twospoonfulsofsugar

Smile Smile Smile!

2011-09-21T21:12:00.003+10:00

It's been awhile since I blogged here, but I stumbled across this short film just now and wanted to share it with you all. Smile Smile Smile! Hope it makes you smile! Has some great messages in there too! Great work to Mr Validation man!

Merry Christmas! Smiles, Hugs & Kisses

2010-12-17T16:15:00.003+11:00

(Please click on image to enlarge)

Handmade Toadstool Rattles

2010-12-08T17:14:00.002+11:00

I'm so into Toadstools right now & loving my new creation. How neat are these little handmade Toadstools.

Down at the Twospoonfulsofsugar farm, I've been playing with a few of these guys. I don't have a sewing machine though so its a long procedure “handsewing each stitch" - "I am on the look out for a cheap sewing machine, so I can experiment a bit "faster" though.

So...a few of my lovely friends are about to be mummies or are going to be “newbie mummies” and I wanted to give them something special that I have handmade but also relates to babies of course and me and cuteness and smiles. So the idea popped into my head... a Toadstool Rattle would be a very cute idea.

Here are a couple of my finished pieces. They have little bells inside so they go ding, ding, rattle, rattle when they are shaken... I could'nt resist poking them in the garden this afternoon for a quick little photoshoot to share with you all to enjoy and inspire.

It's day 9 - We're off to dee market

2010-12-08T16:05:00.001+11:00

We are so looking forward to this Saturday 11th December. As we have been specially invited to attend Billycart Markets "christmas market". Its the "much talked about" specialised handmade for little people aged (0-12years) Markets. Located on the beautiful Northern Beaches of Sydney at Lakes Parish Hall, 21 Lagoon Street, Narrabeen. Sydney's only 100% handmade market.

This is also going to be our last market before christmas so if your up Narrabeen way and/or at the markets pop by say Hi...and/or pick up some of our christmas products for a fun'n'furry crafty christmas for the kiddies!

As well as having a stand there, I can't wait to get all my christmas shopping done for all those little kiddly -winks in my life too, I think they are going to be extra spoilt to pieces this year.

Featured in Greetings & Gifts Magazine Top 5 Gift (Nov/Dec)

2010-11-15T21:50:00.003+11:00

A very exciting time for us, as our Christmas (frog) Make-me Greeting Card Craft Kit has been chosen in the Australian Greetings & Gifts Magazine "Top 5" Gifts for November/December (Christmas) 2010.

Whats your preference? A Santa Dog or a Rudolf Dog?

2010-11-09T22:55:00.001+11:00

We so love having abit of fun over here.... Featured is Fritz: who has taken to the Twospoonfulsofsugar catwalk modelling a mini handcrafted Santa Hat and Antlers embellished with ribbon and a jingle bell. (All characters from our farmyard range are dressing like this too for the silly season.

Wrap-up of the Sydney Children's Festival's Fun'n'Furry workshops

2010-10-11T19:09:00.003+11:00

Fun'n'furry...so I mentioned in earlier posts these last two weeks I have been having loads of fun running a few fun'n'furry storybook making workshops at the Sydney Children's festival at CarriageWorks. To be honest I think I had just as much fun as the kids did, and....I think a few parents/grandparents enjoyed themselves, just a wee bit too!

My fav part after making the storybooks with the kids, was watching their imaginations kick-in. One of the parents said to me "listen"...I stopped, watched and listened....the room went from laughter and chatter to sudden silence as the kids thinking caps clicked-on as they begun to create their stories and illustrations inside their books.

we had a : mooey, cleo, butterfly, thomas....the list goes on.... and the story writting and illustrations were so very creative in both workshops. Everyone went home with a smile on there faces and I think a wee bit exhausted from an action packed day at the festival. I bet they all (even the parents) slept well that night.

In my case "pictures speak louder than words", so.... here are a few snap shots taken from the fun'n'furry dog and cow storybook workshop!

(To view pics bigger click on image)

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” Pablo Picasso.

2010-10-04T22:11:00.000+11:00

Start. During. Halfway through the SCF

2010-10-01T18:42:00.000+10:00

Just got home from our first workshop at the Sydney Children's Festival....and it was an entirely SOLD OUT event. Woohoo! The imagination packed, fun'n'furry frogs and horses storybook workshop had some very inspiring up and coming (artists) what creative talented kids. The energy and hype from those kiddies must of rubbed off on me..I am buzzing! Was so much fun!!!

My silly camera died so missed out on capturing the energy and fun. Will make sure my camera is fully charged for next weeks workshop, so we have some pics to share with you guys, but hey if you have kids book them into our thursday workshop it is granted fun. Im just excited!!!

I also went along to the "Sneak Peak" opening day of the Sydney's Children's festival on Saturday! So much Fun to be had! WOW-Giant Babies, Tweeting Plants,Typewriters that letters turned into flying bugs....and heaps more fun things....Shame my little mate (who was ment to be coming along with me) was sick and could not make it along (hope she is feeling better now)

So the festival officially started on Monday. We ran our storybook making workshops this thursday (30th Sept) and next thursday (7th Oct) don't forget to book, you can book through the Sydney Children's festival website here

If you know of anyone with kiddies in Sydney, highly recommend going along to the festival a load of imagination, creativity and fun and there is loads of free things too! So a cheap day out. I wish I had little ones to take along to join in and enjoy all that fun.

x Sheryl

Bounce the Frog

2010-09-28T12:08:00.002+10:00

Nellie the Horse

2010-09-28T12:03:00.002+10:00

Workshops at the the Sydney Children's festival

2010-09-10T12:27:00.005+10:00

The Sydney Children's festival says - Its a storybook dream come true - and so it is.

With only a few weeks to go to the festival – I thought I would post a couple of sample booklets up here on my blog – to show you what we will be making at the fun'n'furry storybook making workshops.

The festival sounds like its going to be a “fully fun packed” event (wish I was a kid again) with performances from Erth's baby dinosaurs, Grug, Taronga Zoo....and more. Some of the other fantastic workshops include: Acrobalance circus, Cartoon Character designing, Compost Creatures, Costume Making...etc see the full list of workshops here. There's going to be storytellers and loads of other free activities to choose from, for 2 whole weeks!...... Defiantly a gigantic artistic playground of fun!

I am going to be running two workshops – where you’ll be the author of your own self made book, you will learn how to make a fun'n'furry (farmyard animal) dog, cow, frog or horse storybook using Twospoonfulsofsugar's original designs, environmentally friendly card, faux fur fabrics and embellishments to make your animal unique - then bring out the writer in you and write your own unique story.

Workshop 1 is on Thursday 30 September 2.00pm – 3.30pm, you will have the choice at making a cow or a dog storybook

Workshop 2 is on Thursday 7 October, 2.00pm – 3.30pm, you will have the choice at making a frog or a horse storybook

So at the end of the workshop you’ll have a handmade storybook to take home and cherish.

Sign up/ book a workshop, before they all sell out! (via Sydney Children's Festival) click here

- - - -
If you know of a school, festival, library, children's play centre etc...that you think would be interested in running one of our storybook making workshops or christmas greeting card workshops in the upcoming school holidays please contact me or leave a comment below. Ta. Sheryl.

It’s a storybook dream come true!

2010-08-24T22:37:00.002+10:00

It’s a storybook dream come true! Twospoonfulsofsugar is excited to be running fun 'n' furry storybook making workshops at the 2010 Sydney Children's festival.
Sydney Children’s Festival is a gigantic artistic playground packed with things to do, nooks to explore, and new stuff to get stuck into. Two weeks of stories, arts, crafts, creatures, characters, a little nonsense, and most of all, FUN, PLAY and CREATING.
Sydney Children’s Festival is on from 27th September - 9th October 2010 (during school holidays) 10am-4pm Monday - Saturday (will be closed on sundays)
For more info on the festival, performances, activities and workshop details click here

part two: melbourne. craft cubed - craft and design as a career.

