Make A Photo Cube With Rinea Foiled Papers & Floracraft

This month, the Rinea DT have been combining Rinea Foiled Papers with some Floracraft Cubes. (Now, honestly, the Rinea DT have excellent themselves, so head on over to check out their makes!) I knew, almost immediately, that I wanted to use mine to make a 'Photo Cube' but needed to choose a suitable occasion to show off.

Looking through some of my photographs the other weekend, I came across some from the bead retreat I took a while back - where my friend, Sarah, and I had an amazing time (and there's evidence in the form of some really daft photographs!) 

To make the cube, I first needed to choose a colour for my base - and I eventually chose to use the Sapphire/Gold Glossy Foiled Paper, because it matched the colour of the dress I'm wearing in my photographs.

Covering the base was really, really easy - I wrapped it, as though it was a gift, knowing that any folds would be covered by my photographs. It all looks nice and neat. 

The Floracraft Cubes are sized at 3in x 3in, so I cut all of my photographs down to 2.5in x 2.5 in - which means that there's still a little bit of that lovely Rinea shine on show!

To finish off the cube, I added a few small (and flat) embellishments - to add a little bit of interest. (You can add more dimensional embellishments if you want, but remember that if these are on the bottom of the cube at any time, that the cube won't sit without wobbling!)

I'm thrilled with how this super simple cube turned out - and I'm sure I'll make some more to send to friends, or display on my desk at work! Let's face it, we all need a little bit of cheering up in the office! Ugh!

Home Sweet Home

It's been a little bit quieter than usual over the last week or so but I think that, once I explain, I'll be allowed the time I've needed to work on another, much more time consuming project! Four months after making an offer, we're finally in the new home. And, by in, I mean we have the keys! 

The next few weeks are likely to be busy with movers and builders, as we move two homes into one and make sure that this new one is watertight and warm. I'm obviously dreaming on ahead to the moment that I can start work on the craft room! It'll help to keep me sane while I deal with all of the dust!

Keeping Kits {Plan With Me}

Over the last few weeks, the team at the Counterfeit Kit Challenge have been sharing some of their most Stylish Scrapbook Storage. Having talked a lot recently about Creating Kits, I thought that it might also be worthwhile to talk about how I keep them!

I'll usually have two or three Counterfeit Kits in use during the month (using the current kit and working ahead on projects for the next reveal.) When I was working with substantially smaller kits, this worked well. I could 'kill a kit' successfully, then move a new kit into the box I had been using to store it all.

However, at the end of January, I still had a box full of lovely, luscious product from the Planning For Perfection Kit and, having created a kit that continues to inspire me, I didn't want to break it down and 're-home' it all with the rest of my stash.

I was also still working with my kit for Document December (in fact, I am *still* working with my kit for Document December) but, it was nearly time to start working with a new kit for February. I desperately needed a storage solution that would allow me to keep all of the lovely leftovers from each kit in one space before I became overwhelmed with boxes, envelopes and dishes full of kit leftovers!

Document December Kit

Eventually, I found the Wilko A5 Binder, a frosted/clear binder, which comes with a small exercise book, five dividers and four 'ziplock style' envelopes. Once full, four envelopes are perfect for the size of the binder, so I removed the exercise book and dividers and I'll no doubt use them in another project sometime soon.

 I needed two envelopes for the leftovers from the Planning For Perfection Kit!

The clear envelopes make it really easy to find the kit that I want to work with and their 'ziplock' style keeps everything secure. The size of the binder also means that it's easy to store in my craft room and, as a bonus, is easily transported to my local scrapbooking club. I love taking my kits with me - it makes it so much easier to plan and pack!

I am thrilled to have found a solution that works and have, obviously, been back to buy a few more of these little lovelies! I can't wait to see them fill up with lots of little leftovers!

Head on over to the Counterfeit Kit Challenge to see more Stylish Scrapbook Storage solutions that work for the team!

