OZ Handmade

Oh my! MM! mmmmmmm!

2012-02-05T21:18:00.000+11:00

So a few posts back I shared with you a photo of some goodies I'd received in the post from the Oz Store. Included in that postie love was 2 copies of Mollie Makes which I promised I would be back to tell you about.

Well better late then never!

I've been getting MM (as I shall henceforth refer to the magazine in question) since the first issue and for me the wait between issues is too long.

So what is so great about it I hear you ask. It is a virtual visual feast and inspiration can be found on every page.

The tag line on the cover reads

making thrifting collecting crafting

and that is exactly what this publication is about. I am especially enthralled by the hand-stitch embroidery designs, the patterns for which are a regular feature in the magazine.

Even the advertisements are worthy of a more detailed inspection and I am often drawn to visit the websites of those hawking their wares, knowing full well that this is an English magazine and I will (as is always the way) find some object of desire where the postage ends up been more then the item price.

The magazine is also available in digital form but even for a die hard e-reader like me this magazine needs to be beholden in all its paper glory to fully enjoy the visual orgy it provides.

As an added bonus the paper copy often comes with a little envelope of crafty goodness attached to the front. I have a feeling it is actually something that is included with every issue at its local point of distribution but is a bit hit and miss with the imported copies.

Included on the latest issue was an adorable little needle case and for me the timing was perfect as having been inspired to return to my old embroidery habits I needed a safe way to stash needles in my handbag (I can admit that yes I am a Nana, I usually carry a handicraft of some kind with me at all times just in case I am afforded a rare moment to create).

I photographed the process, quick as it was, to share with you so stay tuned for pictures of that, coming soon to a blog near you!

Yours in craftiness

Holly x

Carted vs Purchased

2012-01-28T13:48:00.002+11:00

I'm just setting up my new store on Oz (insert gratuitous plug here) and just can't decide between items been removed from stock when they are actually purchased or just when they are added to the cart.

As a consumer I hate clicking through to checkout only to find my cart has been emptied by a quicker shopper. But as a seller I would hate to miss a sale because someone carted something and later didn't by and prevented anyone else from buying it.

I've done a few micro polls about it (thanks Facebook!) and its seems its one of those things that people are one way or the other about.

I think I will be running with carted to start with - it seems the system will automatically return it to stock if its not actually paid for within 24 hours. Not that I think its really going to be an issue for my store but I might look into a bit more anyway. Now I'm interested to see how the "big names" do it. I let you know what I if out but in the meantime which do you think works better?

Yours in confusion

Holly

Special Delivery {Mail from Oz}

2012-01-24T10:02:00.000+11:00

ohh look what my postie just delivered...

and all from the Oz Shop!

Its almost as good as Christmas morning when I get a package from the wonderful Gill! No idea what I bought the Ric Rac for but I though my embellishment box needed some to be complete and I am sure I will find a use for it in the near future.

The magazine is Mollie Makes and if you are a crafty soul it will make your heart sing with joy - but I will be back to review it in more detail once I've had a good read through (which requires a pot of tea and sleeping children to maximise the pleasure of it all)

I will also be reviewing the pattern but it probably won't be until late next week when I get around to making it. I'm thinking it would make a great present for a sweet trio of sisters who all share the same birthday next month to help decorate their playroom. Stay tuned for more on that as well.

Yours in craftiness

Holly

Pick a Pattern {The Wrap Dress}

2012-01-17T08:50:00.000+11:00

Having basically spent the past 4 1/2 years breastfeeding my wardrobe options have been somewhat limited so finding a style that both looks good and allows easy and discrete access to the milk bar is always a momentous occasion.

That's why I was so excited to discover The Wrap Dress by Favorite Things Patterns. {insert happy dance}

The tag line for this Canadian company is "patterns that fit" and it's an apt one. I found both the measurements in the size guide and the materials list to be spot on.

Although the dress itself had several pieces it came together surprisingly quickly. The instructions were clear and easy to follow and I think that with a bit of patience even a beginning sewer could achieve a wearable garment. There is the option to make the dress with or without sleeves, I opted for sleeves mainly to help hide my bingo wings but I am thinking I will try a sleeveless version next as this is a dress I can see myself wearing over tights and a long sleeved shirt come winter.

Overall I was very happy with the end result of my attempt. I decided to try something a little quirky and opted to finally use the Micheal Miller Gnomeville I had been hording for some time and this is what I ended up with

If there any patterns or styles you would like reviewed please let me know. I am always happy to try something new.

Yours in stitches,

Holly

What makes you smile?

2012-01-12T21:42:00.000+11:00

I put the call out to the OZ Handmade stores and asked them to send me a photo of what makes them smile?

Here is what I got....

Natalie from Cheeky Jasmine sent me a photo of Bagnalls beach at sunset in Nelson Bay.
This makes Natalie smile, I have to agree that this photo made me smile.

Holly from Puppy Dogs Tails sent a photo of her little helpers after they had been baking. You have to agree cute kids and licking the bowl after baking make you smile.

Gill from Frillys Designs and OZ Handmade, says coffee makes her smile.

Gill is known for being a bit of a coffee snob and proud of it. Hmm the smell of coffee first thing in the morning.

Tell us what makes you smile!

A Vintage Dress

2012-01-10T13:16:00.000+11:00

Well I did it. I cut into my "vintage" stash - and what better place to start then at the top with my pièce de résistance - those wonderful Holly Hobbie sheets

After cutting came sewing...

And before I knew it I was ironing the finished item!

TADAH! Here is it (modelled by my new addition "Daniel" as named by Master 4 and the only reason I can fathom for that choice of names it is that it rhymes with his own name - Nathaniel)

On a side note I am also loving instagram (just in case you couldn't tell from the pictures)

Yours in sewing,

Holly

In the beginning

2012-01-09T22:06:00.001+11:00

So I've finally got around to cutting into those sheets I mentioned in the last post. And with any luck by lunchtime tomorrow there will be a dress to show for my efforts.But until then here is a sneaky peek

Until tomorrow! Holly - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Vintage, Upcycled, Recycled, Repurposed, Retro (Take 2)

2012-01-06T12:44:00.000+11:00

Ok carrying on from yesterday here goes…

There are a number of “buzz” words that have been floating around for a while in the handmade market place which on the surface always just seemed to be ploys to pass off second hand goods as fancier then they really are.

But as I have discovered there is more to it then that.

