Breathing to a New Beat - A Colouring Book for Adults - made for Charity, The Heart and Lung Transplant Trust Vic

 Breathing to a New Beat - A Colouring Book for Adults
Image Credit: Curlypops Shop 

Earlier this year, Camille from the Curlypops Shop made a callout for line artwork that could be used for a colouring book.
Cam is artist / illustrator, crafter, textile designer, blogger and a double lung transplant recipient.

 Breathing to a New Beat - A Colouring Book for Adults is available for purchase.
Image Credit: Curlypops Shop 

Time to time I have donated something I have made to a charity.
I was happy to donate a line drawing.

Camille came up with the idea of a colouring Book for Adults with 100% of the profits going to Heart and Lung Transplant Trust (Victoria) Inc


I donated an a4 page of Russian Doll Babushkas', yes, my own original artwork!
It's wonderful to be able to contribute to such a worthy cause.
The artwork was created in Adobe Illustrator.

 My artwork, colored in -  'Breathing to a New Beat' Colouring Book
Image Credits: cloud_farry      my_vintage_childhood   shellsinthebush

Many other wonderful artists have contributed creative artwork in their own unique style, for the book.
The final result is amazing.
also.....Thanks to Cam for all of her hard work.

 Coloured in drawings in 'Breathing to a New Beat' Colouring Book
Image Credit: Curlypops Shop 

  'Breathing to a New Beat' Colouring Book
Image Credit: Curlypops Shop 

Coloring books for adults have become wildly popular as grown ups seize on the therapeutic benefits of this simple form of artistic expression. Adult coloring books provide an easy creative outlet, a simple way for busy adults to unwind — and unplug.
Coloring books are a way for adults who don't normally draw or paint to be creative. Coloring in seems to help people think about a time when life was simpler and more carefree. 

"Some of Australia's biggest companies are buying colouring books for adults in bulk to help staff handle the stress of the modern workplace.
Amid claims that Australia is facing a mental health epidemic, Melbourne neuropsychologist Stan Rodski says the simple act of colouring can change brain behaviour and help workers achieve calm and balance".
source: theage.com.au


The latest news is that profit from sales has just hit $5,000! Yay!
"This money will go directly to the Second Chance Accommodation Project which subsidises the cost of post transplant accommodation for country Victorian and interstate heart and lung transplant recipients at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne"


You only have to head over to instagram to see a great range of coloured pages.
Both here: #breathingtoanewbeat  and here:  #btanbcolouralong

Breathing to a New Beat - A Colouring Book for Adults

Image Credit: Curlypops Shop 

If you would like to purchase this wonderful book, you can find it:
Monash Uni Bookshop at the Alfred Hospital
Cystic Fibrosis Victoria,
Ruby's Nest in Brunswick
Joys Craftworx in Portland

or contact Cam for more info.

Two of my Handmade Upcycled Tea Towel Aprons feature in a book - Art Without Waste

Well, this week I'm super excited!!!!
Two of my Handmade Upcycled Tea Towel Aprons feature in a book - 'Art Without Waste'.

Many months ago I was contacted about two of my aprons. Patty Wongpakdee had seen these: either via a Google search or possibly in one of my online stores.
Patty asked if I could supply 'high res' images of the two aprons as she was collecting images for a book she was working on.
This week I got the news that both aprons appear in this printed book! I'm so delighted.

"Art Without Waste features 500 upcycled and Earth-friendly designs from cutting-edge designers, illustrators and artists around the world. With a broad scope of alternative uses for discarded items, such as bottle caps, gas cans, and skateboards, the designs featured in this book also explore new uses for sustainable resources such as wood, straw, and paper. This is a gorgeous and inspiring collection of works from artists whose approach often incorporates eco-friendly principles such as upcycling, with sustainability as a central goal.
Find inspiration from an array of non-traditional artists and designers. Some have invented new techniques, while others have harnessed a creative passion into manipulated materials, resulting in dynamic forms that encourage audiences to perceive discarded items in an entirely new light. So don't just throw away that bottle or plastic cap- recycle it into your own exciting art projects."

 Art Without Waste is available now from QBookShop
and Amazon from the 1st of October 2014

My aprons can be purchased from my online stores: Madeit and Etsy

Metro Retro Aprons are all OOAK - that is, One Of A Kind.
Each one is never to be repeated, never to be exactly the same as another.
If you like something you see, purchase it NOW - All of these aprons are handcrafted originals and unique!
The ideal handmade gift for someone special or for spoiling yourself.

Metro Retro Aprons....
Fun & Funky Designs - Expect the unexpected!
Vintage, Retro Design with Modern & Practical Use.
Unique, One Of A Kind - just like you!
One Size Fits Most.

I love to upcycle and give a new life to something that had an intended previous use.
Some of my  tea towels are brand new but many are retro vintage - that is 20-40 years old!
They are in excellent condition as they have never been used for their original purpose.
I try to source my tea towels from all around the world, Australia, United Kingdom
& the USA, to just name a few.

