Handmade and Heritage

Springtime Blue Tit

2012-01-18T02:32:00.000-08:00

Having enjoyed creating my winter blue tit embroidery I was inspired to create a mini range based on the four seasons. This is my spring offering using a floral fabric base and using slightly warmer colours.

Im hoping to start work on the summer edition very soon.

Crafteroo Mystery Package Challenge

2012-01-13T02:58:00.000-08:00

As part of issue 2 of the Crafteroo Magazine we were given the challenge of creating items from identical sets of materials. Quartz aka Nicola at Smitten Kitten kindly offered to host the challenge and sent us an exciting and eclectic range of materials.

Below is what I submitted and it can be seen in the latest addition of Crafteroo Magazine along with the inspiration behind the makes as well as some excellent work submitted by other Crafteroo members. If you would like to take part in the next challenge you have to be quick as the sign up closes in the next couple of days.

I also submitted a lino print tutorial I will blog about this at a later date.

Front Page of Folksy

2012-01-07T04:05:00.000-08:00

I am a very lucky lady I received two pieces of good news regarding advertising for H&H one of these being on the front page of Folksy! The other bit of news will have to wait i'm afraid as I don't want to tempt fate.

My blue tit embroidery can be purchased here if anyone falls in love with it. Hope you are all having a fab weekend. x

Looking to 2012 - Saying Goodbye to 2011

2011-12-31T03:19:00.000-08:00

2011 has been an odd year to say the least. I have had some really crummy times but also some fab moments too.

The beginning of the year was very difficult for us I had personal problems that didn't resolve themselves until May and well I don't think I will ever be truly free of the sadness of those first few months. The summer brought a wedding - 10 years of waiting finally over. I am now Mrs B and i'm finally accepting that becoming a 'Mrs Somebody' doesn't mean you have to loose your identity and I love how it makes me feel like an unbreakable team that can fight anything. The year ended with the sad passing of my brave, tough-as-old-boots nan. She battled so hard to not give into the illness that ravaged her and I will always love and admire her for it. My kids continue to do well and thrive and they along with my my husband bring such happiness and craziness and love.

Craft wise i've been making all year but could only truly focus on H&H from September. I've been so blessed with features, the folksy front page, contributing to magazines and wonderful comments and feedback from other talented crafters. My sales have improved 10 fold from 2010 and i'm hoping to continue the momentum into 2012.

I have several personal and business goals for 2012. First I want to get fit and drop the fat, easier said than done but I don't feel I get taken seriously as a roly poly. I want to do up our house ready for a potential move down south. I want H&H to go from strength to strength and push for sales to shops. I also want to try new things and manage my time better.... not alot then!

Finally I want to say thank you to everyone that visited, read and commented on my blog - the feeling you get from reading a kind word can not be put into words. Thank you to those that have purchased a H&H item over this year, your faith in my work makes all the effort, strained eyes and stolen evenings worthwhile!

I'll leave you with a few of my proudest makes from 2011. Happy New Year to you all I wish you a happy and prosperous 2012! x

Market Harborough Vintage Fair

2011-11-18T06:33:00.000-08:00

I am oh so excited that tomorrow I will be doing the Vintage Fair in Market Harborough. I've done lots of little fairs in the past but this really feels like a 'proper' event. It has been carefully and well advertised and will feature the right sort of sellers for my items to mingle in with. If you are in the area do pop in! (Ill be the one downing coffee looking rather scared)

Latest Work - Blue Tit Embroidery

2011-11-12T07:25:00.000-08:00

I think I was subconsciously inspired by our lack of heating for the last three weeks in creating this wintry scene. Its fixed of a fashion but we have a very poorly boiler.

I originally printed the blue tit using a lino block and then stitched in the detailing. There is also a little appliqué on the birds breast. Its a skill I have not fully mastered yet.

I will be taking this piece to the Market Harborough Vintage and Handmade Fair next week. I'm so excited it will be my first 'serious' craft event. I'm hoping this time I will be able to come away feeling satisfied with my days work.

Christmas Star Wreath

2011-10-28T05:32:00.000-07:00

An old post was resurrected over on crafter_oo yesterday that caught my interest. It linked to a lovely tutorial by annekata. It was a simple 3d paper star and below is my interpretation.

I have loads of vintage sheet music and decided to use that. The ring is made of polystyrene and covered in paper strips. I think i'm going to make another larger star burst as a feature in my living room for Christmas.

Two Turtle Doves

2011-10-27T07:51:00.000-07:00

After doing my partridge wrapping paper I decided to continue the theme and make some greetings cards. Below is my Two Turtle Doves greeting card. Ive pictured the process I went through to get to the end result. Printing can be so frustrating sometimes - for instance my paint decided not to fix properly so I had to experiment with differnt types to find one that worked well. Anyway it is available to buy through my folksy or Etsy store if its takes your fancy.

As you can see I sketch with whatever I can find and managed to sneak this in when the children were drawing too.

I like to paint on my design before cutting. I'm not sure if this technique adds anything to the process but I like doing it.

The finished print.

Interview With Hannah Robinson

2011-10-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to be interviewed on Hannah Robinsons blog today. Her day job is creating fabulous illustrations which can be found here. She also has a cute little Folksy shop too.

Please if you get a chance pop over and have a read. If anything it gives a better insight into what I do and what drives and interests me.

Partridge Gift Wrap

2011-10-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is the next piece from my 2011 Christmas range. It is my my own design work which has been printed using lino printing techniques. It took quite a few attempts to get the plumage right using a new flexible lino which I was not impressed with. I found it too hard to cut and it took longer and it also was too flimsy so I easily messed up when applying block to paper - maybe I need more practise. :S

Anyway I have listed this in my Folksy shop as made to order. I'd rather print to order than run the risk of little fingers finding it! It's also been featured on Cuteable as part of their Flickr Friday feature *yay*.

Botanical Upcycled Pendant

2011-10-16T06:21:00.001-07:00

Botanical Upcycled Pendant, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

I was at the flea market on Tuesday and stumbled across a box of broken time piece materials. I bagged a good handful for £2 and some of it has been used to make this pendant.

Firstly I prized open the case and lined it with a page from a botanical illustrations book then glued some pressed flowers on top. I then attached the watch face and hung it from a piece of ribbon. Its also has had a good polish and its come up lovely.

I'm not sure whether this will make it to my Folksy shop as its the type of jewellery I love to wear... we will see.

Mini Me in Vintage

2011-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

My very beautiful daughter (I am very biased) has discovered a love of vintage! :) Here she is posing in a very cute vintage Mickey Mouse jumper thrifted from a charity shop for 50p. I think she looks gorgeous and I love how out of all the little pressies she had yesterday her favourite was this.... like mother like daughter!

