Batch No.Designs

farewell

2010-08-30T19:20:00.003+12:00

I think most of you who read this small design blog know that things have been really busy with the opening of my new shop and I'm sure the next sentence will not come as a surprise.
I have decided that I need to make sure that I don't spread myself too thinly and that I need to concentrate on work and my family so unfortunately that means the many days of surfing for hours looking for lovely design to share with you have to end.
I will leave this blog floating in cyberspace so you can look through it and you will now be able to follow me on my shop blog www.thelittlecraftstore.blogspot.com thank you all for reading.

Something small

2010-08-23T21:26:00.003+12:00

Ok I've been a bit lax with all the posting and I've noticed that things are slipping further away from the design aspect at the moment - but that's OK because this blog is not a strict one I talk about things I like and that changes all the time :)
Today I wanted to share with you some amazing mini sculptures/works of art from carpenter turned artist Dalton Ghetti. Can you believe the detail in these pieces I have a real respect for miniature works, the time and skill needed to produce them must be immense.I'm still trying to get my head round how he has managed this little key ????

Yet again I'm not sure how many posts you will see this week as the shop it due to open this Saturday aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh I'm getting a bit nervous.

Amy Atlas

2010-08-19T19:39:00.005+12:00

I'm rushing around madly as you know but this afternoon I took five Min's to relax and try and have a think about how I wanted to celebrate my new venture with my friends and Family.
And it didn't take me long to start thinking about a desert bar - have I shared my love of Amy Atlas's work with you yet ?
I can't remember - she is a fantastic events stylist in America who creates these amazing desert tables for parties, what I think is the nicest is even though I think she was one of the first to come up with this type of display her blog is almost entirely devoted to showing you other peoples take on the desert bar, the people she has inspired.
Some people would be annoyed at being copied but this lovely lady completely encourages it.
So here are some examples of her work, while I go and plan my own little table.

Such great little details.

industrial heaven

2010-08-17T09:07:00.000+12:00

I came across this amazing industrial space at the shoot factory - its in London don't you just love it.

All the leather furniture looks so good against the exposed brick of this old warehouse, with splashes of vintage colour.

I bet they have some rowdy dinners at this table.

wool balls

2010-08-16T09:02:00.004+12:00

Its starting to sink in that I have my own store its a bit scary in a good way, I get the keys tonight !
Last night I spent ages making big wool balls to go in my first window display, they are made using polystyrene balls and acrylic wool what do you think ?...

They should look quite good hanging in the window as I get set up.
I have started making the rounds of local cafes' and shops with my fliers about the opening too, next week is the Kingsland Craft afternoon tea so it will be cool to go and see all the lovely crafters who helped with my market research.
Oh before I forget this is the shop front with our mock up sign on it :).

Tiny white Daisies

2010-08-16T08:52:00.000+12:00

When you switch on your computer in the morning you know that there are certain sites/blogs that you can visit that will match your mood.

This morning I want it to be spring I'm longing for the flowers to start blooming in the garden and I know that if I pop over to the tumblr site of Tiny little daisies that I will come away feeling like spring honestly try it :) I chose some lovely small flowers for you

Now if I was just having a cup of tea in this gorgeous kitchen LOvely.

Painted furniture

2010-08-12T08:49:00.005+12:00

I thought I would share this post here even though it is shop based as its mainly about furniture ;)

This week I have been looking at storage solutions for the new shop , not as easy as I thought to find the right things at the right price.
I'm starting to lean towards mixing some very basic storage with some quirky painted furniture.
These two are from Design Sponge.

I found these three little beauties on Trade Me last night they could each be use full but you have to remember to add in the cost of paint when you are bidding so that you don't get carried away.

And finally Two pieces that I have ready at home.

umm hungry

2010-08-10T19:56:00.004+12:00

I've been running around all day and now I'm sat watching Australian Master chef while typing this and its making my taste buds tingle... so which is the best blog to visit when your hungry ?

I have to stick with Cannelle et Vanille this is one of the first food blogs I found (apart from Martha) but it is the beautiful images that Aran takes just make me want to run off and bake something.
I just want to reach out and grab these berries.And this honeydew,mint and lemon cold soup looks superb.

Now I just need to wait till September for the next issue of the Sweet Paul online mag to come out and I will be in heaven great food and brilliant styling ideas - obviously his food blog is excellent too just look at this soup ummmmmmm.

Eye candy

2010-08-10T19:35:00.002+12:00

I saw this over on Share some candy and knew I had to post about it.
How cute are these miniature polymer clay rings so detailed - from Divine sweetness

2010-08-09T21:08:00.004+12:00

Keeping with the Graffiti theme I can't believe I have my head in the sand for so long that I haven' t really taken notice of the knitting graffiti or yarn bombing that is happening around the globe, here are a few images that caught my eye this week...

Knitted mooring ring

car

Bollards

New Urban Graffiti

2010-08-09T20:23:00.004+12:00

Its Monday and time for the weekly dose of greenery.

I was doing a search on urban landscapers the other day and chanced upon the lovely work of urban land artist ? Guerrilla Gardner ? Green Graffiti ? well you could call Anna Garforth all of the above.
She uses fallen, gathered greenery to create public art.
The two leaf works below are held together with thorns making them completely biodegradable.
This one titled rethink is placed outside two main sources for water and gas in the uk.

Anna also produces commercial work with her green fingers and has put together a number of moss and typography installations.

And if that isn't enough she is also a very talented illustrator, check out all her amazing work at her website here.

Shop

2010-08-07T13:39:00.003+12:00

I'm so excited I have a shop of my own I will have the keys to it in a weeks time.
Its such a big step for me and there will be alot of work to do over the next few weeks before it is up and running but if you want to see all the set up photo's I will be posting them over at the shops blog - the little craft store.
As things will obviously be manic I'm going to do all my blog postings in the evenings from now on so for all the folks who tune in from NZ and OZ that means a bit of a wait for you daily fix sorry.
I have to dash now as I have a cowboy and Indian party to cook for my little boy is turning 5 tomorrow :)

Textile Jewelry

2010-08-05T07:52:00.000+12:00

I have wanted to do a post on Textile Jewelry since I spotted these amazing necklaces, bracelet's and cuff by Kjoo around the web.

Finely crocheted and felted they are little pieces of art made by maria in Portugal.

I think crochet must be popular in Portugal because these strange but appealing necklaces are from there to - what do you think, there is something quite quirky about them.
Made by Pirilamporiscado on Etsy.

I wanted to put these necklaces in the mix because they are a bit fancier you could wear them on a night out, made by Greta in Italy.

