Gauze Célèbre

2010-06-20T20:55:00.005-04:00

Hello there!

I know, I know. Its been a while. I could list a whole variety of reasons (slow craft season due to the heat, crazy at day-work, new computer) but the main reason is that I broke my camera while I was in NZ and haven't been able to replace it yet. And what is a craft-blog post without a picture? A little bit boring, that's what.

So, until I can scrounge up the funds for a new point and shoot, if you are missing me you can follow me over on Pinterest. Pinterest is a new online inspiration board type site, where users can "pin" pictures etc to their "boards". Its very addictive and hugely time consuming, so perfect for procrastinating. My favourite.

Some pretty famous bloggers are over there pinning up a storm, which is awesome because you can "re-pin" anything you like to your own boards.

Check it out if you are one of those people constantly saving images or ripping pages out of books.

Here is what one of my boards look like, to give you an idea.

Like I said, what is a craft post without a picture...

PS: Leave me a comment if you would like to be invited to Pinterest. It's invite only and I have 7 left. Otherwise it takes a few days, if you request an invite.

Crochet Cushion

2010-05-14T09:23:00.004-04:00

For my Mother's birthday in April I had a go at making a crocheted cushion cover based on this pattern that I found on ravelry for dishcloths.

I used chunky machine washable 100% wool in a dark red and grey marl. The yarn was nice and soft to work with, not splitty, and the finished cushion is nice and snuggly thanks to the thick fabric that the chunky wool creates.

You can see here that the way the pattern is worked, you end up joining the seam across the middle of one side of the cushion.

But because I wasn't posting the cushion inner to New Zealand, I left it open and send some spare red yarn to Mum so she could sew it up herself.

All in all I think it was a success and a really easy pattern. I would like to try it in a finer yarn next time and maybe in single crochet instead of double, to see if it works in a thinner material etc.

Happy Birthday Mum!

Happy Friday

2010-03-26T16:36:00.003-04:00

This pic via Apartment Therapy made me smile today:

Looooooonnnngggggg week. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Window(s) Shopping for the Apartment

2010-03-21T16:58:00.001-04:00

Some things I want for my apartment...

Studio set by Gauze Celebre on Polyvore.com

I actually already have the keep calm poster.

Introducing Mr and Mrs...

2010-02-28T13:24:00.004-05:00

When I was back in the homeland earlier this year, I attended the beautiful wind-blown, west coast wedding of some very good friends H & M. Here is a pic of the lovely couple...

For their gift I made some personalized pillowcases with their new names...

The pattern and pillowcases are both from Sublime Stitching.

Here they are installed on the marital bed. Quilt hand made by H's Granny :)

I think they were quite well received. Fewf.

Loving...

2010-02-26T17:19:00.006-05:00

... reapproriating vintage jewellery:

a'la PS: I made this

This cute guy (lost link, I know I am really bad at keeping links - how do people do it??)

And these Wedding Bouquets from Fantasy Floral

Yet another excuse to shop.

Happy Snow Day, New York

2010-02-26T17:16:00.002-05:00

Cute picture of the dogs enjoying the snow in Prospect Park, Brooklyn.

15 inches today... fingers crossed its the last time till next winter!

Arty Party

2010-02-26T16:48:00.008-05:00

I need some art to adorn my walls. Currently they are bare (!) although I have a few frames leaning on top of the Fireplace. Here are some pieces I have been crushing, although do not forsee affording any time soon.

Mark Mawson:

20x200 (website selling prints for as little as $20, pity I want the $2000 ones...):

Peeps

Praia Piquinia

ny.09#19

Winter Flags (East Village, New York)

Etsy - Depuis, Coney Island Carnival Summer Fun

One day, my friends. One. Day

Crochet Inspiration

2010-02-25T21:07:00.008-05:00

I had a bit of a craft burnout after Christmas so haven't really made anything since then. I want to get back into it and have found the below pictures inspiring, when it comes to crochet anyway:

Hand knotted (HAND!!!) Mega-Doilies by Ladies and Gentlemen.

This awesomeness from Pickles

Lampshade tutorial here.

Nordic Light Pendant tutorial here.

Rubber Doily Coasters from Gretel

Doily and embroidery art (lost the link, sorry!)

This crocheted necklace - I think from etsy.com...

Might go get my hook out...

Craft-a-presents

2010-02-21T20:56:00.020-05:00

Hello! It's me! I'm back finally. Woo!
I've had a lot going on during the last few months that have kept me away from the bloggy (mostly holidays/vacations) but I am back in freezing New York so can show you all that I have still been crafting. Don't. Worry.

First up, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 2 months late is better than never, right? I hope everyone had a fantastic time and is still keeping to their NYs resolutions. I am not :/

I spent the holidays with my friend-family in London, England. What up, Bow? Many good times were had and lots of cute gifts exchanged.

Here is my contribution:

First up, many, many reusable crocheted cotton grocery bags!

I love this pattern, it is super quick and easy to do while commuting. Pattern here from Purl. I actually made more than are in the photo, but you get the idea.

I like that the straps are long so you can sling it over your shoulder. Particularly good in NY if you live more that a couple of blocks from the Supermarket. Like me.

I have one to send to NZ that I forgot to give while I was there, (sorry K!) and then I am going to experiment with some multi coloured ones for myself. All were made with machine washable cotton.

Next we have the cowls:

The first I made for myself as a test, as I didn't have a pattern but I thought I could visualize what I wanted. Made with one skein of Brown Sheep's Burly Spun in "Lemon Drop". Sorry about the blurry picture!

It is super warm and just what I wanted. Let me know if you want the pattern. I was inspired by this picture from (I think) The Sartorialist.

Since the yellow one turned out quite well, I made two more for gifts, out of Lamb's Pride Bulky from my stash. Colours, Emerald City and Mystic Blue.

