gryb at home

Changes

2009-04-01T15:34:00.001+11:00

Lots of changes going on around here, hence the absence...sorry. Complicated company structures, growing business and new products have led me to change my company name to "Eighty Days" derived from the famous book by Jules Verne and my desire to traverse the world in search of fabric! My continued blog can now be viewed at www.eightydaysdesign.blogspot.com

Notepaper

2009-03-29T00:00:00.000+11:00

A very clever and talented young lady over at A Pink Canary's Nest has designed some gorgeous little notecards and even included a free download. Well related to my previous post, print them out and send a note to a friend, pop one in your child's lunch box, or invite a neighbour around for a coffee. Start handwriting again!

The Write Stuff

2009-03-28T09:24:00.004+11:00

I've always been a letter writer, thank you note, greeting card person (although I have to admit the letter writing has dropped off) and really find it so special if I receive a handwritten note. It was this idea that was the foundation of my business, creating a greeting card that is special as a keepsake and encourages the sender to sit down and pen a note. How thoughtful!

This article was in The Age today......

Suzy Freeman-Greene puts pen to paper on the endangered art of handwriting.

J, Y AND G are monkey tails. They swing below the line in joyful curves. L, d and k are giraffes. They stand tall. The preps are learning handwriting and it's slow, hard work. So many letters in confusing shapes, all to be anchored to the line. Turning them into animals makes the job more fun.
Most of the year3s at our local school can already write well. I read a note from one girl ("you are one of my best friends") and am struck by its careful script. The letters stand upright: o's perfectly rounded, y's looping effusively. The words are well spaced; the full stop firm and round. This pencilled note, written in lower-case, italic, brings back memories of my own schoolgirl penmanship: from extravagant signatures practised under the desk to feverish entries in a diary that locked.
I sneak a peek at my daughter's writing exercises and marvel at the effort involved: there are rows of snakelike s's and wobbly w's, some anchored, others floating in that dread, white space. A subversive thought occurs: will kids even use this skill in the digitised future? Surely as teenagers they'll be tapping their schoolwork and every waking thought into some permanently attached electronic device.
In this texting, blogging, twittering world, handwriting has already diminished in usage. Once I wrote letters. Now I email. Once I took notes at the library. Now I take a laptop. Once, doctors' handwriting was a health hazard. Now my GP prints scripts with a mouse click. Even the carpenter sends typed quotes (though our electrician still writes his in a fetching, slightly ornate script).
But here I am, writing these words on a page. They'll be typed on a keyboard later, emerging on screen in Times New Roman 14point, but for this first draft I feel freer scrawling with a pen. Thoughts can flow uncensored. I get a truer sense of what I mean to say. Even though this piece will eventually be published, I feel as if I'm scribbling to please myself rather than others.
Clearly, I'm not a blogger. Maybe I'm a dinosaur. I'm also, I confess, a list-maker who finds something cathartic about scribbling "to do" notes on old envelopes. Still there are some seriously impressive people who are also said to write first drafts by hand, including J.K. Rowling, Toni Morrison, John Irving and Joyce Carol Oates. (It is not known how they feel about lists.)
Paul Auster is another who writes in longhand. He likes to type up his paragraphs immediately, to ensure he can still decipher his crabbed script. And Stephen King tells stories with a pen. As Kitty Burns Florey writes in her book Script and Scribble: The Rise and Fall of Handwriting: "He was forced to do so when sitting at the computer became painful after he was struck by a car in 1999, and continues to prefer it."

Florey, an American author, believes handwriting is in crisis. It's often illegible, she told ABC radio, and in some US schools, kids are being taught something known as "keyboarding". Studies have shown that kids master reading more easily when they write some of the words at the same time. There is, she says, a direct connection from brain to hand. But beyond fourth or fifth grade, US schools pay little attention to the quality of handwriting.
After hearing Florey, I'm mighty glad that Victorian prep students are straining over their giraffes and monkeys (though I'm not sure what they're doing at secondary schools). But you have to wonder what this penmanship will be used for, other than filling out forms and signing credit-card receipts. Will the next generation write in diaries? (Who needs to when you can record every moment on the web?) If they no longer send love letters, will they save those heartfelt emails and flirty texts for posterity?
Handwriting began as a specialised enterprise. (Think of those medieval monks bent over illuminated manuscripts.) And maybe it will again become a rarefied activity, closer to calligraphy than a daily necessity. Today, a handwritten letter already has a rare, intimate quality.
Still, there's one area where the written script flourishes. In the graffiti world, the "tag" rules. A tag is a signature, often in felt pen, and part of its appeal is said to be the visual possibilities of the lettering. No matter how hard authorities try to stamp out these scrawls, they pop up everywhere. It's as if they exemplify a primal need for self-expression: I write, therefore I am

Flying refined

2009-03-20T06:00:00.000+11:00

I found out about Porter, through an excellent interview at Design Sponge. I love their branding, style and fresh approach to airline travel. Read a glowing review here.

Coffee

2009-03-19T20:28:00.007+11:00

Our coffee machine is broken and awaiting repairs. I didn't realise how much it had become a part of my life. I enjoyed a quiet coffee in town yesterday. Oh the pleasure of being solo in a cafe, enjoying the paper and excellent coffee.

