Bower Bird

I found this leaf today as I walked along Pittwater, watching the boats in the last minutes of sunlight.

How can something that is decaying be so beautiful?

I love the colour, the texture and the patterns – especially the tiny black dots on the under side. If you click the images they should enlarge so you can see the detail.

A feather in her hair…….

i love the whimsical touch of feathers in the hair. This gorgeous girl is the writer behind the cherry blossom girl blog. http://www.thecherryblossomgirl.com/perles-et-plumes/11028/

DIY Wedding Flowers

Left bouquet includes roses & deciduous foliage, Right bouquet includes Alstromeria & roses

I love the thrill of a creative challenge so when a good friend asked me to do the flowers for her wedding I jumped at the opportunity. I knew that I would be getting in a little over my head as I have no experience in wedding flowers but thanks to You Tube I think I pulled it off.

The bride’s background is Burmese and Indian so the flowers needed to be rich with colour and match a white wedding dress, red sari, a blue bridesmaid’s dress and a burgundy groom’s tie.

We decided on the colour theme and organized a trip to the flower markets to do a trial.

Colour theme included gold, apricot, burgundy, aqua, peach, red

I kept the designs very simple to ensure no hiccups and the final bridal bouquet included: Cherry Brandy roses with deciduous foliage (not sure what it’s called).

The bridesmaid’s bouquet included: Cherry Brandy rose, David Austin rose & Alstromeria

The button holes included: Vanda Mokara Orchid or Rose, Camellia Foliage & Dodda vine.

It was a lot of fun putting together the arrangements and I learnt a few things about floristry in the process.

The wedding was last night and it was a truly beautiful event.

The You Tube videos that helped me with the bouquet and button holes are listed below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieP97FqZo5U
http://video.in.msn.com/watch/video/how-to-make-a-corsage/fyed32rk
http://www.perfect-wedding-day.com/make-a-boutonniere.html

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Sew Exciting !!!

My life has changed. No longer do I need to struggle to cut, sew and press handmade outfits in the living room of our one bedroom unit, I now have a studio space 100% dedicated to my creative explorations!


Project numero uno – plaid trench coat

Stay tuned for progress report...

Exhibition: Light + Colour + Movement by Cade Turner

I'm very excited to announce my husband, Cade Turner's, FIRST solo exhibition entitled: Light + Colour + Movement.

This exhibition will be showcasing a series of unique Impressionist and abstract photographic artworks. Focusing less on the external reality which photography delivers, Cade explores the mystery contained within the raw elements of a scene – its light, colour and movement, using the camera more as an ‘Impressionist paintbrush’ to paint his photographic works with light.

Please join us for drinks between 6-8pm on Friday April 16
The exhibition runs until Tuesday May 4

Gallery:

Gallery Red

Shop 11, 131-145 Glebe Point Road, Glebe

Sydney, 2037

Australia

Phone: 02 9692 0030

More info: http://headon.com.au/event/light-colour-movement

Looks I'm Lovin'

I love the casual look of a men's style shirt teamed with loose fitting shorts. I also want those shoes!

this look is smart and sophisticated, I want it!

Chictopia is a fantastic source for inspiring outfits, and the above are no exception. I'm hitting the shops this weekend so the website is a good starting point for shopping list.

Natural Easter Egg Dying

Final Product! See below for instructions...

Use sheer stockings to stick leaves onto egg shells and rubber bands to create interesting patterns...

Don't forget your apron! Rubber bands can snap and cause stains!

If you blow out the eggs before dying they won't sink!

This post is a follow up from my blog the other day on natural egg dying. After a messy night, I managed to dye my eggs using 4 colours. Each colour was created from 1) Onion skins+tumeric powder 2) Coffee 3) red cabbage 4) Beetroot. To create some patters I used rubber bands, sheer stockings to stick down a leaf to some of the eggs and sediment from the chopped cabbage.

I wouldn't say the process was 100% successful. I thought I'd be cleaver and blow the eggs out before I coloured them (so we didn't have to eat boiled eggs for a week) not realising that this would prevent them from sinking into the coloured liquid! I also didn't realise that the colour would tear away from the egg if you touched the egg when it was wet. The coffee was a little weak (I used 3 coffee bags, but should have used about 5!) and the beetroot probably stained my clothes more than the eggs.

However, I had a lot of fun and look forward to using my eggs as a table display tomorrow.

