tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-329327972024-03-19T09:04:32.824+10:00Kimono ReincarnateMelanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.comBlogger822125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-41271676653424172602016-04-07T15:56:00.000+10:002016-04-07T15:56:42.836+10:00Gluten Free Traveling in Japan<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next month I'm headed back to Japan for a short trip with my family. It will be my daughter's first time to see this country she's heard so much about. At six years of age, she's already such a Japanophile. She's been known to tell people that she's Japanese as she used to live there in her mummy's tummy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since moving back to Australia, wow, seven years ago, I have been diagnosed as being coeliac and so has my daughter. Eating gluten free in Japan wasn't something I had to think about too much when I lived there except for when my mother (also coeliac) came to visit. I have been back three times for holidays since diagnosis and learn more each time I go. Here's what I've learnt, in hopes to help anyone else traveling over there...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Preparation</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let's face it, being coeliac we've become the kings and queens of preparation and research before we go anywhere, if we want to eat without getting sick that is. Japan can be a challenge in terms of eating gluten free and as a previous lover of all food Japanese I miss being able to just walk into a restaurant</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and get my favourite grilled eel or tempura prawns on udon. That being said, there is so much more about the country to enjoy that I wouldn't for a second let a sensitive gut stop me from going.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Gluten Free Card in Japanese</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I found this card invaluable. I would use it at convenience stores, at supermarkets and at restaurants. Wait staff would take it in to show the chef who would then let me know what, if anything was suitable and cook it up especially for me. For Japan, the most common source of gluten will be the soy sauce that many dishes are cooked with. For that reason, I chose to use a card from <a href="https://www.selectwisely.com/products/Gluten-free_Card?from=Gluten-Free" target="_blank">Select Wisely</a> but if you do a web search there are other ones available as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pack Snacks</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To be honest, when I'm traveling over there for a few weeks I don't want to be spending valuable temple tramping and fabric shopping time on trying to find something to eat. I always take over a lot of snacks that I can keep in my bag. I usually take muesli bars, nuts (of course you can buy nuts over there, but if I take my own I know I don't have to worry about checking for extra ingredients or cross contamination), cereal, this trip I'm going to pack single serves of flavoured tuna, biscuits and rice crackers. Oh, and packing your own gluten free soy sauce is a great idea too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Book your accommodation</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You've got to have somewhere to sleep of course, but I spend a lot of extra time choosing my hotels. For the most part, I have found travel a lot easier by basing myself in one city (Nagoya for me as it's close to friends and in the middle of the main island), ordering a JR rail pass so I can travel on the Shinkansen as much as I like and booking an apartment with a full kitchen. Sometimes these apartments are only available if you're staying for at least a week. Booking through <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/s/japan?guests=&ss_id=j2qo0919&source=bb&s_tag=vvLK2Idz" target="_blank">AirBNB</a> is another option. Otherwise I try to book a hotel room that at least has a microwave and a small cooktop. When I have a kitchen I have a lot more freedom. I go to a local supermarket and buy fresh ingredients so I still get to enjoy the local flavours but know that it has been safely prepared. I often will also make up a Japanese "bento" box for lunch so then I only need to worry about eating out for dinner. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The other option is to stay in a place that caters for westerners. This trip we're staying in a hotel in Tokyo for a couple of days that has a large buffet breakfast with lots of fruit and will also cook up fresh omelets for us each day. One place I stayed in, a Japanese business hotel, cooked me boiled eggs served with salad and tea every morning. Or, on the flipside, if you stay in a traditional Ryokan, your host might be willing to prepare a dish of rice, pickles and grilled fish (without soy sauce) for your breakfast. Yum!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Convenience Stores and Supermarkets</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your local 7-11 or any other of the convenience stores found on so many of the street corners in Japan can be a source for gluten free food. Many of them sell pre-boiled eggs (choose the ones with the shells still on them) which became a standard breakfast on one of my visits. They also have pre-cooked rice that they'll heat up for you, and salads with the dressing packed separately (don't use the dressing). Some of the rice balls are gluten free, if in doubt check with the staff using your coeliac card.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the supermarket, as well as fresh fruit and ingredients to cook with, there will be some pre-prepared food. There you can usually find sushi, grilled fish and sashimi.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another option, especially if you're in a large city, is to find a foreign food store. There they will have foods from around the world and depending on where they originate from, there will be an ingredients list in English. I usually go here to top up on snacks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Japanese Foods to Eat</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sushi becomes my staple diet while I'm in Japan. Not all sushi is gluten free though. Check with the sushi bar first that they aren't using sushi vinegar that contains wheat. I also check on the mayonnaise and the wasabi. Most places the soy sauce will be a no-go, but if you're in a high-end sushi bar they may actually use a wheat-free tamari sauce instead so you can check if you like. Then check with the staff (again, whip out that card of yours again), to check which ones are ok. If you stick with the prawns (ebi) and sashimi ones you shouldn't have a problem. Even if you're in a sushi train type environment, you can often get them to make it especially for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Yaki Niku</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also known in Japan as "Korean BBQ". This can be a bit of a splurge but is so delicious. You will be given a menu of raw meat to choose from and to be honest, they all look the same. You can also order plates of vegetables. Here though, make sure that you ask for no marinade, no sauce and just salt and pepper only. Then they bring the raw food out to you and you cook on your own grill.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Buckwheat Soba</b><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just be careful to check that it is a 100% buckwheat noodle and that it isn't served up with soy sauce.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Yaki Tori</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is delicious char-grilled chicken on a stick and you can order it with just salt (no marinade). Be careful though, it may be cooked on the same grill with other gluten-containing foods so there is a higher chance of cross-contamination. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Daifuku</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A traditional rice cake sweet with a marshmallow-like consistency. It's filling often contains red beans but my favourite during strawberry season comes filled with the sweet. Be careful to check that it isn't the version with sponge cake and get someone to help you check the ingredients. I found some use wheat starch, some don't but if you find the right one and you have a sweet tooth, these are heavenly!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Kyoto's Yatsuhashi</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You'll find these all over Kyoto and especially in souvenir stores at Kyoto station. They are a traditional sweet made from rice flour, sugar and cinnamon. They come in two versions - "<a href="https://www.tsunagujapan.com/30-food-souvenirs-from-kyoto/" target="_blank">Nama Yatsuhashi</a>" (raw) which will be a in a triangular shape with a filling (often bean paste, but check ingredients as newer versions may not have a gf filling) and the cooked version is a little, hard biscuit with a curve to it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Places to Eat</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Outback Steakhouse</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is an "Australian themed" steakhouse and found in <a href="http://outbacksteakhouse.co.jp/en/location/index.html" target="_blank">a number of places in Japan</a>. It's my go-to place to eat in Nagoya. The staff usually speak good English and I can get a steak and vegetables gluten free.