Kyla Does Stuff

What's your handmade style?

2012-01-23T07:27:00.003+10:00

I love hand made things, but not ALL handmade things. I seem to have become quite 'picky'...which has made me think about my handmade style. There is so much on offer out there and so many busy hands to cater for the masses that handmade products have divided into some definite 'styles'.

Here are some pretty pictures to help you decide where you fit in...

Are you a Modern Vintage kinda girl (or guy)?

Do you palpitate over Geek Chic?

Do simple Geos get you going?

What about Bright Woolly Wonderful?

is Shabby Chic more your thing? (it's certainly not mine! Too much pink!!!)

Does cutesy kids stuff make you go 'squeee'?

Or are you more of a Rockabilly?

I think I lean towards the vintage patterns and images of my childhood...

You can find all these image and heaps more inspiration on my Pinterest boards...except for the shabby chic thing...it's kinda making me gag a bit!

There is so much more that I could list here...maybe you can add to my list in the comments...

What handmade style are you?

xxxKyla

Dear Lovely People...

2012-01-18T18:57:00.001+10:00

Wow, it seems my blog is more popular than I thought. I'm so glad you have all come to read and be entertained, but please let's get a few things straight...

1. Whilst I appreciate the visit, any yukky comments made here or on any other online forums are unwelcome. I write things to please myself, not to make any public statement or please anyone else. I refuse to be a socially-political figure so please don't assume that my comments have sway.

2. An internet troll is this.... http://www.flayme.com/troll/ ...stop being one and be better informed. You have the whole of the internet to find out information...use it!

3. If you have an issue with what is written within these walls, please don't go chinese-whispering about it. Send me an email at kylastory@gmail.com and I will answer you, don't expect that I will agree with you but I promise that you will get an answer.

Ta, Kyla xxx

Let me introduce you to...

2012-01-14T13:32:00.000+10:00

...Ipswich. I know I've said it before but my little home town is quite a surprise if you take the time. Over the next few months I am going to give you a bit of a tour, starting of course, with the Top of Town precinct where I spend the majority of my time...

This morning I went on a bit of a photo walk. Here's where I went...

I had breakfast at fourthchild, it's an amazing cafe/restaurant owned by a good pal who is a genius in the kitchen. You can find all their opening hours and details here on their facebook page...

Then I popped next door to see Bec...

This, of course, is Cultiver: Indie Arts and Design (our shop!)...with The Loo checking out the new school themed window display complete with lines on the blackboard.

Then I crossed the road and said 'hi' to Precious Packages and Serendipity...they share the one lovely space in Ellenborough St...

There are some other amazing places in Ellenborough Street...

Bon Laneway...

Obsession Shoes

you can The Loo checking out the comfy chairs there in the corner...

The Shady Lady who has an eye for vintage treasures.

but my favourite place by far is ES Traders...a massive treasure trove of inexplicably beautiful things!

Then around the corner I visited Province Modern Country...the epitome of style and grace...

And last in our little Saturday morning tour is DG Dancewear right next door...pretty pretties for dancing kids...I just can't help myself when I see a tutu!

So, how did you like our little stroll this morning? Great little part of town isn't it? If you like what you see and would like to discover more then a trip to Ipswich is definitely on the cards, we have an exciting and artistic community so make sure you visit all the links I have included in this post to say hi!

There are also a few other places you need to visit whilst in this one little block...

Cactus Espresso Bar

The Vintage Advantage

the Swich Contemporary Art Space

Art Time Supplies

CJ Vogler & Son

Deann's Coffee House

Stay tuned for more fun tours around my hometown!

xxxKyla

A little time away...

2012-01-06T20:17:00.001+10:00

...is good for the soul. And the skin tone too, it seems.

The little family is taking some down time at the beach. It's a lovely place, Caloundra. I have been coming to the north coast since I was a young girl and I really enjoy the laid back, granny style atmosphere. There are however, a few changes that the Sunshine Coast has gone through in the last 30 years, the most noticeable being the upgrades to the Bulcock Beach Esplanade and the walkway which takes you all the way around to Kings Beach.

Our little apartment overlooks all of this, with some lovely coffee shops and restaurants below. I have been happily snapping away since we got here...would you like to see some holiday happy snaps? Too bad, you're gonna see them anyway!

There were also markets this evening, so of course as soon as I saw the tents set up, I rushed down to check it all out. I am sitting here now on the balcony looking at the lights and listening to the buskers.

Bliss!

2011...the big list

2011-12-28T08:47:00.001+10:00

Well, it certainly was a challenging year for most of us. i usually spend this week between Christmas and the New Year reflecting on the events of the world and dreaming up big and beautiful ideas for the next...but this year I think I will focus more on the people and things close to me, the small pieces that have combined to make the whole that was 2011. I could go on about the floods of last January but we all know what a toll that took on our families and friends so I won't elaborate. We were certainly all caught up in the sorrow and tragedy. Lots of friendships have been made in the past 12 months and I am so grateful for them. I have allowed some truly amazing people into my life (and removed a few not so amazing)...my family has been blessed by the generosity of our new friends and I have learnt to ask for help when I needed it. Lessons learnt about trust, gratitude and the importance of taking a deep breath.This all seems very obscure doesn't it? Well a lot has happened this year...We helped friends rebuild their lives after losing their homesWe turned 32 and 35We met and were royally screwed over by someone who promised a new start in lifeWe were almost homeless (because of above asshat)I started noticing my first grey hairs (and promptly dyed my hair green!)We had our first wedding anniversaryWe almost didn't have a secondWe helped a new friend start her dream businessI heard approximately 12 untrue rumors about myselfMy last surviving grandparent went into a homeI started my own business with a good friendMy little sister was diagnosed with type one diabetesI found my artistic mojo againA new friend lost a baby and a brother in law in the same weekWe finally started sleeping through the nightWe rediscovered our love for our hometownI danced in a shop windowWe had a large amount of wineI cried in public over something silly (I don't cry in public)Our boy turned 4 and found his grooveWe held a hiccup free dance concert in the middle of a double summer stormWe ate a lot of delicious food cooked by good friendsWe held an amazing Christmas party with friends and familyI learnt the importance of not just relying on myself for strength.What did you do this year? Make a list that doesn't include world events, it might surprise you how far you have been this year!

A little strange nostalgia...

2011-11-28T07:06:00.001+10:00

Sometimes the memories of my childhood come racing back at the drop of a hat, well in this case it was the scrape of a spoon! Watching Bec take a screenprinting class at the shop the other day, she scraped her old-fashioned silver spoon across the screen to collect the paint with that special sound and I immediately felt a wave of nostalgia...remembering my Mum doing the exact same thing with almost the exact same flick of the wrist.

We all have moments like this and they are not always the obvious, most of the time it is the ramdom image or gesture. I have been noticing these moments more and more now that I have the shop and am surrounded by the things my mum loves on a daily basis.

What brings back memories of creating and making for you?
For me?...The way the colours of a watercolour painting blend together reming me of mum silk painting and me watching the silk absorb the paint in a new way every time...when Law and Order is on the telly I can always hear Mum's knitting needles clicking at the speed of light and know I would never be able to knit as quickly as she...

I would love for you to tell me your stories...comment below here or let us know under the link on the Cultiver facebook page. Share you memories with us and maybe inspire someone to start creating like our mums and grandmas did.

xxxKyla

I've taken up writing again...

2011-10-24T15:08:00.001+10:00

...ironically of course!

Years ago when we were dealing with The Loo's aggressive projectile food allergies I joked to all who would listen that I was writing a screen-play for a new horror movie called 'Baby Gets Gastro'...it was going to be truly horrifying in the genre of previous cult flicks like Poltergeist and Psycho. Bodily fluids would run free and people would scream in horror.
I didn't end up writing that particular script, we all know how it ends anyway...mum in the shower hosing vomit and poo off herself at 2am. Go on, laugh...if you haven't been there already, you're gonna be there one day.

So now, a few years on and The Loo is about to turn 4. We have discovered that the vomiting does indeed stop (or at least has longer intervals) and we have at least a 9 full nights sleep. But I really feel the need to write an new script to share with you...it's working title is "What the hell is wrong with this F%#king Kid?". I'm sure any other mother with an almost 4 year old man-child will want to add their own particular twist to this one but I'm sure this one will be billed as a black comedy...

So I ask...What The Hell Is Wrong With This Kid?!?!?!?

And please, don't bombard me with links and advice from parenting books, experts on dealing with tantrums or how to 'speak' to your kid tutorials. That's old hat here in Little Bird Land, I've done the reading and there doesn't seem to be a youtube tutorial about how to exorcise the demon from a 3year old!

So, if I seem a little distracted when you see me at the shops, if I look like the thread is unravelling a little bit...you know I'm just working on my new screenplay!

xxxK

This is how it starts...(Part 2)

2011-10-21T08:18:00.000+10:00

I said I would be back and here I am! Sitting again in the shop in the shadowy morning light and thinking about things I said yesterday and how today, I still really mean them.
Cemented last night by a gathering of like-minded souls, genuine people who really just love making, doing and caring about the world around us instead of just saying they do for the publicity...I am feeling finally like I am finding my place in this incredible but infuriating world of handmade and small business.

All it took was the realisation that I don't have to be anyone but me to be successful, that although I do need a support group it has turned out not to be the formalised 'meet once a week' type of gang. It has, in fact, turned out that my biggest support (apart from my family) has been a rag-tag group of sacrilegious, boundary-pushing, controversial hippies who I couldn't be happier to hang out with! (did I also mention that this group of dirty hippies are some of the most quietly talented and creative people I have ever met and they challenge me daily to be more creative and daring?!)

I suppose now, I must move on from this rant (polite as it is). But remember, I will revisit it soon, it's a matter that irritates me daily so I'm sure you'll be reminded to stop bigging yourself up again soon! Need a reality check when you're becoming a little too 'wanky'? Here's the place to come, I'll set you right!

And thanks to my 'proper posse', the group of people who make me push harder, look deeper and be less of an art-wanker. You know who you are xxxK

This is how it starts...(Part 1)

2011-10-20T08:51:00.002+10:00

...my day, I mean. With me sitting here at the laptop, in the shop with all the lights off. This is my quiet time. The Loo has been dropped off at Kindy, my hair is still not done, the coffee has been bought and I am sitting here in my one of my favourite places looking out at the world knowing that they can't look back at me!

It's been a long time between blogs here for me and I guess that's the way it happens with most things...we grow, change, become involved with projects that take up all of our time and brain-space. But I have been longing to come back here, to share parts of just me, so that is what I will do. After all, this is a blog about me doing stuff, not just making stuff and my business.

I have been reading a lot of blogs lately, following and talking to some incredible people and I have been inspired to come back here and share with you not only pretty images of things I make but also a deeper, more real side of me. The me I am now after a few realisations.

Firstly, props to Pip Lincolne from Meet Me at Mikes. She is the queen of all things crafty (in my books at least) and I will admit to more than a little crafty-girl-crush. Pip has made some changes in her life lately that I see myself making further on down the track and it's good to know that those changes can be made with grace and a sense of humour which is sometimes lacking in these situations. All too often, when change comes about people are ready to play the 'poor me' card, but Pip has taken the challenge of closing her shop and changing her lifestyle and faced it with humor and a sense of adventure.
Thanks Pip, you rad, sweet-faced legend!

