lost in the forest

Ghosts...

2011-07-10T10:06:00.000+01:00

When we were swapping the flat around to allow more space for me to work from I found an undeveloped Holga film. I had absolutely no recollection of when it was from or where it was shot, so took it to be processed half thinking it wouldn't come out very well (if at all).
I was slightly surprised to find pictures of my ex boyfriend in here...but at least it dates the film somewhat to over 3 years ago. It's on a trip to Slains Castle which is possibly one of my favourite places ever.

Double & triple exposed, cross processed slide film. Fuji Velviva 100f

2011-07-06T10:33:00.000+01:00

Hello there! Long time no see. I've been having proper time off. It's been tough, it still is tough. Some days, like the past two, I've pretty much just slept, or fought the urge to sleep, and ached. A delayed consequence of a night out celebrating a friends birthday. Other days, I'm OK and can manage to get out and about and do things...slowly.
I believe it was not long after my last post that I finally gave in and didn't return to work after my break. I visited the doctor and demanded the doctors take note of how awful I was feeling. I saw doctor after doctor, and had blood test after blood test resulting in nothing. I was sent for scans, nothing. They dismissed me and said 'these things tend to get better by themselves'. Thanks, thanks for that. Needless to say they didn't. I had no idea (actually, probably a lie there, I had a vague idea) of what was wrong with me, or how to manage how I was feeling, or the effects of doing things. After an ovarian scan I finally gave up with the doctors, they were (in my opinion) completely looking at the wrong thing. Maybe it was required to rule things out, but to me it just seemed unnecessary - but, on the positive side my ovaries are fine!
I returned to the doctors eventually, I wrote it all down, a little list/story about how I felt, symptoms, how it had affected me, my life, my business over the past few (six at this point) months. And finally they took notice! I'm not sure whether it was a help or hindrance that I saw a different doctor on pretty much every occasion I visited, the perils of a shared practice with a less than fabulous appointments system. I could see somebody new tomorrow (if I phoned at exactly 8am), but would have to wait 2-3 weeks to see the same doctor. But, this one actually listened to me, didn't try to tell me I was just depressed/stressed or focus on one tiny symptom, or tell me it was nothing, she refused to take any more bloods (thank goodness!). However, she also refused to diagnose me. She said something along the lines of 'it sounds like post-viral fatigue syndrome, but due to the connotations of that label I'm not going to diagnose it....Lets focus on getting you better rather than why you're ill' She then told me briefly about pacing as she stood up and ushered me from the room. Sorry, times up! Yeah, thanks again.

So, over the past couple of months I've been self-managing with information I've found on the internet about post viral fatigue, pacing, diet etc. Not the most ideal situation really, but I really needed a little time off from doctors surgeries. I'm obviously being rather choosy about which information I follow, there's a lot out there, most of it completely over the top, panic-stricken nonsense. But then, if everybody has received the same amount of assistance as me, then it's not really that surprising...

Anyhoo. The prognosis is good, I remain upbeat and positive most of the time, although obviously my entire life pretty much collapsed for a moment there, so you know, I've not been smiling the whole time! I've been managing to do more over the last month or so, even though some days, as the last two I can't really do anything. It's all part of the learning process however. The next big hurdle is working. I've been managing little bits and pieces over the last few weeks, but in 2 weeks I start an actual job. It's only two days a week, and they know that I have this 'condition', they've been very supportive throughout the application and interview process and have said they'll make adjustments if needed, so we'll see how that goes! Hopefully well, and hopefully I'll start having good days more often, good days that feel like I used to would be amazing, but lets not get ahead of ourselves!

I've just read back my last few blog posts and think I've repeated some of what I'd posted previously, however, it's quite nice to have it all in one place, for me anyway. I've also noticed they're all quite miserable 'ugh, I'm ill' posts. And this will be the last hopefully. Normal service, or maybe even improved service will resume!

All change! You may notice I've had a little mess around with the design of the blog, with the help of puglypixel.

...

2011-03-12T10:51:00.001Z

Well, one week later, what have I accomplished?

A fantastically snotty cold, complete with a couple of days in bed and the rest of the week feeling rather ill.
A day spent in a post-cold haze having my hair cut (2 hours spent in front of a mirror looking rather dead does not do wonders for the self-esteem) and having lunch with my boy at a very nice French place.
A day spent with my nephew - at home whilst he was sick. We still had fun however, watching Peppa Pig, doing puzzles, playing with Play-Doh, Skyping with my sister and eating soup (and cake). This was after a brief period of screaming because silly aunty Emily had left his treasured Peppa Pig wellies in the pushchair downstairs (I didn't realise he was wearing them, he came out of the pushchair sans wellies so I just presumed in my sisters rush to get out that morning they hadn't bothered to put them on). They were retrieved and all was well.
No sewing, no reading, no friends visiting, no beaches and no photos. I should not plan perhaps, when I'm this prone to illness?

I have however discovered Pinterest and keep dipping in and out when I have a little spare time. It's rather lovely having little digital pinboards, much easier and organised than saving your favourite images to your computer where, on mine anyway, things get lost and end up without a source. And you get to share what's in your brain and discover what's in other peoples too. I have some free invites if you'd like one?

a holiday?

2011-03-04T14:41:00.000Z

Today I am in the shop. It's very quiet today, with only the occasional visitor and passer by (is something happening that I don't know about?). I'm nursing a cold, drinking copious amounts of coffee, alternating between ibuprofen and paracetamol and listening to Joy Division. I am also preparing for a (whispers...) holiday. Hooray! I have finally allowed myself a proper bit of time off for some rest, relaxation and hopefully recuperation. It's been an awfully long time since I had time off, even at Christmas I only took 3 days off and then I was ill, and travelling, and chasing my nephew around my parents house, and cooking Christmas dinner....It's by no means a proper holiday, I shall not be off sunning myself anywhere, it will very much be a holiday at home. Doing nothing.

So, in the spirit of doing nothing for a week I have umm....written a list of things I want to do....I think it's impossible for me to do nothing, I'm really not one for sitting around which may well be my problem...anyhoo. The list.

Take my nephew to Gorgie City Farm/The Park/The Zoo (I may have to check with his mother first....)
Make at least one new dress.
Take some photos
Go to the beach
Have lunch somewhere nice with Jonny
Read The Birds & Other Stories by Daphne Du Maurier which I bought over a year ago and haven't even started
Spend some time with Claira before she absconds to Sheffield.

I'd also love to visit a castle, go charity shopping, read blogs, visit (more) friends, learn to crochet, make some jewellery, paint, have a picnic, discover some new music, go to the Edinburghs hidden Wild West village , start making a quilt, go for afternoon tea....but you know, I only have a week, so I'm willing to forego these things and just rest as much as I possibly can so I can get back to work with a clear head and fresh ideas!

A cross stitched car followed by a random outpouring brought on by being in the house alone for 4 days with only the company of cats who insist on waking you up at 4.30am...

2011-02-25T07:55:00.001Z

Cross stitched car....stunning! I just discovered the work of Severija Incirauskaite-Kriauneviciene via Embroidery as Art.

I started a blog post last night which ended up being an apology for not blogging....so I deleted it! I do need to start blogging again tho, if only to share the amazing things I stumble across on the interwebs. I've not really been making a great deal recently. Over the past few months I've kind of lost my creative mojo...everything I've started has frustrated me to the point of giving up, usually because that thing I need is at such and such rather than here, or I start and then leave it somewhere half finished forgetting that I ever started it. Living across three places (home, shop, boyfriends house) is a little crazy and nothing is ever where it should be. Running a shop is also a little crazy and takes up your entire being if you let it....which I more often than not do. It's always tricky trying to find a balance I guess...artist, designer, shopkeeper, girlfriend, friend, sister, daughter, aunty....Emily? (God knows how people cope with additional responsibilities of children....). It's even trickier when you're not feeling 100%. Coming up to 4 months now I have been ill with unknown cause and no diagnosis as yet, although yet another set of blood tests were sent off on Wednesday, so maybe something will show with the results next week...Even if I am never 'back to normal' it'd be a lot less frustrating knowing why and being able to work something out, although I've never been good at the work/life balance. How do you stop working when what you do is also what you do for fun? That's probably a stupid question and I kind of know the answer anyway...it's just allowing myself to have time off that's the issue.

Anyway, before I go around in circles and start answering my own questions with questions and never really getting to the point (or any point) I will stop and just say I'm going to attempt to make more....more work (and more not work....), more clothes, more time for myself...(and stop using so many brackets)

...

2010-10-01T21:29:00.000+01:00

Well, things around here have been super busy, although Lost in The Forest has taken a back seat whilst The Spider and The Fly got going.

It's now time to start making again, not least because I finished my last day of my 'day job' at North Edinburgh Arts yesterday giving me more time and less icome!....I've been there a while, under many job titles. I started as a volunteer around 2 years ago and progressed through to Arts Coordinator...I'm sad to leave but excited at what the future holds (once I get images of failure and destitution from my mind!). It's scary, although I've always been self-employed or working on a freelance basis this is the first time I'm really out here on my own! It's totally what I needed to do though to make both Lost in The Forest and The Spider and The Fly (and Magpie!) develop and grow successfully! I'll be able to dedicate the time and energy required....and maybe start answering my emails in a timely manner and stop looking like I've had no sleep.

So, Lost in the Forest will be back out and about at selected markets and events – starting with Granny Would be Proud at Glasgows Hillhead Bookclub this Sunday! You'd think I might have given myself a break....

An online shop of somekind will be back up soon as well – although I'm still undecided between Etsy, Folksy, BigCartel or some other thing. Anybody have any preference, or positive/negative experiences of each? Maybe a combination of them, but that's never really worked out so well in the past....

Lost things

2010-09-10T20:18:00.000+01:00

via Wildcat Designs

So I have been a little quiet over here of late. A lot more is happening over here at the moment.....I will be back and making new things soon.

