Mmmm looks delicious

The cake for my wedding (way back in 2007) was made by my very talented and beautiful cousin, Natanya. It looked amazing and was really delicious too!

Our wedding cake

Nat recently had a baby boy and I thought it would be quite fitting to give them a "nappy cake". If you have not heard of a nappy cake, it's basically a whole bunch of nappies bundled together to form a shape resembling a cake - such a clever idea.

Alas, since she lives in Sydney, I couldn't use my usual supplier who only delivers to areas within Melbourne. So, I tried to make one myself instead. I don't think Nat reads my blog so I think it's safe to post about it!

"Nappy cake"

A new find

I discovered a new online mag today via Abigail's blog called "Antler". It is a free mag featuring fashion, art and design . This month's issue has an interview with Abigail, a jewellery designer based in Glasgow who makes some of the most exquisite pieces I have seen but alas, cannot afford just yet [Edit: Previously I wrote that the magazine featured an interview with Abigail's beautiful jewellery which would be interesting if her jewellery could speak...so note to self: do not write a post in a rush!] . Check it out!

Tonight my family and I are going to watch Cirque Du Soleil. I am very excited - I have seen them twice before and loved every minute. I hope everyone has a fun filled weekend!

Is that a lotus root you're wearing?

There are many things I find challenging at my work but one saving grace is the building's foyer which is used as an art gallery. The most recent exhibition was of art and craft created by friends and family of the company.

The work by Misako Sakai was my favourite:

Collection of jewellery by Misako Sakai

Lotus Necklace by Misako Sakai

Lotus Root earrings and ring by Misako Sakai

In her words:

"Renkon, or Lotus Roots are delicious to eat and so attractive on a plate. When slices of root dry, they shrivel up into interesting shapes, which I used as inspiration for this jewellery".

I think it is amazing what people use as inspiration!

My To Do List

I finished one thing on my To Do list for this weekend, a pencil case which showcases my newly acquired zipper skills. I bought the cute fabric used for the project from the Stitches and Craft show but I'm sure it would have preferred a better home, if the fabric could think and feel that is. Alas, it would have to make do with me and my basic sewing skills.

Showing off my new zipper skills

On a different note, you might be able to make out from the scrawling on my To Do list that there is an item to remind myself to shop on Etsy. You know, in case I forgot.

I cannot decide on anything from this gorgeous Mu-Yin jewellery store as a going away present for my sister:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5200824

I am thinking perhaps the two peas in a pod necklace. Just gorgeous.

Experimenting

I love holidays where I have the mental space to just work on some craft projects. Stay tuned for more installments during the Easter break!

Experiment 1: Iron on transfers

Bird Tank prototype

The good - it's super easy and cheap and great for prototyping.
The bad - the transfer material is actually quite thick and opaque. So not so good on white.
The ugly - none. Well maybe one - it does look kinda cheap.

Experiment 2: Leather obi belt

Leather Obi belt - Sheep's leather with Japanese patterned fabric

The good - I'm getting there with sewing leather, it's definitely wearable and I've got plenty of ideas of how to improve for my next attempt.
The bad - The sewing isn't really consistent and the leather didn't really glide over the machine
The ugly - Luckily the inside of it can't be seen when wearing it. ;)

Leather belt close up, but not too close ;)

If you want to have a go at sewing leather, it can be done with your normal machine if the leather is soft enough. I also found this guide helpful. If you have any tips on sewing leather, I would love to hear it!

Just what I wanted...

Buttons and knick knacks

Fabric buttons close up

I received an awesome package in the mail from Louise yesterday morning and I was completely stoked. It was more than what I expected (I actually wasn't quite sure what to expect from my first swap and all). I received gorgeous fabric buttons, material and other bits and bobs for craft projects. Thanks Louise!

My First Swap

It's my first craft swap so I'm nervous and excited. What if my recipient doesn't like what I have made them and feels ripped off?? Or WORSE, what if I don't like what I receive? (note sarcasm in preceding sentence).

I'm sending my items today in time for Easter, as instructed.