm happy to stock boys clothes, that aren't just a pair of funky pants. I'll be doing short sleeve versions of these when it warms up.

So, in addition to the upcycled vintage girls clothing I make, I'll also have a selection of environmentally aware boys clothing to choose from on July 10. Oh and a range of other recycled and repurposed kids things such as nested duck toys, bird mobiles, crayon rolls, art totes and hairclips.

If you want to see individual photos of any of the images I've got in these collages, have a look at my Facebook page. Oh, and if you haven't already read it, have a read of my little blurb on the BrisStyle blog :)

Hairclips, ducks and on not being quick enough!

2010-06-25T15:43:00.003+10:00

Just a quick snap of some hairclips I've just finished, alongside the mama ducks I made a few weeks ago. It's all starting to come together, I'm really looking forward to the BrisStyle Indie ECO market. I love the idea of a market that is environmentally responsible, I just love it! The actual clip of the hairclip is brand new, but the fabric and buttons are a mix of new and recycled materials. Be sure to check out the BrisStyle blog to read interviews with other marketeers and see what gorgeous goodies they have in store for market day.

Oh, and just a few more snaps to show you what happens round these parts when I'm not quick enough with the camera!

Vintage peasant tops

2010-06-20T19:34:00.001+10:00

I've been sewing, sewing, sewing for the next market, and this weekend finished a collection of upcycled, long sleeve vintage peasant tops. They're almost 100% recycled- only the thread and elastic is new! These are definitely one of a kind, and what's not to love about clothing that is unique, but also gentle on the earth? These are light long sleeve tops, perfect for warmer winter days and over t shirts in spring.

These tops plus many other upcycled, recycled and repurposed items of kids clothing and accessories will be heading to the BrisStyle Indie ECO market with me on July 10!

Mama ducks headed to market

2010-05-28T16:49:00.001+10:00

Three mama ducks headed to market next weekend, with their ducklings in their pouch, as my son tells me. I assure him ducks don't carry their young in pouches, but for a kid who has been carried in pouches, slings, wraps and other baby wearing carriers since birth, and has seen his sister carried the same, I guess that's all he knows!

I just have to make sure I keep them away from my daughter, she loves hers to death and clearly has more love to give judging by her excitement at seeing these three finished toys. One lucky duckling spent a good ten minutes being carried to sleep in her arms before I could convince her it probably should go back to it's mother. Then onto the highest shelf in the study.

Brisbane's Melting Pot craft market

2010-05-05T17:35:00.001+10:00

A little original will be at Brisbane's Melting Pot craft market on Sat 8th May and Sun 9th May, 11.30am to 5 pm. My clothes will be at the Fauve Fibres stall- along side stunning handspun yarns, handdyed organic merino wool yarn, fibres for spinning, felted goodness and dyed scarves. My friend Sally is very talented and very passionate about her craft- it's worth going along just to see her and her wares!

"There's a world of music bubbling away in Brisbane's diverse communities. This melting pot of multi-culturalism will be celebrated during the monthly series of FREE entertainment and activities to be held at QPAC's Cascade Court and Melbourne Street Green.

Traversing the globe from Asia to Europe, Africa and the Americas, Brisbane's Melting Pot will feature an array of ethnic delicacies from local communities including traditional fare, arts and craft, new world music and dance.

Gather your family and friends and join the global citizens of Brisbane's new world city as we celebrate diversity, community and culture through the universal languages of food and music.

Folkloric traditions, classical compositions and contemporary pop music come together to mark the European influence on a western culture steeped in delicious diversity".
Where: Cascade Court and Melbourne Street Green, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane

BrisStyle

2010-04-22T10:21:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited to announce that I'm now a very proud member of BrisStyle- Brisbane's indie designer collective. They hold several markets throughout the year, have a Facebook group and have many beautiful handmade items for sale on Etsy. I'm so excited to be part of such a talented group of crafters!

Etsy listing

2010-04-15T15:01:00.000+10:00

I have just listed 5 girls vintage tops in my etsy shop. I was intending to hold them till the next market I do, but I'm not sure when that will be so I decided to list them instead. I really am working on getting some boys tunics out there, I promise!