Back at last

2010-08-04T10:41:00.005+12:00

Hi everyone I'm back at last this morning I woke up feeling invigorated ( well after I had had my coffee ) I have two new projects to keep me on the go while I carry on looking for suitable shop to lease.

Firstly we have decided to re-do our front yard which will be quite a major project involving diggers and lots of soil but is so exciting because get to plan all the new planting and gives me an excuse to drool over lots of garden images.

How about a bit of dreaming to start with - their is no way that my garden will ever look like the following but WOW they are something special...

This stunning garden belongs to interior and landscape designer Michael Trapp, I stumbled across Michael's lovely work over at desire to inspire. You could while away plenty of time here couldn't you, now try and guess where it is Italy ? South of France ? No? its in west Cornwall that's in England !
Check out Michael's website for more beautiful projects and to see the beautiful antiques and architectural finds that he sells in his shop.

Another peep into what looks to be a hidden treasure of a garden - love the water feature found here.

I'm hoping to plant some peonies like these above from design sponge.
Bougainvillea's are also on my list we have old trellis that needs replacing and I want to mix four colours to produce a riot of colour.

And lastly there will be quite a bit of box hedge as soon as I have some plans I will post them to show you. found here.

Just quickly as this has turned into a massive post the second project is helping out with a huge fundraiser for our school called indulge which is all around quality food - I will be helping with the social networking side of things and anything else :) should be good fun.

Monday

2010-08-02T10:49:00.003+12:00

Morning everyone I hope you had a good weekend.

Sorry that the postings have been a bit haphazard this week I'm finding it very hard to concentrate at the moment.
When I got home from Fiji I found out that my friend and neighbour had suddenly died while we were away and it has hit me quite hard. I have been trying to spend time with her family that are devastated, while also visiting and talking to another friend who is also fighting cancer - emotionally I feel drained.
These lovely protea flowers are for her ...

found here

A Big Day

2010-07-28T12:47:00.006+12:00

Good afternoon everyone I had a busy day yesterday firstly a big meeting with the bank that went very well - They gave me the green light to borrow money so that I can start up my own little store which was very exciting and rewarding after 3 months writing a business plan.
Then I found out that I had just missed out on the shop lease that I had my eye on !!! So now I'm back to hunting for the perfect store on a very tight budget, but it will all be great I can feel it.

So now I've told you my big news I thought we could look at some great Photography.
Do you follow Victoria's blog sfgirlbybay she always has such a eclectic mix of photos from all over and she also has a great resource page of useful links so that find almost anything, well today I have picked out a few photographers from her list to show you.

San Fransisco based photographer Aya Brackett uses a quirky realism in her images check out her portfolio here.

I really loved Tad Wagner's photo blog here is just a small sample for you.

I'm back

2010-07-26T19:41:00.007+12:00

Hi everyone I'm back and feel so much better we had such a lovely relaxing family holiday in Fiji, I hope that you all enjoyed the small taste of illustration each day.

Catching up on all my regular reads over the weekend I was excited to be able to add a few new ones to my list.
I try and read about 8 regular blogs a day, but this list does change and I think its more to do with how I'm feeling than a content change by the authors.

Ok so here are the four new ones I'm watching this month.

Hip Hip Hooray - is the cute new blog by Suann from Simplesong is all about kids parties with a host of great contributors this is going to be a great blog to watch as allot of the ideas they share will translate to different events. I love the DIY for the paper hats above just adorable.

One of those great contributors is Jordan Ferney who writes the blog Oh Happy Day which feature lots of great things to look at it and some pretty cool projects to try.

This fathers day box caught my eye its somethings that my boys would have fun putting together for their hero you can find more images and full instructions here.

Oh Happy Day led me to the blog Stephmodo a beautiful mix of design, colour and life, I would love one of these stunning maps on my wall.

Design Evolution is another good mix of design and life I like the pictures from author Michelle giving it a really personnel touch like this snap shot on the dog walk check out the whole post to find a cool resource that will help you make your own vintage picture collection.

Devon Smith

2010-07-23T08:00:00.000+12:00

Happy Friday everyone I hope you have enjoyed seeing some lovely illustration work with me this week - I wanted to end the week with a New Zealand illustrator.
Devon Smith Produces lovely work inspired by fairy tales, cartoons, taxidermy and scientific illustrations of flora/fauna. She also pens the blog "Deer face"

I bought the lovely print above when away in Wellington last year for my best friend and she loves it .

The Hansen Family

2010-07-23T07:30:00.000+12:00

A bit of lovely furniture design to end your Friday.
The Hansen Family furniture label has been created by Gesa Hanson, coming from a family of designers, carpenters and architects in Scandinavia she wanted to combine new design and old family design into one label to produce unique handcrafted pieces of furniture.
They are pieces that I would happily have in my home.

Philippa Garrard

2010-07-22T08:00:00.000+12:00

This mornings illustrator creates lovely images with delicate soft lines, take a look with me at Philippa Garrard's work.

You can check out more work on Philippa's website and blog "Nest with mushrooms"

Ben Sanders

2010-07-21T08:00:00.000+12:00

Welcome to Wednesday and an illustrator who has been drawing since he was 12 and selling his work for the last 20 years. Ben Sanders work has a nice nostalgic feel with a nod to the 50's, Mad Men eat your heart out!

Jane Reiseger

2010-07-20T08:00:00.001+12:00

Today's illustrator Jane Reiseger started her career by drawing a wine label for a friends vineyard but soon become known for her lovely line work and murals, she is based in Melbourne.

If you like her style you can pop over to her shop "bee and tree" where there are lots of lovely products with her designs on . I wish my boys were small enough to have a mural like the whale on their wall but alas they grow up so fast.

A week of illustrators

2010-07-19T07:55:00.002+12:00

Morning everyone I hope you had a good weekend - hopefully I am sitting in the sun by a pool this week while you read all the lovely posts that I have written in advance for you.

This week I decided to share a new Illustrator each day that I have come across recently as well as some lovely eye candy from around the world.

So to kick the week off I have chosen illustrator Tanya Cooper who's work in mixed media is just brilliant and brings a smile to my face and I hope to yours too.

Unfortunately there is not much I can tell you about this talented artist (apart from her being an Australian) as her blog and website just show lots of her fab work Can't complain about that though !

A taste of summer

2010-07-19T07:00:00.000+12:00

For those of you who aren't feeling the sun yet a little taste of summer in the south of France.

MIA

2010-07-16T10:06:00.002+12:00

I've been missing in action this week with half term taking up all my time, but if you all pop back next week I have planned a great week of posts for you all :).

If you are a crafter why don't you pop over to whip up for some great projects.

