Hungry Designs

{FEATURED} Beautiful Brisbane

2010-09-09T17:17:00.000-07:00

We're so chuffed that we've been featured in another wonderful Etsy Treasury. "Beautiful Brisbane" is a wonderful collection of local talented designers work - all are based in the Brisbane area. Lilliput Loft curated this treasury and we're thrilled that she chose to include our Red Balloon brooch. Lilliput Loft specialises in (by her own admission) treats "that are totally unnecessary but absolutely essential". Be sure to have a look at her beautiful wares.

September Giveaway!

2010-09-06T01:30:00.000-07:00

Happy September! We have another Giveaway! We were feeling particularly generous because Colin and I have been in Australia for a whole year now! So we thought we'd celebrate by giving you the chance to win 3 of our most popular wearable art pieces:Black Bow Hair Clasp, Flower Cupcake Earrings and My Favourite Day Brooch in Blue. This collection of wearable art pieces are exclusive to Hungry Designs. You'll be kitted out from your head to your toes in lovely goodies!

All you have to do is become a fan of the Hungry Designs Facebook Page, leave a comment under the Giveaway Post in the September Giveaway discussions topic and you will be automatically entered! Simple! So click HERE to head over to our Facebook Page and click the "like" button. I will announce the winner on the 1st of October, and the winner will be contacted via Facebook Message.

As you all know, I am a proud member of BrisStyle and there are a lot of great giveaways from the BrisStylettes. Click HERE to have a look at what's up for grabs!

BrisStyle Indie Designers Market Round Up

2010-09-05T02:33:00.000-07:00

Well we're truly knick-knacked after our big market weekend. Yesterday we had a wonderful day at the BrisStyle Indie Designers Market. Talented designers from the Brisbane and the Greater Brisbane area came out to showcase their wares. Hungry Designs had a brilliant day, although we had to chase a few sets of earrings and a couple of brooches - thanks to the insane wind! We got to meet some lovely new customers and got to see some familiar faces. We loved getting some feedback about our new Typewriter Key Rings - which we are bringing back!

When the BrisStyle ladies get together there is always a certain magic in the air. It's always brilliant to see them and I can't wait for the next BrisStyle Market. Next time we will be sure to bring our camera - we only had our trusty phones and although the pictures are quirky we much prefer sharing clearer photos. *grin*

{Winner!} August Giveaway!

2010-09-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

We have a winner! Congratulations to Cherelle Louise Alder who is now the owner of our That's Life Necklace. Thanks to all who commented on the post and we will have another giveaway up tonight so be sure to check back. Remember you do have to be a member of the Facebook Page so click HERE to be taken to the site.

{FEATURED} Bring on the Rain

2010-09-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

Wow! Our A Little Rain Brooch seems to get around. It has been featured in another lovely Etsy Treasury titled "Bring on the Rain". Not only is the title so appropriate it reminds me that it's the 3rd day of Spring in Australia and I am hoping to see lots of lovely spring showers. I want to thank Loose Threads for putting together such a wonderful collection of accessories, home wares and art prints.

2 Markets This Weekend!

2010-08-31T20:34:00.000-07:00

We're attending 2 markets this weekend. The BrisStyle Indie Designers Marketon Saturday and The Village Markets on Sunday. We sure do get around! We're preparing for the markets and will have new Flower Earrings and Flower Rings as well as new Typewriter Key Rings and Alice Brooches. We can't wait to see you this weekend!

BrisStyle Indie Designers Market - This Saturday!

2010-08-31T06:10:00.000-07:00

The BrisStyle Indie Designers Market is back! We'll be on Racecourse Road, Hamilton from 9am until 2pm on Saturday 4th September. We're excited and will have a our new designs - like our new Retro collection - as well as your old favourites.

Not only will we be there but so will Jetta's Nest, Wicked Child Designs, Kellie Christie, Pannikin and alipink plus many more talented and original designers. I'm excited to see what new goodies they all have in store and will be bringing my pocket money so I can treat myself.

I'm excited and I hope you are too. Be sure to come along and support local and emerging designers. The BrisStyle Markets are unlike anything you have ever experienced.

Bow Hair Clasps & Rings

2010-08-29T05:29:00.000-07:00

These wonderful new hair clasps and rings are back in stock over at the Hungry Designs Store. They will also be available at this Saturday's BrisStyle Indie Designers Markets. They are made using vintage imagery that is then digitally coloured. They are then laser cut out of wood. So spice up your wardrobe with some funky bow rings and hair clasps!

{FEATURED} Even Rainy Days Can Have Splash of Color

2010-08-28T16:48:00.000-07:00

Our A Little Rain Brooch has been featured on a lovely Etsy Treasury. It's titled "Even Rainy Days Can Have a Splash of Colour" - it's such an appropriate name because the treasury is adorable and the colours are brilliant. A very special thanks to Crystal Glow Design who put the treasury together.

Please Welcome Bud Lucky

2010-08-28T05:24:00.000-07:00

We have a new member of the Hungry Designs family. Please give a warm welcome to Bud Lucky. He's a long haired guinea pig that we rescued. We picked him up from the Animal Welfare League and have given him a home. Colin and I are completely in love with him and we're having lots of fun learning about Bud and what his little quirks and habits are. So far we know that he loves clovers, celery and watermelon. He has a small bite mark out of his right ear and when you tickle his back left leg he vibrates and purrs.

He's the new Hungry Designs mascot as well as out new family member. We read that guinea pigs are social creatures so we're hoping to get Bud a friend in about a month or so - but right now Bud is just too young and we want to give him our love and attention - he's only 1 month old right now. Cute!

Cupcakes!

2010-08-24T05:56:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share a very quick blog post with you. I think the title says it all really but this post is all about cupcakes! Still my favourite baked goodie to make and decorate, cupcakes are so fun and colourful. They are perfect for every occasion and come in so many colours and sizes to suit all needs! These cupcakes were made for a ladies dinner party. I was asked to make them as bright and girly as I could. It wasn't hard and when I hand delivered them, their reaction was worth it! They were "oohing" and "ahhhing" and one delighted lady even whipped out her phone camera and took some quick snaps. I think it's all about the edible glitter, sprinkles and buttercream. Thankfully, most people agree...

Don't forget, you can have your own cupcake decorating fun with our Cupcake Decorating Paries. Click HERE to be taken to more information.

The Valley Laneway Markets

2010-08-23T05:40:00.000-07:00

The Valley Laneway Markets is an exciting new markets set in The Valley, Brisbane. A novel and inventive idea, they are making use of the laneways. There are 3 lanes and each is host to emerging and already established designers within Australia. Ever Sunday between 10am - 4pm these lanes come alive. You will find live music, get good and amazing designers. So be sure to check it out. You can add them on Facebook or check out the official site.

Derby Fun!

2010-08-22T04:12:00.000-07:00

Last night we attended the Sun State Roller Girls derby bout. It was fantastic and as usual we had a blast. It was great to see the girls and brilliant to see our lovely customers. We're looking forward to the next bout - even if it is a few weeks away! We have donated 2 of our derby wearable art brooches for the raffle - so be sure to buy a couple of tickets and you could be a lucky winner!

{NEW STOCKIST} Gone Dotti on Latrobe

2010-08-22T03:29:00.000-07:00

We're so pleased to tell you that we have another stockist. Gone Dotti on Latrobe is an exciting store that is host to lots of goodies! Specialising in stocking local and emerging designers, Gone Dotti is a fantastic place to sample what Australian designers have to offer the handmade world. They currently stock a selection of our wearable art brooches and earrings.

