Rejenerating Fashion!

I know it's predictable...

2012-02-12T19:45:00.000-08:00

...but I love gift wrapping. Shocking right?

Because I'm the type of person who has more fabric, paper and ribbons than any person really should have.

And doilies. Ridiculous amounts of doilies.

So I use them to make presents pretty. And it makes me smile.

And usually, it makes the recipient of the gift smile too.

This package is for my niece, Grace.

Let's face it, it's more what's inside this package that will make her smile.

But, hey.

Butterflies

2012-02-12T02:23:00.000-08:00

This weekend. Heaven. There was sunshine. There was good coffee. There was a kid-free mini road-trip with the Mister. There was splashing in the sea with the little Miss. There was carrot cake. There was time spent with a bestie who lives far, far away. There was my sister. There were lots of toddler sized giggles. The cutest giggles in the world.

There were plans made...the type of plans that give you butterflies.

mr. wishlist

2012-02-06T16:47:00.000-08:00

I try very hard to be on the anti-valentine's bandwagon. I really do. I know it's consumerist. I know it's commercialised. I know it's vomit-worthy.

The problem is...I love an excuse to celebrate. An excuse to be all geeky romantic and spend time with the mister. So this V-Day I will be packing a picnic complete with love notes and letting myself be totally uncool and enjoy a little commercial romance.

Here are some things that would make your fave man happy on Valentine's Day.

1. A boomcase http://blog.theboomcase.com/shop/

2. Able & Game Card http://www.etsy.com/listing/61145281/lover-card-youre-currently-number-one?ga_search_query=number%2Bone&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5438341

3. Button Empire Butons http://www.etsy.com/listing/63814944/1-inch-pinback-buttons-the-dynamic-duo

4. Handmade neck tie http://www.etsy.com/listing/40486987/necktie-red-and-black-stripe-men-silk

(sorry for the long and unnattractive links - I'm having problems with hyperlinks...)

Lacey. Girlie. Romantic.

2012-02-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

A new bridal clutch design.

Flowers. Lace. Hearts. Lovely.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/92095642/romantic-lace-and-hearts-bridal-clutch

Sneaky Peeky...

2012-01-31T19:30:00.000-08:00

A teensy sneaky peek.

This is my bridesmaids-dress-in-progress.

A little bit vintage. A little bit girlie.

A little bit different.

because even clutches should have Peter Pan collars...

2012-01-31T03:24:00.000-08:00

It's true. They should. So I made it happen.

Check it out here:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/91872650/peter-pan-collar-clutch

Things are happening. Exciting things.

2012-01-31T02:18:00.000-08:00

I have published two blog posts in the last year? Really??

Wow. I really hadn't realised it had been so long since I had blogged regularly. And I miss it.

Apart from my lack of blogging, the past year has been much the same. Sewing, running my little (mostly) online business and watching The Little Miss growing up. Fast. So fast.

Now that our baby is nearly two (!), I have had some time to breathe. Some time to reflect. Time to realise that ReJenerate has run away in a direction I never anticipated. And I am running behind, clinging desperately to the leash, franticly trying to keep up but loving every minute.

I have so many ideas, so much inspiration. So many things I want to do with my label. So many things I must do.

So over the next few months I will be completely re-launching ReJenerate. New name, new website, new focus and new products. Exciting!

Please check back in and keep up to date with the goings on. Let me know what you think.

I may have been away a while...but I missed you.

Bowties and Flowers

2011-06-13T17:35:00.001-07:00

Wowsers! 3 months since my last post. Oops!

Time has flown as it's wedding season in the Northern Hemisphere so I have been a busy little crafter, creating oodles of custom made bridesmaids clutches to send over the other side of the world.

Between that and hanging out with The Little Miss, there has not been much time for blogging!

Just thought I would take a few minutes to check in today and share a recent creation for an American bride who has planned the sweetest wedding.

She contacted me wanting some vintage fabric clutches and attached a pic of some details of her wedding - groomsmens bowties and bridesmaids hair pieces. How cute is that?

Luckily I had the perfect vintage fabric just sitting around in my studio waiting for her! I found these prints over a year ago and have been dying to use them but I was just waiting for the right bride to come along I think!

And here is the finished product. Happy bride, happy bridesmaids, happy moi!

Upcycled Swing

2011-03-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I do love a spot of upcycling. When this dining room chair broke its leg, the clever folks at My Apple Tree & Me turned it into a backyard swing. Love!

Down the Garden Path

2011-01-27T12:46:00.000-08:00

Down the Garden Path clutch now available here.

More doily creations...

2011-01-24T16:33:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love a good doily. New 'waste not want not' clutch available here.

And...pretty endings...

2011-01-23T16:37:00.001-08:00

The finished product. I think these should meet the brief!

Pretty Beginnings

2011-01-22T12:46:00.001-08:00

One of my favourite times is the very beginning of making one of my 'Waste Not Want Not' bridesmaid sets.

