GemmaJoy

New Items

2012-01-10T12:46:00.006+11:00

New items available on Craftumi

Remember if your after something you don't see in my store please ask...

2012-01-04T16:42:00.001+11:00

The xmas rush is over and now I have time for important things like..... pinterest!!!

Time Out

2011-12-07T10:42:00.004+11:00

Life is pretty crazy at the moment so yesterday I had time out.

I turned the music up, pulled out some fabric I've been wanting to use, had a fight with the interfacing and these flowers are the end result.

I made 3 sets and it took me 2 hours.

They are for sale here

10% OFF and a Giveaway!!!

2011-12-03T14:03:00.005+11:00

When I reached 1000 fans on my facebook page I promised a giveaway.

Because it's taken me so long I'm offering 10% off my store today to say thankyou to all my lovely customers and supporters

I love a good giveaway and wish I could give something to everyone so I'm giving away 4 prizes to 4 different people.

All you have to do to enter is comment on this post telling me which item from my store you would like to win (I won't accept "I would be happy with anything") and the winners will get the item they picked.

Details

1 entry per person

Open Australia wide only

I will Random.org on Thursday 8th to draw 4 winners

Please leave your email or some way to contact you

Thankyou and good luck!!

Rosettes

2011-11-24T10:46:00.006+11:00

I love to recycle!

It's lots of fun to create using something that would otherwise have ended up in landfill.

A few weeks ago I purchased some scraps from an online seller. I asked about fabric sizes and paid good money. What I got from the seller was disappointing to say the least. I sent her an email and never got a response. I wasn't asking for my money back or to return the fabric.

I sat and looked at the scraps for a really long time. The sizes and fabric weren't even suitable for a fabric covered button.

When I had my handmade store open I loved making rosettes. So with a little tweaking and hard work I was able to turn some unusable fabric into some gorgeous rosettes (most of the rosettes in this post are made with fabric from my stash)

The Postie

2011-11-24T10:19:00.004+11:00

Why is it that the Postie never delivers on days when I'm organised.

By organised I mean showered and out of my pjs.

Most mornings I get so caught up with packing orders, photographing stock, avoiding any cleaning that before I know it the buzzer is going crazy and the postie is here.

I do the mad rush to find something to wear, brush my hair, grab some shoes and get down to the internal door as soon as possible.

There are some days where I will wear my pjs down to meet him.... these are the days when there are workman doing something to the apartments (ah sprung)

Then I have days like today. I'm up and organised but I know nothing will be delivered today.

Neglected Blog

2011-11-08T21:36:00.002+11:00

My little blog has been neglected.

I'm back and hopefully regular blogging will return.

I thought I would start by sharing a photo of Brissy. This was taken a few weeks back on a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon (before the heat set in).

My camera spends most of it's time in Macro mode so it was great to change the lense and use landscape.

Latest Handmade Purchase

2011-09-16T13:30:00.002+10:00

Last night Scott and I drove to Wynnum for "Wynnum up late"

We shopped, had coffee, listened to music and I bought this lovely brooch from "Off the Hook" (of course it's red!!)

I visited the collective store and saw some gorgeous handmade items. Will have to go back when it isn't so busy and have a good look.

What's your latest handmade purchase?

Scrap Happy

2011-09-14T09:52:00.003+10:00

There's nothing I love more than when the courier rings the door bell.

Waiting for me today was fabric. Lots of scraps from lovely handmade sellers.

I love working with scraps. We've become very good at using every little piece.

The best part is we are saving it from the rubbish bin!

So if you ever have fabric scraps please let me.

What am I going to create!!!

Collections

2011-09-09T20:53:00.002+10:00

I never planned to collect badges. It was something that just happened.

It started when I was in high school and slowly grew as I attended music festivals.

It started with a hat (gift from my parents) and my first ebay purchase (Ben Harper badges)

Some badges have been bought, others were gifts and a few were found.

When I look at them I remember the memories.

What do you collect?

Super Saturday

2011-08-20T09:19:00.003+10:00

I love shopping for bargains!

So I've decided to have a Super Saturday Special.

This special is valid for today only and stocks are limited.

Look here

Waiting...

2011-08-03T12:11:00.002+10:00

I'm waiting for a delivery of some gorgeous Elk necklaces.

Come on Mr Courier!!

I have the red necklace above and it's on SALE on their website!!

New From GemmaJoy

2011-07-30T12:32:00.006+10:00

Things have been busy at GemmaJoy. We've been experimenting with new designs, sourcing new wholesalers, buying lots of new items and having a lot of fun. Tomorrow my mum comes home from her month long holiday in America. Her bags are full to the brim and she's told me that she's bought buttons, felt and a few more goodies to share.

If your in the market for craft supplies please look at my store. It's growing. It currently has over 200 items!!
Shop GemmaJoy

2011-07-10T22:27:00.000+10:00

New Zealand

2011-07-04T08:43:00.005+10:00

Before the ash cloud struck again we made our way to Wellington. We were very lucky if we left the morning we did, it was worth the 5am flight.
I loved Wellington. I had an expectation that it was going to be very cold. The weather was beautiful most days, the sun shined but when the wind started it was cold!! I love wearing coats, scarfs and beanies (something I don't do much in Brisbane).