Liaison

Ridgway Place

Melbourne 3000

Melbourne fabric

2009-03-16T21:02:00.006+11:00

I've been on the hunt for some fabric places around Melbourne for some inspiration and ideas for new greeting cards. There are many, but they are in all corners requiring lots of driving and patient children. I've managed to get to a few and thought I would share them with you. Most are places stocking end of lines, remnants, one off samples and the like. The prices are very reasonable, however be prepared for rummaging, climbing shelves, digging deep to find the treasures you are looking for.

Carmels Fabric Clearance Warehouse (pic)

6 Mason Drive

Braeside

Clayton Fabrics

124 Walker Street

Dandenong

Trimmings and Remnants

164 Cumberland Road

Pascoe Vale

Rathdowne Fabrics

154-158 Victoria Street

Brunswick

(beautiful beaded lace at $125 a metre! ex Bloom stock)

Hampton Fabrics

Shop 17, 427 Hampton Street

Hampton

(closing down...currently up to 70% off)

Istanbul Home

2009-03-14T18:38:00.005+11:00

This home has been much talked about in the media lately. It is designed by Autoban and is an intriguing mix of historical elements and modern interior design. I think it all comes together perfectly.

Images from here
Beautiful photography by Richard Powers

This picture says two things...

2009-03-12T18:41:00.002+11:00

1. Whoever said one could work from home productively with children obviously hadn't tried it with my two year old.

2. Never leave a toddler unattended whilst on the telephone.

New fabric - Kids cards

2009-03-10T18:00:00.003+11:00

Exploring new fabric

2009-03-09T13:55:00.004+11:00

Compromise

2009-03-07T13:01:00.002+11:00

Being the only female in the family often leads to weekends of compromise over activies undertaken. At least I can pratice using my camera....

Food Inspiration - Istanbul Street Markets

2009-03-06T21:09:00.004+11:00

Driving me crazy

2009-03-01T22:41:00.006+11:00

Does anyone else have this problem? I spend almost every waking moment in the house, stepping on lego, sweeping up lego, packing up lego, trying to work out how to make a tow bar attach to a trailer in lego, or "build a tough truck with smoke and chimney stacks, bull bar, winch, side steps, tray, rear lights, spotties, steering wheel, tail gate and spare tyre" in lego (verbatim from my 5 yr old)..... This is a good evening when the boys have gone to bed and I sweep it into a neat pile, usually it's all over the room. I'm trying to teach them to pack it away themselves, encouraging with a little brush and pan, small broom, but the response is always "I'm too tired, it takes too long, you do it mum" And given that as soon as they wake up its back all over the floor again, I think, what's the point?................

On another Lego point, I foolishly showed M an article about Legoland in Denmark and said it would be great to go there one day. This was about 2 years ago, and he still remembers it like yesterday, although he only remembers me saying that I would take him there. Thankfully by 2013 (or 2011 in Dubai) there will be a Legoland opening in Malaysia which would seem to be a little more of an affordable holiday than a family trip to Denmark.......

Beach Getaway

2009-02-26T13:07:00.003+11:00

Discovering new creatures on the beach at Rosebud

Friends

2009-02-21T23:05:00.004+11:00

Three of my most favourite girls in the whole world suprised me with a dinner party at my own house. B from Melbourne, L from Milan and J from London, turned up on my doorstep with absolutely no warning with a dinner party to die for. I'm so thankful for such wonderful friends. We all met years ago on the otherside of the world when we started our careers as cabin crew. Despite geographic distance, we have remained best friends, and always pick up where we left off, no matter how much time has passed. There is also M who is missing from the photo. We are all aiming for a reunion in our 40th year (still a few years off!) the 5 of us, for a week, enjoying food, wine, laughter, tears, stories and tales from the old days. Any suggestions where?

Bushfire- Handmade Help

2009-02-12T16:30:00.006+11:00

The recent (and current) bush fires here in Victoria have had a devastating effect on local communities. So many people losing their lives or their homes, it is something one really cannot fathom. There has been an outpouring of donations both monetary and material goods and lots of clever crafty types have begun a site Handmade Help with ideas to help, handmade goods to buy and ways in which you can feel like you are making a difference. I think I'll go and organise 100 of my greeting card gift packs to drop off at Amitie, who are acting as a drop off point collecting handmade donations to distribute as required.

Opulence

2009-02-11T13:56:00.006+11:00

Lavish, rich colours and textures were seen everywhere on my tour of Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul. Well worth a visit if you are in town.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Road.

80680, Dolmabahçe-Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 258 55 44

Open every day except Monday and Thursday.

Devran Mursaloğlu

2009-02-10T18:47:00.001+11:00

I have been meaning to do a post about this artist since I got back from Istanbul. Another of my favourite bloggers, Emily from "Oh sweet Turkey" posted about this newspaper artist and the use of paper and recycling it for the purpose of art. So it has prompted me to mention Devran Mursaloğluö whose shop I saw whilst trawling the back streets of Beyoğlu. The shop showcases some truly beautiful work and the range includes paper art and paper jewellery.

Address : Faik Paşa Yokuşu

No:6/1-A Çukurcuma-Beyoğlu

İstanbul Turkey
T: +90 212 249 80 91
F: +90 212 249 80 92
mailto:devran@devranmursaloglu.com

Day with Kemal Nuraydin

2009-02-04T10:23:00.004+11:00

"If earth was a single state, Istanbul would be its capital" Napolean Bonaparte

I fell in love with Istanbul backpacking in 1997 and I've been lucky to have been reunited over the last few years. On this recent trip I wanted to see and do more than the usual tourist sights and I wanted to take my camera everywhere with me. My most favourite photography book is "Istanbul: City of a hundred names" by Alex Webb. His photography really inspired me to want to get out into the nitty gritty of the city with my camera. It was through the credits in this book that I contacted Kemal Nuraydin, sub editior of National Geographic in Turkey and a professional photographer. To my suprise he promptly replied to my email and agreed to a day spent together wandering the streets of Istanbul, taking photos and showing me tips and tricks to optimise my camera and my approach to photography in general.

