There are some gorgeous items listed by new sellers on Felt this week. Check out the full selection below.

jaydubbleyou – sock monster toys
shelleydnz  – leather bags, clutches and card holders
phcentre – knitted children’s clothes – a project to raise funds for adults with disabilities
soleglass – glass beads and figurines
tess_art – original artworks
pukekochic – sock monkeys
allangale – hand carved woodblock prints
artontuesday – amigurumi owls
miggyart – original paintings
giggles – knitted cakes
hollyrussell – kid’s clothing, decorative and educational products
artynatasha – original mixed media artworks
moggi – handmade gifts for children and adults
allyourstars – sock kittens and greeting cards by Christchurch artists – a fundraiser for a Japan/Christchurch art exchange
memphis – cushions with a New Zealand theme
reeds – women’s clothing
itsmummymade – clothing and toys for children
nauticaltribe – jewellery made from sailing materials
kasernest – hand made dog collars
akin – jewellery made with old coins

What do you make?
We transform vintage and organic textiles into beautiful things, through a process of hand block printing using water based non toxic inks.

How did you get into your craft?
I have been into textiles since I was tiny and have gone through various stages of creating fabrics to use in craft projects. Peter loves to carve wood blocks. It seemed a good idea to combine the two. He carves the blocks and I do the printing. In this way our creative ideas are influenced by each other’s work, taking us down paths we might not have gone down on our own.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I don’t, other than a couple of pattern making courses a long time ago. Peter is a trained signwriter and a lot of the skills he learnt then are very useful now.

Your favourite materials, tools and processes?
Any bits of vintage textiles or bits of stuff people don’t want but are just too good to end up in landfill. My favourite tools are my wooden printing blocks that Peter has carved for me. There is nothing more meditative for me than finding the right pattern for the right fabric.

What inspires you?
People inspire me – my parents, Peter, my kids, friends and other wonderful designers. Just finding little bits of beauty in the smallest of places.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
The philosophy behind our work is to produce beautiful things that leave as little impact on the world as we can manage.

Describe your workspace:
At the moment I have some space in the study for sewing and I use the kitchen table for fabric printing. Both are much too small. Peter is of course relegated to the garage.

Your favourite feedback from a customer:
“Thank you so much for my Kindle cover and my little bonus bag! What a lovely surprise! You made my week…. You’re fabulous!! x” (It’s always nice to make people happy.)

Five words that describe your mind:
Nicola – whirling mist of ideas.
Peter – Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter.

What are you currently listening to?
I like to listen to Radio NZ National when I am working, especially Kim Hill on a Saturday morning, she makes me laugh out loud, and This Way Up, also on Saturdays. I also listen to a lot of BBC Radio 4 (from the UK) over the internet, mainly because I am a big Archers fan, I have listened to this soap since I was a tiny girl in my Grannie’s kitchen.

Recommend an album: Bryter Layter by Nick Drake

Your favourite childhood book?
When I was really little before I could read, Little Grey Rabbit by Alison Uttley was my favourite. As I got older I loved the Narnia series. I spent quite a long time searching in the back of wardrobes in the houses of older relatives.

Your hero/heroine:
My heroines are my Great Grandmothers, I only met one of them, and I don’t know the stories of them all. But the two stories I do know stand out for me. My Mum’s Dad’s Mum, who I never knew, brought up seven children on her own, in real dire poverty. She did amazing sewing, knitting and crocheting to make ends meet, despite the fact she lost an arm as a teenager when it was crushed in farm machinery. When I am having a bad day she inspires me, if she could do it so can I. My Mum’s Mum’s Mum was left an orphan and homeless as a very young teenager with only half a crown to her name, how lucky do I have things compared with what her life must have been like.

A favourite quote:
“Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” – William Morris

Do you have any pets?
Yes, two cats Buffy and Rana, twin sisters. Four guinea pigs Scatter, Fudge, Coco and Candy. Originally we had two girl guinea pigs. Turned out one was a boy, then we had seven guinea pigs, back down to four now.

