creative finds

You Beaut / Before Pop

2017-05-23T14:55:00.000+10:00

Such a lovely morning in the big city.

Went to see the Andy Warhol and John Olsen Exhibitions at the Art Gallery of NSW:

Loved this commissioned Christmas Card Andy made for Tiffany & Co in the 1950s:

As a Gemini, I had to take a sneaky snap of this. Hits the mark quite closely...

....and was reminded of the big world that exists when I venture out of the 'hood.

While the daily goings tickled my fancy, I couldn't help but reminisce...

Remembering the days working at Chifley Tower while the Sydney Olympics were on, watching and celebrating in the Domain. Such fun times.

Was just a tad crunchy under foot in places...

Ventured out wearing a new purchase from Emily Green. On leather twine are these polymer clay beads in all my favourite shades. And with sparkles! 9 x bead necklaces are Emily's signature design although she creates pieces with up to 18 beads as well as earrings, art works and even has a sock range!

Don't these works celebrating our wonderful country put a spring in your step on a sunny day?

John Olsen certainly captures the essence of Oz. He is still painting and going strong at 89!

Inspirational.

S x

Ear Candy

2017-05-16T13:17:00.000+10:00

So I bought 4 x pairs of earrings for my good self at the Sydney Finders Keepers Markets last w/end.

It has to be said, I have been in "need" of some ear candy updates - and it was just so damn hard to choose!

While there were polymer brights, acrylic numbers with coloured foil, wooden studs, titanium hoops, the overarching theme was tassels!

I am not complaining. Love me a tassel.

Some were dainty, others audacious.

But all are guaranteed to dress up a plain outfit, or give you a confidence boost on an otherwise dreary day.

I bought a pair like this from core jewellery for AUD$38. Tin foil, acrylic, ply wood - so tactile yet, so sparkly.

photo courtesy of Core Jewellery

And these two pairs from Kingston Jewellery:

Turns out my Mum has been eyeing off the colourful and impossible-to-choose-from earrings from Kingston. Handcrafted in Victoria using mixed mediums such as clay, brass, painted elements and of course tassels, it took me an age to decide on these two pairs above.

If you head over to Jemima's facebook page there are literally hundreds of photos of her creations. No two pieces are the same, and I read a feedback comment from one of her customers that said:

"These earrings are the BOMB DOT COM". Prices started at AUD $45.

I walked out of the market wearing this pair from the girls at Polli in Bryon Bay (and yes that is another burgandy tassel). They went perfectly with my green and gold sparkly jumper... AUD$45

I could have easily loaded up on more earrings, but to be honest, the crowds were huge and some stands I just couldn't get close to!

A kid in a candy shop, I kept justifying purchases as Mothers Day gifts to self...

Will be sure to share more of my purchases.

Finders Keepers - this weekend

2017-05-09T10:53:00.001+10:00

Excited about the Sydney Finders Keepers this weekend in it's new venue?

Me too.

They're holding it in the Cutout at Barangaroo!

Particularly looking forward to buying a couple of gifts to self (it's Mothers Day Sunday after-all).

I've gifted this Hello Sydney book a couple of times, but I'm super keen on picking up some of McKean Studio's other new age souvenirs.

Husband and Wife team Joshua & Megan McKean design and make bangles, acrylic ornaments, mini city-scapes, scarves and prints in a huge range of cities from their Sydney studio.

Got an international visitor coming to stay, or a colleague leaving for an o/s post ? These make the perfect gift!

New York City Bangles AUD$75:

Palm Springs is on my Bucket List, but in the meantime, how groovy is this Mini City Scape? AUD$89

And this Paris City Scene is AUD$60

Finders Keepers Sydney - this Fri night, all day Saturday & Sunday.

In it's 10th year, it keeps getting better & better.

See you there peeps.

Sx

Diary Dates...

2017-03-16T17:13:00.001+11:00

At any one weekend around the country, there are a plethora of artisan markets being held.

If you love perusing for unique finds in the great outdoors and with coffee in hand, then here are some upcoming events you might like to consider...

First up this weekend is Handmade Canberra - Held at EPIC in Canberra, this quarterly market was launched in 2008 and now attracts over 20,000 visitors.

Showcasing the best in handmade design and produce, over 250 local and interstate designers will represented on Sat 18th & Sun 19th March.

The team at The Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney's Inner West have the midas touch. As part of their urban sanctuary that is the outdoor cafe, sustainable garden & coffee roastery, they now offer a weekly market held each Saturday and Sunday.