{NEW STOCKIST} Bleeding Heart Cafe & Gallery

2010-08-22T02:38:00.000-07:00

We have a lovely new stockist, The Bleeding Heart Cafe & Gallery in Brisbane. They are a profit for purpose organisation and fully believe in “Using our powers for good and not evil”. Not only is it a brilliant place to meet your friends for a coffee and a chat, it's also a great place to soak up local artist's work and locally designed accessories and gifts.

Deanne & Adam's Wedding

2010-08-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

I was asked at the end of last year to make cupcakes for a wedding. It's been a long time since I have catered for a wedding so I was a little nervous. The colours are white and red and after falling in love with red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting Adam and Deanne decided on half red velvet and cream cheese cupcakes and half vanilla and buttercream cupcakes. I can't take any credit for the topper (for some reason I really can't bake cakes...), Bonnii Weeks baked and decorated the cutting cake and it looked lovely.

Well today's the big day - Deanne & Adam are getting hitched. It's such a lovely day, I can't see a single cloud in the sky! A perfect day for a wedding. I just hope that the cupcakes and cake live up to Deanne's expectations. I want to wish them all the luck in the world with their wedding and I hope they have a long and loving life together.

The Hanging Space

2010-08-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

One of our favourite stockists, The Hanging Space now has a selection of wearable art brooches in stock. They have a selection of our most popular wearable art accessories, from the Day of the Dead series to our cupcake earrings. They have discount days and sales so be sure to subscribe to their newsletter so you can be kept up to date with the goings on at The Hanging Space. Click HERE to be taken to The Hanging Space.

The Hanging Space is fully supported by The Village Markets. If you're on the Gold Coast at the beginning of the month you should definitely come along to The Village Markets, you'll find both handmade and vintage stalls at very reasonable prices. Click HERE to find out more information about The Village Markets.

Day of the Dead Photo Shoot

2010-08-18T05:08:00.001-07:00

Matt from Matt Hofmann Photography uploaded the photos from the photo shoot. Well, I have one word... WOW!!! They look amazing and I cannot recommend him enough as a photographer. His vision and creativity is truly inspirational.

The costumes/dresses/skirts that the models are wearing are by the very talented Rebecca Cobbing of Rebecca Cobbing Couture. Feisty and confident, it was amazing to watch Rebecca work on the models outfits.

Erin from Evelyn Ellenor Mad Hattery busily worked on the head pieces for the photo shoot. I loved the completely handmade silk roses, these had Hungry Designs mini Sugar Skulls in the centers.

I was so impressed with the models, it was fantastic to watch them work, subtly posing. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. Erin, Lou and Anna all did an incredible job and without their patience and understanding the photo shoot wouldn't have been possible. I think you'll agree when I say they look stunning.

Please take the time to fan these talented designers. I'm looking forward to working with them again and already have a new photo shoot in the mix.

Day of the Dead Photo Shoot - That's a Wrap!

2010-08-15T05:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of working with Matt Hofmann Photography,Rebecca Cobbing Couture and Evelyn Ellenor on a photo shoot. After I decided on the initial idea, I approached Matt Hofmann and Evelyn Ellenor.

Thoughts went back and forth and after 9 short weeks we were ready to shoot! I have never been so nervous and excited about a project before. Matt chose a perfect location, Rebecca made up some lovely dresses and with the models made up they were ready to have their picture taken. Initially I was unsure of how the make up (which I nervously applied) would translate to film but I was amazed by how clear it all seemed to show on film. I haven't received the photos from Matt yet but when I do I will be sure to show them off! I'm so excited it's ridiculous! ^_^

A Little Rain - Tattoo?!

2010-08-14T06:56:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had the great pleasure of meeting a lovely young gal called Liberty. Liberty and I had been in contact regarding her having one of my wearable art brooch designs tattooed on her person. Of course I was more than happy for this to happen and I thoroughly looked forward to seeing the end result. Well...it looked amazing!!! It was HUGE and now dominates Liberty's left thigh. Liberty came up to me tonight and the Northern Brisbane Rollers Derby Bout and introduced herself. I was completely giddy and can't believe that this beautiful petite girl would have on of my illustrations tattooed on her! So thank you Liberty, you're one awesome little lady and I adore you!

2010-08-13T04:15:00.001-07:00

Happy August! We have another Giveaway! This time we are giving you the chance to win our That's Life Necklace. This gorgeous necklace is simple and sweet. Hanging from a 16" gold plate chain is a gold plate bow stamping. It will go perfectly with any outfit and is sure to quickly become one of your favourites.

All you have to do is become a fan of the Hungry Designs Facebook Page, leave a comment under the Giveaway Post and you will be automatically entered! Simple! So click HERE to head over to our Facebook Page and click the "like" button. I will announce the winner on the 1st of September, and the winner will be contacted via Facebook Message.

As you all know, I am a proud member of BrisStyle and there are a lot of great giveaways from the BrisStylettes. Click HERE to have a look at what's up for grabs!

{FEATURED} Hungry Designs on {KID} independent

2010-08-13T03:45:00.001-07:00

We're so chuffed that we were featured on the {KID} independent newsletter. They ran a little feature on the BrisStyle Twilight Markets and our Flower Cupcake Earrings were pictured alongside another 2 BrisStyle Designers, Pannikin and Goodboy Cracky. A friend of BrisStyle, {KID} independent is a brilliant blog that not only features emerging designers but they also have wonderful posts on unusual gadgets and gifts.

{GIVEAWAY!} June Giveaway!

2010-06-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

Happy June! We have another Giveaway! This time we are giving you the chance to win ourSweety Pie Birdcage Necklace. This gorgeous necklace is oh so sweet. Hanging from a 30" gold plate chain is a gold plate 3D birdcage (complete with sliding door!). Hanging 2 inches away is a length of heart link chain and a wonderful feather stamping. It's going to be hard to part with since we love it so much!

All you have to do is become a fan of the Hungry Designs Facebook Page, leave a comment under the Giveaway Post and you will be automatically entered! Simple! So click HERE to head over to our Facebook Page and click the "like" button. I will announce the winner on the1st of July, and the winner will be contacted via Facebook Message.

As you all know, I am a proud member of BrisStyle and there are a lot of great giveaways from the BrisStylettes. Click HERE to have a look at what's up for grabs!

{Featured} A Rainy Day in May

2010-05-19T05:16:00.000-07:00

Our A Little Rain brooch has been featured in an Etsy Treasury titled A Rainy Day in May. How sweet! As you can imagine we're thrilled to have been included in another Etsy Treasury and we couldn't help but share it with you. Our A Little Rain brooch has been so popular that we have sold out of it twice! Thankfully she's back in stock and as cute as ever!

This Treasury was put together by Adventures in Clay, a wonderful pottery store that has the most devine pieces. Be sure to check it out! You can be taken to the Adventures in Clay store by clicking HERE.

A Beautiful Game

2010-05-15T16:47:00.000-07:00

Hungry Designs attended the Northern Brisbane Rollers roller derby bout last night. We had a great stall set up right beside the roller derby merchandise stall and we had a blast! Thanks to all who came and either said hello, took one of our mini cards or bought something. It was great to see old customers and meet new customers. We sold out of the Derby Chicks Rule Brooch but don't worry we'll be getting more in stock soon. Lots of drawing was had after setting up and there are now 2 new pinup gals waiting to be coloured and the cut! How exciting!

Hundreds of people turned up to watch the bout and it was fantastic! There were ripped tights, bumps and bruises, mexican waves and hilarious commentary. If you haven't been to one of these fierce games you need to. It was so much fun, you will "ooh" when someone is taken down and scream when the jammer nips in between the blockers. Those who live in Brisbane or on the Gold Coast are spoiled for choice, you can attend many games from the Northern Brisbane Rollers, Brisbane City Rollers, Sun State Roller Girls or the Gold Coast Roller Derby.

