my decor8 eclass moodboard......

Hello

So for the last few weeks I have been trying (mostly in vain), to participate in a really cool e-course run by Holy Becker of Decor8.

For the last 3 weeks we have been set various tasks as homework, by my actual work has been totally manic, so I was determined this weekend to complete the task for this week...a mood board.
Apologies, for the lighting in my pictures, I was battling with drizzly rain today, but I think I actually like the way some of the colours have turned out.

I  loved gathering all the bits together and I think there are more combinations in my head. It's not quite what I wanted to achieve, a bit cluttered, but as I was chasing the light, it's what I got.

Hopefully there will be a another bright day soon and I will have another crack at it, but for now I am happy with what I have created.

Bel x

A helping hand.....

Hello

I hope you are having a great week so far?

Now when I decided to start writing my blog, it was not my intention to write about anything other than Colour, Jewellery and Craft, as these are the things that make me happy.
But, I feel it's only fair to let you into a secret that I been in on for the last 18 months or so. If you already know about Pixiwoo, then your'll know that the advise given by these two 'Make Up Artist' sisters, Samantha & Nicki is the most amazing ever.
They have over 400 YouTube tutorials and cover anything from classic looks (great for weddings), to celebrity glamour, to fancy dress/party make up.

They know what looks good and will show you exactly how to apply everything, with tips scattered along the way and what's more they are really nice and great to watch. I feel like they are my friends, even though I've never met them.
I've learnt to use brushes to apply my make up properly and also about skin care brands that are used by the professionals.

Pixiwoo has over 400,000 weekly followers, so they are definitely doing something right.  Even if you don't wear make up or just have time in your life to apply a bit of mascara and some lip balm before leaving the house, check out what these lovely ladies have to say. 

Bel x

Underground colour.....

Hi

With the weather now becoming slightly gloomy, my morning train arrives in semi darkness. I've been landing at work still half asleep, carried along with the crowd, often with no real memory of my journey!

But this week I had to get into town exceptionally early (7am!) and fuelled by espresso, I was a lot more alert than usual. 

I notice that the underground at Charring Cross has the beautiful transport poster above, Nature's Paradise. The design is so so classic, with bold use of line and colour blocks, that with a little modification I think it would make a great mosaic (I might ditch the dolphin & some of the daisies).

Another project on my list for next summer.

All these wonderful transport posters can be bought on-line at London Transport Museum shop as well as loads of other cool gifts, that you wouldn't expect, so take a look if you are after unusual, but stylish Christmas presents.

The Puffins definitely brighten up my journey to work now.

Bel x

Esty Super Star......

Kangaroo Care

Hi

I was browsing the wonder that is Esty today, trying not to think about all the work I was MEANT to be doing, when I found these lovely necklaces by Kangeroo Care. I  instantly thought that they were really sweet and beautiful.
As a Jewellery who works predominantly with precious metal and gem stones (which sometimes can feel quite hard and cold), I think there is a real softness to jewellery made from wood and these pieces are combined with crochet in lovely refreshing colours.

The idea is so great, a necklace for mother and baby, something bright to catch your babies attention when breastfeeding.

How cool and clever is that!

The moment you take a baby in your arms, nothing is off limits, especially jewellery and necklaces in particular will be reached for. 
So it's great to be able to wear a piece that can be grabbed and even chewed. There are also some very sweet pieces for children, which I know would be loved and treasured.

I don't have a baby, but I think these necklaces are so fresh, that I want to buy one anyway and this site will be a must for any of my friends or relations, when they give birth. What a cool present to buy. and give.

Bel x

I love Mollie Makes.....

Mollie Makes

Hello all

Several months ago I was lucky to come across Mollie Makes magazine in my local newsagents on the release of only the second issue and I have been hooked ever since!

The magazine covers stitch craft, handmade cloths, retro furniture and much, much more. 

It's out every month and only costs £4.94. You can read it on-line  but every issue so far has come with a useful gift, sewing scissors, buttons, beautiful ribbon, so if you read it on-line you will miss our on the freebies!

I know that WH Smiths stock Mollie Makes, but only a few copies, so if like me there are regular readers in your area, you may be missing it, if they all sell on the first day it's out.

Well worth hunting out a copy do as I have done and ask for a subscription for your birthday or Christmas ans then sit back and wait for it to come to you.

Bel x 

All you need is paper, a blade and lots of imagination.......

Paper Art by Yulia Brodskaya

Hello 

I was in London this week and bought some beautiful hand made cards by Rob Ryan in Liberty and decided to check out other paper art designs. some of the pieces I have come across are utterly amazing.
Have a look online and be inspired.

Bel x

Paper Art by Matt Shlain

a new place to spend my money.......

kitchen accessories, wall stickers, ceiling rose stickers, lights

Hi

Get your lovely selves to a computer, smart phone or tablet and take a look at www.rockettstgeorge.co.uk

There is furniture, gorgeous wall stickers and beautiful graduated wallpaper.

Don't blow the savings all at once.....

Bel x

In search of colour inspiration......

Oil Paintings by Dana Oldfather

Hello

Today I have been scouring the net for some colour inspiration and I found the lovely site of US painter www.danaoldfather.com

Her beautiful oil paintings and prints are a riot of colour, which is definitely what I needed as it has rained all today and I am starting to 

come down with a post holiday cold. 

I think the colour combo's in both paintings above, are really interesting and as I am about to start the annual hunt for spring bulbs, esp Tulips which need to be planted by the end of November, I think I might take some inspiration from Dana!

I think it's time to turn the central heating back on!

Bel x