handmade living

We have moved!

2011-07-04T18:00:00.002+10:00

The handmade living blog has moved. Please head to the Handmade Canberra blog for updates.

Handmade Living on Kidspot!

2011-05-24T09:19:00.001+10:00

a promo for the features in kidspot's newsletter

Warm thanks to the lovely gals at kidspot.com.au for featuring a heap of good things from our beautiful book - handmade living. They not only featured four of our fabulous designers from the book, they also created a super cool slideshow, revealing some wonderful projects you can make at home...

click to view

We are so proud of this beautiful book - and thrilled with the response we're getting Australia-wide. If you haven't got your hands on a copy yet, you can snaffle one from our website right here!

handmade living in Style magazine

2011-05-16T09:44:00.002+10:00

So exciting to see excerpts of Handmade Living in sensational Style magazine, which covers rural and regional NSW. Huge thanks to Jacqui Greig, editor, for featuring our beautiful book!

handmade living in Homespun Magazine

2011-04-04T13:41:00.002+10:00

What a thrill to see this great review of handmade living in gorgeous magazine - Homespun. Many thanks to the editors for this perfect take on the book! and congrats to the book's illustrator Tina Snerling who has a main feature article and interview win the magazine with some beautiful ballerina dolls. You don't want to miss it.

Sew It Together

2011-03-22T08:55:00.001+11:00

Handmade's very own Shopgirl Jennie McClelland of Posie Patchwork is heading to Sydney for Sew It Together this Saturday 26 March at the Menzies Hotel from 11.45am to 2.30pm.

Jennie will not only be showcasing her stunning wares, but she will be taking a stash of handmade living, signed by the creators and some of the designers. If you want to pick up a copy, just head to Posie's stall and she'll also throw in a fabric stash as a thank you!

If you can't get to Sew it Together, not to worry - you can still buy handmade living right here, or why not pop into Shop and browse before you buy? (and buy and buy... sorry, you'll be sooooo tempted in that shop...)

handmade living in Embroidery & Cross Stitch magazine

2011-03-05T12:41:00.002+11:00

What a beautiful write-up on handmade living in Embroidery & Cross Stitch magazine! Many thanks to the editors for including our beautiful book in the mag - we've already had even more inquiries about the book since this went live! Handmade bliss.

International Women's Day Event

2011-03-03T19:10:00.001+11:00

Join us to celebrate the 100th annivesary of International Women's Day! We at Handmade Canberra are delighted to join forces with sensational new women's website, HerCanberra, to celebrate this momentous occasion with some very special events.

You could win some spectacular prizes thanks to some of our glorious Handmade Designers - and grab the chance to mingle with some pretty special local women - all in honour of a day that recognises and celebrates the achievements of women worldwide.

Things kick off this coming Tuesday 8 March. Click on your exclusive invitation (above) for more!

Handmade Auction for Christchurch

2011-03-02T15:22:00.003+11:00

The dust may have settled in Christchurch, but the pain and loss is still palpable... While Australians have been very hands-on in aiding our kiwi family across the ditch, it's been so inspiring to see people from all over the world reach out to the people of New Zealand and help in any way they can.

But we can always do more.

A band of mums and handmade aficionados based in New Zealand have come together to run a series of auctions to raise funds for Christchurch - Handmade for Christchurch.

"When we heard about the Christchurch earthquake our hearts sank and we all felt so helpless. A couple of our group are from the area and we sat there for hours waiting and waiting to hear if our friends were ok," says mum Roslyn Henley.

"In that time we all chatted and thought of someway that we could help to give a little as we could not leave our families and go and help with the clean up."

The group decided that, as they are all crafters, they would create a group which helped raise money for those affected by the earthquake.

"In the last 24 hours since the group has started, we have received many many responses from people who are willing to take some time out of their busy life to create something for a donation for us to Auction off on Trade Me," says Roslyn.

"As time goes on, the donations are increasing and we would love to be able to raise as much as we can."

Can you spare an hour or two to create something handmade for this wonderful cause? Join the facebook page now...

www.facebook.com/handmadeforchristchurch

...and spread the word far and wide. Auctions will start from this Sunday night.

For direct handmade donations please email: handmade.for.christchurch@gmail.com

Remember, every little bit counts and all money raised will be split between the Christchurch Womans Refuge and The Salvation Army.

Well done, handmade girls! Our hearts are with you and the people of Christchurch.

Handmade Living Launch Party with Creative ArtyFacts

2011-02-25T11:48:00.001+11:00

The lovely Liz Deluca from Creative Arty Facts is not only one of the myriad talented designers in handmade living (you should see her beautiful bling - check out page 82) she is also one lovely chickadee for hosting a sensational handmade living post-launch party in Brisbane on 9 February.

Tanya from TLC books in Manly, Queensland, hosted the event (and made gorgeous cupcakes) and a clutch of handmade lovers came along for bubbles and a natter and a chance to not only peruse the book, but peruse the designers who came to show their wares.

Thanks Liz for hosting such a glorious event - we just wish we could have been there, too!

Learn more about Liz and her beautiful work at http://www.creativeartyfacts.com.au/ and http://www.creativeartyfacts.blogspot.com/

The Next Handmade Book

2011-02-12T15:14:00.001+11:00

Hello everyone and thank you for your patience on news of the application process for A Handmade Christmas.

As you all know, Handmade Canberra has expanded exponentially in the past two years and we've been absolutely delighted with the roaring success of handmade living. Because the book is doing so well, we are going to spend some time focusing on its marketing and promotion (which means promoting YOU!) and therefore, applications for the next book will be delayed until further notice.

Handmade Canberra also has some really exciting plans for 2011/2012 and we'll be busy squirreling away at these projects to bring you even bigger and better ways to promote and maximise your business.

Apologies to those of you keen to apply for A Handmade Christmas - I know there have been many of you! but rest assured, we will let you know when applications are opening. Join our newsletter now and you'll be the first to know! Just head to the Handmade Canberra website and enter your email address on the right hand side of the screen to receive updates straight to your inbox.

I'm looking forward to working with you all again on the next book! and in the meantime, enjoy the glorious creative spoils that is handmade living... and I look forward to seeing you all at next weekend's glorious Handmade Market.

Tania

Flood Relief at Shop During January

2011-01-15T08:51:00.001+11:00

Thanks to their amazing and generous designers, when you shop at Shop Handmade during January, 10% of a large range of wares will go to the Queensland Flood Relief Appeal.

Not only that, the enormously generous owners Julie and Rachel will match, dollar-for-dollar, the donated designer amount, and donate the same amout to the appeal.

Your shopping dollar has always gone 100% to designers at Shop Handmade - and now it will go even further, to aid our friends in Queensland, whose lives have been absolutely devastated by the floods.

Come in to Shop and show your support now - or send a local friend in to snaffle some goodies on your behalf. There's never been a greater time to shop at Shop Handmade.

City Walk, near Akuna Street (diagonally opposite the backdoor of Myer), Canberra City

WIN! handmade living and help the Queensland Flood Appeal

2011-01-13T13:13:00.002+11:00

The amazing Jennie McClelland over at Posie The Blog is running a giveaway of handmade living, along with fabric and other sensational prizes, to raise funds for the Queensland Flood Appeal.

Jennie is a major contributor to handmade living - and her gorgeous soldier husband is currently living in Brisbane on post and she has put together this fabulous giveaway - enter now for your chance to win. All you have to do is donate $5 to the appeal (hopefully you'll part with a little more than that!) and provide a receipt number.

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to offer your support to the thousands of people who had lost everything.

Enter now! and if you just want to donate, head to the direct government donation site.

the next handmade market...

2011-01-10T18:40:00.000+11:00

Don't miss the next sensational Handmade Market - Saturday 19 February at the Canberra Convention Centre. This stunning market is going from strength to strength and is now totally undercover with a mass of stalls featuring designers old and new. You won't want to miss it.

