Shara Lambeth Designs

Hand Dyeing Yarn

2012-02-10T12:25:00.005+11:00

Hello friends,

Recently I have been experimenting with hand dyeing yarn. It's lots of fun, you should try it too! :-)

I have been using food dye, yep that's right, just regular old food dye.

I had tried yarn dyeing with food dye several years ago, with varying results, from kind of nice to hideous. Then I found this tutorial on Youtube and it was a much better method than I had previously been using.

I had been seeing lots of gradient dyed yarn around and wondered how folks were doing it... then suddenly it came to me! So this is what I came up with. (I'll add my tutorial of how I did the gradient dyeing soon :-)

So, it's a self striping yarn, in graduating rainbow colours :-) I have no idea what I'm going to knit or crochet with it yet, but I'm sure I'll be able to find something :-)

The yarn is a wool/angora/bamboo/nylon mix that I had hanging around in my stash. I was surprised how well the yarn picked up the dye, because of the bamboo & nylon content. The yarn is mainly wool & angora though, and through all of my dyeing experiments I know that animal fibres pick up the food dyes really well & plant fibres and synthetic fibres do not pick up the food dyes at all (well maybe a teensy bit, but nothing worth the effort :-)

Below is an image of what the yarn looked like before I wound in into a ball with my nostepinne. I know, I know, it looks all scary and knotty... but it wasn't (phew!) However, after hand winding approx 1km of yarn after my dyeing experiments I ordered an umbrella swift and yarn winder online (yippee!)

Also, I just wanted to add that a few people have been concerned that the food dyes are not colour fast and will just wash out, or bleed unpleasantly, but the vinegar and heat help to fix the dyes. I have also tested the food dyed yarns for colour fastness and they have all help up really well, even after washing in the machine and/or soaking :-)

Just in case you were wondering for the colours in this particular yarn I used Queens food dye that I got in the baking section of the supermarket, except for the violet colour, which is a gel food colour from Spotlight, but it's also available at specialty cake decorating shops :-) Also, here's a tip, you can't use the "natural" food dyes from Queens... the colours are made using plant extracts, and while they are excellent to use when you're actually dyeing food, they don't work for dyeing yarn :-)

Ridged Beanie Pattern

2012-01-24T21:26:00.006+11:00

Ridged Beanie Pattern

I have had many requests for this pattern, so I thought I better write it up and add it to my collection here on the blog. This is the first of my patterns in the "Pattern a Month" challenge I have set myself for 2012.

At first the pattern may seem a little complicated, however with a little patience and persistence you will soon have the hang of all the stitches and will be able to whip one of these beanies up in an evening :-)

At times the pattern may also seem a little bit "wordy", this is done for people who are new to following patterns, so that everything is explained thoroughly :-)

They're great for last minute gifts and perfect for making for charity :-)

Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner to Intermediate. Knowledge of front post treble (front post double crochet), front post double treble (front post treble), front post half treble ( front post half double crochet) & back post half treble ( back post half double crochet) is required to complete this pattern (there are a lot of really great tutorials on the internet that will help you learn how to do these stitches if you're not already familiar with them :-)

Sizes: Child 48cm (Woman 56-58cm, Man 60-63cm)

Materials: 4.5mm hook

Dk or 8 ply yarn, 120m (140m, 160m) of yarn required. This amount is approximate.

Sewing Needle

Scissors

Gauge: 16tr (dc) per 10cm (4"). If you have more stitches you should use a larger hook, if you have less stitches you should use a smaller hook :-)

Abbreviations (British/Australian crochet terms used throughout, with U.S. terms in parenthesis in chart below):

ch = chain

st or sts = stitch or stitches

sl st = slip stitch

dc (sc) = double crochet (single crochet)

tr (dc) = treble (double crochet)

fphtr (fphdc) = front post half treble (front post half double crochet)

fpdtr (fptr) = front post double treble (front post treble)

bphtr = back post half treble (back post half double crochet)

sfpdtr (sfptr) = special front post double treble (special front post treble)

Special stitches:

Special Front Post Double Treble (sfpdtr) or if using U.S. crochet terms: Special Front Post Treble (sfptr):

yo, insert hook into next st, yo, pull loop through (3 loops on hook), yo, pull through 2 loops, yo twice, insert hook around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round, yo, draw loop through (5 loops on hook), yo, draw through 2 loops, yo, pull through 2 loops, yo, draw loop through last 3 sts on hook. Sfpdtr (sfptr) is complete.

Pattern:

All Sizes:

ch 4, join with sl st into first ch to form loop.

Round 1: ch 3 (to count as 1 tr (dc) here & through out pattern), 11 tr (dc) into ring, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (12 sts)

Round 2: ch 3, fpdtr (fptr) around tr (dc) from previous round that is directly below ch 3, *tr (dc) in next st, fpdtr (fptr) around tr from previous round that is below st just worked, repeat from * to end, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (24 sts)

Round 3: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in next st, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is directly below st just worked, *1tr (dc) in each of the next 2 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is below st just worked, repeat from * to end, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (36 sts)

Round 4: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of next 2 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is directly below st just worked, *1tr (dc) in each of the next 3 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is below st just worked, repeat from * to end, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (48 sts)

Round 5: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of next 3 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is directly below st just worked, *1tr (dc) in each of the next 4 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is below st just worked, repeat from * to end, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (60 sts)

For Child's size ONLY:

Rounds 6-13: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of the next 3 sts, sfpdtr (sfptr) in next st & fpdtr (fptr) from previous round, *1 tr in each of the next 4 sts, sfpdtr (sfptr) in next st & fpdtr (fptr), repeat from * to end, join with sl st in 3rd ch at beginning of round.

Rounds 14-15: ch 2, fphtr (fphdc) around next 2 sts, bphtr (bphdc) around next st, fphtr (fphdc) around "front post" of sfpdtr (sfptr) from previous round only, *bphtr (bphdc) around next st, fphtr (fphdc) around next 2 sts, bphtr (bphdc) around next st, fphtr (fphdc) around "front post" of sfpdtr (sfptr) of previous round only, repeat from * to end, join with sl st in 2nd ch at beginning of round.

Fasten off, weave in ends. Finished!

For Womens & Mens sizes ONLY:

Round 6: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of next 4 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is directly below st just worked, *1tr (dc) in each of the next 5 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is below st just worked, repeat from * to end, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (72 sts)

Womens Size ONLY:

Rounds 7-15: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of the next 4 sts, sfpdtr (sfptr) in next st & fpdtr (fptr) from previous round, *1 tr in each of the next 5 sts, sfpdtr (sfptr) in next st & fpdtr (fptr), repeat from * to end, join with sl st in 3rd ch at beginning of round.

Rounds 16-17: ch 2, [fphtr (fphdc) around next st, bphtr (bphdc) around next st] twice, fphtr (fphdc) around "front post" of sfpdtr (sfptr) from previous round only, *bphtr (bphdc) around next st, [fphtr (fphdc) around next st, bphtr (bphdc) around next st] twice, fphtr (fphdc) around "front post" of sfpdtr (sfptr) of previous round only, repeat from * to end, join with sl st in 2nd ch at beginning of round.

Fasten off, weave in ends. Finished!

For Mens size ONLY:

Round 7: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of next 5 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is directly below st just worked, *1tr (dc) in each of the next 6 sts, fpdtr (fptr) around fpdtr (fptr) from previous round that is below st just worked, repeat from * to end, join with a sl st into 3rd ch at beginning of round. (84 sts)

Rounds 8-16: ch 3, 1tr (dc) in each of the next 5 sts, sfpdtr (sfptr) in next st & fpdtr (fptr) from previous round, *1 tr in each of the next 6 sts, sfpdtr (sfptr) in next st & fpdtr (fptr), repeat from * to end, join with sl st in 3rd ch at beginning of round.

Rounds 17-18: ch 2, bphtr (bphdc) around next st, fphtr (fphdc) around next 2 sts, bphtr (bphdc) around next 2 sts, fphtr (fphdc) around "front post" of sfpdtr (sfptr) from previous round only, *bphtr (bphdc) around next 2 sts, fphtr (fphdc) around next 2 sts, bphtr (bphdc) around next 2 sts, fphtr (fphdc) around "front post" of sfpdtr (sfptr) of previous round only, repeat from * to end, join with sl st in 2nd ch at beginning of round.

Fasten off, weave in ends. Finished!

In the pictures above, the orange coloured beanie is a womens size, and the chocolate coloured beanie is a mens size and is being worn as a slouch style hat :-)

If you have any questions, queries, need assistance to complete your beanie or find an error, please don't hesitate to leave a comment and I'll gladly help where I can :-)

Copyright is held by the author (SharaLambethDesigns). Copyright remains that of the author at all times. The pattern is for personal use only. Reproduction of this pattern in anyway (electronic, email, photocopying, transcribing etc) is strictly prohibited, except with the explicit permission of the author. Please do not sell the pattern or the finished product that is made using this pattern without permission of the author, as this is a direct infringement of the copyright laws protecting this pattern.

If you do want to sell the beanies you make using this pattern at a market, craft fair or in your online store please do ask, as in most cases I will give permission :-)

And please feel free to make as many beanies as you can to donate to your local charities.

Hello 2012

2012-01-05T10:13:00.005+11:00

Hello friends :-)

I hope your festive season was relaxing and full of pleasant surprises :-)

I'm about to head off for a camping trip with my 8 year old nephew at Wilsons Promontory for a week or so, which I'm really looking forward to. I hope the weather is kind to us!!

I hope to be doing some well earned relaxing while I'm there. Wandering around in the forest, floating around in the ocean, and not a lot else :-)

When I return from my little holiday I'll be adding some new knitting and crochet patterns!! Yes, that's right!

I've been working on a few new designs over the last couple of months, for various fingerless glove designs, gloves with fingers, kids tops, kids shorts, jewellery, toys, scarves, shawls/wraps, cowls, hats & even a ladies cardigan!

I had this crazy idea that I would try and write at least one new pattern every month this year. I'm not sure how I'll go, but I'm going to try my best and hopefully there will be a lot of fun things to make here on my blog :-)

Take care and I'll be back with a bunch of fun, new things in a few weeks :-)

Xmas Design POP is Nearly Here!

2011-12-02T08:13:00.008+11:00

Well, we've all be very busy making lots of pretty things for the Xmas Design Pop, so if you're going to be in Melbourne on 8th, 9th, or 10th of December you really ought to come along and visit the Xmas Design Pop in the Nicholas Building on the corner of Swanston St & Flinders Lane!