Wellington is a small city that has a lot of coffee shops. We spent most of our time discovering new cafes and eating food.

I don't know what's going on with my hair in this photo. This was taken on the day we arrived.

Our flight home was delayed because of the ash cloud. This meant there was more time to squeeze in more coffee, food and sitting by the water.

I love going away but it's so nice to come home.

Busy Busy Busy

2011-07-03T17:20:00.004+10:00

I've just gotten back from holidays (posts and photos coming).

I was amazed at how much stock my mum has made while I was away. It took a few trips to the car and up the stairs to get it into my house.

I've finished packing all the paid orders from when I was away and I had just enough time this afternoon to snap a few new photos. I'm gradually adding these new items to my store and would love for you to take a look HERE

Update

2011-06-17T19:47:00.003+10:00

At GJ we've been busy sewing up embellishments.

These have been very popular and our stock levels were low.

Armed with new fabrics we were motivated (mum more so than me).
So many new embellishments were designed and created. Some have been added to my craftumi store for sale.

I've been spending a lot of time improving my product photos. Can you tell?

And I'm so excited to show you the new colours our doilies come in. So pretty, I think the teal oines are my favourite!!

Giveaway Winner

2011-05-31T09:21:00.002+10:00

I picked a winner for my giveaway. I love random.org it makes it so much easier!

I loved reading everyones comments and finding out what they would create using these buttons.

Thankyou to everyone that entered (over 300!!).

The winner is AJ.

Giveaway Day - Win Buttons!!!

2011-05-23T11:29:00.006+10:00

It's GIVEAWAY DAY!!!

Hosted by Sew Mama Sew

One lucky person will win 30 mixed buttons from my collection.

To enter simply follow my blog and comment on this post (I would love to hear what you would create with these buttons)

For an extra entry like my GemmaJoy facebook page

Open to everyone (will ship internationally).

Entries close Friday 27th (Australia).

Markets

2011-05-23T09:48:00.005+10:00

For the past 2 weeks we've been buying our fruit and veggies from the markets.

Not only is it cheaper but we've been eating better and feeling better.
These are some pictures of the weekends purchase.
$22 got our fruit and veg for the week.

I also bought my mum some chai tea. It smells so good, I better post it to her today or I might end up drinking it all.

Still Life Drawing

2011-05-18T10:48:00.002+10:00

I love to draw but I've never been good at drawing still life. At school I used to pass these drawing assignments to my mum to draw because I just can't shade and get the 3D look.

Last month I handed in my first attempt at drawing. My feedback was "the cup looks flat", "you need to work on the tone and texture to give a more 3D look". A normal person would give it another go, not me! I shut my books and the stubborn side of me came out.

Today I'm giving it another go.

Red Shoes

2011-05-14T13:26:00.002+10:00

The weather has been perfect for my red TOMS.

My Creative Space

2011-05-04T22:00:00.005+10:00

My Creative Space is early this week because I keep forgetting to post.

This week I've been revamping some of my embellishments. Changing buttons, adding felt, fabric and lace.
I've also been sorting out my craft space. Well not so much cleaning as making a bigger mess.
I had a spare bed in the room. We decided this week to remove the bed and give me more space. Photos coming next week.
So more cleaning, sorting and organising for me.
More spaces here

Happy Customers

2011-05-04T21:43:00.002+10:00

"I bought this poppy from you last year. We are currently living in Munich and we were lucky enough to go over to France for the Anzac Day Dawn Service in Villers Bretonneux. I wore my poppy with pride. I'm a little late in posting this pic for you, but better late than never, as they say, and I promised you when I bought it that I would send you a pic! Thank you for making it for me"

It's photos and comments like this that make my day. It's great to see some of my handmade items living overseas.

Exercise

2011-04-30T10:28:00.006+10:00

Today the exercise started again. I felt a bit like the picture above. I got dressed, woke Scott up and off we went. It was just a short walk. Around the block then down to the shops to post orders and get the paper. We avoided donut king and the bakery.
I can't imagine me ever saying that running is me time. I can't even remember the last time I ran.

This is what I feel like.

Must be time for a coffee and breakfast.

Mum's Button Stash

2011-04-29T13:14:00.002+10:00

Over Easter I also raided my mums button stash and wow did she have some buttons.

Easter

2011-04-27T20:44:00.001+10:00

Was spent looking after 2 naughty cats

New Supplies

2011-04-19T20:23:00.004+10:00

Remember how I said I was going to stop making things. Well this is proving harder than I thought. Especially when these super cute owls arrived. I had to turn them into earrings and maybe even some necklaces tomorrow.

I also spent a lot of time today photographing and listing items on craftumi.

Yesterday was a day of cleaning and sorting my craft room. It feels a LOT nicer and calmer in there.

