The Fantail

Photohop and illustrator

2012-01-24T08:20:00.001+13:00

I am starting some serious Photoshop and Illustrator learning this week. I want to share my discoveries as a beginner in these complex and exciting programs.

I am going to add my posts to a blog over on Wordpress as a way of learning that at the same time too. When it is all set up I will post the linky here! I am deciding whether the free simple blog is the way to go for now or whether I should jump in and pay for the easier route!

Celebrating Success

2012-01-20T07:44:00.001+13:00

Last Friday, the 13th in fact I helped out at a Twitter pawty. It was to help a Twitter pal find his way back from the depths of despair - and it has worked. Please read about the results of the pawty here and for back story, read this earlier post.

AND!! Wait there's more. If you truly want to celebrate our success do two things. Buy a raffle ticket for our handbag draw (see post below AAAANNNNDDD read this.... If you don't cry happy tears you have a heart of stone, no really.......

SOPA - Adding my Voice of Concern - Whskr

2012-01-18T20:25:00.000+13:00

#Alohapawty Raffle - Dooney & Burke DeLuxe Handbag - Whskr Reports

2012-01-11T16:52:00.000+13:00

Fancy winning a superb quality handbag/(purse) donated to help with our #alohapawty fundraiser? It's a lightly used superb quality Dooney & Bourke Bucket Bag and looks awesome. I have already got my first bunch of tickets, and hope to get some more early next week!

Our stunning prize for the raffle winner.

Christmas Pleasures with Whskr and @NellieJean

2011-12-30T13:04:00.002+13:00

I am modelling the shawlette knitted for me by @NellieJean a twitter pal with whom I am doing a shawl and yarn exchange. Family events set my gift back some weeks but I have a super cool parcel ready for my wonderful knitting pal in Scotland.

For now, enjoy my fabulous beaded pink shawlette that has had admiring looks whenever it has been worn outside!

Craft2.0 Trunk Show - Perfect Last Minute Shopping

2011-12-23T10:21:00.002+13:00

TODAY Friday 23rd December - Paramount Cinema Foyer, Courtney Place, Wellington

From 6pm this evening the Paramount Cinema, Courtney Place is hosting the Craft2.0 handmade Trunk Show which is packed with useful, helpful and totally essential Last Minute Gifts for those people you love, the people you forgot, and for you!

Jewellery, plushies, badges & buttons, superb prints & art work, and a heap more fun and fabulous treasures - IT'S SO WORTH IT.

Last Shipping for Christmas!

2011-12-21T09:33:00.001+13:00

Last shipping date via Courier option ONLY here in New Zealand is tomorrow the 22nd of December 2011. Cost will be $8NZ for courier. Any sales between now and 1st of January 2011 will see a portion of the sales donated to Brady (see right hand side chip-in). His Mum loves him and he has a heart condition. For every $30 I earn $10 will go to little Brady.

My Felt shop for New Zealand sales is here.

My Etsy shop is here.

New Listings on Felt for Cat Lovers

2011-12-20T12:31:00.002+13:00

I have two lovely new cats that are up for sale on Felt. They are $28.00 plus courier post of $8.00 to ensure Christmas arrival.

Floral Kitty is a combination of pretty florals and a shimmery cream fabric.

The second kitty is super cute and covered in hearts. The lovely shimmery fabric works with this cat so well!

Profile view showing the cats construction as three sewn and stuffed elements and you can see the whiskers too!

Craft2.0 Suitcase Shows 16th and 23rd of December

2011-12-12T09:04:00.001+13:00

COMING THIS FRIDAY Courtney Place, Wellington

Whskr's Radi(kal) cats in hand dyed fabric

and a Tall Cat in sparkle fabric

I will be selling my art doll brooches, some larger dolls and cute little scrabble tile pendants at the fun Trunk Show at Craft2.0. What's a trunk show? Well, you takes your suitcase (or trunk) set it up on the table, open the lid and starts to sell! There are some wonderful sellers coming, artists, crafters, jewellery folk and it is perfect for last minute Christmas shopping.

Please join us.

CrochetKitten.com: Book Review: Learn to Crochet With Glass

2011-12-09T09:04:00.001+13:00

One of my favourite crochet sites (OK my total favourite site for crochet) is Crochet Kitten. She created the famous Zodiac Crochet Kittens, my Mum has a Gemini set, as well as a series of other patterns on Ravelry.

She has reviewed a fascinating book for crochet creatives, check it out here :- CrochetKitten.com: Book Review: Learn to Crochet With Glass

Meet Plucky Sheilas at Craft Country

2011-12-09T07:07:00.001+13:00

Meet Plucky Sheilas
Originally uploaded by Craft_Country.

Justine is keen to remind us that crafting can reach and teach us about the past, especially us women. Her heroines are New Zealanders of spirit who we should honour and admire

Via Flickr:
Justine Fletcher’s craft celebrates the inspiring life stories of famous women, with New Zealand suffragists featuring prominently in her work.

She's inspired by famous women who made a difference; Kate Sheppard, Katherine Mansfield, Elizabeth McCombs, Ethel Benjamin and others - all Plucky Sheilas.

PRODUCT RANGE
Plucky Sheilas makes sew-on patches, pendants, brooches, rings, hair-clips and ties and much more.

GIFT IDEAS
Plucky Sheilas has prefect Christmas shopping solutions for strong women who want to make a statement.

BUY FROM PLUCKY SHEILAS
Plucky Sheilas is one of 30 indie crafters and designers selling at the Craft Country Fair: Saturday 10 December 2011 from 10am-3pm at the Greytown Town Hall.

Craft Country Fair

2011-12-06T14:20:00.001+13:00

Craft Country Fair, a set by Craft_Country on Flickr.

This Saturday I will be one of the quality crafters attending the CraftCountry Fair over the hill in Greytown. It was a lovely fair last year and I have seen the sellers for 2011 and there will be plenty of tempting shopping to do!

Via Flickr:
The 2nd annual Craft Country Fair will be held in the Greytown Town Hall on Saturday, 10 December 2011.

Join us from 10am-3pm for quality Christmas shopping from some of New Zealand's best indie crafters and designers.

Crafty Week-End Business

2011-12-03T08:01:00.001+13:00

Whskr is at a craft fair this week-end! The run up to Christmas is the busiest time of the year for crafters, all of us working hard to provide quality gifts for you all. See you at the fair!!

Whskr Quilt Jewellery - the Latest Pendant

2011-11-28T08:08:00.000+13:00

Quilt collage necklace

I was delighted to sell one of my new quilt pendants over the Thanksgiving holiday, and I thought it would be nice to feature the others over the next couple of days. The pendants are all made with an high quality glass rectangle, and a good quality hanging bail. and chain.

This cute, softly coloured log cabin quilt pendant has added text that reminded me of the recent film "Eat, Pray, Love" only I added 'Sew Quilt, Love" as a tribute to the fabric addiction quilters 'suffer' from and their willingness to make gifts of love that with warm the body and soul of their family and friends.!!

As usual with Whskr pendants the back is as superb as the front! This saying is familiar to quilters worldwide "Measure twice, cut once" because we have all had times when we didn't and........... %-)

Black Friday Reminder from Whskr on Etsy

2011-11-23T07:31:00.004+13:00

For most international visitors to Whskr the last shipping date is 2nd December (9th of December in Australia).

Don't forget to use your Whskr 25% off coupon if you are a monthly newsletter subscriber! Not a member? Check out the Mail Chimp form on the left! Enjoy browsing the Whskr art dolls and pendants.

Whskr Doll Pawty Prize for JinglePawty

Week-end Shopping with Whskr

2011-11-20T23:32:00.002+13:00

I am sprinkling a little fairy dust around today and adding a couple of nice sellers on my blog.

First, meet Om-Shanti Naturals who writes "I test all of my products thoroughly -- on myself -- before I put anything new into the shop. 'Natural' is where I start, but I continue with research into each ingredient's safety." She does scrubs, lip balms, body washes and all things clean and lovely smelling. her jaunty web site almost has the smells drifting off the page of her web site!

Valerie Clifton's Artisan Originals is on Facebook and Etsy. She makes Hand beaded and artisan metal jewellery. I particularly love her beading, beading is something I love and greatly admire when others do it. These earrings are vibrant and beautifully coloured.

Custom Pet Pendants- Personalise Your Pet!

2011-11-18T15:00:00.000+13:00

Whskr Pet Pendants give you the chance to celebrate or memorialise your pet in a precious crystal glass necklace. Christmas is getting close, so I want to update you on my last order dates for Pet Pendants.

Sample Montage

@WildAboutBirds, @LaddieCat, @BusyButtons,

@Gromekcat and @Cheriswan's sister's puggy

Check the list below for shipping dates, remembering that this is 3 days earlier than the official last posting date to allow for the resin back to cure and dry. There is a special discount coupon attached to the Whskr newsletter (see left), and a second coupon on the Pumpkinpuddy blog in the Shop Anipals! section. Pet Pendants can be ordered here (Etsy) and here (Felt, NZ) with details on how to order.