With 80 different Stall Holders who alternate weekly, local bakers, makers and creators are eagerly ready to be discovered.

From September to April on the 4th Sunday of the month, the Adelaide Hills suburb of Stirling comes alive with the monthly Stirling Laneways Market. Each market has it's own distinct theme, creating a fun and unique feel as you wander the streets and laneways of the gorgeous hills township. Local traders, artisans, entertainers and pop-up stalls are enter twinned.

Next Laneways Market: Sunday March 26th

I've super pumped about the new location for Sydney's upcoming Finders Keepers Market. I'll take any excuse to get myself down to the harbour at the stunning Barangaroo Reserve. Renowned as the Design Market for independent makers from all across Australia, the Finders Keepers is now run bi-annually in Brissie, Melbourne and Sydney.

And hurrah - they are coming to Adelaide for the first time in August 2017 too!

Open late on the Friday night this is more of a festival than a market, combining design, art, good food, live music and a fun community spirit under one awesome roof in major city locations.

In my own 'hood this w/end and last is TGM - That Great Market , which aims to bring community together. It's a new player in the market game, a quality lifestyle market, with great food, local musicians, entertainment, in a convenient location. Crabbes Ave, Willoughby on every 2nd Sunday, and in Lindfield each 3rd Sunday of the month.

A makers gotta make, so it's great to see even more outlets for makers to showcase their talents.

The Eltham Easter Twilight Market will be held in Melbourne from 4pm - 8pm on the back of the super successful Christmas Twilight Market.

Shop small and support local artisits and small businesses in the heart of Eltham. Find the perfect gift, soak up the community spirit, enjoy live music, free kids activities and heaps more!

Easter is 4 x weeks away. How did that happen?

And let's not forget the West. On April 30 the next Curious Collective Market will be held in the City of Melville Main Hall. I love what they are about:

We aim to combine the contagious enthusiasm of small business owners and the curiosity of people wanting to seek out something a little bit different and buy or try something you don't see everyday.

Boom! Now if that's not a reason to be in business, I don't know what is?!

Bowerbird - Adelaide's long running design market has just announced it's line up of Designers. Held on the w/end of 5-7th May in the Adelaide Showgrounds, you'll almost need all of the three days to cover what's on offer!

In it's eighth year, the offerings are pretty and practical in a dynamic environment built on creative collaboration. Take the family as children have free entry. This event is perfectly timed for some Mothers Day Shopping!

To keep abreast of Markets coming up in your city, then jump on board and follow both The Local Market Guide or The Market Roll .

You never know what handmade goodness is lurking under a gazebo near you.

Strategic Shopping...

2017-03-09T12:00:00.000+11:00

I love to shop and I love a bargain.

I can justify another purchase when I've saved some dollars (which makes no sense as I'll usually end up spending more) as I'll have twice as much to show for it.

Lumiere Art & Co have many beautiful textiles to choose from, AND they also have a page on their website dedicated to SALE.

Unlike many other Sale pages, this one isn't the rejects; instead it's chock full of gorgeous linen towels, cushion covers, throws and art work.

Do you have a gift drawer? Do you gift your host/ess when you visit? Then might I encourage you to fill your cart with some of the following handmade goodies to always have something on hand?

You are sure to be giving something individual, something that will punctuate your host's living space and ensure you a repeat invitation!

Teatowels start from as little as AUD$10...in fact you could pick up one each of the following and have change from $150. Now if that's not a bargain...

Velvet Round Cushion - with pom pom!

Set of four linen napkins:

Linen bath towel with 'to-die-for' fringing:

Tea Towel:

Cushion cover (never could resist a pom pom!):

Based in Melbourne Australia, The Lumiere team want to share their craft. They offer workshops where you can learn the techniques to take home your own creation - think of it as a gift to self. 😉

S x

Gold threads

2017-03-02T12:00:00.000+11:00

When I saw the words:

"Handwoven"

"Beautiful" and

"Textiles"

in the introduction to Langdon Ltd's website, I was confident there was going be gold on the following web pages and I was right - literally.

Metallic threads weave their way into many of the designs by Langdon Ltd. Having spied their stall at the recent Life Instyle exhibition in Sydney, I was besotted with everything they have on offer.

The cushions, bags and rugs are to die for, but the idea of elevating my humble door mat to designer level with some gold, is, pure gold!

