Corinne Phillips

Catching my Breath

2011-04-06T18:10:00.002+01:00

My stand at BCTF

So the "Big Weekend" started on 2nd April at British Craft Trade Fair in Harrogate. My dear friend Valleri kindly agreed to come with me and help. We left Worcester at around 8.30 a.m. on Saturday and arrived at the Great Yorkshire Showground at around 11.30 ish. We decided not to stop for lunch but to pop into Betty's in Harrogate for afternoon tea as a treat after we had set up - just to be sociable obviously!

We found my stand really easily - N33 (it will be always etched on my heart!) - and proceeded to set up. I was in the Newcomer's Gallery and everyone was very busy setting up wonderful displays but I was quite pleased with my stand. I had wanted to be completely creative but in the end I was limited to what furniture I could fit into Chris's Maestro Estate so I just concentrated on practicality!

Betty's was fabulous by the way - although we had to queue and service was, well let's call it "leisurely" - which meant that by the time we had finished we had half an hour to shop! I am still wondering if my dear hubby called ahead and asked them to stall us! Anyway, it may have been a good thing because I still managed to spend rather a lot in such a short space of time - mostly presents for the kids from Jack Wills! We did pop into Paperchase too which was fabulous. I do love Paperchase.

The Show was fantastic and we met lots of really lovely people amongst whom are Della Clark, a jeweller from Lancashire, specialising in silver jewellery, who was so funny; Kelly McRobie, a textiles designer from Leicester, whose scarves were to die for and Stephanie Earl, a ceramicist and generally lovely girl whose work is so gorgeous you must take a look. It was also great to meet so many lovely visitors who made such lovely comments about my work.

Anyway I should be working on some more stuff for the Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury on Saturday but I thought I would just update you on things. Must dash!

Maude, Virginia and Hyacinth

2011-03-20T17:36:00.000Z

I have been so busy getting ready for the British Craft Trade Fair at Harrogate that I realise I have neglected my blog. So I may be writing this to myself as you will all have left me (and I have no-one but myself to blame!)

Anyway for anyone who is out there I thought I would introduce you to three of my new fairies. Meet (from left to right) Maude, Virginia and Hyacinth. Here they sit on gorgeous vintage tins. I am really pleased with them. They will travel with me up to Harrogate and then be available to purchase at the Spring Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury on 9th April.

I am just working on some lovely silk brooches which I hope will be ready to bring along to V&H and more framed fairies are getting their passports in order so that they won't be left out!

So BCTF is in TWO WEEKS! And I am getting really nervous - excited but scared. Once I have set up I am sure I will be fine. It's just remembering everything!! My brain is well and truly scrambled! My dear friend Valleri has agreed to come along and help which is brilliant. (Thanks Valleri)

Another dear friend, Gilly Mound, has a gorgeous exhibition on at Blue-Ginger Gallery, Nr Cradley, Herefordshire. Check out her website www.gillymound.co.uk. They also have a small selection of my clocks there too.

Anyway, nice to be back! Will try not to leave it as long next time!

Crafts Magazine March/April 2011

2011-02-23T13:51:00.000Z

Look out for my advertisement in the March/April issue of Crafts Magazine which should be out at the end of this month.

Competition Winners!

2010-12-27T18:04:00.000Z

Just a quick note to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who signed up for my mailing list over the last few
weeks! It's great to have so many of you on board!

There have been so many of you that I have decided to pick TWO LUCKY WINNERS at random. They are Betty and Claire. So CONGRATULATIONS you two!! I will email you shortly to ask for your postal addresses and then send your Fairy Calendar off as soon as possible.

Have a great NEW YEAR everyone! and I'll be back soon!

Thermals at the Ready!!

2010-12-08T16:51:00.000Z

The girls and I are getting ready for our last two Craft Fairs of 2010. These take place in the centre of Hereford this weekend - Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th December. Thermals are at the ready to protect us all from Jack Frost!! Apparently there will be an ice rink there too! (An official one that is!) I've checked the weather forecast and Saturday says it will be a balmy 7 degrees!!

It's been really great meeting so many of you "in the flesh" over the last few weeks and I must say thank you to my helpers, Nicky and, of course Evie. Please do come along and say Hello if you possibly can over the weekend. Plus it's a great chance to buy something completely different for your Christmas pressies.