Little Star {What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday #351}

Hello! Hello! It's time for What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday and I simply cannot believe it's almost March! What am I doing with my time? Where is it going? 

Having cleared the desk at the weekend, it's now clutter free and home to a few of binders and a little star shaped dish that I found in the homeware section of my local Poundland. It's now home to all of the embellishments that we're lying around on my desk. I wish I had bought more of them - it's adorable. Short and sweet this time! I'll be stopping by throughout the week! 

Visit Stamping Ground for more information on What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday.

Creative Corners - Sincerely Yours By Tracy

After finishing 'what I was working on' last weekend, I needed a little time away from everything to catch up on some much needed sleep (and clean the house!) so, it's been a while since we took a peek at someone's Creative Corners. Are you ready for a bit of snooping?

Tracy Weslager from Sincerely Yours By Tracy makes seriously beautiful, high-quality and completely customisable greetings cards, invitations and stationery. Uniquely, for every greetings card purchased, Tracy sends a card to an active member of the US Armed Forces. For every, single card. How amazing is that?

How did you get started?

My creative journey began in 2006 when I decided to leave corporate America and fulfil my dream of combining art, fashion, and my obsession of all stationery products.

What inspires you?

I have color all over my studio…markers, paper, embellishments…at times when those items get pushed onto each other, it catches my eye and a new idea will pop in my head to try. It’s amazing what new creations come from my “mess”.

When do you feel most creative?

I am a morning person so once the coffee pot is full, I’m ready to dive into the fun and create in the studio for hours!

What are your work space essentials?

I think my studio has more tools than my husband’s workshop since he is always asking me if I have certain tools he can borrow! A few that I cannot live without and freak if I loose are my three adhesive rolls that need to be near me at all times, a ruler because I’m a perfectionist and everything must be exact and of course, my paper cutter (or fifteen paper cutters) that I currently own.

What do you do to keep yourself andyour space organised?

To stay organized I make sure I take some time at the end of every week and attack the mess and piles! It makes me feel better and ready to attack the following week!

If you had to be selective, what is your favourite things about the space?

My favorite things about my design studio are my “fun” chair that I can sit with a cup of coffee, research and just doodle for new designs! I am a candle person so if I have candles burning while working, I’m smiling!

What are your top tips for improving your work space?

My main tip to improve my workspace and any workspace is stay organized! As I mentioned, if you take some time each week to go clean up, organize etc. it will really make a difference for the new weeks’ projects. Go from pile to pile and soon you will see the difference it made!

Um...so how amazing does Tracy's creative workspace look? I'm feeling a little bit jealous right now! I hope that you've enjoyed finding out a little bit more about Tracy's Creative Corners, but if that hasn't quite fulfilled all of your 'nosiness needs' then you can also seek her out on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. I'll be following Tracy's advice and having a creative corner cleaning session! 

The Ever Expanding Blog Hop

Hello! Hello! I'm thrilled to have been asked by blogging buddy Lisa of Recklinghausen Musings to take part in an ever expanding blog-hop - where everyone who takes part answers a few questions about their creative pursuits and processes, then asks some of their favourite bloggers to do the same. So, shall we begin?

What Am I Working On?

At the moment, I'm beading, beading, beading! While I'm thrilled to be participating in a beading competition of epic proportions - The Battle of the Beadsmith, 2014 - the deadline is looming! I have until the 8th June to finish and photograph my beadwork entry - better get a move on, eh?

I would absolutely love to share what I've been working on, but I'm not allowed! In the meantime, you can find out more about Battle Of The Beadsmith 2014, and see some of the amazing beadwork from 2013, by joining the Battle Of The Beadsmith Facebook Group.

And after I'm finished? I'm looking forward to taking a little break from beading to work on my Southern Adventure Album. I'll be working with May's Counterfeit Kit (untouched while I've been busy beading!) and, hopefully, with a new kit inspired by the Counterfeit Kit Inspiration for June.