2010-08-24T18:54:00.004+10:00

craft cubed.

So for the following day my good friend michelle and I carried on being inspired by attending Craft Victorias – Craft Cubed seminar on Craft and Design as a Career. Which was a fantastic educational seminar with some fab speakers.

Craft Victoria’s annual festival Craft Cubed is a highly participatory event creating space for practitioners and the public to engage with contemporary craft. The 2010 festival theme of ‘childhood’ is intended to inspire people of all ages, especially the young at heart! Have a look at the rest of the events/seminars and exhibitions for Craft Cubed - it runs till the 4th of September

Rhiannon Hardingham owner of I dream a highway spoke about selling your work through a retailer and offered some handy tips I thought I would share here.

# General retailers pricing is 100% + GST (if you sell your product for $50 - a store would sell it for $110)

# Price points put thought into your pricing – retailers will round it up, so make sure you get the reward and work your price on the 100% accurately.

# Consignment vs wholesale an interesting point was made. Seasonal buying does not apply to consignment so you can keep stocking your shelves. Whereas wholesale they will just say sorry we are not taking any more orders or we have spent our budget for this season contact us again in 3 months etc...

Approaching stores

# General Rule Only stock one store in each retail precinct (postcode area)

# Email (good quality) photos and a brief description/ introduction (include pricing details and info on where you stock and sell your products already)

# Dont rely on Etsy (or similar) to show case examples of your work

# Make an appointment (don't expect to just rock on up to a store to show off your products)

Rhiannon so nicely shared some fab craft retail stores around melbourne areas to consider contacting:

Fitzroy Meet me at Mikes, I like you, Thread Den, Incube8r

Northcote Humming bird 60, Manque & Lupa, I dream a highway

Brunswick PussyCat Black, Monk House, OkOk, The Curious Kitten

North Melbourne Kids in Berlin, Thread Den

Melbourne City Corky Saint Claire, Lenko, Alice Euphemia, Craft Victoria

Lara Olsen and Yann Burden spoke on models of environmentally sustainable working environments and craft practises. How to make your product more sustainable.

# Is there a more efficient way to make your product?

# How much energy do you use?

# Turn your appliances off when do in use (if the light is shining, energy is still be used - pull the plug out of the wall)

# Are your raw materials recycled?

# Is there a closer source or can you get your materials from a local supplier?

# What about recycled packaging - How bout no tissue paper, no foam pellets

# Advise your customers via your website to show how environmentally friendly you and your craft business is trying to be

Melissa Loughnan director of Utopian Slumps shared some insight behind gallery representation and some encouraging words:

# Don't be afraid to represent yourself

# Have faith in yourself and keep going, one day it will work out

# Be apart of a group – show involvement - blogs and galleries will gain interest.

Grace McQuilten founder of The Social Studio captured the audiences attention, by wowing us with the studios outstanding accomplishment. Sharing how she and her team continue to create a social enterprise through empowering young people to achieve their dreams via fashion through community engagement and social inclusion. I was hoping to visit there cafe while in melb but sadly ran out of time (on the list for next time for sure). Keep up the great work Grace and team!

Jo Walker Editor of Frankie Magazine spoke on maximising your exposure through the media . Jo had some really helpful tips (read carefully some awesome pointers)

Press releases

# When to send one think 4-6 months ahead (so if you want to be in there christmas issue - send them your press release Now! July/August)

# Be aware of print dates - most mainstream magazines have there print deadlines on there websites (Plan and check so you don't miss out)

Jo says with “JOURNALISTS” THINK OF MONKEYS IN FRONT OF A COMPUTER WITH ADHD - PEEL AND SHOVE THE BANANA IN THERE FACE - GET STRAIGHT TO THE POINT

Press release check list, what to include.

# Allow 2-3 paragraphs (needs to be well tailored - you might need a copywriter to write this)

# Embed clean clear (professional photography) with white backgrounds low res images into your email

# Your real name

# Your business name

# Dates of Event

# Contact details (address, phone, email, website)

# Price of your product

# Stockist details

Things to consider when writing your press release

# Is your product locally made?

# A new design?

# Are your materials organic, recycled, made in australia, fair trade?

# Don't make the journalist/editor/stylist have to guess what your product is, be clear and straight to the point

# Whats your unique selling point (UPS)?

# Whats your story?

# Tell your story - what/who inspired you?

# Add an element of your personal background

Once you have sent out your press release... other things to consider...

# Have high res pics with clean white backgrounds for easy use in all media from local newspapers/marie claire. (make sure you have high resolution images on file in case you are contacted by a journalist, editor or stylist)

# Have product ready to send out (some stylists will want to shoot there own pics)

# Once your product is in the media, you will probably be inundated with orders (make sure you have lots of product)

# Have a fully functional updated website

# Remember to be as personal and authentic as possible this adds more value to your product

remember to SHOVE THE BANANA THROUGH THE CAGE! SPOONFEED EVERYTHING MAKE IT EASY!

Lucy Fegins from the Design Files added to what Jo spoke about and recommends:

# Target stylists – (send samples) send it like a gift, be friendly

# If your targeting mainstream press - know there readers

# Be friendly with your stockists and keep them up to date.

# If you do get press – inform your stockists

# Fill orders when they start rolling in! (don't let your stockists get grumpy)

# Blogging is Cheap, Online and Present

# Form a relationship with media and customers by giving them an insight into your world

# Be flexible and think laterally – is there another way to tell your story?

Wow..So there is a lot of info there. We had one more speaker Stephan Banham from Letterbox who spoke about graphic design and branding. I might cover this topic in another blog post further down the line though since that is also my background.

Time to now digest all this great info! I think this is enough for the moment! Enjoy everyone!

part one: melbourne. chai. trade fairs.

2010-08-21T13:19:00.012+10:00

melbourne.

I have recently returned from melbourne and after being stuck in bed “sick as a dog” since I returned I thought while im not up for doing much “actual work” I thought I would blog a little about my adventure and re:live some of it. Share with you guys a few important & prob no so important bits.

Half work/half play? To me this type of trip is all play...specially while getting inspired by melbourne, its sites, surrounds, visiting trade fairs and going to seminars on design.

chai.
So firstly...Lets have a chai! If you live in Melbs already or are visting and love a nice spicy chai head to Baker D Chirico on 149 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda...OMG best chai ever soooo deliciously spicy (I was told the lemon donuts are a big hit too (but they were all sold out by the time we arrived tho at 10:30 am)

tradefair.
I visited the LifeInstyle/KidsInstyle/FirstInstyle Trade fair. Twospoonfulsofsugar took part in the “new designers section” of Reed Giftfair last year and I wanted to compare the 2. We were meant to be in KidsInstyle this year but due to circumstances we were unable to attend. However I still wanted to go along and absorb the atmosphere and chat to other industry professionals.
So LifeInstyle is great for designers wanting to attract the boutique giftware retailers. I personally love the vibe of LifeInstyle and think its a great step forward if your ready to take your: jewellery, t-shirt, art, design, product, fashion, accessories, stationery, toy, craft, giftware business into the retail market!
Doing trade fairs - It's a great step for any new or existing business, to reach out to your designated retail outlets and customer base across the country and aboard. A trade fair is designed for designers to be in one location and the retail shops come to you. You have your “product on show” but dont sell off your stand - you do take orders (wholesale) directly off your stand tho, but dont sell directly to “public” say like at markets.

From experience: It truly opened my eyes and emerged Twospoonfulsofsugar into a whole new platform.
If your interested in doing a trade fair have a look at Lifestyle and Reed to pick which one is best suited for you and your business. They are run twice a year in the major cities in Australia (Sydney and Melbourne) one at the beginning of the year around Feb/March and one in August/September (for buying for christmas) I highly recommend doing them.

