Item 116 - Fisherman's Pants RELISTED

Raglan Guild

These beautiful Fisherman's Pants are handmade by Raglan Guld in Wangoom, Victoria.

These pants are extremely comfortable, flattering and easy to wear. If your needs fluctuate between a larger and smaller size, these pants are for you as the velcro waist fixture allows for size variation. The pants are sewn with high quality thread which is designed to last under strain.

These particular pants have been sewn from black 100% cotton, with a gorgeous pink and white floral Echino fabric trimming the waistband and cuffs. They are made in a shorter style, and the cuff of the pants ends just below the knee. Please see the photographs for an example of the style.

These pants are sized a Medium, suitable for an Australian size 12 - 14.

Please see the detail photographs for images of the exact pants you will receive.

100% of proceeds from this sale will be donated to charity.

Ebay: Here

readmore »»

Item #115 Tie Up Pinnie

EBay : Here
Ends : 3 Mar 12:06

readmore »»

Recipe Book Update

A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed recipes for our recipe book! It will be printed and distributed to people in the affected communities, and will also available for sale as a printed book and a PDF download with all proceeds going to the Red Cross.

Thanks again everyone and stay tuned on where and when to buy this great little book.

readmore »»

Going To Press

There have been a few pieces of media coverage in the last week or so. Perhaps you might be interested in reading this.

Or in today's SMH's Essential, a shot of One Red Robin's 'Matryoshka', and details of how crafters/artists can get involved in Handmade Help. (I don't have a scanner, sorry folks for the dodgy shot!)

If you know anyone who's handy with a needle and thread, encourage them to thread up and get stitching too.

readmore »»

March - Month of Kids

We really want to keep everyone motivated and focused as the weeks pass so we have decided each month to have a theme that we can all sew, knit and create handmade items. You can find the list of drop-off/postage points in the side bar.
This month we have chosen kids and babies - it could be toys or other comfort items. Don't forget the boys too. Any kind of softie, or blankies with the ribbons or dress-up clothes - you get the idea. If you have some suggestions please share in the comments. Keep in mind children's safety, if you use buttons, etc then it cannot be given to toddlers or babies.
Thanks to Liesl for the suggestion.

readmore »»

Item #114 - Tote Bag

For Sale : Here
Price : $30 USD

readmore »»

Item #113 - Tote Bag

For sale : Here
Price : $30 USD

readmore »»

Item #112 - Blythe Doll Matilda Auction

Miss Australian Tour 2009 (Matilda to us) has traveled the country for a couple of months, finishing her travels in Melbourne, where she was displayed at the National Australian Blythe Meet. She's now up for auction with all proceeds from her sale donated to charity. The funds will be split equally between a local women's shelter and the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal.

For further pictures of Matilda, please refer to her Flickr pool.

Auction: here

Ending: 1st March

readmore »»

Comfort packs on their way...

Head on over to read Monica's report on the first delivery of Rainbow Comfort packs to the Kinglake area.

102 packs were needed for this area alone... and there are many more communities and families that have been affected by the fires. Keep those donations and handmade bags coming - unfortunately there'll be many more needed. See Monica's Blog for drop-off points or post directly to -
Beyond Pink and Blue
70 Clifton Street Balwyn North 3104 Victoria, Australia

readmore »»

Sewing Group for Rainbow Comfort Packs

The Multicultural Women's Sewing Group in Brunswick had a sewing bee last weekend and made 20 bags for Rainbow Comfort Packs. They are going to have ongoing handmade help sewing sessions. All are welcome. Details below (thanks Jennifer).

We are more than happy to keep working on bags in our regular sessions, and anyone (female) is welcome to join us - they wouldn't have to bring anything - just drop in, make a bag or two and have a cuppa. 12:30 - 3:00 on Wednesdays and 2:30 - 4:30 Saturdays.

We are located at the Brunswick Baptist Church Hall 491 Sydney rd, Brunswick (end of Blyth st).

In case you want to know a bit about the group, the Multicultural Women's Sewing Group originally started as the Somali women's sewing group about 13 years ago when some Somali refugee women said that sewing classes were a high priority for them. At the moment we have a diverse group of participants, ranging from a tailor from Nepal who had never used an electric machine, but who can sew like anything, to a Somali mother of 8 who takes 3 buses to get there. The group nearly fizzled out in 2007, but we're doing pretty well now (apart from financially - that's another story), and are ready to promote the group more through refugee and asylum seeker services. I guess we try and overcome obstacles like language and literacy barriers, parenting demands, lack of money, and inability to come regularly, and still provide teaching in sewing skills, and a welcoming space where everyone is important.

readmore »»

Dress Up Drive

The fires on February 7 have brought out the best of people. It has been amazing to see so much support and community spirit. When so many people are doing so much, it can be hard to think about what you can do that might make a difference. After donating blood, money and other items, I was left wondering what else “I” could do.

My two little girls love dressing up and have the luxury of a full basket of costumes to let their imagination go wild. I’m sure the children impacted by the bushfires would benefit from replenishing their stocks of dress ups. Whether it be in their homes, health and childcare centres or kindergartens, I feel that this is something practical, short and long term, that I can do. You can too.

We are looking for handmade donations to rebuild the dress up wardrobes of the homes and buildings affected by the bushfires. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Some costume ideas include capes (superheroes, wizards), dresses & skirts, Dino, dragon and animal tails, fairy wings, hats, etc.

Dressing up encourages kids to develop their imagination, escape reality, practice life skills, or feel a bit sparkly and special. Let’s help these kids be kids and ensure they are still dreaming their dreams.

