Gingham Daisy

Holidays...

2011-04-26T22:57:00.000+08:00

After a whirlwind first term I decided I needed some time out for the school holidays to spend some time with the family and sort out the things that you never seem to get round to. It doesn't sound like much but I managed to refurbish a gorgeous full length mirror and stand that's been sitting in the garage since January and go through and back up all my photo's. In the midst of them I came across this one.

I painted these some time ago as a 40th birthday present for a really good friend of mine. I don't get to see her as much as I used to but seeing this brought back some great memories. I forgot how much I liked them and am now thinking that maybe I need to do some for myself...

maybe next holidays!

Parties...

2011-03-19T10:05:00.003+08:00

When life is so busy that you're having a hard time keeping up, rather than complain, you might as well just add a little more into the mix. February and March seems to be party month for both big kids and little. In raiding my supplies I found some gorgeous little pillows that I had created a while ago. They had been pushed to the back of the studio which was just as well. In trying to come up with a present in a short space of time, they have proved to be a success. All I've had to do is add an applique suitable for the child who's celebrating and ta-da... present!

For the grown ups it's a little bit more time consuming but enjoyable none the less. I love painting foodie plates so I made Julie this platter complete with all her favourites including the chorizo sausage. I hope to see when book club is next at her place.

Redirection...

2011-02-19T11:59:00.003+08:00

To those of you who have emailed me in the past few days about the new look for the Gingham Daisy blog... mmmmmm .... not really sure what was happening with that and it certainly wasn't my doing but it appears to be fixed I think. If not then I suggest deleting your cookies from your temporary files as this seems to have done the job for me.

Now back to creative ventures, here are just a few of the more recent commisions for custom mugs. I may just have to make the pattern a regular design. Now what to call it... Any suggestions???

As for the creatures, they were painted onto a mini mug for a special little girl who loves insects and frogs.

This one here was for a surfie chick who also happens to love Superman, hence the Superman emblem using her initial.

If you like the background, I used the table runner completed at the end of last year in the Adults Creative Group. If you want to have a look at some of the other work the 'grown ups' are getting up to just click on the link to Daisy Art Classes on the right hand side.

Party Bags

2011-02-12T15:33:00.006+08:00

Do 18 year olds still have party bags??? Of course they do. The big question is what to put in the bag.

Answer: The Party Survival Kit

In order to cover most contingencies you need to allow for dehydration, hangover, promiscuity, bad breath, the "OMG, what did I do?" and the "what a great night"!

Thank goodness I am still a decade away from having to think about it for mine...

note - package with round pinks are Jane McGrath Foundation M&M's package with round orange shapes are fizz roll lollies.

2011 Class Details

2011-02-03T08:12:00.002+08:00

Twilight...

2011-01-13T17:09:00.005+08:00

I figure you must reaaaaaallllllyyyyy love the Twilight series when you want it on a personalised mug. Maybe it's so you can be reminded of Edward each time you stop for a cuppa. Almost makes me want to go back and read them all again!
Happy Birthday Katie...

Lil Blue Boo

2011-01-10T15:19:00.002+08:00

Love this blog. It's always a great feeling when you stumble upon another creative soul. Check it out at www.lilblueboo.blogspot.com

Merry Christmas

2010-12-22T11:58:00.003+08:00

Christmas comes around so fast and this one seems to be faster than before. I didn't even get a chance to do my usual round of Christmas marketing before the orders started coming in. These gorgeous plates are for two new additions who will be experiencing their first Christmas. They are in Queensland so I hope they get some floaties too.

Merry Christmas everyone, whether in the rain in Queensland, the snow in the UK or the heat of Perth. I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year and look forward to hitting the ground running in the new year.

Another completed Friendship Basket

2010-11-16T10:32:00.003+08:00

After a successful class last week, learning how to coil our own friendship baskets I am on a roll again. This is one I made for my sister and as Uni is finished for the year and Christmas is drawing near, I thought I'd better get onto the Christmas gift list. I've decided to try and hand make as many as my presents as I can this year and where possible, wrap each of them in their own little basket.

I will endeavour to post photo's of projects as they're completed however don't forget to look at the kids classes and the adult class blogs to see the wonderful projects they are all getting up to in preparation for Christmas.

Handmade

2010-11-03T22:51:00.003+08:00

I love handmade. The joy you get of knowing you have made something especially for someone else but also watching their surprise upon receiving a gift made just for them. For me, it goes a long way to showing someone just how much they mean to you. Here are some of my favourites I'll be working on this Christmas for my Christmas list.

Kids Art Classes - Term 3

2010-09-22T20:50:00.004+08:00

Emily (age 8)

Another wonderful term full of laughter, colour and creations. This is what the Wednesday group decided you would find on their washing line. I love the picture of poor old Ted who is forever being blamed for eating the odd socks...

Holly (age 7)

Friendship Baskets...

