Tag Archives: vintage frames

Bunnies and buttons

30 Jul

Proud to say we did our bit for Team GB down on the leafy, rural roads of Surrey this weekend. Great atmosphere, scorching weather and celebratory mood – even though it was just a ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ glimpse of the Olympic cycling entourage.

My own Olympian challenge has been negotiating the London traffic up to Acton for a two week Christmas photo shoot. Almost finished, and I can’t say I’ll be sorry not to see another turkey until December.

At home I’ve been savouring the scarce few moments I’ve been able to spend with the little one. Story time is so precious, and we found an adorable book at the library on our last visit. The sweet illustrations come from children’s book Bunny Bunny Catkin by Cathy MacLennan {www.boxerbooks.com}. Love the contrast of the brown kraft paper with the colourful palettes of the acrylic painted characters.

Bunny Bunny Catkin by Cathy MacLennan {Boxer Books}

Bunny Bunny Catkin by Cathy MacLennan {Boxer Books}

Bunny Bunny Catkin by Cathy MacLennan {Boxer Books}

Bunny Bunny Catkin by Cathy MacLennan {Boxer Books}

I’ve also been working on a few of my own little creations, and one in particular for a friend’s spare room. When she came to me, we covered the usual ground in our discussions – birds, butterflies etc, and finally settled on another ‘B’ – buttons. This is just a roughed-out prototype, but with some downtime coming up, it’s on my list to do. Check back soon when I should have it all stitched up.

‘Buttons’ picture – createvintage.com

Moving and improving

24 May

Creativity has had to make way for practicality these past couple of weeks. We’re moving house – or at least that’s the plan – and so my life has become a stifling spiral of paperwork and phone calls and decluttering and nervous nail chewing.

I did, however, manage to make it along to my first car boot sale of the season on Sunday morning. Yes, they run all year round {although only for the hardcore}, but this first trip marked a welcome return to some serious treasure hunting in the sunshine.

I had a particular eye out for picture frames, and although I always hope for the odd unexpectedly random discovery I also like to have a plan in mind. These three frames are perfect examples of what makes a great starting point for revamping. Texture or detail will always be brought to life by a lick of paint. It doesn’t matter what colour or material the frame is to start with, good paint {and you know I love Annie Sloan} will cover any surface and imperfection. Come back soon to see this trio’s transformation.

I also couldn’t resist this pretty pressed glass cake stand. Purchased for a tidy little sum, and destined for a life displaying delicious mountains of cupcakes!

This weekend’s adventures will include a trip to Tweseldown Artisan Market {details here}.  It’s a brand new monthly event in my area showcasing local makers, bakers, creatives and crafters. With vintage stalls and retro sellers promised too it sounds right up my street. And perhaps yours too?