I love the idea of these mini quilts definitely some thing that I will be trying over the next few months.

crochetdery

2010-07-09T09:18:00.003+12:00

I was just browsing over at "whip up" a blog by Kathreen Ricketson which is full of quilting and crafty goodness when I spotted a link to UK artist Shauna Richardson who crochets animals.
Soft and cuddly is what come to mind but no these are amazing art works which are closer to taxidermy exhibits.

I love the dark moody shots of her work taken at night around London can you imagine driving out of the car park and seeing a life size bear in the shadows.

Tumbler

2010-07-05T18:48:00.003+12:00

Can you keep up with all the new applications that keep popping up everywhere ?

Every second blog I seem to look at is trying something else digital mood boards / pin boards, twitter being challenged by foursquare and today I found out about tumbler. Now I don't know how to search this micro blogging world yet, but I did stumble on a lovely group of photos collected by "Its Mary Ruffle". I picked out some lovely flower images for you today.

I had to pop this one in at the end my dog has been stuck inside all day due to heavy rain I know he would be jealous of these to cuties escaping into a summer garden.

By the way posts will all be done late on in the day over the next two weeks as it is school break here in NZ.

Have a bright weekend

2010-07-02T19:55:00.006+12:00

Hi everyone ooh am I looking forward to this weekend it has been a long week with not much sleep - thankfully I have a spa treatment booked to get some time out :)

I wanted to show you some lovely bright things to lead you into the weekend.

These amazingly cute birds have been made by Gennie who's art work I have shown you before, she has managed to transfer her technique from paper onto these little models seamlessly.
I think this colourful street scape print is great and I love this little textile fashion lady, both from Laura Amiss on etsy

Staying with art petit Collage's alphabet and sticky tape together they would wrap up into a great kids present.

And even though my kids have driven me up the wall I will end on a little note isn't this the most adorable kids room found here.

Royal Collage Of Art graduates

2010-07-01T11:16:00.005+12:00

It seems ages since I have written about anything Design related so this morning I thought I would show you some work by two talented graduates from the Royal collage o f art in London.

Claire Anne O'Brien has graduated this year in textiles. I love these little knitted doughnuts which would be perfect for kids rooms.

These are examples of her hand knitting, so textural they look great I wonder how big they are ?

Victoria Delany has just graduated from the goldsmith,silversmith,metalwork and jewellery course ( bit of a mouth full ) the silver and lacquered wood candlesticks she has produced are stunning .

These vessels are made from folded,riveted and powder coated steel.

That's all for today as I still have a very sick boy at home and I am trying to finish my business plan so I can go to the bank this month.

Hello sunshine

2010-06-29T20:00:00.005+12:00

Well what a start to the week I'm having !
My little one is quite ill with numerous infections raging through his little body - they look so young when they get ill.

So I have been sat next to him all day reading "Homecoming " by Bernhard Schlink who also wrote "the Reader" now that was a good film possibly the best thing Kate Winslet has done.

And trying out my knitting both boys decided they would like a scarf out of an old poncho - I knitted it before arriving in Auckland and realizing that it would never get cold enough to wear.

What I need is something bright and cheerful that will make me smile... a favorite illustrator of mine is Helen Dardik and I love popping over to her site and blog every so often.

Helen is represented by Lilla Rogers who has an amazing list of artists on her books I thought I would show you two others that caught my eye the theme tonight is cute by the way :)

Although its not my normal taste I was drawn to these illustrations by French artist Adolie Day

And it was the cute model toys on Silvia Portella's portfolio that got me, originally from Barcelona she now lives and works in Berlin.

Green Monday

2010-06-28T12:05:00.004+12:00

I'm trying to get back on track with my posting, although I'm still in cast and cant get round to any shops to do reviews for you.

selling Urban Crop flowers from the back of a van somewhere in Melbourne !

This morning I saw this great project by Joost Bakker Melbourne's top designer/installation Florist.
Joost creates flower installations for events, shops and everyone else but his latest project Urban Crop sounds great.
Joost comes from a family of flower growers so this new project seems a natural progression.
After creating a new organic soil mix made with organic waste, worm castings, and bio char, Joost has marketed it by selling these beautifully bagged living flowers to stores all over the city and from the back of his white van, I can just imagine it - Melbourne is lovely to visit anyway but to see beautiful fresh flowers in all the shops now in winter would be so cool.

Lucy over at The Design Files has a great post about it all go check it out -if only we could have them here in NZ too I would buy them for my shop.

Are you in New York Or heading there ?
Why not learn to put together amazing flower arrangements like this one with the lovely ladies from The Little Flower School

Rainy days and magazines

2010-06-25T12:06:00.006+12:00

I have just had a quiet rainy morning watching the "September issue" a documentary on American Vogue.
It was quite interesting and made me think about how much time, work and money is involved in producing a magazine, and I wonder how long the e- zines will be able to continue as free resources.

I was pleased to see that the fourth issue of nonpareil magazine is online now with some lovely wedding ideas all taken from different films the Amelie spread is my favorite with all the lovely red tulips and green tins.

Lonny magazines June/July issue has lots of cool houses and decorating ideas that will inspire you to spruce up your home this winter or summer depending where you are reading this from.
I love the woods mixed with soft pastels in this lounge.

And this chair just looks perfect with the splash of yellow.

I think I might go and find out abit more about how you put together an online magazine and do a post on it.

The six week boutique

2010-06-24T13:36:00.004+12:00

The six week boutique is the online shop of talented craft artist Tamara Maynes who was featured in this months Inside Out magazine, which has a lovely feature on her country home in NSW I couldn't grab any of the house shots for you but I did get some of her lovely work.

These little flowers come as kits so you can make them yourself while rugged up infront of the fire.

Antonie & Manuel

2010-06-24T13:24:00.004+12:00

I had to post about this beautiful side board by Parisian graphic designers Antonie Audiau and Manuel warosz I love the high/low relief work and the detail. Find it at Ke-Zu

Willy Vergner

2010-06-22T16:09:00.003+12:00

Some days I have a bit of a mental block and just don't know where to start when I sit down to write this blog - so this morning I picked up one from kindy and headed out to a friends for lunch with two other friends. Coffee, sushi, cheese scones and chocolate brownies a bit of a weird mix but yummy and four hours of mums chat later I am refreshed and ready to type.

I want to show you some amazing sculptures by Willy Vergner , these are life sized wood carvings that are just exquisite. The detail and realism is quite breathtaking don't you think .
I would suggest a visit to his site where you can see each series of works together.
Some artist just have a clear raw talent and I think that he is one of those ( can you tell I really like this work ).