I will have my laser cut brooches, earrings & necklaces, along with my crochet jewellery too!
Lots of new pieces will have their debut at the Xmas Design Pop, so you can be the first to get your hands on them.
You will also be able to find Rebecca Argent Millinery, Dawn Tan, Little Circus Design, Emily Green, Monolog, Kick & Screen, Able & Game and sweet treats like cupcakes & homemade lemon curd (my favourite)!
We're all looking forward to seeing you there!! :-)

Xmas Design POP!

2011-11-22T13:13:00.010+11:00

Yes, we're doing it again! We're having another Pop Up Shop in the Nicholas Building in Melbourne.

It's going to be running for 3 days, Thursday 8th December, Friday 9th December & Saturday 10th December. So come along to the Nicholas Building, Level Two, cnr Swanston St & Flinders Lane, Melbourne CBD

Here are some of the items you'll be able to find at my stall :-)

Playing with Patterns

2011-11-18T09:32:00.004+11:00

I've been playing around, updating my blog and now you can find my free patterns easily along the right hand side panel of my blog. Making things easier makes me happy :-)

I would love to see this succeed! :-)

2011-09-06T18:39:00.001+10:00

Skull Crochet Pattern

2011-08-23T15:24:00.008+10:00

Hello friends!

Yes, here it is! As promised, this is my Skull crochet pattern.

You can use any yarn you like, in any weight, just match your hook size to your yarn :-)

You can do lots of fun things with your crocheted Skull. You could make a bunch of them and join them on a long crocheted chain to make some Skull Bunting, you could attach one to a chain to make yourself a necklace, you could use it as an applique and sew it onto to something fun, you could join them together, end to end, to make a VERY clever scarf :-) (check out my pictures for some examples :-)

Skull Crochet Pattern

Materials:

Approx 5-10m of yarn (this could differ depending on your yarn choice, but it will still be a very small amount)

Appropriate size crochet hook for your yarn choice.

Tapestry needle to weave in ends.

Tension/Gauge:

Tension/gauge is not essentially important to this pattern, however I like to make mine a little tighter than the normal tension you would use for your chosen yarn. For example, when I made some skulls using 8ply/DK weight cotton, I used a 3.5mm hook instead of the recommended 4mm or 4.5mm hook for this particular yarn.

I found that the tighter your tension/gauge the more stable your skull is & it holds it's shape better :-) but it's up to you! if you're going to make a scarf by joining your skulls end to end, then you might like to have a looser tension/gauge, so that your scarf drapes nicely :-)

Abbreviations (the pattern is written using standard British/Australian crochet terms, with a conversion explanation in the abbreviations below for U.S. crochet terms):

ch: chain

dc = double crochet (U.S. sc = single crochet)

htr = half treble (U.S. hdc = half double crochet)

tr = treble (U.S. dc = double crochet)

dtr = double treble (U.S. tr = treble)

st/s = stitch/es

sk = skip

sl st = slip stitch

sp = space

Pattern:

Ch 8

Row 1: dc into 2nd ch from hook, dc to end. Turn. (7sts)

Row 2: 2ch (to count as 1htr), 1htr into st at base of 2ch, 5htr, 2htr in last st. Turn. (9sts)

Row 3: 2ch, 1htr into st at base of 2 ch, 7htr, 2htr into last st. Turn (11sts)

Row 4: 2ch, 1htr into st at base of 2 ch, 9htr, 2htr into last stitch. Turn (13sts)

Row 5: 2ch, htr to end. Turn (13sts)

Row 6: As Row 5.

Row 7: 1ch (to count as first st), sl st in next st, 5ch, sk 2 sts, sl st across next 5 sts, 5 ch, sk 2 sts, sl st to end. Turn.

Row 8: (3htr, 7tr) into 5 ch sp, sk next st, 1dc in next st, (7tr, 3htr) into next 5ch s, sl st into last st. Turn.

Row 9: sl st across first 4 sts, 4dc, 1ch, 1dtr in dc of previous row (in-between "eyes"), 1ch, sk 2 sts, 4dc. Turn. (This row may appear uneven, but it will even out in the end :-)

Row 10: 2ch, 2htr, 1htr in 1ch sp, 1htr in next st, 1htr into 1ch sp, sk next st, htr to end. Turn (9sts)

Row 11: 3ch (to count as 1htr, 1ch), *sk 1 st, 1htr in next st, 1 ch* repeat from *to * 3 times, 1 htr in last st. Turn. (9sts)

Row 12: As Row 11. (Do not cut yarn)

Now work 1 round of dc around the entire skull, doing 2 dc in each top corner, and 3 dc in each bottom corner. This helps the skull to lay flat :-)

Weave in ends. Finished!

To make the necklace pictured above I used a 4ply (Fingering weight) cotton and 2.5mm hook and it measures approximately 7.5cm (3") tall. So that it could be worn as a necklace, I attached it to a chain during the last round of dc, carrying the chain along with my work at the top of the skull.

To make the bunting pictured above and below, I used 8ply or DK weight cotton and a 3.5mm hook and each skull measures approximately 10cm (4") from top to bottom. I made 10 skulls, then joined them using the following method: using the same size hook & yarn, I made 90ch, then slip stitched across the top 7 stitches of the skull, then did 32 chain, I repeated this until all skulls were attached, then I finished with 90 chain :-) The bunting is approximately 2.5 metres long. I hope the bunting instructions makes sense!

© Copyright Shara Lambeth Designs 2011. These images & this pattern/tutorial are protected by copyright laws. Copying, duplicating, or distributing this pattern in any form electronically or otherwise is a direct breach of copyright. Feel free to link back to this post from your blog/site etc. And yes, you can sell the finished items made using this pattern/tutorial in your online store such as Etsy, but please do the right thing and credit the pattern to it's original source, here! :-)

Productive Weekend

2011-08-21T23:26:00.004+10:00

Hello friends!

I hope you all enjoyed your weekend :-) I did! Had a friends Birthday on Friday night, had a bit of an extra late sleep in on Saturday...then we wandered down to the Collingwood Childrens' Farm so I could give the goats a pat. Then on Sunday I took myself shopping in the city :-)

But, inbetween all that I managed to design a few more crochet patterns to share with you on my blog!

Start getting excited for a skull, a butterfly, a love heart & an apple! Woo hoo!

So watch this space for the new free patterns to arrive over the next week or so :-)

P.S. Just in case you're wondering, the goats have names :-) The 2 big guys are Kyle (on the left) and Robert (on the right) and the little guy underneath Robert is Aristotle.

Aristotle is my favourite, because he's little and has spots (but don't tell Kyle & Robert...okay? ;-)

Georgette Collar

2011-08-16T11:49:00.016+10:00

Here is another pattern for you all to enjoy!

I really love the look a detachable "Peter Pan" style collar can add to an outfit so I decided to make one for myself :-)

The pattern is easy and quick. You could easily have one completely finished in under an hour. You can use any 8 ply or DK weight yarn you like. A nice woolly one for winter, or a cotton one for summer, perhaps :-) They're also GREAT for using up all those little bits of lovely yarn sitting at the bottom of your knitting basket. But because they use such a small amount of yarn you could always splash out and buy yourself a ball of something luxurious to make yourself a special treat :-) And of course, they make lovely gifts too!

And you can find readymade Georgette Collars in my Etsy store HERE :-)

Georgette Collar

What you need:

4mm crochet hook

Approx 35-40m ( 38-44 yds or roughly 20g) 8 ply or DK weight yarn.

Wool needle to weave in ends.

Scissors

Tension/Gauge:

15 tr (dc) x 8 rows = 10cm (4").

Tension or gauge are not essentially important to this pattern, however if you know that you normally crochet tightly, you might like you go up a hook size and if you know you normally crochet loosely, you might like to go down a hook size.

Abbreviations:

This pattern is written using Australian/British crochet terms, however if you like to use U.S. crochet terms you see them "converted" in this abbreviation explanation :-)

Ch: chain

Dc: Double crochet, or U.S. sc: single crochet.

Tr: Treble, or U.S. dc: double crochet.

Dtr: Double treble, or U.S. tr: treble.

Sl st: slip stitch

st/s: stitch or stitches

Pattern:

Ch 71

Row 1: dc in 2nd ch from hook, dc to end. Turn. (70sts)

Row 2: 3ch (to count as 1 tr), 8tr, (2tr in next st, 9tr) 6 times, 1tr in last st. Turn. (76sts)

Row 3: 3ch, 9tr, (2tr in next st, 10tr) 6 times. Turn. (82sts)

Row 4: 3 ch, 9tr, (2tr in next st, 11tr) 6 times. Turn. (88sts)

Row 5: Skip first 3 sts, (4tr, 1dtr) in next st, 7dtr, (2tr in next stitch, 12tr) 5 times, 2tr in next st, 7dtr, (1dtr, 4tr) in next st, sl st into last st of row.

Fasten off.

Make ties:

There are a few different tie variations to choose from.

The picture above shows where to attach the ties to your collar :-)

Disc Ties (above):

4 ch. 11tr into 4th ch from hook, join with sl st in ch #4 at the beginning of your disc. Ch 60, join with sl st to top corner of your collar. (See pic above)

Make another tie the same, joining it to the other top corner of your collar using a sl st.

Weave in ends & you're finished!

Flower Ties (above):

2 ch.

- Sl st into 2nd ch from hook, then *2ch, 2tr, 2ch, sl st* into same space, repeat from * to * 4 more times, creating 5 "petals" in total. Ch 60, join with sl st to top corner of your collar. (See pic above)

Make another tie the same, joining it to the other top corner of your collar using a sl st.

Weave in ends & you're finished!

Leaf Ties (above):

10 ch. 1dc in 2nd ch from hook, 2htr, 1tr, 1dtr, 1tr, 2htr, 3dc in last ch, turn to work along the other side of your foundation ch, 2htr, 1tr, 1dtr, 1tr, 2htr, 1dc, sl st into 1st st at beginning of leaf. Ch 60, join with sl st to top corner of your collar. (See pic above)

Make another tie the same, joining it to the other top corner of your collar using a sl st.

Weave in ends & you're finished!

**For a few more exceptionally cute Tie option take a look over at the Sister Outlaws Blog for a Love Heart and a Sugar Skull!!