Please direct your donations to Meet me at Mikes and we will co-ordinate distribution.

I will be loading up a tutorial on how to make a felt crown on my blog, and will be adding others soon.

Please email me if you have other ideas to share or know of a sure fire dress up hit that we can include in our contribution!!

readmore »»

Item #111 - Nappy PUL cover

Ebay : Here
Ends : 5th Mar 22:10

readmore »»

Recipe Update

Yesterday recipe donations closed and I went through and sorted them today - there are a whopping 250 odd to edit and put into the book.

Thank you so much for everyone that contributed. Some that I thought to mention to you included recipes from Ontario, Canada and Rhode Island in the States. We also had a contingent from New Zealand donate. I also was touched to receive a recipe from a gentleman who lost his house in the fires and thought the recipe book was a wonderful way to contribute to rebuilding his own community. Amazing hey!

Amongst all the recipes were tonnes of offers to help edit and get the book up and running. Again thank you for your contributions and offers. It really makes this project a community one.

So now the recipes have gone to Anna and Bev for editing. We have had an absolutely awesome submission for the cover from Claire at Loobylu - so thanks heaps Claire.

And most importantly snaps to Pip for being the constant contact through the process so far :)

So now to editing ...more reports soon

xx Gilly

readmore »»

Item #110 - Bunny Softie

EBay : Here
Ends : 2nd Mar 11:50

readmore »»

Item #109 - Bags, Dolls and Cushions

50% of etsy shop sales to the Red Cross.
Free shipping in Australia

readmore »»

HomeMade Recipe Book Update

Wow - again I say what a wonderful response we have had to this project. That you all so very much for your contributions.

Recipes submission closing date is tomorrow and whilst we have a wealth of recipes some more in the following categories would be great:

1. savoury slices and other small savoury items that fall into this category
2. dips
3. soups
4. breads


Again thanks alot for all your wonderful recipes and if you can submit anything under these categories that would also be wonderful!

xx Gilly

readmore »»

Item #108 Lucy Dolly - SOLD

For Sale Here. All proceeds to Red Cross.

readmore »»

Item #107 - Polly Doll - SOLD

For Sale Here. All proceeds to Red Cross.

readmore »»

Sorting and Storing...

We spent the morning sorting lots of donations for eventual distribution to those that might need them. We have crafty things - for restashing. And then we have some other things too - handmade toys which are just absolutely gorgeous and super snuggly, a few quilts, some dress-ups and children's clothing and some handmade jewellery.

We've labelled everything - and sent it on to our storage department - and we'll be adding your donations as they come in. We've had some pretty intense discussions about the best ways to distribute - and the timing as well. Here's where we are at at the moment:

Items will be distributed in the short term for those that express a specific need (and we have had quite a few people contact us directly asking for various things) - and
Items will be distributed in the long term (4 to 6 months time) - in consultation with The Red Cross, Rotary, and The Salvation Army.

We will continue to collect handmade items to be distributed appropriately over the coming months. Your donations are important and encouraged.

We would again encourage you to donate to The Red Cross if you can - or if you're not in a position to do that now, put away $1 each day - and donate on June 1st. We must be sure that the rebuilding/resettling and long term care of these important people is ongoing.

Thanks to everyone who is part of this Handmade Help team. Be it the blog authors, those donating funds, those making things, those sending recipes, those helping behind the scenes. Please do contact us if you feel you can help too.

I urge you to keep up to date on the progress of those that are still very deep in the midst of the terrible aftermath of this disaster - and to keep finding ways to help.

readmore »»

New Stuff

You may notice things look a little different here. We've got a new header kindly created by Evie of Handmade Romance. And a new button that we're yet to put up (that you can add to your own blog or you can stick with the original button). Evie has also created some posters that you can print out and pin up around your 'hood. You know you want to. Press print and go post them up at your local shopfronts (ask first) so more people can help.

We want to thank Silly Gilly for the first header. She did such a great job - and so quickly - and we're ever so grateful. Thanks Gillian.

Also - if you pop over to say hola to Silly Gilly she's organising the mother of all auctions with all proceeds to go to the relief appeal. Check out all the beautiful goodies flooding in. And she's got the task of sorting it all out. Sheesh! Go over and show your support.

readmore »»

First Hand Stories: The Truth of Wombat Girl

You've probably read/heard about the woman whose life was saved by diving into a wombat hole while the flames roared around her. Well the media have been getting it wrong, so she's set up her own website to tell her story.

Neesha and her three legged dog Murph, her neighbour Karen and Karen's son, Jakob all lost their homes on that terrible day. You can make direct contributions to her on this site too.

There's also a link too where you can help Neesha rebuild her home and her life directly too. Go visit her!

AND there's a link on there where you can see Neesha interviewed and she shows the wombat hole where they bunkered down.

Anyway, let's let her tell her own story. Visit her here.

readmore »»

Rainbow Comfort Packs - an update

So far I've counted 147 bags that have been made in the sewing bee or dropped in to me since then. Monica has about 60 so far. And they're still coming in..... wonderful stuff.

There are also BOXES of wonderful donations of things to keep kids busy. Monica picked up what she could fit in her car, and the rest are still in my.... ummm spare room (which is not mine at all... it just happens to be an unlocked room in my building!). They're currently being sorted into bags - in age and sex-appropriate groups. If anyone wants to give Monica a hand with this I'm sure she could use it.

There are also lots of other sewing bees cropping up. The leftover fabric stash from my sewing bee is off around the corner to the Baptist Hall is Brunswick for a sewing bee this Saturday. All are welcome. Details below -

Please come to a sewing bee this Saturday the 21st Feb for Bushfire Relief - Making cool bags for the Rainbow Comfort Packs project for the many children affected by the fires.

