One Day at Lyssy May...

Chalk it Up

2012-01-28T08:03:00.001+11:00

Since the last kitchen post there's been a few more changes! A floating shelf has been added to the alcove (less than $30 from Bunnings) but also a touch of chalkboard paint in Grasshopper ($23 for a small tin from Porters) on one wall is a handy brightener. The calendar was a find in NYC at the American Folk Art Museum which has instructions on the reverse side of each month on how to make the pages into little trinket boxes.

Friday the 13th Free Shipping

2012-01-13T07:01:00.000+11:00

Lucky for some!
Head over to our Facebook page for details on how to receive a free postage offer for Friday the 13th. x

Kitsch in the Kitchen

2012-01-08T16:39:00.000+11:00

hmmm...today Lyssy May was meant to be doing her book keeping but instead decided to play in her new kitchen. Well, the kitchen isn't new (it is indeed very tired), and if you were thinking that sounds like a day of blissful cooking - wrong again. Lyssy May's idea of play is to potter for hours arranging knick knacks.

A new sleek kitchen is envisaged however until the lotto Gods descend to pay for a renovation the interim solution is to have a little fun with the space to unleash some hyper-sweet accents to brighten it up. Fortunately pretty bits and pieces are not in shortage from years of collecting and receiving gifts that people knew were just a little bit Lyssy May!

Cath Kidston china with Womens Weekly Retro Cookbook
(the book was a fabulous score for Xmas!)

Fridges can be quite boring - have dressed mine up with a tea towel bought at the Imperial War Museum in London about 10 years ago. They also had the 'Keep Calm' ones - who knew back then it would have such a resurgence!

The kitchen has a little nook that has no end of possibilities when I finally redesign it. In the meantime have popped a chair in the corner and hanging above it is a gingham apon my mother made at school which she also embroidered - when I was little I used to wear it for play - now I quite like it for display!

Even the top of the fridge is not safe! Bison bowls and a favourite cow money box have found a new home for the moment along with a shopper I bought from Esprit years ago - still going strong!

And this is the start of the top of the side buffet in the living area - a lot more demure! I don't think it will stay like this but I've never before had the chance to properly display this retro coffee set that I rescued from nearly going into a garage sale many years ago. My mother bought it before she was married and used to buy a piece every week with her wage - the story was too good for me to lose just as much as the set itself!

Rock your Stockings Xmas Market

2011-12-13T20:38:00.004+11:00

This Saturday Lyssy May will be at the 'Rock your Stockings' Xmas Pop Up market at 118 High St Prahran from 10 AM to 3 PM in aid of the Smith Family. Would love to see you there - there will be fabulous stalls to browse!

(p.s. doing a little last minute shopping? Like us on facebook to get 20% off everything in our store within the next 24 hours).

Every girl needs a sanctuary

2011-12-04T17:22:00.001+11:00

Whilst my fingers have been idle on the keyboard, they have been anything but in my day to day existence with a house purchase, move and now renovation happening in the last 2 months.

This weekend however I decided to luxuriate in some quality time at the studio and whilst taking pics of some new designs in the laneway I was reminded how much character and history resides where Lyssy May has lived at Ironside Studios for nearly 3 years.

Unfortunately the warehouse is under development threat and there is a public meeting coming up for the council to hear objections from the general public. Fingers crossed heritage will win out and our beautiful creative haven will be preserved.

Swoony fabric

2011-11-06T18:04:00.002+11:00

Just flicking through the October issue of Living etc and my heart skipped a beat when I saw this ad for a new collection by Villa Nova (UK) called High Society. Just lovely...

(pics: http://www.villanova.co.uk/collections/new-collections/high-society.html)

Weather's a little choppy

2011-10-30T20:20:00.001+11:00

Today was a classic 4 seasons in one day in typical Melbourne style. In the 2 mins of sunshine Minnie May posed for a picture with a new chopstick design. Summer is the inspiration for this little collection of designs (now in store). Just need the weather to co-operate!

French Checks - zip purses now in store

2011-10-22T18:46:00.002+11:00

Check 'em out via the online store

New Designs - Lunch in Daylesford

2011-10-16T19:44:00.000+11:00

I have had a creative burst using fabrics I sourced when I last visited Thea's studio (with more to come). Just added to the store is her beautiful Marguerite design in 2 colourways new to Lyssy May. The designs remind me of a leisurely day in Daylesford...now in store.

Artistic Direction

2011-10-11T22:08:00.001+11:00

Now in stock in the shopfront- wallets featuring the Campus maps of the Victorian College of Arts and RMIT. Other Universities/Colleges etc available on request if they are available!

back view of wallets

Little Miss Picnic

2011-10-10T18:32:00.003+11:00

I do love working with Italian fabrics and this super pretty waffle pique I found in the Garment District in NYC was destined for a Little Miss design the moment I spied it on the shelves. Available now in the shopfront.

Keep it Simple

2011-10-09T15:41:00.003+11:00

In keeping with an overall strategy to simplify my everyday life I've 're-jigged' the Lyssy May website. Admittedly its not as pretty as it has been in recent iterations however it will hopefully be just as inviting!