Click here for more details!

handmade living Creations Flickr Group

2011-01-05T08:56:00.001+11:00

Well? Have you created something from our beautiful book handmade living yet? If you have, we cordially invite you to post your photos and/or comments on our new Flickr group - handmade living Creations - www.flickr.com/groups/handmadelivingcreations.

We look forward to seeing your beautiful creations! Spread the word - and keep an eye on the group for creations by our own Handmade Team - my daughter Ella and I are working on something from the book this week... what will it be?

Tania

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T18:08:00.000+11:00

The Handmade Canberra team is taking a well-earned break and will be back on board early January to start planning a fantastic and exciting 2011. Applications for A Handmade Christmas will open in February, so check back for more details then - it will be an exciting project!

Shop Handmade will be closed over Christmas and will re-open on Tuesday 4 January... come on in and say hi!

Wishing you all a joyous and restful Christmas, with lots of delicious handmade surprises. Thank you for joining in the handmade spirit during 2010 - it's been a huge year and we've so loved meeting everyone and sharing this incredible creative journey with you all.

Here's to an even bigger year in 2011 - done in handmade style!

The Handmade Team

xxx

Tracey D excerpt from handmade living in the Herald Sun

2010-12-18T13:36:00.000+11:00

click to enlarge

Big congrats to Tracey Donohoe of Tracey D for this fabulous excerpt from handmade living - published in the Herald Sun's Weekend magazine today!! How utterly exciting! Doesn't it look just fabulous?
It's such a thrill to see handmade living doing so well, only a short time after release. May it continue!

handmade living Book Signing and Chai Tea at Paperchain

2010-12-18T12:08:00.000+11:00

Talk about a wonderful way to wind up a massive weekend of handmade living book launch events...

Illustrator, graphic designer and major contributor Tina Snerling and author Tania McCartney spent an hour at Paperchain bookstore in Manuka, Canberra, for a relaxed and totally lovely book signing, along with the gorgeous Anthea Cahill from RealChai.

We were really in giggle mode and just spent the whole time laughing and chatting and sipping tea with several customers. It was such a lovely experience and so fantastic to share the book with yet more enthusiastic readers and handmade aficionados. Thanks, Paperchain!

handmade living in the Herald Sun this weekend!

2010-12-17T11:46:00.001+11:00

Don't miss this weekend's Herald Sun - a handmade living excerpt will appear in the Weekend magazine. Will the excerpt be YOU!? Don't miss it!

handmade living High Tea and Mini Designer Expo

2010-12-17T11:33:00.001+11:00

What a gorgeous morning we had on Sunday at Dalton's bookstore in Canberra City - a luscious and whimsical high tea for 40 people amongst garden-plucked blossoms and the most gorgeous circle of designers, showcasing their wares on tables for our guests to come and peruse. What better way to celebrate the release of handmade living?

We also had Anthea from RealChai come along with some delectable chai tea sampling, and it was such a pleasure to mingle with talented designers from the book and meet some wonderful new guests who chatted and sipped and even took away some wonderful prizes, thanks to our designers.

Thank you everyone for coming along! and thank you to the lovely Meredith of Dalton's for hosting us.

tiny concept

posie patchwork and mikaela handmade

kate ward

polbymade and highland habitat

tiny concept and anthea from realchai with polly from polbymade

michelle of poppy bean & bloss with kate ward (left) and with naomi of highland habitat

polybymade and mikaela handmade

poppy bean & bloss and polbymade

mikaela of mikaela handmade and highland habitat

naomi of highland habitat and rachel of shop handmade

posie patchwork

the creators sign books: tania mccartney, julie nichols, tina snerling

-:- photos by Tania McCartney and Jennie McClelland -:-

handmade living Launch Party at Shop

2010-12-17T10:05:00.001+11:00

Wow - what a fabulous evening at Shop Handmade in the nation's capital on Friday night, where over 100 people milled in and around the store on a gorgeous twilight summer evening to celebrate the launch of the beauitiful handmade living. Tinkling glasses, giggles, book signings, giveaways and a cash register that didn't stop ringing all night long - everyone delighted in schmoozing with book designers and finishing their Christmas shopping!

Enjoy this peek at a really special night, and thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate!

tina snerling and tania mccartney

model emily currie

tina signs her first book

tania signs her 274th book {or thereabouts}

hilary wardhaugh

jennie mcclelland and louise hall
tina snerling and tania mccartney

gretel evans and adelina la vita

rachel evagelou

stephanie phillips, gretel evans and rosalind grace

naomi bermingham, stephanie phillips, jennie mcclelland and daughter

tina snerling, tania mccartney, stephanie phillips

vanessa akister and rachel evagelou

julie nichols

polly stokes (right)

tina and tania

louise hall, emma kidson, jennie mcclelland

tania mccartney and emma kidson

tania mccartney and tina snerling

ella nichols and julie nichols

rachel evagelou

handmade market, shop and book
tina snerling, tania mccartney, julie nichols, rachel evagelou

handmade living High Tea and Mini Designer Expo

2010-12-08T15:29:00.003+11:00

click to enlarge

Sick of the madness that is the festive season? Feel like a break? Want to sip tea serenely and nibble on treats amongst a gaggle of divine handmade designer tables, chatting to a bunch of really lovely, talented people about all things handmade?

Then come along to this gorgeous high tea at Dalton's bookstore, Canberra, in celebration of the release of handmade living. Enjoy this lovely pre-Christmas treat, meet 9 designers from the book and have a book signed!

There are only a few seats left, so get in quickly! Tickets are free. Email here now.

handmade living launches at the Handmade Christmas Market!

2010-12-05T08:07:00.000+11:00

Biggest. Market. Ever. What were we expecting? There's nothing that can keep punters away from the magic that is Handmade, not even lousy weather and mudpits underfoot.

Saturday started out gloomy with spots of breaking sunshine and even a sliver of far distant blue sky, and - miraculously - the scattered rain that was forecast stayed away COMPLETELY until around 5pm with a teesy rain shower, before gathering up resources and crashing down around 6.30pm, when over 150 stallholders made a mad dash to pack up. What a day of virtually rain-free magic!

But did the threat of rain stop the crowds? Oh no no no. I may have been permanently tied to the handmade living marquee, but the few times I did wander into the grounds, I could not even see for the people covering the grounds and pathways. Stallholders were manic, everyone was smiling, there was laughter, music, product flying off tables, there was even a line for the handmade living marquee on at least 20 occasions. It was absolutely magical.

Louise Hall (Mrs Sew & So's and book contributor) and I headed up the handmade living marquee, and, despite wearing gumboots and standing in a mud puddle for most of the day, had nonstop handmade living buyers all day. I think I quite literally sat down for two minutes in the space of 11 hours.

I also lost count of the amount of compliments and raves about the book - it was such a thrill to hear, and the rest of the gals in the marquee had a ball signing copies of the book for both customers and other designers. So much fun!

Interstate designers - you were well-represented!

Louise Hall and her mud boots

Enjoy this wonderful peek at the launch of handmade living, and be sure to check out photos from the rest of market right here.

hanmade living is launched!

we replenished these books every 30 minutes

queue starts forming for the handmade living marquee

squeezing room only in the handmade living marquee

handmade living marquee designers

Wynona of Ivy Designs and Katie of MissChief Maker

Rachel of Ricochet Art and designer Catalina Voroneanu

Kirsten of Paper by Forget-Me-Not and Kathy of Studio Amara

Sarah of Winter Designs and photographer Hilary Wardaugh

Tanya of Seven Blueberries and designer Caleena Edkins

-:- photos by Tania McCartney -:-

handmade living Blog Tour - Fat Mum Slim

2010-12-04T21:16:00.001+11:00

Chantelle Ellem of Fat Mum Slim would have to be one of the loveliest people I've ever met online - and she has so kindly hosted handmade living on her hugely-popular blog - with a divine post on her own version of the brownie recipe by Heidi Ross of The Curious Chocolatier. You've got to check them out - Chantelle says they're the most beautiful brownies she's ever tasted.

