A slippery maiden

birthday

2012-03-01T06:25:00.000-08:00

Wishlisting. I can't believe I'm almost twenty-one. Could we stop the world for a moment, I want to get off.

the third month

2012-02-29T23:45:00.000-08:00

I made a calendar.

The 8th is sparkly 'cause that's my birthday.

there's me / and then you

2012-02-26T07:22:00.000-08:00

New.

sunshine

2012-02-26T05:46:00.000-08:00

Yellow laces > regular laces.

(Tank top - Artwork, Cardigan - Surplus, Backpack - Tomato, Yellow shoelaces - the land of awesome)

have i told you lately

2012-02-20T05:17:00.000-08:00

I finally painted that little Valentine papercut I made. It didn't work out so well with acrylic - I really have to get myself a can of spray paint.

Here's something new I've been working on. I've been bursting with ideas but haven't been able to afford blades... I do really like this though. I think I'll do other variations and polish this one up a bit.

Getting ready to color:

I cut out some little flags for the new bunting sets we put up in the shoppe:

All while listening to some vintage McFly on my trusty old mp3 player, still going strong despite some buttons having moods.

P.S. Did you get to see the Valentine freebie roundup on the Pink Teacup blog? If not, you have 7 cute things to print out! Go on.

in the bright lights

2012-02-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

One night at Seed's house, we did a cover of White Nights, and Lois and Clarissa filmed us. They're all amazing.

The Teaspoons - White Nights (Cover) from Loishy on Vimeo.

Give us a listen!

Also, Pink Teacup was featured in an article on The Upcoming!

2012-02-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

Photographed some tea cozies:

And some little houses:

Had breakfast food at a non-breakfast hour:

And 1:

ladybird likes

2012-02-07T05:20:00.000-08:00

My lovely blog friend Zoe just opened her Etsy shop! It's full of handmade goodness, you should go and give it a gander.

I picked out a few of my favorites. Heehee.

Vintage Starlet Brownie Camera Wooden Necklace, $12.98

Tree Stump Original 5x7 Photographic Print, $8.11

Wooden Vintage Fashion Lady Brooch, $8.11

Go forth.

the birthday girl

2012-02-06T09:59:00.000-08:00

Sam turned thirteen today, and we went out to take some photos.
I love you babe!

we're going to a very distant land

2012-02-04T07:07:00.000-08:00

Sam's turning 13 and we made some cupcakes to celebrate.

Finn is my very favorite. He was fun to make.

This is Sam. And Sam.

They share the same birthday. So we made them both cakes.

Colorful cakes.

Happy birthday, Sam. And Sam. I'm jealous of your birthday food.

letters of thread

2012-02-04T06:26:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy embroidering while watching TV. I've been watching Sherlock and devising theories about the finale episode, and here is what my hands were up to.

I can't get over how beautiful they look, on the linen, in the light.

rope braid bracelet! // mini DIY

2012-02-02T03:15:00.000-08:00

I made myself a bracelet today and I decided to take photos while I was at it:

Ta-da!

(I just had a terrific idea: wrapping the middle of the felt part with neon thread! I'm going to try that out tomorrow.)

the fall

2012-01-30T06:26:00.000-08:00

Here's a sneak peek of the photos from the shoot I helped out with! I made the props and the ribbon tent (but not the bunting). Aren't the kids adorable? Squeee. Go like my friend Krissy's page here!

Link love:

Ina made a bunch of incredibly delicious chocolate lollies. Ogle them here.
My friend Stella is having a lovely giveaway! Join it here.
Nina just uploaded some of her fisheye photos to her blog.
My little sister Sam got featured in the February issue of TotalGirl! Look.

sailors

2012-01-28T05:17:00.000-08:00

Today I was an assistant at a portrait shoot! I'm an intern at Little People! Yay. Here are some sneak peeks.

I made some props:

This is Krissy.

We made a ribbon tent under a mango tree:

Krissy's aunt made the bunting. I love it.

I lugged things around, set up some waves, carried reflectors, and held things up.
Guess what? I'm not even tired.
I can't wait to see the official photos! The family was so cute and had the best smiles.

flames

2012-01-23T08:49:00.000-08:00

Things that transpired:

Ina's new shavey bit:

Garage sales with Sid, Lois, and Lisa:

And singing songs:

Shopping vintage and borrowing the sister's jewelry:

Reading:

Sending out are commissions with nice things inside:

And new hair.

2012

2012-01-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

It's been a quiet first week of the year.

This was one of my favorite Christmas gifts.

So was this - the Starbucks journal. I could never afford to drink all that coffee.

I have plenty of photos from the holidays to develop! I can't wait.

What was your week like? I really want to know.

wishlisting // cheap edition

2011-12-20T11:23:00.000-08:00

This is the time of the year where I get horribly indulgent and make wishlists for myself. These are good things. After you buy one for me, you can get them for yourself, too. Because they are all less than P500. And the thought of saving money just fires up the holiday spirit within me.

1. Chapstick (P69) - I'm addicted to lip balm. And my current one is running out.

2. Tattone temporary tattoo ($5) - Actually, I would like to buy out Tattly's entire stock. They are so immensely cool. They have little holiday trees.