Next we have a Gold trimmed lace scarf/wrap for someone I owed 2x Christmas presents AND a birthday present. Let's call her C.

To make this I got a yard/metre of lace from Mood Fabrics (Thank you, Mood!) and edged it in gold, with a couple of rows of single crochet, then a final round with loops to create a picot-ish edge.

And here is C modelling it! Yay!

Next is the Brighton Cowl for my Mother:

Pattern on Ravelry here.

I almost got this done with one skein of Cascade 220 Heathers in Mallard (2448), but I ran out with 3 motifs to go. An-noying.

My favourite part of lace scarfs is how pretty they look when blocking.

And last but not least is the Felt Cushion Cover I made for my bro.

It doesn't look it but its made of Navy Wool felt and I basically made up the stitch pattern in some different contrasting colours to make it more interesting.

Super easy if you try it yourself!

Ahhhhhh and that is it for now. I will be back more regularly I promise with some more pretty pictures later.

xxx

Embroidery Frame Finishing

2009-11-29T16:50:00.001-05:00

This is for bk. The way I finish my embroidery frames is probably not the way you are supposed to do it, but it seemed like the easiest way to me. I leave a wide edge around the frame and sew the edges acros the back of the frame until they are all secure and lying flat.

Like this:

Once it looks like a spiderweb, I tie it off and it's done. This way I figure it won't be too difficult to get the canvas off if I ever need to, and also it won't slip even if the outer frame does.

Hope this helps bk!

Mumma and Bubba

2009-10-16T19:01:00.010-04:00

My good friend R had a gorgeous baby a few weeks ago named Lucia. This is super exciting as she is the first baby among my group of friends, and boy is she cute. Unfortunately I won't get to see her until I am home in New Zealand next January, so in lieu of actually attending the baby shower and visiting her in person I made and sent some custom swaddling cloths from some gorgeous fabrics I found at Purl Patchwork.

The pattern is actually from Purlbee.com (Purl Soho's blog). You can view it here.

I chose some soft double cotton gauze and shot cotton to make a matching set of three. All fabrics are Kokka I think.

The back fabrics were all double shot cotton, in complementing colours. And then I added a running stitch around the edge of each cloth to tie it all together.

They are super easy to make and feel nice and soft, perfect for babies born at the beginning of southern-hemisphere Summer, like Lucia.

If you are not familiar with swaddling (and I wasn't before I saw the pattern) here is a how to video:

Of course I was super late with R's birthday present as well (January) so I popped a blue scarf in the package as well.

A tried and true pattern at this point.

Yay babies!

Oh Dolly

2009-10-16T18:33:00.011-04:00

Behold. My first embroidered portrait:

In case you can't tell (from the quite dark photo), it is the one and only Dolly Parton.

A friend, Z requested an embroidered bag for her birthday (which was in March!!), so as I was SO late I decided to capture her favourite diva in stitches.

Started with sewing a simple drawstring bag...

Decided on a portrait to copy

Traced the portrait with a pencil

Went over the pencil with a thin sharpie felt pen. Put the pen drawing inside the bag so I could trace it with disappearing fabric pen

And started stitching that pretty face

What do you think? Did I capture her likeness?

Here is is all finished and ready to be wrapped.

Further Dolly enjoyment below...

Autumn Nails

2009-10-16T18:19:00.007-04:00

Some more nail colours I have been trying...

Turquoise

Mauve

Lavender

I currently have this colour on my hands

And this colour on my toes.

Next time, who knows! Maybe I'll go back to my old Autmn fave Navy...

Embroidery Wall

2009-10-16T17:52:00.006-04:00

I finished the last few frames for my embroidery wall...

Which is now in place in my bathroom, yay!

All patterns from Sublime Stitching
Hoops and most of the material from Purl Patchwork

Brides and Feathers

2009-10-16T17:18:00.006-04:00

Wow. It's been a while huh? My bad, I hope you have all been ok without my in-frequent posts. I have been super busy and also went for a much needed holiday to Tuscany (via London) for a friends wedding. Oh god it was good. Beautiful setting, beautiful ceremony, beautiful couple.

Before I left I asked the bride if there was anything I could help with, and she asked if I could make her something to wear in her hair. I freaked out, but of course I agreed. I don't have much experience making things for the hair but I knew I had enough time to learn.

So after a few emails back and forwards we decided on a blue feather number (no peacock!) with some sparkly bits thrown in to tie it to the dress. The whole wedding had a vintage 1920's theme, and K's dress was an original flapper dress from the era.

Below is the final product:

K was such a relaxed bride that she put all her trust in my judgement and said that she was sure I would make something great. Awww, so nice. Me being based in New York, Kate in London and the wedding in Tuscany meant that she didn't see it until the day before the wedding (eeek!), but she loved it in the end and it looked great.

Here is Kate and I at the post-ceremony cocktail hour (first face photo of me on the site *gasp*).

So pretty right?

I was a LITTLE bit paranoid about K not liking the blue headpiece so I made a back up, based on a picture of a ban-do headband K had sent me.

And here is me wearing it:

K liked this one to, but in the end the blue one won out.

Site Update

2009-09-10T19:50:00.003-04:00

Just letting you know two (hopefully) exciting things:

1. You can now access this blog via www.gauzecelebre.com (or drop the 'www' if you like)

2. Comments are back! I'm still moderating though. Sorry I didn't realize they had gone.

As you were.

500 Pencils

2009-09-02T20:18:00.005-04:00

Why is it that when I am super broke, or saving for something really important, I see something awesome but completely non-essential and then am consumed by it, until it is mine?

Case in point: 500 Pencils from Social Designer

A subscription to receive the above set of 500 pencils in sets of 25 per month for 20 months. You can even buy (or subscribe to) the awesome display cases above and below, and display them like art. Awe. Some.