How Does My Work Differ From Others Of Its Genre?

I'm still relatively new to the world of beadwork and designing, so my style is still developing, but I lke to think that what 'sets me apart' is my attention to detail. I'm still 'obstinately pursuing' perfection, so I will constantly look for ways to tweak a design, take better photographs or write clearer beading tutorials and - thanks to some lovely customer feedback - I know that this dedication is appreciated!

Why Do I Create What I Do?

As an artist I am hugely inspired by both Art Deco and Art Nouveau and my work often appears to be created by someone with a split personality – displaying either a love of linear design, colour and geometric shapes or a love of nature, with fluidic shapes, textures and surprising details.

Briar Rose Bracelet Tutorial - Obstinate Pursuit

How Does Your Creative Process Work?

The architectural nature of dimensional beadwork appeals to me. I love watching structures and shapes develop with the addition of each new bead. The possibilities are almost endless and I am often reminded a little of my childhood favourite, Lego, when I would sit for hours working out how to create new shapes and structures with the same basic materials.

Dainty Drop Earrings - Turquoise, Bronze & White Pearl Beaded Earrings

I love the evolution that happens when I allow myself to work with the materials that I have to hand and, although I often have an idea in mind - a badly scribbled sketch or some notes - I don't really mind when 'mistake's happen. It's all fun! Until I want to write a tutorial and can't remember how I've made something! :)

Now, it's my turn to send you all onwards into the ever expanding blog hop, by tagging three of my favourite bloggers. But. Um. Well. Unfortunately, 'life' happened to one of them and it was a little too late to ask someone to step in at the last minute.

The first is the lovely Leah Curtis of Beady Eyed Bunny. Leah is a self-taught artist, who uses a combination of wire, gemstones, polymer clay and metal to create amazing art beads and some beautifully tactile jewellery.

Leah and I first 'met' when I participated in one of Leah's History Hop Challenges, which are a lot of fun and almost too inspiring. We now 'see each other regularly' through our various social media accounts!

The second, is the wonderfully charming Kirsty Frisby of K's Crafty Corner. Kirsty is a 'scrapbooking-soulmate' who produces some incredibly touching (and often amusing) scrapbook pages chronicaling her family life.

I have absolutely no idea how I first came across Kirsty online, but I am happy to have met her in real life at a blogger's retreat a little while back where we became firm friends over a shared interest in cake and hot glue guns. I pretended that it didn't hurt much when I hot glued my finger together and Kirsty pretended that she didn't find it funny. The cake was much less harmful!

Creative Corners - Sweetiepips

It's Sunday! That means one thing around here - it's time for another peek at someone's Creative Corners! Each week, I'm interviewing one of my favourite crafters, makers or entrepreneurs and will be asking them to share their 'creative corners', along with a little bit about how their creative process has affected the design and organisation within their space, as well as learning a little bit more about them and their creative endeavours.

Rustic Hammered Fire Patina Copper & Freshwater Pearl Earrings

This week, it's my absolute pleasure to introduce you all to the rather lovely Katrien Pierce from etsy store Sweetiepips, who I have had the pleasure of working with through our etsy team, Afternoon Tea, Chat & Treasuries. Kat has created a wonderfully whimsical collection of jewellery that incorporates seed beads, wire and hammered metals - all a delight for the senses. Let's find out a bit more about her, shall we?

How did you get started? 

I studied Art and Applied Social Sciences at university, and though I specialized in ceramics I followed the painting route when I left, working as a freelance artist, writer and musician. In between I spent 14 years managing high street fashion stores until nearly two years ago when I had a baby (unexpectedly and unplanned.) I was extremely ill before and after the pregnancy and it's a miracle I'm here to tell the tale.

