showpony

2011-11-28T07:38:00.001-08:00

I've added three new Christmas card designs to the website. These screen printed by hand onto an Ivory card and come in packs of 5 with luscious gold envelopes.
You can get them here

Country Living Christmas Fair Glasgow

2011-11-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

The Country Living Christmas fair comes to Glasgow on the 17th to the 20th of November and we will be there at stand No. E66.
As an extra incentive for you to come and visit us we have six pairs of tickets to give away. These tickets are valid on Thursday 17th, Friday 18th and Sunday the 20th of November.
To win a pair either leave a comment on this post or on our facebook page, good luck x.

printing and sewing workshops

2011-09-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

We've taken over a huge new studio and so with a bit of extra space we've now got room to invite people to come and have a bit of fun learning to print and sew, something I've always wanted to do.
The first of these printing classes will take place over two evenings Wednesday the 12th of October and Wednesday the 19th of October at our studio in Glasgow. You'll learn some basic screen printing techniques, using stencils to create your own fabric design. The following week you'll be shown how to make a simple tote bag or cushion cover with your fabric or be our guest to do some more printing.
Places are limited, sign up online or get in touch: emma@showpony.co.uk

Click here to find out more..

We will be adding new workshops and classes over the coming months, if you have anything you've been wanting to learn about printing or sewing please let us know.

Exciting New Stockist

2011-08-11T03:57:00.000-07:00

I was so excited this morning to see one of my bags on the Ollie & Nic website, I just had to share the news. I love Ollie & Nic bags so its really exciting to see one of mine amongst all of their gorgeous new season lines.

WLD/WLVS Presents: Stu + Stu = STWO

2011-08-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

I'm heading up to Aberdeen in a couple of weeks and planning to to pop in and see the STWO exhibition. Not sure I'll be able to make it for the opening night which is a shame given the amount of free booze they've managed to get hold of from some very generous sponsors but it looks like it should be a good show anyway.

For more info and some sneek peeks visit the ever entertaining WLD/WLVS

Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=191739087551820

SUNDAY 14TH AUG running till the 8th of October
@Kilau, Little Belmont Street
8pm till 10

SO WHAT THE HELL IS STWO?

STWO is a double art show combining two extremely talented Aberdeen based artists, who happen to both be called Stu, ok?

AND WHO THE HELL ARE THESE GUYS?

STU ALLAN - Painter, specializing in portrait work.
http://www.wldwlvs.com/stu-allan/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stuart-Allan-Artworks/176481902410026

STU FORD - Illustrator and part founder of WLD/WLVS
http://www.wldwlvs.com/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24714365@N05/sets/72157623736798876/
http://www.facebook.com/WLDWLVS

WHY THE HELL SHOULD I GO?

Because all your friends are already going and they are all going to be talking about it on Monday morning so if you don't go you will feel really left out. There will of course be some fantastic art on display plus the chance to win Ltd edition WLD/WLVS X Stu Allan t-shirts on the night, don't sleep!

EVENT SPONSORS

We are very proud to have some amazing event sponsors, BrewDog and anCnoc Single Malt Whisky will be providing some tasty beverages and Mearns & Gill have helped us out with printing costs, we are extramly grateful to our sponsors for helping make this event happen.

craft house concept - spring showcase

2011-03-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

This weekend Seph Marsden from Craft House Concept is having a spring showcase event and as you may be able to tell from the flyer below its going to feature some of our goodies.

When Steph asked if I'd like to come along on the day and make some little lavender bags with her customers I gave my usual speak before you think reply along the lines of "oh sure, that sounds great, thanks for asking me".

Cue two weeks of panicking about them, what would make them special, how could we personalise them and would they be fun for people to make? Well I'm not saying I've solved all these problems but I have printed lots of alphabetti fabric on lots of different backgrounds so if you do come along you can make your own lavender bag with your choice of showpony fabric, ribbon colour and a range of buttons to make and sew on. They will then be stuffed full of the BEST smelling lavender making a great mothers day present or just a wee treat for yourself.

And if lavender bags don't float your boat there's going to be plenty of cake, wine and a book making demonstration with Lucy from The Book Tree Press.

See you there!

Hello 2011!

2011-01-07T15:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year

Feeling refreshed? rejuvenated? reinvigorated?

I keep reading blog posts written by people bursting with energy who can't wait to get started on the new year, making plans and raring to go. But to be honest when I think about how much I've still got to do to get organised for Top Drawer next weekend I could quite happily crawl back into my PJ's and make my way through another batch of mince pies. I have resisted so far and can only say that this first week back has definitely got easier as its gone on.

Things like this really help, I was looking through the analytics on my website and followed a huge spike in visitors to this blog post on Showpony. The Korean to English translation is not particularly helpful but I think its good, well it made me laugh anyway.

It also made me feel pretty nostalgic for my old studio in Govan. My new one is great bigger, cheaper, better equipt... bla bla bla, but its not nearly as pretty. Probably why I've still not posted any pictures of it yet, Kippen's bed however has improved dramatically you'll be pleased to know.

Super Discount Weekend

2010-12-17T02:33:00.001-08:00

Still got a few pressies to get? no probs, were having a last minute super sale.

Just enter the code 'PONY' when you checkout on our website to get a whopping 25% off, ker-ching x

The code will be valid until midnight on the 19th of December.

We'll send all orders out on Monday by Royal Mail with First Class postage, they are promising to do their very best despite the snow to get all parcels posted before Tuesday delivered in time for Christmas - can't say fairer than that.

Below, some gorgeous close up shots by Showpony's new BFF, photographer Keny Drew, more to come...