2010-08-30T08:01:00.005+08:00

Friends are just one of those things you can never do without. The good ones are there to share the good times, to tell you you're wrong over a glass of wine and to keep filling the glass to celebrate the joys good friends bring to each others lives. This basket for me signifies all of these. Thank you to my wonderful girlfriends who have supported me over the past year - you are all wonderful women!

I'm hoping to make a supply of these available should you have someone special you'd like to say 'Thank you for being a great friend'.

Mini Mugs and Football...

2010-07-16T17:11:00.002+08:00

Winter is the perfect time for little mugs of tea to take the chill off. My kids love a cup of tea on a
cold morning or even a warm milk just before bed. This week I was lucky enough to make a number of mini mugs to be taken to Melbourne. I received a lovely email back which I wanted to share.

"...just a quick note to let you know how well received your mugs were!!! they were the biggest hit - my friends in Melbourne just absolutely loved them. I have just flown back in and had to tell you as they were all so rapt!!!..."

Yay, that's always reassuring.

And speaking of Melbourne, how special do these two look in their Geelong football jumpers. Die hard fans...

Winter Recipe...

2010-06-27T13:23:00.001+08:00

Free digital recipe card generated with Smilebox

What's on these school holidays?

2010-06-23T18:27:00.001+08:00

2010 July School Holidays...

2010-06-18T17:45:00.005+08:00

Looking for something to do these July school holidays. Book the kids into one (or more) or the morning or afternoon workshops at the Daisy Studio. I will be running both a morning and afternoon workshop on Tuesday 6 and 13 and Thursday 8 and 15 undertaking an assortment of projects. If you are interested in joining in, email me at ginghamdaisy@hotmail.com or keep an eye out for details during the next week. Places are limited and fill up quickly so don't miss out!

So Much...So Little

2010-03-13T11:37:00.004+08:00

Do you ever have days, weeks or sometimes months where it seems there is just so much to do and so little time to get it completed? My life at the moment is like watching six different movies and trying to piece them all together. Not that I'm complaining, it's a little bit exciting really.

I started a Bachelor of Contempory Art in Visual Art at Uni nearly a month ago now and although trying to navigate my way round a Mac as opposed to a PC is proving a little longwinded and trying, my full day each week spent making, molding and constructing things is like going back to Kindy for me. It is so much fun. I literally feel my brain is sucking up all of this information we are given and I just want more.

Kids art classes have a couple more weeks to go before winding up for the school holidays (can't believe they are here again already), orders are still coming in and going out again each week and although I still haven't decided on my box packaging, I did find these great little bags that I'm using for small mugs and teacups. Cute aren't they?

The Absolutely Best Ever Never Fail Chocolate Cake

2010-02-10T12:41:00.000+08:00

Make a Smilebox recipe

Summer Kids Workshops

2010-01-21T17:01:00.003+08:00

Just finished a group of five kids classes as part of the 2010 Summer Workshops.

The groups made dreamcatchers, wrap around skirts, appliqued T shirts, potted geraniums and what every girl needs - handbags. As you can see they did a great job!

(For more pictures go to www.busydaisy.blogspot.com)

Tour by 4WD

2010-01-10T11:29:00.000+08:00

I love doing these platters. They take a bit of time and research but as they progress I become really attached to them. This one was to celebrate a 40th birthday where the couple had undertaken a tour of North America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia in their Landrover Defender. The platter will make its way back to London eventually where I hope it gets used repeatedly alongside the many bottles of wine they've bought on their travels.

Holiday Recipe

2010-01-04T12:26:00.000+08:00

Make a Smilebox recipe

Facebook | Gingham Daisy

2010-01-03T11:36:00.001+08:00

One of my goals for 2010 is to become more connected so here it is. My facebook page! Be the first to view new designs and products. Become a friend and share your comments on what you would like to see and don't forget to include photo's of your Gingham Daisy products in use.

Facebook Gingham Daisy

Christmas Orders

2010-01-03T11:19:00.004+08:00

Megacino Cup and Saucer - ButterfliesMegacino Cup and Saucer - Paisley and Dots

Nexus Real Estate - Character Mugs

Thought I'd just quickly post some of the photo's from just a few of the Christmas orders.

Birthday Plate

2009-11-28T15:41:00.004+08:00

Prior to Christmas I finished a new design for a birthday plate. I love it and must now make one for myself. At 41cm diameter, it's the perfect size to fit all those birthday cakes on. This one is very girly so the next project is to come up with both a unisex design and a boys one. That may have to wait until after the New Year though.
For those who asked, I'm planning on introducing the option of giftwrapping in the new year. I'll let you know as soon as I've settled on a style. In the meantime, I'd be grateful to hear your thoughts. I've included a picture of one of the Christmas orders where the mugs were requested in boxes. I plan to change it a little and am working on new labelling but thought I'd give you a sneak preview. Thank you to everyone who placed orders for mugs, plates, teacups and platters this Christmas. It was absolutely hectic with many late nights but wonderful to receive all those fantastic emails letting me know how happy you all were with your items. And if the repeat orders are anything to go by then I guess I'm doing something right.

