Good Intentions

Little Round Pouch Purses

2012-01-28T16:47:00.000-08:00

Another creation thanks to the wonderful tutorials on Dog Under My Desk. Isn't that a wonderful blog name? I made this sweet round little pouch purse. It is really easy to use and provided an opportunity to use some yellow zips that I had given to me a while ago. They are a great way to use up fairly small offcuts of fabric too. They are super quick and easy to make and make a very handy little purse that can be attached to things like your handbag, dog harness or even dog lead. Is the perfect size to carry a few whoopsie bags on a dog walk.

You can find the tutorial here on Erin's blog. Erin writes the most amazing tutorials, they are very clear and easy to follow thanks to clear text and wonderful photos. As I've mentioned before, actually much better than some patterns that I have paid good money for.. Anyhow, enjoy, I know I did.

Twinkie Chan's Super Blargh Giveaway

2012-01-13T16:56:00.000-08:00

I love bright colours and fun, silly things that just put a smile on your face. One of my favourite bloggers, Twinkie Chan is giving away a fab bag of goodies at her site. You have to check it out!

I admire a person who can make either a ginerbread man or T-bone steak crocket scarf look so cool! Awesome.

Ah look, I even tweeted about it, wish me luck in my quest to win this booty!

Charlie's New Doggie Harness

2012-01-12T23:39:00.000-08:00

I love the Internet. There are so many lovely people and wonderful resources who share their knowledge, experience and creativity freely. When I need some inspiration or a a method to do something, I often begin with a search of the web. Just recently I discovered a great new blog: Dog Under My Desk by Erin Erickson. We have common loves of dogs and sewing. She has some awesome patterns and free tutorials on her site. Not just dog stuff, but all really, really well made and simple to follow. Even the instructions on her free tutorials are superior to some commercial patterns that I have bought. If you're wondering, no I don't even know Erin, but she rocks! Anyhow, as soon as I saw her wonderful dog harness tutorial I knew that Charlie absolutely needed one. I could not sleep that night until I had finished this project. In the morning it was into the tub for my girl as she had modelling work to do, she is a great model, but not really looking her best in this shot.

Isn't the fabric cool? I need to thank Jennifer Jangles for that! If you are my regular reader, you will remember that I won a swag of beautiful fabrics from Jennifer, it was wonderful but I just couldn't use it. It was too beautiful. It just sat in the cupboard, all ribboned up and brought out to be admired by friends only. Anyhow, as soon as I went through my fabric stash to decide on a fabric nice enough for a harness for Charlie I knew this was a project that I had been waiting for, it is absolutely beautiful! I took the finished harness in to the local haberdashery, where I bought the 'D clip' and the owner admired my handiwork and proclaimed that it looked wonderfully professional.

So, thanks from Charlie and me to Erin and Jennifer. You are both talented, inspiring and generous. I hope the love comes back to you both

I have no idea why this post looks so bad with no spacing, but I cannot fix it! Ugh, sorry it is so hard to read.

Like A Well Oiled Machine!

2012-01-10T03:49:00.000-08:00

No, you're not seeing double - another sweet bamboo handled bag has rolled of the production line. So cute. I am having to resist the very strong urge to sew some lime green pants to go with it. I would love the look silly, but fear that others may simply think I look silly!

I really should get over my addiction to using super-processed Instagram images. As much as I love Instagram, I don't thing they have the right 'look' for my blog..

With holidays drawing to an end, I am hoping to do one last sewing splash out. I have one green top that I would like to sew and one piece of fabric from my recent Spotlight shopping splash out that MUST be completed. Wish me luck!

On A Crafting Roll

2012-01-05T19:04:00.000-08:00

I am still on holidays and have immensely enjoyed completely relaxing this holiday. I have done a bit of sewing but no craft other than sewing.

Last night I stayed up and completed my 'neutral bag' with some hand stitching. If you know me, you know my aversion to both hemming and hand sewing so this is a big deal. I really love the finished product and I'm itching to move on with my next project. I altered the pattern as the original was enormous! I also added an interior pocket. When making this bag, I was reminded of a favourite peeve.. Patterns are not inexpensive and I think you are expecting a quality product when you part with your cash. Fortunately I am an experienced sewer so can use my imitative but any beginner would not have a chance of pulling off a quality product using the pattern that I used. They never include finishing off such as overstitching, pressing or even simple edge finishing. Don't even get me started on the way they somehow haphazardly mix in metric and imperial measurements. Agh!!

Never mind, here is what you're waiting for. Ta da!

Back on the Horse

2012-01-03T01:26:00.000-08:00

Another year, another attempt to keep to stay a bit more up-to-date with my neglected blog. I have lately been thinking about the convenience of keeping my blog updated, so I'll have a go. I seem to have so much to write about, it is all a bit overwhelming. So just for today, I'll write about my latest fabric buying spree. Why not, it is as good a place to start as anywhere.

I am going through a bit of a craft rejuvenation at the moment. Firstly I made my friend, 'T' a lovely bento bag exactly the same as I made for myself a while back. I love that bag and get a lot of use out of it and thought it would be right up here ally too. I was right and she loved it.