Plus don't forget to sign up to my mailing list to be in with a chance of winning a fabulous Fairy Calendar!

Cheerio! x

FABULOUS COMPETITION!!

2010-12-05T10:54:00.002Z

My Fairies of Much Pottering calendars have been a roaring success and before I sell out completely I thought I would give you a chance to win one of your own.

All you have to do for your chance to win one (worth £14.50) just visit my website - www.corinnephillips.co.uk and add your name to my mailing list before 25th December

All names - including you lucky folk who already receive my newsletter! - will be put in a hat on Christmas Day and the winner will be notified by email and via this blog!

Thank you and Good Luck!

Didn't we have a luverly time the day we went to ....

2010-11-30T19:19:00.000Z

My stall

Guardian Angel in waiting!

Stallholders all ready and waiting!

Clocks, fairies, cards and sketch books

Just add customers!

... Chipping Sodbury! Evie and I had a very busy weekend last weekend. On Saturday we were back at The Guildhall in Bath. I managed to find some brilliant collapsible shelves at the local flea market the previous week which meant I could put loads more stock on show. So we met some lovely people in Bath and after we had packed up we went mooching around the Bath Christmas Markets which was lovely. We had pancakes - maple syrup for me and chocolate for Evie - at one stall and bought some fantastic cheese - which was supposed to be for Christmas Day but I don't think it will make it until then!

Then it was off to a lovely little pub in Ford called The White Hart where it was great to have a hot meal cooked for us and then we tumbled into our Four Poster Bed !! and watched X-Factor! And because we had to leave so early they even made us bacon sarnies to take with us - now that's what I call service.

So Sunday dawned and, with bacon sarnies in hand we made our way to The Vintage and Handmade Christmas Fair. What an absolute treat! The atmosphere was brilliant and it was so lovely to see blogging friends in person! I met Donna from The Fabric of my Life, had a good catch up with Viv from Hen's Teeth and Katie from Textile Treasure Seeker and Lizzie from The Washerwoman. And of course Michele and Jayne who worked so hard to organise it all. Thank you both.

It's made me realise that I must get back to blogging on a regular basis. Yes, ... I know you've heard it all before! And before you say it I know I'm a hopeless case!

It was also good meeting all the lovely people who came to support the event. Thank you all for all your lovely comments and feedback.

PANIC!!

2010-11-25T17:11:00.000Z

Can you believe it - all geared up for working towards my Craft Fairs this weekend and they're going to switch our electricity off ALL DAY tomorrow to do tree cutting! Talk about timing! Aaaargh! x

BIG WEEKEND AHEAD!!

2010-11-24T17:03:00.000Z

Me hiding behind my stall at Bourton-on-the-Water!

I am just about to go into my studio to make more scrumptious goodies to put on my stalls this weekend but I thought I would just drop you a quick email to remind you that there are some fab events on this weekend.

Firstly, to coincide with the Bath Christmas Markets, I will be at The Guildhall in Bath on the next two Saturdays - 27th November and 4th December. The Guildhall is right by the Abbey so if you are attending the Christmas Markets and want a bit of a thaw out please do pop in and say Hello!

And secondly I will be at The Vintage and Handmade Fair at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall from 10 - 4 p.m Sunday 28th November. Just click on the link to go to their blog which has a full list of very talented exhibitors. This will be my first time as a stall holder at The V&H but I have been on many occasions as a customer and I can assure you it is well worth a visit.

My daughter, Evie, will be helping me on the stalls and we are having a girly sleepover on the Saturday night which we are both looking forward to. I think Evie has packed the "Bop It" already - although I'm hoping Twister gets left behind!!

As always, it would be great to see you!

Fairy Calendar - NOW AVAILABLE!

2010-11-08T13:01:00.001Z

It was great to see so many of you in Bath this weekend. Thank you for coming along to say "Hello!"

I have now managed to get my act together enough to produce a gorgeous Calendar celebrating the Fairies of Much Pottering. This is available either direct from me at my Craft fairs or by clicking the link below:

http://www.lulu.com/content/legacy-lulustudio-calendar/fairy-calendar/9521743

This is beautifully produced and features a different fairy for each month. It makes a lovely gift - either for a friend or why not treat yourself?!