I've been Featured!

2011-10-07T15:35:00.000-07:00

My Fabric Bauble has been featured in this lovely Autumn/Winter Showcase by The Crafty Network. Yippee!!!

Find it here.... clickety click

Rolling with it!

2011-10-04T03:09:00.000-07:00

Its taken some time and a lot of hard work but I finally seem to be getting somewhere with Handmade and Heritage. I'm enjoying small but regular sales from both vintage and handmade - of course I would love more but you have to take what you can, especially its today's financial climate.

Also as you will already know I am a contributor for the new Crafteroo Magazine that is now on sale and available to buy. I wrote the Folksy feature and submitted two tutorials which were my decoupage bangles and hydrangea mixed media. I feel very blessed to have been a part of something new and exciting.

Finally i've been making lots of xmassy inspired bits, some have worked some have not. Someone once said that when reading blogs they like to read about the good makes and bad makes too. I guess it makes us human and shows us all that not everything works first time and that you have to spend months, even years perfecting your craft.

I had lots of little ideas floating around in my head that inspired this decoration. It originally started off as a lino print on vintage fabric but I have lightly stuffed it to hang on an xmas tree. I dont think it works. I like things on my tree that necessarily are not xmas themed but I think this is too dark and boring. Maybe some colour might cheer it up. I'd love to know what you think of it.

Vintage Items for sale

2011-09-28T04:34:00.000-07:00

I've got lots of vintage loveliness up for auction on Ebay at the moment. Some of it is left overs from my wedding but some are new finds. I always try to be fair with my start prices, I don't believe that vintage should be made exclusive based on your income - I try and cater for all.

So here are my fav pieces today.... (clickety click)

Crafteroo Magazine

2011-09-27T02:06:00.000-07:00

I did a mini blog post last week to jog your memories about the new Crafteroo Magazine. I was lucky enough to be involved with a feature and a couple tutorials but after having a sneaky peek at the finished magazine I have to say there is so much I want to try!

Here are some more details including sample pictures and the contents list!

Online forum Crafteroo is launching a brand new online magazine dedicated to all types of crafts. Run, written and edited entirely by forum members, who between them cover just about every craft you can think of, the new magazine will be digitally published quarterly, with the first issue due out on 1 October 2011.

Through a combination of features, tutorials, business articles and projects, as well as a swap shop for de-stashing and re-stashing, and illustrated with gorgeous photography throughout, it aims to engage with crafters new and old, share knowledge, encourage readers to try something new and expand the reach of the crafting revolution!

Comments Kerry Wilkinson, editor; “Recently we had a discussion about how we could perk up the forum as we have a solid visitor base but were looking to expand and engage with existing members. As I had a background in craft magazine editing, it seemed like the next logical step for us, and it’s really got everyone excited, we’re all working very hard on this to make it an excellent publication.”

The magazine will be priced at £1.50 and access will be sold through the Crafteroo forum (www.crafteroo.com).

All proceeds from sales and advertising will go towards the running and upkeep of the Crafteroo forum promotional activity and incentives for forum members. Readers are encouraged to join the community, share their makes and talk to the magazine creators and maybe even participate in the next issue themselves.

Get ready to be inspired, and try making something new!

Upcycled Christmas Tree Decoration

2011-09-26T03:25:00.000-07:00

Well the wedding has been and gone and it really was a lovely day - just how I imagined but without the punch up! Since the wedding i've been like a lost puppy so the only thing for me to do was knuckle down and focus on something else...... Christmas yay!

My OH given the choice would go on holiday for the month before Xmas because I turn into Martha Stewart's more obsessed and over the top sister. He's particularly worried that i've started this early but it was either this or another baby.... and we are never going there again btw

So here is my first Xmas decoration. It's made from a charity shop find. I purchased a lovely embroidered tablecloth which unfortunately had a big stain on it so i've cut it up and sewn it into a ball. Its been stuffed and hung it on twine. It is quite a large decoration but if you buy a real tree like we do you find you need the odd bigger piece to fill up any negative space. (yes I do take it that seriously lol)

I've got enough tablecloth to make a few of these so they will be available online and in my folksy store soon.

See here....

2011-09-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

well over there >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Crafteroo magazine coming soon on the 1st October. Look out for some gorgeous tutorials and informative articles. I cant wait to see my decoupage bangles featured!

A Thrifty Wedding?

2011-08-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

I'm doing this post now before the wedding because after this i'm back to a positive, keep calm attitude and I don't want to ruin my wedding blog post moaning all woe is me at you all.

When my OH decided we should set the date I had hoped he would give me at least a year to get used to the idea to plan and save etc. Obviously such is my attraction and my apparent 'meh' attitude he decided the get- wed-quick route was the best. Five months the git gave me, five blinking months.

With all families at the mo, extra pennies are few and far in between but being thrifty and pretty happy with the idea of a 'small do' we figured what we couldn't buy we would make, and what we couldn't make or buy we would do without. Of course this sounds like a lovely idea but weddings have a sneaky way of snowballing... for instance a small family BBQ has turned into a vintage themed hall do complete with hog roast! Gasps of horror at not wearing white, no cars, no honeymooon, no first dance, no over the top speeches... no top table OMG no top table! (we caved and now have a top table lol)

Over the last five months we have brought what we could afford- outfits, rings, crockery, cutlery until the money ran out and what was left on the list was for me to somehow conjure up using my making skills. In the last month I've turned from cake decorator to fabric florist, to table decoration specialist. To be honest i'm pretty much burnt out. Thankfully my mum has been a diamond and helped where possible making favour bits and other much needed items but I've made the following:

Bouquet
Bridesmaid Posy
Hair Accessories
Buttonholes
Favour bags
Favour sweets
Cupcakes
Cake decorations
Bunting
More bunting
and yet more bunting
Place cards
Invitations
Table decorations
Tablecloths.... the list is endless

Now I love making and even if I could have afforded a package wedding I really don't think I would have done it. Although a little part of me wishes that I didn't have to, that I chose to do it because I love making and thrifting and not because it would have been such a simple sterile day if we didn't put the effort in. Of course i've done myself no favours, i've overstretched and over researched and i'm paying the price for having so many ideas. I just wish that after yet another night being left despairing and crying at my latest cake disaster it wont have been in vein.... and that the guests love it and more importantly get it!

On the positive side I love my OH and this is totally going to be our and our childrens day... well its a bit like Christmas isn't it? if you haven't got it by the night before then you cant do nothing to change it!

9 days and counting...

Lavender Heart Place Cards

2011-08-13T08:33:00.001-07:00

Lavender Heart Place Cards, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

The conversation in our house last week went a bit like this...

