ninaribena makes...

10 DIYs of Summer: Part 5

2012-01-18T11:51:00.002+11:00

A brand new renovation has just been completed at Casa Ribena. I've gone classic and affordable with the permanent fittings, and now what we need are the unique personal touches. Stay tuned for my 10 DIYs of summer - maybe you can be inspired to do something for your own space! Here's part 5...

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A pair of bargain ex-hotel bedside tables are my next pop of colour for our new bedroom. After a jolly good sand to give the new colour some grip, a coat of primer and 2 coats of gloss yellow (Dulux 'High Alert'), they now have a hot new look and are a cheerful burst of colour to wake up to in every morning!

I also made the cushions from Spoonflower designers fabrics, and re-covered the light shade with scrapbooking card and an edge of bias fabric trim, it's on the Rodd wall light from Ikea, a nice compliment to the ceiling light.

Purrdy! xxx

10 DIYs of Summer: Part 4

2012-01-15T20:44:00.001+11:00

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I've always loved this chair, though I always knew the fabric wouldn't look good for long. Pretty quickly the kid's vegemite and yoghurty fingers had it ruined and a makeover was much needed. Better to keep it safe in the new divine setting of my bedroom with some glamourous peacock teal damask, which once had been a bedspread!

Now it has a thicker, softer layer of fabric on it and it's the perfect chair to perch on by the window to put on a select pair of shoes from the collection! Oh, the shoes!

A little bit nanna, and a lot contemporary. Another bold pop of colour in our new bedroom... I LOVE!

10 DIYs of Summer: Part 3

2012-01-11T08:12:00.004+11:00

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The previous owners of our little house had renovated the bathroom, with ill considered super-cheap everything. One of the many things which bothered me was the mirror frame, leading me to vow to wow when given the chance. Now, as part of a complete re-do, I've worked on an absolute beauty.

I found this large mirror with a fantastically ornate but tacky gold frame (obviously not antique) at a garage sale for $50 and I've given it a sexy satin black coat, now on the wall in our considered, conservative new bathroom... she's just the shot of glamour we need...

It pained me a little to use a hacksaw on it to notch a spot around the mixer tap, but it looks wonderful in place.

Now I'd just love another one for my hall table!

10 DIYs of Summer: Part 2

2012-01-09T08:28:00.004+11:00

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Lighting the way in my new boudoir was always going to be something interesting and unique. While big name designer lights are covetable and showstopping, they also come with big price tags - and even still don't end up entirely unique anyway. Naturally, the only option for me is to customise something in a way unlike anything you can buy...

I chose a fairly Plain Jane 'Renata' 5 arm not-quite-chandelier at Bunnings and chose some urban romantic papers from Typo to give the shades a new look.

I also simultaneously watched evening television and covered my fingers neatly in glue.... lovely!

Darling, it's totally glamorous in a non fluffy-girly way.

10 DIYs of Summer: Part 1

2012-01-05T16:24:00.002+11:00

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Our little ensuite has now been built, and, as a tiny all-white space - a splash of colour is just what it needs.

I found this large metal ampersand on sale at Typo at DFO for only $20, but I hated the colour. About to walk away, I thought "what if I painted it?"...

I chose gloss Dulux "High Alert" for instant sunshine...

Other ideas you could do with letters and typography:

Paint it with chalkboard
Decoupage some fabulous paper to the front of it
Mix it up with a cluster of different sized letters and fonts
Add a 3 dimensional word to the top of a huge canvas as a bedhead

Have you used typography in your decor?

Getting closer: A tantallising preview

2011-12-12T08:33:00.000+11:00

A sneaky preview this morning of our not yet completed renovation! The fixtures are about to go in today (I HOPE!!) after 3 weeks of tempestuous weather, perfectly timed for outdoor toilet and shower use...ugh. So, in the ensuite, below (which used to be wasted hallway space), I snuck in with the vanity unit and a few textiles... oooh, I'm getting excited!!

In other exciting news this morning, a mention in 'Reveal' magazine, a Canberra Times liftout! I'm so happy to be included in Canberra's Bloggeratti!!
Awesome!
xx

Written in the dust...

2011-12-01T17:02:00.000+11:00

Today, a blanket of concrete dust.
Delighted.
xx

Rising from the rubble

2011-11-29T15:47:00.000+11:00

As things progress on our major bathroom rennovation...

...I'm feeling the need to create some pretty among the rubble and dust. So with some high gloss yellow, I'm making over some old bedsides for our new bedroom.

I've also been busy constructing part 2 (of 5) of our new wardrobe. Progress.
xx

Demolition...

2011-11-23T22:18:00.002+11:00

... has begun...

Alternative bathroom accommodations are good, but outdoors!

I just have to keep the end goal in sight!

Koko Christmas

2011-11-17T20:34:00.000+11:00

Ooooh Christmas is coming, and with a low tolerance for anything with glitter and tinsel, it's been a little tricky to find anything I can actually deal with. Until I happened across Koko Black's Christmas stocking... lashings of colour and cutie pompoms, a row of these may just be lining the (faux) fireplace this year... though something tells me they'll be emptied before the big day!!!

And something for my cosmopolitan brother? A cigar box without the tar, in a gorgeous keepsake box...

Better put some more of their Cinnamon choccies on my wishlist this year too.

Love it!

Frocktober 31: Finale frock!

2011-10-31T14:33:00.000+11:00

Best for last? It's the Alannah Hill "Hold On Tight Frock" with my favourite shoes... love it! Contrary to the widget in the sidebar, my total for Frocktober has reached $361, not quite the goal figure, but way cooler is I may have inspired a guy-friend to do his own Frocktober Challenge - and he managed to raise a whopping $4,100 (and still going up!), which makes him the top fundraiser!!! Nice work Dave!!