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Tony Romas</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another western restaurant with <a href="http://www.tonyromas.jp/en/locations.html" target="_blank">locations around Japan</a> where I've always been able to get a delicious gluten free meal made for me. It's my go-to place in Kyoto. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Japan Crepe in Harajyuku (Tokyo)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I haven't actually been here yet, never knowing the countless times that I passed it that their crepes are gluten free. This one is booked in for my trip next month.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>McDonalds</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you get desperate, McDonalds is a fall back. In most outlets the fries are cooked in their own oil (check first though) and you can get a meat patty on its own. Be aware though that often in Japanese culture they don't like veering from the menu so I had a bit of explaining to do and one store was happy to do it while another one I could only get the fries.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Indian</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As most Indian curries are naturally gluten-free I've found this can be an easy place to eat out. Just explain (often here English is better than Japanese) your dietary needs and they will be most accommodating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Family Restaurants</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dotted all around the country, they often have basics on the menu so check to see if the cook is willing to make something gluten free for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Coco Ichiban</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a Japanese curry chain resturant that is dotted all over the country, I'm told they have menus in English and now have an allergy free curry. You can read more about it <a href="https://travelwithallergies.wordpress.com/2013/02/21/coco-ichibanya-curry-tokyo-japan/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Little Bird Gluten Free Cafe - Tokyo</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I haven't tried it but would like to on this trip. You can find out more about them <a href="http://bestlivingjapan.com/little-bird-gluten-free-restaurant/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<u style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Things to watch out for</u><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Mugi-cha</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This tea is not to be confused with green tea, as it looks similar. Mugi-cha is made from barley so to be avoided.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Sembei</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ahhh... rice cakes. You'd think they'd be an easy option right? Sadly no. Many of them had soy sauce in their glaze. There certainly are some gluten free ones but you have to search a bit and don't assume that they naturally will be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Mixed Rice "Healthy Rice"</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I was last living in Japan, "healthy rice" was a bit of a fashion. It actually contains barley grains, so stick to plain white rice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Helpful Blogs</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Celiac Travel </b>has a great post including the Kanji for gluten-containing ingredients <a href="http://www.celiactravel.com/stories/getting-gluten-free-food-in-japan/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Legal Nomads</b> has a comprehensive guide on eating gluten free in Japan including a list of restaurants that I'm going to enjoy testing on my upcoming trip <a href="http://www.legalnomads.com/gluten-free/japan" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Ctrl Alt Eat</b> has a lovely read on gluten free eating in Japan <a href="http://ctrlalteat.com.au/gluten-free-japan/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>If you've traveled to Japan and eaten gluten free, I'd love to hear your tips and favourite places to go. I will try to update this post after my next visit too and add in anything I new I have discovered. Happy travelling!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com112tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-40832772964594102712015-04-28T14:17:00.000+10:002015-04-28T14:17:28.598+10:00The One Where I've Been Spending All My Time Over On Instagram<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> Psst... I won't mention how long it's been since I've posted on my blog if you won't...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Life has been happily plodding along in the Kimono Reincarnate world as I continue to play with my rapidly growing girl, with colour and with different mediums.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've been experimenting with using resin in different ways but for the first time since university, I've picked up a paintbrush and have been playing with watercolours and acrylics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm trying to get outdoors as much as possible, breathing in the fresh air and being inspired by all around me.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCKSrq3bIqtDVFGqcd-xTSRf-9HXotZWUiF5xVJoyPilg2vBc0iEqdbvQ7aO3UgeOcEOtL2sybNUpld17xut6fzvgkiPaxpbb1n6lVLyxD3ZhWQI0DROEHtXFmTD6PRjojHyG/s1600/instagram.collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCKSrq3bIqtDVFGqcd-xTSRf-9HXotZWUiF5xVJoyPilg2vBc0iEqdbvQ7aO3UgeOcEOtL2sybNUpld17xut6fzvgkiPaxpbb1n6lVLyxD3ZhWQI0DROEHtXFmTD6PRjojHyG/s1600/instagram.collage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the shots above there are some sneak peeks at a few exciting things to come!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And while I've been neglecting you dear blog reader, I do apologise. I spend so much of my time on my phone and have loved the convenience of quick uploads to <a href="https://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate/" target="_blank">my instagram account.</a> Are you on there? Please pop by and say hello if you are!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Noticing my instagram obsession, BriStyle have asked me to do a (free!) session on Instagram photography this weekend. I'd love to see you if you can come!</span></div>
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<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-61911648453182101862014-11-05T19:21:00.000+10:002014-11-05T19:21:00.289+10:00What I've been playing with and Pre-Christmas Market Dates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've been really inspired lately and have been having lots of fun playing in the studio. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've started creating one-off sterling silver and resin wearable paintings. These will eventually be under my Melanie Augustin label that I'll be launching properly next year!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWql0fpHORzj1lHM6Zl7loG9ArY8_eczFbeFmtUviasvPZk2ndUdJvFmrBR0-COgch1moXhwld5V8kHzQxBktaE9AC6P_k-9LHQB9vqFJ-JdTtXyPHMpcrokPRPzv7GgudwKMR/s1600/1Silver+and+Resin+Jewellery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWql0fpHORzj1lHM6Zl7loG9ArY8_eczFbeFmtUviasvPZk2ndUdJvFmrBR0-COgch1moXhwld5V8kHzQxBktaE9AC6P_k-9LHQB9vqFJ-JdTtXyPHMpcrokPRPzv7GgudwKMR/s1600/1Silver+and+Resin+Jewellery.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And to give the Christmas tree a bit of Kimono Reincarnate love this year, I have <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/209770634/origami-crane-ornament-love-peace-and?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">crane ornaments in "Peace", "Love" & "Joy"</a>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Be8vIThw4jqHWVOWgG-hgzehI4xDZrEBHK0zxXKxjHZBC6wd-e5u3qhtRmHcjDiR19Y1eJ0TY4ZKwXzvuKS2jBF6h1Ry6RTn1LIuhc81hhCKXLyGzIm-Z9oBytTN5SI8Om2F/s1600/2.+Peace+crane+christmas+ornament.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Be8vIThw4jqHWVOWgG-hgzehI4xDZrEBHK0zxXKxjHZBC6wd-e5u3qhtRmHcjDiR19Y1eJ0TY4ZKwXzvuKS2jBF6h1Ry6RTn1LIuhc81hhCKXLyGzIm-Z9oBytTN5SI8Om2F/s1600/2.+Peace+crane+christmas+ornament.JPG" height="362" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've been tap, tap, tapping away working on lots of Rock Pool stacking rings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And returning to my love of textiles and surface design, firstly with some new summer scarves coming soon...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIOAVh1LJCXjiOI7QtvfPkSzr2IToe8sfjPcdjnjm3KkHwdh02UAyprm0RgkDIvoqruIka3CqThXWgprOgAai2mclD5PxJOnzuWhTLUpRPtrb-fdC7lb7huZ_wT_eZUB40nBB/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIOAVh1LJCXjiOI7QtvfPkSzr2IToe8sfjPcdjnjm3KkHwdh02UAyprm0RgkDIvoqruIka3CqThXWgprOgAai2mclD5PxJOnzuWhTLUpRPtrb-fdC7lb7huZ_wT_eZUB40nBB/s1600/4.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I won't be doing many markets this Christmas, but you will find me at...