He is an amazing and inspiring person, who is so enthusiastic about life and all it has to offer. He is also a trained tour guide so he was able to give me so much information about the areas we visited and the places we saw. I wanted to focus on street photography and portraiture. I think we made a good team. Me, being a woman, strangers were more willing to interact with me and often wanted to have their photo taken and this, along with Kemal's language ability and knowledge of the area, made for some interesting shots.

Kemal Nuraydin

I learnt many lessons on this day, about my camera, about travelling, about photography and most importantly about myself. When travelling one has to really reach out and connect with local people to truly experience all that another place and culture has to offer. I will definitely endeavour to use this approach in all my future travels.

Food and Flying

2009-02-03T16:08:00.000+11:00

I had a laugh when I read this article today about food service on a Virgin flight from Mumbai to Heathrow. Having been on both sides of the fence, cabin crew and passenger, I'm always interested in the levels of service that airlines offer and the quality of food. I too have experienced the highs of first class caviar, table service, fine wines and excellent food (the perks of being crew) and the lows of economy class with small seat pitch, no inflight entertainment, foul body odours and food including what looked like a regurgitated tuna dip in stale bread roll wrapped in flimsy glad wrap! Some airlines are definitely leaders in terms of service, crew friendliness, inflight entertainment, new aircrafts, on time departures and quality food. My recent experience with Singapore Airlines proved to be a winner in all these categories. I was really impressed. What is your favourite or least favourite airline?

Fish sandwich - Istanbul

2009-02-02T23:52:00.002+11:00

Wish I was somewhere else....

2009-01-28T16:47:00.007+11:00

It's too hot in Melbourne, 42 degrees to be exact. It's days like this that I wish we were lounging around here, watching the kids play in the pool while reading books and enjoying a refreshing homemade lemonade with fresh mint....

Red Bubble

2009-01-21T17:42:00.004+11:00

I'm very happy!! A picture I took recently in Istanbul has been featured and chosen as the cover pic for the latest challenge in the >>>>>>Movement:Motion Blur group on Red Bubble. I love this site, it's a great way to organise your best photos, get feedback from other photographers, get inspired and create and print your own, or others artwork for your enjoyment!

Ellie Evans

2009-01-20T16:46:00.000+11:00

I saw some of Ellie Evans work in Liberty in a sweet little glass display cabinet on the haberdashery level. Ellie creates "textile keepsakes using traditional hand embroidery, combined with digital print, retaining a contemporary feel" These sweet pin cushions are filled with sand and the perfect accompaniment to any sewing box. You can read more about what Ellie is currently up to on her blog.

Liberty

2009-01-18T16:02:00.000+11:00

London was a great excuse to get around and see some stationery shops, galleries and restaurants. First up on the list was Liberty, primarily to admire all their beautiful and inspiring fabrics, but also to have a look around the glorious old building and peak into all their other wonderful departments. Especially ground floor, stationery and books. I think they have some of the best selection of greeting cards that I saw in London, along with other items such as journals, notebooks, letter writing sets and books. A must see if you are in London.

Liberty of London

Regent Street

London

W1B 5AH

Street Portraiture Istanbul

2009-01-04T17:36:00.000+11:00

There are lots of interesting characters around the street markets and gypsy markets near Taksim and Kasımpaşa.

Art.i.choke

2009-01-03T16:21:00.006+11:00

I'd read about this shop and was interested in seeing their handmade felt products including clothes, vases, bags and individually felt wraped soaps. Coincidently we stumbled across it whilst wandering the backstreets of Beyoğlu. It is located in a gorgeous old building with 3 levels housing both the art.i.choke designers wares and a second hand furniture company. Two sisters form art.i.choke a label "bringing together the ancient art of feltmaking with modern and sophisticated designs."

Art.i.choke

Faikpaşa Yokuşu no:1

Çukurcuma/Beyoğlu

34433/ Istanbul Turkey

Ph: +90 (212) 2499892

info@artichoke212.com

Istanbul

2009-01-02T15:41:00.004+11:00

Out with my sister.

Istiklal street and the famous historic tram. Great for wandering, people watching and shopping. Recommended to explore the side alleyways and streets and find out of the way cafes and shops.

Street vendors selling what looks like soggy hambugers, but we are at this one for the excellent fresh orange juice "portakal su"

Local simit cart, a staple in any locals diet. Kind of a cross between a bagel and roll, firm fresh bread in a donut shape covered in sesame seeds. Great accompained by turkish breakfast of fresh tomato, white cheese, pastirma, boiled egg, olives and tea.

Departure

2009-01-01T10:20:00.000+11:00

"One of the greatest moments me thinks is the departure upon a distant journey into uknown lands. Shaking off with one mighty effort, the fetters of habit, the leaden weight of routine, the cloak of many cares and the slavery of home, man feels once more happy" Sir Richard Burton

I'm off on 13 days away in Istanbul and London, visiting my sister and an old friend to spend quality time talking, eating, drinking, shopping, sight seeing, gallery visiting, taking photos and living life in the moment. My boys are off on a fishing, camping, 4wding getaway, so everyone is happy. I hope to post about my daily doings and special places I encounter. See you soon!