Of course, a huge thankyou to my wonderful sponsors and anyone who enjoyed my Frocktober ride,
much appreciation to you! It's been fun... now where are those jeans?!!

xxx

Frocktober 30: Witchypoo me!!

2011-10-30T14:08:00.000+11:00

A halloween party this afternoon has got the family real spooky...

Black vintage brunch coat from Ebay

Witches hat from Hot Dollar!

Frocktober 29: In the pink

2011-10-29T11:02:00.000+11:00

Pink Vintage frock Ebay
Shoes from Ebay
Stripe Jacket from Target
Stripe Belt from Cotton On
Necklace by Tango & James

Frocktober 28: Sight seeing

2011-10-28T15:56:00.000+11:00

The most wonderful thing happened the other day. My favourite shoes, which I wore completely to their death last year have been replaced with an exact replica pair...

Oh happy tears of joy, thank you husband and your Ebay obsession, xxx

Frocktober 27: Gallery visiting

2011-10-27T16:01:00.000+11:00

I've been out with my ma and pa visiting our gorgeous galleries today... and I may have accidentally purchased this beautiful book... mmmmm

Lovely!
xx

Frocktober 26: Layering

2011-10-26T16:06:00.000+11:00

Today's chilled temps required some serious layering.

Brr... how did you keep warm? xx

Frocktober 25: End of a sunny spell

2011-10-25T13:32:00.000+11:00

It's a bit gloomy and rainy today, perfect for the 'Super Spy' Dress, Alannah Hill 'Break My Heart' jacket and my Wittner boots...

I've been preparing the house for my parentals to visit from interstate, they arrive in 3 hours!
Back to work! xxx

Frocktober 24: Stripes converge

2011-10-24T14:25:00.000+11:00

It's the dress it up or dress it down converging stripes dress I made last year to wear to a wedding. It's a bold graphic statement, and is looking good with my T&J fabrics on the freshly upholstered lounge chairs in the background!

And guess what? These chairs are available to buy now - and they are gorgeous. Make a time with me to come and see them if you are interested. xxx

Frocktober 23: Sunday Sunday

2011-10-23T16:57:00.001+11:00

I've had the fabulous pleasure of assembling part 1 of 4 of my new wardrobe: The Shoe Display! Looks like I'll be needing some more shelves for this baby, the handbags are going at the top.

Sadly I'll have to wait at least 2 weeks before I can look at assembling the rest of it, but here's a little sneaky peek at what I'm thinking for our complete bedroom makeover...

Dark slate walls, white sheers, white bedding, white wardrobe, plus pops of colour everywhere. But that's all maybe 2 months before it will all be done... oooh, I can't wait!

Frocktober 22: Styling some drag

2011-10-22T12:34:00.000+11:00

Well, there's something you don't see every day! My friend's hubby, Dave, is a bloke's bloke - beer loving, sports fanatic and the proud owner of THAT chair. So it's a wonderful surprise that Dave had put up his own Frocktober Challenge, possibly in the belief that it could never happen, that if he managed to gain sponsorship to the tune of $2000 (for OCRF), that he would wear a frock with accessories to work (he's normally looking sharp in a suit)!!!

The great news is, that he has increased the challenge to include a frocked up ladies lunch at an outdoor cafe in Kingston if the total tips $5,000.
Now, not one to be upsetting the sponsors, Dave wants to be sure his outfit is a winner, so he turned to me to put something nice together and here's what we came up with! Just quietly - I think he's having fun!

Can you help get this man in drag out to lunch? Go to Dave's Frocktober Challenge page to donate now, Friday is the date - donations need to be in by Thursday!

Frocktober 21: Happy Friday!

2011-10-21T15:58:00.000+11:00

Today's frock is one I made a couple of years ago, and last Frocktober I wore it with green and black accessories. This year I have changed the neckline to something a little more casual. Never the less it's always a conversation piece!

I got some dirty work done this morning before frocking up to have a ladies lunch with some fabulous gal pals.
Well, thank goodness it's the weekend. I'm going to have LOTS of Ikea goodies to assemble, awesome. And I'm not even being sarcastic!

Hope your weekend is gorgeous, xx

Frocktober 20: Yellow and Hypnotic Red

2011-10-20T12:52:00.000+11:00

Last year, during Frocktober, I wore this frock at the beach... this time with heels for some different kind of fun... and lots of yellow accessories.

I'm also sporting a fresh new hair colour... it's called 'Hypnotic Red'... that was pretty brave right?
It's a little Ronald MacDonald... but I'm actually ok with that!!

Pleeeeeaaase sponsor my Frocktober Challenge... my jeans are calling out to me big time!
While all of this is for a great cause, it's only worth it if you can make a donation, xxx.

Frocktober 19: Prototyping

2011-10-19T16:23:00.000+11:00

Inspired by this gorgeous sunny weather, I thought I should work on a project which had been shelved over the winter. I picked up 2 Butterfly Chair frames with no covers a looooong time ago, now, finally, I have started experimenting with a prototype cover. It certainly needs some more tweaking... but it's close...

All I need is a chilled cocktail! xx

Frocktober 18: Distinctly Summery

2011-10-18T14:36:00.000+11:00

Self-made dress, French Connection Cardi, Ebay shoes.

Frocktober 17: Back to School

2011-10-17T14:35:00.000+11:00

And back to 'normal' - whatever that is!!

Here's what I wore to do the grocery shopping today...

What else but a cherry laden Betty Page frock and great heels? Ha ha!

Frocktober 16: Klei frock

2011-10-16T17:28:00.001+11:00

A loose and chic dress by Klei for relaxing and tidying around the house today.

