SleepDreamPlay

Free Shipping

2010-07-30T04:46:00.000-07:00

I am offering free shipping everywhere on all items in my shop. This also includes all sale items, so be sure to come and have a look. Basically, I am finding it very hard to run this hop as my heart just isn't it. Sleep Dream Play is an old part of my life, and I want to lay it to rest in as dignified and celebratory way as possible. This means selling as many of the wonderful creations that are available in the shop right now.

Visit my shop at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SleepDreamPlay

Etsy By Alphabet

2010-07-14T14:03:00.000-07:00

LETTER 'H'

When I realised that I had reached the letter H in my exploration of etsy finds by the alphabet, it occurred to me what a difficult letter it was. Are there any colours that begin with H? It's taken a few days to finally come up with a theme, but here it is. Let's see if you can guess...

1. Up...Hot Air Balloon Series No 4 by Seeds Studio

2. My Beautiful Balloon Brooch by Mamas Little Babies

3. Up and Away by K and R designs

Animal Illustrations, Feathers and Pillows

2010-07-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

Today, I had a sudden realisation that you may be missing out on much of my new work, which slowly exhibiting itself over at my personal portfolio blog (please follow, if you don't already). So I decided to give you, my Sleep Dream Play readers a preview. New work includes all over feather repeats, illustrations of bar owls and kestrels, red foxes, brown hares and a little nuthatch. If you don't already know, many of these designs are, and soon will be available over at my Envelop shop HERE.

My new approach to work is incredibly satisfying, and I am really looking froward to offering a variety of products with these designs on them, in the near future.

Look... Re-positional Fabric Flower Stickers

2010-07-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

Over in my ETSY shop now!

Etsy By Alphabet

2010-06-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

This etsy by alphabet looks at greens and gold tones.

1. Miniature Raindrop Green from AshleyG

2. Gold Feather Necklace from AneshkasJewelry

Something New But Old

2010-06-13T07:59:00.001-07:00

Some old friends are returning to my etsy shop. These fabric brooches are all carefully cut and stitched by me, all with original artwork on the front. They are $15 each plus postage. I will be packaging them in these little Kraftpaper boxes I bought yesterday. Click HERE to shop.

What a Lazy Pair!

2010-06-11T06:17:00.001-07:00

Tarradiddle

2010-06-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

Tarradiddle Private View Monday 7th June.

1 Jade Mortimer Video Art

2 Lauren Mortimer Illustrations

It's on until Sunday 14th June so get along if you can.

Visit http://marthastarradiddle.wordpress.com/ for more information on the artists involved.

Graduate Fashion Show Royal College of Art 2010

2010-06-10T04:38:00.000-07:00

Frances Conteh Graduate Collection 2010

Kirsty Emery Graduate Collection 2010

Last night I was lucky enough to go along to the Royal College of Art Graduate Fashion Show last night. You can see above some key pieces that really struck me from Kirsty's and France's collections. Frances is well known for her bright and bold approach to design. This all in one piece with the reflective 'Jonathan Saunders' style design and orange over coat really stood out for me.

Kirsty has always produced beautiful feminine pieces that I always desperately want to own, and with this duck egg blue cardigan, it goes without saying that I want this. The texture of the knit with the scarves, jumpers, and cardigans really contrasted well with the very fine knits of the dresses. Another key piece was Kirsty's knitted jumpsuit. Go to http://www.catwalking.com/GRADUATES/GRAD_10/MA_shows/shows/RCA/gradba.html

to see still photographs from all of the years graduates.

Well done Kirsty and Frances. I really look forward to seeing their careers develop.

Let's talk about my new job.

2010-06-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

On Monday 7th June I start my new job and I am a little excited about the whole thing.

Since December I have been unemployed, and it's been really tough and incredibly boring. There was simply nothing out there. This was until one day in early April, I replied to a post that said this company was looking for a creative assistant. Nothing was said about what the company did, but I went for it anyway.

The job is with Fox Carnival, a mas band that specifically works with children to create and showcase art for, and, at carnival. If you have been to Notting Hill Carnival, then you will have some idea of what I am talking about. The position is for six months, and I am going to take this as a real opportunity to push myself. It is surely going to be an exciting summer for me.

Image via http://www.foxcarnival.com/

Etsy By Alphabet

2010-06-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

The letter F finds me exploring the world of wedding favours, which is really kind of appropriate because my brother recently got engaged to his girlfriend, foxes, which are such charismatic animals, and forest themed fabrics. Little Red Door is such a simplistic idea, but everything is so well executed. The thought of giving or receiving one of these little houses to remember a special day by, is so pleasing.

I was so drawn to the fox necklace whilst browsing, particularly because it uses wood. I am currently thinking a lot about the use of wood, and how to create beautiful jewellery with it, with out seeking a laser cutter.

Lastly, the bag, which is simply awesome. The design, the colours and the handle makes it such a satisfying looking object, and such a great size for night out.

Enjoy!

25 CUSTOM LITTLE HOUSE FAVOURS FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT - WEDDING BABY NEW HOME

by the Little Red Door

Wooden Fox Forest Necklace nature woodland

by Finest Imaginary

Handbag with forest animals on navy

by Jennifer Ladd

Wish List

2010-05-29T13:18:00.000-07:00

Diana Mini with Flash from Urban Outfitters.

I want this so bad, it hurts. It's just so clever. Taking 36 mm film, and giving you the option to take vintage looking square photos, or half shots.

