Little cooties

2011-11-05T16:29:00.001+11:00

Today is hot and the sun seems to burn within minutes. So of course, I'm making snowflakes.

We have spent the morning out and about, a little bit of gardening, a little bit of sport and 4 new gold fish, but this afternoon we are hiding indoors.

Craft is the order of the day it seems.

George and the kids are making images with small beads that get ironed once finished. The children are quiet, engrossed and happy to be next to dad (who finds that his fingers are too large for this delicate work!)

I've made some more snowflakes using the Crayola Model Magic recommended, and although I like it, it seems a little fragile for my liking, I love how it is rounded and soft.

I prefer the silver glitter, but as it's for Christmas, thought these might also be popular.

Hope you are having a lovely day in or out of the sun :)

Gearing up for Christmas

2011-10-30T19:30:00.001+11:00

This long weekend I am spending time on getting some practise with Christmas thank you gifts.

I was inspired by Jill Dubien from Meet the Dubiens, who made some gorgeous snowflakes with her children.

I thought they would be lovely thank you gifts for teachers and carers who give so much to my children during the year.
After some fun moments with Eva making the decorations and then making cookies I started decorating them. I'm not sure which one works best, although I really like the silver on the outside snowflake.

I am using a fantastic cookie recipe that I found on Cake Journal. Louise makes beautiful cookies and decorates them to perfection. I am learning lots from her. The cookie recipe that I am using is this one - Vanilla sugar cookies. They are crunchy, not too sweet, stay crispy and are easy to decorate. The children have enjoyed my efforts here!

A great tip to make sure the cutter slides out of the cookie dough easily is dipping it into cornflour before cutting with it. Works a treat!

So help me out here, which decoration is your favourite?

My creative Space: Brooch Swap 2011 Take 2

2011-06-08T20:47:00.001+10:00

Unhappy with my other two brooches that I made for the Flowerpress Brooch Swap, I searched and searched within myself thinking again about what I could make that I would be happy to receive, and after searching through some online amigurumi patterns, I came across a gorgeous little Geisha girl that would make the perfect brooch.

Here is my Geisha Girl Brooch.

I so hope that my swap partner likes her.

and now, I'm off to make one for me!
Take a look at what the other swappers have been making here

My Creative space - Booch Swap

2011-05-19T09:45:00.000+10:00

This week has seen me thinking a lot about brooches and has had me trawling through the net looking at all sorts of brooches out there.

I've joined Flower Press in her brooch swap, though the only brooches I've ever made where when I was making silver and gold jewellery, so it's taken a while to get my head around making one of of my current hobby of fabric and wool.

After hours of think time, visualising different approaches and discounting most of them as either too hard, too juvenile, or too easy, I have made a couple that are visually striking and that I hope are wearable for an adult woman, one will be for my swap partner and the other will be used as a present during the year for a special lady.

I have used scrap pieces of fabric that I have been collecting this past year, and although simple, I like the striking contrast between the white cotton and red felt.
The back is a simple blanket stitched pouch filled slightly to give it a more 3D effect.

All I have to do now, I buy some brooch clasps and post!

There are more lovely creative spaces for you to view here - it's a new site too

Cushion Swap 2011

2011-05-11T14:43:00.000+10:00

I entered the 2011 Cushion Swap hosted by Vic at Punky & Me and was very excited to be a part of another swap. It's been sooo long!

Although my original idea for this cushion was going to be a little different, I decided when I mocked it up that it looked too "shop" bought style, so I had to rethink my original idea.

I wanted to use my new crocheting skills of making flowers, and I wanted it to be something original and bright. So I used Spring as an inspiration and came up with this using denim, ribbon and wool with insect buttons.

I just have to finish off the back of it, and send it!!

I hope the receiver likes it and enjoys it.....

My creative space - Cushions

2011-05-04T18:25:00.000+10:00

I'm making cushions this week, some for my caravan and one special one for the 2011 Cushion Swap.

They are both very different to each other and I can't wait to see the finished results.

Here is a little teaser for the cushion swap hosted by Vic

And here are the caravan seat cushions.

The outdated and poor condition original ones seat cushions

I unpicked them to get fabric measurements, and found the original foam was a bit on the dead side.

And the new ones currently on the machine.

Our bed side will be denim

and the other side is a cream vinyl with red border (to match the curtains).

I wasn't sure how my sewing machine would cope, but it's done really well.

Stay tuned for the finished product, and take a look here for more crafty people

Caravan gets the once over

2011-05-04T15:04:00.000+10:00

I went to the block again the other day with the intention of going for a walk with the kids.
I also wanted to give the caravan a bit of a clean just in case it needed it....

IT WAS A MESS!!

As you can see the floors were filthy with baked on dust and mud - euwww!

After some hard core cleaning and some wishing that we had power and I had a vacuum, I finally was able to see the floor again.

Some tlc, lots of bleach and elbow grease and finally i feel comfortable in letting the kids enter and sit down.

Doh... have to sew the cushions now!

And then some curtains.

There were a few gems to be found and although I won't use them for cooking, these pots are really cute

All ours! Finally a dream is realised

2011-04-30T09:46:00.000+10:00

At long last a dream of 20 years is realised with the purchase of a block in Flowerdale, Victoria.

My Dear Hubby has wanted to move to the country for as long as I have been his partner - Waaaaay back in the early 90's, and although we have never made the move to the country, we are now proud owners of a little block in the bush an hour from home. It's small, bushy and quiet. It smells like eucalyptus and the sounds of birds and insects fill our ears.

I hope that this is the start of many memories that we will make here.

I would like my children to know about bush walking, camping under the stars, fishing and relaxing away from noise, traffic and technology. Something they will never find out about in suburbia.

Congratulations George on the dream

My Creative Space - Rocket

2011-04-21T11:19:00.000+10:00

These last few days Lucho has been sick and either flopped on my bed or on the couch. His fever has gone up and down for two days, so today when he asked if we could make a rocket, I knew that he was on the mend.

Today's creative space is about putting a smile on his face.

for more creative people, head over here

My creative space - Curtain call

2011-03-24T11:26:00.000+11:00

I've been wanting to put curtains up in the lounge room for a while, but have not done anything about it... until now.

The time has come for me to make curtains.

I went along to Spotlight and quickly ran out when I saw the prices on pleated curtains. I then made my way to Rathdown Remnants and fell in lust with a double sided curtain fabric. As you can see, it has a beige floral thing happening on one side with cafe / laté stripes on the reverse. The stripes will be visible from the outside.

It is an interesting project as I have never made them before, however, how hard can they be?

Well, the answer is - they can be quite hard if you buy a fabric with a pattern on it and you want the pattern to match up on the curtain once it's hanging!.....

It has been joined, finished and the pencil pleat strip stitched and now they need to be hung for a couple of days before I hem them (on advice from the lady at RR).

I am pretty nervous, having never made curtains and then having chosen a fabric with so much happening on it. I just hope they look good!!!!!

Oh, and now that my creative space is nice and tidy, I am managing to make some other things that have been on the to do list, like this small shoulder purse :)

The original one was looking a bit tired and abused

Others on a creative journey can be found here

My creative space - Big cleanup

2011-03-16T13:22:00.001+11:00

Ohhh, my poor neglected creative space!
Lately it has been used as a holding spot for the "to do later" stuff, but as our lives are busy busy, the pile just grew and grew!
And every time I walked past it I would try to blur the edges of my vision so I wouldn't notice it begging for my attention...

Today, as the children are both out for the day, I decided to give my creative space some loving and change things around while I was at it.

I have had the rolls of wraping paper and contact and drawing paper in an upright box next to my table, but I decided to pack it all away and slide it under.

And after quite a while.... ahhhhhh, space to create and make :)

Happy at last.

Here are other possibly more productive spaces to visit

Ohh, and before I go, did you see the post about the owl that came to visit over the weekend?

It roosted in the tree all day and then left at night fall. Was great to have him spend the day with us.

Owl at our window

2011-03-12T12:03:00.000+11:00

This morning as I was going about my usual Saturday routine, I noticed a fluffy visitor out my kitchen window.

It's one of the owls that lives in a nearby tree filled walking track.
I have posted about them before.

I had thought they had gone, as I hadn't seen them since the storms earlier this year when the nest and little babies fell out of the tree.

Seeing this little one is a welcome surprise, and I am glad they have survived.

He / she is so close I could almost stretch out my hand and touch him through the window, and I resist the urge to find a mouse for him to eat!

A strange summer makes for a confused garden

2011-03-08T18:57:00.001+11:00

This summer has been quite a strange one in Australia due to La Niña effect, massive floods in many parts of Eastern Australia, with the sun and hot temperatures not eventuating.

The vegie patch doesn't quite know what to make of it, and although the tomato plants have produced beautiful tomatoes, they sit on the vine, green, without the power to turn into lovely red delicious globes.

Our japanese pumpkin vine stretches along the ground and twists itself along some twine up to the shed, and although it has lovely yellow flowers, nothing is budding.

I am at a loss and think that I will have to find a great recipe for making something with green tomatoes in it (preferably not fried!)

I hope that Autumn this year is as expected and then the rest of the year follows its usual course, weather wise.