Comfort Food

2011-04-18T15:32:00.005+10:00

The weather in Brisbane today is perfect for comfort food.

This post is for Scott. He just called wanting lamb shank pie. We had a long conversation about food, what we wanted for dinner and food memories.

The above photo is a very happy Scott with lamb shank pie in Queens town (sorry about the blur). Below was my Pork Belly - so yummy. The food was so good we went back for breakfast and dinner!

This is what I want for dinner. Shame I'm in the wrong country!!

Idiots

2011-04-18T08:46:00.002+10:00

Sometimes people amaze me by there complete stupidity. Yesterday, after avoiding the petrol station for a few days it was time to go. It was busy, we waited and waited. When it was our turn a van pulled into the pump next to me. His tank was on the wrong side and when he realised that the hose wouldn't reach, the guy and his passengers decided to pass the hose through the cab of the van. Seriously, when did they ever think it was a good idea.

Furniture

2011-04-17T09:06:00.002+10:00

Most of the furniture we own is second hand. We live in a mix of ebay and Ikea purchases. Which suits us. We seem to move a lot and with every move things get damaged.

Our lounge has definitely seen better days. I've started patching holes with felt. As much as we need a new one, I would prefer to spend my money on a holiday.

This doesn't stop me from looking. I found the above picture on pinterest this morning.

I like lounges that have a dual purpose (storage, bed etc). But I've never seen one turn into bunks.

Typography

2011-04-16T13:38:00.002+10:00

I've been studying typography this week, so today I've been looking through the Internet to find examples of art with text.

I found this print and thought I would share.

Brisbane Bloggers

2011-04-15T12:50:00.009+10:00

Last Saturday 20 bloggers met in Brisbane. I imagine that meeting the people behind the blogs is a bit like meeting someone from online dating. Bloody nerve racking. After everyone arrived and little furniture rearrangement the nerves disappeared and night flew by.

Each blogger bought an item for the goodie bags. In typical style I forgot about my item until the day before (when I was kindly reminded). I came home from a day at work and madly started gluing bobby pins together and while I was on a roll I made a few sets of earrings.

All night I wondered what was in the goodie bags. I tried to sneak a few peaks but always seemed to get caught.

Some of my highlights

"I wondered why I was getting hot... I was sitting on a light" Hayley

Laughing till I cried

The goodie bags

Connecting with people and being reinspired to start blogging again

The desserts - which I forgot to order.

and so much more...

There was a photo booth. I tried to avoid it. Here is a photo of some of the items in the goodie bag. All the edible items disappeared very quickly (thanks to Scott and Sonia). Thanks for such a great night!!

New Zealand

2011-04-13T11:36:00.009+10:00

We have begun planning another trip to NZ this year.

So far all I've done is look at last years pictures.

Push

2011-04-12T15:08:00.004+10:00

Push is a new meme held every Tuesday at Hello Owl It's aim is to push your photography skills.

This weeks theme is rainbow.

Today I made cupcakes (it's amazing the lengths I will go to avoid cleaning and studying)

I love....

2011-04-12T10:39:00.002+10:00

Polka Dot Buttons.

Smashed

2011-04-11T23:19:00.002+10:00

Can it be glued back together?

One of my favourite bowls (nicknamed the ugly bowl) that I've carried with me on every move (NSW to NT to Melbourne to Dallas to Gold Coast to Brisbane) had an incident with the floor on Sunday.

Most Successful

2011-03-31T12:14:00.003+11:00

I don't make multiple items of the same design. I tend to make only one of each item. So when this Easter brooch was created I thought it would be the only one. It wasn't, 11 brooches have been made and today I sold the last one.

When I think about it, this brooch has been my most successful item. I'm still surprised by this.

It got me thinking. When you make something... do you know when it will be a success?

Change

2011-03-29T09:30:00.002+11:00

Last week I announced I was closing my online handmade store. I've been thinking about closing the store down for a while and I finally did it.

I reduced my prices, promoted I was closing and I got lots of orders from people saying they've been admiring my items for ages (which made my day).

So why am I closing? Because I've been looking at my store and not feeling inspired. I feel like the passion is gone and it's time for a break!

If GemmaJoy comes back I will be taking my store in a new direction.

I've decided that I'm discontinuing my girls accessories, clips, bobby pins and will focus on gorgeous accessories for women.

So if you want a piece of GemmaJoy you better be quick as items are selling fast!!

Today...

2011-03-24T09:36:00.002+11:00

Don't cry over spilt coffee.

Today can only get better right? I don't even know how this happened... somewhere between the sugar and the milk. This was the last of the good coffee and it was Scott's. I was torn. Should I give him mine or should I make another (using new coffee that isn't as nice).

I made him a new one and kept the last of the good coffee for myself.

Embellishments

2011-03-16T22:12:00.003+11:00

There's a few sneaky specials at my Craftumi store this week. I've put some embellishments on sale.

I have a lot of fun making these embellishments, maybe too much fun as I have so many.