3. NYLON back issues (P75) - They hide in between boating magazines in Booksale. I don't mind old issues.

4. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (P300) - I devoured this in a bookstore last year and I would really like my own copy now, please.
5. Blick E-Z Cut Printing Blocks ($4) - I really want to try printmaking.
6. X-Acto blades (P70) - I can never have enough.
7. 35mm film (P80) - My Holga is hungry.
8. Thigh-high stockings (P250) - They're hard to find, but the other week I saw some lace-topped ones at Genevieve Gozum.
9. E.L.F. tinted moisturizer (P125) - Everything from ELF is so affordable. I'd like crazy-colored eyeliner and their creamy eyeshadows, too.

And that is all.

Tomorrow I'm doing the expensive version of my Christmas wish list! Stay tuned. They're things you'd want for yourself, trust me.

Oh! At National Bookstore, I saw some sticker paper that was brown. Like kraft paper. Sticky kraft paper. It was the bomb. (I'm sure it's a cinch to find in, say, America, but here it was like finding gold.)

sneakers

2011-12-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, we were at the Brown Bag Vintage and Crafts Market. It was the loveliest bazaar I've ever been to, with the nicest things for sale. I think one of the reasons I loved it so was because most of the people manning the booths had made everything themselves. I wanted to buy so many things! Please, support handmade, if you can.
Also, I had the chance to join the Keds painting workshop! Of course, when confronted with the actual shoe, I didn't know what to paint, and had a mild panic attack, since I always plan things like these so thoroughly beforehand. They ended up being Rob Ryan inspired. What can I say? I love that man.

Of course, being the indecisive little girl that I am, I may decide to paint over these. All that white is just too tempting.

Thanks so much to Katrina of Keds and to the Brown Bag Market for giving me the shoes! I've always wanted a pair. Now I'm going to go and skip around in them to break them in. Adieu!

wishlisting

2011-12-12T05:26:00.000-08:00

I picked out my three favorite items from Unestablish, an online retail shop with some really cool stuff.

1. Kling Skirt Polaroid

2. Sundays Springtail Front Tee

3. Kling Dress Goddar

The scalloped skirt is so pretty! I love that the waistband is scalloped too.

I'm aware the shirt is a guy's shirt, but I like it. And it's a cool DIY idea, no?
And the dress. Red and blue, I heart you.

I love making these lists. I could wishlist from now until Christmas day, I'm sure.

I'm sorry for being away so long. I'm hoping I can start posting regularly again! The holidays are hectic, but also inspiring.

we're never looking back

2011-10-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

Currently:

Papercutting.

Painting cake toppers in the middle of the night for ipromptu chocolate cakes for five-year-olds who like robots.

Listening to this song, and putting up a pizza dip recipe on the PT blog.

cross stitchin'

2011-10-07T00:34:00.000-07:00

Sporadic blog posting? I'm a pro. I should win an award.

Here's one of the things I've made while I was away. I'm trying to put together some penpal packages for pretty people. Ah, alliteration.

Of course, I had to test it out myself, it was so cute.
This is my accidental light brown dye job that I'm trying to grow out. But ombre's in anyway, right?

...right?

i'm just a basket case without you

2011-09-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

My mom made some cookie samples today. They're just so perfect, I almost can't bear to eat them.
See what I did there? I know, I'm brilliant.

I'm in love with this sparkly nail polish my friend Yela let me paint my nails with. I am despondent because it isn't available here. It's by OPI, I think. Sigh.

Gail gave me some cans of pink hairspray, and it's helping me get over my green hair withdrawal.

It smells funny, though.

wishlist wednesday

2011-09-07T07:36:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I made one of these. I've been trying to decide on a pair of boots because I simply cannot go on living without them.

All of these are from this online shop called Asian Vogue and they have too many things for my indecisive self. If it all gets too much, I will just put the numbers into a hat.

Although I am leaning very much towards No. 2.

the badge club

2011-09-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

Last week we went over to Andrea's house and had a craft day. We made bracelets for everyone and then I went a bit crazy with her camera and couldn't let it go. Hee.

Here's Ina:

Andrea had a dip pen! With a feather on it! And emerald-green ink!

It was a gray day, which made it cozier inside.

Her mom made us hot chocolate. I know. You're jealous.

Ta-da!

I didn't get a good photo of Andrea, so I will just point you to her fab blog where she posts her art and all manner of pretty things. Go go go!

art walls

2011-08-23T03:47:00.000-07:00

When Ina and I tagged along with our littlest sister on her field trip to Intramuros, we found the graffiti corner we liked so much the last time.

I painted a shirt of Ina's.

I am so inspired by the museum we visited. I have tons of ideas, and I can't wait to get started.

i brought a large bag of felt

2011-08-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

...to Nina's house.

There's nothing like making pretty things and fangirling over Zac Efron.

I made this ring:

Nina made mustaches:

Gold shiny things, ooooh:

Ahhh. Girl time is invaluable.

buckets and buckets

2011-08-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

This morning the world was one sheet of water, and I was devoted to my bed.

We are married to each other, you see.

But I would get my lazy butt out of bed for bagoong rice with green mangoes and some egg.