And I've also been grinning from ear to ear - I've inspired Chantelle with my children's singlet embellishment project!

Thank you, Fat Mum Slim - you're a joy.

handmade living Blog Tour - An Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

2010-12-03T11:24:00.003+11:00

We're in the States! Thanks to the absolutely gorgeous Kristin Salazar of An Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, we are touring around California, as we speak, heating up the handmade world in the States! Kristin is featuring a post on combining a cottage business with raising a family, and features designers Caleena Edkins and Stephanie Phillips of Mon Petit Poppet. Enjoy this fascinating post - we're sure you can relate to it.

We're loving Kristin's beautiful site and it was such a thrill to visit - thank you Kristin!

Have you checked out the other incredible blogs we've visited on tour? Don't miss some really fascinating articles and sneak peeks at the book - and learn about some wonderful blogs at the same time! Tour ends tomorrow!

handmade living Blog Tour - Find Make Do

2010-12-03T08:24:00.004+11:00

Thanks to the gorgeous Betty Jo of Find Make Do for the sensational handmade living blog tour post on designer Caleena Edkins! Enjoy this gorgeous insight on our second last day on tour!

Handmade Market and Book Launch!

2010-12-02T22:32:00.002+11:00

See you at the Handmade Christmas Market
for the Australia-wide launch of handmade living!

Saturday 4 December

11am to 7pm

Kamberra Wine Company, Canberra

handmade living Blog Tour - made it

2010-12-02T15:41:00.004+11:00

Look at this gorgeous blog tour post by the lovely Bec from made it - who asked me some questions about the book... so much fun to answer. Another fabulous handmade living blog tour post. Enjoy!

Handmade Canberra Times Feature

2010-12-02T13:07:00.004+11:00

click to enlarge

Wow - just look at the Handmade Market spread in yesterday's Canberra Times~! A gorgeous collection of designers... I'm already drooling. See you there!

handmade living Blog Tour - Life and Other Crises

2010-12-02T07:13:00.001+11:00

If you're a chocolate-lover (who isn't?), you've just got to head to Life and Other Crises to read this hilarious blog tour post by Kerri Sackville. Make yourself a cup of tea and laugh out loud at her chocolate experience in handmade living. Just glorious.Thanks for having us, Kerri!

handmade living Signing and Chai Tea!

2010-12-01T17:28:00.001+11:00

Come and join the handmade living team and some of the book designers for a signing and divine Chai Tea sampling with the lovely Anthea from RealChai (and she's in the book!).

RSVP to the lovely people at Paperchain, Manuka on 6295 6723 - or just pop in on the day, and invite your family and friends! Don't miss this amazing opportunity to meet the book's creators and dive into this stunning publication.

handmade living Blog Tour - Perth Upmarket

2010-12-01T15:27:00.001+11:00

Big thanks to Justine from Perth Upmarket for featuring NINE - yes, you heard it - nine WA designers, for your reading pleasure! Enjoy this fabulous insight into more handmade living talent! Thanks, Justine!

handmade living Blog Tour - A Spoonful of Sugar!

2010-12-01T10:12:00.001+11:00

How lucky are we to be blog touring some of the most illustrious blogs on the web for our handmade living book launch!? Make sure you check out this gorgeous post from Ros of Grace Designs on Handmade Christmas Gifts on absolutely beautiful blog A Spoonful of Sugar.

Thanks for having us, Lisa and Sarah! x

handmade living Blog Tour - Lark

2010-11-30T19:12:00.001+11:00

Just take a look at these gorgeous profiles of three of handmade living's amazing designers... as featured on the Lark Blog today. Click on each picture to read more about Emma Kidson of Kidson Jewellery, Wynona Leach of Ivy Designs and artist Kate Ward.

Thank you Allison! Enjoy this wonderful insight into some real Australian talent on the beautiful Lark Blog.

Are you keeping up with this amazing tour? Click here for the full schedule!

handmade living Blog Tour - The Happy Home

2010-11-29T13:27:00.002+11:00

Huge thanks to Handmade Canberra friend all-round gorgeous girl Belinda from The Happy Home for this sensational blog tour article, featuring the talented Rachel Bilal of Ricochet Art! Don't miss it.

handmade living Blog Tour - Australian Women Online

2010-11-29T08:07:00.001+11:00

Well, just look at handmade living on Australian Women Online! This article - handmade is the new black - reveals to readers all over the country how special handmade living and its content is... and also features comments from designers Stephanie Lee of Stelloberry Designs, Polly Stokes of Polbymade and Lyn Hellewell of Pinnigan. Enjoy!

handmade living Blog Tour - Tiny Concept

2010-11-28T21:36:00.002+11:00

Day Two of our beautiful blog tour and we have stopped off at the blog of handmade living illustrator Tina Snerling of Tiny Concept! As you will see when you look at the book, Tina does things with such whimsical style... enjoy her beautiful blog post - and a sneak peek at her illustrations in the book!

handmade living Blog Tour - Thea and Sami

2010-11-28T08:28:00.002+11:00

Exclusive! As part of the handmade living BLOG TOUR, the divine Ms Thea from Thea and Sami has posted some sneak peek photos of our beautiful book - along with a very exclusive interview with author Tania on the making of the book. Check out this stunning post now!

handmade living Blog Tour - Posie Patchwork

2010-11-27T22:05:00.001+11:00

The handmade living BLOG TOUR kicked off with a sensational conversation between book author Tania McCartney and main book contributor Jennie McClelland of Posie Patchwork. Don't miss this glorious post, and leave a comment for your chance to win a copy of the book!

Update: Want to win over $150 worth of designer fabric! If Posie's article reaches 100 comments, the winner will also receive this stunning fabric stash with their copy of the book!!

Look Who's Following us on Twitter!

2010-11-27T07:31:00.001+11:00

*Cough cough*. Told you this was going to be big.

What people are saying about handmade living!

2010-11-26T20:35:00.003+11:00

She's almost here... Handmade Canberra's stunning inaugural publication - handmade living: a designer collective. It has certainly been a labour of love - from the initial designer call out... to the myriad of cover options (can you now see how hard it was to choose the final cover!?)... and on 4 December, you can all see this magnificent book for yourself at Handmade Market and Shop Handmade, and Australia-wide from 6 December.

When you've snaffled your copy and pored over it with your creative heart in your throat, do drop us a line and tell us what you think!

The media have their review copies and are asking for interviews and excerpts (stay tuned for more info on that!), wholesaling designers are getting their copies, and the word is spreading - this book is like nothing Australia has ever seen before. Handmade designers rejoice... this is going to be big.

Here's just some of the comments we're receiving, and the book hasn't even hit the shelves yet...