These clutch sets are made from vintage serviettes and embellished with vintage/recycled ribbons, buttons, doilies and other pretties.

So the start of the creation process means raiding my studio for all the bits and pieces that fit into the colour scheme of the set I'm creating - basically it justifies my op shopping addiction which is probably why I love it so much!

Today I'm working on a set of clutches for a lovely bride, her bridesmaids and flower girl. The wedding is taking place in Thailand, has a vintage theme and an orange and cream colour scheme. I can work with that!!!

Stay tuned to see what I come up with!

wishlist addition...

2011-01-17T19:12:00.000-08:00

Plates that look like buttons - officially added to the wishlist!

Found here.

Right Now I'm Loving...

2011-01-17T14:37:00.000-08:00

My world is filled with all things weddings at the moment. I have no idea how I ended up running a business that focuses mainly on weddings - but here I am and I have to say, to my surprise, it's kinda nice.

I have always been very cynical about the wedding industry but in my little corner of the world, handmaking bridal accessories for lovely brides and their bridesmaids, it's a lovely place to be.

Right now I'm loving this look for a bride. So summery and just a little bit different. And to my brides with orders pending - I'm getting back to work now I promise!

Photo from here.

Ginger Brulee Deliciousness

2011-01-09T15:11:00.001-08:00

A few years ago when the Mr. and I used to live over near Surry Hills in Sydney, one of our favourite sunday morning things was to go to Bourke St Bakery for a coffee and miscellaneous tart/bread/baked good.

Sure there was always a line up and you could never get a seat, but I guess that's because their creations were so goooood.

When we moved to the inner west we found a gazillion awesome new places to try out on our lazy sunday mornings, but I must say that we do miss Bourke St Bakery.

So when I saw they had released a recipe book, I had to buy it for the Mr.

On the weekend we finally got around to trying out a couple of the recipes. Ok, ok it was pretty much all the Mr - I was mainly just moral support. But that's important too.

So here are some pics of our efforts (and they are pretty dodgy pics given that the tarts we chose to make took a whopping 36 hours to complete which meant the sun had well and truly gone down on the weekend before we got to sample the results).

Our challenge

What they are supposed to look like

The pastry complete. It was gooood!

All filled and ready to be torched!

The fun part.

Our result...not bad right??

What a tease...

2011-01-06T20:08:00.001-08:00

My wonderful Mr. bought me a bike for Christmas.

I'm super excited because I have been wanting a bike for aaages and now I have one! Well, technically I don't have it yet. It got delivered to my parents house, as that's where we were over Christmas...but it arrived after we left.

What did arrive in time though was my new helmet and this basket for the front of the bike. What a tease! I haven't actually seen the bike yet but with a basket like this, it's gotta be pretty cute right?

Now I'm just dreaming of filling the basket with baguettes and cheese, popping the Little Miss in the baby seat and setting off with The Mr for a sunday bike ride/picnic.

Hurry up bike!

Back in Twenty Eleven!

2011-01-03T21:45:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

I can't believe it's been over 3 months since I last posted!

I don't really know why. Life has been moving at a frantic pace and something had to give. I guess that thing was blogging. But I've missed it and the new year seems like a good time to get my blogging butt back into gear.

Since last I blogged I have made almost 200 clutches, watched my baby girl learn to sit up, clap hands and eat her own foot (!), had my 2nd wedding anniversary, had a super fun Christmas with family and friends and well...heaps of other stuff that I won't list blow by blow!

Hope everyone out there is well and happy and I look forward to re-connecting in 2011.

And for brides waiting for orders, I am fairly on track and will have all orders shipped out in plenty of time for remaining summer weddings (or winter weddings for those of you in the northern hemisphere.)

Happy New Year!

Photo: How cute are these little guys? They were a gift from my Swedish Aunt and it isn't Christmas in my house without them.

Brenner Liana Photography

2010-09-17T00:48:00.000-07:00

I have been working lately with the super sweet, supremely talented Bree from Brenner Liana Photography.

So I thought I would post a few shots of the customised clutches I created for her. They are made from vintage fabrics and feature 'Brenner Liana Photography' customised ribbon.

So if you are a bride in Melbourne looking for a photographer with serious skills, you've found your girl! And for those who refer another bride...you may just end up with one of these super sweet clutches as a little thank you gift!

I had such fun creating these clutches so if anyone out there is after some customised clutches for their brand or event, feel free to get in touch with me at jen@rejenerate.com.au.

Some Home Truths

2010-09-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

You must check out the somehometruths blog.

Blogger Germaine Leece writes about what home means to us today and she has such a wonderful way with words - and she's super, super sweet to boot. Make sure you have a spare hour or two because it's impossible to tear yourself away from this blog!

Oh, and she has done a little post about me!

everyday romance

2010-09-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

The Mister is not really one for grand romantic gestures.