James Joyce

2010-06-21T11:35:00.000+12:00

James Joyce is a London based artist and designer whose bold no nonsense design is cleaver and thought provoking.

When I saw the image above it made me think about the pollution which is occurring at the moment over in the Gulf of Mexico as well as the images that you see on the television of poor countries where their people have to make their homes next to rivers that look like this.
I have to be honest and say that over the years I have become immune to these images, I try to do my meager bit by recycling ( but even that can still find its way to landfills we are being told) and trying to not use plastic bags.
But am I going to change further, properly not I still want to buy fabrics and clothes for my kids I like books and good food all of these things have an environmental impact.
That sounds awful but I think its an honest answer.
Habits are hard to break and I don't know how we can change the way that we have all been brought up.

To see more of James work please go to his website here

Printing and Drawing

2010-06-21T11:34:00.001+12:00

I meant to post about these two things last week but just never got round to it so today's the day .

First up is what looks to be a great little American documentary about an old Midwestern printing museum where the old generation of printers are trying to keep the traditions and craftsmanship alive, the small trailer on this site had me hooked.
If you are a modern graphic designer or just a fan of type like me I know that this film will inspire.
Go and have a look at the trailer forTypeface here

The second is the sketch book project run by the arthouse co-op this just sounds great you pay $25 and chose a theme from the list and they send you out a sketch book you fill that book up and make it beautiful and send it back ( people all over the world are involved) all the books then go on tour around America and are available to view digitally online.
I nervously signed up this morning its a long time since I kept a real sketch book and thought this project would give me a good jump start I chose "I'm sorry I forgot you".
Who else is thinking about this one I know Allison at Big little print is doing it and I can't wait to see sneak peeks into her sketchbook on her blog - I would love to see Geninne do one.

Second Blog

2010-06-21T11:32:00.001+12:00

You will have noticed if you read regularly that I have been plotting something new over the last few weeks and now I think I'm ready to tell you all about it but I thought I might keep it separate from this blog.
I have set up a second blog that will document my journey to hopefully running my own Bricks and Mortar store, I plan to open a small independent craft supplies and haberdashery store as their are so few here in Auckland it will be called "The little Craft Store" if you would like to follow my journey you will find me here www.thelittlecraftstore.blogspot.com I will have a link button up later this week on this blog.
I'm sooo excited !!

Friday

2010-06-18T21:25:00.004+12:00

I've been nursing a cold and a small one who is chesty all day, so sorry about the late post.

What's hiding behind this cute blue door...

Gorgeous painted floorboards, tall ceilings and great paneling that's what.
The decor is not really my taste but what a lovely space - I could spend the weekend dreaming how I would decorate this lovely London house. Found at Photo -locations.

Plumo

2010-06-17T13:05:00.003+12:00

I found a lovely online store in the UK Plumo ( they deliver internationally ) normally I don't like ethnic style but I couldn't help falling for all the colours in their catalogue.

I love this little cake stand just nice and simple you could change the way it looks with the type of plates you decided to use.

Cool Giant poof...

I defiantly want to try and find stools like these for my house.

In Auckland on saturday ?

2010-06-17T12:52:00.002+12:00

Just a quick bit of advertising I will have a stall at this Saturday's Craft afternoon tea from 10am-3pm at the Trinity Methodist Church - which is on the corner of Sandringham and New North Roads in Crafty Kingsland.
Come along and see what local crafter's are making you can grab a great coffee and pastry next door at allpress.

Photo Wednesday

2010-06-16T19:10:00.003+12:00

I have two great Photographers for you today - Most of my readers will know the work of Lisa Cohen Australian photographer who is well known in London and New York as well.

Then we have some lovely images from Lucas Allen's Portfolio, originally from Melbourne but now based in New York.

Two Etsy finds

2010-06-16T18:39:00.003+12:00

I found these over on Etsy I love the little caricatures they are cute and I know someone who would love to play with the pirates you can find them in Mooshoo's shop here.

These pieces of furniture caught my eye too I love the rich walnut wood against the painted draws, what do you think cool or too quirky. If you like them you can find them over in wheelers studio.

Made By Joel

2010-06-15T10:09:00.007+12:00

I found a lovely site last night while surfing around, Made by Joel is written by stay at home dad Joel who creates the most amazing things for his two children. If you have young kids defiantly keep an eye on this blog I 'm going to try the fish aquarium this afternoon and try to have a fun afternoon with my youngest.
The best thing is that Joel has downloads for lots of his lovely drawings if you are not that confident doing them yourself.
The big paper city will be a cool project for a wet weekend - Joel will hopefully be publishing his first book soon.

I found Joel via another lovely little blog called three buttons by Melbourne craft er Angela who writes a lovely blog and also makes very cute sewing kits which you can find here.

Flowers and Blogs

2010-06-14T11:56:00.001+12:00

I should be excited this morning the specialist said I can have my wrist cast off before we go to Fiji - but instead I feel just like the grey and rainy day outside.
I just tried to order my food shop online as I can't carry the bags but they don't deliver on a Monday - How silly is that when everyone is home eating all weekend that's just when you need the shopping done !!!!AAAAHH.
Sorry everyone its been a long week this broken wrist has been the last straw for my kids they are tired of me being ill and have decided to behave like monsters.
On Sunday afternoon I have had enough and shut myself in the bedroom leaving Mr T to it and read a whole book - now I'm just waiting for the holiday where I can really unwind.

OK on to other stuff some flower images this morning and their owners lovely blogs.

This lovely peony is from LITTLE MISS EMMA DESIGN who makes beautiful hand sewn baby and children's products and writes about it and her life in rural Victoria, Australia on her lovely blog well worth bookmarking.

This image caught my eye because of those lovely balls of wool I have a new business idea growing at the moment so spent some of the weekend looking at wool :)
Found over at SAIDOS DA CONCHA a lovely blog in Portuguese about life in rural England- don't worry its translated as well.

This lovely simple image is from another Portuguese blog unfortunately its not in English but looks very interesting. CHADEBERGAMOTA

Finally a beautiful photo from Yvonne at Moline blog based in Germany this lovely bog is about life simple but great.

A bit of Packaging for your friday

2010-06-11T18:19:00.003+12:00

Thought it was a while since I had shown you any of the packaging pictures that I have collected.
Very cute honey packaging designed by Ah & Oh

I love the bright packaging of this tea most tea packaging is SO dull - by Nadi Arioui

Lovely matchbox designed for wedding favours by Studio8

Someone over at Mouse Graphics is a Mary Poppins fan "just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down "

More spoons, this packaging was designed to let the buyer know that the products where made from natural products designed by Goodmorning Technology.