Caly: The Original Showpony

2010-11-25T01:54:00.001-08:00

Last week something really sad happened, this handsome horse peacefully passed away.

He had reached the grand old age of 32 and although he never really looked it I guess he was getting quite frail. He was a thoroughbred cross, 15 hand, chestnut gelding and we all loved him very, very much. We got him when I was 13 and riding him was brilliant, I'd always loved jumping but Caly had real ability, this was going to be fun!

Eventing and cross country was our thing, he'd excelled at dressage before we had him and combined with his speed and naturally big jump we were actually pretty good, winning a good amount of trophies and rosettes, abeit at ponyclub level.

When I moved to Glasgow for university he embarked on a new career with my my mum as an endurance horse, another string to his bow, and again something he was pretty great at. He retired a few years ago and began the new and very important job of keeping Jahmel, his new field mate, in line. Delivering swift bites to the bum to wind him up when it was called for, and being a great companion to come back to after rides.

Why am I telling you all this? Well I quite often get asked where the name showpony comes from, I usually say its a life long obsession with horses but probably it would be fairer to say it was an obsession with this horse in particular.

I'm so sad he's gone, there are tears in my eyes as I write about him, but really I'm so lucky to have had him in my life.

I've moved.... again

2010-09-28T14:08:00.001-07:00

Hindsight is a wonderful thing...

Its funny how old sayings like this suddenly start to resonate with you, well this one in particular has been going round and round my head for a while now. Three months ago I made the decision to move out of my studio in Govan - well Rachael was moving on to bigger and better things so it felt right to move on too.

I really liked the idea of having a space in 'The Hidden Lane', a charmingly ramshackle assortment of studios and work spaces in the west end of Glasgow, just a short walk from my flat. So when a space became available just when I needed it I thought it was too good to be true. Correct!

In my excitement I managed to totally overlook the fact that it was far too small for my needs so for the last three months I have been stacking things on top of each other, moving 10 things to get to the one thing I need, standing on the dog every time I try to pack an order, and that's not to mention the terrible phone reception and awful internet connection. I apologise to anyone who has been trying to get in touch with me over the last few months - I realise its not been very easy.

The reason I'm feeling able to talk about this finally, is that this weekend we moved... again. This time I've got plenty space and a phone and broadband line will be installed in a couple of weeks. To cap it all my new studio mate is a full time screen printer with tons of experience.

Here's hoping I've made the right decision this time.

This is the studio with half the contents already moved out

Its empty...

I'll post photos of the new gaff once its all sorted out.

competition

2010-09-08T02:02:00.000-07:00

I'm really honoured today to be part of Conversations Pieces blog birthday. To celebrate she is running a series of giveaways featuring Scottish artists and designers, including Showpony and today you can be in with a chance to win your favourite item from our website. Just scoot over to the blog and read the post for details. Good luck!

I was really delighted she also choose to write about our Commemorative Tea Towels as part of her Weddingnesday series, and great timing too as we celebrated our second wedding anniversary on Monday. Cue dramatic wedding photo.

Pure Harte

2010-04-01T04:21:00.000-07:00

I am totally loving the big shoulder trend just now and this new shop from my new craft fair pal Pure Harte has some brilliant examples.

Katie was my next door neighbour at the Bust Christmas Craftacular. Those gorgeous tops of hers were practically flying off her stall and she's just opened her Etsy store. Stocked full of her tops, dresses and skirts. Horray!

Press - The List

2010-03-18T04:20:00.000-07:00

Four accessories to buy and two of the listings are my products. The Hot Dogs at the top are listed as Emma Henderson at the Glasgow School of Art shop and the Clarissa bag at the bottom is listed as Showpony available from my website. So its a little confused but I'm not complaining.

Glasgow Craft Mafia Social - Trade Secrets

2010-03-16T03:55:00.001-07:00

Do you remember a couple of years ago there was a programme on the telly called 'trade secrets' where people in a certain industry would share tips and tricks of the trade? You do? Good! Well this is our version.
This is an evening where we can learn from each other's mistakes rather then just our own, ask questions, get advice, share information and generally discuss anything relating to running your own craft / design business.
Sound good? We'll all pop a couple of questions in the box (anonymously if you like) and discuss the answers together. Questions can range from anything like big scary topics such as tax and working for yourself, to more everyday problems such as where to get nice paper bags for craft fairs.
This event is open to everyone, non members welcome.
Looking forward to seeing you there.
Monday 29th March, 7pm onwards
Creation Studios, 16 Trongate, Glasgow

I'm Flawed

2010-03-11T04:32:00.000-08:00

Sometimes my job just seams too silly, take yesterday for example: there I was happy as Larry making these 'I'm Flawed' badges to pin onto any seconds that I send out. When It occurred to me that I might have built up this whole business just to keep myself amused. Which is sort of true, and if it is true then its really great that people buy stuff so I can carry on keeping myself amused with silly things like this. Anyway, I stuck one of the badges on my jacket because I have many flaws.

Commemorative Tea Towels

2010-03-09T01:39:00.000-08:00

When Michael and I got married we wanted to give our guests something they would remember, or at least find useful. The commemorative tea towel was Michael's brainwave, I did the graphics, we printed them up and gave them out to all our guests on the day. Since then we've not heard the end of it from our friends and family, its still about all they talk about. I mean seriously we had tons of other cool stuff that day but there you go. So to keep them happy its now for sale as a personalised favour in both my Etsy shop and on the website.

Thanks also to the wonderful Vané from Brooklyn Bride for the write up about them.