The collar above is made using a love Saffron coloured wool blend yarn, with flower ties.
The collar above is made using some very beautiful yarn that is a wool/silk/alpaca blend, with disc ties. To make this collar I used the dark colour to make the foundation chain & Row 1, then I changed to the lighter colour yarn for Rows 2-5, I then did a row of dc around the outer edge of the collar (adding a few extra stitches are the corners so it would sit flat & wouldn't curl up. I them made the disc ties as per the instructions above, then added a round of dc in the darker colour (with 2 dc in each tr), then continued with the dark colour to make the chain part of the tie, then attached it as usual to the collar :-)
The collar above is made using some lovely pure wool yarn, I used the same method as written above, using two shades of green. I then added a some scallops to the outer edge and attached the disc ties.
I used the same method as written above to make the two colour version of the collar pictured above, I then added Leaf Ties :-)

Have fun with this pattern. Make one for a friend to make them smile :-)

Coming soon is the Toddler/Child version of this pattern! :-)

Also, if you're not a crocheter you can find ready made version of the Georgette Collar in my Etsy store HERE & I do take custom requests if you have a yarn fibre or colours in mind :-)

© Copyright Shara Lambeth Designs 2011. These images & this pattern/tutorial are protected by copyright laws. Copying, duplicating, or distributing this pattern in any form electronically or otherwise is a direct breach of copyright. Feel free to link back to this post from your blog/site etc. And yes, you can sell the finished items made using this pattern/tutorial in your online store such as Etsy, but please be kind and credit the pattern to it's original source, here! :-)

Get ready to get excited!

2011-08-15T18:36:00.006+10:00

Hello friends!

It's time to get excited.... because I am adding a new, free crochet pattern to my blog for you to enjoy :-)

Watch this space tomorrow (16th August, 2011) for the simple & quick pattern to make a Georgette Collar just like this one!

Great in wool or cotton (or what ever you like :-)

Super fast to make!

Uses very little yarn :-)

Great for stash busting.

Fun for you & great for gifts!

See you back here tomorrow! xox

Colour Fun!

2011-07-28T16:12:00.005+10:00

Hello friends!

As you know I have been preparing for the POP UP STUDIO SALE next week, and I have been SO busy making :-)

I love lots of colour. I love working with lots of different colours. I love putting different colours together. I love finding new (sometimes unexpected) colour combinations.

Another thing I REALLY love is things that are handmade (& proud to be handmade!)

Something you may no know is that I can't eat apples :-( It makes me very sad that eating apples makes me very sick :-( So, I have to explore my love of apples vicariously through this brooch :-)

P.S. If you like the Rainbow Connection Necklace then you might like to check out my blog tutorial HERE

What a productive day! :-)

2011-07-26T19:27:00.004+10:00

Hello friends!

Well, what a busy day I've had! I got lots and lots of new things made for the POP UP STUDIO SALE . I finished off some of my hand coloured, wooden laser cut brooches & earrings and I'm really happy with them (yay!).

The Bloom Brooch pictured above is one of my favourites. I love the colour combination :-)
The Dot Earrings above are laser cut from Rimu, which is a sustainably collected wood :-) I had so much fun hand colouring them today. All the pretty colours lined up in a row made me very happy :-)
The Girl With Balloon Brooch pictured above is another favourite from todays busy work session.
The Rainbow Necklace pictured above brightened up the rainy weather :-)

Don't forget, if you're in Melbourne on the 4th, 5th or 6th of August, 2011, you should definitely come along to the POP UP STUDIO SALE so you can say hello to me and the other clever ladies that will also be there! :-)

Chat soon xox

POP UP STUDIO SALE

2011-07-22T10:45:00.006+10:00

Hello friends!

As you might have seen in yesterdays post HERE I am one of the designers/craftspeople/creators that is going to be a part of the amazing POP UP STUDIO SALE in the Nicholas Building, Level 2, 37 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Vic (cnr Swanston St & Flinders Lane) in August. See the poster above (which was made by the amazingly talented Pilgrim of Draw! Pilgrim :-)

Or you can check out the Facebook Events page for more info HERE (this link may ask you to log into your Facebook account :-)

I've also been adding pictures of some of the items you will be able to find at my stall at the POP UP STUDIO SALE. And below are a few more :-)

Retro Square Necklace

2011-07-21T16:18:00.004+10:00

Hello friends!

In about 2 weeks I'll be a part of an exciting event inMelbourne Town! A bunch of clever, talented ladies & myself will be having a POP-UP STUDIO SALE in the Nicholas Building in the Melbourne CBD, corner of Flinders Lane & Swanston Street.

We'll be there Thursday 4th August & Friday 5th August, 10am-6pm. Then Saturday 6th August from 10am-3pm!

I've been working away busily, making all sorts of fun new things. I've been saving them up so I can have a little "official release" at the POP-UP STUDIO SALE.

I've been making a lot of new crochet jewellery, which is always really popular (and LOTS of fun to design & make :-) I'll be adding pictures of the new pieces here on my blog so you can see what will be popping up at the POP-UP STUDIO SALE! For info on who else will be there you can click HERE to be taken to the Facebook Events Page for the POP-UP STUDIO SALE :-)

Hope you can come by and say hello!! :-)

Crochet Chain Link Necklace Tutorial

2011-07-11T16:51:00.012+10:00

Hello friends!

I have had many, many requests for a How-To tutorial so others could make a Crochet Chain Link Necklace, so I thought I ought to do it :-) These necklaces are simple, pretty & even practical, yep, they're baby proof!

So here's what you need to know to make yourself a Crochet Chain Link Necklace:

What you need:

90m (100yds) DK weight cotton (approx)

4mm (US#6) crochet hook

Wool Needle to weave in ends

Scissors

Gauge:

Gauge (or tension) is not really important for this pattern. Although if you work in a slightly tighter gauge than normal for this project the links of your chain will hold their shape better :-)

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain

sl st = slip stitch

dc = double crochet (sc = single crochet, if using U.S. crochet terms)

yrh = yarn round hook

Pattern:

-Ch 20, join with sl st to form ring, taking care not to twist your sts.

-Ch 1, dc (sc) in each st for 4 rounds.

-Now you will be joining the working edge of your work (top) to the foundation ch (bottom). To do this insert your hook into the next st, then through the bottom loop of the foundation ch that is directly below it (see image above).

-Now yrh, pull through all sts on hook (that was a sl st), now repeat these steps to the end, joining your link together.

-Now you will need to weave in the tail that is remaining (see pics above) (You might be tempted to leave weaving in all the "tails" until you have completed all the chain links, but trust me it is MUCH easier to weave them in as you go :-)

-Now you will roll the sl st join into the centre of your link, and gently squeeze your link to get it into a nice shape. (See pic above)

- Now you will be making your 2nd link, through your first link. Ch 20, join with a sl st to form a ring around your first link (see pic above), complete this link as you did for your previous link.

- Keep adding new links in this way until your necklace is at the desired length.

- When your necklace is at the desired length, "close" your necklace by making one last link between the first link and last link, finish this link as before. Voila! you have finished making your amazing new necklace!!

Of course, you can use different weight yarn if you would like. It's easy, if you're using a heavier weight yarn you might like to start off your links with fewer chain stitches, if you're using a lighter weight yarn you might like to use more chain stitches to create your links. And you don't have to use cotton yarn, you can use anything that you have at hand, or maybe treat yourself to a specialty luxury yarn. Experiment & have fun!

Below are some pictures of other chain link necklaces I have made using various weight yarns & various fibres :-)

Cherry Cotton 4 ply

Saffron Cotton 4 ply

Midnight Wool with silver beads

Noro Sock Yarn

© Copyright Shara Lambeth Designs 2011. These images & this pattern/tutorial are protected by copyright laws. Copying, duplicating, or distributing this pattern in any form electronically or otherwise is a direct breach of copyright. Feel free to link back to this post from your blog/site etc. And yes, you can sell the finished items made using this pattern/tutorial in your online store such as Etsy, but please be kind and credit the pattern to it's original source, here! :-)

Knitting in Public - 2011

2011-06-16T09:53:00.005+10:00

International Knitting in Public Day was last weekend, so while my brother and I were having a rare day out together in Melbourne City I got him to take a picture of me doing some knitting in public :-)
This picture was taken in Hosier Lane in the CBD of Melbourne. It is an ever changing, evolving public gallery of street art. And it's a very popular place to use as a back drop for all sorts of photography & film. While we were there on Saturday there were two couples having their wedding pictures taken :-)
It's sort of hard to see what I'm knitting, but it is the beginning of a braided i-cord necklace, made using gorgeous cherry red organic cotton. I'll show you some pictures of the finished object soon :-) I'm also wearing a cardigan that I made myself last week :-)
Have you seen anyone knitting in public lately? Have you done some public knitting? Do you knit on the train/bus/tram? Do people ask you about it when you're knitting in public?

Returned After a Little Break

2011-02-11T11:59:00.001+11:00

Hello friends! I've missed you! I know, I know, it's been a long time since I updated my blog. I've been extremely busy (and most of it's been "good busy" :-)

I went away for a little holiday with one of my nephews, to Wilsons Promontory (in Victoria, Australia). We camped at the beach. Thankfully the weather was pretty good. It only rained a few times (yep, our tent leaked) I'm sure it would have been a funny sight seeing me in my leopard print pyjamas, in the pouring rain and howling wind, trying to fix our tent at 1am. Hehehe.

We did lots of swimming in the ocean, and the river. Archer, my nephew got bitten on the toes TWICE by bullants (ouch!!). We saw lots of extra hairy black possums, lots of beautiful birds (the Fairy Wrens are my favourite), a snake, lots of lizards, and lots of wombats!
In fact a wombat even broke into our tent! I was most unimpressed but Archer was thrilled (hehehe). I thought I had been so vigilant , going through all the pockets and bags, to make sure we hadn't accidentally left any food in our tent which might result in a wombat breaking in to snack on it... But I accidentally left an empty muesli bar wrapper in the tent and that's what he broke in for :-( Hehehe.

While I was away I got lots of ideas sketched in my book, and turned quite a few of those into reality in the form of more new laser cut jewellery!! So in the next few days and weeks you should be seeing some more new products landing in my Etsy store HERE (and some previews here on the blog :-)

Chat soon! xox

Christmas Sale!!

2010-12-06T15:49:00.004+11:00

Hello friends!

Christmas is fast approaching and so is the Christmas Shipping Deadline! If you're outside Australia and you would like your order to arrive before Christmas Day then you need to place your orders no later than 6th December. If you're in Australia please place your orders no later than 13th December :-)

To help you along with your Christmas shopping I'm having a special SALE in my Etsy store! Simply use the special discount code XMAS2010 during checkout to receive 20% off your order!! Hurry, this special is only available until 8th December!