New Items On Etsy

2010-05-27T08:55:00.000-07:00

If you happened to read the previous post, you would have been aware that I was busy broadening our product range. Basically, I decided to offer tags that I created in Photoshop using the designs from the original greeting cards. The aim is to offer multi packs of gift tags so that you get more hand made goodness for your money. So, our first set of 12 gift tags is up, and I must say, I am pretty happy with the results. It took a while to cut everything out, and punch the holes in, but it was worth the time. Click HERE to go straight to the product.

Sneak Preview

2010-05-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

New product range for the shop. Printed gift tags, for people shopping with a smaller budget. These will come in bulk packs of either the same, or mixed designs. They will be hole punched and threaded with bakers twine. They look awesome printed out too. Next step is the cutting out. I need to concentrate on that bit :) I will let you all know as soon as they are up.

Cards by Alice

2010-05-21T07:34:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been blogging much about my mum's cards on our etsy shop, so thought I would make you aware that many of my own cards are still for sale in the shop too. I am slowly rephotographing things so it all ties in together, which is taking a while. These cards were made over a period of 2008 and 2009, and I have so many, so am really looking to sell them off. I used to sell them in Books etc, Hammersmith, London, where I worked, but that has since closed, but I will say that they went down very well there.

Shopping Guide

2010-05-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/6024b47ba2edcd4b8d5cee00/the-illustrated-life

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bf410c215706d9178a707c8/rainbow-folk

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bf452c7574b8eef5b693ca8/lovely-cup-of-tea

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bf45f4815336d91320756f1/your-laser-love-is-like-a-heart-attack

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bf564bd15336d9150b469f1/mint-things

These are my first 5 treasuries on Etsy. I think the new format for the treasury is so much more accessible. You don't have to wait for the list number to drop below a certain amount, and let's face it, it's fun. I can't stop myself from making new ones.

I hope you like these, and be sure to click the link below each to visit the page, where you can click, and comment. Would love more comments, thanks.

Tag It

2010-05-20T07:31:00.000-07:00

'Floral Gift Tags Set of 4' by Sleep Dream Play

I Heart The Beetles

2010-05-19T04:52:00.000-07:00

'Sagra Beetle Trio' by Aquakej on etsy

' Ground Beetle' Sketch by Alice Rebecca Potter

Etsy By Alphabet

2010-05-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

'AI NECKLACE - BUBBLEGUM' by ChocolateSushiHM

'Recycled Envelopes Leather Notebook' by Cooplet

'Eagle Eye 120 - letterpress linoleum print - life size' by tomboy

Today's picks were inspired by the letter 'E'. Eagles, envelopes, and embroidery.

I hope you like what I discovered. Oh, and if anyone wants to but me that necklace, I would be much obliged.

Teepees and Camp-fires/ Sketchbook work

2010-05-09T04:41:00.000-07:00

These are my latest ideas in my sketchbook. I have always loved Native American history, and after raking out an old Ladybird book 'The Story of the Indians' I became determined to draw teepees in some form or other. I will be constructing a collage from all of my elements, which will be available as a print in store shortly. Also, look forward to teepee, camp-fires, and moon brooches and charms, and postcards which will all tie in nicely with what Lilley and Skinner is about. Tomorrow, I will be working in my friends studio in Camberwell, South London, which will make a nice change from my bedroom. I hope to have a truly creative, and fun afternoon with her.

Brand New Cards-YAY!

2010-05-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

'Floral Blank Greeting Card Pink'

'Floral Blank Greeting Card Green'

'Floral Collage Blank Greeting Card Pink'

These are SleepDreamPlays new cards available to buy now. We are showcasing my mothers wonderful talent for hand drawn flowers, and we hope you agree that she is rather talented. She spent much of her earlier years as a Textile Designer, creating beautiful floral repeats to be printed on to fabric.

Lilley and Skinner

2010-05-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

I would like to formally introduce to my NEW ETSY shop.

Lilley and Skinner is an illustrated gifts and goods kind of shop. Right now, you can purchase my prints for $20 each, or alternatively, my new postcard pack. A set of 6 for $6.

I am so happy it is all finally under way, and for only a day and a half of being officially open, I am getting really great feedback.

Click HERE to shop!

Pick Me Up Contemporary Graphic Art Fair

2010-04-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

'Pick Me Up' Poster by Andy Gilmore

Yesterday I took the opportunity to go along to this brand new fair in Somerset House, London. It is called 'Pick Me Up' and certainly was like a tonic to lift the spirits. It was so visually exciting and pleasing to see so much inspiring work in one lace. This is a round up of some of my favourite pieces.

'Wolf' by Claire Scully.

Claire Scully's work simply took my breath away. The immense detail that has gone into each of her exhibited pieces was astonishing. You could simply stare at these pieces for ages. Her wolf was particularly beautiful, as were her trees, which when inspected closely, hidden within the detail, were little owls.

'Chemical World' by James Joyce

The work exhibited by James Joyce was pure graphic genius at it's best. Every piece was so expertly executed, and each had a story to tell. These were items you just want to own. My personal favourite was his blue brick wall print ( which unfortunately couldn't find a picture of) so instead I am sharing his Chemical World print. What more can I say.

'Playing by the sea' by Patrick Gildersleeves

Some of you etsy peeps might recognise Patrick's work. He is simply marvellous, isn't he?

Peepshow Collective.

It was great to see Peepshow at the fair. The had set up a great space with work from all the illustrators and designers involved in the Peepshow project. This included work from Luke Best, who was a part time lecturer on the Foundation Course at Richmond Upon Thames College, and who has always been a huge source of inspiration for me. Peepshow looks like a great place to be involved with.