Frocktober 15: Garage Sale'd

2011-10-15T16:55:00.000+11:00

And exhaustedddddd. And now to deal with the aftermath... our house most sincerely looks like a bomb site. Agghh. Still, we had great weather and loads of lovely customers taking our unwanted items to their homes... so THANK YOU!

Our hand painted signs were a big hit, though it looks like the designer wire chairs are still house hunting! xx

Frockober 14: Ferreting around

2011-10-14T17:22:00.000+11:00

In a flurry preparing for our garage sale tomorrow. We've got the mother load of fabulous stuff to serve up, so I hope you all can come!

Don't miss out! xxx

Frocktober 13: Rolling with my homies

2011-10-13T17:30:00.000+11:00

Awww, just as I was beginning to enjoy the school holidays, it's all coming to an end. We went out today with some Garage Sale leaflets to invite our neighbors, the boys loved their delivery job - I can see 8 years into the future to a paper round... if we still have real newspapers then!

We've finished off our day with a super shiner on the noggin of our little ginge. It's amazing how much blood can come from a small hole in the head! Eeek. He's ok now though!

xxx

Frocktober12: Meeting the Queen?

2011-10-12T14:29:00.001+11:00

Nah, but let's get into the mood! She's in town soon Welcome to Canberra Her Maj...

Hope you're enjoying this sunny weather! Gorrrrrgeous!!! xxx

Garage Sale: My place: Saturday!

2011-10-11T23:41:00.000+11:00

So, what's going to be there? I'm glad you asked!

The 4 wire dining chairs, as seen in Home Beautiful Magazine! And my hand painted coffee table on wheels...

Bits of fabric stash, crafty bits, and glass vases...

Shoes and dresses that are magnificent, but don't fit me. Some awesome pendant lights that look a little like this...

Plus kid stuff like a baby car seat, high chair, toys etc... and a few fabulous chairs...

Also, this rug...

We'll also have some more things coming from the trendy young things up the road, including quite possibly a fridge and more furniture... tell your friends and don't miss it!

I can also make my jewellery collection available on the day for anyone interested - let me know xxx

Frocktober 11: When wearing something nice is the best part of your day!

2011-10-11T15:32:00.000+11:00

Today I had to tackle the grocery shopping with 2 boys in tow. Not Fun. We wound up with a trolley malfunction and a smashed bottle of red wine. NOOOO NOT THE WINE! I didn't go back for more.

Well at least I was wearing something fun!
Starring T&J Jacket (I'll have some available soon), T&J I've Got Fans necklet, Op shopped hand made dress (plus striped under slip) and Wittner boots.

Egads, I still have more shopping to put away. But first, I'm having a strooong coffee! xx

Frocktober 10: Frolic in the clover

2011-10-10T13:43:00.000+11:00

Going dotty! Nice day for the park and have the kids enjoy some outdoors fun. They've been scootering, biking and might I add... bless the Wiggles for making Fruit Salad cool.

Last year I wore this dress with red accessories and a sneaky bit of extra length - cuz it's reeeeeally SHORT! Well of course it is, it's Valley Girl (via Ebay), worn with my fabulous lello shoes (Ebay) and silk scarf (sewn from fabric from A2F), new sunnies from Forever New, and Stella McCartney for Target sun hat.

How's your Canberra Community Day going? xx

Frocktober 9: Spring cleaning - sort of

2011-10-09T13:28:00.001+11:00

Our upcoming bathroom rennovation also includes a little re-modeling in quite a few important rooms in our house, which results in my studio becoming a bulky goods storage area for about month. This means that, despite my propensity to procrastinate ad nauseum, I must clear space in here to do so. Today sees the first time in many months where the floor is visible... behold...

And the shoes... I J'adore these ones - even though the were le cheap, heh heh.
Today I'm wearing a baby blue Alannah Hill slip (via ebay), Bonds singlet, Valley Girl cardi, belt from a Jane Lamerton coat, Shoes by Jolie and bangles by moi.

Frocktober 8: Skipping around town

2011-10-08T15:44:00.000+11:00

Frocktober 7: monochromed

2011-10-07T14:41:00.000+11:00

Feeling monochromal today. Took my little boys to the pool to brighten my mood.

Here's to a happy weekend, xxx

Frocktober 6: Retail Therapy

2011-10-06T15:09:00.000+11:00

Oh, it's been soooo long since I had a spot of kid-free retail therapy, so not to miss a golden opportunity, off I went.

I ended up buying a few things for home - and browsing ALOT! Lovely.

Frocktober 5: Floriade

2011-10-05T14:15:00.000+11:00

I was saving this gawjuss floral frock for Canberra's most fabulous floral extravaganza, Floriade, and today was the day. Earlier on though I was wishing for my jeans, but when the sun came out, things were looking better!

And a frock compliment from a perfect stranger made my day!
So, today's frock was snared on Ebay, it's belted with the belt from yesterday's dress, the super preppy jacket is from Target, and the Novo flats were in pristine condition from Salvos, and I'm wearing T&J jewellery.'

Don't forget you can sponsor my Frocktober Challenge, which is raising funds and awareness for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation and the quest for an early detection test which would catch this deadly disease while it is treatable. Visit and make your donation today. xxx

Frocktober 4: Finally sunny out!

2011-10-04T12:36:00.000+11:00

It's a gorgeous day today, and for the first time this month, we have legs! They are lilly white though! Today's frock comes to you straight from the 80's - when I found it in the op shop, it had massive shoulder pads and was a marvelous mumsy length. I'm digging the pockets and kicky skirt.

Out to lunch with my li'l boys... hoorah school holidays. xx

Frocktober 3: Pinky Mc Pinkerton

2011-10-03T14:36:00.000+11:00

It's day 3 of my Frocktober Challenge, and I'm out with the family visiting friends for morning tea. She has 2 little girls who appreciate a bit of pink, so today I thought I should wear my HOT pink tights - which actually look slightly purple - causing a comment from Mr Ribena "Oh look, it's the Phantom".