The big change that I am experimenting with is a big cartel store. This is part of a move to put more 'one only' designs on the site and this shopping cart option makes it easier for stock management. Plus the big cartel app allows the store to be integrated with facebook so hopefully it makes it easier for shoppers to see what's new and purchase all in the one place.

I hope to build up the number of products listed over the coming weeks so there will be lots to browse by the time Christmas shopping rolls around.

Anyway, that's been my Sunday's worth of work - I hope you've all had lovely weekends!

Skipping along

2011-09-25T18:34:00.000+10:00

One of the many things I love about being based at Ironside Studios is you never know what will greet you when you arrive at the warehouse. With so many artists and designers there is always something to inspire and enjoy. Lately a scrap metal recycling skip has landed in the laneway which proved the perfect backdrop to take some images of some retro fabric clutch designs I've just finished...

Hanging Out

2011-08-15T18:57:00.003+10:00

[Yes - I am still here!] Whilst browsing one of my most favourite Australian retailers - kikki-k - I stumbled across these hanger shaped paper clips that come in a cute glass jar. It reminded me of how at primary school we used to fold coloured paper clips into hearts and thread them onto our shoe laces and thought it was the height of coolness. (visit kikki-k here or even better go and soak up the loveliness of one of their retail stores if you can).

Back on Deck

2011-07-19T07:15:00.004+10:00

Any holiday is good for the soul but my trip to NYC was pretty special. As I swirl the new ideas through my jet lagged brain I am excited about the inspiration I received from the art, music, beautifully hot summer days, the pace and the people. Expect these to be woven into some upcoming Lyssy May designs!

Central Park looking towards Upper West Side apartments

Gone Shopping

2011-06-23T22:28:00.001+10:00

Lyssy May is on holiday (mixed with a little business). I will be back from 18th July and will try and post the odd update on facebook. Hello NYC - I feel we might be good friends!

(photo: redbubble.com)

New Stockist: Redbird

2011-06-19T18:37:00.001+10:00

Today I had the great pleasure of meeting Anna, whose Seddon store - Redbird - stocks an eclectic mix of handmade treasures, books and furniture... and now also Lyssy May's designs. Be sure to pop by this treasure trove when you are next in the neighbourhood. It is located at Shop 3 / 107 Victoria St, Seddon. Ph. 9687 9840.

Tiger and Hare - open studio

2011-06-13T20:43:00.014+10:00

Lyssy May's lovely Ironside neighbours - Tiger and Hare - will also hosting an open studio this Saturday (18th June). Amanda will be on hand to welcome visitors to show their label's super sweet handmade designs. Yay!

New designs for winter '11

2011-06-09T21:57:00.027+10:00

New designs have arrived at lyssymay.com...

each of the following comes in alternative colourways...

Vintage Mosaics

Have you any wool?

French Totes

Onabee in Kensington

2011-06-08T21:09:00.008+10:00

Lyssy May has just delivered a batch of wallets to Onabee (200 Bellair St, Kensington), including these new ones featuring original pages from a 1970's Girls Annual which are lined with the recycled pages of a dictionary. Owner of Onabee, Fiona, is passionate about both craft and her community which shows in the cosy and crafty ambiance of her store which has the most beautiful selection of wools which sit along side gorgeous handmade wares. If you are in Kensington for a coffee be sure to pop by to see this local treasure!

Celestial intervention

2011-05-30T20:17:00.011+10:00

I've been looking for the perfect accent for a little colour themed display I'd created a couple of weeks ago using books so I was pretty happy to spot this 'Billy Button' bottle vase by Angus and Celeste at the Fed Square market on the weekend. I've been spying their beautiful ceramics for a while - the hardest part is choosing!

Markit this weekend

2011-05-26T20:24:00.020+10:00

If you are in Melbourne this weekend you may want to pop by Markit @ Fed Square featuring lots of fabulous wares. I am excited to be going to a market as a shopper for a change! My main reason to visit though is to see my favourite jewellery designer from Queensland - Nicole from Hot Toffee . I think I will have to treat myself to yet another pair of her beautiful handmade earrings. Take a peek here.

Singapore daydream

2011-05-24T21:15:00.025+10:00

This time last year I was wandering lazily through the beautiful Orchid Gardens in Singapore so today I have been flicking through my holiday snaps like this one.

I am reminded I should make more of an effort to have my digital photos printed and create some good old fashioned photo albums...like these 'beautiful accordion style design influenced by the horizontal scrolls and folding screens of traditional Japanese art' found online at Notemaker.

Save the Date - open studio

2011-05-23T19:10:00.000+10:00

Lyssy May will be opening its doors for you to come and check out our studio and designs on Saturday June 18th from 10 AM to 2 PM. We'd love to see you there!

Bag adventures by Esther Frieda

2011-05-22T20:53:00.013+10:00

How fantastic are these photographic prints? Entitled 'Bag Adventures' they are the creations of Melbourne photographer Esther Frieda.

'Party Girl' (above) will soon be adorning the walls at Lyssy May's studio - yay!

Birthday Brooches for All...

2011-05-22T20:04:00.014+10:00

Lyssy May has just turned 8! My little girl is celebrating by sending all our lovely customers a handmade fabric brooch for any orders received before the end of May. Nominate your favourite colour during checkout to ensure you have something extra special for you.

Thanks to my beloved customers and supporters for an amazing 8 years - it's been a truly special journey and I am excited to see what else lies ahead for this little label.

