Tiges and Weince

NEW : Home Decor for all the family

2012-02-15T15:54:00.005+11:00

A new area of my business is a home decor range for all of the family, not just for the kiddies. I want to introduce new designs slowly, piece by piece. For a while now I have had customers ask when can I create cushions, especially doorstops, for them & their houses. I am still trying to get my head around exactly what I want it to look like. It is hard trying to cater to everyone, & not design for one particular style. Especially colour as everyone's home is so unique to them. I know I love bright colours, but I also want to keep it neutral with pops of colour.

It's definitely a work in motion project, & today I am sharing my first piece.

I am a fan of flowers & adore this saying by Jane Austen, which I have been wanting to use it somehow for a while, but I felt the right opportunity hadn't come up for it. This first design I have created is something I would definitely put in my house. My house is fairly neutral with bold highlight colours of magenta & lots of turquoise.

A generous size 40x30cm, but not by any means domineering.

The back is finished with an oatmeal coloured cotton, based on the oatmeal & white stripe I have used in the design.

I have also created a doorstop of course! This design is now sitting happily at my front doors, & my internal door that opens straight to my garage.

Everything is now available in my online stores.

My weekend

2012-02-13T09:38:00.000+11:00

How was your weekend? Mine always come and do so fast, & before I know it here we are again Monday.

My Saturday always starts, well for the last 3 weeks anyway, with a workout at the gym. I am really making an effort to make this wonderful feeling of exercise part of my life again & it feels great. I am not feeling half as sluggish & its nice to be slowly losing some weight.

Then off to the supermarket, my poor old cupboards were bare. I know I am not the first person to do that, it's terrible when you're scratching around for something to eat. Then unpacking groceries is such an ordeal for me & takes forever, mainly because I chop all my fresh veggies into pieces which are placed in the fridge smarts from Tupperware. Why do it you ask? When I have to get dinner made in a flash & the kids are cranky all I have to do is pull them out & throw what I need in the steamer, wok or post. It's done & it's fast!

Then after an hour or so hanging out with the kids we head off to zoo twilights. Snacks were made, dips were packed, fruit was cut & a few chocolate chip cookies were snuck in as a later treat.The band playing was Beautiful girls, which I later found out were men!! I can't recall hearing much of the band as I was with a friend & didn't stop talking. The weather was weird, warm, wet, damp & windy, but it didn't change my mood.

Here are my kids on the picnic rug munching on crackers.

Melbourne's weird weather, sunny, damp, cloudy & stormy.

My gorgeous friend Kim. It was great hanging out having a few wines, in my world there is nothing better. Her adorable daughter Allie was there keeping my babies amused as they played chasey & danced all together. If you have never experience zoo twilights in Melbourne I highly recommend it. I have been going for years, even before I had kids & generally go to see Kate Cebrano as I love her. But thought this year might be nice for a change. It's such a relaxed atmosphere sitting on your picnic rug, creating a delicious spread of food, drinking some wine, & if you're up to it you can watch some of the animals being fed, elephants, seals, baboons & lions. Hudson got to hear the lions raw last night....Scared the pants off him!!!

This morning I woke to a wonderful sight.....My new pool!!

It was finished yesterday & we were filling it over night. We have been building it since last November & I am a little disappointed it's completed so late, but I am sure we will still have some hot summer days soon....Fingers crossed.

I hope you had a lovely week & have an inspired week ahead of you xx

Cushion Love on Friday - 9

2012-02-10T12:54:00.004+11:00

Valentines day - It is traditionally a day on which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as "valentines").The day first became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished - Wikipedia

Valentines is in the air, whether you embrace this day of lurve or not there is no escaping it.

Today I was out to find some lovely heart designed cushions that represented style, colour, prettiness and love of course. But most important designs that would co-ordinate in your home or bedroom, should you be a lucky recipient, and of course something that you would want to keep forever.

You see I can't stand the commercial bright red designs that almost scratch your skin they're so revolting.

Happy Valentines for next week xx

If you celebrate this day I hope your hear flutters.

Some heart for the home

2012-02-08T19:38:00.007+11:00

I wanted to share this set of gorgeous heart strings I bought from Set Adrift. I found them on the home page of Madeit & they grabbed my eye instantly.

I had been looking for something to hang near my front door that would look really pretty, but something that wasn't too domineering. While on holiday in Phillip Island I saw many of these styles of work in the beautiful boutiques, in different designs & in similar shapes & thought how I would love to buy some.

They are so detailed & I just love the texture.

The best part about them is that you can buy them in lots of different colours including red, which would be gorgeous for those who celebrate valentines day.

First day at kinder...

2012-02-06T20:26:00.003+11:00

Today was Hudson's first day at 3yr old kinder. I just can't believe my babies school journey has begun. He is such a great kid full of enthusiasm & so inquisitive I know he is just going to absorb everything he is taught. He is also like me....a chatterbox......& I just hope he sits & listens to what is happening around him haha!

After a weekend of preparations which start Friday at orientation I believe he was as prepared as I could possible make him. He chose his school back pack & lunch box himself which was blazoned with who else? But Lightning McQueen. We bought his pre-school tee, jumper & some shorts & all weekend we talk about how much fun it was going to be.

This morning when I woke him I said guess where you're going today? He grabbed my hand & squeezed it & said kinder with such a huge smile. I was relieved but still thought it may change.

Here we are at the gate ready & waiting. It was really hard getting these photo's as he was such an eager beaver to get inside.

With his baby sitter who had to be in the photo's. She is always 1 step behind him.

A quick bit of play before it was time.

When we arrive we have to hang our bag up first, which by the way Hudson's picture recognition is a banana. The beginning of class is the sound of a bell ringing, the old school style which I just adore. The children have been told that's the sign to go in say goodbye & join the other kiddies on the mat. After hearing the bell Hudson just left, no goodbye, no kiss, no I love you, no nothing he just bolted for the mat. I was heart broken, I wanted to kiss my baby goodbye & tell him I loved him, the whole event just felt incomplete, I felt incomplete.

Luckily the teacher came out & said that we could come in & say goodbye & take the very important photo of the kids on the mat. So I have my photo & was waved goodbye but that tiny toosh of his, did not leave the floor. As heartbroken as I felt, I had a warming sense of pride & happiness, knowing that I know he is ready.

Day 1 down, I hope that Friday is just as positive.

Cushion Love on Friday - 8

2012-02-03T12:27:00.005+11:00

I love colour!

I know you know that!

Today I wanted to search for some stunning bright & bold cushion designs.

I am positive the gorgeous cushions I have found would definitely brighten up any dull space you may have at home.

Oh I love this crochet design & could see myself sitting on that outside.

Image source

A fellow madeit store "Henrietta and Morty" cushion....I LOVE how simple this is, I am a fan of stripes so this sings straight to me.

What a great twist on a classic argyle which generally are more monotone or quite subtle.

Image source

So simple & bright.

Image source.

Have a bright and happy Friday everybody xx

Custom Orders - Buntings

2012-02-02T20:46:00.003+11:00

I just posted off the other day some new buntings I created for a customer, & wanted to share them with you. They are both for this weekend.

A Happy Birthday bunting that will become an investment. She wanted something that can be used in years to come, something that was unisex, that was not too designed, or in any particular theme. I went along with her colour palette requested, & I kept the design in each colour classic by just using simple patterns like polka dots, stripe, stars etc.

The result...everything she asked for, very bright happy & unisex.

The next a personalised bunting for her daughters room. This was based off one of my very first cushions ever design that still sells well today

LOVING custom orders :)

My fitness journey....

2012-01-31T16:55:00.005+11:00

A couple of weeks ago I decided enough is enough!!! I need to start feeling fantastic, not just mentally by physically especially.

I couldn't work out why I was losing my zing, even when I had a decent night sleep. As simple as my revelation may be, it dawned on me I am so unfit. Before I had Hudson I was & had always been quite fit & extremely healthy. Until your body has been in that state & then not, it becomes very obvious in all aspects of your life.

I have put on about 10kgs, some left over baby weight & a few chocolate bars more, hehe. I want to move it & have been trying very hard without any result but a lot of excuses. I am too tired, I am too busy, I can't with the kids, my knee is sore (which always is), I just need to relax. It wasn't even a new years resolution it was just a decision I made one morning as I was putting on my jeans which always feel firm on my waist. I knew this muffin top & I had to break this friendship.

So I have joined my local gym which is very shiny & brand new. It's 15min walk from home or 5min drive in the car leaving, no excuses for not getting there. It has a FREE crèche for the kids, as part of my membership. Both of my kids are quite clingy to me, but I have decided an hour of separation for us would be fine, they will cope & besides they will be together.

image from here

I have also bought 6 weeks of personal training sessions with a trainer to get me going & to help me towards my goal. To date I have had 3 classes with my trainer & all I will say is OMG!! OMG!! I can now see & understand why they are worth every cent they earn. I have never worked so hard in my life, or been so sore either. Normally if I was alone & it got too hard I wouldn't stop, but slow down to a more comfortable pace rather than pushing myself to make those changes my body needs. As hard as it's been I am enjoying it a lot.

Food....This is my week point. I have a reasonably good diet but my weakness, like most of us is that little piece of mouth watering chocolate, a sweet biscuit, a small bowl of ice cream later at night when you have the peckish urge. I am going to make a real attempt to kick that habit, that's right a habit!! Half the time I am not even hungry it's the sweet urge that over comes me that I give in to. I am getting a meal plan soon & will share what my trainers plan of attack will be. I have a hunch it will be less carbs & sugar & more protein & vegetables. I can cope with that, it's my chocolate love that will challenge me.

images from here

To date my weight is 75kgs (I can't believe I am writing this), I am 168.5cm tall & wear a size 12. Some may say not too bad, it's not horrendous but this is about a fitness journey, & a journey to give me that zing back. ENERGY ENERGY ENERGY is what its all about. I know for a fact the fitter you are the more you can handle as you have the energy to do it. I am looking forward to a few changes in my diet also, again I am going to be looking for foods to give me energy & make me full.

Wish me luck on my journey. Any tips from your own experiences would be lovely.

So here is my journey &

Cushion size comparison

2012-01-30T09:29:00.003+11:00

Here are some customer cushion orders being posted today. I wanted to show you so you can see my 2 cushion sizes side by side.

Reading measurements can be one thing, as you grab your ruler or tape measure, but to physically see the difference in 'real life' so to speak, has a totally different impact. It really is a substantial difference when you look at them this way.

I am LOVING the larger side soooooooooo much.

Cushion Love on Friday - 8

2012-01-27T19:43:00.004+11:00

I received this garden gnome for Christmas & I just adore it. I love how he is somewhat traditional looking & best of all he doesn't have a football guernsey on. While we are still building the pool out the back I haven't allowed him to sit in his natural habitat.....The domestic garden.

There is something daggy, quirky, cute, yet very cool about garden gnomes. While wondering today where he was going to reside when the time is ready, I suddenly thought, I wonder if there are cushions with the friendly little people on them. This is what I found.

Not only are they adorable, how amazing is the work involved? All hand painted & hand embroidered, they are exquisite.

Both images can be found here & here.

Have a great weekend everyone.

My Australia Day was celebrated with American friends......

2012-01-26T20:11:00.004+11:00

Happy Australia day all!

I spent my day today not in the typically Australian way, including BBQ's, covering myself with Australian merchandise, or even hanging out with friends. My Australia Day was celebrated with American friends, the Disney kind. Today hubby, Hudson, Charlotte & I headed off to the convention centre in Melbourne to experience the Disney Live Rock Concert.

We started it off with my babies smiling for the camera.

Disney friends kicking it off with a bang....Goofy, Minnie, Mickey & Donald!!

A romantic performance from Aladdin & Jasmine.

Ariel & her gorgeous mane of auburn hair.

So excited.....Jesse, Bulls eye & Woody.

Too much for Charlotte, she fell asleep 3/4's of the way through.

A finale with all of the characters.

Final goodbye.