Ahem, so of course superhero boots are the only shoe of choice.
These images have got me thinking it's time to visit la hairdresser super soon. xxx

Frocktober 2: R & R

2011-10-02T14:31:00.000+11:00

Unpacking my market things from the car and sorting the accumulated messes around our house today. Soft and stretchy clothes are perfect.

Truthfully I have been shoeless for most of today, but these shoes look so cool with my 'sporty' horsey leggings ya!

I have a few T&J goods to customise this week. And an awful lot of tidying up!

Lisa xx

Frocktober 1: Handmade Market

2011-10-01T12:43:00.000+10:00

The beginning of my Frocktober Challenge this year sees me at another huge Handmade Market selling my wares to an appreciative crowd. Today I needed a utility dress and flat shoes for lugging big chairs around - not to mention that it was also rather chilly! So here I am in a simple long black dress, with my little warm jacket and a few pops of colour, surrounded by my handmade and re-loved goodies!

Please pardon my surly expression, this was taken right after setting up and before my lovely customers arrived... and I was already exhausted! Luckily coffee always does me wonders and I perked up just in time! Ha ha.

A glarey shot of my Tango & James stall before the many wonderful customers arrived.
If you missed out on the Market today, or were considering one of these pieces for your home, make sure you check out my Tango and James Furniture Gallery page to see exactly what is still available.

Time to unwind and relax for the rest of the loooong weekend, xx

Furniture a go go...

2011-09-18T19:15:00.001+10:00

I've been keeping myself busy as ever, and now that the next Handmade Market is only 2 weeks away, a few shabby ole chairs have been having glamour makeovers at Casa Ribena, most in my T&J original fabrics. Just take a peek at what's waiting for a spot in your home...

For up to the minute updates on my Tango & James creations visit me at www.tangoandjames.blogspot.com and subscribe to make sure you don't miss anything!

All of these beauties and more will be joining me at Canberra's Handmade Market on Saturday the 1st of October. Which one is your fave?

Out of the haze...

2011-07-21T15:43:00.002+10:00

I've been quite unwell with the flu and have arrived at the other end intact. I felt the need to make something with my hands, and what better than a sunny flower to bring joy into a room.

This dinner plate sized bloom is straight from the book Paper + Craft, and so lovely. Ahh, I'm back!

Designing: my bathroom

2011-06-29T13:09:00.001+10:00

Putting together a few ideas for our bathroom renovation...

It'll be black and white with a few pops of colour, and a little bit urban and fabulous.

We're also squeezing an ensuite in and re-arranging spaces and doorways and re-working the inefficient 1969 main wardrobe... interesting times ahead, I can't wait to put my ideas into practice.

The beginning of a fashion collection?

2011-06-26T14:39:00.002+10:00

After each market (they are only quarterly - but HUGE), I like to re-invent... here is the beginning of the next incarnation...

Above: T&J designed "Raindrops" Organic cotton knit fabric 3 quarter Tshirt with gathered sleeve detail.

Above: Converging stripes Jacket, warm and fleecy inside!; Navy Trellis Organic cotton knit skirt.
Enjoying wearing these samples to road test the fabrics!

To market, to market...

2011-06-06T19:13:00.000+10:00

I'll be setting up my dazzling wares in the great hall at the Convention Centre on Saturday, it's your chance to grab something for your home unique and handmade in style. Above, just a taste of what you will find - if you're quick enough!! And I'm still working on new pieces not yet photographed. Please do drop in and say hi, don't be shy!

See you there, xx

Good Design: Featured!

2011-05-31T11:38:00.001+10:00

Today a gorgeous feature of my home at ...

Says Danielle,

"I love the graphic prints, diverse use of color, and the mid-century modern vibe.
Lisa also designed most of the fabrics in her home, incredible huh?
You can check out her designs here.

I kinda want to be her best friend."

Fabulous huh? Danielle is also an interior designer, often providing clients with online design solutions for their homes. She's also a very talented DIYer and sounds every bit as frugal as me! I feel very humbled, because you should take a look around her place... beauuuuutiful...

Thank you for the gorgeous feature Danielle, it's an honour to have 'met' you, and I'd love to count you as a best friend too!

Profiteroles = Yum

2011-05-26T15:46:00.000+10:00

Just made a delicious batch of profiteroles for my lovely hubby's birthday. They must have been alright as they disappeared fast!

I've been busy, busy busy!

2011-05-19T11:11:00.004+10:00

I've been a busy, busy girl preparing for Canberra's Handmade Market, on in only 3 weeks time! Come over to the Tango & James blog to see all of this goodness in all it's glory!

And of course, don't miss Handmade Market on June 11, from 10am to 4pm at the National Convention Centre, Constitution Ave, Canberra City. It's going to be HUUUUGE!

Oh Joie: We're on the cover!

2011-05-11T09:51:00.003+10:00

Joie is a too-cute online magazine and it’s spring issue is out now! Do you remember this behind the scenes post? Well this is what it was for. I worked as stylist, providing clothing and accessories, alongside Photographer Amanda Thorson and model Keely Rees. We have a lovely spread in the magazine along with the back and front cover…click on the cover to check it out!

On the cover: Necklace by Tango & James available here. Fascinator by Barb Mickelson. Frenchy summer top by Tango & James.

Check out more images at my Tango & James blog soon.

It's raining curtains

2011-05-07T15:15:00.001+10:00

A wonderful, mammoth order of my fabric designs arrived yesterday, and the first project off the ranks... a set of fabulous curtains for little Hugo's room. Finally replacing the hastily purchased and long since broken roman blinds, these ones make the room feel complete. Loving...

My Raindrops design in Sea is available to purchase on Spoonflower right here.