End of the line

2010-03-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

Well not exactly, but it is the end of this particular line. Over the last few months I’ve been working hard to get together a new batch of Vintage Shoppers which should be arriving in the next few months, so its time to clear space for them and sell what I have left. A slight ordering error on the last batch (oops!) means that although I’m almost totally out of 3 of the styles I still have quite a few Beatrices’s left (pictured above). So here’s where you come in, these will now be on sale through my website and in my etsy shop for half price, a whole 50% off. From £12 ($18) to just £6 or ($9). And folks it may sound a bit cheesy but when there gone there gone.

If you really wanted one of the other styles don’t fret, I’ll be digging through my rather extensive pile of seconds and putting them in my etsy shop as often as I can. These will be even less than half price, those with a misprint on one side will are ($7.50) misprints on both sides will practically be given away at ($6) or whatever seams appropriate.

Please, please help me make some space. I’ll tell you more about the new shoppers nearer the time.

Lavender Bugs

2010-02-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

I've been using up my stash of vintage fabrics, these bug ridden delights are available here and here

Anthropologie

2009-11-30T06:47:00.000-08:00

Exciting news....
... My Do the Dishes tea towel is now avalible from the Anthropologie website.

Christmas fabrics

2009-11-18T04:41:00.000-08:00

in my etsy shop now....

All designed and printed by me.

Decoylab

2009-11-12T04:47:00.000-08:00

This cuckoo clock has been on my wishlist for ever but I just checked back at decoylab's etsy shop and was blown away by all the new things on there. Check this lot out, I Love it all.

Fabric

2009-10-09T07:39:00.000-07:00

Look what this clever little birdie made, Etsy seller Bird Trouble bought some of my Insect Soup fabric a while back and has made these handy little cup holders from it. You can get them in her shop here.
Somebody asked me at the weekend If I minded what people made from my fabric, the honest answer is I really don't, its just exciting to think that people are using it, and a great relief not to have to do all the sewing myself - nice to leave that to somebody else for a change.
On the subject of leaving the hard work to somebody else I've just listed the bunting kits on my website go forth and sew.

Happy Birthday Showpony

2009-10-05T03:32:00.000-07:00

This month Showpony is 3 years old. I can't believe how quickly the time has gone. But never one to miss out on the opportunity for cake or celebrations I've organised a birthday sale. Receive 20% off all showpony products in both my etsy shop and on my website. All prices on etsy have been adjusted already, and to claim your discount on my website simply pop in the code HAPPY BIRTHDAY when prompted at the checkout to get your 20% discount. Happy shopping.

That's the celebrations taken care of, the cake, well I'm not sure where this pattern is going but its fun anyway.

Congratulations John and Katie

2009-10-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

Its always really nice to be asked to design something for a special event and this project was exactly that. This bag was designed to welcome guests to a wedding ceremony in Beijing where a, good Scottish Lad would be getting married to his lovely Welsh fiance. The bags were used to welcome their guests to the city and were packed full of goodies, maps and tourist information.
The image in the middle lantern is the Chinese symbol for double happiness, along with a Welsh dragon and Scottish lion rampant - raww!

weekend fun

2009-09-29T07:25:00.001-07:00

This weekend was the Made In The Shade Homecoming at The Lighthouse. The Lighthouse has recently gone into administration and faces an uncertain future so I was really pleased the event was still able to take place in the building. Highlights were cupcakes from Covetables this little lovely did not last long.My stall was next to Darren Wilson's from Kabloom, a Glasgow designer, maker and guerrilla gardener. His seedboms are such a fun idea and very popular with the shoppers.

On Sunday I ventured into the Merchant City for a quick look around the festival. The stalls of food and goodies were hugely distracting and the music by groups such as Carnival Collective were great but I spent most of my visit following these two seagulls around - just hilarious.

press

2009-09-15T09:22:00.001-07:00

Very exciting to see one of my passing time purses in the October issue of Vogue.
Also this week I was interviewed alongside some other craft mafia ladies for a documentary on home businesses by Enterprise Nation. OK so I work from a lovely studio these days but I've definitely served my time working from home. I'll post a link to the film when its done - that's if I don't come across as a rambling idiot which is a strong possibility.

Bust craftacular

2009-08-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Some images of a very red faced me standing by my stall at last weekends brilliant Bust Craftacular in London, (pics taken by Carrie from MITS). I was totally overwhelmed by how busy it was and by just how fantastic everyone's work was. Next time I'll have to bring by husband, not just for his great skills at lifting heavy cases but so that I can take my time and have a good old look at everything.
Last week I sent a bunch of samples off to be shown at Pool in Las Vegas. I'm gutted I'm not going myself but the lovely Rebecca of FELTgood will be there representing my work and that of a bunch of very talented others at booth 708, pop in and see her if your going along.

bunting

2009-08-10T06:35:00.001-07:00

Some bunting kits I made for a lovely wee shop in Edinburgh, K1 Yarns . If they go down well I'll make up some more. A great way to use up some fabric off cuts, and I'm quite in love with how pretty they look.
Also today, I got a mention on the vogue beauty blog... pretty chuffed!

studio and purses

2009-07-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, that was a quick week, I can't believe its Friday already. I'm going off on a short holiday next week so gave the studio a quick tidy up before I leave. It ended up looking nice enough for pictures - so here they are, complete with the ever present dog.
New in the shop this week are pouches we've been making from the flipside fabric, these have turned out really well, find them here.

In with the old and the new

2009-07-14T10:18:00.001-07:00

Its been a busy day here today - its thanks to my lovely summer intern Heather that we've got so much done.
First up, the new - we've made cushions from my Insect soup fabrics. These have one Nice side and one Nasty - 'Flipside', if you will.
Secondly its a very welcome return to our favourite Vintage Shopper - Harriet, nice to see the old girl again.
All available in my etsy shop and from tomorrow you'll be able to buy them on my own website.