Keep an eye out in the new year for regular workshops. I plan to start running a weekly workshop undertaking everything including making, baking and creating. If you're interested in taking part please email me with your details and I'll make sure to include you in the mailout as soon as times and days are confirmed.

Thank You Teachers!

2009-11-28T15:08:00.009+08:00

End of year has meant a huge number of teacher's mugs so I wanted to show you just a few...

And I had to do my first ever dog! I couldn't stop laughing while I was painting him. All I kept thinking of was those Ewoks (??!) from Star Wars who run through the forrest. I think that's what they're called. I thought he looked just like them...

Moving Along...

2009-11-15T19:37:00.009+08:00

I haven't added a post in sooooo long. It's not because I'm being lazy, I've just been really busy. There was Halloween... I don't know who had more fun.

Plus I've moved house, started new kids classes, am keeping up with heaps of orders including new mug designs (like the planet one above), doing some market research and putting together more adults workshops. Speaking of workshops, I must show you two of the finished pillowcases Julie completed from my four week 'Pillowcase Workshop'. Didn't she do a fantastic job. Each of the girls did everything from sourcing their own design, sizing and transferring the image, fabric and cotton selection and stitching. They should all be very pleased with themselves. I've already been asked when is the next one so make sure to let me know should you want to take part.

Don't You Love Camping...

2009-10-01T18:02:00.006+08:00

After posting the photo of that fabulous caravan, I had a request for some special 'camping' mugs from my wonderful friend Claire at Hot Possum. All the kids got their own mini mug with a picture of their perfect tent in their favourite colours of course...

I just love these. Grown up mugs simply said Happy Days with the picture of the new camper trailer and a caravan based loosely on the photo of the retro caravan (and in Heather Bailey fabric colours)

And obviously each mug had to have it's own little bit of bunting. It's Claire's fault anyway that I have such a love for the stuff...

HAPPY CAMPING GUYS xxx

Clever Kids

2009-09-27T09:34:00.005+08:00

I just have to show you some of the fantastic artwork the kids in my Thursday art class completed this term. I am so proud of them and needed to share.To have a look at all the artwork click on the Busy Daisy link on the sidebar. They really are worth the look!

Caravans

2009-09-17T20:16:00.003+08:00

Must be that time of year again. The requests for Mum and Dad's mugs complete with the little caravans to signify that time of life when you can whip away for a week here or there are coming in thick and fast. All in time for Christmas. The rush is starting early this year so if you're wanting to place your Christmas orders for personalised Gingham Daisy gifts, might be an idea to get in quick.

Talking of caravans, just saw this fantastic retro one on a blog off another blog. Does that make sense? I was looking through Lily G's blog (see the link at the bottom of my page - http://www.lilygnew.blogspot.com/ ) and came across another link to Beach Vintage http://beachvintage.blogspot.com/ and couldn't resist putting it in. This is my idea of the perfect caravan.

I even love the inside. All those dots and bunting. I could have a great time doing one of these. Now there's an idea...

Travellers Platter...

2009-09-11T18:04:00.010+08:00

It's finished. Can't believe I finished this one before the day of the party. Whether it's wrapped any earlier than five minutes before we're about to leave is another thing but we'll see.

I tried to think of all the things that related to my cousin and her past 50 years. The main thing that came to mind was travel. She's been just about everywhere - Singapore, Hong Kong, England, France, Italy, Holland, Sweden, Las Vegas, Rocky Mountains, New York, Los Angeles and plenty more.

When asking her husband if she had a favourite bottle of wine he said no, as long as it was wet. What was he saying? I asked did she prefer bubbles and again he said no, as long as they were in a nice glass, preferably with alcohol. Okay, so now she sounds like a lush who travels a lot which she definately isn't ... a lush I mean!

Does she like cheese? She has a Dutch background so of course she likes cheese. And she is married to an Italian so the olives, grapes, olive oil and good food are a given. That gave me enough to go on.

And that's where it began...

Another One Bites the Dust

2009-09-07T20:57:00.000+08:00

Don't know what made me think of that line, the song just started to play in my head. You know what that means, I'll be going to sleep tonight with 'dn dn dn...and another bites the dust... and another one ......' Don't you hate it when that happens. I will concentrate on more soothing tunes with the hope that one of them may take it's place.
Maybe something French. Yes that's it. I'll put thought into the next platter I have to put together (for this weekend...geez I'd better get started). Images of the Eiffle Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, New York and Macy's, London with Big Ben, Bali and it's frangipani's and shopping. Doesn't that just evoke thoughts of pure bliss. Throw a glass of wine or three, a sketchpad and someone to carry my luggage ........

Father's Day

2009-09-05T11:51:00.005+08:00

Thanks to everyone who ordered mugs for Father's Day. I had a terrific response and a busy week getting them all completed. I hope everyone loves their special mugs and shows them to anyone coming to visit over the weekend. And to all the Dad's out there...HAPPY FATHER'S DAY...

