The Crafter's Way 131 - Blogging Around Australia

 Here is this week's Messenger column , Blogging around Australia.

 It’s been a while since we visited some of the inspiring craft blogs in the creative world. I thought we might stick close to home and blog around Australia. Apologies to the Northern Territory, I simply couldn’t find any craft bloggers from that neck of the woods.

http://www.ginevra.org/blog/ this blog is our first from NSW. This is a really easy to navigate blog with categories on craft, amigurumi, knitting and sewing. No tutorials.

http://plainjanecreations.blogspot.com/ NSW be sure to check out the author’s gorgeous knitted then felted slippers.


http://twitchyfingers.blogspot.com/ ACT The author has been blogging since 2006 so there is a lot of content here, unfortunately not all of it is craft. What’s there is inspiring.

http://slowmaking.blogspot.com/ ACT One to make you re-think the joys of instant gratification.

http://need2knit.blogspot.com/ ACT Anybody who has a stash addiction will relate to the author’s recent de-stashing dilemmas.


http://creatingnunde.blogspot.com/ Vic Trying to craft using recycled materials. A girl after my own heart.

http://artylady.blogspot.com/ Vic One of my favourite pics from this bunch. The author says, “My work is quick, not pain-stakingly perfect - there is too much else going on to worry about perfection.


http://1heartkn1tt1ng.blogspot.com/ Tasmania More knitting, Just in case you weren’t aware that knitting is hugely popular.


http://joanm.blogspot.com/ SA. The author has a novel way of displaying here finished creations.

http://stitchingatstonecottage.blogspot.com/ WA My other favourite due to the Reverse Applique.


http://www.artistsblog.com.au/ Qld Gorgeous, gorgeous images of the artist’s illustration ad calligraphy work.


http://anaussiefelter.blogspot.com/ Qld I got itchy fingers when I started seeing the images of these felted creatures.


Enjoy your trip, it’s cheaper than a holiday.

When I wrote the post Celebration Pendants I couldn't remember the name of the lady who creaed the idea for re-using the wire from the Champagne Corks.

 I can tell you her name is Christine Meissner. I love it!

The Crafter's Way 130 - Upcycle Inspiration

Here is this week's Messenger column, Upcycle Inspiration



The Moreton Bay Regional Council Libraries have a wonderful variety of craft books to borrow. Many of these books are recent releases. These books all came from the Redcliffe Library.

Lost Art of Towel Origami by Alison Jenkins (736.982JEN)

I kid you not. I found this book in the craft section of the library. I must admit I borrowed it because the concept made me laugh. I wasn’t disappointed. Even the authors in their introduction warn that a serious sense of humour is needed. Like most books on origami, the section that covers techniques is covered in detail. The designs humorous and playful, they would add the perfect finish to a wedding present of a towel set.

The Book of Ornamental Knots by John J. Hensel (746.4222 HEN)

While were are still tying ourselves in knots I thought I’d have a look at a book on ornamental knots. This book is a bit more serious. I find ornamental knots a bit challenging. After a bit???? of frustration I eventually manage to create the knot. For the first time ever I was able to follow the author’s instruction and create the knots first go. The one recommendation that I would give is to read the authors introduction to each knot thoroughly. This is where he tells you how much cord you need. A list of materials would have been helpful and easier to follow. If you haven’t tried knotting since you your scouting/girl guide days this one might just be for you.

The Button Craft Book (745.45 CUS)

Using buttons in your craft projects is all the rage again. This book isn’t just a how –to. It’s a fascinating read in its own right. Learn about the history of different types of buttons and their uses. Have a go at creating your own unique buttons to use as embellishments. The gallery photos give some wonderful ideas and also some that just shouldn’t be attempted. Note to self: never cover a car with buttons.

Smocking by Anne Andrew (746.44028)
My cousin has lent me her mother’s smocking pleater. I was very excited that is until I realized that I had no idea how to use it. It didn’t come with instructions. Off to the library I went and came home with this book. It’s quite old, which is probably why the information was so useful. Great instructions and diagrams not only for the pleater but the smocking stitches as well. Projects weren’t my cup of tea but I’m still a long way from making something. Had the information I needed.

Fridge Finds

When I first finished the fridge magnets we had nothing to display them on. Alan painted a board with some magnetic paint to create the  initial display.

This morning on our way to the Post office we noticed that someone had thrown out not 1 but 2 fridges. they had even removed the freezer door. We drove around the block and picked up the freezer door.

A quick wipe over with a wet cloth and now we can display our FRIDGE magnets properly.

