That Crafty Fish x

Jubilee Bows and Owl Trim

2012-01-17T05:14:00.000-08:00

uh oh, P.S

also great for cake toppers = these mini fabric bows!

Cute, no?

I love these. They are so London and definately what 2012 is about.

A bit of pride in our Nation and all that it encompasses. A bit of support for a Monarchy - that i do believe, generates much more money for the UK in Tourism than it spends. Sorry, that is my stance on the Royals.

And my less controversial opinion on owls.

OWLS!

I live in "Owl End Way" so this trim is just gorgeous in my opinion.

Promise i will blog something clever and noteworthy soon...

(Ok, like i ever have blogged anything of the sort.... but maybe some more great cooking)

Olympic & Jubilee Cake Toppers...

2012-01-15T01:16:00.000-08:00

Cute, Quick, Crafty... don't say i never give you anything!

These cake toppers / decorations are awesomely easy and cheap. They take little explanation...

Cocktails sticks with stuff on - great for kids but obviously watch how sharp the tops are.

For the Flag Toppers:

I bash one of my ends on the table to blunt it slightly before it goes inside the ribbon.

Two lengths of the flag used as this will fold over on top of each other.

I used double sided tape AND a splodge of glue because they *ping* apart if u don't.

The Felt Ball Bobble Toppers:

I used the smaller 1cm Felt Balls

Get the sharpest end of the stick - dab a bit of wet glue on.

Push and wriggle it into a felt ball as far as you can - then leave it to dry.

I also used the red balls as Christmas Toppers for Party Sandwiches, ala Rudolph's Rednose.

It's all a bit of fun and magic :)

Best suited to mini cakes and muffins but this half scoffed Chocolate Cake was easy to hand for display purposes!! (only?)

You can also try chopping a few small pieces of felt and making mini flags / bunting etc... as toppers.

Kids love this as it is quick and easy to do.

My BigFish shop on etsy, is stocking this vintage style flag Trim in 3 colourways, just inacse you need some.

What are your plans?

2012 is a great opportunity for some:

Street Parties

Bake Sales

Olympic Sofa Gatherings / Couch Coaching...

Kitchen Pretties...

2012-01-12T10:47:00.000-08:00

AAaahhh, Spring Pretties in the Kitchen : )

I confess, there is little of excitement happening in my kitchen at present.

I am one of the *many* (i imagine) who have taken the New Year as an opportunity to lose a few extra pounds that seemed to leap on me during December...

But the *new* all singing - all dancing - custard yellow KitcheAid is being put through it's paces.

^^^Be still my Beating Heart^^^

This was an adored Christmas Gift to me & my Kitchen and she and I have been getting to know each other.

This looks like the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Smoothies and chopping and batters and some future cocktails (sshhhhh...)

And then there is the Joy... of the Tassimo...

I know, yes i do know, there is nothing simpler than boiling a kettle in order to make Oneself a hot beverage.

Buuuuut - come on, it is a tidy wee kitchen gadget that makes all sorts of drinks using little pods and pressing buttons and a wee hiss. I bloody love a kitchen gadget. "Hello Joy-ous tassimo" (in red!)

I am mostly reading HUGH at the moment and loving his Every Day book.

But, how pretty do all these pinks look sat on the Kitchen Book shelf?

Oh hurry up diet and make me stick thin.

I want:

Toast & Marmalade

Cinnamon Bagels

Pecan Fudge

Lemon Cheesecake

A whopping great Hot Chocolate finished with Squirty Cream and chocolate shavings....

Pretty Shop Items...

2012-01-10T10:44:00.000-08:00

Stocking the http://paperfish.etsy.com/ shop ready for the upcoming SALE DAY!!

I know i have been making PinPots and NeedleBooks for an age now,

but i really love these designs. They are good designs and so pretty

(in my humble opinion)

I had a very calm and relaxing sewing weekend and it felt so good to make things

'just because i like them'

and not because they are ordered.

It is so satifying to trawl through my own stash and ribbons and trims,

rather than selling stash.

And it is SO satisfying when people love these items and i know they will sit in someone elses sewing box or on their table and inspire their pure joy of creating.

I think this PinPot in Spring Yellows and Pinks is my current Favourite.

The tags at the top of this post are so quick and easy to make.

I am selling a few packs, but really, they are not rocket science and the idea is just to inspire and encourage peeps who love crafting. Whilst the weather is a bit drizzly, it is nice to stay in indoors with a bit of cosy sewing or crochet or knitting or gluing or....

Happy 2012!

Keep an eye on the blog for Full Details of my amazing ETSY SALE DAY!

Lists...

2012-01-03T02:06:00.000-08:00

LISTen, i know you are equally obsessed with List making as I am.

I have lists for EVERYTHING

Some are just dotted down to help me organise my thoughts

Some are actual longer-term lists i am working through...

I have a notebook in my shopping bag that has lists of every measurement of every room in my house,

all the walls and the windows... just incase i see some bargain homeware and i need to know if something will 'fit'. You can suggest the term OCD if you want, but i won't listen.

Organisation is the key to any efficient lifestyle.

(HA!...)

I am currently on the lookout for a huge picture frame that i can spray paint and turn into a noticeboard

(to display my lists, obviously)

Lists:

House measurements and needs List

List of things to Sew for my home

List of things to buy next time i am in town

List of accomplishments i want for my business

List of phonecalls i must make and bills to pay

List of food from the supermarket today

List of improvements i need to make to all my webshops

List of new training exercises i want to try at the Gym

List of plants that might work in my garden

THAT Amazon List - you know you all have one...

Happy 2012 - go make a list!

2012... Say YES!.....

2011-12-29T02:35:00.000-08:00

I generally have just ONE

New Years Resolution for 2012...

It is the Mantra that is going to guide me through a fantastic year (i hope)

Saying "yes" is an attempt to put me out of my comfort zone

to welcome new opportunities

because i have a tendancy to hide away from life

(and just poke my head out into the blogosphere and back)

I mean to be slightly 'measured' in this though.

I am not 'yes-ing' in gay abandon to all and sundry....!

But generally

"yes"

will ensure i have a more exciting year than one in which i say 'no' more often than not.

so:

"yes" "thankyou, i will" "yes please" & "see you there"

x x x

Wwwoooo Hooooo!!!!!.....

2011-12-22T12:02:00.000-08:00

So VERY much to look forward to in 2012

I am so excited - see you there!?

x x x

Embroidery Hoop Decoration detail

2011-12-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

I had a mad 20 minutes last week when i decided to make this set of co-ordinating hoop decorations.

I have a box of these pretty hoops sat waiting for some various tasks...

and i also had a bag of scraps from my bunting making session and always i have little baskets filled with bits n pieces and scraps and ribbons and stuff i made or stuff i bought.... STASH! you know how it is.

So, they are 3 different sizes and i hung mine as above, getting smaller. You can hang them anyway you like though but i like the 3 different sizes.

The first was so easy. I literally sewed up some long strips of leftover Christmas fabrics. I have used these fabrics and colours elsewhere in my Xmas Decorations so i knew they would fit in with the general home decor theme (if i have such a thing)

The second two, i then stretched over with matching / co-ordinating scraps.

I have sewn the back of these like you would if you were making a yo-yo / suffolk puff thing. Whipped it round the edge and pulled it in tight - i can do you proper tutorial for some Spring versions after Christmas? Give you some real notes amd photos on exactly "how to" ?

Anyway, the moral of this semi-tutorial is thus:

1. I decorated the hoops AFTER with the embellishments as they were easier to sew on once stretched in the hoop.

2. i did not plan it at all and just saw whatever happend. I like to work this way

3. it took about 20mins- seriously. 30 mins to hang it too.

4. it is dead easy and you can even take these out and change them if you want.

5. hang yours thus or differently or make a set of 5 or just a few small ones... whatever, it'll look good :)

I am going to list these exact sets of 3 in the shop (hopefully both etsy and LPF by the end of today)

But it is a bit close to Christmas now so, prod and remind me we can do this again in detail ready for Spring / Easter. I will be having a sale around February time so i may chuck even more hoop sizes into the mix ready for February...

If you already have a hoop or 3 hanging around at home, why not use some cute Christmas Ribbons to embellish? My Artisan Bunting below is just an example of different bits and pieces you can add to your hoops.

Merry Front Doors

and

Happy Last Minute Crafting

and Annie.... THANKYOU x x x

Holiday Cheer... it's all about the Edibles here...

2011-12-16T02:49:00.000-08:00

If you could smell my house right now.....

Oh. My. Lordy.

If you could smell what i can smell, you'd probably propose to me. Even though you are already married.

It is the power of the Pickle.. and the Spices.. and the Sloes....

2011 is all about the Incredible Edibles!

Having re-discovered Milton tablets, Sterilising equipment has become a joy.

A nice big bowl with a few Milton tablets and you can sterilise the funnel, sieve, jars, spoons.

It fills me with a little more confidence when i know everything is bleached to within an inch of it's inert 'life'.

I've gone all Delia this year. I got her book at a Car Boot for a bargain. Very happy with my wee self.

And she is doing me proud thus far.

Pickled Pears, by rights, i should have done a bit earlier than this but Pah! i left it late.

I am so exciting about these with a Cheese Board and the Cold Meats. Yum.

Mainily pared pears and spices with Cider and White Wine Vinegar but i put a generous glug of Gin in too.

There was talk of late that, I might have begun listing 'DRINKING' in my list of "top 5 greatest things to do"

i swear it's not true - this recipe can take some Gin. It's all good.

The Sloes have been steeping in their sugar syrup and gin solution for many months now - not the recommended 12, granted. But are now drained and bottled, ready for the various occasions that are upcoming. I have already finished a bottle of my Damson and Apple Gin - now that is a heavenly concoction i should not be left alone with.

Let us gloss over the marathon of children's 'Magical Sandwiches' for parties, Cinnamon cookies and other such treats. It is like a Mother's obligation... except if you are my friend Mel, who put her name down for Ready Salted crisps for the Children's Party.... what is the matter with me? why didn't i do that?

There was a tricky moment with a cheese sandwich yesterday, when Lucy asked me:

"Why is the sandwich magical Kirsty?... because it has glitter on it?"

"yeesss Lucy (10 other children listening) that glitter is the magic dust that makes Rudolph fly on Christmas Eve"

"Will we fly on Christmas Eve too Kirsty?"

"eerrrmmmm..... yeeeesssss, you might....."

PLEASE KEEP LUCY SAFE on Chritsmas Eve. Tie her to the bed! There may be magic afoot!

Goodness only knows what will arrive in the Food Delivery on Monday Night?