However, my son, affectionately nicknamed Bobbins (incidentally one of the first pieces of jewellery I sold was a pair of earrings made from vintage sewing machine bobbins) has never been a good sleeper so I started tinkering about with beads and jewels in the early hour of the morning to keep myself occupied while my son played, watched DVDs, looked at books, etc, as it meant I could also keep an eye on him at the same time.

Why did you decide to start your own business?

Selling those creations on etsy seemed a natural progression and I soon developed a personal style started to experiment with other mediums for my jewellery such as clay, leather, wire and metalwork.

Personalized Custom Pink Leather Strand Freshwater Pearl and Heart Bracelet

My creations have continued to be popular at craft fairs and my sales on etsy are steady so I saw no reason to alter the lifestyle path I had inadvertently stumbled upon. Furthermore, I enjoy every minute of the creative process, even at 3am in the morning. And it means I get to wear unique and beautiful adornments!

What do you think is important about handmade?

Buying handmade, to me means I am getting something that has occupied someone else's personal thought and time. The maker has taken care and attention in both quality and service because they have loved creating it. I personally buy handmade or from independent makers as often as possible to support fellow artists and craftspeople that are 'in the same boat' as me!

Can you tell us a little bit about your workspace?

I adore metalworking and although it's not easy to produce or work to the scale I would like from my kitchen/studio (especially with a toddler bumbling around) it does the job for both metalwork and my polymer clay jewellery.

Kat's 'Workbench'

I am fortunate that I am able to make a lot of noise (hammering) in my kitchen/studio as it is attached to a part of the house that doesn't disturb anyone else. It is incredibly bright as it's south facing and living literally a stones throw from the sea I get that nostalgic and evocative marine sea spray scent wafting through the windows often. The other obvious perk to having your studio in a kitchen is the constant supply of coffee and snacks!

What are your work space essentials?

My absolute favourite tools I couldn't get by without are my humble little steel bench block and trusty hammer. I have three hammers but my favourite is a well worn in, small and very old hammer that I see as a work of art in itself. I truly love my hammer and it would be the first thing I would grab if there was a fire and I had to leave instantly. (Oh and of course my son!) I often feature my hammer as a photo prop for my hammered pieces on etsy to add a bit of character.

I continually add to my workspace paraphernalia and would be lost without my simple tools such as my ring mandrel, wire strippers and metal punch.

Kat's Favourite Hammer

What is inspiring to you right now?

Living so near the sea is a huge inspiration to me and means I can drop everything and be at the beach within two minutes. I love beach combing and I never tire of promenading (Worthing has lovely long promenade!) whatever the weather. Occasional beach finds have been known to end up in my creations.

Well, I hope that you've all enjoyed getting to know Katrien - she's the loveliest of people to work with! I'm in love with the idea of her, well adorned with her beautiful creations, strolling along the promenade at weekends!

Kat is offering everyone who visits via Obstinate Pursuit a 20% discount on all products in her store. Just use the discount code OPBLOG20 when you checkout. Thanks so much Kat!

Fancy Being Featured?

I'm still looking for more creatives and crafters to interview for Creative Corners. Please e-mail me at obstinatepursuit[at]live.co.uk for more information about the series and how to get involved.

Creative Corners - Stone Lily Stitches

Welcome to Creative Corners! Each Sunday, I'm interviewing one of my favourite crafters, makers or entrepreneurs and will be asking them to share their 'creative corners', along with a little bit about how their creative process has affected the design and organisation (or complete lack of organisation) within their space, as well as learning a little bit more about them and their creative endeavours.

Rita's beautiful range of floaty dresses. Just lovely!

This morning, I'm delighted to be introducing Rita, from Stone Lily Stitches. Rita makes super stylish - and ever so cute - clothing and accessories - filling her beautiful Etsy store with wardrobe must-haves!

How did you get started?

Since I remember myself, I was interested in creative activities, especially sewing and other needleworks. At the age of ten my favourite occupation was making clothes for Barbie dolls together with my girlfriends. I had bags full with tiny garments. I was also interested in art and design, so I ended up in school of arts and crafts and graduated with a diploma in fashion design.