Pepi Price Rainbow Bridge Guardian

Last Airmail Shipping Date for Pet Pendants :-

South Pacific, East Asia, North America U.K. and Europe :- 29th November

Australia :- 5th December

New Zealand :- Courier Post 19th December Standard post 16th December

Thursday Whskr Shopping Ideas

2011-11-17T07:14:00.000+13:00

Today I am featuring not only one of my own items but a lovely piece from Tilley's Jewels on Etsy.

Firstly, my item of the day - a sunshine art doll brooch, in bright cheerful colours and ready to cheer up a chilly northern winter or a southern hemisphere spring!

Now I'd like you to check out Tilly's Jewels on Etsy. Funky small stuff that sparkles! Her bracelets are real statement pieces and will get you comments on your amazing wearable art!

Whskr Shops on Wednesday

2011-11-16T10:05:00.003+13:00

I just have to share the work of one of my good Twitter friends who has a shop on Etsy @HyperSpaceHippo her wire wrapped rings are amazing and her new lampwork beaded jewellery is quality one of a kind stuff; this ring features a faceted blue glass bead, and was wire wrapped by hand with shiny silver-plated copper wire. Oh and if you think wire wrapping is easy - think again - work of this quality takes skill!

Today's Whskr featured item is a spectacular doll with a unique twist. Paying tribute to times gone by and the handwork done by our grandmothers as they say by the fire listening to the radio or a phonograph, this doll is dressed in an hand embroidered doily embellished with heat set crystals and sequins.

Whskr's First Newsletter and Shopping Tips

2011-11-15T08:56:00.000+13:00

The first Whskr newsletter went out at the week-end! I was thrilled to get it up and running and I hope everyone likes it. If you are not a member of the list yet check it out here. List members (see left) get special discounts and a free gift for the November issue.

Shopping tips

I have a lot of crafters who I want to feature in the run up to Christmas. I aim to share some fun pretty stuff so you can get some shopping ideas, so, each day I hope to feature nice stuff. I am starting with Cozy who makes warm and cuddly winter wear. Sweet and simple, colourful and warm. Perfect!

Pumpkinpuddy Commentathon

2011-11-13T20:22:00.000+13:00

We crafty types do our best to support our own local and international communities. We do it by donating to chip-ins and other fundraisers. One of the more special ways of fundraising in the blogosphere is the commenathon. My friend Pumpkinpuddy has one running today and I would appreciate you heading over to say hello here.

If you are not familiar with the idea; visitors are asked to comment on a blog post (not to donate money) and each comment counts as an little donation of money, say, 50c. The success of the commentathon depends on the blog post getting the maximum number of comments. See?!

Shopping for Animals - Christmas

2011-11-11T20:03:00.001+13:00

It is not always easy to find good quality pet products but a friend from twitter - Pumpkinpuddy - has assembled a small but comprehensive list of animal gifts that I guarantee will include something you can give. I have included a special Pumpkinpuddy only coupon code especially for the page.

SHOP ANIPAL includes personalised cards, jewellery, calendars and a host of other delights that will ensure your Christmas gift is received with a smile! Check it out!

I am featured in a Collection on Artfire!

2011-11-08T07:06:00.001+13:00

Friends on Artfire -a Blog Blitz!

2011-11-01T10:41:00.003+13:00

I am happy to be joining in the latest Blog Blitz with a host of Artfire friends. I snapped a new Artfire doll pin for you, one that incorporates a wild new idea! I would also like to introduce you to a fellow crafter......

Meet ArtFire seller Just Imagine who has a really pretty Artfire shop here with lovely handmade headbands and doggy collars. Her work is so different from mine and quite amazing - I love discovering people who do totally different art forms - I can only admire their skill. Just Imagine has her blog also runs her blog here for you to take peep at! Enjoy

Bookmarks

2011-10-27T11:19:00.000+13:00

Working on some sweet and inexpensive book marks for the Craft Country fair in Greytown in December!

National Feral Cat Day USA

2011-10-17T09:50:00.002+13:00

As a crafter I know that we make an impact when we act as part of our community, as well as through our work. With our work we bring smiles, joy and happiness to others; with other actions we change the world.

One such action is taking place in the USA National Feral Cat Day. Here individuals and groups spread the word of compassion, Trap-Neuter-Return for colony control, and bring the subject to wider attention and understanding. To find out more about how initiatives like this change perceptions in others here. This is inspiring for any of us aiming to make changes in the world wherever we are.

THE WINNER IS..............

2011-10-10T09:40:00.000+13:00

WallasEKat draws the WINNER and the Second Prize on his visit to New Zealand. Thanks to Wallas and his mum we were able to bring in an impartial Twitter pal to make the draw - please enjoy!

The Lion King! - A Whskr Movie

2011-09-16T12:53:00.001+12:00

* STOP PRESS *

Raffle closes 8th October!

OK guys a short video of the King of the Beasts as he strides across the deck in New Zealand sunshine! Tickets are $1.50 or 6 for $5.00 and full details are in the post below this one!

Snow Nymph by Whskr

2011-09-08T17:02:00.000+12:00

Snow Nymph - Whskr

Inspired by the sudden snowfalls that whirled through Wellington recently, Snow Nymph is a reflection on the silence that sudden snow brings, how sound is quietened and our spirits can become more reflective as the world seems to fall away and the noise of everyday life diminish.

Snow Nymph Arm - close up

I wanted the figure to be contemplative, thoughtful but still to capture some of the fun and sparkle that snow brings without giving her one definite personality/face which might guide people on the wrong direction.. There is a dusting of shimmer on her limbs, although the pictures don't show it very well, and a gentle twining of leaves, as here in New Zealand the green never entirely goes away due to the temperate climate. The biting cold that lingers in Europe for months does not touch my part of New Zealand very much.

Snow Nymph - Cape and Crystals

The doll is made from soft flannel, it is scattered with tiny sprigs of foliage that pick up the natural theme and around her waist is a piece of beaded bridal lace that makes a perfect 'bodice' of frosty ice. her cape, decorated with crystals and shimmer is a repurposed doily that has been in my stash for many months just waiting for its perfect place around her shoulders.

Post PInehaven Report by Whskr

2011-09-05T20:57:00.000+12:00

Cupid Brooch - Whskr

My box came home considerably lighter from Pinehaven I am glad to say. The crystal necklaces were popular especially those on a quilter/quilting theme, as were the scrabble tile pendants. Sweet and simple won the day.

One of my cupid brooches also sold. These are a new venture into a different doll shape in felt this time, not my current venture into metal. I love the pewter faces and just went with the idea enjoying the fun heart shape. The other two Cupid brooches will be heading for Felt and Etsy this week!

Pinehaven Arts and Crafts Fair with Whskr

2011-09-04T11:04:00.002+12:00

Well, the Pinehaven Arts and Crafts show was certainly humming when we arrived mid afternoon on Saturday. We even managed a cup of coffee and some delicious chocolate cake before we made a few purchases!

Pinehaven Show with Whskr

There is always plenty of room at the fair at Pinehaven, the hall is substantial enough to accommodate paintings, garments and a host of smaller handmade items.

Wall display at Pinehaven (Whskr)

I particularly loved the wood and metal wall pictures seen in this picture. The whole wall shows that the Hutt Valley accommodates a wide variety of artistic skills and many pictures has 'sold' stickers on them - great for the artists and great for Pinehaven School, who take a portion of the sale proceeds.

Central Display Unit (Whskr)

This year some of the highlights were the wonderful raincoats by OTT, and the superb nuno felted scarves draped around the hall. The one things I did not see much of were earrings! I fancied a pair but was limited by my budget so decided on a small watercolour notebook instead with lovely paper and a funky cover.

Whskr Ready for the Pinehaven Exhibition and Show

2011-08-31T08:44:00.001+12:00

Wondrous Strange Snow

Now I am breathing a sigh of relief! All my stuff is ready for Pinehaven Fair, sure I am tinkering BUT it's all ready!

This little figure is one I have just finished and listed on Etsy. He has free shipping at the moment as I am fund raising for a friend in need and 100% of the proceeds from my next sale go to my dear friend Cheri.

Work-in-Progress - Whskr Art Doll

2011-08-29T08:13:00.000+12:00

Snow Nymph - Whskr

I have been busy making dolls and pendants for the Pinehaven Craft Show, and aim to get two large dolls finished. Aim, because I became so absorbed by my Snow Nymph that I may only finish her!

The basic doll was finished some time ago, and I knew I wanted her to be thoughtful, contemplative, but how to interpret this was a struggle. So, I placed her on one side so I could think, and moved on to my smaller dolls again.

When I returned, Wellington had been swathed in snow, snow brings silence, snow allows us to think so I have begun to decorate her along these lines with crystals, sparkling beads and some lovely glass leaves. I am so pleased with her I just kept going and lost track of time.