Me: What do you think of these instead of place-cards?
Him: Why cant you just fold a piece of card in half and write their name on it like everyone else does!
Me: *GLARES*
Him: Oh they are lovely.

So since he liked them so much here are my place-cards for the wedding hehe. I brought a vintage tablecloth from my local charity shop a while back and whilst it was a little tatty to use on my table it was perfect to cut up and make into little lavender hearts with little name tags on them. I thought they would look nice placed in a vintage tea cup and everyone could take it home as an extra keepsake.

'Him' the moaning ol' git will just have to put up with my unorthodox, thrifty and crafty ways. He is marrying me after all...

My favour bags

2011-08-05T06:51:00.001-07:00

My favour bags, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

As money is tighter than a ducks behind at the mo and a wedding three weeks away I am busily making things to save pennies. I bought packs of brown paper bags from Home Bargains (89p for 10) and decorated them with my own lino cutting design.

Everything in the bags will be handmade and i'll be blogging about it over the coming weeks.

I do have to put a major shout out for my mum who is a legend. Not only does she think of things I really should be thinking about, she's been helping make lots of goodies including at least 40 cutlery wraps! I think she's enjoying it more than me...

Trying New Ideas

2011-08-04T04:05:00.000-07:00

As you are all prolly aware by now I have slight obsession with birds, lino cutting and embroidery so it figures to combine the three doesn't it?

Well actually no, the idea seemed cool in my head and at first glance maybe it doesn't look as bad as I see it, but I really think i'm in that less is more mindset today. Lino printing makes sense to create a pattern for embroidery the blocky nature makes it ideal. However the beauty of lino cutting (which my dad drums into me all the time) is that its supposed to be a bit messy, a bit hit and miss, paint in places you necessarily didn't expect or want. I'm guess i am trying to screen print using lino and that's never going to work.

Here is my three for the price of one attempt...

I've also messed about with tea/coffee staining and embroidered highlights to see if that works.

I think some where amongst this mess is a workable idea. Once again i'm putting too much pressure on myself to create something wonderful and once again its dragging me deeper into disheartenment.

Wild Boar Lino Print

2011-08-01T08:28:00.001-07:00

I'm experimenting with different ways of presenting my lino work and seeing what results different mediums bring. This design has been printed onto tea dyed cotton and then put in an embroidery hoop for hanging.

I'm also working on some lino/embroidered mixed media pieces but they need more work.

Your Home and Your Working Life

2011-07-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

I am, by no means a signed up, bona fide business... I'd need sales to be called that but I do spend a lot of time making, listing, advertising, networking (ok gossiping on Facebook or Twitter). I'm trying to build up something to bring in extra pennies. Such are the times that I don't have the luxury to wait until the youngest is in school or even get a 'proper' job due the OH's ridiculous shift patterns.

I try and do as much in the evenings as possible but in reality businesses cant be run after 7pm. In the winter I work in artificial *ugh* light and I'm normally so tired I end up staring at a piece of fabric begging for the blurred vision to clear! This has meant I have to do work during the day, less now little man doesn't nap but I do sometimes sneak off and do bits. Surely those of us that work/run businesses from home with small children must find it an almost impossible task. I find myself feeling guilty thinking that I really shouldn't be listing this item or sewing this seam and I wonder whether it will have a negative effect on them... then again would the negative effect be worse if I went out to work? *pauses to throw chickens out the house*

But, *stay with me* I wonder whether rather than the negative effect being on the children or the washing pile, maybe the negative effect is being had on us? With a family you cant immerse yourself in your craft when in the back of your mind your planning the next meal or clock watching for the school run. You cant go out and visit potential stockists with a cute but slobbery toddler tucked under your armpit and you cant just do a craft fair without months of planning... just to make sure the kids are ok.

So what do I do? Probably not a lot really as there isn't much I can do about it. The OH's hours wont suddenly become family friendly allowing me to get a paying job. I will still need the pennies and can only therefore utilise the skills I have in the best way possible. I guess I will have to hope that one day all the pieces will fit together and my children wont hate me for neglecting them. :)

How do you cope with your work/home life?

Vintage Cigarette Card Bunting

2011-07-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

I made this today. They are vintage cigarette cards in a transport theme. Funky, no?

Argh!

2011-07-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

I love lino printing, there is something about the way it looks, understated almost despite the time it takes to prepare and the physical nature of it. I hadn't touched it since school but a few months back my dad lent me his spare lino and tools and I've been hooked since. I've done simple prints such as my birds but I wanted to try something a bit more taxing.

Well it seemed like a good idea at the time because now I am tearing my hair out at this wild pig. Certain parts only come out properly at different attempts and I just cant work out whether its my cutting, colour application or printing technique.

I hate failure especially as its something ive put so much effort into.

Vintage Bunting

2011-07-21T03:53:00.001-07:00

Vintage Bunting, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

I saw these little silk cigarette flags at the flea market this week and decided to turn them into bunting. I think they would be fab for a boys bedroom.

In other news not alot is happening, ive got various projects I could be working on but im still lacking the get-up-and-go!

New Treasures...

2011-07-19T04:54:00.000-07:00

I found these at our local flea market today - very happy with my finds!

WIP

2011-07-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

Not quite what I had in mind for my next project but ill take any inspiration at the mo!

You know You've Lost Your Crafting Mojo When.....

2011-07-14T05:08:00.000-07:00

* The house is tidy.... well tidier and there is the faint whiff of Eau De Bleach permeating around the house.

*Along with the said whiff there is what seems to be the smell of freshly cooked food - not only have you cooked a meal from scratch you have actually had time to go to a shop and buy it the ingredients. Takeaway leaflets are stuffed firmly back in the thingy-me-bob drawer.

* The tumble dryer is lying silent - no need to dash about drying clothes, you have all the time in the world to hang out clothes on the line.

* The kids suddenly shine and sparkle and are wearing freshly pressed clothes not just whatever is dragged out of the wash basket that morning.

* Bills are paid on time because you havent lost the paperwork under a mountain of crafty supplies.

* You are leaving the house!!!! My god there are actual real people out there...

Its a brave new non crafting world and I hate it!...

Hydrangea Mixed Media Tutorial

2011-07-07T02:17:00.000-07:00

Using simple techniques make a unique mixed media piece of art for your home.

You will need:

Old or damaged book (I used Sense and Sensibility)

Pencil

Embroidery Hoop (size optional but I used 6.5 inch diameter)

Suitable fabric (I used a linen style cotton)

Paintbrush

Mediera Silk Thread 1003

Watercolour Paint - Vermilion and Phthalocyanine Blue

Needle and Scissors

Backing material - cardboard or backing felt

1) Draw and cut petal shapes. Start with around 40 petal but you may need more or less for different sized hoops.