Then a friend sent me a picture of a really nice wooden handles bag that the made from twill - white background with retro green apples. So, so nice.. Of course that was on my mind when I went to Spotlight last weekend. I was really pleased that my visit to Spotlight coincided with their 30% off fabric sale! I like to use furnishing fabric to make bags, and you know how much I like bags. I had a great time searching all the great fabrics and eventually settled on a retro green print with matching plain green for lining and the rim to make a bento bag; a crisp hot pink and white print to make a shopping bag and a natural print of brown, bone and metallic silver that I plan to make a handbag with wooden handles. After I thought I had finished all my fabric shopping, I was excited to find the elusive green apple fabric, so I will soon have my own green apple bag! Cool..

I have already made the retro green bento bag and it is on its way to my friend who made the green apple handbag. I think she would enjoy using the little bento bag to put her lunch in.

I have been planning the wooden handled bag from the neutral fabric, will work on that again tomorrow.

Since I was too slack to do a Christmas update, I'll take this opportunity to share a photo of the wold's cutest dog waiting for Santa. Enjoy.

Okay, so until next next time, take care and keep on crafting. I plan a new update soon and I'll share some other interests I have picked up since my last post. You may be surprised about my latest addictions - iPhone Apps are only one of those addictions..

Let's Add Some Colour

2011-01-16T16:25:00.000-08:00

Love the blue: I especially like the instructions for cleaning the toilet seat.

If you know me, you'll know that I like a good splash of colour. I really enjoy bright, clear colours. During my trip to Japan I made sure I took photos of some cool and cute things to include in some mosaics. I love making mosaics and now use them as wallpaper on my iPhone. Love, love, love that one. I use Big Huge Labs' mosaic maker, which is really easy, especially if you have your photos on Flickr already.

Some nice red images her, but the exhausted rickshaw driver is my favourite.

Photographer in green jumper is my favourite.

Hard to choose a favourite yellow, but emergency toilet instructions gets my vote.

I hope you enjoyed my splash of colour, stay tuned with and update of my local art show entries.

Back From Japan

2010-12-20T01:48:00.000-08:00

I have been home for a few days from a few weeks in Japan. Wow, this was an amazing holiday and I enjoyed the country even more than I expected. The people were very friendly and helpful, the scenery was stunning, the environment - even is the huge city of Tokyo - was clean and rubbish free. Probably one of the nicest things was the feeling of safety, it was wonderful to never feel in danger or have any pickpocketing etc.

We spent time in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. All cities were wonderful, yet different. We also took a day trip to Hakone to view Mt Fuji, which was probably one of the trip's highlights. We did everything from shopping, visiting museums, riding the rail system to singing Karaoke!

I have come home with lots of crafting ideas, mostly based around bag making. While over there I was lucky enough to visit some wonderful craft stores, selling some wonderful things that we just don't get here in Australia.

When planning the visit, I found the internet such useful resource, as you cam imagine. I printed out directions to our hotel from the railway, Google map directions for all accommodation from the nearest station (very useful this one!), and some really useful information on finding craft shops etc.

Thank You Jennifer Jangles!

2010-11-06T20:39:00.001-07:00

Jennifer Jangles Fabric
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

My patient waiting has paid off, with the fantastic load of brightly coloured fabric arriving on my doorstep. As I previously posted about, I was lucky enough to chosen as the winner of Jennifer Jangles awesome, huge giveaway. Also included in the prize were 3 matching buttons. The hardest thing is to now decide what to make with all this lovely fabric - it is all so nice that I don't even want to take the ribbon off it!

Watch this space, I am sure to get over that all soon and have a finished product photo to post!

Once again, thanks Jennifer for the wonderful prize! I totally love your work..

Feels Good To Be A Winner!

2010-10-12T00:02:00.000-07:00

I am such a blog addict. I love checking out craft blogs and I have a big of a list that I check out regularly. From time to time I try my luck at competitions that I come across too. So... Today, when I checked out one of my faves I saw that I have won a super-sized giveaway. I am very excited because I really love the bright fabrics and fun buttons made by Jennifer Jangles - they are just beautiful. I cant wait for my winnings to arrive and be able to post some photos to share.

Fabric Bento Carry Bag

2010-10-02T18:37:00.001-07:00

Fabric Bento Carry Bag
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Yes, I'm still alive and crafting. I know it has been a long break since my last post and in that time I have had some changes... I have really cut back on both my crafting and computer time. I realised that I was a little cut off from reality and needed to take a break away from crafting, ATC's in particular. My lounge room was looking like a disaster site, even though I was really careful to tidy up each night before turning in. And, on that note, I was so busy creating that my sleep was suffering. I just love making things so much I was having trouble turning off and going to bed!

During my break I actually deleted my blog... But then decided not to, and luckily was able to retrieve it! Whew, that was lucky, because I didn't really want to delete it all, but I have decided that I really don't need to update it regularly, just when I have something to share..