Rob Ryan temporary studio at the Pick Me Up fair. Pictures via Sylvain Deleu

The man himself, busy at work. This was an absolute highlight for me. When I saw him yesterday at work, he was busy drawing this huge pencil drawing of an intricate border. His assistant was on the other side of the studio working on a piece with the scalpel creating one of trade mark looks. The studio walls were covered in his work and inspiration. I might also add that Rob Ryan has his own tape with his designs on, which were sticking his work up. I need me some of that!

Etsy By Alphabet

2010-04-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

'Build A Tree' Adhesive Fabric Wall Stickers/Decals

'Ina Art Doll' One Of A Kind

'That Vintage Big Friend, Little Friend Circle' Necklace

'Striped Carnival Party Dress'

I thought I would continue my Etsy by Alphabet today. The letter of the day being 'D'.

Think gorgeous, contemporary wall decals, unique art dolls that are certainly not for kids, deer, and fantasy dresses.

NEW Greeting Cards

2010-04-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

New birthday and greeting cards available NOW in my ETSY shop.

Forest. Mountain. Me

2010-04-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

'The Sun Shone Like Ice' mixed media digital illustration, April 2010

'I Can Hear Myself Think' mixed media illustration, April 2010

This is just some of the work for you to look forward in my Etsy Shop (when I open it, patience is a virtue, please!) I will be offering A4 prints of my work, postcards, badges, pocket mirrors, as well as a possible bi-annual zine. You will be able to but many of these prints as cushions, oven gloves tote bags etc, in my ENVELOP shop, so you can browse there in the mean time whilst I get on with everything else. If you have any suggestions about what you would like to see my work on, then don't hesitate to leave it in the comments box.

New Items On Etsy

2010-04-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Super productive day today. I listed 3 new cards on to ETSY, which my Mum had been busy making all weekend. I particularly love the TANGERINE card as the colours are just so juicy.

It would be great to get your suggestions on ideas for cards. What occassions do you look for, any public holidays etc? Leave your ideas in the comments below.

Easter Cupcakes

2010-04-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

YUM! I made these yesterday, for the Easter weekend. They have crushed pistachio's in the cake mixture, and the most gorgeously smooth pink butter icing on the top.

The Who Play Quadrophenia, Royal Albert Hall

2010-04-04T07:31:00.000-07:00

Fashioning An Ethical Industry

2010-04-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

"Fashioning an Ethical Industry (an EU funded project taking place in the UK, Netherlands, Austria and Poland) is part of a growing global movement within fashion education that is addressing how the business of fashion impacts on garment workers."

This is just part of a quote made by my good friend Carolina Gomez-Aubert, of Lunamano.
Early in March 2010 she attended a two day conference in London, where she presented her ideas to a group of influential and like-minded designers, and people within the fashion industry.
The two part blog post is well worth a read for those of you intersted in ethical issues within design (which I suspect is pretty much all of you) so please check out Carolina's blog HERE today.

ENVELOP DESIGNS

2010-03-31T05:06:00.000-07:00

Pillows and Tote Bags from my original illustrations are now available on ENVELOP

Visit LilleyandSkinner for more views, prices etc and to keep up with any new items listed.

Greeting Cards

2010-03-29T07:21:00.000-07:00

Some more fantastic greeting cards made by my mother Christine Potter, available now on Etsy

More to come soon.

NEW GREETING CARDS

2010-03-22T08:52:00.000-07:00

These cards are all available on my etsy shop. They are handmade by my Mother Christine, who I am dedicating the shop to now. I think they are all really beautiful. If you want to see work by me please be sure to go to my ENVELOPshop at www.envelop.eu/lilleyandskinner

I will be reopeneing an etsy store sometime in the future, but first I need to buy a nice large format printer.

Collage overload, but loving it more and more!

2010-03-12T09:42:00.000-08:00

Please be sure to check out my portfolio blog to see all the new work I have been working on.

It has been a long time since I have felt so fired up about everything I do! Doing the Illustration Short Course, at Chelsea College, has been a real help, and has given me so much more confidence in my work. I think this confidence is beginning to show, and I am sure I will keep improving as I carry on creating.

Greeting Cards For Sale

2010-03-07T06:19:00.000-08:00

Visit my shop today, as I have been busy uploading lots of my cards. These really must sell! I will be adding some more over the next day or so, so check back.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SleepDreamPlay

ETSY By Alphabet

2010-03-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

Super fun wooden kitties with their own little clouds and a rainbow to boot. From one of my faves

urastarhouse.etsy.com

Follwing the cat theme (as I have been drawing them all day on my Illustration course), I found this on etsy. It's the cutest cat card, drawn by UK based artist Gemma Correll. She also does some of the illustrations for super amazing brand LAZY OAF.
Here is her link to the etsy shop which is having a big sale

gemmabear.etsy.com

Lastly, is this simply beautiful photograph of a kitten playing with a feather, by artist Sharon Montrose.
When I first stumbled acros this shop a while back I was perfectly convinced that these were perfect paintings. Then I realised that each work was a photograph of a real life animal. If you check out the shop you will see the amazing array of animals she must get in her studio. I think it would be a real treat to own her work.

SharonMontrose.etsy.com

Czech This Out

2010-03-05T09:07:00.000-08:00

If you want to see the most amazing website with the most fantastical collection of garments, then head over to Czech designer Zuzana Kubickova's site http://cargocollective.com/zuzanakubickova#96099/About-Me
I am completely in love with everything, and am loving the all-in-ones (above).