Fat(ish) quarters

2009-07-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

are now avalible in my etsy shop....

All hand printed on fair trade organic cotton.

Do the Dishes

2009-06-30T02:11:00.000-07:00

You can win one of these tea towels and a vintage purse today on Design for Mankind. Good luck people.

Country Living USA

2009-06-23T09:24:00.001-07:00

This month one of my bags Clarissa was featured in Country Living magazine (the USA version). Thanks so much Country Living - and for sending me copies!

Summer Time Trips

2009-06-16T09:34:00.001-07:00

Some dates for the diary - I've been pretty busy getting organised for two markets at the end of June. I'll hopefully have a new range to debut too - pictures soon!.
First up - this weekend is Made In the Shade in Glasgow, then next Saturday (the 27th) were off to Middlesbourgh for the Designer Marketplace. How exciting!

Glencoe

2009-06-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

We went camping at the weekend, lovely, just lovely!

Unkai

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

Congratulations to Katja and Laura who have opened their new webshop Unkai. Based in Finland their aim is to sell high quality, well designed products with little impact on the environment.
Above is a purse I designed exclusively for them, dachshunds are really popular in Finland, so Rufus was an obvious choice.
Here are some of my favourites.
Cuff by Philippa Green cushion and crockery by Nadia Sparham

modeling

2009-05-18T05:28:00.000-07:00

Here's me trying to look relaxed (and not doing a very good job ). I'm attempting to do justice to some really lovely Pretty Raccoon tops and dresses for Rachael's website. I'm especially fond of this pistol print hoody above. Lots more on Hannah Zakair.

website launch

2009-05-13T04:23:00.000-07:00

wow, it feels like its taken ages but the new showpony website and shop is up.

To celebrate I'm offering a 15% discount for the first month. Just enter 'helloshowpony' when prompted at the checkout. You'll also get free UK shipping on orders over £30

my glasgow shopping guide

2009-05-05T09:42:00.001-07:00

Jan at poppytalk asked me to write a glasgow shopping guide, I thought an excuse to have a good old wander round the shops - hell yes!

so here it is...

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city boasts some of the best shopping north of London. We have a really wide range of shops; everything from exclusive designer boutiques to locally owned vintage treasure troves.

Although I could never hope to cover all that Glasgow has to offer in the way of shopping I’d like to give a good overview of what you can find here.
Contemporary design shops.
Stocking well known brands such as B&B Italia, Flos and Kartell, Dallas and Dallas (dallasanddallas.com) in the Merchant City is a must for lovers of European contempory furniture and accessories. Goodd, (http://www.good-d.com/) also in the Merchant City, houses a fantastic range of contemporary furniture. The shop has a carefully edited range of furniture, lighting, objects and graphic print editions, which combines important contemporary design work with exciting pieces from new design graduates. More contemporary design and design classics can be found in The Lighthouse shop, (http://www.thelighthouse.co.uk/) Mitchell lane. As well as the shop, the lighthouse, Scotland’s centre for architecture, design and the city, also has regular exhibitions, and events spanning its impressive six floors.

che camille

Independent shops
Away from the high street Glasgow’s independent shopping scene is flourishing, for the fashion conscious Che Camille (checamille.com) is a must, a showroom for independent design, made to measure, and one off items all in a fantastic showroom where you can see the clothes being made.
Also in the city centre, Brazen Jewellery Studios, (brazenstudios.co.uk) founded with the sole intention of investing in the finest creative talent, this boutique is as strikingly designed as the jewellery it houses. The newly revamped Glasgow School of Art shop in Dallhousie Street also supports local talent, with a collection of home wares and accessories from students, staff and graduates of this famous institution.

brazen

Glasgow School of Art Shop

A trip to the West End will reveal a whole raft of exciting shops. Off Byres Road, Cresswell Lane and Ruthven Lane are choc full of independent, gift shops, vintage treasures, little boutiques, and coffee shops as well as a Comme des Garcons Guerrilla store (guerrilla-store.com ).
E&A clothing (eandaclothing.co.uk ) on Queen Margaret Drive stocks lots of handmade treasures including clothing and accessories and is surrounded by intriguing gift shops, coffee shops and K1 yarns, arguably Glasgow’s finest knitting boutique.

K1 yarns

Authentics

Wander along Great Western Road to find vintage clothing in watermelon and Retro. Fabulous antique and retro furniture in Authentics, and of course Timorous Beasties flagship store. (timorousbeasties.com/)

timorous beasties

Other shops not to miss are Clydeside Antiques Centre (my favourite for vintage furniture), the newly opened Harlem on Duke Street, Dennistoun which stocks a range of contemporary design accessories, proving that Dennistoun is indeed blossoming and head over to the south side where shops like butterfly kisses and bowerbird prove that its definitely worth taking the trip.

Craft and small businesses
Glasgow also has a thriving market and craft scene. I’m a proud member of the Glasgow Craft Mafia (www.glasgowcraftmafia.com/) who have regular Handmade Haven markets at Mono - a refreshing mix of handmade, vintage treasures. You can meet the Mafia, browse the stalls and have some lunch and a drink. Other regular markets are Made in the Shade (http://www.myspace.com/wearemadeintheshade) and Sloan’s Market www.sloansmarket.co.uk/ The Craft Mafia website posts details about all up coming markets so check the news section if your planning a visit to Glasgow.

Glasgow Craft Mafia - Market at Mono

If you can’t make it to Glasgow, shop on line at Hannah Zakari (hannahzakari.co.uk) for unique independent design and handcrafted jewelry, stationery and accessories from Glasgow and beyond.

