And Mari Was Happy At Last!

A friend I have never met, who lives on the other side of the world, has allowed me a very special privilege. She has commissioned me to stitch a portion of a recent story her six-year-old daughter wrote and illustrated.

My friend's little girl, Mari, has a serious medical condition that is increasingly impairing her mobility (and therefore, her ability to do things for herself). Mari is currently in training to have a helper dog, thanks to WAGS - Wisconsin Academy for Graduate Service Dogs.

She and her family are so excited about the new freedom Mari will be able to enjoy with her service dog. Mari recently had the special treat of meeting her assigned helper dog, Olive, earlier than she expected. That precious meeting prompted her to write a beautiful story, a snippet of which you see here.

Although I have never met her, I know that Mari has a heart of gold, just like her Mum. In the midst of the intense challenges that this precious girl is facing, I hope that this wall hanging will serve to remind her of the joyful first meeting with Olive, and help to keep her positive in her journey.

Mari with her service dog, Olive

The Green Eyed Monster Strikes Again

One thing I have noticed in this online game - blogging, selling on Etsy, being on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/Pinterest...the Green Eyed Monster is always lurking, reading to pounce. Have you noticed it? It looks something like this...

Scenario 1: Sitting at your laptop, doing the first online check of the day. Log on to Facebook, Etsy, email, etc. Facebook...Oh, wow, look at that. [Friend]'s child is already [insert activity that your child is not yet doing]. Good for her!

And at first, you genuinely mean it. You are truly happy and uplifted by the sight of cute little tot doing cute things. But then that Green Eyed Monster pounces and you feel just a bit blah. If you're good at the whole meta-cognition thing, you might notice yourself thinking "Why does her kid always do things [sooner/better/faster/neater/with more flair] than mine?" which might lead to "What am I doing wrong? Am I a bad mother? I don't spend enough time with my kids. I'm just not good enough!" Sound familiar?

Scenario 2: Looking at Instagram on your phone. Scanning through food photos, sunrise photos, kids doing funny things photos...then you see it. Oh. My. Gosh. [Another online seller] is posting off 15 parcels today? Wow! Good on her, she must be doing well! 

Again, you do genuinely feel happy for her. But it's not long before the Green Eyed Monster starts gnawing at your insides. "She is ALWAYS posting items off. Why does she sell so much and I try so hard but can't seem to make more than a sale or two per month? I mean, I know her work is really lovely, but I think mine is too!" which might lead to "What am I doing wrong? Is my stuff just rubbish? Does nobody truly like my work? Am I wasting my time? Maybe I'm just not good enough!" Come on, be honest and tell me, does this ever happen to you?

Have you ever noticed the Green Eyed Monster sneaking up on you while you trawl the world of Social Media? What do you do about it? Have you ever noticed that comparison seems to reap nothing but dissatisfaction and self-doubt? How do you navigate the online world without giving way to the Green Eyed Monster?

1. For me personally, I know that self-awareness is a big first step. Acknowledging [like I am in this post] that I struggle with this. 
2. Secondly, reminding myself that comparison that leads to the old "I'm just not good enough" story is not very helpful. There are helpful ways of comparing myself, but I must be very wary to ward off the Green Eyed Monster. 

For example, I can choose a few shops that I see as successful shops to learn from. I can look at their business practices, their use of social media, their way of marketing their products, and from looking, I can see what is working for them. Of course, the goal of all of this observation is not to copy, but to learn the principles that are working and adjust them to suit my own personal business, style, and time constraints.

This is important to note. I LOVE the embroidery work of Dandelyne, for example. Sonia, the lovely woman behind the store, is vivacious, charismatic and a little bit wacky! She does a wonderful job of creating quality pieces, and her brand strong and style is unique and recognisable. She is one that I absolutely marvel at, when I see on Instagram that she has 56 orders to get out. But when the Green Eyed Monster threatens to start on me, I remind myself that there is no way I could possibly begin to handle 56 orders before Christmas!! Her kids are at school, and while that presents different challenges, it does allow more time, so she is able to take on more work. I just physically cannot do that much at this point in time, and there is no point wishing I could! 