So, that brings be to my latest creation, made using Pink Penguin's tutorial. The fabric is rather heavy weight furnishing fabric, in complimenting colours and pattern, with a white poplin drawstring cover. I bought the fabric a while back at Spotlight and was planning to make a tote bage with it, but now it is a nifty bento carry bag - not that I own a bento box (but I AM going to Japan next month), but that is here nor there.. This is a great pattern and tutorial, and I am definately going to be making it again soon - really soon!

Resin Pendant

2010-07-05T03:51:00.001-07:00

Resin Pendant
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Lately I have been trying out some resin jewellery making. Whilst I think I have some good ideas, each batch seems to present itself with a new set of challenges. This is one of my favourites, but I am disappointed with the blurring of the original watercolour image. However, at least you can tell it is an original. Created with watercolour, crystal resin, silver bale and leather thonging. I do love the way the red thonging compliments the image..

Taking a Break

2010-06-12T04:31:00.001-07:00

There has been lots happening around here, since I last posted. Plenty of finished and of course unfinished projects.. I have been doing lots of ATCs, working on refurbishing a fairly large painting for the house, actually started and finished a skirt (using a real pattern), and of course the usual things..

The thing is though, I have been having trouble actually finding time to do other things, things like sewing, knitting and just enjoying being creative. So, about a week or so ago I decided that it is time to take a break from ATC swapping.. I'll see how it goes. I must say though, that I already feel a bit 'free-er'. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy making, swapping and of course receiving ATC's - it's a real thrill and gives you a reason to try something a bit outlide of your usual comfort zone. I'm not actually giving it up forever, just taking a break. Of course, though, life has a funny way with things. Just as I put the last touches to my very last cards for a while I got a message from the good people at Nescafe. They saw one of my 'Morning Tea Delights' cards I did for the YahooGroups ATCOz swap that I'm hosting and wanted permission to use my image on their facebook site.. That's a bit flattering so of course I said 'yes' and there it is, my card on the Nescafe Facebook site. How exciting!

Moololabah Beach Sunset

2010-05-09T02:57:00.001-07:00

Moololabah Beach Sunset
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Taken just on sunset at Moololabh Beach, on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. I love this photo as it was one of the very first photos I took on my new camera, whilst on a photography workshop.

This is my submission for this week's Photo Friday challenge with the theme of 'coast'.

Steampunk Brooch

2010-04-21T04:28:00.001-07:00

Steampunk Brooch
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

For the next two and a half months, I'm going to be working part time only, which is something I'm really looking forward to. I have done thig by taking some long service leave and taking every Thursday off. This, in conjunction with all the public holidays, is making for a lovely, relaxing few months. I am determined to done lots of things on these days off - definately no television or work!

On the crafting front, I am STILL knitting the baby set. I have done the bonnet, booties and now just have to finish off the jacket and I'll be done. It all looks very pretty so far. I have also been doing plenty of ATC'ing and recently baked the most amazing chocolate tart ever. Unfortunately I didn't take a photo. Never mind, I'll just have to bake another!

I made this brooch from the internal workings of two discarded alarm clocks. I mostly used the cog shaped washers and hands, and layered them on larger flat itms. Lastly I attached a brooch clip on the back. I am rather pleased with the outcome, but photographed them on a bright pink background, so converted the image to black and white.

Home From the Holidays

2010-04-10T19:35:00.001-07:00

Usually the Easter break seems to be far too short, but this year the week and a bit break has left me rejuvenated and relaxed. I split the time between being at home and going away to the beach. I have also had house guests which has kept me busy.

The weather was nice, although I can say that as I was tucked up in a warm, dry bed at night. I don't think the soggy, wind blasted campers at the beach would have agreed! I took the opportunity to take Charlie on some beach walks to her very favourite spot and she even enjoyed dining out on some tiger prawns at sunset. I wonder if this dog is spoilt?
I really like this photo taken at Inspip Point, that is one of the barges finishing for the afternoon, going off to tie up for the evening. As you can see the sun is setting through the clouds. It always amazes me how quickly the sun disappears below the horizon in those last moments of the afternoon. Especially when you're moving quickly to set up a shot before it disappears altogether. Anyhow, I think this shot pretty much captures the essence of the occasion.

Cupcake Obsession

2010-03-31T06:09:00.001-07:00

With the Easter holidays coming up, I have just managed to squeeze in a quick baking session in time to make some cupcakes for the staffroom at work tomorrow. I love baking and find cupcakes and slices are great to take to work. Everybody seems to love any little morsel as they can quickly pick up a treat on their way. Tonight's effort was inspired by the 'Cloud Cakes' in the Women's Weekly "Cupcakes" cookbook.

I was originally going to use butter icing, until I discovered I was almost out of icing sugar. Me, being the resourceful, not lazy, type found a way around this. The answer was to use marshmallow frosting. It looks so delicate and pretty, and of course tastes absolutely beautiul. We all know the only reason to eat cupcakes is for the icing.

I am so looking forward to the upcoming Easter break. Rain is predicted, which is unfortunate but I plan to take advantage of the weather and continue on with my baby knitting. So far I have finished the cardigan back and fully completed the bonnet. I did begin one little bootie but decided to start again. Can't wait to share the photos soon.