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.brisstyle.com.au/brisstyle-bazaar-nov-22nd/" target="_blank">BrisStyle Bazaar</a>. As well as some Kimono Reincarnate goodness, I'll be taking along kimono fabric ready for you to create gifts yourself. I'll also have a selection of samples and seconds for the only time this year.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8CC9yG27Dqe5x_Kz_FiJrSCPS_BPK2FOUszBv9v1n731PnRYzOkV12foPuDtcX4uu8pUVaer2kzrUGGyIpsvdtGEQWJX1qjoWm3FEsdWhlam7aJ6BKmkxMxMbSJMwQmiS-X2/s1600/5.BrisStyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8CC9yG27Dqe5x_Kz_FiJrSCPS_BPK2FOUszBv9v1n731PnRYzOkV12foPuDtcX4uu8pUVaer2kzrUGGyIpsvdtGEQWJX1qjoWm3FEsdWhlam7aJ6BKmkxMxMbSJMwQmiS-X2/s1600/5.BrisStyle.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'll also have a few pieces in the <a href="http://www.brisstyle.com.au/brisstyle-etsy-pop-up-store/" target="_blank">Etsy Pop-up Shop</a> and am hoping to get along to the opening preview night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And my final Brisbane market will be huge! I'll be at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/681397625292724/" target="_blank">QAGoMA Store Christmas market</a>, it's such a wonderful market, filled with fabulous artisans.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Then finally, a trip down to Melbourne! Oh how I've missed my Melbourne jaunts. I'll be at <a href="http://thebigdesignmarket.com/" target="_blank">The Big Design Market</a> and there will even be one of my Crane ornaments in one of the showbags.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And of course, both my <a href="http://www.kimonoreincarnate.com/" target="_blank">web-store</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> will be open until Christmas and <a href="http://www.kimonoreincarnate.com/Stockists" target="_blank">my lovely stockists</a> will have work available too. Happy Christmas shopping!</span></div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-25952542407228348172014-09-25T18:16:00.000+10:002014-09-25T18:16:39.790+10:00Please Vote for Me in the Etsy Design Awards! Pleeeease!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm over the moon today! I've just found out that my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/112365539/origami-crane-pendant-sterling-silver?ref=shop_home_feat_1" target="_blank">Sterling Silver Origami Crane Pendant</a> is a finalist in the <a href="http://etsydesignawards.com/nominees/fashion-and-accessories/kimono-reincarnate" target="_blank">Etsy Design Awards!</a> As a finalist, I have the chance of winning not only exposure in Inside Out magazine, but the people's choice winner also gets a trip to New York to visit Etsy headquarters! How amazing would that be!</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/112365539/origami-crane-pendant-sterling-silver?ref=shop_home_feat_1" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLgnIiqu_5Ozb697zCc435pLopDlQJAcxlKVN2lBFNvz_RlUcqcKT7r-Dmdok_aLTFLkyUM4OF33TMUm64AY-96_2gW42HO24cEh4qxHrP5J3BIbZJMSVzz4LDd9Mm-LplJ9_/s1600/1.Sterling+Silver+Origami+Crane+Jewellery+Pendant.JPG" height="337" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The origami crane holds a special place in my heart. When I was in primary school, my teacher read us the story of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadako_and_the_Thousand_Paper_Cranes" target="_blank">Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes</a> and it was my first connection to Japan, a country which I would later call home for six years. When I was in my 20s, I went to Hiroshima and visited Sadako's memorial and was so touched by all the paper cranes folded and sent from children all around the world. When I was teaching in a high school in Japan, if ever a student was sick in hospital, the school would get together and fold 1000 cranes which would then be delivered to the child's ward.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The crane also has other symbolic meanings attached and I love how a simple square piece of paper can be folded into a message of peace, love, health and longevity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To create this crane, I first folded the paper, coated it to make it waterproof, had a mould made and then I get it cast in sterling silver by a local company. I then finish it off with a brushed finish to give it a paper-like texture and burnish the folds to a lovely shine as a contrast.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So now excuse me while I beg.... please <a href="http://etsydesignawards.com/nominees/fashion-and-accessories/kimono-reincarnate" target="_blank">vote for my beloved crane! Pretty please! You can do so over here.</a> Oh, and there's also a chance you could win yourself a $250 Etsy shopping voucher while you're at it!</span></div>
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<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-18265855468765571542014-09-16T20:50:00.000+10:002014-09-16T20:50:27.839+10:00Taking Stock :: September<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've always loved reading <a href="http://meetmeatmikes.com/" target="_blank">Meet Me at Mikes</a>' <a href="http://meetmeatmikes.com/taking-stock-september/" target="_blank">Taking Stock posts</a>, so this month I thought I'd join in. A little about my life right now...</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Making : A new range of silver jewellery, inspired by the scales and colours on <a href="http://www.google.com.au/images?client=safari&rls=en&q=koinobori&oe=UTF-8&gfe_rd=cr&hl=en&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ei=3wwYVL-LB5Dk8AX8u4HoDQ&ved=0CB8QsAQ" target="_blank">Koinobori</a>. I've also been making some <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/how-to-make-japanese-kanzashi-style.html" target="_blank">Kanzashi</a> again.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Cooking : A birthday cake for my mum, yesterday actually.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Drinking : Tea, lots of it, all day long.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Reading: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1406870.The_Service_of_Clouds" target="_blank">The Service of Clouds</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Wanting: Some more free time.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Looking: At the mountains on my morning walks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Playing: With my daughter, we're loving the beach in this weather and our year-long pass to the zoo.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Deciding: On designs for my bathroom renovation.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Wishing: I could clone myself.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Enjoying: The weather and my garden.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Waiting: For a night time cough to go away.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Liking: My life.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Loving: The "Tuesday Adventures" that I have with my daughter. We're trying to make the most of the time before she starts school next year.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Considering: A bit of change in the direction of my work next year... </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Watching: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reign_(TV_series)" target="_blank">Reign</a>. Oh how I love a historical drama, especially one with gorgeous costumes. And my guilty pleasure, <a href="http://www.jump-in.com.au/show/theblock/glasshouse/" target="_blank">The Block</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Hoping: That I can arrange another trip to Japan next year.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Marvelling: That our new nectarine tree is fruiting so well already.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Needing: A good night's sleep.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Smelling: The jasmine flowering outside my studio.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Wearing: Right now, pajamas.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Following: Lots of people on <a href="http://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">instagram</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Noticing: How much better I feel by cutting out certain foods that my body doesn't like, which sadly includes chocolate and strangely enough, cauliflower.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Sorting: Wholesale and online orders. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Buying: Locally grown produce. The strawberries are delicious at the moment.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Feeling: Content.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Snacking: On left over birthday cake.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Hearing: Right now, a wonderful silence which means that my little one has fallen asleep.</span></div>
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<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-86579074481076919212014-09-03T11:58:00.001+10:002014-09-03T11:58:29.170+10:00Etsy Design Awards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy September! The Spring, in my part of the world, has started off beautifully and put an extra little bounce in my step.</div>