Flowers, perfume and jewellery are not things I find myself showered with on a regular basis.

And that suits me just fine because after a bit of a restless night with The Little Miss, I awoke to find a hot coffee and my favourite rye bread waiting for me to get my morning off to a good start.

Now call me crazy, but to me, that's romance.

love the earth

2010-08-16T23:14:00.001-07:00

Isn't this photo beautiful?

See more here.

Today I'm obsessed with...

2010-08-06T22:12:00.000-07:00

Today I'm obsessed with...this bed. It would be like waking up in a forest every day.

See more here.

For a little romantic in the making...

2010-08-05T15:44:00.001-07:00

Too cute. Handmade and available here.

mis-matchy cuteness...

2010-08-05T01:15:00.000-07:00

Isn't this set of bridesmaid clutches so pretty and girlie?

These were created for a Victorian bride who is having a mis-matchy, colourful, vintage themed garden wedding. Now that was a fun design brief!

That's gold...

2010-08-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

My world is currently filled with shades of gold and bronze.

I usually work with silver purse frames and bling but right now it seems everybody wants the antiqued look of bronze frames and brooches for their bridal purses.

Eventhough I think I have now made seven gazillion and twenty three antique look purses, I am still loving them. So vintage-y and elegant.

And I will never tire of scouring the world for vintage brooches!

Second Homesick

2010-07-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

Today this image from the me and Alice blog is making me feel majorly homesick for Sweden.

Right now my dad is over in Sweden staying with my relatives and my mum is heading over to join him shortly. I'm jealous!

PS The gorgeous Tuesdai has done a little interview with me over on her blog. Thanks Tuesdai!

Thank you Mr Postman!

2010-07-15T02:08:00.001-07:00

Today was such a gorgeous winter's day. The Little Miss and I took a long walk by the water and soaked in some winter rays.

On the way home we stopped in at the neighbourhood cafe and the Little Miss batted her big baby blues at our cute barista and scored mama a free coffee. Thanks baby!

When we got home we found the postman had delivered a gorgeous package of reclaimed vintage fabrics. Excitement!

Sadly I'm up to my ears in bridal orders right now so alas, these little lovelies must be put aside for now.

Clutch Give Away Over at Daydream Lily

2010-07-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

I am super excited today because Daydream Lily - one of my favourite blogs, like ever - is offering the chance to work with yours truly to create your dream clutch!

Just head over to Daydream Lily and leave a comment for your chance to win. It's that simple!

You could win the chance to raid my vintage fabric stash and pick out your faves to make a clutch you loooove. You can even add in some personal bits and pieces. Perhaps one of your nan's doilies or a piece of fabric from a special dress or table cloth?

So what are you waiting for?? Go!

Thanks to the lovely Liss from Daydream Lily for featuring me on her divine blog.

And another thanks to Carla from 'Favourite Vintage Finds' Blog for featuring ReJenerate recently as well. You can check out her post here, but more importantly add her blog to your faves because she makes getting a regular fix of vintage loveliness easy! Thanks Carla.

Vintage Treasures

2010-07-13T03:53:00.000-07:00

I blogged a while back about a set of bridesmaid clutches I made from a set of vintage napkins.

I didn't use all of the fabric from the napkins and even though there wasn't enough left to make any more clutches, I couldn't bring myself to throw it away as it is just such a pretty print.

Sooo I combined it with some powder blue fabric and topped it with some pretty embellishments and hey presto - we have a 'Vintage Treasures' clutch!

See more here.

Kirsty's Wedding

2010-07-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

Ah! More real wedding pics! Love.

These photos are from the sweetest bride named Kirsty who sent me some linens that her great aunts had crocheted many years ago. We used them to create some clutches for her and her mum to use on the Big Day.

I also made some cute little purses for her bridesmaids, who look just stunning don't you think?

Thanks Kirsty for sending the photos. It's so wonderful to see my little creations in use.

Customise your clutch...

2010-07-02T04:30:00.000-07:00

I am now offering custom 'Waste Not Want Not' clutches through my Etsy Shop.

So now you can virtually raid my stash of vintage and salvaged fabrics, linens, doilies, ribbons, buttons and trims, pick out your favourites and check your mail box a little while later to see all those pretty things transformed into a clutch!

See more here.

Today I'm obsessed with...

2010-07-02T04:10:00.000-07:00

...Owl tea cosies! I mean who wouldn't be.

These are available at Retrospections, one of ReJenerate's stockists. If you live in Sydney then I highly recommend swinging by Cammeray and checking out this little gem of a shop. It's packed with vintage and handmade goods and is a sure thing if you're trying to buy a great gift. It comes up with ths goods every single time.

Frankie Fix...

2010-06-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

Ah! The new issue of Frankie is out and I am looooving the cover. I haven't even opened the mag yet and I'm already swooning.