Closing curtain.

It was a good show, a little long in some parts as I could here kids getting restless, including my own. I think it would have been better with more audience interaction, as when they did do that, the audience came alive. I was happy to see Minnie Mouse, she is a favourite of mine.

Props were great. The best part of all was seeing Hudson smiling during it, I could tell he was really enjoying it. Also Charlotte pointing at Minnie when she first came out was so adorable, she did the whole ooooohhhh sound.

I would definitely recommend it if you can still go.

Something for me...

2012-01-25T17:44:00.002+11:00

I don't many things for myself these days, as I love to buy for the kids.

Gone of the days of a 2 income full wage & no one else to support....Ahhhh how I remember those self indulgent times.

Anyway I bought this hat for myself & thought it was so cute I just had to share it.

Larger cushions....now available

2012-01-23T08:13:00.008+11:00

Over the weekend I finally got to perfect my larger cushion covers. I have decided to go with an envelope style closure & I am extremely happy with the end result. You can see my post with the larger uncovered cushion insert here.

They are a lovely upgrade from my regular size cushions, not too large but definitely big enough to create a gorgeous impact.

So you can visual I have basically doubled them & have gone from an approximate A4 size to A3. There actual dimensions are 40x30cm.

This by the way is a new robot design, I thought it was about time I did some robots flying around in outer space.

The back of the cushion is a soft envelop closure. Covers can be removed & be washed. However....please remember this is a highly decorative fabric that I print on that is not created for high laundering purposes. Hence why my cushions are purely decorative & not for sleeping.

They are now available in my shop, all you have to do is select whether you would like a regular or large size cushion. If you prefer to to shop in my madeit or etsy store you will need to select the listing that's says "Upgrade your cushion to a LARGE size".

My first KitchenAid experience

2012-01-21T12:14:00.003+11:00

I received a KitchenAid for Christmas from my lovely husband. I have wanted one for a while, one of my friends has one, & I loved hers the first moment I looked at it. Not that I am a brilliant cook, or should really be need something so extravagant, but I just loved it. I actually enjoy cooking when time permits, & like many, I must be in the mood to try new recipes. My passion should I use that word so lightly, would definitely be making sweets. There is nothing more satisfying for me to smell something sweet & delicious whether is be going in the oven, on the stove or popped in the fridge. Yum!

So here is my new baby........She lives on my kitchen bench as at the moment as I need to find a space tall enough to keep her.

It was my sister in-laws birthday the other day so it was a perfect opportunity to have my first play. Also because my nephew has egg & dairy intolerance's, I offered to make something so he too could enjoy the sweet feast.

It was a rich chocolate cake that I made, nothing to out of the ordinary. What I wanted to show was how perfect my butter cream icing looked for the topped of the cake. Yeah yeah I know, nothing riveting buy I can't get over how perfect it looks. Really, it was so smooth, my other little beaters never performed like this. MMMMM just look at it, a perfect blend of nutalex (dairy free butter), pure icing sugar & cocoa.

Soooooo impressed!

Besides looking great it tasted good too. Awfully sweet though, & with the sprinkling of Milo on top.

My next big challenge will be coconut macaroons, I love those & have always failed making them as my little beaters could never whip those egg whites well enough into the lovely soft peaks needed.

Larger cushions....will be here soon

2012-01-14T16:35:00.004+11:00

For the last 18mths the requests for larger cushions have become far more frequent. My research on what size on want, the shape, how I will create them has also been quite time consuming.

I am happy to show you the new insert size I have purchased, it's 40x30cm & I LOVE it. It's not too large & overwhelming, it will make a great statement on you bed, couch or favourite chair.

Here it is, (the insert) photographed on Charlotte's armchair.

I have intentions of designing cushions specifically for this size. I will also be making it very easy for customers to simply upgrade their cushion from the regular & well known petite size, to this gorgeous new size. I will keep you posted on that development which isn't far away.

Under the Sea

2012-01-12T14:59:00.005+11:00

I am working furiously on new designs & will be happy to say most of them are complete. It's a very exciting time for me when I can start showing you what I have been up to.

While I was away we spent a lot of time at the beach, & also did some looking around under rocks to see what we could fine. I love the sea & it's beauty & have a tendency to daydream a bit, wondering what is going on under the water were I can't see.

What's there?

Who's there?

What colour is it?

Is there 1 fish or many?

I am a fan of the zoo, & the aquarium, & I could spend hours watching all creatures swimming. I love their beauty & their effortless gliding in the water, it look so smooth and gentle. I love the idea of a MASSIVE fish tank at home, just like this one below....How cool is it?? But just don't like the idea of all the maintenance.

image source

So I decided to have an under the sea design theme. I knew I wanted a vintage style tug boat, starfish, seahorse, sea grass, jelly fish & of course fish. I found these fabulous images below to get the ball rolling, giving me shapes & colours to work with.

images from pinterest

This is the end design result, still in a drawn format, but they are ready & waiting to be made into cushions, doorstops, a bunting & some ready to hang wall art.

After what felt like days & days of tweaking (which was only a whole night), changing & redrawing I am very happy with the result.

Are you a fan of the sea?

I am back.....Am I ready for 2012?

2012-01-06T13:48:00.005+11:00

It only felt like a few days ago that I was finishing my last orders for Christmas, which then followed my a load of cooking for Christmas day, & then frantically packing for out holiday to Phillip Island.

Here we are January 6th already....

I don't feel like going into resolutions, mainly because I don't have any as they always seem to come unstuck. The only goal I really have personally is to incorporate some daily exercise into my life again, I am going to call this is rejuvenating an old habit.

Today I would love to share some of my favourite photo's from Phillip Island.

Charlotte's first experience on the beach. Those little legs & chubby feet initially struggled in the sand. It wasn't long & she was keeping up with everyone else.....well kind of.

Hudson doing the Rock Pool Ramble. This was a great experience for the kids, located at the area where the penguins come in from the ocean every night. He got to look at crabs & touch several sea anemones.

The week consisted of so many beach visits, walks, trips to the large play grounds, & the giant jumping pillow. The weather was perfect. I didn't get to snap up as many photo's as I would have liked as having my camera on sand, near salt water & on play grounds because a struggle. Not to mention my worries of someone stealing, or standing on it, if I left it in my bag.

I can certainly say I had a ball & it was just awesome to spend so much 'playtime' with the kids. In saying that like most parents know, it wasn't much of an R&R holiday, monitoring the kids 24/7 & coming home to LOADS of washing.... I am buggered.

Well it's the 6th January already & I have jumped back into 'work mode' a little faster than I had hoped. I am always excited about the new year as everyone is generally full of ideas, inspiration & goals they want to achieve. I do have lots of new ideas coming to Tiges and Weince, new designs, I am trying to develop a larger cushion, I am introducing a new artwork line, & amongst all of that starting to collaborate & complete the NEW Quirky and Quaint 2012 collection.

Am I ready for 2012? Yeah I think so.

Christmas Break

2011-12-21T15:55:00.003+11:00

I have decided to take a short break over Christmas as I really need it, like many of you who are reading this.

I have had the most wonderful year personally & professionally.

Some highlights are:

Watching my babies turning into competent & very clever little people.

New friends I have made through activities with Hudson.

New friends I have made also, via the amazing handmade scene.

I have seen significant growth in my business, which just keeps me smiling.

I have learnt to cook a few new dishes which are so time saving. Who would of thought a slow cooker would become my new bestie.

I have finally had enough patience & will to let my hair grow past my shoulders!!!!

I am really looking forward to 2012. I am bursting with new ideas and goals, some which include;

New designs & products for my business.

Watching Hudson start kinder and being involved.

I have asked my mum to look after the kids 1 day a week so I can work, which will hopefully brings more balance into my life.

Take a few more weekends off & go away with hubby & the kids....I think we're going to try some camping.

Try & complete some D.I.Y projects that have been filed away for too long.

Get out in my garden & make it prettier.

Strive to be as happy as I can every day.

I will be back early in the new year, I am not sure what date but it won't be long. I wish you all a very Happy Christmas & I hope your new year is bursting with inspiration and love.

Speak to you all in 2012.
Kylie xxxx

Cushion Love on Friday - 7

2011-12-16T16:54:00.005+11:00

I adore this cushion I don't really want to or need to say much else, I think it speaks for itself.

With my Christmas sales period nearly over, I am quite buggered to be honest, & the description on this cushion pretty much sums up my intentions when I am done. I literally want to snuggle up on the couch and cat snap while watching some movies I have been wanting to see.

cushion from here

Have a great Friday xx

Gorgeous Summer, Autumn 2011/2012 Nursery ranges by Boondie Baby

2011-12-15T16:59:00.003+11:00

I just love bedlinen, adults, kids & especially babies.

There is nothing more delightful than seeing a cot, dressed up to nine's so to speak, in desirable bed linen. I am absolutely in love with the brand new Summer/Autumn collection of nursery linen from the brand Boondie Baby.

Boondie Baby is designed & created by the very talented Lauren. Her passion is seen in every piece she creates. Her goal is all about creating nursery linen which beside being beautiful, is practical, modern & overall is very hip!! I love her use of bold and modern fabrics that not only look great but are so comfy & soft for bub. She certainly designs for the mum who doesn't want something traditional but something eye catching, modern and fun.

How divine are the colours in these cots? Oooohh they are just perfect aren't they? As you would all know with my brand, colour speaks to me, the brighter the better. I think Lauren & I have the same design principle here too.

Using 100% cotton in all of the Boondie Baby collection is paramount to Lauren. She will only create bed linen for the nursery with the best quality cottons on the market.

LOVE THESE OWLS!!!

I don't need to say much more so SUPER DOOPER cute!!!!!

If you know anyone having a baby, or need to redecorate your own bubs bedroom over the Christmas break, start here. Choose one of the beautiful colour combinations as the base of your bedroom design & let your imagination go from there. What's even better if you are stuck, not sure, or would love something else in a custom colour palette Lauren will create your very own custom order. You can visit here to see all of the wonderful custom orders she has created for others. Perfect isn't it?

On top of a great brand Lauren is the sweetest person, very passionate, a WAHM of 3 gorgeous kids. Make sure you hop onto her face book page & say hi, tell her I sent you :0)

Charlotte's Bedroom

2011-12-13T09:00:00.003+11:00

I get asked a bit what is Charlotte's bedroom like.

Today I thought I would show you.

It's been a work in progress since she was born. I was never one to set a bedroom up before my kids were born, as I believe their little personality will shine through, & that would determine how I decorate.

My walls are the same colour though the house, almost white with a hint of turquoise & white skirting boards. MMM not the best decision on the cleaning front!

So here it is with a few familiar brands I am sure you can see.

Mini Me & you Owl beanie & freckle rug.

Always bus roll from Almond Tree Frames

Winnie & Clem sun hat

Hobby horse from Rhapsody's Child

A bunting my me haha

Lanterns from Moonlight & Whimsy

Bird House from Nog n Piepe

Laser cut Owl from Bubba Bling

Wooden Tree from Rileah Designs

Accessories from Lani Banani & My Black Sheep

Miss ruby may doll

Tutu from Lani Banani

I will admit I love her little space it's always so bright.

How have you decorated your daughters bedroom?

Cushion Love on Friday - 6

2011-12-09T12:18:00.005+11:00

It's sweltering in Melbourne today a top of 32'C. So I thought I would cool us down a bit with these fabulous ice cream inspired cushions.

Image from here.

Good enough to lick!!

Have a cool Friday.

Today is my birthday!!

2011-12-08T13:53:00.003+11:00

So today is my birthday, I have hit 36yrs!!

I remember when I was about 10 & my mum turned this age, I honestly thought it was almost dinosaur like!! How little did I know, it is obviously older but not as ancient as once thought.

Those who know me very well, know that as much as I adore lots of things handmade, I love my fashion & couture labels. Working in fashion for so long you tend to become a little consumed!!

Today, well at 12.05 this morning, I received a very surprising gift. A wallet, a very special wallet that I have had my eye on for what seems like forever, & today I can say it's mine.