The Many Functions of Marshmallow

2010-05-14T05:13:00.000-07:00

We have been experimenting in the Hungry Designs kitchen. It's been a lot of fun and we have found our new favourite thing to "bake". Although, using the term bake for making marshmallows is ridiculous! There isn't much baking involved. Just some heating and a long time under the whisk. Thankfully our whisk is free standing! I think my next post will be about how to make marshmallow as it is so incredibly easy to make.

So the experiments we have taken part in with marshmallow involved a couple of cupcakes... Firstly we had the Tea Cupcakes and they were so adorable but the mallow didn't blow me away. The colour (or lack of colour) did. I have never made icing that was WHITE before and it was amazing. It seemed to glow.

Second was making Fluff icing, which was the same technique as making marshmallows but it remained a little gooey rather than becoming the jelly type consistency that marshmallow is when it has set. This was a winner but I still prefer my cupcakes with a little height...

Third was making piped marshmallow icing. Fun! It was very unpredictable and piping it became a little hard as the peaks shifted after they had been piped but again, it was WHITE! The sprinkles really stand out when using white icing. I love it. It worked a lot better on mini cupcakes and I think that the normal sized cupcakes were a little dry with the added mallow icing. But the mini ones...thumbs up!

I will post a HOW TO over the next couple of days and you can show me what you can come up with. It's so much fun!

Too Tempting...

2010-05-12T05:36:00.000-07:00

Hungry Designs have been featured, once again, on our favourite fashion blog, An Affair With Fashion. This time we've been mentioned as part of Young Designers Online. If you haven't had a chance to have a look at An Affair With Fashion be sure to take the time to check it out. You'll forget about your worries and enjoy the confessions of a shopaholic. These confessions are very amusing! You will not only get great tips on where to bag some bargains but you will also get the chance to read some fantastic interviews with both well established and up and coming designers. Click HERE to be taken to An Affair With Fashion. Grab a cup of tea and take some time to yourself. Enjoy!

Hungry Designs at the Highland Fling

2010-05-10T04:26:00.000-07:00

If you're a Hungry Designs fan and you live in Scotland you'll be thrilled that we're taking part in the Roller Derby Event in Aberdeen, Highland Fling. This fantastic event will be a 2 day event, hosted in Aberdeen at the Beach Leisure Centre on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd of May. There will be roller derby, ripped tights, bruises, food, partying and market stalls. Be sure to mark it in your calendar. Hungry Designs wearable art brooches, hair claps and earrings will be available from the Dundee Destroyers stall so make sure you check it out! Click HERE to be taken to the Highland Fling website.

French Macaron Monster Defeated!

2010-05-10T03:37:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it, this weekend we defeated the French Macaron Monster! We made perfect little macarons and it was a brilliant feeling. We have tried many times to tame the French Macaron Monster but we have failed. But these little beauties turned out so well. I just love their little "feet"! I adore them and wish I could make them every day. I can't wait to try out different flavours and colours. The possibilities seem to be endless!

Hungry Designs Team Up With My Little Rockabilly

2010-05-07T23:45:00.001-07:00

Hungry Designs are teaming up with My Little Rockabilly to produce a collection of limited edition accessories that will incorporate Hungry Designs illustrations. From pin up chicks riding rockets to purple haired zombies and cherries, these accessories are bright and bold and are perfect for those who like to make a statement with their outfits.

They will be available on May 23rd at Kustom Krafts. Click HERE to find out more about Kustom Krafts.

Cherry Cupcakes on Madeit

2010-05-07T21:52:00.000-07:00

Our Cherry Cupcake Hair Clasps have been featured in the Accessories LoveNewsletter that was sent out by Madeit. As you can tell we are thrilled about this as we have only had our Madeit store for less than 24 hours! Exciting. Check out ourMadeit Store by clicking HERE.

The BrisStyle Twilight Markets

2010-05-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

What can I say, the BrisStyle Twilight Markets were a hit. But of course they were, they are ran by BrisStyle and they always have fantastic markets. There was something so different about this event though, I don't know if it was the ambient lighting or the funky band that were rocking the square or maybe it was the hundreds of people that turned up. Who knows... But we do know one thing, it was the best! Never before have we been to a market were there has been a queue to get into our stall! It was so busy we ran out of change (sorry about that) and Colin had to beg for change.

I want to thank the ladies of BrisStyle so much for making it such a success. I have no idea what goes on behind the scenes prior to these events. How can I? I would never know how to create a fantastic event in such a central location and I would never be able to organise any event that was as professionally ran and was as well organised as the BrisStyle Events. These ladies are brilliant, they set their sights on something and they succeed. Brisbane (and the local areas surrounding it) should thank them for brightening up their evenings and days with fantastic, strictly handmade markets. I know I am thankful. And I also want to thank all of the wonderful chatting customers that came to look at the Hungry Designs stall, we really did have a blast and it was so lovely to meet you all. See you at the next event!

{GIVEAWAY!} May Giveaway!

2010-05-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Happy April! We have another Giveaway! This time we are giving you the chance to win a set of our Cherry Cupcake Hair Clasps. These cute little earrings are only available from Hungry Designs. The cupcakes have been hand drawn and coloured by Hungry Designs' very own Amanda Whitelaw, they are based on the cupcakes that are make in the Hungry Designs kitchen. They have then been laser cut and securely attached to silver plated bobby pins.

All you have to do is become a fan of the Hungry Designs Facebook Page, leave a comment under the Giveaway Post and you will be automatically entered! Simple! Soclick HERE to head over to our Facebook Page and click the "like" button. I will announce the winner on the 1st of June, and the winner will be contacted via Facebook Message.

As you all know, I am a proud member of BrisStyle and there are a lot of great giveaways from the BrisStylettes. Click HERE to have a look at what's up for grabs!

{Featured} A Little Rain on a Little Gray Fox...

2010-05-01T02:04:00.000-07:00

Our very popular A Little Rain Brooch has been featured on the Little Gray Fox blog. We love being featured on blogs. We love that we have been included alongside so many other fantastic designers and we love being tempted to buy from them. *grin* This particular collection is inspired by April Showers and it has included such beautiful products, from limited edition prints to brooches and necklaces. Be sure to head on over to the Little Gray Fox Blog and check out the April Featured Artists Finale. Click HERE to be taken to the site. There is also a Facebook Group you can join - click HERE to be taken to it.

Monochrome & Cupcakes

2010-04-27T03:52:00.000-07:00

Recently I met up with the brains behind Monochrome Media, Lillian Brennan, who kindly offered to take photos of my jewellery and cupcakes to add to her portfolio. I was thrilled with the offer and jumped at the chance to get some professional photos taken. During our meeting, I was intrigued and excited by Lillian's ideas. She was passionate and inspired by the dark and gritty. Curious by what she could do with the cupcakes and jewellery I was happy to give Lillian free reign and couldn't wait to see the outcome of the photo shoot.

This is what Monochrome Media have produced, a series of cute and colourful cupcake photos. A far cry from the dark and gritty images I had imaged Lillian producing, these photos seem to capture the fun and laughter behind the Hungry Designs Cupcakes. The 2 models used are oh-so-sweet and they seem to have had so much fun. I can almost hear the giggling when I view the photos. I can't wait to see what will be the outcome of the jewellery photos, I have no idea what to expect but I anticipate great thing. I will post about them as soon as I get my peepers on them. *grin*

Be sure to visit Lillian's Facebook Group and become a fan, you'll be kept up to date with the goings on of Monochrome Media and Lillian is always looking for fresh faces to photograph. Click HERE to be taken to the site.

All photos are property of Lillian Brennan and Monochrome Media. Please do not use these photos without their express permission.