The book is a real credit to you, Julie, Tina and all those involved. Just gorgeous! - Julie Samaras, Editor, Canberra Weekly

The quality of the book and presentation exceeded my expectations - it is just lovely and a credit to you and the team. I was also really impressed with the originality and cleverness of many of the projects - I think this will make it stand out in the marketplace. I'm thrilled to be a part of it. - Nic from Yardage Design

Congratulations on the book, it’s really something to be amazingly proud of, well done you!! - Jennie from Posie Patchwork

I have got to say the book has exceeded my wildest expectations. You must be so proud of yourself, the book is truly amazing. I have NEVER seen anything quite like it. I have quite a few craft books but they are nothing in comparison and it is truly inspirational! - Ali from Park Eden

The books arrived this morning... words almost fail me. You must be thrilled with the final product. Well done - it is truly stunning. It’s such an honour to be featured in this publication alongside my creative contemporaries. - Kirsten of Paper by Forget Me Not

OMG OMG OMG OMG!!! So beautiful, I am drooling over the pages right now!! LOVE! - Emma of Kidson Jewellery

The book is a winner....congrats. - Liz of Betty Jo Designs

Your beautiful book arrived today and it is amazing! It has so many inspiring projects – the hard part will be deciding which project to make first. It truly is a visual feast. {My daughter} has already identified some projects that she wants to make – I can see it will get a lot of use during the school holidays. I especially love the broad range of projects, as we love to dabble in lots of different crafts. With most craft books you may find one or two projects of interest but yours is full to the brim of lovely, inspiring ideas. - Lisa of A Spoonful of Sugar

Lou and I held our breath this afternoon and opened the box that held our copies of handmade living. The book is exquisite. I was expecting something great, but it is even better than I thought it would be. I am so thrilled and proud to have been part of something so wonderful. - Michelle of Poppy Bean & Bloss

My books arrived in the post on Thursday and I was so delighted with them, I have ordered 5 more for Christmas presents! - Amy of Happy as Larry Designs

I just finished looking through my copy of the book and I can honestly tell you that it's the most beautiful craft book that I have ever seen. I am so proud that it is Australian and all Aussie craft lovers need to buy this book! It's truly fabulous. Congratulations to all involved! I so want to be part of the next book. – Thea from Thea & Sami {Ed: and we want you to be part of it!}

If you would like to stock handmade living in your shop or online, contact Janet at Dennis Jones and Associates. Did I say this was going to be big?

handmade living in The Canberra Weekly!

2010-11-19T09:30:00.002+11:00

click to enlarge

Eternal thanks to the lovely Julie Samaras for this fantastic profile on handmade living in the Canberra Weekly! Readers can win one of three sensational packs - which include the book and a gorgeous handmade sewing kit by our own Jennie McClelland of Posie Patchwork!

how to apply for A Handmade Christmas.

2010-11-18T12:09:00.004+11:00

Applications for Handmade Canberra's second book will be out some time in 2011. Watch this blog for more information.

handmade living LAUNCH PARTY!

2010-11-16T14:00:00.002+11:00

handmade living Blog Tour Schedule

2010-11-12T18:24:00.011+11:00

handmade living is on tour!

Handmade Canberra is thrilled to announce its handmade living Book Launch Blog Tour! The tour will commence Saturday 27 November and run until the book launch on Saturday 4 December.

We will be ‘touring’ a stunning line-up of blogs – and you can follow it right along. It’s going to be a lot of fun! and we hope to see you there, sharing a glass of virtual bubbles! Enjoy every glorious handmade moment.

Saturday 27 November
Posie Patchwork
What is handmade living?

Sunday 28 November
Thea and Sami
How handmade living Was Produced

Sunday 28 November
Tiny Concept
Illustrating handmade living

Monday 29 November
Australian Women Online
Handmade Is the New Black & book giveaway!

Monday 29 November
The Happy Home
Designer Interview

Tuesday 30 November
Lark
Designer Profiles - Kate Ward, Kidson Jewellery, Ivy Designs

Tuesday 30 November
Tania McCartney
Sneak Peek!

Wednesday 1 December
A Spoonful of Sugar
Handmade Christmas gifts

Wednesday 1 December
Perth Upmarket
Western Australian Designers

Thursday 2 December
made it
Book Profile

Thursday 2 December
Life and Other Crises
handmade living Choc-Fest

Friday 3 December
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia
Combining a Cottage Business with Raising a Family

Friday 3 December
Find Make Do
Designer Profile

Saturday 4 December
Fat Mum Slim
Project Recreation

Saturday 4 December
Handmade Canberra
Book Giveaways

Handmade Living Launch Schedule

2010-11-07T06:00:00.001+11:00

Wow! Just take a peek at the amazing line up of events we have scheduled for the launch of handmade living!

Saturday 27 November – handmade living. blog tour online - the tour schedule coming soon - wait til you see who we're visiting!!

Saturday 4 December – handmade living. launch at Handmade Christmas Market

Friday 10 December – handmade living. launch party at Shop Handmade

Saturday 11 December – handmade living. book stall at the Canberra Centre

Sunday 12 December – handmade living. high tea, book signing and mini designer expo at Dalton’s Bookstore, Canberra

Sunday 12 December – handmade living. book signing and book giveaways at Paperchain Bookstore, Manuka

Stay tuned - lots more info soon!

High Tea Event at Dalton's in Canberra

2010-10-22T13:02:00.000+11:00

Dear Designers,

If you haven't received an email outlining our fabulous line up of events for the launch of handmade living, please email Louise to have it resent.

One of the main events we're hosting is a gorgeous high tea at Dalton's bookstore on Sunday 12 December at 10:30am. W're inviting 10 designers to be part of this exclusive event, by hosting thir own card-sized table, showcasing their wares.

This will be display-only and although items can't be sold, you're welcome to do up order forms and provide cards and all your contact details to prospective buyers.

This will be a casual 90-minute event - you won't be required to stand at a table all the time - we'd love you to mingle with guests, have a cup of tea and sign books!

There's only 2 spots left - so get in quick if you want to be part of this glorious high tea. Contact Tania now.

And don't forget, we also have a book signing at Paperchain bookstore in Manuka on that same day - at 2.30pm. We'd love you to come along and sign books - bring your friends and family!

Advance copies of handmade living arrive!

2010-10-19T10:28:00.003+11:00

Well, look what arrived in a yellow express satchel just now... advance copies of handmade living! I was almost too scared to look at first... but they are beautiful. Just beautiful.

And now they are on their way to Canberra for us to disseminate to handmade lovers Australia-wide. And all you beautiful Handmade designers look stunning inside... just wait til you see.

Look out Australia - our book is on the way!!

Tania

x

Book Coming Soon!

2010-10-14T13:52:00.000+11:00

Hi all!

There has been a bit of hiatus as we wait for handmade living to print, but we have had confirmation that the books should be with us by the third week of November! So this is only 4 - 5 weeks away.

For those of you have ordered books to sell, you should receive your stock in the last week of November, if not earlier. We will let you know if the books arrive sooner than estimated.

It's all very exciting here at Handmade Canberra. We have been busy prepping lots of promotional events and will be sending out an email update soon.

Hope you're all well and staying creative!

The Handmade Team

Organising a handmade living party or launch?

2010-09-06T14:25:00.003+10:00

Hi all!

We are getting closer and closer to book launch time and some of you are expressing interest in hosting or organising a launch event of your own, in your own home town. If you are interested in connecting with other handmade living designers from your area or state, please email Tania - who will be happy to put you in touch with other designers.

We will be holding several book signing events here in Canberra, too, and will soon be inviting you to participate - more news soon!

The Handmade Team

a little red ribbon on How About Orange

2010-08-31T08:24:00.000+10:00

One of handmade living's gorgeous designers - a little red ribbon - has been featured on How About Orange. Gretel's sweet little embellished drawstring bag appears, with a link to her tutorial.

Congrats, Gretel! Gorgeous!

handmade living in Dennis Jones Catalogue - Nov 2010

2010-08-30T19:45:00.001+10:00

Well, here it is, everyone! handmade living in the Dennis Jones & Associates November 2010 book distribution catalogue - this is the catalogue that is distributed to bookstores Australia-wide.

How exciting is that!?

Now - who wouldn't want to order this fabulous book for their store!? Make sure you check with your local bookstore - and see if they're stocking handmade living. They won't regret it!

Complimentary Copies and Wholesaling

2010-08-27T17:22:00.002+10:00

Hello gorgeous designers!

We've had a query from a designer over the wholesale price for copies she wishes to buy for personal use. Good question!

Remember, as outlined in the Designer Info pack and also on this website, every designer who appears in the book receives one complimentary copy. These copies will be available for pick up in Canberra from 4 December or by mail (in which case the designer pays postage).

Orders for books via the Handmade Canberra website or in stores or at the Shop or Market won't be offered at a wholesale price. The wholesale price of handmade living is for onselling only. This is for designers who wish to sell the book. We worked hard to strike this deal with Dennis Jones & Associates so that designers could make a nice little profit by onselling – and also, of course, so the book reaches a further audience.

