The Sailmaker's Daughter

Necessity is the Mother, Spray paint is the Pop

2011-05-22T13:30:00.014+01:00

I don't know how many of you guys read Centsational Girl but if you do then you probably share my wonder at her ability to effect complete transformations using spray paint and little else.
Recently I had to come up with a cheap, fun but still presentable way to make prizes for a sports tournament at work. My original idea was to make medals from fimo, stamp them with the organisations name, the year and the event and then cover them in gold leaf (which I already had). Alas, post varnishing the prototype experienced some sort of weird oxidation effect and it looked like a doubloon which had been submerged for a few hundred years( I'll add a photo purely for comic effect once I find the little blighter).
Then it hit me (or spritzed me) SPRAY PAINT. I wasn't sure if the hardware shops here would be up to the challenge but shame on me, not only did they have spray paint - they had Rustoleum -Centsational Girl's brand of choice.
I picked the super shiny gold and rest is paint splattered history. Even my tiny flower pot got a coat!

I've come across a few other ideas for the remainder of that can of gold. Oh dear, I'm feeling a Midas moment coming on. Click the pics for the link to these other wonderful blogs.

Goldfinger...you've got competition.

Run around Sally.

2011-02-09T21:51:00.007Z

Is it just me or does the new year exercise craze really seem to be sticking this year? The paths of Dublin will be pounded to a fine powder if we keep this up!
My fella ( to use the colloquialism ) is a "runner for life" with 2 marathons under his belt at only 27. He asked me to read this book as even though it's quite new it has becoming a bit of a runner's bible.
Now even the Etsy Storque blog is getting on the endorphin inducement. Check out the this post on the Zen of Running: http://www.etsy.com/storque/handmade-life/noted-the-zen-of-running-12278/

Shop Update!

2011-02-03T17:01:00.007Z

Been a busy little bee lately updating my shop. Hoping to stimulate a bit more traffic on my Etsy so we'll see how it goes.
Here are a few of the items I've been posting recently

Still got loads to come too. Whew! I'll have this photo editing thing down to a fine art in no time.

Monday, Monday

2011-01-24T18:08:00.004Z

Need something to perk you up, make you laugh? I know I usually do on a dreary old Monday.
If you've never read the Cake Wrecks blog you are missing out on real belly laughs and some truly stomach turning confections.
All the featured cakes are professionally made, actually on sale! I mean, take a look at this little girls birthday cake. Terrifying!

The writers are also hilarious. You won't be disappointed:
http://cakewrecks.blogspot.com/

Charlotte Holmes

2011-01-21T21:05:00.006Z

This little number is a piece I recently completed. It had been sitting in my UFO pile (that's "unfinished objects" to all you non-procrastinators out there) for so long that tackling was really a cathartic act cause I was just so sick of looking at it! By the way, does anyone else have more clothes in their refashioning piles than in the wardrobe or do I just have a problem?

And were back. So this cape began it's existence as a hideous, humongous suit jacket that fastened with a suede ribbon thingy. The only extra supplies I used in the refashion were bias binding and a vintage button.
My process was far from exemplary (even if you ignore the 2 year gap) and it's not photogenic inside but it's still effective and of course, unique!
A brief outline of this method would be as follows:

Try on jacket and mark with chalk the length you would like the arms to be.
With the jacket layed out measure a straight line from your chalk marks to the centre point and then come down about three inches and mark with chalk. Draw a smooth curve connecting your marks. Check you like the length then mark the back similarly.
Pin lining to facing and cut your shape out.
Unpick collar and sleeves.
Pin the shoulders of your sleeves to the body and see what needs to be kept, add an inch or two for seam and then cut the excess from the sleeve.
Re-attach sleeve.
Bias bind bottom of your cape and up the open centre and collar if you like.
My collar was made from the suede ribbon which came with the jacket I simply sewed it over the raw edge left from the unpicked collar.
Make a fastener from a button, ribbon or even a cardigan clip (which I hope to have a tute up for very soon)

Do excuse the death stare. No future as a model I fear.

Now if you are looking for a cape How-To that's a little less rough then follow the link below and learn from the ever-resourceful Meg of Enderby Designs.
http://www.threadbanger.com/episode/THR_20081205

Wooly Escapades

2010-10-12T11:34:00.013+01:00

The colder days are blowing in complete with nipped noses and ears. While I haven't come up with anything in the way of an attractive nose cosy I have got the ears covered (no pun intended).

Inspired by the basic concept of this lovely creation,
I decided to crochet a version and whittle down some of my stash of random single balls of wool.
It's not as soft looking as the knitted version, an aspect of crochet I often lament, but it works up faster and I think I might love shell stitch. This project is so easy, honestly, a great starting point for someone just starting crochet who wants to try a more decorative stitch.
The wool I used was 50g of Jaeger Siena 4 Ply and the hook was 3.5mm

So on to the pattern my lovelies.
Chain 32,
Row 1. Single crochet into 2nd chain from hook, skip 2, {double crochet 5 times into the next stitch, skip 2, single crochet into next stitch, skip 2} repeat x4. For the next shell just double crochet into the stitch three times. Each row should have 4 and a half shell patterns.
Row 2. Chain one, turn, {single crochet into next stitch, skip 2, double crochet 5 times into the next stitch, skip 2} repeat x4. On the last shell double crochet into the stitch three times.
Row 3. Repeat Row 2
Row 4. Repeat Row 2 ... and so on
Continue like this until you have a strip of about 61cm (24 inches).

When complete twist in the centre. You can sew together or crochet the ends together. I crocheted and this is what the seam looks like:
I'm currently working on a slimmer one in purple which I may put up for a giveaway if you are really good! As always if you have any question just holla!

