What a clever bunch of diva's

As part of the "Beadhive Diva's", a group of like-minded NZ jewellery designers and beaders, I particated in our November "Bead Swap" challenge with much vigour - it's so much fun! This time, June took over the organising of it (as I've been busy with stuff at home of late), and she did a fantastic job! We voted to all receive the same bunch of beads this time round, which June organised for us. So, we've all been eagerly awaiting the posting of all the pics so we can see what we all came up with!

As we were all sent the same beads, it's really amazing to see that we've all come up with completely different items! This time it was a weeeeee bit different as well, as we were allowed to add as many additional beads as we liked (usually we try not to do that, so it's been a challenge to get the head around!).

Anyway, CLICK HERE to see all our pics - my pieces are shown below...

Winkels Wooden Toys

Since April this year, I've been helping my friend Dianne set up her website, Winkels Wooden Toys. Dianne hand-crafts each of her toys, one at a time, and they're such high quality - it was a real pleasure to help her out with her website :)

With Christmas coming up, I thought it might be prudent to do a wee plug for her on my blog - the toys range in price from NZ$6 upwards - she has some great puzzles, wooden instruments, houseware stuff and farmyard toys - all wooden, so more than capable of taking the knocks! We have several of her toys in our household and have had for a few years - they're still going strong, especially my daughter's barn/dollhouse (which has been well-used and well-loved!).

To give you an idea of what Dianne creates, here are some pics:

Check out her website at www.winkelswoodentoys.co.nz :)

Today's Designer on Handbag Designer 101

Oooh, how exciting! Pallina Designs is featured on top celebrity-watch and fashion icon website "Handbag Designer 101"! CLICK HERE to see my interview!

Thanks Handbag Designer 101 :)

Warm Fuzzies!

In more ways than one, this week has turned into a great week!

Firstly, my Mother In Law arrived from Scotland for her 6 month stay (the excitement in our house the day she arrived was palpable!).

Secondly, I had a brainwave and got started on my Bead Swap piece for the Beadhive Diva's the other night - yay! I thought inspiration had deserted me :)

Thirdly - I had the Waiotahi Country Market on Saturday and had a blast! So great to see everyone!

And last but by no means least (that's how sad I am!) - lovely Joyann dropped off Betz White's awesome book "Warm Fuzzies" to me today, so I can pour over it for the next 3 weeks (until it's due back at the library).


Oh happy days!!