My next Craft Fair will be at Bourton-on-the-Water on Saturday 20th November, and then back to The Guildhall, Bath, for Saturday 27th November and Saturday 4th December. Oh - and don't forget the Vintage and Handmade Fair at Chipping Sodbury on Sunday 28th November.

Have a fabulous day!

Christmas Approach-eth

2010-11-02T17:45:00.000Z

It has been SOOOOOO very long since I posted an entry on my blog. There are even new buttons I can use that I know nothing about!! - Alright so I didn't know many buttons before!

Anyway I just wanted to say that, if any of you happen upon this blog in the coming weeks - I am in Craft Market Mode - I will be at the following Craft Markets as listed and would love to have a few old friends pop by to say Hello! Even though I am a hopeless blogger!!

6 Nov - The Brunswick Room, The Guildhall, Bath - THIS SATURDAY!! (so not panicking at all!)

20 Nov - Contemporary Craft Market,Victoria Hall, Bourton-on-the-Water

27 Nov - The Brunswick Room, The Guildhall, Bath

28 Nov - Vintage and Handmade Fair, Chipping Sodbury Village Hall

4 Dec - The Brunswick Room The Guildhall, Bath

11 Dec - Hereford Contemporary Craft Market, Hereford Town Centre
12 Dec - Hereford Contemporary Craft Market, Hereford Town Centre

My work is also available at blue-ginger Gallery, Cradley, Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 5NW
and Fisherton Mill Gallery, 108 Fisherton Street,Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7QY and on
exhibition from 13 Nov - 24 Dec at the Gifted Exhibition, Newcastle-under-Lyme Museum and Art Gallery

I have been working very hard making some gorgeous pieces and it would be great to see you if you are in the area.
Please do come along and say "Hello!"

Here come the Girls!

2010-05-28T18:29:00.000+01:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I have posted an entry on my blog. Where does the time go? Well I'll tell you what I've been doing and then maybe you'll forgive me!! ...

Here are some of my girls waiting for their wings. They get very chatty when they are together and love to gossip. After they have wings they will be framed - so that's tomorrow's job!

I have also been working hard on my new silk clocks. This is a picture of some of them. The small ones were still waiting for hands in this picture but they are finished now. Am just waiting for another sunny day so that I can photograph the finished article - it's been a bit on the cloudy side here today.

Both the fairies and the clocks will be at art-upfront's next exhibition

at Blue-Ginger Gallery in Cradley, Herefordshire from 1st July.

I am just gearing up now for all the Craft Fairs I have booked for the end of the year. I think I will be all fairy-ed and clock-ed out by the time they come round! But it is exciting thinking what I want to put out for sale although I do get quite nervous just beforehand!

Chris and I are doing a Flea Market on Monday - our first one as sellers! Evie is having a friend to help her as she has decided to sell her perfume bottle collection :-( So we have to price and parcel everything up this weekend. Wish us luck!

Anyway, I think I ought to go and feed my children! Would love to hear from you.

Have a great Bank Holiday!

Procrastination!

2010-04-20T09:01:00.000+01:00

OK so I'll own up - I'm supposed to be in my workroom completing a commission for which the deadline is Friday! Yes - this Friday - and I am out all day with my Art Group Art-upfront on Wednesday and at work all day Thursday. So this is my only day and what am I doing? Updating my blog! I only came on to book my mum's birthday present - (two tickets to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre to see The Winter's Tale) and then decided that my blog was in need of a new post. Which, to be honest, it is - where does the time go?
Anyway - the pic is of my cat, Archie.

Sorry Archie - Have we woken you up? He's gorgeous. I love how cats have their own little routines don't you? I wonder if they ever procrastinate?

So, whilst I'm here I may as well introduce you to my dog as well ...

Lulu

She is lovely. She is a cross between a black labrador and a border collie - and she is fab. Actually she needs a walk - no- honestly she hasn't been yet - it's not procrastinating! I can get on as soon as we get back. Why do I do this? Anyone else have this problem?
My most favourite thing is to be in my workroom, creating and all the buzz of ideas that goes on and I find it difficult to drag myself away - but to actually get in through the door - and then to actually START WORK... I find it so hard. And the computer just seems to eat up time doesn't it? You just think you'll check your emails and the next thing you know an hour or two has disappeared! Or is it just me?
Well I'll say Cheerio and get down to it. No more excuses! Honest! (Now where's that lead? ...)