I've seen people make them into hair clips, headbands and even sew onto plain shirts.

So many possibilities....

Photos

2011-03-16T16:07:00.004+11:00

I listed new items today and changed the photo 4 times!

I like the frame but the image is washed out .

I thought the cream would be ok. But it looked bland against my other items

I ended up using the picture below. Good old trusty blue!!

Props

2011-03-15T09:48:00.003+11:00

These two are my new friends (I live an exciting life).

I've been taking product shots for the longest time on paper. BORING. I don't have any friends who are eager to have their face plastered over the Madeit store (if I do please speak up now).

I know I've needed to display my products so customers can see proportion. So it's a start.

Expect to see more of these two. Now it's time to name them!!

Flowers and Kitties

2011-03-14T14:15:00.006+11:00

When I was visiting home last week I spent some time playing with some camera settings.

I also spent some time harassing the cats which inspired the embellishment above. He's such a cute cat. Dash hiding in the garden.

My Mother... Part 3

2011-03-13T18:31:00.001+11:00

Is the best sewer. Look what she made me today.

A New Zealand Souvenir Tea Towel Cushion.

Just call her Martha Stewart

Man Flu

2011-03-12T19:12:00.002+11:00

Scott has a case of Man Flu.

We had made plans and bought tickets to go the football and I can't say I'm disappointed that we're not going.

I've quarantined him in the bedroom with the latest season of Jersey Shore. GTL. What a stupid show!

I bought him cold and flu tablets, food, lemonade and paddle pops for his sore throat. I've made him lunch and dinner. I also threatened to send him home so his mother could look after him.

This blog post is for next time I'm sick. It's evidence that I went to Woolworths on a Saturday where there were huge lines at the checkout, slow people and about 1000 children.

My Mother....Part 2

2011-03-11T11:42:00.002+11:00

On Wednesday mum gave me these stickers. With a serious look on her face she told me to stick one on my phone. I thought this was interesting then came her explanation. "They stop the magnetic radiation".

Sometimes mum goes a little crazy. Like when there was bird flu she stocked up on food (she still has tubs of food in her wardrobe).

I couldn't help but laugh. How on earth can this pack of stickers (which were for the bargain price of $1 each but that was a 50% discount) stop radiation.

We went out for dinner and there was a joke about how I should change the room I sleep in when I visit my parents because of the power box outside the window. When I refused she quickly came up with a solution. See photo below

When I went to bed, I saw her solution. A sticker on the wall! This from the woman who wouldn't let us blu tak posters to the walls as kids. I wondered why she didn't just stick them to the bed... but she did that too!!

PS. mum has just seen the photo and is a bit upset that her sticker isn't centred and level. God love her

My Mother....

2011-03-10T20:38:00.002+11:00

This post is the start of a small series about my crazy mother. Sometimes I think she's losing her marbles, sometimes she makes me laugh so much I cry and other times well.... here's what happened today.

I've left Brisbane for a few days to catch up with friends and get some things from home. So today I spent the day catching up and having lunch with a friend. I knew my mum was listing new items on my craftumi store (she's in this venture with me... as you can tell not the technical/computer side). I've shown her how to add items, she's watched me add items, she's even added items herself.

Tonight when I get home I've noticed about 5 new listings and a huge increase in my bill! Firstly I thought she had advertised the items on the front page... then I checked out my bill. She'd gotten confused about quantity listings. Basically there was a $10, $6 and $4 fee for 3 new listings. These 3 listings should have costs $1.05 to list not $20.

When I asked her what she'd done her response was 'but I fixed it up". When she'd realised what she'd done wrong she'd removed the extra quantity listings. She was proud that she had edited her mistake.

God bless her.... now to change my passwords.

MPAY: One Thing

2011-03-08T13:07:00.004+11:00

I haven't played along with "My Place and Yours" for ages! Today I'm back and the theme is... One thing you would take if your place was burning down (apart from the usual photos etc).

I looked around at what I own and thought and thought some more. Most things I own are replaceable.

I would take would be my drawings (all of them!!)

What's your one thing?

Play along at Hello Owl

Autumn

2011-03-07T10:18:00.002+11:00

Goodbye Summer and hello Autumn.

New embellishments I've been working on.

Some Fun This Saturday

2011-03-05T18:21:00.002+11:00

I'm feeling generous this Saturday evening so I thought I would offer some bargains.

I've reduced 5 items in my Madeit Store

Item 1 $1

Items 2 $2

Items 3 $3

Item 4 $4

Item 5 $5

Be quick items will return to their normal prices tomorrow morning!!

Have fun finding the items!!!

Click here

Rainy Days

2011-03-04T12:37:00.002+11:00

Rainy Lime Day on Madeit by Totally Innocent

It must be the weather because today I'm feeling very unmotivated!! I'm very thankful that the heat has gone and the rain is here.

I need to motivate myself so I can

1. go to the post office

2. complete assignments

3. clean

I would prefer to go to bed with a good book.