Hello Louey.......

When hubby gave it to me, my half sleepy eyes opened, & my mouth opened with not a lot coming out. Which is quite unusual for me too.

He told me that the last 18mths he has watched me worked my butt off to create a job for myself so I could stay home with the kids. He knows I work 24/7, if it's not the kids, it's the business & if it's not that it's general house duties, so he thought I deserved something special & something I NEVER NEVER expected. I was hoping for this for my 40th!!

Mmmmm now what can I wish for hehe!!

My in ground pool - part 1

2011-12-07T15:41:00.007+11:00

I have been wanting an in ground pool for as long as I could remember. I had pools in the 2 houses I grew up in. I always loved my summers as I would spend long hours in the water, running & jumping, diving to the bottom, hand stands, making whirl pools, wrestling off blow up mattresses, & seeing who could hold their breath for the longest underwater. So many wonderful memories. Hubby & I talked about it for a while, but this year after going to the pool show we decided to take the leap & do it. I was so excited my heart was beating.

With the kids so young, I know we will get many many years out of it. I enjoy swimming, well lounging around in the water these days a lot, so I know it will be a great investment. It's going to be a basic rectangle 7mt x3.5mt, nothing fancy because as soon as you think that, cha ching $$, cha ching $$, & the cost grows.

So I thought I would share this chaotic event with you all. Mixed in with how busy I am with orders it's a real riot at the moment....NOT!! Also because the back yard is a danger zone the kids can't go out there so they are getting a bit restless, so I have to make a point of going to a park each day, or catching up with 'available' friends. I was told it was going to be ready in December just in time for Christmas, well I knew it wouldn't come true. It's running about 3 weeks behind due to damn council approval & rain.

So here is my very regular unmaintained garden. I have been struggling to make my yard look like a magazine!! The kids sand pit will be gone & we've moved the swing set, to a new location at a later date. The pool is all marked out & ready to go.

One big excavator resulting in a very large & deep hole. The vision crept in a little bit more here & I am quite excited.

A few days later, & after the down pour of rain, which has also delayed a few things, we have the shell of a pool.

More torrential rain equals MUD everywhere. With the pool going in we have to move our steps (that you can see in the 1st photo), so they don't run directly into the pool fence. Also hubby had to dig all of the trenches for the electrical cables to lay, & some other trenches for plumbing. Fun. Fun. Fun.

My 2 favourite men doing some hard work. Hudson was so excited to be sitting on daddy's lap & helping to drive.

With all of the rain in Melbourne lately, it has created a new play place (with supervision of course) for Hudson to play. In the pool shell, with his gumboots on & constant stomping in water & kicking it. A very cheap thrill!!

So there is the first stage. Well it was a couple weeks squeezed into one post. Since then a pool pump has gone in & tiles have been delivered ready to be layed.

Stay tuned for part 2.

My Christmas Tree is up

2011-12-05T16:10:00.003+11:00

I was really excited to put my tree up this year, mainly because Hudson is so aware of Christmas & Santa. It's actually a really exciting & special time, I am just loving it.

We put it up on Saturday night, unfortunately a few days later than I had wanted, but luckily Hudson isn't that aware of days & dates yet :0)

It's not a real one, boo hoo! I just love the smell of the pine despite the messiness of the pine needles falling. I will leave that for another year when Charlotte is old enough to contribute in the choice of tree we all buy. So it doesn't look like a tree you would find in Myer, but it's our tree with lots of input from Hudson as to where things had to be hung.

Our lovely hand painted personalised baubles, sitting along side the beautiful glass bauble ornaments from Muzz.

My favourite ornament of the year!!! I am so in love with these adorable Robins from the very well known Plushka, they are incredible, Katia (designer/owner) is so talented. I will be back next year for a couple more.

Charlotte's first bauble from my mum, I love how precious it is.

I know our tree will slowly get a little more "unusual" & less coordinated as the kids get older & start making their own Christmas decorations. I must admit I can't wait. I hope your tree is up and bringing you lots of happiness like mine has.

Cushion Love on Friday - 5

2011-12-02T20:50:00.005+11:00

My love for cushions continue. I decided to see what was out there representing the Christmas spirit.

These little wonders are actually pin cushions, they were just too adorable to not include.

Loving this decorative Christmas chair & festive cushions. It looks like a dolls chair doesn't it?3

I am loving these so much. Cushions in the design of letters to Santa...Love it!!

Have a great weekend.

Pressure of a busy mum

2011-12-01T16:13:00.007+11:00

I don't like making excuses but I have truly missed writing in my blog this year. I have been so blessed that my little business has grown & keeping me very busy and occupied. Unfortunately when I am pressed for time, my writing space gets some terrible neglect. With both the kids home full time leaves me very little time to sit, surf, explore and blog about my passions I love. At At the end of the day I can only do what I can do, & my orders & my lovely customers are very important & I must keep them happy & interested in what I do. Lets face it they keep me at home & employed.

I was only thinking the other day why do women put so much pressure on ourselves. I know all about this as I am the number one offender. Like many of us I am incredibly ambitious, always have been. I like to take on more than I can chew whether it for business, pleasure or family. This is a snippet of my life, which I am positive will be a mirror version to so many other mums.

1. Look after my kids.

They are my number one priority, always will be, but MAN they are hard work.

Keeping them amused

Educating them

Going to the park, & lets be honest I don't always feel like it.

Running errands with them, which is nearly impossible unless they are eating.

Bathing them.

Constantly stopping them from destroying the house, asking them to not jump on that, please don't draw with that, eat over your plate, use 2 hands to hold your drink.....

Bribing them to eat their dinner

Leave each other alone

Don't snatch, hit, tease

2. Keep the house tidy.

Kind of.......I am over worrying about it as soon as I clean it & turn around somehow everything I have put away seems to sneak out again within the hour. My dream house, like in an interior mag will happen when I am an empty nester I have been told. Decades away!!

3. Exercise.

I was a fitness freak pre kids, & this has suffered worst than my blog. My poor body :0( I am a sucker for the "yummy mummy" syndrome. Too many glossy mags & celebrity mums take me on an unrealistic journey. I do realise that they look like they do because the have personal trainers, chefs, and full time nannies to watch the kids. But it doesn't stop me striving for great personal presentation.

4. Cooking.

With all of this Master Chef in my face, a bit of Donna Hay, & Jamie Oliver enticing me with so called ' easy meals' I find myself wasting time trying to damn well 'master' them. I wonder why I try as the kids never eat it anyway. Unfortunately I haven't been blessed with kids who eat 'everything'.

5. Getting enough sleep.

I work at night, & a bit when I can during the day when my youngest sleeps. When I go to bed depends on when I have finished what needs to be done. When I wake I have no control over it, as it all depends on when the little people's eye open & start demanding my attention. I wish I has a dollar for every time my mum told me, "You don't get enough sleep, you know it's not good to be burning the candle at both ends". Unfortunately at the moment it doesn't work that way.

6. Seeing my friends

A lot of my closest friends still don't have kids so going to dinner has become a challenge. That's OK though they get it, so we catch up every 6 weeks or so, & I go alone. the biggest positive of this is all of the new friends I have my lately, I feel so blessed. A lot of them from the handmade market scene. And a bunch of women I have Hudson to thank for this, as they have come into my world through activities for him. I have the best mothers group, great friends at his soccer class.

7. Guilt

Oh the guilt.........Not being able to do it all. I don't dwell on this as much anymore as I have come to realise I am only human & not a machine. I am doing the best I can with the hours I have, & the circumstances I am in, & I guess sometimes something have to give a little.

So this is my little list, I am sure it's very similar to yours :0)

Cushion Love on Friday - 4

2011-11-18T15:08:00.005+11:00

I have a new cushion colour way I would like to share with you today, which was inspired by a customer request. A vibrant shade of purple, or violet, I guess it depends on how you interpret it. I quite the colour purple, so I decided it might be nice to see what other purple beauties are out there. I am just loving all of the different shades that are available, from bright and vibrant to soft and demure. I hope you like them too.

How cool is this owl? You can find it here.

A sweet hippo, you can find here.

I just adore this, I love flowers & this is a whole lot of flower. I actually have some hydrangeas in my garden - by Buffalovely

Lovely birds, & I am loving all the shades, its really pretty - by cushions covered

This is my latest colour palette in my classic girls personalised cushion design. Create especially for a customer, who is very happy about it.

You can buy this design here on madeit or here on etsy.

Egg & Cheese oven pies - easy peasy & not just for kids!!

2011-11-14T19:54:00.004+11:00

I have been having so much trouble lately with my kids & food, especially Hudson. He doesn't like this, and he doesn't like that. Of course a 3.5yr old cannot explain why he doesn't like these things, so it's a very frustrating thing. I am sure I am not the only mum who suffers this. I saw this recipe on Nick Jnr a while a go, on one of those kids cooking shows & made a mental note of it. Today I thought I would give it a go, based on what I could remember & improvise the rest.

This little meal took about 15-20mins including cooking & is a great nutritious and high protein meal for any time of the day.

Ingredients based on 1 serve

1 slice of bread

1 egg

I piece of ham

Grated cheese, about 1/4 cup

Oil spray

Cut the crust off the bread (or not) & roll flat with a rolling pin making it quite thin.

Spray a large muffin tine with oil spray & lay the bread inside poking it around until it resembles a case ready for the egg.

Whisk an egg, dice some ham, & add you cheese.

Pour the mixture into the bread cases & sprinkle with extra cheese.

In the oven on 200'c & cook for about 10-12mins, or until cooked on the inside, & golden brown on top.

They came out of the oven tray very easily.

Here they are cooked. I cut one in half & the cheese was so runny & delicious.

The verdict.....................

Personally I though they were delicious & so simple to make.

Charlotte as per usual ate hers, like she does with most of her meals.

Hudson as per usual told me he didn't like it. After some persuasion he took a bite & was very surprised & nibbled away at it slowly. I did make them a little on the cheesy side which I knew would help me get Hudson to eat them.

I urge you to give them a go, its such a basic recipe & I believe you could definitely add to this is SO SO many ways.

Enjoy xx

Cushion Love on Friday - 3

2011-11-11T13:20:00.003+11:00

Lest we forget.

Today's cushion love is dedicated to to symbolic "Poppy".

images from my pinterest "i love cushions" board

At my house - A new feature wall

2011-11-08T19:02:00.004+11:00

As busy as I have been I managed to find some time over the weekend to decorate a blank wall. This wall is at my house, right up against my double French doors that open to my outdoor area. I have been wanting to jazz it up for a while. Finally I got to it & took advantage of the warm weather over the weekend & got some raspberry red paint in a spray can.

I had a set of words that I bought AGES ago.

Live

Love

Laugh

They were originally in white as I always had intentions of painting them the colour I wanted. Being raspberry red of course.

Here is the wall, a very blank canvas.

A finished wall.

I have two artwork pieces I recently bought from Sweet William that I told you all about a little while ago here. It isn't completely finished as I have a couple more frames to use. I am just not sure what images I want yet. When I buy things for my house, I tend to find that they find me, it'as always when I least expect it & I have kind of accepted that way of buying.

I even have my eye on a couple of lovely embroidery hoops, I am just not sure yet.

I will keep you posted again on the next items I buy.

If you have decorated a blank space in your house, I would love to know what you did.

What I have been up to.......

2011-11-04T14:19:00.004+11:00

With Christmas getting busier I have managed to sneak in a few new products to my shop. This is what I have been working on & finally finished. I am hoping to add more in, but at the moment it's all about customer orders & getting their precious items delivered to them on time.

Brand new design - Vintage plane

Updated & new version of my Garden Party design

Magnetic bookmarks, perfect additions for stockings & inside Christmas cards.

All items are available in my madeit shop.

Cushion Love on Friday - 2

2011-10-28T08:12:00.004+11:00

Some more cushion love this Friday.

Today lots for the owl lovers.