So, I hear you ask, why all the deep thoughts Kyla?
Well, the shop is going well, Bec and I are having fun. It's a new adventure every week with window displays, external events and then all of our own things happening with workshops and festive stuff. So, thanks for asking guys, can we move on? (can you sense we are a little bit weary of people asking us "how is the shop going?"!!!)
And, now that we are settled in our awesome shop, now that we have a routine and can find time for ourselves again...here is where I end up. Talking to you through my blog again. And it feels kinda nice, to know that you have been here all along.

There is much talk in my little town right now about empowering yourself, being proud of being a 'woman' in business, networking and all that stuff that comes with catch-phrases and key-words. There are groups popping up all over the place to promote and network, things people say we really should go to so our business will grow. But really, is it all not just a little bit wanky?
I don't know about you but sometimes I feel like it's not genuine, like we put on that 'promote yourself to promote your business' mask and we lose the genuine person behind it all. I would much rather be known as a 'person' in business, as a real person who has a shop where you can buy great stuff and who does some fun and awesome things. Sometimes I wear my 'business person' hat but I much prefer my 'Kyla' beanie...you know, the comfy one that mum made years ago.

Maybe I'm just old fashioned, perhaps I should have owned a shop 70 years ago when you put a sign up stating what you sold, not how amazing you were.
(This little rant will probably prove to be quite controversial, so comment away but don't expect me to change my opinion!)

My advice to anyone starting a business, in anything...start small, make your reputation out of being a good person, making lovely things, providing something that speaks volumes without saying a word. That's all you need to do, just exist and work hard quietly.

And...that's part 1 over with. Explanations done, time to open the shop and I'll be back tomorrow with some deep thoughts/crafty girl crushes/random old lady ranting...you never really know!

xxxK

2011-09-15T08:12:00.002+10:00

Oh, Hai! Things have been pretty busy in birdland lately with Cultiver going really well, the dancing year almost over but for the big end of year show and an ever changing family life. How about you?

I have been making, making, making to keep up with demand in the shop, brooches are very popular! Bec and I have been working on a Spring collection especially for Cultiver and will launch it on September 29th at our Carnival Sidehow (which you can find out about if you visit the facebook event here). I have been sewing and constructing garments, something I don't usually do as things like zips scare the living hell out of me...but Bec has been very encouraging and given me the courage to just have a go!
I think you will really like the Spring Collection, it's a little bit pretty. With a huge sway towards UPcycled fabrics and refashioned op-shop items. So proud!

You may also notice a new button on the page, that's it, up there on the right, the little red button that says follow me on Pinterest! Well, if you don't know about Pinterest yet, let me tell you, it's the greatest place to be ever! I discovered it months ago when it was first launching and have been a devotee from the start. It's full of pretty things, crafty projects and amazing design. It's a fantastic place to visit if, like me, you struggle with creative mojo at times. Need an invite? Pop your email address in a comment below and I will send you an invite to the coolest club ever!

So, that's it for now. Enjoy your week and see you on the flipside of craziness! xxxK

Where have I been?

2011-06-06T19:27:00.000+10:00

Well, how nice of you to ask!

I have been brainstorming with my pal Bec from Little Brown Dog and this is the fruit of our (so far) labours...

Cultiver is our new bricks and mortar shop in Brisbane St, Ipswich which will be opening in July! Lots of handmade, eco-ethical goodies, affordable art, a comfy corner to sit and knit and a really great workshop space where you can take or run arts and crafts workshops.

Check out the facebook page and the blog for more info.

And not to worry, Little Bird will still be firing on all cylinders!

See you all very soon xxxK

The Artisans Pop Up Shop

2011-05-24T17:56:00.000+10:00

Here are a few pics from our 'Little' venture this week...the Artisans Pop Up Shop in Brisbane St. A huge thanks goes out to the Swich Contemporary Art Space and the support from the Animated Spaces team.

We (Bec from Little Brown Dog and I) built the space from found items, cardboard boxes and a few pieces of vintage furniture. It was so much fun!
The shelves are full to overflowing with handmade goodies from over 20 fantastic artisans including Hungry Designs, Polly Gone, Edward and Lilly, Little Golden, Dash Robin, Flights of Fancy, Love and Two Guns and Mums & Bubs in the Raw. It was very hard to unpack all the lovliness and not keep it all for ourselves.

You can come and visit us until Saturday....we're having so much fun and wish we could stay forever but who knows...you might find Bec and I doing it again VERY soon!!!

You can see all the fun that went on over the weekend here on the Animated Spaces page (where you might see a few pics of me doing some dancing too) as well as the Pop Up Shop facebook page for opening times.

See you all soon xxxKyla

Phew!!!

2011-05-03T10:44:00.000+10:00

What a weekend! 3 Markets back to back and I am exhausted.

But it was all totally worth it...Friday night saw me at the BrisStyle indie Twilight Market which was my very first and totally AWESOME! We were facing some strong competition in the form of a royal wedding and some cheeky downpours but the lovely BrisStyle organisers moved us all onto the deck in King George Square where we were all comfy and cosy.
I made heaps of new friends and fans and had a very successful night....I can't wait till the next one!

Then Saturday and Sunday I was at the Top of Town Empty Shop Boutique Market in Ipswich. The weather outside was gorgeous and the cafe-goers were pouring in. If you haven't already checked this market out, get in next weekend as it is the last one ever...the lease has been taken on the shop which is fab for the main street but sad for us as we don't get to spend any more lovely weekends watching the world go by!

And that is it for markets for a while. Ipswich Festival starts on Saturday 21st May and both Little Bird and iDance have some exciting projects to work on. Check out the posters at the end of this post to find out more details but here is what Bec (from Little Brown Dog) and I will be working on over the next few weeks...

We have invited a whole swag of talented artisans to contribute and you can visit us between the 22nd and 28th of May at 203 Brisbane St (the old Underworld Games shop) to buy yourself some fabulous handmade goodies.

But this is no ordinary pop-up shop...we have been working on a very special installation to contain all these goodies...a little granny-chic, a little upcycled luxe and A LOT of cardboard boxes!

Head on over to the facebook event to find out even more...this is going to be so much fun!

There are a ton of events happening over the 10 days of Ipswich Festival but my suggestion is to check out the exciting fringe events happening in the Underworld Artspace...lots of things to do and see.

So if you don't hear from me for a while, this is where I'll be!

Have a lovely week xxxK

Only 2 more sleeps!

2011-04-27T13:01:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited for my very first BrisStyle Twilight Markets this Friday evening. I will be having a little stall in the Co-Op for my first go and have been busy making lots of sweet little treasures for you all!

Below are a few of the goodies I have put together in the brooch department but there are also lots of new stationery designs and some bigger notebooks like some of you have been asking for (perfect for uni notes!)

You can find me cosy-ing up with fellow my fellow BrisStylers right in the middle of the markets...but don't forget to visit all my clever, creative friends as well.

See you all there!

PS. Weather permitting I will post up some pics of the new stationery soon! Let's pray for a few sunny days!
xxxK

Let's go shopping...for MUSTARD!

2011-04-16T15:16:00.000+10:00

Well, the cold weather is finally upon us. It is grey and rainy here today and it make me want to knit and knit and knit! I am loving the colour mustard at the moment so this one is all about lovely mustard coloured winter warmers...

If you would like to join in with the Let's Go Shopping fun pop on over to the BrisStyle Blog...

A mustard coloured cowl by Megans Menagerie

A flower headband by lullanalove

Soft leather mukluks by NZ genius spirocreations

Vinatge derby hat by ThePerennialPast

Honeycomb fingerless gloves by elde

So, looks like I'm all kitted out for winter...how about you?

xxxKyla

I'm baaaaack!

2011-04-14T08:56:00.000+10:00

You may have noticed that the blog posts have been few and far between for a while...we have had a major computer meltdown here at Little Bird HQ and have only been able to access the internet via 'mobile device'. For any of you who have experienced this, you know how frustrating it can be!
But I am back now and (shock,horror)...on a Mac!

Oh the joy of a working computer!

In the down-time I have been doing what a lot of us do when winter starts creeping up on us...knitting. There is something about sitting somewhere cosy and clacking away with the sticks that makes me sigh and wish the cold weather was upon us already.
This is what I have been creating...

They are brooches but I have also been wearing mine in my hair while the weather still allows (I tend to wear a hat for every day of winter so hair-do's and accessories are usually counted out!)

These little beauties will be available on my market stall. Here's where I'll be over the following weeks...

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 April - Top of Town Empty Shop Markets

Friday 29th April - BrisStyle indie Twilight Markets (King George Square)

Saturday 3o April - Top of Town Empty Shop Markets

Sunday 1 May - Top of Town Empty Shop Markets

(More on my market adventures in the next blog post)

Speaking of hair-do's...I have been looking for another 'get-fired-from-your-day-job' hairstyle and I think I have found it...what do you think?

Although the brown part in the picture will be red...of course!

xxxKyla

Let's Go Shopping!!

2011-04-03T08:26:00.000+10:00

I know I'm a day late with the usual BrisStyle meme but...yesterday was crazy!!

This week's selection covers the wide gamut of my vintage collections (read obsessions!)

Peach Lustre Fire King Mugs to add to my growing collection from calloohcallay

A double whammy! Strawberry Shortcake ON Fire King from topsysattic

My long-time love...Holly Hobbie on a sewing machine from This OleSew

Pretty Pink Matryoshka Nesting Dolls to add to my Grandma's collection from RetroAndCo

I think this may be the only one I don't have! Dr Seuss first edition by becareads

So there you go...my dirty little secret is out! If you would like to join in the fun of Let's Go Shopping visit the BrisStyle Blog xxxK

Happy 3rd Birthday BrisStyle!

2011-03-17T11:00:00.002+10:00

It's BrisStyle's 3rd birthday and to celebrate here's an etsy treasury...in my favourite colour!
Click here to check out the goodness!

xxxKyla

Some quick tips...

2011-03-17T09:55:00.000+10:00

I am frustrated by the lack of internet professionalism demonstrated by some businesses with an online presence. Read my post (rant) further and you will see what I mean. And yes, this is a rant...I'm in a bad mood, just so you know!

1. Spelling, people!
   Grammatical errors in your status updates, etsy descriptions or (heaven forbid) your print advertising does not bode well for your reputation! Aside from looking like an illiterate fool you open yourself up for ridicule on sites such as this (not that I have a problem with Regretsy, but I certainly wouldn't want to be featured there!).
This also applies to incorrect or over use of punctuation. I totally understand the odd typographical error, I have been known to trip over my keyboard a few times myself but a re-read before hitting the publish button is certainly the first step to making yourself look more professional.

2. I see daylight.
   Take your product photos in daylight. Don't use a flash unless you have a good professional set-up. Daylight makes your product photos look real, it gives them depth and the viewer can get a good idea of the colours and detail. You don't need to have a flash-bang camera, just turn off the auto flash and head to the window!
   And, be creative with your photos. I don't want to see your computer leads, kids toys or cat in the background. Pick up your product from the floorboards and treat it with respect. Pick a pretty sheet or nice piece of paper and set up the shot!

This one is a two-for-one...derp!