Let's take it to the Street's

2010-09-10T21:12:00.007+01:00

Feel like picking up some Sailmaker's Daughter pieces, like the ones below, from a brick and mortar shop? A month ago I would have said "tough luck dumb-dumb".

But now, well now things have changed. Wait for it.....
I have a concession in Lucy's Lounge in Temple Bar. HURRAH!

I've been selling there for just under a month and it's going really well.
Lucy's is such a quirky spot and if you have an eye for the vintageous then you should check out all the lovely wares. Deirdre, the owner is very cool and the place has a really welcoming vibe.
Check out their blog for more info on Lucy's Lounge: http://lucyslounge-dee.blogspot.com/

Swap Meet

2010-08-19T20:30:00.004+01:00

I've joined a new site called the Swap Workshop. I was thinking it would be a great way to move some of the impulse purchases of supplies I've made - you know how it is: "Oh, this mini chainsaw is half price, it's so cute and I've been meaning to try my hand at ice sculpting". Story of my life.
I'm hoping it might also be a way of moving items which have been ignored on my etsy as I don't believe in renewing an item more than 3 times unless it had A LOT of hearts.
Swap shops could be a great boon for the crafters out there, after all we are each others best customers, plus you can swap vintage or supplies as well. Here's the blurb from the site if you think it sounds like your cup o' chai:

If you are anything like me you work very hard for a living, raising the kids, running the house and even holding down a "proper" job?

On top of this you choose to open your online shop because you love to make things or are passionate about life gone bye. In these difficult times wouldn't it be great to supplement the sales from our shops and get those little extras by trading or swapping the things we have!

Now, life is hectic enough without involving ourselves in another full time activity. So, what if you could choose a couple of items, list them somewhere and almost forget about them until another person wanted them? Sounds easy? Then Swap Workshop is the place for you.

In just the first 2 weeks, we have 35 new members, 40 listed items and so there is plenty to choose from. Membership is FREE, no item is for sale, just the cost to ship your item!

Take a look at our introduction and if you join before the end of August. You will receive free points when you list just 3 items!

Swap Workshop - the place to swap handmade, vintage or craft supply items!

www.swapworkshop.com

Have a great weekend guys. Smooches!

Fall Hard

2010-08-11T18:34:00.006+01:00

I made it into another treasury (I said that like I'm always in 'em - alas not quite).
This Treasury focuses on the hues of Autumn and features many wonderful Irish etsy sellers.
It makes even a summer bunny like me think wistfully about wrapping up for the colder months.
My Orange you Glad Now earrings are included.

Skirting Summer

2010-07-13T19:55:00.008+01:00

My skirt for the Summer essentials sewing has been finished for 2 weeks now but I'm only just getting round to posting it. I'm a disaster I know. I actually have a shrug finished too but I'll save that for another eon shall I?

This skirt is made from my Aunts curtain valances which she gave me before Christmas.
I love the flowery summer fabric.
I used a tutorial from burdastyle as my base and then changed it up a bit to suit the fabric and effect I was going for: http://www.burdastyle.com/projects/nayantara%E2%80%99s-quick-party-skirt

As you can see it's a little short which is why I didn't hem it and just left it overlocked. I do like the length though. It's racy!

This photo is the truest colour:

Here's the skirt with the (store bought) top that it was intended for. I wore it out with a bunch of the gals and everyone thought it was a dress. I like that it's versatile that way AND *it has pockets*.
Only a week left before I go on holidays to Marrakesh so I better get the sewing (and blogging) skates on to make the start of August deadline. Click the Summer Essentials button at the top of the page to see what the other participants have made.

Sew Summer Essentials: Dress

2010-06-18T22:59:00.010+01:00

I've joined the Summer Essentials Sew-Along that is going on over here:
http://wardrobereimagined.blogspot.com/2010/06/summer-essentials-sew-along.html

The basic gist is that you make 5 items from the 6 categories by August. The catagories are:
Poolside Pretties;
Clam Diggers and co.;
Sweet and Sassy Skirts;
The Sundress;
Tee, Tunics and Blouses;
Those Summer Nights.

Due to the lack of inexpensive and pretty fabric round these parts 2 or 3 of my pieces will be recons. I think I'm gonna try to go for 6 items altogether as recons aren't as intensive as from-scratch sewing.
Without further ado here is my first recon project - My Sundress!

Before:
It's a nice enough dress but I just don't like shirt collars plus it's all a bit tired looking.

After:
A sweet heart neckline and gathered straps for a more pin-up style. It's a few inches shorter now to boot, sitting about 2" above my knee, which is much better on my 5, 1" frame.

I like it much better. What do you guys think?
Skirt next I think and it shall have a scalloped hem. This is the inspiration (plus a tutorial link) that I'll be using: http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=333760.0

Oh and the necklace is from my new line of pennant necklaces. Check them on my mini on etsy if you likey.

Get thee to a Gallery

2010-06-08T15:22:00.019+01:00

The Science Gallery to be exact. This is the final week that you can see the woolly wonder of the Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef.
I truly enjoyed this exhibition and if you are interested in any manner of wool craft I would say it's a must see.
The exhibition highlights environmental issues surrounding coral and reef formation using ingenious methods which yield awe inspiring results. Given my interest in both marine biology and crafting it was a real treat for me.

The Bleached reef highlights the phenomenon of coral bleaching which happens as a result of stress to the coral by environmental conditions or over feeding by coral predators such as certain starfish.