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Talking of September, have you heard about the Etsy Design Awards open to Australian sellers? With prizes that include a trip to Etsy's headquarters in New York, a business coaching session with Clare Bowditch and coverage in Inside Out magazine, it's pretty amazing!</div>
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Entries close on September 12th.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpi2y6Ox8uddvyO9anlN383bULl9nOKln_eMvX0AaiYseUlThKj8kpFQhyphenhyphenB_kKIcyx9PmTid265UjW5KBfBLMYpgH_NBiODIvZbRRpExhRUBNjqbC83odeLM-ACT8nwrL-8GX/s1600/1.Etsy+Design+Awards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpi2y6Ox8uddvyO9anlN383bULl9nOKln_eMvX0AaiYseUlThKj8kpFQhyphenhyphenB_kKIcyx9PmTid265UjW5KBfBLMYpgH_NBiODIvZbRRpExhRUBNjqbC83odeLM-ACT8nwrL-8GX/s1600/1.Etsy+Design+Awards.png" height="281" width="400" /></a></div>
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There is a category especially for new stores, called "New Talent", so if you've been thinking of opening an etsy shop, now could be a perfect time.</div>
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If you're new to Etsy and are in the Brisbane area, <a href="http://brisstyle.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">BrisStyle</a> have many great, free session filled to the brim with tips and tricks to get you going and running smoothly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZZWL6HyDz8DmYONAgXvbKWHtbnrxmEhMgT0XpjIzAzLcD0aRLc4T89N2m5_mUpccGPUdY4ZdzteAliuCe0LO-BjRx5E29Ip0deFPuLtRg6k3cks-0KEr7G4I7f_yAZ3BUNIP/s1600/2.10615499_10152710166217433_3310537229856801199_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZZWL6HyDz8DmYONAgXvbKWHtbnrxmEhMgT0XpjIzAzLcD0aRLc4T89N2m5_mUpccGPUdY4ZdzteAliuCe0LO-BjRx5E29Ip0deFPuLtRg6k3cks-0KEr7G4I7f_yAZ3BUNIP/s1600/2.10615499_10152710166217433_3310537229856801199_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-39751093107453335492014-07-14T15:46:00.000+10:002014-07-14T15:50:41.609+10:00Lately, in the Studio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lately, I've been having lots of fun playing with new work in the studio, tinkering around with bits of silver and dashes of colour, just the way I like things.</div>
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I've started playing with a new range inspired by the scales on Japanese <a href="http://www.google.com.au/search?q=koinobori&client=safari&rls=en&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=JWjDU6DqAYfIkQXBw4CwCA&ved=0CCsQsAQ&biw=1450&bih=870" target="_blank">Koinobori</a> banners. I want the pieces stackable with variations in colours that will blend together, these are some of my results so far....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCbL1WAtH27CXCY_mesd3Ju0zdp0Bc5uHWmeeE67L2fDGI0ZT9tBnoOBGTx_exXri2OOML7C3MPC2wFcrPoDBONCudTdsnZPVlmiqtDzNYDBkruPrGC6Gro1jz6iREreXFIou/s1600/1.Resin+and+silver+rings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCbL1WAtH27CXCY_mesd3Ju0zdp0Bc5uHWmeeE67L2fDGI0ZT9tBnoOBGTx_exXri2OOML7C3MPC2wFcrPoDBONCudTdsnZPVlmiqtDzNYDBkruPrGC6Gro1jz6iREreXFIou/s1600/1.Resin+and+silver+rings.JPG" height="386" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpHG8SRNcklyPeB_JV8QWbKf-DgSiHma3jUdalX8S_2Sy63s5qtZjiKLsJB3q5FmhSfM8l24sgS-A8ValCavpqM9IghBrp5Sfokb8jf5o6u6kYosZEjQuzP604RBD7rw6UbNU/s1600/2.silversmithing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpHG8SRNcklyPeB_JV8QWbKf-DgSiHma3jUdalX8S_2Sy63s5qtZjiKLsJB3q5FmhSfM8l24sgS-A8ValCavpqM9IghBrp5Sfokb8jf5o6u6kYosZEjQuzP604RBD7rw6UbNU/s1600/2.silversmithing.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tELRAUAPT8WwCiCB-IIsJqvXl8sFAH8C0IGb-RioNxy_hbl0ZpP3ApdsXkva8vyN7bWYOTeLFgUsVUoMy2Q6VhvDy8atgylM7GsebwhXXiomuT2BCJZLi2lWzyi_6fSFatyZ/s1600/3.2.resin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tELRAUAPT8WwCiCB-IIsJqvXl8sFAH8C0IGb-RioNxy_hbl0ZpP3ApdsXkva8vyN7bWYOTeLFgUsVUoMy2Q6VhvDy8atgylM7GsebwhXXiomuT2BCJZLi2lWzyi_6fSFatyZ/s1600/3.2.resin.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQHek6LDwqlPdsNXDgNro4_G4g9IXsgIoLWn-BtxjqLTqt_u07SqiQU5HwrQ5fIuVLqfXJmTb2seiJbaLByjfjT756y0b2G5oJXzQVWws6JxGTogd986NQDQyRnC8K788srTb/s1600/3.resin+and+silver+jewellery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQHek6LDwqlPdsNXDgNro4_G4g9IXsgIoLWn-BtxjqLTqt_u07SqiQU5HwrQ5fIuVLqfXJmTb2seiJbaLByjfjT756y0b2G5oJXzQVWws6JxGTogd986NQDQyRnC8K788srTb/s1600/3.resin+and+silver+jewellery.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></div>
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I've also started extending my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/177729389/sterling-silver-and-resin-drop-earrings?ref=listing-4" target="_blank">"Rock Pool"</a> range. My <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/168073544/sterling-silver-and-resin-drop-earrings?ref=related-0" target="_blank">scarlet Rock Pool drop earrings</a> are my go-to earrings, they go with most things in my wardrobe and I feel instantly more glamourous just by slipping them on. I'm now working on some stacking rings to add to the range in a variety of different hues.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlb1O6bfaWaJ7MFYWgdQCACGBXmDe-G5FOfLh-hCwW3I2ADu0Dfyv59PenPYRmwTzSDqDgWXCJl-yjDCW78Q9490kQRI4OMWhYPYL3gB6uElJ8fcg2kImENLso5EP8cBttTmW/s1600/4.silver+stacking+rings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlb1O6bfaWaJ7MFYWgdQCACGBXmDe-G5FOfLh-hCwW3I2ADu0Dfyv59PenPYRmwTzSDqDgWXCJl-yjDCW78Q9490kQRI4OMWhYPYL3gB6uElJ8fcg2kImENLso5EP8cBttTmW/s1600/4.silver+stacking+rings.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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And of course, the main purpose of <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/search?q=japan+trip+2014" target="_blank">my recent trip to Japan</a> was to source new fabric and handmade papers for the Kimono Reincarnate signature ranges. I really love the treasures I found and how they're turning out.</div>
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And pssst... there are some new "Quilted" designs being added to my Kyoto Collection.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIi_deR9AwRSYlBNvvApvoOOlR0vpoWkDQ83Ord5lNLvbyYb-F6Hq3FzIKfMU1f_dxzrgqU1wAImTU4-JJjdcl0OSouPC3n2DGDvJm3kpqjtxn4TesHIPKBSiZXe2cNSx8v_B-/s1600/7.kimono+fabric+jewellery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIi_deR9AwRSYlBNvvApvoOOlR0vpoWkDQ83Ord5lNLvbyYb-F6Hq3FzIKfMU1f_dxzrgqU1wAImTU4-JJjdcl0OSouPC3n2DGDvJm3kpqjtxn4TesHIPKBSiZXe2cNSx8v_B-/s1600/7.kimono+fabric+jewellery.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Recently I took an online drawing class with <a href="http://lisacongdon.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Congdon</a> on <a href="http://www.creativebug.com/" target="_blank">Creativebug</a>. Even though I have a degree in Visual Arts, I realised that other than quick not-good-enough-to-show-anyone sketches of jewellery design ideas, I haven't done any pen sketching since my second year of university, which was a very long time ago. While I'm still feeling rather rusty, it's been great to get pen back on paper and to doodle away.</div>
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I have plans for some of those doodles too.... and have been getting a few prototypes made which hopefully I can show you in the next couple of months...</div>
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This week the work in the studio is all about getting ready for the GoMA Winter Design Market. It's on this Saturday, 19th July at the entrance to the Queensland GoMA gallery, South Brisbane.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMsvqOkApuYDs2Xu-E6abUb5p55cb83tZYCIzULyyQvTn31h0Ey4zdBpQaIVB4jl75gBHpaJZ_QwDzrvjdKV9-9NHV_COLjACi6k9tjm4KTgsHNlWz503QjPTrbNxBp7zkKN6x/s1600/IMG_4360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMsvqOkApuYDs2Xu-E6abUb5p55cb83tZYCIzULyyQvTn31h0Ey4zdBpQaIVB4jl75gBHpaJZ_QwDzrvjdKV9-9NHV_COLjACi6k9tjm4KTgsHNlWz503QjPTrbNxBp7zkKN6x/s1600/IMG_4360.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then, for a couple of weeks after the market I'll be working on a big update of my website to include the new designs.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-40424694640260222562014-07-02T11:21:00.000+10:002014-07-02T11:21:49.359+10:00Japan Trip 2014 - Temple Tramping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my favourite places to visit while I'm in Japan are the temples, both big and small. I love their serenity, their sense of history and their beauty. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bxYujKwOiSae3-hVLeTA3kq_OHIBqbje1QRuNC7wJOOMkTA0aE2PFTmrgCiXs6iqGfjMssk84fzmPHsXHXOmRp-6RUUiPmq3vgqKkb4bNrALfZ11SLXkX9-2C6ITyKFQ5sIg/s1600/IMG_3931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bxYujKwOiSae3-hVLeTA3kq_OHIBqbje1QRuNC7wJOOMkTA0aE2PFTmrgCiXs6iqGfjMssk84fzmPHsXHXOmRp-6RUUiPmq3vgqKkb4bNrALfZ11SLXkX9-2C6ITyKFQ5sIg/s1600/IMG_3931.jpg" height="640" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One thousand origami cranes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kaminarimon, Sensoji, Asakusa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incense, Sensoji, Asakusa. The worshippers direct the smoke onto the parts of their body they want to heal or strengthen.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ema_(Shinto)" target="_blank">Ema</a> Tablets, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwykgtXP1FYOyreX3r_6zn7iG5ZVAHBCjagrBiB8LagsNOzAkOc1prkNXrpZh-0i2I0DyejVtTtDfy6pSREWWld9MKaWbugsjuol4LQ4RHFLdGOL1DoJbEs-eXQ9iiTmc4VYe/s1600/IMG_4096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwykgtXP1FYOyreX3r_6zn7iG5ZVAHBCjagrBiB8LagsNOzAkOc1prkNXrpZh-0i2I0DyejVtTtDfy6pSREWWld9MKaWbugsjuol4LQ4RHFLdGOL1DoJbEs-eXQ9iiTmc4VYe/s1600/IMG_4096.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fox spirits at Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fox spirits at Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto</td></tr>