Christmas Day

2008-12-25T13:23:00.001+11:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful christmas with family and friends. My christmas wreath was a little recycling project made with left over table ornaments, ribbons and turkish evil eye.

Kris Kringle or Christ Kindel

2008-12-23T13:31:00.002+11:00

Every year we get together with the same group of friends and celebrate christmas with a lavish lunch and gifts. This year was no exception with a delicious menu of bbq prawns, over night slow roasted lamb, salads, cheese cake and sticky date pudding accompained by special handmade individual truffles for each guest. Thank you everyone!

Tree inspiration

2008-12-22T17:16:00.003+11:00

Alot of people are talking about this tree. Made and designed by Jane Schouter from All the Luck in the World, it features "useless but pretty objects collected over the years". A beautiful way to recycle, re-use and re-invent treasured possessions.

This is................

2008-12-21T09:00:00.000+11:00

I bought these two books for my son and a friend (an 8 year old who is already dreaming of going to Paris). They are such wonderful stories and illustrations by M. Sasek. These books are classic, playful and delightful to read and to be read to. They are hard covers with dust jacket and there is a whole series to be collected, although many editions are out of print. My books were purchased from here and they are also available from Amazon.

Handmade in Italy

2008-12-20T15:21:00.002+11:00

Searching for a beautifully crafted leather journal or diary. Look no further than the gorgeous range from Pinetti. I have a leather notebook in red, which is refillable, excellent for using over and over again. Check their website for stockists, or in Melbourne they are stocked at Zetta Florence (along with my cards!) yay!

Charley Harper

2008-12-19T17:49:00.009+11:00

I recently bought this book for my little L when we were away in Brisbane. The simple style and beauty of the illustrations by Charley Harper really attracted me. Charley Harper passed away in 2007, but he will be well remembered for his "minimal realism" style of illustration. Read more about his work here. I've found various gift related items and prints utilising his illustrations, including a range of greeting cards and diaries like the ones below available online.

I also found a lovely little gallery/studio in London called Elphick's. Artist and owner Sharon Elphick stocks Charley Harper lithographs and limited edition screen prints. I'm looking forward to visiting in January.

Christmas cards

2008-12-18T18:25:00.006+11:00

We are receiving lots of lovely christmas cards, but I think this one is my favourite so far. It was sent by my web designer who obviously has great taste! It is a simple screen printed reindeer on quality textured cardstock by designers me and amber. I just had a quick look at their site and they have lots of great handmade gifts and artwork available in stores around Australia.

34

2008-12-15T22:32:00.000+11:00

Suprise birthday dinner for two at my most favourite restaurant in the whole world. (Pic taken with suprise gift from B)

hailan's girl

2008-12-12T14:34:00.000+11:00

I was treated to some more handmade goodness especially for me last night. A clever and special friend presented me with the most gorgeous hand knitted scarf in delicious colours of tangerine, raspberry and soft caramel. This girl has many talents. She is an industrial designer by day and handmade artist in her spare time. She oozes understated style and elegance. I look forward to watching "hailan's girl" develop her skills and spread her wings in the near future.

Handmade gifts

2008-12-11T15:59:00.003+11:00

I love that my friends know how much I love and appreciate handmade gifts. I have a very clever friend who makes these amazing soaps, lemon myrtle and mint and green tea on the top. They are accompanied by this beautifully decorated pump pack of handmade orange, lavender, ylang ylang and patchouli body and hand moisturiser...spoilt!

Proud

2008-12-10T21:07:00.005+11:00

A letter in the mail confirming a place for me at RMIT Diploma Applied Photography was the reason for this beautiful bunch of native flowers from proud hubby and kids....I love my little fan club!

Custom Order

2008-12-09T20:53:00.002+11:00

I've been busy the last week creating and being inspired by the most beautiful fabrics courtesy of the gorgeous label Thurley. I was so happy to create some custom Christmas cards using Thurley fabric and so pleased with the finished product. See more of Thurley here & here.

Gifts

2008-12-08T20:41:00.002+11:00

I wanted to find something unique for M's kinder teachers, so of course my first stop was Etsy. My parcel arrived yesterday with 2 beautiful handcrafted necklaces from Fleurfatale. I am loving all their pieces of felted jewellery and mixed charm necklaces. I hope the teachers like them too! Check out latest with Fleurfatale on their blog here.

Garden in Glenlyon

2008-12-07T13:28:00.001+11:00

Lots of inspiration on our day trip to this beautiful garden in Glenlyon

My growing boy

2008-12-06T18:42:00.002+11:00

Here is M, in his element, BMX riding over jumps and bumps in the bush wearing his favourite outfit, army shorts, work boots, and 4WD ARB cap. Isn't is so beautiful watching your children grow and develop their own quirky personalities? Thanks to Joanie for the pic...

The tree is up

2008-12-02T13:35:00.000+11:00

Kimono House

2008-12-01T10:00:00.000+11:00

This Saturday coming 6th December, drop down to Kimono House on the 2nd floor in the Nicholas Building. Discover the beauty of this old building on the corner of Swanston Street and Flinders Lane, Melbourne. Kimono House are celebrating the year end of the 30th annivesary of the city sister relationship between Melbourne and Osaka. There will be cultural displays (ikebana, bonsai, origami and more), kimono and Japanese fabric sales and an indoor craft market. Sounds like fun!!