The Toxic Reef is an effort to portray the damage that plastic is doing to our seas and the ocean floor.
The frightening inspiration for this piece is what is known as, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This patch is great indeed (in the physical sense). It is 1.5 times the size of Ireland.
A swirling mass of non-degradable waste caused by currents to collect off the coast of Hawaii, the GPGP will be a reminder of a throw-away mentality that will still be choking our seas in many hundred of years time. Small pieces (relatively speaking) break off and litter the nearest shores while other bits sink to the ocean floor and become a permanent fixture in our planets geological strata.
Knock on effects such as the blocking out of light to the plant and animal life below by the 30 meter deep plastic pain in ass will also come to bear their sticky petroleum-based fruit. The patch will of course result in a dead zone similar to areas blighted by acid blooms like those off our own coast. Sorry I'm ranting. Crafting, yes.. I digress.

There were many other wonders made from beads and glowing tubing, all a feast for the eyes and a splendid marvel for all and for any hookers (crochet hooks, people) out there- a real inspiration.
Not to forget of course the Irish reef which celebrated our homegrown talent and homegrown reefs off the west.
Hyperbolic mathematics are explained in diagrams and by helpful staff if you are particularly eager. Kids, both young and young at heart, can try their hand at applying the idea to making a paper soccer ball at an activity table up stairs. So go, play, enjoy and tell me what you thought.

Oh there is also a lecture tomorrow on Ireland's cold water coral reefs which I know I'll be going to. Check out the website for a list of events to come: http://sciencegallery.com/this_is_science_gallery

Sailboats and Salutations

2010-06-06T13:43:00.009+01:00

Hope you are all having a smashing bank holiday weekend (or a smashing regular weekend if you're not from round these parts.)
I spent yesterday at the Maritime Festival in Dublin with a friend and her family. Lots of sails and sailors. My crafty self felt very at home.
This photo was taken from on-board an Irish Navy gunboat. Despite the imposing sky it was actually a very warm day.

I came home after my delightful outing to find that I had sold and item and my Curious Corvid lavender bag had been featured on a blog round-up of black crows. Ah, twas a great day altogether!
Check out the rest of the round-up from the lovely Vabo's Blog. http://vabodesign.blogspot.com/2010/06/76-day-12-whatever-tickles-my-fancy.html

They call me Mellow Yellow (quite rightly)

2010-05-13T21:13:00.012+01:00

Hey Dudes and Dames. Bagged myself another Etsy Treasury. A woo-hoo.
Treasury is an interesting feature on the Etsy website which allows you to pick items and arrange them similar to what you see on Etsy's front page. Some Treasuries are picked for the front page too - if the tone is to the admin's liking. I think of it as a sort of mood board. Well here's mine anyhow:

If you wanna get a closer look at these babies just click the link below.
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=131248

2010-05-12T19:52:00.007+01:00

With spring well and truly sprung I decided it was high time for some green fingered gallivanting.
A small balcony and a window-sill to work with - a challenge but not impossible, I think you'll agree.
About 2 weeks ago we went to Homebase and got ourselves some potting compost, seeds and pots. Radish, Rocket, Lambs Lettuce and Parsley have been planted so far.
The radish were sprouted in about 3 or 4 days! It was so gratifying to see them popping up. Look at them now 2 weeks in they are flying up. They'll be ready to pick in another 3-4 weeks apparently. Yummers!
What do you think of my plant markers? I just drew the letter backwards roughly on to a pieces of card and cut away. Then I just free handed the little radish beside it. Twas shocking easy.
Tried a different style R for the Rocket but don't like the effect as much.

I'd love to give these guys a go sometime. They're just darling, don't you think?

Slings and Arrows

2010-04-19T20:26:00.009+01:00

Hi everyone. Obviously I'm on a bit of a hiatus. I'm kinda re-evaluating my crafting business. Having changed jobs twice already in 2010 life has been eventful in general. My new job is part time though so I had decided to make a real go at the Etsy business. Just when I was getting my butt in gear I had a set back in the form of an imitator. Crap right? While I understand this is part of putting your creations out there it's unpleasant none the less.
I'm gonna take a while to craft for myself and just enjoy that without concentrating on the business. I won't be shelving the business but I won't be making it the focus of my creativity for a while. Lets call it comfort crafting. I'll post anything worth while on the blog if I get a chance. Here are some things I'll be trying:

Popcorn Squares Afghan

Cocktail Umbrella Lantern

Beautiful Holly Golightly inspired dress from Burdastyle user Myk

Tried it Tuesday!

2010-01-20T22:14:00.011Z

I had been meaning to get reviews in of some tutorials so without further a-do I bring you.. a something I made earlier:
Paper carnations
You may remember these rustling beauties from an earlier blog post.
Here's their version....
Gorgeous aren't they. I just had to try it!

So here are mine....
They were very simple. I didn't have everything they required but I improvised. I had no gardening tape so I substituted thick gauge jewelery wire, adding masking tape at the tip and base of the flower to secure things. Neither did I have 'felt tips' so I used the fabric markers I have laying about.
I think it turned out well, all things considered, don't you? I would definitely recommend this tutorial for a quick, low maintenance way to spruce up your living space this spring.

Shake it up Spring Style

2010-01-19T18:50:00.001Z

Euk- sequins. Euk-gold.
Are you feeling my festive fashion fatigue? How utterly scrumptious are all those beautiful pastel shades out their? How delectable is everything with foliage and freshness?

I'm absolutely craving a major wardrobe shake-up and here's how I plan to go about it.

Clean out any item of clothing that makes me feel frumpy when I wear it - sell the best of them at the Bernard Shaw, use any nice fabric in my crafting, anything decent left goes to charity and the rest for rags.
Pick pieces from my mounds of "items for alteration" bag and create some pieces around designs I would actually wear.
Mend some of my fabulous but flawed garments which have been sitting in a bag forever;
Spend some quality time shopping with the Topshop voucher I got for Christmas (Thanks, Godmother-you know me so well).
Dip into a few second hand shops and the Dublin Flea Market for a more custom touch.

