tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48627463811926303672012-01-21T10:08:31.784+11:00Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.comBlogger651100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-41980905786876537332012-01-21T10:08:00.000+11:002012-01-21T10:08:31.794+11:00

Handprinted cushions from EcoInspired New lampshades and cushions are a simple inexpensive way to update and freshen the look of a room.  Mangroves by Sophie Seeger sustainable fabric runner Rivers by Sophie Seeger;Threefold from The Eco Collective Akasya Stripe by PipWilly

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-32558633919716779652011-11-23T09:58:00.000+11:002011-11-23T09:58:50.730+11:00

This months HOMEideas magazine has some great renovating tips and inspirational ideas for the home including a profile piece about The Eco Collective! Nature's Own by Danielle Hanrahan, HOMEideasNov11

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-41814281116236999212011-10-15T17:13:00.000+11:002011-10-15T17:13:33.416+11:00

Detox your home with The Eco Collective... ...three designers working together to create beautiful soft-furnishing fabrics that are 100% natural and sustainable. View the designs; feel the fabrics at Grand Designs Australia LIVE - open 21-23 October 2011 at the Sydney Convention and exhibition Centre. The Eco Collective - the design trio, Philippa Wilkinson, Karen Brock and Sophie

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-6566588758361456742011-10-13T20:48:00.004+11:002011-11-24T10:02:07.913+11:00

New lampshades and cushions can really give your room a facelift. Mangroves by Sophie Seeger Samphires chair by Karen Brock; Mangroves cushion by Sophie Seeger; Akasya Stripe lampshade by Pip Wilkinson. Lichen by Karen Brock in Dusky Orchid Mulga Shadow by Sophie Seeger in charcoal on silver Samphires shade by Karen Brock   Akasya Stripe by Philippa Wilkinson in willow green on

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-26912093804656375202011-07-28T17:21:00.000+10:002011-07-28T17:21:10.188+10:00

These fabulous upcycled, footstools have been reupholstered using hemp and organic cotton fabrics by The Eco Collective. Stems by Karen Brock on hemp/organic cotton Berries by Philippa Wilkinson on Himalayan Hemp One Village is now selling The Eco Collective's upcycled furniture. Each item coming to life with a fresh reupholstered look using our designer natural fabrics. One Village -

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-84106958506567019292011-07-28T13:27:00.000+10:002011-07-28T13:27:47.898+10:00

This month's Australian House & Garden features an article about Energy Australia's Smart Home at Newington; "a home that showcases sustainability, without sacrificing comfort or style" The lucky family that have lived there for the past year were able to experience the latest and greatest in low energy living in a home that combines energy efficiency with contemporary design. August 2011

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-62966155225319560222011-07-05T18:54:00.000+10:002011-07-05T18:54:50.649+10:00

The Eco Collective's threefold cushions combines the decorative fabrics of three designers; Philippa Wilkinson's two colour design Abstract Floral is handprinted onto Himalayan Hemp; Philippa handpicked the hemp from a Nepalese weaver on a recent trip to the Himalayas. It is a coursely woven fabric with gorgeous tactile qualities and is now one of The Eco Collective's chosen base cloths for

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-14348770101251540252011-06-10T19:05:00.000+10:002011-06-10T19:05:30.346+10:00

The annual interwoven exhibition is on next week at the Gaffa Gallery, Level One 281 Clarence Street, Sydney. Interwoven is an exhibition of the works of emerging fabric designers and textile artisans from Sydney and the ACT. The exhibition opens on Thursday 16th June from 6.30pm and is on until Tuesday 28th June. Opening hours are Monday - Friday 10am -6pm ; Saturday 11am - 5pm.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-25018977334579071272011-05-12T09:00:00.000+10:002011-05-12T09:00:31.360+10:00

The EcoXpo last week-end was a hit!........  .........we were completely surprised by a local film crew popping by to find out all about our sustainable fabric range.  Jenny Newton from Jenny Newton Interiors in Regent Street Redfern was interviewed and spoke at length about The Eco Collective's fabric range and the interior furnishings soon to be available from her Redfern shop.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-83096057930282369132011-05-08T10:47:00.000+10:002011-05-08T10:47:10.666+10:00

Spikey Sprigs by Pip Willy for The Eco Collective Modern Botanicals from The Eco Collective Stems Lightweight Hemp Fabric Rivers Cushion and Mulga Lampshade by Sophie Seeger   Lichen, Canopy and Mangroves Designs

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0New South Wales, Australia-34.08906111139712 151.17187662499998-38.76360361139712 144.71962362499997 -29.41451861139712 157.624129625tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-83372484756445392182011-04-23T16:35:00.000+10:002011-04-23T16:35:37.049+10:00