 If you were crafty superheroes, what would your names and superpowers be?
Idea Woman, guaranteed to come up with a new idea every few seconds. They may not all be great, but there is a lot of them. And Tea Man, always ready with a cup of tea for every occasion and has even been known to do a tea dance.

What was the last handmade item you bought?
I bought a baby’s bib to send over to my niece for her new baby boy.

Visit Coulter & Coulter’s Felt shop, By Coulter, to browse their range of handprinted vintage blankets and beautiful homewares and accessories.

There is a bit of an owl/bird theme running through today’s post! There are also some great artworks in this weeks list of new seller – make sure you check them out.

canvaslounge – original home decor prints
pixiequeen – items inspired by the whimsical and magical
mrsbs – fabric bags
irajane – original artworks and jewellery prints
sisterbutton – prints of original artworks and lamps
kateelias – soft toy dolls
martinahofer – children’s woollen felted slippers
zandieroom – owl themed bunting
kowhaitree – hand embroidered 100% wool cushions
chriscraft – jewellery
avalinka – knitted baby hats
ngunguru – gold jewellery
artymuggles – original paintings for children’s rooms
catswhiskers – jewellery
leetammy – hand-carved candles and origami
whatakrakkaa – bags and children’s clothing from vintage fabric
debhart – original one off garments
tuitui – quirky hot water bottle covers
mavisosborn – children’s clothing
birth_power – kids’ wheat bags
miggyart – original paintings
crochetchalet – crochet children’s hats and headbands

Once again Felt is a supporting partner of HANDMADE 2012 which is taking place in Wellington this Queens Birthday weekend, 2-3 June.

With more than 80 activities over the two days, a mix of fan favourites and exciting new additions make up the HANDMADE 2012 programme. From Cotton Crochet Necklaces to Oriental Bookbinding to Understanding Craft Beer, there is something for all craft enthusiasts.

Felt’s founder Lucy Arnold also features, taking a lecture on Craft and the Christchurch Earthquakes.

As part of Felt’s support we have a Weekend Pass to giveaway to one lucky crafter! This Weekend Pass entitles you to choose up to 8 classes OR 7 classes and 2 lectures, as well as some other treats thrown in for good measure.

To be in to win simply email your name, address and phone number to prizedraw@felt.co.nz with ‘HANDMADE Giveaway in the subject line before 5pm on Sunday 20 May. We will announce the winner on Monday 21 May.
In the meantime, go online to www.handmade2012.co.nz and craft your perfect weekend!

Got a party to plan? We’ve got you covered with an outfit, food and decorations. Just don’t forget to invite me!

ref – wooden furniture and home decor items
janegrace – crochet beanie hats
sarajspeight – clothing for children, including merino for the winter months
bluehayes – crochet children’s hats
wildgarden – wood turned pens, keyrings and other items
toi – earrings
shinekids – children’s clothing
anoushka – women’s clothing
pincushion – tote bags
ladyluck – collage artworks
wireart – wire art sculptures from recycled wire
wink – decorations and favours for your next event
attika – typographic wooden block prints
popalicious – delicious cake on a stick decorated in chocolate
familyjewels – personalised jewellery
donnabdesign – handmade crochet accessories
222leaves – photographic prints

What do you make? Silver and mixed metal jewellery.

How did you get into your craft?
I took a few lessons, then took a few more. Then I set up my studio. I have always admired, and wanted to own, fantastic jewellery. Especially handmade by craftspeople.

What inspires you?
Nature particularly, and the work of many craftspeople and designers. I love the ’50s and Modernism. I am inspired by ethnic craft and metalworking.

Your favourite materials, tools and processes?
My favourite metal is silver, although eventually I would like to work with high-carat gold too. I have an old tiny 4oz ball-pein hammer that I bought second-hand – my first tool purchase, that I love. I have other hammers but this one is the best! My favourite processes are annealing (to soften metal), forging to give shape and make surface marks, and soldering. I am fascinated by molten metal.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I just like to make things that other people will fall in love with and want to own and wear. It’s a great feeling to find owners for my work.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
No. I am largely self-taught.