You can find my Etsy store HERE

Hope you're having a fabulous day, and thanks for visiting SharaLambethDesigns.com

xox Shara

Chunky Mitts Pattern

2010-10-26T09:48:00.011+11:00

The pattern for these Chunky Mitts has now been published on Ravelry. And you can find it HERE & here

If you like to knit and/or crochet and

you're not already a member of Ravelry

I highly recommend that you join.

It's free to be a member and then you

will access to squillions of fabulous

patterns and reviews, ideas, tips,

and other like minded folks :-)

xox Shara

Mini Dachshund Laser Cut Brooch

2010-10-20T09:30:00.004+11:00

Please welcome another new addition to my latest series of laser cut jewellery, Mini Dachshund! This brooch is made using sustainable Rimu wood, with a silver tone brooch pin at the back. He is wandering around my store with his friends Dachshund, Owl, Fawn, Fox and Whale. You can find them all HERE

Sunset Fingerless Gloves

2010-10-19T10:13:00.003+11:00

I have published another pattern for fingerless gloves, and this one is a crochet pattern :-) These fingerless gloves work up VERY quickly with the easy to follow pattern, so they are great to make for a last minute gift (or when there's a sudden cold snap in the weather and you realise you can't find your usual gloves, hehehe).

They are made using 5-ply (Sports weight) yarn, and can be made in 3 different sizes, Small, Medium and Large. The pattern is written in both British and American crochet terms. The pattern is currently available through Ravelry here:

The gloves in the image above have been made using Drops Delight yarn in colorway #10.

Stay tuned for more patterns coming soon :-)

Owl Laser Cut Brooch

2010-10-13T10:13:00.003+11:00

Hoo-hoot!

This sweet little owl will be happy perched upon your shirt, whispering wise words all day long :-)

This brooch is laser cut from sustainable Rimu wood and has a silver tone brooch pin at the back. He is from the same series as the other creatures: FOX , BIRD, DACHSHUND

This Owl and his friends can all be found in my Etsy store HERE and my DaWanda store HERE

Test Knitters Wanted!

2010-10-12T23:05:00.006+11:00

I have been writing lots of new knitting and crochet patterns lately and am almost ready to publish this one for the Chunky Mitts you see in the picture above. All I need is two volunteers to test knit the pattern for me. If you fall into the category of confident beginner, intermediate or advanced knitter and you would like to try the pattern out for me please leave me a comment and I will email you the pattern. The pattern involves knitting in the round on double pointed needles, so that is one skill you will need :-) It's a good stash buster as it only take about 150m (165yrds) of yarn to knit both fingerless gloves. They work up very fast. I will need you to be able to test the pattern in the next 2 weeks (at the most). I won't need you to send me the sample knits, they are yours to keep :-)

I will eventually be publishing the pattern on Ravelry. If you're already on Ravelry you can find me with the user name SharaDesigns :-)

I'm looking forward to hearing from you soon!

P.S. If you're not a knitter yourself but you know someone who might be interested then please pass on a link to this post. Thank you! :-)

**UPDATE** Thank you to everyone who volunteered!! I no longer require test knitters for this project, but I will be looking for more in the future so stay tuned!! Thank you!!!

Dachshund Brooch

2010-10-12T12:35:00.004+11:00

Someone new has arrived in my store! Meet my little Dachshund :-) This sweet little dachshund will be happy sitting upon your shirt keeping you company all day long :-)

This brooch is laser cut from sustainable Rimu wood and has a silver tone brooch pin at the back.

He is from the same series as these other laser cut brooches HERE & HERE

You can find him and his friends in my Etsy and Dawanda stores :-)

Treasury Feature

2010-10-11T20:31:00.005+11:00

One of my laser cut wooden brooches has been featured in a groovy Treasury on Etsy.com. You can take a look at it HERE

Sunshine Gloves on Ravelry

2010-10-07T10:20:00.004+11:00

Hello friends :-)
Lately I have been busy with lots of new projects and one of those projects is writing more knitting and crochet patterns to put on Ravelry.
The sunshine gloves are one of my favourite patterns. It's quick and easy, uses very little yarn, so it's a great stash buster, and gloves make great gifts! Warm, woolly gloves are also EXCELLENT to make and donate to charities :-)
The Sunshine gloves are made using 8-ply or DK yarn and are knit sideways on straight needles, so no double pointed needles or knitting in the round :-) These are the thicker, faster, warmer version of my 4-ply Sideways Gloves.
You can find the pattern for the Sunshine Gloves on Ravelry by following this link
And you can find me on Ravelry with the username SharaDesigns

Stay tuned for more patterns coming soon, including Lace Beanies, knit and crochet berets, Pixie Berets, and lots of different fingerless gloves for men, women and children :-)

Crazy Like a Fox

2010-10-06T11:24:00.005+11:00

Here is another creature that is part of my new series of laser cut jewellery. Just like the Bonjour Birdie and my other laser cut jewellery HERE and HERE this cunning little fox is laser cut from sustainable Rimu wood. You can find this little fox sneaking around with my other designs in my Etsy store HERE and my DaWanda store HERE.

Stay tuned for my new designs on their way int eh coming days and weeks :-)

Bonjour Birdie Brooch

2010-10-05T12:02:00.004+11:00

Well, I promised you some new Laser Cut jewellery, and here is the first of many :-)

This is a variation on the "Hello Birdie" theme from earlier in the year.

The Bonjour Birdie brooch is laser cut from sustainable Rimu wood, with a silver tone brooch pin at the back.

This brooch, along, with many other new designs are available in my Etsy store and my Dawanda store :-)

xox Shara

Something new!

2010-10-04T11:27:00.001+11:00

The Junior Hat

2010-09-06T09:42:00.015+10:00

Well last week I promised you something new for the kids. And here it is!

The Junior Hat comes in sizes from 12 months to 5 years, with larger sizes to be available in the future :-)

The style is suitable for both boys and girls. I've made some summer hats from cotton fabrics, and some Winter/Spring/Autumn hats using a combination of wool and cotton fabrics.

I also have a selection of Junior Hats that are reversible!!

Available in my JoliBebe store.

Stay tuned for more new items in the JoliBebe kids range soon :-)

xox Shara

Something new!

2010-08-31T11:25:00.002+10:00

Something new is on it's way and this time it's for the kids!! Stay tuned :-)

Dove Laser Cut Earrings

2010-08-18T12:09:00.006+10:00

Here is another addition to the White Laser Cut Jewellery range :-)

Introducing my Dove earrings. Let them make your ears more peaceful ;-)

These earrings are laser cut from recycled pine mdf with a white melamine veneer, just like the Faux Diamond earrings, which you can find HERE

These are available in my Etsy store HERE as well :-)

I'll have more to show you soon!

xox Shara

Laser Cut Faux Diamond Earrings

2010-08-11T09:17:00.006+10:00

I said there was more... and here is another piece from the range :-)

These Faux Diamond Earrings are laser cut from recycled pine mdf with a white melamine veneer, just like the White Peacock Brooch

These are a variation on my other Faux Diamond Wood Earrings that are in this post HERE

You can find these new earrings in my Etsy store HERE

Laser Cut Wood Peacock Brooch

2010-08-10T09:50:00.005+10:00

I promised you something new and here is the first of many new things! Please meet my White Peacock Brooch.

The brooch is laser cut from recycled pine mdf, with a white melamine laminate on both sides.

You can find it in my Etsy store HERE

I'll look forward to introducing you to more new additions to my store over the coming days :-)

Something new!

2010-08-02T10:16:00.003+10:00

Are you excited? I am! I will be showing you something new and exciting very soon! I hope you're looking forward to it!

See you soon xox

Hexagon Blanket

2010-07-29T09:01:00.007+10:00

I initially started this blanket for myself because I had lots of little bits of leftover Noro Sock yarn from other projects. At first I thought I would just use all my scraps… but I have really fallen in love with the way it’s turning out so I have bought a few skeins specifically for the blanket. I’m not sure what size it’s going to end up being… it might keep growing with time (and when I can get my hands on more Noro Sock yarn). Ultimately it would be REALLY great if I could make it big enough for a double bed spread, but maybe that’s too ambitious? :-) I guess we’ll see :-)

You can see this project on Ravelry as well HERE

Laser Cut Wooden Jewellery

2010-06-24T17:32:00.006+10:00

While today we had a pleasant reprieve from our wintery weather, with some sunshine and blue skies, I have been busily working away getting a few new things ready for my stores. HERE

I have added a few new laser cut wooden jewellery pieces, with more to come soon.

So stay tuned for more updates :-)

You may also like to look at this post about LASER CUT JEWELLERY

Work In Progress 22.06.2010

2010-06-22T15:08:00.005+10:00

I have a few friends who are due to give birth soon, which is VERY exciting, so I have been busily trying to come up with some special handmade gifts for the new arrivals.

Booties are so cute (there's something extra sweet about tiny shoes) and they are a great way to use small amounts of yarn left over from other projects, and, more importantly, it's very cold around here at the moment! I didn't have a booties pattern that was quite right as I don’t know if the babies are going to be girls or boys, and all the patterns I currently have are a bit lacy, so I decided to attempt designing my own pattern (writing it down as I knit, so I can make a matching pair). I wanted to knit in the round, to avoid sewing up too many seams and I like the look of having minimal seams on a garment. I started it last night and I think the pattern is going well so far… I’ll have to wait and see what the first one looks like before I decide whether it’s going to be a success :-) And of course, if it is successful, I’ll put the pattern up on Ravelry :-)

Finished Scarf

2010-06-21T13:22:00.005+10:00

Well, I had the knitting part of the scarf finished by the17th, but it took me a few days to complete the project by finishing it off with the picot crochet edge.
I’m REALLY happy with this scarf and the pattern used. I’m already thinking off all the other scarves I want to make using this pattern and some different yarns… I just need to find more time :-)

I'm pretty keen to get my hands on some more Noro Kureyon Sock Yarn and might have to make a trip into town to get some this week. I have been thinking about maybe using it to do some weaving on my Ashford Loom (which I haven't used for almost a year now! Eeep!)

Also this week, while I recover from my silly hand injury, I'll be finishing off some more designs for some new laser cut jewellery!! Hopefully I'll be able to stop being a little bit obsessive about the designs being "perfect" and actually have them made and in the store within the month :-) That would be nice!!

xx Shara

Work In Progress 15.06.2010

2010-06-15T13:39:00.002+10:00

I managed to do a bit more of my scarf/shawl last night (although I am a bit slow, as I have injured my hand). I think I'm about 25% of the way through to the finished product, so I can't really complain about that progress :-)

Maybe I'll have it finished sooner than I think?!