We'll get started at 1 pm, and pack up at 7 pm. Any help you can give in that time is welcome.We will be sewing up simple but groovy cloth bags that will later be filled with goodies for the kids. You could also make a toy as well.

We have 9 sewing machines and an overlocker available to use, but if anyone can bring their own that would be great. You might also bring snacks to share, friends, fabrics, notions and tools you think might be handy (make sure tools have your name on them). All help is appreciated; even if you can't sew we still have lots for you to do: cutting, hand sewing, playing with the kids or passing around refreshments. If you have any NEW toys, you could donate them for the packs.

We are located at the Brunswick Baptist Church Hall 491 Sydney rd, Brunswick (end of Blyth st). Nearby parking is scarce, but you can drop off people and heavy things in the church driveway. Public transport is very handy.

If there are any questions please call Jennifer 9383 5994 jennifer.mok@rch.org.au or laura 0449 841 254 laura.thomey@hotmail.com

ThankyouLaura and Jennifer, on behalf of the multicultural women's sewing group.

readmore »»

Reader Update!

Bron's just updated me on some other ways people are helping to support those affected by the fires. She says:

Borders are inviting customers to bring in secondhand or new books for donation. They will match the retail price of all books up to $200,000 which will go to the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal. All donated books will go to schools and libraries in fire affected areas

'Shout a beer' is a group of friends and contacts across Australia helping raise money for the Red Cross Bushfire Apeal, by engaging pub patrons to 'shout a beer' for those affected by the tragedy and donate money. you can read about it here

sportsdelivered.com have donated a whole bunch of official 2008 AFL Grand Final DVDs (go the mighty hawks!) which are available through the Hawks' website for only $9.95 - with all profits going to assist victims of the Victoria bushfires through Hawthorn's Victorian Bushfire Community Program Appeal - which is an initiative of the Hawthorn Football Club and will look at long term projects to help support rebuilding communities in fire affected areas.

AUSTRALIAN rock icon Jimmy Barnes, moved by the horrific turn of events in Victoria this past week, has opened his heart to bushfire victims by releasing a brand new album for worldwide download. Barnes, his label, publishers & Apple will all be donating 100 percent of their proceeds to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund. Importantly, the people who buy this album can rest assured that every single cent from the purchase of it will go to the bushfire appeal, Barnes said.

And a nice story my Mum told me this week: When I was a kid we lived next door to a lady whose family lost their home in the 1939 Victorian bushfires. She was six at the time and, along with all the other littlies affected, was given a little handmade dolly. Since then it has been so precious to her that she still has it today - 70 years later!!

I think its a gorgeous example of the power of the handmade, and the beautiful gift that everyone involved in handmade help is giving!

readmore »»

Item#106 Summers Studio Etc

LeAnn is donating 50% of sales from her Etsy shop to Red Cross and Wildlife Australia over the next week, 19 Feb through 26 Feb. Her shop sells handmade porcelain buttons, beads, and pendants. She'll be firing a new batch on Friday and listing like crazy over the weekend so there should be a good supply coming up!

Shop: here

Price: from $2.00 USD

readmore »»

Item # 105 - Coin Purse - SOLD

Marina is donating the proceeds of the sale of this sweet coin purse.

She's also comitted to 50% of Etsy proceeds until the end of the month.

Etsy: Here

readmore »»

Four Corners

For those of you that cannot cope with any more tabloid newspapers or sensationalist reports - apparently this Four Corners program is a really accurate account of what happened with the fire storms - minus all the drivel.

I haven't watched it yet. But I will. I think we HAVE to understand what happened and what people had to endure - and the ABC sounds like the best people for the job.

Thanks Fran for letting us know!

readmore »»

Hip To Be Square

Knit a Square and make a Blanket.
Little Sparrow is knitting like crazy and asking for any donations of knitted squares (20cm square 8ply/4.5mm needles approx 45 stitches) to be then made up into blankets for all those who has lost their favourite blankie!
Please drop your squares off tho Little Sparrow shop2/101 Orrong Crescent, North Caulfield www.littlesparrow.net.au

readmore »»

Item #104 Jetta's Nest Applique Shirt - SOLD

From Jetta's Nest, this cheeky monster is made from vintage chenille, felt and new fabric. He's one of a kind and comes with a blue, 100% cotton short sleeved t-shirt.

Etsy : Here
Price : $13USD or $20AUS

readmore »»

Diamond Creek Relief Centre - Needs Our Help!

Go over here to view and print a page listing all the things they need - and when, where and how to drop off.

Please distribute this list amongst your community. It's very important that we respond to these requests, I'm sure you will agree!

Thanks all!

readmore »»

needles and threads

Bev over on Taccolina has just posted a tutorial for making needle books. She was inspired after hearing a crafter say she was feeing the loss of all my crafty supplies... I don't even own a needle and thread!

So here's a reminder that the re-stash effort can be as simple as giving someone back the capacity to do a mending job - a needle and thread, a pair of scissors.

If you have a spare moment, prettying things up with one of Bev's needlebooks would be all the better, and even better yet would be using one of the zillions of online tutorials for making a pouch, purse, tote or storage box to keep these things in. Zip lock bags don't last forever and a lovely bag is a quick and achievable craft project!