Odd Molly

2011-05-16T20:49:00.029+10:00

Lyssy May has long been a fan of Odd Molly (Stockholm). This gorgeous damask number with embroidered detail is on my most coveted list for an upcoming adventure to escape the Winter.

New Stockists - West and South

2011-05-14T20:42:00.016+10:00

I have been remiss in updating Tassie and WA readers that Lyssy May designs are now available at Embellish (Launceston) and Out on a Limb Eco Design Store (Perth). Both stores are run by savvy ladies with an eye for the unique. Would love the chance to pop in myself soon!

Out on a Limb Eco Design Store - 194 Whatley Cr, Perth

Embellish - 157 Brisbane St, Launceston

Happy Mothers Day

2011-05-08T09:08:00.000+10:00

Special wishes to all the Mums today. This is a favourite pic of mine once taken in my Grandmother's kitchen. It encapsulates a lot of the joy our family gatherings here particularly amongst the lineage of females - home baking in the cake tins, cups of tea and sunlight streaming in the window with lots of conversation and laughs. I hope you have a few moments of simple pleasures today.

Brisbanites: Thea & Sami Opens its own Store!

2011-04-28T19:08:00.000+10:00

Lyssy May's dear friend, Thea & Sami is opening a new Store/Studio in Capalaba this Saturday. You can find all the event details here on Facebook. Thea produces beautiful handprinted natural fabrics in a range of stunning original designs which I love to feature in the Lyssy May range. Her new store is sure to be an oasis for those who love quality Australian made fabrics and homewares. I can't wait to check it out when I am next back in Brisbane!

Sisters' Market this Saturday

2011-03-30T07:17:00.000+11:00

If you are in Melbourne this Saturday it would be great to see you at the Sisters' Market, Brunswick Town Hall from 10 am to 4 pm. Lots of gorgeous wares to browse!

History Lesson

2011-03-27T21:15:00.002+11:00

Recently Lyssy May has had the immense pleasure of working with pages from 1920's & 1930's editions of the Queensland Times to create a series of bespoke wallets for Province Modern Country in Ipswich. The owner of the store, Naomi, discovered the newspapers when renovating her Queenslander.

Locals have been loving the ability to take home a piece of history with their beautiful advertisements and compelling articles about the turbulent times of war. A favourite in the latest batch features an advertisement for "King Tea". Whilst the love of a good cup of tea is still shared amongst females I am sure the words of this ad are highly unlikely to make an appearance decades later...."to be known as the perfect hostess is the rightful aim of every good housewife"!

Busy as a Bee

2011-03-14T10:14:00.001+11:00

I do love a little weekend adventure and have just returned after a couple of days in Canberra. I lived there for a couple of years when I first left uni (let's just say I didn't last long as a public servant but do miss that 'flexi time'!). I hadn't been back in over 10 years and as I was greeted by hot hair balloons drifting above the lake on my drive in from the airport and I remembered how pretty and relaxed Canberra can be. After a leisurely breakfast at Manuka it was off to the The Ballets Russes exhibit at the National Gallery which is an amazing insight into the world of costume design and the condition and detail of the designs is stunning. I also popped in to one of Thea's stockists , The Bodhi Leaf, which is a gorgeous eco store in Braddon that also is home to a couple of other cute and quirky stores. There I purchased a beautiful handmade bees wax candle by queen b (photo courtesy of website above). It is fantastic to find a funky take on the bees wax candle - I adore that aroma! Lots of laughs and catching up with friends plus a brilliant Saturday night at the Enlighten Festival all made for a great break. There is more to that town than politicians - thank goodness!

New designs on Grey

2011-03-06T20:24:00.000+11:00

3 new designs just in time for the winter chill!

Tuneful Light

2011-02-10T18:47:00.000+11:00

I do love a good wander along Gertrude St Fitzroy which is one of my favourite spots to visit in Melbourne. This week was particulary fruitful as I found this great lampshade, made from a pianola roll. The fabulous Cottage Industry store had just got a new batch in - hurry to check them out!

Brisbane City Print

2011-02-06T20:15:00.001+11:00

When I left Brisbane I was extremely lucky to be given a 'Brisbane' Skirt by the talented Thea. She has just released this image as a limited edition canvas and until Feb 28th 20% of sales will go to the Qld Flood Appeal. One of Brissie's finest giving back to her city - nice one Thea!

Venture Out

2011-01-29T22:14:00.001+11:00

A great new design for every day featuring cotton weave fabric in 2 choices of colours - see the website for more!

MyMarkets App

2011-01-28T22:05:00.001+11:00

At first I couldn't see the fuss about smart phones but having succumbed to the lure of the iPhone a few months back I can seriously say it has changed the way I communicate and seek information on a daily basis. I have just discovered the free MyMarkets Vic app and have to say it is one of the best apps I've seen in terms of thinking of absolutely everything. It can list markets by those which are close to me and then in true smart phone style will show me on the map how to get there, give me all the details of opening hours, let me load up a pic or rate the market etc etc. I hope that these are coming for other States - there is no excuse to forget when your favourite market is on again!

