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

Winter Warmers....

We've another month and a half of Winter in the Southern Hemisphere, so I've been searching for handmade products with a toasty theme to keep the Winter chills at bay.


The finest British yarn has been used by RowPinto in London to handcraft this beautiful cashmere dream set.  I'd be sure to dream sweetly with these luxurious pieces. GDP240

Crochet Tea Party made this Hot Water Bottle Cover using a crocodile stitch. Who knew there was such a thing? And if you're so inclined, she shares her patterns on her blog too. 

Animal Liberationists look away now, as this colourful scarf by daymisfurry is made using genuine fox fur. GBP40

Made in Nepal, I could have done with this 100% cashmere neck-warmer on our recent ski trip. For AUD$59, you can pick one up at Black Arrow Label

We've all heard of a tea cosy right? Well Twinkknits makes a mug cosy. Tea sure, but I think this would be perfect for keeping the mulled wine as well as your hands warm around the campfire this winter. AUD$14

To be fair, we barely get a winter in Sydney. When the mercury drops below 18 everybody starts to freeze and hibernates indoors. I for one, would choose summer over Winter any day, but will concede that there is something comforting about rugging up and inhaling that crisp, fresh Winter air.  

Plus, Winter is the perfect excuse to purchase cashmere. 

Sx