Start your salivating now. Prices start from AUD$79 for doormats.

Langdon Ltd pieces are designed by Sydney sisters who have a serious dislike for Polyester.

Who's with them?

S x

I'm back....

2017-03-01T12:00:00.000+11:00

It may well be a record...and not a good one:

It's exactly a year to the day since my last blog post....

I sold my soul to a retail job about 18months ago and the weeks (and most depressingly, the weekends) were no longer my own. I had some fun, met some nice people, spent more than I earned with my "staff discount" and basically reaffirmed my future as business owner and not employee.

Having reclaimed said soul (ie: I resigned!) I have enrolled in a 3 month hustle course to fine tune my vision, and reboot my business. So having broadcast this, you can keep me accountable and watch the re-birth of find...found...forage.

Are you on the Danielle LaPorte Bandwagon? She is in the country right now! Anyway, she hit the nail on the head for me with one of her #truthbombs:

So, please continue to follow me on the various platforms as I carry on sharing my favourite finds with you all and embark on a new chapter business wise.
Sh*t's about to get real.
Sx

Rubbing Shoulders....

2016-03-01T22:20:00.000+11:00

Thrilled to be setting up shop for the day at the monthly Mosman Markets this coming Saturday.

Set on the Mosman Square and Village Green, I'll be in great company with over 150 art & craft stalls plus gourmet food and entertainment.

I'm secretly hoping to be positioned next to the exquisite hand poured Maison Petale Candles as the scent wafting from their stall is just divine. And don't get me started on the packaging. Yum. Website prices AUD$59 but cheaper at the Markets!!

photo by Maison Petale

Sailor Made will be there with their funky tote and duffle bags made from recycled sail products. Prices start at AUD$75.

photos courtesy of Sailor Made

Printmaker Fiona Roderick will be showcasing her range of lino prints, tea towels and wall art of truly Australiana scenes. Tea Towels such as this delightful Maggie are too good for the dishes surely? And at AUD$25 make economical art!

pictures courtesy of Fiona Roderick

The latest take on the Pic-nic Rug are these beautiful, oversized & waterproof rugs by Pixie Rugs. Doing the rounds, their colourful designs are hits at markets everywhere. From AUD$85.

photos by Pixie Rugs

So many more stall holders at Sydney's Premier Artisan Market. Some of whom have been selling there for 20+ years!

Looking forward to introducing the find...found...forage ballet flats to the market goers.
Come along!
Sx

Holiday finds...

2016-02-04T11:27:00.002+11:00

Holidaying provides the perfect opportunity to uncover new "finds".

Whiling away hours in boutiques & markets rather than the shopping malls of usual life, is for me, the perfect therapy. Coupled with family time at the beach too of course!

Shared below are just some of the plentiful hand-crafted discoveries I made over our recent summer break.

Design House Love Hate offer Australian hand crafted jewellery, ceramic wares, clothing, & leather goods. Shapes & colour palletts inspired by the designers surroundings, these sweet pieces are as unique in their designs as they are in their manufacturing process.

Earrings & Porcelain Necklace AUD$65, Linear Brass Necklace AUD $49.

photos by Love Hate

It seems every market has someone peddling Turkish Towels.

I blogged about them back in 2012 here and am still very much an advocate, using mine on high rotation this summer; but I haven't seen colour ways like those on offer by Knotty.

Brights or pastels, in colour blocked styles, wide stripes and some stunning designs for your home, these beach towels are a refreshing take on the Turkish towel.

Prices start from AUD$39

photos by Knotty

Well documented is my love for all things sparkly; so it would come as no surprise that the combination of both in these gorgeous ceramic wares made from Birdy & Clementine appealed to me!

Robyn is the lady behind Birdy & Clementine and in her own words: "I create modern feminine ceramics: practical pretty tableware and porcelain jewellery with a touch of bling". Robyn will be bringing her range to the next Finders Keepers Markets in Sydney. Yay!

Photos by Birdy and Clementine

Summer and florals = smiley face. Mrs Darcy from Santa Monica, California has a most comprehensive range of homewares, kimonos & accessories.

Made from original artworks, Kimonos start at AUD$79 and this stunning round cushion is AUD$99. A perfect pressie, the clutches are AUD$49.95.

Photos by Mrs Darcy

So much goodness to souvenir - it pays to pack an extra suitcase when holidaying.

Loot...