Monkeying Around

2009-08-31T20:27:00.005+08:00

A friend had a gorgeous little boy three weeks ago and I finally finished his present. The theme for his room is Curious George so I could resist making him his own little 'George' mug. It included his birthdate, weight, time of birth and length. He's very cute (both the monkey and Ethan).

I couldn't stop there though. I'd been thinking of attempting a range of artwork on canvas for a while so this was all I needed for incentive. I think my little monkey turned out ok...

New Look

2009-08-20T21:19:00.001+08:00

Hope you love my new blog background. It's courtesy of www.cutestblogontheblock.com. I love this site and it's free! I've also set up an Etsy Shop so anyone wanting to order can now do so at www.ginghamdaisy.etsy.com.

As for my real live shop, I think it might have to wait a little longer but I am looking at the positive points...
1. More time to increase my sales
2. More time to spend with my girls before Tilli starts Kindy next year
3. More time to get it all together for when the shop does come up...AND IT WILL!

I'm definately one for believing we have a path in life and you have to read the signs. So far they're telling me that my idea for my shop is a good one but the time is still not right. So I will keep moving forward with workshops, classes, painting and getting stock together and then BAM! it'll all fall into place. You just watch this space...

Progress...

2009-08-15T16:08:00.000+08:00

I just love this shop front.

There's so much going on.

I'm in the middle of painting a platter, two name plates, a couple of character mugs and some mini mugs, my brother's asked me to renovate his unit for him while he's working away plus I'm working through the logistics of possible opening a shop. OMG!

I'm dreaming paint, floor finishes, bathrooms, kitchens, shop fitout's and then last night it was Michael Buble with severely bucked teeth singing at a friends birthday concert with people walking around watching with their dogs. I'm not going to delve too deeply into that one. Maybe it's a creative mind going astray or otherwise being overloaded with images. Pretty scary though...
There's a new coat hook been added to the furniture range upon request from Lisa and I finished a custom mug a few weeks back which I must share. The four photo's show the design wrapping it's way around the mug. Obviously the man is a soccer fan with a preference for Manchester United and a particular player called Eric. I find by doing these types of orders I gain a little bit more general knowledge. I can't promise it would ever be usable but it's interesting to have.

The kids art classes started again a few weeks back http://www.busydaisy.blogspot.com/ and Monday is the first in a set of four Adults Classes http://www.daisyartclasses.blogspot.com/. I do work better under pressure! If you click to the blogs I'll add some photo's to both over the next few days (in other words when I have a spare minute or five).

I'm so excited about the prospect of a shop I must show you some of the pictures I've found for my 'mood board'. I love mood boards. If I have one of those uninspiring crappy days I just have to have a look at these and it's like happy tonic. I'll keep you posted on the progress...

2009-06-30T19:24:00.001+08:00

Did my first Daisy party today. My logic is that if I am getting regular orders based on one day per year at the Subiaco Craft Fair then if I can do a couple of these parties every month then I should reach more people. Its' a bit like the branches of a tree. It starts at the base, someone buys something from the range and tells someone else who tells someone and so on.

That's the way I'm thinking anyway. It's all part of the big plan. I really wasn't cut out for marketing though. I find it really difficult trying to push products so I pretty much have to let them speak for themselves.

A good thing about the parties is the feedback you get from people. The girls today like the idea of having a gift wrap or boxed option. I'd not done this before as I try and keep the prices down but some of them say that they hate wrapping so if that is done for them it's a big bonus. It's also good to hear suggestions about other products to include in the range. I am designing a set of hooks to match the hat racks and have just completed my first pattern for a 'birdhouse'.

Over the next few weeks I want to work on putting a couple of kits together for both adults and children based on what I have done in classes. If the sell then I know I'm on the right track, if not then it's on to something else.

Paisley Megacino Cup

2009-06-28T20:16:00.000+08:00

I'm painting painting painting. Not just keeping up with orders but adding new things. I've just completed a new paisley design which I think is my new favourite. It took some time though!

I also have to design a pricelist and order form ready for Tuesday - my first Gingham Daisy party. Must say I'm a bit nervous and somewhat worried that only three people will turn up. I'm sure it will all be okay specially as there'll be cake. You know how women will travel for cake...

I'll finish everything in time for it, orders will be up to date and everything will be organised for the last art class of the term on Tuesday afternoon. Well that's the plan. Oh...and I have to put together a flyer for the next adult class for Term 3 and start filling places for next term's kids classes. And then there's school holidays. Just a little to do then...

Name Plates

2009-06-11T13:35:00.000+08:00

It must be the time for babies. They seem to be popping out everywhere and of course what better gift to give than a Gingham Daisy Name Plate. I know how hard it is after three kids to remember the all important details like their birthdate not to mention, time they were born, weight and length so why not include it on a beautiful plate that then becomes a keepsake but can also set the theme for a new nursery.