Some of my fav things from the Melbourne LifeInstyle/KidsInstyle/FirstInstyle show were:
# Furry Monster bags and DingaRings (as pictured) for kids by O.B Designs

# Very funky Paperself eyelashes (as pictured)' how fantastic are these designs” I was like “you should be wearing these, im sure the sales person would of tripled her orders if she was these are so cool!

# Funky Stools from Ici et La

# I have a soft spot for typography and there was a few stands with some fab typography products PonyRider had these fab Players Welcome cushions (as pictured), quilts etc .. For some other very cool type related products check out Make Me Iconic

#I defiantly had my “I want-I want-I want” down to a fine t at the Pigeonhole stand, so many great products “everything is awesome”! Special love goes out to Pigeonholes; Louwellyn, Lou Mini and Richelle Bags, WoodLove Cards, Crumple Cups & those oh so cute dimple rings (even the name sounds cute)

# Design products with clever, quirky ideas behind it go to check out DesignforUse - I still cant decide what my fav thing is but the flower nails are a pretty cute idea, and the drip drop hanger and I did love those wine lights (as pictured).

I could go on and on actually so im just going to list a few other websites to checkout but there were oh so heaps more incredible/ talented designers I just can not list the whole lot or I will be here forever; Loop, (Fav Bags) Louenhide, Little Lamb tales, Tmod, Fermliving

The Reed Giftfair in Sydney is coming up in September 11th-14th so if your thinking about doing a trade fair next year I highly recommend registering and going along for a nosey.

Ok I got a little carried away and side tracked but after a day of being inspired by all the great “designers” who would not get carried away? I hope I shed some light for any newbies thinking of doing a trade fair.

be kynd – make someones day

2010-07-31T12:22:00.002+10:00

So often in our busy live's we often over look the ones around us and our generous, caring, kind-selves. Our lives could be happier and more fulfilled if we were more caring.
Our days, weeks, months and some times years are taken over and sometimes we take others and our selves for granted.

So this is me doing my bit, sharing with you a few tips on helping make the world a nicer, happier place for us all to live. If you feel good and the people around you feel good - then share it, share a warm smile with someone! and if you don't feel good - do it anyway, smile at someone and i'm sure your smile will not go unnoticed (a smile is infectious remember)!

There are plenty of people out there who don't feel as good as you and are in need of a smile.
By sharing a “ genuine” smile with a loved one, a stranger or showing your appreciation to someone for something they have done! Would mean more to them than you think. Showing that you care, makes the world of difference and sometimes even saves lives.

I thought I would share these helpful "random acts of kindness" tips you could try. so you can act on a random act of kindness today.
# Get back in touch with your neighbours or old friends you haven't seen in awhile, pop by and say hello, even for 5 mins for a friendly catch up. Or if you have new neighbours pop over and introduce yourself say hello, if you would like to make a real impression (bake some scones, cookies and make a afternoon tea moment of it or pick some flowers to share) it might even benefit you somehow!

# Feel out of touch with friends/ family/ community...Do your bit to get back in touch with them.

# Loneliness is not a special event, it happens every day. Receiving a nice card or hand written letter in the mail is a big deal. - it shares a smile & warms the day and sometimes is the highlight of your grandparents week!
# Offer to give someone a helping hand. (this is an (old) but great ad, made in New Zealand for Mitre 10! "Its just nice to help out its in our DNA!"

# If a friend/colleague/partner has had a hard day, be a great friend/partner and offer your listening ear, to talk it over. Talking about a problem half's its weight. Take them out for a coffee or plan to meet up on the weekend for a walk at the beach or park.

# Send a funny card to your partners/friends work with something special written in it, It will make them smile and remind them that you still love them, and still enjoy having a bit of playful fun in your relationship.

# Write a thank you note to your child’s teacher. It will make her/his day, and it would also probably benefit your child. This is also a nice thing for your child to do, teaching your child to show there appreciation, encourages kindness.
.......and.....don't forget to cherish you too! Do something that makes you smile occasionally also! You deserve it!

If you have any “be kynd – make someones day” moments, please feel free to share them in the comments below.

have a lovely day and don't forget to SMILE! x Sheryl

So the lucky winner is...

2010-03-31T18:35:00.002+11:00

Congratulations Vanessa you are the lucky winner of the 2x Twospoonfulsofsugar Make-me kits (If you could contact me directly with your postal address and preferred 2 kits - I will pop them in the mail)

So sad but true..

2010-03-31T14:05:00.005+11:00

Thanks everyone for your entries to our Stitches & Craft Show GIVEAWAY sad but true i've just been informed the Sydney April Stitches & Craft show has now been cancelled - so "no tix prize sorry" :(

BUT INSTEAD.... Ive decided, cause of this news I will still put all the names in hat anyway and a lucky winner will be "sent a couple of free twospoonfulsofsugar's make-me kits! :D

So you can still enjoy some happy crafting! (Prize - will be drawn end of today)

If you do want some craft action and want to stock up on some Twospoonfulsofsugar Make-me kits and/or some of our fun and furry greeting cards, we will be at Eveleigh Artisans market this Easter Sunday (4th April 2010) So if you are around please pop by say Hello! :D

x x Sheryl

Only 3 weeks to go!

2010-03-27T18:01:00.003+11:00

G-wiss guys – where does the time go – Its flown past super quick. I can't believe there's only 3 weeks to go till the Sydney stitches and craft show – My to do list keeps filling up with more and more. And the design work has gotten really busy too so juggling 2 business's is keeping my hands very full! But its going to be all worth it! Super excited! Once again am so looking forward to seeing all my fellow crafty friends and meeting some new ones.

Remember our giveaway - The prize of 2x tickets to the Stitches & Craft show and 2x Twospoonfulsofsugar craft lab vouchers get drawn this wednesday 31st of March! So to be in with a grin – Leave a comment on our giveaway blog post or on our facebook fan page or tweet "I wanna win Stitches & Craft show tix and a fun and furry card class from Twospoonfulsofsugar" @sharessmiles"

You just might be the lucky winner!

go the paddle steamers - full steam ahead!

2010-03-19T23:18:00.007+11:00

Ok so kayaking and raising money to help charities isn't for everyone. But I believe its worth the effort especially when its for such a great cause such as making a difference to a child in need and there family - to share a smile and make life easier.... Lifestart supports children with disabilities and their families to achieve a better quality of life.

Lifestart Kayak for Kids is an inspirational paddling challenge on Sydney Harbour. It raises funds for very special kids aged from birth to school age who have an intellectual disability or developmental delay. These include conditions more widely known such as Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder to much rarer genetic disorders. Lifestart provides early childhood intervention services to ensure these kids have the best possible start in life.

On Sunday 28th March Lifestart Kayak for Kids is taking place, it's a 17.5km course running from Blues Point to Clontarf in four stages of approximately 4.5km.

So to boost myself with abit of exercise at the same time as to share some smiles with some kiddies and there families. Ive joined a team of 12 - were called "The Paddle Steamers" and between us are kyaking Lifestarts - Kayak for kids event.

Our goal is to reach $5000 in donations, its a high target but certainly worth a try. If your feeling the love please help us reach our goal by donating to our team for this worthy cause (even a gold coin will be worth more than u think) Feel free to come along be our sideline cheerleaders too!

Training this Sunday at Manly! Love it!

Thanks in advance - Hearts, Hugs, Smiles and Kisses

Sheryl and "The Paddle Steamers"

craft labs at Sydney S&C show

2010-03-17T20:31:00.008+11:00

Title. Make a Fun and Furry Animal Greeting Card
Level. All Welcome - Class suitable for adults and children (4+)
Price. $12 (Includes all materials)
Duration. 45 Mins
Description. Choose a design from the selected twospoonfulsofsugar make-me kit range, to cut, paste and glue your imagination into a fun and furry handmade greeting card. So bring your crafty creative self down to the craft lab to help share a smile.

