seaside

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside! (My children too).

cacti

I have a friend who often laments that she can't grow anything, bemoaning the fact that she can't decorate her house with any houseplants, especially disgruntled as now it seems to be making a comeback! I didn't think I'd see the day that my mum's macrame plant hangers would be on trend! 

So I crocheted some cacti for her using some hand spun wool that seemed to be a good "cacti" colour, a combination of merino, alpaca and silk. 

I "potted" up a couple of cacti for her and with a few cacti left over I potted up some for me too. They are now sitting on my work desk, a little bit of colour, with the added bonus that they don't need any watering! 

I didn't have a pattern, but I did google "crocheted cacti" for a bit of inspiration, there are some amazing examples. If crochet isn't your thing, have a look at these painted stones! I think the kids and I might have a go at those these holidays.

Easter crafting

 I've been busy this week making a few things to celebrate Easter (leaving it to the last minute again!) Unfortunately I can't show them to you yet, least I spoil the surprise for my family and friends! But I'll show you a couple of past Easter projects.

Easter bark! A big hit with my little man who hates the peppermint Christmas version. Below, a cute way to recycle an egg carton and egg shells. It makes a great table centerpiece/runner and I make a long row of them nearly every year.

Any Easter makings at your place? 

Waitawa

One evening just before daylight savings ended we popped out to visit the newest regional park in Auckland - Waitawa. The light was golden and the beach deserted, quite magical.

baggy trousers

Textile waste is a world-wide problem, growing by the day, with  our desire to change our clothes each season and the ability to buy cheap fashion readily it's no surprise that there is a problem! It's hard to balance the desire to dress ethically and still clothe myself and fast growing kids without breaking the bank. I am part of the problem, guilty of buying cheap clothes more often than I'd like (no one's perfect right?)  I try to even things out by buying second hand when I can and upcycling those thrifted buys too.

I recent call for some warm clothes for a friend's little one meant I raided my stash of thrifted Merino tops. I keep my eyes peeled for them year round, often picking them up for just $1 over the Summer months (the best time to buy Winter woolies). A few wee holes here and there don't put me off, it often means I get them for a bargain price.

I quickly made up three pairs of little pants to keep the little legs warm. I first made some of these upcycled pants back in 2010 from this great tutorial by Craftykin. So quick and easy!I've made many pairs in the following years. I was inspired by this upcycling post by Dee too when I made the red pair.

As not to waste a scrap of Merino I've got a project in mind for the off cuts - stay tuned!