Lets start with upcycling which I assumed was always just another term for recycling – whereas recycling is taking something you would usually dispose of as waste and finding another use for it upcycling takes the process one step further and actually improves on the quality or value of the item.

{So if I take an old sheet and make it into a dress then I have upcycled the sheet (well done me!)}

Another popular term is “vintage” - things that were once old are now new again but how old does something have to be to considered as a vintage item? The simplest criteria I found for this was on Etsy – where to have something listed as vintage it needs to be more then 20 years old. So that technically means anything from 1992 or before. (Wonder if anyone wants to by a “vintage” Sandgate High school uniform circa 1992?)

{So if my old sheet is more then 20 years old then the dress I have made is also a vintage item}

The term “retro” differs from vintage in that while something in the style of an earlier time it could have been made yesterday.

{So if my dress is a 1950s inspired house coat then it would also be considered “retro” (I’m on fire here!)}

While I’m on this topic I also have a confession to make – I have a bit of a collection of vintage fabrics, mainly upcycled from old bed linens. And I am loathe to use them as I know that once I have then unlike the majority of my contemporary stash I can’t just order more. I love to sift through them and dream of the things I could make but its not very often I actually cut into them.

In pride of place of this collection is a Holly Hobbie sheet set that was gifted to me from a friend of mine after I spotted one of the sheets peaking out from under a bed in her children's' room. However I will be cutting into this week to make dress for the daughter of the same friend. I am hoping it will cure me of my reluctance to actually create anything with my “vintage” stash as some of the fabrics are just delightful and need freeing from the drawer in which they currently reside.

Stay tuned for a progress report (and all going well some pictures…)

Vintage, Upcycled, Recycled, Repurposed, Retro...

2012-01-04T08:26:00.002+11:00

Oh my! I just got lost in cyberspace. Trying to sort out the terms Vintage, Upcycled, Recycled, Repurposed, Retro...

Stay tuned a post on this will be coming....

Handmade, Homemade, Handcrafted

2012-01-02T07:03:00.000+11:00

If you've every clicked on the About Us tab on the Oz Handmade website you will know that we are a

"a collection of creative people who have followed their passion and started to make some money from selling their high quality handmade items"

However there seems to be some debate as to what constitutes "handmade" and bringing up the topic always seems to open a huge can of worms!

From the dictionary:

HANDMADE (adjective) Made by hand, not by machine

That seems pretty straightforward but the confusion / debate / mud slinging comes into play when you consider what portion of an item must be made by hand for it to be considered handmade. For example - embellishing a t-shirt might be done by hand but the shirt itself is not handmade, the fabric I use to sew is machine woven and I sew with my machine yet I sell these items under the handmade banner.

Perhaps what has happened is that the term hand-crafted has now become interchangeable with handmade

HANDCRAFTED (adjective) made by hand with craftsmanship

And just to confuse things even more what about HOMEMADE (made at home rather then in a store or a factory)

When I was first learning to sew I made my niece a dress and her father made the comment that it "looked handmade", he didn't mean it as a compliment and to me the quality of that dress and the ones I now make perfectly illustrate the difference between handmade and homemade.

In a nutshell what I think is:

HANDMADE no longer literally refers to items made entirely by hand. Instead they are items that are CRAFTED with skill (and often love) and it is that skill that separates them from HOMEMADE.

But what I really want to know is what do you think?

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T01:00:00.005+11:00

Happy New Year!

And welcome to a new year at Oz Handmade.

Over the past few months the winds of change have been blowing through the Oz arena and will continue to swirl around as we move in to the 12^th year of the 21^st century.

I don’t know about you but for me the holiday season brings with it a general lethargy, I lose my motivation, my sew-jo and a great deal of my usual get up and go. I’m not sure if it’s the warmer weather, the extra feasting that accompanies the seemingly endless round-about of holiday parties or it’s really just all in my head, but I do know that the upside is that the New Year brings a renewed vigour, an enthusiasm for tasks that only the week before just seemed too hard to even contemplate and the feeling that anything is possible. Now if only I could bottle it for later in the year…

For the next few weeks I will be channelling my New Year’s can-do energy into planning for this blog. I am thinking multi-media, I am thinking book reviews (craft of course), I am thinking of topics of conversation and I am also asking you – what do you want? I can quite happily waffle away for hours on any given topic – after all I have the whole internet at my disposal while I type – but I want to be waffling on topics YOU want to read. So hit me with them…

Until next time!

We needed and Angel.

2011-12-13T19:01:00.003+11:00

I am not sure where our Angel went for our Christmas tree.
But we could not find her :(
I wonder if she went.
When we had our clearance sale before we moved,
and anything that was not bolted or glued down WENT....

Hubby's mission I think was we were moving taking with us only the
clothes we were wearing :)
Well that didn't happen but it was close.

Anyway our Angel was gone.
So MissK and I decided to make one.

Here is what we used.
Silver pipe cleaners
Bon Bon tubes
Glitter glue in tube
White Felt
Flesh coloured paint
Red Paint
Foam Egg Shapes
Toy stick on eyes
Glitter Butterfly large
Doll Hair
All purchased from Spotlight for about $20
An Organza bottle gift bag (purchased from the local $2 shop)

MissK then painted the head flesh pink.

I wrapped the bon bon cylinder in felt and used the hot glue gun to stick it down.

(you could use toilet roll but we didn't as we thought it was a bit flimsy)

I then wrapped the silver pipe cleaner around the cylinder to get a circle and

wrapped the end around.

To form a halo

then we put the cylinder inside the organza bag

and pulled the strings tight and glued it to the cylinder.

Cut the bag about 3cm longer than the end to form the skirt.

MissK stuck the eyes on using the hot glue gun.

We also stuck her halo into place.

Then we had so much fun sticking the hair into place,

again using the hot glue gun.
Have to love a good hot glue gun :)

Front view with her hair half done.
Starting to look like an Angel.

We then stuck her wings on.

I pulled the butterfly in two because the wings were not quite wide enough.

Back view of wings and hair.

MissK painted her lips and stuck a pearl pin in for her nose.

MissK now places her in pride of place on top of our Christmas Tree.

We have a beautiful Angel.

All that was required is about an hour and some imagination and you too can have an Angel.

Christmas Gifts Ideas part 4.