Five words that describe your mind: Open, inquisitive, direct, intuitive, sensitive.

Describe your workspace:
Too small! Or I have too much stuff. It’s mainly tidy, most of the time. I have a view into my over-grown garden. Sometimes birds visit the flowering shrubs nearby.

Your favourite feedback from a customer:
An American customer said that nobody does botanical designs like me. I was thrilled she said that.

What was the last handmade item you bought? Vintage Mexican silver earrings (big ones).

Your hero/heroine:
Alexander Calder, artist sculptor and jeweller for the men and Louise Nevelson for the women.

Your favourite childhood book?
The Borrowers by Mary Norton and illustrated by Diana Stanley. My childhood copy fell to bits.

What are you reading now? William Spratling and the Mexican Silver Renaissance.

Do you have any pets?
I have three cats, Pip (the grumper), Phoenix (the plumper) and Coco (the little one).

 View more of Melanie’s original handcrafted designs in her Felt shop, Fireworks.

I couldn’t resist the cute crochet tiki, so I have gone with a New Zealand inspired theme this week. Enjoy!

puha-prints – pacific inspired limited edition prints
arlo – doll’s clothing
lbdbydahya – flirty fun designer dresses
ainaturals – skincare products
madelein – handbags and tote bags
barmore – childrens’ knitted hats
myliljoys – hand painted folk art and soft toys
kereenpower – wooden hand painted children’s height charts
pattenc – hand knits for babies and children
simplyspecial – jewellery
serenewoolf – jewellery inspired by native flora and fauna
bubbalicious – bandanna dribble bibs
splashback – one of a kind retro inspired clothing and homewares
chameleon – fingerless gloves
danjoboys – cushions
retroroom – handkerchiefs and cushions
vintagekiwi – hand knitted vintage inspired baby clothing and accessories
poppymay – unique clothing for little people
paperdaisy – themed scrapbooks
buddynz – merino baby blankets and capes
littlelily – stag design cushions
tikicrochet – crocheted amigurumi style tikis
lulubear – home decor items
pixiemoonnz – whimsical pixie wares
junkyarddog – t-shirts with original hand drawn designs
adriennerobe – accessories
twojays – children’s bags
hihi – cushions made from upcycled woollen blankets
littleinknz – hand stained wooden tags and pegs
kelly622 – upcycled plate stands

There are always lots of cute baby items on Felt, so I have selected some lovely children’s items this week.

pow – custom made capes for little people
ymcg – notebooks embellished with used stamps
sumd – printed calico bags
delishdesign – cuddly owl toys/pillows
manland – cufflinks
valettaroad – recycled rimu crates
angelmaidnnz – beaded macrame bracelets
gorgeousgift – humpty dumpty toys
deliciousbag – handbags and tote bags
absidoodle – knitted hair accessories
ellopoppet – custom made baby bonnets
whistle – home decor items and gift tags
sucka – baby tag blankets
littlelamb1 – knitted merino baby clothing
justwheaties – animal wheat bags
bluebutton – upcycled wool blanket cushions
handog – original women’s clothing
heywoman – original, one of a kind bags
twine – jewellery, toys and decor items
joejandals – cushions and greeting cards
fairytale – original artworks and home decor items
minniemo – original paintings for children’s rooms
rainbowmen – cushions and soft toys
deecee – women’s clothing
jinnyscrafts – hats, home decor and soft toys
libbydid – baby shoes, nappies and accessories
carleyretro – retro cushions
girlfriday – decor items, greeting cards and accessories
littleart – children’s wall art
mrspc – jewellery
maidmarion – knitted cotton shrugs
knittwitt – knitted baby cardigans
inspired – jewellery
twinkandcobb – retro/vintage inspired children’s clothing

What do you make?
Eiderdowns by Anita is a small home based business where I remake old tired, threadbare eiderdowns into new items to last many more years, or make completely new items.