April Fool!

2010-04-01T09:56:00.000+01:00

Meet April! She is a miniature fairy - about 4" from head to toe and she will adorn the cover of my latest work in progress - a fabric book!

The pages are made from silk noil which I have tea dyed and I have free machine embroidered the words. I will add found objects and other embellishments on to the pages. The only problem is assembling the thing afterwards. Originally I had thought I would just put the pages right sides together and then turn inside out but I don't think I will be able to do that if I have the found objects attached. So I will have to have a bit of a think on that one.

I wanted this page to signify the night time and so I used dark navy silk dupion and I have to say I am really pleased with the result. Although I don't think my photograph does it justice!

Aladdin's Cave

2010-03-22T19:27:00.000Z

The other day my hubby, youngest daughter and I went over to Mum and Dad's to help them sort out the attic. A lot of the time my inspiration for my work comes from my childhood and I had asked Mum previously if we had still got my Ladybird books but she said she thought she had taken them to school - she was a primary school teacher. So imagine my absolute JOY when this rusty old tin trunk came out of the attic and we opened up to find ....

All of my Ladybird books! Plus Thomas the Tank Engine and Beatrix Potter.

We didn't find my favourite Thomas the Tank story which was the one where Thomas got stuck in the snow but we've only done half of the attic so you never know!

Unfortunately I ripped the picture on the cover of Samuel Whiskers because he scared me so much - plus he deserved it for treating the little kitten so cruelly!

It was a great day - and it was great to relive childhood memories.

What do you remember reading when you were a child?

Exciting News!

2010-03-11T20:25:00.000Z

I have been working on a new project over the last few weeks and wanted to share it with you.

Just visit http://www.thefairytalemaker.com/ and http://www.thefairytalemaker.blogspot.com/ to have a look.

It would be great to hear what you think.

Results Just In!!

2010-03-08T09:06:00.001Z

What a busy week I've had. I've only just got round to doing the Prize Draw.

Thanks to all of you lovely people who signed up for my mailing list recently. There was a fantastic response but, as they say on Ant and Dec's Push the Button - and indeed all quality quiz shows!! there can only be

three winners - OK so they normally say one - but I am no cheapskate!!

The Fairies have chosen the three lucky winners who are:

Jayne , Maria Paula and Suzie.

They win a set of three fairy brooches worth £15!

Thanks again to everyone who joined - and keep checking back

- Exciting things are afoot!!!

Caught someone's fancy!!

2010-03-01T12:49:00.000Z

Looks like someone's taken a bit of a shine to my new purchase!!

Competition Ends 1st March!

2010-02-28T18:18:00.000Z

I thought I would share some of my latest Flea Market finds with you.

This delightful child's sewing machine is so cute. The box has seen better days but

I just couldn't walk past it.

These are some gorgeous tins that I will use in my work at some stage.

I love the old text and graphics.

And here are a few other bits. Sorry it's not a brilliant photo.

The little bird is actually one of two that belonged to mum and dad.

There was a green one as well and they were on the Christmas tree lights.

We found this one whilst sorting out the attic.

The little shoes - well I fell in love with them but I have absolutely no idea what

I will use them for - perhaps I was just feeling a little nostalgic. My lot are growing up

so fast now. Ruby is 14 on Tuesday! I can't believe it.

Thanks for all your supportive comments about the talk by the way!

It went well - I was nervous to start with but then got into the flow and actually quite enjoyed myself.

I'm glad it's over though!

The competition to win a set of Fairy Brooches ends tomorrow! So you don't have long to

the names will go into a "hat" and 3 lucky winners will receive a set worth £15 each!!

Good Luck!

Knocking Knees!

2010-02-24T14:53:00.000Z

My hubby and I actually managed to get away for a night WITHOUT KIDS over half term. We travelled down to Bath for the day and stayed in this pretty little pub called The White Hart at Ford which is about 30 minutes north of Bath.

Sorry about the quality of the photographs. It was very dark but I am a sucker for twinkly lights!

Whilst in Bath we came across this clothes store which had its window displays

absolutely packed full of vintage sewing machines.

There must have been at least 200! They looked stunning.

Everyone was taking photographs. Sorry about the reflections

but hopefully you get the idea!

Anyway the reason for the title to this post is that tonight I am due to give

a talk about my textiles/mixed media work!!! I haven't done this for at least

2 years and am getting a little nervous!