2011-12-07T11:42:00.001+11:00

Pillowslip dress in lovely summer colours from The Ginger Tree

Handmade Felt Christmas Decorations from Fuzzy Creations

Two-tone blue minky and Amy Butler Wallflower from Minkie Baby

Abigail Beaded Charm Bracelet from Kat and Bee

Personalised Bunting Flags from Frillys Desgins

Bias Tape Maker and Tips from the OZ Shop

I suggest you grab a cuppa and browse the great gift ideas this Christmas and save time looking for a car park and braving the over crowded stores. When you can get a beautiful handmade creation at OZ Handmade Be sure to share our site with your friends.

Christmas Gift Ideas Part 3.

2011-11-26T21:19:00.001+11:00

Boy's Argyle Tie from Cheeky Jasmine

Citrus 4 fruits Handmade Natural Soap from Natures Secret

Ruffled Bloomer from Squeeze Cuddles

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie Nappy Pocket from Soft Bots

Long Leg Navy Shorts and Tee from -FIVE- Handmade

Stay tuned for Part 4 of our Christmas Gift Ideas.

Sale Time.....

2011-11-26T14:24:00.001+11:00

Bron has been having a Sale

and it finishes at midnight tonight.

Saturday 26th November.

Don't miss our on your chance to own a beautiful unquie piece from

Bronz Beadz and Glass.

Bron's work is just sensational.

40 % off with the code bron40 at checkout.

added today to the OZ Shop

has been some craft magazines from the UK.

Cross Stitch and Knitting Magazines.

Did you also know you can buy your Mollie Makes, Sew Hip and Ottobre Magazines from OZ

Christmas Gift Ideas Part 2...

2011-11-25T16:50:00.001+11:00

Well over the last few days, my internet has been on/off/on and off again.
It has made me realise just how much I rely on a good internet connection.

But here I am .... and let's get back to Gift Ideas for Christmas.

Magnets from My Obsession Designs

Dichroic glass pendant from Bronz Beadz and Glass

Resin pendant from Bella Button

Poppy Handbag from Love Suzy K

Jacket in navy with bright coloured Hearts from Playtime for Kids

Pair of Pink blockout curtains from Comfy Ed

Pink Angel 360deg Christmas Card from Ink-Redible Invites

I hope you enjoy having a look around and the beautiful creations that our stores have to offer this Christmas. I have started my shopping.

Christmas Gift Ideas part one:

2011-11-21T16:45:00.001+11:00

I think it's time to show you some awesomeness from our stores

in time for you to start your Christmas Shopping

Teaparty Pink Capri Set, size 6 from Dalabri Creation

Personalised hair ties from A Scarlett Store

Toddlers Backpack from D'sign Bags OZ

Stayed tuned for part two:

I would like you to meet

2011-11-20T18:28:00.001+11:00

Recently I sent out an email to all of the OZ Stores and asked them to complete a questionnaire, so we could get to know them all a little better and I would like you all to meet.

Tell us about yourself.

Hi,my name is Rachel. Im a mother to 2 wonderful boys aged 6 and 4.

Ihave been happily married to a great husband for nearly ten years.

Iwork causal as a support worker the looks after young adults with disabilitieswhich I enjoy.

Ilove spending time with my family they mean the world to me.

Imaddicted to internet shopping and I just love fabric.

How long have you been into handmade craft.

Istarted making handmade craft about 4 years ago .

Thefirst thing I made was a dress up costume for my children.

Thenmy son's pre-school ask me to make a few things for them like tutu's and dressup costumes.

Sincethen I've made rag dolls, jewellery and some wall decor for children's bedrooms.

What made you want to make your own creations?

Istarted making handmade things because of one of my niece's who is now two.

Sheloves handbags and all things girlie.

Ijust recently was blessed with another niece and before her birth I made

allotmore girlie things. So having little girls around me started my to make my owncreations.

What is your most favourite thing, you have created?

Idon't really have a favourite thing, but I really enjoyed making a rag doll formy niece's 2nd

Birthdayit was really fiddley but it was a great challenge making small clothes andhand sewing a face on the doll.

What made you decide to start selling your homemade creations?

Igot a little obsessed making handmade thing's and ran out of family and friendsto give them too.

Thenfamily and friends started getting asked by different people where did you getthat bag from.

Sothat's when I decided to start selling my handmade creations.

Another chance!

2011-11-01T23:21:00.000+11:00

For you chance to win another $5 voucher to spend at any OZ Store!

Who came 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th in today's Melbourne cup?

and

Crown Oaks Day itself is also known as??

2011-11-01T23:14:00.001+11:00

2011-11-01T20:23:00.003+11:00

OZ Trivia Night:

Rules:
Answer to the questions can be found within the "Stores" store, in the about me page or policy page or on the store Facebook Page (you will find links to the stores Facebook pages within the questions). The only thing I ask is everyone play fair. You have 24 hours to submit your answers.
When you leave your answers in the comments section under this post on our blog page.

Please be sure to leave your name (first only) and email address. Without these details your entry will be invalid.

Have fun and don't be in too much of a rush because you want to be right the first time.

Prizes:
1st $15 OZ Voucher
2nd $10 OZ Voucher
3rd $5 OZ Voucher

Vouchers can be redeemed at any store within OZ Handmade.
Once the winners are announced, the winners will be contacted and given voucher codes to redeem their vouchers when they go through checkout. You have until the 1st December to redeem your voucher.

There will be other prizes through out the night.

Okay here are the questions:

Tracey from My Obsession Designs asks

How many fabric basket sizes arethere?

Jo from Dalabri Creations asks

what size is the baby pink cottonromper/playsuit?

Oz Handmade asks

When did OZ handmade start supporting the Australian Handmade Community?

Sharon from Playtime for kids asks

I am a mother of?

Julia from Squeeze Cuddles asks

Whatis the name of my 6 layered ruffle bloomers found at my Oz Handmade store?

Louise from Bellabutton asks

What do Bellabutton call their button hair ties?

Bron from Bronz beads and glass

I have one item for sale @ $15.00...what is the name ofit ?

and

What is the cost of postage on my items?

Rachel from D'sign Bags Oz asks

Wheredose D'sign Bags Oz live currently live?

Leigh from Minkie Baby asks

what are the Minkie Baby Boosters made from?

Kelly from Fuzzy Designs asks

What are the 4 animals featured in the Australian Christmas Decorations?

Louise from A scarlett store asks

In my wall photos there is a badge, what is on that badge?

Natalie from Cheeky Jasmine asks

What is Cheeky Jasmine named after?

and

when did cheeky Jasmine open?