Wholesale price therefore isn’t available unless you wish to onsell the book. Obviously, it's important this is adhered to.

Do be in touch if you have any more questions about this.

Only a few months now until handmade living is born!

Warmest wishes,

The Team

Want to Wholesale handmade living?

2010-08-17T08:19:00.005+10:00

Dear all,

Yesterday you were sent wholesale details by email - we've come up with an amazing package for you via our distributor Dennis Jones & Associates - with quite an incredible discount on retail. What a wonderful opportunity to onsell copies of handmade living and with either low or no shipping costs - how cool is that!?

If you need to ask questions about accessing the books, when they will be available, how you pay for them, returns, etc etc, you will need to talk directly with Janet Judge at DJAs. Her email address was provided to you in the wholesaling email.

Have fun! Less than four months til the book's release...

The Handmade Team

Retro Mummy in the Blogosphere

2010-08-16T19:05:00.003+10:00

Congrats to handmade living designer Corrie from Retro Mummy for being picked as one of kidspot's top female bloggers! You can vote for Corrie right here. Go Corrie! Go Corrie!

The Proof is in the Pudding - or... Book

2010-08-12T16:10:00.000+10:00

Do you know what this is? It's a proof. Of a book. Of OUR book - handmade living.! And oh boy oh boy oh boy does it looks stunning inside.

As we go over these proofs and make sure everything in handmade living., is super-perfect, we get closer and closer to churning out pages on the printing press.

The countdown is definitely on!!

Book Launch Parties

2010-08-10T10:35:00.003+10:00

Have you all read through and absorbed your media kits? Already we have had several designers begin to talk about creating a fabulous launch party - in their own town, and it's all very exciting.

How much fun would it be to have simultaneous launch parties all over Australia? Our launch party here in Canberra will be on Friday 10 December - in the early evening. Maybe you, too, could organise your launch party for that time, and we could feature photos from your parties on the blog.

Think about inviting your local media, facebooking about it and getting loads of people to come along. Some designers are organising demonstrations of their products in the book, too - such great ideas are coming to the fore.

Make sure you email us with your plans so we can help you promote!

The Handmade Team

Media Kit

2010-08-07T15:34:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone!

We have just sent you all a media kit by email, outlining ways you can promote yourself in handmade living. We've also included a suggested timeline to help you whip the next few months into a publicity frenzy that should bring plenty of attention to your business.

If you didn't receive the email or need more info, please contact us. Have fun!

The Handmade Living Team

Designer Focus - Kellie Christie

2010-08-06T09:25:00.000+10:00

One of our fabulous designers in handmade living., Kellie Christie, was thrilled to see one of her fans - the divine Miss Maggie Beer, no less - wearing her gorgeous button necklace. One of our most famous chefs, Maggie was also seen wearing another of Kellie's necklaces on MasterChef Australia recently.

Such a thrill to see our hard-earned creations being enjoyed by people, especially on national television - well done Kellie!

You'll see several of Kellie's wonderful creations in handmade living. this 4 December.

Book has gone to print!

2010-08-04T15:29:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone!

Well, our book files have today left for the printer and now begins the long process of to-ing and fro-ing with proofs and having the book printed and assembled. It's a very exciting time and we are soooo thrilled with how the book is looking; we can't wait for you to see it!

Very soon we will be providing you with information on how you can wholesale handmade living, and will also be providing you a media pack that will allow you to begin your own promotional quest - highlighting your involvement in this book will be a phenomenal way to bring attention to your own business.

We'll also provide you with a timeline that will allow you to make the most of the book's launch, and of course - you are all invited to the launch party in Canberra on 10 December! Why not think about having your own book launch party where you live?

More soon...

Promoting yourself!

2010-07-29T09:57:00.003+10:00

Well everyone, we are moments from finalising your GLORIOUS pages. I cannot even begin to tell you how stunning this book is looking and it's all thanks to YOU! We are just thrilled.

Very soon we'll be sending files to print, then the long, agonising wait begins... BUT in the meantime, we will be very busy starting the handmade living. promotional train - departing from Canberra and travelling the entire country (and New Zealand!) with news on this incredibly beautiful and totally unique book.

Can you believe you're part of such a beautiful, unique Australian book!?

Very soon we'll be getting you some information on how you can jump on that promotional train and use handmade living. as a way to promote and bring nation-wide attention to your business. When this information arrives, read through it carefully and if you have further questions, don't hesitate to contact us.

We'll also soon be releasing information on how you can wholesale and onsell copies of handmade living. - not only to make yourself some extra dollars, but to use the book as an incredibly effective marketing tool for your own business.

Coming soon!

Tania

x

Yes, you can start promoting!

2010-07-21T08:07:00.006+10:00

Dear Designers,

The Handmade Canberra website has received an unprecedented amount of hits in the hours after revealing the handmade living. cover. We've already received a heap of pre-orders and one of the country's major magazines has even requested a review copy!!!

Some of you are asking if you can use the cover on your blogs and websites - yes please - do it! Promote and celebrate as much as you can - tell everyone you're inside this luscious book (although don't reveal exactly what! that's a surprise!).

Your friends and family can pre-order copies on the Handmade Canberra website now and we'll let you know soon how you can organise any wholesale copies, if you wish to onsell the book.

It's still early days - but boy are they amazing ones!!!

handmade living. - THE COVER!

2010-07-20T14:17:00.008+10:00

You've seen the designer info. You've worked your heart out. You've sent in all we've needed to create a masterpiece, and now - here it is - no, it's not the movie (yet!) - it's the book cover!

We are thrilled to showcase the final book cover for handmade living - we hope you agree it incorporates all we have worked hard to achieve (and are still working to achieve!). As we finalise and proof pages, releasing this cover is an emotional and very exciting time for us all.

Enjoy this fabulous cover and don't forget - you can order copies for family and friends now on the Handmade Canberra website.

Hurrah!

Book cover is nigh...

2010-07-19T15:01:00.001+10:00

We are about to reveal the cover of handmade living... after many hours of umming and ahhing and sighing... the cover is nigh! Hang tight - we'll be revealing it soon! And you'll also be able to pre-order any copies you'd like for family and friends. First 200 ordered get signed copies... stayed tuned!

New Look Handmade Canberra Website

2010-07-14T05:32:00.000+10:00

Have you taken a peek at the stunning new look Handmade Canberra website? You might just notice some changes. The astoundingly dedicated and super stylish Julie Nichols has been hard at work creating this amazing new site, with links to designer information and blogs a breeze.

Combining the Market, the Shop and the Book under one new title - Handmade Canberra - the website look has been designed by the über talented Tina Snerling, and this whole new layout has been specially recreated by Julie to make it easier to navigate and access information throughout the Handmade three-part empire!

Great work, Julie! Love it!

Calendar Postponed for 2010

2010-07-08T08:22:00.003+10:00

Dear Designers,

We are enormously saddened to announce the handmade living calendar for 2010 has been postponed until 2011. Due to our massive production schedule and time issues in coordinating over 100 of you(!) we regret the calendar has taken a little bit of a back seat.

Tina has been snowed helping with the book for this year, but next year we will definitely offer the calendar once again - keep an eye on this site for news about both the new book and calendar from January next year.

Thank you to everyone who applied - the calendar will be back even bigger next year.

In other news, the book is deep into production and we are currently shooting a variety of cover shots. Will you see your product on the cover??

Tania

Photo Shoot Peek

2010-06-27T13:58:00.007+10:00

Want to know what's happening 'behind the scenes' here at handmade living? Here are some production peeks you might have fun scrolling through...

We're working seven days a week, day and night to make the most of your beautiful wares for this amazing book. Enjoy this random peek!

First... at our book contributor portrait shots... I wonder who this lovely gal is, hiding behind the flower (above), being encaptured by fab photographer Hilary Wardaugh...