All That's White & Fluffy

2010-04-26T05:21:00.000-07:00

We have been experimenting with different icing lately and we love the Fluff Icing that we recently tried out. Never before have we managed to get white icing before. Sure we've had off white, cream and even soft yellow but never white. It just seems impossible to get white buttercream, no matter how hard we try! Even cream cheese frosting isn't quite white. So we tried a Fluff Icing recipe.

Not really knowing what the outcome would be we set about making the syrup and mixing the egg whites, well after lots of whisking and patience we cracked it! This wonderful icing is so light and fluffy and it's white! It looks fantastic with coloured sprinkles and is so glossy.

The only complaint I had was that it didn't hold its shape when piped. Pity too, I would have loved to have seen soft meringue like peaks on my cupcakes. This Fluff Icing was just too gooey. Worry not, we will try again and this time we might add a little colour into the mix to see what happens. Excited? We are!

BrisStyle Love

2010-04-26T03:15:00.000-07:00

As you probably already know I am a proud member of BrisStyle. I feel so privileged to be able to say I am a member of a well organised and passionate team of fellow crafters. Every market and event that is hosted by BrisStyle makes me realise how lucky I am to be included. Not only are the members so eager to lend a helping hand with advice and crafty tips, they are all artists in their own right.

With the application process monitored, every member has something unique to offer. This is what makes the markets BrisStyle host so successful. All items for sale at the markets are handmade by local designers, so you will never receive goods that are never mass produced. This love for handmade is one of the reasons BrisStyle is growing bigger and bigger every year. With interest in their cause increasing, it has attracted the attention of Brisbane Council and the BrisStyle Twilight Market is the first of it’s kind in Brisbane.

The next BrisStyle event is at King George Square this Friday April 30th from 5pm until 9pm. This wonderful, one of a kind market will be showcasing treats from local crafters and designers. If you want to learn more about the designers who are members of BrisStyle or if you want to find out a little more about the upcoming events click HERE.

Cupcake Decorating Parties

2010-04-23T04:41:00.000-07:00

As our cupcakes are getting so much attention we have started to do Cupcake Decorating Parties. These great parties are fantastic for special occasions. From Birthday Parties to Hen Nights, decorating cupcakes is brilliant fun and a great creative outlet. Everything is supplied; cupcakes, icing, sprinkles and a little helping hand. So you don't have to worry about a thing! I will give you a brief show and tell and then let you let your creative side go wild! There are no rules with decorating cupcakes and you can mix and match sprinkles, icing and edible glitter.

Please Contact Us for a free Cupcake Decorating Parties quote. The prices depend on the number of people attending your party, how many cupcakes you would like to decorate and how many different colours of buttercream you would like. There need to be a minimum of 8 people in your party and a minimum of 36 cupcakes ordered. For more photos of previous Parties click HERE - you will be taken to our Facebook Page.

We Love Secret Shoppers

2010-04-23T04:39:00.000-07:00

Over at An Affair With Fashion (one of our favourite blogs), they have been doing some very important private investigating. Already fans of The Hanging Space, An Affair With Fashion placed an order with them and have documented their shopping experience. Detailed and entertaining, click HERE to be taken to their honest and entertaining review.

As you already know we have a collection of accessories stocked at The Hanging Space and we are thrilled to hear from happy customers. We're big fans of packaging and love The Hanging Space's little brown bags and heart logo stickers. Be sure to check out both The Hanging Space and An Affair With Fashion.

All images have been taken from An Affair With Fashion.

Some Sweet Attention...

2010-04-23T04:36:00.000-07:00

Our cupcakes have always gotten a lot of attention, the fun bright colours seems to attract cupcake fans from all over. We were contacted about a couple of small features that our cupcakes had been included in. Things have been pretty hectic here at Hungry Designs and we almost forgot about the mention our cupcakes had been given on other sites. Now that the new custom woodcuts are off and we've sent away for some custom perspex cuts we've finally been able to mention these lovely sites that have been so kind to mention out cupcakes. Firstly is Cupcake Junkie, she sources out fabulous cupcakes and posts them on her Tumblr. We're thrilled she likes our Tie Dye Cupcakes!

Second is *Kimmie*, she takes wonderful cupcakes from Flickr and creates wonderful collages with them. She has selected our Spring Dinner Party Cupcakes in pink and yellow. The cupcakes included int his collage are so beautiful I had to resist licking my laptop screen!

If you would like to be kept in the loop about our cupcakes you should add us to Flickr. We're always uploading photos of cupcakes, jewellery, random bugs (in Australia there are a lot of these) and my parents very cute poochies! Click HERE to be taken to the Hungry Designs Flickr Page.

June Giveaway!

2009-05-30T00:14:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the new Hungry Designs website I thought I would have a very special giveaway this month. This Bingo necklace is just too-cute! Kitsch and quirky, this necklace is bound to get you some attention.

All you have to do is leave a comment over at hungrydesigns.com on the Giveaway post and I will randomly pick a winner. Simple! AND I will post to anywhere in the world!

This necklace will come padded and boxed with a Hungry Designs minicard inside - sweet!

Good luck!

We are Moving...

2009-05-29T02:17:00.000-07:00

Hungry Designs has a new home! Colin has been working very hard on this new website, it has a blog, shop and all news updates. Woot!

The Jewellery Store is the feature I'm happiest with as there is no sign up required and all transactions are done through Paypal.

I'm over the moon with this new site and I hope to see you all over there! The Monthly Giveaway will now be hosted from hungrydesigns.com as will my Blog.

Welcome to the Family...

2009-05-24T00:48:00.000-07:00

I have another craft Fair this Saturday (30.05.09). It's in Glasgow again and is hosted by the Glasgow Craft Mafia. Entry is Free so I'm sure it will be busy. I'll be there with my jewellery, cupcakes and sweeties. I'm really looking forward to it!

It's at the Buff Club, music, nibbles and a wee tutorial will be given - sounds great! It's open from 1pm - 6pm. I hope to see folk there!

Ooooh, Some Great News...

2009-05-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

I am on a high! I have been asked to stock my chocolates, candies AND jewellery at Create, a cafe and gallery store in Helmsdale Sutherland. Create specializes in carefully selected textiles, ceramics, jewellery and handmade cards. Boasting about making the best coffee, the Cafe has amazing views of Helmsdale and the sea - how wonderful!

Create is run by Rachel Skene a Glasgow School of Art Graduate, her handwoven textiles are for sale too. Rachel has received numerous awards such as The Incorporaton of Glasgow Weavers scholarship and the Hi-Arts grant. Create is very popular with travellers and those looking for a truly special gift; it has been described as a "much needed oasis on the A9".

I'm so thrilled to be involved in this little venture. I'm as high as a kite!

We Heart Ruby Loves Red...

2009-05-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

Recently I had the pleasure of meeting Sandra from Ruby Loves Red. For those of you who aren't familiar with Ruby Loves Red, prepare to be amazed! Sandra creates the most amazing little plushies. Both inventive and beautiful, these stuffed creatures are bound to make you squeal with delight. When I saw the Wing-A-Me-Jigs I turned into a small child - I just had to have one, I think if I didn't get to take one home with me I would have cried! Fortunately for me Colin bought me the chubbiest little Wing-A-Me-Jig in the box and no temper tantrum was needed...

One thing I find amazing about the Wing-A-Me-Jigs is that even with no mouth these little guys are smiling. Their little embroidered wings ensure that they will fly off the shelves! Not only does Sandra make these wonderful little creatures, she also makes so-sweet cards. These are illustrated by hand and have fabric stitched on to them - this does mean no 2 are alike! What a perfect little idea. Ruby Loves Red products can be found on their Etsy Store. Sandra is a kind soul and undertakes custom orders, so if there is something you like but it's not your colour or you have your own wee idea why not contact her?