Kindness of Strangers

2008-11-30T19:25:00.010+11:00

We went to Phillip Island to celebrate the 80th birthday of a family friend, an amazing woman who gives selflessly to so many people in so many ways. The 150 guests from all over Australia were a testament to that. Friends gave impromptu speeches about their own memories or experiences and there was one young Iranian man whose speech really moved me. He had travelled from Adelaide where he has been living for the last 3 years after spending the previous 5 years and 2 months in detention. Our 80 year old friend who has such compassion for those less fortunate had befriended him through letter writing and had kept in touch with him during his time in detention and through his trials and appeals for refugee status.

The day before the party was the first time that they had met face to face after 8 years of friendship. Standing in front of all these strangers, he and her arm in arm, he spoke of how thankful he was for the letters and phone calls and how he now considers her like a mother. Having already raised 3 children of her own 3 step children, cared for numerous grandchildren, and preschool children (she was a kindergarted teacher) she continues in her twlight years, to take people under her wing and mother them. A true inspiration to us all.......

Phillip Island

2008-11-29T19:41:00.005+11:00

We had a great weekend away in Phillip Island, well Cape Woolamai to be exact. We rented a beach house 2 mins walk from the beach. The boys loved it despite there being no sunshine. The main highlight however was the outdoor shower at the house. The boys insisted on taking every shower there. Very environmentally friendly!

Rain and Mud

2008-11-28T19:11:00.002+11:00

We had a good downpour of rain in Melbourne the other day. It always gives me a feeling of dread as I know with our unfinished garden, it inevitably becomes a very large mud playground for the boys. The aftermath is always mud covered floors, muddy ring around the bath, washing machine working overtime, but two very happy boys.....

Folio

2008-11-27T00:00:00.002+11:00

I love this Prat Pampa Spiral Folio. These beautiful products are made in France and are of the utmost perfection and quality. You can read more about them here or purchase them in Melbourne from here. The Prat book is the new home to some of my photographic prints. Hopefully there will be more to tell about that in a few weeks......

O-Check Designs

2008-11-26T21:28:00.004+11:00

Loving these products from Korean company O-Check Designs. Such simple, timeless, clean lines....beautiful. You can buy them in Melbourne from here

Too busy!

2008-11-25T22:08:00.004+11:00

Been too busy to blog, sorry. This photo is from a location shoot during my photography class. Any guesses where?

Brisbane

2008-11-23T21:54:00.005+11:00

We had a nice weekend away without kids, what a different world that is! We managed to dine out for every meal, drive to Maroochydore from Brisbane, attend a wedding, do some shopping catch up with friends and have a sleep in, all in the space of 30 hours! I would highly recommed Barolo for breakfast (or even lunch and dinner) in the city along with a visit to this bookshop.

Excellent selection of books, very friendly service. I also love Brisbane's Story Bridge, for its lines, details, strength, beauty and design. Actually there are a few bridges around the world that I really admire...do you have any faves?

On my desk

2008-11-19T10:00:00.000+11:00

I was lucky to be the recipient of a fabric stash from a friend of my mum's who was cleaning out her cupboards. There are some interesting half finished vintage dresses and tops and meters of patterned fabrics. Will have to dust off the machine and start creating. If only there was time!!
More desks at Kootoyoo, thanks Koo

Carlton

2008-11-15T19:41:00.001+11:00

St Kilda

2008-11-13T17:29:00.000+11:00

On my desk

2008-11-12T14:51:00.000+11:00

This is "abaca hairy natural" paper, unusual name for an interesting and textured piece of wrapping paper. It is very strong and can be folded over and over and still retain its beauty. I'll be using it to wrap a wedding gift. I found it online here at a great shop called Amazing Paper. They sell a variety of interesting papers from around the world, along with bookbinding supplies, gifts, stationery, cardstock, invitations and ribbons. They offer discounts on bulk orders and deliver straight to your door.

check out kootoyoo for more desks

Dusk in the park

2008-11-09T17:00:00.001+11:00

Tenugui

2008-11-08T00:27:00.004+11:00

Translated in Japanese Tenugui literally means "to wipe one's hands." Tenugui are small Japanese hand towels, often presented, wrapped beautifully and their uses are only limited by your imagination. A simple touch of Japan that can be used for wrapping gifts, framed and hung on the wall, carried around on a hot day to wipe your brow, table centres, gift for a host, face cloth, headband, used to sew bags, pouches, covering notebooks (as above) or just admired slung over a chair or cushion.

Amongst the amazing array of Tenugui designs and patterns, designer Takahashi Hiroko is a young woman who really stands out. You can see from these images her work is so inspiring, the colours and designs of her Tenugui are really eye catching. Her profile reflects her love and understanding of her culture and Japanese traditions and how they have evolved over time meeting with her own interpretations of Japanese design culminating into"new traditions."

Hirocoledge sells these tenugui and other designs in their online store along with cushion covers, kimono, furoshiki and beautiful bags. Do pop over and see this beautiful work. Thank you Michiko!

Pics kindly used from Hirocoledge

Writing Instrument?

2008-11-07T17:00:00.000+11:00

What do you use to pen a note? Something special, ball point, roller ball, blue, black, felt tip, thick, thin, cheap, expensive? I've been known to use whatever is available, we always seem to have a shortage of pens in the study, there is never one close by, even when I buy the catering packs of cheapo's from Officeworks. That's why I like to keep my special one. B has the roller ball in black and I have the ball point in black, must be black, not sure why.