2016-01-14T13:21:00.000+11:00

Anyone else score big on the handmade front this past gift giving season?

Here's a wrap up of some of my delightful scores:

From my newest "Go To" online store Oliver Bonas, I was gifted a gorgeous Chrissie Tree Decoration crafted with the Scandi sentiment that I love coupled with a second love - fluro!!
On sale now for a little as one pound. Run don't walk!

While on the fluro theme (gee my friends know me well!), a gorgeous hand printed looped scarf / snood with a bright tassel was gifted to me. And for a week there earlier this month, I was actually wearing it! Made in Tasmania by Henley & Co. Also on sale now...from AUD$29.
(photo by funky homes )

This tray below was made upcycling old magazines! Using collected materials from around their village in Sumatra, Naveh Milo recycles them into practical products. I know a couple of children who would love the Mentos Pencil Case. The bangles below are made using old soda cans! You can image the waste that would otherwise end up in landfill (or not, as is the case in many third world countries), so hats off to Naveh's team.

Our pooch didn't miss out this Christmas either! Billie is now sporting a rather fancy collar and has a matching leash. Trish from Woh'n'Wally makes all sorts of fashion accessories for your fur child. Bow-ties, Bandanas, Jackets and even sun-hats (I know!!), and of course leads and collars.

Prices start at AUD$12 for a bandana up to AUD$50 for a pure wool jacket.

Great for the four legged wedding guest:

and let me know if this doesn't bring a smile to your face.....

Did you shop independent this Christmas?

Popping Up...

2015-11-23T22:12:00.001+11:00

If you're in Adelaide and you fancy ticking off some Christmas Shopping before December hits, and you fancy the idea of doing this in a relaxed atmosphere boasting friands and fizz, then diarise a little visit to Kensington Gardens this weekend.

The Adelaide Test Match is an event firmly etched into the psyche of every local whether they are interested in cricket or not.

So while the air is electric with summer and socialising, the time for shopping couldn't be better.

Before heading off to the Pimms tent on the lawns behind the cricket oval, the Brown Button Pop Up Shop will provide you with an opportunity for some bespoke gift buying sure to put a spring in your step and get your Christmas shopping off to a flying start.

The girls at Brown Button have an eye for the delightful.
Home decor, kids gifts, party ware and stationary. Even the coveted Italian toothpaste is part of the BB offerings.

If for some sad reason, you can't get along in person, jump on their website for some online shopping and free delivery for orders over $150.

Here's a little taste of the Brown Button goodies....

As it turns out, the girls at Brown Button have invited find...found...forage to Pop Up with them, so I'm thrilled to be able to showcase my hand made finds and offering them at special Pop Up prices.

The super soft Ballet Flats will be $75 a pair, while Christmas decorations, candles, key rings, jewellery, baskets and more start from as low as $5.

Kris Kringle?

Stocking Filler?

Pressie to self?

Pop Up = One Stop Shop.

To Market, to Market...

2015-11-19T21:53:00.000+11:00

Fellow peddlers of hand-made loveliness at the recent KRB Spring Fair, these small businesses were just some of the delightful folk I met while exhibiting the find...found...forage wares.

Fi from The Inspired Paddock had set up the most stylish stand. She was selling pieces such as antlers that have been naturally shed, wreaths made from barbed wire, and lamps, vases and decor items made from the trunks of Birch trees.

Looking for pheasant feathers? Want a deer hide? Or how about a hand-made backgammon or chess board? Fi has gotten busy in her studio shed and made all these items herself. By hand.

Be prepared to drool....
(all photos taken by Fi herself)

Need to get your Christmas Gift Wrap theme sorted? Are you using wrapping paper as a centrepiece for your Christmas table? What about the bon bons?

Wrappsody were also at the KRB Spring Fair with the most comprehensive array of wrapping papers, co-ordinating ribbons and gift tags. Not only were there tons of options, but the rolls of paper came in quantities sure to wrap all your loot.

Rolls of 10m or 50m of the highest quality papers are sourced with co-ordinating ribbons. I for one, cannot wrap a gift without finishing it with a ribbon. Amy and her team solved my Chrissie wrapping conundrum.

I've already wrapped a trio of gifts on their way to the UK...

photos from Wrappsody

Lucy from Frayed was another talented crafts-lady with scrumptious offerings. This time of the Shibori kind. All manner of linen delights were on offer from cushions, to napkins, placemats and bunting.