Since graduating, I have been studying and also working in a completely different fields not connected with art or fashion. Also I have lived abroad and it was hard for me to own a sewing machine due to travelling a lot. However I still have a passion for a sewing and design. So I have moved back to my hometown now and when a friend told me about Etsy, I felt it was a great opportunity and I opened a shop straight away.

Why did you decide to start your own business?

It felt as a matter of course. I just need to do it in order to fulfil my creative needs!!

When do you feel most creative?

At this season it’s a few hours before the sunset when it’s quiet and calm and I can hear the birds singing (I am living by the forest). This is the time when I really feel a lot of new ideas coming into my head. I also love early mornings, for sewing mostly not brainstorming though.

How do the materials you use influence your design?

The fabrics (and other details) I have chosen for the particular project always gives me the greatest inspiration and leads me to a particular garment. I like natural fabrics like cotton and linen for casual, loose fitted garments. I love layering and linen is great for that! But I also love bright synthetic fabrics, but mostly only for making one of a kind party dresses. My taste is pretty eclectic and I’m just making whatever crosses my mind at that time.

What is inspiring to you right now?

Right now I find linen inspiring to work with. Also the music I am listening to inspires me and helps me to create the right mood. And of course mother nature!!

What do you do to keep your space organised?

For now I don’t have a lot of stuff at my work space and it is easy to organise everything. I often go to the fabrics stores and in the past i have had many fabrics bought in total mind eclipse (fabrics stores is my addiction). They created mess at my workplace and also in my head. So I got rid of them and now I try to do only well considered and planned purchases. That keeps my mind and my workplace organised.

What are your work space essentials?

Good lighting - a big window during the day and super bright table lamp for the evening. Also a big table for cutting the fabrics and my working tools - sewing and overlock sewing machine, sharp scissors, pins and a mirror. A part of my work is also to take a photos, therefore my camera is a must! I would love to have a mannequin one day, it also helps a lot when making a garment, but if i still haven’t got one, it’s apparently not so essential.

Light floods in from Rita's large windows!

What do you think is important about handmade?

Direct communication/collaboration between me and a customer always gives me a great pleasure. I believe it’s the same for the most of the Etsy sellers and I hope for the buyers as well!! This is important about handmade - direct communication and positive vibrations! :)

Cornflower Dress, Black with Blue Lace, £54.11, from Stone Lily Stitches.

As a bonus, Rita is offering 10% off any purchase from Stone Lily Stitches until the 15th June 2014. Just use the coupon code LILY10 at the checkout!

Creative Corners - Clara Bella

Welcome to Creative Corners! Each Sunday, I'm interviewing one of my favourite crafters, makers or entrepreneurs and will be asking them to share their 'creative corners', along with a little bit about how their creative process has affected the design and organisation (or complete lack of organisation) within their space, as well as learning a little bit more about them and their creative endeavours.

This morning, I'm delighted to be introducing Clara, who I have had the pleasure of working with through our etsy team, Afternoon Tea, Chat & Treasuries. Clara's etsy store Clara's Handmade and, her accompanying blog - Clara's HandMade - are wonderful expressions of Clara's own 'shabby chic' aesthetic. I hope you'll enjoy our 'short, but sweet' interview!

Make Up Clutch Style Bag

How did you get started? 

I got started after I wanted a sewing machine, after getting one I made loads and couldn't keep it all so, with the nagging of a former co-worker, I opened a shop on etsy!

What are your workspace essentials?

My work space essentials include good light and my trusty red sewing machine 'Bob'!

Good light is essential for Clara's 'handmade' photography set up!

How organised are your Creative Corners? 

My creative space is small so it has to stay organised or it all falls on the floor!

I love how Clara's little space is boths stylish and functional!

What do you think is important about handmade?