Bunny finished but I have the Amigurumi bug

2011-03-06T11:47:00.000+11:00

My little Easter bunny is finished and she is very happy to out and about. She has been played with and looked at and held and loved.

She will however be joined by another, who it seems will be quite a bit bigger than her, and who I think will make a wonderful present for a little baby about to come into the world.

I couldn't help myself when I stumbled upon this beautiful bunny with free pattern supplied
by Darncat Crochet I just had to make it!

My creative space - Amigurumi bunny

2011-03-03T11:12:00.000+11:00

I've been trying to get this little Amigurumi Bunny ready for a photo shoot for todays My Creative Space, but with limited sleep (awake from 3.30 - 5.30am), my eyes wouldn't focus last night!

So here she is, missing her other ear and face - Atashi from Chobits (absolutely no idea what show she stars in!).

I was originally thinking that I would make lots of them and give them as presents for Easter - instead of chocolates, but she has been quite a lot of work, and I just can't see myself making 6 of them!!

And this is the original with the pattern here:

Can you guess?

2011-03-01T19:18:00.000+11:00

I'm making something with my new found crochet skills.

I found a pattern when I searched for amigurumi animals.

It has been a process of learning how to read a pattern and also how to make new shapes....

some of them look like little sperm... or teeny cod pieces!

can you guess what it will be?

My creative space - Amigurumi hearts

2011-02-17T09:48:00.000+11:00

Wow!! it's been a long time since I've been able to have any space to myself, let alone creative space!!

Actually, I tell a lie, I have been able to snatch a few moments here and there to make my grandmother a few hearts. I promised myself when I went to Chile last year to say goodbye to my auntie (who was very skilled at crochet), that I would learn how to crochet, and now, thanks to Youtube, I have.

When I was there in September, I gave my grandmother a sewn heart, that she sleeps with and prays with. It reminds her of her daughter. But it has seen so much attention that it needs a replacement, and after a few attempts at creating the perfect one, I finally feel confident in sending her this one.

I hope she likes it.

On another creative note, seeing as this in my first free day since last year, I am hoping to have a stab at making this short sleeve blouse....

These crafty people might get you inspired to make something today as well

Banana Muffins

2011-02-16T19:15:00.000+11:00

Lucho started prep this month, and it has taken a bit of getting used to the new routine of pick ups and drop offs. plus there is cricket, and martial arts during the week... and I still haven't got used to stopping everything for that 3.30pm pick up.

Little Eva misses him a lot as now it's just me and her, and I'm infinitely less entertaining than her big brother, even if I take her to the movies to watch tangled.

On Wednesdays though, for a little while longer, Lucho is with me, and today we have made some banana muffins for his lunch box.

And then, i made a lovely coffee to go with the fresh warm muffins... mmmmm yum!
Recipe was supplied by Amanda, the cook from his childcare centre.

Here's the recipe, they were so easy to make, and tasted like coffee shop ones:

Banana Muffins

1/2 cup butter

1/4 cup caster sugar

1 egg - beaten

1 1/2 cups mashed bananas

1 3/4 cup self raising flour

Preheat oven to 200 degrees C and prepare muffin pans.

Blend butter and sugar, then mix in egg and bananas.

Gently fold in self-raising flour.

Spoon into muffin trays and cook for 20 - 25 minutes.

EASY! enjoy :)

Musical furniture

2011-01-16T19:59:00.000+11:00

Our dear neighbours left for greener pastures and calmer lives about a week ago, and they left behind two children who pine for them and two adults who miss the companionship and regular contact.

We have a few things to remember them by though, some gorgeous art work, which I will post about when they are framed and hanging on our wall, many bits and pieces from their home which remind us of them every time we use them, and a piano.

The piano was once owned and used by the Australian playwright David Williamson, it stayed with his ex wife, then over to our neighbours whose children learnt to play on it, and now, although we are not a musical family, it lives with us.

I wanted to have it here, as it is such a beautiful piece of furniture as well as making music, and if we never really learn to use it, it will look lovely in the lounge.

My favourite thing at the moment, is hearing the children playing it at different times of the day, in between other activities, and although out of tune, it still sounds sweet!

This afternoon, Hubby and I gave it a polish with a combination of linseed oil and other potions recommended by an antiques dealer, and it has come up a treat!

Teeny pigs and other rodents

2011-01-10T22:47:00.000+11:00

My children have been asking for a pet for a few months.

My dear son would like to have a snake or lizard (NOT cudldy or sweet!)

My daughter would like to have a fairy (a bit hard to get these days)

I would like to have a cat - but I'm not the one looking for a pet.

So, for Christmas, we (me) chose to purchase and love some guinea pigs - renamed teeny pigs by the children because they're small. We have Flames (all black and short hair and the scaredy cat of the group) Franklin Mott (black and brown with long hair, named after my favourite vampire) and Biscuit (white, black and brown)

So these teeny pigs have a double storey hutch and also a large yard. We joke that they are planning to install a pool and deck chairs next, along with their gazebo.

Apart from a few scary moments, the children have become used to the teeny pigs, and they in turn have become used to us. One of them - Biscuits - is the leader and calls out to me and complains if there is not enough food that he is happy with, while the other two try to not get caught by us. Their favourite food is carrot by far!

One thing I had not thought of, and now makes me rethink the whole guinea pig thing, is that we have another pet coming in on a regular basis and eating during the day.... meet little mouse...

He thinks that he is part of our little family. He is very careful, and very quick, but still is quite happy to pose for a shot or two, and has a penchant for corn.... or anything else...

I think I should have got a cat instead....

Owl Family visit Thornbury

2010-11-17T10:06:00.000+11:00

Last night my husband came in from the back yard and excitedly told me about how he had spotted some owls on our fence. Owls! On our fence! Very Cool! I wished that I could have seen them too... then...

This morning as we were piling into the car to head off to Kinder, some locals walked past and invited us to come owl watching.

There is a family of Tawny Frog Mouth Owls roosting in the trees about 3 houses away. There seem to be two little ones and a mum.

Was a great start to the day, although the Northcote Leader wasn't impressed enough to come and take pics of them.... So enjoy mine

Green thumbs

2010-11-08T16:03:00.001+11:00

This afternoon after a big morning of our favourite music class, Stomper Room and then the park with friends we came back home and decided to harvest some of the delicious and bursting-with-goodness broad beans that have taken over half the veggie patch.

These plants tower over my little ones, and picking the beans became an adventure in the broad bean jungle. They are at an age where they are excited about participating in all things green and tasting food straight from the garden.

I hope that we are instilling a love of home grown food and also the desire to eat what they grow - so far, we have had success with them eating peas and carrots, but not parsnips, leeks or beetroot!

Shelling them was also enjoyable and quite peaceful as we discussed how we might make them for tonights dinner.

It was decided to have them as a salad with a bit of lemon and perhaps some mayonaise on the side.

now I'm crossing my fingers that they will actually eat them!

My Creative Space 4 November 2010

2010-11-04T11:23:00.000+11:00

My creative space is a little all over the place this week;
I have redesigned this blog which I am very happy with!

I have found a name for my caravan - thank you Willy Wag Tail!!
Her new name will be Gypsy! and I hope that under my ownership, she will resemble her name.

This morning I have taken Lucho to his new primary school for his transition program... and much to my surprise I bawled my eyes out as he excitedly walked away with his assigned buddy... they grow up so fast!
I had to call the hubby to calm down, and now wonder what my reaction will be the day he starts school next year!!??

But the most pressing creative item for the day will be to get a quote for redesigning a pair of earrings into a pair of rings.

These earrings have been gifted to my sister and I by our aunt in Chile.

They were my great great grandmothers earrings!

My aunt gave them to me when I was there this year and asked that we make rings out of them, so that my sister and I could share the gift.

They are beautiful earrings and I don't really want to destroy them, but hope that by keeping the flower and stone part intact and adding a band to it, I will be able to keep the original design intact.

Take a look at what others are doing today over at Kootoyoo....

New Look!

2010-11-03T18:42:00.000+11:00

In my last post, I had decided to let the business of Little Cooties rest.

To celebrate my new decision, I have changed the look of my blog.

Now that my business is on hold, and this blog is not necessarily to market myself as a maker, I thought I would update it.

It feels cleaner than my previous layout and I love the highlighted post area at the top! I would like to tweak it a little and put beautiful images there, but for now, it is a little taster of things to come.

I wish I had taken a snapshot of what it looked like to show here, but, we will all have to rely on our memories now!.

What do you think of the new look? I hope you like it.

So come and say goodbye if you can at my last market - Thread Den in North Melbourne. Every item will be 50% off the market price - you can't do better than that!

2010-11-01T22:37:00.001+11:00

So, its been a quiet month for me.

I have been mourning a few things and taking stock of what is important to me.

Mourning the loss of my aunt has been the most painful thing. Travelling to Chile in a rush, forging new relationships with family I have not seen in 20 years was wonderful, and saying goodbye to my aunt was so important, but as yet, still not quite assimilated into my brain. I light a candle for her every day and speak a few words to her, wishing that I could pick up the phone instead.

Back in Australia, i have decided to let my Little Cooties business fold. I have learnt much with this business, and met fantastic women and makers during this time, but financially it is not feasible and it takes to many hours out of my chosen job of motherhood. If I am dedicating my hours to sewing rather than growing the two most important projects of my life, and financially it is not paying off, then why am I doing it?