I am hoping to make:

Leek & Blue Cheese Tartlets

Salted Pecan Fudge Squares

Waffles and Hot Choc Dip for Breakfast (ala Jamie Oliver - oh my!)

Slow Roasted Honied Figs

- i am more of a support act to the main event over this gluttony fest.

I am happiest with this role.

And look at this wee gift from a friend!

"I'd love a Babycham" - cute (wait till i show you the glass!)

Friendship is one of my next thoughts. I have a great deal to say on the subject.

Anyway:

Pears - done

Sloe Gin - done

Gotta get a Wax in an hour OUCH! The Christmas Dinner Dance is this Saturday.

Can you believe i am going alone? We have a great table with a hilarious bunch of School Run Wino Chums and food lovers. It is with a deep breath and an "i'm a big girl attitude" that i can go the Christmas Dance like Cinderella and say "i'm not single, i am surrounded by people i love"

chat soon.

Whoooop! i'm on a high today!

Christmas Detail...

2011-12-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

This time last year, i had only just turned my life upside down and moved into a new home.

Everything seemed like "just keeping up" then. Life is equally as hectic now but i definately feel more settled so the house had a decent decorative make-over this weekend...

Having friends round for Tea / Coffee and Christmas Biscuits today, was a great excuse to tidy up! and get the Christmas Details photographed. I just had so much fun tinkering, playing, hanging, making...

Every year my daughter gets so excited that the Christmas China is out.

Somehow it makes every mundane activity seem a bit more magical.

I never make Gingerbread mid year - but December aches for a sweetly coated cinnamon and ginger treat.

You cannot beat a bit of food sparkle. Seriously, every meal should have fairy glitter on top.

I found this Blue Scottie fabric i had stashed away in the cupboard so i ran up some crazy bunting with hege bells on and i am so happy with it. I have gone quite Aqua, Red and White this year, despite my intention to stay like a Nordic Gnome. I am no believer in a Christmas Colour Theme but somehow, a theme tends to emerge on it's own.

I love getting the tree out. All these LEDs help to fend off any Winter Blues.

And all those toys help to hide the weighted base on the tree.

Bells.

BellS.

BELLS.

Utter Joy.

And a Robin Mug filled with Candy Canes that are making my teeth fall out just looking at them.

At the end of school i shall hand them out to some little local friends : )

A beautiful Robin to remind me of my Nanna.

Thank you dear friend - it was so very thoughtful!

Collecting the Christmas China is an ongoing joy.

And just when i think i own 'enough' then i will be 80yrs old and ready to palm my old fashioned hoarding onto unsuspecting recipients.

aaahhh, i am feeling so very Christmassy now.

x x x

What I wore at the Weekend...

2011-12-06T03:26:00.000-08:00

Oi Oi, Outfits Ahoy -

what i wore at the weekend only really matters because it means i had nice things to go do :)

So, please be upstanding for my new Dickensian Boy Shorts in Tweed! *love*

They make me want to 'talk cockney' and quote "Oliver" at opportune intervals

(much to my friends' amusement... or not...)

Also sporting a newly cropped and mega blonded ruffle hairdo.

Vanity wins HANDS DOWN where a good haircut is concerned.

I feel 'dressed' in my PJs if my hair looks decent.

I missed the apron shot, where i am making up some bottles of Sugar Syrup ready for Cocktails.

Shaker, courtesy of the WI Jumble Sale last month...

Saturday Night Cocktails round H's in 'The Lane'

We love you H - you are our local scocial hub and we'd go nowhere / do nothing without you.

Thank you for washing up all those glasses and letting S dance on the Wii to Katy Perryt till 2am

x x x

Honestly, i should be paid to shake these babies...

"French 75" was by far the Winner:

Gin, Syrup, Lemon Juice & Champagne - over Ice

oh yes.

Believe it or not, Sunday morning started with a 5k run.

Me and the dog ran it in record time and it was a 'good un'

so, running kit is also on the outfit list.

Then, Sunday Lunch in Beaconsfield with the extended family - what a treat!

SeaBass in creamy Fennel Sauce, mmmmm

Wearing a long Cardi with 70% Alpaca!

I swear, it's not 'what' you wear in Winter, that matters. It is the Wool Content.

This was like wearing my bed for the entire day...

Indeed, after that dinner, a Chocolate Brownie and a few bottles of Prosecco,

i did fall asleep all the way home. Thank goodness my Dad was driving.

Animal print Scarf? and abundant Silver? Oh yes.

So, that is what i wore this weekend, mostly.

And you probably don't really 'care' but i told you anyway

HOPE U R not tooooo cold up North?

x x x

2012 Photo Project...

2011-12-02T06:33:00.001-08:00

Nothing is Black or White, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

so, here is something for you to ponder on... (all of you, not just my MrsB above) If you like photography or want to improve or are stuck in a rut or just like being a bit of a club member... think about what you want to photograph MORE of in 2012.
Animals? Tea Cups? Landscape? Friends?
I shall re-visit this idea with you at a later date. I am thinking that I need a project.

Advent indeed....

2011-12-01T01:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Friend,

I am far more full of 'cold' than i am of Christmas Cheer this morning.

Never-the-less i am joyful! and replete with the excitement that Advent morning brings.

And you are so right, of course!

To be gentle with oneself and not to keep demanding more. Put less expectation on 'what fabulousness needs to be achieved'... and to actually enjoy what fabulousness is already here.

Memories!!

They are abundant and overflowing and the regularity of Christmas is so reassuring.

You are right, again, on every level.

I have done none of my shopping - none of my baking - none of my own making.

I care not a jot.

The Angel Costume was hung up in the School Hall this morning with her name and class written boldy.

The Advent Santa was full on the advent surprises.

I have cocktails on Saturday Night with my local Girl Friends.

My dog thinks i am beautiful, even sat here in my tracksuit nursing the stinky cold.

And i can - just about - stomach my seething jealously of your Avent Elf House for yet another year.

(they never made another as pretty and perfect as this)

Secretly you see, we instil the magic of Christmas into them, so they can keep it going for us when we run out of steam! Clever Mummies xxx have a Gluh Wein for me?

Winner * Winner * Winner... of Pip Lincolne's gorgeous new book

2011-11-27T01:33:00.000-08:00

It is Sunday... and i was just about to walk the dog....

then i thought, i shall draw this GIVEAWAY Winner now, or it will never happen!

So: *drum rrroooolllllll*

It is YOU Joanne - http://rosedahlia.blogspot.com/ - from this place here

and Jo has 2 sons and a daughter and has been finding the time to do some very cool Christmas Crafting.

She shames us that she can find the time! Please go and see her amazing knitted NOEL letters. I am in awe of her talents.

I do not *know* Jo so it all Legit. like. But i know her now :)

Well Done my Lovely and i do wish everyone could win it though.

And i thought i would stuff this little lot in to show you something new and wacky i made t'other week...

It is a felt 'Paper Chain'

and i find it so amusing that my business is actually called PaperFish,

there is very VERY little to do with paper in anything i do....

Even my paperchain is felt!

This was hugely time consuming and it took me around 2 hours to complete a piece of chain barely over 2 metres long. Tcha, but it was very satisfying!

I might try some more colourways and styles.

Ya know, i have so much more to talk to you all about.

2012 is going to be so big for me. So special. i can just feel it!

And i am so grateful that people pop in, read for a bit, enter the giveaways and like sharing all this stuff too. ThankU xxx

me! in "Mollie Makes" Magazine...

2011-11-24T05:21:00.000-08:00

so, yeh!

I am in this Month's Christmassy Mollie Makes

There is something about the ego that loves a gentle massage and my ego is no exception.

My mum was showing the checkout operator in Sainsburys....

but i would have done the same

(if i were a real person who went to real shops and had a real life)

My name in glorious red & white... yes, i know there are lots of other lovely crafters in here too,

just let me have my moment?

It was a Scandi theme so everything had to be in red / white / blue type colours...

my Gingerbread Boy... ooooohhh, looking good there Fella!!

I'll be honest, it isn't my strength really - tutorials and magazine work etc...

i am a less 'planned' type of a lady... design, make, move on - that is me.

So, that something i did, was captured in still life, for a moment... that is pretty good for me.

A moment.

ssshhhhhh

i can look away - and when i turn back, i am still there. Stopped for a moment in time.

Catalogued. Tresured.

This issue of Mollie Makes is superbly inspiring.... of course :)

I shall be drawing the WINNER of our Book competition very soon, next day or so.

Keep your eyes on teh prize for your name (maybe)

anf your eyes on the shop for these cute Christmas mini Buttons.

me....

in Mollie Makes!!....

Win the new Pip Lincolne Book!!...

2011-11-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

Do you know Pip Lincolne? - "Meet Me at Mikes"? Australian Crafty Babe? you must do....

She is awesome.

And i was sent this Book to Review by Hardie Grant AND a copy to giveaway!!!

"Make Hey - while the sun shines"

I know!

for FREE, to a Blog Reader.

So i nervously opened the book thinking *i hope i bloody like it or i won't want to give a copy to someone*

Oh, my friends...

This book is pure JOY

I kid you not, it has every element i adore in my crafty books, and every element in beautiful abundance.

I want my Craft Books to be 2 things:

1. Inspirational with beautiful photography

2. Feel and Look so good, i want to keep picking it up.

funnily enough, the projects inside are of lesser importance to me.

To start with, it wins prizes for having a Spiral Bind - seriously, more books should do this. The page stays open!! and is really pleasing to use because of that.

And the paper is like matt recycled style paper, so you want to stroke and feel the pages.

These things may seem minor, but how many of you also judge practical books by their actual 'practicality'

(it matters!)

The projects are cute and varied with sewing and crochet and knitting and EVERYTHING :)

It gives you lots of basic tips and steps and it is written with charm and comedy, as if Pip is sat with you or you are part of secret craft club. Again, more books should do this.

The photography.... well.

I want, want

to be that lady below, in yellow shoes and floral dress, toting some sewing in a mad vintage case.

This book is own-able for it's awesome vintage photography and style shots alone. Let alone all the cool stuff you can make which is mostly vintage-ish but with a modern edge.

J'Adore x totally.

When i opened it, i ignored the inside cover envelope and began with the pages themselves...

but when i came to close the book i took a quick peek at the inside pocket at the last.

I AM GLAD I DID !!

I shall not even tell you what is in there.

It is a surprise for you!

but...

More books should do this.... seriously.

It is a charming and inspirational surprise and it makes me want to produce a whole book in this way alone.

You like my blog maybe? You probably like stuff i like then.

You'll definately love this book then.

And that is that.

Lucky me has a copy.

But i have a second copy to give away to one happy reader!