I guess it's hard to believe you're reading a new post from me.  I know...it's been ages! Along with most people I know, my life has been incredibly busy since about February, so thank heavens for this Easter break. I do have something newsworthy to share though.... I've been working with some colleagues on a new project, that's been in the pipelines for months The Eco Collective is a

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-88283358624287444512011-02-02T11:53:00.000+11:002011-02-02T11:53:55.274+11:00

I received this gorgeous handmade heart in the post a few days ago. It is an unexpected thank you gift from Exquisite Accessories, for bidding on her beach bag  in the QLD Flood Appeal. What a sweet gesture! It now happily hangs above my computer. Thanks Elaine! Also,  these photos, I had to take of my youngest yesterday, dripping with sweat but proudly showing me two red cherries on his

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-37904814108454439942011-02-01T22:17:00.000+11:002011-02-01T22:17:38.225+11:00

I was recently  the lucky winner of stilelemente's giveaway! These gorgeous handmade items by Gabriella Tagliapietra were my prize....I love her kangaroo paw design printed and made into this practical wine carrier bag.... Handprinted hemp/organic cotton wine carrier Botanical Print Calendar Nippers series cards by Gaby ..the handy calendar features a range of Gaby's designs of native

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-7654388813124821562011-01-22T22:12:00.001+11:002011-01-22T22:14:34.046+11:00

There are so many online auctions happening right now, all raising money for those affected by the Qld floods.  Below are the links to just a few auctions finishing very soon, so time to bid and enjoy securing a wonderful handmade item knowing that the money will go to a very worthy cause: That Vintage makes beautiful items from Tasmanian Myrtle all available from the online auction found here:

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-55238784083339981572011-01-12T20:55:00.000+11:002011-01-12T20:55:14.544+11:00

Hello and Best Wishes for the New Year! This Post is to spread the word for the QLD Flood Relief Auctions to help those in need who have suffered great loss in the last few days from the terrible floods in lower QLD. Access the auction by clicking on the Flood Relief Banner in the left hand column of this blog.  The Auctions were begun by Toni from Make It Perfect and thank you to Terese at

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-24755524931924489282010-11-28T07:00:00.000+11:002010-11-28T07:00:34.222+11:00

EcoInspired's Splash/Coral Chair Pads It's gorgeous weather right now in Oz that just makes you feel like being outdoors as much as possible.........so I thought I'd share with you some fresh images of EcoInspired's handprinted outdoor cushion covers and a few images taken recently of other EcoInspired product. EcoInspired's Gingko Leaf design in Yellow Karma Vibrant, festive and Eco

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-60292303103410336542010-11-14T19:58:00.001+11:002010-11-14T20:47:27.865+11:00

I get an immediate mood lift when I walk into a store where things just work together beautifully. Where colours are aesthetically pleasing and all manner of natural fibres are arranged in a way to complement each other. I love seeing textiles with timber, stoneware and glass, so I'm chuffed to have some of my EcoInspired cushions nestled comfortably on the shelves at Illie Home and Gift,

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-40662292911049011402010-10-18T17:53:00.000+11:002010-10-18T17:53:41.833+11:00

As promised previously, here are some images of the new Ecoinspired lampshade bases that will be added to EcoInspired's online store tomorrow. Alan's done a fantastic job sourcing a few amazing offcuts of timber like Australian Cherrywood and African Bubinga and turning them on his lathe. They've been finished using environmentally friendly Australian Orange Oil. This lampbase is made from a

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-42147024005651487272010-10-06T22:46:00.000+11:002010-10-06T22:46:00.285+11:00

Oh the joy in picking up finished handmade product! I always look forward to seeing the finished result when I send fabric away to be created into something gorgeous. Today it was a rather bulky order so I chose to pick it up myself. Here's a sneak peek........ Drum pendant lightshades Sweet bedside lamps with tiny feet...... and other cylindrical lampshades like these.......... that will

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-66712342639392720782010-10-04T23:59:00.002+11:002010-10-05T00:02:16.366+11:00

Lately, I've been at a loss to know what to post about????......well I could tell you about how I'm busy with three active boys on school holidays.....that could be a very long post, or I could talk about how a dear friend has just given birth to her third gorgeous girl  and how I enjoyed making for the girls three little soft toys......not a cricket bat or rugby ball in sight at their

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-80199444851215790092010-09-16T08:25:00.002+10:002010-09-19T04:11:47.241+10:00

If you've been wanting to see, touch and feel the textiles made by Ecoinspired, you can now find our handprinted environmentally friendly textiles here...... at  Beachwood,  Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach. Beachwood are ''merchants of integral components for beachside living" . Their style is fresh with a coastal influence. "Beachwood specialise in custom made furniture using timber reclaimed from old

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-37339253033641429202010-09-09T10:00:00.002+10:002010-09-09T10:02:19.089+10:00