Big Top Jamboree

2010-05-02T13:06:00.002+01:00

It seems to be the spring time for Jamborees - which is fine and dandy in my book!

Lost in the Forest will be appearing at the Big Top Jamboree in Dundee on 17th May....see what The Skinny have to say about it.....

Springtime Jamboree

2010-04-29T09:23:00.001+01:00

Lost in the Forest ventured out for the first big event of the year a couple of weeks ago.

Made in the Shade delivered, as always a fantastic event and it was lovely to be back in The Lighthouse, surrounded by such fabulous designers....as always it's just a shame that I never get a chance to have a really good look around!

I brought out some old favourites, as well as some brand new designs that seemed to go down quite well :)

Feel like you missed out on a great day? Well, fear not! Made in the Shade is coming to Edinburgh next month - I'm rather excited (possibly because I won't have to get up at an ungodly hour to get to Glasgow, or worry about cancelled trains! But obviously for all the proper reasons as well..) and you should be too!

Random thoughts about summertime

2010-03-28T14:33:00.001+01:00

I've apparently been away again for a while...life kind of took president over work for a while which was actually quite refreshing....but, I am back to some extent.

The clocks went forward today....or was it backwards? Either way. I love you daylight.

I am spending my time dreaming about picnics, little streams, cupcakes, tiny ponies, bunting in trees, lens flare, forts made out of blankets and other fun things....This morning I have been sitting making origami boats out of random things...paper, book pages, copper sheets....new ideas and new things are occuring!

All will be revealed at the Made in the Shade Springtime Jamboree (Glasgow)

Want some Dolly Mixtures?

2010-01-20T22:06:00.000Z

Lost in the Forest will be appearing with Magpie tomorrow at Dolly Mixtures, we'll have a wee stall, so come down at 5pm sharp to grab some fabulous gifts for yourself! Then stay for cocktails, cupcakes and cucumber sandwiches and a little bit of (faux) Robbie Williams!

All the details can be found at the Facebook event

I will make sure I take pictures, it is one of my new years resolutions, as normally I forget, or am too busy to click a few buttons on my camera...shame on me!

Dear Blogger, it's been one month since my last confession....

2010-01-08T09:12:00.000Z

Happy New Year!!

To be fair, December was awfully busy, and I was ill throughout the whole of it, so I shall not dwell on my lack of blogging, or really tell you about what I've been doing - I shall just tell you of the new things going on in the new and currently rather snowy year!

As well as all the new products I'm working on (which will be revealed in time..) there are a few things popping up in January that are worth mentioning....

Firstly Dolly Mixtures is a new event hosted by The Electric Circus, which Magpie are helping to organise some fabulous crafty stalls - Thursday night fun! Hop on over to the Magpie blog to find out more...

Secondly I will be running a little workshop/demo at the Made in the Shade Maisonette over in Glasgow towards the end of the month....check out their blog for more info and I'm sure you will see a little sneaky peak of what I'm doing here closer to the time.

Thirdly.....well, just wait and see! It is the new year after all and it's all about surprises and new beginnings :)

Magpie - Tomorrow!

2009-12-05T18:10:00.000Z

Lost in the Forest will be at Magpie Market in Edinburgh tomorrow from 12-6pm! Come down and say hi - there's loads of great designers :)

when I'm queen...

2009-11-20T17:42:00.000Z

talc via oh Joy!

Magpie needs you

2009-11-06T07:49:00.004Z

Magpie is a new venture of mine. It will be a collection of some of the finest craft and design talent that is on offer right now....a veritable Magpies nest of treats and treasures. Housed in a converted church in the centre of the Grassmarkets, Edinburgh, will be a one day festive market. We are currently looking for stall holders, so if you think you fit the bill and are free on 6th December please get in touch by emailing me (emily.chandler(@)gmail.com) and requesting an application pack.

Inspiration: Betty Pepper

2009-11-04T08:46:00.003Z

So, I thought I'd start some kind of actual feature on this blog...starting with my inspirations...
Betty Pepper is, to me, and obvious place to start. I was in Birmingham, studying Fine Art, not really struggling, but just coasting along with no real direction. And then I saw a Betty Pepper piece....I can't actually remember which it was, or where I saw it, (you can see, I am not too great at stories, my memory is awful!) but it was amazing....a huge, intricate, detailed, stitched, collaged necklace bursting from a book....powerful, silent. Something clicked....There was clarity about what I was trying to do with my art work...it was also probably at that moment, although I didn't realise it then, that I wanted to become a maker of jewels and trinkets.

Go and visit her website....lots of amazing pieces... www.bettypepper.co.uk

MarchéMarché

2009-10-27T09:22:00.007Z

So, did you go? If you did you will know it was a fabulous day! There was such a lovely atmosphere, helped muchly by the live music and gin in tea cups!

My favourites of the day which I wish I had bought things from, but didn't because I was trying to be good....I knew I'd only live to regret it!

Lindsay Grime - recent ECA illustration graduate, fabulous illustrator and maker of amazing ceramic jewellery...
Lizzy Stewart...more fabulous illustrations, fun zines and lots of bears :)

There's no plans for another yet, but fingers crossed it will become a more regular event - just what Edinburgh needs!

MarchéMarché

2009-10-19T09:09:00.003+01:00

I can't believe I haven't mentioned MarchéMarché yet...the time is fast approaching....next Saturday 12pm onwards to be precise and I am very excited to be involved. It's being organised by Kirsty Anderson of Wooden Tree and Susie Brown of SusieMaroon....there will be fancy cake, cocktails music...oh yeah and trinkets, doodles and fabulous things by a selection of Edinburghs finest... Far from your standard table trawling twee craft affair, which makes you flail your arms, yelp and run in the opposite direction, MarchéMarché oozes pizzazz....and I know you like pizzazz, so I expect to see you there?

Today I shall be working on all kinds of fabulous delights which (if they work) will be Lost in the Forest at MarchéMarché exclusives! Hoorah!

the hunt

2009-10-06T11:37:00.004+01:00

I had the fortune to go to the West Park Place WASPS open studios on Saturday....Looking at art, and nosing into peoples space is a nice way to spend an afternoon!

I went to see Lisa, who makes fabulous silver, slate and gold jewellery, which I only wish I could afford!

I fell in love with the work of Christine Clark (pictured) and Jo Arskey, (not to be confused with the fabulous illustrations of Jo Askey :p) and again, only wish I had spare cash to spend on art. Repeating a little mantra of 'you can't eat art' all the way around seemed to help a little....although it was repeated with a sulky pout on my face.

So, now, high on the smell of oils and the visions of carefully collected clutter, I have upped the hunt for a studio space I can call my own (or our own, as Claira and Amy are also on the hunt)...my little cupboard is not working as, well it is just not working. It is a cupboard and I store things in there, bring them out and take over the whole flat with making things, and never put them away. But, ever concious of making too much mess, I control what I make, keep things simple and never paint....and right now it is making me a little crazy...frustrated....watch this space I guess....we viewed one yesterday and looking at another....fingers crossed....

...

2009-09-29T12:39:00.003+01:00

A little glimpse of some more new things...I need to take lots of new product pictures this week, but the weather is not on my side today. I took some quick snaps before heading off to Made in the Shade at the weekend. Kilt pins with vintage bow, locket, antique bone button and a sweet little owl charm...
Chunky bracelet with vintage locket, button and a little hint of swarovski pearls and golden acorn...
I love this bird necklace, it is so long and punctuated with tiny brass swallows at regular intervals...it can be worn wrapped once, twice, three, four...maybe even five times around for total flexibility....I have made a similar one with tiny copper keys

So, there was going to be a proper Made in the Shade post, but I was too busy (yay!) all day to get away to have a proper look around...I didn't even take any good pictures of my stall! Shame on me! I did manage to have a quick dash up to Carrie at her Lady Wurlitzer stall and bought some gorgeous Vintage Rose perfume(....which is so, so much nicer than the Tea Rose Body Shop oil I have been wearing.)
I was lucky enough to be next to Kirsty Anderson of Wooden Tree and couldn't resist a little card with a tubby little owl in a wooden boat which is sailing on some choppy waters....He is now sitting atop my dressing table waiting for me to tidy up so he can have a proper place to stay....

I missed so many great things I'm sure! But, on my quick dash round I gathered up some business cards, so I'm sure you'll hear of them soon!

Now, I must go and have a cup of coffee and sit down with my to-do list.....there are lots of exciting things afoot at Lost in the Forest headquarters...exciting things indeed!

mist

2009-09-24T20:05:00.002+01:00

holga images...taken in and around my parents house earlier in the year. I wanted to take lots of pictures before they sell the house
I'm pretty disappointed with the actual prints, but the digital scans seem to be much better. 2 separate films, one b/w one colour slide, cross processed...it was supposed to remain colour...but oh well....

2009-09-23T21:49:00.001+01:00

Rebecca Miller

the secret garden...

2009-09-22T10:18:00.004+01:00

A little behind the stall view from Stockbridge Market, which myself and Amy from Green Tree Crafts have been frequenting the past couple of weeks.
It's a fabulous little (but growing) market just off Raeburn Place in Stockbridge every Sunday....so if you're in Edinburgh pop down and say hello!

The stall is looking a wee bit empty, I am currently working on new things, but was struck down with illness for a week and got nothing at all done.....but it is full steam ahead now thank goodness as it will be a busy weekend....Made in the Shade at the Lighthouse in Glasgow on Saturday 26th followed by Stockbridge Market on Sunday 27th...

A sneak peek of what I'm currently working on.....The new collection includes lots of owls, bows, keys, lockets, wood, copper, acorns.....like a magical autumnal secret garden.....

So, anyhoo...it would be lovely to see you, make sure you say hi if you visit!