It is such a special prize, all Christmassy and Lovely, worth nearly £20.00 RRP my chums,

please tell your friends or link it on your blog / tweet it, whatever!

i'd appreciate it...

And once you have passed this link on to a friend / tweeted / blogged whatever,

pop your name in my comments and why not tell me why you want it (or something like that)?

Love to you all,

Happy Christmas preparations my Lovlies

x x x

ahahhahaha ha - webcam hi!!

2011-11-19T03:29:00.000-08:00

ha ha ha happy weekend!!

I had so forgotten the joy of the webcam till 20 minutes ago.

LOOK - i am a real person :)

I have to my Pip Lincolne book giveaway and not be mucking about on here,

tsk tsk

(it's me though! tee hee)

Always Last Minute.com, that's me....

2011-11-18T05:40:00.000-08:00

Wooden Buttons!! yeah!!

A departure from my usula "brighter is better" campaign

A mix of Wooden Buttons in the shop.

As ever, i have bought these as i have a great project in my own mind for them

(2012 projects, don't ya know)

But i love them and so they are going into the BigFish shop straight away.

Ever obsessed, i have yet another colourway for the Button Wreath - Winter Wonderland

This is actually my Daughter's favourite so she tells me. Now, if you knew her, you'd be surprised by this!

Ordered more Xmas Ribbons at the Last Minute too as i sold all the reels to local peeps.

I am never, NEVER organised enough - no matter how hard i try.

I really really try...

aahhhh well.

I have been to a Zumba Class today and thrown myself around like a lunatic.

Tis the perfect remedy to creative uber-energy and helps me settle to some work.

x x x

Tomte / Tomten... warning: could be addictive!

2011-11-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

Some of you will be thinking "what the foolhardiness is Tomte all about?"

Some of you will be saying "oooohhh i love the Tomten!"

Think: Gnomes, Scandinavia, Nordic, small Elven folk

If you like the Moomins and the such - you'll love this colourway / this theme.

I have just ordered this: The Tomten - Astrid Lindgren; Hardcover

She wrote Pippi Langstrumpf

and so begins yet another brief obsession.

I am going to try and dress in these colours over the Winter and fully embrace my inner Scandinavian.

**wish i had the long blonde hair and even longer legs**

Think of me in my mock Pine Cabin, as the snow gently falls, wearing my knitted Reindeer jumper

"yurder hooden janksisit faaa"

And my home thus decorated in Red, Grey & White

NOT content with yet another Button Wreath in, yet another amazing colourway...

i decide to make myself a matching Button Bouquet for the Sitting Room.

EEeeeeek - i was terribly happy with myself about this :)

*rosy glow*

Displaying my bouquet took a few minutes of titivating.

I had no vase small enough so i used a vintage Milk Bottle and pushed it full of matching Felt balls...

And finished it with some snowy pom-pom trim and a big red bell.

It really is the simple things that colour a lady happy

see: http://afteralltheworldisabeautifulplace.blogspot.com/

and you'll see what mean...

The Balls, i have been selling in a Tomte set for a long time

http://bigfish.etsy.com/

and i do intend to make a matching garland with some of these - if i don't sell out already

*sigh*

i know it looks like i spent all day messing about in tomte world today

but i did do other things too....

x x x

GIANT bells...! i could not resist...

2011-11-13T13:56:00.000-08:00

These are surprisingly large bells!

About 80mm which is well chunky and bell-y

I have a few Silver and a few Gold so i popped them in the SnowFish shop as they are Christmassy.

So if you fancy one or two, go ahead £2.80 each

Thread a bit of ribbon through and Voila!

Add to your own project or hang as is....

ALSO: http://www.flickr.com/groups/1817119@N21/
This is a group on Flickr (for all those of you who do Flickr)
and it is a group / club / collection of photos using PaperFish products so we can all share and help advertise each other's gorgeous Crafts :) join the revolution!!!!

Books for your Christmas List? I have a few ideas... and if you love TEA, you'll love this...

2011-11-10T03:33:00.000-08:00

Hello and Welcome to Kirsty's amazing Book Review!

(*like i am on the Telly, wearing glasses that make me look clever*)

This is a gorgeous book newly published by "hardie grant"

and just in-time for Christmas Lists and Christmas Gifts.

So here is my indepth Tea Discussion...

Do you know what breaks my heart? A Department Store restaurant where i sit, with a nasty white chipped tea pot and stained, thick rimmed tea cup. In the Tea Pot is a stale tasting tea bag on a string, the tea barely strong enough to colour the water...

Is this the end of Tea... TEA as we know it? And all the beauty that goes with it? Has the Costa Coffee generation contributed to the demise of the Tea Shoppe?

Now Blog Friends - i know you well enough I think...

and if i tell you this book is called TEA & CAKE we need not review it any further as i have the feeling it is SOLD! on the title alone :)

It is though, a lovely book and nobody has paid me to say this to you.

Seriously, nobody needs a book about Tea and more Recipes for Cake: we know this.

But "Tea& Cake" is really pretty and will totally inspire and indulge anyone who loves their cups of tea, their girly coffee mornings, or the odd Tea Party.

This has to be my favourite page....

an awesome illustrative explanation to the types of tea we like!

And the illustrations are beautifully and thoughtfully done by Emma Block.

Emma Block likes "Charity Shops, Tea and very sharp pencils" so surely she is a friend of ours?

I said to Emma: "My Blog readers and I LOVE vintage tea cups, teapots, colourful mugs... do they inspire you too?

And where did you find all the cups involved in your illustrations?"

Emma said to us: "Almost all of the tea cups in the book are mine or my granny’s. I have quite a large vintage teacup collection and I find it really helps to draw from life. I did find a few on etsy though. My grandpa is an antique silver dealer and he is very pleased that my drawings of his silver sugar tongs and caddy spoons are in the book"

Emma, Has the British ‘Tea’ really turned into “Let’s have a milky brew, made with a bag in a mug, stood at the kitchen work surface”?

Aaah, replies Emma, "I think real tea is coming back. We’ve gotten used to expecting a bit more than a Tetley’s tea bag floating in a mug when we go to a cafe. More often we see ‘posh tea bags’ (Tea Pigs are a good example) and occasionally a loose leaf tea, which all seems to justify the ever increasing price tag of the humble cup of tea"

I was superbly surprised to find the section on coctails in the book!!

You know i have my bookmark pinned in the page called THE NAUGHTY EARL

so this isn't all about pretty illustrations of Victoria Sponge... there are lots of tea based ideas to keep us fans inspired.

You will really like this book i think, otherwise i wouldn't be telling you all about it.

I am keeping my copy because i am selfish but i might be buying one for my friend for Christmas (don't tell her) and then you will be itching to put out your thrifted table cloths and best mis-matched china and get the girls over for tea.... invite me won't you?

And very soon i shall be reviewing the *new* Pip Lincolne Book

AND.....

I have a copy to giveaway to a lucky Blog Friend so keep your eyes on the Blog my cosy wee Tea & Craft Fans

xxx

*slurp*

For the Love of Buckles n Boots

2011-11-05T02:36:00.001-07:00

Buckles & Leather, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

It *might* be my mission in life, to own as many awesome Boots as i possibly can... eeeek!

Trim Trim Trimmings! new-ness

2011-11-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

I missed Yesterdays Monday Shop Pimp Post as it was still the School Holidays and it was Hallowe'en AND we had spoooooky stuff to do!!

So, Tuesday shop pimp:

Gorgeous "Home Sweet Home" fabric trim with a cross-stitch style print.

Being sold with a complimentary Aqua grossgrain and red polka dot ribbon.

Then, vintage style Union Jack Trims which is so very on trend and grrreat for any Olympia 2012 projects.

In this awesome green and silver and the traditional colours.

I am liking very muchly :)

A a double Tartan treat too.

I bought these for making some Scottie Dog collars and my own Christmas wrapping.

There is so much you can do with pretty ribbons. They make me happy!

I love adding them to my patchwork cushions and lavender hearts.

You can use them for cupcake Toppers or cake decorating or on Taggie blankets or as hanging threads on decorations... oh it goes on and on and on and on....

Hallowe'en Craft Cafe

2011-10-29T02:04:00.000-07:00

You still have the Weekend to get Hallowe'en Crafting.

I love Hallowe'en - LOVE IT! and i don't want to hear any rubbish about anti-christianity and devil worship.

It is nothing of the sort. It is a Pagan festival full of celebration, not of 'naughtiness' but of thankfulness.

The dressing of ghoulies and ghosties is to shoooo away all the naughty spirits and celebrate the end of SummerTime, the end of the Harvest and recognise the beginning of a harder Winter.

And children love it. The opportunity to go out AT NIGHT! or to get dressed up or to play at being naughty and fiendish... you know most adults would love this licence to Play too...

So we have celebrated in true Craft Cafe style.

We did some Ghosties on the sewing table and i have always loved how hard children try at the sewing. They are so tenacious and patient. They *want* it finished so badly.

Paper Bags make easy and cheap 'treat bags' to collect their illicit goodies in or just feel part of the whole process (even if they are not allowed to go out treating) I just photo copied a £2 pack of stickers and enlarged them, so they could cut and paste them.

The JuNk TaBlE

Always been the top most popular table at our Craft Cafe's.

The opportunity to build and paint for hours on end in a space big enough to house BIG projects.

It is fascinating to see how big children's work can get if you give them big tools and plenty of space. Such a liberating way to create that families at home rarely ever get (unless you get creating in the garden...)

My nephew made the most awesome Dracula Castle. It rocked!

thank the lord for Toilet Rolls... the possibilities are endless but they do lend themselves to the making of Castle Turrets and Canon Guns.... (gotta love the Boys)

Please notice his Peg People DRACULAs along the top there, mwahahahaha....

Some children go completely renegade.... they find items in the Craft Boxes that i never knew i had and they just go off on their own mission. This is so satisfying to watch. My job? usually to help show the best glue or tape for a particular job. And Needle threading. I spend 2 hours re-threading needles.

Parents usually hate the painted bits.

i know, i am sorry. But it is so much fun to slap paint around.

We love the Dads who turn up *waves at MrH in his fit hat*

This holiday we had lots of Granparents, a few Dads, a couple of au-pairs and some very excitable Mums.

It makes for an eclectic mix. There were 40 children crafting, including mine and my extended brood.

Yep, that is mine. The one with the gappy teeth just in time for School photos.

How she can contain her excitement is beyond me.

Up at 6am "Mum Mum is it Craft Cafe today? is it?Is it??"

In competition with my Nephew, she too made a huge castle with various rooms and a COFFIN! for her Bride and Groom Zombies, complete with hidden string that lifts the lid for you. *so proud* (?)

A collection of seasonal Brooches i wore for the day...