How happy is this little gorgeous little man cuddled up with his Owls?

3 wise owls maybe?

A Parliament of owls.....Did you know that is what a group of owls is called? (thanks google :0)

These owls are designed by the very talented Lauren of Boondie Baby.

Very cute.

I hope these happy cushions give your day a HOOT!

Have a great Friday.

All images were collected from my pinterest board.

If only I could crochet.......

2011-10-25T13:30:00.003+11:00

I have mentioned once before here, that I would LOVE to crochet, but like most working mums I just haven't found the time to learn this lovely skill.

My little girl Charlotte just loves "In the night garden", & I must admit so do I. At the sight of the stars at the beginning of the show & the simple notes played she squeals, & when Igglepiggle arrives, you would swear she was a teenager at a rock concert. She screams & jumps up & down & waves to him, its very very cute. I have bought her some figurines this year for Christmas, and the lovely Ninky Nonk Train, but nothing compares to these absolutely adorable dolls.

The are completely crocheted, how cool are they? I just love them. Unfortunately for me they are PDF patterns, & even more unfortunately I can not crochet. Bummer Bummer Bummer

Oooh I just love them, the whole gang.

Upsy Daisy

Good ol' Igglepiggle the love of Charlotte's life at the moment.

If you can crochet & would like to make these you can buy the patterns here on Etsy. They are so clever aren't they?

One day........By the time I get there she will be on to something else.

FREE - My Owl Barn : Owl Lover 2012 Calender

2011-10-24T08:40:00.000+11:00

I am so excited to share this today, and can now officially tell everyone about it.

A month or so ago I was approached by the lovely Shivani, who is the author of My Owl Barn.

If you're a fan if owls like me, you are going to LOVE this site as it's completely dedicated to this lovely bird. The artistic creations made of owls just blows my mind, just when I think I have seen everything, Shivani posts something new and it always makes me smile.

Anyway...... I was asked to contribute to the 2012 My Owl Barn Lovers calender. Having not been familiar with this project, I looked into it out and was blown away by the artists involved in the 2011 calender, I feel so humbled that she felt one of my illustrations to be worthy of this.

Quoted direct from Shivani's site - Owl Lover 2012 calendar project is the encore of our last year's "Owl Lover" calendar project - a collaborative project between My Owl Barn and 30 international artists. The project was featured on several reputed blogs like decor8, poppytalk, and the calendar was downloaded by almost a hundred thousand owl lovers all over the world. The calendar page received more than 10,000 likes on Facebook.

This calender is completely FREE. You can download it already made, or you can also custom make your own by selecting what owl illustration you would like, with whatever month your would like it to appear. Very cool isn't it? Even use the designs as gift cards?

Here is the illustration of the owl that was asked to contribute.

Head over to the site and explore, it's just fabulous.

If you download it I would love to know what you thought, and I hope you select my owl as one of your months. Please share this very generous gift on all of your social media applications with everyone and enjoy!!

My New Website Launched

2011-10-23T11:11:00.003+11:00

I decided to build my own website, just because I don't have enough on my plate haha.

I really felt that I needed to be able to control every aspect of it, from changing it a bit here, and tinkering a bit there. The thought of someone else building it scared me as I honestly thought I would drive them mad with my constant changing my mind. I had a few friends advise me also, that with every change more cost was added.

Anyway it has taken me FOREVER, well nearly a month just to achieve this much. I still have a bit to do, and a huge amount behind the scenes with all of the tags & other odds and ends I am to learn about.

I am pretty happy with it, and quite chuffed that I did it. I used MrSite as I had experience with them before and found them quite simple to use. Simplicity was my key deciding point, if it was too hard and fiddly, forget it.

I would love you to pop over and have a look and tell me what I think.

www.tigesandweince.com

Festive Christmas Decorations on madeit

2011-10-20T21:15:00.005+11:00

With Christmas weeks away I thought it was time to browse through madeit to see what gorgeous Christmas creations are being made.

As usual I was not let down.

1 - Plushka

2 - Sea a Drift

3 - Red Zebra Designs

4 - edward & lilly

5 - Red Stitch Designs

6 -3 girls and a goat

More purchases for home.

2011-10-17T11:01:00.000+11:00

I think I have confessed this before, but I really do love to shop.

Let me clarify shop, I really LOVE to shop especially online.

Of late I have been buying a lot of beautiful pieces that I want to use to decorate my house. Unfortunately a lot of them are still sitting in a little pile waiting to receive a spot for them.

I just received my latest purchase, 2 lovely prints from the beautiful artists Sweet William.

I really do like owls, especially this little guy as he is painted in my favourite colour, a rich raspberry pink. Love it.

I love flowers to, especially this pretty peony as it's in a fantastic colour.

The walls in my house are almost white. They have a touch of minty blue through them, and this rich raspberry pink looks superb on them. I am looking forward to getting the time to hang them and show them off finished.

Along with all the other items I have shared with you all, completely unfinished.

FRIDAY STEAL - Buy 4 stockings & get one FREE

2011-10-14T14:31:00.003+11:00

I thought I would offer a FRIDAY STEAL today.

With Christmas only 10 weeks away, literally freaked me out!

Until 8pm tonight you can buy 4 of my Christmas stockings for the price of 3!!

That includes personalising too.

There are 5 designs to choose from.

Christmas Tree

Bird on a Christmas Bauble

Blue Santa Owl

Pink Santa Owl

Santa

All you have to do is email me at tigesandweince@gmail.com & advise me of the designs you would like & the names, also your postal address. I will then email you back an invoice for payment. (Postage registered $5)

please visit my etsy shop or madeit shop for size & other details.

These are a great idea for the whole family.

They have been very popular for mummy, daddy, & the kiddies names.

Another design book full of inspiration to drool over

2011-10-12T10:06:00.004+11:00

One thing I love, as mentioned before are my design books. I am starting to be a little bit obsessive. As soon as I see something I love, I am constantly buying when funds permits. Slowly, book by book, my collection is growing.

My new book is by the extremely awesome and talented Grace Bonney of "Design Sponge". I can not wait until I can focus on reading this from cover to cover, as well as absorbing all of the inspiration & D.I.Y's to attempt. It still blows me away how the most simple things can look amazing.

I am excited just typing here, can you tell?

Here it is.

Pages that grabbed my attention already.

MMM I wonder how I could adapt these ideas to my own house?

Ha......a quilt cover made from old shirts...Who would have thought?

Here is my tiny collection. Most I have flicked through without being able to give all of my attention. Along with design sponge the other book I am still obsessed with is Holly Becker's Decor8. Definitely reading these slowly over Christmas.

If you have any other wonderful design books that you think I would love PLEASE tell me I love to discover new books. Makes me squeeeal :0)

Designer Spotlight on madeit

2011-10-10T20:06:00.003+11:00

An exciting Monday for me today.

Madeit interviewed me for the Design Spotlight feature they have.

I love this segment & always look forward to reading the stories & journey's of my fellow crafters & artists selling on Madeit.

Today it is my turn & I hope you enjoy the read.

Cushion Love on Friday

2011-10-07T13:50:00.006+11:00

It's a known fact that I love cushions!

I also love to search for all of the amazing designs & style available. To come up with ideas is hard, & it is so important to constantly search for inspiration. Never to copy, lets make that very clear, but to find that one colour, one detail, one character, or a surface pattern, that can provide me with an explosion of ideas for me to design & create.

I have started an inspiration board on Pinterest, with all of the sweet lovelies that I come across. I wanted to share some of them with you today.

I love this pouffe & intend on making one myself one day.

I love spots they are such a clean simple way to add colour.

More pouffes. I think this image is divine, I love it. Especially loving the clock.

I love the simplicity of this design. Lots of felt circles, 2 layers of felt & each colour complimenting the other. All attached by a simple straight line. Simply divine.

I hope these colourful cushions have inspired your day.

Have a great Friday.

Dora the Explorer

2011-10-03T15:07:00.004+11:00

Sunday I was at Fairy Floss Market. It was a special day, their 1st birthday.The birthday guest of honour was the very famous

DORA THE EXPLORER.

I wanted to share with you the photo's my kids had taken with their favourite TV friend.

Charlotte was obsessed with Dora the whole time she was there according to my husband. I only saw these photo's taken as I was supposed to be working.

She wanted to follow her constantly & all she did was wave at her.....very cute.

Hudson was also excited, not as obsessive as the other, but was thrilled to finally have a hug with her. When we saw her live a few weeks ago he was a bit stinky with me as he wanted to meet her then, but it didn't happen.

I just love the reactions of kids. This Dora was a tad weird looking to me, but all the kids saw was pure enjoyment. I love the innocence.

Tomorrow I will be at Fairy Floss Market...

2011-10-01T13:16:00.002+10:00

Tomorrow I will be at Fairy Floss Market.

They are celebrating their 1st birthday & I can feel it's going to be a great day. Come along & check out all of the stallholders as well as getting your kids faces painted, there will be a petting zoo, & an appearance by DORA & DIEGO between 11am-1pm.

Kirsty & the FF team have put in so much effort & great energy into making the day an awesome 1st birthday celebration. I hope to see you there.

Miss Charlotte loves Miss Ruby May

2011-09-30T14:35:00.005+10:00

Charlotte has a doll from the gorgeous collection Miss Ruby May.

I absolutely ADORE these dolls & very protective of it being chewed, drooled on, or squished. To date I have been a mean mum & not let Miss Charlotte have it in fear of it being ruined. Yes I know 'precious'. Lately, every time I change her nappy she makes this noise, which I know means "I want the doll", as she can see it sitting on her shelf. So we pick it up, she kisses her, I kiss her & she goes back on the shelf. Until the other morning after our shared kisses she was not going to let me put it back. There was a gentle tug of war & then I gave in. She ran to the couch & shared a moment.

My Miss Ruby May Doll. Back off mum!!!!!

The look of love.

The act of love, admiration & affection.

Charlotte is so much more girly than I thought she would be. I honestly thought she would end up being a little rougher having a big brother. She never shows real interest in Hudson's cars & trucks, but if you pull out a doll a whole world of nurturing happens. Hugging, kissing, combing the hair, & feeding them.

It's very cute & I love it.

2011 Christmas Collection

2011-09-28T00:15:00.003+10:00

With less than 100 days away until Christmas I thought it would be time to reveal all things Christmas at Tiges and Weince.

A couple of weeks ago I gave you a sneak preview of my Christmas collection in illustration form only, which you can read about here. I am happy to say they are complete & available now.

There are 5 different stockings to buy.

All $20 with FREE personalising

FREE postage too.

I think these are a great Christmas gift especially if you have to post interstate or abroad as they are so light & flat to post.

Bird on a bauble Christmas stocking.

Christmas tree stocking.

Pink owl Christmas stocking.

Blue owl Christmas stocking.

Santa Christmas stocking.

Something new to add this year.

A Christmas bunting to hang around your festive space.

Also a Christmas doorstop.

Use to hold open your front door to let in that summer breeze over the Christmas break.

All are available in my etsy & madeit shops.

Also if you follow my newsletter you can receive some Christmas bundled items.

Just look to the left hand side of my blog under the big mailing list tab to subscribe.

Would you like to see what's on offer? You can also read my newsletter here.

Friday love....Reading

2011-09-23T13:20:00.004+10:00

Reading is a huge passion of mine & something I don't get to do as much as I would like to these days. I love it so much that I have created a spare room at home dedicated purely for the collection of my books.

You read about this here & here.

Nothing warms me more than having my books around me. Some are heavy in depth stories, some are light with fresh story lines, some are educational as I love to read bios and business related books, some are crafty, and a lot are arty. I love beautiful photos of objects and people.

The room still isn't complete, I would say a work in progress. But today I wanted to share some images I found that are about this love.

I just ADORE this print. I have actually bought it from this store. I am looking forward to receiving it & sharing with you all as to where I hang it.

This beautiful photo is how I would love to spend some of my days. I would imagine the air is warm, the grass is soft, the flowers smell divine & that book is a fantastic read.

image from pinterest.