Madeit Finds

2011-03-02T17:27:00.004+11:00

Today I had my head in the books. I studied for a really long time. Finished 2 assignments, fixed up another and started reading for the next one.

So as a distracted I had a look on Madeit for some funky items.

Silver Spoon Ring

Scarf

Stacking Textured Bangle Set

Flowers

2011-02-28T22:22:00.002+11:00

The creative bug bit this afternoon. So out from the felt, buttons and scissors. I've had a stash of funky vintage buttons that I haven't been able to use (they are just to good to look at). I forced myself to use them and I'm happy I did. I made some funky flower embellishments.

Sunday at Southbank

2011-02-27T18:09:00.005+11:00

Today we went to GOMA to view the current exhibition 21st Century: Art in the First Decade.

I loved it!!

There were lots of kids running around and gallery workers were having a hard time stopping everyone (adults and children) from touching the pieces.

One of my favourite pieces is the picture above. The size and colour amazed me.

I also loved the I wish.... ribbons. The concept is to write a wish and replace your wish with a wish ribbon. Scott and I both made wishes and placed them in the wall. His ribbon said "I wish I had my own pet". The first ribbon I picked up said "I wish I had a more patient mother" (lets see if she bites) I wished I had picked "I wish I was a ballerina travelling the world" (not so much the ballerina but I would love to be travelling).

We waited in line to enter this black box. It was filled with fluro balls suspended from the roof, mirrors and water. When we entered the black lights were turned on... it became very obvious that I wasn't a natural blonde.

We had lunch under a shady tree in South bank before making our way back home.

What did you do today?

A work in progress....

2011-02-26T14:06:00.005+11:00

Trying to get organised and here is my work in progress.

I invested in a lot of plastic.

I read about storage ideas such as a mug holder for scissors and I haven't misplaced my scissors since.

Sorted buttons and cotton.

I took the door off the cupboard so that I could see what was in there and that it didn't turn into a shove it in, shut the door and forget about it.

I used under the bed for storage of plastic containers and my plan is to get big cushions and add some more colour to the room

I still have to fold my felt and fabric but it feels so much better to create in a clean space.

My Creative Space

2011-02-24T10:08:00.002+11:00

If you follow my facebook page you may remember this red bird button. I've never seen this button in red and only got 1 in the order (which was also the last lot from the supplier).

My favourite colour is red and there was a bit of a discussion about whether I should keep or sell.

Yesterday I made the button into a ring. I've put it on my finger and I don't think I can part with it.

This week in my Creative Space I made something for myself!!

What was the last thing you made for yourself?

More creative spaces here

Cherry Blossoms

2011-02-23T16:31:00.002+11:00

I'm loving cherry blossoms and everything Japanese. So last night I sat at the desk and made up these Japanese flower pendants. I love them all and am having trouble deciding on which one I like best.

They are for sale here and come with matching rings.

New Craft Supplies

2011-02-22T11:01:00.001+11:00

I've added lots of new crochet appliques and buttons to Craftumi.

Lots of goodies in store for the inspiration you need!!

Click here

New Little Gems

2011-02-19T13:11:00.005+11:00

This morning I added a few new items to GemmaJoy on Madeit. These pretty embellishments have been handmade by my mum using felt, fabric, lace and buttons. They can be turned into brooches, clips, headbands etc.

I think they are very pretty and would make a great inexpensive gift. I wish I had a little girl in my family to give one to.

My Creative Space

2011-02-17T10:29:00.003+11:00

Yesterday on the craft desk I went a little crazy cutting, interfacing and stitching. I was obsessed with love hearts ended up created lots of funky love heart headbands. I used bright felt and vintage sheets. What do you think?

More Spaces here

SALE

2011-02-14T11:07:00.004+11:00

Last night I continued my craft room clean out and found a basket of brooches packed away. So they need to go. They've been reduced to $7 on Madeit.

These are 100% handmade. Unique to GemmaJoy.

Embellishments

2011-02-13T11:49:00.003+11:00

My Craftumi store is back up and running.
I've been creating funky embellishments.

Visit st0re here

Loving.....

2011-02-05T18:32:00.004+11:00

Gretel Girl Draws - Read to me

Osiris - Stacking Rings

That Vintage - Wren Pendant

My Creative Space

2011-02-03T10:40:00.006+11:00

I haven't joined My Creative Space in a long time. I'm excited to be back and sharing with you what GJ has been making.

GemmaJoy has branched out from headbands and brooches. We've been making lots of funky clips and bobby pin sets. We wanted to create a range that was affordable and for a variety of ages.
I'm loving working with bright colours!!

Here's a sneak peak of my Easter range. I'm thinking of turning these into headbands, clips and hair ties! I wanted to create an Easter range that could be worn throughout the year. I would love to hear suggestions.

GemmaJoy is going to have a big giveaway when our facebook pages reaches 1000 likers

Click here to become a liker

Click here for more spaces

New Items

2011-02-01T15:14:00.005+11:00

Things have been very busy in the GemmaJoy studio lately. A new range of funky hair clips have been launched on Madeit.
The clips come in a set of 2. Including postage these handmade goodies are under $10. Great for gifts or a treat for yourself.