3. Spam Me Not!
   I know you want to get your name out there, I know it seems so easy to just cut and paste a status update over and over again and yes, it may look like you have covered all bases. What you have really just done is spammed me and made me ignore every further post you make, or worse, made me delete you completely. A few carefully chosen posts in 2 or 3 places is sufficient, otherwise people will just start tuning you out.

Ok...I'm done for this morning. Love it or hate it, that's my opinion!
xxxK

Pt 1 of The Market Chronicles - You want my advice?

2011-03-14T07:12:00.002+10:00

I have been asked on more than a few occasions my opinions on the market experience and how to make it more profitable...here is my answer in full, love it or hate it...

First, my background...
Some of my earliest memories are of markets. The smell and sound, the dust at stallholders feet, the early morning sun in winter. From the age of 11 I had been going to markets with my mother, setting up my picnic table and plonking down my naively handmade goodies, be they beaded jewellery, pottery buttons or pretty hairclips. My tiny table nestled beside my mothers glorious array of handpainted silks and beeswax candles, I was unaware of the huge impact these amazing Sundays would have on my adult life.
We ran the gamut of local markets, which were the ONLY thing to do on a Sunday back then. People flocked to the markets, the customers were 3 deep at every stall and our tables were almost empty by the end of the day.
That, sadly, is not often the case these days. Market competition is fierce and we have to share customers who have become more and more discerning. As stallholders we can blame the GFC "people just aren't spending money today", we can blame the location "we don't get enough traffic past this place" and we could even try to blame the organisers "they didn't do enough advertising"...but the one thing most stallholders will never blame is themselves.
Here's how I see it.
In these days of market popularity, where there could be 4 or 5 events on one weekend, where organisers are jostling for attention from stallholders and customers alike, and stallholders are judged and labelled by the type of markets they attend...it is you, and you alone, who is responsible for your success as a stallholder.

All the advertising and foot traffic in the world will not sell your product if you do not put in the effort to
1. Produce a professionally made item.
2. Offer a unique product.
3. Present yourself as a quality business.
let me elaborate...

1. Produce a professionally made item.
   Customers are discerning, they will turn an item over and check the stitching, test the item for strength and durability, look for imperfections. Did you take a shortcut somewhere? That's fine as long as it's not to the detriment of the finished item. Are you using good quality materials? It really does make a difference!
   Break down your process, especially if you make multiples of one item. We can all get a bit lazy after 20 or so totebags/pettiskirts/cushion covers. Take a break, come back and sew that 20th hem as carefully as you did the first.

2. Offer a unique product.
   So...you make skirts? So do lots of other people. What sets you apart from them? Why should people buy your skirt over the others which they can buy at the same market?
   Yes, your workmanship is impeccable, your design is modern and you stock a lot of relevant sizes so why are they still not selling?
   Maybe you need to add to or change your design a little to make it stand out from the crowd, source a fabric that no-one else uses, add some handmade buttons...the list goes on. Put in the effort to produce something original, put a twist in it that will make people take a second look.
   There has been much discussion of late about copying in the handmade community (you can read a few great articles on it here and here). This however is not a discussion on that topic. Needless to say, it is very bad form to to take an identical product to market. Do your research, visit the events you plan on attending and check out the other sellers. Talk to stallholders, ask questions, take a sample of your product along to show the organisers and get some feedback. A discerning market organiser will let you know if your product will go well at their event.

3. Present yourself as a quality business.
   In this day and age of boutique, handmade and vintage markets it is no longer acceptable to plonk your stuff on a picnic table and leave the rest up to the customer. They need to be woo-ed, they need the wow factor to part with their hard earned cash! This means you need to present your products in the very best light, show them off and be proud!
   Pick a theme, a colour scheme, a story for your display but whatever you do keep it clean and uncluttered. Don't let your display outshine your product. Difficult I know, and it takes time to develop a real feel for it. Set up at home, take some photos, ask your (honest) friends to have a look for you. Search the internet for ideas, there are lots of flickr pools and similar sites to help you develop a well rounded, pleasing display.
   After all these years I still see my market table as the face of my business. Yes, I have a logo and an online presence but when it comes to selling the product...it's my display that draws the eye of a potential customer. It's how I convince them to stay a few seconds longer.
   It's important to BRAND YOURSELF. You spend so much time developing your product and making it the best you can, it's silly not to give it an identity...something people can remember when they come back to buy a second one! But that's a whole other blog post (stay tuned).

And finally, the honest truth (otherwise called 'Things that annoy me about some stallholders)
* Don't assume that because you had a bad day at a market that it was the fault of the event; maybe your product just isn't good enough!
* Don't be a market meanie...in other words JUST BE NICE! If you had an ordinary day, don't go badmouthing to all your friends and other stallholders that it's a terrible market.
* Don't leave early. Unless the sky falls on you and the organisers cancel the event it's bad form to pack up after a few hours and head home. You paid for your time, wait it out like the rest of us. You never know what the day may bring!

I know that some of you will be saying 'duh, Kyla, that's totally obvious' but more and more I have seen people with a great idea fail because they have not taken the time to develop their ideas. I hope you have found something to help or inspire you to become a better stallholder!

xxxK

The Market Chronicles

2011-03-13T19:07:00.000+10:00

I have been working on something which may interest you...a series of info-posts about market life.

So if you have ever been interested in running a markets stall, or need some advice or inspiration...stay tuned. Not only will I be offering up my advice and experience I will be publishing advice from a few guest bloggers!

My first post will be tomorrow...get your reading glasses as there will be no pretty pictures this time. Just the honest (and slightly painful) truth!

xxxK

Want a discount?

2011-03-08T16:36:00.000+10:00

Yes? Well head on over to my facebook page, become a fan and scroll down to find the special coupon code.
You can the enter it when you make a purchase in my Etsy shop and get a 10% discount...as easy as that!

But hurry, the offer is only available until 5pm on Friday afternoon!

Here's a little awesomeness from pinterest to get you through your afternoon...

See later xxxKyla

A rare day of leisure...

2011-03-06T18:07:00.000+10:00

It is not often that I get a weekend where I can relax and forget that I am a dancing teacher or stallholder but this weekend I was free to be 'normal' and so we made the most of it!
The Loo and I along with Alex May and Mumma Bird headed into Brisvegas to explore and found ourselves visiting GOMA and the Qld Art Gallery as well as the Qld Museum.
Here are some pics from our outing...enjoy.

Waiting for our coffees.

The Whale Mall at Qld Museum...has always been a favourite of mine.

This long long table at GOMA consisted of thousands of white lego blocks!

A very cool inside/outside/underneath pool...

attack of the 20ft toddler!

Why yes! I am!

Looking Supa Fly with Alex May!

Grrr Arrgh...I eez a deenosaooor!!

I have always loved the museum the most, my father used to work for the Qld Museum when it was in the old building across town. He was the travelling education guy and used to visit country schools with his white van full of horrifying and amazing things. The van was always so scary, filled with stuffed native animals and snakes in jars, fossils and bones...such incredible things. I remember he took my mother and I into the depths of the museum storage one day and I was hooked...I was forever more a collector of old things.

We still have many more wonders to explore with my little fella, he was too tired to check out the science centre and the Lego learning centre in Merivale St but there will be other days.

xxxK

Let's Go Shopping!

2011-03-05T10:22:00.000+10:00

Joining in the BrisStyle fun today, these are a few of my favourites this week...just look at all the beautiful brooches the BrisStylettes make!

Toast on a Brooch by Good Boy Cracky

Charcoal and Lace Eco-Felt Brooch by Little Chrissy

Sewing Machine Brooch by Hungry Designs

Red & White Mushroom Brooch by Jettas Nest

Crimson & Mustard Brooch by Miu and Umi

Green Caravan Brooch by TreePartyDesign

Enjoy and you can find what everyone else is shopping for here at the BrisStyle Blog.

xxxK

Did you know?

2011-03-02T14:40:00.000+10:00

That I now have a new online shop at Bluecaravan, an awesome online directory of indie designers and creators?

In one week, huge opportunities have opened up for me because of Bluecaravan...thank you universe!

As this is just a short little post (off to a big dancing afternoon soon)...go and have a look for yourself at all the fantastic items they have on offer...click here to go to my shop.

The Winners!!

2011-02-28T08:19:00.000+10:00

I have drawn the Big Birthday Give Away

and the winners are....

Sunny Yellow Pack - The Clip Cafe
Cute Creatures Pack - Tracey Potter
Big Bear Pack - Dominique Elizabeth
Perfect People - The Ugly Duckling
Childhood Memories - A Christy Production

Congratulations to everyone and thanks for joining in the fun.
If you are a winner please send me an email at littlebirdhandmade@gmail with your address so I can get your prize out to you (or if you will be at the Suitcase Rummage on Sunday you can pick it up from me there)

xxxKyla

Just to let you know...

2011-02-28T07:09:00.001+10:00

I have now closed the entries for the Birthday giveaway...good luck to everyone who entered and stay tuned for the results very very soon.
xxxK

This weekend...

2011-02-17T12:45:00.000+10:00

...is the first Marky Markets of 2011! Yay! Yippeee!
After the drenching rain that caused some fairly devastating flooding of West End, the January market was cancelled so we have all been anticipating their return in February. And it looks to be SPECTACULAR!

This is a small sample of what you will see on the Little Bird table this weekend @ the Hi Fi Bar, Boundary St, West End...

That's right folks...the hand dyed button brooches are back!

There are also some new notebook designs...

And due to popular demand...I now have STICKY NOTES! The same price as a small notebook...only $4!!

So, midday till 5 in West End. Pimm's Iced Teas, chip butties and so many of my cool and crafty friends..see you there!!

xxxKyla

PS...you will find Pannikin, Hungry Designs, Lust Not Want Not, Polly Gone, Silver Tooth Vintage, Voodoo Rabbit and ReClaimed Records there. Pop by their pages and lend them some support!

Let's go shopping!!

2011-02-14T07:46:00.000+10:00

As some of my facebook followers may know, I am now a member of BrisStyle...yay!!!

I am playing along with their 'Let's Go Shopping' game (albeit a little bit late!)

Tea cup earrings from Tree Party Design

Set of 4 polaroid art prints from Hey Harriet

Hand embroidered tissue cover from Edward and Lilly

Insulated lunch bag from Bon Tons

and this one is my absolute favourite today...

Gerald Giraffe Organic Lavender Eye Pillow by Little Chrissy

Sigh...too many lovely things to choose from, it was very hard to cull my list!

If you would like to play along visit the BrisStyle blog...

xxxKyla

The Great Big Birthday Give Away

2011-02-07T09:40:00.000+10:00

Last year on the 28th of February I launched Little Bird and it has been an amazing year full of supportive, creative folk. I have learnt so much about trusting my creativity and skills. I have discovered new skills and revisited old ones. And I have only just started!

There are so many awesome things in the pipeline for Little Bird (and a few of her friends) this coming year...new retail opportunities,an amazing photoshoot, online collaborations and ONE VERY BIG SECRET SURPRISE! (but you'll have to just hold your breath for that one, hehe)

So, to celebrate Little Bird's first birthday (as well as my own this month) I am having a Great Big Birthday Give Away!

There are 5 prizes up for grabs and all you have to do to enter is leave a comment below this blog post telling me which prize pack is your favourite...easy!
Each prize pack includes a large lined notebook, a small notebook, a bookmark and a card all made from vintage storybook pages as well as a special limited edition Little Bird brooch!