In the last couple of weeks I have added a few new designs to the range. I think my favourite is the boats although the dinosaurs are pretty cute too. Come to think of it, I really liked the aeroplanes and every little girl deserves a special cupcake or two. I'd love to hear what you think...

Another Mug!

2009-05-14T13:54:00.000+08:00

Just wanted to add a pic of another mug I completed. I think it's pretty cute. I've never had to draw a dog from a photo before and this one had to be complete with his tin of flyspray which is apparently his favourite toy.

I also made another platter for a 40th Birthday which I think I will add as a regular design.

And have been busy personalising the Triple Fairy Mini Teacup. It was a popular choice for Easter this year along with the eggcups.

Everything seemed to be rolling along nicely when WHAM! I've had to spend the last few weeks trying to source my china as my supplier decided to change from a wholesaler to a retailer. How rude! I am working my way around it though hopefully without having to change the prices too much.

You might notice a couple of additions to my blog over the next few weeks. I'm hoping to include pics of all the items in the Gingham Daisy range along with prices. It should make it much easier for those of you wanting to place orders...

Hackett Playgroup Artwork

2009-03-19T22:24:00.000+09:00

It's finally completed! Late last year I was asked to paint some murals for my playgroup. It was a couple of years ago when I had first thought about the idea to try and make the space look a little more child like but their funds were limited. That all changed though and last year I got the opportunity to look at it again. Funny thing was that I still had all the designs and dimensions drawn up from the first time round. (See there really is something to say about all that hoarding!!!)

Most of it was completed by their Christmas Party in early December but the final pieces had to wait till the kids all went back to school. So in keeping up with orders, running two art classes which has just been increased to three, and trying to complete this project, it took a little longer than I had hoped. Not to mention my trusty little assistant! The photo's really do tell all. At least she was only let loose with the sealer...

Must say, I'm really pleased though. Not so much with the artwork which was great fun but with the way the children now interact. What was a boring box cubby that the kids never played in has become the 'Hackett Cafe' where they play shop and sell all kinds of goodies. The other side is the local petrol station so they can pay for their fuel when filling up their Little Tike cars.

And what was previously this odd looking red thing with a slide down the back, is now Bertie bus complete with children's heads and waving hands hanging out of the windows and two lovely big eyes at the front. It's hard to believe that some artwork has inspired the imagination of so many little people...

Bedhead Find!

2009-02-14T18:34:00.000+09:00

I've been trying to make a bedhead for the bed in the spare room for ages but it is just one of those things that always seems to be moved to the bottom of the 'TO DO' list until last weekend.

I came across a great wooden bed frame sitting on the side of the road. I went and asked at the front door only to find I knew the girl who was throwing it out. There was only one problem with it. Somebody had already taken the side rails. It did not deter me. I managed to fit the end of the frame inside the car and the bedhead was 'fixed' to the roofracks.

Fixed : Securely placed or fastened; settled; established; firm; imovable; unalterable.
Fixed : Stable; non-volatile.

I prefer the second definition myself. But that's a whole other story.
After a few coats of primer and another of a warm white colour, I finally had my finished bedhead. Not bad...

Dippy Daisy...

2009-02-12T19:01:00.000+09:00

I love my talented friends. Yes, I have another one! Stacey makes the best dips - taramousalata, tzatziki, olive tapenade...just to name a few. We were sitting at the beach over the holiday break talking about our ideas for our shops. I had found a website for 'The Little Yellow House' (http://www.thelittleyellowhouse.co.uk/) in Cornwall and was telling Stacey how it was the closest thing I'd found to my idea for my shop that I plan to have one day.
She was telling me how she loves Cornwall and had always wanted to open her shop there. Then we got onto the decor of our stores. This is always very important and can take up hours of discussion. Floors, wall colours, render, paint or paper, shutters, outdoor area, fully enclosed or pergola, plants for sale, products and produce stocked, opening hours, types of coffee, artwork...you name it, we discuss it.

And so during our creative brainstorming we came up with the idea of combining her dips with my platters as a gift idea.

What do you think?

Verge Collection

2009-01-26T16:14:00.000+09:00

I managed to salvage a kitchen island bench from a verge collection complete with a solid granite top. The plinth underneath had some water damage but I am planning on putting it on castors so I can move it around. It had solid timber doors and some really lovely handles that I salvaged as well. I've painted an undercoat on it already and plan to finish it off, add a ornate hand towel rail to either end which I can use for my ribbons to hang on and utilise it in my studio to keep my paper and anything else which needs a spot to live in. I must say I absolutely love it and it is by far my best find yet but it's really really heavy.

Christmas Orders

2009-01-22T07:12:00.000+09:00

Well Christmas has come and gone but I thought I should show you some of the custom plates and mugs that I made this year. It seems having your own personalised mug is becoming popular as I had lots of orders for these.