Shoe Poster

2010-02-28T07:56:00.000-08:00

Work in progress for my Illustration Short Course.

Please also visit and follow my portfolio blog to see this and other work:

http://alicerebeccapotter.blogspot.com/

Sunday Walk

2010-02-22T04:29:00.000-08:00

Sunday walk along the River in West London.

Beautiful pastel yellow retro car, and blue tiled wall of the subway.

ETSY BY ALPHABET

2010-02-16T04:47:00.000-08:00

{Don't See Me 5x7 Fine Art Print}

TheLightFantastic.etsy.com

Texture, colour and feminity all in one photograph.

{Sneezy Sheets, 1 Silk Screened Handkerchief}

TheHoneyPress.etsy.com

I have a thing for quirky hand drawn bikes. See my portfolio for my own version of a bike:

http://alicerebeccapotter.blogspot.com/

{Golly You Doll Giant Bow Aliceband}

zaracarpenter.etsy.com

Just adorable. I really want one but know I would not look as cute as the model does.

Thinking of Sunnier Times

2010-02-14T04:39:00.000-08:00

ETSY By Alphabet

2010-02-12T16:19:00.000-08:00

{Vintage German Alarm Clock}

spacejam.etsy.com

{Anywhere I Lay my Head...5x7 Fine Art Print}

ellemoss.etsy.com

ellemoss also has another gorgeous shop selling some of my favorite photographs.

If I could own a print of every single one I would be very happy.

You can see one of those below.

{Magic and Balloons...8x10 Fine Art Print}

alicebgardens.etsy.com

Thinks Betty Jackson is a Blessing

2010-02-11T07:40:00.000-08:00

http://www.bettyjackson.com/

http://www.telegraph.co.uk

HABITAT POSTERS

2010-02-11T07:16:00.000-08:00

http://habitaten.artgroup.com/

VOTE RESULTS

2010-02-02T16:01:00.000-08:00

After taking time to count the three votes and comments (one of which was actually my brother, whose judgement I trust), I decided to go with Cornershop. I think it has a really trendy vibe to it. Thank you to the two people who gave me their imput and thanks to my brother.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE

2010-01-28T06:50:00.000-08:00

I need your votes on what you think my new label (coming later on this year) should be.

My list has grown over the past couple of days and I am struggling to decide which one I like best, although there is one that is in the lead at the moment (it will be interesting to see if you all think the same as I do).

To give you and overview of my plans, my new shop will consist of upcycled tee-shirts, bought from charity shops and appliqued with bold new designs that have been digitally printed on to cotton.

As with all of my other work, the colours are young, fresh and full of candy tones. The appliqued designs are geometric and abstract, following my trend for digital cross stitch.

What I would like you to do, is to leave the number of your favorite and any comments in the comments space.

Thank you!

1) CORNERSHOP

2) CORNERSTOP

3) CANDYSTORE

4) I AM ONE

5) TEE AND THEATRE

6) ONE STOP TEE SHOP

2 in 1 Necklaces and Brooches

2010-01-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=39146735

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=39145337

NEW Portfolio Blog

2009-11-20T14:28:00.000-08:00

Click the link to be taken to my new blog. I will be using this as a live portfolio for me to upload work as and when I complete it. Let me know what you think.

http://alicerebeccapotter.blogspot.com/

Fair Isle Christmas Lights

2009-11-15T05:45:00.000-08:00

A beautiful installation series based on Fair Isle and Scandinavian knitting patterns.
Created by designers Samoyed and Dean Brown these christmas lights are a wonderful mix of the hand crafted encased in sterile looking glass tubes. The designs themselves were created using the computer then, after formatting the deisgns, they were each laser cut onto paper.

"A limited edition of 150 Fair Isle lights were produced ,exhibited and sold in Pageant Gallery, Edinburgh, Nov-Dec 2008." (http://www.mrdeanbrown.co.uk)

It's been a while....

2009-10-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

(CORFU, 2009 USING LOMO 4 LENS CAMERA)
Summer is well and truly over, and I am struggling to find any free time any more.
Appologies for not updating on here for such a long time.
I had a well deserved holiday in Corfu at the end of September. It was exactly what I needed.
Coming back to London has been a trial, and now the bookshop I work at is being shut down, so in the new year I need to have found a new job.
On another note, I am still looking for inspiration for a new name, and I hope it won't be long. I will then be opening up a new blog, starting afresh with a new approach. Currently though, I am working on designs for scarves, but I am not going to rush anything, as I want to see where it will lead me. So expect new items at some point early next year.
As soon as my new blog is up and running I will let you know, and make sure you bookmark it.

Handkerchief Designs 2009

2009-08-06T07:39:00.001-07:00

Womens 2009 Purple and Blue Pansies

Womens 2009 Flurescent Lavatera and Rose

Womens 2009 Turquoise Floral with Spot

Womens 2009 Puce Spot

Mens 2009 Sage Weave

Mens 2009 Blue Spot

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE

2009-08-02T14:11:00.000-07:00

Buy One Get One FREE On All Items.
*Cheapest item free*
Just convo me with your choices for a reserved and amended listing.

www.sleepdreamplay.folksy.com
www.sleepdreamplay.etsy.com

Help me clear my shops for a brand new start!!