In any case, I am pleased to let it go. I know that I have the skills, and the knowledge that I can return if I please when the kids are at school, and I have more free time.
My last three markets are to make sure that I sell off as much stock as possible, and the Made n Thornbury market was very successful, where I moved about 50% of my stock. My last market will be at North Melbourne Market - Thread Den, where I hope to sell not only stock, but also my clothes racks and table!

I feel like I am making the right decision. for my sanity and for my family. Like I will have time to dedicate to the things that are important to me.

so to my customers... THANK YOU!!!!!!
to my crafty friends.... I am so happy to have met you!!!!! and hope to continue our friendships

for myself, i hope to have something interesting to say here. I hope to develop this blog into something that is not business driven, but passionate never the less, and that documents my time with my little family and life.

see you soon!

Proud moments

2010-10-18T11:17:00.000+11:00

This weekend was a strange one in Melbourne.
The weather turned cold and wintery again, after giving us all a taste of the spring that is coming, there was lots of rain, wind and dark heavy clouds. The temperature dropped and the heater was turned on again.

Never the less, we ventured outside to the park in hopes that we could have a few moments in the sun, or before the rain started again, and during one of those outings, Lucho graduated from training wheels to "I'm a big boy now bike".

Ever the proud mum, I took a hundred photos, hoping to catch the moment of take off.

My husband took on the typical role of dad running after child in the "catch you if you fall" position.

And we even got Eva riding her bike - which she has been too short to do ever since we bought it over a year ago - but now no longer.

My creative space: Caravan Heaven

2010-10-07T09:17:00.001+11:00

My creative space is about the adventure of a caravan and all that we could do with it! Take a look here for other creative peeps....

I while back we were gifted with a caravan. My lovely cousin used to be the owner and she kept it near Bright where it was a base for her snow getaways. She has decided to live in London and will no longer be needing it. So it is now ours to love and travel with!!

It currently has this as it's home:

It looks like this:

And this is the fabric I will use to make new curtains!!

I have decided to theme it up and make it bright. 60's - 70's inspired.

We have plans to bring it muuuch closer to our home and holiday at the beach.

All she really needs now (apart from some major redecorating!!)
.... is a name....

Beryl perhaps?

Ode to Spring

2010-10-03T16:52:00.003+11:00

Spring has arrived in Melbourne.
I searched my wardrobe for shorts and tshirt and spent the morning in the back yard thinking about harvesting the abundant silverbeet.

Today the weather invited one and all to venture outdoors and celebrate the warmth of the sun, marvel at the blossoms and let rays kiss visible skin.

While at the park, I promised the kids they could have ice cream at home (a very rare treat)...

I used frozen berries - raspberries and blueberries, mixed in a bit of milk and then a touch of sugar, and served it straight from my new Magimix

It was an immediate hit with the kids and I loved it too!

Hope your Sunday has been spent in the sun and relaxing.

My Creative Space

2010-09-02T11:26:00.001+10:00

My Creative space this week has been to document my trip whilst in Chile.
Here, I'm with my dad with a pic of the Andes in the background (excuse the smog...) It looks much clearer after it rains and washes away the pollution.

I have free time in the morning and also in the afternoon, and I have gone on many errands and of course shopping for gifts to take home to the loved ones. Amongst all of that, I have been snapping things of interest on my handy and small mobile phone. The large camera which I thought I would use is tucked safely away and only used when travelling by car to visit relatives, as I would not have it for long if I were to walk down the city streets sightseeing.

Here is a hair salon

A cart selling candied and roasted
peanuts by the side of the road

A replica of the Easter Island Tolomiros

Here are some of the VERY delicious foods I've been consuming....

LOMITO

CHILENITO (merengue and caramel biscuits)

SUSHI wrapped in avocado - not Nori as I am used to seeing - Was very nice

CHACARERO with PISCO SOUR

Eva has a replica of this carousel at home, sent by her Chilean great grand mother and grand aunties

not long to go now till I head back home - 4 days till I see my much missed and loved family again.

And while I'm online, I'm going to take a look here.... you should too :)

Living in an Antique Shop

2010-08-30T11:26:00.002+10:00

Here at my granny and aunt's house the apartment is full of relics from our ancestors that have survived the passage of time and the many earthquakes that rock the country from time to time.

I am surrounded by these pieces of history as I write today

In the background of this photos is a reflection of a portrait of my gran when she was a

young lady just introduced into society.

2010-08-22T21:32:00.000+10:00

I find myself alongside my father in a grey city where everytime I look skywards, I see towering mountains and snow capped peaks. Yes, I remind myself, Dorothy you are a long way from home.

This post is not a happy or creative one, but more like a diary entry.

I`ve come to Chile to say good bye to my beautiful, vivacious, gracious and very sick aunty. I`ve also come to lend a shoulder to those who bear the burden of this grief and who find themselves with the overwhealming task of walking this road.

My aunt is in a grand old hospital, whose walls have seen many years, and survived the many earthquakes that it has been subjected to.

She is in the intensive care unit, unlike any you will find back home, where the family are treated with little respect and are only allowed in to see their loved ones for one hour in the day - 1pm -2pm. It is gut wrenching knowing that one of us could be by her side all day, we could take it in turns to hold her hand. Insead, we are herded in two at a time and then the door is locked once again until tomorrow.

Of course that time of day is sacred to all of us, and from the various sides of Santiago, many who know her will take time out of their day to travel to the hospital, unite, support and talk, while two by two those who are closest visit and caress her - her daughter, her partner, my father, his sister and I. Her mother waits at home praying and talking to her daughters soul.

Alongside the pain and grief, I find gems scattered along my path. People rediscovered, new family found. Bonds that will last a lifetime will be formed. New love will be fostered.

On this visit, I am discovering my fathers family, who are new to me.Wonderful, supportive people who I wish to have known better when I lived here for a year 20 years ago.

I am also meeting my cousins children and husbands/wives. Who delight me and give me a giggle.

Gems amongst the rubble

Colourful Monday

2010-08-16T19:16:00.000+10:00

The horse that is visiting Nellie's house is beautiful, he/she has flowers climbing up his neck, a jockey on it's back and has a sporty theme to him/her.

I feel like I should name it... what's a good horsey name? Pharlap? Mr Ed? Misty? Perhaps Nellie should come and leave a comment and tell us what she is calling it.

Anyway, it's been 24 hours since I first posted images of horse, and here is an update of our speedy artist. Braving the cold Melbourne winter....

This will be the last update about horse for a couple of weeks now, as I am having to travel suddenly to Chile to say goodbye to a loved one.

Today while Nellie painted, and her daughter took care of my munchkins, I was at the Passport Office trying to get the application hurried through.

Fingers crossed and I will be away this Thursday on a 6am flight!

So, it's goodbye from me till next month, where I will post some final piccies and perhaps post some nice moments of my visit to family over the other side of the world... also as cold as Melbourne unfortunately.

A horse next door

2010-08-15T20:40:00.000+10:00

My neighbour Nellie has been commissioned to paint a horse - not for the first time mind you, and I was quite surprised to find a strange man depositing said horse in her back yard the other day. I called her mobile quite quickly advising of the strange event.

Not to worry I was told, horse has been expected.... and will be sent to Tassie when finished

I'll be updating you on how the painting is going, but here is a little taste for now.

We went over this afternoon to pat and stroke the horse and see that it was being taken care of.

And I really couldn't resist... this apron is really seeing action at my house, I love to wear it and so does hubby... pictured saying, "this better not end up on facebook!" No, not to worry hon, just on the blog :)

Drum Roll.....

2010-08-12T19:31:00.000+10:00

And the winner is.....

Catherine! Who said:

"You probably already know Cathie's blog:
http://melbourneepicure.blogspot.com/, but I always love visiting for lovely images and words!"

I too love Cathies blog - images are beautiful and recipes YUMMY!! Thanks for visiting Catherine, I will be in touch to see what goody you would like sent :)

On a complety unrelated topic - I bought two new kitchen implements this week - the first is a bento box egg shaper and the second it a tool that is specially made for making Thai Green Papaya Salad, but I used it for carrots instead! How cute does it look?!

I had hoped that by making the egg look so cute, I would convince Lucho to eat them and like eggs, but no go. Oh well, Eva loves them!

My Creative Space 12 august 2010

2010-08-12T09:01:00.002+10:00

This week has been all about a little boy and a present for his 3rd birthday.

Inspired by this great tutorial I decided to make him a crayon apron using fabric in my stash.

I hope it's a good combination for a big 3 year old who is no longer a baby, and knows it!
And yes, thank you Jorge for pointing out that the animals are upside down.... ooops!

Eva who is a similar size acts as a great model for me - especially in her Little Cooties cord Paddington pants

So today I continue with the apron theme, with these two table cloths given to me by mum, who doesn't use them and would like two cute aprons.
Me being the apron enthusiast, am only two happy to oblige
(as long as I get to keep one!)

Today is the last day to enter my competition, so please take a look and I will be drawing a winner tonight with the kids help.

go for a visit here for more inspiration

Spring has sprung early

2010-08-09T12:14:00.002+10:00

Sunday was our family day, and the weather was glorious. The sun was shining and in the city, people were out and about.