Take care and happy Easter!

Suddenly It Is Knitting Weather

2010-03-06T00:18:00.000-08:00

All of a sudden the weather has changed from hot and steamy to cold, wet and miserable. Everything is wet, the roads are flooding and I'm in the mood for knitting. Since taking up knitting only last year, I have gained heaps of confidence and had a lot of fun, especially knitting small things like scarves, dog coats and small toys. Of course the birth of a couple of babies over the summer period provided me with some great excuses to do some baby knitting, so when I saw this vintage knitting pattern book at Lifeline, and was lucky enough to find some matching needles the decision was made to start knitting baby things. Perhaps I'm being a bit ambitious, but I hope to make a little set - cardigan, booties and hat for two babies. My mum had a great idea of making three booties for each set. She said booties tend to get lost, so that would likely be appreciated. I think that was a totally awesome piece of advice that I hope to take up.

I think I'm about half way up the bottom of the back, including the little waistband. It is very sweet and I have made only one small mistake, so I am pretty pleased about that.

In other craft projects I don't have much to report. Remember that pasta machine I bought to use with polymer clay? Yep, you guessed it, I have become addicted to making and eating fresh pasta! I am strongly considering buying another pasta machine, which I really will use for polymer clay! I have been doing a little bit with ATC's and have sent off my first swap to ATCs for all. This is a great group so I'm really looking forward to getting into this..

Psst... I'm Not Really Making Pasta.

2010-02-18T02:30:00.000-08:00

I'm really excited tonight because, after a lot of procrastination, I have finally bough a pasta machine for making some polymer clay goodies. I have been snooping around, dreaming of finding a great machine at the 'dump shop' or charity store, but as you can imagine, they don't come up terribly often. So, in a spot of impulse shopping I snapped one up this evening at my local House store. I love that store, if I worked in there I would never leave!

The lady who works there was very excited to be selling me a pasta machine, because as it turns out, she is a mad keen pasta maker herself. I tried telling her that I really didn't need all the extra things she was trying to sell me as I have no intention of making any food with this baby. No, she was so absorbed in her pasta party stories that she could not hear a word I was saying so I ended up indulging her and enquiring about the best source of 000 flour. Oh well, at least she loves her job.

I am really looking forward to getting stuck into some polymer clay projects, I am going to have to look up some bookmarked tutorials now. Although, I must say, the friendly saleslady may have inspired me and I may have to roll out a batch of edible stuff before I begin crafting.

Where is My Time Going?

2010-02-13T22:09:00.001-08:00

Lady Liberty First Flower
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Sometimes I wonder what I do with my time, it just slips through my fingers. I seem to have so much to do and so little time, or indeed motivaion, to do it all.. I think I spend way too much time on the computer and lying on the couch.

Anyhow, I have been up to a bit. Some ATC's, a little sewing and doing a very small amount of gardening. Just before Christmas I planted a hibiscus, Lady Liberty, in my new front garden. Today I noticed that she was bearing her first flower. It is rather lovely, but not as bright as most of my other flowers. I love flowers that pack a punch.

On the work front, I have applied to take some Long Service Leave in term 2 - just one day a week though. That would be lovely, working just 4 days per week. I am fairly confident that this will come off, but I will have to wait for the okay. I also applied for some leave later in the year for the proposed Girls Big Tour of USA. I need to talk to my gal-pals about this one though. I figure, it is best to have the leave application in as I can always cancel or change it at a later date.

This week I am going to try to finish off some sewing and of course post out about three sets of ATC's. Wish me well!

I've Got One Word to Say to You...

2010-02-07T03:33:00.001-08:00

I have been slack lately and not updating my blog as I should... I have however been rather busy with getting back to work and all that is involved with that. On the creative front though, I have been doing some ATC's and plenty of sewing. I am really into sewing at the moment actually. I practically have a summer cotton top production line going in my fun room.

I have been taking some photos and mucking around with Photoshop, trying to recreate some of those old, vintage looks that I love so much on other people's blogs. Also, I have been reading quite a lot on various photo sites, which is what has brought me to today's photo. Hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it!

I took this photo at last year's Ekka and have used it to enter this week's Digital Photography School Weekend Challenge. I love the colour and simplicity of this phots and of course it brings back so many childhood memories.

An Evening at the Cemetery

2010-01-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

Have been out and about taking more photos. This time I went to the cemetery, which is only a stones throw from my place to take some photos as the sun set. The results were okay but not outstanding. This is a lovely old graveyard with some very ornate statues and tributes which is always interesting to investigate..

Whenever I drive past the cemetery, which is at least once a day I think how well this is a really cool juxtaposition of decay with the rubbish tip in the background, even though it is a bit hard to see in this shot.

Also, I thought I would re post this photo because I didn't realise that individual photos were not accessible from the mosaic on my last post..

Would Love to Win...