What are the 3 Magazines you can buy from the OZ Handmade store?

HAPPY HUNTING!

Announcing OZ Trivia Night

2011-10-28T11:29:00.002+11:00

Kids go back to school

2011-10-10T10:24:00.000+11:00

today!
Well here in Victoria they do anyway.

We have all in all had a lovely 2 week break.
With a few drama's thrown in along the way.
But you get that!

I would like to thank Tracey from My Obsession Designs for the new look of the OZ blog ♥ thank you Tracey looks great.

I would like to remind you that you can now purchase magazines, patterns and sewing/craft supplies from the OZ store.

Birthdays
We have a couple of great birthdays to celebrate this month....
The OZ Material Girls are seven this month and to celebrate they are giving one lucky person the chance to win a FQ Box by Robert Kaufman it has 100FQ's how exciting so make sure you visit the OZ Material Girls Blog for details on how to win.

It is also the lovely Lisa from Crafty Mama's 7th Birthday. You can also visit Crafty Mama's blog for up to date details of what's new in store.

Oh and just one more birthday worth a mention Mine is on Wednesday :)

Have a great Monday everyone

and I hope to see you visiting the OZ Facebook page and do yourself a favour grab a cuppa and have a look at the amazing things the stores have to offer at the moment at OZ Handmade the ladies have been extremely busy getting stock added to their stores.

So do yourself a favour have a look around and make sure you tell all your friends about Oz too!

WOW!!

2011-10-05T16:51:00.002+11:00

It's October where oh where do they days go.

I struggle to keep up.

Here in Victoria we are in our last week of the school holidays.

I am almost another year older with my birthday next week.

Wow I still feel 18 but I am a long way from that.

I have been busy uploading some wonderful things to the OZ Store.

Here is today's little addition


The Clover Bobbin Tower

These will be selling for $25 and that includes postage.

Where possible I am trying to keep the postage to a minimum this can be quite difficult.

You can also get your Mollie Makes Magazine and the Sew Hip magazine direct from the UK. These are awesome craft magazines.

Just to start putting us all in the Christmas Spirit

Playtime for Kids

A Scarlett Store

Enjoy the rest of your week

2011-09-23T17:36:00.001+10:00

New at OZ

It's a great time to be apart of OZ.

Currently I am looking into advertising for 2011.

Along with the amazing sprouts patterns from Trish I am now excited to let you in on another little secret. OZ is going to be stocking Mollie Makes and Sew Hip magazines from the UK.

Over the weekend these will be up loaded to the Oz Handmade store along with some sewing notions.

Please be sure to tell your friends about Oz Handmade and invite them to be apart of our online Market Place our Facebook page and here at our blog.

Introducing Sprouts

2011-08-08T14:20:00.008+10:00

Have you ever been so excited about something you could just burst?

Well that is how I am about bringing you these beautiful patterns "Sprouts" from Two Peas in a Pod homegrown designs.

I contacted Trish about her beautiful patterns after seeing an article about Two Peas in a Pod in "Sew Hip" I was a little bit blown away to find out that there was no Australian Stockist of her beautiful patterns. So I knew OZ "the store" had to have them.

A little bit about Trish, like many of us she juggles the Mum gig, the WAHM gig and works part-time. Trish and her husband have Identical Twins daughters (two peas) and a third daughter (sprout). To find out more about Trish pop over and have a read of her blog.

Here is one of the patterns that I have in stock.

**Please note that the "Sprouts" patterns are only for personal use**

2011-08-01T21:59:00.008+10:00

So what's new at OZ you ask. First you will notice a new banner and logoI hope you like it. I spent hours on it and I mean hours. I love it! Because it is simple and not only represents Handmade but also OZ I am proud to be an Aussie and think everyone that sells their amazing products on Oz should also be proud to be an Aussie as well. There is so many new things planned for OZ and they will start to roll out over the next little while. Things take time and I was hoping to have everything ready for you all tonight but alas sometimes things take a little longer than others. But as they say good things come to those who wait.

One thing that I am so very proud to share with you all is that OZ will now stock supplies. Under the Oz Handmade store you will be able to purchase, patterns, magazines, trims, sewing/craft supplies and other little things from time to time. I have recently had a buying trip but they will take a little while to filter in. Only the Oz Handmade store is able to stock supplies the stores will still only offer their awesome Handmade products for purchase. We have new stores opening weekly and are currently updating the website. You will notice changes as they happen, if the links are not working for you then please try deleting your cookies within your browser before contacting me and finding out what the problem is.

Everyone loves a great pattern don't they.
Well I am very proud to let you all in on a very big secret!
A few months ago I was reading an amazing story in the UK's sew hip magazine about a lovely lady by the name of Trish Preston and I was so inspired I had to contact her. One thing lead to another and we swapped a few emails and then before you know it I have asked if I could be a stockist of her patterns.
Now not only am I stocking her beautiful patterns in the Oz Store BUT I am Australia's First Stockist of her patterns until now you have had to purchase these from overseas.
So I am very proud to bring to you Trish Preston's Sprouts patterns. They are currently on shipment to Australia so as soon as they arrived I will let you know.

As things start to arrive I will start to add them to the OZ store, where it is possible I will include postage, so you know exactly what the cost will be.

To keep up to date of everything you will need to be a follower of our blog and it will also be a great idea to subscribe to our newsletter.
You can do this here on our facebook page or email me at gill@ozhandmade.com and I will add you to our newsletter list.

Well that is all from me tonight. I hope I have created a bit of excitement for you all.

Getting closer

2011-07-28T21:24:00.000+10:00

There are a few things changing have you noticed.

Here is a hint :)
Of what is to come can you guess?

Introducing "By Suse Hocking"

2011-07-20T16:04:00.005+10:00

Suse is just one of our many talented ladies whom have stores at Oz Handmade.

Did you also know that Suse is also a pattern designer.

There are many new things going on at By Suse Hocking HQ.
There is the new slogan: Keeping your little ones "little" with handmade boutique style clothing and toys.

I have been branching out into a few accessories, such as iPad sleeves, iPhone pouches and among other things, some new softies.

But the thing I am MOST excited about at the moment is the new Spring collection that I am working on: Broderei Bliss "Springtime Kiss". Think LOTS of Broderie, vintage lace and Ruffly ruffles! Dresses, skirts, frilly bot nappy covers, all soft and pretty and oh so frilly. With quite a few new colour stories to choose from. I have not completed my new range yet, but keep an eye out for all the new yummy goodness. With names like "Coconut Ice", "Fresh and Crisp" and "Marshmallow" how could anyone resist?