(image courtesy of my own screenshot)

Welcome little one

2011-01-24T20:55:00.000+11:00

My grandmother stitched birth samplers for all of her grandchildren and it was something that I wanted to continue to do in her honor. We've been lucky enough to have a new addition to the family so Aunty Lyssy May got to work. This has now been framed and adorns the nursey wall and hopefully will be a treasured piece forever.

It's been a while since I have embarked on a cross stitch project. This design was a particularly nice one (took only a couple of days to complete) and I love to work on linen. Hopefully 2011 will bring more projects for pleasure!

Fresh for Summer

2011-01-04T18:55:00.000+11:00

Lyssy May is back on deck after a busy lead up to Christmas filling stockings with our handmade designs. For those who now have their first Lyssy May handbag I hope you enjoy it - welcome! Some downtime over the holidays was spent indulging in beautiful produce and treats. These cherries were bound for a scrumptious pavlova. Speaking of seasonal produce, a dear friend of mine has produced the 'In Season Calendar' which has the great idea of telling you each month what fruit and vegies are in season - click here for more.

Modish Market today

2010-11-20T06:54:00.000+11:00

Hello Melbournites! The forecast is for a beautiful day which is a perfect excuse for a browse at the Malvern Town Hall for Modish Creators market today from 10 am to 4 pm. Come and say hi!

Finally in store!

2010-11-07T19:53:00.000+11:00

Click here to view our latest collection created in collaboration with Thea and Sami.
Thanks Thea for sharing your beautiful fabrics for this collection!

Dress up your transport card

2010-09-04T21:46:00.003+10:00

Its been a while coming but the integrated smart card 'myki' is now available on all Melbourne public transport and I have to say I am loving not having to worry about whether I have a ticket or coins on me. One less hassle in my day and a couple of trees saved from paper tickets! To mark the occasion 2 new oilcloth cardholders are now available in the online store - London Bus and NY Subway.

Life Instyle Melbourne

2010-08-15T20:33:00.000+10:00

It has been an exciting time for Lyssy May as the new designs are taking shape for Spring/Summer. Part of the new collection will include a collaboration with Thea and Sami. Last Tuesday night I popped by Thea's stand at the Life Instyle trade show here in Melbourne. It looked amazing! (my apologies that my photos are a tad on the blurry side).

Thea and Sami's beautiful display

The hardworking team - Voyt and Thea

One of the best things about working in this industry is the people you meet. It just so happened that Thea's neighbour at the show was Nicole from Hot Toffee. Nicole's fused glass designs continue to delight me with her combination of colours and shapes.

Fab Fab Fabric

2010-07-29T19:41:00.000+10:00

At the last Modish Market it was lovely to receive a visit from Nic (of Yardage Design). She had a sweet surprise for me of a gift of 3 of her beautiful fabric designs - how lucky am I?! Yardage Design is celebrating 12 months of blogging - congrats Nic on a gorgeous blog and thanks so much for the thoughtful pressie. The hard part is choosing how to use these lovelies.

Sunny Sunday

2010-07-25T17:13:00.000+10:00

It's been a gorgeous winter's afternoon so I have indulged in spending some time in a little suntrap in my lounge room with a cup of tea and some mags and thought I should inspect my plants on the balcony. I am very impressed with the progress of my mint which was suffering from frosty mornings. The solution to use a wooden crate turned on its side to give it a little hidey hole has worked a treat!

I hope you are feeling relaxed and ready for the week ahead. It will be a busy one at the sewing machine for Lyssy May. x

High Tea wrap up

2010-07-19T20:36:00.001+10:00

It was a lovely weekend at The High Tea Party at the historic Windsor Hotel here in Melbourne. Ladies sipped champagne, were pampered and gossiped to their hearts content - bliss!

Here are a couple of snaps of the Lyssy May stand. It was lovely to mingle and to meet so many lovely people over the weekend - it was worth the early morning starts!

The Lyssy May life size shopper girl helped out carrying a basket full of travel bags - she loved having a couple of days out of the studio!

Little Wing Clothing - Katoomba

2010-07-10T10:45:00.002+10:00

Lyssy May is excited to have flown a parcel of designs to Little Wing Clothing in Katoomba (NSW) which is a particularly favourite part of the Blue Mountains of mine to visit. This new store is located at 112 Katoomba St and is full to the brim with lovely clothes, accessories and other goodies made by Australian designers. Hooray for the owner Michelle for supporting independent design!

The High Tea Party

2010-06-26T21:18:00.000+10:00

A couple of years back Lyssy May exhibited at the first Brisbane High Tea Party. Since then the event has continued to grow its reputation as the ultimate women's expo and I am excited to announce that Lyssy May will be part of the Portobello Road market section at the Melbourne event (Windsor Hotel, July 17 - 18). Click here for more info and to buy your tickets for a great girls day out!

Modish Market tomorrow

2010-06-18T07:03:00.000+10:00

The studio is all packed up and ready to head to Malvern. The Modish Market (all beautiful handmade goodness) is on tomorrow at the Malvern Town Hall 9 AM to 3 PM. Come and say hi! (handbag circle members bring your card for 10% off).

Fabric heaven? Let's roll!

2010-06-14T16:17:00.000+10:00

Where were the warnings for fabric addicts? I almost had a coronary as I descended the steps into this section of the Mustafa shopping centre (Little India, Singapore).