See a wardrobe re-vamp doesn't have to cost more than €30 and hopefully it won't.
I'm will keep you guys updated on how it all goes.

For now I can dream. Sweet Spring Dreams:

Sickness and sergers.

2010-01-04T17:16:00.003Z

How was your Christmas guys? Mine was wonderful however I'm now rather ill. Just thought I'd drop by though to let you know I GOT AN OVERLOCKER.
Sorry to shout but it's a truly ace pressie, no? Thanks boyfriend!

Very excited to get that baby going just as soon as the pestilence passes. Tell me about your favorite crafty Christmas presents.

Merry Christmas Everyone.

2009-12-24T21:15:00.005Z

Hope you all have a great holiday season with mucho mulled everything and all else that you desire. Here's to the new year and all the madness waiting to unfold!

Oh and much love to Va who won my reversible tote giveaway. New year - new bag. Sweet.

How Much Fonder is your Heart Now?

2009-12-01T14:08:00.012Z

A-tee-hee. Sorry...

Now that thats over and done with let me tell you what I've been up to. Would you like that? - you'd love it!

I had another family wedding and it was a big 'un. In a castle and everything. I made a few headpieces for it, for others and myself-below is my piece de résistance which was commissioned by the beautiful Fiona (So mad I didn't get a picture of her wearing it!).

It's so sparklerific I just had to make others in it's image, but not the exact same, for last Sunday's Crafty Market. They went down a treat. Best Crafty Market so far by the way. Very festive and fun and delightfully busy. Hurrah for everyone supporting the crafts!

I've also been working away at my temp position and looking for a job and holding down the fort now that me fella keeps getting posted off to far away realms-Seriously I feel like a soldiers wife!

This week I'll be getting down to bis-wax with some feathers and a whole lotta fabric in prepartation for the Christmas car boot sale at the Bernard Shaw in Portobello. It's gonna get messy. I'm already tired and excited.

Now as an apology for deserting you all for so long here's a giveaway!

One of my reversible totes in delicious vintage fabric is up for grabs. It's Autumn/Winter on one side and Spring/Summer on the other although I think the over-all look is quite summery don't you? The perfect antidote to the gloomy weather and a nice little stocking stuffer or treat for yourself. Take a look at her:

OOh, Ahh. Now here's how to enter:

For 1 entry just become a blog follower (if you aren't already) and leave a comment making sure I got a way of contacting you if you don't have a blogger account.

For 2 entries do the above and also have a look in my etsy shop, favorite something and link to it in your post- (sorry things are a bit sparse there today will be topping up on Wednesday).

Closing date for entries will be next Friday the 18th so there's loads of time.

Easy Squeesy Lemon Breezy!

Thar She Blows! It's the big white winter giveaway.

2009-11-11T21:37:00.005Z

Steer yourselves on over to the Etsy Ireland blog for a really generous giveaway.
There's all sorts from jewellery and accessories to art and christmas decorations.
I contributed at few pieces myself and I know the quality of the other pieces will be truly awesome.
Who ever wins this will be one lucky ducky.
Good luck to you all!

Crockery you can Rock..ery!

2009-11-06T23:10:00.007Z

New treasury coming at ya!
I'm a bit worried that my first treasury photo has now disolved into the ether. But balls to that lets live in the moment. The smooth ceramic moment:

Lazy Gazing

2009-11-02T19:43:00.009Z

Spending my Monday relaxing after the madness that was the run up to Sunday's Crafty Market.
I was like the thing that couldn't stop. Clipping some paper here, sewing a banner there, a bake of fimo in the oven, glue gun heating up in the corner (which I accidentally left on after leaving for the market, Yikes!)
It was a good market, loving the new 12-5pm time, just makes the days that bit more condensed.
But yes after all that it's nice to have a slow day (or evening at least). And what do I browse online during these periods of lackadaisical lounging, you ask?
Well I'll tell you. It all depends on the mood so I'll break it into catagories but here are a few of my go-to-guys and gals for creative titalation:

For Embroidery:
There are many truly spectacular sites you may already know about such as Doe-C-Doe
But for a nice smattering of styles I love to browse the Guest posts of the Sew, Mama, Sew August Hand Sewing month. Look how pretty:

Paper craft and printables:
Again I shan't confine myself to just the one. I don't do a whole lotta paper craft.. yet but I love to allow a sense of awe to wash over me as I look at some of the beautiful and generously provided printables and projects on the likes of How about Orange and A Fanciful Twist, I mean check this out:

The Good Life and Eco living
Gotta be Sallygardens Smallholdings and it's Irish based so it's more relevant for me.
I also enjoy Our One Block Diet from Sunset great stuff altogether. Would that we got the weather for these kinda outdoor feasts!

Interior Re-vamping
I love me a good chair make-over, don't you? My favorite website for all these shenanigans has absolutely got be Centsational Girl. I love her knack for taking truly thrifty finds and creating sheer class. You've just gotta check out what these stairs looked like before she did her thing:
Fashion and Clothing
I've never found a blog that gives me all I need in this department, I'm sure there's one out there I just haven't found it yet. Craftster is the business in this department.

Big Dreams of the Great outdoors
One day I shall have a garden fit for a hedge dwelling little hippy-at-heart like me but until then Sunset has something for all outdoor areas from balconies to big open spaces.
Barbeque Bar

Salad Side-Bar

And always worth a look is One Pretty Thing. Such a brilliant collection of tutorials and projects. Its simply a mecca.

