Monday, July 31, 2017

Caroline Donnelly the genius!

Oh she's good, love this designer, she's Irish, she understands pattern and her collection is so inexpensive. I think I may have too much of it in the house but I just don't care. It makes a welcome change from the slightly too dear Pip Studio and similar. Will continue my ecclectic stash until I sicken myself. Available at Dunnes Stores.




Wednesday, July 26, 2017

I heart Jane Austen 1775 – 1817

I have always loved the idea of reading the great writers of the 18th century – At times I even finished a novel or two. Jane Austen always explored the reasons why women of that time depended on the bagging of a 'good' husband to not only provide but to also increase their social standing. This is an interesting concept for the 21st century and one that would, I'm sure, be completely abhorred by most modern day women....  But when you get down to the nitty gritty is this really the case?? – Are women so liberated and independent that this outdated concept in now redundant? ... Mmmm
In the meantime I love collecting these clothbound classic books - a special edition collection illustrated by the talented Coralie Bickford-Smith -  just wish I had time to read them all. Purchased in Waterstones Cork, the mother of all bookshops (www.waterstones.com). Prices from EUR18.00.


Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Where the magic happens

Tucked away at the top of our house is my tiny craftroom, it's a small space that has a big output. I run my internet craft business from here (www.greatislandembroidery.com) but I also mend, cut, sew, glue and paint for my own needs in this space. It is so great to have a private area where I can safely hide my stash addiction of all things craft from fat quarters to worsted wools and ceramic buttons and no one has to know a thing about it!


Monday, July 24, 2017

How to decorate and design on a budget

A few years ago I became interested in interior decoration, not because I 'had a flair' for it or that it 'gave me something to do' while the kids were at school! No, I became interested because I wanted to live in a space that I could be myself in. Sounds simple and it is, but if, like me, you must be comfortable in your home and have a limited budget then this blog is for you. You have to pick the right colours, textiles and accessories the first time - no second chances and you have to know how to make and where to buy.
I have decorated several houses since and am currently working on my own home in Cobh, Co. Cork. It was a dilapidated wreck and the revamp knocked us for six but it's nearly done and I'm happy to say its now an acceptable modern, clean space. So hang on for pics, ideas, craft demos, floral accessories and just about anything else relevant.