P.S You can now buy my little hand made, hand painted book and mermaids tear necklace from the Mythical Beast Sweet Shoppe online! http://themythicalbeastsweetshoppe.bigcartel.com/

Made in the Shade Homecoming

2009-09-07T09:04:00.005+01:00

I have just been perusing the Made in the Shade flickr photostream, having a nosey at all the fabulous designers who will be selling their wares at Made in the Shades September homecoming event.

Natalie Wain creates fabulous collaged cards and embroideries....just my cup of tea! I'd love to see more of her work, but google has failed me....

Lily Wiggler - coture corsets and lingerie ....oh my!

Miso Funky not your average cross stitch samplers......

Many, many other fabulous designers will be there showing their work (Lost in the Forest included!) so head down to The Lighthouse on 26th September with your purses at the ready!

Just a quick reminder - Lost in the Forest 'labour day sale' 15% off everything extravaganza ends in approximately 2 and a half hours. That's 12pm GMT!

Labour Day Sale

2009-09-05T08:34:00.004+01:00

Happy Labour Day weekend to all my American and Canadian readers....and whoever else celebrates. To mark this occaision (and generally because I felt like being nice) there is 15% off everything in my shop this weekend (until Monday 7th 12pm GMT). Quote LABOUR at checkout - it would also be rather nice if you let me know where you discovered the sale! The reduction will be made by paypal refund, or on request of a new invoice. The 15% reduction is only valid on purchases and does not effect shipping cost. I am very excited (I'm sure there is a better word for it than that, but at 8.30 in the morning excited will do) about the change in seasons. I am an autumn/winter type of girl. I don't dress well in the summer.....I love to dress well in the autumn....beautiful colours, scarves, hats, wellies, thick tights (although thick black tights have been my summer staple!)....stomping through piles of soggy leaves in dark woodland....ahhh.....I love it! My autumn/winter soundtrack is Fern Knight......yes constantly. SO magical.

And whilst listening to the beautiful melodies I am busy creating some new pieces for the shop.....more to come soon!

Mythical Beast Sweet Shoppe

2009-09-03T20:25:00.004+01:00

I have sent off my little books and necklaces today.....a little late (bad me). If you're down Somersert way I insist that you go and take a look for there will be lots of magical beasts and sweeties!!

Sneak peek?......

A tale of tears and bloodshed.....drowning and death......a little hand painted concertina book with copper cover which comes with a tear drop necklace made from vintage parts on a copper chain.

there

2009-08-30T23:17:00.001+01:00

this was filmed at my parents house.

stitched..

2009-08-30T15:52:00.003+01:00

So, it seems I have been listing a lot (in comparison to jewellery pieces, I am well aware lots of nothing has been going on around here in the past couple of weeks) of textiley things recently. It was not a concious decision, but it is where I began....it's interesting watching things change and fluctuate over time...always returning to the same things, albeit in slightly different ways....

Anyway, never fear jewellery lovers as I have happened upon some fabulous vintage charms, old jewellery, chains and things and will be constructing some fabulous new pieces for your viewing (and hopefully wearing) pleasure! So... keep your eyes peeled over the next couple of weeks! In the meantime you could just hop on over to the shop and see some new purses made from vintage fabrics and some vintage fabric brooches and plush hearts embroidered with some of my favourite song titles......custom ones are also available on request :)

The Oriental Magpie

2009-08-24T20:11:00.003+01:00

So, before I forget to mention (again) some rather exclusive Lost in the Forest purses can now be purchased from the lovely new Oriental Magpie website along with lots of other beautiful things.....

Pussycat, Pussycat, Where have you been?

2009-08-15T19:36:00.003+01:00

Contrary to popular belief I've not been to London to visit the Queen... I've had a few days off with sisters visiting Edinburgh, and then a visit up north to see my parents....

2009-08-01T17:35:00.002+01:00

This week has flown by in a flurry of day job work....everything seems to be going on all at the same time, the last few days have been a whirlwind. The next few days I am half resting and half working (making 2 giant heads for a theatre show, currently waiting for papier mache to dry) unfortunately the half working has taken over the entire flat and I daren't get out my vintage fabrics. So, instead I am tying up loose ends, accounting, updating paper work before the hectic work begins again on Tuesday....where I am possibly working for 13 days straight...or more....if I get the job that I've applied for. If not, I get a week off visiting my parents. Either way I will be pleased!

Currently, whilst the heads are drying I am window shopping on Etsy.....a few of my current favourites

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
lostintheforest.etsy.com

And the winner is......

2009-07-27T09:27:00.005+01:00

Claire @ Gugaw.....Congratulations! You win the Isabelle purse.....and some other lovely things :)

Thanks so much to everyone that entered the giveaway on the blog & by way of twitter retweets!

2009-07-25T07:26:00.003+01:00

Thanks to Tobyboo for the award :)

The rules...
1. Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.
2. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. (I have taken the liberty to award it to 5 blogs I love, rather than 15 new ones...)
3. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Her Library Adventures - Sophie Isobel Designs
Sophism Press
Gugaw
Here Comes the Sun
Sparrow Salvage

For more lovely blogs, explore the links here <---- and ---> here....although I really need to update my bloglists....

I will leave the giveaway running until midnight tonight, after then any entries will not count......So leave a comment in the post below for entry :)

Time flies.....

2009-07-19T09:22:00.007+01:00

Well, I noticed the other day that it's nearly 2 years (25th July) since I registered on Etsy.....I didn't actually start selling until later, but a milestone nonetheless! And what do milestones call for?? Presents! Yes, Lost in the Forest is having a giveaway!!

The Prize: You could be the proud owner of a little purse (pictured) - made from vintage fabric with a beautiful silk dupion lining. Along with other things.....that as yet will remain secret, and may well be matched to the winner because, you know, I like to make it a little personal....I also like to snoop around peoples blogs and what better excuse?

The Rules: Go to my shop.....HERE.....have a look around....tell me what you like.....leave a comment here. Simple! For an extra entry pimp my shop or blog and let me know where! For another entry buy something from my shop and leave a comment to seller saying giveaway or something similar...

The Small Print: Only one comment from each person will be counted so don't try to be sneaky and leave lots of comments! Only one pimp will be counted per person, but don't let that stop you telling everyone.....Only online pimps can be counted - I'm not sure I can vouch that you've told the postman....or that he even cares!

The Closing Date: 25th July 00:00GMT EDIT as of 25th July: Should read 26th July 00.00....Anyway...it ends tonight (Saturday at 12 midnight GMT)

Winner will be announced shortly afterwards.....Good Luck!!

2009-07-14T07:39:00.012+01:00

( everyeskimo - I think I need these! )

As is often the case when one moves house (or indeed constantly for some, myself included) the hunt for treasures, nick knacks and storage solutions to organise and prettify your home with begins (or continues)....Being without bookshelves in the new flat, and getting annoyed with ever growing, teetering towers of books which surround me, I thought I should go on the search for something to store them in. I have visions of stacks of old wooden crates - an old, modern, modular bookshelf that can be re-arranged and moved as required.......

Beverage crate from elizabethwrenvintage Soda Crate from ingenuityondisplay

Whilst browsing I inevitably started looking at things that were not book storage....and fell in love with these floral Atlas mason jars too (northwest vintage treasures) I kind of have a thing about transfers and decals on glass though...it gives it a haunting feel that I love...

Unfortunately, all of this is in America....and I am not. So I guess I will continue to trawl the antique shops, visit the auction house street sale on Thursday and see what I find....not that that is really much of a chore!

sunshine!

2009-07-12T10:18:00.003+01:00

My sister has taken a holiday from work this week, the plan was she jump on a train up to see my parents for a week in Aberdeenshire. The reality was, my mother inconsiderately got swine flu and is therefore quarantined and not allowed to receive visitors! (she is OK by the way, just ill, not dying)

So, my sister was at a loss for things to do and a little annoyed to be stuck in Edinburgh. So we planned a lovely day out, brunch, a walk down the Water of Leith, stopping off at the Modern Art Galleries. We had brunch...then decided it was too nice a day to spend a big chunk of it inside, so went to the beach instead!

We wandered from Musselburgh to Portobello and as I was complaining that Scotland seems most incabable of putting a nice cafe, or pub by or on the beach we found Dalrida, overlooking the beach....

Today, I am back to work as there is no week off for me....There are some exciting things afoot at Lost in the Forest towers, exciting things indeed! Coming soon will be the launch of my home range....keep an eye out here, you will be the first to see!

There is also some distant calls of birds, ruffling of feathers, I find the occasional black, oil like feather laying on the ground and I know something exciting is waiting in the wings (ha. sorry) ....

Hello, hello....can you hear me?

2009-07-05T16:11:00.004+01:00

Sooo, hello! We now have internet access, although my computer is currently on the floor and monitor balanced atop a cardboard box - I really must get a laptop, my desktop is on it's very last legs, is rather slow and would be considered a pensioner in computer terms...I also apparently have no space for it in the new flat. But, hoorah! I have still managed an etsy update! Lots of new things.......

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
lostintheforest.etsy.com

Boxwood

2009-06-25T21:06:00.003+01:00

New purse handmade from vintage Sanderson fabric. I love, love, love selvedges, so thought I'd make a feature of the script text of this. It fastens with a vintage wooden button and olive green velvet ribbon. As featured on Cuteable

Made in the Shade Summertime Hop and other stories

2009-06-25T16:20:00.005+01:00

Made in the Shade went well, thanks to the hardwork that the Made in the Shade gals put in! I was a little more organised than I'd expected to be (due to the moving and illness) so that was quite good! I met lots of lovely people and chatted and looked at and bought some fabulous things, tapped my feet along to the music and generally had a good day...good but long.....around 18 hours start to finish....I was joined by the lovely Claira for most of the day (what a trooper!) and plotted and planned new and exciting things......watch this space!