Here's a few links to try:
My super easy back pack stash tote or re-stash bag
The Cicada Daydream Fat Quarter Tote
The Craft Nectar Grab Bag
Chick Pea Studio Everything Pocket Bag
Purl Bee's Monk Bag
Craft Stylish tool roll (great for collecting tools for a bloke as well as needle and hook rolls if made in fabric rather than leather)
Whip Up's sizeable list of bag tutorials or totally awesome tutorial list (enough ideas to keep a crafter going for a lifetime, including a whole section on bags and purse in the latter post)

readmore »»

Requested Items for Donation

This post was first published by Suse over at the wonderful Peasoup..

The clean up is continuing. Below you will see a list of things the Diamond Creek Relief Centre urgently requires (as at 15th February).

The contact number for the centre is (03) 9438 5299 and the location is 28 Main Hurstbridge Rd, Diamond Creek. Drop off times for donations is between 11am and 2pm. Interstate and international readers, you can choose lightweight items and post them. Go to it.

I don't know about relief centres in other areas - this is my local one and this list was sent to local community groups here. However as mentioned previously, the relief centres are asking that general donations please stop, and only requested items be given now, thanks.

Needed!

15 litre water bottles (filled)
600 ml water bottled (filled)
Aeroguard
Ant Rid
Anti-bacterial wash for baby bottles
Axes
Bleach (to clean water tanks)
Bolt cutters
Bread x dozen
Brooms
Camping chairs/plastic chairs
Chainsaws (petrol)
Cleaning items (detergents, mops, scourers, buckets)
Clothes hangers
Clothes horses/airers
Coffee and tea
Cooking oil
Doonas and doona covers
Eucalyptus oil (individual bottles)
Exercise books
Extension leads **
Fly spray
Folding chairs
Gas lighters
Hack saws
Jerry cans
Lime
Matches
Mattress protectors (all sizes)
Mens and women's wallets
Men's thick work socks
New baby car seats (0-18kg)
New children's shoes and runners
New pillows
Pegs
Picks
Power boards **
Queen size mattresses
Rakes and shovels
Room deodorizers
Rope
Safety glasses (heavy duty)
Storage sheds/garden sheds
String
Sugarsoap
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Tents
Thermos
Tools in good working order (hammers, nails, screws etc)
Unleaded petrol
Washing powder **
Watches
Wheelbarrows
Wire cutters
Witches hats (I presume the orange road kind, not the Harry Potter kind)
Work boots (esp. smaller women's sizes)
Writing pads

** items most urgently needed


Also on a very personal one-to-one level, if you go and look here you will see that Frogdancer is collecting books for a teenage boy she knows whose family lost their house and all their possessions. This young lad was distraught to lose his extensive library, and the frog asked him what books he would like replaced. He's been a bit shy about putting together a list but was apparently blown away that total strangers would send him stuff. Anyway, a suggested list has been put together. If you can't imagine being without your books (and I know I would be heartbroken to lose all mine), go and have a peek at the list and see if you can offer to send him one. Or several.

readmore »»

Stand By Your Man

We know you've seen loads of images by now (this is incredibly moving), you've heard stories of heartbreak, stories of incredible courage, and fantastic stories of survival.

Let's not lose momentum!

Are you whipping up some socks for a man as you read this? If so, please let us know! We'd love to know! We'd love photos too. Perhaps beanies are more your style? Or a cool man-style bag (messengers are especially good)?

Do you have some good-quality tools to donate?

Are you working for the man but you haven't let us know? Please do tell!

readmore »»

Mail Jenny Your Fat Quarters TODAY!!!

via email:

Dear Patchworkers and Quilters,

You may have heard, on Richard Stubbs's 774/ABC radio show, a woman who rang in on Monday - a keen quilter who lost her home in the fires including her quilting stash. She was quite clear that she was not asking for help, in fact she was saying she is grateful for her life, and felt optimistic about a new future. But I thought it would be a lovely gesture if quilters could reach into their own stash and pull out a couple of fat quarters, or a little something so she can start again.
I made contact with her through 774, and asked her some questions about what she needs, or what she might like.

This is part of what she wrote:

"I would be honoured to receive fat quarters in autumn tonings - I am a very typical Taurus and love the greens/browns/blue of our wonderful planet. I would like to make a new double bed scrappy quilt on a celtic theme and have ideas flashing around my head at the moment. I have made quilts for a number of charities never expecting to be on the other end.
I now understand that some quilters need to work on their own new quilt
- it is a healing process that I am looking forward to. I will pass on excess fabric as I don't want to build up a 'stash' again - want to travel lightly from now on (at least that is what I feel now - not sure about 12 months time!) I have use of a sewing machine until I move back into a new house at Clonbinane and purchase my own machine, thank you.
I will probably be moving into a granny flat type house so won't have a lot of room for 'stuff' - much less housework and more time for my gliding, animals and craft.

I am happy for my name to be released - we need to use this whole situation to turn our world around for the better!

Jenny Luff
c/- 6 Perrin Street
SEYMOUR
Victoria
Australia 3660"

She obviously doesn't want to be inundated, but if you can, please send Jenny just a little something, even one 'fat quarter' or similar-sized piece in the colours she likes. For just a moment, let's make it rain patchwork packages in Seymour.

From A Melbourne Quilter.

readmore »»

Email Us!

You can now email us via handmadehelp@gmail.com.

Perhaps you want to help?
Perhaps you have a donation of craft supplies?
Maybe you need some of the craft supplies we are collecting distributed in your fire affected community?
Do you have some gardening books that you could donate to Handmade Horticulture?
Would you like to knit socks, beanies or blankets for some of the blokes who lost everything?
Perhaps you've made a quilt or a toy or some hot water bottle covers - and you want us to include them in our BIG drop of made-with-love things (which we'll be distributing in a few months time to those who are rebuilding).
Or recipes! Do you have a recipe that you'd like to share with those that many now have none? Email us that too!
Join Handmade Help!

readmore »»

Tune In...