See my previous post for more information about this project :-)

Work In Progress 14.06.2010

2010-06-14T17:31:00.004+10:00

I have had a skein of Noro Kureyon Sock Yarn sitting in my yarn stash for quite a while and I knew I wanted to make some sort of scarf/wrap/shawl from it, but I didn't have a particular pattern in mind. So far I have started (and almost completed) 4 things with this skein, and have frogged them all (translation for non-knitting folks: frogging means to pull out all your stitches and re-wind your ball of yarn and start again).

Last night while browsing RAVELRY I came across this PATTERN.

I think this is the sort of thing I had been searching for all along, so I have started it today and will try to keep you up to date with my progress, in the hopes of having it finished and blocked and ready to wear in a week or two :-)

If you're a member on Ravelry too you can find me under the name: SharaDesigns. I'd love to have a few more contacts on Ravelry :-)

Aloo Gobi - Potato & Cauliflower Curry, Shara Style!

2010-05-06T16:53:00.006+10:00

Here is a recipe for one of my favourite meals. I make this often and it's always very popular. It's really easy, cheap, suitable for folks who have special dietary needs such as Gluten Free diets, or who have fructose malabsorption and/or intolerances AND for vegetarians, and vegans (if you omit the yoghurt when serving, and use vegetable stock). It's also very easy to double this recipe when you need to feed a large group of friends (and great if you're on a limited budget). But most importantly, it's VERY tasty! (Even better the next day!!)

Aloo Gobi - Cauliflower and Potato Curry (Shara style!)

Ingredients:

1 tbs oil

1 tsp black mustard seeds

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 tbs minced fresh ginger

650g potatoes, diced

650g cauliflower, cut into small florets

700g Passata (Sugo di Pomodoro)

1/4 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp turmeric

1/2 tsp garam masala

2 tsp ground coriander

1 tbs brown sugar

1 cup veggie/chicken stock

salt to taste

Fresh Coriander (or parsley) to serve

Fresh lemon wedges to serve

250g plain yoghurt to serve

Heat oil in a large, heavy saucepan over moderate heat. When oil is hot, add mustard seeds, when they crackle, add cumin seeds and saute until cumin seeds darken a few shades. Add ginger, saute for a few minutes, then add potatoes and cauliflower.

Stir fry the veggies for 4-5 minutes.

Add passata, turmeric, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, sugar, half the stock and salt to taste. Mix well, reduce heat to low, cover saucepan, and stirring occasionally, cook for 20 minutes, or until veggies are tender. Take care not to over stir the veggies as you might break up the potatoes.

If it seems a little dry or you would like the sauce a little more saucy add the remaining stock.

Serve with fresh coriander, yoghurt, lemon wedges, rice, a bit of salad and some flat bread or pappadams. Yum!

*You can also substitute some of the potato for some sweet potato/kumara for something different. It's delicious!!

*This recipe can easily be made vegan by omitting the yoghurt and only using vegetable stock.

*To bulk up this recipe you can add a tin of chickpeas, as long as that suits your dietary needs :-) Some folks with fructose malabsorption or intolerance can't have legumes.

Laser Cut Wood Jewellery

2010-04-10T13:35:00.005+10:00

So, in my last post I told you I was super busy making some prototypes for some new designs… remember? Well, here are a couple of them.

I've been playing around with laser cutting some of my designs into wood. These particular ones are made using New Zealand Rimu wood, which is sustainable and not on the list of endangered plant species :-)

As the lasers burn through the wood, etching the designs into the wood, it leaves a warm romantic scent of campfire behind, which I love. I started out with some very basic designs as I needed to see how this medium lent itself to my designs.

Now I know what works and what doesn't work so well… it's made it easier for me to go mad designing a whole bunch of new pieces. Lots of animals, lots of new words, lots more fun, lots of people. I'm looking forward too more new designs being ready for release. Hopefully in May!!

So see you soon with more designs and styles including brooches, necklaces, earrings, bangles and rings :-)

If you're after a particular initial on a brooch or earrings, let me know before April 16th, 2010, and I should be able to accommodate your custom requests :-)

You can find these designs and others in my Etsy store HERE and my Dawanda store HERE

Tune in next time for some more updates on what I've been up to and the new designs that are on their way :-)

Gluten Free Ginger Cake with Caramel Icing (Fructose Friendly!)

2010-03-30T16:22:00.005+11:00

Okay friends, here is another one of my recipes that is not only delicious, but can also be enjoyed by folks with special dietary needs. This amazingly moist and rich ginger cake is gluten free, and suitable for people with fructose malabsorption or intolerance. Although, just remember that not everyone is the same, so some ingredients may still irritate some people with these conditions, so if you're making this for a friend, perhaps just ask them about the ingredients first to make sure they are suitable for them :-)

Gluten Free Ginger Cake with Caramel Icing (Also Fructose Friendly :-)

Ingredients:

3/4 cup (165g) firmly packed brown sugar

3/4 cup (110g) Gluten Free plain flour

1/2 cup (75g) Gluten Free self-raising flour

1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

125g butter, softened

2 eggs

2/3 cup (160ml) buttermilk

Caramel Icing

60g butter

1/2 cup (110g) firmly packed brown sugar

3 tablespoons milk

3/4 cup (120g) Icing sugar

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 170C (150C fan forced oven). Grease a deep 20cm ring pan or bundt tin.

2. Sift sugar, flours, bicarb, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg into a medium bowl. Add butter, eggs and buttermilk. Beat with an electric mixer on low until all ingredients are combined. Increase the speed to medium and beat for another 2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and paler in colour.

3. Pour mixture into prepared tin, bake for about 35 minutes. You'll know it's cooked if you poke a skewer into it and it comes out clean. Stand your cake in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning out, and let it rest on a wire cooling rack. Note: If you have used a ring pan, let you cake rest with the topside up. If you have used a bunt tin, let your cake rest topside down :-)

Caramel Icing

Gently heat butter, sugar and milk in a small saucepan over a medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to the boil then simmer, stirring for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sifted icing sugar. Drizzle warm icing over cake.

Now your cake is ready to serve :-)

Roller Skating Peacocks and a Busy Week

2010-03-05T13:20:00.008+11:00

I have had a great week, including being featured on the gorgeous Calico & Co blog HERE, and I've been very busy working on the prototypes for a new project, a new direction that my work has taken. I'm feeling confident and hope it all works out, and of course, if it does, I'll show you all here on my blog.

In the meantime I thought I would talk about some of the clothes I have been making using rescued, recycled, upcycled and reused fabrics.

I made this top using a combination of fabric that I rescued from a fabric factory before it was sent to landfill (phew!) and some thrifted fabric. I really love the patterns and colours and wished I had more of these fabrics, but this was it. SO this is the only top that will include these patterns. I'm hoping I might JUST have enough left to make a baby top or perhaps some pants.

Both these fabrics are buttery soft cotton/elastine blends, so they have great stretch and recovery as well as being breathable and super soft :-)

I'm not sure why, but when this piece was finished it made me think of the title: "Rollerskating Peacock". Nope, I don't have an explanation for this name, it's just what popped into my mind :-)

This top can be found in my DaWanda store as well, HERE.

What's coming up on my blog? Well, I have a few more delicious Gluten Free and Fructose Friendly recipes from my successful cooking experimentations. And, with any luck I'll be showing you the results of my prototype experimentations as well!!

Chat soon xox

Gluten Free, Fructose Friendly Rum Balls

2010-02-08T17:54:00.009+11:00

So, here it is, as I promised, my recipe for Gluten Free and Fructose Friendly Rum Balls! I make these quite often and whenever I take them with me to a party/picnic/etc they are always a hit.

I have Fructose Malabsorption (Fructose Intolerance), which means I can't eat lots of common foods, one of which is wheat, so I often miss out on delicious things. These Rum Balls don't contain any wheat, and incidentally any gluten either, so they can be enjoyed by a lot of people, even those with dietary restrictions.

I took them to a party this weekend and they were very popular. I even had a woman who I didn't know come and sit next to me with a handful of my Rum Balls and exclaim : "Oh boy! Have you had some of those Rum Balls!!!?? They're so good! But you better hurry, they're going fast!" Of course, I was pretty chuffed :-)

Okay, here's the recipe:

Gluten Free/Fructose Friendly Rum Balls

Ingredients

500g Gluten Free Chocolate cake*

1 tin Sweetened Condensed Milk

2 cups desiccated Coconut*

1/2 cup Cocoa powder*

1 tbs Rum*

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method:

Whizz the chocolate cake in a food processor until it is fine crumbs. In a large bowl place your cake crumbs, tin of condensed milk, cocoa powder, rum, cinnamon and 1 cup of coconut and set the other cup of coconut aside in a small bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. If your mixture is very moist add a little more coconut. Now using about 1 heaped teaspoon of mixture roll it into a ball with your hands then roll it in your remaining coconut to coat, place on a baking tray that you've lined with baking paper. Continue doing this with the rest of your mixture, then place the tray of balls into the fridge for about 1/2 an hour. You can then pack them away in an air tight container for later, or you can eat them all now with some friends :-)

These balls will last for about 1 week in an airtight container in the fridge (if you don't eat them all!)

Makes approx. 40 balls, depending on the size you choose to make them.

*Instead of buying a ready made gluten free chocolate cake, which can be hard to find and quite expensive, you can either make your own from your favourite recipe or you can make one from a packet cake mix (this is what I do). In this case I recommend not using a Mud Cake mix as this is often too moist. Regular Gluten Free Chocolate cake is best. You will also find that a lot of Gluten Free cake mixes will give you instructions for using Egg Replacer instead of fresh chook eggs, just incase you need to avoid eggs.

* You may find that you need a little more than 2 cups of coconut if your mixture is very moist. Coconut if not suitable for everyone who needs to avoid Fructose, so check this beforehand if you are making these balls for someone else.

* Not all cocoa powder is gluten/wheat free, so make sure you check this. Use one that you're familiar with that you know is suitable for you and your dietary needs.

*You might like to add more or less rum to your balls, or use Rum essence instead, or omit the rum or rum flavour all together, the balls are delicious whatever you do!

*If you're not a fan of getting too messy you might like to wear powder free disposable gloves when rolling the balls.

*Of course, this recipe can be made using regular cake too, if you have no dietary restrictions :-)

Alterations:

*If you're making these balls for a children's party you might like to try rolling your balls in a mixture of half coconut, half hundreds and thousands, instead of straight coconut to add a bit of colour and fun!

*Try making the balls with a vanilla cake instead of chocolate cake, omit the cocoa powder, add a dash of vanilla extract and a little more coconut for Vanilla Coconut Rum Balls!!! Oh yeah!!!!!!