Anyhoo....the new flat is going fabulously, all of our things were moved by a lovely man and his van called Michal on Monday. I'm currently away from my new abode, house and cat sitting for my sister. It's quite nice to be away from everything for a while, most things are still packed up at the new flat, I have a day off work today, so I actually have nothing to do....I am actually relaxing....whilst doing some online bits and pieces for Lost in the Forest - you can now be a fan our Facebook!..... this evening I will settle down with a takeaway and a film, covered in a furry cat shaped blanket or two!

More regular updates coming soon -BT have finally (after 3 days and numerous phonecalls) agreed with me that we actually do have a BT line in the flat so won't be charging me £120something to reconnect me - so internet will be in new flat by 2nd July!

2009-06-13T10:36:00.003+01:00

Packing is still under way....but we finally move on Monday!! Normal service will resume shortly from the letter A.....or at least the basement flat below the house which the letter A is pointing to!

Please don't forget about the Made in the Shade summertime hop...20th June. Please come along if you can - it will be lots of fun!

staring at an owl through a flowery porthole....

2009-06-07T08:07:00.004+01:00

I am still alive, surrounded by boxes of 'stuff' and empty shelves waiting in eager anticipation for The Move.
I am mostly packed, which proves frustrating when I suddenly want to look at a book or watch a film, thank goodness the internet exists! All that is left to go is daily essentials - this includes fabric mountain, art materials, jewellery making stuff, computer, my toothbrush and coffee.

I am on a bit of a floral kick at the moment...maybe because of the beautiful weather, the vintage furniture fabrics I have been looking at, the big hole left by the disposal of my dried rose collection (I have been ruthless in my packing!) or the fact that my new flat will back onto the fabulous Botanics.....who knows how my mind works!?

All I know is that I want to fill my new flat with peonies, begonias, roses and beautiful floral vintagey things....such as this!

Utter perfection by littlepaperhome on etsy....I want a wall full please. Then I could make a giant chalk drawing of an owl, or something, although it would look as though you were spying on him through many floral portholes....I seriously think that would be the best wall in the world.

Made in the Shade Summer time Hop!

2009-06-01T09:37:00.003+01:00

Well, what a fabulous weekend! Sun shining, relaxing with friends, over priced ice creams (when did a '99' suddenly start costing £2.00...with not even a hint of raspberry sauce in sight!?)

I knew it was going to be a fabulous weekend when I got the email from the Made in the Shade gals saying I can come and play at the Summer Time Hop! There is so much more information at their website....but this one is gonna be big! Indie shopping (of course!), puplic displays of yarn loving, crafty happenings, Flora the tombola, a bake sale, and loads more.... all swinging along to a vintage soundtrack...plus live music! It sounds like the perfect way to spend a Saturday.....Saturday 20th June to be exact!

Be there or be square! See you there!

the wise owl...

2009-05-28T07:48:00.003+01:00

I am up early today and currently in a debate with myself as to whether or not to go to the street sale at the auction house. I really shouldn't even be tempting myself with extra things, which in 2 weeks I will have to move again.....should I??
I have actually never been before, as I only found out about it a couple of weeks ago and was reminded of it yesterday. I am probably picturing it to be much better than it actually is.....but how do I know if I don't go....there could be vintage eiderdowns and beautiful antique linens, unusual tea cups, old wooden crates, ancient dusty taxidermied squirrels drinking tea and eating cake....

I think I'm just going to have to make do with browsing threepotatofour for now......

2009-05-27T09:37:00.003+01:00

My little tale of yesterday doesn't just end with the girls getting the flat/job.....no, no, no.....

I also met up with the fabulous Claira aka The Koru Branch aka Tuileries for a couple of drinks and a bite to eat as well as a natter about crafting, gigs, charity shops, car boot sales......and I probably talked a little too much about my new flat! I'm so glad she waited, as I was near an hour late!

She sells amazing vintage things by the way......

2009-05-27T07:59:00.005+01:00

So. I don't usually dedicate a whole post to my personal day to day life...pretty much because it's usually fairly mundane. But I really think I need to document yesterday, just so I can look back when I'm having a shit day and remember that some times things just work out perfectly.

Some of you may know (I think I have blogged about it) my dislike of my current abode. It was not carefully selected, it was desperately signed up as a last resort....this was all before 'the crunch' - rent was high, people were moving...I live in Edinburgh, well known for it's student population and festival - both of which start to rent flats at a rate of knots around June when we were forced to move last year. Added to the less than ideal flat is the fact that slowly over the past couple of months things are falling apart (the ceiling being the main thing as there is a hole in the roof), getting damp and generally not working. Letting agents notified, nothing gets fixed - or in the case of the ceiling - they spend 3 weeks fixing it, only to find next time it rains that the roof STILL has a hole in so renders the repair job pointless.

Anyway....in a moment of 'I hate this flat and can't stand to be in it a moment longer' last week I started looking at all the rental websites. I found a vague listing for a flat, in a beautiful location (I will just mention that I am currently sat here at 8am with pneumatic drills outside which have been drilling for an hour now as part of the Tram works) it sounded bigger than our current flat.....sounded perfect, but there were no pictures so we had no idea what it was actually like. I was undecided whether to bother even getting the full details...can't really afford to move....where we are is not soo bad...why is it so cheap? It must be horrible.....etc etc....Curiosity got the better of me in the end and I went to enquire and came out having booked a viewing... OK....so I'll get to the point. The flat was beautiful. It has a private patio....leading down to a beautiful mature garden, it has a 2 double rooms so my poor sister doesn't have to live in a tiny room any more..it has a utility room - which is huge and can easily double as dyeing/painting/messy room. It has STORAGE!!! Oh my, how I have missed cupboards...one of the cupboards is actually massive and has a desk and power inside....so we have renamed that Emilys studio. There are big antique mirrors and things all over the place....Perfect for me and my sister to live in perfect harmony! No more clutter, no more papier mache, fabric and jewellery supplies all over the flat, no more cooking in my studio!

We rushed to the letting agents to get a holding deposit in....2 minutes later so did somebody else. They put it to the landlady for a decision.....So, yes, the point.....Yesterday..... I was on the bus to work yesterday morning and received a phonecall asking when we could move....we have to give a months notice on this flat, so a month. She asked if we could possibly move any earlier as this would probably swing in our favour. In a moment of utter madness we said yes. 2 weeks time was fine..... Crazy ladies!! Our mum agreed to lend us the holding deposit and apart from that we would scrape by, and possibly have to scavenge in bins or pick grass and eat that rather than shopping for food.....3 tense hours later we got the news.....YAY!! new flat :D An hour or so later I got another phonecall off my sister, who not only got promoted at work - but they have also moved her to the shop closer to our new flat! Then, a little later, I got confirmation that I would be doing an art residential weekend.....and then heard of another 4 days artist work that I will be doing...and at this point I was grinning, slightly hyper and really rather happy! Just thinking about what if we'd said no to moving sooner because we didn't think we could afford it, not got the flat, and then 2 hours later got better jobs/more work. I'm so glad I'm a little silly and don't think about the whole consequences sometimes!

Images via desire to inspire

blog love

2009-05-25T08:48:00.003+01:00

I have some serious blog love/envy this morning....mandarine such beautiful things, people and places featured....big smiles on my face....

Images: Walter Marin, Gianni Basso & James Merrell all via mandarine

2009-05-24T17:35:00.003+01:00

I hope you are all enjoying the long weekend! Just a quick note to say that I have started adding new bits and pieces into the shop this weekend...I'll carry on updating all week hopefully - although next week is going to be a busy one - 2 new exhibitions to hang at work, etsy meets, private views and looking at flats (I wasn't planning on moving...until I heard about this flat - hopefully it's as nice as it sounds!)...plus all the usual bits to fit in!

Above is Morveren...a locket inspired by tales of mermaids and selkies.

When I sleep I dream of play...

2009-05-23T18:48:00.003+01:00

A fabulous package arrived this morning full of goodies from Alice Rebecca Potter - or sleepdreamplay - I'm totally in love with my owl brooch...and equally so with her balsa wood business cards, personalised with my name & stamped with her details on the back :)
You can see more of her work on her website here...or read more in her blog

Project Facade

2009-05-17T13:15:00.003+01:00

I read about Project Facade in Embroidery magazine quite a while ago and have just stumbled upon it again...I've not seen the website before, it's fascinating

The sun was out this morning, so I took advantage and got some better pictures taken of yesterdays work...they (minus the epaulette one below) will be on etsy soon.

on the shore...

2009-05-16T20:53:00.005+01:00

I had a lovely day today perusing the antique shops and charity shops of Edinburgh....I found a few old treasures, some of which have already been transformed into new treasures and some which have joined the ever increasing pile of beautiful things I'm not quite sure what to do with yet.

A selection of new necklaces & brooches (above) are coming to the shop very soon...I'm quite excited about them....so much so that one....or two might not actually make it! I will replace with something equally fabulous...:) I just have to wait for the sun to stay out for a wee bit so I can take some pictures that don't look so....blurry!

I'm on a bit of a military/nautical/damsel/fair lady kick at the minute....it possibly has something to do with the constant stream of traditional folk songs and sea shanties played in this flat.......

2009-05-15T20:34:00.003+01:00

Lizarietz / masaoms / mothlove /easternsky /ninu / tiinateaspoon / dearbirthday / CassiaBeck / angeew / TeresaDenteBoyd / TheBlackSpotBooks / loveallaround

Some of my favourite things....go look at their gorgeous shops and maybe buy something....for me?

looking for a new home...

2009-05-14T20:59:00.003+01:00

Images from five from the ground/good morrow

Today I have been getting rather excited about packaging materials and presentation....string, ribbon and paper. I think I have come up with a perfect solution for all of my broochy needs.....earrings and necklaces and other things are still, as yet, homeless.

