Melbourne Mini Break

I've just spent the weekend in Melbourne with a posse of local ladies from my 'hood.

While there was plenty of eating and drinking, (we were assigned the task of researching the perfect cocktail for an upcoming school event - but didn't really need the excuse!) there was lots of time for creativity too.

My weekend consisted of both intentional and incidental Creative Finds.

Commencing with the Dior Exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria on Friday, and continuing with both the Book of Mormon Musical and the Rose Street Markets in Fitzroy which is held every Saturday.

There was oodles of creativity around every corner in the CBD. Street Art was bringing to life what would've once been some fairly unsavoury areas.

Unofficially in charge of "documenting" the weekend,  I took on this responsibility with gusto and my Camera Roll is chock full of my Melbourne observations.

Here's my wrap up in images:

Melbourne did not disappoint. The weekend away was voted 11/10.

Free tram rides throughout the city, fab food, internationally acclaimed cultural events, super friendly locals,  and a groovy vibe. And no time for any AFL!!!

Even the weather was kind to us Sydney-siders who have conniptions at temperatures under 18degrees.

Sx

Sneak Peak....

Stock is arriving daily and it's like Christmas come early.

For an avid shopper, this gig is doing what I do best:

Searching and sourcing hand-crafted items from across the globe, in order to curate a selection of gifts to offer you in my online shop.

That's 'creative finds'  in a nutshell.

The big reveal is still on track for October, but in the meantime, here is a little taster of some of the hand-made gift solutions you can expect to find via the creative finds website:


Leopard Print Leather Coin Purses and Clutches for the gals:

Cotton and Satin Pocket Squares for the Guys:

Tangle Free Headphones for the Tweens:

Stunning Photo Display Stands - for just about anyone:

Oak and Silicon Teethers for the Little-uns:

....and so much more!

In the meantime be sure to follow creative finds on instagram and on facebook.
Sx

Ceramics & their imposters

I've been enamoured by all the new age ceramicists who are working their magic to produce beautiful wares for both the home and the body.

Bridget Bodenham is one such potter, based in country Victoria who has been popping up with her delightful vases, vessels, rings and even spoons in the most spectacular style.

Check out her recent stall in Sydney at the Finders Keepers Markets....bearing in mind she needs to transport this stunning set up interstate:

photos courtesy of Bridget Bodenham

Having bought one of these grey, blue and gold, 3 x legged planters above,  it was little wonder the Vessels below caught my eye. There is an uncanny resemblance while being absolute polar opposite in terms of their making!

These photos are taken by Lisa Tilse who has fashioned some very high end looking pieces as an IKEA Hack, using a $1.99 vase, some material and curtain rings! I absolutely love the finished product. 

Should you wish to make something similar, you can find Lisa's step by step instructions over on her blog.

photos courtesy of We are Scout

Clever pieces whichever way you look at it. 

Sx

Pint Sized Pixies

I just had to share the cuteness overload that are Pixie Dolls by Carmela.

Each of these pixie and fairy dolls are handmade from pure natural fibres and are sure to create hours of imaginative play for children.

They come in 3 sizes, perfect for creating little families.

And just look at the accessories.

Swoon.

The most perfectly endearing gift for a small person.

Prices vary. Some of the little accessories are as little as AUD$2 and some of the big, intricate houses AUD$80.
Carmela sells at a number of markets over the weekends, sprinkling magical pixie dust wherever she goes.

Oh to be a kid again.

S x

Schools out for...Winter!

Well didn't these school holidays come around fast? Apparently that was a 10 week term. Feels like it was Easter about 5 minutes ago, but here we are, in the middle of Winter with two weeks to fill - more like 3 x weeks for some of you.

We are planning to embark on a mini room makeover for Harriet these holidays. While madly pinning inspiration I have been sidetracked by some super colourful, DIY craft projects that I think we could also tackle in the break.

Those who know me, understand my reluctance to take on handcrafted projects myself. I am all about discovering and sharing, and not so much about the making. Two left thumbs and zero patience I'm afraid.

That being said, even I could potentially pull off one of these naive but very sweet decorative pieces...

...and the colours are sure to brighten up a gloomy Winter's afternoon.


Instructions for these Cardboard Rainbow Collages are from The Art Bar  :

photo courtesy of The Art Bar Blog

photos courtesy of The Art Bar Blog

Yarn Bombing appears to be very therapeutic. All that wrapping and twisting. The tee-pee image is from Natalie Miller who runs textile workshops.   

Or if you prefer sending the creativity (ie: mess) outside the home, look into a crafting course. We are lucky enough to have Makers Loft near by, where weekly craft lessons, craft parties & holiday workshops take place. 

I was scrolling through their website and noticed a photo from a craft party we hosted a few years back:

I for one, will be trying to introduce some making these holidays that doesn't include "fluffy slime". 

Enjoy.

Sx