Three little ducks

2010-04-12T13:16:00.003+10:00

Three little ducks went out one day

Over the hill and far away

Mother duck said "Quack quack quack quack"

But only two little ducks came back

Two little ducks went out one day

Over the hill and far away

Mother duck said "Quack quack quack quack"
But only one little duck came back

One little duck went out one day

Over the hill and far away

Mother duck said "Quack quack quack quack"
But none of the three little ducks came back

Sad mother duck went out one day
Over the hill and far away
Sad mother duck said "Quack quack quack quack"
And all of the three little ducks came back.

My daughter loves this song. It's the first song she learnt and she sings it with the actions and everything, it's very cute. So I made her this duck, with an elastic wing pocket so she could store the ducklings with their mama. It's quite handy actually, it stores well so you don't end up with bits everywhere. I'm hoping to make a few for the next market I do.

Vintage tunics

2010-04-09T16:20:00.001+10:00

I am so excited to be sharing these with you. I feel like I have been working on these forever! This idea began back in November last year (seen here, modelled by my darling boy- Oh my, I've just seen how much older he looks since then!).

I worked on the pattern for a while, and am now really happy with it. I intended for these to be mainly for boys, but then I couldn't resist a long sleeved top for girls. So, here are the first two vintage tops/tunics, made from recycled fabrics. What do you think?

Vintage girls top with brown check pocket with lace trim. Size 2.

Vintage boys tunic with contrast neckline. Size 3.

Boys tunic being modelled by Mr 3.5 who has already claimed this as his...

Blue birds and red bears

2010-04-08T13:52:00.002+10:00

These were so much fun to make, and I absolutely love how they finished up!

Vintage blue birds peasant top, with blue gingham sleeves and front detail, with pink buttons hand sewn on. A size 3.

Vintage red bears peasant top with little bears playing with boats, and buckets and spades with scattered stars, and two big red pockets with vintage blue buttons. A size 5.

A new little original

2010-04-07T10:32:00.000+10:00

That's right, a new little original will be joining our family later this year :D That's why I've been really quiet, I've been struggling with morning sickness! I'm into the start of the second trimester now so hopefully I'll be back on my feet in no time. We're very excited, as are Mr 3.5 and Miss 1.5. It'll be another homebirth for us so the kids and I have been watching birth videos on You Tube to get them used to the noise and awesomeness of birth, it's been lovely.

Anyway, that's my big news... and my reason for being so slow and quiet in recent months. I'm really hoping to be able to attend a few markets over the next few weeks, I've missed it!

Handmade Expo 20th March

2010-03-18T09:18:00.001+10:00

We're off to the Handmade Expo this weekend. Well, not me per se, but a little original will be stocked at the Mamatopia stall. My friend Cas will be womaning her stall which will feature handmade, upcycled clothing (made by yours truly), handmade slings, wraps and cloth nappies, as well as other mum and baby handmade products that are environmentally sustainable.

I've been super busy and only managed to make these two gorgeous vintage tops to add to my collection, but I have heaps of tunics for this cooler weather we've been having cut and ready to sew... if only I had more time! I'm mainly working on a boys range of tunics because they always seem to miss out on handmade clothes, but I have some very funky floral vintage fabrics that are screaming out to be made into girls tops, so I'll be working on those as well.

This cute vintage peasant top is a size 1.

This colourful vintage peasant top is a size 4.

Funky vintage flares

2010-02-27T19:21:00.002+10:00

The vintage flares are done, and they are uber cool! One pair have already been rehomed, but I didn't manage to get a photo before they found their way to a friends darling daughter, but they were pretty funky. Check them out!

Size 5; recycled curtains:

Size 4; recycled tablecloth:

Size 3; recycled vintage sheeting:

Size 2; recycled vintage sheeting:

I learned some lessons in the month or so it took me to get these done. I don't like production lines. I don't like making a bunch of the same things at once. I much prefer making items one at a time, creating as I go and enjoying it. I like the freedom of making several different things in one week, and making each one unique. I don't like custom orders! They're too stressful!