Other online shops and designers based in Glasgow that you have to check out are:
http://shop.merulapie.com/ home wares, gifts and art
http://www.supercutekawaii.com/ sells super cute kawaii – what else?
http://www.pistolwhipvintage.com/ vintage clothing, footwear and accessories
http://www.bebaroque.co.uk/ award winning pattered tights
http://www.dingdongdesigns.com/ you have to see these finger puppets!
www.dazeddorothy.co.uk fabulous leather and suede accessories
www.deepfired.etsy.com handmade ceramics
http://www.clarenicolson.com/ beautiful digitally printed textiles.

The Outnet.com

2009-04-16T03:56:00.000-07:00

The Outnet has arrived! Its a designer outlet site from the team behind Net-A-Porter.com I got an email about it this morning and before I knew it I had a little wish list, thought I'd share it because there's little chance of me actually owning any of these any time soon.

Jersey tank top: Chloé, Peggie sleeveless dress by Diane Von Fustenberg, Biker style pants: Chloé box pleat skirt: marc by marc jacobs.

Bolero tank dress by Celine, Optical jacquard dress: See by Chloé, Embellished shift dress: Lela Rose, Flock of Hearts dress: Marc by Marc Jacobs.

Phoenix deco print dress: Anna Sui, Stripe knit tube dress: Alexander McQueen, Lurex spot dress: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Ombre chiffon dress: Alberta Ferretti.

We can’t be perfect all the time.

2009-03-31T04:19:00.001-07:00

I've finally done it...... I've been meaning to set up a seconds shop for ages and here it is.
I'm going to list all the items that have been in my ever expanding seconds box so its a great chance to grab a bargain.
These are basically all the items that have failed quality control along the line somewhere. We have smudges, splatters, dodgy sewing and from time to time some samples. I'm hoping that someone will love them anyway so I can clear some room for what will no doubt be more mishaps.
visit the shop here.

sold out

2009-03-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

This is a smallish wholesale order I packaged up this morning - nothing particularly noteworthy there except as they wanted 15 Harriet shoppers I am now pretty much sold out.

These bags were made in a fair trade co-operative in India from a really nice quality organic cotton but sadly they are unable to make any more. I've been hunting around for what seams like ages now for another producer but as I can't order huge quantities my options are very limited. I really want to support fair trade and I feel its important to use organic cotton but the search for a producer is not easy. I day dream about going to India and visiting the factories, I'd love to meet and work with the producers to design products to suit their skills. I can't see this happening in the near future so for now I'll just have to continue my emails, phone calls and living vicariously through Safia Minney.

hello, my name is .........

2009-03-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

I like funny graffiti.

I saw these a couple of days ago while out walking the dog.

2009-03-24T06:55:00.000-07:00

UK Craft Mafias exhibition has been put together to showcase the best from members of the various UK Craft Mafias. It is taking place as part of the UK:DIY project. The exhibition kicked off last weekend and above is an image from the exhibition. I can just about spot some of my Hot Dogs on the shelves at the back. I was delighted to be selected to take part so also sent down a bunch of my bags and tea towels. Hopefully I'll get a chance to go down before the show finishes - looking forward to seeing more.

Hiding Place

2009-03-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

Hiding Place purses in my etsy shop again after a bit of an absence.

Alphabetti badges

2009-03-20T03:10:00.000-07:00

Some fun buttons, I've been selling these at craft fairs for a while now and there always popular so now here they are, up in my etsy shop. One or two badges come on a little card backing, buy 3 or more and I'll put them in a wee pack for you! great for gifts.

We've moved!

2009-03-19T10:39:00.001-07:00

Horray! Showpony has moved out of the spare bedroom and into a lovely new studio in Govan It feels so grown up and I'm really enjoying the change. OK so Govan might not always be the loveliest place in Glasgow but clearly its moved someone to express their feelings (above). I walk past this every time I go to the post office and it always makes me smile.

I'm sharing the studio with Rachael from Hannah Zakari its bright, white, warm and secure - what more could you want........how about a built in dark room big enough for screen printing and keeping all the messy stuff out of the way.

Importantly kippen seems to approve she's already had her little pal round for a sleepover.

I'll post more images once I've unpacked properly.

price crash

2009-03-07T02:48:00.000-08:00

The pound might be worth less and less these days but on the plus side it does mean I can reduce the prices in my etsy shop. Bag above which once cost $30 is now $20 so its time to grab a bargain.

Made In The Shade

2008-12-03T09:21:00.001-08:00

Its Made in the Shade time again and I'm really looking forward to it. I'm going to be there on Saturday but there's a whole 2 days worth of fun to be had at the Lighthouse this weekend. There's going to be live music from the Parsonage Choir, who are going to make everyone feel all festive whilst browsing the stalls (all 70+ of them). There's so many its a bit overwhelming but this time I've done my homework, here's some I'm defiantly going to check out.Kitty & Dude, Cosima is a ceramicist who specialises in fun witty pieces, case in point are these gun mugs, love them.

Artist Kate George is going to be there with her vintage inspired art work.
And I'll certainly be fawning over the textiles and vintage pieces at Bedcrumb who have some beautiful illustrated and collaged cushions or all you'll ever need for your own tea party.

I'm planning to make some new bits and bobs, no images yet, I'll see how they go on the day.

Modish

2008-12-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

I'm taking part in the Modish Holiday Marketplace this month - this means 10% off orders in my online shop, just follow the link and instructions on Modish. Hay while your there, tomorrow's the last day to enter for the latest give away, although I probably shouldn't have mentioned it because I want to win.