For me handmade is about quality and original design. I try to incorporate vintage materials like old lace and crochet as much as I can. I also include vintage pieces in my shop as they fit in my interests and my theme -which is country cottage style like the embroidered table clothes and crochet place mats.

A little peek into the cupboards. Anyone else want to rummage?

What is inspiring you right now?

I am constantly inspired by the old to create something new. I adore old doilies, crochet lace and fabrics, they bring me so much joy. I am in love with the Swedish, Shaker and French Châteaux styles. 

Clara's collection of old doilies and lace!

It is a soft, relaxed, feminine, romantic way of decorating that looks comfortable and inviting. The pieces I make are what I call modern vintage.

If you've enjoyed reading about Clara and her Creative Corners, you can find out more by following Clara's Handmade on Twitter and Pinterest!

Creative Corners - Amumiinaturals

Welcome to Creative Corners! Each Sunday, I'm interviewing one of my favourite crafters, makers or entrepreneurs and will be asking them to share their 'creative corners', along with a little bit about how their creative process has affected the design and organisation (or complete lack of organisation) within their space, as well as learning a little bit more about them and their creative endeavours.

I'm so happy to be introducing Annalisa from ammuminaturals who makes the most beautiful skin and home care products with ingredients from her own organic garden in the heart of the Italian countryside.

How did you get started?

I have always loved being at home and I have always loved crafts. I am passionate about anything crafty. I embroider, sew, bake, make jewelry and I really enjoy making soap. I had stress-related psoriasis and therefore I decided to start making my own skin and home products. At the time, I had two small kids and I was keen to make 100% natural products that all the family could use, since I was extremely conscious about all the chemicals and potentially dangerous ingredients contained in commercially produced skin products.

What do you think is important about handmade?

A handmade product is made with care and craftmanship. It is something made by an individual who is passionate about that object. Anything handmade creates a connection between individuals who often don't know each other and probably never will. To me, handmade is important as it means having an idea in my head and being able to create it. People who buy handmade care. They know they are not simply purchasing a product - they are buying a story, a work of art. Some of the people who buy handmade are making a stand against mass production, which at this time and age is definitely refreshing. Some others appreciate the authenticity and originality of handmade goods. As far as the products I make are concerned, buying handmade means caring about your body and soul.

A beautiful example of Annalisa's handmade packaging!

What are your work space essentials?

My work space has an incredible high number of spatulas! And a laptop. I also use my sewing machine to package some incredibly cute soap favours which seem to be a hit throughout the world. Useless as it might seem, I also keep a radio in my study - I am not a fan of television and I don't particularly enjoy working in silence, so I have often have the radio on.

What is inspiring you right now?

The Umbrian countryside and its beauties, plants and natural products. I am originally from Italy and I moved to the Italian countryside with my family four years ago after 10 years spent in the hustle and bustle of busy London. Whilst I still miss living in the the city the UK in general, I have learnt to appreciate this small part of the world. Orvieto is a lovely village and the Italian countryside is just beautiful. I have natural plants and ingredients practically at my doorstep - we grow lavender, camomile, calendula, roses, herbs and much more in our own garden, without the use of pesticides or other nasties. I am so proud to be able to make such great soap and body products with all of this.

When do you feel most creative?

Usually, ideas for new products come to me in the evening or in the middle of the night. (Yes - I dream about soap!). I keep a notebook and a pen on the coffee table so that I can jot or make notes as soon as an idea comes to mind. If I don't do it, it's often gone for good! However, I find that early morning is definitely the time at which I am most productive in terms of soapmaking.

Don't you love how Annalisa has staged her photographs?

What are your top tips for improving your work space?

I don't think there's a rule for this, as we are all different. I am happiest when I am surrounder by tidiness and order, so I have painfully come to terms with the fact that I need to keep that tidiness going if I want to be creative and productive. I use a lot of transparent containers and drawer units so that I can see everything easily, but at the same time I can put things away on shelves and in drawers fairly quickly.