Here are photos of the prize packs...

#1 Sunny Yellow Pack

#2 Cute Creatures Pack

#3 Big Bear Pack

#4 Childhood Memories Pack

#5 Perfect People Pack

Don't forget to pass the word on to your friends. The draw will happen on Monday 28th of February...good luck xxxKyla

A hot time with the cool kids!

2011-02-07T08:23:00.001+10:00

And I do mean HOT! But we had such a lovely day otherwise it was all worth it yesterday at Suitcase Rummage.
I was pretty busy so only took a few photos but you can also find more on the SR facebook page.

The vintage bangles were a big hit...

So were the 'Mo Totes', brooches and vintage storybook stationery...

This is the only other shot I took as we were winding down for the afternoon...a lovely breeze was blowing and everyone was sipping on their bubble teas and free Weiss bars!

Now that the weekend of craziness is over it's on to the next market...Marky Markets on the 13th of Feb. Have you been? They are uber-cool and you can sip on a long island iced tea or chow down on the famous HiFi Chip buttie while you shop!

And in other news...Little Bird turns 1 at the end of February! I know, it seems like much longer that we have been on this ride! Anyhoo...there will be an AWESOME giveaway for not one, not two, not even 3 or 4, but 5 lucky people! Stay tuned for the details this afternoon!

Have a lovely day everyone xxxKyla

Tomorrow...

2011-02-03T20:20:00.000+10:00

...I am heading off with my suitcases to the St Jerome's Laneway Festival. A great music festival that happens all over the country. We have been invited to join Suitcase Rummage in a little market that will be happening on the fringes of the festival, and it sounds like great fun!
Go here to check out their facebook page...looks like we're all in for a busy (and sweltering) day!

images from St Jerome's Laneway Festival

BUT...that's not all! There are two Suitcase Rummages this weekend and Little Bird will be at them both! Sunday will see us all lugging the suitcases back into Brisbane to Redacliffe Place (you know, the place at the top of the Queen St Mall with the big silver balls?!) for the regular event too.

All I can say is...YIPEEEE!

Finally, a break in the weather.

2011-01-17T09:45:00.001+10:00

It has been a long time between markets for Little Bird and our friend fourthchild...so with the help of Precious Packages in Ellenborough St, Ipswich we will be holding a pop-up shop on Friday.
Check out the flyer below for all the info...

Come along if you are in the area, grabbing a coffee at one of the amazing coffee shops or buying your fudge from the Shady Lady!

I'm really excited because it has been a long time between markets for us.
See you there xxxKyla

Turn your tears to sweat.

2011-01-14T22:15:00.000+10:00

It's a phrase that has stuck with me over the last few days. Helping out where I can, seeing people empty their entire lives onto the sidewalk, cooking copious amounts of pasta for those who need a good hot feed...I hadn't cried. But after editing these photos of houses which are metres from my own I can't help it, this is my neighbourhood, I know these people and their lives. I went to school with some, we shared beers and we saw each others underwear on the line...

The photo above shows the house we used to live in 2 years ago...see the watermark on the veranda railings? Apparently the current tenants came home for a look and had to close the doors and leave again as it was too much for them to bear.

The house in the background of this photo belongs to an old school friend of mine. She cannot get back to see the damage and I almost wish she never could. The water was almost over the roof and I can see books plastered against the french doors of one room. It is such a lovely house and now will have to be gutted.

I encourage everyone to get out there and talk to your neighbors, they may not need help cleaning or with donations but they most certainly need a friendly ear and maybe a warm meal or a cold beer.

And to everyone suffering, remember, we are here waiting for the call...just say the word and we will help...it's the Queensland way. We will turn our tears to sweat.

I'm still here

2011-01-14T10:58:00.000+10:00

just a quick note to let you all know that it came VERY close but we have not washed away. Folks around us have lost everything, all their belongings are on the footpath and the mud/sludge is coating their homes.
I am off to help them out but will return later to give you some more details.
xxx

Little Bird goes global!

2011-01-04T20:39:00.000+10:00

Little Bird is heading all the way to the other side of the world! (well, one of my brooches anyway!)

I made my first sale on Etsy last night and if that wasn't exciting enough it's going all the way to Barcelona! That's in SPAIN people!
I have been quietly following the Spanish adventures of Shagpile for some time now...some amazing fabrics and colourful shops to see. I wonder if I can squeeze my tiny self into the package with Holly Hobbie and go for a visit too!
Here she is...and off she goes!

Sigh...I wish I was going with her.

xxxKyla

A nice kick start!

2011-01-02T09:03:00.000+10:00

So the rain has been weighing me down, rain depression really kicked in after 3 weeks of no sun and the news reports of flooding, friends being evacuated from their small country towns and the massive crop losses has not helped. I thought it was time for a pick-me-up and so I started cleaning off my very cluttered workspace.

New year is the time for new promises and ideas and nothing makes an impact on creativity more than a clean workspace and a new inspiration board...

And I have my favourite Holly Hobbie collectible hanging up and reminding me how I should start my day...

In my new creative frenzy I am also dreaming new ideas, literally! I woke from a nap yesterday with this little idea knocking around the insides of my head...

That's right...a Little Bird 2011 pocket calendar full of sweet little vintage images...

You will be able to buy them very soon in my Etsy store and also at the Marky Markets on the 16th. But get in quickly...There will only be a limited number of them made!

Oh, by the way...I have become a little addicted to the Instagram application for iPhone...look forward to lots of vintage style image posting for a while! You can follow me there too...just search for 'kyladoesstuff'

Nothing like a new swing set to bring a smile to a rainy day!

Happy New Year to you all xxxKyla

Taa Daa!

2010-12-28T11:49:00.001+10:00

...well I just couldn't wait until next week so the Little Bird shop on Etsy is now open! Click on the little link to your right and it will take you there.

There are not piles of things in there yet but enough to whet the appetite...here is a taste...

It certainly took a large burst of energy to get everything started up and I don't think I understand all of it yet but it's definitely a big big handmade world out there!

xxxK

Little Bird goes to Woodford!

2010-12-27T07:26:00.000+10:00

The amazing Kerryanne from Pineapple Productions ordered a range of bespoke brooches to take with her to the Woodford Festival. If you don't know what Woodford is, you obviously don't live in Australia! Woodford is the biggest folk festival in the country and Kerryanne is hosting the Pineapple Palace, a mini music venue just for the kiddies!

If you plan on going, take your wellies, but the rain has not proven a deterrent in the past with thousands upon thousands flocking to the tiny town in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland for 6 days and 6 nights. Music, stalls and food...I would love to go! But sending Little Bird is the next best thing...I am very excited that my little brooches are becoming so well travelled.

These little lovlies are making their way to Woodford as I write, vintage fabric and recycled felt, bespoke buttons and some incredible vintage ones too...

Best of luck to Kerryanne and the performers at the Pineapple Palace. I know you will bring a bit of sunny joy to an otherwise dreary week.

xxxKyla

Some pre-Christmas fun

2010-12-23T13:18:00.000+10:00

...I found this Christmas survey popping up around the blogosphere and thought I would give you an insight into how Christmas looks from here...

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?

Definitely wrapping paper, if you haven't noticed I have quite an addiction to paper and ribbon. This year it is brown craft paper, paper doilies and cotton twine with sweet little red reindeer.

2. Real tree or Artificial?

Artificial...we would always have a real one at Mum's place but it is so messy in this hot weather.

I do miss the smell of pine and the good looking Apex man delivering the tree!

3. When do you put up the tree?

Any time after Dec 1st as that is the Loo's birthday!

4. When do you take the tree down?

As soon as we all recover from our food induced comas!

5. Favorite gift received as a child?

I always remember when my great uncle Des gave me a tiny tiny diamond on a chain when I was about 11 years old...I felt so special!

6. Hardest person to buy for?

Dad...his Birthday is today(the 23rd) and finding two presents for the guy who has everything is frustratingly hard!

7. Easiest person to buy for?

My sis...I just buy whatever I would like.

8. Mail or email Christmas cards?

I try to hand deliver as much as possible, otherwise it's snail mail,

9. Favorite Christmas Movie?

I'm not really into Christmas movies, in fact, I can't think of one I have watched ever!

10. When do you start shopping for Christmas?

I shop throughout the year as I try to stick to the handmade pledge, I go to markets and always have Christmas presents in mind.

11. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?

I don't think so, although I definitely recycle everything else!

12. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?

Cold ham off the bone...a truly Aussie Christmas tradition!

13. Lights on the tree (colored or clear)?

Clear and tack-less

14. Favorite Christmas song?

Do you hear what I hear...it's so lovely to sing.

15. Travel at Christmas or stay home?

We host Christmas now but we used to travel every second year.

16. Angel, star or ribbon on top of tree?

A star

17. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?

Christmas morning after a champagne breakfast, we all get together and the youngest kid has to hand out all the presents.

18. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?

Abbreviating the word Christmas. I'm not the religious type but there is (if you forgive the terrible phrase) a reason for the season and using 'xmas' just lets the commercialism in.

19. What do you want for Christmas this year?

A clear day and a clear vision of the new year.

20. Traditional colors (red and green) or other colors?

Always red! This year we have gone with a red, snow white and grey theme...calm, minimalist and uncluttered.

Want to join me in the survey? Copy and paste, replace my answers with your own and let me know in a comment below.

Are you getting excited yet? I 2 sleeps we can spend time with our loved ones and think not of tomorrow.

xxxK

Brown paper packages...

2010-12-21T20:04:00.000+10:00

...tied up with string.

An oldie but a goodie and so perfect for my vision this Christmas. It really is full of more than a few of my favourite things!
Here is what the pressies look like under our tree...

And these little guys will be guarding them closely until Christmas day...

We had an old fashioned tree trimming party last week with the family...

as well as a quiet little celebration for the Loo who turned 3 during the craziness of Concert week...

Thanks to fourthchild it ended up being a MASSIVE celebration cake-wise!

All in all it's looking like Christmas will be lovely...if not a little wet. Sunny Queensland is certainly not living up to its name at the moment!

Stay tuned for some more Chrissy photos soon, you all know how I love to decorate!

xxxKyla

Change is in the air...

2010-12-20T07:28:00.000+10:00

...but not before the last market of the year. This Thursday you can fin Little Bird at the Ipswich Central Markets for the annual LANTERN MARKETS! I love doing twilight markets, they are so much fun! (and of course so much nicer than standing in the sweltering heat all day!)

There will be heaps of things happening throughout the afternoon and evening, so pop down to the Ipswich Mall on Thursday to check it out and do some last minute Christmas shopping without the chaos that is sure to be happening across the river! Maybe you would even like to make the handmade pledge to buy and give handmade this Christmas? Click the little link there to the right and you can find out all about the handmade pledge.

I would also like to give all of you a little early Christmas pressie...in the form of a sweet little blog by my friend Holly. She has just started but if her previous efforts have been anything to go on, this will prove to deliver all the adorable sweetness you expect! Get on over to pokket blog and say hi xxx

We danced till we...

2010-12-14T09:11:00.001+10:00

...died! We were so exhausted after the concert but what's evident in the photos below is how much fun we all had. I love my kids (big and small) and can't believe how much they have improved in such a short time.

Congrats to all my 'babies'....so proud of you all xxxK

It's Christmas Deer!