I love using reclaimed and recycled materials. I really love this. I have so much more joy out of creating something out of an old bed sheet, or tablecloth or curtain, than out of some gorgeous brand new designer cotton. I also feel more environmentally responsible when doing this, and this is important to me.

Funky flares preview

2010-01-19T11:06:00.001+10:00

Has it really been almost a month since my last post? Really? Wow, times flies when life is busy. I made my daughter a pair of capri length flares and they are a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e. Well, they were meant to be capri length, on my teeny girl they're almost full length!

I'm pretty happy with them so I'm going to make some for sale, and what goes better with flares than recycled vintage fabrics? I'll be making sizes 1-8 and will only be doing one run of each print. I'm bummed I only have the 1 boyish print so I may make a couple of those.

Check this vintage collection out. Aren't they super funky?! I'll be making them this week so stayed posted!

SALE!

2010-01-02T21:25:00.000+10:00

The etsy DUST (Down Under Street Team) are having a January sale. The theme is "Brand New" so I have reduced all items made from recycled fabric- because they've all been given a brand new lease on life!

My sale section is HERE!

I'm itching to start sewing again! I'm on a self imposed sewing ban until life returns to normal ie my husband goes back to work. Until then though, I'll just keep coming up with ideas :)

Funky flowers

2009-12-24T14:24:00.003+10:00

Funky flower brooches. I whipped these up for the market last night. They're so sweet!

This was hand dyed and hand spun by my creative friend from Fauve Fibres. It was the remainder of a skein I used to make a soaker with.

I hand dyed these last 2. They're also remainder skeins from other projects. I love the red one, it's so bright and beautiful :)

What's in store in the new year

2009-12-22T08:03:00.001+10:00

What items have I got planned for the new year? Well more cotton rompers for starters, the beach romper I made had overwhelming positive feedback, so I'm definitely making some for the shop. Ruffle pants, a range of skirts and dresses, more simple style peasant tops and halter neck tops in stunning fabrics, and I'm hoping to have some time over these holidays to finalise the collarless, buttonless shirt I've been working on.

I find the greatest range of so-cool-I-want-my-kid-to-wear-that fabrics are usually woven cottons so I'm hoping to finish this shirt pattern and be able to maximise on the range of beautiful cottons available. Pattern design has been much harder than I thought it would be!

I'm also thinking about boy stuff. Boys get so forgotten in the world of cool and funky fashion. So I'm thinking about tops mostly, and not trucks, trains, cars either. Playful, fun, boys clothing with an emphasis on nature or just plain, bright and loud clothes that boys seem to miss out on!

I'm hoping to make more vintage inspired items next year too. Pinafores, sunsuits, tunics, overalls, all the things I love from times when childhood was about being a child, not about being a mini adult. These will be largely from my Enid Gilchrist collection and I'm really looking forward to going through the process of drafting the designs and making them up.

Speaking of vintage, check out this (small) spread of some of the reclaimed vintage fabric I've got stored.

So what am I thinking of using them for you say? Vintage patchwork! I'm planning on making patchwork flared pants and tiered skirts solely out of the reclaimed vintage materials I have and find. I made my daughter a tiered patchwork skirt for her first birthday (see below) and I love it so much I want to make many more, but not out of scraps, just out of vintage fabric. I'll probably make these in larger sizes (4,5,6) because a) bigger sizes would suit the larger, bolder vintage prints better and b) I've been asked when I'm going to start making larger sizes!

Ok, so now that I've touched base and caught up ith everything, I better get back to Christmas crafting.

New fabric

2009-12-22T07:36:00.001+10:00

I've had some stunning fabrics find their way into my cupboard over the last few weeks. Check out this awesome rainbow stripe! I've got 4m of this, so loads to play with. Well, just under 4m. I couldn't resist making my daughter a pair of shorts out of this on the day I bought it. Still... plenty for others :)

Brown paisley. I looooove paisley.

Spots and stripes.

Some of the Emily Bloom collection. These are awesome. They're such beautiful and vibrant colours and they co-ordinate so well. I think these are destined to be ruffle pants/capri's.

Michael Miller fabrics. I love these quality designer cottons. They're such lovely and lively prints. I bought extra of the Birds of Norway print. I heart it.