And stay tuned for more fabulous rescued chairs - in T&J fabric designs... I can't wait to get stuck into them!

She's a Betty now

2011-05-04T21:13:00.002+10:00

Another chair which has has served it's previous life blending into the greige walls of an unknown government department - in good condition because, well, who wants to sit on an ugly chair? A clear injustice which needs serious amendment...

Now with a new life and a much more comfortable look in a gorgeous vintage modern linen upholstery fabric (with scotchguard!) in mustard yellow, sagey greens and a whisper of pale blue, she's soooo pretty and warm and inviting. And super comfy too.

She'll be joining me at the next Handmade Market, only a month away, along with loads more furniture and lighting - or you can snap her up by appointment.

Something lurking under my bed...

2011-04-26T15:01:00.003+10:00

Our Easter project... can anyone guess?

Did anyone say: Super-Gucci flock-lined custom-built shoe storage?

Welcome to your new boutique hotel suite darling shoes.

We built these 3 wooden trays which slide on felt, to perfectly fit 18 pairs of shoes in style under the bed. Our super easy project began with a visit to Bunnings only 24 hours ago... with $50 of pine and MDF, glue, nails, 2 rolls of adhesive woodgrain film (contact paper!) and 4 sheets of my favourite Christina Re flocked paper, behold...

Is anyone saying: That's just too many shoes?

Well, that's just absurd, that's not the half of them... there's still all these ones which are anticipating equally Gucci accommodation in the next 6 months, stay tuned!

Something for Rachelle Rachelle...

2011-04-24T17:42:00.001+10:00

Ever since it was sold at the last Handmade Market, this lamp shade has been coveted by friend and fellow designer of sassy accessories Rachelle, from Prim & Pretty. Finally the planets aligned for a re-make and this time, this gorgeous baby has her name on it. Beautiful!

Do you have something special in mind? Email me and we'll see what we can arrange! xx

In the oven...

2011-04-22T09:46:00.001+10:00

via taste.com

Happy Easter!

Love, Lisa xxx

3 chairs done...

2011-04-21T10:02:00.003+10:00

Oh these turned out lovely! 3 government greige chairs with a fun new look...

Visit Tango & James to see the others... J'ADORABLE darling!

Working on: Chairs

2011-04-16T18:39:00.000+10:00

So many chairs in my house today... no fewer than 11 strays. This one, above, has been re-loved and will be going back to it's owner rejuvinated... ready for it's next 40 years!

Stay tuned for some before and afters... from government greige to fabulous!

Hats and Gloves and a little T&J

2011-04-03T08:39:00.000+10:00

The always elegant stylings at the annual Hats and Gloves fundraiser, this year in the theme of black white and yellow, saw my Tango & James Hollywood Trellis fabric making a big splash of colour in the marquee as table runners on all 37 well dressed tables...

Hosted on the grounds of Government House, guests were treated to perfection, all to raise funds for the Malkara School.

Darling, don't they look fabulous? Full credits to my gorgeous friend and designer Barb Fisher who worked tirelessly with the decorating committee, sewing up these babies herself and putting together this amazing space, congratulations!

Oh Joie

2011-04-02T15:35:00.006+11:00

A beautiful day to style a Spring fashion shoot for online magazine Joie. Led by incredibly talented photographer Amanda Thorson, joined by Keeley Rees, our beautiful model and Annika De Hoog as photography assistant/chief scene wrangler.

I got the fun job of styling outfits of my T&J label clothes and jewellery, with hats and fascinators by Barb Mickelson. The results... well, you'll have to wait for the finished collection of shots, but for now, a look behind the scenes...

A fun day, great company, and I can't wait to see the beautiful results!

Octonauts party!

2011-03-27T20:45:00.006+11:00

It's birthday time for both of my boys. Though 2 years apart, their birthdays are 6 days apart, so it's natural to have one party for both. With both boys (turning 6 and 4) being huge fans of kids TV show, The Octonauts, finding a theme for this years party was easy peasy, and producing the parts was challenging and fun! Here's what I came up with (and some fun ideas to try - if you're doing one too)...

Easy party hats and eye patches were made with coloured card. A 'party room' was set out within our open plan playroom, using walls of seaweed (streamers). Inside that space we set up a central table, set with sea shells, small sea creatures and the food.

The 'coral' and 'fish biscuits' were homemade cheese puffs, the chocolate bars were re-badged with Octonaut characters, various confectionery items became 'electric eels' and 'blob fish'. 'Octodogs' (made by slitting legs through red-skinned hotdogs prior to cooking) were served with 'ink sauce' (tomato sauce tinted with blue colouring!)

A large hand drawn 'Peso' poster on the wall became a game, following an episode of the Octonauts where he wins an "Iron Clam" award, we had the children 'pin the clam' (a silver painted shell - each with a childs name inside it) in his hand - blindfolded. Later the children were given a treasure map and were sent on a hunt to find their treasure boxes (which would be their goodie bag to take home).

Finally, sharing a party is one concession, but I wanted the boys to have a cake each, so they can blow out their own candles. They were each quite sure about their favourite characters, which were not so tricky to replicate in cake form: Dashi (above) for 4 year old Hugo, and Captain Barnacles for Dylan, 6.

A fun party, and I'm exhausted! I should have remembered after last years party! Now, who's got the vino?

ReLOVED: Pops up!

2011-03-19T16:24:00.004+11:00

The ReLoved collective of designers are enjoying our pop-up shop, with thanks to the You Are Here festival of fabulous indie events. Open for 3 days only, we close on Sunday afternoon with a clothing swap (LOVE!). If you haven't been along yet, here's what you might find...

but that's if we don't sell out first!

Come along to the clothing swap, bring some of your unwanted clothes - and leave with something you do want! Instant wardrobe update, and left overs go to Vinnies.