#2 - Wed 14th - (option: make a duck or horse card)
#2 - Thurs 15th - (option: make a frog or pig card)
#2 - Fri 16th - (option: make a cat card)
#2 - Sat 17th - (option: make a frog or pig card)
#2 - Sun 18th - (option: make a duck or horse card)

To pre-book this craft lab telephone 0404 408 285

giveaway tickets and craft lab class

2010-03-10T14:29:00.003+11:00

To celebrate our involvement in the Sydney Stitches and Craft show next month - I’ve got two free tickets to the show - courtesy of the lovely organisers at Stitches & Craft plus I’m going to throw in two free fun & furry animal card making classes.

To enter just leave a comment below and/or tweet "I wanna win Stitches & Craft show tix and a fun and furry card class from Twospoonfulsofsugar" @sharessmiles"

*winners will be notified end of march.

new location - Sydney Stitches & Craft Show

2010-03-08T20:17:00.007+11:00

You may have already heard... the Sydney Stitches & Craft Show 14 – 18 April 2010 is at a new venue Australian Technology Park, in Eveleigh - only about 10 mins from the city and Twospoonfulsofsugar are proud to be involved again in the Incubator section @ stand I3.

Every day around lunchtime Twospoonfulsofsugar will be running a card making craft lab (a different animal each day). So remember the dates (Wednesday 14th April - Sunday 18th April) and be sure to pencil in or ask for an extra long lunch break to join in the card making/Stitches & Craft Show fun! I will upload twospoonfulsofsugar's craft lab details in the next few days, along with a few goodies to Win!

x x Sheryl

Its play day - clouds of love

2010-03-08T09:52:00.011+11:00

its play day and as you know I have been playing around with this new idea - Clouds of Love - it focus's on the big L-O-V-E of course. the importance of love and no matter what may your life be filled with love.

"when ever we have clouds in our skies, may they only ever be clouds of love"

... or another phrase "the clouds will pass and blue skies will brighten your days" I feel really connected with this design, and truly love the meaning i've created behind it.

we all deserve to be loved, cherished and appreciated and expressing our love for each other is sometimes overlooked and taken for granted - it really is wonderful when people appreciate each other with warm fuzzy moments from the heart.

"may we all have clouds of love in abundance in our life"

I would love to hear your feedback, as if this card is popular and in demand - I will go ahead and produce it, clouds of love is targeted for special occasions such as weddings, valentines day, mothers day, just because days, make-up card, anniversaries, i love you days...and of course to share a warm fuzzy moment with a special someone in our life.

x x S

[ tutorial ] turn-up the robot - FREE make it yourself party invites

2010-02-12T17:31:00.015+11:00

turn-up is a robot, he loves partys and dancing – he got his name because, turn-up likes to turn-up the music, jump around and dance with his friends! you can move his arms so he looks like he is doing a robot dance move! to make 4 robot party invites you will need.

materials and equipment

- 2x A4 card (200-250gsm)

- 8x buttons
- 8x (bendy) party straws

- a printer

- tinfoil

- scissors
- glue stick

- double-sided foam tape/ or normal double-sided tape
- celotape

- stapler
if you are colouring in the robot invites yourself, you will also need coloured paint or felt tip pens

step 1 - download and print

download and then print onto A4 (200gsm) card

- download here Outline Robot shapes (for colouring in yourself)
 - download here Coloured-in Robot shapes (already coloured in)
- download here Back of the invite

step 2 - stick card to foil and cut out invites

take the invite piece of card and cover the non-printed side all over with glue (make sure you get the edges). roll out enough tin foil to lay your glued card onto, press down hard. cut the invites into 4 (148.5mm x 105mm) pieces. (to help - we have indicated the size for you on the printed side.

step 3 - colouring in shapes
if you chose to colour in your shapes – time to start colouring in! if you chose to print off the already coloured in shapes, move to step 4.

step 4 - cut out shapes
carefully cut out the coloured in robot shapes

step 5 - making the robot arms

take a straw & cut the long ends off, leaving 15mm of straw either side of the bend. at one end stapel the straw together. following these instructions - make the other arm, with another straw. repeat for other robots arms. now celotape each arm onto the back of your robot shapes. as pictured. note (the bend is your robots elbows - so he can move his arms around and dance)

step 6 - sticking your robot to invite

take your double-sided foam tape and per shape, cut 4 pieces 20mm long and stick them to the back of your robot shape. as pictured.

step 7 - adding your robots dancing feet
take the buttons and dab some glue onto oneside. stick them onto the robot shape for his roller skating dancing feet!

you have just made your party invites! yey! now you have to choose who is coming to your robot party. fill in the details on the back and give/send them out.

important note: These robot invites have been designed and made for your personal use only and may not be reproduced to sell or make a profit from. Thanks.

enjoy x x

turn up the robot party theme ideas

2010-02-11T09:24:00.007+11:00

I have had a big demand for the " make it yourself - robot party invites" which where made for the living creatively website late last year, there site is currently down and in the process of being rebuilt... i think... there must be alot of "robot birthday parties on the horizon this coming month"... so cause i am super nice....I will put up the tutorial up here on my blog so people can download and make at there own free will. below I have also added to the robot party theme a few suggestions for your super cool party "robot dress-up and decoration ideas, you might like to try! have fun!

robot party dress-up and theme ideas

a robot party would be so much fun, getting all dressed-up - covering yourself in silver face pant and turning an old cardboard box into your robot body by cutting holes out for your body and arms then doing the robot dance moves to some funky tunes... and wouldn't it be great to use oil cans for drink containers (ones that haven't been used before of course), tin cans to decorate, make a "tin robot" centre piece for the table, put some flowers in, serve chips and lollies. also cheese graters make nice mood lighting with a candle inside, silver balloons...my mind is filled with so many ideas..(above are a few pics I have found on the internet)

clouds of love

2010-02-10T17:24:00.006+11:00

I have been working on some new designs, as I mentioned in a few previous posts. One is a card focusing on the big L word! I'm just in time for valentines day - so a special someone might be getting a test version...if he's lucky!

This is a test of a similar design for my cousins wedding card - who is getting married next week. As I said, its based on LOVE.

The meaning and message behind it is: "when ever there are clouds in your skies, may they only ever be clouds of love". The design will be "furred up and amended in due course! But for now I wanted to share with you the screen printed version on a delicious recycled fleck paper stock!

What do you think? Comments welcome :P

x x x Sheryl

PS: Please remember all Twospoonfulsofsugar designs are all copyright protected and originally thoughtout, designed and illustrated by myself.

that inner smile that washes throughout my body when i start to create things

2010-02-05T10:25:00.003+11:00

I am dabbling with some new things working on some illustrations, for a yet to be children's book or Zine! Very Exciting - I still have not hundred percent decided, but thought i would start and see where my creativity and imagination takes me. Still early days, but the creative flow is washing in and I sure do enjoy that energy and inner smile that washes throughout my body when i start to create things. so once i am in a proper direction i will share more about my journey with you all.

I really want to put one of my illustrations up to show you! But Im trying to be good and keep it a surprise.

x x Sheryl

so the weekend is nearly here

2010-02-05T09:45:00.008+11:00

The Weekend is nearly here, Sydney - Eveliegh Artisans Markets this Sunday between 9 - 3pm! Twospoonfulsofsugar will be there sharing the smiles with our gorgeous furry cards and fun make me craft kits. And of course me in my furry pants that brings giggles to everyones faces! Hopefully we will be in the same spot next to other fellow Brown Owls "Jess from a life so peachy, and Jen from Paper Lion. Its always nice in between the customers to catch up on what new crafting activity everyone has been exploring - or planning to experiment with next.

I just received this pic courtesy of Eveliegh Markets team - from the christmas workshops we did back in December! Was so much fun - so thought id share the memory again with you all...

Twospoonfulsofsugar is planning more workshops this year so will keep this blog, facebook and twitter up to date also I keep an updated list of our where abouts on Twospoonfulsofsugars Stockist page. If you have an event day, fete, fair, library, school art organisation or other that would be interested in having a Make-me craft workshop, please feel free to call or email for more information.