I am supposed to talk for an hour - which some of my friends will say would be

easy for me! - but I've tried and tried and it keeps coming out at 30 minutes.

Even when I try and pad it out it's still 30 minutes.

I'll just have to open the floor to questions and hope for the best.

Wish me luck!

Oh and by the way - don't forget to sign up to my mailing list to be

in with a chance of winning a set of 3 lovely fairy brooches.

Winners will be drawn on 1st March.

Competition Time!

2010-01-26T11:38:00.001Z

I thought it was about time I ran another little competition! So here goes ...

Everyone who signs up to my mailing list/newsletter on my website

www.corinnephillips.co.uk will be entered in a free prize draw to

win a set of Fairy Brooches worth £15!

The Closing Date is 1st March 2010 and there are three sets up for grabs.

Good Luck xx

Meeting up with Old Friends!

2010-01-20T19:54:00.000Z

What a joy it is to meet up with Old Friends! It was Up-Front's first Play Day since before Christmas. The snow had meant that it had been postponed - and more snow threatened to stop us today - but the Up-Front girls are made of stronger stuff! Only Gilly Mound was unable to make it - and just in case any of us thought she was making it up she sent us this:

Not that we are a mean bunch you understand -but she was so looking forward to it and

then was thwarted at the last minute!

But, back to the Play Day, - much cake and tea was had by all - we didn't actually DO much today - just catch up on things and generally enjoy ourselves - What more can you ask for!

Not more snow!

2010-01-13T08:44:00.000Z

Well, true to my word, I have taken pictures and am posting again.

Although - don't get used to daily posts - let me tell you it

ain't gonna happen! But everything did look gorgeous this morning

I thought it would be a good opportunity to share it with you.

This is the view from our front window this morning. Doesn't it look pretty?

Chris is having to clear the drive AGAIN! Just when I thought it was safe(r) to go out!

The school is closed once more. The children have only been at school

for 2 and a half days since they broke up for Christmas.

And, don't get me wrong, I love them and everything but I was looking

forward to a day at home on my own!!

And this is the view from the back window.

This is Evie's writing studio! Her ambition is to be an

author when she gets older (She was 12 at Christmas!)

It reminds me of Dylan Thomas's shed in Laugherne -

so you never know she may follow in his footsteps!

Not that I'm a pushy mother or anything you understand.

So what am I going to do today? I was going to create

in my workroom but now I have three children around me

I doubt I'll get much chance.

Up-Front were due to meet and have our first Play Day of

the year but, luckily we postponed it until next week.

I can't wait to see everyone. It seems such a long time!

It'll probably be a bit of a "pottering" day but I may get

chance to watch one of those Doris Day DVDs I had for

Christmas! Yummy!

Enjoy!

New Year's Resolution?

2010-01-12T13:51:00.001Z

This is Edie and she has just given me a right royal talking to and told me that this year I must post to my blog more regularly!! And, therefore, (I hesitate to put this in writing) I aim to do just that! I must also remember to take my camera everywhere!! I could often post an entry but find that my lack of images lets me down!!

Anyway, onward and upward - I am reading a fabulous book at the moment called "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society"by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Burrows. It is a collection of letters sent just after the end of the Nazi occupation of Guernsey in World War II. It really is delightful and I would heartily recommend it to you. It really takes you back to the glorious days of letter writing! and waiting for the Postman to arrive.

I have just finished and sent off new Fairy Wings which will be on exhibition at Leeds Design and Craft Gallery until the end of April - so if any of you are in that part of the country please do see if you can pay them a visit - they are a long way from home and, although they have been briefed to be on their best behaviour, they may get a little homesick!!

Hereford - 12th December

2009-12-14T19:20:00.001Z

I would just like to share with you the images of my Craft Stall last Saturday.

I had a really lovely day. My daughter, Evie, asked if she could come and

help. I was really unsure as I thought she would become bored in the cold, etc

but, bless her, she was a real asset. I sent her for countless cups of tea and chocolate -

essential I'm sure you'll agree! and she really enjoyed it too. So now I have a

little buddy to help me.

I was really pleased with how the stall looked - so Christmassy - and it was

great to meet SO many lovely people. If you managed to come along do please

drop me a line or post a comment. I'd love to hear from you.