We're at the old NRMA shopfront (on the outside of the Canberra Centre), City walk - between Sportsgirl and Birkenstocks. Gorgeous, gorgeous gorgeous!

a pop up shop: 3 days only

2011-03-14T15:43:00.005+11:00

“The Mall” in the former NRMA shopfront,

City Walk (near Birkenstocks), Civic

Opens with cupcakes and tea

Friday 18 March 5-8pm

Saturday 19March 9am-5pm

Sunday 20 March 10am-4pm

PLUS Clothing Swap Sunday 2-4pm

Showcasing local designers maker, artists and illustrators in a temporary shop located in the city.
Join the facebook page here, and drop in to the shop to buy something fabulously original.

Her Canberra feature: She's Got Style

2011-03-02T12:46:00.008+11:00

Tres glamourous... a feature today at HerCanberra.com.au, an online magazine for Canberra women, by Canberra women , with contributors including social commentators, culinary whizzes, a home & style guru, health & fitness experts, movie buffs…and they’re all amazingly talented local women.

Make sure you visit and have a read of the most fabulous words ever written about moi, and for a tour of my home... and they even spill the beans on the amazing news I alluded to a couple of posts ago! (squeeee!).

A most exotic thank you to friend, creative equal, and super stylish Barb Fisher for the feature and articulate and kind words.

Follow the link to HerCanberra above for even more fabulousness, updated daily. xx

Tango & JAMES is In The City

2011-02-28T13:28:00.006+11:00

Just out today is the Autumn issue of In The City magazine, and who's that girl on page 38? I spoke with Dione Van Heer about being a designer in Canberra and about my little business Tango and James (I'm just not sure who George is!)...

Grab a free copy on the stands from today... well worth the other pages too... fabulous!

Click to read the article (if you've got great eyesight!) xx

Textile designs: Vintage collection

2011-02-25T12:40:00.002+11:00

Designs in Black and Champagne, inspired by cocktail hour darling... pass me my martini.
visit the whole collection here.

Before and after: Bus Roll chair

2011-02-25T10:41:00.004+11:00

Patiently waiting for a new home!
**HAPPY UPDATE: the chair has found a loving new home, sold at the ReLoved Pop-up Shop**

Well that was awesome!

2011-02-20T10:35:00.007+11:00

Handmade Market day came around yesterday... and as usual it was mad packed, though in a new upmarket venue - every one found us and shopped up a storm. This time around I had for sale more chairs than ever before! And W.O.W - what a response! Naturally the Union Jack chairs were snatched up immediately, as were the 2 floor lamps! And my stall was looking quite cleaned up by the end of the day.

So a I extend a huge thank you to my Handmade customers and wish your new Tango & James items a happy new life in your homes!
Stay tuned for new projects right here... and maybe some extremely cool news! xx

Handmade Market: Don't miss it!

2011-02-16T08:26:00.000+11:00

Canberra's most awesome market just went UPmarket... all indoor venue loads of parking and ATM facilities! LOVE it! see you there, xx

A matching pair

2011-02-08T12:09:00.002+11:00

Just completed and ready for Handmade Market, a matching pair of fab British flag chairs looking pretty awesome...

This time around I'll have a range of one-off upholstered chairs, armchairs, table lamps, floor lamps and cushions that will knock your socks off... Handmade Market is on Saturday Feb 19th, 11-4 at Canberra's National Convention Centre in the city... please come and say hello!

A new pencil skirt

2011-01-20T12:27:00.001+11:00

Using my "Points" fabric in Navy blue sateen.

A little assistance...

2011-01-14T16:38:00.001+11:00

Lounge room re-designed

2011-01-13T16:08:00.009+11:00

I've been making a few changes and re-designing parts of my house lately. In the lounge room the colour scheme we painted 8 years ago was really tired and my growing little boys had out grown the legroom at the flower coffee table (see it here), so changes needed to be made.

So, gone is the deep plum feature wall (which appeared in Home Beautiful Magazine) replaced with all around soft baby blue/green which makes the white trim and furniture seem so new and fresh and seems to change the dimensions of the space.

To add some sass to all the softness, I've added some bold black and white elements which I hope, lead the eye away from the TV when it's off. The curtain panels are my own fabric design, available here, and the rug is a freshly stencilled DIY I finished a couple of days ago (lots of masking tape and patience!). The table is a thrifted find on an online auction site, to which we added castors for mobility and to bring it up to the perfect height.

The little chairs have been recovered with some fresh - and hardy fabric, as has my fave chair in the corner (you might remember this one), and a few splashes of colour in the artworks and coat rack (with a nod to Arthur Stace) and we have a fresh new look I'm loving.

Below: This is what you see when you walk into the room... before and after (click to see it larger)...

Ahh, feels like summer! xxx

Meet the Chevrons

2011-01-09T16:25:00.009+11:00

The first lovely samples of my textile designs have arrived... here are the chevrons. Also in the chevron collection is a super fresh pool blue... gorgeous.

Available to order from here.

A few re-upholsteries

2011-01-01T20:01:00.002+11:00

These 2 chairs are the first of 4 ex-government uglies to get the T&J treatment... I think they look so sweet now!

The pink chair is upholstered in Berry Chevron fabric, designed by Thebline, available here, and the teal is upholstered in a gorgeous vintage damask from a Sydney Antique store. These ones involved a few tricky techniques new to me, I just love exploring new challenges!

Oh, I can't stop!

2010-12-26T22:15:00.002+11:00

More fabric designs...

The last one above just might be my statement curtains for the lounge room. I'll wait for my first samples to arrive before I order any more though!

I've been: designing fabrics!