Madeit

Tuesday Temptation Japanese Inspired Red Flower Headband, Clip or Brooch - by GemmaJoy on madeit

2011-02-01T09:41:00.000+11:00

On sale for today only. I love this flower.... someone please buy it before I keep it for myself!!
Tuesday Temptation Japanese Inspired Red Flower Headband, Clip or Brooch - by GemmaJoy on madeit

Free Postage

2011-01-29T09:44:00.006+11:00

Free Australia Wide Shipping This Weekend.

(Etsy, Madeit, Facebook)

GemmaJoy has been updated. Lots of funky clip sets.

Lots of SALE stock.

Start buying the bargains in time for Easter, birthdays and something special for yourself.

Scissors

2011-01-25T13:00:00.004+11:00

These are my new best friend.

How I've been crafting for so long without these babies I don't know.

They are small, light weight and they were on SALE!

When I first started cutting felt I used any pair of scissors I could find around the house. When I lost those I bought a pair from the craft store. They were big and bulky and what I thought I needed. Detailed work was hard, so I bought a smaller pair, then another smaller pair. The new pair made the old pair feel terrible. So at the moment I'm more than happy with my scissors.

What scissors do you use?

Handmade Gift

2011-01-21T13:30:00.002+11:00

A handmade 1st birthday gift!

A friends little girl turned 1 yesterday and this is our gift.

Ruffle Bloomers (bought on Madeit)

Cupcake Card - Giuseppe Poli

Headbands - Made by me

Pink T-Shirt - (that I had good intentions to sew a cupcake on..... but never did)

It's also Scott's 30th birthday tomorrow. His gift is not handmade. Will have to fix that next year.

Qld Flood Appeal

2011-01-15T10:42:00.003+11:00

This weekend GemmaJoy will be donating 100% of profits from Madeit to the QLD Flood Appeal.

Valentines Day is just around corner, so why not buy an item for a loved one and support a worthy cause!!!

Shop here

Coupon

2011-01-10T20:19:00.002+11:00

GemmaJoy has relaunched on Etsy and to celebrate I'm offering 20% off!!

Enter this coupon code NEWIN2011 when checking out.

I'm adding new items but if you've had your eye on something email me at gemmajoy@hotmail.com and I will add it to Etsy.

Click here to start shopping

New Little Gems

2011-01-02T11:12:00.005+11:00

A new year brings new handmade gems.
These embellishments can be made into brooches, clips, headbands etc

The GemmaJoy factory has been VERY busy!!!

I've started adding these to GemmaJoy on Madeit

They range in price from $8 -$12

If you see one you want I can create a custom listing for you!!

In 2011 please support handmade!!!

Holidays

2011-01-01T10:03:00.004+11:00

Last night we got back from 5 days in Melbourne.

We farwelled rainy Brisbane and arrived in sunny Melbourne.

While we were there we ate too much food.

Drank too much alcohol

Did a lot of walking

Caught up with friends

and shopped!!

I was having a shocker on the day we arrived. I left my camera in the shuttle from the airport to the motel. Luckily the driver saw it and bought it to me. I also left my mobile in the hotel bar... this was also returned to me.

Sadly we left the good coffee and the 40 degree temperature (not so sadly) and returned home.

Now where to for the next holiday........

Sneak Peak

2010-12-31T23:37:00.002+11:00

Lots of new items coming in 2011.

***Happy New Year***

Handmade Saturday

2010-12-18T15:32:00.002+11:00

Today we headed over to Ipswich to The Handmade Expo.

There were lots of things to look at and lots of creative people to meet.

We certainly ate our way through the expo. I think the homemade Ginger Beer was my favourite. Oh but then there were the potatoes swirly things on a stick and a sausage sizzle and coffee.

After the expo we headed into town and visited handmade heaven and a few other shops where I bought a few more items (every time Scott had his back turned I had my purse out). We finished off the day with a yummy banana smoothie from Cactus Espresso Bar.

If you haven't been over to Ipswich lately I recommend that you do. There are funky cafes, gift stores and of course things that just make you laugh (like a group of people pushing a stereo around in a stroller).

If you're interested, this is what I bought

1. Cupcake card by Giuseppe Poli www.grpoli.com (find him on facebook)

2.Natural Goats Milk Soap

3. Ceramic Love Heart Brooch by Mango Wednesday Creations.

4. Little Bird Brooch (find her on facebook)

5. Tomato Chutney by Jules Yummies

6. Date and Walnut loaf by Di Gent home baked goods.

7. Fat Quarter from Bubba Chenille (find her on facebook)

All these items were bought from the Handmade Expo and shops from Ipswich.

Crafting for fun.

2010-12-17T13:03:00.007+11:00

The Australia pin idea started a few months ago. As a joke I made a brooch of Tasmania for one of my good mates. She came and visited at the beginning of the year and there was lots of talk about how GREAT Tassie is.