My Portfolio

2009-07-27T04:12:00.000-07:00

Following my portfolio series, this project was my first industry based set project.
WGSN, a trend forcasting website as well as a big name agent in Textile design selling world, would be coming around to pick their favorites. The project itself was essentially up to us, and I had some unique ideas about interpreting landscapes, and memories of travel. Above, you can see my research wall, which included photos from my travels in Europe and also to the Lake District. I printed my designs digitally using the Sublimation technique, which I printed onto this fabulous spongey fabric I bought from Shepherds Bush market.
You can see two samples from the collection above, which also included puzzles, wooden blocks and books.

FRONT PAGE!

2009-07-18T03:32:00.001-07:00

Thank you to Etsy for picking my little kitten brooch (2nd row, far left!)
Such a beautiful FP. The colours are gorgeous.

My First Lampshade!

2009-07-16T03:49:00.000-07:00

It's here, finally. My first lampshade!
Made from this superb kit that I bought from Duffy London (check them out),
the design was created from scanned dried flowers, (my Dad is really into drying his plants).This particular print is the Lavatera and Dog Rose printed professionaly on lovely matt paper.
You get everything in the kit, and just stick it together reasonably easily, although it takes some careful planning ahead to prepare, and avoid mistakes.
I am so happy with it, and love the pattern and the colours.
I am planning on geting my other one done which is of a strange alien pansy design!
This lampshade is available to buy, but I am unsure where to post it. If you are interested, the cost will be £40 or about $65 USD plus postage and packaging, and you can contact me privately for a reserved listing in either of my shops!

Buy One Get One Half Price

2009-07-13T04:58:00.000-07:00

Now here is an exciting offer. I am offering a great deal on all items in my etsy store right now.
Buy any item, and get another half price. Cheapest item is half price.
This offer is also on right now in my Folksy shop, available on all earrings.
You could get 2 pairs of fun and individual studs for just £7.50!

Alumni Weekend Summer Fete!

2009-07-06T03:51:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share with you the experience of my first stall as a seller.
The event was the University of the Arts London Alumni Weekend, and on Saturday 4th of July they held a big summer fete day in the grounds of Chelsea College. I was surprised at how busy it did get, but I found it very quiet at my end. I think the problem was because there were too many free events and activities going on; screen printing, flower arranging, book arts, cake icing, even a cinema. Who is going to spend when there is free things instead?!
Anyway, you can see my attempt at a table above. If I do another craft event I would definately do things differently. I guess what I was most sad about was that I had to pay £30 for the stall, and didn't make that back in takings.
Rant, rant, rant, complain!
I appologise for seeming so negative. It definately was an experience and a huge learning curve for me!

My Portfolio

2009-06-18T03:46:00.001-07:00

You have already seen my space project and this was the next project I worked on. Quite a leap and change of style. The project was to design and make a garment based on whatever you wished. I began to look at suburbia and going out sketching various random objects which i then used in the designs of prints. My garment was based on a mens shirt and trouser pattern and I minimised ink wastage during printing by only printing what was needed for each section of the garment. The end of the project culminated in a packed out fashion show called Trash/Treasure at the Village Underground building which has london tubes trains on it's roofs. My friend George was my model, and he said that the night of the show was the most terrifying thing he has ever done.
I hope you like it, as I enjoyed this project a lot too.

Badges and Blocks

2009-06-15T04:08:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share with you some of my new work and the badges which I received through the post last week. The blocks are my newest idea, and although it is not a new idea for as such, as it is something i have done many times before, the technique this time is diffferent. The patterns are transfered onto the surface using t.shirt transfer paper. The effect is so bright, and vintage looking, but they are all completely original. I hope to start getting some on etsy soon, to be bought individually, as I now have more blocks than I first thought, after I decided, rather bravely to recycle some of the blocks I did in my final year of uni. I have photos of those, so it's not like they have gone forever. As for the badges, I am just so chuffed at the quality, and will be getting 100 more, as I don't think 100 will last too long at this upcoming fair.

Brooch Winner!

2009-06-13T11:57:00.001-07:00

I have selected a winner of my fabric brooch.
CONGRATULATIONS goes to Woolly Mammoth, whom I will be contacting to let her know.
Thank you to all others who left lovely comments.

My Portfolio

2009-06-10T14:18:00.000-07:00

Space project. This work was inspired by the 1960's love of space and the space race. Everything that came out of that period was so new and exciting. I watched 2001 A SpaceOdyssey, looked at flight panels on board space shuttles and just produced a funny, fake looking collection of work, including a group of astronauts standing on a moonscape, a rocket, circuit boards, and sound waves. The next part of the project focused on producing fashion illustrations and working out ways in which our designs could be made into garments.

Brooch Giveaway

2009-06-09T06:52:00.001-07:00

Would you like to win the I heart Kittens Brooch, from new line of cross stitch brooches?
If you do, then just leave a comment here on my blog by Friday 12th June, and I will pick a lucky winner on Saturday. The winner will be notified over the weekend. This brooch comes with the blue floral background and is almost 4.5" long and 1.5" high.
I will be offering the idea as a custom item on etsy and folksy, where you can have your name in cross stitch. I will be using mine at craft fairs!
Can't wait to read all your comments, and good luck.

My Portfolio

2009-06-08T15:22:00.000-07:00

I thought I would begin to share with you some of my work spanning the last 3 years. I hope it will give you more of an insight into the way I , etsy, folksywork and also show you my development into my design work today. The above drawing of a beautiful plant was created in my first year at uni. The project was to create a wallpaper design, and our initial research was spent drawing plants in Kew Gardens, London. This plant was drawn in the studio.
You can also see how I really began to simplify and abstract the original drawing, boxing it in to give no indication as to what it really is. I have no idea where my final design for wallpaper went, but it was pretty big, and all hand drawn and painted.