'Waste Not Want Not' Bridesmaid Clutch Set

2010-06-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

Voila! Here is my little set of vintage serviettes transformed into a lovely shabby chic bridesmaid clutch set.

Check them out in more detail here.

Sydney Picnic Co.

2010-06-24T03:16:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to have just discovered the Sydney Picnic Co.

They are a little company who make picnic hampers...'really good ones'.

I love the amazing attention to detail from the menu and food itself to the presentation. Too cute.

They also do gift vouchers - what a fab gift idea!

Finders Keepers Brisbane

2010-06-22T00:09:00.001-07:00

If you are in Brisbane this weekend, be sure to visit the Finders Keepers Markets at The Old Museum.

These markets are just the best...you won't be dissappointed.

I will have some new stock available at the Leeloo stall. Yay!

Blushing Blossom Bridal Clutch

2010-06-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

I have been making a special effort to try and have more ready-to-ship bridal clutches available in my online shop for last-minute brides (like I was!) who don't have time to wait for a custom clutch to be made.

So here we have a new Blushing Blossom Bridal Clutch. Available here.

Vintage napkin upcycle...

2010-06-20T23:19:00.000-07:00

These vintage napkins are a little tattered around the edges but most of the fabric is still lovely. The perfect candidates for a spot of upcycling!

I'll be combining these with some vintage bits and pieces from my overflowing collection and upcycling them into some lovely bridesmaids clutches. Cute! Well hopefully :)

Vintage Fashion Lust...

2010-06-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Having my baby recently was amazing for so many reasons. And one major bonus was that my body returned to a shape that enabled it to be clothed in normal fashion again. YAY!!!

So I have been lusting after some gorgeous vintage fashion and trying to decide what to splurge on.

1. Dear Golden Vintage 2. Purple Deer 3. Bleubird Vintage 4. {twin set}

Handmade Wedding Idea

2010-06-16T23:42:00.000-07:00

I just discovered a great wedding blog called Once Wed (thanks to a tip from gorgeous wedding photographer Lucy Leonardi) and was really taken by these do-it-yourself bridesmaids thank you cards.

Since lots of my customers are brides, I thought I might link to the project in case anyone has a rainy afternoon free for some handmade love.

More Tabitha Gorgeousness...

2010-06-15T00:42:00.001-07:00

Tabitha Emma - you're killing me! Well my bank account anyway.

Every single one of these digital collage creations are tempting me. I have just bought another as I simply could not resist. I think you will agree that the above images can be used for about one bazillion different super cute ideas.

If you like, you can check them out for yourself here.

Today: Vintage Brooch Love

2010-06-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

Today is such a beautiful winter's day. I used to hate winter but these days I'm really coming around.

The Little Miss and I went for a long walk this morning to take in the winter sun. We stopped for coffee and a chat at our favourite local cafe and headed home to the studio and my first full day of work since the Little Miss arrived on the scene.

I am creating a set of bridesmaids clutches for a lovely bride in the US. The clutches will feature the gorgeous gold tone vintage brooches pictured above. Divine.

Love Tabitha Emma

2010-06-06T23:21:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Sydney artist Tabitha Emma's style. Much to my delight, she has recently opened up a new Etsy store specifically for 'graphic downloadables'.

The above digital collage sheets (along with lots of others available in Tabitha's shop) can be printed off and used for gift tags, cards, scrap booking and just about any other art/craft project you can think of.

And the best news? Each download is only US$5!

Do yourself a favour and check them out here. Print some out and send a friend some pretty snail mail.

Rain, rain...go away?

2010-06-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

I feel like it has been raining for months in Sydney. Although I miss not being able to get out for walks, this weather does give a great excuse for snuggling under a blanket and drinking cup of tea after cup of tea.

Not bad weather when you have a new baby either...snuggles all round!

Photo from here.

Real Wedding

2010-06-03T04:39:00.000-07:00

It really makes my day when my customers take the time to get in touch and say how much they loved the custom creations I designed for them. I love it even more when I get photographic evidence!

Here is a pic of gorgeous bride Pip and her bridal party. For Pip I made a silk clutch featuring a vintage bird brooch and for her bridesmaids, two slightly different clutches featuring silver satin and a stunning aqua and silver vintage brocade. Here's a close up:

A huge congrats to Pip and her hubby. And thanks for letting me share this lovely photo of your Big Day.

Upcycled Goodness...

2010-05-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

Loving this funky upcycled cast iron bathtub couch! Etsy is the source of all things wonderful. Check it out here.

Disband

2010-05-29T05:02:00.000-07:00

Today I took the Mister and the Little Miss and checked out Disband, the latest exhibition curated by the Leeloo crew. Inspired by the 40th anniversary of the break up of The Beatles, the theme of the exhibition was break ups and the amazing selection of artists used this inspiration to create a diverse range of breath taking artworks that I completely fell in love with.