Postalco

2008-11-06T17:00:00.004+11:00

I was inspired by Christie and her sewing talent (which sadly, I'll never have) resulting in her fab pencil holder accessory for her Moleskin diary, I went in search of something similar and came across this sweet shop Postalco. These cute leather and fabric designs are wallet folders to store precious paper and envelopes and the last pic, a small compendium, holds envelopes, writing pad and pen.

images from Postalco

P.S.

Speaking about compendiums, is anyone else a bit crazy like me, and when staying in a hotel, checks the desk for stationery and its quality. The theory usually follows the risk/return ratio, the more expensive the hotel, the better the stationery. I also like to ask for stationery when flying international. As as ex-hostee, I always was in "need" of company stationery, (it came in a lovely crisp white folder with writing paper and envelope with a gold pressed falcon in the corner) I could often be found on my crew seat on the tail end of BAH-BOM return at 3am, penning a note to a friend (with a full face of make-up on!, how times have changed)

Also, does anyone else get annoyed when you ask for a stamp at the post office and then the person behind the desk goes ahead and just sticks it any old place on the envelope. Not on the top right hand corner, perfectly, with the airmail sticker exactly on the opposite corner. When I take time to use quality stationery, its just annoying to have it all mucked up by someone who is not thinking about the aesthetic of the envelopes. I'm sounding a bit loopy now, so please share your thoughts! :)

On my desk

2008-11-05T14:43:00.002+11:00

I've discovered circle cutters can make your life a whole lot easier. So now I've gone a bit crazy cutting up my vintage maps and fabric scraps. Trying to create some wall art for the boys room...

Check out kootoyoo for more desks, Thanks Kirsty :)

Winged wheel

2008-11-04T13:23:00.007+11:00

I have found a beautiful Japanese stationery shop with one store in Tokyo and one in Osaka. Their website is in english and Winged wheel also has an etsy store, so you can buy some of their goodies online. Their stores look like beautiful and serene spaces where one can enjoy the beauty of stationery in a tranquil environment. You can check out new products on their blog here, p.s write soon! I would love a shop like this in Australia!

Images from Winged wheel etsy store

The art of travel

2008-11-03T23:44:00.010+11:00

I'm reading "The Art of Travel" By Alain de Botton. I won't bore you with the details, but so much of his philosophy rings true with me. He expresses things in writing that I've only thought in my head. The satisfactions and disappointments of travelling, the anticipation vs the reality, the anonymity of travel and how one can often appreciate everyday experiences and sights so much more when experienced in another culture or country. I've travelled alot, and the more I do, the more I want to try and step out of my comfort zone and really see, hear, smell and touch what is around me and this includes trying to live like a local and stay somewhere like here rather than in a hotel. Where do you prefer to stay?

images from Galata View

Another sunset

2008-11-02T13:36:00.000+11:00

I'll try this

2008-11-01T10:06:00.000+11:00

Now

2008-10-31T16:30:00.005+11:00

This is the sunset last night looking out our laundry door. Reminded me of this article written in The Age this week. Depsite all this financial doom and gloom it's important to still try and live in the moment, enjoy the 'now' and appreciate loved ones around you.

Long Ago Letters

2008-10-30T21:12:00.012+11:00

I never met my Grandfather, he died from a heart attack when my father was only 15. My grandmother passed away in 2005. I miss her. Along with leaving me her sewing machine which was the beginnings of my business, she left a couple of shoe boxes labelled "nostalgia" which have been also been passed down to me.

I've been taking the time to read through them and discover things about my grandmother Billie and grandfather Geoff, that I have never known. In this collection are congratulatory letters and notes on the birth of my Dad and Uncle, telegrams from Grandma's wedding day, letters between Billie and Geoff whilst she was away on holiday down at "Kia Ora" Guest House in Lorne, and letters from Geoff whilst he was in the army.

This wedding telegram above says "Good morning Miss Kirkham, Goodnight Mrs Mitchell" how sweet!

Here is a paragraph from one of my favourites,he was in the army writing to her at home in Glen Iris with a new baby, my Dad.... (so beautiful and formal!)

Dated Thursday 21st June 1945

"I was thinking of our romance a few years ago last weekend-yes! Dear, it was King's Birthday weekend, and what a lucky weekend it was for us. We never realised then, that we would ever be situated as now. I really consider myself fortunate now, and at that time, I tried very hard to "catch" you-believe me I have or had never tried harder. I don't think you were particularly interested at the time- but perseverance won the day. They were happy days that followed, weren't they? However, I have never really taken things for granted , you always appear to me to be so fresh and new- I don't think that it will ever be any other way, do you? My word, I am going to be "hanging" pretty close to you when all this business is finished- I am afraid you will never get far without me- No! not even a trip with the family away from Dad. ................Accept all my love to you sweetheart, remember I am thinking of you always, loving you always and looking forward to the time when we will be together forever, May God bless you both, I am, and will always be your loving and devoted Geoffery xxxxx "

(sob, sob, sob, by me :))

Furoshiki

2008-10-29T17:50:00.000+11:00

Furoshiki is a Japanese wrapping cloth with so many uses; gift wrapping enabling the receiver to use it again as gift wrap or for other everday uses such as carrying groceries, carrying lunch, transporting clothes overnight or food on a picnic. There are many different ways of using furoshiki. In fact the Japanese government published a "how to" work sheet to encourage more environmentally friendly consumer behaviour, helping people to reuse and recycle with furoshiki.Basically, one could use any kind of large square cloth to apply the techniques above. Of course, a Japanese one would add to the experience. It doesn't matter what shape you gift is, there is always a Furoshiki way to wrap it.