2010-12-19T16:59:00.007+11:00

Something new... I've been designing my own fabrics for some special upcoming DIY projects this summer. The collection is full of bold graphic statement fabrics...

I'm very inspired by Johnathan Adler's Happy Chic concept, David Hicks (amazing 60's designer) and Kate Spade (fashion designer)...

So far I have 16 designs, you can see them here on Spoonflower... I simply can NOT wait to see how they look printed on the fabric!!! Samples are on the way... squee!

From the garden, thrown into a vase...

2010-12-11T23:07:00.000+11:00

A wedding Purse

2010-11-05T13:03:00.004+11:00

A gorgeous client came my way recently (a referral via Shop Handmade) who wanted to create something very special for her sister-in-law to have on her wedding day. She brought me the mother of the bride's original bridal headpiece with the idea that, though her mother had passed, she could carry a special piece of hers on her own special day.

The piece has been transformed into a little clutch purse for the bride, with an olive green satin lining (to match her bridal party), this is something special she can remember her mum by, and I send her my very best wishes.

A beautiful result and one extremely happy client!

ReLOVED: ReVAMPED Tango & James collection

2010-10-22T17:31:00.009+11:00

Images just in, of my debut Tango & James fashion collection... and a twist... every piece is conceived from re-claimed materials and are one-of-a-kind items...

Pieces are available for sale, email me for details if you are interested!

Frocktober for a good cause

2010-10-17T19:53:00.006+11:00

To challenge myself this month I'm eschewing the usual wardrobe of jeans in favour of a frock every day in October. The reason for such madness... to raise much needed funds and awareness for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. Too many women die from this disease because it remains undetected, only becoming diagnosed when it is too late to be treatable.

Please consider supporting my challenge and giving generously, as the funds raised will go toward developing an early detection test which will save the lives of mothers, sisters, daughters.

Check out my other blog for my daily Froctober frock shots and join in the fun... enjoy a poke around my wardrobe and donate! Pretty please?

xxx

Come see what I've been fashioning...

2010-09-27T20:14:00.005+10:00

Recycling in style: Re-Loved Re-Vamped

2010-09-15T14:03:00.005+10:00

I've been busily designing, thrifting, collating and stitching up a gorgeous little fashion collection of one-off pieces for the catwalk fashion event coming up at the end of this month, Re-Loved Re-Vamped, formed by dynamic fashionista duo Hanny and Lee Dewar. I just can't wait to show you what I've been up to, here's just a sneaky peek...

This event, hosted at Craft ACT, showcases sustainable and recycled fashion to the people of Canberra. Each designer has been given a brief to deconstruct, re-work and re-imagine existing clothing and materials into new creations, promoting a sustainable fashion culture.

"Re-LovedL:Re-Vamped" will be held on Thursday 30 September in the gallery space of Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre in Canberra city. Doors open 6pm for pre-show drinks and nibbles. Admission is FREE!

Please do come join us!

Come see me in September!...

2010-08-21T13:21:00.000+10:00

The illusion stripe dress...

2010-08-14T19:06:00.005+10:00

I decided a while ago that when a special occasion comes where a new dress is required, I must make one to suit me - and make it unique. So with this fabric waiting in my stash, the time had arrived for this dress...

The fabric, above, is "Gunvor" from Ikea. I used the converging curved stripes to define my waist - and wow, what an effect. This will look gorgeous dressed up (with a sequinned tux/blazer jacket) for my brother's wedding, or casual this Spring and Summer with flats and a little cardi.

(Click the pics for a bigger image) What do you think? Is it outrageous... too much for a wedding?

Working on: Eco fashion

2010-07-19T21:53:00.003+10:00

I've been busy working on putting together a little fashion collection for an event called Re-Loved: Re-Vamped. The twist? Everything is constructed from pre-loved or re-claimed materials, it's all about recycling in style! Here's a little preview of the works in progress...

And here's a look at what inspired me at the Re-Loved event I attended last year. This year the show is at the end of September, it's going to be gorgeous! xxx

Love/birds

2010-07-13T13:53:00.005+10:00

A little collection of simple necklaces. High gloss colour on one side, black board paint on the other!

Only available at Canberra's Shop Handmade. So CUTE!
Love Nina x

Something old becomes something new

2010-06-29T17:07:00.001+10:00

I stumbled upon 2 incredibly elegant but dilapidated carver chairs some time ago and was extremely delighted to discover that they are genuine Parker furniture, a feel of the curved arms had me seduced, despite the damaged velvet fabric... a project!

So here's the after of the first of the 2. A re-upholster in black linen, the ampersand feature back rest panel is a piece by Auntie Cookie, and on the reverse... bold black and white stripes - delicious!
Now, to keep or sell? If you love it as much as I, check it out at Shop Handmade (Canberra city) before I decide to buy it back myself!!
Love Nina x

Bags of style...

2010-06-05T22:38:00.001+10:00

Playing with some whimsy

2010-05-25T18:52:00.000+10:00

The inclusion of my home in the whimsical chapter of the recent Home Beautiful Colour book inspired me to bring in some fab colour and fun fauna loving whimsy. Here's a collection of canvases and cushions, now residing at Shop Handmade...

Cute, so tempted to keep a few - but really, maybe you can have too much stuff on the walls! Guilty!

Shop Handmade is open!

2010-04-17T12:23:00.007+10:00

My very first foray into retail design... And how glorious the results...

Do come and see for yourself! Shop Handmade features handmade local artisans and designers, and is at 20 Allara Street, City Walk, Canberra.
Divine! xxx

Designing: Shop Handmade

2010-04-12T16:58:00.006+10:00

Here's a sneaky preview of my latest adventure in design... my first retail space! Designed for the founders of Handmade Market, Shop Handmade is a designer collective, and we have the most amazing goods arriving daily, ready for display. I'll be doing the merchandising displays and window showcases. A mammoth task is ahead of us, but we are confident the store will be looking perfect in time for our media launch this Thursday evening!!!