We decided after consultation with the smallest members of our family to go on a boat ride down the chocolate river (the Yarra in Melbourne).

The kids had a ball and so did we.
We rode on a tram, boat and train,
much to their delight.

Thanks for visiting, come and participate in the Little Cooties competition - winner to be drawn on Thursday 12 August

Baking day

2010-08-07T12:12:00.005+10:00

I'm making Banana Bread today.

The recipe can be found on Cathie's blog
along with lots and lots of other yummies.

I hope it turns out as lovely as hers..

Take a look here to enter my giveaway

Edited to add these pics of the very yummy finished product

My Creative Space 5 August 2010 - the gift of giving

2010-08-05T08:58:00.003+10:00

This week has been fun filled and full of little children with big smiles on faces and fueled with friends, food and sweets.

All my creative energy has gone to making smiles.

We've had cake and have sung the birthday song numerous times and to various people. It's been a great time for family, friendship, sharing, and coming together.

And so to make a great week even better, and because today
my creative space is about giving, Little Cooties will be hosting a giveaway,
in a bid to pay it forward for the great things I have received
and the wonderful people I have met since joining the crafting world.
Speaking of wonderful, go over to Kootoyoo's to see what others have been up to.

How do you play I hear you ask?

Let me know which is your favourite blog and why?

Leave a comment to be in the running
For another chance to win, become a follower of the blog andlet me know with another comment.

Please leave you email address so I can contact you if you don't have a blog.
Prize will be drawn on Thursday 12 August at 5pm.

My favourite at the moment is Gerties New Blog for Better Sewing,
just because every time I visit, there is either another great outfit that she has
made, or she has spent enormous amounts of energy showing us how to
sew, cut, drape and adjust. Not only that there is always something interesting
to read and beautiful vintage items to look at.

The other thing I love about Gertie is that she is from Queens, New York, and that to me is exotic and rare, so I get to have a peek-a-boo at a New Yorker

Gertie, thanks for sharing :)

Here is what is on offer.

You can choose one from these items

(whatever would suit you best)

Baby set comes in size 6m or 2

50's obsession

2010-08-03T22:49:00.000+10:00

Ok, I think it's official. I am becoming obsessed with 50's aprons...

I have two very serviceable and beautiful aprons - 50's styled aprons - one which was a swap earlier this year made for me by the lovely Bianca.

One would think that two beautiful aprons (plus numerous unattractive but serviceable ones) would be enough, and they were, but then.... I received an email from etsy... and I just can't get these ones out of my head... They are gorgeous!

You can see the whole range here, and the worst thing of all is that they are just so affordable! I think I'm going to succumb..... this one is my favourite. I wonder if I like them so much because they remind me of dresses I'd love to wear if I had anywhere to wear them to?

Happy Birthday Eva

2010-08-02T09:13:00.000+10:00

we had a great day on Saturday.

eva loved every minute of it and we had smiles all day

amongst the lovely presents received, this one brought a tear to my eye.

thank you J for your creative gift

Giving

2010-08-01T16:33:00.005+10:00

It's such a lovely world here in the blogosphere.

I come here for inspiration, motivation,
education, friendship and encouragement.

The other lovely thing about all you ladies out there, is your ability to give freely without requiring anything other than a comment, support and and the opportunity of following your creative journey.

I have received a few beautiful items to date as you can see here and here.

Last week again I received a fantastic gift from Calico and Co.

Amanda Fuller from Sydney has a great blog with LOTS and lots to see.

She sent me this after I made a comment here. Thank you Amanda :)

I can't wait to sit down with it and a large cup of tea and get my stunted business growing again.

And so, i am paying forward and will also be hosting a giveaway....

Keep a look out for it during the week :)

My Creative Space 29 July 2010

2010-07-29T08:55:00.002+10:00

As it's been cold and wet for days and days, I thought I'd harness my children's creativity and get them to decorate some loot bags for Eva's 3rd birthday party.

I'm really happy with the variety of images they drew.

I've been preparing by making lots of lists and ticking of boxes. Plus runs to this and that shop making sure that I'll be organised and have enough things to feed the hungry munchkins.

My only other concern is that the weather on Saturday behaves enough for Eva's party at the park to be a success... otherwise, it's lots of bodies at my house.

Get inspired here where there are always great things to see

Couples weekend

2010-07-24T13:37:00.001+10:00

This weekend, my parents have offered to have my two cherubs over at their house for two nights!! I'm so thankful for the gift of time and space.

This morning hubby and I went to a local market and bought our missing children some bits and bobs and then went off to breakfast at The Estelle.

We bonded and chatted and laughed and became a couple again. It was lovely.

On our way back to the car we spotted this gem,
lonely and abandoned on the side of the road.

Well, I couldn't resist, and had to bring it home

Now it will be loved at our house

I really love the fairy lining in the bottom drawer

Ahhh said one bed to the other

2010-07-19T16:17:00.000+10:00

It's cold, but the sun is shining here at my side of the world

so out I go, to free my poor vegies from the weeds

Ahhh, said one bed to the other, I'm free at last

YUM said my tummy as I prepare the fresh crop of carrots and radish

Cold Wet Sunday

2010-07-18T16:35:00.001+10:00

What to do with children that are tired of being inside?

Give them some cookie time!

Lumpy Bumpy blobs of fun

Turning my frown upsidedown

2010-07-17T16:44:00.001+10:00

In a bid to get over my frustration at yet another canceled date night due to someone in the family being sick and feverish (4th date cancelled in the past 2 months), I decided to soothe my anger by turning to my craft table.

I have been neglecting the sewing machine and craft table in the past couple of weeks due to other commitments, but today, it was the only thing that was going to make me happy.

I took some wool that I had felted previously, and got to work.

I used the neck of a turtleneck jumper which I had not felted, and sewed it onto the ends of square of blue striped wool

Then I made sausages

A quick dip into my Mum and Granny's collection lets me choose the perfect buttons

The end result is that even though I have no control over the bugs that invade my house, and the mistakes made with over the phone bookings, I can still create something that makes me smile, and makes the day so much better.

A big sorry to J and C who arranged baby sitters for tonight

My Creative Space 15 July 2010

2010-07-15T09:10:00.002+10:00

Yesterday I made my way to the oppy with my munchkins - just before the rain started pelting down. I was on a mission to get some more lovely wool jumpers to make more arm warmers.

I'm really happy with the ones I found, which by the way was incredibly hard, as most of the winter gear there was made from acrylic.

I'm going to do some felting today, and these lovely jumpers will be destroyed in the process. Such a shame, but I can't wait to see the end result, and then to see what kind of arm warmers I will come up with.....

You should also take some time whilst you are here to take a look at inspirational ladies who will also use their Thursday to create

ADDED INFORMATION....

Ive been happily unpicking the stitches on my jumpers and was taking piccies to show you

And then I suddenly feel like I'm being watched, and out of the corner of my eye, I see that I have an audience....

He/she is sitting right above the window of my craft area/computer, and watching...

I'm not sure for how long, but now, knowing how quick these lovelies move, I'm moving to the lounge room i think to continue with the jumpers...

And I have to figure out how to catch it. I don't like killing these harmless huntsmen spiders, but he really is in an awkward position and quite high, but I don't want to leave him there...
how am i going to encourage him into a container without jumping or running on me, or without me falling on my head in the process?

Inspiration at the park

2010-07-13T15:10:00.001+10:00

Last week I went to a fantastic children's park and was very inspired

when i saw a group of Japanese mothers pull out their lunch boxes.

Everything came in little boxes and looked gorgeous -
there was not a single cut sandwich in sight.

Instead there was lots of freshly made rice snacks and steamed vegies

like broccoli and corn cobs and various unidentifiable items.

So today for lunch I ditched the sandwich and cut apple for these

salmon and sesame seed rice snacks.

My Creative Space 8 July 2010

2010-07-08T22:54:00.000+10:00

I was thinking that I had not done anything creative in the past few days and therefore had nothing to contribute this week to Kootoyoo's great Thursday online show and tell, and now that it's 10.40pm, i realise that my creativity has been directed into organising a party for my nearly 3 year old big girl, and designing a party invitation for her.

She is at the age where everything has a fairy reference to it, and as far as she's concerned girls are fairies and boys are Ben 10!

Now onto the outfit....

Northside Makers collective trip to Dalesford

2010-07-08T09:10:00.000+10:00

I love going to Dalesford

I love it even more when I go with my crafty gals on a crafty expedition
here are some pics I took on the day....

And here is my loot for the day.

Lucho loves his superman dress ups cape

my favourites are the pocket warmer for my hubby (which took forever to find as he's hard to buy for) and the key hook.

Gift from Made it and Silvermonk

2010-07-08T07:59:00.002+10:00

I regularly forward on emails sent to me by Made it and last week, I won a pair of funky and fantastic earrings!

Silvermonk, who makes "delicious jewellery to embrace the spirit and delight the heart" sent me these ebony, coral and silver earrings that suit me down to a T. Visiting her blog, I discover that she is an all round artist who has an interest in photography as well.