And then I had a spurt of creative energy and worked on some Pink Teacup things - like this case for the workshops. I love it so much. Fringe!

all the water in the sky

2011-07-29T00:22:00.000-07:00

Watercolor.

clouds

2011-07-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Today I took some photos, which I haven't done in a while, but I wanted to remind myself that all this is temporary, and I am above the clouds, though the rain is strong and I am heavy-hearted.

Everything will be better in the end.

stripes

2011-07-06T05:27:00.000-07:00

My mom made the cutest totes. And Ina made pins to adorn them with.

The panda is my favorite.

If you're in Manila, you can buy one! They're only Php280 each, and there are only two of them! Email me at ellebattung@gmail, and we'll work it out <3

DIY// bracelets and braids

2011-07-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

I've been making bracelets. It's not nice to not afford things, but it is nice to be able to make pretty things for yourself.

I also did a DIY post over on the Pink Teacup blog for this cute braided tank top! It's fun and easy.

brick red // DIY

2011-06-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

My mom gave me a few pairs of pantyhose that she had never worn, from a while back. They were this strange brown color, so I thought I would try to dye them.

I bought this dye from National. It's the only dye you can get here, and it's hot water dye, which is sort of a pain. I think I need to open a craft shop.

I boiled the stockings for about 20 minutes, and voila! They turned this lovely brick-red color, because of the original brown of the stocking, I guess. I'm so glad they aren't very red.

I'm not quite sure what this outfit is. It's what I was wearing at home today because all my other clothes are in the wash.

It also looks quite festive with my hair.

nothing much

2011-06-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

Just some photos from the past few days.

I love shadowplay:

I used masking tape to do a sort of French manicure:

Ina's arm party:

Reading while waiting for our ride:

And me during a 5-second dance party outside at midnight.

Sorry for being away so long.

planking

2011-06-06T07:51:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we walked around for a bit and I got to try out Hannah's new film camera. It's so cute.

Here I am with my crazy fading hair.

Top: handmade from some men's undershirt

Pants: thrifted Zara! I know.

And then we did some planking.

The sister:

And my friend David:

Sometimes we're a little cool.

(Thanks Hannah for taking the photos!)

Etsy Craft Party Manila!

2011-06-01T08:36:00.000-07:00

Last year Etsy threw its first International Craft Party, and it was a such a success that this year they're doing it again! We're hosting the Manila party this year! It would be so wonderful if you came.

What: Etsy Craft Party - Manila chapter!

When: Friday, June 10, 2011, at 5:30pm

Where: Nuvocity Showroom

150 E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue (C5 Libis) cor. Calle Industria, Quezon City (near Eastwood)

We'll be making sock dolls to donate to underprivileged children in Laguna, as well as adding books to the library of a reading program. All you need to do is bring a new or pre-loved children's book as your ticket to the party!
You can meet fellow crafters and help the local craft community, and it would be for a good cause!

Read more of the details on the meetup site. <------CLICK!

If you plan on going, please, pretty please, click the "Count me in" button and make an account. The food sponsor needs to see at least 80 attendants. Hehe. It would help so much, and it only takes a minute.

I'll be posting about this until the event, so bear with me. ;)

mermaids

2011-05-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

Ina helped me do my hair, and Kyera sent me the aqua dye! All this green is incredibly fun. Even if I have to be careful about wearing all my green clothes at once. (Can you tell it's my favorite color?)

Here are my freshly painted fingernails and my two favorite necklaces at the moment. I made the beaded one and it just goes so well with everything. I can't stop wearing it.

I feel rather like a dryad.

patriotic fish

2011-05-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

I found this rubber stamp in Papemelroti the other day, and I fell in love with it.

I had to buy it for all my penpal mail.

Now I'm making stationery.

And just, you know, stamping everything in sight.

really good times

2011-05-22T07:22:00.001-07:00

I know I haven't been updating much, I'm sorry. Yes, I am horrified at myself. I promised myself I would update regularly and not let happenings all build up and be a legit blog.

Oh well.

This week I did a lot of things, the best one being a trip to Enchanted Kingdom with some of the best people. Here's a video I made of us. It might make you smile.

sock it to me

2011-05-15T23:48:00.000-07:00

We experimented with some socks.

Ina made a bunny. His name is Jacob Darlington, and he is busy getting in shape for The Big Hop-a-thon.

He also has a tail.

And I made a pirate owl. His name is Captain Shingles.

You better be sure he's watching you.

At least with his one good eye.

the good life

2011-05-10T05:41:00.000-07:00

Life is short.

We should celebrate more often.

Here are some photos that are full of happy. I just want to share them.

Here's my sister and I singing you a cover of One Republic's Good Life.

We hope it makes you smile.

gifts across the ocean

2011-05-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

I got a package from Linn this week. That girl sure knows how to pack things in the cutest manner.

She wrote me three letters on adorable stationery:

And gave me two packs of film! Aah! How thoughtful is she!

And there's more!

It was so nice.

I don't know why my penpals are so nice to me when I am the worst one in the world. I swear I'll send your (Zoe, Becca, Kate) packages out soon, this is a promise.

Oh, and go wish Linn a belated happy birthday!

published!!

2011-05-06T22:44:00.000-07:00

I'm in the May issue of NYLON Korea!

Even though it's been a few days since it came out, the thought still makes me flail around.

LOOK AUGH

...sorry. It's a bit overwhelming.