Hope to see you at Eveliegh this sunday, If so pop by and say hello!

x x Sheryl

believe and discover 2010

2010-01-28T21:12:00.004+11:00

Hi all just a wee post to say hi and yes...Im still around, have been heads down tails up planning this year! So sorry this blog has been a little neglected. I hope you all have had a fantastic holiday period, and your kids got back to school ok today or started for the first time!

Have some competitions on the horizon and some other goodies.

Stay tuned! x x Sheryl

merry christmas!

2009-12-23T11:40:00.001+11:00

all the seats filled with keen, crafty kids!

2009-12-14T19:26:00.012+11:00

The sunday before last was the final Eveleigh artisan's market before christmas and as I stated in previous blogs, christmas workshops were arranged for kids and "big kids" to get involved in crafting and creating christmas goodies!

I ran the christmas card making workshop, making the twospoonfulsofsugar kangaroos and koalas and we dressed them up in santa hats and antlers.

I got to the workshop area, and found all the seats filled with keen, crafty kids..., so we got straight in there, cutting, gluing, folding, smiling, getting messy...it was so much fun!

All the kids walked away with big happy smiles and their nicely finished "handmade by them" card for their special loved one! Yey! (And yes I am wearing the famous "pig pants")

I got them to sign one of the giant Twospoonfulsofsugar cards and heres what a couple of them said!

I had just as much fun as they did :o)

PS: Twospoonfulsofsugar Make-Me children's craft kits are a fun activity for the school holidays, your child can make a card to give away, or turn it into a story book, write a story about there animal & keep it on there bookshelf! Make-me kits are available in many different animal characters i.e, cow, duck, frog, koala, pig, dog, horse....and more..all are available to be purchased online @ our fully secure online shopping store Twospoonfulsofsugar.com using Paypal's facilities.

Inspiration: storybook reversible cape

2009-12-14T12:31:00.008+11:00

How adorable is this little girls "little miss green hood" storybook reversible cape (tutorial) by Grosgrain! I stumbled across it today, on my blogging/surfing/ getting inspired mission and I so wanted to share this cute little number with you all! I don't have a child myself, but g-wiss if i had one, they would be defiantly getting one of these for christmas for sure, Theres even the little place at the front to keep all your collected treasures you find while your exploring! So, so cute.

two spoonfuls of sugar "christmas" goodie bags

2009-12-09T20:50:00.008+11:00

Last weekend we happliy donated a few Twospoonfulsofsugar goodie bags to the Sydney JETAA association christmas end of year function and the Australian Business Women's network (ABN red affair event)!

Sydney JETAA plays a major role in a wide range of Japan-related activities. Working with the Consulate-General of Japan and the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR), we promote and foster cultural exchange between Australia and Japan, conduct orientation sessions for new JET Programme participants prior to their departure for Japan, and provide support to recently returned JETs.

"The night was a great success. It was held at 3 weeds in Rozelle. The Twospoonfulsofsugar goodie bags were really well received and some people even told me they recognised your cards from some stationary places, so your publicity is definitely increasing." Thank you! Tammie, JETTAA

The Australian Businesswomen's Network (ABN) teaches women skills to start, manage and grow their business. ABN inspires women in the workplace to enhance their career paths. The ABN connects women with peers and role models so that they can be inspired by each other.

Congratulations to Yvette Vignando of HappyChild, who won the goodie bag at the ABN red affair event!

so much choice this weekend!

2009-12-01T19:42:00.007+11:00

This weekend there is so much (creative, crafting, inspirational) things going on in Sydney well Eveleigh, with Finders Keepers markets on Friday and Saturday at CarriageWorks. Then on Sunday opposite CarriageWorks the monthly Eveleigh Artisans' Market which is the last market before christmas, they have decided to "christmas" it up and celebrate an australian made christmas with christmas crafting workshops, santa... etc "Eveleigh Market is championing little and big Ozzies to get out and discover their inner creative talent, and the talent in their neighbourhood for gift giving this Christmas, making it an Australian Made Christmas."

We are very spoilt for choice!

So "MY" plan is to head to Finders Keepers on Friday night with a few buddies.... and on Sunday share some smiles as Twospoonfulsofsugar will have a stall at the Eveleigh Artisans' Market.

At 11am joining in the fun of an australian made christmas, I (sheryl) will be running a "special" australian animal christmas card making workshop. It's going to be so much fun, if I do say so myself! So keep an eye out for me, as I will be dressed in pig pants and a Santa Hat! Heehee! Its gonna be fun, fun, fun!

For more detailed workshop information, just click here

Create-i-tiv-i-T

2009-11-18T14:01:00.011+11:00

I have always believed in the importance of creativity in ones life even from an early age, I think it truly does shape the people we are or turn out to be. Creativity teaches you so many things; it connects you with others, expresses your feelings, engages you to learn, react and make decisions, to dream!

Encouraging and accepting creativity into our lives the more healthier and happier we will be.

We seem to be living in an information age and most of us use screens and gadgets to communicate with and not human beings or nature. Interesting isn't it. Think about it for a minute.... the amount of time you spend at your desk/ in front of your computer, reading your iphone? Its not that I disagree with these things, as a graphic designer I too use them, I just want to make people aware that taking the time out to enjoy your creative side, to day dream, think out side the box... is important and like exercise is also part of having a healthy balanced life.

I think it is important also that our - your children - the great minds of our future are encouraged and are aware of this importance of creativity and their own self expression.

Through creative self expression you can gage a lot into the mind of that person.

Looking back to my childhood - I was always creating things, i remember i was given a camera for Chirstmas from my aunty one year, it was a very very basic one, but with my pocket money i use to buy a film, and take pictures of the sky, trees, rainbows, animals, favourite toys - i use to love the shapes and colours, i use to save up to get them developed, sometimes it was a year or so later ( and discovered again how wonderful they were), i use to record myself singing on the old tape cassette player, I made mazes in the long grass (before dad use to get it made into hay), collected wild flowers, leaves, and seeds and made collages, made little gift tags and drew pictures on them - sold them to my parents, grandparents and friends etc for 5 cents each, played in the streams, made dams and mud pies - cooking them in the pretend oven (a fallen down tree) . the memories go on and on.... and all these fond memories stem from creativity...

I just wanted to share this with you, and hope that it does inspire, trigger your imagination or welcome the importance of creativity into your and your families life's.

Share Smiles

Sheryl x

look what i stumbled across...featured on mixtapezine blog!

2009-11-15T21:45:00.002+11:00

the "silly season" is upon us

2009-11-06T22:19:00.006+11:00

As you know the christmas festive "silly season" is upon us, so I wanted to share with you Twospoonfulsofsugar's christmas dress-up collection.

We decided to share some smiles with you and be a little bit silly, so the whole collection of greeting cards and make-me kits have decided to join in the fun and dress up in santa hats and antlers this christmas! They look so cute if I do say so myself

They are already up online! So you can start shopping straight away!

x x Sheryl

A lovely day at eveleigh art markets on sunday

2009-11-03T21:59:00.002+11:00

Had a fantastic day at Eveleigh Art Markets on Sunday - a big hit were the guys dressed up with antlers and santa hats! What a fun day! It was even better to be side by side next door to 3 other Brown Owls!
Picked myself up a lovely Eco friendly Tote, from Jess at "A life so peachy" Made from an old coffee sack! I absolutely love the type on it.... I convinced myself its going to be my new crafty bag for all my goodies to go in, so was well worth it! :o)

Def looking forward to the next one on the 6th December 09... A little birdie told me they are christmasing it up! and we just might be running workshops - making christmas cards... To be confirmed! :o)

the big R

2009-11-01T21:51:00.005+11:00

Twospoonfulsofsugar is officially a registered trademark!

Get ready! The guys are getting dressed up for christmas!

