Julia Kostreva

Julia Kostreva is a printer and illustrator. I found her work online and I think her designs are really sweet yet simple. I love the hand painted style and the way Julia mixes her colours, in stripes and blocks. Even her floral print below from the shade series stands our from the norm. 

Knit Pillow

 Arrows

 Shade Series

Sampler Pillow

2012 Planner Calender

Dawn McColgan Textile Design

I am really fond of these hand dyed and embroidered textiles samples by Dawn McColgan. I think she is really talented. I particularly like the colours but also the thoughtful layout and simple shapes that have been used together and layered to create another interesting dimension.

FREE GIVEAWAY

I have just designed a new collection of blank, handmade cards to include an illustrated range of endearing ballet dancers. Some of the designs have been enhanced with decorative embroidery. Each card measures A6/4x6 inches. There are a total of 23 portrait designs available. The original illustrations by myself have been reprinted to create this uniquely charming collection. I am giving away 3 cards. To be in a chance of winning you must be a follower of my blog and you must like my facebook page. I thank you kindly for your support. Competition closes this Saturday, please leave a comment below. Terms and conditions apply.

Best Wishes and Good Luck

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Surfing the net....

This morning I had a few minutes to myself between grooming the horses and walking the dogs. I decided to surf the net and I found these items which I am in love with. Of course the cow hide wouldn't look good in my home covered in muddy paw prints. But a girl can dream.... 

Look at these custom hand Stamped Vintage Mr and Mrs Forks. I think this is an adorable idea.

Bless you! These very british pigeon hankies by Thornback and Peel will cheer up your cold.

Accessorizing with this luxurious camera strap by Bloom Theory means all you need is a camera to go with... 

I never new Hide rugs could be so glamorous until I was introduced to this beige and gold beauty from Furbish.

I am sure these dinky cream, gold, pink and mint salt and pepper shakers will make dinner time more interesting even if they are empty.... 

Please let me know your views

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Baby Bunting

Below is my step by step for making miniature flag bunting. This was just a bit of holiday fun and I doubt I'll have it up for long but for now it adds a bit of 'something pretty' to my room. This was really easy to make. Has anyone else been creative with bunting recently? (please excuse the mickey mouse ruler).

My 3D Finds...

These porcelain air-boxes by Petra Sajkas were influenced by the qualities surrounding plastic, for example tight lines and a lightness which gives the impression of something blown up and you can store things in these too.

These tea light holders by ceramic artist Lydia Abigail Barton are really unusual but in a good way and Lydia now has a Folksy account where you can buy her jewelry too.

These glass horse expressions by Gina Langridge were inspired by Greek mythology. They are beautifully elegant and available in a variety of colours.

  

Isobelle Ancient creates these whimsical animal characters. The limbs are hand-made ceramics, and the pieces also consist of paper-mache, collage and hand picked vintage finds. I also think it's wonderful that Isobelle managed to display this particular character on a wooden boat made by her dad.   

Annette Bugansky creates these interestingly textured contemporary ceramics. The products resemble various knitting techniques. I am really fond of the cups (above) and other items available include vases, jugs and bowls.  

Beth Retro Lights

I love these photographs by Beth Retro. I think they are really beautiful and dreamlike. The pastel colour shades are very girlie and the style seems both experimental and fun. Although I can't say I know much about the techniques surrounding photography, I can appreciate Beth Retro's talent and admire the fairy tale she has created.