Of course, I can't read a single word, so if I have any Korean readers out there who would like to translate the article for me, please do! I would appreciate it very much.

I was featured alongside candy castle and confetti system, both marvelous blogs, so I'm pretty starstruck.

the things going on in the little house

2011-04-28T11:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I painted a small village, taking inspiration from illustrations in Coppelia, by Krystyna Turska.

I made so many little tags:

And packaged up some heart clips Ina made.

Today is possibly the hottest day in memory. I am living on iced tea:

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go sit in the fridge.

This bazaar is taking away all my sleeping time, by the way, so be prepared to meet zombie Elle. Maybe bring me something caffeinated when you drop by.

quiet love

2011-04-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

It's a wordy one this time. Things just spill out late at night, you know?

Tell people you love them.

(This piece is framed now, you might get to nab it at the bazaar.)

boom bam pow zap

2011-04-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but these rings Ina made are superhuman.

You should really drop by here so you can snatch them up. Ina only made a few to love.

This rocket one I am planning on hiding underneath the table.

I also made a bunch of the ever-cute ruffle ones, too. They're even rufflier and sturdier now.

They'll be sold by us, Pink Teacup, at our very own stall at the Big Bang Bazaar, this Saturday and Sunday (April 30/ May 1) at the NBC Tent in Fort Bonifacio Global City! Entrance is free :)

Now I'm off to paint little houses and convince In to make me some custom rings, that say, "Indeed," or "Perchance". Haha.

what I've been up to

2011-04-23T02:57:00.000-07:00

We're all in a tizzy getting things ready for the bazaar we're joining. You really should stop by. It'll be at the NBC Tent in Fort Bonifacio, on April 30 and May 1. Please come! We'll have cookies.

So I've been packaging things:

And sending off papercuts. I noticed that some people don't think my art is for sale! Oh dear. They are very much for sale. I'm saving up for college ;)

And I walked in on Ina drawing the cutest things:

She draws the cutest things in the world.

there is a love called maintenance

2011-04-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I got a papercut commission from Jennifer. She asked if I could do one based on this poem by U A Fanthorpe. I love it so much.

ATLAS

There is a kind of love called maintenance

Which stores the WD40 and knows when to use it

Which checks the insurance, and doesn’t forget

The milkman; which remembers to plant bulbs;

Which answers letters; which knows the way

The money goes; which deals with dentists

And Road Fund Tax and meeting trains,

And postcards to the lonely; which upholds

The permanently rickety elaborate

Structures of living, which is Atlas.

And maintenance is the sensible side of love,

Which knows what time and weather are doing

To my brickwork; insulates my faulty wiring;

Laughs at my dryrotten jokes; remembers

My need for gloss and grouting; which keeps

My suspect edifice upright in air,

As Atlas did the sky.

----------------------------------------

oh wow

2011-04-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

I just saw these tights on The Olive Shoppe, and they got me so excited I just had to share them.

I want them so bad.

(link via Where The Lovely Things Are, a great blog.)

thrifted things i've never worn

2011-04-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

This dress falls under that category. I loved it when I bought it, but every time I tried it on, it looked dowdy because the skirt was too long. So this week (after about a year) I finally buckled down and shortened it. And now it is Much Cuter. And guess what? I'm still really bad with "before" photos. And so there are none. Again.

Today I wore it and bugged my sister while she made the really cute bookplates for Pink Teacup (go on, click it, they're free to download!)

Seriously, this is my favorite dress now.

And then we recorded our own little version of George Gershwin's "Summertime", to celebrate the news that we are going to the beach. Nothing lifts up the spirits like music and beach anticipation.

tiny flags

2011-04-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

I never got to show you what my sister made me for my birthday.

Aren't they the greatest? I'd wear them all in one go, if I could.

Oh, and breaking news: I have new sneakers.

My dad was afraid the old ones were starting to move around by themselves.

restyling // shirt to skirt

2011-03-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Remember that time my dad gave my sister and I his old button-downs? Last week, while hyped up on tea, I decided to turn it into a skirt. I had originally wanted to make it smaller to fit me, but it was so huge that if I altered the sides, the pocket would end up under my armpit. No bueno.

So one morning, without the help of pattern, tutorial, person, or correct sewing techniques, I started sewing. I didn't even measure anything and none of my seams are aligned, so it is a wonder I can even wear it.

I put on some music:

I am so proud of myself for using my sewing machine, if only for some parts. Of course I broke the needle and had to continue without it, but it's a start. Without it I would have certainly taken three years.

The shirt after the ripping. I've got to hand it to YSL, they sure do know how to make a shirt. Taking this apart was hard work.

And voila! There's my morning face for you all.

It's very odd in some places, but it's a cutie. And I am Very Proud.

(I just researched and there are tons of tutorials on the internet for men's shirt refashions. I don't know why I attempted to do this all on my own. Look here or here or here or here.)

hannah times~

2011-03-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Hannah slept over this week. So much fun. Apart from eating, eating, talking about girly things, and writing a song about love in a supermarket, we made things. Fact: Hannah is the wire queen.

Here's Ina attempting to do what Hannah does:

And succeeding.

Hannah made us each a tiara (!) and a photoshoot with them on our actual heads is in order.