2) Paint one side of each petal individually. I would recommend two light coats of colour and fade the colour towards the tip of the petal.

3) Using one strand of embroidery thread stitch the petal detailing. They can all vary in design and they don't need to be perfectly stitched. Note that I have folded each petal slightly to create a better 3d effect.

4) Arrange four petals onto your fabric and stitch into place.

5) Keep layering flowers until you have covered your fabric or are happy with how it looks - you can add more or less to suit your own taste.

6) Finish off the back with either backing felt or do as I have done and slot in a piece of cardboard. If you prefer you can cover the cardboard in decorative paper but I liked how this looked so left it plain.

7) Attach a piece of ribbon or string to the top of the hoop and hang proudly in your home.

If you have any questions I am always available contact me at a.warburton1983@ntlworld(dot)com

Please do recreate this for personal use or for gifts only and try experimenting with different shapes and colours. I would also love to see any works created from this tutorial.

Fox Doorstop

2011-07-04T07:22:00.001-07:00

Fox Doorstop, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

This fox was made using my own pattern and all thrifted materials (bar the wadding and rice).

I got my mum who is a far superior sewer to do the main body and ears. I think next time I will add all the appliqué to the the fabric before sewing him up. I might also add some more facial features.

Dear Mr/Mrs Craft Fair Organiser...

2011-07-02T12:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr/Mrs Craft Fair Organiser,

When I sign up to do a craft fair and hand over £40 of my hard earned money, spend weeks working on stock, neglect my family, faff over display ideas, spend late nights wondering and hoping to at least make my pitch back please do tell me of the following before I sign on the dotted line...

Tell me about the lack of actual craft sellers, sure food producers should count but do we need more than actual crafters??? Tell me about the franchise jewellery sellers offering to print in silver the foot print of your lickle cherub? Tell me about the nail artists and henna artists and the fake hair extensions. Tell me also about the tombola that if rumours are to be true - you pocket the cash. Also tell me about the sellers that buy their 'fashion jewellery' from China or Taiwan who then go on to sell it for such a pittance that it makes my own stuff look over priced and stupid.

You don't however need to tell me about the dirty looks I received today at using *strike me down now*... vintage or thrifted or *shudders* DOILIES in my work. Or that the only other credible crafter came over looked my stall up and down with a look you wouldn't give a dog if it had shit on your shag pile.

So thank you for such a wonderful day... the £12.50 I made and then spent on putting fluids back into my body (its a sauna in a marquee) was worth it all. No need to panic about paying for the wedding hun ive got it covered....

Oh and I get to do it all over again tomorrow.

Kind Regards
Soon to be Ex Crafter

P.S A couple of lovely ladies were very kind to me today in case they ever read this you two were the only thing stopping me from crying right there in the middle of the marquee.

Being a Bumpkin - And I Love It!!!!

2011-06-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

Ok so today has been a hectic day. I went to town this morning for a mooch around the shops and one of my thrifty buys was this funky apron.

This afternoon between the school run I made this bag. Its slightly bigger than normal as I like larger ones to carry the heavier items and the extra wide strap provides extra support.

I've also had what is supposed to be elderflower cordial brewing for a few days and today was bottling time. I have not tasted it yet I figured that it must be tested in a relaxing sun lounger with a drink in one hand and crafty magazine in the other (sew eco if you are wondering what magazine).

I then dragged my not so 'countrified' other half out to help clean the coop. The chickens have been turned a lovely lavender colour courtesy of their delousing treatment. They were ever so camera shy and slightly irate with me hence the lack of cute purple chicken images. And finally after I concluded that my tatties were not going to be the mother of all potatoes I cut my losses and pulled them... Small but perfectly formed I think!

Button Swap

2011-06-25T05:47:00.000-07:00

As some of you will know I signed up to a Button Swap hosted by the lovely Kitty Ballistic over at Crafteroo and I was originally partnered with Pennydog. However Kitty was left without a partner and as I had recently sent Pennydog a Secret Santa gift we agreed to do a three way swap.

Here is what was sent to me and yes the chocolates from her new business Truffle Piglet really are to die for!

The handmade sketchbook which was so well made has already been sketched in and its just the right size to slot in my bag.

How cute is the button decoration!

Below is what I sent Kitty hopefully she got the reference from the film Full Metal Jacket, it was on the other day and inspired my embroidery.

This is the back, i've never finished an embroidery before so just used card, pretty paper and wedged into place.

I also sent some Chocolate Buttons as she doesn't get them over in The Netherlands. I know she has received them so I can post what I sent. This is up there with my favourite swaps me thinks!

Vintage Napkins Remake

2011-06-22T03:57:00.001-07:00

Vintage Napkins Into Lavender Bags, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

I bought these lovely napkins from the carboot sale and decided to turn them into lavender bags. These ones are slightly larger so they are perfect for putting on you pillow before bed or throwing on the sofa.

That is all...

2011-06-19T07:07:00.001-07:00

That is all..., a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

Self Portrait

2011-06-18T02:43:00.000-07:00

As part of the drawing challenge (which I am woefully behind on again) it involved drawing a self portrait. I wasn't very impressed at that prospect as I 'don't do' photos. Anyway I was pretty impressed with my attempt and it did capture the essence of me (I wont be posting a real life photo btw). I decided to stitch the same image to see how it would turn out and how my face would change. Apart from looking like a boy it looks OK. I'm pleased with the stitching in places and as ever there is room for improvement, especially the shading/beard on the neck lol

Close up of eye....

... and yes my hair is that crazy!

Dandelions

2011-06-15T07:46:00.000-07:00

I used embroidery and fabric to create these dandelions. It has to be the best way to learn the french knot!

New Project

2011-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking the 30 day drawing challenge will have to wait a couple of days. Since I unusually have energy I really need to crack on making stuff for the craft fairs. I will finish it though, i'm useless for not seeing things through and I dont want to let myself down.

Today I made this cute brooch with a nautical theme. The fabric was originally from a mens shirt and I used an anchor button to finish it.

Also a week in the H&H house wouldn't be the same if a bird did not feature somewhere and here she is. Once again i'm unsure of whether she looks good or not, I need to work on subtler ways on using the fabric and I need to sort her feet out.

She started off as a newspaper base and was covered in kitchen roll and PVA. I then covered her in scraps of fabric (I can not chuck even the smallest remnants away) Her legs are wire covered in thread and her wonky eyes glass beads.

I think I need to try again although I may paint the next one if the whim takes me.... which isn't really stocking my craft stall is it???