I am only mildly less excited about these pencils as a 27 year old that I would have been 20 years ago.

Some things just never go out of style.

PS: No I haven't succumbed... yet. Let me know if you do!

Sneak Peek...

2009-08-31T19:22:00.004-04:00

Here is a sneak peek at the two newest additions to the embroidered hoop collection I am trying to get going. I whipped these up the other weekend while watching a True Blood marathon (best ever).

Both patterns from Sublime Stitching

I made...

2009-08-31T19:06:00.005-04:00

... a new pillow out of some yellow felt squares I got at Purl Patchwork.

I think I am going to make another perhaps in grey and then add a grey blanket stitch around the edge of the yellow one, and a yellow edging to the grey.

Hanging out on the couch with big silver.

What do you think? Better plain or shall I add the border?

Manicures of Summer

2009-08-12T17:53:00.003-04:00

Here are some of the manicure colours I have had this summer...

Metallic Purple

Powder Blue

Stone Grey

Silver with Pink Fishnet - this is an awesome new nail technique called MINX. I LOVE IT.

Next up... Mint Green, Cherry and Lavender.

Yay summer!

Oh

2009-07-31T16:43:00.001-04:00

via. Pretty Good.

Accesso

2009-07-31T15:07:00.014-04:00

Here are a few accessory type things that have been catching my eye lately:

50's style frames from Dolce and Gabbana

Speckled and Dotty kicks from Nike.

Handmade layered felt cushions (I lost the photo source sorry)

Initial necklaces

And these cluster rings from Bona Drag which I am obsessed with.

Actually, everything from Bona Drag, like this Deadly Ponies bag...

... this buckle top

... this eyelash necklace

... and this fringe dress.

More Washcloths

2009-07-11T17:04:00.006-04:00

More washcloths based on a pattern from 200 Blocks book.

One for M.

And the same pattern but in white for Mum. If you are reading Mum, would you like a border added?

ONE of these days I will start that granny-square blanket I have been meaning to get to.

If you would like to check out some awesome afghan skills, go here for Prairie Mouse's flickr album.

I heart it.

Cushions: Part 1

2009-07-11T16:31:00.007-04:00

Below is a cushion/throw pillow I made for my bed. I'm trying to (eventually) get to a grey/silver, white, yellow and neutral palate for the bed "area". This cushion was step one.

The inner is from Ikea (28" x 28" or 72cm x 72cm) and the cover was made from a natural linen with metallic silver splatters from Mood. I probably shouldn't have chosen linen for the bed since its gets pretty wrinkled. Lesson learned.

The pattern I basically guessed, its just a square with an overlapping square at the back, to slip the pillow into. I am going to add some domes or velcro to the split as I didn't have quite enough material to make a big overlap.

I have another cushion inner the same size, so am currently deciding whether I want a matching cover, or perhaps another pattern/colour.

Anyway let me know what you think or if you have any suggestions!

PS: Comments are now moderated :)

Sweet Dreams

2009-07-11T14:55:00.002-04:00

Sweet Dreams by Beyonce

Love the minimal make-up with maximum hair and clothes.

PS: Sorry this was the best embeddable one I could find

Boys & Girls

2009-07-11T12:07:00.003-04:00

Martin Solveig feat. Dragonette - Boys & Girls
Watch out for the cameo by Jean Paul Gaultier

I'm going to take you out tonight

2009-07-07T22:40:00.005-04:00

New In Town by Little Boots

Printy

2009-06-12T17:16:00.003-04:00

ONE more thing before happy hour.

I went to the Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn in the weekend and picked up this little beauty from Cherrybox Studios.

Hooray for art!

Headbands

2009-06-12T16:52:00.007-04:00

I went a bit nuts making headbands in the weekend...

... don't worry the supplies are super cheap in the garment district near my work. Even though most street vendors in NYC are charging $50 a piece for them.

And if its cool enough for Posh, then its cool enough for me.

We are like twins.

I also had a go at a crochet+chain bracelet;

What do you think?

This was my inspiration.

Morrocan Wedding Blankets!

2009-06-12T16:38:00.003-04:00

Yesss I found them. Maryam of the awesome blog My Marrakesh sells Moroccan Wedding Blankets.

Peruse the whole selection (and some other cool Moroccan-ware) here.

Cucumbersome

2009-06-12T16:24:00.004-04:00

Check out this cute and crafty blog Cucumbersome.

Lost of great DIY design ideas too such as this highlighter + toile cushion:

And also how to make your own T-shirt necklace (or scarf), a'la Necklush.:

I heart it.

Choosing Chairs

2009-06-12T16:12:00.006-04:00

Which of these chairs shall I get for my new outdoor area? Yellow would be the option in both cases.

The Marais A chair by Tolix via Design Withing Reach

Or these cute and way more affordable ones from CB2?

This table might be going outside too...

Houseware Hunting

2009-06-12T15:42:00.009-04:00

It's fun to browse, even when you can't buy (yet). Here are a few more inspirational pics I have collected for the apt... (sorry, again I lost the links)

Rate it?

New House Inspiration...

2009-06-01T17:18:00.019-04:00

... or house porn as some like to call it. I have been thinking a lot lately about what I want my new apartment to be like. Now that I live by myself (yay!) I can have whatEVER I like.

A daunting and exciting proposition.

So since the budget for this home-reno is $0 I have been doing more imagining, than shopping.

Here are some pics that I have found inspiring. Can you spot the theme?

Apologies but I have lost pretty much all of the credit links for these photos (collected over a long period of time... sorry!).

It's just a starting off point, really. Let me know what you think!

Back tomorrow with some actual craft! xxx

Donna Wilson

2009-05-13T17:38:00.007-04:00

Things from Donna Wilson that would look good in my new apartment (but maybe not go with my new colour scheme...)