Yorkshire Publishing Company Writing Contest

I decided to enter Yorkshire Publishing Writing Contest. The main reason was they had all of the deadline dates that would encourage me to work.

So just before the deadline for Round One I submitted my proposal. From there they would pick out their top 15.

Today they posted their list and I'm into Round 2.The proposals were judged on creativity, marketability, writing style and concept. Makes all the time I spent writing over the last 2 days while the sun was shining for the first time in weeks worth it.

Can't stay here all day, I've got a book to finish.

The Crafter's Way 129 - Comic Exhibition

Here is this week's Messenger Column. Follow the link to download magazine.

Comic Exhibition

If you have teenagers who are into comics then this exhibition may be of interest. Burger Force : the exhibition, curated by Sally Flynn, puts a multi-media spin on the traditional comic book, revealing behind the scenes work, limited edition artworks and life size comic panels.

The exhibition will feature artworks from the recently launched independent comic series of the same name. It features heavily modified photographs of real people and places and is created using a combination of computer software and hand retouching. If you aren’t aware of Burger Force the comic you can view the first issue online at www.burgerforce.com. This edition sets the scene for Burger Force’s undercover agents, who switch from serving thick shakes and fries to thwarting threats to civilisations by diabolical masterminds.



While the exhibition is on now a series of interactive workshops for young people will be run during National Youth Week (10th -18th April). Get an insight into pop culture when Brisbane-based writer and director Jackie Ryan, visits Redland Art Gallery, Capalaba, to conduct the workshops.

Burger Force Youth Workshops

Making Burger Force, with creator Jackie Ryan


For: 13 to 17-year-olds


RSVP: Phone 3829 8768 or email simone.jones@redland.qld.gov.au for more information and to register interest. During this hands-on workshop comic creator, Jackie Ryan, will introduce participants to pop culture and techniques she uses. The participants will create and shoot their own scenes.



Burger Force Writing Workshop, with Jackie Ryan.


For: 15 to 18-year-olds


RSVP: Phone 3829 8910 or email elise.parups@redland.qld.gov.au to book or for more information. Jackie Ryan will provide the inside scoop on the creation of Burger Force, Louise Martin-Chew will guide participants through the critical writing process for the arts. Some of the resulting critiques will be presented to local media for publishing.



For more information, visit www.more2redlands.com.au/ArtGallery or call 3829 8899.

Somerset Studio Magazines Instore

There was much excitement in the shop this week when our first order of Somerset Studio Magazines arrived. Okay I was excited, Alan not so much.

We now have available  Somerset Studio.

Green Craft Magazine, that's the one my bags are in.

And Altered Couture. I love this magazine. So full of inspiration for upcycling clothes.

You can purchase them directly from the blog. Just click on the image in the sidebar.

Celebration Pendants

We have been saving the wire tops off Champagne corks for ages now. I had no idea what we could do with them but I was sure that they would come in handy. No idea until my Artist's Copy of Green Craft magazine arrived. In the gallery section was the cutest wire creations by.....??? Here I have no idea cause I lent my copy to the Baker's wife but as soon as I get it back I will insert the lady's name. She deserves the credit.

Anyway, I thought I could twist some into my own style of pendant. It was actally a little hard on the fingers and each one took more than one wire, some as many as three. Here I was adding some jump rings to thread the cord through.

I finished each with a sliding knot so that you can adjust the necklace to suit.

The cord is actually black but I needed to lighten the photo so you could the knots.

Now I'm off to list one of these on etsy.

Embellished Bag in the Making

One of my neighbours is quite crafty. She particularly loves to knit. Like me she always has her ey out for a bargain, especially at a garage sale. At a recent sale she scored  a bag of fabric. In amongst it was this piece. She couldn't think what she would us it for so she gave it to me.

It is a faux denim fabric. The print actually looks a little undefined, a bit like a crayon rubbing. When I first looked at it I only saw the pockets and belt keepers. A closer look revealed this lovely floral scroll outline.

I grabbed some of my variegated cotton. Yes, it is pink. I spent a couple of lazy moments backstitching some of the motifs. I'm going to make it into a bag. Hopefully this week. I'll post a picture when it's done.

Craft Show Preparations

TrishAlan Designs will be attending the Sydney Stitches and Craft Show from the 14th -18th April.

Preparations  began in earnest at the beginning of the year. Every time I look at Alan he is either making the kumihimo disc and marudais or packaging the kits. I will be doing lots of classes over the five days. I'll post about the classes soon.

All those variegated threads I have been dyeing are now wound and tagged ready for Sydney.

 The printer is in overdrive printing out copies of the Kumihimo Book to take with us.