Sold Today

2011-06-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

Im chuffed to bit that this lickle cutie found a new home today. I also sold some lovely hair bobbles so today has been a good day!

In other news I have two local craft fairs to make for and I am seriously behind schedule. I may have to de-list my stock so I have a chance of filling a stall... eeek

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 10 & 11

2011-06-11T00:14:00.000-07:00

I see a pattern of laziness and disorganization appearing here! Yes i'm behind once again but thankfully these two days were pretty simple in terms of deciding what to draw.

Day 10 - Your fav candy

It just has to be, no arguments...

Day 11 - Turning Point in Your Life

I did think about putting the birth of my first child but I really didn't see it as a turning point more as a natural progression of my life. I think the turning point that not only affected me but my family too was when we brought our first home. To be fair its falling apart at the seams but its opened up so many new things in our life. For a starters it got us off a rough council estate with 100's of houses crammed into to small area. We moved to open space surrounded by fields, a huge back garden to grow and rear and a safe place for our kids to play. I feel calmer, happier and safer and the kids have picked up on that, this makes crafting so much more productive too. I find myself reading Poultry Magazine and Country Living instead of the latest edition of Heat!

I'm certainly no snob but I do like telling people I own my own home, I feel that although my career has failed and has no signs of recovery I can say I have one success my ex repo, 1950s pile of rubble!

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 8 + 9

2011-06-09T01:36:00.000-07:00

Day 8 - Your fav animated character - Ariel from the Little Mermaid.

Its rather ironic though that although she is my fav character I actually hate water. Dont panic I do wash its mainly swimming pools and the sea that scares me.

Day 9 - Fav TV Show

I decided to give myself a break from it today as when I thought of fav programmmes a) I couldnt think of a stand out one and b) I couldnt think of anything to draw. Im probably giving up to easy on this one but tbh I dont watch that much TV anymore. I tend to fill my evenings crafting and catching up on chores... oh and the dreaded Facebook. So here is a quick sketch of an idea I had years ago to turn an old tv into a fish tank lol

Decoupage Bangles

2011-06-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

I made these lovelies using thrifty, cosmetically damaged bangles and decided to cover them in paper. I really like the shell like texture that's developed. They will be available in my folksy store soon...

http://www.folksy.com/shops/HandmadeHeritage

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 7

2011-06-08T01:33:00.000-07:00

Still a day late but what the hey!

Day 7 - Favourite film

It defo has to be Lost Boys everything from the music, costume, scenery to the oh so sexy vampires. It was probably when I realised my mind is not quite all there when I concluded that I would be nothing in life if I wasnt a vampire lol

Soz Kieffer for the terrible piccy eeek!

Flea Market Thrifting...

2011-06-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

You just cant beat it! Although I have to admit this is just the tip of the iceberg. I am finding bits for my wedding so have plates, cups and serving platters stuffed in every corner!

I just love the teddy mould and i'm totally clueless on what to use the fabric for, it feels like soft baby bed sheets so something snuggly maybe???

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 6

2011-06-07T04:27:00.000-07:00

A day late again. My excuse this time blimmin wedding invitations!

I kept arguing with myself with which book... To Kill a Mockingbird, Labyrinth, Any Karin Slaughter... so I choose my fav mag instead lol

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 5

2011-06-05T08:14:00.000-07:00

Your best friend...

It will always be my daughter. The image comes from a photograph taken the day after we got chickens it was a good day.

I dont know what ive done to her but she nothing like that and about 10yrs younger than the picture.I was hoping this challenge would help my drawing skills but im getting worse not better lol Still I will persevere!

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 4

2011-06-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

Your fav place... Olney in Buckinghamshire

Ok I cheated and drew a map. I love Olney its beautiful and full of gorgeous independent shops and food outlets. There is a pick your own farm near by and the rather well to do folk are very kind in their donating to the fab charidee shops... its the closest I could ever get to shopping there lol

George

2011-06-04T03:48:00.000-07:00

George is a pheasant that visits my parents garden everyday. Now we are not quite sure if George is the same one that comes everyday but they like to think so. George likes nothing more than to raid the bird feeders and generally potter about the garden.

I decided to create George on fabric, I love pheasant feathers and have always used them in my millinery projects. I used mixed media to make him which includes sequins, beads and glitter thread. I am happy overall with it but I would like to improve some areas. He's been well received so far so I hope you like him too.

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 3

2011-06-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

Your favourite food.... another predictable drawing lol

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 2

2011-06-03T07:50:00.000-07:00

Your Favourite Animal

(ok its late but I was poorly!)

No prizes for guessing eh?

30 Day Drawing Challenge - Day 1

2011-06-01T14:00:00.001-07:00

Self Portrait, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

A picture of yourself...... yes im scary lol

30 Day Drawing Challenge

2011-06-01T05:20:00.000-07:00

This is such a cool idea and one that hopeufully might spark my love of art and drawing again...

I saw this posted on crafter...oo today if you want more details and to see whos joining the challenge.

2011-05-29T07:50:00.000-07:00

I think I am becoming obsessed with this one image in my head of a great tit landing in my garden. I didnt have time to grab the camera before it disapeared but ever since I have been re-creating this little bird in all types of media.

It started off with a pencil sketch using a twitchers book to help me. I decided to experiment with new media so it developed into a lino print...

I then decided to do a freehand embroidery which I took from my sketch. I have dabbled with embroidery before and failed so I decided to try again and actually finish a piece.

Today I finished my third Great Tit this time using papier mache. I have seen some lovely sculptures using this material some of which are birds and I was really pleased with the end result. I do however need to work on my 3D painting skills, I think I rushed to finish it as I was so excited.

I'm not sure what's next in this story maybe a piece of jewellery or I do like the idea of some sort of ceramic work. As for the little birdie i've only seen him once since that day but my garden is getting some lovely visitors no less... chaffinch, goldfinch, thrush, wren, robin. I'm very lucky!

Fabric Origami Bracelet

2011-05-29T02:55:00.001-07:00

Fabric Origami Bracelet, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

I made this bracelet last night by folding fabric and joining it together. I have used bead detailing and also stitching to secure.

I might make a tutorial of this if there is any interest?

Thrifting

2011-05-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

I managed to make it to the car boot sale after my first and dare I say successful night at the dogs. I'm glad I did brave the wind and cold as I bagged some fab treats...

I couldn't get the little sewing trinket open until I got home and discoverd a measuring tape inside.

I love botanical illustration books great artwork and very interesting too.

What can I say it's too cool!!!

Probably the bargain of the day all this fabric for £4.00 She was selling it at 50p per fabric and some have at least 2 metres or more. She was a lovely lady too.