The exhibition space was set up like an apartment of a couple going through a break-up and the furniture and settings alone are reason enough for a visit to this cool exhibition.

Many of the artworks have already been snapped up but there are still some available so check out the website and if you have the chance, swing by the aMBUSH gallery in Waterloo tomorrow before the exhibition closes.

A big congrats to Ang and Renee from Leeloo for another amazing exhibition - it's so awesome to be able to spend some time on a weekend checking out the work of some local established and emerging artists. You ladies are helping to keep Sydney cool! :)

My cutest creation ever...

2010-05-27T01:04:00.001-07:00

Well I never did get that post up as promised...but I have a damn good excuse!

A week and a half ago we celebrated the arrival of our gorgeous baby girl. As you can see, she's a tad camera shy and isn't keen on being the subject of a blog post ha ha

I am feeling great and will be slowly getting back into work over the coming weeks. And the blog will be given some much needed love!

I know her!!

2010-04-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

Wow! Where have I been? I can't believe it's been almost a month since my last post.

I promise that I have lots of good reasons for my absence but I was jolted back into the world of blogging after my amazing friend Renee Anne was featured in the Sydney Morning Herald's Sydeny Magazine yesterday.

It was the fashion issue and featured interviews with the likes of Sydney fashion icons Kirrily Johnston, Megan Gale and...Renee!

It was so wonderful to see someone looking out from the pages of a glossy mag talking about sustainable and ethical fashion. And if you can do the right thing and still look as gorgeous as Renee, who wouldn't be convinced??

So be sure to go over and check out Renee's blog where she talks about her art and life in general and also the online vintage boutique {twin set} where Renee is co-director and responsible (along with Ang from Leeloo) for a wonderful range of ridiculously gorgeous dresses and accessories.

And of course a big thanks to Renee for giving a little shout out to ReJenerate in her lovely article. Very chuffed was I.

PS I will be coming back over the next few days with photographic evidence of what has been keeping me so busy that I couldn't find time to blog for weeks. Gasp!

Something Old...

2010-04-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love making custom bridal and bridesmaid clutches for super lovely brides all over the world.

Lately I have been working on some extra special projects which involve creating clutches from lovely, crazy, pretty, personal bits and pieces from the family of the bride.

These are so fun to make that I thought I would share an example with you all.

Above are some doilies and runners sent to me by a lovely bride whose great aunts were crochet champions so she dug out some pieces she loved and I used them to create a clutch for her and her mum for her wedding day.

Such a beautiful and meaningful keepsake.

Peppermint Mag = excitement times two

2010-03-24T00:49:00.001-07:00

I think I've mentioned before how much I love Peppermint mag. It's filled with eco fashion and lifestyle and just general prettiness.

This issue is soooo extra special because on the cover is my gorgeous gal pal, Renee Anne. Doesn't she look amazing??

That's the 'excitement' part. The 'times two' part is that that I have stolen a little appearance in the 'Renee issue', appearing as the subject of this issue's 'Meet Your Maker' so I have a little interview and pic (with my 7 month pregnant belly hiding behind my desk!!).

Thanks Pepermint Mag xx

new release at twin set

2010-03-22T16:04:00.001-07:00

My favourite vintage clothing label {twin set} have just released their latest offerings. More divine fashion and photography.

Do yourself a favour and check out their new look book, Deco Dreams. Beyond beautiful.

Vintage teacup candles

2010-03-20T23:24:00.000-07:00

Soy wax candles in vintage tea cups and ramekins.

I make these little cuties for Retrospections in Cammeray and I just dropped off a handful

of fresh stock yesterday. They don't last long so be quick if you can't survive another

day without delicious vanilla scented eco wax in a tea cup!

In Sydney? Go to Bloodwood...

2010-03-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

If you're in Sydney and looking for a new place to check out, it has to be Newtown's Bloodwood.

Designed by my architect/designer buddy, Matt Woods, it is filled with reclaimed goodies which come together to create a really unique and cool vibe.

Do yourself a favour and check it out. And the hot tip? Make sure you go there on an empty stomach as the food has been getting rave reviews.

After: Eco Clutch!

2010-03-14T23:33:00.001-07:00

As promised...here is the 'after' shot to my earlier post about the vintage napkins I planned to turn into bridesmaids clutches.

So far I have only made one but I have listed it for sale individually in my shop and I will gladly create some more if someone is interested in a bridesmaid set. I think these would be seriously cute for a whimsical summer wedding and would add a touch of folksy cool.

Loving Frankie's lamp shades

2010-03-14T15:03:00.001-07:00

Aren't these lamp shades great?

They're made from vintage wall paper by the UK's Love Frankie.

Before: Vintage Napkins...

2010-03-10T21:53:00.000-08:00

I found these awesome vintage napkins and am thinking they will make the cutest little bridal clutches. They are folksy, summery and fun.

