Review @ ‘tickle the imagination’

Visually breath-taking with content to match, the new online magazine ‘tickle the imagination’ has me believing that this is THE new Australian handmade publication to read and be seen in.

Created to appeal to both the creative and the handmade shopper, their wide range of topics complimented with stunning imagery draws you in and makes you comfy. You reach the end of the 178 pages far too quickly, and you are left thirsting for more. It is very clear from the outset that the editor, team and contributors really understand this industry and the people in it; because they are a part of it themselves.

Their Spring launch issue with a woodland theme covers many topics tied into the handmade industry; all delivered with a true sense of style and elegance. The beautiful vintage Little Red Riding Hood photo shoot and cape tutorial is sure to be a favourite.

For the Handmade Shopper: Shop reviews, interior decorating tips, product features and shopping guides, market lists and interviews -all with a handmade flavour of course!

For the Creative: Industry leaders share insights, with each including a ‘lesson learnt’ . Plus craft iPhone apps for under $1 (complied by me – hope you find it useful) tutorials, a behind the scenes look of a product photo shoot and more.

So, make some time for you. Pour a hot drink, put your slippers on, listen to a chilled out tune, log on and enjoy.

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Written by: Tania of SCH

Reviews are un-solicited, unpaid for, and a complete surprise to the store/publication being reviewed.

Review @ Frankie Rose Designs

Beautiful fabric excites me… even before it becomes a ‘something’, if it is beautiful, it already has me falling in love. The quality of the textiles chosen by a designer can be the make or break of any business involving a needle and thread. Frankie Rose has quality, in every area, all stitched up.

I was introduced to Frankie Rose by one of her stockists, Little Yon Yon, and it was an introduction that had me swooning over the most beautiful cap sleeved dress in divine Amy Butler fabric. My curly haired girl had to be seen in this stylish number, and she has been tens of times; and this dress still looks like new.

Frankie Rose epitomises what I trust and love about the majority of Handmade Designers within this community - Quality and Beauty. A purchase from Frankie Rose is an investment well worth making. The quality assures me a piece that will last longer than the countless wears my daughter is determined to get out of a single dress. Her dress has changed with the seasons, and been teamed up with the likes of Trelise Cooper for layering; and done so with ease.

Frankie Rose = Timeless Quality and an abundance of Beauty.

It is exciting to watch each Frankie Rose release and I am well overdue for my next purchase. My only regret about being a customer... I am not in the vicinity to see her products in person. A market attended by Frankie Rose would be one I would stand in line to be a customer of.

If you, like me, cannot make it to any of the markets Frankie Rose presents at, then I suggest you head to either one of her wonderful stockists, or get your name on the list of her pre order releases. But do so quickly as they sell out FAST!

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Review written by: Angela of Yes, Dear

Reviews are un-solicited, unpaid for, and a complete surprise to the store being reviewed.

Review @ Monkeys Over The Moon

I have a beautiful collection of mementos that I have been putting together for each of my children since they were born. Their first pair of shoes, blankets, drawings, hand prints; memories that, for me, are simply priceless. My most recent handmade purchase was of items that are destined to be added to this collection.

We have all seen appliqué and many a business is trying to add their original spin to the art. Some do this well and others do this brilliantly. Georgie, from Monkey’s Over The Moon, falls into the latter category.

My recent purchase was of two personalised pop art tees that had my children’s faces as the main feature in true Andy Warhol Style. And in addition I could not go past an adapted version of what has become a bit of a Monkey’s Over the Moon signature tee… the ‘Red Back on The Toilet Seat’. The children love their new wardrobe additions and even my husband gave them the nod… which is very rare indeed!

This is where I must point out that the photographs of these items, although gorgeous, do not do the workmanship justice. Seeing her work in person is the only way to get a true understanding of the detail that she goes to in bringing her designs to life. Georgie has a wonderful talent for originality and is passionate about delivering outstanding products and service. She does so with ease and is renowned in this ever growing community for not only her product but also for her likeable personality and willingness to support other handmade businesses wherever possible.

Monkey’s Over The Moon is often featured in online charity auctions. This is testament to the creator’s willingness to give back in a true selfless fashion. The support that Georgie receives in these forums (not to mention the substantial sums raised) gives you an indication of the respect and admiration that she has within the handmade community, her peers and customers alike.

As I said to the designer herself in true ‘dad joke’ fashion, as a new customer to this fantastic business... “I AM OVER THE MOON!”

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Review written by: Angela of Yes, Dear

Review @ 2PM at The Button Factory

Something ever evolving for me, is my style in earrings. I love to change them daily and will change them from a simple diamond stud, to an eclectic mix of styles on the same day! This is sometimes dictated by my wardrobe; but more often than not, by my mood!

It is hard to find reasonably priced earrings made with quality materials (to protect my sensitive ears) that also have a unique style. I have looked high and low for a one-stop-shop, and I am extremely happy to say that I have found it. And even better it is local to Tasmania.

Now I knew this business was going to be impressive before I even laid eyes on it’s stock; with a name as out of the box as this, and an eye catching logo as it does… the designer had to have style all stitched up! I was right, she does!

If you are not already an admirer, then I take great pride in introducing you to 2pm at the Button Factory and its creator Amanda. Now if you, like me, have a passion for unique, handcrafted, beautiful goodness, then this is the business for you. Not only can you get lost in the catalogue of wonderful earring designs BUT you can also enjoy the hair accessories that are also made with a loving, talented hand.

Amanda was extremely accommodating with my order, allowing me to mix and match some of the earrings and producing them in a very short time. The only thing I’ve had issues with since purchasing my collection of 2pm earrings… sharing them with my daughter! To compromise I have promised that she can choose her own collection for Christmas!

With their current Sale Album all stocked up and selling beautiful earring designs at just $8 per pair, I think I will be stocking for Christmas NOW!

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Review written by: Angela of Yes, Dear