Do you like my buttons?....

2009-06-07T14:57:00.001-07:00

These ultra crazy handmade button sets will be heading off with me to my first craft fair in July in the grounds of my old college. They are made from shrink plastic and I intend on making various shapes including triangles and squares. I find them really yummy, and can't wait to guage peoples reactions at the fete.
In regards to this summer fete, I am now eagerly on the look out for any vintage style props that have a kitsch or sweet shop appeal to them. Cake platters, quirky luggage, and other items to help my stall stand out on the day and attract those punters. I have also received plenty of great advice from fellow folksy sellers, one of which suggested offering badges for sale at £1 each. So, on this advice I ordered 100 badges and look forward to getting them next week. I have some cute candy glass jars for them too. I will be sure to post a pic when I get them.

FRONT PAGE

2009-05-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Etsy for featuring my little Owl on the Front Page today.
I think the other items are so pretty. Beautiful colours.

Cute Studs

2009-05-28T06:26:00.000-07:00

Lots of new studs available in my Folksy shop right now. They are super cute, and would make great gifts for teen girls, or quirky kids of all ages.
You can click anywhere on the image to be taken to Folksy or click the link on right hand side of my blog.

Slade School of Art '09 Show

2009-05-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday evening I had the pleasure of going along to my friends private view at the Slade, in central London. He has been working hard for the past 4 years and this was the end, and having not seen any of his creative work since 2005 it was a treat for me too.
The grounds of Slade are beautiful, a bit like my college, which may be why I felt comfortable there. You can see my friend Lewis' work on this site.

Prr!!

2009-05-19T15:07:00.000-07:00

I have now listed my adorable cross stitch kittens as prints on etsy.
They come in a variety of candy colours, and look simply adorable.
You can click directly on the images to go to my shop!

Cross Stitch Kittens

2009-05-17T05:27:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday I sat and taught myself a new skill in Illustrator. The cross stitch effect.
I then spent the whole day, making a cross stitch kitten.
This is the result, which I will be making into brooches and putting up on etsy soon.
So keep checking etsy!

DIGITAL TEXTILE DESIGN

2009-05-16T04:35:00.000-07:00

YAY! My tutor Melanie Bowles has been working on this book for a long time, and it finally officially came out this week. I went along to the book launch this week, and picked up my free copy.
It's great. There are soo many things in there that even after three years on a textile design course I didn't know how to do. I am teaching myself how to do embroidery effects as I write this, on illustrator.
It's really nice because it is full of work by lots of my class mates.
I am featured on page 160 in the chapter entitled Digital Craft. Very fitting I think.
Amazon are selling them right now.

Vintage Candy Stripe Shield Brooches!

2009-05-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

After designing a simple candy stripe yesterday, I ended up printing two colourways out using the last of my ink. This gave it a real faded vintage quality which I really like.
I then spent the evening making them into these great preppy looking brooches.
I am really happy with the result of these, and can't wait to do some more!
You can click on the images to got to the shop!

Candy Cane

2009-05-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

HI DE HI CAMPERS!
There is something incredibly kitsch about candy stripes.
It reminds me of a number of things
- Butlins holiday camps
-Hi De Hi the BBC TV show
-The Prisoner
-Rock
These are some simple swatches I printed out today in a candy stripe design.
I'm not sure what I want to do with them yet, but I do feel that this will be a project I want to carry on with.
Some great inspiration to be had from that little list!

Update

2009-05-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

Firtsly, I want to thank all of the followers of my little blog.

THANKS!
I am on the verge of 100.
Secondly, I would like to also thank anyone who has hearted my etsy shop over the past week or so. Hearts are at 407, which is brilliant.
All I need now are the sales to show for it.
I would also like to add to this note a little about my new packaging for purchased items.
It's pure personilsed fun!
Here's a sneaky peek...
Some more shrink plastic goodies too
You can click directly on the pics to be taken directly to their shops!

New Fabric Design!

2009-05-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Today, I ordered my first Fat Quarter from Spoonflower.
I am really looking forward to receiving it in the post to see the quality.
This will be the first time I have had fabric printed and I haven't been there to oversee the results.
Pretty scary.
I am, as yet, undecided on wether to sell it on etsy as a fat quarter, or, wether to make something with it, like a cushion cover. The opportunity to have such a large piece of fabric of my own design is to good to miss.
Let me know what you think I should do with my new fabric?

InkJet Printed Fabric Blog Feature

2009-04-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

I was very happy to receive a message from Anna Hull aka The Warren
She wanted to write about how I use fabrics with my printer, so I sent her some info, and she has posted it up on to 2 sites.
If you are interested, please have a read.

https://www.byhand.me
http://www.ukhandmade.blogspot.com

A Positive Start To The Week

2009-04-27T05:09:00.000-07:00

After a very good week, the week before last, it has all gone a bit quiet again.
I was lucky to have 3 sales on etsy, get on the front page twice, make it into some treasuries, even be interviewed for a blog. However it is still so desperately quiet.
I am not making any money, considering how much I spend on making, renewing and listing.
So, I am starting this week with a positive plan. I want to sell at least one thing from each of my shops Folksy, and Etsy.
My other aim is to make 400 hearts in my Etsy shop. I am currently on 390.
And to celebrate this I will offer Free Shipping to anyone who purchases in my Etsy shop.
Give me a heart, and convo me before purchase, leaving this code SDP0409 in message to seller, and I will alter your desired item just for you. (Please be aware that some items in my Etsy shop already have free shipping, so can be purchased as normal)
If you like jewellery be sure to check out Folksy, for some exclusive items.
The promotin will end Sunday 3rd May.