I have also been beavering away with some new designs....more of that to come soon...hopefully hidden inside some beautiful packaging!

extensions

2009-05-11T17:01:00.003+01:00

Apologies for my absence last week - it was my first week of working freelance, and although it wasn't really my first day at all, there was still a lot of learning...it was also a rather busy week with 3 exhibitions being hung! But, this is a new week...and things will be more settled

I'm working on lots of new bits and pieces for the shop....I got lots of new bits of vintage lace and fabric and buttons and ribbon and patches at the weekend, which will be making their way in the direction of etsy pretty soon!

For now, the 50% off sale has been extended - until Wednesday.....plus free shipping if you mention my blog....don't say I'm not nice to you :)

New beginnings.....

2009-05-04T20:53:00.004+01:00

To celebrate new beginnings I'm offering 50% off everything at Lost in the Forest until May 10th. This will be your last chance to buy what is currently listed in the shop, so grab it while you can!

Beltane

2009-05-02T12:25:00.002+01:00

a shadow of myself

2009-04-26T14:27:00.004+01:00

I would say my flat has returned to normal now that my ceiling has been fixed and walls painted, but I'd be lying. It's far from normal. It's a rare thing to be able to see this much carpet, to have cutlery in drawers and a have more than just a vague sense of order. But, it is nice and I think I may (attempt to) keep it like this! There are still the familiar piles of books and newspapers, but I can now navigate the rooms without having to climb over things. Anyway, having painted myself living in vile squalor, akin to Crack Fox in The Mighty Boosh I shall move on.

The eagle eyed among you may have noticed that my little Etsy shop has been unloved for some time now. I'm hoping to rectify that.....soonish. No promises of time scales yet, as I'm sure to break them. All that I was ~~complaining~~ talking about going on and not going on a month ago, is still going on...although not for much longer! I have 1 week left of my internship. It has been fabulous, I have learnt so much. I thoroughly recommend anybody to go and do something you love, even if it seems so ridiculous and scary and means being destitute for a while. At times I can't see how I have coped (thank you Chloe - my sister - whom I live with and who has put food in the fridge and covered the odd bill when I couldn't) but it has been totally worth it....for myself, my confidence, my art, my career......I can quite happily say that I will be continuing to work there on a freelance basis, at least until August, and then we will see what happens next. . And the actual change - the end and the beginning happens on 30th April so celebrating at Beltane .

Well, this post has turned out nothing like I had expected....it was going to be about new work....I guess it was in a way....but more about the polaroids and the ideas I have forming...ho hum, maybe next time.....

step inside and make yourself at home

2009-04-18T15:05:00.003+01:00

I am slightly in love with this.
Bear sleeping bag Found via mermag

I am having a relatively lovely, lazy day. I have been taking it easy, ignoring the things piled up and packed away in anticipation of having the ceiling repaired.....playing on photoshop, reading online magazines, finding new blogs, re-visiting old ones, finding beautiful, amazing things and listening to magical sounds (Fern Knight, Marrissa Nadler (who is playing in Glasgow in a couple of weeks, which I am looking forward to lots.))

south

2009-04-17T09:51:00.003+01:00

blurry

2009-03-19T16:44:00.004Z

The past few weeks seem to have disappeared in a blur. There has been so much going on, yet not all that much at all.

The internship is going well....I am more than half way through this now, which seems ridiculous. 3 months is not a very long time really. I've also been chasing people on what seems like an endless journey of paperwork and protocol, incompetent staff and misunderstandings. These 2 things combined have meant I have upped my search for paid employment....short term, long term.....anything really....shine your shoes guvnor?

I am also battling with creating work...not through any lack of ideas or motivation - more a sense of guilt that I am not spending my time looking for a job, beacuase I need money and need to live. I finally came to realise this week (ok, my dad actually pointed it out to me) that my art is my work, I shouldn't feel guilty about making time for it. It may not actually be making me a great deal of money right now, but without it there is nothing, no progression and no future and I may as well be back working in a mind numbing job that I hate for the rest of my life!

Early tomorrow morning I am disappearing for a few days. A much needed break from every thing that is here....except maybe my sisters who will also be travelling north for our mothers 60th. It will be fabulous to get out of the city, untie myself from the computer, untangle myself from the shit that's going on here and just breathe......

Sometimes Making Something Leads to Nothing

2009-03-01T11:06:00.004Z

I went to see this exhibition a couple of weeks ago...last week? Some time in the not so distant past anyway.
The exhibition takes the title from the Francis Alÿs film which features in the exhibition....it's about transformation. But also persistence and endurance. I was quite amazed that the artist manages to smoke a cigarette pretty much the whole time he is pushing the block of ice through Mexico City.
It also has work by Cornelia Parker (above) Callum Innes, Peter Liversidge, Iran do Espírito Santo and others.
The whole exhibition is witty and quite refreshing....definitely worth a visit.

the ingleby gallery website says things so much better than I ever could on a Sunday morning!

I heart............

2009-02-14T19:32:00.004Z

So, I guess it is the appropriate day for me to be posting these, although really valentines day is a bit crap and to be honest, collecting and needles & thread should happen on every day of the year anyway, so it really makes no difference what the day is.

Anyhoo, I discovered Sophie Isobel yesterday, whilst checking out who 'follows me' on here. I'm so glad I did. Everything she creates is simply perfect. The two above I think were somehow destined for me. Also right now, until 20th all proceeds of sales will go to the Redcross Bush Fire Appeal in Australia, so if you are umming and ahhing then please stop and just go and buy something!

So, Valentines day really means very little to me being of the single persuasion.....it actually meant very little to me when I was part of a couple too.....But, nontheless, I am slightly annoyed that tonight I have been stood up (by my sister who is still ill no less) and so I am not going out to the Bob & Roberta Smith thing, or the gig I really wanted to go to. I do not go out alone, unless I have arranged to meet somebody there.....maybe it's something I should get over?

What are your Pro or Anti-Valentines plans? Mine are sitting here, having a couple o'beers and dreaming of the prints I shall be making tomorrow and listening to The Magnetic Fields

Dress Like an Artist.....apparently

2009-02-13T10:57:00.001Z

So below is the definitive guide to dressing like an artist....by somebody/some people who I really hope were joking. The bold bits are my favourites and the grey my comments.
I will start off by saying that I may have a particular hatred of this before even reading it properly as I despise the words 'arty' and 'artsy' and the latter overused spectacularly in this article.

How to Dress Like an Artist
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Whether you're heading off to art school, and want to fit in, or whether you're already there, and realize you don't, or whether you just want to be different at whatever school you're at...
Take these steps.

Steps

Understand that the world, including your clothing, is a palette to express yourself. Find what makes you feel happy or alive, not what others tell you is fashionable.
Look at your hair. Something has to be different about it. Choppy, bangs? Dreads? Dyed a unique color, or streaks? Shaved head? Mohawk? Teased, big, hair? Extremely short (girls)? Extremely long (guys)? You get the point. You really won't be taken seriously as an artist with a normal hairstyle, shave it all off immediately!
Do you have any piercings? You're not required to, as long as you employ many other methods of stand-out-isms, but it can help. yup, piercings can definitely help you be a better artist.... if you can't bear to put holes in your face then maybe just wear a novelty hat at all times - this will help you stand out, get noticed and therefore make you a better artist. Consider your eyebrow, especially. Or if you want something a little tamer, your cartilage. Be careful about nose rings. They can look trashy on girls instead of artsy. fuck off
Give up shopping at the generic department store, except for small staples like underwear, simple tank tops, and maybe jeans.
Buy the latest and most fashionable pieces you can find at the specialty or thrift stores.
Dress up any shirt or dress with awesome accessories, with a belt added to the natural waist (on girls) really pumps up the artsy. A well tailored trench coat is a good artsy investment. Most of the time you have to look like you don't care about what you're wearing, you just threw something on. It also helps a lot if it fits really well, especially on guys. Artsy guys should never wear ill fitting ruined dress pants or something. If you do wear jeans, make sure they're stylish and they can be ripped and faded. Shoes can be bought here too.
Shop at 'vintage' stores or at tiny exclusive boutiques. This will be much more expensive, but, if you have followed all the above steps, you will already be a rich and famous artist, so won't care about the cost but you can find some truly original things. Perhaps a couple good, classy pieces mixed with other stuff is a good idea.
Try Anthropologie, an artsy specialty clothing store.
Look for jewelry that is interesting and unique, or ties together your look. Look for funky pieces, foreign pieces, expensive well made pieces, intricate wood pieces, and the 80's had a bunch of fascinating stuff.
Stop shaving (if you're a guy), so a bearded lady is a little too much of a 'stand-out-ism' to get you noticed. It won't help. or give the impression you have. maybe draw on a little stubble, that way you can also show off your ace drawing skills as well as looking hot. No artsy guy is hotter than when he has a little facial hair.
Black is a good tool you can use to unify your look, as is white.

Continued (follow the link below)
Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Dress Like an Artist. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

Emilys Guide to dressing like an artist.

1. Find some clothes. Put them on. They will probably be covered in paint, varnish, glue and other un-named substances that you were experimenting with. That doesn't matter.

2. Find more jumpers. Studios are cold. Maybe find some fingerless gloves too. Again, paint coverage doesn't matter.

3. Understand that your trouser leg is a palette on which to mix your paint.

4. When having to leave the studio, and are forced to look a little respectable, find the least paint covered thing you own and wear it.

2009-02-07T21:54:00.002Z

Just a quick post to say that the shop update is on its way.....just with horrible illness, starting new jobs, exhibitions to prepare for it's not happened this week! I will however get round to it in the next day or two as I now don't feel like spending every spare moment dying in my bed. Promise!!

2009-01-31T20:53:00.004Z

Today I went a wandering....down a 'silver thread in a ribbon of green'. I decided I need to explore this city that I have found myself living in. It is quite amazing how it is enclosed by the city, yet feels, at times a million miles away. I shall be wandering that way again I think.