Custom orders

2009-12-22T07:24:00.002+10:00

I haven't neglected this blog! I've just been crazy busy! I've had several custom orders to make, and am trying to finish all my Christmas gifts at the same time. Insane. I love these two orders. The peasant top is a size 1, and I love it because it is just a divine print and I'm stoked there is another wee woman getting about in a colour other than pink.

I love love love this ruffle dress. It was custom sized and is the most adorable summer dress, I really hope the giftee likes her Christmas present! How sweet is the mermaid poking out the top of the pocket!

Etsy stocked!

2009-12-12T19:24:00.000+10:00

I just listed some skirts and dresses in my Etsy store. Listing takes aaaaaages! I'm really happy with what I've got in the shop, now to get back to sewing Christmas presents and clothes for my kids. Speaking of which, if anyone has a good pattern for kids singlets, can you please let me know? It's so hot here, and I refuse to buy singlets because I have so much cotton knit sitting here!

Market day

2009-12-09T14:05:00.000+10:00

I'm off to Fernvale Twilight Market again tonight. Here's a sneak peek of what I've finished today; a halter neck top and 5 pillowcase dresses. I'll be listing these at my Etsy store if they don't sell.

It's really really hot here today, thank god for Playschool and air-con! It's enabled me to get quite a lot done today. I'm now finishing up some cute knitted owl and flower hairclips for the market as well. I'm doing that in the coolness of our lounge room, happily out of the sweat shop for now :)

Upcycled Halter Top- Size 2

Mermaid Stripe- Size 2

Flamengo Stripe- Size 3

Brown Owl- Size 3

Upcycled Green Waves- Size 5

Upcycled Sweet Vintage- Size 5

Ok, so now I really need to work on those boys shirts!

Beach romper

2009-12-08T07:57:00.001+10:00

How cute is this?! I made this as a Christmas gift for a family member. She's taking her new daughter to the beach for the first time over Christmas so I wanted to make something beachy, summery, fun, and practical. I'm all about practical. I just love it! It's sized 6-12m. It's got a lined bodice, elastic in the leg and snaps at the straps and crotch. I think a few of these need to be made for the shop!

Newborn shorties

2009-12-06T21:28:00.000+10:00

I have decided to sell these. I hand dyed this wool and knit these when I was pregnant with my second child. I made them up as I went, thinking they were a great newborn size... then my daughter arrived earthside at 9lb 6oz... and she didn't fit! So they are destined for sale for a small newborn. They're lovely bright colours.

Something new

2009-12-01T21:09:00.000+10:00

So... notice anything new on the blog? Maybe down the left hand side? Like maybe an Etsy gallery?! I had hoped to have everything uploaded and ready to go by tonight, but as it happens, when your main 'job' is to parent small children, you don't get anywhere near as much done as you would like. I've got tiered twirly skirts, pants and soakers to upload yet, but this will have to do for today. I'll finish up tomorrow. So in a quiet and exhausted voice I say "yay, I have an Etsy account"!!

We have labels!

2009-12-01T07:35:00.001+10:00

My labels finally arrived yesterday! So today I will be sewing them onto existing finished items, restocking my madeit shop... and going live on Etsy! Couldn't resist taking photos of them and blogging them :)

Stunning Handspun Soaker

2009-11-28T16:16:00.001+10:00

I've just finished this stunning handspun soaker. It is so soft, you can't imagine how soft it is! It's just beautiful. The body is handspun from Fauve Fibres and the trim is divine certified organic WOOLganics. It's quite thick so I don't think it will need lanolising for a while. It's so beautiful! I wasn't sure how this would turn out, I'm blown away by how much I love it. If my daughter wasn't teeny tiny, this wouldn't be making it to sale. Luckily I've got more of Fauve's gorgeous handspun here so I can make a few more stunning, one of a kind soakers. Oh and this pattern is the ingenious Vanilla soaker. It is completely seamless- WOOT!

Market update

2009-11-27T13:17:00.000+10:00

Thanks so much for all your well wishes! I'm super happy to report that I was the biggest seller that night! I'm super happy, and super motivated to hit the sweat shop (it is literally a sauna in there) and make more original creations :)

To market to market...