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<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-41243310088559182992014-06-12T19:28:00.001+10:002014-06-12T19:28:41.683+10:00Japan Trip 2014 - Tokyo Streets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Street scenes from my last trip to Japan. All taken on my iphone.</div>
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<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-53309593879167408412014-06-11T21:04:00.000+10:002014-06-11T21:04:25.510+10:00Japan Trip 2014 - The Tokyo Design Festa in Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My trip to Japan last month went by in a blur. With just a week on Japanese soil there was so much to fit in, see and do.</div>
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My second day there I went to the <a href="http://designfesta.com/en/" target="_blank">Tokyo Design Festa</a>, a favourite event of mine. I always try to time my trips to Japan to get to this show. It's full of work by designers, illustrators, crafters, painters and performers, there is so much to see and inspire. Many of the 56,000 visitors to the festa have fun with their appearance as well so there are lots of fashions and costumes to also amaze. </div>
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There was so much more to photograph, but as it was, I didn't get to see all of the 3000+ booths that were there. If I had stopped to photograph everything that interested me, I could have seen even half of what I saw.</div>
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You can see more photos from my visits to the Design Festa on previous years <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/day-three-in-japan-tokyo-design-festa.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2011/05/design-festa-cute-version.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2008/06/more-from-tokyo-design-festa-bags-by.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2008/06/some-more-tokyo-design-festa-yumminess.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2008/05/random-photos-from-tokyo-design-festa.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2008/06/purse-feet.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-39926747459886907362014-04-26T13:23:00.000+10:002014-04-26T13:23:02.351+10:00Studio TourWhile the studio is somewhat tidy, I thought I'd give you a little virtual tour of the space in which I create.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/2EjAnJUfdl0?rel=0" width="420"></iframe>Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-37716474088861668822014-04-24T10:28:00.000+10:002014-04-24T10:28:07.928+10:00Glasshouse Open Studios This Weekend!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To tell the truth, I'm a bit of a stickybeak. I love seeing where and how people create almost as much as seeing what they create. So last year, when I was invited by a group of local artists to join in their open studio sessions, I jumped at the chance to enable other peoples' stickybeak-ness.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neville Field<br /></td></tr>
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This weekend, over the ANZAC Day long weekend, the Glasshouse Country Arts Trail members will be opening their studio doors to the public and would love for you to come and visit. It's a chance to not only see work by the artists, but to also see them in action and ask them about their work and processes.<br /><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cholena Hughes</td></tr>
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An easy drive from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast, there are also some lovely places to eat and to take in views of the gorgeous Glass House Mountains. If you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">instagram</a> you'll know I love to photograph my surrounding mountains and would happily point you to my favourite spots.<br /><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Printmaking by Neville Field</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elma Dodwell in her ceramic studio</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGv6jwLSXJ8oyvt9mHNMuJ19E5gnMj_7nU1rYHkYRPv9ezCY-u9taGToxTLr5mI7zRjtBm_rlgKdVsZD4waRQBjKGRQqhrjJ4JRqGdgVQKapNLo1pCOcUMhI_TERoZO6G56cz/s1600/DSC_0087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGv6jwLSXJ8oyvt9mHNMuJ19E5gnMj_7nU1rYHkYRPv9ezCY-u9taGToxTLr5mI7zRjtBm_rlgKdVsZD4waRQBjKGRQqhrjJ4JRqGdgVQKapNLo1pCOcUMhI_TERoZO6G56cz/s1600/DSC_0087.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paintings by Elma Dodwell</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7AfM7DltEcTdMkr2EXUAdbq_9Ie6qDkULRL80UIKLa5Py69L5MnSf5axj5FGrczAUGIHAFIndGLVor3t4HLNvOlK8vCEYpWT5IzoY36VStQI14abuAZ5ARG6-s_YecvZn1LAq/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7AfM7DltEcTdMkr2EXUAdbq_9Ie6qDkULRL80UIKLa5Py69L5MnSf5axj5FGrczAUGIHAFIndGLVor3t4HLNvOlK8vCEYpWT5IzoY36VStQI14abuAZ5ARG6-s_YecvZn1LAq/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My silversmithing desk in my blue studio shed</td></tr>
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For more information on the artists taking part this weekend and how to find us please visit the <a href="http://glasshousecountryartstrail.com/events/" target="_blank">Glasshouse Country Arts Trail site</a>.<br /><br /></div>
Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-75369132095964581032014-04-15T21:01:00.000+10:002014-04-15T21:14:39.135+10:00Stockist Love - Maiocchi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What a better way of starting my new Stockist Love feature, than with Kimono Reincarnate's very first stockist, <a href="http://www.maiocchi.com.au/" target="_blank">Maiocchi</a>.</div>
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I have been a fan of Maiocchi clothing from way back and you may have noticed me rave about their clothes <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/search?q=maiocchi" target="_blank">on this blog once or twice</a>. The local designer Deanne is a girl after my own heart with her love of a good Japanese print and some of the fun, quirky touches to different outfits. But what I love most is how great I feel when I'm wearing a Maiocchi outfit. To be honest, these days, I'm a larger girl and it's not that easy finding fun, fashionable and flattering clothes in my size, but Maiocchi never fail to add something amazing to my wardrobe each season. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-uerMyg2_fODxh1DVK7GxiXscgS2aiwOl9dwT64l85iaW277K5vsJiBYcbI3X-FRIrxRuUPRDJk48ii7OuiU1Lkwv7il5qxIzj_lrW5k4mNYmgqbJwBPSpxruuohYT0gPaNk/s1600/1.MaiocchiSummer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-uerMyg2_fODxh1DVK7GxiXscgS2aiwOl9dwT64l85iaW277K5vsJiBYcbI3X-FRIrxRuUPRDJk48ii7OuiU1Lkwv7il5qxIzj_lrW5k4mNYmgqbJwBPSpxruuohYT0gPaNk/s1600/1.MaiocchiSummer.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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The latest summer range was full of fun colours and prints.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieb6nGQBM_1OLFJl0Z1QbJVGYbVwOfsWV_cvfG-aD0Vf8nC7AR6r0g0vAle-tgW9gEYzggi6lsSMEtLKTjp9rv7KPr4VgWQXD6R0hI527HlDGYmiIqXUhACpcgZVcjfxx4EeFJ/s1600/2.MaiocchiWinter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieb6nGQBM_1OLFJl0Z1QbJVGYbVwOfsWV_cvfG-aD0Vf8nC7AR6r0g0vAle-tgW9gEYzggi6lsSMEtLKTjp9rv7KPr4VgWQXD6R0hI527HlDGYmiIqXUhACpcgZVcjfxx4EeFJ/s1600/2.MaiocchiWinter.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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And the new winter collection lots of warming prints and textiles for those colder days.</div>
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The Maiocchi stores are such a treat with not just clothes and accessories but also lots of fun little stationery and homeware treats to spoil your nest.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKGJfzqtS-7Dcs27A2Q76pVZApQjGEXCMpyG_65P1u8dzmk1w4OOShNSC2BAQM7lLNnQyXWtlbLrG6Wfg5WudlvRlxpnS4kGV6RNEVG5fIYoiKmGeH9F7qbZo3TuzlgtaIjO0/s1600/3.Maiocchi.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKGJfzqtS-7Dcs27A2Q76pVZApQjGEXCMpyG_65P1u8dzmk1w4OOShNSC2BAQM7lLNnQyXWtlbLrG6Wfg5WudlvRlxpnS4kGV6RNEVG5fIYoiKmGeH9F7qbZo3TuzlgtaIjO0/s1600/3.Maiocchi.1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Brisbane dwellers are lucky to have the three stores to choose from in, The Valley, The CBD and Paddington and now, people of old Sydney town have their own store too, with the new shop opening up on 72B Oxford Street Paddington.</div>
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If you're in other areas, there is also an <a href="http://www.maiocchi.com.au/dresses" target="_blank">online store</a> and <a href="http://www.maiocchi.com.au/stockists_all.html" target="_blank">stockists around Australia</a>.</div>