Anyway, this will probably be the last post before Christmas. I now have to

catch up with all the shopping and housework (ugh!) that I avoided in the

run up to the Fair. So I will wish all you lovely people a

Very Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year!

Argh!!!

2009-12-07T12:57:00.000Z

This is just a VERY QUICK post because I am frantically making stuff for my Craft Fair in Hereford Market Square on Saturday 12th December!

If you can pop along please do - it's always a good visit with lots of goodies to tempt you for Christmas!

Sorry this is so rushed - why is it that I always leave things until the last minute!!

Oh I do like to be beside the sea side!

2009-11-10T12:29:00.000Z

At Half Term Evie and myself went up to Great Yarmouth for a complete girly chill out with my dear friend Kate and her daughter Imogen. It was fabulous to visit Cromer pier and be transported to the seaside holidays of my own childhood.

We had really good weather, even though the forecast was terrible.

And I always think fish 'n' chips taste much better when you eat them outside

in newspaper! Mmm my mouth is watering even as I write (just hold that picture!!)

The pier was fantastic. I remember walking along as a child and going dizzy because you could see the

water underneath. But why do those telescope things NEVER work!

I loved this photo with all the seagulls lined up. Sorry it's a little blurred -

I think I was a little too excited!

Anyway on other things, the Artistree Exhibition is now in its second week at Weavers Gallery in Ledbury.

There's some lovely work there so, if you get a chance do go along and see it.

Plus, The Small Gallery in Hereford is showing Up Front's new work on Altered Books from now until

Christmas. You can find the Small Gallery at No. 1 Capuchin Yard,

Church Street, Hereford, HR1 2LR.

Two new friends!

2009-10-16T13:00:00.000+01:00

Clarice loves to be in the garden and, apart from the flowers, her most favourite thing in the garden is the garden swing!

Her favourite colour is rose pink.

Polly, on the other hand, just LOVES to dance.

When she grows up she would like to be a professional dancer like Darcey Bussell

She likes to practice her twirls - but in private so you'll have to be looking VERY CAREFULLY if you want to see her actually do a twirl!

Should you wish to get to know these charming fairies they are available to buy via my website

www.corinnephillips.co.uk/page6.htm

Meet Mabel and Florence

2009-09-30T20:13:00.003+01:00

Meet Mabel and Florence. They are little fairies housed in painted frames, measuring 10" x 4".

They are my latest creations which I am pretty pleased with if I say so myself!

They are made from tea dyed silk, vintage lace, silk ribbon and wire.

Mabel is dressed in pink and is 8" tall and I don't think she will grow any taller now.

Florence is partial to blue and cream with an Eau de Nil painted frame.

She is just a fraction taller than Mabel and is very fond of dancing.

Although they are part of one large family, as each is handmade they are unique.

I have put them up for sale here

http://www.notmassproduced.com/product/6369643d36267069643d31313534/florence.htm

or http://www.notmassproduced.com/product/6369643d267069643d31313533/mabel.htm

Also, whilst writing, I would just like to thank everyone for their comments following my last post. It's great to know that you are out there and supporting me and it's renewed my faith in human nature!

Thanks again. xx

Nothing New Under the Sun

2009-09-19T10:13:00.000+01:00

I recently received a very upsetting email from an artist I had previously admired. She accused me of copying her work and of featuring her work on my blog without her permission.

The piece that appeared on my blog I had recently purchased and wanted to share with you. I gave her full credit for the work and promoted an exhibition she was taking part in. At NO point did I take credit for it - and nor would I. If I should have asked her permission, this was an honest mistake for which I have apologised.

Those who know me know that I have always strived to follow my own vision and I would NEVER plagiarise another artists' work.

I am sorry to strike such a serious note here but my reputation as an artist is of utmost importance to me. I am very upset by these allegations and wanted to put the record straight.

And the winners are ...

2009-09-01T10:53:00.000+01:00

First of all let me say how amazed I am at how many of you signed up for my newsletter this summer.

To ensure fair play I have uploaded the images of the prestigious ceremony taking place!

And well done to Andrea, Sarita and Linda. I will be contacting you shortly to arrange for delivery of your prize!

Kids are STILL on holiday! So will catch up properly with you all next week sometime!

Competition ends 1st September!