I've been Blog-Knapped!!

2009-10-22T20:35:00.007+01:00

Hey, hey.
I've been working on a guest post for the last day or two for the Etsy Ireland blog. I've been running all over Dublin with my wee camera pestering shop assitants in various supply shop.
Great fun!
Tip on over and have a gander. It's a good 'un!

http://etsyireland.blogspot.com/2009/10/shopping-for-craft-supplies-in-dublin.html

A Little Something for the Fellas...

2009-10-19T20:59:00.013+01:00

Male fashion. What a conundrum! It truly can be phenomenally repetitive but as I've been getting more acquainted with it I've started to develop my favorites.

I've also had a good giggle at a few of the duds:

Gas stuff!

Why on earth has a off center little crafter like me been perusing the Men's Fashion week files, you ask?
You see, a cousin of mine had heard, through the realiable ol' family grape vine, that I liked sewing and was doing a fashion design course. The man in question is quite ethically minded and doesn't buy from mainstream stores, generally favoring charity shops, however as a strapping fellow in his early thirties the charity shop stock doesn't always hit the mark of this young musicians style. SO he asked me to think about making stuff for him, eventually with a view to putting together the get up for his sister's wedding next Summer.
I am as flattered as I am daunted.
I know he won't want anything "fashion" looking so there's not too much to worry about but come on, dudes clothes are just whole other ball game, start to finish. I'm looking forward to seeing what we come up with. You never know this time next year I could have completely changed my current direction (will probably have to work out what it is first though) and be designing exclusively for men...
And now for a few pieces I would wear if I were a dude:

from Babbletees at http://isotope.etsy.com

Yup, I would be one hot bloke!

Winner Alert!

2009-10-15T19:43:00.002+01:00

The winner of the tiny orange studs is......
TanyaMac! of ThatCheekyUrchin http://cheekyurchin.blogspot.com/ and Etsy Ireland http://etsyireland.blogspot.com/
Congrats Tanya they'll soon be on their way to your earlobes.

Orangelicious Giveaway

2009-10-10T19:41:00.009+01:00

Okay so I decided to leave this one until today to let the last post stew.
Here goes my second giveaway.
Sweet little orange dot earrings. They are so tiny as you can see from the picture.

To enter all you gotta do is:

Leave a comment. If you don't have an active blogger profile you'll need to leave me some way contacting your such as a link to you're etsy or your e-mail AND
Follow my blog publicly.

Simple as that.
I'll be pulling the winner from a hat on Tuesday at 8pm GMT.

Findings and Seed Beads, a-live, a-live O.

2009-10-10T11:05:00.008+01:00

Still playing catch up so here's a bit of this and a that.
Yesterday on my way home from work (yey for working again) I decided to pop into Yellow Brick Road for com findings and a general snoop. Lo and behold they had a fire during the night a few weeks ago and have moved next door. Yet all is not lost, no Siree, in fact they were able to save most of stock and are now having a sale on smoke damaged findings and seed beads.
The deal is buy €30 or more worth of findings OR €30 or more worth of seed beads and you get them all for a 3rd of the price. Unfortunatly they don't let you combine the seed bead and findings as part of the deal for some strange reason.
Here's my haul which cost just over €11.30:

Oh also I wanna give a cyber shout out to my big Bro. A bro-mo, if you will.
He's a qualified planner and has been doing BER ratings for months. He has a really great website but for some odd reason Google keeps ignoring it. Thought I'd post a link here to even out the mean old universe a little. Check it out if you have a minute:
http://www.berated.ie/

Okay I will be back LATER TODAY, yes you heard me. I'm getting back on track here.
Not only will I be back but I'll be back with a giveaway.

So Many Tutorials So Little Time

2009-10-06T20:50:00.010+01:00

Oh Mercy. It's been a long ould week-and-a-bit.
Well again I'm straying from the scheduled path, giving you just a bit of this and that.
I haven't quite got round to following and photographing any particular tutorial I've followed but here are a few that I will certainly be trying in the very near future:

Paper Tape Dress Form:
http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/3633/paper-tape-dress-form

Paper Carnations:
http://www.i-do-it-yourself.com/2009/04/diy-tissue-paper-carnations/

Polka-dot Pencil Skirt:
http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=72797.0

At no point did I start out to choose only things which started with P. Wierd!

Also here's a little swirly Autumny Etsy goodness courtesy of Twist21:

( link to Etsy posting: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31734068)

Well hopefully I'll be posting tommorrow with a giveaway, although I do have an interview and a design class. 'Tis all go as the man says!
Mucho kisso.

Owie, Owie, Owie...

2009-09-23T23:17:00.003+01:00

Already straying from the path, can you believe it?
I'm so sorry to have missed yesterday's post but I'm afraid it'll be happening quite a bit for the next week and a half as I've just started a new temp position and I have 2 weddings and a hen in Mayo. Thats all in the next week and a half!
However here is the scheduled activity today - a bit of catch up on my etsy activities.
I caught an illusive treasury spot last night.
Season of Mists and Mellow Fruitfulness:

Whaddya think? Now head to http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=83690
and click the bejesus out of it to get it higher up the list.
Much obliged!

Giveaway Results.

2009-09-21T18:23:00.004+01:00

Hi there my Hearties.

Now for the great reveal.

The winner of Wednesday's giveaway was .... Amy.

The ladybug will very soon be winging it's way to you Amy.

Thanks so much to everyone for entering. There will be another giveaway in little over a week.

Hope you all had a great weekend.

Until tomorrow.