Happy Easter everyone!
Kell xo

P.s. If anyone can shed some light on why I couldn't get the eggs to sink or tips on how to sink the eggs after they've been blown out, I'd love to hear your comments. Simply click the "comment" link below.

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I heart brogues....

Ok, so early last year I developed a slight obsession with the classic brogue. I hunted all over the shops, second hand stores and children’s departments to find a brogue that would fit however, with no brogues for women and a size 5.5 foot there were no brogues for this Cinderella.

Today my luck changed..... !!! ALDO footwear in Chatswood had just received a stunning women's brogue collection and I snapped up the above pair for only $79.95 (leather) !!

I love the suave style this shoe can bring to any outfit..... slightly masculine, yet uber cool (think Katharine Hepburn).

image from The Sartoralist

Easter eggs for the non-chocolate lover (yup, that's me!)

I could be wrong, but I don't think I'm the only human who dislikes chocoloate eggs. I know that some of you out there are thinking, "Freak!" but yes, non-chocolate eaters do exist!

To ensure I can still participate in the spirit of devouring an egg on Sunday, I've decided to try my hand at natural egg dying. Colouring an egg with natural dyes allows you to create some delicious colours and still be able to eat the end result.

Thanks to Whiteley Creek Homestead I now have some fantastic instructions on how to get started. I love the authors suggestions about using rubber bands and veggie sediment to create some interesting patterns.

Recipes for natural dyes are available through a number of websites, however the ones I'm going to use are listed below:

http://www.lakewinds.com/store/Natural-Egg-Dye-Recipes-W4698C18760.aspx

http://blisstree.com/live/heres-a-fun-one-for-you-organic-easter-egg-dyes/?utm_source=blisstree&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=b5hubs_migration

http://crunchydomesticgoddess.com/2009/04/04/how-to-dye-easter-eggs-naturally-a-tutorial/

Enjoy creating!

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images from whiteley creek homestead and ohdeedoh

An image to inspire thought and creativity

The beauty of this image took my breath away..... it's like it's talking to you, telling you to let your thoughts roam free.

Click the image to enlarge so you can really appreciate the detail.

Artwork by Anthony Mattox

Kookai SALE - starts tomorrow (1st April 2010)

If a Kookai store triggers an O.C.D (obsessive, compulsive disorder) then you'll love this sale. 30% off all accessories, lingerie & sleepwear. Starts tomorrow.

Yes, This IS Glamorous

Life's been hectic and I've been staved of creative freedom and design inspiration for a number of weeks…. So the discovery of {this is glamorous} blog has filled my heart with so much joy!

Roséline, editor of this delightful blog has the eye of an eagle for inspirational objects. Each page filled with more and more images to tantalize your taste buds!

A profile piece was written on this creative minx by above the fray mag and can be viewed by clicking the following link

So, when you're looking for a pick-me-up I'm sure this is glamorous will not let you down!

(images from this is glamorous)

A blogger taking drab to fab!

Occasionally I discover a blogger who astounds me with their dedication to their blog. Marisa, from New Dress a Day is one of these unique individuals. With a goal to spend 365 days with NO traditional clothes shopping and only $365 to make 365 items of clothing out of recycled items purchased from flea markets, garage sales, vintage stores or thrift shops –her goal is definitely no easy feat!

What’s more, this blogger is insanely gifted with the sewing machine. Her blog is definitely worth a visit to check out her amazing creations. A budget of a $1 a day doesn’t exactly buy you cutting edge fashion, but Marisa waves her magic sewing wand and takes drab to fab!

Upcoming Exhibition

I’m going to declare my vested interest in this blog up front - one of the exhibitors is my husband Cade who (by my own admission), is a very talented photographic artist!

In February 2010, Cade and 3 fellow artists are opening the “Immerse” exhibition in the artisan hub, Danks Street, Waterloo.

Cade will have 7 new photographic works for sale, all with his signature impressionistic style – a focus on light, movement and angles.

Cade has been exploring this style in great detail for about a year and a detailed article about his journey can be found at http://www.cadeturner.com.au/news.php by scrolling down the page and clicking the image next to “impressed with impressionism”. – It is well worth a read.

Tantalizing Tights

Ok, I know we’ve been in a 40 degree heat wave but I came across this fantastic (and simple) DIY fashion project that needed to be shared.