Rainy weekend

2010-06-11T17:06:00.007+12:00

We are in for a rainy weekend again so a few links for you to browse.

*****
For all of those of you moving into spring why don't you try out these super cute plant able seeded paper flowers - found at How does she...

If its raining where you are how about this cute tutorial for rain clouds from one of my favorite felter's Lupin over at Bugs and Fishes - this would be a great project for the kids ,they would make a great mobile too.

This post is a tutorial and downloads on how to make homemade bread and jam wedding favours from Project wedding - but I think It would be a cute Idea to make the mini jams for the cupboard and when you are invited for breakfast/brunch you can whip up a loaf (or grab a baguette ) and decorate with the lovely labels I'm sure any host would appreciate the extra effort that it shows without breaking the bank.

New at Amy Butler

2010-06-10T10:19:00.003+12:00

I stopped by Amy Butler's website this morning, I love her fabrics and over the last 4 years have used them again and again in my soft furnishings for design stores here in New Zealand.

Boy has she and her team been busy there are so many new products that you can choose from, when I first found out about Amy's designs you could only by fabric and patterns , now you can get stationery,gift wrap,wallpaper,bags, books and more.
I have picked out some images of her newest fabric range love to share with you as well as a few of her other products.
Beautiful Stationery sets.

Eco Party ware

Jake Curtis

2010-06-09T18:09:00.000+12:00

Just a small glimpse at some great eye candy from London based interiors and lifestyle photographer Jake curtis.
His portfolio is amazing unfortunately I couldn't get that many images to show you so you can go and view it in full at Jake's website.

Beautiful soft neutrals...

Bursts of citrus...

A stunning semi in London

2010-06-09T18:02:00.004+12:00

When I saw this London house I knew that you would love a peak inside it too.
This four story semi detached Victorian house has been beautifully refurbished and simply decorated no-wonder it is a popular location for shoots.

via Beachstudios.

Annette Joseph

2010-06-08T17:09:00.004+12:00

When I saw some of Annette's images over on Holly's site I knew that I would pop over and look at her portfolio as they so lovely, and I wasn't disappointed.
Annette is a very talented photo stylist with over 15 years in the industry and is busy working on her first book and television show.
Typically I picked out flowers but she has plenty more to look at on her website and blog.

Fireplaces

2010-06-08T08:33:00.004+12:00

I wanted to do a post about fireplaces this morning its what we are talking about at the moment as the nights get colder.

A friend has just had a new log burner installed in an old fireplace and I'm slightly jealous there is something a bit special about a real fire in your living space.
We have just had heat pumps fitted which is great, I have a warm house after 4 very cold winters.
We were unable to install a real fire due to the new restrictions here, so I think I will have to invest in some lovely textual throws to create that cosy feel instead.

Anyway I found some lovely images for you of fireplaces that I covert...

From Apartment Therapy, I have a week spot for wood filled fireplaces.

Above and below from the Domino group on Flickr.

The last three beauties are from beach studios- Location specialists

Friday DIY

2010-06-04T10:27:00.003+12:00

Thought I would give you some links to some lovely DIY ideas for the long weekend.
First up paper garlands from Project Wedding

Next up very cute mini clock magnets from how about orange along with these great little rosettes

Getting Crafty

2010-06-04T09:44:00.004+12:00

I have been having a quiet time this week slowly trying out ideas and finally took the plunge yesterday and booked a table at a craft market.
I've done markets before a long time ago when I first started crafting and at that time it was still hard to sell handmade.
This time round I'm trying something different I thought I would sell supplies to the crafty people out there, with all my wholesale contacts and accounts I could be an online retailer of the basics to them.

LOvely Lamps

2010-06-03T09:11:00.003+12:00

I had to share these lovely lamps with you that I saw over on Madeit ( the Australian online market) yesterday.
The Owls are hunting has been created by Jo in Canberra Australia.
Jo produces lovely lamps from vintage fabrics and fittings as well as new custom orders, I just loved the bright bursts of colours.

And isn't her work room great too.

Photographer Gemma Comas

2010-06-02T10:14:00.003+12:00

On my Internet wandering yesterday I stumbled across the lovely photographs of Gemma Comas and thought I would share them with you this morning.

Bringing home the Birkin

2010-06-02T09:35:00.003+12:00

A friend lent me a book yesterday afternoon and I had finished it by bed time - yes it was a paper back 250 pages, it was an easy fun read.

I have been thinking about it this morning.

The book is called Bringing home the Birkin by Michael Tonello, it is a true account of how he started a business reselling brand new items from the luxury label Hermes (including the famous Birkin bag that has a 2 year waiting list) on eBay.

He hit a clever but simple formula if you bought $3000 worth of other products first then they would happily magic a bag from the storeroom for you.
These bags then sold on eBay within hours to give him a tidy profit.

As you read on, the travelling that he did and the effect it had on his relationship did not seem to make it worthwhile.

But It was the price of the bags going beyond $22,000 for the top end crocodile ones and the regularity that some of his clients seemed to buy them that was an eye opener.

I can totally understand the sway of being in a luxury store being surrounded by all these beautiful things that you feel at that moment you just must have - I have a $6oo bag in my cupboard bought on such an occasion when I was younger, but I don't get buying it on eBay as you loose that experience.

All and all what it proves is that Hermes have fantastic branding.
So for those of you out there who like me did not know what exactly was a Birkin here are some images.

30cm Crocodile selling for $45,000
30cm leather selling for $14,500
Both from Createurs Deluxe

National Stationery Show 2010

2010-06-01T09:07:00.004+12:00

Well it has taken me a while to put this little round up together, their seems to be much less coverage on the net this year for some reason - but here are a few I liked.

Smock Papers Beautiful Booth.

The following images are via paper crave.
Ecojots journals.

Red Cap Cards with lovely printed cards and the cutest wooden birds.

Olivine Studio beautiful letterpress mounted to create wall art.

DIY flower containers

2010-05-31T15:54:00.003+12:00

Cori Cook Floral Design is based in Colorado, when I found her lovely blog and saw this great Diy tutorial I thought I would share it with you today for our little bit of green.
Isn't it amazing what you can do with tin cans paper and glue ! Follow the link to the whole tutorial HERE.

Bedroom planning

2010-05-31T11:31:00.003+12:00

After finding out that I have to stay in a cast for another 7 weeks - which means that on our first holiday in 3 years I will have to look at the infinity pool and not get in them I feel a bit flat.
I'm cheering myself up browsing for decorating inspiration for the new bedroom we are planning.