And back to the friends of Facebook scenario...I have found for myself that rather than comparing myself with my friends (or my kids with my friends' kids), it is much more useful for myself and for my friendships that I ask my friends directly what they are doing, and how they are doing it. Not to make myself in their image, but to learn from them if there are skills I am lacking, and to recognise the differences that are just circumstantial, personality-based, or values-based. We are all different, and that's the way it should be. 

God tells us to "Rejoice with those who rejoice,  and weep with those who weep" (Romans 12:15). We can't do that if we are too busy being consumed by what we think they have that we want. The Green Eyed Monster is a master of illusion, and usually has us tricked into seeing things very differently than they actually are.

So when I notice that Green Eyed Monster sneaking up on me, I can throw it off the trail by:

• celebrating differences
• doing something special for that particular friend
• asking my friend about how she is managing - and really getting to know her for who she is
• looking at my own life and thinking about where my own behaviours are vastly different from my values, and focusing on what I need to do to change that (with God's help)
  
• praying for my friend - for absolute and total blessing over every area of their life
• surrendering my feelings of jealousy to God and asking Him to replace them with love

I know several of my strategies are faith-based ones, which may not resonate with you personally. I'd love to know how you deal with this issue? What strategies do you use? 

Let's Meet: Becca Koopmans of Wear Love Now!

Hi friends! I've got a lovely treat for you today! An interview with a lovely and talented artisan that I "met" through Etsy. I'm excited to share her story with you today. Enjoy!

Please introduce yourself and a tell us a little about what you do:

I’m Becca Koopmans. I’m a stay-at-home-mum of four kiddos in the midwest of the United States and I run a little cottage industry of upcycled clothes called Wear Love Now.

 How did your Etsy shop get started?

My heart was pregnant with a lot of different ideas and issues when Wear Love Now was born. Some of the contributing factors were the image issues that I had struggled with finally coming to rest in my own personal style. As a busy mum of four I often struggled just to get a shower, let alone put on an outfit that matched. This frustration took me to my faith in God, where I learned wearing love was way more important than wearing clothes in vogue. “Regardless of what you put on, wear love...” Colossians 3:14, became my daily dress code. Other factors included good stewardship with thrifting, a creative outlet with sewing and a flexible family schedule.

How did you get started with your sewing skills?

This is a bit embarrassing to admit. Though I come from a heritage of pattern followers and excellent seamstresses...when I was in middle school home economics, I stapled the hem to my final dress project and transferred to woodworking shop...where I scored an A+ (probably because I was the shop teacher’s babysitter). All that to say, my art has always been there in various forms...but, sewing skills I had to learn as an adult. When I became excited about upcycling clothes, my Dad bought me a sewing machine and I asked an outstanding seamstress in our area to give me some private lessons. Whenever I would hit a glitch in my vision versus skill she came to my rescue. And now, I’m quite proud of my set of skills that make my art come alive.

What do you love most about your job?

One of the biggest surprise gifts of selling my clothes on Etsy is the friendship factor. I pursued selling on Etsy following a difficult health crisis of our youngest daughter who has a progressive neurological disorder. My normal venue for interaction and friendship became more and more limited as her medical needs increased. I never anticipated the treasure house of friends in Etsy sellers (especially Homespunsociety Teammates) and in Etsy buyers...literally around the world.

I also love that when I sit and sew, or pin something, or sort through one of my baskets, one or more of my kids are right next to me...humming, drawing, or sewing a button on a bookmark....I love that. I also love creating the clothes...it’s like art with my sewing machine for me...pure joy.

What inspires you?

Good artwork, especially by French Impressionists; beautiful music; nature, well-written books; friends; family; strong coffee; inspiring conversations; history; vintage style; bohemian style; designers creating outside of the box and my faith in God.

Could you please describe how the artistic process flows for you...from initial concept design to completed product?