So between my custom bridal orders I'm hoping to find the time to make these up over the coming days.

I will be sure to post an 'after' pic.

'Shabby Love' Bridesmaids Clutches

2010-03-09T18:28:00.000-08:00

I bought this lovely shabby chic fabric a while ago to jazz up a market stall but had quite a bit left over. What to do with the scraps? Bridesmaids clutches of course!!

You can check them out here.

My kind of mama...

2010-03-09T14:03:00.001-08:00

With motherhood hurtling towards my life at the speed of lightning, I haven't really had time to sit down and consider what type of mum I'm going to be. Is that something people usually do?

What I do know is that I want to be the kind of mum who throws fabulous birthday parties and helps all the guests make their own personalised cushion covers from recycled fabrics and ribbons like this party featured over at Decor8. Sure beats pin the tail on the donkey.

heart shaped doily

2010-03-08T19:40:00.001-08:00

...how have I lived my life so long without you?

You may be old and pre-loved and slightly misshaped, but you are lovely to me.

Today I'm obsessed with...

2010-03-08T15:48:00.000-08:00

Today I'm obsessed with...beadboard wallpaper as brought to my

attention by the beach cottage blog. Must have.

Oscars Inspiration

2010-03-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous Oscars inspiration board featuring some ReJenerate clutches.

See where to grab these lovely items over at the Bags and Buds Blog.

Vase Schmase...

2010-03-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

I love having flowers in my home. In my workspace, in my bathroom, in my kitchen, well in most spaces. But I'm not very good at putting them in vases.

Perhaps it's that I don't have a vase that I love, maybe it's that I've always lived in the inner city where storage is at a premium and vases take up a ton of space...or maybe it's the recycling junkie in me. Why buy a vase when you're about to throw out used glass jars and tin cans. Or when you have vintage tea pots and tea cups and milk jugs collecting dust in the cupboard??

Down with the vase I say!

Photos from top to bottom ::Snippet&Ink::Earth Friendly Weddings::concrete and honey::snug::Decor8::

Retail Therapy Etsy Style...

2010-03-04T01:32:00.001-08:00

I just had a bit of a splurge on Etsy and picked up this gorgeous print and even more gorgeous little pinafore from Belle and Boo.

That's nice Jen, you say...but aren't you a bit ah, old for that kind of get up?

Um yep! But they're little gifts for my baby girl who will be coming in to the world in May. Can't believe it has taken me this long to blog about my pregnancy! But it's true - I'm going to be a mama. Soon!

Easter must-have...

2010-03-02T23:50:00.000-08:00

How have I survived 28 Easters without these?? Grab them from Leeloo.

2010-03-02T15:10:00.001-08:00

Handmade from cotton canvas and hemp, these eco bridal flats by 'The Generation' have me wanting to get married all over again. Ok maybe not, but they are lovely.

message in a cookie...

2010-03-02T14:41:00.000-08:00

Thank you frankie mag for bringing to my attention these super cute little message cookie cutters. I don't know if you can get them in Australia, but if you can, I will hunt them down.

my monday...

2010-02-28T23:30:00.000-08:00

This is what my monday looked like. Lots of lovely things waiting to be turned into pretty clutches. Oh and some yummy little heart shaped chocolates to help ease into the new week!

Vintage doilies, vintage brooches and fabric flowers mean no mondayitis for me.

2010-02-22T23:58:00.000-08:00

Today was a bit of a stressful day, trying to get a million and one things finished. It was also my 29th birthday so I did manage to squeeze in a nice lunch with loved ones and a pink cupcake and cup of tea. Yum!

It was a bit strange as it's the first birthday that I have not spent the whole day with the Mr. since we got together (when I was 16!). Birthdays without him , it turns out, are not as fun.

But it was fun when there was a knock at the door and a nice lady presented me with a gorgeous bunch of flowers with a sweet note from my man. Isn't having flowers delivered divine?

I didn't have a chance to take a photo of them but they remind me of the gorgeous flowers I carried on my wedding day so thought I would post a pic of those instead.

'That Vintage'

2010-02-21T14:05:00.000-08:00

Today I noticed I had a blog follower by the name of Sophie Hill. I clicked on her profile and then through to her blog and discovered a gorgeous Tassie resident who creates the most divine jewellery, much of it from Tasmanian myrtle wood, under her label 'That Vintage'.

If you like, you can check out her online shop.

Minx Shop

2010-02-18T18:52:00.001-08:00

Loving these handmade clothes from Etsy store MinxShop.

And loving the photography.

A spot of upcycling...

2010-02-17T23:54:00.000-08:00

How lovely is this table?

Upcycled from a vintage suitcase and table legs, it's the perfect place to store photos and keepsakes.

Unfortunately it's all the way over in Canada - but it serves as some wonderful upcycling inspiration nonetheless.