SO it is with the heaviest of hearts that i declare this was my last Craft Cafe as we know it.

I have said a fond farewell to this sticky chaos and it breaks my heart somewhat.

It has been 5 years that i have been running these Craft Cafes.

Every Thursday in the School Holidays... and i have loved every single session.

I cannot describe how being with the children makes me feel when they are sooo very proud of what they make. It fills me with selfish joy and pride. i have loved them.

There are many reasons that make this a sensible choice.

It is just 'time' for a break. I need a break and maybe someone else would like a chance to run some workshops now? i don't know.

I am relieved at the break. These things take alot of time and effort to organise and they rely on volunteers who make my life easier and it is time i said a big THANKYOU to all those who stay and help clear up!!

You have been the BEST.

The last mini Craft Cafe will be on Sunday 13th November

11.30am - 2pm

Boddington Village Hall (upstairs)

and downstairs will be the Christmas Gift Fair with lots of stalls.

£4 per child and we will make some decorations and Christmas Cards.

a last fond farewell for me. But maybe i will find some new plans and projects?

who knows....

Felt Ball Bracelets

2011-10-28T04:09:00.000-07:00

Cute!

I added nothing to mine other than the fuzzy balls themselves.

You could add buttons and decoration and big balls with small...

but i was dying to just the smallest ones.

I have worn the grape / navy / white ones so much already

adds a bit of colour and fun to the school run clothing.

I am going to do a post later on our AMAZING Craft Cafe Hallowe'en fun but wanted to just show you these briefly.

I also have some news to talk to you about -

and i am planning on some workshops next year doing the odd fun class in balls n beads and other such loveliness.

My head is a-cracked with ideas and beginnings and ends and all sorts, but i thought i'd share these photos with you before i discussed all that....

later x

What to take to your Craft Stall...

2011-10-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

I am no Craft Stall Guru you understand. I don't have the 'magic touch' and nothing you or I do can ever guarantee a good Sale Takings on the day, however....

I have a bag with me that never gets unpacked when i get home so i know - KNOW - that everything will be in there if i pick it up to go to a craft sale. And inside that bag is my essential Craft Stall Kit.

TWO plain white table cloths (i cannot abide black velvet cloths, sorry if that is your thing)

I know a lady who used greengrocers fake grass as her cloth.... cool!

The second cloth is a spare, you'll be surprised how many stall holders ditch at the last minute and you could grab a free extra table.

A pad and pen for writing down the sales so i can be sure to let the Tax Man know just how much cash changed hands (!)

And a packet of sticky labels to price the items. People really like to see a price without asking you... honestly, they just prefer that.

A purse with approximately £80.00 of change in. This is a float. You know that though.

I collect many £5 notes for my float (they are rare) and i have lots of £1 and some 50p and a few £10.00 notes. Change is vital. And i re-stock the float when i get home to make sure it is all ready for the next sale.

People who know me *for real* will surely laugh at all this, as i come across very scatty!!

A stack of postcards and business cards.

Some magazines if i have been in them, just to "La-dee-da" myself a bit :)

And a pot with:

Blu tack, sellotape, string, clips, safety pins, small butchers hooks, drawing pins

You never know where there will be space to hang and display stuff from so it is good to have bits like that with you.

I take other stuff - like Water and... stock! but that is my list of essentials.

If you are Craft Fairing this season - GOOD LUCK and have fun.

Be nice to other stall holders too. It is just better that way.

Apple & Damson Gin, hooya!

2011-10-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

OMG! i mean it... O M G!!

This really is nectar of the Gods. I kid you not when i declare it to be

"Worlds Finest Apple & Damson Gin"

I read something, somewhere about England having been home to the Apple Gin, many moons hence, but that it isn't really made here anymore. And last year i made the Damson Gin from my Brother's Fruits.... which was great (if i remember correctly... if i actually can remember at all!!)

And i was sat with a glut of Apples also..... and so came the Apple & Damson Gin.

I wasn't that keen on the idea. I am not a great fan of Apple as a 'flavour' ya know? It can be a bit Apple-y.

Anyway, the fruit, sugar and gin have been steeping in a jar for a few months now so i decided to strain it and bottle it, ready for the bracing Autumn weeks ahead.

Seriously... it is amazing! so Bloooooomin YUM x

Of course it was tempting to eat the fruit..... but think about what alcoholic content it has now adopted!?

And it was a Sunday, and i had a Birthday Party 'pick up' run to fulfill....

Besides, the Damsons have stones in so it would have been a bit faffy to eat around them without breaking an expensive dental crown.

You will, of course, be pleased to know that i made TWICE as much Sloe Gin also.

It isn't ready yet, but i do think it so very important to have a second homemade alcoholic beverage, with which to perform a comparison consensus on Christmas Day....

ahem.

Seriously good my friends,

seriously good...

Pink and Green

2011-10-16T05:53:00.001-07:00

Pink and Green, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

There might be a tutorial of mine happening over at Lupin's House...
www.bugsandfishes.blogspot.com
Lupin is a bit of a Gem and i send her huge hugs over the t'internet airwaves *hi babe* xxx

Bowls, Buttons & Balls

2011-10-14T14:52:00.001-07:00

Bowls, Buttons & Balls, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

I had a wonderfully crafty day today. It started with a run. :) love my running! Some packing and post office trip. A bit of sewing, some photography and setting up my craft stall for the morning... Great x

Craft Fair Saturday 15th October

2011-10-14T03:23:00.001-07:00

Attractive Waste..., a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

10 - 4pm Helmdon Church, a small village between Towcester and Banbury. Great simple fare with tea, cakes, Ploughmans Lunch... i love this fair! and i will be there x

Shrinking Balls... and other Ball News....

2011-10-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

I know, I know - another 'post' i am bombarding you with shop nonsense.

But the felt balls are shrinking / have shrunk!

Listen though - these are cute, right? Teeny Tiny Felt balls... approx 1cm

*WANT TO MAKE A BRACELET NOW*

At this moment i am only selling them in a bag of 100 - with 10 each of 10 colours.

Super super happy to see these. LUFF-LY

i will get around to breaking them into 10s of each colour... soon (ish)

Even bigger news than that tho...

my 'rescued' dog played with a toy (a ball) for the first time since i got him!

We had a little play and he chewed it without looking at it like it might chew him back....

That IS my dog in the background, and not a cheap inadequate draught excluder.

Oh he is such a lovely boy.

I used to coo over my Baby Girl like this but now school have stolen her and i think that is terribly unfair.

A great deal of Balls today.

Christmas Cute...

2011-10-12T09:31:00.000-07:00

Whhoooop!

A couple of new Gingerbread Boys on the Block.

I have changed the faces from previous years to make them a little sweeter looking.

Peeking out of this gorgeous Christmas Tin...

And there is, sllooooowwwwly.... a collection of Christmas Babushka Babes getting into the Christmas Shop. I have some great ideas of how to extend my Christmas Range next year.

Hey - not only am i well early for Christmas, but i am already early for Xmas 2012

(somebody shoot me!)

Like the tin?

I adore Christmas Tins, and my real favourites are all the Marks & Spencer range.

But guess what? i don't want all the biscuits! I am a cake fan, but not a biscuit fan.

The great thing about this yummy tin is that it is empty! - some of you may think me mad, but that makes me happy :)

http://www.dotcomgiftshop.com/

If you want to buy your own tin £6.95 - (without the biscuits!)

Guilty Pleasure...

2011-10-11T02:29:00.001-07:00

Guilty Pleasure..., a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

I know it really is ALL things bad in life, but.... TOWIE is soooo addictive!

Wool Felt Swatch... and Professional Craft Chat...

2011-10-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

I have cobbled together these books of Wool Felt Swatches...

I wanted customers to have a wad they could handle rather than Ickle Tiny sqaures that can be frustrating to view and impossible to 'feel'

I have no idea how attatch the colour name to each 3x3 sqaure so i have STUCK (as best i could, with my top most sticky down pushing force) the name of each colour on the felt. Not the best soultion, but the best i can come up with, without stapling each piece.

I am already dreaming of all the new colours i want to add. And i have been having a little play with some pieces and it is oddly addictive... all that softness, mmmmm....

I am busy People - super busy and i'd like to try and write a Blog Post soon about how hard we professional crafters work. I was thinking about it so much today. I am guilty of coming across a bit "ooh, it's so easy all this Button Lark..." but it isn't easy. There are so many tricky elements to the entire BEAST that is: online selling... original Designing & Making

That is me :) (looking wasted with a glass of Vino) in Craftseller Magazine - "Thankyou Alice!" i appreciate you!

and the big vain monster in my Ego says "i like seeing me in a magazine" but there is often so much more work that goes in than what you see in the pulp.

I could go on and on about the commissions i have taken for books and magazines that took my time and effort that were later CUT at the last editorial moment. Or the times i quoted a price for my work and was never paid.. and so on... it has happend to many of my professional peers too.

I wonder why i keep on taking extra work?? it can't be just my ego, can it?

No, of course not, it is LOVE of the job - like any other profession.

In my last job i did sooo many extra unpaid hours. Is that what they call a Vocation? a Calling?

Well... i am exhausted. Yet there is so much more to talk about.

I have a possible impending lawsuit... other people ripping off my designs and selling them as their own. Since when was that okay? Thank goodness for Copyright Laws that state quite clearly

"Thou shalt not copy an identical design from another professional and begin manufacturing it and selling it as your own"

LISTEN UP people: don't look at my little shops and assume i won't follow you round with a big stick!

I have got big loud friends and even bigger louder Lawyers.

Tcha!

Off to have a few more glasses of the Goodly Vino.

Sneaky Stripes... and Thursday Musings

2011-10-06T04:58:00.000-07:00

p.s. i did sneak these new Stripe Buttons into BigFish whilst you weren't looking.

They are the Sister Buttons to the Polka Dot Party Spotty Buttons. Same everything 'cept they're stripes.

Only available in 6 colours at present... let's hope we get the full 13 as that would be fun!

I was at the School / Church Harvest Festival this morning.

How cute are little kids, singing about fluffy cauliflowers!?

And i found this eggshell on my walk and then i put it down next to this tiny piece of slate.

There was something so heart wrenching about seeing this egg next to a tiny stone into which my LittleFish had scratched "sorry" some time in the Summer.

She had nothing to be sorry for... but you know, eggs are the start of new birth and life.

Knowing the season has shifted again. Knowing she won't be singing in the Harvest Festival forever. That dull Mother Ache of babies growing up so fast...

Harvest is also about being thankful - feeling grateful, whatever your religion.

The Pagans were big on the Harvest. Give thanks to the land for providing n all that.

I am so thankful for it all.