With the Melbourne Show only 2 weeks later I am now concentraing on stock for that. Today we have a bit of sun. The first in weeks. I'm washing out 22m rolls of fabric. Make hay while the sun shines. Washing machine is beeping at me better go and see what is going on.

The Crafter's Way 128 - BrisStyle 2010

Here is this week's Messenger column.


Those talented Creatives from BrisStyle are kicking off another year of fabulous handmade goodies with their first market for 2010 on Saturday March 6th at St Augustine's Church, Racecourse Rd, Hamilton 9am - 2pm.

BrisStyle is a cooperative group of talented Brisbane Craft Artists. BrisStyle, a not for profit group, was formed in March 2008 through a shared love of creating beautiful things. Two years later the group has swelled in numbers, and is a happy family for those who understand that little shiver of excitement that comes from producing handmade goods. BrisStyle Members will be sharing that excitement throughout the year with the introduction of some additional themed markets. Get out you diaries and start planning your handmade shopping.


BrisStyle Indie Designers Markets


• Saturday March 6th,


• Saturday June 5th, St Augustine's 9am - 2pm


• Saturday September 4th, St Augustine's 9am - 2pm


• Saturday December 4th, St Augustine's 9am - 4pm


BrisStyle Indie Eco Market – Highlighting the recycled and repurposed.


• Saturday July 10th, St Augustine's 9am - 2pm


• November 6th, St Augustine's 9am - 2pm

BrisStyle Indie Twilight Markets – New Market supported by Brisbane City Council


• Friday April 30th, King George Square 5pm - 9pm


• Friday July 30th, King George Square 5pm - 9pm


• Friday Nov 19th, King George Square 5pm - 9pm


• Friday Dec 17th, King George Square 5pm - 9pm

BrisStyle Indie Mother & Child Market


• Saturday May 8th , St Augustine's 9am - 2pm


• Saturday October 9th, St Augustine's 9am - 2pm


Each market BrisStyle supports a charity. This Markets proceeds are being donated to the Leukaemia Foundation. Be sure to support this worthwhile cause. See you there.

We've Been Featured

We've been featured by Creation Cottage

This is new Blog. Should be a good one to follow.

Notebook on Radio 4BC

This week on 4BC I was asked to comment on Notebook Magazines column the Homemade Revolution.

The Magazine  stated "Borne out of the Global Financial Crisis, our throwaway society has come full circle and has embraced the sanctuary that is home. In particular, people are making things again – sewing, knitting and fixing – with their own hands." It profiles the return of our crafty ways, and how long-held traditions that managed to skip a generation (or two) are also being influenced by the Internet. It may be what Grandma did, but you can also blog it, pledge it, and Twitter it.

 I caught up with Rebecca Cason from Edward and Lily who is a Brown Owl.  The Brisbane Group has 63 members however it seems to be climbing every week so there's been a lot of interest in it. The members range from experienced through to beginner/hobbyist, with probably 75% beginner.

Rebecca said most Owls are aged 25-40 with only a handful over 40. A lot of them want to learn crochet which Rebecca thinks is a bit of a trend at the moment, a lot had grandmothers who crocheted plus it's portable so they can carry it around with them. Not a huge amount sew but are definitely keen to learn. A few are into papercrafts. The crafts the Brown Owls will be doing this year are crochet, knitting, embroidery, paper crafts, applique, macrame, softies so this probably is a bit of an indicator of what they're into.  Above all they just love to get away from it all for a couple of hours, do a little crafting and chat with like-minded people.

Ali Ward said that she wasm interested in the hand made crafty thing skipping a generation. Our parents were baby boomers. They could afford brand new and brought it. The world was speeding up and women started working outside the home. Ali said "My grandma went through the war and knew what it was to go without and make do with what you could make from things around you. I grew up in clothes she made for me as I watched her sew at the kitchen table. Now with the amazing skills she taught me, and the ancient machine I inherited after her death, I sew for my own children one off special things that fit their needs and wants and are individual. A different motivation from my granmothers but one that brings me great joy. Here's to making things with a little bit of love in them! "

Debbie from Jaffajaf had a different crafting experience while growing up. Debbie related this story "I'm really lucky in that both of my Grandmothers are very handy, my Paternal Grandmother was a Milliner and my Maternal Grandmother sold her own hand-sewn clothes out the back of my Grandfathers van. But it
hasn't seemed to skip a generation. I don't know if was because my folks didn't have money, or that Mum was just into crafts but I grew up in hand-made clothes and lot's of DIY jobs around the house."

Debbie has the final word on the new craft wave. "I'm glad that all the women in my family are big crafty bods it's made it almost like working within my own little arts group, but it's all my own family :)"