This is what I wish my kids would understand!

image from pinterest.

Another fantastic illustration that I love.

image from pinterest.

I am reading this now. It's a daggy cover I know, but it is full of information regarding direct sales & party plan, especially relevant for my other business. Even if this isn't you thing it's a great read for sales in general and has definitely given me ideas & so forth for when I do markets.

I hope whatever you're reading inspires you.

Have a great Friday.

Kylie xx

Sweet dreams

2011-09-14T19:53:00.004+10:00

A while ago I found some time to sit & draw, I don't do it as much these days as I would like to. I have really become accustomed to drawing straight on to the computer. I just find it faster & easier.

So...I wanted to create a design than had a hand drawn element.

I didn't have any particular idea in my head as to watch I was going to draw. I knew I wanted to create a circular design, add some birds, love hearts & flowers. I definitely wanted the letters hand drawn and irregular.

A completed sketch along with some coloured pencils with a loose idea of a colour palette.

Moving fast forward, I scanned the image in, adjusted it & recoloured it & here it is done.

Keeping it round was so new for me as I usually keep my designs square.

I thought a ruffle would change the design up nicely for a change.

using the baby lock stitch on my over locker was great as I haven't used this in ages. It has actually got me a little inspired to get ruffly!!

This is a one off design that I have added in my madeit shop, so basically first in first served.

What do little people talk about I wonder?

2011-09-12T18:58:00.005+10:00

When the sun was shining in Melbourne last week I took advantage of it & spent a lot of time out doors with the kids. On one of those sunny days I sat the kids on out park bench with their afternoon tea. During this time my mobile rang so I raced upstairs to answer it. As I was heading outside I could see the two of them chatting away.

I couldn't make out what they were saying as they were some distance from me. I grabbed my camera to capture this moment. Thank heavens for a zoom lens.

I wonder what they are looking at, or are they contemplating no good?

Is Charlotte asking a question? Or is Hudson telling her something?

It didn't take long before they realised I was there & there moment ended. So while they were in the mood a couple more happy snaps to finished the moment.

Screaming Cheeky!!

All sealed with a sibling kiss...mwah!

I truly love these moments it's so heart warming & reminds me there are so many wonderful things about being a mum even though at times it can be very challenging.

I count my blessings everyday for the happy healthy kids I have.

Felt Balls & Friday fun

2011-09-09T14:35:00.003+10:00

I was very excited yesterday when I got the knock as I knew what it was.

MY RUG....well Charlotte's actually.

I have wanted one of these ever since I first laid eye's on them. I still hadn't bought Charlotte anything for her birthday which was May this year. Yes bad mummy! I honestly didn't what to buy her, I gave her a great party so that has eased my conscious.

When I saw the rugs I just knew that was it. A present she could keep forever.

The quality is amazing it's so soft yet firm, and made just beautifully. The colours are mesmerizing so vibrant and intoxicating.

The kids were so curious asking over & over, "What is it mummy".

When I unrolled it their eye widened right up, they were so into it touching it, rolling on it, & Hudson couldn't wait to tell me every colour in there & attempt to count them.

So I thought I would run some testing.

Charlotte kept walking over it, obviously it was a great texture the soft round balls. By the look on her face it passed!

Hudson did the sleep test & by the look on his face it was far to comfortable as he drifted off hehe.

Stretch out & relax was a sure winner as the stretched & rolled all over it for ages.

It was certainly 30mins of fun this rug. Now it lays perfectly in Charlotte's room.

They are so divine you can buy 4 colours, I have 2 of them here. There is also a red/pink combination & black/grey/white version. I bought this from Mini Me and You & you can also buy them from Quirky & Quaint as I will be selling them in my party plan range.

Christmas Preview

2011-09-08T07:24:00.004+10:00

I have been working frantically on my Christmas designs for this year 2011. I felt like it was never going to end, the continuous changing & tweaking was becoming obsessive. I have arrived so to speak at my "final destination" of completion. There are 6 & I am thrilled to share each one with you. At this stage they are just illustrations to share & will soon be created in the real form.

This year I will be of course doing my mini Christmas stockings. I made them last year for the first time & was thrilled at the response, you can see last years designs here & here.

Here are my designs;

Bird on a Christmas Bauble & Merry Christmas Tree

Christmas owls, one for the boys & girls

Santa of course & a Christmas Angel

The Christmas stockings of course can be personalised which seemed to be the most popular choice last year. Add a name & year, or just the year, it's up to you & again this year personalising will be free

I am wanting to add a new product to work along side the Christmas Stockings, but am still to decide what. If you can see these designs as something else I would LOVE to know you thoughts.

I still can't believe how fast this year is flying & I am scrambling to get my Christmas collection together. What are you racing to complete in time for Christmas this year?

Christening Gifts for Spring

2011-09-05T14:26:00.004+10:00

With the Spring season now upon us, I have noticed the last month has been busy with customers buying my 2 current Christening cushions.

I thought it was time to create 2 new ones.

With a different feel to the last 2 which were soft & whimsical, these 2 are bold and bright.

One for the boys.

One for the girls.

These cushions are a unique option when having to buy a Christening gift if you are not in favour of buying traditional items. Still a gift to be keep, with the date remembered, yet a fun addition to their bedrooms.

Available in my etsy & madeit shop.

Business reality check - spring clean challenge

2011-09-01T12:36:00.009+10:00

Yesterday I had to do all of my figures for my accountant.

Numbers bore me, I know they are really important for business, but the just don't do it for me. However if the numbers on excel looked as pretty as these I just may be more inspired hehe!

image from pinterest

In saying that I love the numbers that make sales!! That makes me say YIPPEE! Really who doesn't?

Back to my point I had quite a reality check.

Firstly I was so happy with my sales, I did far better than I thought, so from that aspect I am definitely proud of myself. It's been a journey creating around the clock & the kids. It's also very inspiring to think of what could possibly be achieved without distractions & if I ran my business full time. I hear so many other mums talk about how their business takes such a different turn when their kiddies are at school, & you can be more attentive. That's a fair way away for me, so I just work with what I can. Strange hours around the clock.

After looking at my sales then I looked at my expenses.

REALITY CHECK!!

My eyeballs nearly fell out on my sketch pad. They were close to my sales. YIKES! Admittedly I have used money for things for the kids, & some furniture, & other luxuries, but I was still very surprised. I am not kicking myself for it by any means, I work hard & I reward however my heart sings, which is generally on the kids. After sitting there & thinking I started aimlessly looking around my work space. I saw a whole lot of fabric, some trims, paper, & ink. A lot of it are necessary. There was a whole lot of fabric just sitting there, doing nothing, just sitting. Then it just dawned on me, there are my expenses. Not all of them but a lot. Fabric, fabric, fabric, for me equals impulse buying. I really need to use it up & turn it into some sales. I mean what a waste, I am positive it all had a purpose at one stage, but knowing me that idea or concept has dissolved & I lost interest.

Here is my stash....

I know I know there is a lot.

I am giving myself a bit of a "Spring Clean" challenge. With Christmas only 20 or so weeks away I am aiming to make as much as possible up to put in my Etsy & Madeit shops, as well as take to my Quirky & Quaint parties, and of course my favourite way to sell....Markets.

A new item a day, that's 30 pieces, can I do it? It's a huge challenge for me, I am not going to create super doopa pressure, but I am going to have a go.

I will post my creations for you too see. Wish me luck.

If you would like to join the "Spring Clean" challenge, let me know on facebook so we can do it together.

Sleep School results - onwards & upwards on a positive note

2011-08-29T11:25:00.006+10:00

Saturday night I had a sleep baby specialist come and stay the night with me at my house.

In my last post I had written about the challenges of my 15mth old daughter not sleeping through the night. I was only getting maybe 3-4hrs a sleep tonight & it was beginning to take it's toll, physically & mentally. To add to the pressure I have a 3yr old too & was constantly cranky at my husband.

At seven o'clock the lovely Gabrielle from Sleep Rescue came. She cut to the chase & we got straight to work.

She checked out Charlotte's room. I admit I was a bit nervous as I love her room, & was thinking OMG what is she going to say, or ask me to remove. The first thing was her angel wings that are tied at the end of the cot, & also the beautiful handmade hobby horse that sits beside her cot.

Next was the night light. A lovely pink flower that sits on her wall, bought from IKEA. I am sure many are familiar with them. It's quite bright & very orange when on in the dark.

Gone gone gone...Why?

Remove all potential stimulation. So if she wakes there is no bright light or adorable objects to look at.

The next thing was the dummy. GONE. Charlotte has never been obsessive with the dummy, but she did like it. I also liked how it kept her quiet when I needed it, especially while driving.

Why?? Because when it pops out of her mouth at night she starts crying. By the time I run in to find it, as it's never beside her as she always knocks it out, well she is then far too awake. She hasn't had it for 2 days now & I havent noticed a big difference in her. The fact she doesn't talk yet helps as she can't ask me for it, like Hudson did :0)

She really focused on turning off all stimulation around the house before bed. She said to turn off the TV, sit quietly with her & read a book. Of course this also involves Hudson to. At night they can both have their milk while reading. During the day whatever drink she has which is usually water.

After that bed time. I had to lay her in her cot, & of course she starts screaming as she is used to being nursed to sleep. Instead I tuck her in & say "Time to sleep, go to sleep, it's sleep time Charlotte", in a calm yet firm voice. She then said for me to re enter the room if screaming after 3 mins, 6mins, 8mins & 10mins & repeat those words each time. If I get to 8 mins & she is just grizzly leave her be. Each time she cries for about 10mins or so & it slows right down & she is asleep.

She is crying now as I type this, I am doing it in between the check in times suggested by Gabrielle. I do find it hard as her face looks heart broken when I leave her. She has become accustomed to me nursing her, so she has always drifted off to sleep in the security of mine or my husbands arms. I could imagine what she must be thinking. It does hurt me doing it, but I was hurting from the lack of sleep. I hated that some days I felt agitated towards her because I only had 2hrs sleep.

At night I pull the door over so it's pitch black & no noise. It freaked me out at first & I did not like it one bit. I understand the theory as it quiet & there is no noise, just a dark and peaceful place for her to sleep.

Normally at night I go in & re position & tuck her back in, as she wriggles to the top of the cot. I am not to do that any more, instead dress her a little warmer. She always wears a long onsie to bed because of this. She also recommended a sleeping bag so no matter what she is warm, which I still need to get. Hudson never liked them that's why Charlotte doesn't use them. Gabrielle's logic was so obvious. She said would you like to be dragged down in your bed when you're in a deep sleep & to be possibly woken. Well of course not, so basically I should't touch her. I do admit when I did do that she would sometimes open her eyes look at me & close them.

At night now I just sneak in & only blow a kiss to her. I am too scared to touch her in fear of her waking & it all going pear shaped. Well I am sure after a couple of weeks I will feel less paranoid.

As hard as this routine has to be, I know that she will be & my whole family will be happier for it. Except Hudson who is such a great sleeper, he sleeps though everything, so life to him is still great. Bless him....

It has taken me 30mins to write this & I can say that Miss Charlotte fell into a deep snooze about 10mins ago.

Sleep deprivation is torture...

2011-08-26T15:26:00.005+10:00

I think this has been the longest EVER I haven't blogged for.

Generally I am fairly consistent, but that's gone completely out the door for the last 2 weeks.

Besides being very busy with my work, the kids and life in generally, I have been struggling a bit doing it all. My cause of this, is what I would like to say (as all mothers do) by the most beautiful face in the world.

"Miss Charlotte"

This little bugger doesn't sleep through the night sill!!! She is 15months old.

She wakes in the middle of the night & refuses point blank to go back to sleep unless she sleeps with me, or I nurse her. I don't mind nursing her but it can take forever. Those big blue eyes just won't close. I have tried controlled crying, which went on for 5 hours. When I couldn't take it anymore & took her to bed with me, it then took her an hour to settle her down as she was so worked up. Some nights if I take her to bed she winds her fingers around my hair, like I am a security blanket which ultimately pulls my hair, or she climbs on me. I would be lucky to get 5hrs sleep a night. Three to four is the average. On top of caring for Hudson, running the house, & my business I am exhausted.