Cloud Blanket

Woodgrain (Faux Bois) Blanket

Also this awesome ottoman from SCP.

Hurrah.

Bag of the Year: Linea Pelle Dylan Folding Tote

2009-05-13T15:11:00.004-04:00

I dream about this bag...

Does anyone have $775 I can borrow?

From Linea Pelle.

Say Hello...

2009-05-13T14:51:00.004-04:00

... to my new background! What do you think? It's been a while huh, so time for a change. Possibly inspired by my new moves (new apartment and "cube" at work, not dance moves), it seems a switch was flipped in my head and I suddenly feel the need to be more mod-min(imal). I still heart the colours though so may just switch back. You never know, its a regular 'background mystery' around here!

Say hello to this little bugga too! Hurro!!
She is a new (very very very late) treat for my friend H for her birthday. And she might* be getting a pink play-date soon too. (*not might, WILL, I promise H).

And also this ipod/or something cover went in the parcel too. I heart pom-poms.

Some more craft has been going down in between some very very stressful weeks but I cant share just yet. Soon my pretties... mwuaaahahhhahahahaa.

Sorry I'm a little hyped up and bored.

Love yous xxxx

PS: Stand by for some pretty pictures I have found for your viewing pleasure.

Newsflash!

2009-04-20T22:04:00.004-04:00

Crochet details are hot for Spring (northern hem.)! And not in that 90's crochet skull cap and floaty hippy skirt kind of way...

Yuss. Im'a pop down to the Garment District at lunch tomorrow and get some chains for a new bracelet.

All via refinery29.

Sandra Suy

2009-04-20T21:52:00.008-04:00

Pretty pretty illustrator Sandra Suy.

I want one of these artworks for my new apartment! Come onnnn moving Santa.

Check out her drip book here.

New Lily

2009-03-29T21:26:00.001-04:00

Lily Allen - Not Fair

PS: Those shoes will be mine...

Wild Thing

2009-03-29T20:55:00.001-04:00

Trailer for Where The Wild Things Are by Spike Jonze.

Enjoy.

D.I.Y. Inspiration

2009-03-18T18:01:00.012-04:00

Hi lovelies!

Take a look at a few cute D.I.Y. projects that have caught my eye lately... I think I may even try some of them myself, soon.

Jar photo frames! You get points for recycling too.

Instructions and bottle versions at Photojojo.com

Easter is coming! Cute idea for a 'pot of gold at the end of a rainbow'...

Instructions at MakeandTakes.com

Making any kind of D.I.Y. more fun, coloured masking tape!

Not sure where the above pic is from (oops) but you can buy the patterned versions here!

Recycled cans, records and cardboard as butterfly wall art!

By Paul Villinski, more here.

Recycled vintage button cushion - my Nana has a HUGE box of buttons this would be perfect for.

Tutorial by Erica Kern on Craft Stylish.

Make your own Macarons a'la Laduree

Recipe via Design*Sponge, from Tartlette. If you are in the US (West Coast) and would rather order than make, Paulette is good.

Happy making!!

Got my nails did!

2009-03-09T20:36:00.001-04:00

Spring has started, goodbye black.

2nd Washy

2009-03-09T20:28:00.006-04:00

Another washcloth based on a pattern from 200 Blocks book, but extended to be the size of a washcloth.

Given to my friend Liz as a hostess gift on Saturday.

V easy and quick pattern, I love these small projects.

And it goes with my new favourite shoes! Yesssss.

Deep breaths...

2009-03-09T20:25:00.002-04:00

Hello new favourite shoes...

From Alexander McQueen

CC Skye

2009-03-06T19:00:00.006-05:00

Ok, ONE more before I go get my nails done. I am hearting these bangles from jewellery designer CC Skye.

As the late great Freddy Mercury would say, I want it all.

And I see mirrored finishes are popping up in the latest "fash", disco's not dead!

Wohoo!

Spring Scarfy

2009-03-06T18:40:00.006-05:00

I finally finished my 2nd Queen Anne's Lace scarf for a workmate's combined Christmas and Birthday present.

I chose a bright-mustard for this one, a nice Cascase 220 1 skein project.

She loves it and I am inspired to try the pattern out in a few more yarn variations.

And since it is so lacy and light it is perfect for Spring, which is hopefully around the corner here in NY. The weekend forecast is for warm weather and also time to change the clocks, so fingers crossed!

PS: I know you are probably not supposed to block scarves in a curved manner, but my apartment really isn't big enough to stretch it all the way out lengthwise. No hallway!

1st Washy!

2009-03-06T18:14:00.006-05:00

In my yarn gathering missions a few weeks ago I spotted some beautiful cotton yarn that I just couldn't bring myself to leave at the shop.

And since cotton is not only nice to work with but also completely machine washable I thought I would try out a washcloth. Also... I need a new face-cloth (as we call them back home).

What do you think?

The pattern is one from 200 Crochet Blocks, with a few more rounds of double-crochet around the border to make it a more usable size.

I'm sorry I don't remember what type of cotton it was but I used a 3mm hook. A pretty new baby peach one! Awww. I heart my new hook.

I haven't tried it out on the old face'ola yet but I will. I loved making this one, so pretty and so quick! I think I am going to make another one tonight as a hostess-gift for my friend L who is having a St Paddy's day breakfast tomorrow in Hoboken. Yes, they celebrate St. Patrick's Day early in Hoboken. Do not know why.

Have a great weekend everyone!

xx

Wardrobe Necklace

2009-03-02T18:07:00.004-05:00

I am in *heart* with these necklace style, clothes hanging strand things.

So pretty! So flexible! As the Hommin website says, would look great as a divider for a store, also.

Would look great in my dream studio. You would need to make sure your clothes were as pretty as the strand though.

Also I dont think it would be too hard to "be inspired by" as well, if you know what I mean.