2009-11-25T13:37:00.001+10:00

Off to Fernvale Twilight Market tonight! I wish I had more stock, but I'm really happy with what I do have. Peasant tops and dresses, pants, shorts, tiered twirly skirts, ruffle neck dresses, knitted soakers and patchwork skirts. Most are made from imported designer cottons and there are some upcycled vintage tops that I've posted about previously. Have a great night!

Timeless Treasures

2009-11-25T13:14:00.001+10:00

These are from the Timeless Treasures collection. The most beautiful browns, creams, reds and oranges with a touch of green in stunning owls, apples, flowers and orchard trees. These four tiered twirly skirts are for the market tonight, and failing that, my madeit shop. The adorable peasant dress is for my daughter.

Apples for Lola- Size 1

All Cream- Size 1

Flowers and Apples- Size 1

Owls- Size 2

Mixed Flowers and Trees- Size 3

A pair of sun dresses

2009-11-24T06:50:00.001+10:00

How cute are these little summer dresses?! I am in love with this fabric, the colours are so vibrant. This pattern is my take on a few features I like from several different patterns- a simple peasant dress shape, with a round yoke style neckline with a slight ruffle to it. I'm quite happy with how it turned out! What do you think? Make more of these or just see how they go?

Stained Glass- Size 2

Pink Gothic Arch- Size 3

Vintage love

2009-11-23T07:42:00.001+10:00

Some more vintage love made from upcycyled materials. Both tops are peasant style tops with elastic in the neckline and light airy flutter sleeves.

This first shirt is my favourite vintage item so far. Feminine and delicate, but not pink! I love love love the autumn colours and I added a too cute lace trim at the neckline. It's just beautiful. I'll definitely be making another one for my teeny tiny daughter who is almost 14 months, but still getting around in a 0. Which is hilarious because she was 9lb 6oz at birth. Anyway, the second vintage top looks gorgeous near denim and would look super cute with denim shorts and sandals, perfect for summer!

Again, these are awaiting an a little original label before sale. I'm doing a market on Wednesday night so whatever isn't sold is going to be listed in the shop.

Autumn- Size 4

Playful Vintage- Size 5

Raffle prize

2009-11-19T08:02:00.000+10:00

I just finished these adorable newborn longies as one of the Joyous Birth Brisbane raffle prizes. Once a month a group of women get together and talk natural birth, cosleeping, babywearing, breastfeeding and a host of other attachment parenting topics. It's a great support group for anyone parenting gently. Newbies always welcome :)

Sweet vintage

2009-11-17T09:16:00.001+10:00

A few weeks ago my grandmother gave me most of her sewing belongings. Bags of fabric, buttons, ribbons, lace and even her overlocker. She's been sewing for 25 years, so imagine my excitement to sift through bags of vintage lace, buttons and ribbons!

I made these two tops out of upcycled fabric. I used some of my grandmothers buttons and on one of them, used some of her lace. The result? A very sweet little vintage top. I think it is just adorable! The two tops will be listed in my madeit store sometime next week (once my labels arrive- woohoo!).

Lace Garden- size 3

Colourful Floral- size 4

Peasant dresses... the start of it all

2009-11-16T21:25:00.000+10:00

I made these dresses a while ago now, but I felt the need to post about them. They were the first items I made for sale. I need to remind myself why I started sewing for sale. I made these 5 dresses, ranging from size 3-5. They're made from a stunning, imported designer cotton, and I just love them. Why? Because they're gorgeous, quality fabrics, and they're beautifully fun and feminine, but they're not pink!

I began sewing because I didn't want to dress my boy in blue, but that's all I could find. The older he got, the more "mini man" the clothing options became, so I started making my own bright and fun clothes for him. Well, by clothes I mean pants and shirts. You're kinda limited for choice with boys.

Then I had my daughter. She was a planned homebirth. A really hard, difficult birth, but she was born at home, on her own terms, in her own time, and for that, I am grateful. Slightly off topic... but the more you get to know me, the more you'll discover just how much birth matters to me! I am passionate about natural childbirth and even more so about homebirth.