If you've enjoyed reading about Annalisa and her Creative Corners, you can find out more by following Amumiinaturals on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest!

Offer! Offer! Offer! 

Annalisa is very kindly offering readers a 10% discount on all purchases from ammuminaturals - just use the coupon code 10OFF2014 when you checkout!

Creative Corners - Introduction

I'm introducing a new series today - and I couldn't be more thrilled. The idea for this series has been taking shape for an awfully long time, but I haven't had the opportunity or (more honestly) the motivation to 'make it happen'. All I needed was a little bit of focus - my One Little Word for 2014 - and now, happily, I can introduce 'Creative Corners'. 

Each Sunday, I'll be interviewing one of my favourite crafters, makers or entrepreneurs and will be asking them to share their 'creative corners', along with a little bit about how their creative process has affected the design and organisation (or complete lack of organisation) within their space, as well as learning a little bit more about them and their creative endeavours. 

What I hope will happen along the way is that you'll see 'creative corners' that inspire you to let go of the idea that your work space must be perfect, before you can create something beautiful in it! 

My Own Creative Corner 

I'm lucky enough to have my own little 'creative corner' - the smallest bedroom in my home. I set the room aside for crafting as soon as I moved in, but the room itself has been in a constant state of evolution.

Over time, I have come to realise that I work best - and can focus more easily - if I am in a calm, clean and clutter-free setting. This means that I have had to find 'a place' for everything! The materials and tools that I use most often are all stored on, or around, my corner desk. I adore the little 'cubbies' underneath the desk - and store my sewing machine, my packaging materials and some beading materials that I use often (but not quite often enough for them to sit on top of my desk.) 

While I'm beading, my desk is usually clear and clutter-free (but when I'm paper-crafting and it looks like all hell has broken loose) and I will have a small selection of materials to hand. The wicker baskets on the left-hand side of the desk contain my stash of pearls and fire-polished beads. The plastic boxes in the corner contain my selection of glass, ceramics, natural stones and gemstones. The little dish on top contains my small (teeny) selection of Swarovski crystal, stones and pearls.

On the right, my Beadsmith 'Bead Tower' stores all of my seed beads  (I still only have a small selection!) This is usually on the floor, just to the right-hand side of the desk, but it's handy enough to pull up and look through when I need a new size, shape or colour to work with.

My Creative Corner Essentials

There are a few things that I have come to value in my creative corner and excellent lighting is at the top of the list. The room is usually quite light and bright, but during the long evenings (and the endless winters) I use a Daylight Lamp for colour selection - and to extend my working hours. I would also be completely lost with my bead scoop and my Thread Zapper. Completely and utterly lost!

The most exciting addition to my creative corner has been my ASUS Transformer. When I'm busy creating, it sits on one side of the desk in it's 'tablet form' so that I can have instant access to all of my favourite music on Spotify. When I'm busy working on the not-so-fun stuff, like invoicing, I use it in it's keyboard setting, like a little laptop. It has totally transformed the way that I work within my creative corner - no more cables for a start!

For me, making my space work has meant putting function first and beauty second. There is nothing wrong with having a craft room (or an alcove, or a bookshelf) that looks pretty, but if it doesn't work functionally, you won't be inspired to actually use it!

Next week, I'll be interviewing the lovely Gail from Rocks For Frocks. I hope you'll join me for a little peek at her Creative Corners. 

Folksy Charm {Fashion Forward}

I honestly don't understand my sudden fascination with all things 'folk art'. I know that woodland motifs really became quite popular during the last year and, although I caught onto that trend pretty quickly, it's taken my tastes quite a while to catch up.