A picture of the finished doll follows!

#ATPawty - Prizes, Fun and Interaction with the Blog Paws Event - Whskr

2011-08-25T08:29:00.001+12:00

Whskr Makes the Front Page!

2011-08-19T09:29:00.001+12:00

Whskr on the Felt front page

I am delighted to let you know that at the moment a Whskr art doll in on the front page at Felt!

Felt is a New Zealand site with a huge range of handmade gifts and with Christmas not too far away, it is the perfect place to start doing some shopping! My shop is here and is currently being restocked after a period of study that left me little time to create new things. Now I am preparing for the fair at Pinehaven and gearing up to enjoy a new period of creativity!

My thanks to Squibble for the screenshot!

Whskr Snow Inspiration

2011-08-16T07:49:00.003+12:00

Wellington has been having the most startling weather! While it is winter here, for us to have real snow is highly unusual. It has been causing excitement and consternation in equal measure. Whskr's Snowmageddon album.

Upper Hutt 'The File'

Snow is settling on road and pavements and, unfortunately is combining with sleet to make things a bit icy in places. The path below is quite a steep ramp and, unfortunately, the car attempting to drive up it failed and slid back causing some damage.

Stokes Valley

Minor bumps on the road are becoming common as cars slide across the roads in the dangerous slush. DH had to drive home from the station in these conditions and did so extremely carefully!

Stokes Valley Road

Whskr Has Fun With The Sorting Hat

2011-08-15T09:30:00.002+12:00

Work has been busy, getting ready for the local Pinehaven Fair which is a little bit earlier this year.

For relaxation, I had a bit of fun getting myself sorted into a Hogwarts House. While this is not the official Pottermoresite house sorting it is rathera fun assessment to take. Check out which Hogwarts House you are in here.

The sorting hat says that I belong in Hufflepuff!

Said Hufflepuff, "I'll teach the lot, and treat them just the same."

Hufflepuff students are friendly, fair-minded, modest, and hard-working. A well-known member was Cedric Diggory, who represented Hogwarts in the most recent Triwizard Tournament.

Roxy Cinema, Wellington - Wednesday Inspiration

2011-08-11T11:13:00.000+12:00

As my Wednesday Inspiration I have chosen the Roxy Cinema out in Miramar which a suburb of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a magical place with period fittings and curtains.......

A Whskr Handmade Heads to Moki Fogg's Benefit Auction

2011-08-05T10:33:00.001+12:00

I am donating this handmade pendant to the auction that is helping Moki Fogg in his fight against cerebellar hypoplasia. If you are on Facebook you can access the auction here. If the link doesn't work type in "August 4th Auction For Moki's Medical Expenses" and you should find it.

Whskr Pendant front

The auction has some rather nice donated jewellery, cards, and cat themes treat packs. It is well worth a look as the proceeds fund Moki's ongoing health care. My pendant is 2.5 x 5 cms or 1 x 2 inches, handmade and collaged with special inspirational word covered by the resin back. There is a metal ball chain too.

Pendant back showing collage & resin

You can find Facebook pictures of Moki's therapy regimen here. He is an astonishing little cat and is coming through his treatment very well.

New Art Doll from Whskr

2011-08-01T12:39:00.002+12:00

The latest Whskr Doll is up on Etsy! Roxy, the Prisoner of Love a totally dramatic doll, swathed in chains, dangling with padlock and chain. She is amazing and fun. Her flapper button face is sharp and cute, and her body is embellished with stamping and metal leaf.

Roxy can be found here.

Week-end Noms by Whskr

2011-07-30T20:10:00.001+12:00

The Heritage Shop - A Whskr Wairarapa Discovery

2011-07-25T16:21:00.002+12:00

Delightful lace discovered by Whskr

I am forever finding lovely places to buy gorgeous things for my dolls. I recently came across the treasure trove that is The Heritage Shop, in Martinborough, not too far from Wellington, across the Rumitaka Hill Road.

It is a treasure house of vintage genuine lace, and fascinating object d'art. Well worth a look and a only a minute from the central square of Martinborough. Angela, who runs it, is the loveliest lady, happy to chat lace and treasures.

Whskr at the Roxy

2011-07-11T09:49:00.002+12:00

The totally awesome curtain

We visited the Roxy Cinema, Miramar on Friday 8th July and had the most amazing time! The cinema is gorgeously refurbished and has the most fabulous cinema curtains. If you are in Wellington, check it out as the food is simply gorgeous, the ambience alive with the vibe of times gone by and they do the world's best hot chocolate.

After our lunch and cocktails we saw 'My Afternoons with Margueritte' - a good film - very French and lacking in the manipulative sentiment of many American and European films.

The gorgeous light fittings

We enjoyed our visit and I was able to take my cocktail into the cinema. Paul had a gorgeously and richly opulent hot chocolate that we used to get in the U.K. He adored it there too, another great reason to come back for a visit.

Roxy Skylight

The upstairs foyer is totally stunning, and beyond breathtaking, it was designed by Greg Boardmore of Dr Grordbort fame. The Doctor is a wild, amazing and totally off the wall adventure well worth a look.

The Roxy Upper Foyer

Finally, we went for a drive around the bays of Wellington and stopped off at Shelly Bay for a coffee at the Chocolate Fish No. 2 which was lovely. Not as busy as the week-ends so we did not have to hunt for a seat AND we went for a lovely walk along the bay afterwards. The complete album of the day's wanderings is here!

Whskr - Art Doll in Progress

2011-07-05T21:14:00.003+12:00

Basic Body

I am currently making a stump doll. She will stand approx. 45cms high with a weighted base, and look as though she has walked from a fashion plate from the 1930's, all glamour and sophistication!

Template of Arms

I am trying an Arley Berryhill pttern as the stump doll is a new departure for me. She is called 'Madame' and will be swathed in a glamorous velvet coat and an exotic turban. I have still to decide if she can hold her cigarette holder in these more careful times! I have a block that will make a splendid stand as she will be ready for the Pinehaven Fair early in September.

It is hard to see the subtle pattern on the fabric but it oozes glamour in a restrained way and will not fight against the fabric of the coat or any jewellery that the doll is dressed in. The arms will be modelled with chenille stems then gently stuffed before being attached. I will then move on to work on the head and face.

Joplin Tornado FUNdraiser

2011-07-04T08:23:00.005+12:00

Part of the ethos of the handmade movement is to help and to heal. Making by hand helps ourselves and our creative souls, and, with this we make ourselves better people.

One example of this is the Joplin Fundraiser for Tornado affected animals, which is taking place on CheshireK's blog. Five handmade items, five days, five opportunities to bid on superb handmade gifts. Healing, Creating, Giving.

Check out today's handmade treasure donated by a crafter to help others - in this case the animals who struggle in the aftermath of the devastating Joplin tornado tragedy.

Whskr Artist in Residence at Oyster Gallery

2011-06-14T17:34:00.002+12:00

Whskr at Oyster!

Thanks to Pip and Jacquie at Oyster Gifts and Gallery, I was their artist in residence for the day recently. I had a lovely large table and was able to display finished dolls as well as some in various stages of completion.

We had many people coming in and browsing and many asked about how the dolls were made, and were impressed at the amount of hand work involved.

Jackson Street is full of the most wonderful shops selling everything from delicatessen treats, to yarn, to cat themed items to fabulous clothes and gifts. Oyster Gallery is not too far from the Arabica cafe and the distinctive Police Station with the bus stop outside so you should not have any trouble finding them. There is the lovely sign outside too!

Oyster Gallery interior & Finished Dolls

The Oyster Gallery is a treasure trove of wonderful New Zealand sourced art and crafts from Maori weaving to paintings, and jewellery from some of the areas finest artists. It is also worth noting that the Gallery has gifts for every budget and you should be able to find a lovely Kiwi themed gift to send to friends or family abroad.

Whskr demonstrating her Art Dolls

Handmade 2011 - Smart jewellery Class Report

2011-06-13T16:48:00.000+12:00

My second workshop was how to make jewellery with LED's and it was fun, although it all went a bit fast so I did not get as much from the class as I hoped I would. The teacher the fun @pixelbrid from Christchurch was helpful and came around showing us what to do and no-one seemed to feel left out or fall behind.

I would have loved a couple of small kits to take home and have another go, as I did not get things 100% right but our hard working teacher didn't have any spare but I hope to get some more LED stuff soon.

Our little map was easy once you got the hang of it, but for a beginner it as a bit tougher.

Handmade 2011 - Knit Lounge Report

2011-06-09T11:20:00.000+12:00

Margaret Stove in the Knit Lounge

At Handmade 2011 the Knit Lounge was popular. Dozens of knitters chatted surrounded by lovely books and yarn from Holland Road Yarn Company. The Knit Lounge was hosted by Tash Barneveld, owner of Holland Road. Her Flights of Fancy 2 yarn club has just been launched and I could not refuse a second helping of quality yarn and special treats! Supporting local arts and crafts is important, I am a crafter, when friends support me it really boosts my confidence!