Today I started making Aussie Brooches in green and yellow (the green is brighter than in the photo).

I laughed the whole time I was making them. I thought they would be good for sporting events, Australia Day and for expats.

Inspired by a recent custom order I've been making sewing machine brooches. They are coming along.... slowly. I'm stuck on colour combos. Anyone have any ideas?

The Sew Mama Sew giveaway is a few posts down.

Leaning Tower of Headbands

2010-12-16T13:27:00.005+11:00

Yikes, look at all these handmade headbands.

Bright and colourful and needing a new home.
So for one last xmas special I'm offering them for $5 each.
See my facebook page for more details.

If you're here for the giveaway click here

Giveaway Day

2010-12-13T15:06:00.006+11:00

December 13th is Sew Mama Sew's BIG GIVEAWAY DAY.

GemmaJoy is giving away a signature green felt flower clip.

This range of funky flowers have been designed and created by GemmaJoy.

Custom orders in different colours and sizes can be purchased by email me at gemmajoy@hotmail.com

************

To Enter
************

Become a blog follower and leave a comment on this post.

For an extra entry please become a fan of GemmaJoy on Facebook.

An extra extra entry Tweet about this giveaway.

(that's a total of 3 entries each)

_________________________________________

_______________________________________________

This giveaway is open worldwide.

_______________________________________________
_____________________________________________

I will draw the winner the old fashioned way. All entries in a bowl.

Goodluck!!

Clearance Sale on Facebook

2010-12-11T16:21:00.005+11:00

GemmaJoy is having a clearance sale.

It's time for out with the old and in with the new.

Mum and I are planning on taking GemmaJoy in new direction. So if you like what I create make sure you pop over to facebook, become a liker and introduce yourself. While your there grab a bargain!!!

How cute is this trailer!!

Lots of clips, headbands and brooches!!!

I love brooches and headbands

2010-12-08T21:38:00.002+11:00

I've been busy tonight admiring items on madeit and etsy. So many choices and I can't decide what to buy.

Here are some new GemmaJoy items

Dancing in the moonlight headband and new brooches. Go and have a look!!!

Cricket

2010-12-05T15:00:00.005+11:00

I really thought that when the Ashes finished in Brisbane that I would be cricket free (for at least a week). Well turns out I know less about cricket than I thought! The Ashes has moved to Adelaide.

So today I went a little crazy adding Christmas borders to my girls headbands.

I should mention that this weekend hasn't been all about cricket. Today I went and had breakfast at West End then headed over to South Bank and had a look at the Young Designers Market (where I bought another brooch... ADDICTED).

GemmaJoy's massive sale on Madeit is going to end as of Wednesday. If you check out my store you will notice I also went a bit crazy with my shop banner.

OMG I've just been told there's a total of 5 test matches!

Rainy Weekends

2010-12-04T16:50:00.002+11:00

No sunshine is making it impossible to take nice photos.

So instead of taking individual photos of new items I've taken a group shot (still terrible but not much I can do). I've just added them to madeit 2 for $10

Not just another brooch

2010-12-02T17:01:00.004+11:00

Two months ago I was asked to create a sewing machine brooch for Steph from Moobear. It was been 2 very long months of keeping quiet!! Now I can finally share it with you. It's a terrible photo as if was taken at night time.

Shoes

2010-12-02T16:49:00.002+11:00

A few weeks ago I bought myself a pair of red Toms. They haven't arrived yet.

What are you waiting for the Postie to deliver?

Vintage Buttons

2010-12-01T20:01:00.005+11:00

Today a parcel arrived full of vintage buttons.

A new range of GemmaJoy flowers have been added to Madeit. These are my most popular item. They can be made into a brooch, headband or clip... and as a bonus they are on sale!!!

The Ashes...

2010-11-28T16:15:00.003+11:00

On the 3rd day of cricket GemmaJoy made headbands.
On sale on Madeit.com.au

Owls

2010-11-24T08:33:00.003+11:00

I found these cute owl buttons online and I had to buy them. They arrived yesterday and I have no idea what to make!!
The poodles are back. Here is a new design.

My time has been taken up writing school reports but I still found time to make some cute clips.

My coffee is nearly finished which means it must be time to go to school.....

Madeit

2010-11-22T16:53:00.003+11:00

Support Australian Handmade this Christmas. Signing up is easy, free and fast.

About madeit
Madeit.com.au is a handmade online buying and selling destination, which showcases Australia’s most creative, undiscovered art, design & craft talent. Lovers of handmade can purchase items on madeit.com.au, direct from the sellers and can choose from fashion, art, homewares, accessories, stationery, children and babies clothing and toys and much much more.

Madeit.com.au is different to other online designer destinations as it only supports local Australian talent. Shopping on madeit is a great way to support local designers & crafters and sellers can gain exposure and sell their wares all day every day and to every corner of Australia and the world.

Have you heard of Madeit?