And here are some photo shoots with Hilary and her dog Jeremy. You may catch a glimpse of Anthea Cahill from Real Chai here... and also Polly Stokes from Polbymade and Shop's own Elle, reading from Le Château de Ma Mère (as you do).

Here is a peek at a little styling I did for a recent, very delicious shoot... let's just say I did almost as much eating as I did photography...

And here I am today, styling and shooting yet another... in my own backyard!

Lastly, a look at my office last week. It has since gotten worse... there's not an inch of floor space now!

Fun fun fun!

Tania
x

Calling all designers - exciting update on our calendar!

2010-06-25T09:10:00.006+10:00

I am so excited to announce some wonderful changes happening to our gorgeous calendar. As you may know, a newsletter was circulated announcing a new lower application fee that will be offered to designers interested in applying for the last few spots in the calendar. Given your overwhelming support of Handmade Living, we thought we would give something back by reducing the fee to just $199.00! For those talented designers who have already been accepted, you will also be offered this new lower fee.

Such a wonderful opportunity to have your creations showcased for an entire month in our stunning postcard calendar. Along with a styled photo shoot of your product (to be shot on location in Brisbane), you will receive a month dedicated to you and your business.

We will also be running a competition, where one talented designer who has been accepted into our calendar will receive their spot FREE! More details on this exciting opportunity coming very soon!

We have received an overwhelming response for applications packs, so be quick if you would like to be considered for this amazing opportunity. Please contact Tina, if you would like to receive yours!

Address for Posting

2010-06-22T07:48:00.004+10:00

Some of you are scouring the website looking for an address to send submissions to... please check your initial instructional email (with your invoice attached), which outlined exactly where to send everything(!).

The address is also at the end of every email we've sent you - in the email signature. It's NOT the PO Box.

:)

Less than One Week til Submission Deadline!

2010-06-20T18:35:00.002+10:00

Less than one week 'til submission deadline!

We are so excited about your glorious work coming in - keep it coming! The quality and presentation has been just gorgeous and we are thrilled to compile and put all this together for you. The hours are incredibly long but we are loving it!

Remember, work cannot be late or it will miss the production boat (quite literally). If you are going to have trouble getting work in on Friday, please be in touch with Tania asap. You don't want to risk having your work cut from the book.

We're so looking forward to having all your work in hand by Friday and prepping your pages beautifully for printing.

We'll keep you posted!

Designers are so stylish!

2010-06-11T08:14:00.002+10:00

Part of the pleasure of receiving gorgeous handmade products to shoot for handmade living. is not only the items themselves, but the way in which designers package them. So cute, so stylish, so creative - like Christmas and birthdays all rolled into one and I have to open and gasp in surprise!

They're so cute, I've been leaving them for the kids to open after school! But then, of course, I then have to swat them away, as they want absolutely everything they open for themselves... hmmm.... sounds like someone else I know... me!

Tania

Photographer Credits

2010-06-09T15:00:00.002+10:00

Hello fabulous designers!

All is going wonderfully with book production - we are well underway and your pieces are looking amazing! Thank you to everyone who has already sent in their work - and if you do not have a feature, you should have everything to us by now, or on the way.

Don't forget to send us any photographer credits. We will not be chasing these, so make sure your photographer gets the credit they're due, if this applies to you.

Hope you're having fun!

Tania

Copyright Confusion

2010-06-04T08:33:00.005+10:00

A small handful of you are still confused about copyright.

We do not and will never own copyright to your products or ideas. It is the feature in handmade living. that we own copyright to. Text, layout, design, photos if we took them for you.

The handmade living feature we create with you is exclusive to us, for use in the book. Its appearance in the book is under embargo until publication date, essentially meaning you can't announce to the world "Look at my gorgeous product I've been making for 20 years and will continue to make for another 20 years - it will be featured in handmade living!" This is why we've asked you to keep your product's appearance in the book to yourself.

This doesn't mean you can't sell your product, promote your product, talk about your product, blog about your product, use photos of your product. We just ask that you don't reveal what you are having featured in handmade living until after publication date.

You have and always will retain copyright to your item, to its marketing, sale, promotion and intellectual property, now, whilst in the book and forever more. It's just the printed feature that handmade living owns copyright to (as with every publication ever created).

Please do contact us if this still isn't clear.

The Draft Tome

2010-05-31T14:53:00.005+10:00

Do you know what this is? It's a great tome of hulking treasure, all stacked and compiled and slotted in - each and every one of you has a place. It's a draft layout of the book - and completed typset pages are being inserted as they're finished. There may only be a handful complete but, of course, we're expecting a rush in the next three weeks!

Just had to tell you that you're all amazing, and your work is looking incredible!

Tania

In Production

2010-05-30T17:01:00.004+10:00

handmade living. is now well under production, with items starting to come in - there's some gorgeous projects in-hand right now!

A few housekeeping notes...

Remember, the deadline for receiving all submissions is Friday 25 June. This is only a few short weeks away and we regret that any late submissions risk being pulled (with full refund). We need to strictly adhere to production schedules if we want to get this book printed on time. If you think your submission will be even a day late, you must let us know NOW.

If you only have to send in a product for us to photograph, or a product photo and short blurb, please get these in asap; we do expect these simple items well before the deadline.

There will be no business logos or relevant fonts printed in handmade living.

The quarter page and half page features are not 'advertisements'. They are editorials and will be written to reflect this.

A reminder that the handmade living. team has full editorial control over photographs, text, layout and design of your piece. We are experts with a lot of experience and are aiming to make the most of your work, whilst still fitting the style and theme of the book. Your work will never, in the least, be compromised, however, we remind you to let go of all expectations or preconceived ideas on how your work will appear in handmade living. If you are concerned about this, please email Tania.

In parallel with publications of all genres, no pre-publication drafts, photographs, proofs or layouts are shared outside the production team.

As pages come together, we have to say, the book is looking stunning. Hang in there... the book's launch in December will be here before we know it!

Happy creating, everyone.

the handmade living. team

Using Product Photos After Publication

2010-05-27T10:00:00.004+10:00

Good morning all,

Some of you have queries on utilising photos of your products post-book-publication.

We hope the following answers your questions, but please don't hesitate to contact us if are still unsure.

If you are sending us a photo that you took, the copyright remains yours and you are giving us permission to print the photo in the book, royalty-free. We do ask that you refrain from posting this exact photo online or anywhere else until the book is published. If this photo has already appeared on your website or elsewhere, that's fine so long as you don't mention it will be in handmade living.

If you are sending a photo that your friend or a photographer took, the copyright remains to that person, and they are giving us permission to print the photo in the book, royalty-free. We do ask that you refrain from posting this exact photo online or anywhere else until the book is published. If this photo has already appeared on your website or elsewhere, that's fine so long as you don't mention it will be in handmade living.

If we are photographing your item for you, the photo will remain copyright of handmade living. and cannot be used anywhere else except in the book.

If you would like to promote your product by referencing your article in handmade living., this would be wonderful - so long as you utilise the ENTIRE ARTICLE - that is, photograph and any text, scanned and copied directly from the book. You can use this anywhere you like, so long as you always reference handmade living. each time you do so.

If you wanted to gain access to any photos we have taken of your product, you can purchase copyright from the photographer, and the cost will vary, depending on who takes the photo. You can purchase similar photos but not the actual ones used in the book. If you purchase these photos, you will obtain ownership and copyright.

As already stated on this blog and in your designer info pack, you have full rights to the work that appears in handmade living. and can sell it, use it or promote it any way you like, now, yesterday or tomorrow. We just ask that you do not mention that particular product will be featured in handmade living. until after publication.

Any more questions, please ask.

Parcels Are Arriving!

2010-05-26T14:50:00.002+10:00

So much fun to have parcels arriving in the mail - boxes and packages filled with designer treasure! It's like Christmas and birthdays all rolled into one and it's so fabulous to see the talent unfolding before us. Photographs are being taken and pages are being assembled... it's so exciting.