Tash Barneveld and grandmother Margaret Stove

Tash's grandmother is Lace Knitting doyenne Margaret Stove and it was a pleasure to speak to her between my workshops. I sat with a small group of knitters discussing and admiring the shawls that she displayed. She also signed my Wrapped in Lace book which I was very excited about!

Handmade 2011 - Workshop Report 1

2011-06-07T10:56:00.002+12:00

I took two workshops at Handmade 2011 and enjoyed them very much. I was also able to spend a bit of time at the Knit Lounge, but will report on that tomorrow. My first workshop was with Jo Pearson who uses many recycled elements in her classes and the work she sells.

Whskr Rosette in Progress

Jo values the resonance that we can find in old things and how we honour the women of the past when we create things again like rosettes and bangles using scraps of lace, vintage fabrics that are long out of fashion - but which can be treasured and loved anew.

Our Class Space in the Oceania Foyer

We had lots of vintage fabrics, charms and doilies to choose from and everyone created a completely different work of art. I was there tp play and not to worry about creating so I had a good time. I much preferred my bangle which I thought was successful, while my Rosette 'needs work'! Picture of my bangle to follow tomorrow.

A fellow crafter's bangle work in progress

MEET WHSKR - HANDMADE 2011

2011-06-03T17:12:00.001+12:00

Sunday I will be crafting 'live' at Oyster at 252 Jackson Street in lovely Petone just outside Wellington. The shop is between Bay Street and Beach Street. I will have dolls in various states of construction so you can see how each one is made - on the spot!

Pip and Jacquie are the talented sisters who own and run one of Jackson Streets best gift shops. Their focus is on ecologically sound and/or New Zealand made items and the shop is a treasure trove of gifts of high quality.

HANDMADE 2011

2011-06-03T04:06:00.005+12:00

Handmade 2011 is nearly here and with a ** BOOM ** the craft, art, printing, cooking, gardening and brewing extravaganza will kick off! Find out more about Handmade 2001 here. What am I doing at this amazing event? See below :-)

I hope to fit in a trip to the Holland Road Yarn Company Knitting Lounge and the Crafters Must See Lecture(s) by Sue Tyler. 'Making it at Markets' (10 am) and 'Pricing Your Craft' (2.30). Tash of Holland Road is rumoured to be involved in some marvelous Knit Graffiti too.

My Classes are :-
Smart Craft - the futuristic craft of e-textiles with Bridget McKendry - to learn fun stuff. I mea what's not to like about crafty stuff with LED lights twinkling in them, this has to be just the best fun.
Look what I found down the back of the Couch Phyllis - with Jo Pearson - for fun FUN FUN. A relaxing how to do something creative with what I already have class - taking recycling into the studio with all my boxes of stuff.

What are other people doing? Check this out from someone who can't wait to get to Handmade 2011
“My two daughters and I are doing three workshops at HANDMADE together. Now that they’re grown with their own busy lives it’s a nice way to spend time with them. We’re going to the Ruth Pretty masterclass, the beginnings and endings knitting workshop and having high tea at Martha’s Pantry to listen to the speakers — Diane Massey-Molloy and Janice Mariott. We love to shop so we’ll be at the Meet the Makers and Pop Up Store Party I’d like to buy some handmade things as gifts — I might even stock up for Christmas while I’m there!”

— Christine, Waikanae

Handmade 2011 - THURSDAY EXCITEMENT

2011-06-02T04:47:00.002+12:00

Today - some of the more unusual and fun workshops to discover at Handmade 2011. Things you can try for a modest outlay this coming week-end - all of these classes come with kits to purchase, sometimes combined with a few 'bring from home' items. The whole point of the workshop is fun without pressure - so, read on for super fun ideas.......

Have you wanted to see what it takes to do a Linocut? Heike Theis of Minu can take you through the basics. A kit is available with most of what you need.

How about making a cloth art doll? Heleen Webb will guide you through a great 'How To' double length class.

Smocking - not a lost art as Lin Crutchley will show you - a kit provides you with enough to finish making a baby gown after the workshop.

Oriental Bookbinding with Jan Jang might be beyond us but with a combination of home brought materials and a small kit from Jan you will be all set to create your own book!

The full list of classes and materials is here.

HANDMADE 2011 - SOME OF THE BEST STUFF

2011-06-01T06:00:00.008+12:00

Some of the treasures at Handmade 2011. There are spaces on most workshops, so get in touch with Handmade 2011 for the most crafty fun over Queens Birthday Week-end in Wellington, at Te Papa.

Masterclasses - journeys of discovery as you listen

My top selections :- For knitters, the renowned Margaret Stove, one of the world's foremost lace knitters is giving a talk 'Journey through a Wedding Ring'; Ruth Pretty welcomes artisan cooks at home, and the vital issue of pricing your craft work is covered by Sue Tyler of Supervery. Sue is the main creative force behind Craft2.0 one of New Zealand's premiere crafting events so knows her stuff. Finally, Emily Harris does Urban Edible gardens - know how to grow your own greens for urbanites.

Workshops - journeys of creative adventure - for you

For Fibre fans. Workshops worth checking out; Sock Knitting for Beginners, Crochet a Queen Anne scarf and Learn to Spin; as well as, "How to Cast On and Off". For non-knitters there are lots of ways to do both!

Crafty jewellers can choose their own corner of heavenly fun! Revamp Broken Baubles to make something awesome; make a tape measure rosette, brass lockets with embroidery, Smart Jewellery (using LED - how cool is this YES!!), a whole one-day workshop making Precious Metal Clay jewellery and Making Bracelets from recycled baubles.

Workshops cost $45. Some include the supplies you need, others ask you some bring along. Many of the workshop teachers will be selling kits of what you need which will save heaps of time running around looking for stuff!

HANDMADE 2011 - TUESDAY So many classes! What do I do!

2011-05-31T04:33:00.003+12:00

Handmade 2001 is this Saturday & Sunday and, for two days, you have access to the finest teachers and crafts people for ideas, inspiration and new skills!

BUT, I hear you say. There is SO MUCH choice, what do I do? In the words of the Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy - DON'T PANIC. The people at Handmade are there to help you narrow down your choices just telephone them on 0800 770 772 or email them at handmade2011@avenues.co.nz. They will be glad to help.

If you and friends want to to different things this is fine, you meet up before to get to Te Papa, then meet up for a coffee or snack afterwards to report on the fun you had! So, lesson for today - when in doubt give Handmade 2011 a shout!

This is what Hannah from Nelson is going to do......

"My friends and I are going to HANDMADE and we’re really exciting about what we’re doing!
When we first looked at the programme there was so much choice we decided that each of us should do the things we wanted. I’m doing oriental bookbinding, making vintage lockets with embroidery and preserves.

Some of the boys are going to the introduction to brewing and beer styles and Steve Joll’s masterclass for blokes who bake........."

Then they are all joining up for one of the Tours - awesome eh? If they can do it, so can you so get over to Handmade 2011. Classes are not expensive so take a look.

Handmade 2011 Countdown - Monday

2011-05-30T02:17:00.016+12:00

What IS Handmade 2011?

Handmade 2011 has arrived to tell us that Handmade is HOT! Handmade isn't just paper and paste stuff for friends and family - Handmade 2011 is about new skills, celebrating learning fun things with modern style and adding your individual flair.

At Te Papa in Wellington this coming week-end (4-5 June) you can learn in expertly tutored workshops, watch masterclasses with people like Ruth Pretty, learn from lectures by amazing people who are top in their fields and you can tour some of the most stylish handmade places in Wellington.

You can be tempted by Remade, Taste, Yarn, Homework, Heirloom, Gift It, Stitch and Free Range sections. Check them out to see the wonderful workshops scheduled. I bet you can't imagine half the fun things they have. Prepare to be surprised by the unexpected! Prices are modest too.

Handmade 2011

2011-05-26T13:11:00.003+12:00

One of Wellington's biggest and most important craft events is happening soon, and I am thrilled to see people letting the world know that Handmade is hot. I am booked into some workshops and want to report that Handmade 2011 is nearly here!

I have been reading through the programme and there is something there for every crafter. There are lectures, and a fantastic range of sweet 1 1/2 hour workshops for dressmakers and gardeners, cooks and jewellers, dressmakers and chocolate creatives (yes, you can learn to make chocolate!) There is even, I have been told, going to be a knitting lounge where crafters will be welcome to sit, relax and chill with fibre friends!

More soon as we start the countdown to Handmade 2011!

Whskr Spring Collection

2011-05-25T04:41:00.001+12:00

Whskr Season 2011 Collection

The close-up shows vintage sequins that are all secured with beads and thread. Her necklace is a section of miniature pearls and crystals that capture the splash of red peeping under her skirt and also reflect the red of the super cute button which I love.