Sandra's creations are fun and original. All designs are her own, to name a few she makes little dogs, cats, bunnies and proud mice. All the plushies are perfect as gifts and children will love them! They are super soft and the fabric and materials used ensure that these cuties are oh-so-huggable! Go on, treat yourself!

A Mini Adventure

2009-05-20T06:35:00.000-07:00

So I'm on holiday at the moment and I've just come back from a lovely wee break at Glen Etive. It's on Scotland's West Coast and it's beautiful. Myself, Colin, Simon and Gills all headed out and we all had a great time. Everything is so unspoiled at Glen Etive and travellers and campers have a complete respect for the surroundings. Deer roam free, grazing wherever they chose, it is bliss. I'll admit, I'm not much of a camper but I loved it.

Glen Etive, Scotland

The weather was a little unpredictable but it was nothing some waterproofs and a towel couldn't handle. Besides, the camp fire and strumming on the guitar seemed to keep everyone laughing and warm. I'm still in shock at how beautiful it was (and it's only 2 and a half hours away), the photos don't do it justice. Simon and Gills are happy campers and have promised to take us to other beautiful places before we move. Next up, is Loch Ness! Maybe I'll even spot Nessie?! haha.

and the Winner is...

2009-05-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

May Giveaway - Acorn Earrings

Sorry about the delay in posting the winner, I was in Glen Etive for a wee break (I will post some photos after this post).

Antway, the lucky winner of the Acorn earrings is...drumroll please...

...Krystal!

Congratulations! Please email me your contact details and I will send it to you right away. I hope you love these earrings as much as I do!

Thank you all for commenting. I will be posting a new competition in the coming weeks, so check back soon!

St Andrews Craft Fair...

2009-05-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

Well I am all settled after the excitement of yet another Craft Fair. The St Andrews event was really great. I am happy to say that I felt it was a huge success and my stall got a lot of attention. I have another event in just 2 weeks so the money I made at St Andrews will be put back into buying more supplies and boxes for my jewellery - I have actually run out! That means I have sold 200 pieces of jewellery!
I will have to furiously make more items for the Say No To Plastic event as my stock levels are down now... *eep!* I have a few days off work this week (yippee!), so I can try and organise myself a little better - I better get a pen and paper and write some looooong lists!

I met some lovely people at the event and everyone was very positive about my jewellery. The only problem seemed to be that people didn't think my cupcakes were real. I even had a man state "They look good enough to eat", when I told him they were edible he seemed incredibly surprised! I have actually lost count of the times I had to tell people they were real and for eating. Folks seemed to think they were either soaps or candles. Note to self: Make a sign saying "We are Edible!" haha.

I made about 50 cupcakes and only went home with 2, so I think I have found my happy medium. Colin and I had a cupcake each with a well deserved cup of tea. A perfect way to end the great day we both had.

We Will be Closed...

2009-05-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

As you probably already know I am taking part in a Craft Fair in St Andrews tomorrow. This means my Etsy Store will be closed for a day. We will re-open on Sunday 17th May! Hoorah!

Oh, and don't forget to enter the May Giveaway! The lucky winner will be announced on the 19.05.09. Good Luck!

Say No To Plastic Summer Event...

2009-05-13T01:45:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to say there will be another Say No To Plastic Event. It's being held on the 7th of June at Oran Mor in Glasgow's Westend. I'm excited about this event and I'm hoping it's as successful as the previous one I attended. I won't make the mistake of baking 200 cupcakes this time though...

I have been very busy making cupcakes and custom jewellery orders. It's been a little hectic to be honest. I have taken a few days off work next week, so I'm hoping I can become a little more organised and get back on top of things. *crosses fingers*

On a completely different topic, I thought I would share a photo that was sent to me from my parents. Say hello to Ambro and Huxley, they are the family pooches. My parents recently moved into a new home - Hux and Ams love it! This is a picture of their first boat trip on the creek. Don't they just look adorable in their little life jackets!

I was tagged...

2009-05-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

I was tagged today by KEBO Jewellery, she specializes in semi-precious gemstones, lampwork and stirling silver jewellery.

Okay, here goes...
8 Things I am looking Forward too.....

Moving to Australia with Colin.
The upcoming Craft Fair in St Andrews (it's next Saturday, 16.05.09).
Persuing my cupcake and jewellery business full time when Colin and I move.
Starting the new Tryst Series over at lesbiangamers.com - it's been a while!
Going for a short break camping around Scotland with Colin, Simon and Gills.
Making the Mad Hatter's Wedding Cake for Simon & Tama.
Seeing my Mums and lil sister in September - I have missed them terribly.
A group of us are going to see Star Trek tonight, I'm looking forward to that.

8 Things I Did Yesterday (not in this order!)...

Went to work - it was hellish.
Made Cupakes for a friend's leaving shindig.
Took Colin lunch and wished him luck with his final exam *woo!*
Faffed over what I should wear out.
Went to pub for friend's leaving shindig.
Took dozens of silly photos of friends with The Selleck lollypops!
Saw Simon and Gills at the pub - got ridiculously excited about going camping!
Picked Colin up after his celebratory night out with his Uni friends.

8 Things I Wish I Could Do....

Move to Australia tomorrow.
Set up a real shop - with windows and doors!
Challenge myself to draw things other than sexy women.
Be MUCH faster at drawing.
Think before I speak.
Sew.
Not be such a pushover.
Have more of a business head.

6 Shows I Watch... (I don't have 8 - these are all on DVD or iPlayer because I don't watch TV).

Bones
Lost
CSI
The Tudors
America's Next Top Model
Damages

Those are my 8's. My turn to tag....YOU! Come on, you know you want to! Here's the rules, just in case you want to follow them:
1) Mention the name of the person who tagged you.
2) Do the lists of 8.
3) Tag 8 bloggers of your choice.
4) Let them know that they have been tagged!

I tag...

May Giveaway...!

2009-05-05T06:06:00.000-07:00

It's a new month and a new Giveaway! This month we have a set of Acorn Earrings to send to one lucky winner.

Made up of beautiful glass amber coloured beads and corigated brass bead caps, they hang beautifully. These earrings are hung from brass, nickle-free ear hooks.

These earrings will be sent to the lucky winner in a padded box with a Hungry Designs mini card.

The rules are as before; just leave a comment and make sure you're a follower. I will then randomly select a winner on the 19.05.09 - this is in just 2 weeks. I will ship anywhere, so feel free to enter!

I Love Candy...

2009-04-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

I have some very exciting news that I must share! After the success of the Say No To Plastic event at Oran Mor I didn't think that things could get much better. Well...they can and they did! hehe. I have been asked to stock some of my chocolates and lollypops at I Love Candy. This is a sweet and candy shop based in Glasgow's West End. The owner of I Love Candy is Lisa, a charming young woman who's shop draws people in with it's bright colours and alluring smells.

The bright and beautiful interior of I Love Candy

I Love Candy stocks all kinds of sugary temptations but they especially like to source local produce - luckily this now includes Hungry Designs! I will have my Cupcake Lollypops, The Selleck Lollypops, Vintage Chocolate Buttons and my Fluff Filled Shrooms on Sticks. I really can't describe just how thrilled I am to have my lollypops and candies stocked at I Love Candy. I'm so excited about this venture.

Say No To Plastic Charity Event...

2009-04-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited to say that the Say No To Plastic Event was a huge success for Hungry Designs! I was incredibly nervous but having Steph with me made me feel a little bit at ease. Steph's such a pro, it always amazes me with her creativity and talents she never accepted her Art School unconditional. She studies Occupational Therapy, and she's very good at that too!