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I don't think I will go with black furnishings as I want the room to have a softer look, more of a holiday feel as it will be my parents holiday home.
But this lovely pink throw from Wallace and cotton will look great with the gray and yellow.

friday again

2010-05-28T11:21:00.003+12:00

Is it me or are the weeks flying by at the moment - well they have been the last two days have been a bit slow with not being able to do much, I didn't realize how many little crafty things I did everyday.

Anyway I am looking forward to having a quiet afternoon while my youngest goes on a play date.
I want to watch last nights episode of Sarah' House that I recorded last night.

Sarah Richardson is the well known Canadian TV designer who along with Tommy creates some amazing houses.I love the classic relaxed style that she brings to a room, although I can't ever imagine my own house looking like that I hope to be able to create a little corner of classic style this year when we build our new extension for my parents.

Here are a few images from mine and my husbands favorite project Sarah's summer cottage -set on an Island until I watched this show I never realized how varied a country Canada is looking forward to visiting it one day.

Irina Graewe

2010-05-26T12:49:00.003+12:00

Well this morning has been fun I have spent most of my time at A & E after slipping on the deck on my way out to walk the dog - turns out I have broken my wrist which is pretty painful.
So the next couple of days might be a bit light on postings.

Will leave you with some lovely images of stylist Irina Graewe

Interview with Allison Langton from Bigprint Little

2010-05-25T09:20:00.005+12:00

Good Morning readers and welcome to another day of firsts here at Batch No.Designs blog - I am excited to bring you my first ever blog interview !!

I would like to introduce you to Allison Langton a very talented textile designer and illustrator based in Melbourne Australia.

Can you tell us a little bit about your background and how you came to commercial illustration.
I studied Textile Design at uni, majoring in print design. When I finished, I worked full-time in sales and visual merchandising for a home ware company in Melbourne while I worked on my portfolio and started to build up some freelance textile design work. I decided on a whim to send some samples of my illustration work to a few editors of various magazines and was lucky enough to get some work!

Who and what have been your major influences over the years
My major influence would be my mum who was always sewing/embroidering and making beautiful patchwork quilts when I was a child. She also owned a fabric store while I was in high school and made me work there every Saturday morning! So it was from her love for textiles and design that mine grew.

What would be your dream commission
llustrating a book would be a wonderful opportunity ... and perhaps one day having my own fabric range ...

What would be your top tip for young illustrators
Patience and persistence. It takes a long time to build up a regular client base. It has been a little easier for me having both textile design and illustration work, so perhaps see if you can spread your talent out into different fields.

Would you like to recommend some other illustrators that you think our readers might also like

I love Kat Macleod

and Edwina White

and Tamsin Ainslie

and Oliver Jeffers

and Penelope Dullaghan

and pretty much every illustrator represented by the Jacky Winter Group

What are you looking forward to this year ...

Some time off to pursue some of my own projects...

What do you like most about blogging ...

I love that I have made such wonderful friends from all around the world. There really is a great camaraderie amongst bloggers - and I love that!

What's your favourite thing to do on your day off....

I love the library. I think if I wasn't a designer I would like to be a librarian.

Here are a few images of Allisons work for you.

Thank you Allison for taking the time with us today, If you would like to ask Allison anything else please leave a comment or pop on over to her lovely blog Bigprint Little.

Minu

2010-05-25T09:10:00.000+12:00

Minu is a German artist turned New Zealand resident now living in Wellington working as an independent illustrator,toymaker and artist.

I was lucky enough to be able to see all her lovely work in person when I visited Wellington last year and went to the Frank Kitts markets, I came home with this lovely little fox girl print.

My little one would love this bear but I think he might have to share it with me how cute does it look.Another of her very cool prints.
You can find Minu's products on etsy and on Felt .

WOW

2010-05-25T09:00:00.000+12:00

Talking of Wellington I am hopping to be back there for the World Of Wearable Arts in September.
WOW is a spectacular piece of artistic theatre and you do just that through out the show WOW my jaw dropped at all the amazing designers from around the world.
Started in 1987 to showcase creative textile arts it has now grown into a truly international event with 150 garments being judged from around the world for the grand prise of $100,000.
Its hard to do it justice but here are two images I found for you.

This rabbit was quite amazing so detailed and all of those bits looked just like pussy willow buds - also called rabbit ears.

Now to the reason I was thinking so early about WOW well i stumbled across two perfect accessories that I could wear for the evening and I thought I would share them with you - bare in mind that everyone takes this event seriously and dresses up as its a special night.

First up I love these beautiful neck cuffs on etsy the felting is just lovely - Mr T might think these were a bit too much but its still a bit cold in September :)

Then a bit more sedate these lovely wraps found by Bonzie.

Tully and Gardener

2010-05-24T08:44:00.002+12:00

I am very excited to be able to share with you this morning our first shop tour.
In keeping with our Monday morning green theme I would like to introduce you to Tully and Gardener a boutique garden store on Richmond Road in Auckland.

The window displays draw you in and once inside you are not disappointed, a perfectly designed space awaits you with stunning plants and all the garden accessories that you could wish for.

Trina Tully, talented garden designer heads up a staff of passionate gardeners who are on hand to give you advice on plant choices. From helping you dress your home with beautiful potted colour, to providing you with clever German designed self watering containers for your topiary.

I would like to thank Trina and Ellie for their time and enthusiasm, Tully and Gardener is a lovely slice of green paradise in the city that is well worth a visit.

Urban Greenery

2010-05-24T08:25:00.002+12:00

I stumbled across artists Edina Tokodi and Jozsef Valgi-toth at the weekend and knew I had to post about their Urban Greenery project Mosstika.
This has been an ongoing project since 2007 where they create moss art in and around the Brooklyn area .Found Via Twig and thistle

Papernstich

2010-05-21T19:26:00.004+12:00

One of the blogs I read is papernstich by Brittni one thing that I hadn't noticed until recently is that she has set up an online shop to show case handmade artists work - Papernstich Shop.
Unlike other market place sites they promote quality over quantity with great results, here are a few of my favorites...

Water bottles and mugs from Pretty N Preppy

Cool bag from Drika.b

Have to admit that it was the big button that got me on this one oh and the colour too from ira Grant.

Cute little necklaces from woodland and Belle.

Fresh inspiration for autum

2010-05-20T19:27:00.002+12:00

I went looking for some inspiration for some new colour choices for an idea that is forming - hopefully will be able to show you more on that tomorrow.

Who could not smile and be inspired by all the great colours in the workspace of "somethings hiding in here" one of my favorite crafting duo's and how neat is it !

I am totally jealous of all the above tape in that probably led me to clip the next to images first up from Decor8 vases decorated with Japanese tape.

Then just cute packaging ideas from Nothing elegant.

Next a colour board I have had on my files for a while and don't have a credit for, I love the rich pinks mixed with deep dark's.