On a positive, I am having a sleep specialist, or sleep Dr, baby whisperer, whatever you call one, come here to spend the night with us all tonight!!! I am feeling very nervous & a little apprehensive.

Fingers crossed all goes to plan as I have some huge tasks I want to tackle when I regain some order and balance again in my life.

But first starting with.....

A full nights sleep.

Being able to stay awake long enough to catch up on some very important reading.

I would also like start exercising again, I am generally quite a fit person. Feeling so tired can make you very sluggish.

One step at a time.

I would love to hear from anyone who has hired a sleep specialist & if they had great results.

I used to want to be a bridal wear designer (part 2)

2011-08-15T15:19:00.004+10:00

Last month I revealed my dream of once being a bridal design.

If you didn't read it you can here.

Here is my other dress that I entered that year at industry competition gown of the year. Looking at it today it definitely had a "Little Bo Peep" look about it.

Ivory & lemon the chosen colour combination.

Again every detail I created, from the pattern, the underskirt, the jewellery, & I hand cut every guipure lace daisy & hand stitched a yellow bead in the middle of each one. There were meters & meters of silk chiffon, & hours of french seaming. It had to look flawless. I even made the parasol.

It is actually quite lovely, looking back at it with a fresh set of eyes so to speak.

(They have been packed away for years).

I am quite proud of myself, & I am happy to admit that.

I do hope no one interprets that as cockiness.

Even though my passion today is children's homewares & my love for illustration, it's something that will stay with me forever. My dad always said the skills I learnt at college were like a trade. Something I will never lose, I may be rusty if I had to draft something, but I will never lose it. You know what I think he is right.

Lately I have had this desire to create patterns. Purely the homewares variety.

What I still don't know. Hopefully I will get around to it?

Tooth fairy Cushion - A custom order

2011-08-11T19:43:00.003+10:00

I have mentioned before I love custom orders.

Truly it excites me, having something new & fresh to develop, to cater for someone else's style.

I was asked a while ago to make a tooth fairy cushion & to be honestly went blank. I had no idea where to begin. Kate, who I made the cushion for, made it so easy & simple. Her daughter was in love with my babushka cushion from my shop, & basically wanted a version of that.

So here it is complete.

I love this colour combination soooo much!

A great sized pocket, easy for that fairy to fly inside & retrieve.

I hope this little girl gets the reward she deserves from the tooth fairy!

Something in progress, something new

2011-08-10T20:35:00.006+10:00

My poor old blog has been suffering of late,

I have been so busy, with life, like everyone else.

My kids - one is teething, & never sleeping, & the other is toilet training.

Lots of orders & a few new stockists.

Setting up a new baby, Quirky and Quaint.

I have managed to still make time for my passion & completed this.

New design Birdcage Personalised cushion.

I am also in the midst of completing this design.

SWEET DREAMS

I wanted to create something a bit more organic & drawn directly on to the paper. I don't do it as often as I would like, I normally draw straight on to the computer just because it save time.

The main sketch is done, and scanned into the computer. Now the fun part, redrawing, cleaning it up, & the best part adding colour.

Stay tuned.

In the mail....

2011-08-07T11:58:00.004+10:00

I have recently treated myself to a tonne of business cards, and cards.

Call me crazy but I used to always make my own business cards & cushion/door stop instructions. At first it was just to keep my costs down a bit & then, it just turned into a BAD BAD habit.

I looked around at getting some made, and 9 out of 10 people recommended I use Vista Print. So I bit the bullet & did, & was quite worried about how they would turn out. I downloaded their stencil they provide so I could make sure everything fit perfectly, it was so much easier than I though. Their prices were crazy good, and just after I confirmed the order I was offered another 500 business cards for $10!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How could I possibly say no to that?

I am thrilled.

The colours are perfect & quality awesome.

What's making me smile :0)

2011-07-31T12:30:00.003+10:00

Nothing makes my heart sing than watching my kids not staring at the TV but actually using their imagination. Charlotte received this tree house from her Aunt & Uncle for her 1st birthday, & today I decided to pull it out. After all of the messing about placing the stickers on it, it was playtime.

Hudson has been mesmerised by it for the last hour.

Charlotte on the other hand is intrigued, but more interested in her box of sultanas.

Very cute hehe!!

Hope you're Sunday is a happy day xx

A custom order involving a duck, cupcake & the Eiffel Tower

2011-07-30T20:01:00.006+10:00

I have just completed a new custom order.

A week or so ago one of my customers gave me this adorable brief to create for her.

It went something like this.

Her best friend moved to Paris & she has had twins.

When they were kids they had an in joke between them, calling each other duck, so of course a duck had to be included.

She wanted to use the Eiffel tower.

It was the twins first birthday.

She would love a cupcake to celebrate their 1st birthday.

She loved the colours in this cushion & that cushion.

Basically what could I do?

This!

I must say I am very happy with the result, as she was too.

I love doing custom orders, so if you need something with a personal touch, I am always happy to help.

Colour palettes - how do you find yours?

2011-07-27T22:02:00.006+10:00

When you are about to start your next design, piece of art or craft project, what is the next thing you think of after making the decision of what you're creating? For some this process may even come first.

Everyone finds there own colour palettes somehow, it's either already made up in their head, or kind of know what colours they would like to use......But just not sure how they want to coordinate them, or with what other colours.

Even though I draw constantly, it doesn't mean I don't get stuck for colours. I generally tend to gravitate to certain palettes, but I too get bored & need other options and inspiration. After flicking around online & in mags, I then go to my faithful companion, which also a companion to many others.

Colour Lovers

For me this is a dictionary, even a bible of colour & print inspiration. I use it mainly for colour, & not much else. There are a tonne of other things on there you can use, but I only want to share my solution for colour palettes.

When you arrive there & you have had a look around, head over to the SEARCH tab & a drop box will appear. Click on palettes.

This is where my fun begins.

Where is says Keyword this is where you type in the colours you would like to search. Just because I can't help myself I typed in my 2 favourite colours I love coordinating together.

Turquoise & Raspberry (don't need to put in the &), hit search palettes.

A whole collection of colour palettes will appear with the 2 main colours you have searched for. Some will be tonal, others will be so unexpected & even coordinated with colours you never dreamed of teaming together. Ooohhh I just love that!!

These are palettes that others within the Colour Lovers community (which you can join), have created themselves and offer to share with everyone.

After doing my search, this is the palette that made my heart sing the most. If you click on your selected colour palette, a new window will show you who created it, & a break down of the palette itself. It's so lovely.

I did exactly the same thing with these colours. With boys in mind I searched navy taupe olive, and this is the palette that stood out for me.

Lastly to give you a bigger example I typed the key word rainbow, & look at what came up. I absolutely love all of the different interpretations others have when creating what they think are rainbows of colour. Just beautiful!

I could spend hours on here, & will admit I have, just playing around. I have had to limit my time & go in there when I am stuck & use it for my own purpose. When I am stuck & need a boost of inspirational colour. I hope it helps you when you're in a colour block situation.

Enjoy xx

Easy no measure SUPER FAST pumpkin soup

2011-07-25T13:44:00.004+10:00

It's wintry today in Melbourne & wanted to make pumpkin soup for hubby & the kids for dinner, & also have some for myself for lunch. I won't be home I am catching up with a friend for dinner.

I wanted to share my version of this old winter staple. I don't measure a thing it's all done by eye & to be honest you can't really go wrong, unless you add too much water.

Ingredients

Pumpkin - I use a whole one, one that's a bit smaller than a dinner plate.

4-6 large carrots

2 medium onions

2 zucchini

Method

Peel all veggies & dice.

Don't dice pumpkin pieces too large or it takes longer to cook.

Throw them all in a pot.

Fill pot with water & stop about 2cm before you reach the top of the veggies.

Add about 4 teaspoons of stock, today I used chicken as I was out of veggie.

Boil until all veggies are soft.

Get out the bar mix & blend.

I used to add a touch of nutmeg, but found Hudson did not eat it after I added, that so I eliminated it.

It's such a simple & healthy meal there is not a gram of fat & so full of goodness.

That is it.

Today's portion took me about 40mins to make & that included chopping the veggies.

This is what I ate today.

image by tigesandweince

My Saturday

2011-07-23T13:40:00.004+10:00

Saturday is here already.

The sun is shining in Melbourne today, it feels warm on my skin. It is so divine.

What are you doing today?

image from pinterest

Today has become a little about me, its so lovely to do this occasionally.

No work for the day (tonight I work) instead I have potted around home, been to spotlight with Miss Charlotte in tow, a trip to the hairdresser for a wee trim, & afternoon tea later with mum & her best friend.

A spot of shopping on Etsy & I bought this divine bag from Mod Diva.

While I was shopping at Mod Diva, I picked up this adorable set of cushions. I am starting to redecorate my living area & these are just perfect. I love the colour, the design, just everything. A great colour palette to work from also.

What a days it's turned out to be. I hope yours has been just as lovely.

Something for me...

2011-07-22T14:05:00.004+10:00

I bought these blocks the other day, they were featured on the front page of madeit by The Sign Lady, & thought they were just adorable.

The blocks shown actually said 'love', but after reading the listing I was allowed to choose any word, so I chose home.

I wanted to share them with you.

image by tiges and weince

I was thrilled when I got them, they were even better in real life.

I have popped them on a shelf in my living room just above my TV. I love how the white makes them pop, especially with my turquoise feature wall behind them.

New designs...just for boys

2011-07-21T18:21:00.004+10:00

The boys area in my business is so important to me as I know from a design aspect, how easy it is to create for girls. I never want the boys to miss out and I am always working on ways to find something different for them.

I have been working on some new designs and have been desperate to show them to you all.

A tractor.

A rocket.

A dragon...The friendly variety

CUSHIONS OF COURSE

& THEIR MATCHING DOORSTOPS

All available in my Etsy & madeit shops

Quirky and Quaint the newest addition to my business

2011-07-19T20:29:00.005+10:00

Today is a really exciting day for me, I have finally revealed another project I have been working very hard on.

It's called.....

Quirky & Quaint is a direct shopping business offering children’s bedroom decor and accessories, operating in a “party plan” fashion - Not to be shunned at, don’t tense up, this is truly an amazing shopping experience, consider it a

Offering a collaborative collection of handmade goods that are created mostly by women, many of them are stay at home mums, grasping the opportunity to earn an income, by selling products they are passionate about, while allowing them the flexibility to stay home with their children

For the last few months I had been thinking about this. My reason being, was that I was continuously blown away at every market by the "oohs & ahhhs" from people about what they had seen. I too had the comments and was asked beside markets how else could they buy my products. When I said here is my website, they had either never heard of the handmade business my site was on, or asked do I have to join these to buy, & you wouldn't believe the amount of people who still feel hesitant to buy online.

This is when I started think could there be hundreds of people who must be saying the same thing. They love design and definitely appreciate uniqueness and great craftsmanship. Why not take it to them? It's another wonderful way of supporting the handmade industry showing commercial shoppers that handmade doesn't mean cheap, or second hand, but instead it exceeds the quality and design of a mass produced products.

To make this a success for everyone involved, if you're interested in having a presentation (melbourne based people) head over to the blog where you can read a lot more. Then send me an email & I can forward you a presentation book.

I used to want to be a bridal wear designer

2011-07-18T19:22:00.005+10:00

I used to want to be a bridal wear designer, so badly when I was at college. I studied fashion design for 3yrs, and my main subjects were research & design & pattern making. I was obsessed with making made to measure patterns, and mesmerised at how each pattern piece could create such beauty.

When I graduated I still had that hunger, but unfortunately I didn't get a job in that niche area. I was desperate to work as Jane Hill, but so was everyone else.