I proudly wore them on my crafty trip to Dalesford

hope you are having a great day, and thank you Silvermonk :)

My Creative Space 1 July 2010

2010-07-01T08:52:00.001+10:00

Bucket, toilet plunger, boiling water and a woolen jumper.....

and LOTS of elbow grease...

I'm felting jumpers again!

I made a decision to keep the red jumper, as it looked so nice on! and went back to the opp shop to purchase another one.

I have not been happy with the felting results of my first arm warmers, the felting process had started to happen, but there was still a lot of elasticity in the wool, so I had another go at it.

Here are the results of felting jumpers using the bucket and toilet plunger. The left side of the image is the plunger effect, and the right side of the image is the machine and dryer effect in the original arm warmers. As you can see the plunger works a treat at felting the wool.

However, it hasn't worked so well on the green jumper, which makes me think that the wool had been treated somehow. In any case, it has felted to an extent, and I will cut and sew to suit.

Both arms are ready for embellishments and adjustments and by this afternoon, will be ready to warm arms - one for me and one for my mum.

And here are the finished items!

I used vintage buttons that have been in my moms stash for years.
I'm happy with them, although the red and white buttons one doesn't actually look so hot in the photo.

Things I love today

2010-06-29T22:23:00.001+10:00

My son wrote his first letter today, to his dad.

It was prompted by some alone time with me, and I wanted to see whether he was ready to do writing and simple words.

(love the little tongue poking out while he writes!)

What started as writing his name turned into his first written message and letter to his father.

I'm so proud of my first born who will be starting school next year ....

Just Scrounging around

2010-06-28T20:08:00.001+10:00

Have you ever been to Scrounge on High St - Nothcote?

I did, today. I was hunting something very specific, and I found it! Much to my delight

He's an unhappy white guy with a blue hat and a willy.

Ok, so that's not what I was looking for, but I'm so glad to have found him, even if he's not too happy to be found in his birthday suit....

But he makes the BEST lamp!!

and he is proudly standing watch over my children as they sleep

Taking a walk through the 50's

2010-06-25T19:51:00.001+10:00

Last night, I was looking through Google images for some beautiful pictures of dresses.

I don't know why really, as I might wear a dress once a year, but I really do love looking at them, and I can imagine myself in them in my fantasy life (in reality it's mostly jeans and a t-shirt!)

So here are a few beautiful pictures that sent me to bed with a smile on my face, and the creative juices topped up.

In keeping with the interest in the 50's that is slowly developing and growing, I looked predominantly at 50's women.

They mostly seemed to be grouped into housewife, starlet and pin up.

I would love to dress up like this for a dinner party!

This one is my favourite!

Thread Den Market - June 27 2010

2010-06-20T13:12:00.000+10:00

Next Weekend Little Cooties will be at the Thread Den Market.

There will be a few ladies skirts available to buy or view or try on.

I hope to see you there!

Here are the details

Splutter, cough and brrrrr

2010-06-17T16:00:00.001+10:00

I'm feeling a bit splat and bleagh...

I'm at home rugged up but still cold....

I've got a warm cup of tea a good book and an old jumper....

So, I decided to felt the jumper and make some wrist warmers, to keep me warm when I pick the kids up from care

I got some GREAT tips from laughing purple goldfish designs here and went about punishing my jumper with the required abandon and ferocity, then chucked it into the dryer on HOT

I decorated the wrist warmers with spring in mind, so they remind me that the sun will come back.

Am feeling better now, cosy, warm arms and wrists, and can get back to that book....

Satin Wrap skirt

2010-06-10T16:34:00.000+10:00

I've made a satin wrap skirt today, it's a size 10 and short, for all those ladies with sexy legs!

Unfortunately, I can't show you how it looks on, as my body hasn't seen size 10 in a while.... but here are some close ups and when I get my new purchase (see below) tonight, she'll be able to model it.

Now I have to think of a name for her. She will help me immensely and I hope not to have to take off my clothes every time I want to see how something looks on me

New Skirt with zip

2010-06-03T15:08:00.000+10:00

I've finished the prototype of the wrap style skirt with zip.

I included an invisible zip and the elements of the ruffled contrasting colour cotton with denim.

I've used some vintage cotton that reminds me of an apron in this instance.

What do you think? How does it compare with the wrap skirt for you?

My Creative Space 3 June 2010

2010-06-03T10:23:00.001+10:00

WINTER!!!

it's here and today there is a thick mist covering Melbourne suburbs.

Great for the kids, kept us talking about it all the way to kinder this morning.

Today my creative space will be filled with bits and pieces as I try to finish off a prototype of a skirt that is based on the wrap skirt, but will have a zip on the side.

I hope it turns out well, but if not, I will modify to suit and take off the fabric on the side.

Yesterday I made a pillow for Eva and a pillow case for Lucho using fabric I bought at the Stitches and Craft Show.

The beautiful Little Red Riding Hood image comes from The Red Thread and I backed it with a strawberry pattern cotton. The fantastic boys fabric I bought from Earthgirl Fabrics, and made the pillowcase small to fit his favourite pillow.

Here are my little cherubs enjoying the gifts mummy made them :)

For more creatives take a peek over here

Lentil Rolls - the vegetarian version of a sausage roll

2010-05-30T07:52:00.000+10:00

In a bid to get my kids to eat more vegies, and vegetarian foods, I made some Lentil Rolls that are a mock sausage roll. I took inspiration from the lovely Cathie who is a vegan herself, and who's children are vegetarian.

I went to her house last month and was treated to a number of lovely yummies, one of those being a vegan "sausage" roll. She had used beans, substituted grated zucchini for eggs and used sweet chilli sauce to give a little zing. The final touch was using puff pastry from aldi which is vegan friendly.

So here is my version of the roll, which incorporated things that I had in the cupboard and fridge, and that can be changed as you need to.

The quantities are fluid, and you will need to adjust according to your ingredients.

Vegetarian Rolls

I cup of lentils, soaked for 20 minutes in water and then cooked in new water for about 20 - 30 minutes (until they are just soft)

1/2 cup red quinoa (or white quinoa or substitute with brown bulger or barley)

cook this with the lentils for about 20 minutes - I threw mine in after the lentils were cooking for about 10 minutes

6 medium sized mushrooms, blended to a fine paste

1 carrot chopped into little cubes and cooked in butter until they are just soft

(I can imagine sweet potato would be fantastic also)

sauce for extra taste - about 3 tablespoons - I used tomato sauce and a little bit of oyster sauce, but you can use anything that you want. Sweet chilli is really lovely.

bread crumbs, to bind and make the mixture dry

cut a sheet of puff pastry in half, and put the mixture along the length of it.

Roll the pastry so that the long edges are overlapping about 1 cm.

Cut into bite sized segments

Place on baking paper and brush with olive oil.

I grated some mizithra over them to add texture and flavour and then cooked till golden brown in an oven set to 150 celcius

* please let me know if I've left anything out or something doesn't make sense

Hope you like it as much as my kids did!

They ate them all up and wanted more :)

My Creative Space 27 May 2010

2010-05-27T09:04:00.001+10:00

This morning my craft nook is covered with bits and pieces for an order for Christina (an old High school friend)

We found each other through facebook!

It's amazing how many people I have found after years of no contact, and now am able to deep up to date with what is happening in their lives, and get to know them again.

So today I am making two skirts - one for her daughter and one for mine, and as they happen to be the same age, it makes it easier for me to double up on tasks, and keep two little cherubs happy.

I hope to have them finished by this afternoon.

Don't forget to check out these creative spaces for some inspiration....

EDITED TO ADD FINISHED PIC.......

My life in pictures

2010-05-22T16:53:00.000+10:00

this week my life has been a little mad...

so instead of telling you, here are the highlights.

Presents, cakes and more skirt orders

I was having deja vu with these two skirts!

My Creative Space 13 May 2010

2010-05-13T11:35:00.000+10:00

My Creative Space this Thursday is one of finishing orders and starting new ones.

I am on the last little bits of the wrap skirt order for Kylie, and I hope to be able to send them off to her tomorrow! I hope she loves them :)

Next project will be a wrap skirt for Michelle of Stomper Room

The Great Apron Swap 2010

2010-05-13T10:27:00.000+10:00

This morning the postman came with a package, and I knew immediately that there would be an apron in it - thanks to Bianca, my apron swap partner.

It is GORGEOUS and it is two aprons in one!

The edges are so pretty and scalloped all the way around, the fabric choice is great - I really love the colours and patterns, there is a pocket on both sides and it fits like a dream... It is not something that I would be able to make myself, the scalloped edges would be the end of me I think.

Have I mentioned I sooooooo love it!!!

Now that I have my 50's inspired apron, I have to go and bake something that is sweet and high in calories while I wear a skirt and high heels. I can't wait!

Many thanks to Sarah of Red Gingham for organising this fantastic swap. It was right down my alley!

Bianca from BusyBsewBiz thanks again for the inspirational, functional and wonderful apron. You have made my day, and I will send you a pic of me wearing it whilst baking!

Aprons and skirts

2010-05-06T17:02:00.008+10:00

This week has been a busy week for Little Cooties, as I have been concentrating on Lady Cooties clothes.

Two wrap skirts, a brown circle skirt for my mother as a present for mothers day, and a bright apron have kept me busy and sewing, cutting, measuring, ironing and generally hoping not to make any mistakes.....