2010-12-11T07:16:00.000+10:00

Well, it's actually a fawn but ...don't judge!

Finally, after many crazy weeks of dancing concerts, 3yr old birthdays, Med School Graduations, inside washing lines and markets galore, I have found time to create some more brooches out of the 'perfect fabric' from Voodoo Rabbit....it's perfect in too may ways to mention but....
1. It has little images in the perfect size for my designs
2. People absolutely love brooches made from this fabric and they disappear off the table at markets faster than I can restock them!
3. It's double sided!

So, they're back on the table for this weekend's Ipswich Central Markets...

I am also very excited about finally being able to attend the Lake Manchester Boutique Markets next Tuesday. They will be twilight markets this month, fairy lights and vintage lamps will light your way to some truly beautiful goodies handmade and otherwise.

The first 30 customers of the evening will receive a fantastic goodie bag filled with items from all the stallholders. I have been considering my contribution carefully and finally decided to make something special. And here they are...30 mini sticky note pads covered with vintage storybook pages. Aren't they sweet?

So come along next Tuesday for some loveliness...you will also be treated to some food and wine from over ever vigilant hosts.

And my last little bit of sweetness for today...my recent purchases from Vintage by Lou Lou.

I picked them up a few days ago when I visited her new shop in her lovely new home. If you are in Ipswich, drop by Lou's new space in Harlin Road for a treat. It's a lovely room filled with vintage and vintage inspired pieces for all ages, and if you're lucky you might even be treated to the smell of fresh pine from the real live Christmas trees she has special ordered!

(image borrowed from Vintage by Lou Lou)

Phew! What a long and varied post, but now that I have recovered from November, it's with great pleasure that I dive into my favourite season. Stay tuned for lots more blog posting over the next few weeks.

xxxKyla

The Stocking Stuffer Sale

2010-12-06T14:13:00.000+10:00

...Little Bird is having a sale over on facebook...jump over there now to grab a few handmade pressies under $10.
Here are a few of the goodies you can buy...

Rehearsals...

2010-12-04T20:32:00.000+10:00

...were in full swing today. Concert tomorrow...then some well deserved rest, wine and nights of creating Christmas presents for the family.

Here are some pics of the pro-level groups rehearsing their routines in the studio. If you look closely, you may even see a few of me!

So, if you are after something to fill your day tomorrow, come to the iDance and Dancing Tiger Dance Spectacular! Stalls full of handmade, handbaked and bellydance goodies open at 1pm and the dancing starts at 2pm, Ipswich Girls Grammar School.

xxxK

Adventures in dyeing...

2010-11-25T10:57:00.001+10:00

...I have been working on my hand-dyed buttons over the last few weeks and have finally worked out the perfect formula! Have a look at the be.a.utiful colours!

I have packed them up for sale too...cute! You'll find them on the table this weekend at the Ipswich Central Markets! The colours are nice and vibrant and I have tried to create tones that you would not find in the shops. I will most certainly be using them the majority of the time now on all my brooches and other projects.

There's just something about a product being as handmade as possible...now to figure out how to make the buttons myself!

xxxKyla

A special giveaway...

2010-11-24T20:58:00.000+10:00

my lovely young friend Lou Lou is having a giveaway on her blog Vintage by Lou Lou...and it just so happens to be some sweet storybook bunting by yours truly!

Pop on over to join in the giveaway fun and you could be hanging some paper bunting in your house for Christmas.

xxxK

This Weekend...

2010-11-18T07:13:00.000+10:00

...Little Bird will be at the Marky Markets in West End. I haven't been able to make it to previous ones other than a short vist for a look-see so I'm stoked that it all came together for this month!

It's a fairly scaled down version of Little Bird that you will see on Sunday but I will still have all the great thing you have come to expect...brooches, mo-totes and heaps of vintage storybook paper products! I also bought a new tree for the stall so am kinda excited to show everyone the new addition!

I will be at the Marky Markets from 11am to 5am outside the HiFi Bar in Boundary Street West End...just look for the crowds of cool people and there I'll be! The totally awesome thing about these markets...you can buy a bloody mary and shop handmade and vintage stalls!

Find the Marky Markets website here...and you can also find them on facebook...

Another lovely day...

2010-11-14T17:40:00.000+10:00

Well, I am back from the Ipswich Central Markets after another day of beautiful weather and visits from awesome Little Bird fans! Here are some pics I took but you can also check out a few on the facebook fan page...

That's all I managed to take...as you can see the stall is evolving into it's own little world now. I also picked up a new tree this afternoon for the back of the stall, to replace the old one I have been lugging around for ages. So stay tuned for some photos after the Marky Markets next week to check it out.

that's right, you heard correctly, I will finally be attending the Marky Markets in the uber-cool West End,. I'm really looking forward to this small scaled market, every time I have visited it as a customer it has been a fantastic day!

Till later xxxKyla

Just the thing to lift my mood...

2010-11-11T16:44:00.000+10:00

...bunting!

But not the type you seem to be seeing all over the place...these are from my new Storybook range and made from salvaged vintage storybooks. Aren't they sweet?

I have lots of them in different themes, most of them from books you should recognise...

Berenstein Bears
Sesame Street
Richard Scarry
and of course lots of Dr Seuss!!

They have been to a few markets with me so far and the response has been fantastic! So many went to happy homes last week at Suitcase Rummage that I have had to start re-stocking them already!

If you look closely you will see them hanging on my tree at the back of my stall here at the Ipswich Central Markets...

My favourite is the gorgeous little sketches from the Golden Book Encyclopaedia set...slightly random but ever so sweet.

So if you are in the Ipswich area over the weekend, drop into the Ipswich Central Markets...you never know, if you mention that you are a blog follower you might just get a little pressie!! In fact, you will score yourself a special edition Little Bird Brooch that CANNOT BE BOUGHT!!!
You have to be a follower of the blog of course and it would be nice if in return for your little pressie you invited all your friends to join my facebook page...
Sorry if you are not local...but not to worry, I will be having a nice big Christmas Giveaway very soon that will include a few of these beauties too!

xxxKyla

Lessons my Grandma taught me...

2010-11-10T18:14:00.000+10:00

I spent a lot of time with my Grandmother when I was younger. We went shopping, visited the library and went to the Ekka every year. The young girl in me thought we were just having fun but now I realise she was teaching me some very important lessons that have served me well into adulthood.

But among all those big important lessons there were also some smaller and probably more meaningful ones too. And that’s what I would like to share with you today.

Lessons my Grandma taught me…

Never use too much shampoo, makeup or perfume.

Always save the wrapping paper.

Swimming caps are cool.

It’s never too early in the morning to get up.

Always wear a hat, even if it doesn’t match your dress.

You’re never too old to ride the Gravitron

Always write a list.

Soft centres are the best, and not only in chocolates.

You can always catch the next wave.

Some things are worth saving…just in case.

They may seem like small things but there are some big lessons behind them. I hope that in remembering Grandma Irene you will find a small lesson she taught you as well.

Thankyou to everyone who came today to pay your respects. On behalf of my family, we are deeply touched by your kindness.

Suitcase Rummage wrap-up

2010-11-08T07:15:00.000+10:00

Sorry I have been off the blog grid for a while. It's been a sad week with the loss of my Grandma but we are all holding up well and thinking happy thoughts of XXX Scotch Mints and vintage sundresses to lift our spirits.

With yesterday being the first official Queensland Grandparents Day and Suitcase Rummage it was only fitting that I went and honoured Grandma in our special way...sellin' like my Grandma!

I had a lovely day, surrounded by markets friends and lots of great people who were so appreciative of my hard work. It was also nice to meet more of my blog and facebook stalkers...and they walked away with a little pressie for their obsessive brooch-love!

Here are some snaps I took with my phone yesterday...it's not really the type of market where I can lug my big camera around!

As you can see, it was totally crazy and packed out in Brisbane Library Square...I had made $$ even before I had finished setting up and an hour before trading officially started! The square was literally buzzing!

It's going to be a HUGE couple of months from here on in so please forgive me if I am awol from the blogosphere now and then, but you can always catch up with me on facebook...click the little linky thing there to your right and you'll go straight to the Little Bird fan page.

xxxKyla

Surprise thought for the day

2010-10-31T14:39:00.002+10:00

I was making some storybook envelopes today and flipped one over to fold and glue...here's what the universe is telling me today...
(sorry that it's sideways!)

- Posted using My iPhone thingy

Stationary and deep thoughts...

2010-10-30T19:05:00.000+10:00

...two of my favourite things! The words are by Regina Specktor, she's amazing. If you haven't already heard her music, you're missing out and should now go and buy every album she ever recorded!

Plus it's on a moleskine so ....double cool!

xxxK

'Tis the season...

2010-10-29T16:06:00.000+10:00

...but not the one you think!

We don't really celebrate Halloween here in Oz, it is becoming a bit of a tradition but no to the extremes to see elsewhere.

I am looking forward, however, to a bbq with some of my favourite families this Sunday. I have a few little goodie surprises up my sleeve for all the awesome folks. The kids will dress up, the men will stand around the barbie and talk about how they created fire, we'll eat burnt meat and drink a few bevvies and generally give thanks that we are all mates...

Here's some Halloween inspiration for you...

xxxK

FYI...

2010-10-28T11:39:00.000+10:00

...it has become quite the trend over the past 12 months to have competitions on Facebook. It's a fantastic networking tool and a great way to draw more fans to your page...however, it's not within the facebook rules and there are some small (and not so small) businesses losing access permanently to their fan pages because of it...disappointing I know, but rules are rules.

Thank to Belly Beyond Blog I have found a clear and concise explanation of what you can and cannot do within the bounds of your facebook fan page. You can read the full article on their blog here.. but here is the basic idea...

"You cannot make a competition dependant on an action on facebook. In other words it is against Facebook Promotion rules to have people enter a competition by
*becoming a liker or fan
*tagging themselves in a photo
*commenting on your wallpage or post
*putting a comment or tag in their status
*uploading a photo or video"

There are, of course, people who run comps on their fanpages all the time and get away with it...how you ask? They have just not been noticed by facebook administrators yet, there are just too many pages and entries for even a small army to police.
But like the authors of Belly Beyond, I have put too much time and work into my fan page to run the risk of losing it all.

And if you want to wade through the official facebook guidelines for yourself...go here...

xxxK

I'm having a crisis!

2010-10-28T11:09:00.000+10:00

Deep in the midst of some serious sleep last night I had a dream. It was great! I designed and crested this totally-awesome-cool-amazing thing! Problem is...now I don't remember what it was!

I have no clue what it was made of, what colours it was or even what it's use was....AAARRRGGHHHHH!!

I't all I have thought about this morning. In the midst of the Little Bird Sweatshop...sewing about three million brooches with matching buttons, all I can focus on is the thing I can't remember!

Not that anyone can really help me...a creative crisis is a very personal and individual thing...but thought I would share my frustration to get the sucker out there and not in my head!

xxxK

Today's rules...

2010-10-27T14:29:00.002+10:00

...and maybe for the rest of time!

Some good advice for today...

2010-10-26T09:28:00.002+10:00

...and every day.

That is all xxxK

Mondays are for...

2010-10-25T16:37:00.000+10:00

...working working working.

I have lots and lots to do this week...

More fourthchild broochlove. They are going like hotcakes!