I'd love to hear from anyone who tries this recipe, and of any delicious alteration you try!!

Now lets get cooking!!

Choc Leopard Baby Shoes

2010-02-04T21:57:00.003+11:00

Well I had a nice day, it was busy, but not too hectic :-)

I made this little pair of Leopard Print baby shoes for a special order that was on it's way to Germany. I made them using one of my original patterns that is available in my JoliBebe store HERE and HERE. The pattern uses such a small amount of fabric that it is perfect for using up those little scraps of your favourite vintage fabric, that you have been saving up for a special piece. It's also a great pattern to make using fabric you have selvaged from a fabulous garment from the op shop/thrift store. Perhaps you found something that is made from great fabric, but the item itself is a bit ugly, or the wrong size etc… Chop it up and make something else with it... like a little pair of shoes for your favourite little person :-)

I knew it was going to rain today, so it was a race against time to get these finished, so I could ride my bicycle to the Post Office to mail them before I got drenched. I wasn't worried so much about me getting wet, but I was worried about my mail getting wet. You'll be pleased to read that the mail and I both survived :-)

I'm not sure why, but these shoes seem to be particularly popular with my German customers. Just like I have one particular hat in my range that is very popular, but has only ever sold to folks in Poland. I know? Odd.

I have a REALLY busy day ahead of me tomorrow. With any luck I'll find a moment to post my recipe for gluten free, fructose friendly rum balls! Here's the link to the recipe:

http://sharalambethdesigns.blogspot.com/2010/02/gluten-free-fructose-friendly-rumballs.html

xox Shara

Hello 2010!

2010-02-02T23:34:00.011+11:00

Hello friends :-)

Yes, I know, it's been quite a while since my last Post. Life got busy last year with the business, organising an overseas trip and all the other things that happen in-between.

At the end of last year I went to New Zealand for a holiday and for my cousin's wedding at the gorgeous Craggy Range WInery, near Napier.

I got a lot of shopping done in Napier and here are links to two of my favourite stores KILT and AROHA LAMOUR . I also couldn't help myself and brought home several gorgeous vintage pieces from the multitude of fantastic Antique and secondhand stores around Napier.

And I had a really amazing time, spending New Years Eve at a beach house, watching the fireworks over the bay from our balcony, whilst sipping some fabulous local wines.

After my return from New Zealand I was lucky enough to go camping at Wilsons Promontory with some good friends. Although the weather was a little inclement for the first two days (we all snuggled up in our tents reading, writing and drawing) the weather was perfect for the rest of our stay.

As much as I loved lazing around in the hammock reading, jotting down ideas and working on new designs, I also loved venturing out over the hills and rocks and waves to discover so many new places at the Prom that I hadn't seen before.

I came across two tiger snakes, lots of wombats, a few possums and lots of amazing birdlife, as well as kayaking up a perfectly still tidal river and going to the outdoor cinema. It was brilliant! :-)

I'm back, feeling well rested from two amazing holidays, and I'm ready to get back to work.

I have been working on a whole range of new designs and ideas (it was hard not to be inspired in such amazing surroundings!) and I just wish I had a few more hours in each day to bring them all to fruition.

So, stayed tuned for what's to come in my stores HERE and HERE with a new range of hats & more clothing using upcycled, recycled and repurposed materials. As well as a whole new range of babies and kids clothing and shoes HERE and HERE using the same ecologically sound materials.

It's going to be a big year and I'm going to love every minute of it!

New Embroidery Kits

2009-08-09T16:30:00.006+10:00

After many weeks of planning, designing, drawing, testing and printing my new Embroidery Kits are available!
The two themes that are currently available are "Girl Trouble" and "A Skulk of Foxes".
"Girl Trouble" includes several girls of varying size and style, as well as other such "girlie" things as diamonds and bows. And "A Skulk of Foxes" includes lots of different foxes, in various styles, and sizes, as well as rain drops and leaves.
The kits include an A4 sheet of designs, special Transfer Paper so you can easily transfer the images onto your fabric/garment etc, embroidery thread in various colours and easy to follow instructions.
All paper used in the kit is recycled from 100% Post-Consumer waste.

The kits can be found HERE and HERE and HERE

Girl Trouble Sample

A Skulk of Foxes Sample

Handmade Underwear!

2009-04-26T18:23:00.009+10:00

I have been working very hard to come up with a few different underwear patterns of my own since buying a Knicker making kit from PainterGirl.etsy.com last year.
After several days of trial and error I have finally developed 4 different styles.
Here are a few pictures of the first style... I'm yet to come up with witty names for all of them. So any suggestions would be greatly appreciated :-)
They are extremely comfortable, and luxurious to wear :-)
Hopefully I'll be able to add a few more pictures in the not too distant future of the other designs :-)
Soon the underwear will be available in my Etsy and DaWanda stores in Australian sizes ranging from 8 to 16. There will also be some MENS styles coming soon!! :-)

New Hat Pattern AND Kit!

2009-04-01T21:27:00.011+11:00

I have just added one of my original hat sewing patterns to my Etsy, DaWanda, and Felt stores. This pattern, for a 100% reversible Mod Cap, is available on it's own or as part of a Kit. The kit includes all the fabric and interfacing you need, along with instructions and the full sized pattern.
You can use the pattern over and over again to make many wonderful hats using all your favourite fabrics. You don't need much fabric to complete the hat so it's a great way to use up all those little scraps of that special fabric you have been saving.
Making small projects like this is also a great excuse to go for a treasure hunt in your local second hand store to find some vintage fabric, or you could rescue the fabric from an old shirt or a suit for a winter hat. Add a few buttons, or a badge. The possibilites are endless :-)
With the kits you have several fabric combinations to choose from. Below are just a few examples:

Cherry Cola

Black Strawberries

Chocolate Leaves

Black & White Cat

New Baby Shoe Patterns

2008-12-01T11:26:00.005+11:00

After many requests from fellow craftsters I have been busy writing patterns for the baby shoes I sell in my JoliBebe stores which can be found HERE and HERE
So far there are two different designs available: The Slipper style and the Maryjane Style.

The patterns are in an email format so you can have them straight away, which means you can get started on them immediately (this is good if you're stuck for a last minute gift :-)
Each pattern includes full size pattern pieces for multiple sizes from 3-18 months, easy to follow instructions as well as step-by-step photos to make it even easier :-)

I highly recommend using a non-slip sole when you make your baby shoes, especially for babies over the age of about 9 months, for safety.
I will soon be listing the special non-slip fabric that I use for my baby shoes in my JoliBebe store under "Supplies" in small quantities, as this can be hard to find.

What you will need to make your little Maryjanes:
Small amount of fabric for exterior, and for lining
Matching thread
Scissors
Sewing machine
2 small buttons (or press studs or velcro if you prefer)
Sewing needle

What you will need to make your Slipper shoes:
Small amount of fabric for exterior and lining
5mm Elastic (approx 30cm length)
Matching thread
Scissors
Sewing machine
Sewing needleYou can find these patterns in my JoliBebe store on Etsy HERE and my JoliBebe store on DaWanda HERE.

4 Ply Sideways Gloves Knitting Pattern

2008-10-06T18:17:00.008+11:00

Hello everyone :-)
After such a good response to the 8-ply Sideways Gloves I decided to post the pattern for the 4 ply (fingering weight, sock yarn, baby wool) version here for free for everyone else to use. The gloves pictured are made in Noro Self Striping Sock Yarn.
So here it is:

4 Ply Sideways Gloves

Sizes: S (M, L)

Materials:
1 pair 3.25mm (U.S. size 3, U.K. size 10)
Approx. 50 grams 4-ply, fingering weight or sock yarn. (Note this project looks really great when made in variegated or self-striping yarns)
Yarn needle to sew pieces together.
Scissors.

Tension:
25 stitches over 10cm (4") in garter stitch. If you have more stitches, use a larger size needle. If you have less stitches, use a smaller size needle.
It is a good idea to check your tension again with each different type of yarn that you choose to make a pair of gloves from.

Abbreviations:
Cc/0 (Cable Cast On): Insert your right hand needle between first and second stitches on your left hand needle and knit 1, placing the new stitch on the left hand needle. Continue working between the last 2 stitches on the left hand needle until you have the desired amount of stitches.
Inc (Increase): Knit into the front and back of the stitch, making an extra stitch.
Ssk: Slip first stitch on left hand needle onto right hand needle purl wise, k1, pass the first stitch back over. Therefore decreasing a stitch.
K2tog: Knit 2 together.
R (Reinforce): Bring yarn to the front as if to purl the next stitch. Slip the next stitch purl wise to right hand needle, take yarn to the back of work. Return the slipped stitch back to the left hand needle without working it, bring yarn to the front again.

You will begin at the little finger edge and work across to the thumb.

Make 2 the same:
Cast on 48 (50, 52) sts (using Cable Cast on method).
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: Inc in first st, knit to end.
Row 3: Knit to last 2 sts, inc in next st, k1.
Row 4: Knit to last 16 (17, 17) sts, R, turn.
Row 5: Knit.
Row 6: Knit.
Row 7: Knit to last 2 sts, k2tog.
Row 8: Ssk, knit to end.
Row 9: Knit.
Row 10: Cast off 12 (13, 15) sts, R, turn, k1. Cc/o 19 (20, 22) sts. Knit across all sts.
Row 11-19: As for Rows 1-9.
Row 20: Cast off 16 (17, 19) sts, R, turn, k1. Cc/o 19 (20, 22) sts. Knit across all sts.
Rows 21-29: As for Rows 1-9.
Row 30: Cast off 20 (21, 23) R, turn. Cc/o 15 (16, 18) sts. Knit across all sts.
Rows 31-39: As for Rows 1-9.
Row 40: Cast off 25 (26,27) sts, R, turn, k1. Cc/o 12 (13, 14) sts. Knit cast on sts, k2 R, turn.
Row 41: Knit.
Row 42: Inc in first st, k16 (17, 18) , R, turn.
Row 43: Knit to last 2 sts, inc in next st, k1.
Row 44: K21 (22, 23), R, turn.
Row 45: Knit.
Row 46: K23 (24, 25), R, turn.
Row 47: Knit to last 2 sts, k2tog.
Row 48: Ssk, k23 (24, 25), R, turn.
Row 49: Knit.
Row 50: Cast off all sts.

Finishing: Place 2 pieces together, matching the thumb and fingers up, and using a flat seam, sew your 2 pieces together to make one glove. Repeat with remaining 2 pieces to make 2nd glove.
Don't rush sewing up your glove pieces. Steady, even stitches will really enhance the look and comfort of your finished gloves.