To Richard Stubbs' show this afternoon from 1pm for a chance to hear Pip. She'll be wired for sound (though we can't confirm whether she'll be wearing roller skates. Let's hope so.) talking to Stubbsy about Handmade Help and the importance of hobbies. And craft. You dig?

Frequency? 774 Melbourne
Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm

readmore »»

Item #103 Camera & Scanner

Here's another inspired way to help out if you aren't crafty or are time-poor. Shawnnita of Smell the Gum Leaves has a camera and scanner that she wasn't using, she realised she could do her bit by donating the money from the sale of these to the Victorian bushfire relief. She is donating the full proceeds of her scanner and 50% of the proceeds of the camera.

Great idea Shawnnita!

Ebay: here and here

readmore »»

Item #102 Original Animal Paintings

Mereth has listed four of her original animal paintings in her Etsy shop, with the money to go to Wildlife Victoria to help the animals.

Price: from $15.00 USD

Shop: here

readmore »»

Item #101 Raglan Guild Fishermen's Pants

Raglan Guild is donating 10% of all proceeds to bush fire relief for the month of February. So if this pair aren't your style go over and check out her shop for some other delightful wearables.

readmore »»

Item #100 Udessi Stoneware

Yep, we have reached 100 items, woo-hoo!

Kim from Udessi is kindly donating 50% of sales of all her available ceramic pieces to Wildlife Victoria during the month of February. Her range of stoneware pieces include pieces which are made by impressing vintage lace doilies into the clay to leave the lovely patterns, as well as some pieces which are created by using a vintage crystal dish as a mould.

Shop: here

Price: from $38.00 AUD

readmore »»

Handmade Help Poster Lovin'

Two new posters for you to print out and paste around your neighbourhood. Think of yourself as the new Banksy, but craftier.

Thanks to Sayraphim for creating these cute to boot gems.

readmore »»

Item # 99 - Owlet Etsy Proceeds

Owlet's Etsy Shop proceeds will be donated to the Bushfire Appeal. Items included in the Appeal are clearly tagged.

She's happy to donate purchased items direct too & will pay for postage.

Etsy: Here

readmore »»

Cookbook Report

Hi everyone,

just a quick update on the cookbook progress.

Thank you so very much for all your recipes - they are fantastic! We do however have a glut of some types of recipes and a shortage of others.

We DON'T NEED anymore baking or pudding recipes! Thank you so much everyone.

We DO NEED savoury slices, main meals, vegetables, vegetarian, soups, breads, starters and dips. basically anything except baking! We all bake in a crisis - I know I do!!

So if you can contribute that would be fabulous. We are going to close the collection date for these as of this coming Sunday 22nd February.

Then its into edit stage.

Thanks for everyone's hard work and contribution - get me those recipes if you have anymore to donate at handmaderecipes@gmail.com by Sunday night.

Thanks

xx Gilly

readmore »»

Things To Make: Pillowcases

Another great idea from Lyn (keep them coming guys) that only requires basic sewing skills, is to whip up a handmade pillowcase.

Raid your fabric stash & make some up using cute fabric for babies & kids or something a bit cooler for the tweens & teenagers.

There is something very comforting about having something nice to lay your head on, you could even use flannel for extra snug winter weight pillowcases.

If you want a hand to get started have a look at these two tutorials or just measure up a standard pillowcase you have at home.

readmore »»

Item # 98 SOLD

Miss Kitty Boo Boo is donating the proceeds of four items in her shop to the Red Cross & she is even shipping them free is you live in Australia!

Items: here, here, here & here.

Price: from $5.00 USD

readmore »»

Trash Raffle - FINISHED

The lovely Miss TrashaLou is holding an amazing raffle, just the inspiration you need to send some extra cash to the Red Cross.


The rules are simple. Make a donation to the Red Cross, then head over here & leave a comment (or email Trash) with the details of your donation including the amount in $AUD & receipt number. For every dollar you donate you get a 'ticket' & the raffle will be drawn on Saturday 21st February.

All the details are over here & you can check out the prize list here.


What are you waiting for?

readmore »»

Can you help me find patterns?

I am wondering if any knitters or crocheters out there would like to volunteer a few hours searching on Ravelry and via Google to help me locate patterns to send out with donated yarn in knitters and crocheters re-stash packs. Knowing that most people in affected areas do not have books or access to the internet we need patterns to go with the yarn.

I am only looking for FREE patterns as we absolutely do not want to break copyright - unless a designer willingly donates reproduction rights to us. We need projects for all different yarn weights (4ply, 8ply, 10 ply, 12 ply) and amounts (single skein projects, 2-3 ball projects, 4-5 ball projects etc), things for kids, teens, adults, men and women, clothing, toys, homewares, anything.

If you can help out, let me know soozs[dot]com[at]gmail[dot]com

readmore »»

Item #97 - Sheep's Clothing Hair Clip - SOLD

Sheep's Clothing has a very pretty set of hair clips featuring vintage buttons.The pretty pink buttons are backed with two layers of complimenting fabric which has been treated to give stiffness and prevent fraying.