Just a reminder when you send your parcel in, please remember to write Tania McCartney or Tina Snerling - whomever you're sending it to - on the package. Having no name makes it very difficult when receiving a registered parcel.

Keep 'em coming!

Regarding Sneak Peeks and Copyright Issues

2010-05-22T10:08:00.003+10:00

Hi again all,

There's a teensy bit of confusion over your copyrighted work for handmade living.

Your Products

Your products are not copyrighted to us - their appearance in handmade living. is. In the designer info pack, we stated that any of your products appearing in handmade living. are completely owned retained by you - of course, you can continue to make and market and sell and these products without any commitment to us - in the future or even right now.

If you have photos of your product being featured in handmade living. on your website or blog, either now or in the future, that's perfectly okay. If you mention alongside that product, however - "this is going to be featured in handmade living!" that is giving away our content! and so we'd ask that you don't mention this until post-publication. After the book is published, please feel free to mention this anywhere and everywhere (in fact, we encourage it!).

Photos

Any photos you provide us do not become copyright to handmade living. They are retained by you or your photographer. We are only printing them with your (or your photographer's) permission.

Any photos we take of your products are copyright to handmade living, and are retained by us. You can't use these photos at all, anywhere else. Once the book is published and if you want to use the book as a marketing tool for your business (we hope you do!), you are asked to use your entire piece in its entirety - with both photo and text, so long as you mention the book each time.

If you would like to obtain copyright and ownership of some of the photos taken by us, you are more than welcome to talk with the relevant photographer, and we can put you in touch with them. They will offer some heavily discounted prices on any similar photos (that are not used in the book). You will gain copyright and ownership of these photos and you also won't pay a shooting fee! So please let us know if you'd like to take advantage of this.

Thank you to all of you who have sent back your copyright confirmation emails. Remember, you need to state in writing that the work submitted to handmade living. is your own, in its entirety. Apologies for these extra asks, but these things are a publication requirement.

Hope this clears things up - please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns about any copyright issues.

Please Don't Give 'Sneak Peeks' Of Your Work

2010-05-21T19:27:00.005+10:00

As book enters its production stage, we realise designers are really thrilled and excited about their place in handmade living.

Although we know it's very tempting to show friends, family and even your blog readers (!) a little peek at the work going in handmade living. - and we know how utterly excited you are to share - please remember that the work you're creating is copyrighted to handmade living. and it's not ok to showcase even a teensy peek at the work going into the book.

This kind of 'secrecy' applies to all publications - so please remember to keep all images, ideas, text and even in-process parts of your beautiful application to yourself.

If you have posted a peek on your blog or website, we'd be enormously grateful if you could remove it.

Thanks everyone for your understanding!

Julie, Tania and Tina

x

See Regarding Sneak Peeks and Copyright Issues for more info.

Deadlines for Publications

2010-05-17T07:37:00.004+10:00

Deadlines for Handmade Canberra publications must be strictly adhered to.

Due to the monumental task of compiling these amazing books and the fact that there are only a handful of us, any late applications, feature submissions or payments will automatically lose their placing and will have to rejoin the queue.

Any late arrivals will NOT be chased by us, and your place will automatically be offered to the next designer in the queue. We apologise in advance for this, but we take pride in offering plenty of time for designers to apply, submit and pay.

Please do NOT apply for our publications if you cannot apply, submit or pay on time.

Deadlines for A Handmade Christmas will be posted mid-January.

Book is Almost Full!

2010-05-14T14:44:00.003+10:00

Dear Designers,

What an exciting time it is for the handmade living team - we are busily compiling your design ideas into our pages and it's going to be amazing!

Since offering two new packages, we've been inundated and the book is almost full. From early next week, we are going to have to unofficially close any extra applications, as we need to get started on book production, and in order to do this, we need all pages cemented in.

If you are still interested in submitting something, you will really need to get it to us asap. You are welcome to send in your application next week, but please be aware it's very unlikely it will be accepted from Monday onwards.

Great work, everyone! We can't wait to show you this book!

Julie, Tania and Tina

The Calendar is still Open until 26 June

2010-05-11T08:08:00.006+10:00

The calendar applications will remain open Tuesday 26 June but hurry - places are limited and filling fast.

If you have missed out on the book or don't have the time or wherewithall to take part in the book, please consider the calendar... Tina Snerling is taking care of this and she will do a STUNNING job of your work - you get an entire month! Check out the Calendar info here for more, and be in touch with Tina if you have any queries.

Thank you to everyone for your stunning applications! We will be in touch with you all by Friday 14 May. Good luck!

the handmade living team.

If you can't open any mail links directly, see CONTACT in the left hand column for an email address.

End of Chapter Product Feature

2010-05-10T16:29:00.001+10:00

Hello lovely designers,

As we move through this book creation process, things crop up all the time, so please forgive me if I'm stating the obvious... but yet another little reminder...

The End of Chapter Product photo features only ONE photo of your product. You will not have a whole page of your products. You share the page with other designers in your category.

Keep the apps coming! There's still time!

:)

handmade living. in the Canberra Times

2010-05-10T11:54:00.004+10:00

Click to enlarge

So fabulous to be mentioned in the Canberra Times on Sunday - our gorgeous book is becoming the talk of the town! We're so excited about this glorious project.

Contents Page and Back Cover

2010-05-09T17:32:00.004+10:00

Hi all,

Just a note on the Contents Page and Back Cover features.

You need to have a How-To, Three-Ways or Five-Ways feature in the book if you would like to go on the Contents Page. The Contents Page shows the contents of the book and where readers can find a project or a how-to.

The Back Cover similarly showcases something significant that can be found in the book, for the reader to do.

Having a photo of your product on the 'End of Chapter products page' is not enough to allow you to be featured on the Contents or Back Cover.

Hope this makes sense! Please contact us if you have any questions.

Introductions

2010-05-08T14:57:00.004+10:00

How is your glorious weekend going so far? I thought it was time I introduced myself officially! My name is Tina Snerling and I am over the moon excited to be working with the lovely Tania and Julie on this amazing project! As you all well know, applications for our gorgeous 'Handmade Living' book and calender have been flooding our inbox, but we still want more! I am so happy to be designing our calender and can't wait to start working with our fabulous designers (some of you have already been approved YEAH!) I am particularly after unusual creations to be featured in the calendar. If you have been thinking about applying but not sure where your creation fits, why not drop me a line to discuss the possibility of being featured in the calendar. I am currently scouring locations and searching high and low for the best props and models to make our designers products look amazing in our postcard calender. I can't wait to share this journey with you all along the way. I will keep you all updated with 'glimpses' into the making of this wonderful calendar. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Thank You

2010-05-07T20:51:00.001+10:00

Dear Designers,

Just a wee note to thank you all for being such a talented bunch! We are falling over with glee at your amazing applications and are just so excited how beautifully this book is already coming together.

We also want to thank you for your professionalism, warmth and most of all - for being so lovely and easy to deal with. Having dealt with hundreds of queries, requests and applications in such a short period of time, with a massive volume of work ahead of us, it's not easy to deal with petty issues or difficult people (even abusive people, incredulously), and it's heartwarming and so stress-relieving to encounter consistently gorgeous people who are a joy to chat with, liaise and share this fabulously creative journey with, ie... you!

It's so much fun liaising with you all. Keep those applications coming in! And please don't hesitate to contact us if you need.

Tania, Julie and Tina

Remember - You MUST have a Website or Blog to apply

2010-05-07T10:56:00.002+10:00

Hello all,

Just a reminder that you must have a website or blog to apply for handmade living. We cannot accept any applications if you have no means for our readers to access you and your business. We will not print email addresses, phone numbers or street/po addresses in the book, so you need to be certain you have web presence.

This is vital to your application. It only takes moments to create a blog. You don't have to be tech-savvy, it's free and is a vital and easy way to promote your work.