Fascinators for Melbourne cup...

Helping friends with their big plans...

Sewing about a million costumes for the upcoming iDance concert...

and...

PROMO PROMO PROMO!!!!

So forgive me if I miss a day posting here on my blog. It's gonna be a crazy week!

Powerthirst

2010-10-24T15:40:00.000+10:00

Sigh...what a lovely day!

2010-10-24T15:19:00.000+10:00

I really did have a great day today...the sun was shining, the breeze was blowing just enough and the customers were so appreciative.

Here are a few shots of my new stall setup...lighter, brighter and more vintage pretty.

I think it still might need a bit of tweaking, some pretty curtains and whatnot...i forsee a visit to Ikea in my near future!

Anyhoo, have a lovely Sunday xxx

Another batch off to THE SWICH!!

2010-10-23T17:39:00.000+10:00

I have just dropped another batch of exclusive Swich brooches off at my favourite gallery...The Swich Contemporary Art Gallery. Check the link to the right for their website.

These little on-offs are only in black and white, and can only be bought through the gallery. I don't usually make monochromatic brooches so these are fun to make in small batches.

Here they are all ready to be sewn up.

xxxKyla

So...

2010-10-22T16:17:00.001+10:00

...I dropped off the face of the earth for 48 hours...sorry. Blogtoberfest FAIL!

Anyhoo, I guess I owe you two posts today. The first is a teaser....A very exciting thing is happening next year for Little Bird and her good buddy Fourthchild....and that's all I'm gonna tell you for now. But when I can finally tell you, you're all gonna FLIP OUT!!!!

I'm flipping out right now! It's like the cool girl at school just came up and told me she likes my outfit! I've never been one of the cool kids, never really thought about sitting with them at lunch but now we've got an invite to their table and I kinda like the idea.

SQUEEEEEEE!

xxxK

I'm really really old!

2010-10-20T20:24:00.000+10:00

Well, not really but sometimes I feel like it! Like, when I do a class with my lil sis and we are pooped after 20 minutes of ballet...this is what I see in the mirror.

I forget that I have used and abused my body over the last 30 years, I forget that even though I can still get my leg up beside my ear, it hurts like hell on the way down.

That is all, I can't type any more because my brain has shut down.

xxxKyla

A very productive day...

2010-10-19T12:25:00.000+10:00

...and it's only lunchtime!

I have finished making my new sales bags. I had been struggling to find bags which are a good size for my products so, as usual, I turned to making them myself...what do you think?

I also went to order my new Little Bird rubber stamp...finally! I should have it by the end of the week so stay tuned for photos of random things being stamped in the frenzy that is sure to occur!

I went for a visit to my local Big Red Shed in a search for some inspiration for my market stall redesign and left with a sweet little vintage drawer and three vintage glass knobs for $5. Old Mate was so helpful and searched through everything for me to find the exact size and vintage look I wanted. I will definitely be going back and would recommend the Big Red Shed Ipswich in Brisbane St to anyone.

I also visited the Booval 2nd Hand shop, I haven't been in a while and I always leave with something. This time it was a great wall display unit that will be a fantastic display item for the stall as well.

Now I'm home again to do some sewing and preparations for this Sunday at the Ipswich Central Markets.

See you tomorrow xxx

What's on my table today?

2010-10-18T19:13:00.000+10:00

If I was to answer that question most other days the answer would be 'a combination of felt, paper, books, buttons and vintage fabric' but today I have been finishing off a new stock item for the market table on Sunday...my envelopes and notecards made from vintage storybooks...here's a batch all ready for packaging.

I am loving this new line from storybooks for Little Bird, it's great to see peoples faces and hear their stories when they realise that they had one of the books as a kid.

You can find pages from some of the following books in the Little Bird Design Box
Richard Scarry
The Berenstein Bears
Dr Seuss (of course)
Red Riding Hood
The Three Little Kittens
Snow White
The Ugly Duckling
Sesame Street Encyclopedia

and a favourite find - Slappy the Duck...totally adorable but drawn all over by some sacrilegious little ratbag!

I have been salvaging books from the op-shops around town and accepting generous donations from friends but I have to say, not all of the books are destined for the chop. I only cut into the books that really are beyond help...the ones in good condition go into the playroom for a good reading-over or the precious Golden Books go into my growing collection.

I am also working on a new packaging range for my 'stuff' that is also completely handmade (as if I didn't already do enough!)...stay tuned for photos tomorrow as I ran out of light this afternoon. But to get you interested let's just say it involves brown paper and Japanese paper tape!

Till tomorrow then xxxK

Ahhh...Sunday.

2010-10-17T18:05:00.000+10:00

I hope you all had a relaxing day...the sun was out, the horrible wind died down and I had no markets to go to today!!

No sleep ins for me though... working on a few different design ideas and cutting lots and lots of felt circles as usual!

Here are a few random beautiful images to get you through until tomorrow...

Gnocchi Mac and Cheese...I can't believe I haven't thought of this before now!!!

That enough for you? No..want more....well, ok....

and a thought for today...

That is all, over and out xxxK

Tweet Yourself this weekend...

2010-10-16T16:20:00.000+10:00

I will be having a little sale over on the Little Bird facebook page tomorrow...pop on over to check out the goodies. There are heaps of stocking stuffers to get you started on your 'festive' shopping or just to get some retail therapy without leaving the house and going out in the awful wind!

Here are a few of the goodies on sale from 8am tomorrow..so jump in early to grab your favourites, if it goes like all the other facebook sales I have had it will be slim pickings after a few hours!

See you over there bright and early xxxK

In a Seussey kind of mood.

2010-10-15T08:12:00.000+10:00

Most people wouldn't know but I am a huge Dr Seuss fan...the books, the pictures, the words of wisdom bestowed lovingly through rhyme...I love it all, especially the silliness!

The Loo has his collection of Dr Seuss wisdom...

I took inspiration from Green Eggs and Ham for my wedding vows...

I will love with all my heart

From now until death do us part

And I will love you when we’re rich

And I will love you in a ditch

From today until the end of time

Even if your words don’t rhyme

And I will love you when we’re fit

And when we’re hurt

And when we’re sick

And I will love you richer, poorer

And I will love you quiet, snorer

And I will love you a thousand-fold

Till death us part and our blood grow cold

And I will love you happy or sad

Because you’re the best friend I ever had

And I will have

And I will hold

And now, if I may be so bold

I’ll love you my entire life

And I will always be your wife.

And this week I have also been working on some new upcycled envelopes make of my vintage story books...so of course I had to add in a Dr Seuss (not to worry, I only used a copy which was beyond help!)

In the words of The Loo "Ta Daaaaaaaa!"...here is my new range of notecards with upcycled envelopes....

They come in packs of 4 and you can find them on my upcoming facebook sale and also at the markets stalls.

What is your favourite Dr Seuss book? Mine is most definitely this one...

xxxKyla

Something for me!

2010-10-14T06:48:00.000+10:00

I seem to be making making making these days but not much is for me! So I set aside some time yesterday to play with a new idea and here is my new brooch...

Isn't it sweet? I know, I know, it's another brooch but I just can't help myself!

I am inspired today to make myself a new summer tote...what are you inspired to do today?

xxxK

I swear I pressed the button!

2010-10-14T06:08:00.000+10:00

oops, looks like I forgot to publish my blog post yesterday...had it all typed up but didn't press the publish button...so here it is, yesterdays post...

"The C Word"
...and no, it's not what your're thinking!

I am under strict instructions by a few friends not to mention the 'c' word at least until October ends. So I am going to try and get through this post without saying it once. I know I have said it here on the blogosphere before and I'm sure I will say it again...but our favourite word for the festive season seems to draw scowls from all my friends.

But no-one said I couldn't post some photos of my festive stock which I have started working on this week...

So there you go...vintage festive fabric, lovely bright reds and greens, sparkly thread and some cute festive critters are on their way to the Little Bird stall this November. Keep your eyes peeled.

xxxK

Introducing Fourthchild...

2010-10-12T19:05:00.001+10:00

She coined the word 'cakelove'...she's talented beyond belief...creative and just a little bit crazy...she's Manda from Fourthchild and if you don't know her already you really should get to know her!

Fourthchild is THE best place to get cakes, pastries and sometimes even savoury tasties. You can find Manda and her fourthchild Talulah at markets, at discerning cafes and on facebook.

We all have our favourites but here is some of the amazing cakelove you may find on her ever-changing menu of goodness....

chocolate sponge with fourthchild strawberry jam & milk chocolate swiss mousse cream

meet the fourthchild carrot cake, known as "Phill"

Biccies, Brownies & Big Raspberry Muddie

Baked Cheesecake with choc cracker crumb & old school dollop of caramel

Blood Orange & Almond Pistachio cakes. gluten free, dairy free & sugar free, with agave syrup.

Black Forest

pear tarte tatin, apple galettes, flourless chocolate cakes and gingerbread and chai brulee tarts

blackcurrant and blueberry financier, strawberry tarts

Fourthchild even teamed up with Little Bird (that's me!) to feed and delight the crowds of Creative Generation! See all the little clouds and cupcakes decorating the table?...supplied by yours truly!

So now that you've met fourthchild...are you hungry? Want to know more? Visit the facebook page to find out where she will be...and get yourself some CAKELOVE!!!

xxxKyla

(all images courtesy of fourthchild)

Words and images.

2010-10-11T14:50:00.000+10:00

It's a dreary day here and I am struggling to find a creative ray of sunshine here in my grey little world...how's the weather at your place today? It's been bucketing down for at least 12 hours and now the wind has started blowing. Not really a very inspiring type of day....but...

A bunch of images to try and get me kickstarted (not all rain-themed mind you but I am heavily influenced today!)

And if all of that doesn't work...there's always this...

Coz everyone needs a teddy bear!

Happy days everyone, don't let the rain get you down xxxK

The secret is out!

2010-10-10T15:08:00.000+10:00

Well, even though the day was rainy and cold the markets were fun and we had all our regulars visit which is always nice! I also met some new facebook friends...thanks for introducing yourself girls!

I have been teasing you all week with snippets of the new line of brooches I have been working on...so now it's time to show you all...

Ta daaaaa! Cakelove Brooches especially made for Fourthchild!

There are two different designs...
1. Tallulah (the sweet little fourthchild logo)

2. Cakelove sayings...

These brooches are only available from the fourthchild stall at the various markets they attend so keep up to date on their facebook page and get yourself some broochlove to go with your cakelove!

xxxKyla

Just a shortie tonight

2010-10-09T19:30:00.000+10:00

Love my baby sister, she makes me laugh like no one else can xxx
- Posted using My iPhone thingy

Brooches, brooches, brooches!

2010-10-08T18:54:00.000+10:00

Well the stocks have been depleted over the past few weeks, what with the crowds of brooch-lovers at Ipswich Central Markets and Suitcase Rummage as well as a whole swag of new brooches going to the Swich Contemporary Art Gallery this morning.
So my day was spent cutting circles and sewing to re-stock for the coming weekend. There are some more of the coveted Holly Hobbie designs...

There are plenty of colourful designs and I have also begun working on my Christmas stock (I know I know...I shouldn't have said the C-word yet but I really need to start making them so you lovely brooch lovers have time to buy them and send them to your loved ones!)