Poppytalk Handmade - Holiday Market

2008-11-17T04:41:00.000-08:00

The Hoiday Market is live at Poppytalk, full of lovely handmade stuff to buy your peeps for Christmas. I'm there too but don't let that put you off.

metroretro

2008-11-14T06:34:00.001-08:00

I actually do desperately need a hall cabinet (top left) the rest I just really want. In a big way.

From metroretro

Indifixx

2008-11-12T09:55:00.001-08:00

Its an interview.... with me..... on Indifixx. Not bad eh?

pipless jam

2008-11-10T03:40:00.000-08:00

Excellent news, pipless jam now have an etsy shop so you buy their calender or writing set online, take a peek.

Dahlia

2008-10-29T15:56:00.000-07:00

A quick look for something to wear to my mum's party next weekend has just spiralled out of control.

Collection from Dahlia.

merci

2008-10-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

To Jan at poppytalk for such a glowing review of the Embellished bags

and grace at design sponge for her post which you can read here.

nice one, thanks ladies.

Made In the Shade

2008-10-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

Ok its fair to say I wasn't feeling particularly optimistic about this event, firstly the whole country seams to have gone credit crunch crazy and secondly Glasgow was experiencing possibly the most disgusting weather we've had all year (and that's really saying something).
But it was in fact really good, very well attended and crammed full of fabulous craft and vintage stalls. I was really pleased that the new shoppers went down well but as we were so busy I hardly managed to escape from my stall all day, below however are a few of my favourites from my neighbours.

whimsical poetry calender with charming illustrations by rosie at pipless jam

I had to buy both of these, greyhounds for me and football for M. Old hardback books made into notebooks by feel fuzzy

Introducing.....

2008-10-23T04:17:00.000-07:00

............The Embellished Bags

Up in the Etsy shop now and making their first apperence at Made in The Shade at the Lighthouse in Glasgow on Saturday

Things that make me smile

2008-10-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

Animal index cards from +d and trophy hangers by Phill Cuttance. The back ends of animals are just funny, end of story.

excuses, excuses

2008-10-10T06:11:00.001-07:00

For neglecting my poor blog.....

Excuse No 1:

Getting married is more work than you might think!

Maybe I should rephrase that, getting married is more work than I thought. Worth it though.

Excuse No 2:

We are having major renovation works done on our building and my poor studio has a big hole where there should be a window. Mess, noise and workmen everywhere are not helping productivity levels.

Timespan

2008-07-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

If your venturing up North this summer - and why wouldn't you? Perhaps you could squeeze in a visit to the Timespan gallery in the lovely coastal village of Helmsdale in Sutherland. Oh and while your there be sure to check out the maker of the month - Showpony! Cool eh?

As promised, images from ICFF....

I loved this guy, he thought long and hard before opting for a Viola Vintage Shopper to carry a big bundle of leaflets and then began filling it further buying things from other designboom mart exhibitors.

My charming, talented and endlessly amusing neighbours Tom and Eli from Pad Outdoor.

How can you not love these rings by Mixko, just a small selection of their great and hugely diverse product range.
Wai-lian from soop, a fantastic person to meet, I'm now a proud owner of a chicken and a tree ring but I want more..Bracelets - cast from swizzel sticks, made by nina from Swizzlet. There's plenty more images to look through on the designboom website.

Market Time

2008-05-14T02:14:00.001-07:00

I'm really excited to be heading off today to New York to take part in the Designboom mart at ICFF. I promise lots of pictures when I get back - assuming my camera dosen't give up on me.

When I get back It'll be a quick turn around to get myself along to the Lighthouse for Made in the Shade a Glasgow Craft Mafia and Lighthouse Collaboration. If your at either of these events do say hi.

Green Pop

2008-03-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

Hooray! the 6th Poppytalk Handmade market has launched today, this one proudly sporting an Eco theme. Entitled Green Pop I couldn't miss the opportunity to apply for this market, and was chuffed to be accepted. The site has a massive amount of Eco conscious goodies from designers and makers all over the world, if your looking for a gift for anyone (or yourself ) then head over and check it out.

Spring Market

2008-02-29T07:57:00.000-08:00

Come along to the Glasgow Craft Mafia's Spring Market at Hillhead Library on Saturday the 15th of March. This is the GCM's first event of 2008 so there promises to be lots of new goodies from all the stallholders.

I'll be there with vintage shopper, hotdogs, hidden patterns and anything else I can find the time to make, but with a snowboarding trip to France between now and then I'd better get moving.

If your not in Glasgow or can't make it along the Glasgow Craft Mafia Website has listings of all the members and links to their etsy shops.

Crafting a Green World

2008-02-22T06:09:00.000-08:00

This beautiful tie rose is one of the images I used in my first post up today for Crafting a Green World part of the Green Options blog network. I'm really pleased to be asked to contribute to this blog so I'll be posting every Friday, be sure to check them out. Its quite daunting but I'm sure I'll get into the swing of it, and with a bit of luck it might make posts on here a little more frequent.

Also this week I uploaded new Hot Dogs to my etsy shop these little guys are filled with wheat and lavender so a short blast in the microwave is all they need to keep you warm for a couple of hours.

Right down to business, I got tagged this week by a good friend, the very talented Clare Nicolson so it seams I have to share with you 7 random things about myself, I'm not all that good at sharing but here goes....
1. I was born in Quito, Ecuador and lived there for the first year of my life.

2. I'm just a bit horse obsessed, but I guess that's quite obvious - the clue's in the name.

3. I have a beautiful but slightly daft Lurcher called Kippen who we got from the rescue center about 2 and a half years ago and I really can't imagine life without.