 

 

About the Author

"Patty K. Wongpakdee is a graphic artist based in New York. She is an Assoc. Professor of Graphic Design at New York Institute of Technology. Prior to teaching, Patty was a Senior Designer/Art Director for Ernst & Young. In that capacity, she designed the artistic components for business proposals, brochures, and invitations for corporate functions. She has given lectures about graphic design in Bangkok, Thailand, and has presented at academic and professional design conferences in the United States and Europe. Her work has been featured in various print and online publications.In addition to teaching, Patty is committed to her own artwork. She merges her graphic design sensibilities with traditional paint-like qualities. To further this concept, she sometimes prints her digital images directly on to canvas and in some cases applies paint directly on the printed canvas.Patty received her M.F.A. in Computer Graphics at Pratt Institute and her B.F.A. at The School of Visual & Performing Arts, Syracuse University."
http://pattykwongpakdee.crevado.com/

Bespoke magazine Issue 14, Spring Must Haves - Editor's Favs includes my vintage floral bunting!

The latest issue of Bespoke Magazine Issue 14, is out now!
I'm loving it because it is the Spring Issue - Adornment & Embellishment. So many 'pretties' in this latest print issue.
Spring is most certainly my favourite time of year.
I love the sun, the burst of blooms, a great time of the year to get out with friends & family.

My Vintage Spring Floral Bunting is on the Editor's Fav's page!
This print issue is (as quoted) "Filled with beautiful and informative articles this magazine is sure to make you feel and see the freshness as Spring erupts and the trees and flowers bloom with their sweet fragrance and colourful flowers."

Vintage Retro Pink / Green / Purple Floral & Doily Lace, Floral Flag Bunting.

Ideal for a Party, Birthday Present, hosting a Baby Shower, Photography Prop, Market Stall or just Decorating a room.Would look very pretty at your next Garden Tea Party / BBQ!

Celebrate in Style!
Bunting makes a pretty decoration at a Wedding, Engagement, Christening,
Garden Tea Party, High Tea, Anniversary or any other special occasion.
Eco friendly, can use over & over.

Please visit my online stores:

www.madeit.com.au/merry-go-round

www.etsy.com/shop/MerryGoRoundHANDMADE

Folk Art Symbols Handmade Apron in Tickle the Imagination Magazine

I'm 'pleased as punch' to have my handmade Tea Towel Apron featured in the 'What's Cooking' section of Tickle the Imagination Magazine.
Folk Art Symbols (of the Pennsylvania Dutch) Apron is a One Of A Kind Apron - OOAK.
Made from a linen Tea Towel purchased online from the USA.

The new Winter Edition is out on the 3rd of July in selected newsagents & shops around Australia & available online (hard copy or full online version).
The theme is 'Eclectic Folk'.
I'm loving this edition, I'm enjoying the variety of items, the bold colours - it brightens up my winter, & the sense of fun! I guess it reflects well on the style of aprons and bunting I make.

So what is in this issue?
well, my apron of coarse!
page 33 see here

and......

inside issue 16 | eclectic folk...
feature stories * eclectic folk * channelling frida * natural remedies
* close to nature * favourite things

create
chocolate fudge brownies * vintage tea towel pillow
* hand embroidered drawstring bag * free motion hoop art
meet the maker
measure twice - lewisdean carpentry * 5 minutes with the woodsfolk
meet anna scott * soul cleansing - cleanse with benefits
shopping
what's cooking? * alisha visits blackbird corner
regular features
editors letter * tickle team * contributors * gallery wall * creative escapes
on our bookshelf * this issue was made possible thanks to...
designer & maker directory * explore - creative calendar
creative marketplace * business toolkit - get more productive 

 

 You can find Tickle the Imagination Magazine on Facebook here

My Vintage Buntings made the Print Annual '02' of Tickle the Imagination

It's been such a long time since I've posted something here.
It has has been a long hot summer, a busy Christmas period and spending time with my family certainly makes time go by quick. Oh, there was a large bunting order too!

I forgot to mention my buntings made the Print Annual of Tickle the Imagination.
The photo shoot was done for the online version quite some time ago.
Basically the best of the online issues (over the previous year) & some new 'extras' are placed together to form the wonderful Print 'Annual 02' of Tickle the Imagination.

I'm thrilled, thank you to the lovely Tanya and her creative team at Tickle the Imagination.

Since the Annual has been released, it was announced that the print editions of the Annuals will now be quarterly. Yay for that, I've already got my subscription!
You can purchase your subscription directly from Tickle the Imagination or buy from selected Newsagents around Australia.
Don't forget to like them on Facebook!

The new print edition will be available for purchase March 20th 2014.