EBay : Here
Ends : 24 Feb 12:01

readmore »»

Item #96 - Hoppo Bumpo Shower Cap - SOLD

Miss Hoppo Bumpo has been one busy lady with her 3rd auction up, a hand-made shower cap
Keep your special "hair-do" dry with this pretty, hand-made shower cap
Features a Liberty print outer, in a gorgeous green colourway
Cap is lined in a shower-proof nylon and trimmed with lovely binding

EBay : Here
Ends : 22 Feb 00:22

readmore »»

knitter needed to help complete a toy for donation

Can you help?
The lovely Inge had almost finished this sweet Fireman Sam doll, but she lost the pattern! She would love for someone to receive this, but isn't confident to make a face up and was wondering if anyone else could help out? Please let Suzie soozs[dot]com[at]gmail[dot]com or Pip meetmeatmikes[at]gmail[dot]com know if you can.

readmore »»

Tick Tock It's Toy O'Clock:: CSU - Wagga

Peri from Charles Sturt University in Wagga emailed us to let us in on her highly-commendable, super-ace plan.

Here's to prove that from little things big things grow (and we have the perfect toon for that if you're in the mood for some music).

Peri told us - and we're sure a lot of us can agree - that while uni students don't have a lot of cash, they do have a bit of spare time they can donate. So she organised a craft day for Friday 27 February to make as many made-with-love toys and bags as possible in one day. These are to be sent to the kids as 'distraction' bags.

And here's where it gets even better. Her uni got wind of her grand idea and has contributed by donating other items such as colouring pencils, books & skipping ropes that can now be put in the bags too! Genius.

Peri and her mum have kindly donated a lot of their own stash, and very generously Addicted to Fabric in Canberra is donating more fabric and stuffing for the toys.

So Peri's idea of creating a couple of toys has grown into a big day of sewing, stitching, stuffing.

If you live in Wagga, go to CSU or perhaps you'd just like to join in, check out the poster above for details.

readmore »»

Ways to help...

Oxfam Fitzroy have set up a wikispace for bushfire aid.

It's an excellent way to offer help & see what's really needed.

There is a request for aid page. At the moment Diamond Creek needs chainsaw donations. Do you have one? Let them know...

We've already been in touch with Alexandra Secondary.

readmore »»

Item # 95 - Curly Pops Shop - FINISHED

After an already fabulous week of donations of 50% of sales from the CurlyPops shop, Cam is extending the donation for another week. Check out the gorgeous brooches, aprons and fabulous bags.

readmore »»

Item #94 - Iceblocked Resin Necklace - SOLD

This gorgeous enviro resin necklet from Ruby 2 GoGo symbolises how life, like the ingredients used to make her can be repurposed and remade into something beautiful. The image of the vintage mirror further symbolises a time of reflection.

Etsy : Here
Price: $24.50 USD

readmore »»

HELP for the BLOKES: Knot That I Can Knit

Hi gang,

We've been thinking a bit about the blokes. You know them. I know them. They're usually the ones that keep things to themselves. Silently. And during so much suffering, it would be extra good to let them know we're thinking of them too.

So this brings me to - crafting for the blokes.

We've come up with some categories that you might be interested in helping with. And as ever, we're open to suggestions. This is after all, all about community, we love to hear from you, dear reader!

- Can you knit? Can you knit socks? If yes (or if no but you're willing to learn) then we'd love you to knit some socks for some fellas. Beanies are good too. It's going to be Winter soon. The big chill. Let's make some beanies too.
- Are you crafty with leather? Does nothing warm the cockles of your heart more than picking up your leather tools (do these have a special name?) and belting out a *ahem* belt, or a wallet? Then we'd love you to help.
- And while we have you - what about a gorgeous masculine toiletry/shaving bag/kit? We've been talking about making some feminine versions, but let's not forget the blokes!
- For further down the track - keyrings. Yes, that's right - keyrings. I read somewhere that these are the simple kinds of things that are needed. Maybe not right now, but soon my friends, soon.
- And lastly (for now) does your man-friend have any spare tools they can donate? Your Dad, your brother, your husband, your lover, or you (if you have your own tool box?). We're talking good quality tools, not some crummy cheap hammers that are going to crumble after two bangs. No.. We want the good stuff.

Please let us know if you can knit up some socks. Belt out some belts. You know the drill! (did you get that crafty pun right there??)

readmore »»

Don't forget the blokes

Blokes often get the short end of the stick in the handmade line. I know there isn't much I can make for my bloke that he appreciates. Not much, but there are two things he loves - hand knitted socks and hats. Can't get enough of the socks in particular. And that works for me because socks and hats don't use much yarn or take too long to make.

Perhaps if you are a knitter you could think about knitting some bloke size socks, or a nice blokey beanie to donate in preparation for the colder weather later in the year? If you aren't an experienced knitter - hats are very quick and easy (especially if knitted in a bulky yarn). Ask at a local yarn store and I am sure someone could help you get going.

There are a tonne of free patterns and tutorials on the internet to try - here's a couple to get you going, but don't hesitate to search further!

Hats:
http://www.styledbykristin.com/rugged-ribbed-knit-hat-pattern/
http://www.woollywormhead.com/free-patterns/
http://www.knitting-and.com/knitting/patterns/hats/london-beanie.htm
http://www.redlipstick.net/knit/martext.html

Socks:
http://www.knitlist.com/97gift/menssocks.htm
http://knitsix.wordpress.com/2007/09/14/manly-socks-free-pattern/
http://www.purlbee.com/socks-for-giving/
http://www.violinjodie.com/blog/globe-trotter-socks/

Or email me if you know of another really good, free pattern we could recommend (soozs[dot]com[at]gmail[dot]com)

readmore »»

Item #93 Le Sophie Fine Art Photography

The very talented Leslie of Le Sophie Fine Art Photography in donating $5 per print she sells until the end of February to Wildlife Victoria. She is even doing free shipping so go & check out her beautiful work now!