Feather Fascinator

2011-05-19T04:12:00.001-07:00

Feather Fascinator, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

I made this using feathers and diamanté detailing. Its also features a thrifted brooch that has a vintage feel to it.

Appliqué Patchwork Bag

2011-05-18T02:46:00.001-07:00

Appliqué Patchwork Bag, a photo by Handmade and Heritage on Flickr.

I've been working on this off and on for a week. I've faffed and fiddled and arranged the flowers lord knows how many times.

I think i'm happy with it. I've used doilies, thrifted shirts, fabric and vintage buttons.

Button Swap

2011-05-17T15:29:00.000-07:00

Kitty Ballistic over at www.crafteroo.co.uk has decided to host a button swap and who are we to stop her! I don't need any excuse to raid my button stash or indulge in some button related retail therapy. :)

If you would like to sign up you have until the end of the week. Click the link below for more details... the more the merrier!!!

http://www.crafteroo.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=8300.0

Back In the Game

2011-05-16T13:29:00.000-07:00

No good comes of sitting in a dark room, mumbling and moaning and possibly a bit of rocking too.

So i'm back once again trying to get my craft out there.

I hope you like it!

http://www.folksy.com/shops/HandmadeHeritage

Lavender Bath Salts

2010-11-14T03:41:00.001-08:00

These are the next item to go in my xmas hampers. I took an old kilner jar and filled it with a mixture of epsom and rock salt. I used dried lavender for scent and finished it off with ribbon, raffia and a vintage spoon.

Lately all I ever seem to do is search for afffordable kilner jars and spoons. lol

Xmas Gift Ideas

2010-11-02T10:23:00.001-07:00

IMG_2106
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

I'm making hampers again this year and im hoping to make a better job of it. These cacti were planted into vintage/damaged pots and cups. Hopefully people will appreciate them. :)

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T09:37:00.001-07:00

IMG_2100
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

Facebook Giveaway

2010-10-05T00:33:00.001-07:00

Mustard Fascinator
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

I recently had a giveaway over at my fraggierocks facebook page. I really like this mustard fascinator I was sad to see it go. Its hand blocked and the pom decoration was hand cut and finished with a vintage button.

Take a peek over at my facebook page to see who won and to keep up to date with all the fraggierocks gossip!

Another Commission

2010-10-01T03:30:00.000-07:00

I've been really blessed lately to have had a few commissions and this was one of the most technically challenging. Its a hand blocked purple sinamay base with hand rolled sinamay bow detailing and purple feathers.

I am really pleased with the results and I'm glad I went with a dark purple it looks more chic.

In other news I have a mahoosive shed coming soon which I shall be turning into a studio. I am so excited because I will finally have space to spread out all my pretty things instead of bags stuffed everywhere. I'll also be glad to get my house back it was starting to look like a Hobbycraft knock-off lol

Eric Warburton Art

2010-09-18T02:20:00.000-07:00

My Dad has a new website to showcase his gorgeous art. I'm biased I know but I do love his work. My favourite has to be the windmill, I have a strange fascination with them and the colours are stunning. It's even better when viewing in person!

Eric Warburton

Blackberry Jam

2010-09-05T02:55:00.000-07:00

Seen as there is certainly no shortage of blackberries in my area I decided to make some jam. It took a few days to collect enough but the lovely walks more than made up for my impatience.

It was actually alot easier to make and you don't need lots of special equipment in fact you don't need any. I followed the recipe on a bottle of apple pectin and it really was simple to follow. I worked it out that if you used recycled jars each jar cost 53p to make. Better than any supermarket and you know whats in it!

Of course I couldn't not put a pretty top on the jam jars....lol

So much sugar.... bangs go my diet!

Potted up - I've seen tutorials that say you need to heat the jars, I chose not too and it set fine.

Pretty Lids - I thought that if it tasted horrible I could at least say it looks good lol

It does taste gorgeous and I cant wait to make my next batch to go in my Xmas hampers. :)

Chick Chick

2010-08-29T07:37:00.001-07:00

Chick Chick
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

A couple of day ago the newest additions to our family arrived. Meet Foxy, Polly and Nugget, Nugget is the biggest and is the boss (top of pic) Molly (left) follows nugget everyone and lastly Foxy (right and named after a friend) is the smallest and had had a bit of a battering.

They all need a bit of tlc and a few cuddles which I am happy to do and so far they have produced the most amazing eggs I have ever tasted.

I have to say im totally hooked, they are great characters and very tame and curious and i'd have dozens if I had the space. Plus their muck will make great compost!

Ask me how much I love chickens in mid January lol x

Weekend to Hastings

2010-08-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

The Driver.... heehee

The Dartford Crossing...

Hasting... wet and windy!

The 'Old Town'

Major Inspiration after visiting the Shipwreck Musuem!

Birdie

Birdie Poohing on the Drivers Car haha....

Fish and Chips on the Beach

Coming Home :(

Bird Swap - What I sent!

2010-08-17T11:42:00.001-07:00

Bird Swap - What I sent!
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

Hurrah! She received it safe and sound and she loves it! Phew I was so worried it would get lost or have a huge custom charge!

I'll blog in more detail tomorrow about the individual pieces but I was quite chuffed with my efforts hence the sneaky peek!

Latest Commission Piece

2010-08-17T05:03:00.000-07:00

I was very lucky to get the chance to try something new with my latest commission. I was shown a picture of her 'Pack of Card' inspired jewellery and I also remembered that she loved the new Alice in Wonderland movie. I didn't want to do something obvious but I loved the idea of using a heart shape and incorporating the swarovski rhinestones that feature on her necklace and earrings.

So this is what I came up with. The heart is blocked in sinamy, padded and then covered in a cotton fabric then each swarovski rhinestone was individually glued into position. I've never used hot-fix before and I was super happy with the results. I also attached red shaped turkey feathers and its all sewn to a plain black headband.

The great thing about this headpiece is that it quite subtle in natural light but once under the disco lighting it will shimmer and shine!

Rainy Days

2010-08-14T02:55:00.001-07:00

T-Shirt Embroidery
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

The weather is pants and we have a big dose of cabin fever. My daughter Jessica has chicken pox as well so she is a bit down in the dumps.

We decided to make something together so we 'borrowed' her new P.E T-Shirts and made an embroidered picture. She designed and drew it herself and I did the sewing.

Looks cute I have to say!

Where We Live...

2010-08-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

This is where I live. I live on the top of the Nene Valley, its windy and freezing in winter and we get regular wafting yukky smells but I love it and I wouldnt want it any other way - well maybe a house that isnt falling down and decent views from my window (facing wrong way) lol

Bedside Table Decopage Recon....