Fridays = they spawn party pins. Naturally.

fun, fun, fun, fun, fun

beating like a hammer

2011-03-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

Today Ina and I accompanied our dad to Carmona, and then he treated us out after. To McDonald's. Any food is good, I think.

Oh, soda. Why can't I quit you?

I can't quit barbecue sauce, either. Gosh, I love that stuff. (I'm wearing a mini bunting necklace Ina made. It's a winner.

It was fun.

But what I really want to talk about here was this sexy beast cruising in front of us on the highway.

It makes me feel all:

DIYin'

2011-03-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

Another shirt refashion! I'm so proud of myself when I actually finish things. Even more when they're actually wearable.

This was an old t-shirt someone gave to me. I loved it, because it was really old, and I love the design, but it had odd sleeves and the neckline was trying to kill me, I was sure. So yesterday I finally rolled up my sleeves, put on some Vetiver, and got to work.

I cut off the sleeves and collar, cutting a bit more off the sides, so the armholes were really low.

Then I put lace into the spaces. I really didn't measure anything, since it was an impulsive project. I don't even have progress shots, oops.

The lace wasn't that wide; I had to sew three strips together to get it large enough to fit the holes.

This is what it looks like inside out:

And from the front.

I like it. It's very rock-and-roll-y. It goes well with my rebel hair.

Drinks all around! (And by drinks I mean cream soda, of course.) Huzzah!

birfdays

2011-03-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my 20th birthday last week. My family took me out to lunch, and we watched The Adjustment Bureau. The next day was fun, too. I met up with some friends and watched Rango, and didn't have to pay for the popcorn. Sweet! Also, I have new glasses and a new pair of Chucks. Both of which I needed very badly.

I cleaned my room, too, and took pictures in it while it was empty.

These are also the last photos of my long hair. I miss it.

Here's to a good year!

floundering

2011-03-03T23:44:00.000-08:00

my kitten has been lost for approximately two and a half days
I need hope
I am turning twenty next week
I need to finish an essay for a scholarship
I need to come up with a ten-song set list by tuesday
which is also my birthday, aka the day my childhood ends forever
at least to the world
my skin is breaking out like it has not done in weeks
and I cannot remember the last time I have slept before 3am.

tiny cuts and band-aids

2011-03-03T23:25:00.000-08:00

I found a pile of Manila paper in the attic, so I made some stuff with it. Only that's a surprise, so I can't show you yet. The bits, however, were fun to play with, so I cut out a mermaid. She's hanging out in a pile of blue underthings.

And then I thought maybe I'd make a new header?

After that, Ina wanted one too, so some more cutting went on.

And since most of the bits were shaped like little ghosts, I gave them faces.

And after all that, I got a letter in the mail with this huge sticker on it.

How great is that?

kitsch

2011-02-28T07:33:00.000-08:00

Somebody ordered some cookies for a CSB event called Kitsch Art: A Fashion Forum. These are quite obviously Elsie-inspired.

They're shimmery, too! Blessings on the person who invented edible shimmer. It's magical.

These were just for Mom. I didn't get any left over. Oh well.

Thank you to Nina for recommending me! You get a cookie and a hug.

Oh, and my sister wrote a very rad post about all those cute fonts and tapes she uses on her blog, check it out!

you should be here

2011-02-24T08:16:00.000-08:00

Some days I wake up with words in my head. These were in there all day, and I didn't know what to do with them, except mope.

But when I picked up a magazine and saw this pretty page full of yellow flowers, I had an idea. It was a breeze. Less than an hour, and one pretty piece. I'm glad.

I still miss you though. And you and you and you and you.

it's real hard to think of titles, you guys

2011-02-17T10:04:00.000-08:00

I bought this. I couldn't resist. It was Jesse. Also, it's very rare to find NYLON anywhere on this island.

Obviously I was too excited. Everything in it is swell, though. I might like NYLON guys better than the girls' one. And the clothes... the clothes. It's scary how obsessed I am with stitching and the way fabric falls. And shoes.

In other news, look what I did. I wish I took progress shots, but I didn't get to. Luckily, I found a tutorial here.

Also I have perfected my winged eyeliner technique.

cupcakes

2011-02-14T08:08:00.000-08:00

The neighbors ordered some. Ina and I made the tags. Yum.

valentine's day

2011-02-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

I painted my first couple portrait commission. This is Nikki and Leo in Madrid. Nikki gave it to Leo as a Valentine gift. Heeh.

refashion

2011-02-09T05:45:00.000-08:00

My mom bought a dress at the thrift store, and she didn't like the pockets, so she cut them off. I asked for them, because they were pretty. I think I was sort of wishing they would magically grow so I could make them into a hat.

And then, at midnight, I thought of these:

I sewed buttons to the bottoms, so I could button them tight around my wrist and they wouldn't slip around.

Here's the shape of the pockets, in case you were wondering. I just sewed the edges together and left the tops and bottoms open.

I really want to learn how to knit.

BACON

2011-02-07T06:41:00.000-08:00

Via came over when she was in Manila, and we spent the afternoon making rings:

And then we went out and took photos.

We snuck into empty attics, and they could both climb on the ledge except me.

Oh well.

Via made this awesome ring, and Ina stole my bacon and eggs one.