Whskr Spring 20011 Collection

The first on my Spring Collection of Art Doll pins is now up on Etsy (International) and Felt (N.Z.) This wonderful spring doll is a bit of a departure as she has a sweeping lace skirt that is scattered with genuine Swarovski crystals - this has made her slightly more expensive but I think she looks very effective on the lapel of a jacket.

Whskr Spring 2011 Collection

Whskr ATC with Crystal Centre

2011-05-21T08:34:00.013+12:00

Crystal Jewel ATC

I love joining up special pieces of fabric and making them into something special. This ATC (Artist Trading Card) is something I created when I was reading about layers and how they can change or transform an image.

The crystal has a layered collage mounted on the back which is translucent to light and shades softly drifts through the crystal glass and ties it to the car background which is stitched from lovely colour-coordinated scraps and pretty threads.

I am considering selling the ACT as a fundraiser for a cat rescue. Any opinions?

Whskr is Busy with Art Doll Brooches

2011-05-18T17:49:00.001+12:00

The Whskr studio has been humming over the past few days - seven new dolls are completed and another half a dozen are in their final stages.

Finished Dolls

My Swarovski crystals are arriving tomorrow and the sparkling embellishments will finish off the current works-in-progress

Prom Doll work in progress

Miss Pearl finished

First Prom Memories

2011-05-18T13:34:00.002+12:00

My First Prom

A quick update from the Whskr studio :-

This picture is a rough and ready demo of a Prom Art Doll pin. She has a sweeping low waisted lace dress with a vintage beaded sequin bodice that will shimmer and sparkle. Her sunshine yellow top is finished with a necklace of "rubies and pearls". There is also a scattering of faux pearls that sweep down off the waist.

Three works in progress by Whskr

2011-05-14T18:45:00.000+12:00

Three works-in-progress. Three gorgeous Japanese paper pendants ready for their bails and resin backs. The pink one has already been reserved - so I know these will be a success.

Japanese Paper Pendants by Whskr

Also a preview of my next Spring Pendant ready to be uploaded to my online shops.

Spring Awakening by Whskr

Whskr's TV Spot on Royal Wedding Day

2011-05-07T18:48:00.006+12:00

This is not a brilliant copy but at least you get to see me on TV!

The two links mentioned in the TV clip are Design Editor and the Activity Village ribbons pdf. Full details of the Whskr rosette, doll brooch, all printables and my gorgeous rosette are here.

Whskr featured in an Artfire Collection of Magnificent Royal Colours!

2011-05-02T05:21:00.006+12:00

I was delighted to find myself included in a beautifully coloured Artfire Collection. The colours are very Royal and regal!

The Wonderful Wor...

Curated By: Wovenpaint

ArtFire.com

Indie Design

Good Morning How To Sheets

2011-04-29T04:00:00.002+12:00

Hello and welcome to my How to Sheets for the Good Morning programme. The sheets cover making Cupcake Flags and also Party Bunting. My wonderful rosette corsage is from Diane Massey-Molloy and the pin is a Whskr original!

Cupcake Flags

Super simple, super quick. One sheet of Union Jack Ribbons. Use Photographic paper to print off shiny flags, or plain strong white paper.

Scissors

Toothpicks

Glue Stick or other glue

Cupcakes

Red, White and Blue icing

Flag How To :-

Bake a few cupcakes Ice some in each of your colours and add any decorations you like. I used red, and blue, (or grab a packet from the supermarket! This gives you a tasty surface to plant the little flags in.

Trim the flag strips into pairs of flags (so you make a back and front)

Fold paper gently in half so make a crease then open again.

Spread a bit of glue across the strip (not too much),

Fold the strip around the toothpick flagpole and leave to dry.

If the flag springs apart you can hold it gently along the short edge with a peg or small weight.

When dry, add a flag to each of your cakes - voila! Instant Happy Magic!

Party Bunting

The best party bunting online is Design Editor LINK http://designeditor.typepad.com/design_editor/2011/04/free-royal-wedding-party-printables.html Their downloadable pdf includes pre-cut flag sheets, patterned sheets for larger flags, a crown and other fun stuff. You only need to print the sheets you need, it is not necessary to print the whole set of pages.

What you need :- Scissors, plain white paper or Glossy photographic, an awl or a perforator to make holes; plus ribbon or string.

Bunting How To

Option 1 - super quick

Print off the pages 7 and 8 with the pre-marked sheets in blue and red and cut out the diamond shape made up of two triangles. You can make white plain white shapes using these as a template.

Fold and glue the flag directly into place over the ribbon so it does not move. Add the central flag then space your others outward from that.

Alternatively, carefully fold the bunting flag along the middle of the diamond shape then glue the sides together around something like a knitting needle or a narrow pencil leaving room to thread your ribbon through. Then glue into place.

Option 2 - takes a bit longer

Using Design Editor sheets 7 and 8 and plain sheet cut the pre-marked shapes into neat triangles.

Making sure you have the shorter 8.5cms end of the bunting towards you with the longer sides pointing away - make a perforation towards each corner. Then thread your ribbon or cord through.

String your bunting along the ribbon, alternating colours Red, White, Blue. To secure them into place either glue each flag to the back or use strips of tape to secure.

You can use the flag template to cut bunting out of any paper for a party. Shiny card stock or floral paper, scrapbooking papers are great for flags. A great kids project for those indoor days.

These are easy print versions of the instructions for Bunting and Flags on the Good Morning site. The Royal Wedding Design Store printouts can be found via this link which is also home to a host of other great printables.

Good Morning!

2011-04-28T19:22:00.003+12:00

I am going to be on TV on Friday morning about 9.45 am NZ time - which is Thursday evening for my US friends. Below is the information I got from TVNZ so you should be able to watch me live * grin * The two 'How-To' sheets are scheduled to upload tomorrow morning here on my blog, they are also on the Good Morning site.

I am doing some quick Royal Wedding celebratory things that can be put together at the last minute before you site down to watch the Wedding of the Year, I will be wearing my Diane Massey-Molloy rosette and a Whskr doll pin with a bridal theme!

Click here and then the 'Watch the Show' button in the middle of the bar at the top. This is NZ only.

The Friday show is streamed live on the internet, and remains on our website until approximately 8:00am the following Monday morning, should you wish to view your segment. There will be an advertisement before the show starts streaming.

Trooper - One of My First Pet Pendants

2011-04-26T08:19:00.001+12:00

My pet pendants are a real labour of love, and they are a joy to make for proud pet owners. One of my first pendants was Trooper whose Mom, Lydia, sent me a lovely picture that I set to work. She was pleased with it, and I was delighted to be able to create a really special piece.

I heard today that Trooper passed away at 9.25pm last night US time. My heartfelt condolences go to his Mom who I know was so proud of her special 21 year old, wheatgrass loving friend.

Trooper Patubo - Rest in Peace

Knitting Pendant - The Whskr Design Latest

2011-04-20T15:54:00.002+12:00

Knitting Pendant

A brightly coloured pendant with a lovely ball chain. I have priced it at $20.00 with free shipping for now. I love the different type faces and how they add a little bit of a lively view.

Oh and the back is cool too! Lovely watercolour paper for subtle texture and bright poppies that glow, all embellished with a little holographic shiny star and a little message 'A Special Something' Stop press - I just sold the pendant * happy skip *.

My Fun Class at Sawmiller's Quiltery, Te Marua

2011-04-05T08:12:00.005+12:00

Sawmiller's Quiltery - a warm welcome guaranteed

Sometimes you do a class for fun, not to learn techniques just to relax and the Raggedy Ann quilt class was such a class for me, this is also the perfect beginner's quilt and with gentle guidance from our tutor Diane Barnden, any beginner would love this class. Diane is very hands and ready to help.

I have done some quilting before, so I went along ready to made an easy project with a nice teacher, at one of the best places to take a class Sawmiller's Quiltery which is off State Highway 2 at Te Marua.

The Raggedy Anne Pattern - Diane Barnden

Close-up of the frayed edge - a feature of this quilt

note Diane's artful use of the bright green

The quilt is made up of square sandwiches of fabric. We used a top layer of cotton, a layer of flannel then a bottom layer of fabric. Diane's fun quilt substituted a vivid green fabric for the flannel in the centre, but with fabric requirements for the quilt of 3.5 yards for the top and 3.5 yards of fabric for the bottom PLUS 3.5 (3.2 metres for each) for the middle, flannel is a fine substitute as, with winter coming up, it will make the quilt super cosy, The middle fabric, as you can see above is not seen clearly so expensive fabric would also be very wasteful!

My little Brother sewing machine and fabric were all set up for the first part of the day's work - cutting the squares. Ours were 7.5 inches (19 cms) square but the squares can be any size the sewer desires, or has enough fabric to sew with, making this a very versatile technique.

Quilt back squares 7.5/19 cms inches ready cut for use.