You can find Suse hanging out in these locations.
Facebook: facebook.com/bysusehocking
Store: ozhandmade.com/store/bysusehocking
email: susan_hocking@hotmail.com

2011-07-09T16:56:00.005+10:00

You just may like to mark this date in your diary

July

2011-07-05T09:18:00.000+10:00

Wow it is July already.
How did everyone cope with June 30.
I had totally forgotten about it until I was in the bank queue and could not work out why there were so many people in there.
I thought it was strange until someone in line mentioned it must be so busy because of that, well I hope they were taking money out and not putting it in because the tax man will want some of what they have put in if they are a business.

As you all know there is change happening around OZ,
and over the next few weeks we will reveal a few sneak peaks of what the changes are.
Some will be very subtle and others will be quite noticeable.

Yes that is your first sneak peak, can you work it out.

There are also some new and exciting things coming to OZ.
Very exciting times are afoot.

Have a great day

How do you handle Change?

2011-06-23T12:31:00.002+10:00

How do you know when it is time for a change?

How do you know that this change will be good for you?

Do you just embrace it and go with it?

Or do you stew over it until you are almost sick?

These are questions I am often asking myself.

In some cases change is good.

Change can be as good as a holiday or a new dress.

So who is ready for change??

Happy Times and Sad Times

2011-06-13T10:44:00.000+10:00

They say change is as good as a holiday.
But sometimes change can bring times of sadness,
but also times of happiness.

This is one of those times of mixed emotions.

I am sad to inform you all that, Gem has stepped down as owner of OZ Handmade.

But I am really happy and excited to tell you that I have taken over the reins.
I have promised Gem that I will look after OZ and nurture it, water it and make it grow.
Gem is going to concentrate full time on her family, study and work commitments.

As most of you know I also am owner of Frillys Designs on Oz

and also can be found on Face Book.
I have decided to scale back my range at Frillys so that I can concentrate on OZ at this point in time.

I would also like to introduce those of you that don't know Beck from Baby Laila , she has agreed to be my partner and help me out.
I feel that OZ is too big for just one person.

So I thank Beck very much for also coming on board and helping me out.

Gem, it is with sadness that we wave farewell but thank you for making OZ what it is today. Thank you.

So if anyone needs help please do not hesitate to email me Gill or Beck

Have a wonderful Monday and take care

In the spotlight

2011-04-04T18:00:00.000+10:00

This month in the spotlight is OZ Handmade it's self.

Why you may ask.

The answer is quite simple.

"Lily's Gift"

from Thursday 14th April until Monday 18th April

OZ Handmade will be running an auction.

With all proceeds raised being donated to the

Good Friday Appeal

The auction will run from the the OZ Handmade Store

on the OZ website.

OZ Store

All items have been kindly donated by a number of fantastic

Facebook business's and some stores on the OZ Handmade website.

This is the first time the Good Friday Appeal has aloud an

On-Line auction of this sort.

So we feel very privileged in being aloud to take part

in such a large fundraiser.

That not only Victorians but all Australian people dig deep in their pockets to support the GFA every year and

this year the Good Friday Appeal celebrates it's 80th Birthday.

You can find out more about the Appeal by visiting their official website

Good Friday Appeal website

So please support this amazing appeal and dig deep to help the children of

Victoria, continue to receive the hospital care that the

Royal Children's Hospital

has been giving children for the past 80+years.

Click on the link to read more about the amazing care the Hospital gives.

Royal Children's Hospital

All proceeds from the Auction will be pledged by Gem on-half of "Lily's Gift"

during the live telecast of the Appeal on Good Friday

22nd April 2011.

As I said previously this is the first time they have given permission for an online auction to be held.

Here is our official letter. GFA & OZ letter

Please spread the word.

You can also find out more details on the Oz Handmade Facebook page

OZ on Facebook

and the official "Lily's Gift" Facebook page.

"lily's gift"on facebook

We hope to see you at the auction.

The Sewing Sisterhood Auction

2011-03-14T10:50:00.001+11:00

There are an amazing group of woman on Facebook,

that have come together and joined forces.

To put together an Auction that starts tonight Monday 14th March 2011 at 9pm EDST
with all proceeds raised to go to the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal
it will conclude at 9pm Thursday 17th March 2011

These Ladies call them selves "The Sewing Sisterhood" they offer each other support and encouragement with their "Handmade" businesses.

When the disaster of the floods that hit QLD and then later the cyclone, with members of the group being directly effected and others that just wanted and needed to help in some way.
It was decided those that could (due to time and family constraints) within the group. Would make a doll and accessories each and they would go to auction to help those in need.

So here are the Pages that have contributed a doll/s towards this fantastic auction.
Relax a Bag, By Suse Hocking, Little Sew and Sews, Perigren Creations,
Puppy Dogs Tails, Crambster Creations, Kat and Bee, Zahley Rose,
Tea for Evie, Lil Pip, Patooties Boutique and OZ Handmade
So I ask you to dig deep and help raise much needed funds to help the people that's lives were changed for ever by these disasters.

Don't they just look adorable? I am sure you know a special little girl in your lives that would just love to own a special little miss like these.

You can now preview the dolls in all their glory on the OZ Handmade website and choose the special little miss that you would like to bid on when the auction starts tonight at 9pm EDST don't forget it finishes on Thursday 17th March at 9pm.

The ladies involved in making these dolls would like to thank Katrina from Lil-Miss-Dolls for making her pattern available to use for this wonderful cause.

Happy Biding

✄ Something New ✄

2011-03-01T10:44:00.002+11:00

Each month or there abouts OZ Handmade

will interview one of the stores

currently open on Oz.

The store chosen will be done so

under strict guidelines.

Gill's daughter will pick a store out of a box.

Each store will be asked 5 questions in their interview

and then this store will be the store

The store for March is (drum roll please)

Tell us a bit about yourself?

Fuzzy Creations is made up myself, (Kelly) and Kristy. We are both stay at home Mum's.
I have two daughters 2 and 4 and Kristy has a daughter who is 4 and is expecting her second child in 2 months time.
We are both very busy mum's as most of us are, trying to keep up with young children and making time to do what we love... creating!!
Fuzzy Creations has been very exciting for us, we love what we do and are very passionate about our puppets. As soon as our children are in bed at night, out come the scissors and felt and away we go...cutting our puppets!!