As I was walking, I planned activities for my return home, finishing off the dress I started yesterday, priming some canvas for new paintings, stitching pendants and wrist cuffs whilst watching a film, cooking fabulous food.....But instead, I have come home and done nothing. (I am so tired, and obviously need to wander on a more regular basis!) Ok, so nothing is maybe a little bit of an exaggeration. I have ordered new supplies, (over)cooked a baked potato, and read blogs, followed links, listened to music and generally done things which require little brain power, or tidying up. Now, I shall watch that film, or just fall asleep when the lights are turned off....

....my over optimistic to-do list will have to wait until tomorrow!

chasing daylight from the sky

2009-01-30T10:32:00.004Z

So, as usual I'm probably a little late in mentioning news - but hooray for the saviour of Polaroid! I can now carry on snapping, burning, screwing up, scratching, and generally destroying my film without feeling like I am killing the last of an ancient generation. I have been saving my last few boxes of film.....I didn't want to let go.....but now I don't have to!! Thank you Mr. Florian Kaps.

Read more here @ the Independant

If you go down to the woods today...

2009-01-28T12:29:00.004Z

So I'm doing things a little differently this year. No more bitty updates in the Etsy shop. Instead, whole collections. At the same time. Shocking. So, I'm beavering away ready for next week when I will have an update!

Incidentally, beaver (ignoring references to lady parts) is my new favourite word - did you know, it is also slang for beard. I'm quite fond of beards...

Anyhoo, beards aside (haha, I not have an image of all you men (as there are an awful lot of bearded men who read my blog) sweeping your beards to one side in anticipation of what is about to be said).....here is a sneak preview of what's coming next week. A little bit of a foresty theme, british birdies, eggs and leaves, maybe some mushrooms and moss and feathers. Maybe even some patchwork quilts and a picnic thrown in for good measure....

There may very well be further sneak previews, so please check back soon - or check the shop out next week for newness!

Etsyversary sale!

2009-01-15T23:48:00.004Z

I told you it would be exciting! I've joined up with Indiesmiles and I'm offering 20% off all full priced items in the shop using the code 20SMILES from 16th-31st January! Just enter the code in the message to seller at checkout and wait for a revised invoice, or partial refund if you're impatient and want to pay immediately!

Excitement....coming soon!

2009-01-14T18:14:00.004Z

It's coming up to a year since I started selling on Etsy. Not my real 'Etsyversary' as I was registered as a buyer before a seller. This is also actual time, not counting the 6 months I was without computer and therefore not selling, or making anything to sell as all of my stuff was in a box in a dusty attic somewhere ..... Anyway, a whole year....exciting eh?

It will be! Stay tuned for details of the excitement!

lace and buttons

2009-01-08T16:47:00.005Z

These earrings were featured in the Etsy Victorian inspired Storque article along with some fabulous vintage and victorian inspired pieces.

I am particularly in love with the little doily pouches from forestbound whose etsy shop is here and blog is here

P.S - Keep an eye out for a shop update - I'm awaiting an important delivery, which I am hoping will arrive soon!

home is......

2009-01-06T10:52:00.005Z

I have been thinking a lot about 'home' recently. What does it actually mean, and where is it?

I've moved around a lot, especially in the past year.......maybe more mentally than physically......I am not yet settled into my own nest. I feel like I am in a suspended place between the past and the future....this place doesn't quite exist and it refuses to fit. I'm like a snail who has found a new home in an empty can.

erica browne - city bird

That all sounds a bit dispondant. It isn't. I know these things must happen, and we must go through these periods of change.....we all (hopefully, anyway) find a place where we fit eventually, or I guess make the place we are in fit a bit better, or realise it fitted all along.....or something!

And also, these times make you think....get ideas flying around your head, albeit at 2am when you're trying to sleep in the bed that doesn't feel like yours.

Happy New Year

2009-01-04T16:00:00.005Z

Aikey Brae, Aikey Brae,
Awa we gaed on the Sabbath day
The sichts that I saw nearly turned ma hair grey,
On the day we gaed tae Aikey.
(George Morris)

The decorations have come down (in theory, as we didn't actually have any in the flat), family have once again dispersed across the country and it's back to work for me. I'm working on new designs and new art work....I've seriously let this slide since moving to Edinburgh - tut tut at me.
But, with the new year comes renewed enthusiasm and such....(haha, so much enthusiasm I left this post open in another tab for hours and completely forgot I was writing it!)

Anyhoo, back to usual tomorrow, new things coming to the shop soon! I'll have a better date in mind later......and update in a proper manner when I can concentrate on something!

My present to you

2008-12-12T17:02:00.005Z

It's nearly Christmas!! I am half way through putting up my decorations just now - paper heart and leaf garlands and star shaped lights! There is a cake of the birthday variety in the oven and it smells lovely. So anyway, this festive feeling appears to have put me in a good mood - and from now (well, a little earlier today actually) until 12pm GMT (midday) 19th December 2008 there is free shipping within the UK from my Etsy AND Folksy shops! The 19th is the last day I'm able to post anything that isn't being sent super fast special delivery as I'm travelling 'home' on 20th. So order early!!

Made in the Shade

2008-12-12T16:42:00.002Z

I'm sitting here wondering where the week has gone....it seems like yesterday I was in Glasgow at Made in the Shade! My stall is pictured above - towards the end of the 2nd day, so really not looking its best! It was great fun, a little tiring, but nowhere near as much as I thought it would be on my own!
The Made in the Shade ladies did another fabulous job of organising things and will hopefully be back soon with another great event! Make sure to check their website regularly (or do the RSS thing) to find out about next years events!

Oh, and I did get a little bit of a chance to do some Christmas shopping, and as predicted it was mostly for myself! Shhh!

Oh - P.S Happy Birthday Chloe (little sister)

lines and lines and lines

2008-12-05T08:12:00.005Z

I am a prolific list writer. In fact, right now I am sat in bed, with coffee, surrounded by lists. I like writing lists, I like organising things and I like crossing things off.

My current lists reside on various bits of scrap paper, but 'proper' lists, not just to-do lists are kept in my fabulous hand printed moleskine cahier from the fabulous Champignons on etsy.

Last night I was ignoring my to-do list, as if frequently the case - I am also a prolific procrastinator and time waster - I guess that's why the lists are so important....I find myself day dreaming or going off on a complete tangent and completely forget what I was doing....
So last night, I found the most wonderful dinnerware from Fishs Eddy. Now I can keep my coffee in line whilst sitting in bed writing my lists, or organise my cheese into a list of which should be eaten first! (Brie is obviously top of that list by the way) . It is a little sad that they don't come as dinner plates, but peas would be flying off all over the place and to put a lip on these would be sacrilege , and that's just not good, is it?

Anyway, this discovery took me on a little Google adventure, albeit quite a disappointing one. How fabulous would it be to have stationary cutlery.....you know, a knife that looks like a ruler, things shaped like pens and pencils.....these are all I found.
Ummm....yes.....pen lids with plastic forks on the end. How completely useless.

Apparently....

"These eating tools work in conjunction with your ball point pens, this makes it easier to eat with and handle the food properly without getting it all down your clothes! "

Or just use a real fork.

I chew pen lids. I would stab my mouth. Not fun. I often forget to take a pen with me, or loose them, so this wouldn't really be very handy for impromptu eating either. Ridiculous.

Now, real cutlery shaped like stationary is perfectly acceptable and any cutlery designers reading this should take note (ha!) and make some for me please. I don't want to be resigned to cutting my cheese with a plastic fork taped to a Biro. Thank you.

Folksy Angels Competiton

2008-12-02T15:21:00.004Z

The lovely people at Folksy & Wemake have been running a festive competition 'Folksy Angels' calling for people to make Christmas (or other denomination holiday) decorations from recycled materials. Nothing should be bought. Above is half of my entry. My little houses pale in comparison to the rest of the fabulous decorations entered - there are some fabulous things made from ring pulls, corks and cans - I obviously don't drink enough as all that was in my recycling was cardboard & paper scraps!!

Please go and vote (for me if you like!) right here

It's a UK kind of day on etsy

2008-11-29T19:39:00.004Z

Today, I have been out, out of my warm cosy studio in order to find important supplies which can't be delivered by the postman. I returned this evening to find a UK etsy invasion....and I seem to be somewhat at the forefront!

Firstly, a most wonderful article on UK sellers in the Storque written by the even more wonderful Eloise of HidenSeek.....not forgetting the, umm....help? offered by Mr. Bear. (pictured above) Go read it here. I am in there, hiding in the snow!

Secondly, a treasury I created featuring lots of fabulous UK sellers hit the front page. Which is still available for your viewing pleasure just here....although some things have been replaced as they sold.

Made in the Shade shopping list :)

2008-11-28T20:24:00.003Z

I am taking a short break from frantic glueing and stitching to have a little peruse at some of the exhibitors at next weekends (argh!) Made in the Shade and get Christmas gift ideas. I don't think I will get a chance to have a proper look round, as my little helper has decided to bugger off for a week right at the wrong time! Thank goodness for ye olde interweb!

Made by Mother beautiful textile & paper works.....fabulousness!

Kitty and Dude fine ceramics that laugh at you behind your back....Their bird and wing mugs would look amazing filled with my coffee ;)
Helen Gallogly Textiles & interior accessories....I am seriously in love with these cushions.

Unfortunately these would be gifts for myself, which I do not think is in the Christmas spirit. Bah, humbug!

Now back to work!!

2008-11-20T08:46:00.003Z

Have I told you about Made in the Shade Festive Weekender?? More than likely, but I'm sure you don't mind another reminder!!

Made in the Shade is a fabulous indie market in Glasgow run my some fabulous ladies. This December they have pulled out all the stops ! Over the weekend there will be more than 70 designers showcasing their work - there will be clothes, toys, stationary and loads more!

Go here to see the full list of exhibitors.