The process varies with different pieces of clothes, but, typically it begins with the main item I want to use. I purchase items for their quality, possibilities and versatility. And then I set the top ones, the ones I’m most excited to use next, on a table and start putting lace out, material on top, twisting seams in various places, etc. Usually the longest part is gaining the inspiration...and it also is the most exciting, because I choose to wait until I get the ‘aha’ idea for each piece. Then, once I get my ‘aha’ idea, I consider the best plan for tweaking each piece and begin the cutting and pasting, so to speak...also a very fun stage as I get to see it come together. Then I let it set a day and come back to it for any last adjustments or additions. Finally, I take pictures using a barn door my husband put up for me in our backyard.

What’s the biggest challenge for you in the artistic process?

Probably my biggest challenge is balancing my to-do lists for my family and my shop. And another is, when my heart is heavy with some issue or another, creativity can’t be forced.

What does an average day look like for you?

My days begin early...I love to get up and exercise and then spend some quiet time reading and praying before all the breakfast chaos begins. My husband and kids are typically happy hearts...so that’s a great thing in our home. Mari rides a small handicapped bus to school with her wheelchair, our twin boys, Steven and Schyler, ride with my husband on his way to work and then I walk my oldest daughter, Liesel, to the bus stop.

Usually I check my shop early in the morning before for the kids are up or after they get off to school to see if any packages need to go out, any questions need to be answered or anything updated. Often, I go into my sewing spot and work on a few items. Depending on each day, I pick Mari up early from school, she goes an hour to a few hours. Then, she and I spend time reading and playing and then she takes a rest while I work on home life, sewing or Etsy teamwork.

When the other kiddos get home...homework, supper and life take a front seat with my time. I’m not a night person, so I’ve learned the hard way, with a seam ripper, that sewing after the kids are in bed isn’t a good idea, but I still check in on Etsy.

Any advice for those thinking of pursuing their artistic dreams?

Dreams are really important in life. Hang onto your dreams...but, realise they may take a different form or fruition timing may be different than you picture...and that’s usually best in the long run. Listen to those who love you when you consider your dreams...including God....he’s made a lot of mine brighter and bigger than I ever imagined!

Where can you see more of your work?

On Etsy here, or on Facebook here.

Thank you so much, Becca, for sharing with us!

Kids Artwork Embroidery Update

We've had some rather overcast days here lately. My dodgy little old camera is happy, because those overcast days create some great light for taking photos outside. I have finally updated some photos of my kids' artwork embroidery pieces. I usually have the dilemma that I am working to a tight deadline, and have to take a quick photo with whatever light I have, right before posting the artwork off to it's new owner. However, since I have three pieces to complete for one customer, I have the unique opportunity to wait for good light to take some better photos...

I also finally did up a price guide for those interested in commissioning a work. (Prices are subject to change at my discretion, and are as a guide only).

Felt Rain Cloud Brooch Giveaway

Hi lovely friends! 

Just a quick note today, in case you haven't heard. I'm giving away a felt rain cloud brooch over on my Facebook page at the end of October. All you need to do is 'like' my Facebook page to be in the running. The competition is open internationally, and of course, includes postage to wherever you happen to be (provided you give me your postal address if you win!).

The prize is your choice of the cloud with the blue raindrops or the rainbow raindrops. Feel free to share with your friends and family, but there is no requirement for you to do so. The winner will be chosen by a random number generator on the 31st October.

If you can't wait until then, you can purchase the cloud brooches from my Etsy shop for $18 plus postage.

Have You Met Hazel, Freda, Mirabel and the Others?

Here's a little something that I have been busy with recently. Well, a few weeks ago now, but I did not get a chance to blog about it at the time. 

BrisStyle, supported by Brisbane City Council, runs wonderful FREE monthly workshops on a range of topics to help crafty types in their making and selling ventures. Basically professional development for crafters. Thanks to the super advice from Melanie from Kimono Reincarnate at a recent session on photographing your creations, I was inspired to have another try at getting my product shots right. And thanks to the incredibly supportive Homespunsociety team on Etsy,I have had a lot of helpful feedback. My new product shots of my miniature felt dress brooches are certainly far from perfect, but I think I'm heading in a positive direction. 