Kelly, from Lions, tigers & fashion, oh my! is a blogger who I follow regularly. Kelly’s relaxed and unique fashion style mixed with her creativity for transforming clothes always provides me with endless inspiration.

A post from last month shows her transforming a pair of sheer tights into a gorgeous pair of heart leggings. Such a simple idea with some amazing results. If you don’t have a steady hand you could always use a stamp with fabric paint. All images from Lions, tigers & fashion, oh my!

A picture's worth a thousand words

I’m always amazed at the number of techniques that can be employed for a simple photograph. Even a little point and shoot camera can produce professional quality shots with a click of a button. The profile shot of me on this blog was taken on the base model, point and shoot Panasonic Lumix camera. I'm a complete novice when it comes to photography so I've set myself on a quest to find inspiration for a few basic techniques.

Solve Sundsbo

World renowned fashion photographer, Solve Sundsbo used interesting shadows to create these animal like prints on model Edita Vilkevicute. I'm now on the hunt for some funky shadows to try!!

A slight movement of the lens probably created the gorgeous “raining fire” chandelier display of lights in this photograph. This image looks so magical.

I love the look of a blurred background with a sharp detail in front. This was probably created by using a slightly slower shutter speed when the train went past. If the train was further away the effect could have been created by increasing the aperture size as well as slowing the speed.

Summer holidays are ....

I love summer holidays. Nothing beats warm water, sun kissed skin, yummy fruits and total relaxation. It’s like a good chocolate; it fills you with enjoyment as you savor it for as long as possible. My husband and I do the same road trip every year…. Camping in Byron Bay, then a luxury apartment in Noosa by the water… this is thinking time for both of us. We spend hours talking about the future and our projects for the coming year. I’ve already spent time thinking about this blog and I have some exciting ideas for 2010.

I also wanted to ask for your input – what do you like, what you want to see, ask me any questions. I’d also love to make my Friday limelight a weekly feature so if you know of any talented minxes who own their own design store, or make their own product or who are just insanely creative please dob them in and I’ll line them up for an interview!

Wishing all of you a sensationally happy and enjoyable new year and I look forward to sharing my thoughts and finds with you in 2010.
Kelly

Happy Holidays

As 2009 draws to a close I want to thank you for supporting my little blog. May your holiday season be magical, with time to rejuvenate your soul and inspire your mind!!

Design Detective is heading north for the silly season so posts may be a little infrequent until early in the New Year.

Until then… stay safe, eat well and be merry.

KeLLy

Luxe Christmas Crackers

I’m currently on the prowl for some Christmas decorating ideas for table settings. One “must have” item is the humble Christmas Cracker. Whilst I love the cheesy jokes, the little plastic toy inevitably ends up in the bin which is a complete waste and not good for the environment. So, I’ve decided to attempt making my own this year!

I found Mecca Cosmetica’s Limited Edition Lips Bon-Bon, which are a fabulous luxe version for lunch with the girls, however this year they are a little out of my price range at $26 each.

So I’m going to take some “inspiration” from the luxe Christmas cracker concept, head down to spotlight and buy some cardboard, snappers, ribbon and either use up some beautiful Japanese paper (that I’ve been saving for the “perfect occasion”) or I’m thinking of heading to the local Vinnies/Salvo’s (thrift shop) and sourcing some beautiful old silk scarves that could be used to cover the cracker and then double as a decorative scarf (for their handbag, headband or neck). I've got a budget of $10 per Cracker and I think I can do it!

To fill the crackers I’m going to grab a hot shade of nail polish (from somewhere like dotti or sporsgirl where you can pick them up for around $5-$8) and add one of the jokes from my dad’s collection (100% guaranteed to be cheesy!). If you wanted to spend a little more you could put in a perfume miniature but they cost about $20 each.

I’ve set this as a project for this weekend so I’ll post some photos when they’re completed!