There are some beautifully designed Furoshiki cloths such as this one by Kozue Hibino. The designs remind me of the Echino range which I love.

images from Ping Mag & here

Blogger Ban

2008-10-27T22:35:00.004+11:00

Can you imagine, trying to sign onto your own blog page and not being able to....ever again? To have that right completely taken away from you. All your past posts, photos, memories and stories all inaccessible. That's what is happening in Turkey at the moment, all blogger and blogspot domain names have been banned and access suspended indefinitely. I really cannot fathom this decision from a country that wants to become a part of the EU. Read more about it here

Daylesford

2008-10-27T13:34:00.008+11:00

We had a lovely weekend away. One night with kids, one without. The Lakehouse has been an old favourite of ours for many years, so it was nice to get back there and spend a few days.

Looking back from the Lake to the Hotel .....

The boys loved walking around the Lake .....

Coffee and hot chocolate at Frangos & Frangos ......

An interesting gate in town, can you tell what it is representing?

On the Saturday I spent a few hours alone and went to the Mill Markets. A great place for antiques, retro fashions, collectables, furniture and clothing...and all under one roof. Retro orange was really catching my eye everywhere!

On the way to pick up the boys on Sunday, we stopped at L'espresso for lunch in Ballarat. Great coffee and delicious antipasto plate.....

The knot

2008-10-24T14:15:00.003+11:00

Six years ago this weekend, we tied the knot. Going away for a bit of r&r, beautiful food and wine, pampering, wandering and views of the lake. Any ideas where?

On my desk

2008-10-22T18:18:00.004+11:00

I found this cute little Kokak Instamatic 33 Camera today at the local op-shop. It's sitting here on my desk while I find out more about it and what film it uses. I thought I'd give it to M to introduce him to some point and shoot photography. It seems a sturdy, robust little thing, perfect for 4rd old hands!
Check out more desks here

Mirror Mirror

2008-10-21T17:48:00.000+11:00

During our renovation we moved away for a year while the house was built. We've been back for about 14 months and we are still looking at an empty wall above the bathroom basin. It's starting to drive me mad. In fact, it has become a place of wall art, with B and boys taking to practicing drawing cars and trucks there.

Cold, quiet morning

2008-10-20T18:02:00.001+11:00

Twice a week I have 2 hours without any children while they are both in "school". It was so cold this morning on the beach in St Kilda, but nice to have some peace, a take away coffee, home made cake and my camera.

Try this on for size

2008-10-16T19:13:00.004+11:00

Need to protect your laptop and add a little something...check out Gelaskins. Mine arrived today.

Fun in the sun

2008-10-15T18:58:00.002+11:00

Trying to keep the boys entertained in that hour before dinner....

New fabric

2008-10-14T18:50:00.001+11:00

There is nothing like a box of new fabric delivered to my doorstep to get me all motivated again.

three?

2008-10-13T17:46:00.000+11:00

Do the positives outway the negatives of having 3.....or 4?

Longrain

2008-10-12T17:19:00.003+11:00

This place is my most favourite for thai, oh and the cocktails.....to die for!!!

Is a tradesman's house ever finished?

2008-10-11T17:01:00.002+11:00

Lines around home

2008-10-10T16:38:00.002+11:00

Mixed Bag

2008-10-09T17:32:00.005+11:00

There is an interesting independent exhibition currently showing at Gardner Gallery in Richmond showcasing work from emerging artists. My sister in law is showing some of her work there, a painting titled "Grieving". The two story gallery is a beautiful and bright space, worth dropping in for a look if you are in the area.

On my desk

2008-10-08T19:01:00.006+11:00

Sweet presents from travelling friend who has been to London, Paris, Muscat and Dubai with 2 kids in tow and had the most amazing time. I enjoyed hearing all the family stories and looking at gorgeous photos, which I would love to post here, about Mucat, The Sultanate of Oman. A truly beautiful place! And what a regal and beautiful name for a country. I can't wait to be able to do a trip like that with my boys. A bunch of goodies all in a Japanese lunch box handbag! Vanilla bean and saffron from the Gulf and Muji notebook, origami paper and Japanese stationery from London. Lucky girl I am. Thanks A!!

Check out Kootoyoo for more desks

Ziguzagu

2008-10-07T16:12:00.000+11:00

If you are looking for some Japanese inspiration and vintage fabric and other crafting paraphernalia, you must take a trip to Cremorne (Richmond) to visit Ziguzagu. A treasure trove of all things Japanese, one can spend hours rummaging through the boxes of fabric rolls and rows of vintage kimono. It is the place that got me inspired to start my own business.

London

2008-10-06T21:23:00.000+11:00

I'm excited that our cards have found their first home in London at The Family Tree Shop.

Image from here

Dreaming of my next holiday

2008-10-05T20:22:00.003+11:00

I'm so looking forward to photographing the Blue Mosque, Istanbul this coming January.
Image from here

Kitchen Stars

2008-10-02T22:00:00.003+10:00

Electrolux recently contacted me in regards to their current promotion "Kitchen Stars" Unfortunately we don't have any Electrolux products in our home, but some of you might...