It's so nice to be with people who understand your obsessions.

cellos

2011-02-03T05:38:00.000-08:00

I came across this not ten minutes ago and thought it was neat. I always, always, wanted to play the cello.

Stjepan Hauser and Luka Sulic do a version of Smooth Criminal

I have no words.

quiet days

2011-01-30T23:46:00.000-08:00

Things in my closet that I like:

Prints in the mail from the giveaway I won over on Martin's blog:

They were slightly torn when they arrived. I was so sad.

And then Dad gave my sister and I his old button-downs so we could make things.

little houses and cute girls

2011-01-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

This is the most perfect reading lamp I have ever seen in my life.

Get it here (if you've got an extra hundred dollars just lying around).

I'm reading Rilla of Ingleside, by L.M. Montgomery right now. I found it on a bottom bookshelf at Booksale and I flipped out. I've been looking for a copy of it for ages. It's the same edition as a few of my other Anne books, which makes me happy, and which means they are the same size in the bookcase, which is nice. The cover is so romantic.

I'm trying to read it really slowly, so it lasts longer, like a kid with a piece of candy.

I did a post over on the Pink Teacup blog, about painting a portrait of Kyera. Hop on over. (She's sending me hair dye in return! So I can be a mermaid! I am ecstatic!)

Now I'm off to write a letter and rub some holes in my jeans with sandpaper. It is marvelously effective.

Happy Wednesday! love,elle

ASOS Spring Collection '11

2011-01-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

I have no words. I will just bask in the beauty of it all.

Yes, I did just spend an inordinate amount of time making these collages and browsing their website when I should totally be working. Oops.

picking up the brushes

2011-01-20T01:10:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I don't even know what I'm doing.

Inspired by Olivia Wilde's Golden Globe Marchesa dress. I'd love to wear a galaxy.

new papercut

2011-01-13T04:55:00.000-08:00

It's going to be part of a bigger piece. Clue: I'm painting again.

lazy lazy lazy jane

2011-01-13T03:56:00.000-08:00

1. I make my own badges. I'm a rebel. (I don't know what to do with it yet, so if you want it, let me know.)

2. A friend gave me the flower arrangement from her birthday party, and my mom put some in a vase for me. There's just something about having flowers around. They're splendid. I wish I could have them every day.

3. Roses.

4. My daddy bought me some new brushes, because mine look like they've been chewed on by a rabid animal. I want to paint again, I haven't in ever so long.

I've been gushing over the photos of some of new flickr contacts. Since I can't pick my favorites, you'll just have to click on the links and swoon along with me.

Devon, Emil, Thom, Tanya & Lyndsay.

hair of wonder

2011-01-10T23:04:00.000-08:00

I'd planned that as soon as I have enough money, I'm sending off for a bottle of hair dye. I'm almost there, and so I decided I should celebrate and share with you my favorite Hair Of Wonder photos.

i love this model. i mean, just LOOK at her

(viciousunicornerections)

(no source)

I'm thinking of either tinting my whole head pink, or dip-dyeing the bottom ends blue.
Or making everything underneath green.
Help, I can't decide.

i'm yours to be

2011-01-10T04:05:00.000-08:00

Firstly, thank you so much to the people who have been sending me nice emails all week! It's just awesome to know that others are inspired by the things I make. It's kind of otherworldly, actually. Normally I'm the one composing fangirly emails. You are all so nice. I hope you never stop creating.

Other things that are nice: Stealing Dad's old belt.

And the littlest sister's velvet party dress that she thought she outgrew. I mean what.

Experimenting with the tablet we got for Christmas. I'm pretty sure it would rock if, you know, I had any editing programs other than MS Paint.

And I never did show you my new shoes! They're kind of great. I might be becoming a heels sort of person. We'll see how this goes.

(I can't look at this picture for long, looking at my legs is making me laugh.)

after the party

2011-01-04T06:47:00.000-08:00

Mom took down the Christmas tree today. It made me a bit sad.

Oh well. On to other things. This week, I tried to take some photos for the shop. Not quite working. Here are some wristwarmers I made for The Littlest Sister for Christmas:

And then I tried to turn some of my failed Instax photos into art:

And a terrible lot of bow bracelets. Felt is so addicting. It's nice to have an actual pile of finished objects at the end of a day.

My goal is to get my sewing to look like it was done by a machine. Perfect even stitches.

I know, I can get crazy. But only when I'm really bored.

I'm off to watch episodes of House.

I really want his motorcycle.

that glorious song of old

2010-12-25T02:08:00.000-08:00

I hope your holidays were full of love and light and trees and hot chocolate. And cheese.

Here's my little sister and I singing a little song for you.

mops and buckets

2010-12-22T09:04:00.000-08:00

Today I cleaned my room. Real cleaning, with brooms and water and washcloths and dust-induced sneezing, not just namby-pamby "organizing". Although I did have to rearrange my desk. It was starting to become a little hill-shaped.

So I moved everything from my desk:

...onto my bed.

I found this and put it on my door. It isn't a wreath, really. I think it might be a garland.

I found this cassette! It's one of my favorites. I remember listening to it when I was a little kid.

Sunday morning snapshots:

Ina's freakishly adorable drawings:

And pretty presents from friends I can't wait to open.