2010-01-12T04:51:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love paper and craft supplies? Certainly not me, and I'm having a go at winning an amazing array of goodies with compliments of The Daily Marker. You should check it out too, there are plenty of great posts over there, I had a great time checking out this newly discovered blog.. Here I sit dreaming of winning this lovely booty:

January Roundup

2010-01-10T13:06:00.000-08:00

It has been such a long while since I posted, I thought a general round up would be in order. Being on holidays at the moment, life has been rollicking along at a steady pace with no real deadlines or time lines to meet. I love that about holidays, but am worried about how I'll cope with not being able to snooze whenever I feel like it in just over a week's time.

We have had a lot of rain here, which was warmly welcomed but I can just about see the grass (and weeds) growing in front of my eyes! But, on the up side, my new garden is absolutely powering along. Most of my new plants have new growth and even flowers. I am so pleased with my new front garden and have now resumed working on the back yard too. I am continuing working my way along the back fence. This shouldn't be too much of a job as I already have plenty of nice plants in there which just need to be complimented. I also have a passionfruit to grow over the fence.

In terms of craft, I have been having trouble, big trouble getting motivated to finish things off. I have done some lovely ATC's but, other than some small Christmas gifts, have not completed any sewing projects. I really want to sew up a piece of floral fabric into a simple top today. One of my favourite projects that I did finish off was my very first ever patchwork quilt. I made two, one for my dog, Charlie and one for Lilly.. I know quilting aficionados would probably have fits, but I am very pleased with the outcome.

My new camera is going great guns too and I've been having a great time getting out and about testing it out. When I bought the camera, I also enrolled in a DSLR course run by the photo shop. It is spread over two sessions, one indoors, mainly theory and the next was out in the field on two locations. This was fantastic! I really enjoyed the workshops and love the photos I took, it was great to really take the time to take photos that you probably wouldn't on your own. The weather was wonderful, clear and warm. See for yourself..

Charlie Christmas Lights

2009-12-22T04:27:00.001-08:00

Charlie Christmas Lights
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Testing out a technique that I have seen on Kevin and Amanda's blog, they have some really cool photography tips that I am keen to test. Unfortunately, by the time I managed to get the camera right, my subject had ditched her Christmas hat, run away, been called back and was generally sick of being photographed! Despite all this, I am actually pretty happy with the results though. I wasn't able to get such a large appeture as they suggest and this in conjunction with my model issues caused an interesting result!

Crazy Busy Christmas Gifting

2009-12-21T20:54:00.001-08:00

Christmas Cupcake Tray
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Every year it is the same, I seem to set the bar too high when it comes to Christmas giving. So, each year I'm up to around 2am making things - anybody would think I really enjoy doing all this! Yes, of course I do, otherwise I wouldn't do it.

Each Christmas I make some goodies to give to friends, neighbours and other important people, like my hairdresser. Last year I made sweet gingerbread people, and this year I decided to go with the decorated cupcake, since I am into rolled out fondant decorations and edible glitter. I made lots of different little decorations to go on top of the vanilla cupcake with buttercream frosting. Unfortunately, the thing about having a Summer Christmas is that it is really hard to keep things in tact so I had to quickly load them into the car, turn up the air conditioner to hyperdrive and whizz over to the hair salon as fast as I could get there! They were much appreciated and I must say they did look good.

Also, notice the swish, better than usual photo? Well, it has been taken on my NEW CAMERA! Yep, I have been mulling over this for a while and had come to the reasisation, that it was time to invest in a new camera. It was a bit sad, but of course still very exciting. I loved my old Konika Minolta - we've had some fun together, and so I hope shall I have with my new Nikon D5000 (along with her twin lenses no doubt)! I am very pleased with it and have been doing an online course and even reading the manual.

School's Out!

2009-12-12T02:57:00.000-08:00

For Summer! Yay, only wish it really was the whole summer. Not that I can complain of course. With all the action, tight deadlines, stress and of course heat that accompanies this time of the year, it always takes a little while to get into holiday mode. I seem to have so much to do, I have made a list - should have checked it twice, but didn't. Anyhow, I seem to have forgotten quite a few little chores for the list but had a bit of fun making the list. I love lists - seems to keep me accountable and gives me something to check off.

Here it is.. Ta da.. I love the cute graphics that I downloaded today from Little Dreamer Designs. They have so many adorable designs, it is really hard to choose a favourite, but the Hawaiian theme matches my warm summer holiday state of mind.. Well, the image really did look good in PS, but somehow it has shrunken and lost its lustre! Never mind, I'll keep trying and get better next time.

One of the jobs I left off my cute list is to make a worm farm. Since starting off my compost bin and putting in a huge new garden out the front I have been planning to start a worm farm and have been given some worms by a colleague. At the moment they are holidaying in an ice cream container filled with scraps that were originally destined for the compost bin. They do seem very happy there for the time being, however I think I'll have to visit the good ol' 'dump shop' some time soon to find a suitable container to convert into Chez Annelid.

Santa's Little Helper...

2009-12-04T18:00:00.001-08:00

Christmas Charlie 2009
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Charlie loves Christmas as much as I do. So, today is the day for Christmas photos to go onto my cards. I think this setup is a bit too white and bland, but I really wanted to get away from the usual santa hat costume. I think I'll try again later in the day. She is very cute anyhow!