So off we go and take our new little woman to the shops to find some clothes for her and we can't escape the sea of pink! I started making her clothes, because there are so many colours other than every shade of pink and the odd shade of purple to dress a girl in. Oh and don't even get me started on the blueness for boys! So here I am. Trying to provide fun and funky kids clothing to parents who want something a little bit different.

Thursday mail

2009-11-13T08:27:00.000+10:00

Some divine mail arrived yesterday :) Some gorgeous certified organic, hand dyed wool from Jolly Jumbuck and some stunning designer cottons. The wool is for cloth nappy soakers and woolies. Wool covers work a treat for cloth nappied babes. Both my children have been cloth nappied. Well, my daughter is still in nappies. I'm really proud that she's been 100% cloth nappied. I love the saying too precious for plastic, it's so true! Anyway, not only are wool covers practical, they're also super cute. The cottons are for some funky boys shirts and also girls clothing. Ooh, and hats! Really cute summer hats!

Designer fabric

2009-11-08T09:09:00.000+10:00

I had 3 lots of designer fabric arrive this week. They’ve all been washed and are ready to be cut. They’re mostly for the cotton boys shirts and are just so beautiful. Speaking of the boys shirt, I’ll be listing some on Monday! I am going away for a few days next week though so I won’t be able to post until I get back. My husband will be checking the shop and emails for me so I’ll still be in touch.

Robert Kaufman Animal Party and On a Whim:

Mixed lot:

Michael Miller:

Semi custom orders

2009-11-03T11:03:00.000+10:00

After several custom order enquiries I’ve decided to have a go at just listing semi-custom slots at my store. I’ve been taking photos of the fabric combinations on offer, with a measuring tape as a guide for print size. I’m listing some tonight and will be listing more over the next few days, especially as new fabric arrives. Hopefully that will give me time to work on the funky cotton boys shirts.

Woolly mail

2009-11-03T08:01:00.000+10:00

My Mosaic Moon wool arrived! This is the most divine wool, in the most gorgeous colourways! Mosaic Moon wool is all sourced from ethically and humanely run farms. I love it. Check out these stunning colours.

L-R clockwise: Copper Patina, Winter Pear, Selah, Birthday Boy, Selkie

Tiered skirts

2009-11-01T11:19:00.000+10:00

I’m working on some gorgeous tiered skirts from the “Timeless Treasures” collection. They’re the most stunning colours and gorgeous prints of owls, apples, orchard trees and flowers. I made my daughter one for her first birthday and she gets lots of compliments on it when we’re out. Here is a sneak peak of a size 1. I’ve got two size 1’s, a size 2 and a size 3 cut and ready to sew.

Friday fabric

2009-11-01T10:56:00.000+10:00

This arrived in the mail on Friday! Two lots of gorgeous cottons and a lot of cotton interlock. The cotton has peasant dresses and pinafores written all over it. I might even make myself a top out of the brown spot cotton I love it so much.

The interlock is for some simple raglan shirts with contrast colours. Fun and bright for summer. I’ve got some boys interlock arriving soon. Looking forward to being able to stock some funky but simple cotton raglan shirts.

Boys shirt

2009-11-01T09:48:00.000+10:00

This is a preview of a boys shirt I’ve been working on. It’s buttonless and collarless so it’s cool and casual for summer. I’m really excited by this! It’s really hard to find cool stuff for boys and I think this is a great item to funk up a boys wardrobe. I’ve made my son 2 of these now as testers and he’s had wonderful comments when we’ve been out. Can’t wait to make these out of matching designer cottons and stock them in the shop.

Funky new fabric

2009-11-01T09:42:00.000+10:00

These funky new designer cotton fabrics arrived recently. They’re so cool!

This lot is called Juicy Jungle and Juicy Stripe from Alexander Henry. I just love it. Though I’m not quite sure what to do with it. Any suggestions?

These two (apologies for not ironing before taking photos- I was too excited!) are Robert Kaufman’s Over the Rainbow Elephant Lagoon. Aren't they super cute?!

Fabric shopping!