Quilt front squares 7.5 19 cms ins ready cut for use

We also had to cut our flannel into 7.5ins/19cms squares as well, then we made the fabric into sandwiches (e.g. fabric/flannel/fabric). The flannel went in the middle and was surprisingly grippy when layered with the fabric. Our lovely tutor Diane Barnden, warned us that the flannel would grip but it was the kind of thing that you did not realise exactly what she meant until you tried it!

Sewing the Sandwiches together - strip piecing method

The next stage was to sew the squares of fabric together with two diagonal crosses corner to corner. This could have taken forever but I strip pieced the squares together. This basically means I ran them through one after the other, end to end without stopping which is how I ended up with a heap of joined up squares that you see in the picture above!

Next stage - joining the squares with the seam facing FORWARD!

Now comes the tricky part. I got this wrong a couple of times (and will again I'm sure!). Instead of putting the seam at the back of the quilt you sew it so it faces outwards - to the front. Why? Because this is the part that makes your raggedy edges for your quilt! Now isn't that just fun! You can see how I have begun to start the sewing into blocks of four (making it a bit easier to join together than long strips, Diane advised!)

You need to take a bit of care with your placement if you are using different colours, otherwise they can just be random if you are not too worried and if you have a lot of different fabrics! Then you give it a good wash and start the task of snipping the exposed seam before wacking it into a dryer to go super fluffy.

This was the loveliest class and Diane was a lovely teacher. Thankfully I did not need as much help in the class as one lady did and I managed to get a lot done. This is one quilt I will love to finish!

Japanese Paper Pendant by Whskr

2011-03-31T12:03:00.005+13:00

This sample shows a light coloured Japanese paper, and how the bright colours stay as true as the darker, more dramatic colours in the previous brooch sample.

The crystal glass really enhances the brighter colours and, once again, you see that the gold retains its integrity, it does not degrade or fade when mounted behind the glass. Many cheaper papers, or thicker scrapbook papers simply do not rise to the challenge the way this lovely Japanese paper does.

This pendant was submitted as a prize in the recent #SciFipawty run by @BorisKitty and @FrugalDougal. It was a fund raiser for a cat rescue and managed to raise over $1,600US.

Japanese Paper - A Creative Treasure

2011-03-30T11:04:00.001+13:00

Whskr brooch Japanese paper and crystal glass

Until I bought my first sheets of authentic treasured Japanese paper when visiting Brisbane, Australia, late last year, I had no idea ho superb the quality is, nor how it would retain so much of its lustre and colour when used with my crystal glass pendants.

Construction is simple and the results are marvelous with the quality paper and the superb crystal glass. I assembled them into this gorgeous pin as a change to my usual pendants and am delighted with the results.

Why am I so pleased?

Many other papers change colour and darken, or lose the lustre in any gold patterning when assembled with glaze and glass, but the Japanese paper shines as brightly as ever. You can see in the photograph above that the gold has not degraded and the colours have great depth - these are admirable qualities in paper used in art and design.

I am keen to acquire more of these superb Japanese papers and can strongly recommend them as an asset in your artistic endeavours.

NZ link Cherry Blossom Shop
Etsy Search here

Letter Stamps - now to have some fun!!!!

2011-03-22T15:13:00.000+13:00

My letter stamps have arrived so now I can have fun and play with my metal discs - hurrah.

Whskr Wednesday Inspirations - New Zealand Skies

2011-03-18T13:31:00.004+13:00

As I post this there is much news of disaster so I thought something contemplative would be nice. The music is slightly upbeat and the video short but if you look at the sky and find it an inspiration I am happy.

Kia Kaha - Be Strong

Knitsch Yarn Club Instalment for March - NOM!!

2011-03-14T12:37:00.006+13:00

Spoiler warning for Flights of Fancy Yarn Club Members

Hansel - A glorious Liquorice Allsorts explosion of strong colour

in a dark background

The second installment of Flights of Fancy from Holland Road indie dyer Tash Barneveld has arrived and it is a superb combo of dramatic strong brights and a strong dark that really allows the colours to shine. I am totally thrilled and just adore the colourway completely. Dark and Dramatic - just a favourite right now!! The alternative colourway was a deep dark pinky brown Gretel, that was adored by some of the club members, it had shifting depths and shimmers that I could enjoy BUT I could not resist Hansel ;-)

Treats from Tash!

Ok so you have to pretend the Soak wasn't used for my Hitchhiker yesterday when it was warm enough to soak it and get it out on the lawn to dry, and that the tasty chocolate treat is really in the picture ;-) This is such a fun package, lovely yarn, fun treats by Nut and Bee (oooh so cute!) and useful Soak and chocolate. What more could anyone want from a super special yarn club!

Thank you Tash for conjuring up a magical fairy tale treat for my birthday Month!

Tash's lovely shop can be found in Petone, just outside Wellington, NZ. and her online store ships New Zealand wide and worldwide from here.

Stonestead Quilt Festival - Wednesday Inspirations

2011-03-10T10:26:00.006+13:00

The Stonestead Quilt Festival is now in it's third year and a popular attraction in the Wellington Region. Run by Sawmiller's Quiltery a wonderful quilt shop in Te Marua, Upper Hutt, the festival and the shop are both a joy to visit. The quilts this year were exceptionally fine and one or two raised a smile too.

I am adding a few quilt pictures here, and if you prefer this to the photographs being on Flickr, do let me know.

Close Up showing Morepork a New Zealand owl

Cat Quilt

Machine Embroidery and Beading

Quilt using the popular Clarice Cliff china pattern

which has been transformed into a fabric range.

I have not labelled the many quilts shown in the video but there are pictures and titles here at the Stonestead blog

Christchurch Earthquake Fundraiser Pendant

2011-03-03T05:26:00.001+13:00

I have a pendant on Felt that is available for sale with 100% to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal.

Please check it out here. Shipping is nominal, and covers the packaging only. The shipping is my donation to the Appeal.

Velux Round the World Race - Wednesday inspirations

2011-03-02T12:22:00.029+13:00

In February this year the Velux Round The World Yacht Race visited Wellington, New Zealand. This round the world challenge has been taken on by four tough men, each one sailing a single boat against the elements.

While each boat may seem large, the waves can be 80 meters high and all the quipment must be able to stand huge amounts of physical punishment by wind and waves. Details of the challenge with participants, boats and routes are here

Holland Road Yarn Company - Wednesday Inspirations

2011-02-25T12:01:00.007+13:00

There is a new yarn shop in town, the Holland Road Yarn Company, and it is already a hot contender for the best yarn store in New Zealand. Owner Tash Barneveld is living the dream, creating a superb yarn store with a large range of quality yarns, from modestly priced DK to extravagantly chunky at her shop at 281 Jackon Street, Petone. MAP

I am posting a short video from my Flip Mino that gives you a flavour of the delights in store. No, it's not Hollywood quality but I hope you can see how light and airy the shop is; how the display units let the yarn colours glow and how you can rush in for that anything from one pair of missing circular needles or a pullover's worth of yarn, with the best of service and the warmest of welcomes from knowledgable indie yarn dyer Tash.

You will find Cascade 220, one of the USA's most popular yarns, Cascade Superwash and the astonishing Cascade Eco which comes in the biggest skeins ever! There is soft Woolganics, and 'Vintage' a DK weight yarn in the most restrained colour palette, perfect for a treat for yourself that will be practical and also inexpensive at $5 a ball.

Tash's own hand dyed sock yarn in radiant colours, sits glowing on the shelves, and, for a super special treat, there is Fyberspates - the lustrous colours shimmer in the most hypnotic way and say 'knit me - KNIT ME'........

Thanks to the Holland Road Yarn Company, a wide range of quality yarns from the most modest projet to the extravagant shawl (check out 'Wrapped in Lace' at the shop), is now within our reach without long waits from the USA and prohibitive postal costs. There is helpful advice available and the oh so comfortable sofa and chairs to sink into after your purchases - all just a short hop from Wellington. Shop hours are Wed - Fri 10 - 6, Sat 10 - 4 Sun 11 - 3

SPCA Chip In - Update

2011-02-24T11:33:00.003+13:00

The warmest thanks must go out to the bloggers below who have adopted and display the Chip In for the RPCA. It was started by D'Artagnan Rumblepurr, picked up by @mariodacat and @dashkitten, then a host of other blogs around the world.

Inspired by @Rumblepurr
Our friend @MariodaCat

Super Friends :
@PixelDoggy and @JinJinDoggy
@Marththewestie
Pet Blogs United
@Pandafur
@KritterKondo
@BunnyJeanCook
@Quadpawd
Amy and the House of Cats
Cathy Keisha
@TheNascarKitty at #Nipclub
@PepiSmartDog
@Blind Maximus

CrochetKitten.com: Good News This Time

2011-02-23T14:38:00.000+13:00

A friend of mine who is a crochet wizard has been ill, and didn't think she could start a family but I want you to go over and read this and leave a comment. With all the sad news around at the moment, I wanted to celebrate the happiness of a friend.