Veregated Ginger Flower

2009-11-29T03:18:00.001-08:00

Veregated Ginger Flower
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

I have plenty of these plants growing along the side of my place. They are great 'fillers' and the frogs love to hide in them too. They are in flower at the moment, giving off a gently whiff of sweet ginger fragrance..

Current Addiction

2009-11-27T23:04:00.001-08:00

Lilly with Bone
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

My latest addiction is to making small stuffed felt toys. I have been chrurning out cute little things like a machine over the last few weeks! I'll have to post more pictures here soon, but in the meantime I'll share this photo of Lilly with her handmade birthday present. I am surprised that she hasn't pulled it apart yet - but I am sure she will soon...

Kawaii Cupcake ATC

2009-11-17T22:54:00.001-08:00

Kawaii Cupcake
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

I made this ATC for a Swapbot swap, along with a little kawaii toast slice. They are off to a loving home in Canada. Although I love kawaii, I really don't 'do' much of it, so this was a lot of fun to make. I am also toying with the idea of making some tiny, little stuffies. I think that's what they're called - basically tiny stuffed trinkets made from felt. They are very similar...

Other than this, I am keeping rather busy on the crafting front with sewing, card making and other creative happenings on the go.

Friday's Double Excitement

2009-11-13T04:06:00.000-08:00

As a busy working week has drawn to an end I have had some little pieces of personal excitement. I guess that could sound a little saucy, but alas I'm really talking about crafting excitement.

I had a very big week on the ATC front, having several packages completed and sent out to their new homes. As I complete a set I try to photograph or scan them and post the images on my Flick site. Even though it sounds a bit lame, I love seeing my stats going up and receiving comments. I can't tell you how much I love comments... Anyhow, this week, since posting my Elvis image that you saw in my previous post I posted a similar Audrey Hepburn card, 6 ink and pen cupcake cards 12 Christmas cards. All these cards came out pleasingly well and I posted a link onto the Swapbot site. Then I sit back and patiently wait to see how many hits my images get. I am usually over the moon to get a dozen or so, but today I am sure I recorded an all time high of 178! That certainly deserves an exclamation mark if anything does. So to a person who obsesses about their Flickr hit counter that was an awesome daily total!

While still on an 'almost double century' high from my Flickr hit counter, I decided to check up on another of my fabourite sites, Funky Fabrix in Brisbane. Last week I entered their competition to win some lovely hand printed fabric and was over the moon to discover I had actually won! Wow, next I had to decide which colourway I would choose - I went for the white on red, but I am sure either would have been lovely. Next big decision is what to make from my lucky win. I have lots of great ideas going through my mind, but I'm sure my decision will change a few times before the fabric parcel actually hits my postbox.

Elvis Warhol ATC

2009-11-06T03:24:00.001-08:00

Elvis Warhol ATC
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Since actually purchasing Photoshop Elements, rather than continuously downloading a trial version or using an old Version1 (yes, version 1.0), I have been learning a few techniques. My good friend gave me a quick overview of the basics like magic selection tool and such. That was invaluable because these basics, in conjunction with some online tutorials, I can create some pretty cool stuff.

This is my progress on a Swapbot ATC swap. The theme is Warhol style art and I thought that Elvis was a highly suitable subject for this treatment. The colours were fun to choose and I really like the subtle background gradient.

On other things, I have been pretty busy since getting home from holidays and have had a bit of trouble getting back into the swing of work, but I think I'm just about back to normal now. I have done a bit of sewing and made a pretty nifty wall hanging too.

This weekend I am hoping to do a bit of gardening now that the weather is a bit warmer and there is a promise of a bit of rainfall. But, of course it is really easy to make these plans while lounging on the sofa, a bit harder to actually get into! Have a good weekend..

Back to the Real World

2009-10-16T03:05:00.000-07:00

No, I haven't dropped off the face of the planet, I have been away on holidays. Had a cold, windy, but great time on the North Island of New Zealand. Had a fabulous time, travelling by car from Auckland to Wellington via Coromandel Town, Taupo and Napier. Was an eventful trip with unexpected snow causing road closures and therefore some last minute cancellations and itinerary changes. The weather may have been cold, but this Coromandel Town sunset was HOT!

NZ is a lovely country with very friendly people and of course some great knitting supply shops. In fact, when I discovered just how cold the weather was I quickly bought some supplies and got busy with some evening knitting - sad but true.. Two more things to love about New Zealand are:

Glohearts - small red heart shaped lollies. They are made in NZ and the taste reminds me of a mild Throatie. I know that is not a very inspiring description, especially of the flavour, but I loved them! I could easily become addicted to these small bags of yumminess.

Chocolate/licorice logs. I love both chocolate and licorice, so this was bound to be a winner. The difference with this produce is that the chocolate is encased in the licorice, not the other way around. This gives the choc a nice crunch and stops it from flaking off, as can happen with regular choc coated licorice logs. Sadly, but somehow fortunately, these are not available in Australia. Phew!