My first few jobs in the fashion industry were not what I dreamed of, however I didn't give up & kept plugging along. I decided to enter myself in the "Gown of the Year" awards. I was up against all the MAJOR & well known bridal designers. I knew I would never win, but wanted to have a go any way. I designed & entered 2 dresses, this is one of them below.

Please keep in mind these were designed in the mid 1990's, so be forgiving I beg you :0) I made this gown from scratch, the pattern, the rosettes, and the jewellery. There are hours and hours of labour in it, and also a piece of my soul. My decision to go this colour was purely because I knew the competition I was up against I had to stand out in some other way. My idea was colour!

The corset was full on, boned, fused, and more fusing, it could have walked on its own. I learnt this skill courtesy of my on the job training at Garfunkle (Victorians may be familiar with them). The skirt was bustle inspired, lots and lots of gathered & hidden tulle, all hand gathered then hand stitched, & every single rose & leaf I also made. Are you getting the idea of how many hours there are. It didn't matter as it was my passion, I smiled with every stitch.

I wanted to share this part of my journey which seemed so long ago. I also designed another dress for this gala & will share that as well. I love looking back at my work, it's my history, & also interesting considering what I do today. I am also extremely proud of what I did, it's weird how you don't realise how great your achievements were until your history is found in a big folder. Well that's where mine is & I am eager to share more if you would like to listen?

It's over...sniff...sniff

2011-07-17T17:37:00.003+10:00

It's finally over....sniff....sniff

Harry Potter the final chapter, Deathly Hallows part 2.

I have been such a fan of this series from day 1, I have read all 7 books and seen all of the movies. I couldn't believe this had been a part of my life for 9 years. The 3 main cast members were just babies when it all began, and now they are all young adults. How fast life can go when you're having fun.

Last night I left the kids with my mum and dad, and off I went with hubby to the movies, with our pre bought tickets in hand, and out 3D glasses. I was bursting with excitement to see it, yet I felt quite flat knowing this was it.

I watched in amazement, and with pure enjoyment. The story was wonderful, the battle scenes were breath taking, and the 3D effects were very cool.

I did read the book sometime ago, and to be honest I had forgotten parts of the story line. I actually think it made it even more enjoyable. For once I wasn't predicting every scenes or feeling miffed about story lines that weren't included.

I am so happy though they did include scenes 19yrs later, it was so geeky, kind of old fashion, yet cute. I don't want so say to much about anything I don't want to be a spoiler.

When the credits rolled I did feel a little bit sad.

It's an end of an era for Hogwarts, Harry, Hermoine & Ron. Thank you for giving me so much enjoyment, you will be definitely missed.

But I am glad it all ended when and how it did, as for me it was perfect.

I want chocolate

2011-07-15T15:14:00.005+10:00

Ever have days when you crave something so bad the resistance is somewhat painful?

I know what you're thinking, just eat it.

But then does that make my craving the winner?

Or am I the winner for being kind to myself?

Lets face it my love of chocolate is almost addictive, it has taken me a long time to realise I don't NEED to eat it every night. Or do I? No I don't! Sometimes when I am bored or just peckish the temptation is crazy. Am I sounding crazy?

What makes it worse is if I know its in the house, I just have to eat it. When it comes to this little addiction the best policy for me is out of house out of mind.

So I thought I would find some truly delicious photo's to see if that helps. Probably won't, but cant say I haven't, didn't, or wouldn't try.

Nothing beats pieces of chocolate. Quite a fan of cookies & cream too.

Even happy to drink it, if made with melted choc buds it's even better.

MMM I so could have this tonight for desert.

Happy to even eat it off a spoon.

Loving this theory!

What's your addiction?

All image from pinterest

Loving crochet

2011-07-14T20:10:00.003+10:00

I don't get a lot of time for anything lately, let along doing crafty things for the love of it.

I have been staring at the art of crochet for ages, and hinted constantly to my mum how I would love a patchwork looking crochet blanket. Mum's a busy person too and I think by the time I ever got one, my kids would have moved out. Instead of waiting, as I can be a little impatient, I want to give it a go myself.

I am just loving all of the crocheted pieces below, with a slight obsession, they are so polished looking and divine. Each piece would definitely have a purpose in my house, so easily.

All images found on pinterest when searching crochet

There is one problem........I don't know how to do it.

I am hoping to find some time over the weekend to research some handy idiot proof DIY tutorials online. At least I could then pick up the things I need and have a go. If anyone can offer some tutorials they know and have been successful for the, I would appreciated them sent my way.

Boutique Market Melbourne Debut Tomorrow

2011-07-09T10:00:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow I will be at the Boutique market debut in Melbourne.

I am really excited as I love a good market.

I will also be a great way to see how I retail on the day not being at a 'traditional' kids market. It may not however be good for my purse, if you know what I mean.

I will be stall #1, if you come along please make sure to say hi.

Also at the market I will be having a little sales "SPECIAL".

After a great response to my kids heat bags/cold packs, which started as making one for my son. I have made a few different designs & will have a basket full at the market.

Individually they are $15, but until tomorrow night 7pm AEST I will be having 2 for $26.

To see and read more just head to my madeit store.

If you don't get to the market & would like to take advantage of this, that's fine just email me please direct with your order & I will send you an invoice.

I hope to see you there x

Owl Beanies - Mini Me & You

2011-07-08T13:12:00.003+10:00

I just had to shares these with you today, as a fabulous Friday find.

How gorgeous are these Owl beanies from Mini Me & You???

I bought one for Charlotte last Sunday at Fairy Floss Market & just fell in love with it.

The one that I have is hot pink & green & it's just divine.

I tried to take a photo of her in it, but today she wasn't working with me.

Who said working with kids was easy?

OMG gorgeous.

I had a coffee this morning with Felicity & Tash, the girls who run this brand, & I also know their website is still under construction. Lucky for us they have facebook page, & I am sure if you have to have one of these beanies, & really why wouldn't you?

They will be able to help you out.

They also have an amazing collection of soft knitted kids toys that are divine.

I wish they were in adult sizes.

How to make a rice heat bag

2011-07-03T21:12:00.010+10:00

I don't know about your kids, but mine of late mine have been getting in the wars. I took for grated that all kids are happy to pop an ice pack on a bump or bruise.

Ummmm nope.

It actually frightens them, well mine anyway. Not that they say it in so many words, but the look on their little faces when you come at them with an over size object that is freezing cold doesn't thrill them.

I have also lately had Hudson say, mummy my bed is cold make it warm.

Like every mum you want to help your little people so to solve this I hunted around & found a few tutorials on heat bags. I was more worried about the contents of it & what to put in it, than making it, I had that all planned out in my head. I found & loved the tutorial from Sew, Mama, Sew, & just adapted it according to my vision. I decided to make them as kiddie friendly as possible, so of course I utilised my own designs.

These heat bags are mini in size perfect for little hands.

You can used any fabric you have laying around the house. Sew up your scraps, even use a tea towel.

I used my very popular owl had to adorn those comforting words, "All better now".

Cut 2 squares, mine are 21cm x 15.5cm.

Place your squares right sides together & sew a 1cm seam allowance all around leaving one whole side open. Turn inside out.

Here is mine turned in the correct way, & I used a chop stick to help push out the corners.

Turn you iron on. At the open end of the heat bag fold a 1cm seam allowance inwards. You can measure this or go by your eye, that's what I do. With the tip of your iron press gently. Go all the way around until the whole opening is turned inwards & pressed.

Press and you will end up with a clean edge like this.

Your are now going to top stitch the whole area of your heat bag. My top stitch width is 0.5cm in from edge. On you pressed seam area, place the foot of your machine on top of the opening. Start slowly & make a quick back stitch, and them follow around the edge of your heat bag.

When you get to about 2cm before where you started before, stop & do again another quick reverse stitch. This will just reinforce the opening.

Now the fun part. I mixed even parts of plain long grain rice and organic lavender in a bowl.

A funnel & one of those free scoops I have received from Tupperware over the years came in very handy.

I found the contents should weigh around 250grams, this what a nice quantity I felt to fill the bag. Once I had filled the bag I shook it to one end & stitched across the opening I had created to fill it.

One happy customer.

I found 1 minute is a lovely temperature to warm for the kids, depending of course on your microwave wattage. This will also be a lovely ice pack for when a situation calls for a cold emergency. To freeze pop the heat bag in a plastic bag, like a freezer bag to protect it.

This method is easily adaptable to any size or shape heat bag.

Enjoy!

A Simple Saturday

2011-07-02T15:28:00.006+10:00

Today just seems easy.

I think it was because it's all planned out.

Normally with both my kids, hubby at work, a house to maintain & work to be fulfilled, & many unpredictable moments, my life is like most mums is a little CRAZY!

Today so far has been as simple as this.

Breakfast with 2 of my dearest & adorable girlfriends.

A trip to the supermarket, which as a little overdue by a few days. Today it was a simple chore as I was alone. Hubby has the kids, so I could stroll & look without the pressure cooker feeling of which kid was going to chuck the first tantrum.

My in-laws have had a lovely holiday in Fiji & returned last night. They are coming over for dinner tonight, we are having lasagne & I have cooked the meat sauce & it' just simmering on the stove.

There is no way I could have lasagna & not have a glass of red wine with it. I am a Merlot girl, & just love a drop in the winter.

I will be at Fairy Floss Market tomorrow in Williamstown, & I will be up nice & early. So I will be calling for a reasonably early night.

I love the image of this bed. Wouldn't it be lovely to be able to lock yourself away like this? Especially with a book, oh & of course some chocolate. Heaven.

I hope everyone else is having an easy weekend so far.

Have a great Sunday tomorrow xx

all images are from pinterest

New Design - Owl sitting on a Penny Farthing

2011-06-28T20:34:00.006+10:00

My new bolts of fabric arrived today...Yippee!!

They are so beautiful & so much more gorgeous in the cloth so to speak.

Choosing these fabrics has been a task and a half, I looked everywhere and anywhere. I wanted to design my own on Spoonflower, which is something that I will definitely be doing soon.

You can read about & see my final selections here.

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Today I am showing you only 2 of the designs.

These 2 are going to be in my new design story "Owl on a Penny Farthing". It's a softer feel for me, as you may be aware I love bright and bold. It's a lovely change. I am just loving the charcoal grey dot it really finishes the colour palette, giving it a bit of substance. As I knew I was ordering this, I started on an illustration that I felt best suited it. Sticking with the dots, (as I LOVE polka dots), I wanted to keep that theme.

A month ago, I was at Scienceworks with my mum & Hudson, & there was an original Penny Farthing bike on display. Right next to it was a huge step so you could climb up & sit on it. I just loved it. I am completely fascinated how anyone could keep their balance riding the damn thing. Personally I think I would fall off in a heart beat.

I was so inspired by it & wanted to use it in my next illustration. I also wanted to use my Owl again, I thought she would be lovely sitting on the seat. The balloons, they are there because they look pretty!

Here is the finished design, available at Etsy & Madeit.

I have also finished the back of the cushion with the a perfectly matching coordinating design you can see in my listings.

Also available as a doorstop or bookend.

Available on Etsy and Madeit.

Now I have my prints in my hands, I am looking at playing around with them with some other items. It's so exciting, I love being inspired.

Fabric Choosing

2011-06-25T20:15:00.005+10:00

Fabric choosing is a tough decision.

I have decided to streamline my range. I am making it more story orientated, so I need more coordinated fabrics. I am still extremely happy with the designs I currently have, but there are so many, and so many colours, hence my reasoning to do this.

Just incase you don't know what I mean by this, I want fabrics with same overall colour palette, however different pattern designs. So to up the anti, I have been on the hunt for a collective group of fabrics. This has been a long journey to date as I have had to source fabrics that will compliment, and not over take my own illustrations and pattern designs.

One of my BIGGEST, BIGGEST dreams is to one day design and print my own textile range. As this is not happening today, I am using other wonderful design work instead.