If you have any questions, queries, need assistance to complete your gloves or find an error, please don't hesitate to leave a comment and I'll gladly help where I can :-)

Copyright is held by the author (SharaLambethDesigns). Copyright remains that of the author at all times. The pattern is for personal use only. Reproduction of this pattern in anyway (electronic, email, photocopying, transcribing etc) is strictly prohibited, except with the explicit permission of the author. Please do not sell the pattern or the finished product that is made using this pattern without permission of the author, as this is a direct infringement of the copyright laws protecting this pattern.
If you do want to sell the gloves you make using this pattern at a market, craft fair or in your online store please do ask, as in most cases I will give permission :-)
And please feel free to make as many pairs of gloves as you can, to donate to your local charities.
Happy knitting!

Sideways Glove Pattern

2008-09-24T15:03:00.006+10:00

For quite a long time now I have been wanting to make gloves with fingers but have really struggled to find an easy, quick pattern that is knit on 2 needles... So I wrote my own pattern :-)
These gloves are knit sideways, in garter stitch only, on 2 straight needles, so they are dead easy! They knit up pretty fast, I can make a pair in an evening of t.v. watching. They're a good small project to take with you when you're on the go as well. I have knit a few pairs while I have been on the train or bus, and the whole lot, needles, yarn etc fits easily into my bag. You can use up all your little bits of left over yarn as well, so it makes a great stash busting project :-)
I wrote the pattern using the "trial and error" method and have also made a pattern for a 4-ply version. I made the 4 ply version in the Noro Kureyon Sock yarn and they look fabulous! I just need to get around to photographing them so I can show you :-)
I've listed the pattern for the 8 ply (DK, Sport Weight) version in my DaWanda store HERE Etsy store HERE

Pixie Clog Prototype

2008-09-17T19:26:00.005+10:00

I've been toying with the idea of a Pixie shoe with a pointed toe, for babies, for quite a while now... and today I had some success!
I'm pretty happy with this. I have managed to make the pattern so it's REALLY easy to change the size of the shoe, so I can make them for babies for various ages.
The shoe pictured above is the prototype and is made using some left over linen I had floating around. They're fully lined, with all interior seams hidden so they're comfortable for baby to wear.
I haven't quite decided if this is going to be the final design yet, as I may think about adding some sort of elasticised section to the back for a variable fit, etc. And I might make some of the larger sizes with a non-slip sole too.
I've been thinking about some of the ways I could decorate or embellish these little shoes and I have been thinking that screenprinting onto fabric prior to the contruction could be quite cute... Maybe stamping onto the fabric with some of my hand-carved eraser stamps (more about this later :-), maybe some cute embroidery... the sky's the limit I guess :-)
Anyway I hope you enjoy seeing my Work in Progress!

Cat in Sunshine

2008-09-15T17:36:00.005+10:00

For those of you who know me well, you will know that I am a "dog person" however I think I am slowly turning into a "cat person" as well... (No, no, I don't mean I am half cat/half girl). You see, there is a stray cat that lives under the house. He's been living there for over 3 years, but it's only been in the past year or so that he has decided to let us pat him. And now he's in love with us (especially me... in fact I have a feeling he may propose any day now! ;-) We decided that we should give him a name, and we chose: Nima. It's an Indian name that means white hair (seemed like an obvious choice). This name has evolved into a few different variations, such as Nimmy, and NimNim... but I think my favourite is NimmyNoodle (I think he likes this one the best as well :-) And if he's being cheeky I call him MouseBreath.
He's not allowed inside (because of allergies, and me being scared that he'll eat one of the drums or tambourines), although he does occasionally invite himself in... like when we're bringing in the shopping from the car or loading drums and the door is left open. Sometimes if it's raining he scoots in behind me without me even noticing. I tell him he's a naughty cat, but secretly I think it's cute and funny.
He has a nice little "nest" that he has made himself under the house, and he talks to us through the floor. Sometimes it actually sounds like he's saying: "Helllllllllllooooooooooow". No, really, it does! And sometimes he talks to us through the bedroom window at 2 in the morning... I don't find this quite as cute.
He's a very affectionate little creature and as soon as there is even the hint of a human lap he's up onto it. Sometimes we sit out in the sun and he snuggles up in my lap and snoozes. Sometimes when I give him lots of cuddles and a good ear scratching he drools on me.... awwww.
Sometimes he gets into fights with other cats, and comes home with scratches on his face... and once I pulled someone else's claw out of his scalp! Eeeek! I totally freaked out and squealed a little bit when I realised what it was. But Nima was pretty happy about me removing it for him. And the funny thing is he only ever seems to get into fights on the weekend... just like people... weird.... do cats go to the pub?
Anyway... my new found love for cats inspired this weeks featured finds from Dawanda. It's all cat and it's all good :-) Click on the title of the item to go to the shop where I found it.

Cats Print from Terese

When a Cat Smiles T-shirt from Akumulnk

Purple Cat Brooch from Oletuscolores_shop

Walking Cat Pin from DeliciousMuovi

Red Bag with a Cat from Violettcat

Kitschy Kitten Skirt from Kinchi

It's Brown About Town!

2008-09-07T16:01:00.008+10:00

One colour I have been wearing a lot of and making lots of things from lately is BROWN. I seem to be attracted to it where ever I go... when I go to the shops I automatically head to the brown clothing and shoes, when I'm in the fabric store I'm automatically drawn to the brown fabrics and buttons and ribbons, when I'm at the yarn store I'm automatically attracted to the brown yarns....
So it's only natural that while I have been logged in to DaWanda recently, I have been automatically drawn to all the beautiful brown products there as well.
Here are a few of my favourite brown finds on DaWanda. Click on the title of the product to go and see the item in it's store:

Tubeway Armies - Chocolate Brown from GayeAbandon

Brown Pouch with Red Screenprint from AnnaLaura

Sweet baby & Momma Brown Bolete Mushrooms from SparrowsNest

Felted Scarf- Jewel Brown from Karlita

Wise Owl Original Gocco Print from BridBird

Kawaii Brown Bear Necklace from ScarletBeautiful

DaWanda Goes Green!

2008-08-14T12:05:00.011+10:00

I have been really been enjoying the increase in Eco-Friendly products that have been popping up all over DaWanda. Whether it's something made from recycled fabrics, reusable pants/diapers/nappies for babies, cloth shopping bags, or organic products, it's fantastic!
I was doing a little "research" and came across a few extra special Eco-Friendly products that I thought I would share with you all :-) Click on the name of the product for a link to the shop it is from :-)

Armadillo at Sea Organic Purse from Mingus

Cultivating the Future - Organic t-shirt from FeralEmpire

Night out with a Nuthatch from Artimentary

Aiko Blue Bear from CutesyPoo

Organic Trashion Soda Pop Earrings from LostAndFoundObjects

Recycled T-shirt Bag from Golcarhouse

Baby DaWanda

2008-08-12T15:56:00.009+10:00

I decided I would feature a few of my favourite sellers at DaWanda who specialise in baby goods. I have my JoliBebe range available on DaWanda and have had a really great response since starting up there. I was so excited to see so many brilliant ideas and designs for babies on DaWanda, and below are a few of the really special and extra sweet products. Click on the name of the product for a link to the item in it's store on DaWanda :-)

Katie Jump Rope Halter Tunic from BlackEyedSusie

Corduroy Sun Suit from PinkDixie

Suede baby Moccasins from KaBoogie

Eco Friendly Baby Blocks from CutesyPoo

Tiny Felt Baby Booties from Ingermaaike

Pink Baby Pixie Shoes from MagicPumpkinsandFaeryDust

DaWanda

2008-07-03T12:35:00.008+10:00

A few months ago I started selling on another website: DaWanda.com
It's an online venue where you can buy and sell all things handmade. Clothing, hats, shoes, paintings, prints, furniture, jewellery, bags and many more things can be found on DaWanda.
It's based in Europe, and users have a choice of viewing the site in English, German or French, so it reaches a very wide audience :-).
As a seller you can choose to list your products in just one of these languages, or two, or all three. Users can also choose whether they view other products on the site only listed in one particular language, or all the items listed in all 3 languages. There are a lot of choices, so you can customise it to suit you.
It's free, fast and easy to set up a store. There are NO listing fees. So to cover costs DaWanda charges a small 5% commission on the product price if/when the product sells. This means you only have to pay "fees" once you've already made some money (that makes sense :-). Because it's free to set up and start selling it's great if you just want to try it out as a venue, or perhaps if you've got new items that are a little different to your regular items and you want to "test the market" so to speak, then this could be a good venue for you.
Like many other online market places, DaWanda has an active forum, where you can connect with other sellers, ask questions about the site, running a small business, art/craft related queries, get feedback about your store or products, start a collaboration, join a group or community, seek custom items, promote your store and so on.
The forums are regularly monitored by the friendly and helpful DaWanda staff so it's never too long before your question, query or concern is answered.
The DaWanda front page has a great showcase of the products available on DaWanda, and unlike other e-commerce sites where it can be pretty tricky to get your products on the front page, DaWanda's front page is selected randomly and rotate regularly, so everyone has a good chance at making it to the front page :-)
There are many great features on the DaWanda website, both for selling and buying :-)
The "StyleLab" is fabulous! It's where, as a buyer you can find items that are customisable. So you can choose the colour, the pattern, the fabric, the size, the shape etc of an item then the designer makes it especially for you. And as a seller you can list items in the style lab, where you can give options for colours, fabrics, styles, shapes etc for a product that you can make to the customers specifications.
The "Coloranda" feature is also an exciting way to shop. You can click on any colour in the rainbow spectrum "dome" and it will show you a page full of products that have that colour in them! (Great way to kill a bit of time as well :-)
You can also make a "Pinboard" which is where you can keep track of all your favourite products on DaWanda. You can name your Pinboards so you know which one has which items in it etc. You can also make a themed Pinboard, for example, Reds, or Fabulous Bags etc. It's a fun way to showcase your selection of the best of the best products on DaWanda. It also comes in handy if you are searching for a present for someone in particular, you could make a pinboard full of all the products that might be make suitable presents :-) You can search through other people Pinboards, so you can see what everyone else likes as well, and a selection of Pinboards are "featured" on the Pinboard page, and these selections change regularly, so there is always something new and exciting to see.
There is also a "Trends" page, which shows you the products with the most fans, and the products that have been added to the most Pinboards. You can also see the most popular sellers and best selling members on this page. This feature is good if you just want to see what's popular, but it's also a great market research tool, along with the "Recently Sold" section to the Trends page. It lets you know what kind of things are selling well and so on.
The "Search" facility on DaWanda is great! You can search the whole site, or you can search within a particular category. You can view the search results in order of the most recently listed, the most popular or "random" which is the default order of results. This makes it very easy to narrow down your search, which can save you time and effort :-)
DaWanda are always running at least one promotion or competition that you can get involved in, which is great for getting involved, for getting your store name out there, for promoting individual stores, and DaWanda as a whole (which is great for everyone!)