Her gift tags alone will convince you to style your Christmas blue this year!

photos courtesy of Lucy

Fairs and markets are on in abundance at this time of year.
Get yourselves along to one and pick up some pressies that are sure to tick the 'unique' box.
Sx

All the fun of the fair...

2015-11-11T16:47:00.003+11:00

Sunday saw find...found...forage sitting front and centre at the Kincoppal Spring Fair. And what a fair it was! Held once every four years, it is a community event eagerly anticipated by both the Eastern Suburbs locals and the school girls, and it attracts over 5 000 people.

The weather was kind and the patrons were out in force. When you have an interior decorator of the calibre of Leanne Smeallie on the organising committee, the fair was always going to be a stylish affair.

I'll showcase some of my fellow market stall holders in my next blog post, but for now here are some snaps from the day.

How good do the bunting, hay bales and picket fences look?
And you couldn't possibly have Devonshire tea without chandeliers, roses and proper English china tea cups, could you?

The market stalls from external exhibitors (like me!) were set up indoors.....

Thanks to the Kincoppal community for an atmospheric & supportive Spring Fair.

Spring has sprung.
Sx

Gifts at The Gallery

2015-10-21T21:45:00.000+11:00

I love a good Museum shop. Embarrassingly, it can often be my highlight when visiting a museum / art gallery.

Yesterday, prior to seeing the Collette Dinnigan Exhibition at The Powerhouse Museum, I found myself in the newly-renovated MAAS Store mentally ticking off many gifts from my scarily extensive Christmas Shopping List.

Check out some of these hand-made discoveries:

The interlocking wine rack you can configure to suit your needs / space. Made by Power to Make, these plywood sets come in different colours and you can add sets as your wine collection grows. The best bit is they come flat packed for building, so easy to post & carry. Starting at AUD$55 for the 6 bottle set, this would go down well in any home at Christmas.

I was totally crushing on these flower frames by Sydney company Rainy Sunday. They come in all sorts of delicious shades. I imagine gifting one of these with some fresh blooms, as they provide a beautiful keepsake long after the flowers have gone. Single black one will set you back AUD$52.

Having laid Tasmanian Oak Floors in an attempt at a slightly Scandi interior, Oak is still very much on my radar. These oak homewares by Normann Copenhagen caught my eye in the Museum Shop.

Great gifts, good prices and so smooth and tactile to boot. A house can NEVER have enough hooks and here are a couple of stunning oak versions, and a luxe timber trivet to protect your bench tops. Truly Scandinavian, all items online are sent from Denmark, so prices are in USD.

Curve hook - USD$28, Trivet - USD$33 & Stick Hooks - USD$25

I could account for at least a third of my Xmas Shopping List at The Museum Shop - I recommend it highly for some novel pressie ideas, some amazing books and they even had some yummy fodder on hand for the hungry visitor.

If you have the chance to see the Collette Dinnigan Exhibition - on until Aug 2016 - you won't be disappointed. Tickets are $15 and she has a book out too. That's the perfect Xmas gift combo right there!

Spoiler alert.....some visuals of her most AMAZING mood boards at the exhibition below....

Something for everyone at The Powerhouse right now!
Sx

kid art

2015-08-14T12:23:00.002+10:00

Just so much kid craft about the place.

This is hand-made art in the most purest, non commercial form. Below are some "trees" that were part of a project at our local school:

I spotted these simple tree collages on a quick visit to the school library:

And more library craft goodness. A whole wall covered in what can only be described as pages torn from novels (is this deemed acceptable in a library??):

And not to be outdone, a nearby Mod-Asian Eating House - Kho Plak has wallpapered their walls in the same vane, using photocopies of postcards, photos, magazine articles etc.

This endeavour is not for the faint hearted. Can you imagine the hours it took copying, cutting, placing, pasting....?

Inspired by Joan Miro the Spanish Painter, here is my son and the artworks his class painted for a local Cultural Expo.

The local junior talent knows no bounds. Seriously impressive stuff. These are all the works of school students:

And who could resist a naive little felt picture?

Not me.

No need to spend big bucks on art work from the pros.

Enlist the flair of the little people.

Birthday Bonanza

2015-07-14T21:35:00.000+10:00

After all these years singing the praises of giving and receiving a hand made gift, it seems my nearest and dearest jumped on board for my recent Birthday.

Hand made, irresistible treasures in the form of earrings, pyjamas, and homewares were gifted to me. So how could I not share them with you?