Anyhow, since I have been back I have been quite busy. I spent one night in Brisbane before returning home and took the opportunity to buy some Ikea fabric. I bought some beautiful bright pink canvas and made a cool bag. I'll share some photos of this when I get it photographed.

Kokka Yugyoku Cushion

2009-09-24T16:44:00.001-07:00

Kokka Yugyoku Coushin
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

This is the first time I have made a piped cushion and I am really pleased with the outcome. It certainly is well-stuffed! No flat, soft cushions around here. I bought the fabric to cover a lampshade, but discovered that I did not have enough for the job, so decided to made a series of cushions. They are a perfect match for my loungeroom decor.

Hooray for Holidays!

2009-09-21T06:29:00.001-07:00

Life is something to do
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Even though I thought they would never get here, at last holidays have arrived! I have been really busy getting everything ready for the break and am taking an extra two weeks off as long service leave.

The good news is that I can now concentrate on MAKING STUFF! I am in a frenzy already. I have spray painted a lamp base, discovered I don't have enought fabric to make the matching lampshade, sent off 3 sets of ATC's and generally naffed around!

I have decided to buy more of the fabric to make the lampshade and use what I already have to make cushions. I am really looking forward to the challenge of learning to do piping. I think it will look lovely.

On the knitting front, I am working my way through a groovy tea cosy from Loani Prior's book, "Wild Tea Cosies". Book from the library, double ended needles from St Vinnies, and yarn from King Kong's Discount store and I was on my way. I am pretty proud of myself knitting in the round on 5 needles. Probably a bit too early to celebrate yet though..

The ATC swaps I have done are orange, tricolour (pink, brown and chocolate), and "Life...". I have added my favourite life quote. Check out my Flickr site for the rest.

Hello Strangers

2009-09-13T02:41:00.000-07:00

I have been away from this blog for quite a while, whilst my computer was in the shop. Very disappointing with a new computer, but partially self inflicted I'm afraid.. Anyhow, now one week later, I am back on the blogging wagon.

I have been rather busy on the creative front. I have actually joined an ATC trading group and signed up for and completed two sets. Yay for me! The themes were both colour orientated - one was 'orange' and the other was for 'pink, brown and chocolate'. I have been a bit worried that my work is up to scratch. I would feel horrible if the cards I receive back are of a much higher standard than those I sent! Fingers crossed this end.

Also, I have found my dream knitting book in the local library - it is full of wacky tea cosies. Crazy when you consider I don't even drink tea, let alone own a tea-pot! The only hitch was that I needed some double ended needles to knit in the round. As I don't have any, I picked up some a Vinnies - four for only 50c. Very pleased with that..

Holidays are coming up and spring has definitely sprung, so I have also been rather busy in the garden. I have a huge crop of tomatoes on already. I had a brainwave this afternoon and decided that I could use some of my chillies and make some more Chili Jam. I also harvested the last of the cabbages and have been very busy freezing purple passionfruit. Whew..

iPod Wallet

2009-08-27T04:01:00.001-07:00

iPod Wallet
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

I made this wallet a while ago, but haven't had a chance to post photos of my creation. It is very cool, but the design needs a slight tweeking. You can see the side pouch to store earphones and little loops, so it can be attached to a lanyard. Also, there are openings for charge leads and earphones.

I really do have to get myself organised to take photos in better light, because the colours on here are absolutely nothing like the real thing. In reality, it is a lolly pink and lovely lime green. It matches some other sweet little items in my 'cute' collection..

Storage Boxes

2009-08-25T04:12:00.001-07:00

Storage Boxes
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

I was lucky to pick up some plain white storage boxes at my local discount store and printed out some simple labels. So much easier than having to shake each box to find what you're looking for!
Now that I am finished with knitting for the time being, I have even put all my knitting gear away in one of these boxes. They are great for things that don't get used too often.

Finished Knitting Project

2009-08-21T00:22:00.001-07:00

bear mouse
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

My very first knitted toys. A bear and a mouse. I am very pleased with them both, but I did however overfill the bear and make his face a little unusual looking. I think it is a fairly good effort for a first go though. The mouse is very cute and was easy and fast to make..

Brightly Coloured beads

2009-08-15T23:09:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to get into some polymer clay work for some time. Have been checking out beautiful things on the net and researching techniques, dreaming of embossing beads, rolling with a pasta machine, transferring images and so much more.
However I found myself incredibly stuck for ideas when the time actually came and could only produce some simple, plain, yet splendidly colourful pieces. They are small beads, the colours I mixed myself. I also made some rings that aren't in the shot.

On the plus side, I am really pleased with the baking aspect of this small project as I was a bit worried about getting the temperature right in my oven. It seems a bit slow.

Back to Ekka

2009-08-10T02:35:00.001-07:00

Clowns in a row
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

Weekend highlight: weekend in Brisbane, visiting the Ekka. Had a great time as I haven't been in about 20 years! Times change, but some things remain the same, like the laughing clowns and dollies on sticks. I was pleased to see them still there.