2009-09-28T18:21:00.006+10:00

I'm very excited to show you a sneak preview of the adorable Fritz the Dog and Mr Kola the Koala dressed up in Santa Hats and Dauwng the Kanagaroo dressed up in his reindeer Antlers. This Christmas you will be able to purchase all Twospoonfulsofsugar characters in either a Santa Hat or Antlers for christmas.

Also! Santa Hat and Antler makeme kits can be brought to be added to Twospoonfulsofsugar's original Make-me Craft kits, if your wanting to make a card yourself for your friends and family.

I am hoping to have them live to purchase on my website in the coming weeks...also on Twospoonfulsofsugar Etsy store...Keep an eye out on my blog here though, as I will be blogging on the christmas collection once live!

'we brake for cake' scavenger hunt

2009-09-07T19:49:00.005+10:00

Yesterday, I grabbed a few friends and had a very adventurous day on our bikes doing the 'we brake for cake' scavenger hunt organised by Rocket fuel. What an awesome idea and day!
A full on race cycling all over Sydney...from Paddington to Milsons Point to Newtown (my team and I missed out Newtown) as we ran out of time.... G wiss exhausting, but lots of fun and giggles and plenty of Toots! Whoops. Check out the pics and more details about the event on Rocketfuels blog!

Tutorial: Turn-up the Robot Party Invites

2009-09-02T15:17:00.012+10:00

Recently I was asked by Living Creatively to design a project for them. I have a thing for Robots at the moment - so I decided to design some Do-It-Yourself R-O-B-O-T party invites.

I thought a robot party would be so much fun, getting all dressed-up - covering yourself in silver face pant and turning an old cardboard box into your robot body by cutting holes out for your body and arms then doing the robot dance moves to some funky tunes... and wouldn't it be great to use oil cans for drink containers (ones that haven't been used before of course), Tin cans to serve chips and lollies, cheese graters with a candle inside for mood lighting, silver balloons...My mind is filled with so many ideas..

OK...Back to the party invites.... so, this is Turn-up the robot, he loves party's and dancing – He got his name because Turn-up likes to turn up the music, jump around and dance with his friends! You can move his arms so he looks like he is doing a Robot dance too! Here is the link to the FREE project "o) Enjoy!

Happy crafting, dancing, partying and smiling :o)

x x Sheryl

PS> Your children may love to make these for there next birthday party - they are cheap to make and a great way to encourage creativity – if you do make some I would love to hear how they went, so please feel free to leave a comment or email pics :o)

Fun quotes to write in your fun and furry greeting card!

2009-09-01T17:01:00.000+10:00

I have recently had a number of people ask about funny messages or quotes to go inside our fun and furry greeting cards, it got me thinking...as awhile back a friend and I had sat down and brain stormed a few... So I thought I would share with you some of them.

- - - -
“You’re that age already? Udderly ridiculous! Happy Birthday.” (cow card)
- - - -
"Will you be my prince?" (frog card)
- - - -
Here comes another birthday...better duck." (duck card)
- - - -
Jumping around OZ like a Kangaroo! Lovin it! (kangaroo card)
- - - -
Hope you enjoy the roll in the mud (spa) (pig card)
- - - -
Congratulations....you were barking mad to marry him in the first place." (dog card)
- - - -
Come home soon, I can't bear you being away." (koala card)
- - - -
Get well soon...Won't be long till you're back in the Saddle." (horse card)

What the duck? You are Quackers, Enjoy your Waddle! (duck card)
- - - -
I happen to think you're purrrrrrrrfect." (cat card)

Please feel free to add some more by leaving a comment :o)

My lucky day!

2009-08-30T11:12:00.008+10:00

While on my lovely morning walk around Sydney park this morning, i noticed that the clover flowers were out! So for some reason I sat down beside a patch and started looking for a four leaf clover after a few seconds I found my first one! Yey - I still have the eye for finding them.
However I not only found one, within a few minutes I had found three...Must be my lucky day!
I have stuck them into my creative journal and saved this date!...Wonder what luck it will bring!

"o)

The run down of the craft show …from the sheep lady!

2009-08-26T16:08:00.030+10:00

After 5 days of being dressed in hand stitched sheep pants, yes with a tail! For the launch of Nibbles…I am slowly getting back to normal - I no longer am getting my tail pulled and have lost the extra wooliness around my bottom half :o) (it was all totally worth it! - and really I loved it! :o)

How do I sum the show up in just a few words? Wow! Fantastic! Great exposure, Exhausting! It was my first big craft show – so the support and feedback was mind bogglingly awesome! I met some fantastic inspiring crafters and designers.

I have to thank everyone who helped/supported me through this journey also my helpers over the 5 days; Scottie, Bianca, Brya and Jess – I defiantly could not have been running my workshops and sharing the smile upstairs at the stand at the same time. Your helping hands and happy faces were so appreciated! Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Here are a few snap shots of the stand

The stitches and craft show team did an amasing job too! Every morning a fashion parade for the incubator section was on, I made the most of one of the models – Kelly, who volunteered to dress in the latest fashion like me - sheep and pig pants! She even did the little bottom wiggle, it was fantastic and defiantly got the attention deserved - got the crowd giggling and came up stairs for more! :o)

I made a video, but here are a few snap shots in the mean time!
It was my first time running workshops, so I decided to jump right in the deep end and do one each day! so much fun they were too, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and even signed my giant cow card at the end with such lovely feedback. One little girl decided she wanted to keep Henry the horse and write a story about him! It was so nice seeing peoples faces light up with excitement once they had created there final pieces :o)
I did not get loads of pics , but met some lovely people in the incubator area. Here are a few pics of surrounding stands.
My lovely neighbors Michelle of Shelbyville and Tara of Dudley Redhead, opposite the lovely Pauline and her husband Dave of Funky Friends Factory (thats not dave btw :o)
Claire of Craft Schmaft – with cute owls and monsters made out of socks, it was also nice to put a face to the name behind Dear Fii (Fiona) and Justine of Mix Tape zine. Yum, those ice cream's looked delicious!

So that just about wraps it up. But before I sign off I wanted to share with you what I treated myself with.
An Ezy Carve Rubber Printing Block and some stamps from Dudley Redhead – I have not carved into it yet, I'm still deciding on a design…. and... I could not resist - look it’s Mia the cutest little Wonky from Juicy Roo! She is so me!:o)

So that is me...over and out :o) x x

I feel like a little kid just before christmas!

2009-08-12T14:52:00.010+10:00

There is only 1 week until The Stitches & Craft Show - Sydney which is very exciting. I hope everyone who is around and up for some fabulous indie crafting! will come along and say hi and absorb themselves in some inspiring creativity! The Incubator section (is where we will be at - stand 197) it is situated on Level 4. Also don't forget the craft lab workshops

I feel like a little kid just before christmas! I'm getting all excited already, to find new bits'n'peices, meet new friends and to think I will be surrounded by other amasing talented crafters and designers - the creative vibe is going to be awesomely addictive!

see you all there x x Sheryl

....and the lucky winner is.....

2009-08-11T22:26:00.001+10:00

the lucky winner of the Stitches and Craft show tickets is Toni Rijlaarsdam. Congratulations and happy crafting Toni! Hope you enjoy the show and get all inspired! Come by say hi! x x Sheryl

Smile and the world smiles with you!

2009-08-06T14:35:00.007+10:00

I've just created a twospoonfulsofsugar facebook page, so that we can share the things in our life that make us smile. Share something nice someone has done for you...or what lil thing makes that smile appear on your face.
Please become a fan of the page and share with your friends!

It's all about sharing a smile you know!

Win 2x tickets to the Sydney Stitches and Craft show or 2 places in the Twospoonfulsofsugar craft labs

2009-07-29T18:22:00.012+10:00

We have 2 x tickets to the Sydney Stitches and Craft show and 2 places in the twospoonfulsofsugar craft labs to give away. Valued at $50

To be in the draw send us an email before the 7th August 09 and tell us, which tickets you would like to win and in 40 words or less what makes a smile spread across your face! Along with your full name, age, address and phone number.