I am happy to report that I became part of the Great 2010 Apron Swap!! YAY Someone pulled out which meant that I was able to join and have a partner to make and send a lovely apron to. My partner is Bianca from BusyBsewBiz, we have spoken about what we like and I was pointed to a GREAT website for vintage patterns which I have been drooling at for a while.... So I have spent a part of the week on this project and have loved the process and am also nervous about whether it will be a) loved and b) worn.

here is a sneak peak....

I have also been busily making two skirts based on the wrap skirt I made last week. I love the fabrics my client has chosen, and I can't wait to finish them and send them off.

I have nearly finished the pop art skirt, which is longer on the denim side than the fingers side. And hope to finish the second one by mid next week.

skirts for adult girls

2010-05-01T21:57:00.001+10:00

Little Cooties has been mostly a kids wear brand, but with markets and online sales being a bit slow, I have stopped making kids clothes for a few weeks, and have started to concentrate on making things for myself, and presents for other people.

I have needed a pick me up after recent nose surgery, and found it in the form of... ahem.... online shopping inspired by the Black Market....

but more importantly, I have also been inspired to make a skirt for myself after seeing one of the nurses wearing a similar style (no pleats) during the surgery.

I'm really happy with the result, and have received a lot of feedback from lovely ladies, and also an order or two!

If you decide you would love to have one, please let me know.

So here are the pics that depict the creation of the wrap skirt with pleats... I will definitely make a summer version using the white and red fabrics, but for winter, have decided to use heavier fabric of sparkly black denim

I love a 50's inspired apron!

2010-04-28T16:23:00.001+10:00

As I have grown older... and have matured and evolved, I have found myself wearing aprons while I cook and work around the kitchen.

The ones that I have are not lovely, or beautiful, they are just functional... until I went to Phillip Island and came across a great shop and bought my first cute apron.

Now, I just love it, and so, inspired by the apron swap that Red Gingham is doing - to which unfortunately I was too late to join... sob sob... I've decided to make myself and perhaps some others this mothers day some aprons.

I just love 50's inspired aprons, they look fantastic, and make me want to wear dresses and rollers in my hair.

Here are a few examples to get my creative juices flowing, and soon, I hope to have pics of the finished products soon!

Easter Preparations

2010-04-03T10:42:00.000+11:00

This Easter, as the children are getting older and more able to help with projects I decided to make some birds nest chocolate treats to give out.
I used this great recipe from Janna of Mustard Seeds. It's such a great idea, so easy to make with little fingers, and the results are beautiful and sooo yummy!.

We practiced during the week....

and today with a few adjustments to the presentation, we made the final birds nest.

Enjoy!

My Creative Space

2010-04-01T13:39:00.002+11:00

Oooops Made a mistake with the link! Sorry!
For 13 May 2010 My Creative Space click HERE

This week I've been inspired by my
children's childcare centre to create a
visual diary of their art and how
they develop as the months and years go by.

Today, my creative space is taking care of
Lucho and Eva's creative expressions.

As all kids do, my children spend a portion of their days drawing or painting.

Some mornings I will wake to their quiet chatter in the lounge room, both of them with a pencil in hand, drawing freehand on paper, or a colouring in book. It's such a beautiful sight, and something that they enjoy so much.

I have bought each one an A3 spiral bound book with white cartridge paper and I will be pasting their creations in and making any notes of special drawings or developments in their creative style.

The front covers have images chosen by them to make these books even more special and respected.

I hope to be able to look back on it, and remember special moments, and also show them as they grow how they are changing and getting more creative and expressive.

I lost the battle, but I will win the war!

2010-03-24T16:12:00.000+11:00

I have completely lost the battle this week,

but I will win the war with the junk that always seems to end up in my craft area and table!

I'm sure there is a magnet that I can't
quite see, but bits and pieces that
have nothing to do with making
and crafting always seem to drift
to that corner of the room, and amble
their way onto the work bench...

my creative space has been invaded!

The task for this afternoon, is to clear
a path, pack all away, throw the
non essentials into a bin,
and get some patterns out...

Wish me luck!!

ooohhhh look what the postman brought........

2010-03-15T14:16:00.000+11:00

a while back I entered a giveaway at Cafe Handmade and tweeted about it and took a look around the site. There are some great artists selling gorgeous products.
The wonderful news that I had won had me really excited as I was going to receive a handmade Mobile Phone Wallet by Kerri Ann (the crafter, not the TV presenter!)

And today, Mr Postman left this....

As you can see, I my phone and cards fit nicely and are looking forward to their first outing!

Thank you Kerri Ann for the giveaway and thank you Kerri Testa founder of Cafe Handmade for arranging it and sending the wallet so quickly.
am loving it!

Envelope tops and shorts

2010-03-07T15:32:00.000+11:00

This week has been quite eventful, I've been very busy making baby sets - most of the week was spent on the envelope tops, and then this coming week will be the shorts, so that by the time Saturday comes, I will have a large selection of size 6 months and 2 year baby sets.

The size two's were meant to be size ones, but they fit Eva who is 2 and a half... so there you go!

Little Cooties on Made it

2010-03-03T15:40:00.000+11:00

Hello! hope you are all well and having a great day.

It's a beautiful Autumn day here in Melbourne, a gorgeous 28 degrees, and the sun is shining.

I'm going to make the most of this sunshine and head off to the park for a while.

Little Cooties has some Baby Sets available on Made it!

Take a look, there will be more available in the coming days, with black stripey sets and red elephants too!

http://www.madeit.com.au/detail.asp?id=62186
If you would like to order one, contact me directly :)

OR

Come and say HELLO at the Northside Makers Market on Saturday 13th March and you can touch and feel them.

Boys range

2010-02-27T13:54:00.000+11:00

I got a huge haul of chenille arrive yesterday, in them was this great funky retro style checkered fabric that I thought would be perfect for the boys winter range of pants.
The fabric is sooo fluffy and cuddly that I want to make myself some pants...

Of course Paddington features in these ones, but I think I will try some brown faux fur for the next few and see how they go.

WInter Pants Range

2010-02-25T09:49:00.002+11:00

Ok, so after a few attempts at getting the pants looking super cute, I have decided on a look that I like and will make in a few sizes and also for both genders.

The pants will have cuffs and pockets and will be available in sizes 6 months to 4 years.

I will also make some size 6 months with the knee patches as I think it will protect soft little knees during the crawling stage.

Eva has been out and about with the knee patch version and has been getting lots of comments about how cute and original they are, so I'm pretty pleased that they stand out enough to be noticed.

Thanks for the comments and feedback on this project girls! Hard to get unbiased feedback from the kids!

Paddington Bear Pants revisited

2010-02-23T18:45:00.004+11:00

Hello again, day two of the quest for the perfect winter pants design.

Here are two more versions of the pants using a lovely corduroy fabric, it's a deep purple and makes a strong contrast to the Paddington Bear fabric.

The second version I made with a strip down the side as well as patches on the front.

I like both versions, and Eva looks really good with the ones she is modelling for, but I think I prefer the stripes down the side.

I've got some white chenille coming in the post, so when that comes in, I'll make a version with that, and use a contrasting colour for the applique to make the patch stand out.

Still not finished, but a lot closer to being happy with the design.

Maybe the next one will be the pants with large cuffs using the PB fabric, rather than as a knee patch.

Paddington Bear pants

2010-02-22T21:55:00.004+11:00

Here is the first attempt of the Paddington bear pants.

I'm not sold on them, but Eva loves them, and didn't want to take them off after the photo shoot!

Next I will make some with square patches on the knees and see how they look.

I wanted to make the patches more organic looking, but I don't think it works... what do you think?

Tomorrow, I'll post up the new version.....

Thread Den Market

2010-02-21T22:10:00.004+11:00

One week to go till my first appearance at Thread Den North Melbourne Market.

I'll be taking along the usual dresses, pants and baby sets, but I am also hoping to have some girls winter pants ready for show.

I've bought some lovely vintage chenille in dusty pink and I've been tossing some ideas around about combining it with some Paddington Bear fabric that I have. I wish that like Paddington, I was able to lounge about in a sun chair, but not for me this week. It's time to get the creative juices fired up!

I'll post some pics when the pants come to life...
In the meantime, clear some space in the calendar for a visit to the market next Saturday!

Take a look at the Little Cooties page on Facebook, become a fan and be one of the first to see the new pants!

Valentine messages

2010-02-14T13:17:00.000+11:00

George and I have never been big on celebrating Valentines day.

Our first Valentines day was 17 years ago. We were 21, in puppy dog love, at uni and broke.
George picked some rose petals from our neighbours garden while I was still asleep, and sprinkled them on our bed, so when he woke me up, I was surrounded by them, and by him.

Since then, we have shown our love to each other in similar ways, this year, he is helping a friend move house, so he left me some flowers and a heart note while I was out with the kids.

When he gets home, he will be greeted by the hand made card and heart felt words of love by me.

I love you George, thanks for sharing you life with me

What next?

2010-02-10T14:05:00.001+11:00

Little Cooties has been in existence for about 10 months now. As each week and month goes by, I am growing and evolving more and more. My stock levels are high, and have diversified to include much more than girls dresses.