2009-08-15T16:09:00.001+01:00

Just to remind everyone that if you wish to be in with a chance to win a set of Fairy Wings Postcards (value £5.95) just visit my website http://www.corinnephillips.co.uk/ and sign up to my newsletter. Three lucky people's names will be drawn out of a hat on 1st September which is the closing date of the competition.

On other news, thank you to the organisers of the Home Spun Fair in Portscatcho earlier this month. My daughter and I had a fabulous time - and it was great to meet up with Viv from Hens Teeth in person. The joy of blogging that it is like meeting up with old friends even though we've only corresponded via the blog! I did actually manage to lose my husband, son and older daughter. Well - you see - I needed to go into The Sea Garden - purely to ask directions to the Fair obviously - and OK I may have been a little longer than I'd said. So when Evie and I went to where the others were supposed to be - they were nowhere to be seen! Evie and I waited for 5-10 mins and then went up to the Village Hall - but we couldn't find them anywhere. So - what to do?! - well shop of course! And of course, a cup of tea and piece of cake to stem the worry!

We did eventually find them - they had taken the blow up dinghy and rowed over to the other beach and back - and no cross words were exchanged - honestly! Amazing!

Long time - no post!

2009-07-30T10:09:00.000+01:00

Well I am just surfacing from my first week of the school holidays. Why is the weather so crap!

I thought I ought to touch base before we go on our Summer break to Cornwall. I am hoping to visit the Home Spun Fair - and let's hope the sun does manage to break through.

I think I've mentioned that Up-Front are currently doing an Altered Book challenge (which will hopefully be on show at The Small Gallery, Hereford in November/December). So I thought I'd share the latest book I've been working on. The theme was The Sea - and - with the holiday in mind - I chose to focus on bathing belles at the Beach. Probably wishful thinking!

I've also been experimenting with making a 3D fairy. She's coming along slowly and I'll publish photos shortly.

So, for everyone who's taking part in the Home Spun fair - good luck and hopefully see you there!

The Finished Article(s)

2009-07-07T07:08:00.001+01:00

I thought I would upload the full set (so far) of "Washerwomen" that will be travelling up to Derby later in the month. Just got a bit of framing to do and then I'm all set for The Beetroot Tree! Hurrah!

Up-Front Exhibition, Derby

2009-07-05T21:31:00.000+01:00

I have been busy working on new work for Up-Front's next exhibition. This will be at The Beetroot Tree in Derby from 25th July running until 6th September. The bras will be on show but this Exhibition will also include new work that the girls have been working hard on. We had our last meeting before the Summer on Wednesday and everyone's work looks stunning. I thought I would give you a sneak preview of my new work.

It is called "White Collar Work" and was inspired by finding men's detachable collars at a Flea Market earlier this year. I researched the history of the collars and this led me to look at laundry practices in our Grandmother's era. Whilst researching I came across a very old rhyme which goes:-

They that wash on Monday, have all the week to dry;

They that wash on Tuesday, are not so much awry;

They that wash on Wednesday, are not so much to blame;

They that wash on Thursday, wash for shame;

They that wash on Friday, wash in need

And they that wash on Saturday, Oh they are sluts indeed!

So this was the base for my White Collar Work.

It also led to my work with the Pegs - see the banner at the top of the page and I have

developed these into little characters. These are a work in progress but will also be on show at The Beetroot Tree.

So if you are in the Derby area please do pop in and see the Exhibition!

Hereford Craft Fair!

2009-06-21T15:45:00.000+01:00

It was great to see so many of you at the Hereford Craft Fair on 13th June. The sun shone and it was a fantastic day! Thank you to those of you who came along and said hello and for all your positive comments. It's really good to get feedback and it makes such a difference to know that my efforts are appreciated!

I thought I would upload photos of the stall for those of you who were unable to get there. I will be doing other Markets throughout the summer and am back in Hereford on Saturday 12th December.

Over the next few days I will also be listing a few new items in my etsy store at http://www.corinnephillips.etsy.com/ for those of you who can't wait until then!

Barcelona!

2009-06-19T10:04:00.001+01:00

We have just returned from our special wedding anniversary trip to Barcelona - without kids!!

What a lovely place it is - and so inspiring. I have come back with loads of ideas buzzing around in my head. Unfortunately I also have loads of washing to do which will have to come first - but not before I've posted to my blog!