How long have you been into handmade craft?

I have always been into crafts, I used to love going to craft markets and buying handmade products before I got into it.
Fuzzy Creations was started in July 2009 but it took us six months to design,
make templates and come up with our ideas on how and with what we were going to sell our Finger Puppets.
Our puppets are sold with Nursery Rhymes, Story Books, Songs and in themed sets of 5 for children to create their own imaginative stories.

What made you want to make your own creations?

I studied Graphic Design about 10 years ago and have also had an interest in designing and creating anything crafty. I actually specialised in 3D design during my studies and with out even realising it, that is exactly what I am doing now. There have been a few other projects along the way which eventually led to the puppets. When we had children I think with all the songs, Nursery Rhymes, Stories and favourite characters from children's TV shows that we were exposed to every day just kept putting ideas into our heads on how to sell our puppets. Neither Kristy or I wanted to go back to work full time having young children so we got together and decided to see where we could go with the puppets, at this time I had about 6 designs of puppets that I had come up with. Our range now consists of about 180 puppets.

What is your most favourite thing, you have created?

My favourite product that we have made is our "Songs" range. These puppets come with a laminated song sheet with the lyrics to the song, The puppets are attached with velcro dots so that they can be re attached once you have finished using them. These are my favourite because they are more popular with babies and toddlers. I love seeing their little faces light up as you sing to them, for example...5 little ducks went out one day.. as you sing you have the 5 ducks on each finger and as each duck in the song disappear so does a puppet from your finger. They get so excited and laugh. Some of our other songs are, 5 green and speckled frogs, old Mac Donald had a farm, 5 little Monkeys jumping on the bed, teasing Mr Crocodile and more. This range has also been popular with Kinders.

What made you decide to start selling your homemade creation?

We went into it right from the beginning wanting to sell our puppets, we were looking for a way to be able to stay at home and have some pocket money for ourselves too. Both Kristy and I like to always be doing something as well and this is the perfect thing for us to do and we can watch our TV shows while we do it.

Fuzzy Creations has grown a fare bit over the last 12 months and we hope to see it get even bigger, we are now supplying a few retail stores with our puppets and that has been very exciting and rewarding for us.

Something exciting and new for the girls at Fuzzy Creations
that they didn't mention.
Was!!
You can now find their products at the Melbourne Zoo.
How exciting would that be to go and visit one of Australia's Largest Zoo's to see your creations on display.
Congratulations "hard work" pays off.

Thank you Kelly and Kristy for sharing your Fuzzy Creations Story.

Make sure you pop in to the Fuzzy Creations store today.

Welcome to twenty eleven!

2011-02-08T12:33:00.000+11:00

Okay so we are just a little late,
it is February already.

So excited there are so many amazing things
happening in the Handmade world and
will update you as they happen.

A huge welcome the following stores to the OZ family.

Caardvark

Sew me something special

Crambster Creations

X marks the spot

Addison Avenue

Polkadot bitz & pieces

Sam & Digger

Cards by Catherine

By Suse Hocking

It is always great to see what the new stores have to offer.
Just what they create and how much time and effort go
into bringing you the most amazing handmade items
that Australia has to offer.

Next week, we be the beginning of something new.

If it has been a while since you have popped in to

OZ Handmade

then put it on your to do list today.

Make yourself a cuppa and sit down and relax

and browse the stores.

New clothing release at LA Crafts!

2010-10-04T15:45:00.001+11:00

LA Crafts have just released their new summer clothing line, for boys (yes boys!) and girls.

Here are a few to wet your whistle…

View Full Album

To check our the rest of the collection head on over to the LA Crafts store at Oz Handmade.

1/2 price advertising offer available ONLY TODAY!

2010-10-02T10:33:00.001+10:00

For today only you can receive 50% the 6 monthly 125 banner subscription on the Oz Handmade home page.

That’s a saving of $62.50!

If your interested email advertising@ozhandmade.com.

Offer will expire 12am midnight tonight (3/10/10).

What’s going on at Oz Handmade?

2010-09-28T17:03:00.001+10:00

We have a few things on at the moment, We’ve had a number of new stores sign up bringing the total so far up to 82 (18 to go!) one of which wasted no time at all opening its virtual doors.

Chamberlain Creations creates the cutest wall murals, name plaques, and much more. Be sure to stop by the store, there will be hopefully more to come soon.

Other stores who have opened recently are…

In a Yellow Wood – If you after something a little different from your store bought greeting cards you should check IAYW out.

Little Snuggle Monkey – LSM makes cute comforters/toys for the little ones in your life.

Upcoming sales/releases.

La Crafts is about to release their new clothing line on Oz Handmade! How exciting is that! The release will be on the 4th so check back for all that is new over at La Crafts. Of course regular stock is available now at La Crafts so why not pop over and check it out.

Promotions

Don’t forget we have the “FREE RENT FOR A MONTH” promotion running at the moment. If you or know someone who has thought about opening a store with Oz Handmade now is the time. When we reach 100 stores 5 stores will be chosen at random to receive 1 months free rent! Check out this post for all the information.

Advertising Opportunities with Oz Handmade

Did you know we offer many different advertising packages at Oz Handmade? One of which doesn’t cost you a cent!

If you would like more info on advertising with us please email advertising@ozhandmade.com.

We seem to be experiencing some technical difficulties…

2010-09-24T12:30:00.001+10:00

It looks like the site has gone down. There was talk about it going down for server maintenance but not sure if this is related. Will update when everything is back on board.

Sorry about the inconvenience.

Gem

And the winner is…..

2010-09-20T21:26:00.001+10:00

I have just drawn the winner of the Baby Laila Taggy Blanket give away!

The winner is…….

Congrats to Katesearles! If you could email your contact details to gem@ozhandmade.com and I will pop it in the mail for you!

Congrats again!

Gem xoxo

Another promotion!

2010-09-16T15:55:00.002+10:00

Wow two promotions in as many days!
This giveaway promotion is going to be a bit different!
When we reach 100 stores signed up to Oz Handmade I am going to give a random 5 stores (chosen from all of the current and newly opened stores) free rent for 1 month!
Currently we are at 77 stores, so we need to get 23 store signed up, that’s nothing!
The only stipulations I have are as follows:

Your store must be open to be in the running (Part time stores count as open).
Store that close WILL NOT affect the count.