Handmade Vintage Floral Fabric Bunting
available here:
www.madeit.com.au/merry-go-round
www.etsy.com/shop/MerryGoRoundHANDMADE

Merry-Go-Round Christmas Bunting featured in Bespoke Magazine

I was lucky enough to have my Christmas Bunting featured in the latest issue of Bespoke Magazine.
It's always great when you get an email request for an image for a magazine but to see it in print is a thrill!
My bunting was featured in 'the best handmade products to wear, decorate with and gift this holiday season'.

Bespoke magazine is an Australian magazine, a collection of artisan stories, handmade products, indie business and creative projects.
Issue 11 is out now

In this issue:

• quick, easy and delicious recipes for Christmas and summer entertaining
• the best handmade products to wear, decorate with and gift this holiday season
• creative gift wrapping ideas
• must-have handmade products for camping
• crafty books to read this summer
• creative ways to plan for the year ahead
• and for those who are running a creative business there are also business tips for managing your online store over Christmas

 A link to their Facebook page

Merry-Go-Round Handmade Boys Bunting has made print publication - Tickle The Imagination ANNUAL magazine!

Yes, I'm just delighted that my BOYS Star Denim Blue, Red & Check Flag Bunting has made an actual printed publication.

Tickle The Imagination is usually an online magazine but for the very first time they have just released a printed magazine - an annual. It's just divine!

Just a few details about their online magazine, as stated on the TTI website
"tickle the imagination is an online lifestyle magazine celebrating all things handmade and creative in Australia.
Released bi-monthly, tickle the imagination aims to inspire creativity - by showcasing talented artists, crafters and designers, discovering emerging talent and sharing real-life stories and diy projects.
...be inspired by gorgeous images, take a peek into the lives of Australian designers & makers and discover ways to include creativity & handmade into your everyday living".

Visit their Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/tickletheimagination?ref=ts&fref=ts


The printed  Tickle The Imagination annual is out NOW!
"This special yearbook issue will be 120 pages of creative goodness and, staying true to our ethos, features Australian designers and makers and has been printed in Australia using an eco friendly approach.
Perfect for yourself, or a gift for any lover of handmade, it includes our favourite pages from online issues, as well as some new unseen material!"

To order your copy:
http://www.tickletheimagination.com.au/shop.html 


More details about my Boys Bunting:Ideal for a Party, Birthday Present, hosting a Baby Shower, Photography Prop, Market Stall or just Decorating a room.

Total length is three (3) metres / about nine (9) feet approx.
Twelve (12) flags in various fabrics.
This set of flags is a lovely combination of Plain Denim, 'Fire Engine RED' with stars, Blue Check print fabric - simply stunning!
Double sided - can be viewed from front or back. There are no unfinished edges on these flags. 


 My handmade items can be purchased here:

www.madeit.com.au/merry-go-round
 
www.etsy.com/shop/MerryGoRoundHANDMADE

Made It Feature with Bec Davies, my vintage bunting published in Family Circle Magazine CHRISMAS 2012

My Vintage bunting was included in a printed article, 'Crafting a new life'  -  Australian Family Circle Magazine 2012 - Christmas Edition!

I'm very pleased to see my vintage bunting in a printed publication but also it's great to see Bec Davies talk about her fantastic handmade online website than she created.

It's a great inspiring story of an ex graphic designer that built Madeit.com.au from scratch.
Bec lives in the beach side town of Yamba, NSW with her husband & new baby girl.
It's a busy but enjoyable lifestyle. I'm sure she is the envy of many crafters!
A great life, wonderful artists/designers to promote & a brilliant website, it sounds like the perfect job to me!



I'm proud to be part of this great website, Bec is very supportive. It a great handmade online website where you can buy great quality items directly from the designer that makes them.

I ask everyone to support handmade this Christmas & beyond!
And please support madeit.com.au

oh..... and don't forget there is a sister site call craftumi.com.au
for all you crafting supply needs!

www.madeit.com.au
www.madeit.com.au/merry-go-round

Vintage Pink Lilac Pastel Flag Bunting + Lace. Shabby Chic Home Decor, Wedding

My 'Australian Blue Wrens' handmade Apron has made front page on the madeit.com.au website Thursday

Yay!
My 'Australian Blue Wrens' handmade Apron has made front page on the madeit.com.au website Thursday, along with many other great finds.

Thursday had a selection of 'Vintage Inspired Finds'.

Metro Retro Vintage Tea Towel  Linen/Cotton 'Australian Blue Wrens Apron' - OOAK

Metro Retro Aprons are all OOAK - that is, One Of A Kind.

Each one is never to be repeated, never to be exactly the same as another.
If you like something you see, purchase it NOW - All of these aprons are handcrafted originals and unique!
The ideal handmade gift for someone special or for spoiling yourself.

Metro Retro Aprons....
Fun & Funky Designs - Expect the unexpected!
Vintage, Retro Design with Modern & Practical Use.
Unique, One Of A Kind - just like you!
One Size Fits Most.

THIS ITEM: Australian Blue Wrens Tea Towel
Linen/Cotton blend Vintage Tea Towel, Vintage Cotton panels & Vintage Cotton straps etc.