A little more from Singapore

2010-06-09T21:24:00.000+10:00

I am finally getting my Singapore pics together. Here's a little collage of images from Ann Siang Hill and Club Street - this little treasure trove of shops and resturants sits at the edge of China Town and has a lovely eclectic feel of both the oriental and the european. A highlight is the gorgeous Books Actually which had a huge piece of fabric with poetry stitched on it hanging outside its door. It is such a beautiful store and you will not only find an amazing and thoughtful collection of books but also quirky collectables, like typewriter ribbons and retro wooden rulers. There are fantastic boutiques around the hill too - this area was one of my favourites to visit by day or night.

Singapore Fling

2010-05-30T12:33:00.002+10:00

Lyssy May has just had a little adventure to Singapore for a few days (hence the recent blog neglect). I will post about some of the lovely highlights soon (i.e. I returned with heavy suitcase and light purse!) but there is no topping the experience of breakfast with the orangutans at the Singapore Zoo. I could have stayed for lunch and dinner if only to spend more time with these amazing animals which are 'free ranging' so as you walk through their area of the park they are sitting in the trees right above you. Note the little baby one which won everyone's hearts - who could blame me for wanting to bring one home!?

Open Studio this Sunday

2010-05-20T08:12:00.000+10:00

This Sunday (23/5) the Ironsiders are opening their studios to the public from 12 to 3. If you are in Melbourne it would be great to see you there - pop by for a drink and a browse. I will have some materials for sale as well as Lyssy May designs available for purchase if you'd like to come and check out Studio 1. The number of studios has grown since the last open day as well so there are lots more talented people to meet - see you there!

Modish Market

2010-05-14T19:09:00.000+10:00

Can it already be a week since I was packing up to go to the first Modish Market? Here is a quick snap of some of the Lyssy May display. It was so lovely to meet fellow stallholders and the many locals who were quick to snap up the recycled map wallets of their suburb - I will know to make more next time! Despite the day starting with a flat car battery and a mad dash to put everything in a cab to make it to set up on time the day turned out to be a special one. I do love a good craft market.

Market Day in Malvern this Saturday

2010-05-04T07:34:00.000+10:00

It is 7 years ago this weekend that Lyssy May was launched at my parents house in Brisbane. Here is a snapshot of the bags on display that day - if you own any of these they are truly vintage LM! Fast forward to 2010 and this Saturday I will be at the Modish Creators Market, Malvern Town Hall 9 AM to 3 PM (cnr High St and Glenferrie Road). Be sure to stop and say hi if you are there and I can show you how I now have more than one style of pattern in my designs!

New stockist: The Lillie Tree

2010-04-28T09:42:00.000+10:00

If you are lucky enough to live in Brisbane's beautiful Bellbowrie area you must pay a visit to a lovely new local store that's landed: The Lillie Tree at Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza. A fresh batch of Lyssy May goodies has just arrived on their shelves.

Giveaway goodies & Winners!

2010-04-19T21:08:00.001+10:00

Today I had a chance to delve through the Lyssy May shelves to select some giveaway goodies for last week's 200th post. The 2 prizes will each include one of our wallpaper lavender sachets and a handmade 'pattern girl brooch'. One lucky winner will then receive a copy of Handmade in Melbourne and the other a 'what a hoot' owl zip purse. To be in the draw make a comment on the previous post or join up to follow by Thursday.

Winner update! Congratulations to bubbachenille and Sandra Darling - you have each one a handmade goody pack. Thanks so much to everyone for their comments on the 200th post. x

Blog Giveaway - 200th post!

2010-04-13T18:25:00.000+10:00

I just realised as I was going to blog about something else that this is post 200 for One Day at Lyssy May - how amazing I have had over 200 things to share in the last couple of years!

As a result please leave a comment about anything or everything, long or short about one thing that made you smile today (or opt in to follow as all followers will go in the draw too!) and I will pop you in the draw for a Lyssy May mystery parcel full of handmade goodness!

2 x prizes will be randomly drawn Thurs April 22nd (comments close midnight Melbourne time Wed 21st April 2010).

Pinboard love 2

2010-04-09T13:23:00.000+10:00

Keeping a watchful eye over proceedings at Lyssy May HQ is this copy of a picture of my great grandmother on her wedding day. It wasn't until after I had named my business that I learnt her name was 'Elsie May' and she was apparently an amazingly talented craftswoman. I would dearly loved to have known her but do feel a little of her legacy is stitched into every Lyssy May design!

Pinboard love

2010-04-08T07:34:00.000+10:00

Today I am zooming in on the remnants of a button card that has the most gorgeous 'modern miss' design. One button is still attached but I don't think I will ever use it as its too special as is!

If you liked it..

2010-04-06T16:41:00.000+10:00

...then you shoulda put a pin in it.. Don't you just love the effect of a pin/cork/inspiration board when it details bits and pieces of stories, some important and some trivial? I thought this week I might 'zoom in' on something different from the board for the next few posts. My board sits over my sewing machine so my eyes can rove over different memories and things that are on the 'to do' list during moments of procrastination.

First up is this dear little piece of canvas work. I used to sell these as pincushions/door hangings when I had my first craft stall when I left school. I think she would definitely have been created around 17 years ago!! Lately she reminded me how much I love canvas and tapestry work so I have embarked on a big project which I will share when I have more to show.