{twin set} gets homely

2010-02-17T22:38:00.001-08:00

Yay! My favourite vintage clothing label, {twinset} has just introduced a range of homewares. Now I can buy vintage teapots and dresses in the one spot. Love.

Blushing Bride Clutch

2010-02-17T03:35:00.000-08:00

New design - blushing bride clutch now available.

Powering through...

2010-02-11T14:54:00.000-08:00

Haven't I been a quiet little blogger lately? I am trying to soldier on through my bridal orders and not expire in the heat.

I will be trying to list some 'ready to ship' bridal and bridesmaids clutches over the coming weeks so that there is a selection for brides who don't have time to wait for custom orders. I hate having to say no to orders because there is not enough time!

But I can usually squeeze most people in, so if you're after custom clutches, drop me a line!

Pretty as a picture...

2010-02-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

Today I am loving the photography by Yvette Inufio. So dreamy and lovely.

Moving...gotta love it...

2010-02-02T23:16:00.000-08:00

Tape, tape, tape, pack, pack, dust, pack, tape, tape, tape. Repeat.

This is my life this week as our moving expedition continues.

So I am taking a moment to mentally transport myself into the pictured scene. I'm going to put my feet up and wait for someone to bring me some kind of icy and delicious drink.

Ah, I feel so refreshed.

Now where was I? Oh yeah...tape, tape, tape....

Photo from here.

Bec Winnel - your talent kills me!

2010-01-27T23:00:00.000-08:00

Bec Winnel is definitely one of my favourite artists. Man I wish I could create art as stunning as this! Instead I have to make do with covering my home with art from all the amazing Aussie artists, like Bec. Not a bad alternative really.

Check out these and other new prints available over at Leeloo now.

truth.be.told

2010-01-27T14:25:00.000-08:00

Have I written about truth.be.told before? I don't think so.

The Melbourne illustration and stationary label is run by Jess Hyde who is a funny, spirited gal with great fashion sense and taste in music...or that's the conclusions I've drawn from meeting her a few times around the traps!

Despite not having made up her mind entirely on good ol' Valentines Day (I'm hearing you sister...the whole thing feels a bit forced and commercial but at the same time who wants to pass up the chance to say 'I love you' and get a little cheesy with that special someone in your life. Tough one.) she has created a range of V Day cards that I think are super cute.

So if you're not a Valentine's Day boycotter - check out Jess's cards here.

Birthday Wish List...Interior Design Books

2010-01-27T02:33:00.001-08:00

Whenever friends and family ask me what I want for my birthday I always draw a total blank. Yet the day after my birthday I can think of a million things I should have asked for. What is with that?

So I'm thinking that if I come across something I love online over the coming weeks (my bday is at the end of Feb) I will post it here to remind me so that I can have an answer this year!

I have been eyeing off these (and many other!) interior design books over the last year but can never quite justify the purchase. Perfect wish list items!

Clutch Emergency!

2010-01-27T01:48:00.000-08:00

I have been having fun lately designing custom clutches to match special outfits.

Like this week when one of my fave customers sent through photos of the above shoes and dress she will be wearing to an upcoming wedding. Custom clutch needed asap!

A generous serve of vintage gold silk, a splash of gold ribbon and a hint of fun lining and hey presto...outfit complete!

Be sure to contact me if you have an outfit that is missing the perfect clutch.

Today I want to live here...

2010-01-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

Who wouldn't?

Photo by Anitta Behrendt. Found via Decor8.

Upcycled prettiness

2010-01-25T00:55:00.000-08:00

Oh. my. god.

Upcycling bliss!

Look at this gorgeous pencil tin/vase I just scored from Renee Anne's gorgeous shop!

She has done a little re-vamp of her shop and is now offering the most divine handmade vases and tins created from recycled cans and vintage wallpaper and various scraps of paper and fabric.

This is going to look gorgeous in my studio and will make me happy every day. Thanks Renee!

There are still some other tins available but be quick because I can't imagine these will last long!

See them here.

New goodies at Leeloo

2010-01-24T18:31:00.000-08:00

There are some new ReJenerate clutches available over at Leeloo...like this vintage fabric number featuring the sweetest upcycled doily.

Check it out here.

Eames on a budget...

2010-01-24T15:03:00.000-08:00

Here is the perfect way to own an Eames chair when your budget just won't allow the real thing. How cute is that?

See more here.

My Life in Pictures

2010-01-20T20:17:00.000-08:00

My January can be pretty effectively summed up by these dreamy photos by one of my current photographer crushes, Lola's Room.

Lots of sewing. Lots of taking photos of the results of said sewing. Lots of attaching of buttons and creating of bows. Lots of closing my eyes for a minute in front of the fan. Not quite enough swimming at the beach.

Oh and a little more sweeping up of fabric scraps and cotton threads than is depicted in these photos too...

But generally, a beautiful January.

Stealing fun from kids...