Edana

Thursday- Show and Tell

2009-09-17T13:28:00.009+01:00

This Thursday I'll do a "show what I'm up today".
So I've been making this skirt for, umm, a while now but I finally finished it today. It's made from the bottom of this cool old lady nightgown I snagged in a charity shop. The fabric is actually slightly fleecy too so it's pretty and snug, you likey?:
When I went up the counter to buy this the lady selling it was bleedin' gas!

"Oh lovely and long and soft, keep ya warm, a lot better then a man!" she says;
I muttered something like "er yea, nice and warm" fully knowing I would be butchering it and never sleeping in it.
She replied "A lot less trouble than a man too, ya may be sure".
Ah, the wisdom of our elders! 'Tis a fine thing.

Generally, I'm sure she'd be correct too but I can tell you I had to take Mr. Stitch-ripper to this a few times more than I'd like, which is ridiculous cause it was very easy essentially.
Here's what I ended up with in any case:

And now for some in action...action:

Whaddya think?
I'm gonna don it round town later paired with my light brown leather boots and knee socks.
If you'd like a tutorial for this just drop a comment below and I'd be happy to oblige.
Until tomorrow. Take her handy.
x

Giveaway Day!

2009-09-16T11:31:00.008+01:00

Here's to the start of the new regime!
So lets get moving with a wee giveaway.
I will send an embellished lavender sachet and a 25% off my Etsy coupon to the winner.
And here we see the lucky sachet who will be off to a new home soon:

This little lady was created with a combination of fabric markers and embroidery. Stuffed full of french lavender and ready to scuttle into your drawer or dance from your door knob.

To win just leave a comment below, you could post a link to your own blog or tell me how you came across this one, I don't mind as long as you get your comment up. If you're not in..etc.

I will pick the winner on Friday evening so get your post it by 8pm (GMT) on Friday.
X

The Shape of Things to Come

2009-09-15T13:23:00.004+01:00

I've decided to put more structure into my blogging activity in order to make it more varied and easier for me to settle upon what to write about. I'm hoping to post every weekday ie. Monday to Friday and if I've got anything to say on Saturday or Sunday that can't wait then you'll hear that too. So here is the basic frame:

Monday- Any weekend news and some links to interesting posts I've read over the weekend;

Tuesday- Try a tute. I'll be attempting tutorials, projects and some recipes from online sources and books then writing a bit about how they went;

Wednesday- Giveaway or Etsy catch up. I'll post a giveaway of one of my items or some photos of my latest Etsy posting or treasuries I've done;

Thursday- Do a tutorial or show something I've been working on;

Friday- Have it my Way; a little bit of life and anything else that comes to mind

Let me know what you think.
So I'll be back tomorrow with a little giveaway.

Fair Weather and Craft Fairs

2009-09-09T11:08:00.008+01:00

Well now, what a smashing day it is here on the green isle.
I have been doing lots of posting on Etsy lately and although I have been getting a few views and some hearts I think my views are relatively low, coupled with the fact I have yet to get a comment on this blog I am a little disheartened but not to worry.
Went to the Crafty Market last weekend with all my wares and wonders. It was great to have some of the other team members there, it gave the place even more of a community feel.
Here are some of the newby pieces I brought along:

The sales weren't great but I expect it will pick up again for the Christmas season.

I'm off to take advantage of the lovely weather to pick some blackberries and take a few nice bright photos.
XX

Head gear for a Hen Hooley

2009-08-31T22:32:00.001+01:00

As I mentioned in my last post I was asked to make a little veil for a friend's hen-night.
It was mucho fun to make as you can imagine and it also meant I could use up some supplies that didn't generally fit into my aesthetic.
I went for a birdcage style veil as I think they are both classy and cheeky... But I do look like a bit of an ass pulling this pose:

Just in case you'd like a tutorial here goes:

Materials:

Tulle scraps
hairband (I picked up a pack of 5 in the €2 shop)
diamante brooch
red feathers
Glue gun

Cut a square-ish piece of tulle slightly larger than your face
Run a length of thread through the top (or least neat edge) of your square amid the netting and bunch up the tulle until it fits the length of your ear to ear
Position your main colour of tulle on the hairband, pin it and reposition until it sits where you want it.
Sew or glue in place.
Now glue your feathers in place - you can go for real drama here or keep it to a few whips.
Now play around with your other decorations, tulle scraps, brooches or whatever else you have to hand. Stitch, glue or pin in place.

Et C'est Tout!
You're all done and looking very risqué too.

Lads and Ladies we are LIVE!!

2009-08-24T22:17:00.000+01:00

My Darlings my Etsy shops went up today. It has been a little light in an awful, horrible week. But it has been okay craft-wise which is what this blog is about after all.
I've been putting lots of work into my underwear pattern but I'm not happy with it just yet so alas that will have to wait a little longer before I can reveal any of those dainties.
But guys, guys.. My shop is up, IT'S REALLY UP. Yey! Look:
The Sailmaker's Daughter
http://SailmakersDaughter.etsy.com

Here is a shot of the very first item I listed, I called it Odette after the Swan Lake Princess:

Let me know what you think of the shop. It needs a proper banner and more items. Do you think its needs anything else?
I'll be back soon with more hair accessory photos as I was asked to make a veil for a Hen party. The Hen party has been and gone so I'll have the photos for you soon.

Absense Makes The Heart Grow Fonder... I hope

2009-08-18T23:11:00.000+01:00

That was a crazy length absence. I have no excuse but I do have a reason. We moved house and the blasted internet provider, who shall for the moment remain nameless (until they really piss me off), didn't get us up and running for 5 weeks!

But I have not been idle, Oh no!