Shop : here

Price: $35 USD

readmore »»

Graphic help needed

UPDATE - we've found someone - thanks a lot!!

Can anyone help us out with a quick little job? We'd like to make up a simple little tag we can add in to the parcels we're sending out, just to let them know that Handmade Helps! Please contact me (soozs[dot]com[at]gmail[dot]com) or Pip at Mikes (meetmeatmikes[at]gmail[dot]com) if you have the skills and some free time in the next day or two.

readmore »»

Re-Stash A Crafter - URGENT help needed!

We URGENTLY need craft supplies for the Re-Stash A Crafter project. Click here for details of how to donate.

ALSO - We need you to make a poster with the following details on it! Then take the poster and pin it up in your local fabric shop/community centre/kindergarten etc. Please also click here and download a HANDMADE HELP poster - and please distribute that freely as well. It's really super important to publicize this as much as possible! We MUST get those donations!

Email us your poster design in JPG format and we'll upload it here so other people can use it too!

We have received NO CRAFT SUPPLY donations yet. We will be packing kits up THIS WEEK, as well as next Tuesday at our first Brown Owls meet - so get that stuff to us pronto, please! (And also make a poster pronto too!)

Here are the details for your poster!

RE-STASH A CRAFTER!

As part of our 'Handmade Help' response to the Victorian Bushfires we are running the re-stash a crafter project.

We are collecting donations of craft supplies from all over the crafting community. Things like fabric, yarn, threads, scissors, needles, patterns and more! These items will be distributed directly to sewers, knitters, embroiderers, toy makers and crocheters in affected areas (in the short term and the long term).


Please donate craft items to our appeal. See our website for donation points/mailing address.


For further info - see www.handmadehelpsout.blogspot.com
or email - soozs.com(at)gmail(dot)com or meetmeamikes(at)gmail(dot)com
or telephone - Pip on 94163724 (leave a message)

readmore »»

Quilting bee Saturday 21st March

Jan, an exceptionally talented crafter and owner of everyone's favourite crafting venue Sew Journ, is hosting a quilting bee on Saturday 21st March in Ashburton.

Quilts make extra special gifts for people who have lost homes and family treasures as they give on so many levels. I hope as many of you as are able will head on over to the bee and help.

readmore »»

Katy Did - Toy Donations!

Bushfire Brigade, originally uploaded by Katy Did.

On their way from the US - via The Toy Society!
Thanks Katy Did!
Thanks Bianca!

readmore »»

Item #92 - Enviro Resin and Rubber Brooch - SOLD

This Brooch is from Ruby2's new enviro resin range which feature images from discarded print ephemera. "New Dawn" shows an image of a tree silhoueted against a the glow of the morning sky.

Item : Here

Price $10USD

readmore »»

On Being a Sock Knitter

Grace Cossington Smith painted her younger sister Madge knitting socks for allied soldiers in the trenches during the horrors of the first world war. Like many women of this era left at home to wait and brood for their men fighting in distant lands, this nervous energy was channeled into one of the few positive and practical outlets available - craft.

Women like Madge and Grace knitted their hands off - socks, vests, balaclavas, gloves, caps, even gentlemen's undergarments (!!), in the name of peace and the return of their loved ones.

This is one of my favourite paintings because it reminds me of the higher purpose craft serves - to give comfort where it is so desperately needed, to bring kindness and good-will to those who are suffering, to send a message of hope and love to those who might despair.

In this last week we have lived through some of the darkest days in Australia's history which could also be argued to be some of our brightest. Men, women and children have pledged their support to the victims of Victoria's bushfires in innumerable creative ways. Sock Knitters have come out of the woodwork. Beyond the copious donations of financial aid there has been one of the most spectacular and spontaneous outpourings of good will this country has ever witnessed.

Well done to all of you who sit reading this and those who have in some way contributed to the crafting effort. Handmade Help has become a testament to the generosity of crafters who carry on the grand tradition of Madge, the Sock Knitter. You are amazing!

readmore »»

Go on... you know you want to...

OK, so I'm a sewing-bee evangelist.... BUT PLEASE - If you can make something, make something to help out people who have been left with nothing. If you have friends who can make something, GET TOGETHER and make LOTS of things!!

There are SO MANY people who are looking for some way to channel their grief and compassion for bushfire victims, that if you put the word out in the networks you have (childcare, schools, work, sports or hobby clubs..) you might be surprised at the response you get. I had a little sewing bee on the weekend - expecting a dozen or so people... and at least FIFTY PEOPLE turned up, armed with sewing machines, fabric and donations of things for Rainbow Comfort Packs. It was amazing. Truly amazing. Three large rooms were filled with activity and community spirit.

Gay had a sewing bee, too, and just in sending out the information she garnered loads more support in her area (of NSW) for the cause. People want to help.... LET them.... Create the opportunity for them and they will be more than happy to jump on board.

Think about how much a group of crafters can make in a day, and think about the difference it could make to someone's day....

readmore »»

Item #91 PerfectLittlePurses Handbag

This donation comes all the way from Norfolk, England with all proceeds going to the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal. What a generous crafter, drop over to her blog and thank her!

Etsy: here
Price: $25 USD

readmore »»

Item #90 Cloth Pads Auction

The Cloth Pad Shop is holding auctions of cloth menstrual pads, with all proceeds going to the Red Cross.

Not only that, Obsidian Star is donating 10% of all sales to
Wildlife Victoria until the end of the month, (perhaps longer).