If you’ve been thinking of opening a store or know someone who has now is the time to do it!
This competition will run as long as it takes for us to get 23 stores!
I look forward to welcoming many new stores!

Gem xo

Spring has sprung, time to start blogging again!

2010-09-15T17:00:00.002+10:00

Well hello there, its been a while hasn’t it!
As you may notice there have been a few changes of late. The new look Oz Handmade was launched a few weeks ago! I love how it turned out. Andrea from Andrea Betty designs did an amazing job!
I have also tried to make the blog relate to the site. Am still not 100% happy with it but its always a work in progress!
Now to kick off the new season, website, blog etc I am going to do a giveaway!

Oz Handmade along with Baby Laila are going to giveaway a gorgeous pink daisy taggy blanket! Baby Laila’s blanket’s are valued at $20 and would be perfect for your new baby girl or a baby shower gift for an expectant Mum or Dad!

To be in the running all you have to do is reply to this post in the comments below and tell me who you would give this gorgeous gift to? Are you expecting or have a new little person in your life or would you give it to an expectant friend.
~~This giveaway is open until Sunday 19th September and will be drawn at 9pm.~~
The giveaway has been extended until 9pm tonight! (20/9/10)
Winners will be notified by email and will be announced here on the blog as well as the Oz Handmade fan page.
The winner will be chosen by random using a random number generator.
I look forward to seeing your entries.
Good luck!

If you would like to check out Baby laila’s range of gorgeous handmade items for the little ones in your world go to their store, www.ozhandmade.com/store/babylaila
Thank you to Beck for kindly offering this item for a giveaway!

Design Oz Handmade’s Logo Competition

2010-06-24T21:54:00.001+10:00

Due to difficulty I am having with designing a logo I am asking for your help!

So I am going to open it up to you guys, design us a logo!

Here are the details:

Competition starts at midnight and will run for the next two weeks. (12.00am 25th June – 11.59pm 9th July )
It needs to be in JPEG (for web) and high res PDF (for print)
Be 300 pixels per inch (ppi)
Use the words Oz Handmade (that’s a given ;) )
Use these colours and these colours only!

Print version to be in CMKY
Web version in RGB
No Copy written images are to be use.
Oz Handmade reserves the right to have full ownership of the logo and can use it as we see fit.
The logo must be original design.
The logo is to be used on the web as well as in print for advertising, business cards etc.
All submissions are to be received by 11.59pm Friday 9th July by email. Please email all submissions to gem@ozhandmade.com, a folder will be started by me on our FB page displaying all the entries.
Please DO NOT post your entries on the FB page.
I would prefer nothing too colloquial Australian. Don't let the word Oz box you into just an Australian theme.
The judges decision is FINAL.

The winner will receive…

3 months FREE 125 x 125 advertising space on the Oz Handmade home page (valued at $75) as well as 3 months FREE 125 x125 advertising space on our blog (valued at $60) so an all over prize value of $135!

If you have any questions feel free to email at gem@ozhandmade.com.

Have fun, I look forward to seeing your designs!

And the winner is….

2010-06-09T22:34:00.001+10:00

The winner of the Funky Friends Factory Tilly The Turtle pattern is…….

The Winner is Tash!

Tash if you could contact me via email (gem@ozhandmade.com) with your postal address and I will pop ‘Tilly’ in the mail ASAP!

Congrats!

Giveaway – Funky Friends Factory pattern

2010-06-06T20:33:00.001+10:00

I thought I would do a bit of a giveaway.

To be in the running for a ‘Tilly the Turtle” pattern all you have to do is comment below and a random winner will be picked and announced on Wednesday night.

Don’t forget you can see the other Funky Friends Factory patterns in the Oz Handmade store at Oz handmade.

Good Luck!

How to take a product photo, made easy.

2010-05-26T22:16:00.001+10:00

The adage, ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ is never more appropriate when talking about online commerce.

The best thing you can do for your product (after making it of course ;)) is to take a professional looking, well produced photo.

I know, I hear you, “I can’t afford to get professional shots of my stock” “I don’t have a expensive DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera like the pro’s use.” “I don’t have room or the money for a professional product lighting/studio set up.”

Well guess what? You don’t need to!

By using items from around your home or inexpensive items you can find at stationary or craft stores and a simple point and shoot digital camera you can create professional looking photo’s of your products.

The basics you will need to take a professional product photo.

Digital Camera
Tripod
Black and white card
Desk Lamps with high watt globes.
Access to natural light (if possible)
Light box/tent or similar set up
A computer and image editing program.

Digital Camera

Any digital point and shoot camera is fine, the mega pixels amount doesn’t really matter as the images don’t need to be print quality as they will only be used on the internet. A handy thing to have on your camera, (most already do) is a tripod jack, this is located on the underside of the camera.


Photo: www.digitalcamerainfo.com	Photo: www.imaging-resources.com

Locate your flash and turn it off, the best light you can use for taking photo’s would be natural light, but even if you are using lamp light your flash still needs to be turned of as to not cause cast shadows or dark spots.

The best way to know if your flash is off look for this symbol . If you do not see this symbol refer to your camera instructions for how to turn it off.

Now locate your macro option. Macro means close up. Look for this symbol .

Ensure your lens is clean, smudge and lint free.

Tripod

You don’t need an expensive tripod for taking product shots. There are a few different types of tripods that would be perfect for this.

Tabletop Tripod

Telescopic Tripod


Flexible tripod	Some of the different ways to pose the flexible tripod

Light box/tent or similar set up

Professional light boxes can be expensive but you can by them cheaper on eBay, but the alternative is making your own light box or light set up.

Here are some link to easy DIY Light Boxes.

How to make an inexpensive light tent - www.digital-photography-school.com

Homemade light box for product photography - www.studiolighting.net

DIY light box tutorial - www.instatuts.com

Easy white box light for product photography - www.jasontomczak.com


www.jasontomczak.com	www.jasontomczak.com

To find more tutorial simply Google ‘DIY light box/tent’.

Background/Back drop

Any colour can be used but white looks the most professional and can be easily worked with later in the editing process. It also depends on what your photographing. The background is there to make the item being photographed stand out, it is plain as to not distract from the product. A large sheet of card stock is perfect for a back ground, it can be curved to give a seamless backdrop.

Desk lamps/lighting.

Lighting is very important when it comes to shooting a professional looking product photo. Any desk lamp is fine but you will need a high watt light bulb. The more light the better. Play around with what amount of light is best for what your shooting.