Which leads me to ponder the direction that I would like to proceed the business in.
I have proven to myself that I can sew items that people want to buy, and I have enjoyed the markets where I meet great crafters and sell to lovely people.
But the markets are not going to bring me financial stability.
I need to start selling my products in another way.

I have tried selling on etsy and madeit, but have not been satisfied with the response.
I have been thinking a lot about approaching stores and putting stock on consignment, and require a few more hours legwork to make that happen.
Creating my own website was also considered, after talking to Mecino about her new website.
A conversation with Hunter Gatherer about stocking and making clothes for them had me questioning what my wholesale price would be. And conversations with girlfriends led me to look at numerous websites including ebay and monkies undies to see whether the listing (and relisting) fees are going to be to my advantage.

incube8r also has been of interest as they rent out spaces in their shop, and I would go in and maintain my area. They don't have any rack space at the moment and they have a waiting list.

Then an email regarding an opening at the Olive Grove had me looking at a whole other way of selling and steering the business. They have a number of members in a co-operative situation where they all stock the shop, man it and pay rent. A safer way to run your own shop, and as Jay from Finki puts it, the shops is open 7 days a week, so much more exposure than a 5 hour market.

So there is lots to think about, and so much information out there, and not enough head space with the kiddles around, that the decision is harder than it might have been at another stage of my life.

I have applied for the opening at the Olive Grove, and hope to see where that will lead if successful, if not, well, theres a whole lot more thinking that I have to do....

But for today, the most important thing on my list, is getting the hot water system installed, and the gas back on before dinner...... Wish me luck!!

Northside Makets Market This Saturday!

2010-02-03T22:34:00.000+11:00

These past two weeks have had me thinking about expanding my product range and making some new things for the Northside Makers Market this Saturday

The reasons for this follow:

One is that I didn't sell anything at my last market that i needed to replace, so therefore no need to make clothes or toys..... (But still a burning desire to make)

Two is that I really enjoyed making the needle book for Finki's January Monthly design challenge and I wanted to make some more wallets - so I made some targetted at men / boys as well as some others for women / girls.

Three, making the wallets led to me to ask, what else can I make and what would I like to make for myself? So I went searching and found a great pattern by Keyka Lou and bought a pattern for this beautiful "Bubble Pouch"

If they aren't a successful market item, well, I have made all the presents for this year early!

Money... Who needs it?

2010-02-01T22:53:00.000+11:00

I have an arrangement with Stomper Room.
We are bartering our services/skills - I can take my two ankle biters for some song and dance, in exchange for sewing.
Here are some drawstring bags I made with applique numbers, plus some tablecloths in need of love.

It works! It's my first time, and it allows me to indulge my little ones, while giving me some time in front of the sewing machine.... Money?? Blah!

Australia Day Fun

2010-01-28T22:07:00.000+11:00

We spent a relaxed Australia day in the Fitzroy gardens with fairies and superheros.

Rose St Market - learning experience

2010-01-23T21:13:00.002+11:00

How excited was I this morning, nervous, expectant, and looking forward to an ongoing relationship with the Rose Street Market. I arrived at 9am to set up, and took time and effort to try to get it looking just right. Trying to display all items to their best advantage.
By 11am, I was ready for the punters to come past, and start looking.... by 1am, I was still waiting for a sale.... by 2pm, I had my first sale - the baby set using the stripey baby character I bought at spotlight... by the time 5pm rolled around, I had not seen any more action.

There was a lot of people looking, lots of touching and commenting, but not one more sale after that first one.

A big high for the day was when I was approached by Hunter Gatherer to see about putting some of my stock in the shop. Am excited about that!

On reflection, I can only conclude that the demographic of this market is not suited to my product. I was the only stall with children's clothing, most of the people walking through the market were younger than other markets I've been to - mid 20's - 30 - couples.

I can definitely see Margaret of Konstant Kaos with her edgier and wider product range doing really well, but for me, well it was quite the opposite. I reached a new low in terms of sales.... I was definitely in deficit today.

On a high note, I was very well supported by the wonderful people who took time out of their day to come and visit me. THANK YOU SOOO MUCH for visiting and bolstering my spirits - Angelica and Marcela my mum and sis with her two cherubs, Jennie (who has promised to give her blog some tlc)and her two beautiful girls, Beky the paper queen and my market mate, the sweet voiced Michelle from Stomper Room and her family and lastly, newly arrived from Chile, Daniela who came with her husband Gato to visit and stayed till pack up and helped me take all my gear back to the car - so unexpected and so needed!

time to chill out now :)

Inspiration hits!

2010-01-21T13:56:00.003+11:00

This month Finki is encouraging us all to turn Japanese! In her monthly design challenge we need creatively interpret the chosen theme.

I had all but given up on my creative juices flowing, but then, whilst visiting Polly Pratt at the Olive Grove, I bought one of her fabric cut offs bags, and came across this little beauty! Japanese geisha on a white background.
The other side of this story, is that I have been yearning for a needle book, and so with idea, and fabric in hand, I made this bi-folding needle book.

That's two more things to get off my list!

Also, this Saturday is my first Rose Street Artists Market! I am so excited, and nervous! Lucky for me, I have secured a spot inside, so I don't have to worry about setting up a marquee, or umbrellas, or if it were to rain.... tarps... now I can just relax a little :)
Wish me LUCK!!!!

Cooties Defined....

2010-01-18T14:35:00.001+11:00

Definition of a cootie:

The metaphysical manifestation of the fear of social backlash resulting from association with the opposite sex during childhood.

In short, the other sex has them, you can get them, and you do not want them.

(Josh is seen with Katie.)
Boys: Eww, Josh has cooties!

Margaret from Konstant Kaos sent me a link that shows the anatomy of a cootie and to be honest I think this fits in with most peoples perception of what a cootie is. But I thought I'd do a quick search to see what other cooties were out there in creative land.

• Igotcooties is a shop on Etsy, and here is her version - Ewww Cooties

• computer cooties
• comic cooties
• board game cooties

• cootie beads
• jewellery cooties

To me, now that I have kids, cooties will always be little children, and they will always be cute, cuddly, loving and in need of my clothes!

Kreativ Blogger Award

2010-01-10T23:39:00.012+11:00

Wow, I feel humbled that I was awarded a Kreativ Blogger award by my market mate Beky from Pivotal Xpressions!
Thanks Beky! I feel like I should be on my knees chanting "I'm not worthy, I'm not worthy"
I first met Beky in August at our first ever market - Made n Thornbury. We were both nervous while we waited for the doors to open and set our first stall up, and to my surprise, I found that we were next to each other in the hall. So since then, I have followed her emerging business, and wonderful blog, and look forward to our next market together which will be at Northside Makers Market.

So on to the award.....

The deal with this award is that you have to spread the love around!

To keep it growing I have to follow 7 rules:
1) Copy the pretty picture and post it on your blog.
2) Thank the person that gave it to you and
3) link to their blog.
4) Write 7 things about yourself we don't know.
5) Choose 7 other bloggers to pass the award to.
6) Link to those 7 other bloggers.
7) Notify your 7 bloggers.

Write 7 things about yourself we don't know.
1. I only started sewing in April of 2009.
2. I watched a youtube video to learn how to make my first dress.
3. I used to make jewellery in silver and gold.
4. Some of my work was shown at the National Gallery of Victoria, including eating disorder brooches, and a latex with silver nipple bra which was a comment on plastic surgery and boob jobs.
5. I've gone off chocolate, and I really miss it :( I think I od'ed after I had my second child, and now my taste buds don't want it, even though my head does.
6. I love speaking in pig latin, and am constantly surprised that not more people know how to speak it! My sister and I always converse it when we don't want the kids or the hubbies to understand us!
7. I'm so glad that I was able to breastfeed my children, and so proud that they thrived for so many months purely surviving on what my body provided. It always amazed me that my milk enabled them to gain weight, grow teeth, fingernails, hair and allowed them to be healthy little babies.

Choose 7 other bloggers to pass the award to.

i'm going to cheat on this one, as i don't follow too many blogs, so only 6 for me

Pivotal Xpressions

Well, just because Beky gave me the award does not mean that I can't give it back? I really love Beky's blog, it is always an interesting read, and I love to see where she gets her inspiration from. It's wonderful also to follow her journey through her blog.

Whip Up
Kathreen send out a weekly newsletter that I await eagerly on the weekends. She always has something interesting to look at, great links to tutorials, and has created a fantastic calendar featuring some great creative people and products.

Buttons by LouLou
I met Louise through the Australian Breastfeeding Association.
She lives a few blocks from me, and i only recently found out that she was a fellow crafter when we were both at the Made n Thornbury market in August 2009As well as having two beautiful boys, she makes gorgeous fabric covered buttons, amongst other things, and her blog is so interesting to go through. Lots of interesting posts not just about buttons. She has been featured in magazines, and has products all over Melbourne. A very inspiring and busy mother and crafter!

M.E.
Cathie not only makes DELICIOUS food, but is also a great photographer. I am not sure where she finds the time or energy to be as productive as she is!
Her food is great, and her blog is beautiful to look as as well as to follow. I know when I take a look, my eyes will be rewarded.