The Sailmaker's Daughter had an outing to the Crafty Market on the 5th of July and it was fantastic. I didn't have anyone sharing the booth with me this time because I had more merchandise and although it was a little lonely and I was a tad hungry I had a blast. The other sellers were fantastic, there were bellydancers and the atmosphere was great. If you haven't already been GO!

It's on the first Sunday of every month and I will be there and square on the 6th of September

Here's a link to there website:
The Crafty Market
http://www.thecraftymarket.com/index.htm

And here's a shot of my stall:

This was a new robot lavender dude that was snapped up by one of the really sound organisers:

One of the best things about the market (apart from lots of sales, a-woohoo) was meeting some fellow Etsy peeps. Tanya of the Happy Heart Place did some awesome networking and invited myself and others along to the first Etsy Team Ireland meeting organised by herself and Sarah of Red Possum.

The meeting was truly stimulating, the show and tell was awe inspiring, the sheer range of crafty was wonderful and the ladies all delightful. For more about the first meeting check out Sarah's post on the Redpossum blog:
http://redpossumgear.blogspot.com/2009/07/crafty-ireland-launch.html

We've just had our second meeting this weekend and again, so motivational. Next one will be mid-September so if you are interested check out the team blog Etsy Ireland :
http://www.etsyireland.blogspot.com/

Working on some new stuff too. More on that later... but not too much later hopefully!

Shiny Scrubby People

2009-06-28T13:58:00.000+01:00

After a crazy busy period when you haven't had time to look in the mirror for about 3 days there is a tendency to feel a bit on the grotty side. In my case dull skin that felt like beplagued sandpaper was a slight issue not to mention that my hair persisted in lying flat to my head for the first 2 inches and then fluffing up at a 90 degree angle for the remaining 3".
There are the more substantial, long term things which one can partake in to regain some pep; organic diets, yoga, new hair cut, but you know.. baby steps and all that.
This is little home spa treatment is aimed at just trying to feel human again and less like you should be proclaiming the future of trials of Macbeth. This takes around one hour so it can slot easily into a busy day.

You will need:
1 tsp Olive oil
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Sugar
2 tsp Baking soda
Half tsp of lemon juice (I just used a squezee yoke)
1 tsp used coffee grounds (optional)
1 tsp Honey (Something like Milveen is great cause it has crystalise
particles but something local is always best)
4 drops of relaxing oil, eg. lavender, patchouli, sandalwood or jasmine
Flannel or shower pouf
Usual shower paraphernalia- Shampoo, conditioner, towel and razor(if you use one).
Moisturizer
Eyecream
Relaxing music, whatever works for you, be it frog song or Rufus Wainwright.
Nail file
Nail Clippers
Nail polish and remover (optional)

Mix the oil, salt, sugar, coffee and lemon juice with 1 tbs of the baking soda in a glass. Oooh fizzy.
Standing in your shower or on an old towel start at your feet and scrub the mix onto you in circular motions, concentrate on any cellulite ridden areas as you go up, the coffee works to break cellulite down. Work up to your décolletage but skip the delicate neck and face.
Turn on the shower and gently, firmly sweep the mixture off. Use the shower pouf with a little body wash to remove remaining few grains.
When hair is thoroughly wet massage in shampoo. Really work it into the scalp. Rinse and repeat if necessary. Smooth conditioner on the ends of your hair. Leave this in while you move to next step. Conditioner actually doesn't penetrate the hair unless it contains the ingredient panthenol. For those without panthenol their job will be equally as done after 1 minute as after 5
but it doesn't do any harm to leave it in for 5 or so minutes.
Shave under arms and legs - if you shave that is.
Tease comb softly through your hair. Starting with the ends with the conditioner one them and comb through then move up to the next half and comb through and so on. Then wash out conditioner.
Fill the sink with hot water and drip in the essential oil you are using. Inhale the fragrance in deep breaths in the nose out the mouth for about 1 minute.
Slather on you favourite body moisturizer, again concentrating on problem areas.
Put the honey in your palm and add a drop or 2 or water from the sink to warm it up and thin it out. Smooth the honey on your face in a circular, upward motions. Go slowly and be firm(ish). Massaging the muscles beneath your face. Dip flannel or towel in the water and buff the honey off your face. Apply moisturiser and eyecream or mask here if preferred.
Stick on some music and have a little grove with your bad self! Plonk of the sofa or bed or floor and clip and any even finger nails. Then file and paint in your preferred shade. A word of caution though don't paint them anything but clear unless you really do have remover on hand. Nothing makes one feel scruffier than chippy, blobby nail colour.
Repeat for your toes and then smother your feet in moisturiser or Vaseline and put on some thick socks. Sparkly feet in the morning!
Now get an early night!

P.S. I've got another craft fair. WOO-hoo. Crafty Market here I come. This is a new and pretty excellent market in Dublin. First Sunday of every month. It's much more demograhic and I think it'll be a very enjoyable day whatever the sales. More on that soon. So thats in a week and I also have to move home in between. Busy week!

Breakwater

2009-06-04T22:23:00.001+01:00

Well I have been on a crafting hiatus what with all this beautiful weather and getting back to regular life after the first market.
However I shan't deprive you (or possibly 'relieve' is the correct term,
depending on personal tastes) of the burgeoning fruit of my earlier
labours.
Therefore I shall show you some juicier shots of some of my pieces as well as some of the little stars that didn't get quite as much attention.
So here without further ado, is the make and do that I did do:

And that's all folks. I'll be back soon with post on 1 hour makeover for before or after big events (or just anytime you can find an excuse) uusing a home made scrub and other frugal treats.

First Craft Fair at Blackrock Market

2009-05-25T21:59:00.002+01:00

First craft fair completed! Hurrah!