Obsidian are also collecting cloth pads for women affected by the fires. There are some patterns available here. Anyone able to help should contact Obsidian directly at admin@clothpadshop.com .

readmore »»

Eating Together

 

Pip forwarded me this wonderful picture sent to her today from 7 year old Ellie Freeman. Her mum Rebecca says that Ellie called this Eating Together and depicts her family enjoying a meal.

How wonderful that everyone is getting involved.

Thanks Ellie you're a superstar - I love it and I know everyone else will too.

readmore »»

Install Handmade Help Button

I have had a few people email me asking for the html to add once they so kindly put our button on their blog.

To install our button on your blog with a link to the Handmade Helps blog please use this HTML code.

<a href="http://handmadehelpsout.blogspot.com/"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEV4qPXoJHID8dgKjezN7Dq53TNqTe-6RW5f6eD5ON7U7NwTt3S_T1Gu5xHK5Vujxad354cld5nNwANNTfRohQEFWBxLV_Yo8XVpOcHYiGJ0XQcTSK5FXVKbuYkMvGvu-VheeZE83shtL/s220/sidebar.jpg" border="0" /></a>

For Blogger Users:

• Select the “Layout” menu
• Select the “Page Elements” sub-menu
• Select “Add a Gadget” where you would like the button to appear
• Choose the “HTML/JavaScript” gadget
• Enter the following HTML Code
  <a href="http://handmadehelpsout.blogspot.com/"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEV4qPXoJHID8dgKjezN7Dq53TNqTe-6RW5f6eD5ON7U7NwTt3S_T1Gu5xHK5Vujxad354cld5nNwANNTfRohQEFWBxLV_Yo8XVpOcHYiGJ0XQcTSK5FXVKbuYkMvGvu-VheeZE83shtL/s220/sidebar.jpg" border="0" /></a>
• And “Save” the new gadget
• You can then drag and drop the gadget to wherever you would like it to appear
• Click “Save” to save your new layout

Spread the word !!

readmore »»

Wanted: Handmade Aprons

Perhaps you would like to contribute something handmade but you feel that making a quilt or soft toy is a bit beyond your sewing skills. Fear not, we need your help too! Lyn suggested making aprons & as she points out you could make them for men, women or children.

Aprons may not be an immediate need, however, it is never to early start sewing & a handmade apron would be a lovely addition to the Handmade Help Recipe Book.

If you are unsure where to post or drop off your handmade aprons or other items, check out the list over on the far right hand side of the page.

For a fantastic list of free apron patterns have a look here & get sewing.

readmore »»

Homemade - The Handmade Recipe Book

Wow people I am so impressed with your recipes. They have been pouring in - even as I am reading them in my inbox, more come in.

Thank you for passing on these wonderful collections of recipes - I just know this book is going to be amazing.

But dont rest on your laurels just yet. This is what we need:

Main Meals - meats recipes, pasta dishes you name it we need it
Salads and BBQ favs - there have got to be some BBQ staples out there!
Soups - winter is approaching fast and nothing is more tummy friendly and budget conscious than a bowl of soup.
Condiments - chutney, jam, sauces, stocks...
Vegan and Vegetarian - I dont have one single chick pea recipe yet!
Kid Friendly - either easy for kids to make or easy for them to eat.
Pet Food - do you make your own dog biscuits? Then share the recipe...

I know I have alot of recipe books and can almost instantly put my hand on a recipe for something when I want it. Those affected by the fires may not. All those handy little recipes... we need them in this book.

So get to it - put out a call to everyone in your email address book, put a flyer up at work...we want your recipes...please!

readmore »»

Item #89 Kim T Designs

Until further notice, Kim T Designs are kindly donating 40% of the sale price (excluding postage & paypal fees) of all pre-made wall art to the Red Cross. The items included can be found here, so get shopping for a good cause.

Shop: here

Prices: $12.95 - $109 AUD

readmore »»

$8500 raised by OzBushfireAppeal Store on ETSY!

via email a few minutes ago! Please help them reach their target of 500 sales by midnight tonight:

I just wanted to give you an update on how the OZBushfireAppeal shop on etsy is doing.

http://OzBushfireAppeal.etsy.com

We have sold 430 items so far!

Which has amounted to at last count around $8,500 Australian dollars!

The generosity and support from the etsy community has been absolutely overwhelming. Not only are Australians donating and buying items but so are a lot of overseas people which is really touching.

Our short term target is to reach 500 sales by midnight tonight Australian time which will hopefully get our money tally to about $10,000

We never would have imagined that this amount of money was even possible when we first set up the store.

readmore »»

Furry People Support (Pet Care)

I was in Pets Paradise yesterday and I noticed they are taking donations of pet needs, like food, heartworm medicine, bowls, litter trays, etc. I am not sure if it is Australia wide, but maybe the next time you go food shopping you could throw in a extra things and swing past Pets Paradise and help out. Not technically handmade but still important.

readmore »»

Item # 88 - Sock Monkey - SOLD

Hi, I'm Rosemary the very cute grey marl sock monkey.I've been lovingly handmade from a pair of knee high socks, so I have very long and lovely legs, arms and a long tail. I also have a flower in my hair and wear my heart on my sleeve...or on my chest anyway!

Item : Here
Price : $35USD

readmore »»

Item #87 Moomi Prints

Candice, the artist behind Moomi prints, is donating 100% of the proceeds of here etsy shop to the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal until further notice.

The Prints are A5 (148 × 210mm or 5.8 × 8.3 inches) and the images themselves are 10cm x 12cm or 3.9 x 4.7 inches. Perfect for framing or displaying as is.

Etsy: here

Price: $9.50 USD

readmore »»