I love Pyjamas. I wear a long pair every night of every week of every year, with either a tank or long sleeve top depending on the season. I can't sleep in anything else.

So imagine my delight to receive a beautifully gift wrapped pair of organic and fair trade PJ Bottoms from The Goodnight Society via my Super Couz Andi?

A local company - Brisbane based - The Goodnight Society not only produce funky PJ's for men and women, they have partnered with The Heartfelt Project to provide employment opportunities for women in South Africa. Sweet little felt & heart magnets made by women through The Heartfelt Project are included in each order which in turn provides jobs and a brighter future for these women of Makapanstad, South Africa.

Prices for long pjs start from AUD$34.95.

If you haven't seen the totally on trend, lightweight clay pots handcrafted by Design Twins then you've been living under a rock. They are everywhere. On every blog, in every mag and are popping up in my Instagram feed on a very regular basis!

Having coveted their pots and their concrete cups, I was waiting for our renno to finish before making the big purchase. No need to wait though as I'll be receiving my very own pot soon as a b'day gift thanks to my Mum! All pots are made to order, I can't wait for it to arrive. I know exactly where it's going to go! Starting at AUD$140 for the small, there are too many styles and colours to mention. Here are a few of my favourite:

Colourful earrings from this wee piggy are fun for all ages. Made with love in South Australia, these small studs start at AUD$10 and were given to me from our country cousins along with a delightful fluro dipped dish. Score!

All in all a rather successful wrap to another successful year. A special thank you to my friends and family for all the birthday loot. Love it!

Purchasing Power...

2015-06-18T12:46:00.001+10:00

There have been a whole load of handmade treats to tempt me while styling the updated pad.

Some I've succumbed to, and others are still firmly on my wish list.

Here's a few that have made the cut:

This print by Oh Eight Oh Nine is providing some luxe in the laundry. A3 size is AUS $20.

This lovely marble look handmade cotton pouch by Behr & Co spectacularly sets off greenery of any sort. From AUS$13.95

This sweet little handpainted wooden feather garland combines my two loves: glitter and fluro! By The Great Lakes Goods. Their motto is "handmade goods with good vibes" - that's a mission statement easy to adhere to!! US$18

The kid's playroom has a pinkish theme going on, so one of my find...found...forage macrame hangers is doing it's thing in there. AUD$$45:

And in DIY news, I took some humble HB Lead Pencils (it's amazing how many of these I found lying around the house!) and covered them with some Japanese Paper to improve their look and use as party bag fillers. Click here for a tutorial to do something similar yourselves.

Support the independents and embrace the charm.
Sx

Home and Hair

2015-05-15T21:30:00.000+10:00

As mentioned, the past 8 months have seen me embarking on two things of note:

1) a home renovation

2) and growing my hair

Here is a before photo of both. As both projects were to be of similar duration; I was wondering which I would tire of most quickly...

We are 8 months down on the house with about a month to go, and I think 9 months might just mark the end of the hair growing efforts also....

Here's where we are at:

One more month and I should be able to get my hair in a ponytail and should be able to empty our storage unit and move in entirely to the updated abode.

And then crack the champagne.

Although I am ready for them both to be over, neither has sent me entirely mental (yet!).

Having worked side by side for almost 5 months before he told me, one of my very talented builders Nik, has a sideline business with his wife called Top Knot Designs. They make these beautiful shelves and shadow boxes using materials such as Natural Marine Ply and Australian Western Red Cedar. I'm currently deliberating on just which one/s to order for our 'new' home (when really I should be researching driveways...yawn!).

photos courtesy of Top Knot Designs

I can't believe he kept this info from me for so long?!!

Check these beauties out and follow TopKnot Designs on Instagram or Facebook to see the full range. Prices start from AUD$50 + postage.

As for the hair and the house, I will report back in 30 days...

Who doesn't wear ballet flats?

2015-05-12T10:26:00.000+10:00

As Autumn is here, it's the perfect season to bust out your ballet flats.

Touted by French Women Don't Get Fat author Mireille Guiliano as the answer to keeping mobile and shedding kilos; the comfort and versatility of a pair of Ballet Flats means you can wear them all day and on all occasions.

If you spend your day on your feet, or if you wish you could - get yourself a couple of pairs and wear them all week.

Cue some style inspo from all the big names....

Image from here

Don't overlook the coloured ballet flat....

Image from here

There are 11 ballet flat colour choices on my website and each pair is AUD$80 incl postage.