2010-01-18T14:01:00.000-08:00

I often buy colouring-in books for my nieces and nephew and kids of friends and I always have a wistful flip through the black and white pages with a pang of jealousy about all the colouring fun that lies ahead.

So you can imagine my delight when I came across this little gem from madeit store, Pezimystic. It's a colouring book for grown-ups! Hand bound from recycled paper and filled with intricate illustrations, it's the perfect excuse to invest in that overly expensive set of pencils I was drooling over in the art store the other day!

Feel like some grown up colouring in too? Check it out here.

Pic of the day...

2010-01-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

I was just quickly flicking through the Interior Styling Group over at Flickr when this particularly pretty pic grabbed my eye.

Who is the super talented stylist/photographer responsible for this simple piece of loveliness I wondered?

None other than my lovely friend Renee Anne!

Not only is Renee stunning in front on the camera (she is the face of {twin set}, my fave vintage fashion label) she really rocks BEHIND the camera too!

Gee, stop showing off Renee...

Studio Envy

2010-01-14T14:57:00.000-08:00

Thanks Etsy for your blog post on 'studio envy'. I love taking a peek into the creative spaces of others.

I'm pretty happy with my little studio set up but I am constantly looking for fresh inspiration to keep things new and fresh.

Although I like to keep things quite neutral in my living space, in my work space I like much more colour. That's what grabbed me about the space pictured. Colourful, fun yet organised.

Love.

Wedding Must-Have

2010-01-14T14:28:00.000-08:00

I have somehow found myself and my little label becoming more and more involved in the world of weddings of late.

My bridal and bridesmaids clutches are so much fun to create and I have been lucky enough to work with the sweetest and coolest brides going around.

I know that there have been lots of brides frequenting my blog recently thanks to a little plug in the latest Bride To Be Magazine so I just had to post this gorgeous pic I found over at the Snippet & Ink blog.

Getting married? MUST organise a 'Just Married' bicycle.

Cottage Envy

2010-01-13T23:00:00.001-08:00

We are considering moving house at the moment. It's no walk in the park though. Why is it so hard to find something like this in Sydney's inner west? I mean really...

Photo from here

'Summer Love' Bridesmaid Clutch Set

2010-01-11T22:28:00.000-08:00

I made this set as a custom order but have had lots of enquiries about them after posting them on my blog so I thought I would put a ready-to-ship set for sale on my site too.

You can check them out here.

A world away...

2010-01-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

More divine winter scenes from Sweden. This is the house of my aunt and uncle in a small Swedish town. Isn't it gorgeous?

Seems all a little surreal looking at these photos today when we are sweltering away in Sydney.

Must focus on turning this huge pile of ivory fabric into bridal clutches. Must not think about heading to the beach for a swim in the cool sea. Seriously.

from Norway with love...

2010-01-10T14:35:00.001-08:00

Just had to share some pics from this quirky and colourful Norwegian house featured in today's 'Etsy Finds Decor'.

I have never been to Norway but the houses I have visited in other parts of Scandinavia are some of the most gorgeous I have seen. I love the way they work with a really white base, floors, walls, ceilings and then add just the right splashes of colour to bring in to life.

Check out more of this super cool house at owner, Tove Michelle Hjallum's, Flikr page.

Splash of Vintage Clutch

2010-01-07T20:51:00.001-08:00

A new super sweet, super vintage clutch now available

Too bad...so sad...

2010-01-07T15:57:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling a little devestated as I just discovered that the 2010 edition of the frankie calendar is completely sold out!

They weren't lying when they said to get in quick sticks before it sells out.

What will become of 2010 without my frankie calendar to guide me through??

If anyone knows anywhere that still has copies available...please let me know...

Until then, I shall be in a corner somewhere, quietly rocking back and forth.

Winter Wonderland

2010-01-07T15:32:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010 lovely people!

Isn't this photo gorgeous? It is of the little Swedish town where my family are from. It is absolutely freezing there at the moment (obviously!) and everything is covered in a thick blanket of snow.

The photo was taken by an old friend of my dad (hi Hans!) and is making me long for a little bit of winter wonderland. Although maybe only for a day or two ha ha!

Well I have been brought out of my Christmas break with a bit of a jolt.

I think lots of ladies have been reading their Bride To Be Magazines over their Christmas break and my order book is getting a little overwhelming...which is great! But no cocktails by the pool for me this January!!

I do love creating the bridesmaids sets though, they are just so cute and it makes me all warm and fuzzy when brides get all excited about designing a gift to give to the most important ladies in their lives.

Isn't this set summery and fun?

Another chance to be the life of the party...

2009-12-17T15:24:00.000-08:00

New 'Life of the Party' Clutch now available. See more here.

More doily love...

2009-12-17T14:50:00.000-08:00

The combo of this gorgeous doily and cute vintage fabric is too cute. Check it out here.