(Bon Bon kits can be purchased cheap [$2+] from craft stores or some bargain stores)

Free DIY Advent Calendar

No advent calendar yet? No fear. Thanks to Mibo, we have access to this print-and-make-at-home project for FREE! Doing awaywith over chintzy-ness often seen on advent calendars they have designed this simple and chic calendar to bring the essence of Christmas to your home in a non-frilly way! The calendar takes about 5-15 mins to make - all you need is a ruler, a craft knife and a gluestick. Full instructions are included. Follow this link to download: http://mibostudio.co.uk/freeadventcalendar





And while you are busying yourself in craft corner why not knock up their little Christmas Creatures as well?? These little chaps have just been featured in December's issue of Elle Decoration and at just £3.50 these printable versions are a nice and cheap way to give your home a bit of Christmas cuteness. Each critter takes only 5-10 mins to make and everyone will think you are very clever. http://mibo.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=91a10ffc8b5b85a125f7c079e&id=d8808fff1d&e=e96298b2b1



*images and copy from http://mibostudio.co.uk

Party Feet

Warm weather = party season, and thanks to the early arrival of Summer, my social calendar is already in full swing.

For me, the party season means I can flaunt pretty summer dresses and a hot pair of killer heels. However, a night out is often cut too short when those heels literally kill me with pain and I have to pull out a pair of daggy rubber thongs.

Not only do the thongs ruin my outfit, they're also bulky and dirty and then I have to hold onto my heels because they never fit into my evening bag. Thanks to Sydney Industrial Designer, Michelle Chung I now have a fantastic solution!!

Chinelas by Michelle are the sexiest pair of foldable flats I've ever seen - perfect for this little socialite!

These little inventions come with a massive range of features:

• Despite the delicate appearance, the outsoles are tough enough to wear every day on hard surfaces like concrete and will protect feet from glass and other hazardous.

• Chinelas by Michelle are small enough (just 240 grams) to be tucked into your handbag, gym bag or carry-on luggage. So small you can even keep them in your back jeans pocket!

• Chinelas by Michelle are the only foldable shoe on the market that folds outwards with soles that can lock together; avoid touching worn, dirty soles!

• After swapping from heels to Chinelas by Michelle, The satin pouch transforms into a sling to carry your heels home in.

• A zip pocket inside the pouch is the perfect place to stash your cash and a lippy, meaning you can travel light and just take the pretty satin Chinelas pouch out and about instead of a handbag.

• Available in a range of tempting colours such as silver, ruby red, classic black and plum purple - something to go with every outfit.

• Priced from $39.95, they are affordable enough to ensure more wear out of your heels, and save on cab fare getting home to ease aching sore feet!

You can buy them now from http://www.chinelasbymichelle.com/product.html

I can't wait for my pair to arrive!!!

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Limelight - Margaret McAteer (Screen Printer)

Lipstick

On a recent trip to Tasmania, I visited an artist run cooperative called Inka Gallery. I fell in love with many of the artworks in the store especially the amazing screenprints created by artist, Margaret McAteer. Margaret's use of bold colour, vintage images and tounge-in-cheek political humour really struck a cord with me so I'm very happy to be profiling her today.


How did you become interested in screen printing?
I grew up in Sydney and there were a lot of posters (mostly) screen printed, plastered over building and renovation sites in the CBD and these fascinated me.


What inspires your work?
People inspire my work and this leads me into politics. I have been interested in politics ever since I can remember.


How effective is art used as a tool to communicate a political or environmental messages?

Art can be very effective in communicating political views, this becomes obvious if you look at old posters from all over the world. If you add humour to it I find the artwork is more successful in getting its message across.
I am currently working on an exhibition using nursery rhymes, fairy tales and politics.


Do you have a favourite artwork?
I don’t have a favourite artwork but I like to collect books on posters , both present day and historical for inspiration. Historical advertising and political posters can be simple, bold and very clever.


Price Range?
It varies depending on how many prints are in the edition. I produce my political posters in small editions. The price ranges is $100 - $200.


Where can we purchase/see your work?
It is only available at the Inka gallery in Tasmania, and can be purchased through the gallery directly or via our website: www.inkagallery.org.au. Examples of mine and other artist artwork can be seen on Inka's website.


Do you have a favourite retail shop in Hobart ?
I don’t really have a favourite, I like Inka Gallery as it exposes me to many different art forms and artists, but I will also go into any jewellery shop.

John, Margaret and Dorothy Bendigo 1952

To view more of Margarets artwork or purchase a print please visit http://www.inkagallery.org.au/.


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I Love Colour

I love the happy feeling you get from a home splashed with a kaleidoscope of colour. This house was featured in Real Living (Christmas 2009) and I was very impressed by the bold use of colour especially in the kids rumpus room. I've always loved floor cushions and the use of gigantic floor cushions to make a low seated sofa is wonderful idea.