4. I enjoy cooking and love trying new recipes but despite this my signature dish continues to be 'veg in a pan'.

5. I have 2 Honours degrees, the first was in Sociology and Social Policy at Glasgow University, 3 years after graduating and realising that I really wanted a creative career I went to Glasgow School of Art and studied Product Design.

6. I have a very sweet tooth I'm utterly obsessed by cake, you know the sponge ones with too much butter icing? mmm....

7. In September this year I will be getting married to a wonderful man, my best friend, Michael.

So now you know.

I'm tagging two good friends, Nuria at Ink Thread and Mairi at her very new blog Mairi Ritchie Floral Designs - you're it!

they don't make them like they used to

2008-01-24T07:05:00.000-08:00

Both my sewing machine and my overlocker have been sent away to the menders. Suffering from overuse and probably a just a bit of neglect they've packing in. Just as well then that I picked up this beauty from our local freecycle network.

I love its clunky design, and the way it feels like it would sew through anything. I decided not to put it to work immediately on the pile of purses waiting to be made but to finally do something about the ridiculous gap under our living room door - draught? more like howling gale. I mean you could slide your dinner under there.

Thanks to not martha via cool tools for this great idea. It works a treat and I'm pretty chuffed with the results.

sale sale sale

2008-01-15T05:37:00.001-08:00

With an absolutely hectic end to 2007, 2008 is taking a while to kick into gear. The Vintage Shoppers sold far better than I expected and as a result I'm now totally sold out of them and impatiently waiting for a delivery from India.

On the up side however and in the spirit of the season I've put my Hidden Pattern range on sale for a limited period. You can find these in both my etsy shop and at the lovely on line store All Things Original.

A few of my favourite things.....

2007-11-01T02:56:00.001-07:00

I've got a little bit addicted to buying clothes from etsy lately, I just got these two beauties in the post and I absolutely love them. Tunic from Moxie Madness and Tshirt from the creative geniuses at Lucha Workshop. Beats Topshop any day and you don't even have to leave the house.

Meet the Mafia

2007-10-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

Photos of the Glasgow Craft Mafia Launch party, these are all courtesy of other more organised mafia members who actually remembered to bring their cameras - you can see more on the Mafia's Flickr group site. The top image features cushions from clare nicolson, jewelry from Hannah Zakari, t-boo and a fascinator from cotton candy corsage.

Second image sports more jewelry, a broach from asking for trouble and my much beloved old sewing machine making a rather lovely prop.

Third image is a knitted bag from ding dong designs and one of my shoppers.

Next up beautiful illustrations and doll kits from little robot and quirky crafts from miso funky,

The stunning pink clutch is by dazed dorothy and the picture above gives an idea of what the party looked like in full swing, It does unfortunatly capture me helping myself to a rather large glass pear cider....

The party was good fun and has hopefully helped to spread the word about the mafia and our christmas markets, the first of which is on Thurday evening 5-9 at the Universal on Sauchiehall Lane.

Other exciting news this week, I was asked to be a featured seller on Etsy for the next few days, you can read the interview here

Glasgow Craft Mafia

2007-10-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

One of the newest additions to the Craft Mafia Family is the Glasgow Mafia, well we might not be the newest but we are defiantly the only one in Scotland. Anyway, we will be celebrating all of this at our Launch night at Home in the Merchant City on the 25th of October. This will be hotly pursued by a craft fair on the 1st of November in Universal. If your in Glasgow you'll be made very welcome and if not, well you can always check out our brand spanking new website....

invites

2007-10-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Firstly I wanted to say a huge thank you to Jan at poppytalk for featuring the Vintage Shoppers, Poppytalk is a daily read for me so I was really honoured to see my bags gracing the screen.

Below are some images of invites I designed for my sisters wedding, taking place in an old hunting lodge up north (hence the antlers).

Introducing...........

2007-09-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

...........The Vintage Shoppers

Now available in my etsy shop, they are all screen printed and handmade by me using fair trade organic cotton. The shoppers are lined and made with extra strong handles. The shoppers fit neatly into the purses so that you can keep them in your bag for shopping emergencies, remember plastic bags are bad!

been a while

2007-06-21T12:11:00.001-07:00

It has been ages since my last post and I've even started getting complaints, so to try and put this right I'm going to do an update of the main events of the past month.

Firstly there was the opening of the Scottish Show on the 17th of May and despite some nervous moments my curtain stayed up. The 'Hidden Pattern Curtain' is my piece in this exhibition which showcases designs from 34 Scottish Designers, The show runs until the 12th of August at The Lighthouse in Glasgow.

Then on the 26th of May I took part in the Buy Designer Marketplace in Stirling, also part of the Six Cities Design Festival, this was organised in collaboration with Velvet Boutique and was a great opportunity for people to support their local design community by buying direct from the designers. The event was brilliantly run and I was delighted to share my stall / tent with Donna Keay who makes some stunning jewellery.

On the 1st of June Michael and I left for Pulse in London and my first major trade show. Below is a photo of my stand which was on the Launchpad section. This area is reserved for new businesses and young designers so in many ways its the more interesting part of the show. I don't have an image of the plaque sadly but I was delighted to be eco certified by Oliver Heath even if I didn't get to meet the man myself. After 3 days on non-stop talking to buyers and other exhibitors However it was great to great back on the road home.

Since then.... well it still hasn't stopped, making up orders, and catching up with the more mundane side of running your own business but also making planning for the future and perhaps a new product line or two on the horizon.