On top of the 70 + designers you can also get yourself a fabulous vintage 'do - Ninas Vintage hair parlour will be there - all the way from London town!

And, possibly THE highlight of the whole weekend - The Parsonage will be serenading customers on Saturday!!

Surely all that is reason enough to bypass the high street this festive season!? No? Oh OK....you can also come and say hello to me!! I will be there selling fabulous things on Saturday and Sunday!! Come and say hi - my little helper will not be with me this time around :(

run away

2008-11-19T19:30:00.004Z

I am escaping tomorrow....jumping on a train and going to see my parents. It's the place I end up whenever things get a little overwhelming. I think I'd probably feel much better if I just got the train there, and then came straight back - I love trains, well not the actual train, they're usually too cramped, noisy and filthy but the peace and freedom that comes from travelling is wonderful. Such a beautiful journey too, up the east coast of Scotland.........But yeah, I kinda thought as I was going so far I may as well stay for a few days :) Thankyou Sainsburys and your discount train voucher!!

Today I have been trying to decide what I need to take.....I'm hoping to continue with business as usual, just in a different location. Actually, not business as usual - a more pared down and focused way of working as I can only take a certain amount of 'rubbish' with me! Camera, Holga, things to sew....some fabric, needles, thread - hopefully my mothers sewing machine embroiders, I have emailed myself all required files that may need printing. I still have lots of treasure in my parents loft to be rediscovered, so papers and zips and stuffing and other sundries can stay here....
I'm quite excited :)

2008-11-11T16:46:00.003Z

Well, hello there! I'm feeling so much better today....not so much like the ghost in the clouded mirror anymore...

I have spent the day plotting, planning, list making...and umm twittering - quite addictive, but probably something I will be bored of next week, it probably won't be quite as amusing now I'm no longer in bed with the sickness.

I've been listing, and re-listing on etsy and have also added things to Folksy - again, this maybe a temporary thing, I see the advantage of a UK based marketplace, and UK prices...and it can only grow and improve, but right now I'm not too sure I can be bothered with 2 different shops (gasp!! Did I just admit to my slovenleness??) ....we shall see, time will tell....etc etc.

In other news I feel like having some kind of whirlwind love affair..........maybe I'm listening to the Magnetic Fields too much...is that possible?

aaaachooo

2008-11-07T19:12:00.003Z

Just a quick update....the etsy shop update, and really any work at all has been delayed by the birth of my first (and only) nephew. Both baby Zach and mum weren't too well after the birth, and had to stay in hospital (dad stayed too) so I have been running back and forth between various flats, shops and hospitals, looking after the new family as best I could. Unfortunately, I forgot to take care of myself....so I am currently writing from my sick bed! I'm hoping a few hot toddies, tea and blog reading will nurse me back to health in a day or so (where is a handsome, caring man when you need one??) so I can go and visit my sisters new family now they're well and back at home!

Oh, and get lots of work done too....Lost in the Forest will be appearing at Made in the Shade III - Festive Weekender....I will talk more of that later when I am well!

wet and windy weekend in the shade

2008-10-27T18:53:00.007Z

Well, Made in the Shade has been and gone, and a great time was had by all I think (apart from me feeling sick all afternoon from a dodgy sandwich) - thanks to everybody that showed up and said hi....I'm surprised it was as busy as it was due to the torrential rain that hovered over Glasgow & Edinburgh all weekend, but a bit of rain won't stop die hard shoppers, although it nearly stopped us getting out of the train station on the way home! I found out that it's quite hard to walk through a wall of water and wind!

Also huge thank yous to the Made in the Shade team and everybody else involved in the organising for putting the event on....and letting me be a part of it!! It's the first time Lost in the Forest has been out in public, and it was excellent being among such brilliant designers, in such a wonderful building, with wonderful customers! It is just a shame I didn't get time for much shopping.....although came away with plenty of business cards for future reference :D

I call for less rain next time please!!....this is me arriving home....

just a little wet!

P.S - the etsy shop is closed for re-stocking and things at the moment, but will be back up by the end of the week if all goes to plan!

For now, I have been tagged by Angie of Artangel.....

The rules are -
1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by including links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs.

So random, weird and interesting facts.....oh, interesting was never mentioned? - that's handy as I'm not sure how interesting mine will be!!
1. I will be an auntie in a few days (hopefully anyway - the baby is already a week and a half late!)
2. I work for a bank during the day.....which is something I never mention, but don't mind too much....for the time being anyway!
3. I have an ambition to open a gallery/art/craft space
4. Given a choice I prefer Rose wine.....but will really just drink what you're offering!!
5. I sometimes wish I'd done a history degree rather than an art degree....
6. I forgot how to spell additional today.
7. I'm not tagging anybody, as everybody has already done this - but if you're reading this and feel left out, or want to do it again then let me know!! What do you mean, that's cheating??

2008-10-12T15:42:00.006+01:00

Pendants

I'm having a gentle end to what seems like the longest, shortest, worst, craziest week ever. Lots of glueing and embroidering and listening to fabulous things are being done today. Printing of new fabrics is not. My printer chooses it's times to break rather well. I managed to get a few new designs printed, but will have to investigate further into why it suddenly doesn't want to work today.

new faric, purses and lockets in progress

For any Scottish Sunday Times readers, you may have seen the Made in the Shade feature today...for those who aren't go here to see it. Only 2 weeks to go now....less than actually! It's going to be great fun, so get the date (25th October) in your diary and keep checking the website for updates.

2008-10-02T07:39:00.000+01:00

they stole my mind and stuck it on the wall

2008-09-27T09:59:00.005+01:00

Those who know me will know of my love, slight obsession and collection of wallpaper. Those who know me will also know about my love of Kiki Smiths work. Imagine my delight finding the 2 combined! With trees and owls and moths! Now I know I may be a little bit behind in the whole world of blogs, design and general internetness after my period of absence, so you will forgive my exitedness and possible use of made up words....I'm finding it hard to remember I have no money....looklooklookbuy mesomepleaselook.

Made in the Shade

2008-09-17T19:38:00.004+01:00

Hoorah! Lost in the Forest has been accepted to sell at Made in the Shade a fabulous indie market at the Lighthouse in Glasgow.
25th October - have it tattooed on your brain so you don't miss it....regular reminders will be forthcoming :)

broken face and pretty things

2008-09-07T14:57:00.005+01:00

Today has been such a lovely day. A perfect Sunday, which could possibly only have been bettered with the addition of a walk in the countryside and a nice pint and meal in proper pub with an open fire.

After a fabulous breakfast of coffee and scrambled eggs myself and sister headed out. The morning was spent foraging for treasure at the local car boot sale - where for the first time in weeks I bought something, or maybe a few somethings! Beautiful pieces of vintage lace, fabric, fur, old books about Masonic practices and an Observers book of trees.

Then onto John Lewis where we spent ages looking at yarn and fabric, laughing at hideous patterns and dreaming that we lived inside a Rowan pattern book....although maybe the last one was just me. We bought a few things and then headed to other sisters flat for coffee and food.

The film watching last night did not go entirely to plan, in fact it just didn't go at all. I was trying to be clever (read as I was being lazy and couldn't be bothered to fetch something to stand on) retrieving DVDs from the top shelf, which are rather unhelpfully piled on top of each other. Anyway, I was brutally attacked by a this pile of DVD's falling down on to my face....this included a rather large Hitchcock box set. Ouch!! Today I have a slight black eye and a very sore nose! And I'm not sure I deserve any pity because it was all my own fault! So tonight I will grab a DVD from the safety of the floor where they fell - I daren't pick them up last night for fear of being attacked for a second time - and settle down with the banana cake my sister is currently making and the yarn I bought and cast on the hat I promise I will finish before the year is out.

a few of my favourite things

2008-09-06T19:25:00.002+01:00

I thought it was about time I actually got back to this blogging malarky. And what better way to get back into it than with a song or two? Just a few of my most favourite songs/artists right now....actually I think probably of all time. I'll get back into it properly tomorrow...today has worn me out and I am trying to fight off the beginnings of a cold, so I think I will climb into bed and watch a film.

2008-07-27T15:39:00.002+01:00

So finally I have a room of my own....we moved in 3 weeks ago....it doesn't seem like that long at all, but the rent is due next week, so we must've been...time flies I guess!

We haven't had the best start to our new flat, a broken fridge (now replaced), a broken oven (still waiting for the man to come and fix it - so far he's not been able to find the part, not able to get the part as the shop was closed for holidays (!) and been ill - he is due tomorrow) So, we are still getting everything sorted out, my things from Aberdeen only arrived last week, and a lot of it even now is still in boxes. It was so nice to be reacquainted with my sewing machine, fabric, books.....I'm not a particularly materialistic person, but I have missed my things!
We are also now 'connected' so I can get back to some kind of normality, or something...atleast back to Etsy & Flickr! Although I am still not using my own computer, as at some point in the last few months my monitor has disappeared....my mother mumbled something about Freecycle and a clear out when questioned about it, so it may be a little sporadic!

Today, I am staying indoors, trying to avoid the overbearing heat. I have given up trying to clean, as I was beginning to melt....now I am giving up the internet as I am positioned next to the window, which is not at all pleasant. How I wish I had a quiet shady garden, I'd find a tree a position myself there with the newspaper and some ice cold lemonade...

2008-05-09T17:01:00.003+01:00

Since my last post I've been working pretty much everyday (today is my second day off - the first wasn't really a day off as I had lots of things to sort) I didn't even get to do all the things I had planned the morning of that post. On my way to the art shop I got a phone call asking if I could work that afternoon. But hooray for work - it means I can move out faster than originally planned. I now have the task of trying to find a suitable place to live. I'm not having much luck so far, but it's still early days I guess. Everywhere I've found is either too expensive, or too far from my job....or advertised by people who come across as lunatics! The joys of shared housing!