2010-08-09T04:32:00.000-07:00

We brought two bedside tables from the local tip when we moved for £5 (for some reason the tip wont sell stuff anymore grrrr) We liked them because they fitted in with the period and style of our home.

To brighten them up I painted them a light mauve colour and added cut out flowers. I have varnished it to seal the flowers in and I plan at a later date to line the inside with some vintage papers.

Here are some before and after pics....

Bird Swap

2010-08-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

When I saw that noodleBubble was hosting a bird swap on her fab blog I just had to take part. At the time I was heavily inspired by birds and I had loads of ideas. I was partnered with the lovely Molly P and I recieved a really cute package of goodies.

Here is what I recieved, I hope she has got my package I sent it out last week and I am so worried its not arrived.... eek!

Thanks Molly P!!!!!

Gawd Help Me...

2010-07-25T07:30:00.000-07:00

It was my daughters last day of school on friday. Oh how I look forward to six weeks of the little cherub...

Actually im hoping to have lots of crafting fun with her over the next six weeks. Its pretty much the only time we dont argue - ish! For her teacher we made a painted bag and she had her first go on the sewing machine which she loved. We also brought two plants and added fabric and ribbon to the base to jazz it up. She gave those to her two favourite classroom assistants.

So here she is on the last day of reception class. I was so proud of her because she had a horrible stomach bug for a couple days beforehand and battled her way in on the friday so she didnt miss the fun. Thankfully shes much better now.

Shabby Chic Mirror

2010-07-21T09:21:00.001-07:00

Shabby Chic Mirror
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

I saw this tutorial in a book and decided to make my daughter a mirror for her room.

I took an old gold mirror and sprayed it white. I used sandpaper to distress it and then added fabric and ribbon detaling.

Its looks quite good and cost well under £10 to do. In fact the most expensive item was the spray paint at £4 the mirror only cost 50p from a car boot sale. :)

Garden Cushions

2010-07-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

I have made some garden cushions for our patio set but they also double up as dining chair cushions. I saw the idea on This Morning and it was so simple.

Measure the cushion cut the fabric 1cm smaller then sew three edges. Turn in the fastening edge and attach ribbon to finish. Easy!!!

Alicia Keys - Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart (Official Video).mp4

2010-07-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

Ascot Commission

2010-06-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

I was very lucky to be asked to make a fascinator for a lovely lady for Ascot this year. Once we had established she would have to dress for the Royal Enclosure this is the design I came up with.

Firstly I blocked three leaf shapes using three layers of sinamy and wired them ready to be covered in pale gold silk. I then embellished the leaves with gold coloured bugle beads.

BLOCKING

WIRED AND HEMMED

The feathers I used vary in style there are narrow, coq and curled goose biot feathers which have been steamed, curled and shaped by hand. It is attached to a clear come and elastic.

CLOSE UP OF FEATHER & BEAD DETAILING

SIDE VIEW

BACK VIEW

She was very happy with her fascinator and I hope she had a wonderful day and won a few pennies too.

If I could be half as talented as this designer...

2010-05-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I would be a happy camper. I actually did a little bit of work experience for this designer when I was at college and always kept an eye out to see how he is doing. I was as jealous and jealous could be at the stuff he was creating around me. Alas my career path hasnt taken me down a similar route.

His A/W10 collection is A-mazing! I wish I had thought of it lol

http://www.noelstewart.com/ Take a look at his work, its fabby!

Happy Birthday!

2010-05-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

My little boy is growing up. Happy 1st Birthday Harry!

Today I shall mostly...

2010-05-03T01:23:00.000-07:00

be failing to be a good mother. I would love to say that we have some fun filled day of creativity and play but alas no. It's my sons 1st birthday tomorrow and I shall be dragging my cherubs to argos to pick up his present. He better like it or he gets no cake! Teehee...

T-Shirt Yarn Headbands

2010-05-02T03:31:00.000-07:00

I'm back after a few days without batteries and I have some stuff to show you. I'll do that another time, fist I want to show you what I have been doing over the weekend.

A tutorial was posted on crafteroo a while ago and I decided to have a play, I made a couple necklaces and yesterday tried to make some simple sporty looking headbands.

The first two were knitted and I used the offcut from the t-shirt to make the flower. Everything bar the thread has been re-used from pre-loved items found in charity shops and car boot sales.

I tried using two different stitches and added an extra stich on the yellow one to stop the headband rolling up (see above). They are quite chunky but I personally like it that way.

With the left over yarn I made another two types of headband. One was plaited using the two colours and knotted to add detailing. The last one was made by wrapping around yarn and creating a little detailing by wrapping the yarn around the headband to hold it all together.

On the whole i'm quite happy with what I have made I just need to work on sizing up the headbands if i'm to consider selling some.

WIP

2010-04-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

wip
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

I'm not sure why I even started this because its not the direction I saw myself going in when I started design work. I want lasers and sci-fi gun battles but instead ive got spikes lol

I'm struggling with the technical aspect of my designs. When working in clear materials you have to be aware of things being neat and tidy. I had the idea to use rhinstones on the spikes but the glued side would be seen from behind and look very messy.

Galactic Inspiration

2010-04-24T09:57:00.000-07:00

I found a couple Sci-Fi magazines at my fav book shop yesterday and instantly felt inspired. I purchased some plastic materials and some glue and intend to make something amazingly other-worldly (well thats the general idea)

Ascot isn't all that far away so I could try and get a few of my creations out there.

This one shows some of my basic early sketches.

What If's?

2010-04-20T10:40:00.000-07:00

I seem to be on one of my what now seem to be weekly downers. I thought that writing out my problems would help... I dunno. Thankfully I don’t have many readers lol

Every day I wake up with the best of intentions - to crack on, design and make and plot making a name for myself. I see things and think 'I could do that' and despair that it’s not me and think how lucky they are to have made it. It's not the end of the world though because today is the day i'm going to be become them... until I hear the first whinge or splutter or 'have I got any clean boxers' echoing in my ear. I come back down to reality with a THUMP and realise that it will never be me. How silly am I to think I could be anything other than a housewife? Of course I could sell the odd thing here and there but its not the same (its not a dig but I wanted to be more) Then I realise why would any of the cool people out there take a second glance at a youngish mother of two with a glaringly obvious chocolate obsession and who has the personality of wet dish cloth and a massive chip on her shoulder?

My mind then moves on to the idea that I had my chance and I chose motherhood, a worthy job but not the same as filling your mind with colour and ideas and culture. Who am I to be so greedy when I have two gorgeous, loving children and a partner that loves me, for who I am and doesn’t run because of that. If only he could understand the churning in my belly to succeed, the sadness I feel everyday. Alas his idea of art starts and ends with the go faster strips he wishes he could but on his car.