A few words from the founder Bec Davies

Who is the founder of madeit.com.au?
Madeit was founded by myself and my partner Jayc in July 2007. I studied photography after high school, worked in the field then move to London and returned to study graphic design. I’m a thirty something handmade lover. I love going to the markets, I’m addicted to the internet, I love to create, bake & garden.

When did madeit start?
Madeit first started out as a directory of my favourite independent sellers in late 2006. Evidence of the array of talent in Australia led me to launch an affordable e-commerce store solely for handmade goods. The madeit.com.au online shop opened in mid 2007.

What was your inspiration for madeit?
As a photographer, graphic designer, crafter and market seller I have always been interested in all things handmade & independent. I love buying unique, small run, handmade goodies. I wanted a place on the internet where all these things were in one place. Hence why I started the directory, a google search for independent designers in 2006 was like finding a needle in a haystack and at that time there were no simple directories that listed independent designers.

As the directory grew we thought it was time to take the next step and open the shop. We have been overwhelmed by the amount of talent in Australia and madeit is solely about showing this talent to Australia and a broad.

All information has been taken from madeit.com.au

New Items

2010-11-21T16:16:00.002+11:00

6 new items have been added to Madeit
To help me reach my sales goal they are being offered for a super low price of $5.50

Now can someone please buy them before I keep them for myself!!!

Rulers

2010-11-16T11:56:00.004+11:00

This week I've found myself confiscating rulers from students (rulers are not weapons, drum sticks or edible)

This has inspired a search on Madeit, Etsy and Facebook.

Mini Ruler Pin - LucieOellen

on Etsy

Tape Measure Short Strand Necklace - Kellie Christie

on Facebook

Measure up brooch - Liana kabel

on Etsy

Phone pouch from The rabbit and the duck

on madeit

Buttons

2010-11-15T18:19:00.000+11:00

Look what came today!!

Now... what should I make?

Belbos

2010-11-14T20:50:00.002+11:00

Yesterday I got a call from my mum telling me to have a look at an Etsy shop.

Belbos

In her shop you will find button rings in many shapes and sizes. All rings are made with Sterling Silver wire and have anywhere between one and three buttons.

One of these rings could make a perfect gift..... hint hint

Trees

2010-11-14T14:19:00.005+11:00

Just thought I would share some funky trees I made today.

These are going to made into brooches.

What have you made today?

For the first time...

2010-11-10T22:35:00.002+11:00

For the first time in my life I have seen my dad without a Mo.

Ignore the terrible photo, he's worse than a small child when it comes to having his photo taken.

It's for Movember and it's already growing back. It may be the only time I see him without it so I thought it was worth a blog post.

Summer

2010-11-07T16:44:00.003+11:00

New range of Summer headbands.

These headbands fits all sizes from girls to women.

Introductory offer $7 each.

GemmaJoy is also celebrating with free shipping on madeit.com.au until 150 sales are reached!!!

GemmaJoy on Madeit

GemmaJoy on Facebook

Hiding the mess

2010-11-01T19:57:00.002+11:00

Things have been crazy around here. In the last few weeks I've managed to dragged Scott to Ikea, Kmart and dress shopping!

I'm happy to say I have a new desk, and my dining table is clear from my craft supplies!!!

For the first time I'm coming home from work and I'm happy to create in the spare room.

Here are some pics of what I made this afternoon! I've added them to a sale album on facebook. You can buy them for a low price of $5 from here

Súnas

2010-10-24T00:05:00.002+11:00

Be Part of the Súnas ABC DVD!

This weekend, we're going to be performing two special live shows of our new material that will be on the new album. These concerts will be filmed and released as a DVD along with the record so, in the tradition of all good game shows, here's your chance to be in the audience! If you're in town, wear a loud shirt, some fantastic trousers, scream, clap and become a part of something special.

Saturday 23 Oct from 5-6pm
Sunday 24 Oct from 2-3pm

ABC Ferry Road Studios
53 Ferry Road, West End (Off Montague Rd on the river)
This is utterly free (and alcohol free too, sorry). All ages, easy parking.

A tiny disclaimer: These aren't concerts as such. We're going to be playing about an hour's worth of new material, it will be recorded live and filmed professionally so there may well be a lot of starting and stopping to get things right (especially Mannie's hair and Paul’s smile).

Information taken directly from website

Bandanna Day

2010-10-22T17:40:00.003+11:00

This is my Madeit Canteen Bandanna Day entry!!

If you want to support Canteen (youth living with cancer) buy this flower!!! I'm am donating the money to Canteen and Madeit.com.au is matching the sale price.

So by buying this item $30 will be donated to help fund cancer research and support teenagers living with cancer!!!!

Click here to check this item out!!

Giveaway Winner

2010-10-21T20:16:00.003+11:00

I'm a day late but we have a winner for latest giveaway!!!

I entered the numbers into random.org and the winner is.....

KATHY!!!!!!

Woohoo!

Kathy if you read this please email me at gemmajoy@hotmail.com