I also FINALLY got around to making little stories for each felt dress brooch style, and have included them on the Etsy description! Just thought I would share some with you.

JEMIMA owns a dress boutique. She has a passion for helping other women find the right outfit for that special occasion. She has a keen sense of style, and just the right blend of tact and frankness. 

RITA is your average girl-next-door. She is fresh faced and fun, with a keen sense of adventure. She is a most loyal pal, just the kind of friend you want to have with you when you get into trouble. Which is just as well, as trouble seems to follow her!

VALERIE is an air hostess. She takes her job and its associated responsibility very seriously. She will be the first to tell you that it's not all glamourous. She does, however, like to look her best, especially when she hits the town.

 

MABEL is a girly girl who loves to dress up. She only owns one pair of flats, and she only wears those on the tennis court. She is in her element planning parties and baking up a storm – wearing an apron to cover her good frock, of course!

PENELOPE is a warm, compassionate counsellor at the local high school. She loves playing scrabble and drinking tea while her cat keeps her lap warm.

 

MIRABEL is sweet and kind. She is a primary school teacher who is well-loved by her students. She loves to knit in her spare time, and donates the blankets she makes to those in need. 

 

MOLLY is a librarian, whose favourite part of her job is reading books to little kiddies during storytime. She likes to go dancing in her spare time, and travels when she can. She collects spoons from her travels and hangs them proudly on her wall at home. 

 

EVELYN is all about understated elegance. To unwind after her days at the office, she loves watching Audrey Hepburn films with a glass of wine. She paints landscapes on the weekends, with her loyal golden retriever by her side. 

 HOLLY is an aspiring actress who is currently doing TV ads for yoghurt. She has dreams of one day making it big on Broadway. She is into fashion in a big way.

 

HILLARY is a smart, ambitious career girl, with a great sense of fun. She's your go-to girl if you need to take care of business (in a totally non-mob kind of way).

 

SALLY is an athletic sort, who loves nothing better than a good long run first thing in the morning. She has a sharp wit, which she frequently uses on her clients at the local country club, where she coaches tennis. 

LUCY teaches piano to children in her home-based studio. She is a fun teacher, with a flair for the creative. She collects figurines, and loves to make up stories about them.

HAZEL has a childlike playfulness. Maybe it is her impish smile, or her large, round, twinkling eyes. Or perhaps it is her propensity for playing practical jokes on her dearest friends. Whatever the cause, Hazel is well loved by those who love her. 

 

  

FREDA is a graceful, softly spoken dance teacher. But she has a secret wild side - she loves to drive her sports car far too fast with the hood down. 

(All available at my Etsy Shop, or at the BrisStyle indie Twilight Market tomorrow evening.) 

Teatime in Spring Sneak Peek

Hello!

I've been a busy little bee lately. I have finally jumped on the Instagram bandwagon and find it a little too easy to just post a photo to IG instead of taking the time to write a blog post! I must endeavour to find a balance in this as in all things.

Anyhow. I just wanted to share a little sneak peek of something I've been working on recently. Inspired by the beautiful spring weather we are having here in Brisbane, I am working on a little spring brooch collection. I know, I know, I'm supposed to work a season or two ahead, but I'm not that organised (yet). This is a bit of an expansion of some ideas I have had previously, including some products I have made. I am making a small run of these items in some limited colours. Mint, pastel pink and purple, bright pink and taupe are featuring in my colour scheme for this range. 

As I sit here typing this, I glanced down and noticed for the first time that the colour scheme of the little car my learning-to-walk baby pushes around is very similar to this! Maybe it subconsciously inspired me. This gorgeous floral fabric that is background in this photo was also part of the inspiration. 

So think afternoon tea in spring - cupcakes, donuts, cups of tea and macarons feature in my spring teatime collection. It's hard to work on these as they make me hungry every time!