The winner will be notified by email or phone on the 8th August 09 also announced here on our blog. Tickets will be posted out the following week. So you have them in plenty of time before the show!

Whats New at Living Creatively..its Fritz!

2009-07-20T21:44:00.005+10:00

Wahooo! Fritz is featured in Living Creatively - Whats New pages!

Smile Yourself Silly

2009-07-17T03:31:00.011+10:00

I've just been twittered these awesome reasons to smile. Thanks Patrick for the smiles! I wanted to share some below.... also view the rest of Patricks "smile" collection here.

"Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing." - Mother Teresa

Smiling Is A Successful Tool
Smiling is a tool you can use at any time, because: the most powerful single thing you can do to influence others is to smile at them!

Smiling Is Contagious
When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things happier. A smiling person brings happiness with them. Smile lots and you will draw people to you!

Smiling Changes Our Mood

Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There's a good chance your mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood!

Nibbles is the first Sheep to jump over the fence!

2009-07-11T17:18:00.001+10:00

A very exciting press check this week. As Twospoonfulsofsugar's newest character Nibbles the sheep was getting printed! I have just today been making her up just to see if she is good enough to share with you all. Here is the very first one!

So this is her! She looks a little cheeky as she likes to nibble on things she's not meant too! How can you resist those green eyes and those big eye lashes! The butterflies sure like her, so she must be sweet! What do you think?

Nibbles the sheep (make-me craft kit) will be launched at the Sydney Stitches and Craft show in Rosehill! I will be doing a daily demonstrations on how to make her at the show! But for now I just wanted to give you a sneak peak! x x

We are running Craft lab (workshops) at the Stitches and Craft show

2009-07-11T16:47:00.010+10:00

Twospoonfulsofsugar is running daily craft lab (workshops) at the Sydney Stitches and Craft Show! See below for our craft lab information, also click here to see the other workshops on offer!

Furry Cows, Fluffy horses & Woolly cats – Make a furry animal greeting card
Presented by Sheryl of Twospoonfulsofsugar
$15 / 1hr
Book at Stand 197 (Incubator section)
Beginner - Advanced (children 5 years+)

Cut, paste and glue your imagination to a fun and funny handmade ‘by you’ greeting card. Choose your own animal design from one of Twospoonfulsofsugar’s three all included make-me kits. Class suitable for all ages.

Craft Lab 3- Thursday 11.00am - 20th August
Craft Lab 4- Friday 12.15pm - 21st August
Craft Lab 4- Saturday 11.00am - 22nd August
Craft Lab 3- Sunday 11.00am - 23rd August

Baa Baa (HINT)

2009-07-04T12:53:00.007+10:00

With only 6 weeks to go until the Stitches & Craft Show I'm working hard making up kits and cards. And so excited our "new character" finally after all this time goes to print next week! Don't forget to come and visit us at the show!

A smile is your friend

2009-07-04T12:21:00.004+10:00

I have to share this with you, last night I was invited to a gig with my friend! Never heard of the artist before, But I'm always up for something new and inspiring!
WOW I am so glad I did go, I discovered a new favourite to add to my music collection KIKO, I'm having trouble thinking of words to describe. I'm no muso! But definatly worth seeing. On their website it says "Raw, rare and full of flavour, Kiko enchants you with a sound that is remembered in your body and registered in your soul." Explains it really! Lovin her newest song - A smile is your friend! Well worth it!

Smile and the world smiles with you!

2009-06-27T18:30:00.000+10:00

Carried away exploring!

2009-06-27T18:01:00.005+10:00

As much as I love designing fun and funky things I SO appreciate talented designers, crafters and artists...After a morning filled with cutting up meters of faux fur for my make me kits for the Stitches and Craft Show.

This afternoon a I got a wee bit side tracked from the prep, and immersed myself in inspiration.... I just kept finding new and exciting blogs of some funky, cute and "smiley" stuff, where has the afternoon gone! There are some VERY talented individuals out there!
Check out the jarsofcute blog! So Cute! endemicworld some nice design at dirtymouse and we all love madeit!

Visit Twospoonfulsofsugar at the Sydney Stitches & Craft Show

2009-06-18T16:27:00.005+10:00

I'm pretty excited to report that Twospoonfulsofsugar has been invited to exhibit at the Sydney Stitches & Craft Show in the new "Incubator section" this year! Scary but so exciting at the same time....The last two days I've been madly creating my to do lists in preparation for August and can't wait to "hopefully" launch some new and exciting make-me kits. I'll be posting news about my preparations and special show promotions in the weeks to come... I hope to see some of you there! Its defiantly going to be a show not to miss for all us indie crafters out there!

Thoughtful treats for Mum this mothers day - that dont cost lots!

2009-05-05T20:30:00.009+10:00

Our aim is to make mums day special and we can do this by being really thoughtful, caring and making her day as relaxed and enjoyable as possible...it doesn't need to cost lots...Here are a few things that I've found make my mum smile...Maybe they'll make your mum smile too!
Give her Flowers - Pick your own flowers out of the garden and then arrange them in one of mums nice vases or find some flowers that are in season (they are always cheaper to buy if they are in season!) Flowers that are in season at the moment (NSW, Australia): Tulip, hyacinth, daisy, daffodil, camellia, azalea, sweet pea, rhododendron, jasmine, flannel flower, magnolia, lilac, lily-of-the-valley, primrose, mimosa, jasmine, buttercup, marigold, lavender, lilac, Cornflower, forget-me-not, bluebell.... just to name a few!

Make her breakfast in bed or morning tea - and put one of the flowers you picked through the handle of her cup!

Offer to help her out around the house or clean her car

Go for a walk together - in the park or at the beach

Paint her a picture

Make her a "handmade by you" card! - Write some nice words inside about why you love her...She will treasure it forever....and she'll love it a million times more because its made by you! I promise.

What ever you do - make her smile. X x Sheryl

Dont forget to Vote!

2009-04-28T18:45:00.004+10:00

Hey all you lovely fans! Only a few more days before the voting lines close - for the decision of the new collection characters! You'll see the voting panel " on the right side panel". Cast your votes!

We are the National Newsagent magazines favourite

2009-04-26T20:05:00.006+10:00

The lovely lady's @ National Newsagent Magazine were adoring our "share smile" vibe and of course our products at the Reed gift fair in February so much so they picked Twospoonfulsfosugar as one of there favourite gifts from over 700 exhibitors at the fair! Thanks ladies!

Share smiles fun fact!

2009-04-17T21:58:00.002+10:00

YELLOW TULIPS symbolise - There's Sunshine in Your Smile

Bunnies make everything better.

2009-04-09T11:49:00.008+10:00

I wanted to share this cute little guy with you all.... Isn't he the cutest! Look at that little sniffa going!

Our new character "Snifta" the bunny is in the making I will be sharing him with you all very soon -I really wanted him out before Easter - due to an overload of orders he has not been officially born yet (that's no excuse though is it...whoops!)....I will be having a vote on his final design, so please keep checking this blog for updates.

Wishing you all a lovely happy Easter! Smiles and love from the farmyard characters and me x x

I couldn't resist a furry bunny hug

2009-04-07T12:57:00.009+10:00

I couldn't resist a furry hug from an Easter bunny :o)
Twospoonfulsofsugar was in St Ives showgrounds, NSW at the Heritage Craft fair on Sunday with our cards and make-me kits...A giant Easter bunny was jumping around with a bag of chocy Easter eggs....We donated a bucket for those eggs to go into. Yes he was liking my piggy pants, but I think he defiantly won the dressing up part.

use your outdoor inspirations to create stuff!

2009-04-05T21:06:00.004+10:00

expression - utilise how you are as a person!