Brrrrr

2009-03-02T17:47:00.002-05:00

A foot of snow here today in NYC. Times like these I wish I had these Jimmy Choo/Hunter Wellingtons.

Mmmmm. Gator.

My Bad

2009-02-20T16:03:00.003-05:00

Ok, I know I havent posted any craft here for a while, but rest assured I have been doing some and will be able to show you shortly.

In the mean time let me introduce you to the little friend who came to stay with me on Wednesday night. Soooo cute I wanted him to stay forever. But alas he is driving over to Seattle as we speak with his new parents.

Meet Leo.

I heart him.

This is his brother Dolce who also came to stay but was too scared to come out of my flatmates room. He is a bit shy. And shaky.

Anyway more next week and have a good weekend!!

xxx

Procrastinatey Friday

2009-02-13T11:58:00.003-05:00

EepyBird's Sticky Note experiment from Eepybird on Vimeo.

Extreme sticky note experiment from Eepybird - who are more famous for their diet-coke/mentos videos.

**Watch out for the celebrity cameo from an ex-Roswell cast member!!!** I think its him, anyway.

Happy Friday people. I have been crafting and hopefully will have something to show you next week. Eek!

Lazy Friday

2009-02-06T15:58:00.014-05:00

I know I have been super slack on the blog front this week. Keep coming back bloggies I'm still here I promise! So since its feeling like a lazy friday around here and Im sure you can't be bothered reading lots and lots of posts I thought I would just do a quick round up of the cute stuff I have seen lately. For your viewing pleasure.

Knitted Rose ring in time for V-Day from (enter cute shop that I cant think of the name of here).

Cute knitted and crocheted fonts from Handmade Fonts.

Twin prints from Etsy. I think these would look cute above a double bed.

Crochet Heart Garland (with tutorial) for V-Day. Here from BellaDia.

Cute vase aternatives I saw over on Brooklyn Bride. I have the London Phonebox one!

Gorgeous prints from Dilka Bear. I want all.

And finally a top-hat chandelier via Kanye West's blog.

Happy weekend everyone!

The Pretenders

2009-02-01T18:16:00.002-05:00

I was lucky enough to get free vip tickets to The Pretenders on Friday night here in NYC at the Roseland Ballroom. Wooohoooo Chrissy is so cool.

None of the live vids were very good so lets relive the original music video...

Thanks M for inviting me!

Hope you all had good weekends too.

xx

Raphael Saadiq

2009-02-01T18:00:00.004-05:00

I think this is going to be my new favourite song...

Raphael Saadiq: 100 Yard Dash

New Years Resolution...

2009-01-20T20:49:00.004-05:00

... learn how to knit properly so I can make this Owl Jersey for myself.

Cleverly designed by Kate at Needled.

More accomplished knitters than I can download the pattern here.

I need...

2009-01-16T17:48:00.003-05:00

... this carpet in my room.

Mmmm indoor plushy garden...

More here at Angela Adams.

Pom-Pom

2009-01-16T17:44:00.003-05:00

Check out an awesome tutorial here on how to make Pom-Pom flowers and such.

I will never have an un-used scrap of wool again!

Via Domestistuff.

What to wear, what to wear...

2009-01-15T21:44:00.003-05:00

I have been thinking a lot about weddings lately, not my own, but of 3 very cool ones I have coming up. One in Italy in September, one in Florida (Sarasota) in November, and finally one back home in NZ in January 2010. The last one will also be my first trip back home since I moved to New York in January 2008!

Very exciting, especially since it is being held at Whatipu Lodge which is on a beautiful stretch of black sand beach on Auckland's west coast.

Can't wait!!

The big dilemma (emma-dilemma) is what to wear to look nice and dressed up but also beach/reception appropriate?

What is a girl to do but turn to Polyvore to help envisage her options. If you haven't used Polyvore yet, head over and try it out. Its a great tool which helps you make virtual inspiration boards if you will. And you can import any image so the possibilities are endless.

Here is what I have as a first idea so far...

Beach Wedding by GauzeCelebre
I was going for a NAVY and gold theme (even though the dress looks black in the pic) and have included 1 flat and 1 high pair of shoes that I can change into as the wedding flows to and from the beach.

So what do you think? Too formal? Not formal enough? Too dark? Too 'meh'?

Lay it on me.

PS: Naturally when I was choosing accessories I went straight for the POA Prada flats and $3000 Cartier bangle. Unfortch these won't be part of my final outfit.

Hair you are...

2009-01-07T19:35:00.004-05:00

Can you believe that every line in these picture brooches is a strand of the designer's own hair?

I can't.

But it's true.

More here.

The Official Colour of 2009 Is....

2009-01-07T19:07:00.008-05:00

... according to Pantone, Mimosa!

I loooovvvvveeeee yellow (even though I forget to buy any clothes in it) so I am happy with this choice, however I think it was more of an '08 colour, aw'rite? BTW, the official colour of 2008 was Blue Iris

I would hereby like to suggest a new one for '09. My current fave, Kelly Green!

Come on down Kelly...

Yeahhhhhh, its sew hot right now.

Apartment Therapy agrees.

As does the costume designer of Atonement.

Word.

Feel free to disagree with me however, what is the comments section for after all? Or chime in by ticking on of the boxes below. Mmmhmmm.

Head-bored

2009-01-06T18:40:00.013-05:00

So now that Christmas is over I have been thinking about what to do with my awesome pink fairy lights when they come down off the tree...

Since I don't have a headboard and my room could do with a few more lights I think I am going to craft a "light silhouette" - or rather the shape of a headboard made out of lights, on the wall. I haven't found much inspiration for that sort of thing around but I can picture it in my head.

If I had a cash-injection I would splurge on one of these pretty things...

Acrylics from Myrica Design.