Steph seems to see things in a completely different way, it's quite an unconventional way but it's so quirky and fun. She helped me set up and I think my table looked amazing (if I do say so myself), 100 times better than my Portobello stall. I think it was so much better as it has height. My Portobello stall was very flat...

The one thing that I felt was a little odd was the lack of Cupcake sales! hehe. I thought they would have sold like hot cakes (pardon the pun), I made about 200 cupcakes and had over 100 left. Oops! I won't ever make that mistake again. The people at work are happy as I've brought them in 2 boxes today and I will be taking a couple of boxes to Colin's Bowling Club. It's better that they get eaten and enjoyed rather than wasted.

I met so many lovely people at the fair and I really can't believe how well my jewellery was received, I have another Craft Fair in St Andrews in about 3 weeks so I hope that one is just as successful. *crosses fingers*

SALE!

2009-04-22T13:50:00.001-07:00

I'm happy to say that I'm having my first Etsy Sale! With 40% off most items, necklaces have been reduced dramtically and can be bought for as little as $12. Earrings and bracelets have also been reduced to $7-$9. So why not grab yourself a bargain?

I have a lot of new stock that I really want to have a play with so I'm tying to sell off older items to make way for new necklaces, bracelets, brooches and earrings. All items are padded and boxed and come with a Hungry Designs minicard.

My Etsy Store will be closed on Sunday 26th April for the Say No To Plastic Charity Event. It will re-open on Monday 27th April. I will be taking all jewellery to the event, so if you see something you like why not scoop it up before it's too late!

I've Been Included in an Etsy Treasury...

2009-04-19T05:39:00.001-07:00

Highwater Studios Wind Treasury

I'm thrilled to share with you all that I have been included in an Etsy Treasury made by Highwater Studios. My Wind Beneath My Wings Necklace is bottom, middle and seems to fit in well with the Wind theme that Highwater Studios have chosen.

This is so exciting and I'm happy to admit that this is the first Treasury that I have been included in. I frequently look at treasuries that people have lovingly made and always hope that I will be included in one.

Wind Beneath My Wings Necklace

Many thanks to Highwater Studios for including me in their Treasury.

Chocolates & Lollypops...

2009-04-17T06:25:00.000-07:00

Vintage Chocolate Buttons

As most of you know I am taking part in a few Craft Fairs, one of which (the Say No To Plastic Charity Event) is on the 26th of April! I have been busying myself with new necklaces, bracelets and I have been thinking of new and exciting cupcakes to sell at the event. I had a large delivery of cupcake goods and last night Colin and I had some fun making chocolate lollypops, Fluff Lilled Shrooms and chocolate buttons.

Colin and his Orange Chocolate Lollypop

The Say No To Plastic Charity Event is being held in Oran Mor in Glasgow, the profits from the event will be devided and given to 2 Children's Charities. I will be selling my jewellery, cupcakes, lollypops and chocolate buttons at the event and I'm so excited about it! This will be the first Craft Fair that I'm selling my cupcakes at. I'm hoping to make about 200 cupcakes for the event. It's the day after my Birthday so I will be baking all day on my Birthday...I'm hoping I will be able to persuade Colin to help me...

Fluff Filled Chocolate Shroom on a Stick

My only concern is pricing my cupcakes, lollypops and chocolate buttons. I'm terrible at pricing and I don't want people to think they are too expensive, but I will need to make a profit on the items I do sell. It's a real hassle for me when it comes to pricing. Although many people do comment on the price of my cupcakes, suggesting I should up the price as I can't be making too much money on them. Hmmmm...I'll worry about prices next week!

Fluff Filled Chocolate Shroom on a Stick

Also, I have just put together a Flickr account. So any photos that are on my Blog will be on there, there will also be the poor photos who just didn't make the cut! hehe.

And the Winner is...

2009-04-16T15:54:00.001-07:00

Blue Bird Brooch Competition

The lucky winner of the Blue Bird Brooch is...drumroll please...

...JanJ!

Congratulations! Please email me your contact details and I will send it to you right away. I hope you give this wee birdie a good home.

Thank you all for commenting. I will be posting a new competition in the coming weeks, so check back soon!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

Easter Cupcakes!

I hope everyone has had a great Easter and you all ate loads of chocolate! I had 150 cupcake orders so I was busy busy! Luckily, Colin was off and he helped me tons. I'm glad to say everything went well and everyone who received cupcakes were over the moon.

I have a few more orders for cupcakes, a Christening and a few birthdays. Even more exciting, however, is that Say No To Plastic has invited Hungry Designs to attend their charity event on the 26th of April! I will be selling my cupcakes and jewellery. Colin won't be able to come (he has university commitments) so my best friend Steph will be my plus one! I can't wait. I have ordered some wonderful cupcake cases and my fingers have been working hard making new necklaces!

I've been practicing my piping, in particular piping two-tone buttercream. I have a birthday to make cupcakes for and she's asked for purple icing. With some left over cupcake buns I got practicing. I'm really happy with the results and can't wait to try it with other colours.

Two-Tone Piped Buttercream

Also, I am thrilled to be taking part in the Inspire April Project. I have no idea what I will be putting in my parcel, but I will have my thinking cap on over the coming days. Anyone who hasn't heard of this project you should have a wee look, it's a great idea. Something fun, creative and different.

Anyway, enjoy the rest of your Easter and remember to enter the free Blog Giveaway! I'll be announcing the winner this Thursday (16.04.09).

Giveaway!!!

2009-04-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

Close Up of Blue Bird Brooch

So I thought I would start doing a Giveaway Competition to my Followers! Yippee - free stuff! If all goes well with this one, I'm hoping to do one every month.

So this month it's a Hungry Designs Brooch...

Blue Bird Brooch

I made about 6 of these and I have kept one for myself and I have received quite a few lovely comments. This Blue Bird Brooch is a wooden laser cut bird and has a matching blue rose cab to finish it off. Others like it and the Butterfly Hair Clips can be found at my Etsy Store.

This brooch will come padded and boxed and sent to one lucky winner. All I ask is that you leave a comment and you're a follower.

This brooch will be shipped in a padded box with Hungry Designs minicard.

The even better news is I will ship this brooch anywhere, there are no restrictions! I will announce the winner a week from today (16.04.09).

Good Luck!

Cupcake Heaven...

2009-04-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

I have recently discovered Bake It Pretty an online store specializing in one of my favourite things - cupcakes! Amanda from Bake It Pretty offers amazing products to make your cupcakes, and other bake goods, really stand out! Her store has everything that you could ever really need; from food colouring gels, packaging, sprinkles and even foil to wrap your chocolate lollypops in!

The Best Cupcake Icing Kit - Ever!

The prices are fantastic and the delivery time is outstanding. I placed a rather large order and only 7 days later the parcel had arrived. I had waited with baited breath and I wasn't diappointed. Everything was carefully wrapped with Bake It Pretty stickers and opening the package just made me happy! I had it delivered to my work and the reception (I'm a receptionist) was like a sweet shop! *grin*

A Shroom on a Stick - These are Amazing filled with Jam or Peanutbutter!

Bake It Pretty have a Blog, this offers tutorials and information about upcoming products. It's incredibly informative and when I bought the Vintage Button Mold I found the tutorial invaluable. Amanda has her own personal Blog, Every Little Thing, which I love. Her humour and activities amuse me and I love reading about how much she loves her adorable son, Max! There seems to be no end to her talents!

Vintage Chocolate Buttons

Colin and I are thrilled with the products that Bake It Pretty sold us, the food colouring gels are so vibrant and the candy wafers are amazing to look at and they taste fantastic - add a little food flavour oil and you have a taste expolsion! With my upcoming Craft Fair I am looking forward to selling brilliantly coloured cupcakes, chocolcate vintage buttons and colourful lollypops. I can't wait to see people wandering around with Hungry Designs jewellery and cupcakes!