If the shoe fits....

Insta...gifts

2014-11-20T14:49:00.002+11:00

Anyone else possessed with the endless scrolling of images on Instagram?

Stalking people, businesses, destinations; it's all possible on Instagram and it offers the added bonus of voyeurism through delightfully filtered lenses.

I've found some cracking small enterprises via this fabulous photo sharing app.

Here are some of the Instagram users I follow and am vowing to shop from this Christmas:

koh woman - bohemian elegance with hints of luxury & decadence. Accessories, Clothes, Shoes and Jewellery. This Feather & Chain Harness is on SALE for $100!

Click here to Follow Koh Woman on Instagram

Indigo Babe - Funky Bandit Kids X Marks the Spot pants. Up to Size 8. My little 6year old will find a pair of these in his stocking. AUD$60.

Click here to follow Indigo Babe on Instagram

South Of The Border - sparkly pants & shorts. Need I say more? These ones are AUD$169

Click here to follow South of The Border on Instagram

Palmaira Sandals Australia - not sure I can come at giving these away. Might be popping a pair of these under the tree for myself. AUD $110

Click here to follow Palmaira Sandals Australia on Instagram

Sakura Textiles - Something for everyone. Tea Towels AUD$22, Pillow Cases AUD$35, Jumpsuits AUD$60 and THE cutest bloomers (for adults!) for only AUD$10!

Click here to follow Sakura Textiles on Instagram

Look beyond the traditional methods when gift buying this year.

Instagram - it's is just photos and comments. That's it.

Follow find...found...forage on Instagram for my own hit of hand-made visuals.

Sx

**images are not my own**

New Stock in the find...found...forage online shop!

2014-10-15T11:39:00.001+11:00

The fast pace in which Christmas approaches each year always seems to catch me out. Despite all good intentions of having the pressie list nailed by October and the gifts shopped for by end November, there is always one or two people still to buy for when the shops are their busiest and energy levels are lowest.

Why is it that I tend to overlook presents for the teacher / coach / neighbour year after year??

Well not this year.

Enter the find...found...forage offerings.

Unique and economical. Hand-made (surely after all these years this goes without saying?!), and complimentary postage Australia Wide. **

I've got new stock and some old favourites. Here's a little peak, but do pop over to the shop to see more....

Newly arrived; beaded tassel charm bracelets. Adjustable. AUD$20ea.

Sara Dolls - AUD$10ea. Supporting Street Kids of Bali:

Delicate & glamorous beaded necklaces in coral, fluro pink and grey. AUD$15ea

More sizes arriving next week of the perennial favourites, my all leather Ballet Flats -

11 colours to choose from. AUD$80ea

New colours of these versatile baskets just arrived. AUD$25ea.

Stocks have been replenished of these three Sophisticated Sparkles. AUD$15ea

Which little kidlet wouldn't love their very own Personalised Christmas Stocking?

Order now for Xmas. AUD$65ea.

A personal favourite, this beeswax candle looks so much like the real thing. And it smells divine. Banana Leaf Candle - AUD$35.

Key Ring - fluro tassels. I'm in heaven! AUD$15ea

Double Strand, pastel hued, tassel necklace. Ceramic pink beads. Chic & Classy.

Head will turn. AUD$30ea

Stock is limited, so while they will sell out quickly, you're also guaranteed to be giving a unique gift this Christmas.

Skates on Peeps!

** there are a couple of items in the shop where I can't offer complimentary postage because of their size **

Coveting Copper

2014-09-11T13:36:00.002+10:00

Copper is so on trend and so on my radar right now.

I'm talking the shiny, rose gold copper, not the old plumber's pipe type copper.

It's being used all over The Block interiors, and I've been Pinning Copper touches like crazy.

We are about to embark on a renovation. Is the copper trend here to stay? Will it date? Do we invest in a copper tap or go it safe with one of these non-permanent nods to the current copper craze:

A mug for the toothbrushes? This one is from Moscow Mule and is AUD$20

I've been eyeing off this stunning, hand-formed Tom Dixon Champagne bucket for years....sigh.... From the Owl are selling them for AUD$348

In the meantime, I'll settle for one of his copper candles - AUD$154

Crafted in Japan, this beautiful copper clock is available at Nasty Gal for AUD$203. I'd be happy for this little beauty to wake me each day...