The crowds were not too bad, so I really got through everything I wanted to see with little fuss and LOTS of fun. I had a great time photographing in the agricultural pavillion. I love the colours and of course the ridiculousness of the whole thing.

Cappuccino Cupcakes

2009-08-01T19:48:00.001-07:00

cappuccino cupcakes
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

I made these lovely little cakes to share at work to celebrate a colleague's birthday. They have a chocolate base with coffee frosting, which is a lovely combination. Since I have been trying my hand at some simple flower making, I decided to decorate them with simple flowers.

In the Shadow

2009-07-25T18:27:00.001-07:00

New York
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

This is my entry for this week's Photo Friday challenge, the topic is 'in the shadow'. Now, I know this is not a new photo, but is just so perfect for this particular theme.
I took this photo in 2005 while visiting New York, from the viewing platform of the Empire State Building. We were lucky enough to be up there fairly early in the morning. Whilst the morning brought with it some smog laden skies, it did afford some pretty exciting long shadows.
Note, the photo quality is pretty poor because I reduced it for quick upload when I was on dia-up.. The good ol' days.

Marmalade Label

2009-07-25T03:30:00.001-07:00

Marmalade Label
Originally uploaded by Cheeky Mango

I have been lucky enough to have been given lots of fruit lately. Much more than any single person could ever hope to eat. So I have been busily collecting bottles and making marmalade. I have made various variations of grapefruit, lemon, bush lemon, orange, ginger and cloves.
My favourite is grapefruit with lemon and ginger. It is delicious to the point of addiction. I even have a bottle of it in the fridge at work, to be used in the case of emergencies.. They do happen you know.
Unfortunately I am still haveing problems getting the consistency just right, but I do seem to be getting better now I have invested in a proper sugar thermometer.

Masterchef Finale Masterpiece

2009-07-19T00:10:00.000-07:00

A delightful day, tinged with sadness as Masterchef draws to a close. Looking forward to the final, but I think a hole will be left in my evening viewing. I have been invited to a friend's place tonight for a bit of a Masterchef celebration. So, inspired by the chocolate mousse cake, I decided to tackle a fabulous desert myself.

Over a year ago, I was given a fabulous Woman's Weekly cupcake cookbook. Unfortunately, I don't use it nearly as often as I should, but when I do, I love all the compliments that come my way.. So, it was from here I spotted the toffee shards and began work on my Toffee-Apple Towers. They look absolutely fantastic, and I can confirm that they taste just as great!

Finished the Dog Coat, yeah!

2009-07-18T22:57:00.000-07:00

How about this, I have finished my very first proper knitted piece - a lovely blue knitted coat for my little mate, Charlie. I am really pleased with the outcome and it was much easier than I anticipated, although I thought my arms were going to drop off after completing a row of over 200 ribbed stitches around the edging. I do love the colour on her though and was luck enough to find some very sweet blue and white polka dotted buttons to finish it all off.

Knit, Purl, Knit, Purl

2009-07-14T04:11:00.000-07:00

I have been busily knitting away. Yes, that's right - knitting! Although I have never knitted anything in my life except misshapen scarves many years ago, I have tackled the task of knitting a coat for my dog, Charlie. I find it so difficult to resist anything to do with my little white furball and I came across and entire book of knitted dog coat patterns.

The coat consists of the back, which is the main part, the strap and the collar and edging. I am very proud to say that although I only began work on Saturday night, I have finished the back and about one third of the strap. I have really surprised myself with this progress because I always believed I couldn't knit. Here is what I'm working on (this is the photo from the book - this little one looks nothing like Clarlie).

One thing though -I'm worried because I have almost convinced myself that it really would be okay for a dog and her owner to wear matching knitted jumpers. Hmm

Ticking Off the Tasks

2009-07-08T05:58:00.000-07:00

One of the things I really enjoy in life is to sketch. However I tend to get stuck a bit obsessed with certain subjects - mostly plants, nature and food. I love my own photos, collected objects and magazines. I'm sure I'm not the only ones to borrow or buy magazines only for the pictures! Anyhow, lately I have been trying out the idea of visual food diaries after seeing some fantastic examples on other blogs. This led to the idea of a visual 'to do' list. I love lists. There are few things as fulfilling as ticking off tasks from a list..

For the record, I did get some of the jobs done.

Come Share My Goals

2009-07-08T02:55:00.000-07:00

Well, welcome to my blog. If you're reading here, you probably know that I have been wanting to get blogging for a while, so here it is. I have bitten the bullet and actually posted and published this first post, even though it is not at all perfect. I guess though, that this is like so many projects in my life..

Incomplete. That seems to be the story of most projects around here. As the title suggests, I start out with all good intentions to get things happening, but so rarely seem to be able to get things actually finished. I love creating and the process of creating so much that I take on far too much.

So, here it is: a list of projects that I would like to complete over the next few months - let's see if this blog gets me motivated and keeps me honest. (fingers crossed).

SEWING

Blue skirt

Green panelled skirt

iPod case

ART

Complete picture for guest bedroom

OTHER

Re-organise wardrobe.

Re-organise laundry cupboard.