Interview

2009-04-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note, to mention this feature interview about me and my shop etc. It was conducted by Etsy seller JustUsWomen.
I always love being asked to fill in questions and find it a thrill and a privelage that people like Esther from JustUsWomen would want to give over their valuable blog space to write about me.
So, thank you Esther.
Go and read...
http://paragraphcovestationery.blogspot.com/2009/04/sleep-dream-play.html

New Items!

2009-04-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

My Folksy has had another makeover lately, with lots of lovely new and exclusive items.
International buyers are welcome to shop here too.
All of us at Folksy are still really trying to spread the word about this great site.
Here's a selection of the items which are new to Folksy.
It includes fabric swatches, key chains, brooches and necklaces!
Go and take a peek at the shop!

Front Page

2009-04-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, I made it to the Front Page again this week!
Here it is in all it's glory...

MY FIRST TREASURY!

2009-04-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=53296

My GROWING Record Collection

2009-04-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

Today, I thought I would share my growing collection of Who records.
On Saturday I went to a record and CD faire, and managed to pick up some great finds, including a 1965 pressing of Anyway Anyhow Anywhere( apparently very rare, but mine is not in perfect condition unfortunately), plus a gorgeous limited edition record of the mini opera Wire & Glass. One of the guys at the sale found most of them for me, being a huge fan himslf, and he had lots of knowledge, having seen them a number of times live over the years! I'm jealous!
Anyway here is a list of what I got.
45 1965 - Anyway Anyhow Anywhere
45 1978- Had Enough/ Who Are You
LP 2006- Wire & Glass
LP 3 Discs 2003- Who's Next
LP 2 Disc 1979- Quadrophenia Film Music
LP- My Generation

FIRE

2009-04-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

Today turned out to be quite a thrilling day, having been evacuated swiftly at 5PM this evening, due to the most enormous fire I have ever seen. The fire took place on the sixth floor of Hammersmith Broadway in London, which is the building I work in. At about 5.55 the lights flickered out, and then 10 minutes later when we were due to close up, alarms started going off, and an evacuation message was pumped around the station.
The whole of the outside near the entrance and the sky was covered in smoke.
Above is a picture I managed to find, but this doesn't really show the full scale.

Art History Lesson of the Day: Franz Marc

2009-04-09T03:44:00.000-07:00

I found something to blog about! This comes from yesterday being at work, and my manager mentioned that the drawings of horses that I have done reminded her of this painter.
So, I googled him just now, and I really like his work.
Franz Marc was a German Expressionist born in 1880, and was a principal painter and printmaker of the turn of the last century. His work is very naturalistic, involving animals for the majority, and his style is verging on cubist.
What I will do is post up the picture of my horse and Marc's work, and you can hopefully see what my manager can see.
I like the idea of a little art history lesson, so what I plan on doing is showing some of the artists of the past and maybe the present that have influenced me, or like Franz Marc I have recently come across. Maybe we can all learn something, as I don't think you can be any type of artists/ designer without having any knowledge of the roots of your craft.

I'm back!

2009-04-09T03:37:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy lately that my poor blog has suffered some what.
So today I woke up with a plan to really dedicate some time on here. This is just a little post to say hello to everyone again. Hello! Next I am going to come up with something to actually blog about.
As you can tell I haven't thought that far ahead yet.
I will keep you posted!

Read this Blog....

2009-03-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

I have just come across this great new blog called The Experts Agree, after they kindly featured my alphabet brooches. It's brilliant, full of great graphic and design led articles.
Something to definately keep a firm eye on.
Visit their blog for more http://theexpertsagree.wordpress.com/

Busy, busy, busy!

2009-03-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

I have been working like a trojan this weekend, making a lot of new greetings cards stock, which will be going off to the Projeto Gallery, in Yorkshire.
This will be my first outlet and I am very excited about it, and the opportunities it could potentially bring me.
Some examples of some of the cards that will be on sale are above.

I Think I'm Obsessed...

2009-03-17T16:13:00.000-07:00

With the Alphabet, that is. Whenever I feel stuck for an idea, and feel at a creative loss, I have always found myself turning towards the alphabet for help.
This new piece is no exception. Is is an original FRAMED collage, in gorgeous pastel colours.
You can purchase it now from Folksy.
Please let me know what you think.

Just Some More Pictures...

2009-03-12T05:19:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some more pictures of my weekend. To read more take a look at the post below.

Keith Moon Plaque Unveiling and Tribute Lunch

2009-03-09T05:18:00.000-07:00

This was probably one of the best days of my life so far.
After my brother and I decended on Wardour Street in Soho London, we were caught up in a crowd of Press photographers, avid Who fans, and plenty of Mods an the most fantastic scooters iv'e ever seen. We were there to witness the unveiling of a blue plaque for Keith Moon, The Whos drummer. After breathing in the smell of twostroke and lusting after the many mods and their scooters as they rode off into the sunset (lets be romantic about this), we made our way to the Grosvenor House Hotel Ballroom for drinks and a rather snazzy lunch, with plenty of celebs in attendance. During the day I got photographs of me and Mike Read, Roger Daltrey of The Who, plus his autograph (this was a dream come true) as well as autographs from Kenny Jones, who was in the Small Faces then drummed with The Who after Keiths death, Dougal Butler who was Keiths roadie, and Zak Starkey, Ringo Star's son, who drums with the band now. Then we had live music from Who's Who a brilliant trbute band, who got everyone rocking.
I shall be sure to post some more pictures up soon!