How did you get into your craft?
I can remember my mum asking when I was about 16: “Would you like me to teach you how to make eiderdowns?” – well that was the last thing I wanted to do at that age! I had been sewing since I was about 10, making my own clothes and selling rag dolls and other crafty bits and pieces before I started high school.

I began to work for NZ Post and with early starts, I had the afternoons free, so yes I did learn the making of eiderdowns. I had been filling eiderdown, duvets, sleeping bags as a teenager, but the making of a complete eiderdown took some time. Making up a small frill for a eiderdown took so long, I would watch my mum making it up so fast, thinking I could never do that – well I can now.

Being able to work from home when my four children were young was great. So each grew up, using my old sewing machines and overlocker, with an endless supply of fabric scraps, and of course feathers.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I have no formal training for this, just a passion for fabrics, and a very creative mind I guess.

Your favourite materials, tools and processes?
I enjoy sewing and love some of the amazing fabrics that come to me from customers to make their new eiderdown in. I’ve made so many up, but still have a few of my favourites.

A few years ago I began importing my own feather/down, and getting it at a better price has meant I can get an excellent quality down which makes a lovely light and warm eiderdown. When I remake a customer’s eiderdown, it’s very rarely that I come across a down mix as nice as what I use.

What inspires you?
Knowing that I’m going to make something that the customer will love. So many people come to me with their grandparents’ old eiderdown which of course has very sentimental value, and it’s really great to know that it will be used and treasured again.

Describe your workspace:
I have a awesome sewing room with a full size cutting out table and huge pullout ironing board. Off this room is the “downroom” where I fill the eiderdowns. Over the years my husband has very kindly let me take more than three quarters of our large work shed. It always looks messy, cottons, feathers, fabrics – but I can just close the door at the end of the day.

Your favourite feedback from a customer:
“My eiderdown arrived yesterday and I just LOVE IT!, it’s everything I have ever wanted and looks beautiful on the bed. Your workmanship is exquisite and words really can’t express just how happy I am, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, I will treasure it forever. You have created not only a beautiful item but a future family heirloom.”

What are you currently listening to?
I’m currently listening the audio book A Game of Thrones. The audio book’s great, as I can sew and listen to a exciting story!

Your favourite childhood book?
As a child The Black Stallion series was read through time and time again!

What are you reading now?
I have not had a lot of time for reading over the past few months, but my favourite books are the Diana Gabaldon Cross Stitch series.

Do you have any pets?
We now have two cats, one very old staffy and my daughter’s Siberian husky. But over the years when everyone was living at home we have had, mice, rats!!!, rabbits, birds, chinchillas, fish, lambs, calves, goats! Quite a menagerie!

A favourite quote: “The best things in life – aren’t things.”

As well as her Felt shop, Eiderdowns, Anita has work displayed in her daughter’s shop, A Little Birdy Told Me… in Woodville. More eiderdowns will be gracing her stall at this year’s second Martinborough fair on May 5, and you’ll also spot her at the Women’s Lifestyle Expo in Palmerston North on May 12 and 13.

I have gone with a nature theme this week – enjoy!

siansells – lego jewellery
poproc – party printables
jollyholly – children’s toys and clothing
lexlemke – clothing for girls
forchildren – alphabet wall friezes
antonym – prints of original illustrations
thewikiwi – handpainted pillowcases
peaceloveind – vintage inspired homewares
mygoodness – aprons
alteredimage – vintage inspired art and surreal imagery
chilli – canvas art blocks
prettybirds – jewellery
hedgiehog – bird mobiles
tickityboo – embroidered brooches
clobug – clothing for girls
runningpukeko – stylish bibs for the younger diner
wildflowernz – floral hair accessories
ashbreelane – fabric dolls
sweetes – personalised prints for children’s rooms
graystarling – antique silverware plant markers
littletweet – children’s clothing
mumdrop – wearable towels for new mums
rabbithole – embellished children’s clothing
bold – lampshades, cushions and wallhangings
puddlesalot – jewellery
chicofactory – soaps
jcollins2610 – pillows for children
lifeissugar – cookie shaped soy melts
bbbling – jewellery and accessories