Finally I really want to do something with these rich berry/jewel colours in this mood board from Postcards and Pretties as the Autumn is fast approaching and they are so warm.

Stylist Portland Mitchell

2010-05-20T19:17:00.003+12:00

A few lovely images from the portfolio of stylist Portland Mitchell.

I had to add this one at the bottom as if fitted in with the sumptuous berry / jewel colours of the earlier post.

Irene Suchocki

2010-05-19T10:09:00.003+12:00

Photographer Irene Suchocki images have a lovely softness about them that draws you in and makes you want to look further.
Irene is a self taught photographer now based in Montreal, you can buy her prints on line at her etsy shop and stop over at her blog eye poetry.

Ruby & Willow

2010-05-18T19:42:00.003+12:00

I seem to have a bit of a wedding theme going on at the moment I thought you might enjoy looking at some lovely invites.

Ruby and Willow is a New Zealand company owned by Kate Holland who provides custom wedding stationery. She also authors a lovely wedding blog called magnolia Rouge with lots of eye candy for you.

I love this one,the mixture of orange and brown paper is a winner.

As well as creating what ever you might be dreaming of, Kate also has a wide range of ready designed options that you can customise with colour and font choices .

Packaging

2010-05-18T19:20:00.003+12:00

Its a while since I showed some nice packaging images.

I was reminded about how great it is to see other peoples packaging to give you cute ideas for your own by Olive Manna' s lovely store, she has SO many lovely things that you can use for wrapping.

A Creative Mint's images are always lovely .

Cute coloured pegs by Crown Binery.

These homemade jams are made into even more of a gift with wooden spoons tied with tiny wooden mushrooms, by this is love forever.

Lovely wrapping by Oh hello friend.

Eat,Drink,Chic

2010-05-17T10:12:00.000+12:00

I wanted to start Monday with a great new blog that I found over the weekend ( while I was in bed with a cold ) .
Eat,Drink,Chic is great such a lots of lovely things to look at, now I have a list of new blogs and paper products to look up for you.
Written by Amy who is a graphic designer turned blogger and stylist it is fresh and fun my favorite posts to read were about her recent wedding - they invited all their friends to an engagement party and then told them they were going to get married right there and then great photos and information on how to produce the look yourself .
I will definitely try the hanging bottles with flowers this year for Christmas as the whole family is coming and I want it to be very special.

Wedding Photography

2010-05-17T09:16:00.000+12:00

Is it me but I've noticed that wedding photography seems to have a different quality, it is so light and bright and makes you want to smile.
I know it could be that all the people in the photos are happy, but i have tried to grab a few images from NZ wedding photographers that are not people to see if they still look like that.

Above images from Fiona Andersen who is based in the South Island lovely blog.

Above photos are from Jel Photography they have a lovely portfolio and are based in Auckland , thought I would go with some flowers as its Monday.
What do you think still lovely - I think so.

Friday thoughts

2010-05-14T17:42:00.000+12:00

Its Friday and thought I would do it a bit differently today and share a few things I'm looking forward to.

Are you excited about the national stationery show I am and I'm in New Zealand , but I love seeing all the reviews in all my favorite blogs .
I love seeing the new colour trends coming through, the great illustrations, all that letterpress - for a paper addict like me its just heavenly.

I will try to do a good round up of my favorites but here's a little teaser for you from Galison

I wanted to let you know about a new online magazine that I found over at Decor8 and Poppytalk Its called "Sweet Paul" named after the original blog and is a lovely mix of food which it looks like I would manage to make ( photographed beautifully) and ideas for entertaining - just lovely. Both Holly and Jan have done round ups of their favorite e-magazines.

The above image is from Decor8 I couldn't work out how to share them with you myself more reason for you to pop on over and look for yourself :)
Now I have to check out all the others they suggested.

I would like to make doughnuts like these ones from Cannelle at Vanille but the idea of all that hot oil makes me nervous so instead I am looking forward to our regular dog walk on Sunday morning with coffee and doughnuts a happy dog eating a stick and kids playing.

A buzzy day

2010-05-14T13:50:00.000+12:00

sorry about the lack of post yesterday - my head felt like it was filled will a million of these little fellas !
I spent some quiet time putting together a gift box for my little sister which is long over due hopefully she won't read this before it arrives with her as I'm going to give you a sneak peek and share some of the cute downloads I used.

Cute fall inspired tags by Creature Comforts

These little fruity guys are bookmarks from Jinjerup - who's blog always has super downloads.

These cute little tags are by Erin over at paper and stitch

some of the little bits I make

meters of lovely ribbon - on sending ribbon to a friend I always go with 3 meters as 1 is never enough so they should be able to do a few projects with 3.
I pop a few other bits in to but they will be surprises in case you are watching Miss B.

Wednesdays stylist Sibella Court

2010-05-12T09:42:00.000+12:00

Today I thought I would share some eye candy from one of Australia's most successful stylists Sibella Court , you can check out more of her portfolio over on her very cleverly designed web site- The Society inc

Emma Knowles

2010-05-12T09:36:00.000+12:00

From this mornings post you might deduce that I am feeling a little hungry - lovely food styling from Australian Emma Knowles.

Grey with a shot of Orange

2010-05-11T20:30:00.000+12:00

Today has been a one of the first real grey day of the season so I thought I would chear myself up with some shots of orange.

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Floral Blogs

2010-05-10T15:50:00.000+12:00

Today I thought I would write about some of the floral related blogs that I regularly read.

First up is Housemartin a lovely blog written by the lovely lady (she never seems to mention her name ) who owns floral and home ware boutique store Ink and Peat in Portland.

It is always lovely to see the different floral creations that they create in the store and gaze at the lovely shots of the store interior which they change each season.
You can tell from the photos that these girls have an eye for style and display.

Don't those images just make you want to go shopping !

Floral Verde

2010-05-10T15:48:00.000+12:00

Floral Verde is a newer addition to my blog list, but great for bit of wedding inspiration, I love the flower shots.

And had to show you the terrariums that she has just posted about you can find all the instructions on how to make your own here.

Apartment therapy

2010-05-10T15:46:00.000+12:00

A great source for all thing Eco and green is Apartment Therapy's Green site RE-NEST, always worth a look if you want to find cool environmental options.
What about planting a wall of plants inside your house ! check out the full post here.

100 posts

2010-05-08T07:14:00.000+12:00

Just realized this morning that I have reached 100 post Yippee I never thought I would keep writing this long but now I'm hooked - Thank you to all of you that are out their reading hope you are enjoying it too.
Thought I would leave you with something to smile about - this is woody who is my constant companion and always cheers me up Happy weekend and happy mothers day ( can't wait for my card boys).