I recently came across a selection from PK Fabrics, and have taken a fancy to all of them.

designs by MODA

I like how they are full of colour of course, and their design details are not overwhelming.

I love how the colours are collective, and all cross over each other.

I am sitting on these over the weekend. Once I write this post I am not looking at them until Monday. Hopefully I will still love them just as much. I have lots of new ideas already on the go to work with these fabrics.

I just need to start getting it all together.

Dream Bedroom Décor for Hudson

2011-06-23T20:35:00.006+10:00

Cars 2 is out today & I have one little boy who is bursting at the seams to see it. His dad is taking him on Saturday. He is so hooked on this movie, as lovely as I think it is, it drives me a little batty. It's pretty sad when your are starting to remember the dialogue.

Everything he does is "Fast like McQueen".

There is a positive about that saying, if he is dawdling along I can usually tell him that McQueen would do that much faster he is. That usually turns on his engine & off he goes.

I wont buy all of the merchandise, as I couldn't bear it. He own a long sleeve t-shirt, some pyjamas, slippers, several of the cars, and that's it. I was curious to see what was actually available out there for the bedroom & I was flabbergasted.

Check out this furniture, & this is a small selection.

All products were found at Wallmart.

Oh man, what Hudson would do to sleep in that bed.

Look at this, a dream chair to watch the movie for the millionth time. Don't even bring up how many times I am sure he'll watch the 2nd movie when it's released on DVD.

Wow what a novel idea, something to keep your toys stored. That wouldn't work in my house as everything is dumped on the floor. Tidying up seems to be a foreign word.

After looking around, I found this bedroom suite which although extremely over the top is just awesome. I think my husband would actually enjoy as much as Hudson. I could see him sitting & watching the Grand Prix in that bed!!

Large Apple & Pears Softies

2011-06-21T21:04:00.003+10:00

I have been so inspired by my last post. It was an apple I made where I used my designs to decorate it. Anyway my mind has been racing thinking I could incorporate them into my shop.

I decided to make them very large, so they weren't as fiddly to sew, and of course use my own designs so they would look exactly as I would like them.

Here is the first.

A large Pear with some happy words, 'smile, 'laugh' & 'giggle', mixed with lots of hearts and my birds of course.

The next a large Apple.

Great for the boys, blue reds and stars, team with a vintage tricycle and an owl.

I am really happy with them both and of course have a few more designs floating around in my head. But most importantly they were so much fun to make.

I made an apple :0)

2011-06-18T13:09:00.007+10:00

Today I made an Apple!

I am so in love with it!

A wonderful pattern by retro mama help me create this little beauty.

Here is my finished product.

Now read below for the journey.

I used the pattern pieces from retro mama, scanned them in and drew my own designs.

they were a collaboration from my cushions, a bit of this and that.

Can you tell which cushion I used?

Once printed I just followed the pattern instructions.

Here they are all cut out.

Two views of all of the pieces sewn together. I did do my leaf and stem a bit different to the instructions as I wanted my own print. However they are backed on to felt, which was the suggested fabric.

Here it is all finished.

I couldn't believe how much stuffing this apple took, I had to stuff until it was very firm.

So what do you think?

I love this shape and have a few new ideas floating around, will come to fruition.

I still however have the pear to make also.

My experience - SIDS & Kids

2011-06-17T14:23:00.007+10:00

Today I would love everyone to show their support for a very worthy foundation.

Sids & Kids red nose me

SIDS & Kids is dedicated to saving the lives of babies & children during pregnancy, birth infancy & childhood. In my opinion there are still too many deaths & so much research to be conducted to reduce this heart retching toll. Even though more & more is being learnt there is still so much to do.

Today's post is a very tender one for me, one which I will go into very lightly.

I have been effected by the death of a child. I lost a baby at just over 20 weeks, not just a baby, a daughter. Her name was Madison & unfortunately she wasn't growing properly. It was a a feeling that I can not describe knowing that I wasn't to have her, especially since I had 2 miscarriages before her. I wasn't old, 31 to be exact. It wasn't my fault, I didn't do anything wrong, it was nature, & completely out of my control. I never got to meet her, I named her & buried her, that's it. Sounds heartless doesn't it? It was the most gruelling period of my life of why me, why me, why me. I always imagine what she would look like, more like Hudson? Or more like Charlotte? My imagination will be the decider of that question. She isn't forgotten, it's a lovely reminder she is with my nanna & grandma now.

I now have 2 beautiful kids. Hudson was a blessing, & Charlotte a miracle. I never thought I'd have her, as I had another miscarriage after Hudson. It's an emotional roller-coaster not just for the women, but the partners & families, as it attacks everyone emotionally & mentally.

Please upload a red nose as for every nose is worth a dollar fund raised.

Pass it on to your friends, as it's also a lot of fun too.

I think Charlotte would suit being a clown.

Spread the word Red nose Me

Mad for Apples and Pears

2011-06-16T13:53:00.006+10:00

I have just realised lately I have a thing for apples and pears??

It's funny when a trend starts happening and you're completely unaware of it.

I love these 2 fruits, they are my winter favourites, but didn't really think of them in a decorative sense until recently.

First it started with these wire lanterns from Mozi. So cute aren't they?

You may remember them on a book shelf recently when I blogged about my home library.

Then I bought these adorable fabric baskets from The Spotted Barn.

Now I have decided to make some myself!!! Which is really exciting, I will keep you posted on my progress here as I want to design my own fabric for some.

Patterns from retro mama.

I did a quick search on Etsy and found these other little wonders. I am thinking I need those fruit memo notes.

1. Fruit memo pads

2. Apple & Pear coasters

3.Perfect Pears

What's your new unintentional love at the moment?

Tonight.....

2011-06-14T13:31:00.003+10:00

I am not feeling well today & don't particularly feel like doing anything. It's the beginning of a cold, I feel tired, my throats feels a little questionable, & in general I feel blah.....

I am pumping the Vitamin C, multi vitamins & codral into me today for one reason only.

This lady....Kylie Minogue

I am off to see her tonight in Melbourne, I haven't missed any of her concerts, and I am very excited. Her concerts are shows stoppers, more glitz and glammer than one could imagine.

Dancers, exquisite costumes, make up and pure entertainment.

I just can't wait.

Is anyone else going?

Well off to the couch again while I try & recover a little.

Saturday Morning

2011-06-11T11:36:00.003+10:00

I just adore this photo and wanted to share it with you.

I just wished my bedroom & I, looked as effortless as this on a Saturday morning.

photograph called "Saturday Morning" by Heather Evans Smith.

NEW!! Fabric wall decals

2011-06-10T13:58:00.003+10:00

It's been a few days since my last blog post. But hey I guess thats life, I have had a bit going on at home. Mainly due a particular Little Miss Charlotte like to wake each night at around 2ish & stay awake until 4.30am before she decides she's tired again. In turn my eyes have been hanging out of my head as I still need to be up for when Hudson wakes.

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Moving on to a far more exciting announce I am in the midst of launching my fabric wall decals. I know they are already popular & the market is very competitive, but I wanted something to compliment my cushion and doorstop range. Besides all of my drawings are my own so I guess they will have a unique appeal. I have selected 4 of my best selling designs to create the matching wall decals.

Personalising items is a HUGE part of my business so it seemed obvious to complete a range of personalised buntings.

To match my trucks & tippers cushion I have created a trucks & tippers bunting. It has all of the same details but will be special with your name on it.

Next is my personalised girls design which also matches my apple green and pink cushion design.

Both have the same details of birds, apples, trees, ladybirds & polka dots.

Robots, a boys best friend...The designs will look fabulous in any arrangement. Place them like I have, or all in a perfectly straight line. This design again matches my singe robot cushion design, and my two robot cushion design.

The fourth is a personal favourite, Garden Party. There are so many colours in this design it should suit any girls bedroom, & of course it matches perfectly with my garden party cushion. This design is also something your can arrange like I have or create your own garden party look.

I am so excited about them. For the next week I am offering FREE POSTAGE on my wall decals.

To obtain this saving you must order directly via me. Please conatct me on email with your questions and orders. tigesandweince(at)gmail.com

More ways to find inspiration

2011-06-06T13:44:00.005+10:00

You may have realised I am a little obsessed with maintaining your inspiration, as I guess I rely on it you could say.

I found a link today from a tweet, & unfortunately for the life of me I can't find who's it's from, so sorry if you're reading this. The link was a great one that I wanted to share with you.

"33 ways to stay creative".

Most of the points aren't anything you haven't heard or read before, but there were a couple of new ones that I quite liked.

source & image via today tomorrow

1. 'Don't force it', which I connected to immediately.

Sometimes when a drawing isn't working for me, I admit to forcing it to work. It's a very frustrating process. I need to just leave it for a few hours, or over night, and look at it again in the morning with a refreshed perspective.

2. 'Stop trying to be someone else's perfect.

I think this is a great point everyone needs to think about, especially me. I am a bit of a perfectionist and at times probably put to much pressure on myself, to make everything for everyone. I always stay true to my style, but always have in the back of my mind, will everyone love it. I have come to learn over many years, not everyone will love your work. As much as that is a slap in the face it's so true. So stop trying to be perfect for everyone else and work harder at trying to be better at what amazing work you're already doing.

3. Gets lots of rest

I know this is important, as I honestly believe your best ideas pop into your head as you're drifting off to sleep. Hence why its good the have a note book next to you. Unfortunately for me I am not always guaranteed of this as I have a 1yr old who doesn't believe she needs to sleep through the night. She is getting better, and I am sleeping more, and have had some lovely new ideas come to mind. Restful sleep equals awesome potential ideas and thoughts. It's definitely on my list for improvement, however still a bit out of my control.

This is a great list to read on a Monday to prepare you for the week. I hope that there are some points that help you out.

Stripe Mania

2011-06-03T15:36:00.003+10:00

Yikes 2 days in a row of my head....

There is a reason though, I thought I would take part in the "STRIPE MANIA blogger round up, inspired by Holly Becker from Decor8 and friend Igor.

I was actually wearing this stripe top yesterday, & I know it seems a little silly, but I couldn't resist having some fun & joining in.

So here I am, a self portrait of a blogger in stripes, very thin navy & white ones to be exact.

If you would like to be part of this you can read all about it here.

Time Capsule Moment

2011-06-02T15:05:00.003+10:00

Do you have photos that you love so much you wish you could pop the moment in a time capsule?

Then later open it later and have that moment again?

Like most mums I have so, so, so many of those.

This is one of my favourite photo's, it's not professional just a regular family happy snap taken by my husband.

I love this moment because just before it was taken, Hudson was telling me how much he loved Charlotte and I. Awwww so sweet and as I already said, i wish I could bottle it up and keep it.

Arrrrh Pirates

2011-06-01T14:02:00.005+10:00

I have been wanting to do a pirate theme for a while, but just haven't had the time to get to it. With the release of Pirates of the Caribbean , and yet another instalment for me of being able to stare at Johnny Depp for a few hours had me very inspired.

I kept my design very classic, starting with the Pirate Ship. I wanted to keep my colours to a minimum. I absolutely adore the colour palette of red and blue, whether it be red & navy, or red & royal blue, or red and aqua. Unfortunately there aren't too many 'nice' shades of red, before they look like maroon or pink :0( It's so classic, and will generally work in any boys bedroom decor.

Next was my pirate, a cute boy, not anywhere near as handsome as Jack Sparrow, but a fun interpretation of what I wanted. I had been so nervous about drawing him, as I haven't done figures for ages. Drawing clothes has always been a breeze, I can draw them with my eyes shut, only due to many years of having to do so when working full time. But to draw a face, for some reason I get a little panicked and just go blank. I don't know about what you think, but a bad face can kill a drawing. After drawing and redrawing him, I finally finished, knowing it was as good as it was ever going to get. I am happy, he looks bright and cheerful, and of course like a pirate.

I am really happy with the 2 of them, they coordinate perfectly, and would look great on any little mans bed or quiet sitting space.

Everything is listed in my Etsy & madeit shops.