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*All photos in this post are by Maiocchi*Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-78620326061021029092014-03-04T21:43:00.000+10:002014-03-04T21:43:46.586+10:00A Birthday Present to Myself and a Winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had a lovely, low-key birthday weekend which included a sleep in, a picnic lunch, dinner at my parent's house, two birthday cakes and masses of lovely messages.</div>
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I also asked the family for some quiet, make-something-just-for-myself, studio time. This is the necklace I finished, made from hand formed silver with a vintage kimono fabric ruffle. Expect to see a few more of these in the near future.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3Zp7gP1OYoZGc_sFaZ3xhWLH3FE3qoSh9IZPDGDnGi3RltaI62eL0R9R3aNWOdxGajwfBdz6X3ZyMmwd1FnDhVAv6rVsSlQVE9YKyOCYAxKvkR7irIFQzt2alx1hxBL-IfuV/s1600/IMG_3346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3Zp7gP1OYoZGc_sFaZ3xhWLH3FE3qoSh9IZPDGDnGi3RltaI62eL0R9R3aNWOdxGajwfBdz6X3ZyMmwd1FnDhVAv6rVsSlQVE9YKyOCYAxKvkR7irIFQzt2alx1hxBL-IfuV/s1600/IMG_3346.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thank you also to all the lovely people that took part in my birthday sale on the weekend! And a special big thank you to all those that passed on the sale to their friends... so...drumroll please... the winner is... iamkewpie!</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-60795616279177833272014-03-01T13:02:00.002+10:002014-03-01T13:02:57.583+10:00Birthday Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69XgzvLvvbnpEbeDsNCug8ovyMQ8gF7k2jU1GHsv8KOQLF5xtI5UV0-13bpxLfAQM-a8V2KNtpGQllvkTFOPCdv5DpZQcEfohxvT6bGKgtxvJi_1ol_1KcP6ZWOEAY3V2QSG1/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69XgzvLvvbnpEbeDsNCug8ovyMQ8gF7k2jU1GHsv8KOQLF5xtI5UV0-13bpxLfAQM-a8V2KNtpGQllvkTFOPCdv5DpZQcEfohxvT6bGKgtxvJi_1ol_1KcP6ZWOEAY3V2QSG1/s1600/1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yay! It's my birthday this weekend! I thought I might have a little (rare) sale to celebrate. For the next couple of days there is 20% off (not including postage) in both my stores (<a href="http://www.kimonoreincarnate.com/collections-main.php" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">here</a>) by using the coupon code "HappyBDay14".</div>
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And one lucky buyer will could win an extra 20% off by <a href="http://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">regramming on instagram</a> / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">sharing on facebook</a> / or forwarding this email. Please let me know in the message on your purchase which one you have done and I'll refund the extra 20% to the winner on Tuesday. Feel free to do all three to get three chances!</div>
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As well as my new <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2014/02/make-your-own-kanzashi-kits-and.html" target="_blank">Kanzashi Kits</a>, I've just uploaded some of my new origami brooches for pre-order. They won't get to me for a couple of weeks but there're in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> now so that they can join in the sale fun.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ic_E_yQNpauAugxRbPFhRObWa5c4BnBuRgC0XtabcF8O0di6r5x6Ws0L6gJLX-CmYsRjstuALk7ECYmjPDUob9giw_JN6LXsn5SGBBR9I2WlsF0Z9TXvp1oYWE6G7Kjj-BRE/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ic_E_yQNpauAugxRbPFhRObWa5c4BnBuRgC0XtabcF8O0di6r5x6Ws0L6gJLX-CmYsRjstuALk7ECYmjPDUob9giw_JN6LXsn5SGBBR9I2WlsF0Z9TXvp1oYWE6G7Kjj-BRE/s1600/2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the meantime, I'm off for a weekend of eating birthday cake!</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-32633013014976364412014-02-28T19:06:00.000+10:002014-02-28T19:06:51.387+10:00Make Your Own Kanzashi Kits and a Birthday Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqRjNX4NMG_K1-L2PUP1W8CcIicRRlO01k45zR7sH6UOy3gSn4SLtJZ5F7K3xRXCqjpz523br8qHS_1lSdCUyrX4WHRL-9r8lJBHFSeLFlgGY_MxpkkRhyaTiCr96CAd8s5q1/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqRjNX4NMG_K1-L2PUP1W8CcIicRRlO01k45zR7sH6UOy3gSn4SLtJZ5F7K3xRXCqjpz523br8qHS_1lSdCUyrX4WHRL-9r8lJBHFSeLFlgGY_MxpkkRhyaTiCr96CAd8s5q1/s1600/1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Over the last few days I've been very busy ironing, measuring and cutting lots of gorgeous little pieces of kimono fabric....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QE6rrmUA_Rtf3K6jIw_jYkSWnmiJLJjZ0ay6_hY6IuQDlag3Zl6b6I-gEvSoJcdvmK61y8t6f5K1SycO8EP9igoyPHZcbB-k7ZsGAoWvjMrYNsMrAw-H9q-uOzlmDsGG0PKc/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QE6rrmUA_Rtf3K6jIw_jYkSWnmiJLJjZ0ay6_hY6IuQDlag3Zl6b6I-gEvSoJcdvmK61y8t6f5K1SycO8EP9igoyPHZcbB-k7ZsGAoWvjMrYNsMrAw-H9q-uOzlmDsGG0PKc/s1600/2.jpg" height="400" width="385" /></a></div>
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After many requests I've finally fulfilled my promise to put together little <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/180968902/kimono-fabric-kanzashi-kit-makes-3?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">kits to make your own kimono kanzashi</a>. The tutorial has been available on my blog for a while, but the kits give you access to the little hard-to-get-your-hands-on pieces such as the kimono fabrics and special brooch backs. You can find them over <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/180968902/kimono-fabric-kanzashi-kit-makes-3?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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My other little piece of news is that it's my birthday this weekend! To celebrate, I'll be having a sale with 20% off everything in both my stores, <a href="http://www.kimonoreincarnate.com/" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KimonoReincarnate" target="_blank">here</a> from Saturday until Monday AND a chance to win an additional 20% off. I'll put the sale details and exclusive coupon code up mid-tomorrow morning, after a birthday weekend sleep-in first of course.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-6259531518904398912014-02-24T14:58:00.003+10:002014-02-24T14:58:57.984+10:00My Ikea-Filled Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's no secret that I love Ikea, so when I was contacted by them last year to see if I'd like to submit photos of my home for their monthly magazine I may just have squealed once or twice.</div>
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Today, the magazine went live, you can see <a href="http://www.ikeafamilylivemagazine.com/au/en/article/36602" target="_blank">the interview and photos over here</a>. If you look closely you'll see a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/helendardik" target="_blank">Helen Dardik print </a>, a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/mizudesigns" target="_blank">Mizu Designs print</a>, a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/JettasNest?ref=ss_profile" target="_blank">pajama monster by Jetta's Nest</a> and a quilt by my mum.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY48K1FMZQBShrQT2dqIhCRwzYCMWwPV9PDH9gLNOd8_Z53q0h1REC4EyHRFrYZyyKJIVtaBrvLXrcmjPWWsf5mPH1MsscvPWxPrD5bDzVjlO5__JUtt4o3T4M5F7XJ6uSDBZr/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY48K1FMZQBShrQT2dqIhCRwzYCMWwPV9PDH9gLNOd8_Z53q0h1REC4EyHRFrYZyyKJIVtaBrvLXrcmjPWWsf5mPH1MsscvPWxPrD5bDzVjlO5__JUtt4o3T4M5F7XJ6uSDBZr/s1600/1.png" height="400" width="393" /></a></div>
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Here are a few more photos of the house that I took during the shoot...</div>
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My little one's room with her little creative station (her painting area is set up outside). If only it was always this tidy....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN491Z8hy8DyqmjcadSVUC_B9hldIRNnzkTvhnr4C1ozmMmHqY66c6XDG-xrMHRrlPHCtiJp-3p-UaRD4d58Tb3Aq2LxweKet_ZmFyX4HPY5DatkItXDvT5R9v-6fBDg-o2iKn/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN491Z8hy8DyqmjcadSVUC_B9hldIRNnzkTvhnr4C1ozmMmHqY66c6XDG-xrMHRrlPHCtiJp-3p-UaRD4d58Tb3Aq2LxweKet_ZmFyX4HPY5DatkItXDvT5R9v-6fBDg-o2iKn/s1600/2.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our kitchen and my little Kokeshi wall, the hanging Kokeshi quilt is also by my mum. The funny thing is, I was right in the middle of painting the kitchen bench so in the magazine the benchtop is a different colour.</div>
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The little one's gallery wall in the kitchen...</div>
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I love the kissing couple curtains above our bed...</div>
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Some new artwork by myself above our sofa. I sigh when I see those cushions as the puppy went through a stage of destroying any that she could get her teeth into. I need to mend / replace them soon as I think the phase has finally passed...</div>
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And my beloved studio, I wish it was always this tidy too!</div>