Electrolux has been up and running for 90 years now and they want to celebrate that by making a book and online gallery with pictures and kitchen stars moment from 90 people all around the world.

A photographer will travel around Europe and the rest of the world to take pictures of (yours, I hope!) kitchens. The point of this book is for Electrolux to give something back to their customers and to document and show the world how a kitchen looks at the year of 2008. Here is your chance to make sure your country gets represented in the book!

Hey come on now, you’re only 3 steps away from being a Kitchen Star:

Look around at home (not just the kitchen) if you have something (toaster, fridge, oven, whatever) from Electrolux.

Take a picture of yourself in your kitchen and send it along with a “kitchen star-moment”, just need to put down a few lines about your favorite moment in a kitchen.

As a thank for your contribution to the project and for showing your kitchen, you will receive an ErgoRapido vacuum cleaner!

Every person in the world can be a Kitchen Star, even you! So if you think that you, or anyone that you might know is suited to become a Kitchen Star, don’t hesitate to sign up!

Contact: http://www.blogger.com/info@electroluxkitchenstars.com

Example of a lovely kitchen star moment.

Emma Lundgren, Sweden

”My kitchen star moment took place many years ago – in Dublin actually. I had invited a date over for dinner for the first time and I was really nervous. I had big plans for this dinner, had planned the menu for days and selected wine carefully.

Of course, there was an emergency at work the same day so I didn’t finish until late. To be able to make it on time I had to run home without buying food or wine – I was left with whatever I had in the fridge! I ended up serving spaghetti with some weird sauce and water to drink.

It was horrible at first but we ended up laughing at it eventually. Later, he told me that he fell in love with me that night – so now I consider that a Kitchen Star moment!”

Origata

2008-09-28T17:16:00.003+10:00

Origata is the Japanese art of gift wrapping, using beautiful papers without actually cutting into it. The Japanese take great pride and care when presenting a gift, the packaging and wrapping as important as the gift itself. The gift may be as simple as a small linen hand towel, a small cake or sweet all wrapped in beautiful paper, folded simply and often accompained by mizuhiki (paper cord)

Images Ping Mag, check out this online magazine for all things Japanese, a wonderful source of inspiration.

Lines

2008-09-27T15:52:00.004+10:00

I love this building at Deakin University in Burwood.

Fabric packs

2008-09-24T22:48:00.004+10:00

Selection of fabric packs now available in my etsy shop. All numbered, so what you see is what you get!

Birthday dinner with friends

2008-09-20T08:21:00.023+10:00

Our gorgeous friend turned 34 yesterday. We had planned to go out for dinner to Lau's but last minute the birthday girl decided to cook Chinese at home. You know dinner is going to be amazing when your friend suggests they can cook at home and it will be better than the restaurant! And we were certainly not disappointed. The food was delicious and the flavours oh so delicate. Compliments to the chef!

Little India

2008-09-17T16:42:00.005+10:00

Spent this afternoon browsing Foster St, Dandenong. This is the closest thing I'm going to get to a trip to India for a little while yet. Found what I was looking for, some sari border trim... You can read more about"Little India" here.

Work space

2008-09-14T17:00:00.008+10:00

I've been inspired by this post over at decor8 to document a little of my own work space. It is certainly not out of the pages of an interior mag, but its my space and it works for me. Although its still a bit of a work in progress (always is, with a tradesman husband!) it functions well for the creation, packaging and storing of the cards along with a place to keep all my collectables found on my travels and somewhere to get a little creative if I so feel like it. The space is detached from the house so its great place to escape if the boys are getting a little too much!

Cut fabrics stored in drawers....

Scrap fabric packs nearly ready to go...

Collection corner: Chinese bamboo plates, Turkish plates, Arabic clock, Framed artwork by Moosie Moo.

Old books from my grandma, Art books and Kateigaho Magazine collection- a beautifully presented Japanese arts and culture magazine, in english.

Kokeshi doll collection

Under bench card storage...

Work bench for making, assembling, cutting and packing....

Thank you cards

2008-09-12T22:02:00.004+10:00

My sis recently sent out her thank you's for her wedding. She did alot of research to find something just right and decided on a lovely card range by storybymia. Simple, clean and beautifully designed. storybymia do lots of cards and stationery for many different occasions. Everything arrives wrapped and packaged beautifully. Gotta love receiving mail!

On my desk

2008-09-10T14:21:00.005+10:00

I've been trying to make time for reading. I've been borrowing books from the library, but the month is always up before I've barely glanced at them. Why is it so hard to find the time? These are the newest collection waiting to be opened. This photo reminds me of a collection of paintings by Victoria Reichelt of people's bookshelves. Amazing work. Check out some of photos of her work here.

See more desks here

Website Live

2008-09-09T21:26:00.005+10:00

Our new website is finally up and running http://www.grybathome.com.au/

What do you think?

Korweinguboora

2008-09-07T14:06:00.006+10:00

We had a nice fathers day away with a touch of country cowboy for some fresh inspiration....

Portrait

2008-09-06T20:33:00.005+10:00

A special friend enjoying her first experience with embroidery. Her concentration and interest was beautiful to watch.

L'Edel de Cleron

2008-09-06T20:15:00.005+10:00

From this to ....

This......
If you need a delicious accompaniment to a perfect bottle of wine, this is a must. Served simply with a white wine reduction of shallots and garlic and cooked in the oven dipped into with fresh, crunchy bread stick. Enjoy with some special friends as we did. You can read more about this type of cheese here.