CrochetKitten.com: Good News This Time

Christchurch Earthquake Animal Chip In

2011-02-22T21:32:00.002+13:00

on 22nd February 2011 the city of Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand suffered a frightening and deadly earthquake. The magnitude of 6.3 was shallow and very damaging.

As I am involved with many animal friends on Twitter, I am hosting the Chip in set up by @Rumblepurr [See LEFT] as we wish to help the SPCA Canterbury who are nearest to the action and in a position to best help distressed and hurt anipals. Popular man cat D'Artagnan Rumblepurr has posted on his blog here.

Dash Kitten and I have donated and hope you can too - I am sure there will be official Christchurch fundraising channels but this is a purely animal initiative - for the animals we love, and those in distress at this time.

Stop Press Police help line has been set up. Phone 0800 77 999 7 to report missing people

Flip Mino Monday - Coming Soon

2011-02-21T12:25:00.000+13:00

As a new user of the Flip Mino I have been posting my little videos online as my Wednesday Inspirations but with a friend @Smokey8 also having a Flip Mino I thought I could do a little challenge for Flip Mino users and add a blog hop type link at the bottom. I am working on the blog hop link now but wanted to get the word out about the challenge which will take place on Monday 14th of March 2011.

Rules are relaxed and informal :-

Only a Flip Mino can be used.
Video should be about 2 to 3 minutes in length - music optional (Flip Share has some fun tunes)
You can use Magic Movie or Ordinary editing in Flip Share - keep it simple.
Link to your video when the post goes up in March - I load mine on youtube.com and embed it here. (f you need help just yell out here)

Mino Monday Theme : My Neighbourhood Just something simple to start with. Show your town, streets, gardens, favourite statues, the local buses or trains, cars in motion. Just the world around you - imagine you are showing your town to a newcomer and see it through their eyes.

Felt like Shopping - Week-end Edition

2011-02-13T05:36:00.000+13:00

To celebrate the relaunch of New Zealand's BEST Handmade Selling Site, Felt, I am inviting you to take a look at some of my favourite items! Felt will be undergoing a new look this week-end and I would like to wish them the very best of luck with their re-launch.

Bag Support Handles ...

woodwise

$7.50

Marigold Lips (calen...

greenblessings

$4.50

Seasons In The Sun

sabine

$15.00

Leather Maryjane Moc...

spirocreations

$325.00

Leather Lace-up Ball...

spirocreations

$285.00

Leather Scrunch Boot...

spirocreations

$395.00

Trophy

woodwonders

$40.00

Pendant Of Glass 'so...

whskr

$27.00

Daisy the Curly Cat: Today I am SEVEN! Years.

2011-02-11T16:19:00.001+13:00

Today I want to conCATulate one of the prettiest and most fashionable kitties gracing the blogosphere today. It's her birthday and she took time to blog and let us know how her day has been.....

Daisy the Curly Cat: Today I am SEVEN! Years.

Friday Fancy with Whskr - The King's Speech

2011-02-11T06:36:00.014+13:00

I discovered this fancy little 'gem' on a recent visit to Carterton, in the Wairarapa, north of Wellington. It is a small diamante pin made as a souvenir for the Coronation of King George VI of England, the same George who features in the film The King's Speech.

You can see the enamel in patriotic colours that has been flooded into the intertwined initials G and R and the VI is surrounded by a beautiful blue. There is one space on the ship's wheel that does not have diamante in, which I thought was a flaw until I realised the motif were soldered on before the diamante is put in and the crown overlaps the recess for the last stone!

The original presentation card is creased, which doesn't bother me, because on the back is a name. Violet. Violet must have given this brooch as a gift to someone. Who she was I will never know, but she was a real person who wrote real writing on the back of this card which is much older than most people I know!

It is charming, and sweet, and this fancy little brooch is a treasure, a serendipitous link to one of this year's finest films nominated for an host of awards The King's Speech. This link The King's Speech. takes you to a page giving a precis of the story and a link to the actual speech made by King George VI.

Wednesday Inspiration by Whskr

2011-02-09T05:01:00.002+13:00

This is a piece of civic sculpture in Upper Hutt on the High Street, it's called 'File. There is a line of people, different types, formed of different silhouettes, walking. Each says something different to me, each is a different shape that tells a different story - it is fun, entertaining and each time I see it I see something different, just like a crowd of real people.

Sculptor Richard Wedekind describes File as "Nine individual figures in motion each with a story to tell based on their attitude, sense of purpose and personal space. It’s a light-hearted view at the figure in the urban environment. Built of strong durable steel, the largest figure measures 2.3m (7.5 ft) in height"

The images that go with File are in the Inspirations file here.

Sew La Tea Do - Whskr Reads

2011-02-07T17:24:00.000+13:00

As books go Sew La Tea Do is seriously chunky. It is a successor to 'Meet Me At Mikes' and follows the same format of a bundle of patterns and a selection of useful and simple stuff. While I confess that just did not get 'Mikes' I love Sew La Tea Do.

I'm not one for the kids stuff but checking it for this review I found trousers, dresses, hats and a blanket and fun practical things. For the adults, OK, mostly girly stuff. There are three lovely (easy) dresses, a simple patchwork belt, a gorgeous wrap around skirt (my favourite) and some seriously 'comfy' pants for both women and men. The third section is a selection of home based items ; fun, quirky and all do-able by anyone with basic sewing machine skills. Try the large and cosy beanbag; a fun blanket, practical short front cushions, a fun foxy quilt, and a quirky origami wallet.

The instructions are clear and friendly, with a host of tips and tricks to ensure your work is a success. There is plenty of encouragement and suggestions for variations on many of the patterns for when you are more confident and ready to branch out on your own. Looking at this book as a fabric painting and decorating person, I immediately saw the fun and the potential in the patterns! Making your own yardage will allow you to construct simple but totally unique garments in colours and fabrics of your own choosing - without the hassle of hunting down patterns you think you might be able to manage.

Hardie Grant Books
ISBN 174066860X
NZ Stockist
USA
UK Book Depository with free worldwide shipping.

Friday Fancy from Whskr - Fantazya Collaborative Journal

2011-02-04T06:21:00.003+13:00

After an excited wait my amazing Art Journal Diary has arrived from Canada! Those of you familiar with my Etsy shop know I still have this diary for sale as I think it is SO worth your attention.

Why is it worth your attention even though February is racing up to meet us??? Well, for a start there is the cover - blank and just asking to be decorated with your own art work, collaged pictures from magazines, scrapbook papers or whatever speaks to your indiviuality.

There is a four day spread across two pages, giving a host of different artists a chance to shine and amaze you, the diary owner. There are drawings, photographs and collages each one a small world of wit and humour.

There is plenty of space for you to add notes and appointments; keep records of payments and sketch out ideas. All the while you have in your hands a small gallery of art works gathered from around the world by Lucy of Fantazya on Etsy.

Lucy says :- "There are 2 dates in each page, 3 notes pages, 7 address pages, 12 months pages, 1 introduction pages, 1 year pages, a 2012 page, and 7 positive messages." How can you fail to be amazed!

There is still an amazing amount of 2011 to go, make sure you have this marvelous diary with you!

Things are Changing at Whskr

2011-02-03T08:57:00.002+13:00

Over the past few weeks I been busy sorting out the dreams and hopes of Whskr. I feel I have been going in circles a bit, not enjoying what I do as much, and just losing the fun of creating.

A lot of people are now doing the same things as I am, and, much as I love my collage pendants and dolls, I am going to start a move into something else. The dolls and pendants stay for a while, they are awesome fun and popular in my online shop, but I will be moving behind the scenes to develop a new direction.

I have tried to do too many different things, and worried endlessly about craft fairs and stuff so, for now, no more craft fairs and stress, I am concentrating on those things I can develop and also have fun with to develop the Whskr brand with the 'tools' I have on hand.

Metalwork and Jewelry - I loved my class a couple of years ago with Mary Hettmansperger. I played endlessly with copper and would love to move into silver. I have a lot of ideas to develop and I have found a great place in Wellington where I can learn valuable skills - result! Precious Metal Clay work is a bit of a dream at the moment BUT maybe on the horizon!

Web Site Building - Making a virtue of the software and beginner skills I have. (Dreamweaver and a notebooks full of idea and study notes from web building workshops!!) I aim to become competent at building small, good web sites for small people. I know that big coding jobs are beyond me, but I have several web builder friends who have offered to cast an eye over my work - so I am not working in isolation. I can then develop my own web site and Whskr.co will become a reality!

Isolation. Something I don't do very well so, I hope to get some kind of small job for a day or two a week. Something that will get me into circulation and in touch with people as well as bringing in some money for good quality supplies and tools. New Zealand is a vibrant and creative place, I have met some awesome artists and crafters who are a real inspiration and who provide valuable feedback and help - I can't fail to do well I am sure of it!!

Wish me luck :-))

Wednesday Inspirations - New Zealand Pohutakawa

2011-02-02T10:33:00.005+13:00

Known by many as the New Zealand Christmas Tree as its amazing red flowers usually appear in December and January. I hope the video gives an idea of how amazing they are. This particular type of pohutakawa is almost coral coloured and differs from the other two popular types that are more red.