Another first for me is the wall papering (above) which was not as awful as I feared, I'm in love with the results - instant gratification!!!

The great challenge in designing this space has been to offer a range of varied and flexible display opportunities as the mix of products is extremely diverse and will be ever evolving. We have been striving to incorporate a handmade touch to the entire fitout, with a mix of pre-loved, thrifted and revamped furniture pieces being used as shop fittings where possible. I have also been working hard at some gorgeous DIY display techniques which I will share with you in detail soon.

We managed to grab a few mannequins from a closing store next door, with a vacant haunting nude face and hair (bottom picture) - I have given them a make- up and hair makeover, above is 'Ivy'.

Check out the Shop Handmade blog, where just some of our amazing local designer goodies are being revealed daily... LOVING!!! And if you are in Canberra, the store's the grand opening is Friday April 16, doors open at 9am! Come and see us at 20 Allara Street, City Walk in Civic (it's kinda toward the Casino, (where the Electric Shadows bookshop was).

Come and check it out and meet some of the designers! xxx

Handmade Love

2010-03-17T14:10:00.004+11:00

Awww, I'm totally blushing at this amazing article penned by friend and author Tania McCartney on the Handmade Market blog. Awesome, thank you!!!

So, with the market only a week-and-a-half away, I've been busy making more jewellery, cushions, lamps and more to knock everyone's socks off!

Check out the Handmade Market on Sunday March 28th at a new glamour location, The Devine Function rooms at Kamberra Winery (near EPIC), and make sure you come and find me!

Now, there is also something else I've been working on, a most wonderful development for all of the fabulous Handmade designers of Canberra... a retail space in the city, Shop Handmade. Check out the inspiration for the decor here, it's going to be a slice of Handmade heaven!

Pink & Red pretty: Call Me

2010-02-09T17:24:00.003+11:00

I have been sharing some of my sewn clothing triumphs with other keen fashion DIY-ers at Burda Style recently. This is my contribution to the Coats & Clark Pink & R ed Fashion show challenge. The brief is to create an outfit using pink and red and incorporating thread as a design feature... here is my sailoriffic pink and red...

It's a bit of frivolous fun, and I don't even know where I'd wear it... but it is cute!!!
Check it out here Coats & Clark Pink & Red Fashion Show Part 1 and if you are willing to be a Burda Style member, you can vote for your favourites.

Road side wreck to GORGEOUS!

2010-01-17T10:38:00.004+11:00

I found a sad little broken up kids lounge chair while walking my pooch the other day, looking decidedly worse for wear, the ugly "upholstery" was torn and faded and the seat completely broken: I saw a challenge and a clear vision...

Above: BEFORE
Below: AFTER!

I kept the old fabric underneath and covered it over with a heavy weight cotton print fabric from Ikea, starting around the back and sides, then folding it neatly over the arms, and a seperate panel at the front. Then I replaced the broken seat base (wood), re-upholstered it and fixed it all in place. It was a fairly simple operation in the end - and the staple gun is my best friend!!

I'm pretty happy with this result and Hugo is well pleased to have this added to his pretty cool room!

She wears short shorts!

2010-01-01T23:02:00.007+11:00

Ahoy there 2010... I'm celebrating the new year with a pair of shorts that say "Hello Sailor". Now I've never considered my legs to be shorts-worthy, but by adding a little flare on the sides, these are sitting pretty, let's hope I can dare to wear!

Yeah! Here's to not being ordinary!
Happy New Year to you all,

Love Nina xxx

Making a statement

2009-12-21T22:09:00.007+11:00

Something for the girl who has everything...

Something for your day in court...

Something if your feeling frisky!...

and something if you're shopping on Christmas eve...

Now available on Etsy here.
xxx

Oooh la la: Check out who's in CLEO!!!

2009-12-21T21:17:00.002+11:00

Surprise... Look who's hanging out on page 180 of the latest issue (Jan 2010) of Cleo Magazine!!!

Since spotting my home featured on Made By Girl blog, Lifestyle features editor Joanna Barry has been busy putting together a page around the things I do and make! In an issue bursting with style - well it was curated by fashion designer Alice McCall - CLEO invites you to "have a perve through the window of the coolest pads from here and OS (minus the AVO)".

A big thank you to Joanna, who did a lovely job of it - and choosing some fabulous "Get the Look" items all of which I (ahem) have to get!!! (I really really want that cutlery now!!!). And my gratitude also goes to Jennifer Ramos (Made By Girl) for pointing the way! xxx

Markets: Wrapping up for you...

2009-11-16T07:24:00.002+11:00

Here's an idea I've been toying with and I'll be offering this at the Christmas Handmade Market this Saturday here in Canberra. Make up a set from my jewellery collection and have it gift boxed for free, ready to sneak under the tree for Christmas. There are loads of combinations to choose from, but here are some of my faves...

Which is your favourite combo?

Pssst: Not in Canberra? Make your wishes known, I'm sure something could be arranged ;-)

xxx

Tango & James: A Christmas Handmade Market...

2009-11-12T15:13:00.006+11:00

As the next installment of Canberra's UPmarket approaches FAST!!! I have been busy busy busy preparing some new fabulous goodies to offer on the day. These are a limited run of handbags, some use thrifted retro fabrics and some are hand printed by yours truly...

I'm more than a bit in luuurve with this green curtain fabric (in excellent condition) and have used the same for a clock face and a lamp shade!! Heh heh!

Above shows both sides of the same bag, hand printed on natural linen... gorgeous. And I have another with spots instead of stripes.

Check out Canberra's Handmade Market on November 21st at the Yarralumla Woolsheds, it's going to be huge! xxx