As the push towards sustainable, eco friendly, unique, non-mass produced items becomes stronger sites like DaWanda become more popular and more important. Why not join in the fun? :-)
You can see my stores on DaWanda: SharaLambethDesigns , JoliBebe and ThePaperDoll.

Below are a few of my favourite recent finds on DaWanda.

Pocket Mirror
Linotte.dawanda.com

Cat Bag
Delavalle.dawanda.com

Bird Brooch funiscool.dawanda.com

Leaf Top
Hyenarchie.dawanda.com

Flower Earrings
Fluerfatale.dawanda.com

Blythe Photo's - New Series

2008-01-10T19:16:00.001+11:00

You may already know about my Blythe addiction/obsession, but if not... it's very intense.
I have been taking loads and loads of photo's of my Blythe doll, Beatrix, since she came to me last year. I have a few different outfits for her, with plans to make many more. I also have several wigs for her, to change her look, depending on her mood (or mine ;-). I have made several of the photographs into greeting cards, and listed them Dawanda, HERE, and on Etsy, HERE. The images themselves are also available for sale in various sizes.
I took some of the cards I made along to the Melbourne Craft Mafia Night Market to see if they would sell, and they were a hit! I was so happy :-)
So that has inspired me to take a whole lot of new photo's of my darling Beatrix (and sent me searching ebay for another doll to keep Beatrix company :-)
Here are a few of the new series of pictures. I'll be adding more as the days go on, so stay tuned :-)

Melbourne Craft Cartel Night Market!

2008-01-09T15:53:00.001+11:00

The Melbourne Craft Cartel Night Market is held at Section 8 Container Bar in Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne CBD on the first Monday of each month, from 5pm til late.
I had a stall at the very first market, which was in December 2007. And I was lucky enough to be able to have another stall at the second night market which was Monday 7th January, 2008.
It was a real success, with LOADS of people coming through, most staying for a drink or two, while they browsed the wonderful wares.
I shared a table with Angelica of the famous Jellibat label, which was great as it meant I had someone to keep me company, discuss business ideas with, and to hold the fort while I went and admired all the other amazing things for sale at the other stalls.
My stall consisted mainly of rings, earrings, hair accessories, brooches and necklaces, as well as some of my Blythe photo cards.
I sold a lot more than I had anticipated, so it was fantastic! And that also meant that I could go and buy some delightful things from other stall holders :-)
The great thing about selling at a market (as opposed to selling online) is that you are face to face with your customers, and you get immediate feedback about your items, and you also get to hear stories from your customers about why they like something, why they're buying what they're buying, and who it's for. It makes me feel good when I know the things that I put so much effort and time and love into making are going to good homes :-)
I'll be at the next Melbourne Craft Cartel Night Market, which will be held on Monday 4th February, so if you're in town, pop by and say hello!
Also, if you would like any info about the market, or having a stall there, don't hesitate to contact me via the blog or via my etsy store which is HERE .
You can also see the Flickr group HERE.
Okay, it's farewell from me for now, take care out there :-)
x Shara

***PLEASE NOTE*** This market is no longer running!! But thank you to all the lovely folks who have contacted me with interest about the market :-) I think we all wish it still existed...

Welcome to 2008

2008-01-03T19:14:00.001+11:00

Ah... yes... it's been a while since my last post. Please forgive me :-)
The holiday period got a little bit crazy, with unnecessarily hot weather, hiccups at the Post Office, orders coming in from all angles, and my Birthday (complete with excellent party with even more excellent friends!) in the middle of it all. But I have come through to the New Year relatively unscathed. Phew!
I hope everyone else had an enjoyable and relaxed Xmas and New Years Eve as well :-)

So here we are in 2008, and I thought it was only right to start off a new year with a new medium. RESIN. It's something I have been eagerly interested in for several years, as a new medium in which to realise my jewellery design ideas, but until now I thought it was out of my league.
Late last year I quite seriously considered doing one of the several Resin workshops in and around Melbourne, but the price tag was a little prohibitive. I wanted to be really certain that it was a creative journey that I was willing to embark on, so I did a bit of research (I love you Internet xox) and found 2 books that seemed to have some pretty good reviews and purchased them (at bargain Basement prices!!) from Amazon. The first is: "The Art of Resin Jewelry" by Sherri Haab (ISBN 0-8230-0344-2). It's a really great book if you know nothing about Resin, but are interested in finding out all the basics and getting some ideas for projects. The information is very clearly written in a simple to understand way, that isn't an insult to your intelligence. The instructions are also quite clear. Not all the products used in the projects are available in Australia, and as of yet I haven't been able to find too many U.S. websites that will ship a lot of the stuff internationally (which I think is due to the potentially hazardous nature of some of the products). However, if you have your wits about you, you should be able to figure out something that is a suitable alternative which is readily available in Australia.
Although I did really enjoy this book and all the hints and tips, I do have to admit that some of the projects are incredibly ugly (which is of course, simply a matter of taste) so I'm sure that the projects in the book that I think are beautiful, others will find to be hideous.
Despite this, it is an EXCELLENT introduction to the world of Resin jewellery. I can highly recommend it :-)
The second book I purchased is "Resin Jewellery" by Kathie Murphy (ISBN 0-87349-619-1). This is a slightly more "high brow" publication and is probably directed more towards people who have a bit of previous knowledge in jewellery design. It gives an excellent history of resin and other plastics, which gives you a great insight into how and why different products react in a certain way and how they can be best utilised. This book also gives you lots of information about different products, techniques and standard safety tips. But I think the best thing about this book is all the photographs of some seriously STUNNING and amazing resin work by artists and designers from all over the world. I found the images to be of great inspiration and made me DESPERATE to rush out and buy all the things I needed to start making my own Resin masterpieces :-)
So I can highly recommend this book also.
I have seen both these books on several websites where resin supplies are available, and they are both extremely over-priced. For example one Australian website is selling the Kathie Murphy book for $57AUD, and it is currently available on Amazon for approx. $5.20AUD. I did a lot of searching around and Amazon was by far the best place to purchase both the books (even with the crazy postage prices :-)

So far I have made a few smallish beads with the EasyCast 2-part resin I purchased, and they have been quite good. I used a purpose made polyurethane resin mould, also from EasyCast. The shapes and designs of the mould which has several cavities are quite good, however the resin really does pick up EVERY minute detail which meant that some of my castings came out with unwanted impressions that were left on the mould during production. I tried to gently sand this away without success. So I am in the process of making some of my own moulds using a "pour and mix" type of silicone rubber.
I am quite keen to see the results of this. I am making moulds for several different rings and some bangles also. I have so many ideas racing around in my head and I can't wait to post some photo's of my creations on here for you all to see :-)

Okay, I'm heading back to the studio (a.k.a spare room) to start casting some more of my ideas.
x Shara

Scarflettes

2007-10-08T17:58:00.001+10:00

I started making scarflettes several years ago, and gave it a rest over the last summer... then got distracted by a bunch of new scarf designs and forgot to make some more scarflettes for this years Southern Hemisphere winter :-/ But I'm back on track with them now.
I have changed my designs ever so slightly, for more comfort, warmth, wearability etc. I have found that they are a great way to use special fabric that I only have small quantities of and special vintage buttons that I have been hoarding, waiting for the right project to come along.
I actually made a few of these scarflettes for myself (for a change :-), and I love wearing them. The soft cotton flannelette lining means they are really soft and warm against your skin. And they sit nice and flat, not bulky like a fully grown scarf :-) here is me wearing my Japanese Plum Scarflette.
Here is the Sunshine Scarflette, which is made using some very bright and happy vintage fabric that I picked up from the Camberwell Market a few years ago. I lined it with a very soft, lemon and white gingham print cotton flannelette, and it closes with a sweet little vintage glass button with a happy little yellow bird on it that I got from the button lady.
I also made this very cute Mushroom Scarflette, using extremely sweet Japanese canvas with a colourful mushroom print. I love using this canvas, it sews up really well and sits nicely.
I love this colourway, but I also have access to several other colourways that I'm looking forward to experi- menting with.
I've also made a few scarflettes that I have screen printed images onto, but I haven't managed to photograph those yet, so you'll just have to wait for another day :-)
I have been doing quite a few experiments with my screen printing recently. Screen printing onto suede for bags, and some little girls summer dresses and scarves, so I think that's what I'll write about next. Until then, farewell from Camp Shara :-)

Branching Out...

2007-10-03T18:41:00.001+10:00

I have been branching out recently, and setting up a few new stores, in a few different venues. I figure it can't hurt to have my name and my products out there multiple times for more people to possibly see.
My new store at Dawanda is here and my new store at Felt is here.
Dawanda is based in Germany and has a big European selling base. It's quite interesting to see the differences in the types of items, the quality of the items and the styles when the majority of the sellers are based in Europe, as opposed to Etsy, where the vast majority of sellers are American based. Dawanda has some really interesting features (I haven't figured them all out yet, but give me time :-). The Style Lab is really interesting, and I'm looking forward to adding something of my own there.
Felt is a New Zealand based site, which is relatively new. It's a very attractive site to navigate around, which is always a plus. At the moment there aren't too many sellers there, but it's growing. So if you're looking for a new selling venue for your handmade goodness then why not set up shop on Felt. You definitely won't have to worry about getting buried by the 50,000 other sellers listing their goods! Felt has lots of really great products listed already, so it is worth a look.
I still have my Etsy shop, which you can see here.
Obviously I'm hoping that having my products in so many different places will get me a bit more exposure, therefore helping to raise a bit more revenue :-) So, once I hit the big time I'll be buying that tropical island where I'll have my farm with miniature dachshunds, a couple of donkey's, some chooks, a few alpaca's, a pair of goats, and a studio for me, with lots of natural light, to create in :-)

Welcome to my Blog!

2007-10-03T17:52:00.000+10:00

So, here I am. I finally decided to start my own Blog after spending so much time reading everyone else's.
I'm not really sure what I'll be putting in this blog. I guess I'll just keep you updated with what I'm making.
Stay tuned for more!