I've drawn everything from the Australian flag, the English flag, a pint of beer, a Venetian gondola, the Eiffle Tower, a brown leather lounge, surfboards, koalas, perfume bottles and even an old cash register. It certainly makes for interesting drawing.

There was even an order for a character mug where the two girls had to be sitting in a teacup juggling sugar cubes with their legs. Now that was unusual!

And don't forget football teams. I've had to paint everything from a Hawthorn hawk mascot through to the Manchester United emblem. What you probably don't realise is that every image is drawn with a toothpick...actually lots of toothpicks. I go through them pretty quickly. I have to show you the Pepsi Max can though, I was pretty pleased with that.

This one went as far as Switzerland for a birthday present. What do you get the person who jets around the world in first class, has an ever expanding property portfolio and treats herself with Tiffany's jewellery...a personalised mug of course.

This year has seen mugs go as far as not just Switzerland but Queensland, America and Canada.

Towards the end of last year I had an idea for my character mugs. I did up a set of four mugs to use as promotional items. I hope to eventually send them over to Channel 7's Sunrise but at the moment they are a good indication of the likeness of the characature to the person.

Sorry, the photo's are not the best.

Must have been having a bit of a bleery (is that how you spell 'bleery') eyed day!

I had quite a few orders for plates over the last few months. Some were for birthday presents and others were Christmas gifts.

The Australiania ones were gifts for English visitors spending their first Christmas in Australia. Nothing like being reminded of a hot Aussie summer spent in bathers, at the beach or by the pool as opposed to being wrapped up while it is about three degrees outside.

Hope you all had a great Christmas and are sticking to those New Year resolutions...

2008-11-17T10:40:00.000+09:00

BIRTHDAY PRESENTS...

Each individual canvas to create a masterpiece

Okay, okay, I know I'm being terribly inefficient with putting new posts in but the past six weeks or so have been really busy. Back at the beginning of October it was one of my dear friend's birthday (Claire - Hot Possum). So wonderful friends that we are, we decided to give her something, special, unique original and made just for her. My friend Claire (another one) and myself painted a set of three canvases in an aboriginal inspired design but in very Prints Charming colours. We began in the garage during the day but with two 2 1/2 year olds with us it didn't take long for them to find the paint brushes and decide not only did they want to paint pictures too, they also wanted to run around after each other with paintbrushes loaded with orange paint...Not a good start! But after just two nights working from about 7.30 till midnight we came up with our masterpieces.

Masterpiece

We were so worried whether or not she would like them but as they are diplayed on the mantle in her front room/office I think they were a hit. Well that and the fact that we made her cry.

Mission accomplished!

CRAFT FAIR - 2008

Gingham Daisy / Busy Bagz Stall

Then after that it was getting ready for the Subiaco Craft Fair. This year is was held at the University of Western Australia Oak Lawn which was an absolutely beautiful spot.

Perfect Pink...................................Racy Red

I shared a stall this year with another friend 'Sam' who makes these amazing busy bags. I have added a link to her blog if you want to have a look.

All things blue .................................Gorgeous green
We decided to display the stall in colours this year which proved popular with drawing people in.

Gorgeous Blue Number

It wasn't only painted china this year, I also added dresses. My girls got to play supermodels for the morning just so I could get some photo's.

All Brown and Bouncy

I had them try different dresses on with and without leggins, co-ordinating headbands and then getting them to prance around the garden.

Trying to get Tilli to stand still for long enought to take a photo was hard enough but attempting to get her to put down the recorder was almost impossible. I don't think I'd ever make a fashion photographer but even better than that I think I firmly put them off the idea of modelling any time soon...

Supermodels??? Cute though!

There was also the usual array of cushions, painted spoons, mini aprons, oven mitts, bunting and this year we added some very groovy teapot cosies and some very cute pet rocks.

I found a lot of my orders were from repeat customers so that must mean I'm doing something right. This year I even managed to spend some of my hard earned money on me by treating myself to two pairs of shoes. They were a bargain so how could I not have them (isn't that what every girl says). It was a great day although tiring as it was also the turning the clocks forward for daylight saving so we'd missed out on an hour of much needed sleep.

Just a small selection

The craft fair has kept me busy with orders together with the onset of Christmas which is always a pretty hectic time for me. And if that's not enough, Sam and I have also been running Busy Daisy Children's Art Classes on a Thursday afternoon which is bringing out some amazingly talented artists. The kids are between 5 and 10 and have done some incredible work. I am still in the process of putting a blog together to showcase their work so keep watching for the link.

Then there is the printing course I've undertaken this term in order to learn more about creating my own designs. Originally the idea was only for fabric so I could then create the fabric that I would use for the dresses, oven mitts, aprons and whatever else I came up with but now I'm thinking more and more of utilizing the designs on canvas and stationary. We'll just have to wait and see where it takes me........

Blogging

2008-10-13T15:16:00.000+08:00

Was just doing a short blogging browse while waiting for the chocolate muffins to cook and found some fab new blogs. Have added them on the sidebar so make sure you take a look...