What is your favourite afternoon tea treat?

Photography Props

I finally found time to have a little play with creating some props for my photography of my felt dress brooches. I have never loved the basic photos on white backgrounds that I have on my Etsy shop - they do serve a purpose and are great for getting my items in treasuries, which is great for exposure. BUT they don't do a great deal to tell a story about my items. 

I have had the idea for a while, just no time to execute it. Well yesterday I found the time! While by no means perfect, I am quite happy with the initial result. (I say initial result - but that is after lots of sketches of girls that got dumped because they didn't have the right retro quality...)

What do you think? Do you think the girl and the wardrobe drawings are a distraction or add to the story?

I intend to work them together as well - as in, girl standing by her wardrobe, maybe as a sort of paper doll...which made me think of making an actual cardboard wardrobe and cardboard stand-up doll...but maybe that is too much. I get so excited by my ideas, which sometimes don't work out quite how I saw them in my head. Do you ever have this problem?

Let's Go Shopping

Today I am joining in with the BrisStyle "Let's Go Shopping" game. I am going to share with you a few Etsy finds from Brisbane creatives, with the theme 'inspired by nature'. So here goes...

Firstly, 3GIRLSandaGOAT set of 10 gift tags with a silver leaf print on chalkboard grey:

Next, Little Deer Creations has a gorgeous writing set made from handmade eco-friendly paper.

Finally, TreeTomato has these beautifully hand screen printed cushions with a botanical theme.

 Happy shopping!

My First BrisStyle indie Twilight Markets

Well, hello, friends! How fare thee, one and all?

Yes, I know it has been a while. I can't keep using the excuse that life has been crazy busy (even if it's true). 

I had the privilege of attending the BrisStyle indie Twilight Markets last night, for the first time as a stall holder. It was rad. I had a great time meeting people in person that I had only "met" online previously, seeing lots of new faces, chatting with heaps of lovely supporters of handmade AND seeing some lovely friends, including one I have not seen in a couple years (hi, Amy!). Maybe even some of you reading this post have come across this blog via my business card that you picked up last night. Welcome!

It's such a great atmosphere at these markets, I shall be going back, methinks!

Bloggiversary Giveaway!

Good morning, friends! Today is a special day. It's my nephew's birthday, AND it is the first anniversary of me starting this blog. HUZZAH!

To celebrate, I am offering one lucky reader $25 store credit to spend in my Etsy shop, as well as free shipping to anywhere in the world. 

(The giveaway excludes custom orders and made-to-order items.)

All you have to do to enter is COMMENT on this blog post below, telling me what you would buy if you won. Please make sure you include some way for me to contact you in the post, such as your email address. If you are having difficulties, email me at candykins.crafts@gmail.com for help.

Feel free to share info about the giveaway with your friends and family, new readers are most welcome :)

Giveaway is open for ONE WEEK, entries close on Sunday 19th August, at 12 noon Australian Eastern Standard time, and I will draw a winner that afternoon, with instructions on how to claim your prize.

UPDATE: Entries have closed, and the winner (chosen at random) is...SHERRY S. Congratulations, Sherry! I have emailed you with the details on how to claim your prize. Thank you to everyone who entered. 

Dress Brooch Inspiration

I just love browsing vintage patterns and magazines for ideas for my felt dress brooches (as well as for style inspiration, of course!) 

MissBettysAttic is an Etsy shop that stocks an abundance (almost 2000 at last count) of sewing patterns for men, women, children, and dolls from the 1940s through to the present. I could spend hours just looking at these, especially the 1940s and 50s women's! Here are a few of my favourites (just click on the photo to go to the item listing): 

Aren't they cute? I want to make all of these as dresses for me!! Unfortunately, I need to make a few of the dresses I already have patterns for first. Instead, I may use them as inspiration for some brooches for now. 

But if you are after a specific vintage pattern or just have a vague idea of the kind of style you would like, go check out MissBetty'sAttic.