Upholstered from Urban Outfitters, here.

and here.

But as my room has all DIY lighting I think the fairy lights will fit in well.
At the moment I have one of these... (in bright blue)- mine is from Ikea but you can get them from Urban Outfitters here.

And this...

so all I need to make it pretty would be this, right?!

Good plan, good plan.

Happy New Yeahhhhhh!!!

2009-01-05T18:41:00.013-05:00

Hi there. And welcome back. I don't know about you but our holidays flew by and I can't believe I'm back at work already.

I hope you all had a great relaxing break and Santa was good to you. I got lots and lots of treats and was very spoilt by my visitors. Lucky! Hopefully Z and M had a good time being shown around NYC.

And yay the best thing about being back is I can now show you what I have been crafting over the last few months. Nothing compared to some of the amazing treats out there but I tried.

First up the Glow-in-the-dark Monogram ipod/camera/phone/whatever covers I sewed up on Odette, to slip in with some Xmas cards. Pity most of the cards were opened by the UK post and the pouches were either lost or shoved back in and taped back together. Ugh. Thanks for that.

I made them with some neon grosgrain ribbon and soft natural linen from Mood Fabrics, I'm soooo project runway.

And embroidered each recipients initial on in glow-in-the-dark thread from Sublime Stitching.

This is the closest I could get to glow in the dark :(

And this is one of the ones that got lost!! Ill make you another one soon C.

Next up is a matching scarf and hand-warmer set I made for my friend Z for Christmas.

The hand-warmers were an experiment and (even though I had to re-do one of the hands) I think they turned out good!

I also posted them on Ripple-Along here before Christmas and fellow rippler Jan has even made her own versions! Awesome! Let me know if anyone else is interested in the instructions and I can post them here as well. So exciting to think that someone can follow my instructions :)

Next is a Queen Anne's Lace scarf for my Mum. My first attempt at lace and once I got the hang of it (ripped and re-started 3 times...) it was actually really easy.

I am making a few more in this pattern and cant wait to experiment with brighter colours and also thicker wool.

Download the pattern (for a small fee) here.

And lastly 4 sets of hand-embroidered pillowcases for my parents, grandparents, aunt & uncle and poppa.

The pattern I kind of made up myself after being inspired by some stitches I found online.

The purple wasn't my first choice but time was running out and funds were running low. I think it looked ok once it was all done.

Other than that I actually made 2 scarves for my brother but accidentally forgot to take photos of either of them, durrr. They were both black so nothing to get too excited over ;)

Well after all that it doesn't look like I even made that much! Now I just have a few more things on my list of WIPs (tea-cosy, 3 bday presents, scarf for me etc) and maybe sometime this year I can start on my first afghan. Scary!

Hope you are all well and 2009 has been good to you so far.

xxxxx

PS: New years resolution, post on GC more often!

Happy Holidays Everyone!!

2008-12-18T20:13:00.006-05:00

Today is my last day at work till the 5th of Jan, woah, so I thought I would take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry christmas, happy hanukah and awesome whatever else celebrations you have going on between now and when I get back. I have some family and friends hopping over the pond for a visit so will be busy with horse carriage rides in the park and ice skating under the giant tree - if the blog is a bit neglected over the next 2 weeks, you will know why.

Good news is when I get back all the crafted gifts would have reached where they are going so I will be able to share here! Yay, I cant wait to show you all what I have been making.

What I can show you is my little christmas tree I got in the weekend! Its only tiny but so is my apartment so it fits.

Its not much but the pink lights I got from Urban Outfitters really make it cute.

The other decorations consist of some left over garland from my room and a whole bunch of Maori Hei-Tiki ornaments, courtesy of my Mum. Thanks Mum!

So I hope everyone has a great break and Santa crafts you something good.

xxxxx Emma Apple

Favourite Corny Christmas Movie Moment

2008-12-15T20:00:00.002-05:00

Tears. Every. Time.

Annie and Al wish you a Merry Xmas

2008-12-15T19:58:00.002-05:00

Not reeeeaaaalllllyyy a christmas carol. But from a christmas movie so good enough.

Kid Craft Keep-sakes

2008-12-15T19:47:00.003-05:00

A couple of cute ideas for using art from the kids in your life as presents. This way they will last forever.

From Plum Pudding.

From Vicky Howell.

Best scarf ever...

2008-12-15T19:44:00.005-05:00

How good would this look (and feel) on my neck?

I'm thinking really, really good.

Good work Neck-lush.

Famous Wrapper

2008-12-15T19:02:00.013-05:00

Hi there! I hope you all had great weekends and got lots of christmas chores done. Me, I did some... but not enough. 10 days to go and only 7 till I need to pack off NZ-bound presents with my cousin. EEkkkk!!! Im getting a bit stressed, 5 completely unstarted craft-gifts to go.

I also accidently invited "whoever was in town" for a Christmas Orphan Champagne Breakfast, thinking it would just be around 5 people. As of this morning the count is 11... what was I thinking. Halleluyah for Whole Foods Holiday Ordering!

But anyway, the funnest thing for me about Xmas has always been the wrapping. Check out the below pics for inspiration. Even the cheapest present can look like a million bucks with a bit of creative wrapping.

From Bestow...

From Bugs and Fishes by Lupin....

From Design*Sponge...

From... I dont know where!

And my fave, using yarn as ribbon.
From Martha.

And the Purl Bee...

Bunny Bag

2008-12-10T19:28:00.004-05:00

Err look at this cute shopper that folds up into a bunny!

Dear Santa...

2008-12-09T11:30:00.003-05:00

... a subscription to this magazine would look great in my stocking.

Just saying...

Christmas Decorating time

2008-12-08T19:47:00.013-05:00

It is super cold here in New York this week, and even though I haven't seen any snow (slept in on Sunday morning) I think all the Christmas trees in the streets and the lights going up have put me well into the Xmassy mood.