Happy insides.

Wool Felt by the Yardage... yippeee!

2011-10-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

Wool Felt on the Bolt - this feels soooo good.

Seventeen Colours to start with and i have tried to choose natural shades that are very different from the Acrylic Felt colours. These are softer more natural with flecks in. So soft and very different from the Acrylic Felt i have been using and selling for years.

Naturally i am happy just to own and stroke these big blocks of colour and never sell it.

It is so satusfying. I don't see why i can't just replace the internal walls of my home with it?

Soft and thick like blankets wrapped round a piece of card, ripe and ready for chopping up and sewing cushions / toys / purses... I haven't even begun to play through all my own ides yet!

So,,,, i am stocking 17 colours to begin with but might add to the range...

Each colour has a % of wool and a % of rayon. Not 100% wool as that would cost a bit of mint to buy.

It is very wide at 90cm / 35inch on the bolt and can be purchased in half metre cuts upwards. You get lots of felt for your hard earned monies.

Currently in FuzzyFish on etsy but i'll have it in LovePaperFish as soon as i can.

Don't ask me for swatch sheets yet... i haven't got around to samples and swatch colours.

Give me time!

Fun :)

After School Tea Party...

2011-09-26T05:20:00.000-07:00

Last Week's Post School TEA PARTY

no need for an excuse - it's a 'just because' party

and we invited Grandma and Grandad too....

I don't reeecccaaallll inviting the dog.

But he seems to have found himself a comfortable seat at the table.

mmmm, tea and cake.

Sweeties and pretty china.

Fresh tealeaves and candles for fun

And a *new* Sweetie Wreath in the GingerBread World Christams Collection.

And i sold some more GIANT Lime Wreaths!

Sooo cool.

I have just made a new version of this Cath Kidston Christmas Butnting with Fresh Aqua Stripes to replace the traditional green spot.

Peoples: the sun is apparantly gonna shine this week...

Go Make Hay!!!! xxx

Pride & Ploughing

2011-09-21T05:06:00.000-07:00

It is on a day like this day, when i feel i truly know myself.

There are rare moments in my life (and maybe in yours too?) when i feel a precious sensation of absolute Perfection.

A feeling that Life, my life, could hardly be more perfect than it is at this moment.

It is a feeling of absolute peace and happiness that i could not put into words.

If you want to get spiritual with me, it almost Transcendence.

Utter Beauty. Complete.

This is the village where I live.

I grew up here. I moved back here.

When i was a child i felt that these fields, this sky, these roads, held me in. I seriously felt that they had me trapped and that this sky would suffocate me.

Now i feel the opposite. I feel that this Countryside is as close to perfection as i could ever get.

The Vintage Ploughing Festival this weekend was a sight that had me catch my breath. Because these are Farming Men & Women who are so proud of their heritage and who love these fields more than me.

My Brother has deliberately parked his Company Truck in the Field Park, to gain maximum local public exposure. He is a crafty fox and i admire him for it. He is part of it. We are all, part of IT.

It is genuinely exciting for the Kids to be driven around in a Tractor and Trailor.

Seriously, you can keep your HUGE attractions at Alton Towers (or wherever) this atmosphere is about families and laughing and tradition. These memories sit in the heart of rural families.

They get talked about over and over.

Of course, for me, the fact that my Parents still live here is part of the Magic.

The fact my brother and his family moved back here... it is like Buttercream Icing and Chocolate Drop decorations on a cake that already tastes pretty good.

Most of the families i grew up with are still here, in some variation or another.

And i love the smell of all the Barbour coats and hats. The Sheep Dung on the back heel of sturdy Equestrian footwear.

We've all got Dogs: Gun Dogs, Working Terriers, Domestic Labs and Sheep Herders....

We work them or they live as part of us, leaving their muddy pawprints on the sofas and quilts.

Walking them is no chore (unless you are under 19yrs old)

Neighbours know each other by the dogs they walk long before they know each other by name.

I am launched into Double Heaven when the fields are newly ploughed.

Honestly, the sight of the field floors with the hay stubble and tractor tracks... the colour is golden! and it reflects the sky in a sort of illumination. I don't exaggerate... just see the paintings of Master Artists like Turner. There is nothing like Hay and Harvested fields to make the countryside glow.

Ahem - forgive me.

This day *might* have been pushed to the edge of perfection when my Girl won First Prize in the Art Competition.

The theme: Harvest! of course.

Some readers might be aware...

The Government are putting a huge, sky high, High Speed Rail line right through these fields, pretty much here where i stand with my camera.

But this post isn't propaganda or a call to Arms.

It just breaks my heart to know it.

When i breathe it all in and hug this scenery to my heart, i just feel a heavy tear in my chest at the knowledge that these days are numbered.

I was *so* proud this weekend.

I was proud to be part of these families and traditons and fields that go back hundreds of generations, farmed by the Families Of, the Families Of, the Families Of, these families... since a time we can no longer remember.

It was just one of those moments in my Life when time stood still

and nothing could really be more perfect than it was at this moment.

Just call me Nigella....

2011-09-18T01:20:00.001-07:00

Just call me Nigella...., a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

Onion Marmalade and Preserved Peppers! There is another batch of Sloe Gin coming and some HedgeBerry Cordial too....
*sigh* i lurve the Autumn.

MrsB - Cooking Blog revival?
What cha allll been making?

RRrrraaaaa Red & Aqua!!

2011-09-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

Ha! I couldn't wait to show this off.

So very satisfying when i get a chance to play with this beautiful buttons myself.

I love this fresh colour scheme...

Giant 10inch Christmas Wreath

(i am doing even more colourways, yipppeee)

Then there is this DIVINE *new* Christmas fabric range.

Can you imagine how i nearly totally fainted when i saw these in the fabric store?

sooo cute. I love Caribous / Reindeer... you know this about me!

Mini Bunting - for windows or shelving - works both sides...

With a dotty red and white bias trim.

I am loving and in-love with these.

I have made more things with this fabric... and i'll show eventually but my head is filled with stockings and Advent Calenders and all the stuff i just must find the time to make.

I showed you these spotty bias trims a while back and i have been adding them to some new Bunting lines.

They really lift the colours of the fabrics and make them much brighter.

Last weekend was a big sewing weekend for me - if only i could find more weekends like that!

x x x

oooh, squeal clever me....

2011-09-15T03:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, so not massively 'clever' but just 'bigger'

I have been making smaller button wreaths for some time, and they have gradually been getting bigger and bigger! This Whopper is 10inches across / 25cm

Any bigger and the weight of it would just drag the shape of the circle downwards.

He is sold *proud*

but i have been making another in these traditional colours - then a big wreath in Aqua and Red Buttons - and also just started a Gingerbread Wreath with multi-colured buttons.

I get addicted to making things like this.

There is no great 'design' to them but the time and labour of love is obviously in the buttons and their colourways and how they sit next to one another.

I shall be sick of sewing these in 2 weeks time! but for now, it is fun.

They are a real statement piece for a Christmas Home and you know, we love our Christmas Decos.

And, just so you know, there are a few sheets of white glitter felt in the Fuzzyfish shop.

I have bought a few stacks to make Hallowe'en ghosties with "mwahahahaaaaa"

they are going to look ace when the kiddies start on them!

And these are mini flowers / snowflakes. I ordered the wrong size so there will be a few metres listed in the Etsy BigFish shop and some i will save for my Kids Craft Workshops.

Feeling the Autumn air this week - glorious!

Plum Cake... Amazon... self delusion...

2011-09-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

Egad, my i-phone is a bad bad thing.

I took a photo of these 2 books whilst on holiday and browsing a Book Shop.

Then, on an evening lying in my bed, i found these photos and had placed my order on Amazon before you could say: "stop it you crazed bedded down i-phone shopping NutJob"

But by Golly they are Jolly!!

And then there is this self-delusional element that makes us feel....

that when they arrive in the post - they have somehow been GIFTED to us by Amazon themselves.

We conveniently forget that we did, in fact, pay for these books.

Sigh - pretty pages.

The DK Preserves Book is especially great and i am just putting in my shopping order (online of course) to make up some Kilner Jars of Potted Peppers, some Elderberry Cordial and Fig Jam.

I usually shop online but i am especially shopping online forever more as i bought a new car last week and have a morbid mistrust of OTHER DRIVERS in any Car Park!!

In the meanwhile - Plum Tray Bake Cake!

Made from the Plums down at my Brother's house.

Just scrumptious...!

Now Lord, would it be too much to ask, to send me a big burly man with a love of sport and the healthy appetite that might appreciate Sweet Honey Plum cake?

Yes, his amazing sporty physique would be a bonus, But truly he would be doing me a great service (!) if he were to come and help me eat cake and the such.

Here's hoping.

Bon Plums x

Wool Threads... interesting...

2011-09-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

Sooooo..... Wool Threads then....

I've got myself this box to play with and i am quite excited.

If they are awesome and i love them, i am going to buy lots and maybe stock them in my shops.

These are Wool Threads on the reel and, get this,.... you can use them on the sewing machine aswell as for hand sewing. This is why i am quite excited.

I am going to do some KirstyFish style testing to see what they do in my machine and by hand.

I am going to test them on Acrylic Felt and Wool Felt.

There are a GAZIILION colours to choose from so i shall have a happy time with those colour charts.

If you sew with FELT - these might interest you too....

Watch this space, because if i am to stock them - you know i'll be telling you all about it right here.

*new Colour*

Can you believe there is a set of coloured buttons i wasn't selling?

I know, trust me - these are new.

I have long wanted a softer purple - a lilac haze to soften the pallette.

And here it is Liberty Lilac.

Soft and sweet - not at all like my good self.

Anyway, listen. Kids are back to school. I have a million trillion jobs to do.

I am off to ZUMBA tonight - not really my thing, but i am going to support my friend who has started running the classes. I did a hard hour at the gym this morning and i am going Kayaking tomorrow!

You know i'm busy when i start avoiding Jobs by over exercising.

I Salute you Ladies!

Long Live The Crafter Revolution

Something's Missing....

2011-09-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Fresh, Fun, Holiday Faces :)

Giving it allll to the camera

And the Boy is working his camera smile too !

(he was such a Good Boy on our Holidays...)

So much in my life is fantastic and wonderful right now **Go Me**

But, like those moments when you just 'NEED' a piece of chocolate,

There is something missing...

You know me, i need a new challenge - an adrenalin pump....

I feel the need to sign up to a Marathon, or swim the Channel...

HHhhmmmmm...

Get yourself a FREE Graze Box - if you want to....

2011-08-31T05:52:00.000-07:00

Foodie Talk!

So... this code below can be used at GRAZE and you can get yourself a free box of healthy snacks delivered straight to your letterbox, and then into your mouth.