Angus and Celeste
I came across these lovely items at the Rose Street Market, and I fell in love with their
bracelets. I intend to be wearing one of them before too long! i think their blog is a newbie, and i look forward to seeing what else they create and what inspires them.

Happy Dacks
Michele has a great blog. A great read and i really love her "Hot and Not Wednesday" Posts, where she posts about the hot and not so hot things in her life during the week. She talks about food, craft, people and creating. Really a great read!

So again, thanks Beky for the award! and please feed the fish :)
take care
fab

Red stripey baby sets

2010-01-10T23:14:00.002+11:00

i went to spotlight to buy a rotary cutter the other day and came across this gorgeous fabric. Now I'm not one to normally buy fabric from either lincraft or spotlight, preferring to go to other sources, but I couldn't resist this!

Sooo cute!

So I bought the cutter - which has made cutting multiple pieces a dream - so wish I had thought of getting one before, bought the fabric, bought some buttons, and then made my way home, all inspired!

This is what the fabric has become....
I have made 3 x size 6 months and 3 x size 12 months that I will have to sell a the Rose Street market and have only a small amount left from a 2 metre piece of fabric.
I so love it I wish I could wear these myself.

I also figured out a new way of attaching the red edges that make my life a lot easier, and takes another step out of the process, which cuts out precious time!

Merchandise display magic

2010-01-05T21:50:00.001+11:00

My dear Hubby, who has contacts of all sorts, sizes and shapes went to visit a friend with a shoe shop and came with a little bag of tricks that will make my life a little easier with setting up a market stall.
Since we went to the Rose Street Artists Market we have been trying to come up with ideas about how to display my stock to it's best advantage.
Here are some of the great items he came back with.... My biggest thank you's go to DH and also to Vivianna who took care of me and has offered more if I need it :)

I sooo love the round clothes rack! Can picture colourful dresses hanging off it.
These items along with my clothes rack should display all my products well. Now to make more clothes......

Visit to Rose Street Market inspires creative frenzy

2009-12-22T14:26:00.011+11:00

Last week I sent in an online application for a stall at the Rose Street Market in Fitzroy and to my pleasure I was accepted! YAY! I will be there once a month Jan - April.

So I went with the family to take a look, as it had been years since I had gone. It has changed a bit, there are more stall holders and it looks like a very lively and well patroned market. There was a variety of stall holders, with many varied beautiful products.

My favourites were Angus&Celeste with beautiful fine porcelain jewellery and homewares. I loved their bracelets! Gorgeous!

Kerry Scheen's hand painted ceramic objects also caught my eye for the beautiful paintings of children on her pieces. Made me wonder if I could commission something with my two little ones on a pendant.

When I got back home I was completely overwhelmed with the size of the stalls and the professional displays and quality of the products.

I wondered how I was going to fare alongside these people. It sent me into a whirlwind of activity and 3 days later, I have made six dresses and created nine Kiki dolls, although some of them are a bit surprised to be here judging by their expressions...

I will also have my DH very busy making new wooden clothes racks to better display my clothes. Will post a piccie of those when they are born.

Love chunks at Christmas

2009-12-09T18:49:00.001+11:00

Today I spent most of the day in the kitchen, after having gone shopping for supplies with Eva.
I wanted to say thank you to the carers in my children's lives and what better way than to give them home made sweeties. I got the idea to make bite size Christmas cakes from Kim a friend from mothers group - it's such a simple recipe and so appealing to the eye. It took no time at all to create them.

Just add orange juice to an existing fruit cake -
I used an apricot fruit cake.
Add enought to make slightly moist
and roll into balls.
I used the tiny patty pans,
then decorated with white chocolate
and sprinkles.
YUM!

Then to the task of making honey comb for the fourth time!
and I finally got it right, after reading loads of recipes and methods, and after making a couple of toffee
like batches, hit the jackpot with this batch.
Coated in dark cholocate,
they have become little love chunks.

Melt in the mouth and impossible to resist (which is why they are out of reach at the moment!)

Finished product! Viola!

Christmas and Honeycomb

2009-12-07T14:31:00.001+11:00

Christmas is just around the corner and I have been busily finishing up orders. I have made some great red tops, that match the fiesta skirt perfectly.

After taking Eva shopping for fabric, she chose a pink giraffe jersey fabric which I made a shirred dress out of, she loves it!

I'm about to start making biscuits to give to the carers in my children's lives and came across the fetes and festivals website with yummy recipes. I think I might try the honey comb! YUM

Northside Makets Market Next Week!

2009-11-21T12:08:00.000+11:00

I have been getting baby sets ready - tank tops and shorts, and they look so cute, I wish Eva was still small enough to wear them! They are for 12 - 18 months, and if I have time, I will make some in size 9 months.

I so loved the look of the white tank top, that I decided to make myself a top and it looks great. Light and flowing. Perfect for these hot days :)

Next week is the second Northside Makers Market held at Northcote Uniting Church. 251 High Street, Northcote.
Pick up great Chrissy pressies and finish your shopping early!

Marvel Pants and Shorts

2009-11-12T10:05:00.000+11:00

I went shopping with my ankle biters and found myself in Spotlight - as you do - and my eldest pointed excitedly to a fabric that I had passed by and asked it I could by it and make him some pants. With such enthusiasm, how could I refuse, and when the fabric turned out to be Marvel superhero design, well, that was even better! Last time one of my children asked me to buy some fabric, it was a cream fabric with pink giraffe's on it. Really not a pretty one, but she's really happy with the dress I made for her...

Anyway, I made the superhero pants for my little super boy and he's been wearing them with joy and proudly showing them off to anyone who notices.

So we went to the family do, and my cousins daughter who is 11 asked to get some shorts made from the same fabric, and here is the result. Now to see if they fit.....

On another note, The Thornbury Women's Market is on in December, so take a look at the link :)

Summer dresses and boys sets

2009-10-27T14:29:00.000+11:00

I've spent most of these last few weeks sewing more dresses to make up for the stock I sold at the fantastic Northside Makers Market, and have made some super cute summer dresses using fresh lightweight fabric.

I have also been commissioned to make a boys set from an auntie, and am really happy with the results, so will be making more of those for the next market on the 28th November in Northcote.
This set is a size one, but will have sizes from 00 - 1 at the market, and will also be making some for the lady babies too.

Margaret from Konstant Kaos was a stall holder at a Goth Market in Northcote- the Black Market and asked if I wanted to have some of my vamps and cats at her stall, which was so generous of her. To my surprise, she sold 5 of them and made Little Cooties some happy dosh :) so a big THANK YOU MARGARET from the bottom of my heart for donating your space and time for me.

thanks for coming :)
Fabs

Little cooties

Gearing up for Christmas

My creative Space: Brooch Swap 2011 Take 2

My Creative space - Booch Swap

Cushion Swap 2011

My creative space - Cushions

Caravan gets the once over

All ours! Finally a dream is realised

My Creative Space - Rocket

My creative space - Curtain call

My creative space - Big cleanup

Owl at our window

A strange summer makes for a confused garden

Bunny finished but I have the Amigurumi bug

My creative space - Amigurumi bunny

Can you guess?

My creative space - Amigurumi hearts

Banana Muffins

Musical furniture

Teeny pigs and other rodents

Owl Family visit Thornbury

Green thumbs

My Creative Space 4 November 2010

New Look!

Proud moments

My creative space: Caravan Heaven

Ode to Spring

My Creative Space

Living in an Antique Shop

Colourful Monday

A horse next door

Drum Roll.....

My Creative Space 12 august 2010

Spring has sprung early

Baking day

My Creative Space 5 August 2010 - the gift of giving

50's obsession

Happy Birthday Eva

Giving

My Creative Space 29 July 2010

Couples weekend

Ahhh said one bed to the other

Cold Wet Sunday

Turning my frown upsidedown

My Creative Space 15 July 2010

Inspiration at the park

My Creative Space 8 July 2010

Northside Makers collective trip to Dalesford

Gift from Made it and Silvermonk

My Creative Space 1 July 2010

Things I love today

Just Scrounging around

Taking a walk through the 50's

Thread Den Market - June 27 2010

Splutter, cough and brrrrr

Satin Wrap skirt

New Skirt with zip

My Creative Space 3 June 2010

Lentil Rolls - the vegetarian version of a sausage roll

My Creative Space 27 May 2010

My life in pictures

My Creative Space 13 May 2010

The Great Apron Swap 2010

Aprons and skirts

skirts for adult girls

I love a 50's inspired apron!

Easter Preparations

My Creative Space

I lost the battle, but I will win the war!

ooohhhh look what the postman brought........

Envelope tops and shorts

Little Cooties on Made it

Hello! hope you are all well and having a great day.

It's a beautiful Autumn day here in Melbourne, a gorgeous 28 degrees, and the sun is shining.

I'm going to make the most of this sunshine and head off to the park for a while.

Little Cooties has some Baby Sets available on Made it!

Take a look, there will be more available in the coming days, with black stripey sets and red elephants too!

http://www.madeit.com.au/detail.asp?id=62186If you would like to order one, contact me directly :)

OR

Come and say HELLO at the Northside Makers Market on Saturday 13th March and you can touch and feel them.

http://www.madeit.com.au/detail.asp?id=62186
If you would like to order one, contact me directly :)