Golden moments

2010-04-05T13:00:00.000+10:00

A little treat for my currently crowded studio shelves - beautiful tulips in my Holly Hobbie jug - 'fill your days with golden moments'. The sunshine has been glorious over Easter here in Melbourne which has been the perfect backdrop to numerous special moments. I hope you've enjoyed your break!

Hot Toffee goodness

2010-03-29T18:24:00.000+11:00

I do love a nice parcel. This special one arrived from Hot Toffee the other day - I have many pairs of these fused glass stud earrings made by the super talented Nicole and I felt the need to update my collection with some soft green and grey hues.

Nicole's attention to detail in both her designs and her presentation of her products is to be admired!

The Secret

2010-03-23T20:45:00.001+11:00

On Sunday some friends and I were chatting about Peppermint Mag and we thought that the next issue mustn't be too far away and how fabulous it is. Less than 24 hours latter it arrived in my mailbox. Yay! Now I am off to concentrate on the arrival of Johnny Depp on my doorstep whilst I flick through Peppermint's gorgeous pages. Good things can happen for those who wish for them!

Giddy Spinster: platform garden

2010-03-20T10:31:00.000+11:00

Apart from loving the name 'giddyspinster' I am also loving these 'upcycled' platform and stilletos planted with cactus and succulents. I am not a high heel wearer but I could handle one of these on on my window sill. Check them out on Etsy.

Which also reminds me that I hope to get along to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show next week (Mar 24 - 28). Having studied floristy I still like to keep my eye on what's happening in the industry!

Bread winner

2010-03-18T19:32:00.000+11:00

Have you seen Thea and Sami's latest homeware creations? I remember my mum had a similar breadbasket in the 80's and I love that Thea has brought the idea up to date with her gorgeous new range of fabrics.

Plus don't forget the tea cosy (a personal favourite!).

Floral threads

2010-03-17T18:31:00.001+11:00

This morning on my way out the door I thought I must pick up some flowers to brighten my coffee table today but plans went astray. Instead I have made the most of my current sorting of hundreds of skeins of embroidery threads and thrown them in a bowl to add some colour and texture to the table - if they can't be used for projects at the moment at least they are doing some work!

I'll be brief

2010-03-16T20:17:00.002+11:00

Retro inspired plywood briefcases - just perfect for a decorative storage solution (could see some sewing projects kept in here!). Created by Sam's Garage.

Knock on effect

2010-03-15T16:08:00.002+11:00

A couple of weeks back I was in Brisvegas and stopped in at the Martha St (Camp Hill) precint which has some lovely shops and I was thrilled to find this resin door knob at Kim and Judi. I couldn't wait to get it fixed to my studio door and I have finally had time to do so. I have tracked down that they are produced by Jackie Brazil which has the most amazing range of resin jewellery and objects - here's a link! (they have loads of Australian stockists).

Notable purchase

2010-03-12T16:51:00.002+11:00

A casualty of my studio flooding was my much loved kikki K notebook that I used for all my bag ideas and notes. Fortunately most of the contents are still readable however it is too damaged to use again - I will need to trot back into their yummy store this weekend and choose some new stationery. I am loving this 'fashion notes' journal!

Shall I be mother?

2010-03-11T22:35:00.003+11:00

One of my most favourite possessions is a caravan teapot my friends gave me from England which has little union jack curtains. This Sunday is Mother's Day in the UK and what could be more British and cute for Mum than a collector teapot? Visit The Teapottery for an awesome selection which you can order in time for mother's day here.

Anthropological study

2010-03-10T08:53:00.003+11:00

Anthropologie have recently started to ship to Australia - looking at the jacket featured on today's email bulletin I can feel a little pain in my credit card region.

Knees up for autumn

2010-03-09T18:02:00.003+11:00

Today was a first hint of autumn and I took the opportunity to show off my new pair of knee socks I had been waiting to wear (these aren't my pins pictured by the way). I found the Sox Trot range like I had been given at this Canadian website but I think mine were purchased in a store in Brisbane (in Edward St I think?).

Sunday night tea time

2010-03-07T20:26:00.005+11:00

It is a long weekend here in Victoria but today was a long one for all the wrong reasons. Yesterday's wild weather conditions in Melbourne led to considerable damage at the Lyssy May studio resulting in a lot of mopping up the floors and shelves (and the odd tear at some of the precious items that are now waterlogged such as a stitchery guide my grandmother gave me for my 15th birthday). However fortunately the stock and fabrics are all ok which I am thankful for and at least I have a nice dry roof to sleep under unlike some Melbournians tonight as the rain falls again (plus I cannot imagine how those in Queensland are dealing with the devastating floods when just a few inches of water is so awful to deal with).

It was nice however to come home to see what is in the fridge for a quick meal and a lovely Sunday night dinner of poached Daylesford Organics farm eggs with ham on toast has made me a bit more sunny side up tonight!

Too good to use...