All images have been borrowed from Bake It Pretty and Every Little Thing.

Some Exciting News & Some New Necklaces...

2009-03-24T11:31:00.000-07:00

I have some great news! Rubyred Boutique contacted me a couple of weeks ago and asked about a wholesale deal. Gratefully I accepted and now Hungry Designs jewellery will be in an actual shop! I can't quite describe just how excited I am! *squeal* I have been bouncing around trying to keep it to myself for a few weeks. It's been very tough!

Rubyred Boutique Storefront

I have been making quite a few new necklaces. I have been busy busy! I have to actually put all these necklaces on my Etsy Store...it's a very time consuming process (I know, excuses, excuses!). Here is a sneak peek at a couple of the items that I've been working on.

Tea for One Necklace

Many Languages Necklace

Mother's Day Surprise..

2009-03-21T02:43:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day cupcakes with gold cases and pink Forget-Me-Nots

Well it's Mother's Day tomorrow and I have been very busy baking cupcakes for the numerous orders I received over the past month. The orders were for 6 cupcakes in a cavity filled white box, wrapped in a lovely pink (or yellow) ribbon. I had a huge number of orders - 34 boxes! I couldn't believe it. I thought I would get 10 orders at best, I eventually had to start turning people away. My kitchen is small and I can only make 12 cupcakes at a time, it took hours to make all the cupcakes needed. I made about 230 cakes in total, which was more than enough!

Now to decorate the cakes with buttercream, Disco Pink edible glitter and pink Forget-Me-Nots. This was a lengthy process as I didn't want any upcakes to differ in any way. The gift boxes had 3 cupcakes decorated with Disco Pink glitter and the other 3 had 3 individually placed pink flowers. I am so thrilled with the result! Everything took about 12 hours to make, decorate, box and tie. I was so exhausted, I actually promised myself I would never make so many cakes in one sitting ever again! I think I need a wee elf (Colin's a big elf but he was working all day). I think I will have to put a wee ad around town "Elf Wanted". hahaha.

A few completed boxes and cupcakes

My next cupcake baking bonanza will be for Easter. I have already planned out what I will decorate them using and everything is on order. I can't wait for them to arrive, I love when new cupcake supplies arrive! I have limited myself to 20 boxes and I already have 8 orders. I have to remain strong though, I simply cannot make anymore than 20 boxes this time, for fear I might turn into a cupcake!

Anyway, I hope there are a lot of happy mothers out there tomorrow! I'm sure I will hear from all the people I sold cakes to on Monday.

A Truly Wonderful Find...

2009-03-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Gerbera brooch - felted and embroidered

This is a special blog post all about a wonderful artist - Kate Toft of Tastykaeru. She specialises in making original and unique felted, embroidered, weaved and braided jewellery. What makes her jewellery so unique is the small details; the beads, thread and Swarovski crystals that are used. They are both colourful and fun.

Berry - kumihimo braided bracelet

I met Kate during the Portobello Craft Fair that I attended, earlier this month, she was warm, welcoming and genuinely interested in my jewellery. After chatting about Etsy she mentioned that she too had an Etsy Store and I asked what kinds of work she produced. Kate showed me a stunning weaved bracelet and I was completely in love! She gave me her card and I placed and order the next day. The only problem was there were so many different and exciting pieces to choose from! I happily walked away with a lovely necklace, when it arrived (the next day) it was even more stunning in person.

My custom necklace - Midnight Rose

I mentioned to Kate that I liked another necklace but the colours were a little too bold for me (i'm an Autum gal), she quickly got to work and produced 2 of the most fantastic necklaces that I now own. Everything is thoughtfully played out, right down to the packaging; from the Jiffy it arrived in, to the thread that was neatly tied in a bow around the box.

My 2nd custom necklace - Chestnut

Kate is so talented and I urge you to visit her Etsy Store, her work is so colourful and free and there will be something to suit any taste - and her prices are incredibly cheap. With Mother's Day coming up why not purchase something truly original.

Rosa - felted and embroidered brooch

Why not follow tasykaeru's Blog and flick through her Flickr.

Photogram Class...

2009-03-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

Photogram of jewellery in clear bags.

I recently took part in a Photograms class at the local print studio. The class ran from 11 until 6 with a lunch break in the middle. It was the most fantastic class that I have ever taken (and I have taken a few!). I think this was because of Malcolm, the lovely and eccentric teacher. He was a joy to listen to and watch and better yet, he let us do whatever we wanted. It was so refreshing and free!

Photogram using the perspex trees and jewellery.

A photogram is a photographic process where no camera is used. By placing objects on light senstive paper, exposing the paper to light and then developing the paper a photogram is created. Anything can be put on the paper and in any order, the results are unpredictable and fascinating!

Photogram of measuring cylinders with jewellery inside.

I had taken some of my jewellery in with me to see how well it would print and it worked out incredibly well. I was amazed with the results! I think that the jewellery is seen in a completely new way, with every detail being picked up. What I love most about the images is the detail on the chains, and the pendants - particularly the anchor and caged heart.

The results really are amazing and the process is one that will thrill you, I strongly advise that the course is taken. What struck me most of all was when Malcolm said our class (a class of just 6) was the first class he had taken in months that was full. With concerns about funding the course and the poor advertising I can't help but feel that Photograms is a dying art.

My First Craft Fair...

2009-03-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

So after much anticipation I finally took part in my first craft fair. It was in the sleepy town of Portobello. I have never been to Portobello before and wasn't quite sure what to expect. Colin and I left at 7am to ensure that even if we got lost we would still be on time for setting up. When we arrived (we didn't get lost) we started to set up, still not really knowing what to expect I felt nervous and a little sick!

Me Setting up my Stall

The first 2 hours were very slow and I didn't sell a single thing...it was so discouraging. Then there was a flurry of activity and I sold 4 items! I was thrilled! It seemed to be quite steady from then on and I gave away all of my business cards and postcards. I'm glad that I took part in the craft fair but I don't think Portobello was the best town for me to showcase my work. The main visitors were older people and mothers with their young children, not really my target demographic. A lot of people made really positive comments about my jewellery and a woman even said I would be selling more jewellery if I was in a more central and student occupied location. I have signed up for another craft fair, this time a little closer to home, St Andrews.

A Section of my Stall

I agree with the lady that said my jewellery would sell better at a more central location. I am looking foward to my 2nd craft fair and I have asked if I can sell my cupcakes at this event. I hope they say yes. I love making cupcakes. I have been soooo busy making them lately. Last week I made over 200! The ones I am most chuffed with are the cakes I was asked to make for a local band called Luva Anna - they did particularly well at the Orange unsignedAct. I am now taking orders for Mother's Day. I have 10 orders already - next week will be another busy week, full of flour and icing sugar!

Luva Anna Cupcakes with Hand Painted Logo

D-Con 2009

2009-03-02T12:32:00.000-08:00

Mounted Work at D-Con

So D-Con is all finished and it was an amazing event. The whole day was a complete success and it was incredibly busy. After the work was hung and the tables were set up the people seemed to flood in at 2pm (when the event opened). There were about 20 exhibitors and everyone's work was great. The tables looked professional and the postcards and prints were out in full force!

My Cupcakes

My cupcakes went down a treat! I sold 100 cakes in less than 2 hours! The most common questions were "Are your cupcakes real?" and "Can I eat the glitter?" haha. I was extremely flattered when asked the first question but struggled to keep a straight face when asked the second question! hahaha!