Apologies

2008-09-13T10:08:00.000+08:00

I know, I know, I know. I haven't added any new posts yet there's been so much going on. My computer is still in the hands of the computer gods but I am led to believe it is fixed so will pick it up on Monday. As for the creative soul well that's been really busy. I've been running a beginners drawing class. You can look at the photo's at http://www.daisyartclasses.blogspot.com/

And yes there's been more platters. I finished one of for my fantastic friend and have whipped out another few name plates for new babies and birthdays. Not to mention a really cute set of mini mugs.

And and and...finally I've managed to start on my range of children's clothes. I've put together some dresses that will look fab worn on their own through summer with a really cute pair of flip flops or until those warmer days arrive, they can be teamed with jeans, leggings and either a long or short sleeved top underneath. I made a really cute little daisy number for a little 'Hot Possum' 1 year old and my daughter had a birthday party to go to so of course the present had to be a new little dress with a matching headband (pattern courtesy of Heather Bailey). Only problem was she wanted one too. Oh well... it's always easier to make in multiples. I'm still working on some pants to go with them and then of course, I'll need to think about something for the boys...mmmm but I don't have any of those so will have to borrow a friends.

And if all this isn't enough, the Subiaco Craft Fair is coming up on Sunday 26 October at the University of Western Australia (UWA) on the Oak Lawn off Hacket Drive. Will have to have my regular stall there so am busy busy making enough stock for that. I'm requesting loads of people and great weather so please come down and say 'Hi' .

Brent's Platter

2008-08-07T23:39:00.000+08:00

It's been a busy month which goes some way to explaining why I've not put any new posts in. And my computer packing up two days ago doesn't help any but that's another story. I've been busy running a couple of art classes plus the normal array of orders and I also had a friend's birthday platter to finish. Not quite done but nearly.

Speaking of birthday platters, I completed the foodie one for Brent which I believe was quite a hit. I've included a happy snap of him with his plate although I'm told it was quite late in the night (or early morning more appropriately) when the photo was taken.

I'm now busy working on a few designs for a children's clothing range that I hope to offer for sale at the Subiaco Craft Fair in October. I'm also busy looking at possible locations for kid' art classes but will have to see how the next few weeks progress before deciding whether we look at doing this in term 3 or 4. Will keep you posted...

Artwork in Progress...

2008-07-02T20:19:00.000+08:00

Here are photos of all current artistic endeavours

Lucky it's been real painting weather

And I've changed my subtitle, hope its obvious why...

Hand Painted China, Original Artwork, Accessories and Rhyme

My first complete canvas of which I'm quite proud
With my Oma's old doilies, blossoms abound
As she's no longer here I'm sure she'd approve
Though the tear in the canvas made quite a groove...

Snowflake Blossum

Perfect Picnic

Progression of this second painting however is slow
As I visualise just where I want it to go
Not hung in a frame or placed against a wall But how the painting will continue to form

I picture how it will look as I pick up my brush
Though after two hours it doesn't change much
So I add a bit here and remove some there
And plod along till it all becomes clear...

And as I never do only one thing at a time

There's another platter to finish, another design

For a 50th birthday, it's full of good food

Prawns, chillies and olives, limes and a kiwi bird too...

Platter for Brent

Always support your friends

2008-06-22T10:51:00.000+08:00

I've put a link in for a friends blog and also their website - Hot Possum. They do the most fantastic quilt designs. I use this blog to keep my creative momentum going so I find if I write down what I am yet to do...(you know the "TO DO LIST") then it is more likely to get done. I've finished two quilts so far but am only part way through my third so I will endeavour to finish it and post a pic of the completed piece.

The Completed Piece

2008-06-22T10:23:00.000+08:00

Finished and delivered...

This was delivered during the week, just in time for birthday celebrations next week. I hope he likes it! I've included images from all his favourite things such as his football team, the MCG, High School, family, best friends, work, sports, holidays interests and even the family's wine label and vineyard.

I've spent the last hour or so leisurely reading some blogs (this is becoming a great way to get those creative ideas flowing) and have added another couple to my list of links - 'All Things Bright and Beautiful' and 'Absolutely Beautiful Things'.

Am now off to the park with paints and children...

My Place of Tranquililty

2008-06-21T08:45:00.000+08:00

The last few days have been a bit frustrating so yesterday I arrived home to find a new workspace waiting for me thanks to my very special man. Instead of having my computer in an uninspiring corner and having to stand and type, now it sits in a prominent place where I just can't wait to sit and work. And on mornings like this when the sun is streaming in it doesn't get much better.
He has included not only the computer but a refurbished table that I did a while ago, my special chair that I restored and love, the side table that was my first move into trying colour when reinventing furniture, some of the Gingham Daisy cushions on the floor and my paint box of course. If I need a little rest time (as if) I have my favourite white lounge or to sit and read with a cuppa, there's my fab armchair and footstool. I love it, love it, love it!!!