You have to JOIN the scheme to claim it but you can cancel anytime you like.

If you enjoy the box you can then get your own code to share with your family and friends...

free box code: DP78Q8D

www.graze.com

I haven't had my GRAZE box yet but it really appeals to me as i love to eat well and eat healthy (ish)

Before i went away, the SmallFish and I had a bit of a mega Cook-a-thon

We have begun stage.1. of making Apple & Damson Gin - i know, yum!

Apparantly Apple Gin was once a typical and well-loved English Tipple, sadly no longer made :(

So, having a plethora of Damsons and Apples (from my Brother's Orchard), i have happily begun to revive the best of British 'windfall' Gin....

It will be decanted and bottled for Christmas :)

Then, the weeFish demanded Lemon Curd.

Oh lordy, she is sooooo right. This stuff is heaven sent....

slathered over the morning pancakes.

And we juiced a load of Apples with a handful of Blackberries - DIVINE!

We froze Blackberries for a future project...

We made Hedgerow Jam, or rather Jelly, as i hate the bits.... (plenty of red fruits and lemon juice)

We made Blondie Cakes

We made a mess...!!

I also ended up making a WASP catcher as we had a bit of an infestation during the process.

mmm, sweetness.

SO, to conclude:

September i am having a COLD TURKEY month - sort of a detox.

Water aplenty - no alcohol (only 4 weeks!) Cooking - Plenty of Protein

masses of running and some swimming and weights

AND a trial of these GRAZE boxes to see if they can stop me craving chocolate at nightime and biscuits after my runs... keep my natural blood sugars level.

I like a bit of healthy living.

Closing Shop... and other news

2011-08-16T04:13:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY 19th August

Last posting day from any of the shops.... please get any orders you *need* in, to me, before Friday

I shall be taking a break until Sunday 28th August...

(a well needed break)

Then it will be all systems go for the Christmas Stock!!

and getting any supplies ready you might want for the Christmas Crafting mayhem.

I have a few FAIRS that i shall be attending and hope to let you know when and where

>>>>> see sidebar information

(i LOVE a good Craft Fair *excited dance*)

I will also be having a mega

CLEARANCE SALE

in this shop: http://paperfish.etsy.com/

so an ideal time to get some early Christmas Gifts at a fraction of what they are worth.

I am, as yet, undecided on what will happen to this shop...

I have ideas in abundance, but nothing set in stone

i am open to your ideas / what you like best from there / what it could become more of:

Badges? Brooches? Bunting?

A new style of Supplies shop?

NeedleBooks? PinPots?.....

A few new Button Bags available in the BigFish.etsy shop

Pretty colour combinations to inspire you.

And i hope to get http://www.lovepaperfish.com/ fully up to date, on my return to work.

In the meanwhile, i have an Older Blog Post re-published here:

http://localcraftmatters.wordpress.com/

LCM is a *must read* if you are local to Northampton / MK / Bletchley area

Lots of info on craft clubs and artists and local vintage...

My piece talks about my way into Button selling... things have moved on even MORE since i wrote that piece and it is exciting to look back - and look forward!

xxx

Festival of Quilts Part.two..... stands and shopping

2011-08-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

SELVEDGE

If you don't know about Selvedge - click the link.

I have my critical / journalistic head on today so i might throw a few opinions around...

Selvedge is a beautiful and inspirational magazine.

The sort you keep, on a book shelf, in date order (and never lend to your friends)

It is full of adverts and costs a fortune BUT it is so very pretty and inspiring.

The show sells a guide at £6 Lupin had one and it is a good reference of stalls and for use after the show.

After paying £12 entrance and £8 car parking, i could do without a guide but would have loved one if it was cheaper.

Last year, the prestigous and coveted award of

"My bestest and most loved stall of the Fair"

Went to Kim from Worn &Washed (still a top top FAV)

But this year's lucky winner was JANET CLARE

so so pretty. Such a nice lady - very engaging and chatty even though the shows are exhausting for these dedicated ladies. Click - you'll love her work xxx

Teenies and tinies.

Nostagia and whimsy.

Pretty and Vintage stylee.

Lots of machine embroidery -

i am simply going to put these into tiny frames and hang them in my Office.

AND a freebie dog pattern on her details sheet. Very cute touch.

Some of the stalls and crafters really had a slightly too high opinion of themselves (i would never publically identify whom mind you)

A few crafter / designers had long faces and an exhausted attitude - did not want to engage in conversation...

A few had this sort of haughty response that the table dividing 'Consumer' from 'Stall Holder' was some sort of line establishing one side as "terribly special and important" and the other as "annoying pleb, just spend your money and Jog On"...

That is my only negative about the stands at the show.

Generally people were happy to chat with us consumers.

Pretty and inspirational stall from Mandy Shaw.

Lots of Christmassy bits and a very beautifully arranged stand.

There were many many fabric stalls - of course! and some that i shop at regulary.

There were not that many embellishment stands but i did buy some sweet French Mouse Trim and a few wooden flower buttons as i had never seen these in the UK before.

I would highly recommend the FoQ

There are many stands but not MASSES like at some huge shopping events.

The quilts and displays and all that craft is truly inspirational.

My biggest message to any stall holder?

We know you are tired and it is a long week for you BUT keep smiling and being nice to the consumers. We are WHY you are there! You wouldn't have a business without us folk and we only want to chat craft with you. Feign interest in us and SMILE :)

You never know who's gonna Blog you!

xxx

Until next year.....

Festival of Quilts 2011... Part.one. The Quilts!

2011-08-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

Bigging it up Quilt styleee = me with my Craft Homies

My Good Self - Lu Summers - Lupin

Birmingham NEC Festival of Quilts 2011

What a great day out!

My head, heart and throat were swollen from talking and thinking and seeing...

Above is Lu Summers fantastic bright quilt.

There were so many styles and disciplines and ideas. I took but a few photos to share.

Dynamic blocks of colour and gold with tiny tiny complicated quilting.

Always beautiful, the nostalgic quilts... the above was full of detailed embroidery.

A superb knitted quilt that was cleverly constructed so as not to lose it's shape or hang oddly (due to how heavy wool can get) This had lots of attention.

Emphemera and notions. Nostalgia and haberdashery.

Blocks and strips of shades and tones. Mixed hand quilting and machine quilting.

Tiny weeny complicated quilted Art.

Rabbit... Hazel....Watership Down???

Me singing "Bright Eyes..... burning like Fire......"

and Lupin and my chum Alison not knowing what on earth i was going on about!

Such Fun!

Thankyou my sweet Alison for a great day out.

Awesome fun to meet with Lu and Lupin

Part.one. was the quilts...

Part.two. will be the people and the shopping...

Is it soooo very wrong of me....?

2011-08-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Is it soooo totally against the grain, that i am already thinking of Christmas???

I know *in theory* i think about it all the time, due to the fact i have a CHRISTMAS ONLY shop!

But i don't get excited about that in the same way....

I have had a new wave of Xmas Fever hit me :)

Above are some bias trims, just for me to play with. And don't think that i don't LUST after new supplies just because i am surrounded by them for my living.

I do lust after them. They make my heart beat faster.....

Overcome with inspiration, i put together some new mixed Ribbon Bags for the shops.

I love it. I love playing with the stock and showcasing to people, what looks good together... which products will be fun / hot / useful this year.

Blue is not a traditional UK Christmas Colour but it screams Christmas to me.

Red and Green and White are more traditional but i think it's OK to go a little 'off piste' at Christmas.

Don't restrict your colour palette. It is supposed to be fun!!

Giant wooden buttons, to embelish some huge yummy fabric stockings.

(a *new* LOVE trim for the shop and for a Wedding Favor idea i have)

Love Love Love Love

Christmas.

So there!

Now this IS the cutest dog on the planet, right? B&W

2011-08-07T07:41:00.001-07:00

Now this IS the cutest dog on the planet, right? B&W, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

ooohhhhh, ooochy cooooooo xxx

Welcome to the DropZone...

2011-08-07T01:57:00.000-07:00

These Buttons are now available in their smallest size!!

(They all look the same size in these photos....)

But these are the DROP size = 1.5cm / 0.55"

Listed in Stripes at the moment but the same is available in spots.

Brights & Academics

i think the Academics are welcome relief to the onslaughter of BRIGHTS

I am so happy with this new size and i have been using them on some of my new Christmas Decorations for the SnowFish range. Perfect.

The stripes are my favourite

So smart and little

Listed, once again, in their sets of 80 at present but you can get any combinations in sets of 10.

And that is today's shop *News*

Over and out.

Button Bouquet Order...

2011-08-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

To be very honest, this is not a 'bouquet' as such.

This is an order for 50 Button Stems - as i don't bind these into a 'bouquet.

Making 50 of these is fairly time consuming as choosing which buttons to use (on ANY project) is always theeee longest part.

And also the best!

Stood in my sunny studio - i-phone on i-pod

playing with Buttons,,,,,,

Colour me happy.

This is one of those moments when i think "Lucky Lucky me doing my job"

And, just as i was ready to post these hasty photo's on the blog...

I recieve an email from the customer telling me...

Thankyou & she really likes them!

R E L I E F

When i tell some people

"oooh i work with / sell alot of buttons for a living"

They are incredulous!!

"How many buttons do people need??" (i.e. to replace on a shirt of fasten a something)

Those people know NOTHING about buttons hey!!??

The cutest detail...

I sent them bound in 5 sets of 10

and on random stems i taped the cotton tape message

"i HEART handmade"

"made with love"

*sigh*

contentment

"Crazy" Flavas... apparantly.

2011-07-30T05:11:00.001-07:00

I cannot resist..., a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

222 calories per bag! That was an unecessary treat but yesterday was a tough day.
GOT to love those colours though, right?

Slow Attempts at organisation...

2011-07-28T14:35:00.001-07:00

Full Colour Range, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

It is the Summer Holidays, but slow progress continues to organise all the buttons.
Look.... A colour chart with names!!
How useful....

Spooools..... she drooooools.....

2011-07-23T06:05:00.000-07:00

I just want to fill shelves

with spools -

spools filled with ribbons and trims....

plain spools with nothing but their beauty to declare...

i need to collect tall spools

and squat spools

and dark wood spools

and crazy huge spools

*drooooools*

Button news Part.2.....

2011-07-22T05:43:00.000-07:00

Such slow progress!!

I am regretting this stock of buttons....

The above shows all 16 colours of the buttons

they come in 4 different sizes and in spots / stripes

I am sure it will all get easier and less complicated when i have organised the stock and colours.