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So that's our humble little home. It may be small but we love how comfortable and cosy it is.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-79451430763433329572014-02-22T21:37:00.005+10:002014-02-22T21:37:56.251+10:00Life Lately in Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Life lately has been great, for the most part I've been squirrelled away working on new designs and projects. When I'm in design mode I tend to hide away and get completely lost in the moment. My dear husband is great about it and sneaks into the studio from time to time with food and drink and is rather accustomed to me leaving the bed in the middle of the night because I just need to sketch down an idea that is keeping me awake. I should have some pieces that I can show you in the next few weeks.</div>
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In the meantime this has been some of my life...</div>
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I have been continuing with my creative challenge, though can't say that it has actually been "daily".... My mood boards have somehow evolved into a word theme...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LnZRTnx5JyQK6eYJk95d760GkzWDJ5iACrIaDRcnl2PKgTaGQiv2Zzm9TREhtyoZLO_PM7lCnlUyTtpVH3uDFEn8biGli7bLCsN2EWGbJgAGPmLBbq3KeAR2l6Y_Suaj8Yjm/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LnZRTnx5JyQK6eYJk95d760GkzWDJ5iACrIaDRcnl2PKgTaGQiv2Zzm9TREhtyoZLO_PM7lCnlUyTtpVH3uDFEn8biGli7bLCsN2EWGbJgAGPmLBbq3KeAR2l6Y_Suaj8Yjm/s1600/1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have returned to another semester of silversmithing. I'm now an "Advanced II" student and really loving the new skills that I'm learning. To begin with we're working with a technique I've wanted to play with for years called "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fold-forming" target="_blank">fold forming</a>". It's amazing how I can start with a flat piece of metal and by repeatedly heating, folding and hammering...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2sQHs8_K5HWiFxPwm301iWamfxQ_BrgFfOzmn6WJL8dapMt2P44oggKSkc-aFKOeYj_piyOAy7Y858K5EbQDSs3pIny6Oea_mWvmKPpY85AfqnAETpSxo9wv8oQO9kz1ZWbx/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2sQHs8_K5HWiFxPwm301iWamfxQ_BrgFfOzmn6WJL8dapMt2P44oggKSkc-aFKOeYj_piyOAy7Y858K5EbQDSs3pIny6Oea_mWvmKPpY85AfqnAETpSxo9wv8oQO9kz1ZWbx/s1600/5.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I can manipulate it into a piece like this..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWufT3BDGyFRD29FhSd9LYtK1PdGgal_oc-CkLGQwP7m7_S1LIR5VuvoU9mKhW_xgvYezdTDrg2yz5x2YKMd7Ugjq2KBOQ8ski4xCCLPjARb-lUQA_-uy1QFs5pm_wt1WIdrE1/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWufT3BDGyFRD29FhSd9LYtK1PdGgal_oc-CkLGQwP7m7_S1LIR5VuvoU9mKhW_xgvYezdTDrg2yz5x2YKMd7Ugjq2KBOQ8ski4xCCLPjARb-lUQA_-uy1QFs5pm_wt1WIdrE1/s1600/6.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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or with lots more hammering... like this.</div>
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I've had a lot of fun running <a href="http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/brisbane-brisasia-festival-art-bites.html" target="_blank">workshops as part of the BrisAsia festival</a>....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyN4eDLCh5olmucWQPo-QuyjS7x1REYfkFuIu4aLFlDZR9ij9g3vaQqxqema5qXRHia_mywUzxcyBDxOBvgtSKdFvEUYIw0iOZVXbuH5QIHuIs34TBgxaPt1Vka6JoEnydhXPV/s1600/8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyN4eDLCh5olmucWQPo-QuyjS7x1REYfkFuIu4aLFlDZR9ij9g3vaQqxqema5qXRHia_mywUzxcyBDxOBvgtSKdFvEUYIw0iOZVXbuH5QIHuIs34TBgxaPt1Vka6JoEnydhXPV/s1600/8.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've been playing with some new pieces with fabric, paper and stitching...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8Qr51Omg2lL-WN2NZ2sWGuYG0u_Gh1DXqMNqb9zvYHXEA-Jr2sREqeJFW0LXwmlLKiw6v2_hqV2sFbFZUpORqeqhjvPlxbUfZ3TziD5p02_YOgKXkkSIv2XLcLIunmgkmqha/s1600/9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8Qr51Omg2lL-WN2NZ2sWGuYG0u_Gh1DXqMNqb9zvYHXEA-Jr2sREqeJFW0LXwmlLKiw6v2_hqV2sFbFZUpORqeqhjvPlxbUfZ3TziD5p02_YOgKXkkSIv2XLcLIunmgkmqha/s1600/9.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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My little one also has her own desk in my studio and loves to do her own "work"...</div>
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And each and every day, I feel blessed to live where I live and have the life that I have. It may be a humble and simple life but it's grand.</div>
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What's been happening in your life lately?</div>
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Most of these images have first appeared on <a href="http://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">my instagram page</a>. Are you on instagram? I'd love to connect on there if we haven't already!</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-62658812595747049782014-02-04T21:05:00.000+10:002014-02-04T21:05:12.493+10:00Smartphone Photo Edits & 2:365<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0CzfQ4vgxX8EbvGElbYg1oA1VQycMSdt_oGvgvlzFSMwt3cSZRxC6dTXkDNfRUl6fINWFQFHe1uHZptvT6nacdLrW8SymsgFaUyaFXMwGFhZBWdib1jJuO6xh3y61BRmCGfO/s1600/IMG_3172.mov" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0CzfQ4vgxX8EbvGElbYg1oA1VQycMSdt_oGvgvlzFSMwt3cSZRxC6dTXkDNfRUl6fINWFQFHe1uHZptvT6nacdLrW8SymsgFaUyaFXMwGFhZBWdib1jJuO6xh3y61BRmCGfO/s1600/IMG_3172.mov" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I just love taking photos on my iphone, it's so much easier to quickly whip out of my bag or pocket than my DSLR is. I also love how quick it is to edit your photos with some easy apps, they can really make a difference and help the image look more like what you're actually seeing with the naked eye.</div>
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I'm working on a little how-to guide for editing smartphone photos, is there anything you'd like me to add?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGlHcyGKdf5uAhzPRDKcOGm0HCsU_HOkj1CN5JuITD5xABIVyShtMD599-z8WB1wRdW59rg2wcwqOUEDvbuISpuOOVbRLk-7rMEcyF138fKrnKivQS4CUY9a9eW8_5HAWGI_2/s1600/IMG_3191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGlHcyGKdf5uAhzPRDKcOGm0HCsU_HOkj1CN5JuITD5xABIVyShtMD599-z8WB1wRdW59rg2wcwqOUEDvbuISpuOOVbRLk-7rMEcyF138fKrnKivQS4CUY9a9eW8_5HAWGI_2/s1600/IMG_3191.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Today was Day 2 of my <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2014/02/1365-starting-afresh.html" target="_blank">365 daily creativity challenge</a>. There were lots of birds around me today including a gorgeous heron that visited my backyard which lead me to the word "Free". The stunning bird in this photo was made by the terribly talented Sam from <a href="http://www.jettasnest.com/" target="_blank">Jetta's Nest</a>.</div>
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I'll be putting updates of this challenge on the blog every now and then, but aim to upload it daily to <a href="http://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">instagram</a>.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-64159694134287854672014-02-03T22:38:00.000+10:002014-02-03T22:38:48.339+10:001:365 Starting Afresh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOIrgR_cxfiIIi_778YEtQqLmOeZMcHuA_hTAjy007h7nhOTlreVNUjT9wz_ygSiCqRh2x5FrfBBongch0k3XnCa5wI9b3o68uy7TMudusQWGAWNyYX64udZinU2JdsAX2t7f8/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOIrgR_cxfiIIi_778YEtQqLmOeZMcHuA_hTAjy007h7nhOTlreVNUjT9wz_ygSiCqRh2x5FrfBBongch0k3XnCa5wI9b3o68uy7TMudusQWGAWNyYX64udZinU2JdsAX2t7f8/s1600/1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/1365-my-daily-creative-challenge.html" target="_blank">My first attempt at the 365 this year</a> failed within the first few days. I started out really excited yet very quickly felt locked in by using the same medium everyday. It was like my inner toddler stomped her foot and said "But I want to play with silver / resin / paint today"... I felt that I could only do it if I created something great... I felt that I needed to go from start to finish all in the time that was available that day... I was embarrassed that I had failed so quickly so went to hide under a rock.</div>
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It was an interesting lesson to learn, it really highlighted parts of myself that I had only suspected were there.</div>
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Today, I have started to try a new 365 challenge. A mood board of sorts, a quick (and I am setting myself a time limit) visualisation on my thoughts / plans for the day. Today's was "Start Afresh". The basil, rosemary and lavender leaves are freshly picked from my garden and all have aromas that I associate with freshness.</div>
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I still want to create something tangible each day, or at least work on a project, so I'm locking myself into a little creative playtime each morning before I turn on my computer. These pieces I may or may not share so that I don't feel pressure (from myself)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSqPVo6qDM6f9j8Vwg63J11kFLdJue7c0xaz7lW3QhfvMLzHi6LHlhtruc9hO5-8Gwhbbxxg4v8tP5NFFcduMJ6FWmKfvJWoozo0tVWCg6CLwYWE1kt6rYiUECVVzg2qTzLje/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSqPVo6qDM6f9j8Vwg63J11kFLdJue7c0xaz7lW3QhfvMLzHi6LHlhtruc9hO5-8Gwhbbxxg4v8tP5NFFcduMJ6FWmKfvJWoozo0tVWCg6CLwYWE1kt6rYiUECVVzg2qTzLje/s1600/2.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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The irony is, the first thing I wanted to play with was the same kimono fabric that I was resisting a couple of weeks ago. Years ago I used to make "<a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/search?q=kimono+bubbles" target="_blank">Kimono Bubble</a>" greeting cards and am working at some new originals for these. They are now waiting for some stitched details.</div>