2010-03-05T12:52:00.002+11:00

A recent treat for my sewing box - a gorgeous handcarved and painted quick-unpick. Available at Mac Pelican (they had tape measures too!).

thaw magazine

2010-03-03T22:36:00.002+11:00

Many thanks to Thea who discovered a lovely Ballarat self published zine - thaw - and let me know about it. I was thrilled to see a little feature of Lyssy May bags inside of the summer edition which are available at Blonde Vintage 425 Sturt St, Ballarat (thanks to Kim the editor for including them!). I recommend checking it out even if you are not local to the area - you can subscribe here for just $3 an issue.

new cardholder fabrics

2010-02-28T20:32:00.002+11:00

New cardholders in laminated Japanese cotton available here.

big decisions from a little time

2010-02-25T17:20:00.003+11:00

Today is a day I've been putting off - lack of storage plus a high amount of sentimentality spells disaster when deciding which childhood toys are to be kept, which are for charity and which realistically need to be binned - noooo!

Here are some of the ones that are just too special to let go so room will just have to be found.

my first cash register - if only a trip to the supermarket cost $3.95 these days

feminists look away - i was so excited with my carpet sweeper back in the day

I had forgotten how lovely this cardboard 'preschool alphabet' is - definitely a great decorator item to keep

Lyssy May Website back up again

2010-02-22T08:18:00.003+11:00

Update: we are back in business - yay.

.........

Monday-morning-itis has hit lyssy may! There are problems with our hosting service at the moment and the website and email is down. If you need to contact us please call our studio 03 90043229.

Hope you have a better start to the day! x

An apple a day...

2010-02-19T19:55:00.005+11:00

I couldn't resist this super sweet pincushion by Morgan Wills when I meandered through last Saturday's Craft Victoria 'craft hatch' market. As Morgan pointed out it is the perfect size and squishiness for a pincushion and I find I can never have too many as I work from a number of different tables during the course of a day.

Also at the markets was the talented Susan of Spin Spin whose stand as always was brimful of yummy textiles. Plus I couldn't resist a BYO coffee cup by hookturn as a gift for a coffee addict friend of mine.

Lots of other beautiful things were on display too. I do love a good market where I am the lookee and not the stallee!

Wish list

2010-02-18T22:43:00.004+11:00

Teacup lighting? White with one please! I recently spied these on my travels around town. More details here or here.

Love is...

2010-02-12T20:01:00.003+11:00

... a day well spent at the studio. No chocolates or flowers required!

3 new limited edition sweet seventies zip purses just added to lyssymay.com featuring retro fabric.

Lipp Service

2010-02-08T18:14:00.011+11:00

Things have been a little lack lustre in blog world as I put the finishing touches on my new collection. All will be unveiled very soon! In addition to designing I have also had fun revamping my studio space of late. I couldn't wait to hang this beautiful illustration I bought from lipp design (my talented neighbour at a pre-Xmas market). A girl on a mission with a teapot and a handbag -what could be more Lyssy May? This lovely lady now now sits above the workbench for inspiration.

Also helping the creative juices are fresh flowers, jars on newly installed shelves and a stack of heirloom pincushions (my favourite is the hexagonal hand patchwork one made by my mother in the retro print).

Going Chopin?

2010-01-22T16:16:00.004+11:00

These sheet music wallets were a hit at the Christmas markets and now are available online here.

Beachside Textures

2010-01-17T09:08:00.003+11:00

Lyssy May is officially back on deck for 2010! Farewell to a lovely relaxing holiday but hello to a welcome bargain - all designs in the deckchair collection are now just $55 each!

Taking a break!

2009-12-27T08:30:00.000+11:00

A flood of work

2009-12-17T17:24:00.003+11:00

It has been a chaotic couple of weeks. Apart from the usual Christmas pressures to have orders out the door there has been the added drama of a burst water main near Ironside Studios last Friday night which resulted in major flooding through the studios. Lyssy May's escaped relatively unharmed, thanks mainly to those who were there lifting vunerable items out of harms way and my studio floor being higher on one side than the other. A massive thanks to Susan especially who helped raise the alarm and prepared me for the worst when I arrived on Saturday morning. Plus a postal strike isn't helping to calm the nerves but it is looking like everything is still on track for pre-Xmas delivery - phew!

Helping to get me through has been Anna Yau (pictured) who is a recent RMIT Advanced Diploma textile graduate and an absolutely brilliant help to one frazzled handbag designer. Anna is currently looking for Melbourne based work in any area relating to textiles, particularly screen printing or fabric design/construction. Email me if you'd like her details as I can highly recommend her!

Am here!

2009-12-12T19:17:00.003+11:00

Lyssy May has not moved from the sewing machine for 2 weeks - Christmas orders and today's Market 3031 have been top billing on the list of priorities. Please forgive my lack of blog updates but I have been trifle weary at the end of the day to talk let alone type.

Today's market in Bellair St Kensington near the train station was fantastic despite a couple of sprinkles of rain - there was a lovely atmosphere under the trees and every time the train pulled in it delivered a new batch of browsers. A big thank you to the organisers and all the locals who were keen as jelly beans for handmade goodies!

Tomorrow I'll be at the City of Melbourne Christmas Market at the North Melbourne Meat Market, 5 Blackwood St from 11 am to 8 pm. Quite a few things I thought I had plenty of sold out today but I promise to still have some nice things on display plus there are heaps of amazing artists and designers with stalls so well worth the drop by.