I am feeling very accomplished at this moment. Only, of course, I haven't even done my shelves yet. I'll tell you how it all goes tomorrow.

And now, I'm going to go to sleep. All that wiping of walls has tired me out.

Three days to Christmas oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh

wishlist // Christmas edition

2010-12-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

This is the book list. I always find myself finishing entire books in the bookstore, and my list has grown to an appalling 66 books on my Shelfari. So I've whittled them down to 10.

When You Reach Me - Rebecca Stead

I Am The Messenger - Markus Zusak

Akin To Anne - L.M. Montgomery

And if we're talking about L.M. Montgomery, then I'd also like Magic For Marigold, Jane Of Lantern Hill, and Kilmeny Of The Orchard, please.

What The Dickens - Gregory Maguire

Love Among The Walnuts - Jean Ferris

Freak Magnet - Andrew Auseon

The Tale Of Despereaux - Kate DiCamillo

Wild Orchid - Cameron Dokey

Any Cameron Dokey book would be fine, though I already have Golden.

The Orange Girl - Jostein Gaarder

Influence - Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen.

Oh, but this was hard. As you can tell, I'm a fairytale kind of girl, but I'll read anything, anywhere, at any time, so books really are my favorite thing, and I don't care if that's all there is under the tree.

I'd also like anything by C.S. Lewis, that dress book by Built By Wendy, and The Teen Vogue Handbook.

Okay, that's it, I promise.

cross stitches

2010-12-18T09:29:00.000-08:00

Today I wrapped up some ruffle rings:

And went off to teach a sewing class. We made some reindeer.

I wore one of my favorite thrifted skirts:

& one of my badge pins from Zoe:

And I made an impromptu skull bracelet with the scraps.

wishlist // Christmas edition

2010-12-18T08:53:00.000-08:00

Some more film for my Instax mini would be nice:

Or some Kodak Ektachrome. I've always wanted some:

And this Colorsplash Flash I've been wanting ever since last Christmas:

And if those are too pricey for you, oh wonderful Christmas fairy, then I'll settle for a roll (or two) (or seven) of regular 35mm film.

(the pink links bring you to places you can buy from)

it's got my name on it/ it's just waiting there for me

2010-12-16T23:08:00.000-08:00

I got mail yesterday! It was the prettiest package in the world!

This pink envelope thing was so cute. I wish I could find it here:

These stickers are so nice to touch:

And the badges are my favorite.

Ahhh! I'm so happy.

Thank you, thank you, Zoe, for a big slice of happy! Yours is on the way.

Love!

wishlist // Christmas edition

2010-12-16T07:31:00.000-08:00

Whilst traversing the internets, I found some wishlist-worthy items. Oh, but I want, want, want these things.

Key USBs from amt:

Twine in a box from kikki-k:

These Holly & Ivan paper dolls Christmas cards, by the Black Apple, whom I seriously adore:

And this oh-my-gosh-good-gracious beautiful necklace from HidenSeek.

Oh, be still, my heart.

wishlist // Christmas edition

2010-12-14T03:48:00.000-08:00

My sister and I were at Payless the other day, and we tried on some shoes. I tried a pair that sort of look like these on (I couldn't find them on the site), and I fell in love. They have got to be the most comfortable heels I've ever worn. If they are the only thing I get for Christmas, I will be totally happy.

They're by Montego Bay, I think. Not AE. But these would be nice too, if you want to send me a pair.

And you know I'm being quite serious, because I don't usually wear heels. But these are just sensational.

(I'm a size 8 1/2, just so you know!)

Hi, Mom.

let's get moving/ into action

2010-12-10T08:40:00.000-08:00

I'm up to some sweet things today.

I'm listening to this. (I would like it for Christmas, please.)

ugly christmas sweater t-shirt

2010-12-09T06:39:00.000-08:00

Vardagen is genius.They have made the Ugly Christmas Sweater T-Shirt. It's all the wonderful of an ugly Christmas sweater, without the itchy. I don't know about you, but I think I need one of each.

homeschool bazaar

2010-12-04T07:07:00.000-08:00

It was a success! We sold some pretty things, like these crocheted bow rings:

And these coffee cup cozies.

I'm crocheting like a madwoman. I love the Christmas season!

you and i

2010-11-28T22:10:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday night, we made sushi and ate an entire kilo of salmon sashimi, and after slightly recovering from food comas, we made this video.

That's me on the left, Mish, Joe, Ina, Stef, and Mikey. Watch it. You'll smile.

You and I (Ingrid Michaelson cover) by Falling Fisheye from fallingfisheye on Vimeo.

P.S. We changed the lyrics a bit, and had a bit of extra fun at the start.

kittens

2010-11-28T21:14:00.000-08:00

I'm that girl who swore she would hate cats forever and always, only of course now I am squealing over these kittens that our cat popped out just just yesterday. Total kitten count: 7.

We're all pretty surprised.

They are strange and crawly and look a little like gargoyles. I'm so in love.

I just can't get over their little ears.

Sheesh.

oh my clumsy heart

2010-11-23T06:43:00.000-08:00

I adore her. Her drawings, her paper goods, her little pins, everything.

And recently she came out with these brooches, and I am in love with them.

My favorite is the fox, of course.