Extension of Deadlines

2010-05-07T06:26:00.004+10:00

Dear Designers,

As we have extended our application deadline, the deadline for announcement of approvals is also being extended to Friday 14 May. Many of you will hear before this time - and we will endeavour to let you all know as soon as we can. This is a real balancing act!

Most of you will still have until 25 May to send payment, but if you are approved AFTER 11 May, you will have 2 weeks from approval date, which gives you a little more time.

Please do be in touch if you want to talk about payment dates.

Having Trouble Receiving your Information Pack?

2010-05-06T20:10:00.002+10:00

If you don't receive your Designer Information soon after requesting, please email us again.

A few people are not receiving their pack, or are only part-receiving it - we can't explain why this is happening, as all emails are clearing our inbox just fine, and the attachments are small.

Add infoATtaniamccartneyDOTcom to your safe recipients list and if you still don't get anything, do be in touch!

Tania

Applications are Being Approved

2010-05-06T15:46:00.005+10:00

We've already started approving applications! but don't worry - you have plenty of time do get your application in... we have lots of pages to fill, so get yours in for your chance at being published!

Remember, you only need to get the application in by Monday. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE YOUR ITEM COMPLETED!!

What an amazing array of applications with such unique and beautiful designs. We are very excited about this project... and you should be, too!

Tania

Thank you Perth Upmarket!

2010-05-05T19:11:00.004+10:00

A big smooch and eternal thanks across the Nullabor to Justine at Perth Upmarket for shouting out the handmade living. news... who wouldn't want to be part of this amazing book? Perth artisans, that's for sure! My inbox went bananas once Justine sent this email.

Welcome, WA!

And huge thanks to lovely Justine. Be sure to sign up for the Perth Upmarket newsletter here. So wonderful to have this Aus-wide community support. Love it!

Application Deadline Extended to Monday 10 May at Midnight!

2010-05-05T15:20:00.004+10:00

Due to an unprecedented response to the handmade living. opportunity, we are extending the application deadline to Monday 10 May at midnight.

We will be breaking our backs to extend this deadline but we simply can't resist the gorgeous emails and begging! ;)

Please note that due to the huge response we've had, we absolutely CANNOT extend this deadline a minute further. YOU MUST GET YOUR APPLICATION IN by midnight on Monday 10 May.

We regret that due to the tight time constraints on the production of this book, any applications received after this time cannot be accepted.

You can request a Designer Info Pack right up until Monday 10 May at 11.50pm. But then, of course, that only gives you ten minutes to fill in your form and get it back to us!

We hope to hear from you with your application soon! Contact us with any concerns.

We Want Foodies!

2010-05-03T14:50:00.002+10:00

Spread the word! Foodies are also warmly welcome to contribute to handmade living. This book is all about LIVING and lifestyle, across many genres, including food and beverage.

Please tell your friends - Foodies Wanted! From chocolate to chai tea, from wine to cakes. We love it all - and foodies are some of the most creative people we know! So get (egg) cracking. If you are a foodie, request a Designer Info Pack now! There isn't much time!

Tania

x

Thanks again Mathilda's!

2010-05-03T14:23:00.003+10:00

Even MORE Designer Info Pack requests coming in thanks to our lovely pals at Mathilda's Market.

Mwah! Mwah! Mwah!

x

Misunderstanding of Friday's Deadline

2010-05-02T17:28:00.002+10:00

I have a sneaking suspicion some of you may have misunderstood Friday's deadline. Friday's deadline is for APPLICATIONS and it's NOT for any kind of finished work or photographs. If you do have photos to send in with your app, then fantastic, but if you only have an idea in your head, that's okay, too.

Essentially, the application is an expression of interest, and we must know who wants to do what! We can't start approving or allocating pages in a book without knowing exactly what people want to contribute.

It horrifies us to think that some of you think the deadline this Friday 7 May means you have to have a finished product or idea to us. We wouldn't want to miss out on you and your talent!! So please tell everyone you know - Friday 7 May is applications/expressions of interest/ideas ONLY.

You will have around 8 weeks to get your finished product in.

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!

Tania and Co.
x

And more thanks... to Handmade Kids!

2010-05-02T15:20:00.007+10:00

Huge thanks to our fab friends Jemma and Caz at Handmade Kids for shouting out loud to their readers over the handmade living designer call!

Loving their website and all that they do. You must check it out if you have kiddlings. Awash with designer kiddie bliss!

Huge Thanks to Made It!

2010-05-02T09:19:00.003+10:00

Big thanks to lovely Bec from Made It for giving our Designer Call some airplay in her newsletter! So wonderful to share this exciting publication opportunity with handmade lovers Australia-wide, and to develop strong support and mutual admiration with other handmade organisations and affiliates.

We love you, Made It! You can check out the blog and sign up for the Made It newsletter here.

Less than One Week til Application Deadline!

2010-05-01T15:50:00.004+10:00

I've just spent the day away from my computer for the first time in weeks and I think my back has actually loosened and I can now see again!

I've come home to a barrage of requests for Designer Info Packs - how exciting. The handmade living. team is so excited to see applications already rolling and I think we'll be rather busy next week!

You can still request Designer Info Packs right up until next Friday 7 May. You have until midnight on 7 May to get your application in.

REMEMBER - THIS DEADLINE IS FOR APPLICATIONS ONLY, NOT FOR YOUR PROJECT SUBMISSION~! YOU WILL HAVE PLENTY OF TIME TO WORK ON YOUR PROJECT BUT MAKE SURE YOU GET THAT APPLICATION IN! We will be working at a rapid pace on approving applications and on the book's content from 8 May, so all applications must be in on time.

One more reminder - please remember that if you are applying for a Single Page, Double Page or 3-Ways/5-Ways feature, you must provide a HOW-TO, PROJECT or INSPIRATION - not just a product write-up. If you are still confused by this, please contact us.

Lastly, be sure to check out the Shop Handmade blog - I've taken some great shop photos and will post about them soon.

Happy designing, everyone!

Tania

x

Our Beautiful handmade living. Calendar

2010-04-30T13:31:00.007+10:00

It's finalised! We are thrilled to implement a stunning handmade living. calendar, to accompany the book - and Tina Snerling of Tiny Concept has finished drafting a design that will have you drooling.

The calendar will be changed up and a different format will be used each and every year - but for 2011, we will be featuring the most stunning, French-style postcard format, which will be presented in a beautiful keepsake envelope.

The actual size of each postcard will be double the regular size so that once the calendar has expired, the top part of the card (featuring the designer's product) can be snipped off and either scrapbooked, memo-boarded, fridge-pinned, framed or posted to a loved one.

We will also have a stand included with this calendar, so that each month can be displayed on desk or bureau, showcasing the gorgeous design.

This mock up done by Tina, featuring her breathtaking dolls, does NOT represent the final look - it will just give you a glimpse at the structure and unlimited design potential.

Each month of the year will feature ONE DESIGNER, and details of the designer's product will be printed on the front of the card (alongside the actual calendar portion), with a designer profile on the back.

THERE ARE ONLY ELEVEN (11) SPACES AVAILABLE TO FILL FOR THIS AMAZING CALENDAR. You will need to get in fast if you want to be involved, and showcase your wares in this limited edition product. Just send an application form with the Calendar portion ticked to Tania.

Please contact Tina directly if you have any queries or anything you would like to discuss about the calendar.

A mock-up of this amazing calendar

Huge Thanks to Mathilda's Market

2010-04-29T18:47:00.007+10:00

Huge thanks to the lovely Anne Lewis of Mathilda's Market for the shout out about handmade living. in the Mathilda's newsletter tonight! Publicist Peta Levett did an amazing job of writing about our call-out for designers to take part in this fabulous publication celebration of handmade designers, Australia-wide.

Our inbox is really in overdrive now! What an inspiring way to network in the handmade community. Love your work, gals!

Make sure you check out the Mathilda's blog, and sign up for the fab newsletter here.