Herald article

2007-04-29T10:03:00.000-07:00

I've always been in awe of designers who feature in these sort of articles so I was really shocked and just a bit terrified when the Glasgow Herald asked me to be part of this one for the saturday magazine (I'm on the far left). This is a selection of those of us taking part in the Scottish show - not long now. Below is a glimpse of my curtain that I'll be exhibiting.

six cities

2007-04-15T15:06:00.000-07:00

I went to a brilliant exhibition opening on Friday night, Airworld one of the first exhibitions of the six cities festival is on at the Tramway in Glasgow. The opening itself was really good fun, we were greeted at the door by air hostesses checking our boarding cards, followed by authentic safety demonstrations. The exhibition is really worth seeing they've got fascinating pieces like displays of tableware through the years and examples graphics, uniforms and even seats. Its a brilliant start to the six cities design festival which is going to see loads of events throughout Scotland, I'm also really delighted that I've been selected to exhibit as part of Scottish Show opening in May which seams terrifyingly soon.

surprises

2007-03-21T04:11:00.000-07:00

This morning I received a lovely package in the post. A beautiful necklace, brooch and letter from paper treasure. I'm really delighted she asked to do a trade with me, her work has a lovely feel to it, you can see more in her etsy shop.

Market

2007-03-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a rather dark and moody picture of my stall at the DADA Market this weekend with some of my new designs on display (more on these later). As much as I don't really enjoy selling my own work its a really good way of getting instant feedback on new designs, and I was quite pleased with how they went down. I'm not sure if it was the terrible weather or the nice atmosphere in Oran Mor but it was pretty busy and I think quite a successful market for everyone. Hopefully Edinburgh will be as busy this weekend.

craft fair

2007-03-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

I'm taking part in two miso funky markets over the next couple of weeks, so I've been pretty busy getting some new designs together as well as making up some of the old ones. The first is this Sunday (the 18th) to be held in Oran Mor -Byres Rd in Glasgow, and the second is next Saturday (24th) at The Caves in Edinburgh. If anyone is about it'd be great to see you there. For more information and to see a full list of those taking part click here.

Jewellery inspiration

2007-03-10T07:46:00.000-08:00

I love these fake diamond rings from alissiamt via design sponge, its just such a brilliant idea, I first saw them ages ago but they really appeal to me and I keep finding myself looking them up again and again. I also love these amazing cross stitched rings by Corina Rietveld via bloesem

let there be light box

2007-03-02T05:51:00.000-08:00

I've wanted a decent lightbox for ages - anythings got to be better than the bedside lamp under the coffee table. So despite being a bit poorly this week I finally made myself one. Mind you I think I might need to get a higher watt bulb but other than that I'm pretty chuffed.

cards

2007-02-22T05:21:00.000-08:00

I've made a start on wedding stationary for my very good friends mairi and mark who are getting married this summer, they wanted a vintage feel with pinks and browns. I really enjoyed doing these, the smaller card on the right is a little reminder to put on your calendar.

Miff

2007-02-20T11:59:00.000-08:00

I love these so much, and if you're very clever you could even win one just check miff's very own blog. They are also available to buy at online here.

I laughed, I cried, I took a photo

2007-02-14T02:02:00.000-08:00

It’s taken me about an hour to compose myself after finding this on my desk this morning. I’m now sitting amongst all of this listening to my new CD thinking how lucky I am.

2007-02-05T15:42:00.000-08:00

Creatures and furnishings by designer Donna Wilson, who turns out to be as much fun as her designs would suggest.

trees

2007-02-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

I've just updated the shop with some new purses, or wristlets I suppose you could call them because they've got little straps.

The pattern shows changing seasons, with summery trees on the surface and cold, wintry ones hidden between the folds.

Stateek textiles

2007-01-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

Recently seen at Origin, Laura Anderson creates beautiful textile designs from her studio outside Dundee. I love the colour combinations and her patterns which she makes into scarfs, bags and ties.

Tait & Style

2007-01-24T15:08:00.000-08:00

Tait & Style based in Orkney create beautiful textiles using a traditional needlepunching technique. Used with other methods of felting they produce contemporary fabrics and designs of incredible beauty and warmth.

mugs

2007-01-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

These aren't new designs by any means but I wanted to put them up because I think they are great, the sort of design I love. Simple designs with a twist that making them unique, witty and heaps of fun.
Above 'Duncan' mug from soop, below stamp cups by Valeria Miglioli & Barnaby Barford available from Thorsten Van Elten

print

2007-01-24T06:58:00.000-08:00

This is one of the first screen prints I made while on a brilliant screen printing evening class. I'm always amazed at how much better things look once you've made them up rather than just seeing them as a graphic on your computer.

boo bags

2007-01-22T03:33:00.000-08:00

Becky Bolton and Louise Chappell of Boo Boutique, graduated in Fine Art from Glasgow School of Art. During which time they set up an accessories and clothing label Boo Boutique. In May 2006 they launched their online shop and are currently selling their super stylish bags and accessories in stores across Glasgow, Edinburgh and Sheffield.

Che Camille

2007-01-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

Its been open for 6 months but last week I finally made it to the other side of the river to Che Camille.

Che Camille, is a shop and exhibition space run by Camille Lorigo who is passionate about supporting local artists and designers. The shop itself is as unique as the products in it and really worth a visit. Drop in on Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 6 or visit the online shop here

Image above: bags from the brilliant boo boutique

showing off

2007-01-20T10:49:00.000-08:00

Images of my cushions and purses.

Between the folds the pattern changes... The surface shows a pretty floral pattern but underneath the pattern changes to reveal spiders, ants, dead flowers and thorns. Screen printed by hand onto organic, fair trade cotton

Available in my etsy shop here