Or perhaps I'll simply adorn myself with one of these beauties, Copper being the new black and all. Made in the Ukraine by Wirefoxjewellrey they are currently on SALE for AUD$21.

Here's my predicament. I'm sure copper tap-ware is completely impractical (which is probably part of the appeal) and AUD$400+ is quite a lot of coin for a tap, isn't it?? These two styles below are from Astra Walker who are family owned and make their products here in Australia.

Join me in the droolfest...

On other embarkations, I'm attempting to grow my hair. Apart from a dabble in shoulder length locks about 7 years ago, it's always been short.

Which will drive me the most crazy? The renno or the hair? Both should take about the same time to eventuate. I'll be sure to report in.

First world problems.

On the anniversary of 9/11 and with all the other tragedies getting around, let's keep it light and concentrate on the fun stuff eh?

S x

Pocket Pillows

2014-08-17T14:49:00.003+10:00

Last weekend I enjoyed our Annual Boarders Weekend with the girls, and while there was plenty of champagne, catch ups, food, shopping, deep & meaningfuls and did I say champagne (?), we also managed to get our Craft On.

Yep. That's right. We dragged the gals off for a secret activity of some old fashion crafting to blow off the cobwebs from the night before.

The ladies at Makers Loft have relocated to Cammeray; and while they are still in the middle of their refurb - deluxe coffee station and cafe about to be opened within the space - nine of us managed to take over the studio and create ourselves (or rather the little people in our lives) a little keepsake and memento from the weekend.

Pocket Pillows will be perfect for the tooth fairy to deposit her coins, or for secret notes to be stashed. Fashioned out of off-cuts from old clothing, the recycled effect was cute beyond words.

Foxes, Owl, Cats and even a monkey were the end products of just 2 x hours of labour. We did drink coffee and we did chat, but mostly, we had to actually concentrate to pull these off in the time frame!

Despite a few initial groans, the group retreated to a bit of schoolyard girly competition, and knocked these out in no time.

Satisfying too, taking home a little souvenir crafted by our own hands. Some of the recipients however are still rather doubtful as to who actually made them.

Women of many talents us Mums.

Wrap Up

2014-07-28T13:52:00.000+10:00

I do love the chance to forage.

At the end of the day, it's not even about the find, but the foraging process....

Just back from a holiday and side-trip to see my ballet flat supplier, I snapped photos of hand-made & repurposed inspo to share with you here....

Here's a visual wrap up (don't forget to can follow find...found...forage on Instagram for more eye candy):

The ice bucket getting some palm & banana leaf treatment:

Are they a neckpiece or are they an artefact? Your choice, but we had many versions decorating our Villa in Canggu

Welcoming us to a morning of White Water Rafting out of Ubud, was this pebble mosaic:

The quirk factor was off the richter scale at La Favela in Seminyak. Recycled and repurposed is what they do best:

Their menu on the street outside the restaurant is displayed on this old movie camera:

Just a reminder to any would be thief at Butter Cake & Coffee Shop in Canggu:

More repurposed goodness at Butter :

Hubby sporting a rattan backpack made by hand in Borneo...Thinking of stocking them in my shop. What do you think?
Could also look fab hanging as a pendant light shade....

New favourite coffee stop of the trip, Bungalow Living had photo opportunities around ever corner:

Welcoming us each morning were these fresh flowers:

Why not add a pop of fluro to your crucifix?

And look at the way they hand-wrapped each brownie slice:

If you have a cushion crush, check out the Bungalow Living website for many divine designs....

Popped into Coco & Ginger - have been meaning to get in there for the past few trips - and snapped this colourfully painted pot on the way in:

And finally, I have to share the lush setting for our ablutions for the week in Villa Maxceo:

All in all, another inspiring, relaxing, motivating, rewarding, sunny, fun, family holiday to Bali.

And great to be home too!
Sx

IT'S SALE TIME @ find...found...forage

2014-06-27T09:00:00.000+10:00

Nothing beats a good sale. Not the waste of time 10% off type sale, but one where you are truly nabbing yourself a real, deal.

Enter the find...found...forage online shop SALE!

To clear out stock and make way for some new finds arriving very soon, I am offering a whopping great 20% off everything.

Let me do the sums for you:

Ballet Flats @ $80 = now $64

Baskets @ $20 = now $16

Macrame Hangers @ $48 = now $37

Necklaces @ $15 = $12

Just enter "Year End" at the checkout to receive your 20% discount!

Shop 'til you Drop.
Sx