Burlap Gift Bag

I wanted to make a bag that resembled one of those brown paper gift bags that the stores pack your purchases in.
I used burlap for the main part and a coordinating cotton fabric for the handles and front pocket. It has a mitred base and is fully lined in a burnt orange cotton.
All the long edges are sewn down to give it a crisp finish like paper has.

I made it look like a hamper by filling it up with a nice assortment of groceries and gave it to my brother for Christmas.

Chinese Noodle Box Lantern

I love those cute Paper Bag lanterns that can be used for outdoor entertaining. They add such a lovely ambience and gentle light to your surroundings.
I didn't have time to purchase any so decided to use my noodle and make my very own, with a slight twist.
I used Chinese noodle boxes, coloured tissue paper and a heart hole punch to create these.
I think they'll look so nice hanging up on my tree branches on Christmas Day.
As I am using real tea lights, I'll need to make sure the lanterns are supervised at all times.

Handmade Floral Garland

I had some small pieces of shimmery red organza and fine silk fabric left over from previous projects and wasn't sure what to do with them.
Maybe some handmade flowers would look nice?
After a little playing around with various petal shapes and their arrangement, I finally came up with a style and shape that I liked.
The fabric petals have been layered and scrunched up in the centre to give a more realistic effect and the centre is beaded with tiny red beads.
The flowers are then strung together on a long piece of organza ribbon to create a floral garland.

Reversible handmade bucket hat

I loved making this little bucket hat for my 2 year old niece. It's reversible with a detachable handmade rose that can be pinned onto other items of clothing as well
I've used a cream calico cotton fabric for one side and a lovely purple floral fabric for the reverse side.
It's soft and flexible which makes it easy to scrunch up into a small space when not in use.
I'm thinking I might make one for myself next :)

Wicker chair make over

I love the white on white look when it comes to interior design. I've bought a big pot of mat paint and have painted all manner of things around the house.
Picture frames, coffee tables, storage boxes and dining room chairs have not escaped a quick sanding and a coat of paint. My husband thinks if he closes his eyes for 5 minutes on the couch I am liable to paint him white as well. I am really tempted.
My most recent make over was this wicker chair that I purchased from my local op shop for a few dollars.
It was a dark green colour that didn't really go with my new look or anything else for that matter but I loved the style and the condition was very good.
Out came my much used pot of paint and this is the result.
I made a cute cushion using a gorgeous black and white cherry blossom fabric which I have been saving for just the right job.
The picture frame and side table are some of the other finds that have been made over and I'm really pleased with the result.

Upcycled Pin Board- Inspiration Board

I love sifting through all the pre-loved pieces at my local op shop. I've found some amazing items that have come up a treat after a coat of paint or three. They have been saved and are ready for another life.
This simple frame was a gaudy green so I sanded it and painted it white. A piece of foam board from the art supply shop was covered with burlap (hessian) and securely stapled down.
Now it's ready for all those bits and pieces I love to display.
Here are some before and after pictures.

Frame, foam board and burlap.

A piece of white foam board was covered with burlap and stapled down.A white frame holds it all together ready for display.

Fun Little Boxes

I had a little bit of trouble finding a suitable box to package my handmade flowers in. I don't know about everyone else, but when I'm specifically looking for something I want I can never find it.
I come across everything else that I've ever wanted or needed in the past but not what I'm currently in desperate need of.
Anyhow, I decided to make my own little boxes and really enjoyed the process.
I used thick white card, coloured paper, ribbon and beautiful wrapping paper from my favourite shop, Pepe's Paperie in Doncaster. I'm planning to make some with this old sheet music I've been saving for ages. I think they will look so cute.

Handmade Fabric Flower Accessories

I can get a bit obsessive when I'm creating something new and these handmade flowers are no exception. I can't relax until I've figured out a shape and arrangement that pleases me.

Made from a silky taffeta in subtle pastel colours, each petal is individually sewn on. In the middle I have added a circle of shimmery glass pearls giving them a lovely romantic finish.
The back has a felt circle with a hand sewn silver pin attached so that it can be worn on a dress, hat or bag.
They can also be worn with a hair comb or a bobby pin attachment. Currently in my shop.