I love having all these colours and choices as i know, when i really *want* something perfect for my projects, i hate having to spend such time tracking down the perfect item

I am just about to list a few bags of these mini-stars too.

a bag of 60 teeny tiny stars, maybe for a Christmas idea you have?

I am also still working on some new felt ideas...

There must be more hours in the day somewhere??

BUT i also bought a huge new stash of Christmassy fabrics and i have some new craft ideas that i am so desperate to try out / see if they work and look any good.

Obsessed...?

Probably.

Care...?

Definately not.

pOm pOm Trim.... snowballs!! and a Scottie x

2011-07-20T02:01:00.000-07:00

Quick Flash update...

There are new prices on the 15 metre cards of pOm pOm trim.

Now available in these cute snowballs, aswell as Aqua, Raspberry and Apple - for just £12.50 for the full 15metres on a card. Awesome value. I am so happy as that makes it cheap enough to use for any projects - or even Christmas wrapping!

Aaaah, i made a cute mini-scottie as a prototype to "see if i could"...

Then i made my daughter a bigger version for her bed.

Randomly i had the exact same ribbon in my stash that matches his own collar.

- "ahhhhhh" she said *sniff* "you should have put lavender in it"

ggrrr, the thing is, i thought EXACTLY that same thing when i had finished him!! tsk tsk

Another bright and linen mix Log Cabin cushion as i was desperate to try some of the new fabric stash i had bought. Now i have seen it together, i am even more convinced it needs to be made into a quilt!

That's all folks xxx

New Buttons *** PART.1.... Lollipop Stripes

2011-07-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

Who KNEW there could be soooo many buttons that we crafters could fall in-love with?

In some ways, i wish a button, was just... a button. You know?

This task is becoming bigger than i ever EVER imagined.

How can i list every option of every button available???

I have been stocking *some* of this range of buttons for a long time

but crafty people kept asking for colours i wasn't stocking...

you know how i like to respond to your needs (okay, MY own needs)

So, this really is PART.1.

These are the LOLLIPOP size 2.3cm

- they are the second largest of 4 sizes.

They come in 16 different colours and you can have spots and stripes

See below?

There are actually 4 different sizes and 16 different colours.

It is taking me so much time, but...

eventually i'll get there.

LovePaperFish will be stocking the full range and BigFish, some mixed packs i think.

I wanted to get them all photographed and listed before the School Summer Break.

Delivery was a bit unreliable though and so it will come in stages.

If you have been waiting for these - THANKU for your patience.

The BIGS are my favourites by far. Awesome awe-some buttons.

But also, a whole new size will be available!!!

The 'Drops' are 1.5cm each and those babies in stripes.... well, they are to weep over!

Stunning new trims on a GIANT Wooden Spool... "why Kirsty, wiz these luscious ribbons you are really spoiling us"

2011-07-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

Oh My!

Giant Wooden Spools, wrapped with pretty cotton ribbons to sew on your projects.

I *heart* handmade

made with love

Union Jack

These are so lovely that i had to offer them for sale on the spool.

I will list them in 2m lots also... then i get to keep the wooden spools for myself :)

The Union Jack trim is here in time for any of your 2012 projects...

I love new products...

I just L O V E them!!

More stuff to come...

and some sewing projects too.

It's like a massive Shopping Spree.... but Thrifty...

2011-07-13T01:05:00.000-07:00

Contrary to how it can seem... i am not 'Big' on the shopping thing.

I like nice stuff and i love a bargain, but my patience for actual shopping, is limited.

This is Bicester Village - Oxfordshire.

A Designer Outlet Village for people who like Designer Clothes...

It is stuffed with overpriced, overdesigned, clothing BUT it can harbour a few Gems.

The place itself is satisfying scenic, like a Coastal Town on the facade. It has a holiday feel to it.

Even on a wet windy day though, it is packed with people.

Of course, here is the Jewel in the Crown.

And if i sit in a certain Coffee Shop i can see the store door with a cappucino in hand.

Cath Kidston.

lovely, lovely, lovely - massive discounts on lots of old designs and styles.

Today, they even had an extra 25% the already discounted products!!

I only bought one small thing, though.

I may love a bargain but i am still fairly thrifty. I don't like to buy stuff just for the sake of parting with my money. The joy of being here and *mooching* was really what i needed for myself on this day.

Treating myself to time away from the chaos...

So, i'm not going to show n tell everything i bought BUT

2 Leather bracelets reduced from £59.00 to £4.00 - 1 for me and 1 gifted to my Sister.

This bargain crazy cotton top / dress thing. £10.00 and worth every penny for it's bright cheeriness.

And i bought 6 giant teacups as i'm desperate for Cereal Bowls!

They are a usefully hewge size and polka dotty....

and were 50% off.

I came to the conclusion today that:

Days off are good.

Bargains are also good, and necessary

Pretty clothes make me happy.

Felt Colour Charts...

2011-07-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, this cannot be ranked as 'Major News' but ,

there are now Colour Charts available in the FuzzyFish shop.

Tonight i shall add the Chart to the LovePaperFish shop also.

Long long overdue, a reference sheet to the 28 colours available in packs or by the half metre upwards.

And, for all those who i have been chatting 'FELT' with - no movement on the Wool Felts or the Bamboo Felts as yet. There is a question hanging about if we can get the quantity we need to keep Felt Lovers fully stocked in the exact colours they need.

I do try... i hear the call of the Crafting Queens....

Perfect Polka Dot Cuppa

2011-07-11T08:27:00.001-07:00

Perfect Polka Dot Cuppa, a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

I really like how this turned out... There are over 1,000 buttons in this giant teacup... and i was all happy with getting the photo... and then i dropped them... all 1,000+ of the little Bu**ers... all over the floor...
tsk.

This Week, is allll shop News!!...

2011-07-11T01:47:00.000-07:00

EEeeep! I have been working so very hard of late.

Working on getting the stock made up for Christmas AND trying to get some of the new designs out of prototype stage and actually into 'production'.

I find this stage exhausting and really wearing - but then, suddenly, i see a stack of freshly sewn items on my table and i feeeel an achievement.

These are Buttony hearts (also seen in a previous post)

i made some last year, for the Craft Stall and they were so popular that i got around to making more for 2011.

I have tried to colour theme them. My utter favourite is the Gingbread Heart (above) but only because i am obsessed with decorating Gingerbread Houses.

So, there is a full set of Felt & Button decorations that *in theory* match 3 colourways:

Bold n Bright

GingerBread World

Red & White.

But that is just like "Show and Tell" at school, because that is not my shop news.

I have a huge range of Buttons arriving, i *hope* this week.

It is good news especially IF you are a craft retailer yourself using any PaperFish Supplies for your Makes....

Watch the Blog if you are keen to know what supplies i can offer you in abundance to get all your projects ready for Christmas (come on it's never too early!!)

I shall be working on Product Information sheets for the Big Range of newbie Buttons.

I shall also try to put together a new Felt Swatch Info. Sheet as requested by a gazillion customers.

So much to do, as always, but i am wonderfully energetic and enthusiastic about this week.

I just love what i do :)

x x x

...You Probably Can.

2011-07-07T03:27:00.000-07:00

I don't know what your personal demons are.

I have no idea if yours are similar to mine, similar to other women...

But there is probably a list of things in your head, in your heart of:

'Things I Wish I could do But I Cannot'

There seems a limitless essay in my head about how destructive negativity is

And this morning i had a quiet revelation and gentle 'Get Me' about how far i have come in Getting The Life I Want.

Nobody handed me my business and said "Lucky Lady, enjoy" i have been building this for years, carefully and gradually, in-between other areas of my life.

I never EVER thought i would understanding BookKeeping and Currency Exchange Rates.

But it seems that i now have a good general grasp of it. And i can use that skill.

I never EVER thought i could be into photography. My lack of photographic skills was a family joke for years. But the age of digital came... and i found my passion, worked on my photoshopping skills. I began to understand the importance of light, the quality of different light...

I can probably take quite a good photo now.

I never thought i'd have the confidence...

: to run! i told myself "i will not EVER run. It is impossible for me" But i do. I am.

: to lose weight! i told myself "It's no fun. I cannot be bothered" But i like myself slimmer, so much more.

: to get a dog! i told myself "i haven't got time, they're just more responsibility" how i arrogant am i? This boy gives sooo much more than he takes.

And still my head is full of all the things i haven't done yet... things i need to negotiate, over time. To find the time to do. To find the money to do them... 'tick tock tick tock' little ambitions sitting, waiting, impatiently. And i'm not 'not' doing them because i am full of doubt and negativity, i am just waiting, saving, putting the greater plan into action. the wider picture... the longer term goals...

What are the things you really want IN your life?

What are the things you really WANT out of your life?

Where's that list of "Ten things i want to Try"?

Because the list you keep in your head - all those 'demons'

Those nagging self-doubts and years of built up negativity...

they are just that: inside your head. Not neccessarily 'put' there by you, but they are kept there by you.

If you have a list of things you really, really, really want to try

If there is a job, a hobby, a LIFE! you really want to have,

Then you probably can have it.

It won't be easy (i am always shattered!)

But once you've got it, you might wonder why you didn't get it sooner.?

Happy Sunshine Breakfast :)

2011-07-04T05:27:00.001-07:00

Iam thankful for...., a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.

Look, the day begins with a smile....

I'm sacking my Staff Team...

2011-07-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

I am getting frustrated at my product photography.

I had a fantastic bathroom 'set up' for my photography in my previous house.

I just can't seem to find the ideal location with good white light...

And these two aren't helping me much!!!

WHAT are you doing fella?

I'm a bit busy here Boy...

"i can help Mummy, I'll just sit here and wait for instruction"

You win Baggins Boy...

I am frustrated and now distracted by the fluffy face of yours.

Yummy new products to shoot and i am so proud of them all,

but i hate it when the photographs don't seem to do them justice at all.

Sod it - i'm off to play with the Dog

xxx

There must be an Angel....

2011-06-30T03:20:00.000-07:00

OOOOhhhhh, *squeak*

I have finally finished off the button feet on my Angels

And managed to list them in the shop (SnowFish)

There are, currently, these 4 different designs.... well, the same Angels but with different dresses.

A Vintage Liberty Print front (love, love, love this fabric)

Plus a Ditsy Lilac, a Vintage Lace and a Tilda Pink

There is alot of detail in these and fiddly hand sewing / embroidery bits so they take a bit of time.

I try and make them in batches so as to be a little efficient.

They are in the shop so soooon before Christmas as i had a customer request for some but i already sold a few! (you know who you are) so i am thinking i might need to get some more sewing time?

Jo is counting buttons for me.

Alison is sewing some trees and bunting for me.

I've got PaFish ordering Mailers and an Office Chair.... as i type.