I was (and still am) over the moon my cakes sold so quickly although that did leave an empty space at my table. There was a girl selling bric-a-brac so Colin went to collect my jewellery and I started to sell those too! People seemed to love the jewellery and I sold a few necklaces, earrings and bracelets. This does mean that I have to make more jewellery this week in preparation for my first Craft Fair... *eep!*

All Cupcaked Out...

2009-02-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

D-Con Cupcakes!

Well this week has been a blur! I took today off work and all I have done is make cupcakes! D-Con is tomorrow and I was told it would be okay for me to make cupcakes and sell them on the day. So I have made about 100 cupcakes and piped buttercream icing and the finishing touch is a speech bubble or thought bubble. I didn't want to push my luck so i have made them comic themed. I hope they sell and more importantly I hope people like them! I am selling them for 50 Pence each. I would love nothing more than to see people walking around the Artist's Hall eating my cupcakes!

Rice Paper Speech Bubbles

Of course, there is always the left over mixture in the bowl, so I made mini cupcakes! I think I will just give these away free to entice people to buy the bigger ones. haha.

Mini Cupcakes With Edible Glitter

I will let you all know how I get on. I am sooooo nervous, I hope it all goes well and people like my cupcakes and illustrations...

My Mini Forest...

2009-02-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

Laser Cut Paper Weights

As I have mentioned in my previous post I have been very busy with jewellery making for my upcoming Craft Fair. I have a 6ft table and I was worried about how to fill it and I was also concerned with how to display my work. That is when I thought of having my necklaces hanging from trees! I have had designs cut before and I loved the look and feel of the perspex, so I designed a couple of trees and sent them to Simon at SJS Laser Cutting & Engraving. He made short work of the trees and logos. Here are some photos I thought you might like!

Laser Cut Trees

Busy Little Bee...

2009-02-19T10:24:00.000-08:00

A Lotto Love Necklace

I have been working hard over the past couple of days. With the Portobello Craft Fair fast approaching I need a lot more jewellery to sell. I made 16 new necklaces and 4 new sets of earrings and I have many, many more planned. Now that I have completed most of the work needed for D-Con I think I can spend more time on jewellery and less time stressing! haha. These are just some examples of the new necklaces I have been working on. These haven't even been put on the Hungry Designs Website!

For My Clover Necklace

A special mention needs to be given to Susan at Rhea Wedding Designs, she was lovely enough to make a blog post about my jewellery at Hungry Designs. Susan, in particular, seemed to like my screenprinted bags. I can't believe it and I am thrilled! Thank you very much, I am so grateful. I hope you (and everyone else) like my new designs.

Caged Love Necklace

D-Con is only 2 weeks away...

2009-02-14T14:34:00.000-08:00

D-Con Poster with my Illustration

I have been a busy little bee today - yes, even though it's Valentine's Day! I only have 2 weeks until the big show and I am slightly panicked! haha.

I have completed 3 illustrations tonight and I have made a plan (that I have to stick to), and I have calculated how many images I will need. I have another 6 I'd like to have for the show. Only problem is I need to have all my illustrations ready for Wednesday... *eeeep!*

I am trying to do a little of everything for the show; something Gothic, Vampy, Sweet, Sexy, etc. I also have a table to fill, Lord only knows how I will fill a metre and a half table! haha. I have my business cards and postcards printed and I will be updating my portfolio, I only hope that's enough...I would love to make cupcakes to share but I don't know how appropriate that would be...

D-Con Poster with my Illustration

I haven't even said what D-Con is! It's one of Scotland's only free anime and comic exhibitions. It's being hosted in Dundee and seems to be set to make quite a big deal. There will be the art exhibition as well as movies, cosplay competitions as well as talks from Real Time Worlds as well as other games companies. Pretty exciting stuff!

My website will be updated after D-Con and is updated with my newest illustrations. If you want to have a wee look at previous work have a peak at amandawhitelaw.com.

Yummy French Macaroons

2009-02-09T14:14:00.000-08:00

I have received so many possitive comments about my cupcakes so I thought I would share a recipe with you all. Okay, so it's not a cupcake recipe, it's a French Macaroon recipe. They are really easy to make and so yummy (if a little bad for you), and I think they make the most amazing Valentine's Dessert.

This is what you will need:

Ingredients for the Macaroons

3 Egg Whites
2 Tablespoons of Caster Sugar
Food Colouring (any colour of your choice)
200g of Icing Sugar
120g Ground Almonds

Ingredients for the Chocolate Ganache

100g White Chocolate (or another chocolate of your choice)
2 Table Spoons of Whipping Cream

Yummy Pink French Macaroons

Now for the Cooking!

Make the chocolate ganache. This is done by melting the chocolate and stiring in the cream. Mixing these ingredients should form a nice spread. When you are done, transfer to a bowl and leave to cool.
Line a tray with baking paper.
Separate the egg yolks and beat the egg whites with an electric whisk. Do this until the egg whites are stiff and you can hold the bowl upside down over your head. WARNING! Don't be hasty - you could end up with egg white all over the place, including your hair!
Add the sugar and the food colouring of your choice. Beat some more until the sugar desolves. Stir in your almonds and sifted icing sugar.
Spoon the mixture into a piping bag with a large round tube. Pipe your mixture onto the baking tray. Tap this tray against the counter so the macaroons spread slightly. Leave to stand for about 10-15 mins.
Preheat your oven to 150 degrees and bake your macaroons for about 20 mins. Leave to stand and gently peal off the baking paper. Leave the macaroons to cool.
Take your ganache and spread generously between 2 round macaroons. Dust your finished macaroons with icing sugar or edible glitter.
Enjoy!

Remember, I have made pink ones, but you don't have to make them pink, red, green or even blue ones would look just as amazing! Be sure to let me know how you get on with your macaroons! I would love to see photos.

Happy Baking!

508 Prints Later...

2009-02-07T08:26:00.001-08:00

250 Bags With Hand Printed Hungry Designs Logos

I have been so busy today (and the day isn't over yet!), I have a list of things that I have promised myself I would do this weekend. So far I can cross Number 1 off!

Number 1 was to screen print the Hungry Designs logo on these cute brown paper bags that I ordered, front and back! I have a craft fair coming up (my first) and I wanted to give away cute bags with every purchase. So there were 250 bags, so front and back = 500 prints. Including the testers I have printed 508 logos!

Me Screen Printing

I'm happy to admit that my boyfriend helped me. I really don't think that I would have been able to do it without him. We had a little production line and he took the photos. We are both sore all over but we got in done in record timing - just 3 and a half hours including the clean up operation!

Packing Up All The Printed Bags

Now all the bags are boxed up again ready to be used at the Craft Fair, which is less than 4 weeks away! I'm absolutely terrified and I really don't know what to expect as it's my first. Any pointers or tips would be appreciated...

Before I sign off, I would like to thank all the folk at Crafts Forum, they have made me feel so welcome and I find the forum so useful. Also, thank you to all the people who have joined my Blog.

My Very First Post

2009-02-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

This is my first post! I have to admit I find starting a blog intimidating...

So firstly, I should tell you a little about myself. I have an Honours Degree in Illustration & Printmaking and recently I have started an Esty shop which specializes in vintage and shabby chic style jewellery.

This is an example of the jewellery found at my Esty Store.

I am a keen baker and bake cupcakes for special occassions, such as Birthday Parties, Halloween Parties and Christmas Dinners. I love to bake, but mostly I love to decorate the cupcakes with edible glitter and spinkles!

These are cakes I baked for a 21st Birthday Celebration.

Since graduating I have regained my love of comic-book style illustration and regularly draw for a Trysts Series on lesbiangamers.com and I love it. I am so taking part in a Anime and Comic Convention on the 28th of Feb. I am so nervous and excited at the same time!

Illustration of Business Card Front for D-Con.