2009-10-28T09:15:00.000+10:00

I’ve spent hours this morning online buying the right fabric for the projects I have in mind. My next run of clothes will be for boys. It’s so hard to find funky boys fabric! But I’m happy with what I’ve selected. When I started making clothes I said I’d always have a selection for boys because I know how hard it is to find fun and funky boys clothes. So I was kinda surprised when I stocked my madeit store and it was just about all girls clothes. So my priority is to stock a heap of boys clothing asap. Stay tuned!

Super bulky super fast vest pattern

2009-10-25T13:58:00.000+10:00

Super bulky super fast vest. For when you want/need to make something warm for your little one, FAST!

Sized for an average sized 2 year old

9mm 80cm circs

200g super bulky yarn (mine was 6wpi, and looked like 2 8plys plied together- it is very thick!)stitch holders (I use satefty pins and waste yarn)

Gauge

10sts per 4”/10cm

CO50, join to knit in the round

Purl one round

Knit one round

Purl one round

Knit one round then continue knitting until piece measure 8” from CO edge (or as long/short as you want to just below armpit)

BO6 st, k19, place these last 19 st on stitch holder/scrap yarn, BO6 st then k19. The BO stitches are the armpits and the 19st on the holder are the back stitches. You will now be working on the front of the vest.

Work in stockinette stitch for 7 rows, ending with a knit row

K6, BO7, K6

You have now just split the front into a left and right ‘strap’, as I will call them, and BO the centre chest stitches. I just left the BO stitches on the circ cable but you can put them on a stitch holder.

K2P2K2
K6

Repeat these two rows 5 times, or until strap is desired length (slip it on your child and see if the strap finishes in the centre of the top of the shoulder). Make sure you finish on a purl row. Put these onto a stitch holder and cut yarn.

Attach yarn to other strap and repeat same process, again finishing on a purl row. Place stitches on stitch holder and cut yarn.

Place back stitches from stitch holder/waste yarn onto needle.

K2P15K2
K19

Repeat these two rows 8 times, or until desired length. You will add short back straps so be sure to allow 1” for these or else the back will be too long.

K6, BO7, K6

You have now just split the back into a left and right strap, and BO the centre back stitches.You will now be adding a few rows to each strap and you’re done!

K2P2K2
K6

Repeat these two rows 5 times, or until strap is desired length.

Now knit each stitch on the needle with the corresponding stitch on the stitch holder to knit front and back straps together and then BO as you go. Do the same for the other side, weave in all ends and you're done!

A home!

2009-10-19T06:13:00.000+10:00

This blog will be the home of my work-at-home-business. I make unique and original childrens clothing from quality materials sourced all over the world. I look forward to having a place to share my creations!

a little original

Mama sewing

An Etsy treasury

Ask and you shall receive...

Sunday market

An Etsy treasury

horse pj's

Etsy stocked!

g r e e n i e

More knits

yarnie

Winter knits

Bedding to bedding

Op-shop bargains

2 months?!

Back in the groove

Vintage pink

Vintage sweetness

November ECO market

Look.At.This.

And then there were 5...

My last market

Basket of ducks for market day

Soulful Spring Sounds

Weekend of rest

Red Hill Fair

Weekend creations

Upcycled boys tunics

Hairclips, ducks and on not being quick enough!

Vintage peasant tops

Mama ducks headed to market

Brisbane's Melting Pot craft market

BrisStyle

Etsy listing

Three little ducks

Vintage tunics

Blue birds and red bears

A new little original

Handmade Expo 20th March

Funky vintage flares

Funky flares *preview*

SALE!

Funky flowers

What's in store in the new year

New fabric

Custom orders

Etsy stocked!

Market day

Beach romper

Newborn shorties

Something new

We have labels!

Stunning Handspun Soaker

Market update

To market to market...

Timeless Treasures

A pair of sun dresses

Vintage love

Raffle prize

Sweet vintage

Peasant dresses... the start of it all

Thursday mail

Designer fabric

Semi custom orders

Woolly mail

Tiered skirts

Friday fabric

Boys shirt

Funky new fabric

Fabric shopping!

Super bulky super fast vest pattern

A home!

Funky flares preview