Here is Little Bird headquarters/sweatshop in the midst of brooch making...

I'm surprised looking at these photos how neat my sewing table looks! If you were here, it would not look so organised!

That's all for now as I am off to sew more buttons and brooch pins before a big 'ol day back for the first Saturday of dancing term!

xxxKyla

what did you make today?

2010-10-07T12:05:00.000+10:00

I made these (and then some!)

After my musings on doilies all day yesterday I was inspired to make some bunting for Christmas (and maybe to decorate the Little Bird stall too!)
I mucked around with paper doilies and even though they are pretty they really won't stand up to the humidity here in Queensland. So off to spotlight I went...and found weatherproof doilies by the metre! After a bit of chopping and some pretty Japanese blanket binding in festive colours I have some pretty (and lasting) decorations to make my stall look extra special this Sunday!
I promise I will take some pics of the stall all kitted out xxxKyla

on my mind today...

2010-10-06T21:11:00.000+10:00

...are doilies! Yes you heard me, lacy things you used to see on the back of your nan's couch!

I have been playing around with them all day, thinking about having all my Christmas decorations based around this lovely pretty little item...here are a few inspiration photos I have grabbed for you...we seem to be seeing them more and more in modern handmade design...

Grandma would be so proud!

xxxKyla

Today...

2010-10-05T16:08:00.000+10:00

...I have a hole in my finger from handsewing broochpins...but it will be totally worth it in the end. If you would like to see the finished product of my labours up close and personal you will need to drop by the Ipswich Central Markets. That is where these cheeky little numbers will be making their début.

But that's all you get for now...a few hints at what is another step in the beautiful friendship between Little Bird and another AWESOME Ipswich business!

Ipswich Central Markets
2nd and 4th Sunday of the Month
6am to midday in the Ipswich City Mall
There are handmade stalls as well as a great variety of foodies and fresh fruit and veg. Entertainment and activities for the kids and a great vibe to start your Sunday morning!

xxxKyla

Suitcase Rummage wrap-up

2010-10-04T07:31:00.000+10:00

Well, I had a lovely time, the rain was minimal but really didn't matter as we were all tucked into the King George Square Terrace undercover, nice and cosy! The rain didn't seem to deter the punters either, there were heaps of people buying heaps of every sort of thing imaginable! 2nd hand clothing and shoes, vintage oddments, handmade fashion and accessories, paper and stationary, illustrations and homebaked yummies (I had the most awesome halloween macaroon)

I got there nice and early and got a great spot. Not only did I get a prime position, I also was already set up to watch everyone else pile in and set up. People watching is one of my favourite things to do (must be why I prefer going to markets rather than selling online)

There was lots to see and do...look at all the people!! (and I took this before the market had officially started!

I was right opposite the ever-lovely Sarah from Love and Two Guns

(Thanks for being my loo-buddy Sarah!)

Also spent the spare minutes chatting away with Holly from Pannikin (who always looks adorable). Holly deserves a big Congratulations too as she just found out she has been accepted into the November Finders Keepers Markets here in Brisbane...squee!

The 'Mo Totes' were a hit! Look out for them gracing the shoulders of all the cool kids about town.

Shoes were cool!

couples were even cooler! (these guys dress to impress every time!)

Things for your hair were pretty cool!

All in all it was a great day. Lots of Little Bird brooches, cushions, notebooks and purses have gone home with appreciative and AWESOME people.

I'm already looking forward to the next Suitcase Rummage in a month's time. Until then you can catch me at the Ipswich Central Markets on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month.

xxxKyla

Sundays are for...

2010-10-03T07:48:00.000+10:00

...SUITCASE RUMMAGE!! Yay yay yay...I am always so excited when this event comes up, it's a lovely day.

I have woken up early for my coffee and started planning my outfit. The boys are reading books and mucking around in the bed, fanboy and chum chum is on the telly and the morning could only get better if the sun came out.

Here are some photos of previous rummages to whet your appetite (courtesy of their facebook page and all the lovely followers there)...I will come back from my travels tonight with some snaps of today's efforts (I promise)

So if you're in Brisbane or anywhere near drop in to King George Square TODAY! midday to 5pm, and shart shopping like ya grandma!

xxxK

Saturdays are for...

2010-10-02T08:17:00.000+10:00

...well, usually they are for dancing! My Saturdays usually consist of an early morning with classes full of 3 and 4 year olds in pink ballet outfits, then slogging it out in the studio with the 'big kids' (read: teens and 20 somethings) until we are too tired to carry on, then home for a late afternoon nap before realising that the day is completely over and I haven't yet packed the car for markets the following day!
But not today! Today is the last Saturday of school holidays and I am free to sleep in and my muscles are thanking me for the welcome rest.

I am slowly packing for tomorrow's Suitcase Rummage, suitcases full to the brim of goodies. I had such a lovely time a few months ago and had a fair case of the sads when I couldn't make it last month, so it's with a little 'squee' of excitement that I squeeze all my stuff into my sweet little cases this time around.

Tomorrow you will find me along with a bunch of other creative friends (Vintage by Lou Lou, Boutique Tres Chic, Pannikin and Love and Two Guns to name a few) at King George Square, Brisbane from midday until 5pm...selling like ya Grandma!
Come and see where al the cool kids are hanging out!

xxxKyla

round and round (and round again!)

2010-10-01T14:09:00.001+10:00

Today I have been working on a quiet little project...quiet but certainly not small!

100 brooches for one of my very talented and totally AWESOME friends. And this is what it looked like after I had cut out 300 circles of felt and fabric. (might I add that my poor thumb is now completely numb!)

Stay tuned for the finished product soon...like I said, it's still a secret but I couldn't help but share my hard work so far!

Time to go and pull the suitcases out and start packing for Sunday's Suitcase Rummage...Yay!

xxxKyla

This Month is...

2010-09-30T08:13:00.000+10:00

Blogtoberfest 2010!!

I watched from the sidelines last year, not knowing if I had the stamina...but this time around I will be trying my hardest to keep up!
If you would like more info about Blogtoberfest pop on over to Tinniegirl and she'll tell you all about it...hurry though, you have to sign up today to be a part!!!

And thanks to Tinniegirl also for this adorable little card generator...I am a compulsive list maker and this one makes me go 'Squeeeee!'

See you tomorrow! xxxKyla

The Weekend Wrap-up

2010-09-27T08:23:00.000+10:00

What a lovely weekend full of lovely friends and marketing goodness!

Sunday was a great day at the Ipswich Central Markets, the sun was shining, birds singing and the croissants from Fourthchild were as fresh as cold be! But best of all, the crowds were out enjoying the sunshine which has been sadly absent for weeks and you know what that means...they were spending their money!!

Lots of monsters found new homes with the young and not so young 'uns, Little Bird brooches are gracing the lapels of countless Ipswichians and notepads are being jotted in feverishly as we speak!

Here are a few images from yesterday but you will have to excuse the quality, I took them on my phone.

Birdsong totes catching the early morning sun

Notebooks

more notebooks...one of these has gone off as a special pressie to one of our favourite market fellas

Look what Mumma Bird made...gorgeous needle felted butterfly brooches. I think one of these would look great on your new spring hat!

There were FREE moustaches all around! (The perfect size to keep in your handbag for a quick disguise)

Monsters and my new granny square cushions, both which proved a big hit. Lucky I took this photo early in the day because the suitcase was nearly empty at the end of the day!

Mini suitcases full of brooches...you're sure to find a colour combination you have to have!

And after all that was over it was home for a pattern cutting session for a few new items for the Suitcase Rummage next Sunday!!
I was stunned by peoples love of the Mo Totes last time I was there (they disappeared pretty quickly!) so I have started making 'Mini Mo Totes' this morning...just the perfect size for your Golden Books!
Stay tuned later for some little piccies of them and the bedlam that ensues as I gather everything cute and cool together for Sunday's Rummage.
Not only will you find me there but some lovely and talented friends will be on hand too...Vintage by Lou Lou, Love and Two Guns (previously Fiddlewood House), Pannikin and Silver Tooth Vintage. So be sure to make the trip to King George Square on Sunday to where all the cool kids are!

xxxKyla

This Weekend...

2010-09-24T10:36:00.001+10:00

...you will find me at the Ipswich Central Markets in the Ipswich City Mall. Come along and visit myself and some other awesome stallholders for handmade and homecooked goodies...

Most of you will have already seen my new notebooks made from vintage storybooks and I'm happy to let you know that they are now also stocked in The Swich Contemporary Art Gallery and Vintage by Lou Lou's shop. (you can find the links right over there on your right!)

I came across some lovely if somewhat bedraggled books at a local op shop last week and thought I would share the newest notebooks on offer this weekend...very pretty and totally inspired by all the lovely spring colours around...

Images from 'The Fireside Companion - 1984"

Some for Dads and Brothers...

As well as some sweet little randoms including "Bunny's First Tooth" and "The Nursery Alice"

Did you know that not only do you get a lovely vintage image on the outside cover, you also get a lovely little surprise on the inside...could be another image, story text or even a sweet little poem.

They are all very different and worth a look in person...so drop by on Sunday.

There is a jumping castle for the kids, the Ipswich Chinese Association is having a paper lantern parade at 10am, Fourthchild will be there with AWESOME cakelove, Vintage by Lou Lou with her inspired objects and so much more. Visit the Gallery, grab some fresh produce and bread and revel in the lovely Spring weather we all love so much.

xxxKyla

Argh!

2010-09-24T07:00:00.001+10:00

Facebook is DOWN...someone call the tech guy! Now what am I going to do all day?

Oh, that's right, I could read a book...do some sewing...I think I might put together an all too cute and pretty outfit for Vintage by Lou Lou's spring party tonight at Precious Packages.

But really...no facebook?

Well, I could clean the house I suppose...ironing maybe? The garden needs some love...

Ok seriously...what's with the no facebook crap?

Breathe deeply Kyla, you can get through this. Remember a time before facebook, when you used myspace and IM'd people...

this can only be temporary...please Lord, let this only be temporary!

xxxK

What did you make today?

2010-09-14T18:26:00.000+10:00

I did this...

I had a bunch of granny squares floating around that I thrifted ages ago (no, I didn't make them...I'm terrible at crochet!!) and have put them together with some vintage and vintage-feel fabrics to make some little cushions. They will make their debut on my market stall in a few weeks time. Stay tuned for a list of upcoming markets...all the way up to Christmas (which is only 14 weeks away!)

I have also been putting together my next Facebook Sale...the Buy Buy Birdie Sale which starts on Thursday at 9am. Jump over to Little Bird on Facebook to check out all the specials. Here are a few of the goodies on offer...and everything is $10 or under!!!

That's it for now but stay tuned for a few more posts over the next few days...big plans are coming together!

xxxKyla

This weekend...

2010-09-02T11:12:00.000+10:00

I am off again to Suitcase Rummage this Sunday and the excitement is building! I had such a fantastic time last month and with my suitcases full to the brim with handmade goodies and Golden Books galore my thoughts have been turning to all things 'suitcase'...

Cute right?

I found the most perfect cherry red suitcase at my local Hospice Op Shop before last month's rummage and tarted it up with some doilies and cute mushroom paper (the inside had various addresses penned in sharpie that really needed covering up!)

I promise I will take some photos for you all on Sunday to show you how my day goes.