I've spent the day browsing charity shops, book shops and occasionally stopping for a coffee and newspaper break. My only purchases were 2 dusty books from a second hand book shop which is closing down. One on family psychology the other on morals. They will find their way into some work when I get the space to make some!
I really wish I had the space (and equipment) to make work here. My hands have nothing to do and I feel like I'm wasting time. I am not used to having 'free time'.

My free time this evening will be spent making food for my sister, then going to meet my other sister and others in the pub. Not very productive, but still a pleasant way to 'waste' time!

arrival

2008-05-03T09:14:00.002+01:00

So, I have arrived. I'm still settling in and trying to get used to the idea that I don't have to leave. It's most odd!

I've spent the last few days trying to find some form of paid employment so I don't have to live on my sisters floor forever more. I can assure you that it's not the most comfortable of arrangements! So anyway, I might have almost got a job. As most things I do it's not entirely straight forward. I've done a day there, which I thought was just a one day thing, but have to go back in on Monday to discuss things further. Fingers crossed as it seems like a great place to work. If it does fall through there are still plenty more options.

Today I am taking a break from job hunting, just taking a break in general really - I haven't stopped for weeks with all the packing, moving etc. I'm so tired so today will be time for me. Time for me to catch up on all the things I missed being able to do when I lived out of the city. The simple things...I shall wander down to the art shop, stop off for a coffee somewhere, read the Guardian (this was never to be found in shops at home) browse charity shops for fabulous junk that can be transformed, visit the fabric shop and then return to the flat where I shall play with my new treasure and hopefully get some new things in the shop in the next couple of days.

Simple things I miss about home already - freshly picked salad leaves, my bed, the cat, fresh air (and nice skin - my skin has decided it doesn't like city air any more) , the view from my studio.

all change!

2008-04-24T21:49:00.002+01:00

Well, apologies for my lack of updates and responding to comments! I've been so rushed packing, sorting through and getting rid of all the useless things I've been carrying round with me for years. I think I've moved house 7 times in the past 4 years and I decided it was time to let go of a lot of things. This move really counts as 2, as I am moving, but also my parents are, so the things which I though could remain in their loft can't anymore. So it's all been sorted and thinned down. It's all quite liberating really!

I actually move on Tuesday, so won't be around until after then. It's all coming together now, so I'm a lot more excited than nervous about it now!

See you in Edinburgh :D

avoiding the issue

2008-04-08T15:55:00.005+01:00

Why, when you know there are important things you have to do, do you find anything you possibly can to do to avoid it!? The thing I need to do...??....sort my stuff out and start packing for the move. I've done nothing so far. Well, that's not strictly true. I have realised I won't be able to paint once I leave here, until I find somewhere of my own....so I started some paintings! A large self portrait and also some tiny (3x3 inch) collaged paintings. I have also, this very second, realised I shall also be without sewing machine and piles of fabric. The ability to make a new dress whenever I fancy shall be taken away. Perhaps I should draw up some designs and get started on some new ones immediately?? I still have three weeks to pack after all.

I have also been thinking that I may need to put the etsy shop to rest whilst I stay with my sister. I'm not quite sure how it's going to work out out otherwise. Such a shame as I've really only just got started with it! But without my computer things may get a little difficult. But it would only be temporary....if at all! watch this space I guess!

2008-03-30T14:20:00.004+01:00

See, it is not always doom, gloom here! I made this little pink 'bunny' today for a friend who's recently had a baby. I haven't made anything soft and squishy and cute for ages....I think the last things were a load of faceless dolls at uni...and they definitely weren't cute. Very squishy...but not in a nice way! I actually really enjoyed making something completely different. As you can see from the pictures, he isn't perfect - his face is a bit squished, and the green flowery bit is not in the 'correct' place. In fact he doesn't look much like a bunny either, and nothing at all like my original sketch! But I love him any way.....although not too much as I have to give him away tomorrow. I might just have to make myself one later on!

He (well his head) does bear an uncanny resemblance to Julie Arkell dolls - although completely unintentional. I only noticed when I got buried under a pile of books whilst looking for a card that I've hidden somewhere and the cute Julie Arkell book landed at my feet!

when it rains it pours...

2008-03-28T19:30:00.003Z

Well, actually it snows!.....but really everything seems to have gone wrong at the same time. I shall not go into details, but the past week has not been fun at all! Fingers crossed the rain will stop! I want sunshine and light please!

What with everything going on this week I've hardly got any of work done although I'd planned on doing loads. One thing that went wrong was my computer dying on me - I finally fixed it (it decided to behave after I threatened to throw it out of the window) but this somewhat hindered everything I usually do - I really wasn't aware how much I depend on my computer until it was gone! It's still not back to it's usual self, it's running very slowly, but for now it is OK. And since it has been fixed I've got none of 'my' work done because my parents B&B website needed an overhaul so I thought I'd get that done before my computer completely dies on me! It's pretty much finished now, although my mum now wants a fancy picture gallery too (I wish she'd have told me before I started as it'd have been much easier!) Anyway, if anybody fancies a break in Scotland visit the website ;)
I really do need to start getting myself organised! (do I say this every blog post??) It is finally decided that I will be moving to Edinburgh in a month!!! Argh! I'm moving in with my sister until I can get myself sorted out. In the mean time I'm applying for jobs there, so I will have something to start when I get there. It's pretty nerve racking. I haven't really had to do any moving on my own for a long time, apart from the move home...and then I was coming home, so it really doesn't count!

i need to wake up...

2008-03-25T10:31:00.005Z

The past few days have been really great, and really awful all at the same time. My sister and her fiancé came to visit - I haven't seen them for nearly a year, so that was fabulous. It's a shame we don't see them very often.

On the bad side of things, we've had somebody staying here (my parents run a B&B) who I was not at all comfortable with. Neither was my mother - but we put up with it for the couple of very uncomfortable days he was here. Mainly because they are too nice to say anything and don't like to cause a scene. I've had very little sleep the past few days, I don't think they really realised how much it bothered me, but I obviously take after them, and not wanting to cause a scene have kept mostly quiet. The house is ours again for now, thankfully.

Anyway, with my sister here, and holidays, and snow, and my mums birthday (and lack of sleep) everything has got pushed to one side. Today is a day to organise, and sort myself out.

I return.....

2008-03-19T19:26:00.005Z

Well, I'm back, and being the useless tourist that I am this is the only photo I have of my time spent in Edinburgh - exhibition and all!
The exhibition was at the GRV and went well, there was some really interesting work from artists and philosophers and was followed up by good conversation, good people and good coffee!
Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to visit much else - I had planned a trip to the museum of childhood and a few galleries, but the set-up took a lot longer than anticipated, as it usually does.

I returned to a nice surprise - another Etsy frontpage, thanks to CuriosityKilledthecat full of gorgeous things from UK etsy people. From top left; Lupin, Abibasnal, Seaurchin Supples, Me, swank, hippyofdoom, siansburys, laurafallulah, greygoat, cutedesigns, illustratorjen and KMCdesigns.

Today I have been getting back into the swing of things, and got quite a bit done today after imposing a ban on unnecessary internetting! The ban will continue - as I quite like being productive!! This necklace was inspired by Coraline by Neil Gaiman, which I stole/borrowed from my sister this weekend. She recommended it after seeing my 'Button it' locket and it kept me company on the train ride back home. Go read it - it's good!

I just hope for better weather tomorrow, so I can take better pictures of my productivity and list them all! But not too good, otherwise I can't see what I'm doing in my studio until about 3pm when the sun moves! I really need to get a curtain in there!

2008-03-12T20:29:00.002Z

New in the shop!

Quick post just to say I'm still alive!! I'm busy preparing for my trip to Edinburgh. I'm only going for 4 days, but it's taking a lot of preparation!

Big plans are afoot which I shall hopefully be able to divulge soon !

Etsy Front Page

2008-03-07T19:14:00.004Z

So apparently I was on the front page of Etsy today - and missed it!! Pah! But yay anyway!

I am tired and liable to rant and ramble about silly things...

2008-03-07T16:19:00.005Z

I've been fairly busy the last few days, although it's the kind of busy that seems to show no finished result. I was like this at uni - constanly busy, but people (well other students, the tutors were aware I was working) always commented on the lack of work I had done, or lack of work I had to show. I apologise for being able to look lazy whilst I work, I apologise for appearing to take day long coffee breaks and most importantly I apologise for not churning out shit. I've been thinking about college a lot recently. I suppose it's because I am waiting quite anxiously to hear about my MA (although it is not yet mine). I loved it, I loved the tutors, but the other students...maybe I shouldn't go there! If you've got nothing nice to say and all that.

Anyway....I have lots of ideas whirling around my head, things that don't quite make sense to me yet, but will hopefully transform to fully formed ideas after a little more thought and reading and scribbling and writing.

I'm off to Edinburgh next weekend, my work is going in an exhibition about which aims to ask the age old question - What is Art? run by the Philosophy Society. It should be interesting. I'm exhibiting The Family (book with mouse to give it it's common name!), although I am changing it a little before it gets shown. I've also been volunteered to advise on the hanging of the work, as this is the first exhibition they've put on and at the end of the day are philosophers, so are much better at thinking about things than actually doing them! I can just imagine them in a huge debate about which is the right screw to use or something!
So anyway, three days in the Capital, which means culture, people, excitement, activity! What shall I do....must find out what else is on, as my last visit was spent mostly hungover, well actually mostly drunk and the remainder hungover thus missing a great deal of things. This time shall be different. If I say it with enough conviction, it will become true!

I'm currently listening to Blue Mountain by Michael Hurley - such a beautiful song and such a beautiful, honest voice. Espers have also done a version, which is also good, but not quite as good as Mr. Hurley.

I am going to go and get myself lost in my journals again now. I love working, thinking, imagining when I'm tired - it brings a whole new perspective to things.