Folksy Charm by OPCreative on Polyvore.com

Items in this set:
1. John Lewis Amy Duvet Covers, £25 available from JohnLewis.com; 2. Gold Deer and Bird Silhouette Necklace, £9.90 available from PlasticLand; 3. Folk Art Flower Design Poster, £7 available from Zazzle; 4. Folk Art Birds Stencil, £11 available from The Artful Stencil; and 5. Little Modern Birds Pillow, £40 available from Nimli

I'm going to blame the fact that I've spent a lot of time reading the Martha Stewart website this week - maybe there's some subliminal advertising going on - but it probably has more to do with the beautiful sets of home tours featured.

That's probably why most of my choices for this week are for the home, though I did manage to squeeze in the most adorable necklace.

If you're playing along with Fashion Forward this week, leave your link below so that I can come and check out what you're oogling this week. You know I love a good oogle.

Sunday Mornings Should Look Like This....

So, I can't sleep - it's actually just gone five thirty in the morning while I'm writing and scheduling - and to pass the time I started scouting for a few kitchen items. As you do.

Our kitchen is rather lovely. Small, but lovely. But it now that it's finished, and full of white cabinets, dark wood work surfaces and stainless steel appliances, it could do with a bit of colour - so, artwork and accessories.

I've been getting a little bit tired of the same old 'Keep Calm & Carry On' stuff, so I was delighted to spot this rather accurate picture depicting the British love of tea. (In this regard, I am VERY British!) By the time I was finished 'shopping' and putting it all together in a neat little collage, I felt very patriotic!

Since I'm still up and may, therefore, miss quite a bit of the morning, I thought I'd share my perfect Sunday morning with you. It involves books, tea, and toast with lashings of nutella - all brought up to my bed by someone else!

How do you spend your Sundays?

Edited: The Keep Calm & Carry On image is available for private, non-commercial use and there is also a downloadable desktop version. The Cosy Slippers image is from the Toast winter catelogue and the rest of the items were simply imported from Polyvore

If You Go Down To The Woods {Fashion Forward}

Woodland. This weekend I have been hugely inspired by woodland. Or at least, I have been inspired by a desire to up sticks and move to a woodland. When you come across somewhere truly beautiful whilst browsing Virtual Tourist it's very difficult not to be inspired by a desire to up sticks and move to a woodland.

I'm not going to tell you that the woodland trend is a new one. It's been filtering through for quite a while now, inspired by an increased desire for all things handmade and homely. Here are just a few of my own favourite pieces -

1. Pendal Sofa available from Pinch Design. You cannot possibly visit their website without swooning. 2. Sweet Leaves Wreath available from Jane Joss whose Etsy store is brimming with beautiful botanicals. 3. On The Third Day, Pressed Botanical available from Pressed Leaf. Anyone who happens to think that pressed leaves and florals are outdated, needs to visit this store. Immediately.

For more Fashion Forward clothes, accessories and interiors please visit Katherine at Paper Pocket and remember that you can join in as well.

Next week it's me hosting. I'm so, so excited!

Edited: Oooh, and just a reminder. I am giving a wee surprise to one of this month's lovely participants, so be sure to join in this week!!!

Heads Up Fashionistas!

Eeeee! I am just a little bit excited. Tomorrow, I'll be joining hands with the lovely Katherine from Paper Pocket to launch our new Monday Meme - Fashion Forward. The idea is simple. We want you to share your favourite new trends with us from the worlds of clothes, accessories or interiors. Feel free to keep it simple with a few links to your favourite on-line stores or vamp it up and show us your Etsy Treasuries or Polyvore Sets.

Now, because this is a bit of a collaborative project, we'll be taking turns to host the meme and everything is launching tomorrow over at Paper Pocket. So do pay Katherine a visit and link yourself up so that we can come by, swoon over all of your finds and leave you some blog love.

We're both really looking forward to seeing what everyone chooses to include in their sets. And let's be honest here, although Katherine doesn't need any help being fashionable, I'm kind of looking forward to being pulled sharply into the here and now. Old lady that I've become!

It all went downhill when I had that job with the Civil Service!!!