All in the family

2009-11-29T09:50:00.000+11:00

There's always lots to be done at Lyssy May so I was very lucky to have a helping hand from my cousin's daughter, Olivia, seen here stamping carry bags for my market stalls. Olivia's love of art and craft knows no bounds and she was very thorough in sorting buttons, threading beads and tracing appliques needed for Christmas orders. She said she had a fun day helping and I had equally as much fun sharing some time with someone who loves creating things as much as I did at her age. Thanks Olivia!

Suits me to a Tea

2009-11-28T07:51:00.004+11:00

Just added to lyssymay.com, a range of 3 shoulder bags called Tea House which have been made from handblocked fabrics. These fabrics were crafted by a family of 9th generation Ajrakh Block-Printers in the desert region of Gujarat, India.

The traditions of using colours derived from nature (such as indigo, turmeric, madder root, iron & red mud) and hand-carved teak printing blocks are still practised today by this family. It is always special to work with materials that have their own story before being a part of Lyssy May's own narrative.

The fabric alone does not need any embellishment so I have added a fabric button (made from calico with feather stitching) to the strap. These buttons were fun to make- more will be coming on other designs soon!

Market 3031

2009-11-26T07:43:00.003+11:00

Fingers crossed for a lovely day on 12th December - I'm looking forward to sitting under the lovely trees in Bellair St with a stall of Lyssy May goodies. I hope if you are in Melbourne you have a chance to pop by and say hello to the Kensington and Flemington crafters!

Time travels

2009-11-21T22:08:00.005+11:00

Today I received a call on my mobile from a lovely lady who was on her way with fabric for me to make a bespoke bag for her and just wanted to check I was at the store. After some initial confusion I realised she was in Brisbane and on her way to where my old store was and it was quite amazing for me to think that it is well over a year now since I moved on (she was very happy to learn though that I am still in operation we will be creating the design 'long distance'!).

Speaking of time going fast - Monday is the cut off for international orders that I can guarantee will be there for Christmas if being sent directly from Lyssy May (edit: sorry deadline now passed). These 3 new drawstring bag designs below would dearly love to travel for the holiday season!

Map out a trip to Melody Nelson

2009-11-19T21:24:00.002+11:00

A fresh batch of recycled street map wallets have headed off to gorgeous Melody Nelson in Brunswick but be quick as they are of local suburbs and they are a popular seller to Brunwickans (or Brunswegians!?).

If you have some street directories you are hoping to recycle please send them Lyssy May's way and not the wheelie bin's! I'd be happy to swap you a directory for your very own wallet made out of the page of your choice.

Friday 13th - lucky for some!

2009-11-13T08:37:00.003+11:00

Handbag circle members keep an eye on your inbox today for a Friday the 13th special offer!

Everybody needs good neighbours....

2009-11-10T20:29:00.003+11:00

No, not for Ramsay St! Ironside Studios (where Lyssy May is based) is expanding...if you are looking for studio space in Melbourne details are below:

NEW STUDIOS AVAILABLE!

The extensions at Ironside are nearing completion and there are still a few studios available!

They range in size from 18sqm to 40sqm and in price from $64 to $122 per week inc GST.
These prices include all expenses except internet access. High speed internet is available at a further $15 per month. Each studio is an individual lockable space with floor to ceiling white walls. The studios are suitable for a wide range of artistic practices, particularly those that require ground level access and a more industrial space.

All spaces have lighting and power points, 24 hour access and use of the communal kitchen and sink area. Some studios have natural light. The studios are located in Kensington and are easy to get to on public transport, or by bike or vehicle.

Ironside currently houses a variety of artists and designers. These include several sculptors, industrial designers, textile and fashion designers, screen printers, set designers, lighting designers and animators.

Ironside would love to hear from any practicing artists and designers who may be interested in a studio space. If you would like further information, or to register your interest, please contact Laura at admin@ironsidestudios.com.au with a brief description/images of your practice and an indication of the kind of space you may be interested in. If you know of any others that may be interested please feel free to forward this email on to them.

Oh me, oh my little miss

2009-11-08T21:51:00.002+11:00

There is definitely a high degree of satisfaction involved when I see a row of bags hanging ready to fly off to different parts of the country. Today I just had to capture the cheery handles of some little miss designs.

A little something Thea whisked up...

2009-11-05T17:18:00.006+11:00

As you may have already guessed I am a big fan of the textile work of Thea (of Thea and Sami fame) and I am loving this new range! I can greatly identify with Thea's dilemma of working as a designer in your own small business which often leaves little time in the day to actually devote to designing so I am always excited to see her new designs. Her latest collections focus on organic homewares and are just beautiful. Yum!

Also if you are in Brisbane check out the details of the Thea and Sami open studio on November 14.

New Stockist: Bassara Flowers and Gifts

2009-10-30T14:11:00.002+11:00

A range of Lyssy May designs have landed at Bassara Flowers and Gifts in Yeronga. Pop by to visit the lovely Mei Li and her staff!

Sweet Peas

2009-10-29T22:54:00.004+11:00

Today I stumbled across a lovely florist and garden nursery in North Balwyn (Cultivate) which had a fence overgrown with sweet peas. These flowers always remind me of my grandfather's garden in spring and the smell is always very nostalgic. I was thrilled to learn I could buy a bunch of them cut straight from the garden so they came straight home to my Cath Kidston jug. Heavenly.