And Then Design

2010-05-07T11:20:00.000+12:00

Its that time again when we are all looking forward to the weekend and in need of some good design candy.

This great side table and coffee table by 'And then design' caught my eye last weekend and when I went over to their website it had lots of other great stuff .
And Then Design was started by British designers Samuel Write and Jamie Bowler, ones to watch I think.

This chair is not totally me but I have to admit that its still cool - don't you love the Polaroid with pin images their whole site is like that.

Nadia Pignatone

2010-05-07T11:19:00.000+12:00

Nadia Pignatone's ceramics are really beautiful, hand produced in Manhattan her newly launched Blossoms collection are quite stunning with laser cut kimono fabric designs decorating the outsides.
while there is a very organic simplicity with her Drips collection which would suit any interior.

Etsy shopping

2010-05-06T19:27:00.000+12:00

Today I have spent most of my day on a business course learning some new things - hence some very late in the day posts.

So after a long day some retail therapy with a couple of Etsy shops that I liked this week.

Gloilocks and body create the most sumptuous looking body products that I have seen in a while and their photography and descriptions are just perfect.

For example this is one of their sugar cream scrubs Yummy and this is how they introduce it ...

"Steam billows rolling off a vessel of fresh made Turkish coffee, marshmallow goo tainted by graham cracker crumbs, toasted hazelnuts and blanketed in black chocolate."

One of the cute perfumes - "Honey Tree - Quite rich! Right from the bee hive honey, amplified by seductive essence of resinous vanilla, darkened by a passing waft of mild rare wood smoke."

Some beautiful fine art prints from aptly named Blissful Images

Cute prints by Traci Edwards.
I love this clever 3D bamboo wall clock made by Keith Moore

Ditte Isager

2010-05-05T18:03:00.000+12:00

Our first Wednesday photographer is Ditte Isager - born and raised in Copenhagen she is now living and working in New York.
I wanted to share this group of images with you today as they are lovely and calming and just what I need at the moment.

Photographer Hallie Burton

2010-05-05T17:36:00.000+12:00

This week I stumbled on a new photographer to share with you, if you like this blog then I'm sure you will like the work of Hallie Burton. Be sure to take the time and browse through her online folio.

Upon A Fold

2010-05-04T14:12:00.000+12:00

Upon a fold is a beautiful paper based online store, which also has a great blog for all you paper lovers.
When I was over having a browse recently their were SO many things I liked. I have picked out three things for you today so that it will tempt you over to their site for a better look.
Great news for me its Australian based so postage is not to much !

From the beautiful cards and stationery range how about this Carrier Pigeon by Japanese artist Ayame Kikuchi.

A paper Dolls House designed by husband and wife team Joe Freedman and Llisha Helfman - all laser cut and you don't even need glue !

This book looks amazing and is now on my must have list it features over 50 paper artists and their works.

Leaves and Paper

2010-05-04T13:33:00.000+12:00

I loves the leaves when they are falling ( not the raking ) the changes in colours and the crisp crunch as you walk, the closest I get to frost under foot don't you love that the first frost when you can walk across the grass and it cracks.
Sadly we rarely get frost now in Auckland or by the time I'm up its melted ! Anyway I digress.

Yesterday I thought I would try to make some gift wrap decorations with some of the leaves not perfect but not too bad - hole punch the leaves to make threading easier and put the flower in at the very last minuet and pick something with a bit a stalk that you can cut back.

Stunning Flowers

2010-05-03T10:50:00.001+12:00

All these lovely photos are by artist Ethanollie from over on flickr - all fresh from her back yard just perfect.

8 april. 10 am., originally uploaded by ethanollie.

Planters

2010-05-03T10:25:00.000+12:00

These planters are made by LA mixed media artist and designer Kelly Lamb.
Made from cast concrete I love the raw modern feel of them.

Friday Designs

2010-04-30T11:16:00.000+12:00

Its Friday the sun is shinning and my long time best friend is arriving tonight from oz and we are going out for sushi and sake lots of !! I can't wait - How are you going to spend your weekend ?
I want to fit in a walk on the beach with friends and some reading too.

I want to start today with this super cool design for a sleeping module for use in public places.

This one is in Beijing airport.

The sleep box designed by Arch group in Russia looks so good , the idea is that it can provide everyone with safe, cheep, clean, affordable sleeping accommodation.

The box is well designed and has built in LCD TV, wifi and sockets for laptops - the bed even changes its own linen and if you want extra you just pay a bit more.

I wonder if this would be something that governments could fund for well know homeless areas where there is not enough hostel accommodation ? Its the safety thing that I'm thinking of.

Boundary Desk

2010-04-30T11:15:00.000+12:00

I'm always looking for good desks that are a bit fun too, because who doesn't need a desk in their life right !
I spotted this one called the boundary desk by Felix De Pass it is a lovely plain design that you can then add on all different types of accesories.

Something for the kids

2010-04-30T11:13:00.000+12:00

When I saw this product it made me smile because when my kids were younger they loved to sit and splash in buckets on the lawn - one of these would have been perfect.
The "sweet cake" is designed by KG design and can be used from a baby bath, pet bath, garden planted to an ice bucket.
I also liked these cute little egg cups with their space for a spoon.

last but not least Geninne's art blog

2010-04-30T11:12:00.000+12:00

I'm not sure if I have posted about Geninne's art before but she lives in Mexico and paints the most amazing little nature paintings mostly birds so as my last post before the weekend I suggest you fly over there for a look as I think she is very talented and her work would fit on any ones wall.

bloggers block

2010-04-29T21:20:00.000+12:00

What do you do with bloggers block ?

Go see a friend and chat over a cup of tea
Go and feed the ducks at the park stale crackers and get scared when big black swans sneek up behind you and hiss
Make chocolate brownies ummm yummy
Then eventually late at night get your act together and post something.

Sanna Annukka

2010-04-29T21:00:00.000+12:00

I have had these birds booked marked for a time so thought I would share them with you today after eventually managing to find my way back to the artists name.
Sanna Annukka is an illustrator and print maker from England.
She is half English and half Finnish and you can see that her Finnish half has defiantly inspired her work, her summers were spent in Finland and Lapland.
I love the strong bold print style she uses, this tin is extra special as it reminds me of England oh how I miss M&S.
You might also recognise her style from Keane's popular album cover.

Stylist Lucyina Moodie

2010-04-28T08:20:00.000+12:00

Well its Wednesday and that means that I have some eye candy to share with you in the form of stylist Lucyina Moodie's work.
I love the cool fresh look and feel of this set of images.