It is like Canary Wharf here, Man!

Dear Ebay Seller...

2011-06-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

What made you think that, a thin layer of bubblewrap

and a plastic bag

was adequate postal wrapping

for porcelain bowls?????

I was soooooo looking forward to these pretty china bowls.

I was so excited to find them, win them and receive them.

What made you think you could post them

with no padding and no box?

ANOTHER disappointing Ebay *uck up.

tsk.

Kokka Matroyshka Fabric new

2011-06-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

To LIVE for fabric - in 2 different colourways. Pink and Linen.

Cotton Japanese imported fabric with the prettiest wee Babushka dolls on.

It is a heavier cotton, more like interior weight fabric but not quite.

I have such a long list of things to make with this fabric - because they are such small dolls they will suit so many projects.... covering buttons, making bunting, cushions....

*please Lord, a few more hours in my day, tis all i ask for*

see all my fabrics in http://www.lovepaperfish.com/

A random bag of Shank buttons to go in the ETSY BigFish shop. These are a rare lot so get them now if you need them. If not, ignore me.

There are also the last packs of the CATH KIDSTON fabric stacks left in the LovePaperFish store.

Great value and awesome for making Summer Bunting with or smaller projects for your home.

And... there are 6 bags of Felt Scrap Bags going into the ETSY FuzzyFish shop.

Bargain priced at £2.50.

Mixed scraps but quite large this time - at least 5inch squares for most pieces.

Just having a tidy up and a clear out here.

Don't forget to look out for CraftSeller Magazine too!

Craft Seller Magazine - Issue1

2011-06-27T06:12:00.000-07:00

There is another *new* Craft Magazine on the shelves - yipppeeee.

I have to say, i do like it.

Unlike some others, Making / Mollie Makes it isn't all interiors photography and posh paper type 'coffee table magazine'.... this is commercial and informative. Full of different things to make AND.....

full of information on how to sell your crafts.

Free stickers with this Issue - very sweet.

This Mag will appeal to those of us (like me) who have a really broad Crafty interest. Lots of step-by-step projects. Lots of good advice and tips. Lots of links to cool websites and blogs... It chats to lots of people, REAL people!! who live, craft, work in this eclectic Craft World. And i like 'real-ness'.

I was sent a copy by the very friendly 'Alice' as looksee.... there are my Felt Balls from the http://www.lovepaperfish.com/ shop . Thanks Alice!

And, whilst i am uploading some photographs, here are two new mixes for the BigFish shop.

"Eat Me" - the new and improved mix of everything green: Lime, Elderflower, Emerald, Pine and Teal.

Citrus Sublime: All the sour flavas: Lime and Lemon, plus Orange and lots of fun shapes and patterns included. Exclusive Button Mixes - from Me! for you xxx

- Go buy Issue1 before the next issue is out... it's a good one!

My Life is a list of Jobs, to be Ticked Off...

2011-06-23T05:41:00.000-07:00

Want to make your own Bias Binding? Cool, no?

I have just 3 of each two sizes in the BIGFISH shop on Etsy.

3 of the 1inch and 3 of the half inch makers.

Get them whilst you can!

Stealing bits of time to have tea with friends - and this is a milky brew for my girl!

Gotta make time for the important people...

Generally just jobs, jobs, jobs

- Paying out cheques

- Organising invoices

- Deliveries

- Emails

- Fairs and Form Filling... it is endless (or so it seems)

I work and work and work

(and run and walk and sleep)

"Alison...????" *Kirsty Hollers across the County* "Delivery is here"

Must unpack and organise....

OOOpppps, MUST order that new sewing machine (have fallen out with my Brother)

I wonder how my Mum got on earlier, booking that Holiday Cottage in Totnes?

I need it. xxx

Mini-things...

2011-06-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

I spent ages doing up an old Dolls House once.

My dad gave me a tall work bench in his garage... actually that bench is now my studio cutting table.

But buying and making the miniature items to go in the Dolls House, was really the best bit.

And i think that is the joy i find in making my NeedleBooks.

I like the technical solution to a problem: using the Eyelets and Bookring to secure the pages.

But really i like the mini-scene on the front of each design.

I enjoy the colours and the trims and the spotty tags...

Putting the colours together and working out what looks pretty.

It's just aesthetics.

Anyhow.

Sunday was quiet (SmallFish wasn't here)

so i sewed NeedleBooks. I walked the dog (several times. He has too much energy for One with such short legs) and i did some gardening - you can't even call it 'weeding' as these weeds pulled ME!

Hewwwge buggers.

I sold my car - and will soon have no transport.

I popped the new NeedleBooks into the http://www.paperfish.etsy.com/ shop

and they will be there until somebody who likes Mini-things, decides they'd like a NeedleBook like what i make.

That is that.

You need this in your life...

2011-06-17T04:40:00.001-07:00

You need this in your life..., a photo by kirstyfish on Flickr.
Do you hear me MrsB??? (especially good after training)
Currently on special offer in many reputable retail outlets. I water mine down with Fizzy Water.
Good.
For.
You (well me at least)

Christine has a Giveaway...

2011-06-16T02:29:00.000-07:00

Pockets of News....

Yummy above PinPuff is ~~For Sale~~ sold in http://www.paperfish.etsy.com/

Very Cute - with the weeny buttons and Flower on top.

Re-shooting some of my products over the next few weeks and these sets of Gingham Ribbons have been re-shot for the shops. Still at a Bargain price whilst all other Trims seem to be shooting up in cost.

http://52crafts52weeks.wordpress.com/2011/06/15/big-fat-wrap-party-giveaway/

And here is a link to Christine - who has achieved 52 Crafts in 52 Weeks

So, go browse her blog and enter her competition why not?

I have some ordering to do today,

a car to sell,

a dog - walked!

shopping to get...

He can Run...

2011-06-15T04:24:00.000-07:00

For those who are interested in the Life and Loves of me n my dog...

He can run!

Despite his very short legs - he is keen. He ran 3 miles today.

I didn't want to push him too hard ya know, but i think, with training, he could do a few runs with me.

Not the big runs though...

He still hasn't been off the lead but we are getting used to our life.

He's so much fun!

He does keep putting his nose into my laces though, whilst i'm trying to get my Runners on.

Do you think he wants a pair? (or two?)

He is also a keen gardener - hurrah!

Not too much digging up of existing plants, thus far (fingers crossed)

But he enjoyed our late night Potting Session....

Bringing the Tomatos on - i'm potting up a but late on these but i hope to get the fruit for longer and later. We'll see how it goes.

There is a *bit* of an unspoken competition going on between PaFish, BroFish, SisFish and myself, on the tomato front. I did mine from seed and i *think* they bought plants. So i am a bit behind anyway.

Besides, i have a secret weapon.... SmallFish has the greenest of fingers!

The Rosemary was potted as opposed to 'bedded' as it can get so wild and woody in a plot.

I may transplant it, when i get my bedding sorted.

I have a herb bed planned but i bet it won't see 2011....

The Rocket and lettuces have gone straight into the outdoor tray without any Greenhouse time.

I have high hopes that they will sprout now the weather seems continually warmer.

If in abundance, i shall be swapping some of this for BroFish's Peas or a cauliflower.

Elderflower Cordial = done

Elderflower and Pear Cordial = needing to be done

Bring on the Brambles! I have feeling they too will be Early this year.

Come on Boy, get yourself a drink.

That won't be your last ever 5k mate!

xxx *is in love with dog* xxx

That Crafty Fish x

Jubilee Bows and Owl Trim

Olympic & Jubilee Cake Toppers...

Kitchen Pretties...

Pretty Shop Items...

Lists...

2012... Say YES!.....

Wwwoooo Hooooo!!!!!.....

Embroidery Hoop Decoration detail

Holiday Cheer... it's all about the Edibles here...

Christmas Detail...

What I wore at the Weekend...

2012 Photo Project...

Advent indeed....

Winner * Winner * Winner... of Pip Lincolne's gorgeous new book

me! in "Mollie Makes" Magazine...

Win the *new* Pip Lincolne Book!!...

ahahhahaha ha - webcam hi!!

Always Last Minute.com, that's me....

Tomte / Tomten... warning: could be addictive!

GIANT bells...! i could not resist...

Books for your Christmas List? I have a few ideas... and if you love TEA, you'll love this...

For the Love of Buckles n Boots

Trim Trim Trimmings! *new-ness*

Hallowe'en Craft Cafe

Felt Ball Bracelets

What to take to your Craft Stall...

Apple & Damson Gin, hooya!

Pink and Green

Bowls, Buttons & Balls

Craft Fair Saturday 15th October

Shrinking Balls... and other Ball News....

Christmas Cute...

Guilty Pleasure...

Wool Felt Swatch... and Professional Craft Chat...

Sneaky Stripes... and Thursday Musings

Wool Felt by the Yardage... yippeee!

After School Tea Party...

Pride & Ploughing

Just call me Nigella....

RRrrraaaaa Red & Aqua!!

oooh, *squeal* clever me....

Plum Cake... Amazon... self delusion...

Wool Threads... interesting...

Something's Missing....

Get yourself a FREE Graze Box - if you want to....

Closing Shop... and other *news*

Festival of Quilts Part.two..... stands and shopping

Festival of Quilts 2011... Part.one. The Quilts!

Is it soooo very wrong of me....?

Now this IS the cutest dog on the planet, right? B&W

Welcome to the DropZone...

Button Bouquet Order...

"Crazy" Flavas... apparantly.

Slow Attempts at organisation...

Spooools..... she drooooools.....

Button *news* Part.2.....

pOm pOm Trim.... snowballs!! and a Scottie x

New Buttons *** PART.1.... Lollipop Stripes

Stunning *new* trims on a GIANT Wooden Spool... "why Kirsty, wiz these luscious ribbons you are really spoiling us"

It's like a massive Shopping Spree.... but Thrifty...

Felt Colour Charts...

Perfect Polka Dot Cuppa

This Week, is allll shop News!!...

...You Probably Can.

Happy Sunshine Breakfast :)

I'm sacking my Staff Team...

There must be an Angel....

Dear Ebay Seller...

Kokka Matroyshka Fabric *new*

Craft Seller Magazine - Issue1

My Life is a list of Jobs, to be Ticked Off...

Mini-things...

You need this in your life...

Christine has a Giveaway...

He can Run...

Win the new Pip Lincolne Book!!...

Trim Trim Trimmings! new-ness

oooh, squeal clever me....

Closing Shop... and other news

Button news Part.2.....

Stunning new trims on a GIANT Wooden Spool... "why Kirsty, wiz these luscious ribbons you are really spoiling us"

Kokka Matroyshka Fabric new