FREE SHIPPING

2009-03-07T07:41:00.000-08:00

All this weekend I am offering Free Shipping on everything in my shop.
The perfect opportunity to buy something truly unique.

KEITH MOON Memorial Unveiling

2009-03-02T05:08:00.000-08:00

OK, i don't think I have ever been quite so excited as I am right now.
This sunday the 8th March at 12 noon, the Heritage Foundation will be unveiling a blue plaque to the greatest ever drummer, Keith Moon of The WHO, outside what once was the Marquee Club in Soho. And I will be attending! Not only that, but I and a guest will also be going to the star studded charity lunch in a realy posh hotel on Park Lane afterwoods. I am really hoping that I get to see Pete and Roger there. I am having butterflies in my stomach just thinking about it!

ROBOT GIRL

2009-02-26T09:08:00.001-08:00

Check out this new plush/pillow in my etsy shop.
Printed on to cotton poplin via my inkjet, machine stitched and stuffed, it's a really unique a fun addition to anyones pillow or plushie collection.

Minutemoon Interview

2009-02-23T07:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon, I was using the Pounce tool on Etsy and came across this brilliant little shop called Minutemoon. I was thrilled and amazed by their work, and would dearly love everyone out there to check them out.

Minutemoon were kind enough to spend some time filling in these questions I sent them, and replied with some truly wonderful answers.
Read this and then go and heart them. They are certainly one of my new all time favourites on Etsy, and are truly inspiring.

1. Where are you based?

a very mysterious and beautiful secret place in upstate new york

2. How did your etsy shop come about?

we are always tinkering and making things in our home and when these tiny colorful little sculptures revealed themselves to us- we thought it best to share them with everyone else.

4. Is there an artist or designer whos work means something to you?

constantin brancusi, annie albers, anne truit, cy twomly, buckminster fuller

5. Are you self taught or did you study your craft?

a little bit of both.

6. Where do you see yourself in the future?

living on a hill making things all day long surrounded by fruit trees

Visit www.minutemoon.etsy.com for more information and to shop!

ABCD GIANT SOFT BLOCKS

2009-02-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

Giant 8" x 8" soft blocks with my own textiles, available to buy in my FOLKSY shop now.

BOOK ILLUSTRATION

2009-02-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

I have decided that it is time to step out of my routine and go and meet some more creative people.
It has been seven months since graduating and after going to this excellent Private View at the Chelsea Future Space, where a friend was exhibiting, I picked up Chelsea College's short course prospectus, and found that they were offering a 10 week course in book illustration.
I am definately going to do it! This will be the perfect opportunity to further my style of work, and get some professional feedback, and it will be comforting as it is the same building I studied in for the past 3 years. I am hoping that this will also help towards my dream to illustrate a published book before I am 30! I am 23 now....there is still time!

Romeo & Juliet 2009

2009-02-09T06:27:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share with you all the result of my time working on the set of this small production of Romeo & Juliet: Fatal Loins, at the New Players Theatre.
The idea for the stage was for it to have certain elements of Verona, such as the Love wall (the two boards underneath the arch) which actually does exist, and for which people for many years have left messages and graffiti for lovers and friends.
Its all very romantic.
You can also see in the top picture of the Ball scene a large flower, which was built in several sections so the performers could move between the petals.
Lots of building, painting and sewing went into making the stage as well as the costumes.
It was an inavluable experience and I really enjoyed the time spent in the Theatre and the people I worked with.
Unfortunatley due to many unfortunate reasons the production only lasted for two shows, however, it is possibly going to be put on at a later date in another theatre.
I would like to add that the pefomers on this play put a lot of time and effort into this production, and I wish them all success with any future projects.

I Made This!

2009-02-08T09:57:00.000-08:00

My first "Plushie" you could say.
I actually made this for my friends 1 year old little girl, who is having her party tomorrow.
I made it from an old duvet cover that I had as a child.
The face was very difficult to finish. Im still not sure about the eyes though.
My brother said they look a bit Manga style and others say they just look angry.
As long as little Maya isn't scared i'll be a happy bunny.
Its the sort of gift I hope she can keep for years, having squeezed and sucked all the love out of it. The bunny isn't for sale anywhere, but my brother has already asked for a little one for his desk at work. So who knows...
I will be sure to post back any pics and the reaction from Maya after I give her the bunny tomorrow!

FREE SHIPPING

2009-02-03T06:34:00.000-08:00

For TODAY ONLY on all of my Valentines products in my etsy shop.

Be quick to take up this fantastic offer!

Quid Blog Interview

2009-02-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

I was recently invited to be a feature seller on this fantastic blog I came across via etsy.
Quid essential, and its creater Heather, sent me a list of questions to fill out, which I actually found pretty tough. Questions like 'What unique fact is there about yourself' really can cause difficulties to the old brain. However I think my answers gave a good overview of where I am right now as a designer and my many hopes for the future.
Please pop along and read the interview here and leace your comments
http://quidessential.wordpress.com/

The Shy Horse

2009-01-30T14:41:00.001-08:00

I just want to show off my newest and currently only item in my Folksy shop.
I drastically deleted all other items to really start focusing on one sort of item, and this is the result.
It is printed on white cotton poplin and could be either framed or used in a craftproject, for example you could stitch it onto a cushion.
I hope this idea will be a success and I look forward to creating some more similar illustrative pieces of fabric.