Ever so sorry for the prolonged absence but I was frantically flitting about the place like some kind of blue-bottle- headless chicken hybrid.
I didn't sell much really but it was very exciting to get out there. The weather was very changeable and I overheard some people saying they didn't sell anything at all. None the less, it was such a thrill seeing people taking interest in my crafts and trying on the jewellery. It was also intriguing to see which items drew attention and which were left largely unadmired.
It wasn't truly my demographic and most people were just buying from the antique and food stalls but still, the experience was priceless. Now for an image injection, here are a few stars of the show:

My jewellery, mainly the flower cabochon rings and earrings, probably got the most attention.

Although the display case which I made from a 2nd hand book attracted alot of interest by its own merit.

The lavender bags were a nice sensory hit, often people could smell them just before they would see them. The designs which got the most interest were these guys:

3D Glasses

Cherry blossom branch

Rainbow French knots

This upcycled cardigan got quite a bit of frisking up by the punters but
no-one bought it which was unfortunate because it was very reasonable
indeed.
Sorry for the out of focus picture. If you'd like a clearer image let me know and I'll give my camera a good talking to.
For most of my altered clothing I buy items second hand and then add to or alter Item. The aim is to start out with a good quality item and then givesome individuality.
In this case it was a lovely knit wrap cardigan
(originally from Miss Selfridges according to the label) I replaced the tying ribbons, which were a cheapish looking blue affair, with ties of patterned pure silk, cut and sewed from length I had in my stash.
I also added a hand embroidered branch circled with wool which I needle felted on to look like a built in brooch, this is a feature in a few of my altered pieces.
I priced it at under €20. I think that's cheap considering the top alone cost €7 for me to buy second hand.

Perhaps the larger items would have sold better if they were more accessible from the front of the desk. As you can see here they were mostly behind me due to prohibitive space and the fact that I didn't bring a railing (Note to self: Duh!):

To Market, to market..

2009-05-12T18:06:00.001+01:00

Only a week and a half to go until my first market. It's not a purely craft dedicated affair and it's on every weekend so that takes alot of the pressure off. No insurance needed either. A great place to start all round. It's here:
Blackrock Market
http://www.blackrockmarket.com

I was doing quite well in terms of preparation but I seem to have run out of steam somewhat. Perhaps I was just trying to get to much done and have burned out. Maybe it's because I had to move the date back a week and lost momentum. What do you do during time of motivational stagnancy? Any tips?
I think I'll watch some Simpsons, have a shower and then just get back to kicking the craft out of my stash. Worth a try. I'll post some embroidery later if all goes well.

Mwah!

How ( and why) I chose my label's name

2009-05-06T23:37:00.000+01:00

One of the milestones for me in this venture was choosing a name or label under which my crafts will be sold.
Seems a pretty straightforward process for many designers and crafters but not so for my choosy ass. I'm pretty sure it's hereditary as when I was born I didn't have a name for about a week but it worked out quite well I reckon (Cheers Mam and Dad).
Ultimately my decision was ruled by my gut. I needed a name I could wriggle down into and feel at home. However that's not to say that I didn't apply some more conventional logic. These are some of the consideration and steps you might need to think about.

Using you actual name. Yay or nay?

This works for some people but I ruled it out instinctively. I just didn't want that. I love my name but a name doesn't give a customer an image or any idea of your aesthetic so I felt this wasn't the path. Another element to consider here is whether you want someone who is looking for your
products to end up on your Facebook page? Could be frustrating. Even I find my Facebook page boring! I want people to wind up on my Etsy (when it gets kickin') or this blog fairly smoothly - not navigating through 6 Google pages of I Know What You Did Last Electric Picnic.

Take 2 elements of yourself or business and smush them up a bit (smushing optional)

I read this on another blog, (I don't know where as I wasn't planning on starting this blog at the time so I wasn't saving links) I will post the link if I ever find it. If you were making jewellery out of car parts for example you could be Bolt the Beads or Carburettor Creations. For my part - Sailmaker: I love the sea and most influenced by nature also a lot of my stuff is sewn, sailmakers need to be good at that. Daughter: Well all women are united in daughterliness. Okay so neither of my parents make sails but I did want to stress that I'm a sole person not a large label. Combined I like the nostalgic effect and it just feels like me.

Google search and Etsy Search

Put your prospective names through the online mill. If there are other businesses with similar names my advice is to steer clear. Again some people are okay with being "Designs by Kelly 0890", but it comes back to not frustrating a client who is trying to find you.

Take it for a walk

Use the name for a day or so, mention it to some honest freinds or family see what reaction you get. You don't have to take their advice but a differnt perspective can be illuminating. When I told a relative that I was considering Mortal Anemone as the name she said reminded her of a fatal enema. A valid point.
Etsy give some great tips on choosing the name of your etsy shop or label here:
http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/shop-makeover-series-whats-in-a-name-1010/
If opening an etsy you best be comfortable with your name as you can't change your shop name.

So thus ends my exceedingly long second post. I see the land of nod coming up of the starboard bow.

Kisses
Edana

Land HOO!

2009-05-05T21:50:00.000+01:00

And so its starts...
Welcome to my blog and thanks for dropping by. My writing is a little rusty but bare with me and hopefully I can improve with practice.
In these last few weeks I have been delving through the muddied waters of trying to set up, what is effectively, a small indie craft business. As many will know this is not an easy course and in Ireland where craft suppliers are sparse and the community rich but fledgeling in comparison to the US or UK, it's that bit tougher. But poppycock to all that I say! It will heave into life or splutter out leaving me with some insights and experiences, those of interest I hope to share with you.