2009-03-26T10:53:00.010+11:00

an inspiring older video by David Carson - full of humor and describes how the emotional response is the key to his designs and what inspires him! ( he always makes me smile) I have followed dc's work for many years - A great mentor.

Make-me a horse!

2009-03-22T17:19:00.005+11:00

Hi! It's Josie.
Remember I'm the little girl who bought the make a card the horse today! I have made it already! It looks good! Thankyou for making these kits for us to make.

Josie xxx ooo
P.s. I don't know how to send pictures!

twospoonfulsofsugar workshop

2009-03-03T00:11:00.005+11:00

Coming! Keep an eye out for the twospoonfulsofsugar workshops at the Sydney Stitches and Craft Show in August.

The "twospoonfulsofsugar" smiles are spreading

2009-03-02T23:39:00.009+11:00

A huge thank you to all my wonderful little helpers...and all your wonderful support, help, "expertise", skill-saw, sander, pizza, printer, last minute "laminating".....the list goes on!
The response from the Sydney, Reed gift fair was absolutely amasing.
The "twospoonfulsofsugar" smiles are spreading. Check out our stockists page to find the closest retailer near you.

udderly hilarious! keep them coming!

2009-02-18T18:53:00.007+11:00

thanks everyone for spending the time to send in the funny quotes you have written in your cards! i've had many giggles reading them.....they are all purrrrrfect! glad your sharing the smiles around! keep them coming in!

email to smiles@twospoonfulsofsugar.com

looking for something cute and unique?

2009-02-14T18:47:00.002+11:00

you'll find us at the paddington arts markets every second saturday.... we are usually moved around - this is what we look like! our cheery smiles are very hard to miss :o)

smile for you

2009-01-18T18:19:00.015+11:00

smiling is infectious; you catch it like the flu,
when someone smiled at me today, i started smiling too.
i passed around the corner and someone saw my grin
when he smiled i realised i'd passed it on to him.
i thought about that smile then i realised its worth,
a single smile, just like mine could travel round the earth.
so, if you feel a smile begin, don't leave it undetected
let's start and epidemic quick, and get the world infected!
everyone needs a smile!!! (anonymous author)

what inspires you?

2009-01-12T13:30:00.002+11:00

animals, nature, conversation, traveling, music, art, photography, design books/magazines, yoga, and websites like these;
www.deviantart.com
www.springwise.com
www.designspongeonline.com
www.thedieline.com
www.thecoolhunter.com.au
www.tokyocube.com
www.urbandictionary.com
www.lyrics.com
www.dumbofeather.com
www.livingcreatively.com.au
www.etsy.com
www.thedesignfiles.net
... to name just a few (lol - i could get real carried away here as i love crafting and design and adore hearing/reading about others passions and inspirations). my inspirations trigger ideas or send my thoughts off on adventurous journeys :)

success stories - business mentoring

2009-01-11T18:36:00.003+11:00

cute furry little fullas

2009-01-09T18:46:00.010+11:00

"last saturday at paddington markets we had two furry little fullas (baby guinea pigs) stop by for a visit. they took centre stage on our stall and surprised customers and passers by! they fitted in just nicely in our little pens and farmyard. don't they look so cute!"

say yes ...

2009-01-09T13:05:00.007+11:00

Yes is positive, it is can-do. It's the word you haul from your quiver when you want to take on the world with a smile. Saying 'yes' when you would usually say 'no' means rising above routine. It widens your experience. It's like opening a door ... and finding more doors behind it. Saying 'yes' changes the way you see the world and the way the world sees you. Smile and the world smiles back. When you change your mind, you change your experience. The same is true in reverse, and it applies not just to you and I, but to whole societies. Maybe saying 'yes' more often will help us believe it ... and take those small detours.

it was really really fun!

2008-12-30T13:00:00.002+11:00

gingerbread christmas tree

2008-12-25T05:00:00.004+11:00

I found an article on how to make these cute gingerbread christmas tree's from the notebook magazine. Something different for christmas day i thought! Not a traditional New Zealand theme anyway. So I decided to get crafting in the kitchen instead. Im not usually one for the kitchen, but thought i would share my attempt with you, here are the 2 trees I made for my friends and family to eat on christmas day! They were demolished, lol, really they were, everyone loved them! - I did too, heehee!

cherry merry christmas

2008-12-24T08:13:00.001+11:00

yahoooOOOoooo success!

2008-12-10T06:11:00.006+11:00

come visit us at the Urban Oasis stand 6010. Urban Oasis supports up and coming designers within the giftware industry - Twospoonfulsofsugar will be showcasing our products for the very first time at the Sydney (international) Reed Gift Fair, 21-24 February 09 - Sydney’s largest gift industry trade show.

did you say dress-up this christmas?

2008-12-09T08:21:00.002+11:00

Instead of Santa and Raindeers this year the ho! ho! ho! and jingling-jingle bells are coming from in-between the onik, onik, onik! and the meow, meow, meow's!
you'll never believe it - the farmyard decided to dress-up this christmas as you can see! Santa hats, antlers and Christmas decorations galore...

Christmas (limited additions) cards and kits are available to purchase, directly from Twospoonfulsofsugar via email: order@twospoonfulsofsugar.com or at the Paddington Arts Markets on oxford street every Saturday in Sydney, Australia.

Just choose your favourite animal and choose to add-on a santa hat or antler (its just that easy!)

Featured article in the ABN herBusiness News magazine

2008-12-03T10:23:00.001+11:00

"The more I step out of my comfort zone the more success I experience in myself and business."

Onik, Onik!

2008-12-02T10:38:00.001+11:00

The twospoonfulsofsugar team all kitted out in fluffy pink pig pants with pig tails. Inspiring smiles and laughs, at the Glebe street festival in November! Mission Accomplished! Defiantly got the attention they deserved! A great day, had all round!

the new guys

2008-10-13T05:05:00.001+11:00

night after night, the lights were burning bright.
strange noises were coming from within the farmshed.

the gate swung open yesterday and who came out wagging his tail?
... It was Fritz the doggy, followed by Nellie the horse with Mr Kola the koala on her back and Dauwng! ( doing!, doing!, doing! ) the kangaroo.

natures beauty! inspirational!

2008-10-12T13:39:00.001+11:00

made my dial smile
"amasing image sent to me via a friend from a friend....

looking like giant leaves floating in the sea, thousands of golden rays are seen here gathering off the coast of mexico. The spectacular scene was captured as the magnificent creatures made one of their biannual mass migrations to more agreeable waters. gliding silently beneath the waves, they turned vast areas of blue water to gold off the northern tip of the yucatan peninsula. Sandra Critelli, an amateur photographer, stumbled across the phenomenon.she said: 'It was an unreal image, very difficult to describe. the surface of the water was covered by warm and different shades of gold, and looked like a bed of autumn leaves gently moved by the wind.

what's a make me kit?

2008-10-10T11:30:00.002+11:00

Smiles were defiantly being shared on the 2nd of august 08 when twospoonfulsofsugar's make me kits went on sale.
make-me greeting card kits. share the joy of making, sending and receiving handmade gifts. allows kids of ages 5+ ( big kids or little kids) to be creative by gluing, cutting and accessorising with a range of textures, pictures and fur to make their very own greeting card from our farmyard animal range, which includes a: cow, duck, frog, cat, piggie, horse, dog, kangaroo and a koala.
fun facts about a make me kit:

there is a spot on the back of your animal
to write your name saying "I made this"
you can name your own animal
all kits come with a easy to follow - illustrated instruction manual
all you need extra is a smile, some glue and scissors.

its all about sharing a smile.

2008-10-09T07:30:00.001+11:00

hi everyone!
welcome to the official twospoonfulsofsugar blog. our aim is to share smiles with you all and hear about what makes your grins come out and shine.

firstly, I would like to share a pic of twospoonfulsofsugar's first appearance at the rose street markets in melbourne last weekend. was a great business "shopping" weekend and managed to sprinkle loads of our cheery furry smiles around!