You must get yourself over to her blog & her etsy.

saturdays are great

2010-11-20T07:04:00.000-08:00

Okay, look at this:

Scissors. Scissors. Obviously I must have them.

There are more pretty things at Snoozer Loser (that birdcage skirt is equally amazing).

oh no/ i tried

2010-11-18T04:19:00.000-08:00

While browsing craft blogs, I came across a description that suits me perfectly. "Serial craft monogamist". I love to do a lot of things, but most of the time I get into a craft rut and I want to do all the different things that can be done with that one thing for weeks. Even months. Long, long months.

Right now, it's crochet. Again.

I made this hat that I will probably never have a chance to wear, because it's too warm and people will stare:

It's just so cute though.

Narnia, crochet, and tea make my life exponentially better.

I'm helping my mom sew things for an order, and I pricked my finger. The blood looked strangely redder than normal.

Isn't that weird?

And my nails are painted sparkly green for Slytherin. I can't believe I'm watching Deathly Hallows in a few hours!

Dead.

deathly hallows

2010-11-16T02:56:00.000-08:00

We are ridiculously excited.

Ina and I wanted to make hats and scarves, but due to the sad lack of yarn in this country, we couldn't. I made do with some yarn scraps and made her a wristband:

Gryffindor!

Sam got a hat:

Ravenclaw!

And I made myself another wristband:

~~Malfoy!~~ I mean Slytherin. Ahem.

Thursday, please come quicker.

boots of wonder

2010-11-11T23:53:00.000-08:00

Free People has the nicest things.

I'm lusting after all of these.

And yes, I am going to remain blithely unaware of the fact that they cost 8,000 pesos each. Let me have my happiness.

to add to my christmas wishlist

2010-11-11T06:10:00.000-08:00

These pretty things from Swell Boutique.

Man, oh man. That dress up there would make my year.

oh

2010-11-11T05:40:00.000-08:00

The house is all decorated, and it feels so magical.

holidays

2010-11-08T06:54:00.000-08:00

We've been putting up our Christmas decor (see my other posts here)

Lights:

Iced coffee with vanilla ice-cream:

These birds are my favorite:

I remember making these. I can't believe it's Christmas again.

Yesterday, Andrea gave us the sweetest little owl ceramic box and a candle. I want to try carving candles now.

My littlest sister and I played the ukulele and sang:

Ina rescued stray berries:

And I finished this over breakfast. It's great.

Here's a photo Tommy snapped of us and some friends at the mall:

Aren't we cute? And wow, my hair's getting really long.

pictures

2010-11-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

I had some of my Holga photos printed out, and then I put them on my wall.

They make me happy.

This is my wall. It has instax photos, some postcards (including a vintage one from Tokyo I picked up at CubaoX), some photos I printed out of me and my best friends, and a random picture of Howl and Sophie, just because.

I found this bandanna. I like it. Of course, I may have to resort to hairspray next time, because my hair keeps sliding around, but I think I'll save that adventure for later. Hairspray scares me.

oh my word

2010-11-05T10:05:00.000-07:00

Announcement:

I have discovered pretty things. Pretty rings, actually. I adore rings.

Look at this one:

hinged scrabbler

This one has a seal! A seal.

showtime

This one just tickles me. I love it.

crime scene

And now for my very, very favorite:

circo rouge

Oh, dear pancaking heavens.

click: Old Gold.

papercuts

2010-11-02T06:53:00.000-07:00

I've been cutting new things! This one was just for me, but I might put it in the shop. It turned out better than I thought it would, for I can't draw people to save my life.

This was a tiny one yesterday. Lyrics from Oh No, I Tried // Right Away, Great Captain.

I always want to keep the little bits of paper, but I don't know what to do with pieces so tiny.

This was a commission. White is hard to do, but pretty.

I have a new set of blades, finally, so cutting isn't as stressful. Still, I think I need to relax a bit, because I always get terrible knots in my shoulders.

I need a massage.

conventions

2010-11-02T05:37:00.000-07:00

Homeschool conventions. My sisters, mom, and I had a booth at one this Sunday, where we sold craft kits and things, because arts are just important as maths and science, don't you think?

We stayed up all night:

And I made new calling cards for the occasion:

We sold adorable craft kits:

The sister and I consumed enormous amounts of coffee:

I wore tights. It was deathly cold in there:

This was the sign in the toilet stall. Watch out, St. Francis Square Plaza, because when I come back, I'm taking my Sharpie.

And then the cousin and the sister and I took photos in shiny spherical objects.

I'll put more photos on the Pink Teacup site tonight.

pages and pages

2010-10-29T02:35:00.000-07:00

Here's a little tour of our attic, in case you wanted to see it. These are only a few of our shelves (or lack of them). I'm currently reading A Swiftly Tilting Planet, by Madeleine L'Engle.

What are your favorites? I'm looking for something new to read. Always.

I have to get back to work, making my entry for a t-shirt contest. I forgot just how hard it is to paint on t-shirts. I've been scowling at my work for the last half-hour. The deadline is Sunday. EEP. I have this horrid habit of leaving things right up to the last moment, mostly because I overthink every single thing, and never get anything done. I need to hurry it up.

One more thing: How can it be Friday already? There must be something wrong; the world is turning much too fast.