If only I had the guts to do something about it, I probably wont have the guts to publish this post. If I had someone, who wasn’t my mum and dad telling me how great I am just to tell me if this heartbreak and 'what ifs' are worth it. I can take that... I can’t take this...

Plump Swallow

2010-04-19T00:40:00.000-07:00

I decided to give my swallow some colour albeit brown lol. I am pleased with some parts the head for example but the wings looks a little over-worked. I defo need more practice, if only I had the time to spend doing it.

Shooting Stars -

2010-04-17T02:03:00.000-07:00

This hat was inspired by a Florence and the Machine song called Cosmic Love (I've already blogged about this). Although I like to think I have the voice of an angel I know that in reality I am tone deaf.

However I always seem to find my inspiration in song or words. Of course a picture can evoke an idea but the sounds and feelings you get from listening to an amazing track work best for me.

To make this I took a straw fascinator and covered it in black velvet. I then individually sewed each bead and sequin to the base and finished it with perspex rods. I used sequins, seed beads and bicones to create the effect of a starry night. In the sun this really catched the light well.

I dare not add up how many hours this has taken me but its been weeks of picking up sewing a few and putting down just so I dont lose the will to live with it. I hope its paid off and people like it.

Mr Swallow

2010-04-15T05:56:00.001-07:00

Plump Swallow
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

He lives at the bottom of my garden along with many other hanging baskets thieves! I've used reference books to try and get an accurate drawing. The finished artwork will probably be pen and ink and then if im happy it will hang somewhere in my home.

Get Me Selling on Folksy

2010-04-15T01:29:00.000-07:00

I finally after months of twiddling my thumbs, plucked up the courage to list something on Folksy I used to sell handmade jewellery on the dark side many moons ago but after falling pregnant with my second child and his early months I really was knocked for six. It was tough and I lost my crafting mojo along with my self confidence (not that I had bucket loads in the first place).

Anyways here I am I after logging in this morning... fraggierocks

Ok yes the image is tiny and quite possibly irrelevent, its too early to be taxing my brain like this!

As for today I shall mostly be staring at my inbox waiting for that SOLD notification! Teehee

Charlie Dimmock I am Not!

2010-04-14T00:55:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to get in touch with my inner 'Titchmarsh' this week by going all green fingered. Not so easy when the previous owners let it slip and everytime I go to dig a hole there is a tonne of gravel underneath. Looks like the buggers just put bark over the top of everything to hide what’s underneath.

I was particulary impressed with my hanging basket. After getting over the initial annoyance at paying £3 more for a basket I could have got from the 99p shop I carefully planned, planted and watered my new little basket of loveliness... only for the birds to come along and use my seedlings as nesting materials. Oh yes those cute little fluff balls are EVIL, they may look harmless but they swoop in faster than you can say "Bird Pie"!

I also seemed to attract every waif and stray this week, I had little people helping me in exchange for cakes. Yes I was shocked about my moment of weakness by not being the streets token scary woman and let the little bundles of joy help weed the gravel. Again this would have been lovely IF they hadn’t annihilated the plants I wanted to keep whilst leaving the boring weeds in the gravel.

Never mind there is still hope for me yet, I am currently reading front to back a gardening book that although tells me i've been planting everything too late and in the wrong place, i'm still doing a couple things right...ish!

WIP

2010-04-09T02:51:00.001-07:00

WIP
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

This is taking forever to complete as I am trying to fill in with seed beads as much as possible. I'm not sure whether to have it as a stand alone piece or incorporate it into another design I have.

It's inspired by my Cosmic Love/Swan Nebula collection im working on. Tbh my initial gusto to create the collection has wained of late as real life commitments take over. I am also not sure of the benefits of doing such a way out collection when ultimately it wont make me any money or catapult me into the world of fashion... who'd buy a hat from an overwieght frumpy housewife anyway!

Oh dear cue another bout of self loathing lol

Bertie (couldnt think of a decent name)

2010-04-05T09:19:00.001-07:00

Bertie
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

And here it is the big reveal lol Here is what I have been working on!

This fascinator took a few hours on and off to complete I can tell you. I took an old yellow t-shirt with skull detailing and covered a sinamy base. To be honest you can't really see the fabric that well but it looks nicer under the more transparent beads.

I then loaded it with as many beads and charms I could find using invisible thead to limit the stitch marks. I decided to keep the colours bright and cute. It is lined with the same fabric and is finished with a wide comb.

Even if you hate it could have to admit looking at it puts a smile on your face... well it does on mine. :)

I did stupidly think that I could make a matching bib necklace but that went horribly wrong... shame I didnt realise that until after i'd spent hours sewing the beads on lol

WIP

2010-04-04T01:12:00.001-07:00

WIP
Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

Can you tell what it is yet? :)

Organza and Rose Flower Fascinator

2010-04-03T02:48:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by fraggierocks

I made this pretty fascinator by attaching a large pink organza flower with swarovski bead detailing to a small cream fascinator base. I then attached vintage style roses to the base.

The organza flower was made by cutting basic flower shapes and singeing the edges with a tealight flame.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to you all! We have all had a relaxing day and I have made the family a delicious curry. Its my first ever attempt and i'm pleased to say both my five year and 11 month old enjoyed it. It's my mums recipe she makes amazing food.

I hope everyone has a fun and relaxing Easter weekend. :)

Oh My!

2010-02-06T03:33:00.000-08:00

Crikey! Has it been so long since I have blogged? The house move and subsequent decorating have left me with little time to design and make. The children seem to be swapping virus' and colds like its going out of fashion. I am sleep deprived and generally feel poopy (the drugs only work when you can be bothered to put a repeat prescription in - d'oh!)

I am however trying to claw my way out of the depths of winter and crack on with a new design collection that inspired me after listening to Florence and The Machine. My favourite track is Cosmic Love I could sit for hours with this song on repeat sketching away in my notepad.

I leave you a picture of the Swan Nebula, this image has given me the colour inspiration I need for my new collection... one which I will actually try and showcase instead of locking away in a cupboard.... I will, I will, I WILL!!!

A Crafting Drought

2009-10-26T06:47:00.000-07:00

Well what with the move and feeling under the weather, crafting has been pushed to the back of my hectic life. However yesterday I managed to get the baby asleep and the eldest content at the same time (shock horror) I had a whole hour to sit and craft. Well I spend the first 50 mins deciding what to do and the last 10 mins adapting a design I created for the craft fair. Now i'm chomping at the bit to get started again much to the annoyance of my children.