There is more information about the Pohutakawa tree here at Wikipedia.

Whskr Reads and Wednesday Inspirations

2011-02-01T21:25:00.001+13:00

If you miss a posting of the Monday Whskr Reads book review or the Wednesday Inspirations, they are available on a separate page on the right-hand side of the blog under 'Book Reviews' and 'Inspirations'.

Steampunk Treat from Whskr Reads

2011-02-01T16:46:00.001+13:00

"Leviathan" A Steampunk Adventure

Steampunk as a genre excites the imagination. It proposes the concept of another world where, if developments had taken a different direction, things as we know them would be very different.

Some of my favourite books in the steampunk genre are the (in progress) Westerfield trilogy and Boneshaker - Cherie Priest. Both perform the one magical act I require from any author, they immediately spirit me away into a totally believable world that is both strange and similar to my own.

In Leviathan we find a runaway prince Aleksander on one side of the divide with the Germanic Clankers and their stream-driven armour plated machines; and on the other, gifted airman Deryn Sharp and the Darwinists. Deryn has more secrets than I have time to relate and one of them is potentially explosive....

Grounded in a totally real world and, in the hard back edition, embellished with a darkly metallic Steampunk cover, and superb end papers showing maps that rock the imagination - Leviathan promises, for younger readers, (OK and this grown up ...) a fast-paced read of real excitement and discovery.

There are secrets, stories, heroes and heroines; and Westerfield shows how interesting the Darwinist theories might have been had they shot off in another direction from the one familiar today.

While Westerfield comments “...most of the characters, creatures and mechanism are my own invention... the book’s timeline is based on the actual summer of 1914 when Europe found itself lurching toward a disastrous war “... and... “Leviathan is as much about possible futures as alternate pasts”, it is essentially a tour de force of the imagination; full of excitement, grounded in reality and ready to take off with the reader’s imagination.

Leviathan Trilogy (Book One)
Scott Westerfield link to Leviathan news here. 'Behemoth' Book 2 is out now!
ISBN 978 0 670 07303 0

USA Wonderful hardback cover with a chance to peep inside!
UK Another not so wonderful cover....
New Zealand Only in the paperback edition :-(

Wednesday Inspirations - Sunshine in the Southern Hemisphere

2011-01-27T17:40:00.002+13:00

Here in New Zealand it's summer, so seeing my friends tapped in mounds of snow is an odd feeling. This lovely cafe captures warmth and sunshine and is set back a short way from the beach. The film is a short one this week, I was too busy drinking ginger beer..... The photos are up here! They will be in the album here when further Inspiration images are added.

White Cloud Worlds - Whskr Reads

2011-01-25T16:53:00.000+13:00

This week's book White Cloud Worlds showcases the superb work of predominantly digital artists working in New Zealand (Aotearoa) today. Many work at the fabled Weta Workshop in Wellington, others create 'zines, or their own work wherever and whenever time permits, and the work of each artist is illustrated in high quality colour reproductions.

As the foreword by Guillermo Del Toro says "These are images to get lost in" as fantasy reigns supreme in all its forms. We get glimpses into the pressurised world of conceptial art for major films like Lord of the Rings, descriptions by the artists of their roots and their inspirations, and how, in some cases, they rebel in the nights darkest hours to find their own voices, as an escape from the pressures of movie making.

The work is predominantly Photoshop based, although I am gratified to see that people do still touch the real world from time to time. Some, like Sacha Lees (oils) and David Meng (polymer clay) create magical work in more tangible materials than electricity.

This is book reflects the immense and diverse talents currently striding through the digital world, nourished in and by New Zealand. These are the talented creatives rescued from oblivion and ignominy by the Government when it worked with Warners to keep the Hobbit (and other exciting films) in New Zealand.

White Cloud Worlds
(An anthology of Science Fiction and Fantasy Artwork from Aotearoa New Zealand)
Ed. Paul Tobin
Harper Collins
ISBN 978 1 86950 824 1

NZ Stockist
USA Stockist
UK Stockist

Wednesday Inspirations - On the Beach

2011-01-20T08:30:00.001+13:00

Welcome to the latest Wednesday Inspirations from Whskr.

There is so much to see in this video clip of the beach at Waikenae looking towards Kapiti Island. The images, lines of extravagantly foaming water, undulating waves, wind surfers and the sharp vertical grass of the dunes are a treat to enjoy. The still images are here and available for download and use under an Attribution Creative Commons Licence.

Please enjoy, and let me know if you are able to use the Inspirations.

Blog Backgrounds

2011-01-18T07:51:00.000+13:00

For reasons beyond my understanding my 'Rainbow Garden Blogger Template' has died and I have chosen this (the best of a rather uninspired selection) until I can find another lovely one I like.

The Monday book reviews and Wednesday Inspiration will continue uninterupted as I wander around like a lost soul trying to find a nice template that I, and you, will like as much as the last one... sigh

Summer at the Lake with Petie - Whskr Reads

2011-01-17T10:19:00.003+13:00

Summer 2010 was an eventful time for animal friends on Twitter. Animals, on Twitter? Well, yes, and a more genuine bunch of people you could not hope to meet.

Hang on, Twitter is a 'social network' right? Indeed it is, and one of the major and magical events of the large and widespread animal or ani'pal' community happened when @PetietheCat fell ill last summer. The support that is the trademark of regular Twitter anipal friends strengthened with each passing day, and, when Petie and his parents headed to the lakeside to aid his recovery, the Twitter community went on 'virtual' trips with them to provide support for their friend.

The hashtag #LakeWithPetie was started, and the community joined together reporting on the antics and fun had at their 'virtual' lake over several summer week-ends. The sense of community around this virtual event was very strong and everyone dropped in to take part, even if it was just for a short while.

This treasure of a book, edited by @Pumpkinpuddy, captures the whimsical spirit of fooling around with friends, the encouragement, fun and laughter while the community awaited news of Petie's health and progress. There are quirky photographs and comments, adventures and laughter and a collection of sunsets that reflect the warmth and love radiating through this little book. Oh, and Petie? He is still here on Twitter - looking after his Mum and being an all round good Ginger boy cat - which is I (secretly) think, due to the magic of friendship and love conjured while at the #lakewithpetie

Summer at the Lane With Petie Ed. @Pumpkinpuddy
Publisher: Blurb
All profits from sales go to animal charity Duncan's Place

Last week's' book review is here.

BrisStyle's "Handmade Ark" Flood Appeal

2011-01-13T12:36:00.010+13:00

The Brisbane Crafters are in action and are raising funds for the Premier's Appeal Fund. Check their blog post here for the shops taking part. Also fellow Etsy folk are getting involved by blogging and offering support. Brisbane is a wonderful city, and Queensland a marvelous place, the people are awesome and they need our help.
WHSKR FUND RAISING ITEMS :-

Cat Pendant 100% to RSPCA here

Premier's Appeal Fundraiser Here

Inspiration Wednesday with Whskr

2011-01-12T04:21:00.004+13:00

Welcome to my first Inspiration Wednesday. I hope to post a short Flip Mino video snippet and maybe a link to images of the same theme. Fell free to download the video/pictures to sketch, or dream about. This shot is of Gloriosa flowers that I have been sketching, I adore the colours and the shapes.

Enjoy!

Whskr Reads - Wrapped in Lace

2011-01-10T10:42:00.003+13:00

Wrapped in Lace is subtitled 'Knitted Heirloom Designs from Around The World' and it contains a treasury of breathtaking designs and inspiration for lace knitters to enjoy.

This is not just a pattern book however; it follows Margaret Stove's personal journey of discovery in lace knitting, her ambitions, her finds, including deciphering her own Chrstening shawl from family photographs, working on different shaped shawls, and repairing a wonderful heirloom treasure.

There is so much information and knowledge in this book, and it is all given easily, in a relaxed and comfortable way, so that even a novice lace knitter like myself is inspired not intimidated. The chapters are almost small books in themselves; a dash of personal history and knitting background, clearly desribed how to's, and the exquisite patterns, with so much information that will enhance the reader's knowledge and enrich their own journey including a section on restoration.

Each chapter contains a charted pattern (some on fold out sheets) with clear instructions on every element of the shawl's construction, including the use of any new or unfamiliar techniques or terms. The photography is fine and clear, with each shawl shown being worn and helpful close-ups. There is also a list of stockists of the Artisan Lace used for the majority of the book's patterns.

Book details :- ISBN 978 - 1 - 59668- 227- 6 Pubished by Interweave Press
Selection of Stockists :-
Knitsch yarns (NZ) Also Artisan Lace yarn
USA Barnes & Noble
UK WHSmith

Wakey Wakey!! Whskr is getting Busy!!

2011-01-09T19:40:00.001+13:00

*** Check back tomorrow for the first 'Whskr Reads' Book Review.... ***