If you are able to get good natural light where your shooting that can look great too, but the good thing with setting up your own lighting is that you can have control (you don’t have to worry about any pesky clouds).

Computer and Image editing software.

Some of you may be familiar with Adobe Photoshop which is a great way to spruce up your images before posting, but it can be VERY expensive.

Did you know there are free and easy ways to edit your photo’s?

There are programs like Gimp with is a downloadable image editing program based on Photoshop or if you were wanting to try out Photoshop before buying, you can download a 30 day trial from the Adobe website. Picasa is also an easy program to not only help organise your photo’s but also do basic photo editing (all you will need for editing your product photo’s.

An alternative to downloading is using a photo editing website such Picnik, there is no registration required, while you can pay a inexpensive yearly fee to have access to the premium version it isn’t necessary for what we are doing.

The best thing to do to bring out the best out of your photo’s is to play around with the light and contrast. These can made a dull photo pop. Its best to play around and see what looks good.

In conclusion…

The beauty of a digital camera is that you can take heaps of pictures and if you don’t like any of them just press the delete and take some more. Take lots of pictures of your products from all different angels, you might find it presents better looking at it from a different way. Make sure your product is clean and looks presentable, remove any stray threads or fluff/lint and display the item attractively.

Make sure the background is appropriate to the item (If you have a light product a darker background would look better and vice-a-versa with a darker product.)

Use your tripod! The tripod can be an invaluable tool, especially if you get hand shake etc. To make sure there is no chance of camera shake utilise your self timer or if you have one a camera remote. If you don’t have a tripod or don’t want to invest in one there are many simple and creative ways to create your own tripod, Google ‘DIY tripod’ or ‘Make your own tripod’.

Spend time getting the best out of your products, think of product photo’s this way, customers are ‘feeling with their eyes’ so you have to get as much of the product across in a single photo. It might sounds impossible but I can assure you it isn’t if you follow the above tips.

I hope this post has been useful to you. If you have any other helpful tips for taking your product photo’s at home feel free to leave a comment and I will add them to future blog posts.

New to Oz Handmade

2010-05-25T15:29:00.001+10:00

Oz Handmade is excited to announce our latest addition.

We are now accepting crafting items such as patterns, hand printed material etc.

Oz Handmade now has now got a select few Funky Friends Factory patterns in stock.

If you haven’t heard of Pauline and her Funky Friends you will now :D Pauline designs and creates all the patterns herself. I had the please of meeting Pauline at the Melbourne Stitches and craft show at the beginning of the month and was blown away by her gorgeous creations.

Now in stock:

Heather Hippo

Tilly Tortoise

Dilby Duckling

Lamkins

Gertie Gecko

Be quick to pick up your gorgeous pattern, we only have a few in stock! All patterns are $12.20 (+p&h).

x g

Oz Handmade Explained, Part 2

2010-05-24T17:02:00.001+10:00

Why sell online?

There are many benefits of selling with Oz Handmade.

You can sell your items from the comfort of your home, no more getting up at the crack of dawn or battling the elements.
You set your own hours, you can list items at 3am if you want to!
No running around or spending your hard earned $$ on setting up your stall, no tables to rent no tent to put up!
If life gets to hectic and you feel you need to take a break from the selling that’s not a problem, simply put your store on vacation mode and you won’t accrue any fee’s, when your ready to get back on board, simply enable your page and let me know and I can post it on our FB page and our blog.
No hidden fee’s or expense, You are NOT charged commission on items sold nor are there any uploading or listing fee’s
A once a month, low cost fee payable via paypal or direct debit.
There are NO contracts to sign or minimum sign up period.
You can have as little or as much stock as you desire.
There is no need for credit cards.
Oz Handmade currently has over 1000 fans on our facebook page and the site receives over 2000 hits per day to the site.
If you don’t have the time to put into running a whole store Oz Handmade also has a wholesale option, contact us to find out more.

Over the next few coming weeks you will be seeing a lot of changes at Oz Handmade and here on the blog, we are having a complete makeover! New logo, new colours, a whole new look!

Here’s a sneaky peaky of the new colours for the site, what do you think? I love it!

There will also be some new and exciting opportunities for both Oz Handmade and our store owners but they are all hush hush at the moment, of course I will update you when the time comes, but in the mean time watch out for updates and sneak peaks of the new look site and for our grand reopening (date to be announced!).

Exciting New Store Special

Have you heard of The Contemporary Handmade Alliance (Facebook page)? Tania, (owner and creator of Chicken Inc. Creative) has created CHA to assist those of us who are needing some guidance when it comes to turning your hobby into a business, CHA is a great community of like minded crafters sharing tips and tricks about getting started in the industry!

Oz Handmade is honoured to be a sponsor of this great organisation and to celebrate our partnership we are going to be doing an exciting special for NEW STORES. The announcement will be made tonight so be sure to stop by their Facebook page for more information.

If you wish to open a store with Oz Handmade or have any questions feel free to contact me via email, gem@ozhandmade.com any time.

Thanks for reading!

x g

Oz Handmade explained, part 1.

2010-05-23T15:20:00.001+10:00

Over two parts I am going to explain a little bit about who Oz Handmade is and what we do.

Oz Handmade is basically and online craft market, but instead of sitting at a traditional market freezing off your behind or getting 3rd degree burns from sitting in the Aussie sun you can run your market store form the comfort of your own home, 24/7! (You don’t even have to get out of your PJ’s ;))

Oz Handmade was stared in April of 2009 by Michelle Lowe, I took over the day to day running of the site in November 2009 and will officially own the business next month, woohoo!!!! (Can you tell I’m excited?)

The online market was created to support our clever Aussie crafters wanting to make the leap from crafting for friends and family to actually making some extra cash (to buy more craft supplies of course, lol). We are proud to be 100% Oz owned and made, our stores only sell within Australia so we can support our precious economy. Another benefit of only selling within Australian is the cost of postage is kept to a minimal, no overseas postage/insurance to worry about!

At Oz Handmade we DON’T charge commission on items sold nor are there any uploading or listing fee’s! You only pay a a low fee once a month.

To be continued tomorrow and stay tuned for a special offer!

And the winner is…….

2010-05-18T11:37:00.002+10:00

I have finally had the time to draw the winner of the gorgeous quilt which was kindly donated by Paradise Quilters.

And the winner is…

CONGRATULATIONS! I will be contacting you via email shortly!