But do pop by King George Square in Brissi-town to visit myself and the 169 other traders who will be sellin like our Grandma's! Suitcase Rummage runs from midday until 5 and you can find heaps of great handmade, vintage and secondhand bargains. Remember to bring your change, $50 notes are the height of rudeness at any market!

xxxKyla

Monday Madness Sale Sneak Peek

2010-08-29T17:44:00.000+10:00

Here are a few things that will be up for grabs tomorrow at the Little Bird Monday Madness sale on Facebook...

So dig out your change and grab some bargains...everything is under $10 so you can hardly even feel guilty about buying up big!!!

Monday Madness Sale on Facebook

2010-08-27T08:10:00.000+10:00

That's right...head over to the Little Bird fan page this Monday and check out all the handmade goodies I will have on sale. There are no photos up as yet, that will happen over the weekend. But I'm just giving all my blog readers a heads up so you can grab some Little Bird originals at marked down prices and also get your hands on some brand new designs which have not had their day at markets yet!

See you there xxxK

A last minute treat for tomorrow...

2010-08-21T18:01:00.000+10:00

I got all creative yesterday and delved into my stock of vintage storybooks. I had a bunch that were partially damaged when I lived with the parentals but didn't want to throw them out...I mean, who throws out books!

I have put the lovely little pictures to good use and made some sweet little notebooks. They will be selling on my stall at the Valley Laneway Markets tomorrow for just $4. There are lots of different ones to choose from...baby animals, Aussie bush kids, ballerinas (of course) and ever so cute 'Ant and Bee' illustrations.

Come down and visit me and all the other great stalls, markets rum from 10am to 4pm so you have plenty of time.
xxxKyla

Come hang with the cool kids in the laneway...

2010-08-19T20:07:00.000+10:00

...the Valley Laneway Markets that is! Little Bird is all booked in for our first foray into the world of the Valley's hidden laneways. It's all very exciting!

I will be sharing the day with some of my favourite creatives....Pannikin, Kitty Boo Boo, Lust Not Want Not, Voodoo Rabbit, TyNi Couture and Polly Gone. You can find me in Bakery Lane but make sure you visit all the amazing little laneways they have opened up. I hope I can get around to visit everyone...I might have to 'employ' AlexMay again (and by employ I mean buy coffee and lunch for!)

I have chopped into my very precious remaining swatch of vintage Holly Hobbie fabric and made some sweet little brooches in different pastels for you...

I love this fabric, I had pj's made from it when I was a young'un and it seems I have held onto my HH obsession into adulthood...I found a prized HH wall plaque at Mum's the other day whist digging for golden books and it has joined my growing collection. Sigh.

I have also bought some old storybooks back to life in the form of bookmarks...there is a huge range to choose from

The Nursery Alice

Sesame Street

The Adventures of Humphrey B Bear

The Ant and Bee Alphabet

These will be selling for only $2 each on Sunday..so cheap, you can stock up and still not be broke!

And of course there will be all the regular Little Bird goodies...Bird Wing Purses, Vintage Fat Quarters, Signature Brooches, Birdsong Totes and I have added in a few of my cloud mobiles and mushroom/flower brooches for an overload of colour!

If you are coming along and park in the McWhirters secure parking, all you need to do is make a $30 purchase and I'll give you a parking voucher..how great is that?

Another reason I'm looking forward to spending time in the Valley is the fact that we have a lot of family history in that area...we know that my Great (Great?)Grandparents lived in Ballow Street for a time which is a short walk from Bakery Lane and lived around the area for a long time. It will be nice to walk the streets where people from my past used to do their shopping, walk their dogs and play with their friends. There is also a story (we're not sure of it's truth) which was told to my mother as a child, that one of our ancestors owned the massive block of land on which McWhirters was built. The story goes that he sold it to a fella for 5pounds, bought a bullock dray and headed off to Boulia!

Who knows...this could all have been mine!!! hehe

xxxK

Another Excellent Adventure...

2010-08-15T07:42:00.001+10:00

It was a fantastic evening at the launch of Mumatopia. My lovely friend Cas and her happy helpers put so much work into all the little details, it was such a lovely thing to experience. A fantastic little boutique market in the front yard of Precious Packages, free food and Jeff with his yummy woodfired pizzas, entertainers for kids and adults alike and heaps more! Here are a few photos to give you an idea of what an awesome evening it was...

Tania from Jet Beads was there

Bec from Little Brown Dog with some new friends

Dash Robin was there too!

the huge spread was very tempting

Kids entertainment (and a little bit for the grown ups too)

Yummy rainbow cake from Manda at Fourthchild

Colourful flags and sparkling lights tempted passers by.

I spent time chatting to some of my favourite creatives and made some new friends too. All the kids were spellbound by the singers, free massages for everyone...so many things to see and do.

Big Congratulations go to Cas for such a wonderful event...don't forget to pop over to her website which was what the evening was all about. Cas offers a range of great services and products for expecting and new mums as well as her cool range of reusable lunch and snack wraps and other handmade goodies.

I was lovely to be able to roam around and chat...sometimes I'm actually not a stallholder! All the cool kids were there, it was great to see so much support from our tribe and the artistic community in general. Good on everyone involved!

What are you doing this week? Be creative....I dare you!

Suitcase Rummage...

2010-08-02T17:42:00.000+10:00

That's where I'll be this Sunday 8th August. King George Square midday till 5pm for the total awesome-ness of the Suitcase Rummage. I'll be 'sellin like my Grandma!' as the girls say!

I have been collecting my gear together and racking my brain about how to set up. For those who haven't been before, there are no tables or displays...you just throw down a sheet, open your suitcase and there you go! So today we have been playing around with the various Little Bird goodies as well as some of my vintage sheets, Golden Books and orphan Boo Monsters to see what I can come up with for Sunday. I'll also have some 'Mo Totes' available, Bird Wing Purses and, of course, signature Little Bird brooches!

Here are a few of the things I will have for you to rummage through on Sunday...

Mushroom and Flower brooches will be making their comeback...

Vintage Enid Blyton books (they're as old as me!!)

As are these Golden Books...some are even older...

How cute is that lil face?

And here's the whole setup so far...see something you like? Well come and visit me and the 169 other suitcase sellers who are expected to fill King George Square on the weekend! You heard me right...the girls have reported that after registrations closed last week they had 170 names on their list!

Looks like it's gonna big a huge day so invite all your friends and bring your change! ($50 notes are bad market etiquette people!)

If you are after more details you can jump over to their BLOG or FACEBOOK PAGE. See you there!

xxxKyla

What did you make today?

2010-07-30T08:59:00.000+10:00

...or yesterday as the case may be.

I have been busy finishing off a special Little Bird commission for a new gallery opening in Ipswich next week...very exciting. It's so nice to have some friends on the fringe!

These little goodies will only be available at Swich Gallery, Brisbane St, Ipswich. They are all black white and grey in the colours of the gallery and you can't buy these from my regular markets stalls. There will also be a small selection of other Little Bird items available at the gallery along with work from a great selection of other Ipswich artists and artisans.
The opening party is on this Thursday night and it will be open to the public on Saturday the 7th August. It's so refreshing to have a modern and innovative business in town that supports local creatives. I hope you will all take the time to visit next time you are in town. They are only a few doors down from the amazing Cactus Espresso Bar who make the best coffee and stock the yummiest treats by Fourthchild.

I had a trip to my new favourite place this week...Reverse Garbage at West End.

It's full of weird, wonderful and ever so inspiring things...plastic offcuts, book binding fabrics and papers, upholstery samples and heaps heaps more. I found some lovely pristine white leather, looks like it was going to be used to cover books but never made it...lucky for me! I also picked up some nice fabric swatches which look like curtain of couch fabric and was thoroughly inspired to introduce a new range into the Little Bird range...

Introducing...The Bowery! A range from Little Bird which is all about shiny pretty things made from found and recycled fabrics...just like a Bower Bird!

Aren't they pretty?

My friend and wedding photographer Maria has been busy and has posted a few more shots from my wedding day preparations...she has manages to make the last minute chaos look so calm! Here is a taste but pop on over to her blog for the full dose.

Well, that's all for now. I hope you will pop on over to the Little Bird facebook page and become a fan. Numbers are growing by the day...the support and encouragement is fantastic, thanks so much xxx K

Do I have snot on my shoulder?

2010-07-26T17:06:00.000+10:00

I’m serious…someone had better look for me. But I’m not sure if it’s mine or the Loo’s. And right now, I don’t really give a damn!

Something has been bugging me all day and I feel the need to vent sarcastically right here and now.

Today, whilst out at my local super-mall (dodging toy-sales and long-fringed mouth breathers), I was given ‘the look’ by a group of mothers. You know ‘the look’, the one that says “I disapprove of how you raise your child even though I don’t know anything about you.’?

I wasn’t really doing anything ridiculous. I might have been wearing my original Ramones vintage T-shirt, I also might have been letting my toddler play games on my iPhone, he might have been wearing an all black ensemble and…oh wait, I might have been talking to him without that whiny, baby tone that those squeaky-voiced, pink and beige mummies tend to use.

I’m not really the ‘earth mother’ type, my friend Cas will attest to that. I don’t feel all calm and nuture-y when my kid is throwing a tantrum in public, I do have thoughts of tying him up in a Hessian bag but it’s not for a re-birthing session and, yes, I do spend small amounts of my day putting together outfits that will make my 2yr old look effortlessly cool. But I’m not a monster because of it.

Yes, I do teach your children ballet…I (mostly) love them, they get to go back to your house when I’m done with them.

Yes, I have a blue card…I am a caring and engaged educator, but I’m pretty sure the lovely lady who gave me the card would even want to throw my toddler out of a window after the 5^th tantrum of the afternoon.

But there is an upside to being a modern, sarcastic, every-day convenience, rock ‘n roll mum…my toddler loves Japanese Curry and refuses to eat it with anything other than chopsticks…he always wears shoes outside because his sneaker collection is verging on ridiculous…he can exercise inside on a rainy day because he already knows how to use the Wii Fit…and he is charmingly funkalicious in social situations because he knows how to crank out the hip hop moves like a pro!

People seem really concerned when they realise The Loo can use an iPhone better than most adults…not me! This kid is training for a highly-paid, future-parent-supporting career in the technology industry. He and all his little technology obsessed friends will have jobs that don’t even exist yet. They’ll be earning six figure paycheques and all those people who rolled their eyes in disgust can suffer in their jocks!

I do, of course, have some exceptions. We don’t buy shoes with cartoon characters that light up, we read books about self-confidence and potty training and I detest Dora, Ben10 and the Wiggles with a burning hatred for all things coin-wastingly commercial.

But I think what grated at me most when I got ‘the look’ from those women with kids is the fact that if they were really-truly honest with themselves, they would admit that they too wonder, at 4.43 in the afternoon, ‘is it too early to start on that bottle of wine in the fridge?’

I like being an honest mum. Things aren’t always easy, 2 year olds ARE disgusting sometimes and if I want to wear my pre-mummy clothes, I bloody well will!

And so, I ask you again…do I have snot on my shoulder?

xxxKyla

Just so you know...

2010-07-20T08:19:00.000+10:00

...Little Bird will be at the Ipswich Indoor Bazaar this weekend along with a tonne of other stallholders. We would love to have you visit us and support local Ipswich artists, growers and local business-people...