My first cold Christmas too!

Below is a round up of some fun wreaths I have found inspiring, perfect for apartment dwellers hosting holiday get-togethers.

First off a collection from the one and only Martha.

A fabulous wreaths from Jeffery Rudell on Craftstylish. Scroll down for tutorials on both of the below wreaths.

Tips for making and not breaking a bauble wreath from Pixiegenne, ouch.

Yarny craft wreaths from Katie Rennels

Found these two cuties on etsy (sorry I lost the direct links!)

And finally this knitty one from Craftster Ragstorichesart

Very inspiring, now just which one to choose...

Odette's bag

2008-12-08T19:33:00.005-05:00

One more bit of craft from the weekend I can share, a sewing machine bag for Odette!

I just sewed it up from some scraps I had left over from... something. Neon ribbon on a naturalish linen. Would be good to put a zip across the top but I didnt have one on me at the time.

Fits Odette, the sewing machine foot and all my other sewing bits and pieces, although I really need a new sewing box so they arent rattling around in the bag.

Ripple WIP

2008-12-08T19:07:00.005-05:00

I did heaps and heaps and heaps of crafting in the weekend, are you guys proud?
Again most of it is not stuff I can show you till December 26th but I did manage to whip up a couple of non-presents.

This is the first project that is going to be for me! Its not quite finished because I ran out of wool on the last 2 rows but it will be soon I hope. I need it badly, its getting very very very cold in old NYC.

Its made of neon pink and a dark grey marl. The pink is supposed to glow in the dark but, alas, it does not. Still cool though.

Let me know what you think!

OK here goes...

2008-12-03T20:07:00.006-05:00

... behold my very first completed crochet project.

A curly birthday scarf for my friend K. Turns out I made it, shipped it all the way to London, and because the postal system there is a bit weird, it never made it to K and had to come all the way back to New York. There it waited on my air condintioner for K to come and pick it up. Finally last weekend, she did! Fewf.

When she unwrapped it I was kind of embarr'd about how HUGE the stitches were etc but it actually looked really good on, so yay! Success.

Because of the curl you can wind it into a tight spiral or leave it to hang wonky. So versatile. I made up the pattern myself and cant really remember it but will give it a try is anyone would like to know.

Here is what it looks like on me, its really long!

Hope you all enjoyed your weekends. K and I had a great time!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!!

2008-11-25T21:35:00.003-05:00

Hope you all have a great break if you are in the US and great weekends if you are not.

Ill be back on Tuesday, until then... A treat I would be thankful for this week is...

A Le Creuset Round French Oven in DIJON!! Oh La la!

Buy here if you need to be thankful for one too.

No craft this week as everything is being hidden until the 26th of December.
But I might be able to show you my VERY first crochet product on Tuesday. Or I might decide its too embarrassing. We shall see.

House Porn

2008-11-25T21:32:00.001-05:00

Why cant my apartment look more like this...

Via Design*Sponge

Totally Awesome

2008-11-25T21:21:00.003-05:00

Customizable wallpaper anyone? I love love love this idea. Instant, original art and in any colours you like!

Would be time consuming but totally worthy it.

Buy here from nineteenseventythree.com

Oh Deer

2008-11-25T21:14:00.004-05:00

I know I make this excuse all the time but I have been SUPER busy at work mates! I am giving thanks that Thanksgiving is coming up here in the US so I can have a mini-break with my friend K who is coming over. Phewf!

I would also give thanks for one of these if I had one...

Made cutely by emedemarta.

Discovered and pic via Oh Joy!

***** check out the new instant review buttons below! come one everyone chime in, it only takes one click *****

I dont even like pets but....

2008-11-17T20:44:00.003-05:00

CuteOverload.com

Free Pattern

2008-11-17T20:18:00.003-05:00

Awesome free stitching pattern from Sublime Stitcher Jenny Hart over here on Pimp Stitch Blog.

Err cute!!

2008-11-17T20:10:00.007-05:00

Remember when you had ONE favourite colour and you wanted everything in that colour, and that colour only?

The photographer JeongMee is responsible for the "Think pink and blue," which took her daughter as inspiration. Like her, JeongMee discovered and photographed children who refuse to buy clothes and objects that are not their favorite color.

Would it be weird if an adult had a room like that? What?

More here.

If your innocent let me see your 2-step

2008-11-17T19:59:00.000-05:00

GYM CLASS HEROES "GUILTY AS CHARGED" (FEAT. ESTELLE)

Love...

2008-11-13T19:41:00.000-05:00

... this bag

Get it here.

Burger Rings

2008-11-13T19:24:00.004-05:00

Mmmmm this ring makes me hungry big time. Both for an actual cheeseburger and for Burger Rings the chips from NZ.

More cute jewelery from here!

There is a necklace version too...

Counting the days

2008-11-13T19:13:00.006-05:00

Hi there!

Oh my gosh its been ages huh? I really need to get a laptop of my own at home, then I wouldnt have to keep you waiting so long my loyal followers. (NB: We reached 1000 views the other day, thanks so much everybody!!)

I had a nice relaxing long weekend with some walks in the park, movies and museums. And a bit of catching up with old friends. I also got quite a bit of crafting done but alas, I cant share till after christmas. Not long to go now!

Since it is nearly the end of the year, and also nearly my 10 month New York anniversary, I think its a good time to be looking for calendars for next year.

This is my favourite from Fred Flare, right here in NYC. Cute!

This little fella wants to live on my desk next year.

L.A.M.B.G

2008-11-07T18:27:00.009-05:00

One of my idols Gwen Stefani, has released this super cute series of perfumes (aimed at the younger crowd, but I still love them), named after her Harajuku Girls back-up dancers and of course one after herself.