We visited the Sagrada Familia which was stunning. I was particularly partial to all the text that was included and also found the funicular model especially inspiring. All those little bags of lead pellets - amazing. Then we went to Casa Battlo and Casa Mila.

The buildings are so decorative and the tiny shops with a whole host of goodies on display. It was lovely not to be met with the same old main brand shops - although as soon as we got home Ruby asked if there was a Top Shop or a New Look there! Whose child is she??!

Anyway it's good to be able to touch base with you - back to the real world now - ho hum!

Altered Book Exhibition

2009-06-10T19:48:00.000+01:00

Most of you will know that I am a member of the Textile and Mixed Media Group Up-Front. We are currently working on new work that will be exhibited at The Beetroot Tree, Derby from 25th July - 6th September. But another exhibition we will be doing is an exhibition of Altered Books for The Small Gallery, Hereford around Christmas time. I don't know if you are familiar with the Altered Book genre. Each member of the Group has chosen a second hand book and a theme. The books travel from one member to the next for each to contribute their own interpretation of the theme. At the end we will all have a book full of the Group's gorgeous artwork.

Anyway I have just finished this month's book (pictured above) which belongs to Gilly Mound, the theme of which is "Where the Heart is" and I thought I would share it with you.

Hope you like it.

Greetings Cards

2009-05-31T16:58:00.000+01:00

Well inspired by yesterday's visit to the Vintage and Handmade Fair, I have been making cards for my Craft Market in Hereford on 13th June. I've used bits of lace, ribbon, buttons and fabric I bought at the Fair and I'm really quite pleased with them.

Note to self though - photograph cards BEFORE putting them into sellophane envelopes. (You can't get the staff these days!)

Vintage and Handmade Fair II

2009-05-30T20:10:00.001+01:00

I have had SUCH a LOVELY day today.

My daughter, Evie, and I went along to the Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury. I have uploaded photos of the things that just HAD to come back home with us. How lovely are they!! Plus an added bonus we met loads of really lovely people - most of whom blogs I have visited this week!

The little turtle pin cushion was from The Washerwoman. We bought cards and an I Spy book from Cowboys and Custard. I bought a gorgeous bracelet for Evie from another stall - that I can't remember the name - with lovely sailing boats.

So thank you girls - I've had one of the best days ever.

Vintage and Handmade Fair

2009-05-26T19:27:00.000+01:00

I am SO looking forward to the Vintage and Handmade Fair at Chipping Sodbury on Saturday.

I've never been but found the link via http://infocowboysandcustard.blogspot.com/. This is a lovely blog with inspiring photos. I've never been to the Fair but it sounds right up my street and I am getting very excited!!

Promise I'll report back.

Laundry Day

2009-05-22T20:26:00.001+01:00

I recently went to a Flea Market and found some vintage detachable white collars. I had no idea what I was going to do with them but knew they must come home with me.

They were in desperate need of washing so, with heart in my mouth, I found out my scrubbing brush and boiled and scrubbed for England! I must say I did have an easier job than my 1940's counterparts as I used Vanish to help (does that count as cheating?) but the results are amazing.

This has now led to a new body of work based on the 1940's/50's mindset of "Make Do and Mend", focussing on the daily life of the housewife, in particular on laundry routines. Keep your eyes peeled for a sneak preview later.

I have also just received my copy of Artful Blogging Magazine which has some really good articles in this month. I especially found the article by Donna Courtney (http://www.thedecoratedhouse.blogspot.com/) very inspiring.

New Broom

2009-05-21T21:06:00.000+01:00

I have decided that I must crack this Blogging thing! I am really going to try and post every week and take my camera out with me to places so that I can take pictures that I can share.

I am going to have to steal myself to comment on other people's blogs - which as quite a shy individual is something that doesn't come easily to me.

I have been working hard today getting things ready for my Craft Market in Hereford on 13th June. I am going to have to be extremely organised this time as we fly out to Barcelona on 14th June to celebrate our wedding anniversary. I know - whose stupid idea was it to book both things so close together! It didn't seem SUCH a stupid idea at the time - although I have to question my own judgement as the dates are looming larger! Chris and I haven't had a holiday without kids for about 10 years so I'm really looking forward to it - and I've always wanted to go to Barcelona. I'm hoping I'll come back all inspired after seeing the gorgeous architecture and art.