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On <a href="http://instagram.com/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">instagram</a> today, a number of people said that they find weekly or monthly challenges more manageable. Have you ever tried a regular challenge like this? What worked best for you? </div>
Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-86177244463923750342014-01-22T12:25:00.000+10:002014-01-22T12:25:37.897+10:00Free BrisAsia Workshops<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Starting next week, <a href="http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/brisbane-brisasia-festival-art-bites.html" target="_blank">Brisbane Brown Owls</a> will be hosting a range of Asian-inspired craft workshops as part of the <a href="http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/whats-on/type/LIVE/index.htm?trumbaEmbed=search%3dbrisasia#/?i=1" target="_blank">BrisAsia</a> festival. I'm very excited to be running two different workshops myself.</div>
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Firstly I'll be teaching how to make Japanese Tsumami "Kanzashi" style flowers using vintage kimono fabrics.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AQOV21qoQZSAKg-pSqF4haXuoOyf1ximjahL6AJDAyPjkhk3TSp3W0qy9_MQB49vixqYOfljuy32wK4LMCj3UcxWnCwSYAGrioLPgL6lp5i2Cy4WRwGwqe5m2S3ZlNCG_RtY/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AQOV21qoQZSAKg-pSqF4haXuoOyf1ximjahL6AJDAyPjkhk3TSp3W0qy9_MQB49vixqYOfljuy32wK4LMCj3UcxWnCwSYAGrioLPgL6lp5i2Cy4WRwGwqe5m2S3ZlNCG_RtY/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" height="323" width="400" /></a></div>
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And also how to make these adorable traditional Japanese paper dolls.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47xrlV6LgNE9mcrx9eM-s6GsOZY0wNyq-a3expQw-PlnjRMwOY_yeq7Io5QB-EBFSFwY9Fgt4WIE7tR-mOVYO9ZXrt-dp6xgFngeZEY_-ZlUuElZJb3unthXIi5H8yu3rNQ_q/s1600/Pretty+Dolls+All+In+A+Row.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47xrlV6LgNE9mcrx9eM-s6GsOZY0wNyq-a3expQw-PlnjRMwOY_yeq7Io5QB-EBFSFwY9Fgt4WIE7tR-mOVYO9ZXrt-dp6xgFngeZEY_-ZlUuElZJb3unthXIi5H8yu3rNQ_q/s1600/Pretty+Dolls+All+In+A+Row.JPG" height="316" width="400" /></a></div>
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Workshops are being run by a number of inspiring Brisbane artists including <a href="http://lianakabel.com/" target="_blank">Liana Kabel</a>, <a href="http://www.edwardandlilly.com/" target="_blank">Rebecca Cason of Edward and Lilly fame</a>, <a href="http://www.catamation.com/" target="_blank">Gill Pyke of Catamation</a> and <a href="http://www.littledeercreations.com/" target="_blank">Dyani Edwards of Little Deer Creations</a>. And even better - they are all free!</div>
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For more information on the workshops and how to book a space head over <a href="http://brownowls-members.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/brisbane-brisasia-festival-art-bites.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-78068054454378385822014-01-02T13:03:00.001+10:002014-01-02T13:03:55.847+10:00Day 2 : 365<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Day 2 of my 365 Creativity Challenge.</div>
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One I started earlier (the resin I use takes a few days to cure). A butterfly wing cut from kimono fabric and encased in resin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBxeoHZQpIIiqW0bZpwz_rt91pFtqMNj10xgyWuFn7okE0aeHZZkHYYYp874FSGCs65Uf87eStU_BURXgViEqpKASvucMMN8axHLVbmlnc6iFM-f3AKUOLHx71azDpF0Hund7/s1600/IMG_3691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBxeoHZQpIIiqW0bZpwz_rt91pFtqMNj10xgyWuFn7okE0aeHZZkHYYYp874FSGCs65Uf87eStU_BURXgViEqpKASvucMMN8axHLVbmlnc6iFM-f3AKUOLHx71azDpF0Hund7/s400/IMG_3691.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-34352326394539616502014-01-01T21:33:00.002+10:002014-01-01T21:33:44.907+10:001:365 My Daily Creative Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy 2014! I'm so ready to dive into 2014, a year that just feels full of promise.</div>
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A couple of years ago, I bought <a href="http://makesomething365.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">365 : A Daily Creativity Journa</a>l but it has sat unused on the shelf, waiting for me to be ready. What a better day to start than the first day of a new year.</div>
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Wanting a theme and also wanting to start playing with my kimono fabric collection more, my Kimono Creation a Day challenge was born.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHinleSxY_a4b72hb3GmAg3wp99A-m9-VM5CWvhW-0E550V2o2FpkLEe4mKsYcxkoEn4T9D3BLdpQrZenpDvBukAR_v7s9psjOiJfHLV6iHg-gVMsma8ZOWVvynucmn0uyP9Fj/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHinleSxY_a4b72hb3GmAg3wp99A-m9-VM5CWvhW-0E550V2o2FpkLEe4mKsYcxkoEn4T9D3BLdpQrZenpDvBukAR_v7s9psjOiJfHLV6iHg-gVMsma8ZOWVvynucmn0uyP9Fj/s400/2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was a little easy on myself today and started with something familiar, but that I love yet haven't made for a long time - a tsumami kanzashi style flower (you can learn how to make your own over <a href="http://kimonoreincarnate.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/how-to-make-japanese-kanzashi-style.html" target="_blank">here</a>).</div>
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To be honest, I'm quite nervous, I've never been good at daily challenges. Have you ever done one? Do you have any advice you'd like to share?</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-80450681116603425712013-12-15T18:02:00.000+10:002013-12-15T18:04:05.685+10:00Christmas Order Deadline<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpzIP0ilIFnpsv78qqHGSCkF1m2ihPO3YdfdVuH3Ua3Sbb9UW7QXcu1xao8iAql8z39ChpyxmidVOsCUvaT366UjFwFnXs3goxL7noodVIJ03tT2rYlWBb1SpryAfDHYUgjCA/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpzIP0ilIFnpsv78qqHGSCkF1m2ihPO3YdfdVuH3Ua3Sbb9UW7QXcu1xao8iAql8z39ChpyxmidVOsCUvaT366UjFwFnXs3goxL7noodVIJ03tT2rYlWBb1SpryAfDHYUgjCA/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The last few weeks have flown past at an alarming speed, I have so much to tell, beautiful things I've seen, plans for next year, giveaways that I want to do, but sadly that will all have to wait. I'm madly getting the last of the Christmas orders out to sit under the tree ready for the big day.</div>
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As I handcraft everything, I'll be taking the last of my orders tomorrow night, Monday 16th. All orders $40 and over, going to an Australian address will get a free express post upgrade and will be getting sent on Thursday this week.</div>
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Pieces are available through both my <a href="http://www.kimonoreincarnate.com/index.php" target="_blank">personal store</a> and through my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kimonoreincarnate" target="_blank">Etsy store</a>.</div>
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<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32932797.post-50435075632891521482013-11-29T19:39:00.000+10:002013-11-29T19:39:04.793+10:00Pinata Advent Calendar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One non-work project I need to get done this weekend is an advent calendar for the Little One. I've been racking my brain for something fun when i just thought that lots of little pinatas would be fun. My little girl loves pinatas.</div>
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Knowing that there would have to be some cool ideas online, I found this great little how-to on <a href="http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/diy-pinata-advent-calendar/" target="_blank">Handmade Charlotte</a>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiZGWKIdWUGujhC2IOhEDDWj1zYH6aiHCOrdcvbZrtFZWp1uHW0mmsSUPL9-Z7_QjgZC-iLV6EUcFNCidYCrRcHRAt0YCYXQU1hfTkg-l7nRDXacB4od7s0qJCcHyUdQDz7BkQ/s1600/5-diy-pinata-advent-calendar.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiZGWKIdWUGujhC2IOhEDDWj1zYH6aiHCOrdcvbZrtFZWp1uHW0mmsSUPL9-Z7_QjgZC-iLV6EUcFNCidYCrRcHRAt0YCYXQU1hfTkg-l7nRDXacB4od7s0qJCcHyUdQDz7BkQ/s640/5-diy-pinata-advent-calendar.gif" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/diy-pinata-advent-calendar/" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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It looks really simple to do... now I just have to decide what to put in them. This the first time I've made an advent calendar for her, do you have any suggestions?</div>
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PS I did promise that my next post will be a giveaway... sorry, I'm going to do that on December 1st instead - a great way to begin the Christmas month I think.</div>
<br />Melanie Gray Augustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531718674624846409noreply@blogger.com2