What more could any girl ask for than a man who likes to design and decorate?.................oh, and chocolates...must always have chocolates.

2008-06-15T20:42:00.000+08:00

Winter Days...

It's been quite a productive few weeks since starting this blog. My knowledge of 'blogging' is pretty basic but I'm slowly working through it all. If I can work out how to do it, I'd like to add a slideshow of all the photo's of the character mugs I've done. A bit like a wall of fame for those who've been added to a mug.

As usual, it's not just one order at a time but the usual multitasking.

I'm just finishing two orders - one for a custom platter, the other for three character mugs. I've included a photo of the progress. As soon as the platter is complete I'll add a photo of that too and then it's straight onto another one.

I also thought I'd undertake some painting classes . I've never used acrylics and five weeks after starting I think I'm addicted. This afternoon I've started on my second canvas after finishing the first in a just a couple of weeks.

While I'm including photos of works in progress, here is the start of the new painting. It's a picture I found in one of my magazines which depicts a perfect day out - boat on the water, comfy cushions, picnic basket, umbrella and of course, flowers. Absolute bliss!

The Story So Far...

2008-06-01T13:16:00.000+08:00

Stall at Subiaco Craft Fair

I’m one of those Mum’s who when pregnant with each of my children, wanted to choose a name that was uniquely theirs. It didn’t have to be unusual because although I loved the really original names like Jayzen or Azlinta, their Dad liked the ‘normal’ English names like Rupert and Elizabeth. So we made a compromise, Dad got to pick the name, I got to decide on the spelling....lucky we had three girls!!!

Tilli, Loulou & Georjia

One of my best friends said at the time, “Oh no, I’m not going to be able to buy them anything with their names on” – no colourful plastic mugs, no mass printed stickers, no personalised notebooks and no personalised ceramic pigs. I love her to bits but what a shame!

Giant Teacup ... Design - Spots

And so Gingham Daisy started. Each of my children have their own mugs and bowls that they use everyday. Even my one year old has her own china bowl that she sits at the table with for dinner (under complete supervision of course as I’m sure she’d love to use it as a frisbee). And every time I come up with a new idea I try it out on them first.

Bride & Groom Mugs

This is my fourth year of Gingham Daisy and what started as just hand painted mugs has now grown to include plates, bowls, platters, name plaques, birth plates and mini teacups.

Small Mugs ... Design - Spots

All the painted china I market under Gingham Daisy. Furniture is labelled "Poppy Grahams" because most of it is made by my stepdad. No one piece is ever the same so I've elaborated on the label and put 'Unique Furniture Pieces'. The kitchen stuff is all under the title "3 Little Girls" label as they are all my helpers and models and the soft furnishings and eventually the clothing range will be called "Tilli Lala's".

People buy them as gifts for birthdays (great for all the school friends), Christenings, Holy Communions, Retirement, Christmas (especially for teachers) or just to say thankyou. I have some old stock of items which I no longer make and sometimes I might team it with one of the new items into a gift pack. And then there are the items that are always asked for or something I just get into my head that must be made.

Name Plate ... Design - Truck

Mini Wooden Spoons

I've put these into a range of accessories such as cards, children’s pillows, tablecloths, bunting (the little rows of flags that can be hung in kid’s bedrooms or at party’s), hat racks and toy box cubes. If something is not working or just taking too long to do, it's time to swap it for something else. Some of the newer items I'm trying are small painted wooden spoons (perfect for little hands) and premixed biscuit ingredients. At the moment there is only one range for the biscuit ingredients but I am constantly working at adding another couple to it. There are also mini aprons and mini oven mitts. Just what every little cook needs.

Mini Oven Mitts

Each item has its own label. One side is a care label while the other is a short poem about the piece. It might be about fairies on a teacup or a recipe on a wooden spoon. All the cards also have their own poem inside and if these are not quite right then I can write one to suit.

Personalised Name Cards

Like this one that is for the 'Dad's Mug'. It's a poem I'm sure every woman can relate to...

Dad

I love the way you can lay on the lounge
And sideways watch the TV
I love that you teach me about cricket
And football and motor car racing
I love the way you let me play
With toys beneath your feet
And you never worry about the
mess I make
Or the food I leave on your seat
I’m giving you this special mug
For all of your hot drinks
And just so I can watch you when
You leave it on the sink...

You should read the one for the bride and groom mugs!

Hat Rack

Gingham is timeless and when used together with patterns, spots, flowers or stripes it becomes really fun. As things progress I hope to add handpainted furniture incorporating funky fabrics and a range of childrens clothes to the list of products available. The biggest challenge is fitting all the pieces I'd like to make into those which are physically possible within the time constraints issued by 3 demanding little girls.

I really hope you enjoy the products as much as I’ve enjoyed coming up with the ideas and making them a reality...For a copy of my pricelist with more photos please email me at ginghamdaisy@hotmail.com