Inspired by Gwen Stefani's Harajuku girl posse, each of these eau de toilette fragrances represents one of the girls in look and spirit. The glass bottle is topped with a powder-coated plastic replica of a Harajuku girl and filled with a perfume created with the personality of that girl in mind. Love is a floral scent with notes of bergamot, peach, peony, rose, jasmine, musk and nectarine blossom. Lil' Angel is a fruity mix of raspberry, blackberry, cranberry, and pineapple- plus a dose of rose, violet and lollipop! Music is a sweet mix of clementine, pear, jasmine, sweet pea, honeysuckle, vanilla and musk. Baby is a fresh scent with notes of freesia, bergamot, white rose, orange flower, white musk, vanilla and violet. G is a crisp mix of mandarin, coconut, apple, jasmine, and sandalwood. Get them all or just rep 1 to stay true to your favorite hollaback girl. Imported.

Meet them all, this is LOVE...

ANGEL

MUSIC

BABY

and G

I want them allllllll!!!!

Check out the website here.

Brrrrrr

2008-11-07T18:17:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday people. I am all clogged up with a gross cold so am looking forward to a nice long weekend in bed, 4 days yussss. Not much partying on the horizon for me this weekend so I am planning on getting a jump-start on some Xmas treats.

I really want to have a go at some super chunk knits like the ones below...

This one from Olivebrown on Etsy.

And these ones from another Etsy seller Spratters and Jayne.

I miss my 20mm knitting needles!! Anyone know where to get them over here?

Shuuuz

2008-11-05T19:48:00.011-05:00

I have had three dreams about shoes this week. Something tells me my sub-concious wants to go shopping.

Check out what I accidently found online when I was supposed to be looking for a doctor...

OMG you guys...

I'm hoping the stylist for WonderWoman knows where to find these. You can get them from DSquared.

I'm actually seriously considering these for a nice pair of walking-to-the-subway-in-the-snow-and-then-keeping-on-all-day-unless-I-have-a-client-meeting-kicks. They would be like an investment. Is patent leather good in the snow?

Even more fun with coloured laces,

Get them from Nike or The Good Will Out.

And now for some of my new season faves from my favourite NZ shoe designer Kathryn Wilson. Drooool.

Zzzzzzzzz

2008-11-05T19:41:00.006-05:00

I am craving this zipper bangle from Disaya on ForwardForward.com.

Get it in silver and gold!!

I dont wear many bangles as I was blessed with giant MAN hands (good for picking up basketballs with one hand and crushing lemons etc.), which dont usually fit through the standard bracelet diametre.

Maybe one of these Pencil Shaving Cuffs would be more up my alley...

I could collect the whole set.

Shop shop shop

2008-11-05T19:32:00.003-05:00

Every time I hit my local Whole Foods, I silently thank my thoughtful cousin M for buying me a fold up, leather based, black shopper for Christmas last year. Such a nice gift for an 18 year old boy to choose! It is super sturdy with the leather base (which becomes the cover when folded) and has nice long handles so it can go over my shoulder if it gets heavy. Best of all it can fit the entire contents of a grocery basket in it at once. No need for those paper numbers! AND I get 10 cents off my bill for bringing re-usable. All that and it folds up and lives in my handbag so I never forget it.

Now when I see shoppers on the internets, and around, it is bitter sweet because I have no need to replace my trusty black one. However SHOULD I ever need to I think I would head directly to Leafbrand on Etsy.

Not fold up but still really really cool. And good for carrying anything I would imagine!

Gasp!

2008-11-05T19:23:00.002-05:00

Love this T-Shirt from TypeTees.

Makes a nice balance to this popular poster...

From Keep Calm Gallery.

Get cutey crafty

2008-11-05T19:14:00.003-05:00

Learn how to make your own cutey fabric (calorie free!) cupcakes over here.

Thank you Fantastic Toys.

Ding Dong...

2008-11-05T18:40:00.007-05:00

Hellooooooooo bloggies. Another week goes by with (minimal) love from me. I'm still here! Just busy appreciating the other blogs out there instead of updating my own.

Lost of things have been happening though. Namely...

Halloween - what did you all go as? I went the semi-easy route with one of these

It was Guy Fawkes in some parts of the world. Kind of like 4th of July but for a very different reason...

Image from here.

There was kind of a big deal election last night... and the new first family dressed to impress. Soooo co-ordinated.

Image via. Perez.
And there is another election (not so widely covered) coming right up. The NZ goverment election!

Good times.

This is why he won...

2008-11-05T18:36:00.001-05:00

Coz he's got the moves.

Hooray!!!

2008-11-05T08:48:00.004-05:00

Image by Chris Milk!

New birthday scarves!

2008-10-30T17:57:00.006-04:00

OK so apparently I am full of promises and not so much on the "making good" part. I gave out a couple of "I owe you one birthday scarf" vouchers in July (... that's right 4 months ago) and have only just finished them! Gasp!

I blogged a preview of this one previously... but here is the finished product for my flatmate E.

And this is what it looks like on...

I told E that it took me so long that I want her to wear it every day that it is cold.

And THIS is my first boys scarf. Instructions were, dark colours, not too wide, not frilly (durr), and a tight enough stitch to keep the wind out. So this is what I came up with. Not SUPER creative but hopefully N likes it.

And this is what it looks like on a girl...

Its a combo of single and double crochet with one row done in a nice dark grey to add some interet. I made up the pattern myself so let me know if you want me to write it down!

So its good to have those two things off my list. Got a few more coming up and then its on to Christmas! Woo.

New Half Blood Prince Trailer!

2008-10-27T18:37:00.000-04:00

So excited.

Merry Stitchmas

2008-10-23T18:21:00.003-04:00

There is an awesome tutorial on how to create an embroidery pattern from a portrait over on CraftStylish.

Would make a great christmas present for the right person...