Ever wanted to display your collection of images in a collage? What about in unusual shapes like a love heart for example? I've been looking for ways to showcase some of EcoInspired's images but didn't really find what I was looking for in Word or Powerpoint. I love using software like Flickr to collect images although it's a little frustrating that Flickr doesn't support making galleries from

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-89132556236123994612010-09-02T22:32:00.002+10:002010-09-19T04:12:12.951+10:00

I've been terribly slack on the blogging front....and it's because I've been completely absorbed in printing and piecing together a new selection of table runners! This particular job is very satisfying...... I can utilise lots of remnant pieces of fabric and I enjoy seeing these pieces evolve into attractive and useful textiles that can look great on any table or wall.   And with Spring

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-19794870973361780032010-08-19T02:03:00.000+10:002010-08-19T02:03:15.272+10:00

The Life Instyle show held in Melbourne last week looked to be a huge success, with inspiring new handmade items soon to be available in shops across the country. Some of my favourite stallholders  ...... Clay Australia handcreate ceramic homewares like this... Sydney based Attia craft functional tableware from natural sustainable timber and stone....  and I can just imagine EcoInspired's

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-82514996729591075162010-08-02T22:41:00.006+10:002010-09-19T04:12:34.727+10:00

I've recently begun selling Ecoinspired's  homewares on Blue Caravan. Have you seen this fantastic online marketplace yet? It's loaded with environmentally friendly, ethical design products and many of them are made locally. You might like to take a look.........www.bluecaravan.net On another note, I've been busy lately working on a new design, mixing a few different colours and making up

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-88616172189728110002010-07-21T16:05:00.003+10:002010-09-19T04:13:03.530+10:00

Isn't it fabulous how we can so instantly communicate with people on the other side of the planet. Sitting in my little studio in Narrabeen Australia I can read a blog post written  minutes ago by EcoHustler sitting in front of his computer somewhere in the USA! www.ecohookups.com is EcoHustler's online networking site, started with the purpose of making green living, second nature. His site

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-89084380104920811502010-07-18T08:14:00.001+10:002010-07-18T08:38:13.390+10:00

Remember I made a batch of cushions for Australia's first Smart Home? A quick recap....it was my first week back after some time off and I was tired and jetlagged...Well what better way to have spent those unslept hours than franticly printing, cutting and sewing a soft furnishings order! So what is 'Australia's First Smart Home'? Energy Australia and Sydney Water have sponsored this interesting

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-46725163283963278752010-07-11T10:05:00.005+10:002010-07-11T19:38:03.777+10:00

Like me, I'm sure many of you enjoy giving cards and invitations that are a little different to  run of the mill mass produced cards. These fabulous greeting cards are just some of the unique designs available at Saysomething Creative.    SaySomething Creative's, Debbie Braund is always sourcing and creating new ideas to add to her range of handmade greeting cards. All cards are made from fibre

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-54497304930826926232010-07-06T18:05:00.000+10:002010-07-06T18:05:29.121+10:00

I'm very excited to be able to share with you some photo's of EcoInspired's new lampshades. The cute little wire feet lamps can be made in three widths:- 13cm, 15cm and 19cmand can be made as tall as you like. They come complete with electricals and are now available from EcoInspired's online store.   These Parched Birch design lampshades printed in white onto hemp/yak hair or hemp/organic cotton

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-45709861981246951582010-07-05T17:44:00.002+10:002010-07-06T17:43:19.207+10:00

For any of you who managed to visit the Interwoven exhibition held recently at the Gaffa Gallery in Sydney,  I'm sure you will agree there was an amazing display of work by talented designers, artists and jewellers.  For those of you who missed it and those of you who live oceans away from Oz, here are a few photos of my favourite displays:-  Printed Hemp cushions and bags by PipWillyGorgeous

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-17082242342064428042010-06-17T17:14:00.000+10:002010-06-17T17:14:28.879+10:00

Interwoven is the Design Institute of Australia's annual exhibition of textile and jewellery work from highly skilled artists demonstrating contemporary innovation in design. Exhibition dates are:  17 -30 June at the Gaffa Gallery, Sydney Mon - Fri 10am -6pm and Saturdays 11am -5pm Can't wait to visit and see some of the amazing displays from textile artists like......Phillippa Wilkinson of

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-32694169883660767672010-06-09T11:40:00.000+10:002010-06-09T11:40:40.776+10:00

Thank You Verlaine:) If you were flicking through Home & Decor in Singapore recently you would have seen our original coastal design cushion, "Splash" staring back at you from the online shopping pages. Thank you to Verlaine Ramos-Marquez for including EcoInspired in her feature on environmentally friendly soft furnishings available on the web. Colour Mixing

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-42202232168576833292010-06-07T20:03:00.001+10:002010-06-07T20:05:56.920+10:00

Over the past week.... We have had so much rain. Our rainwater tanks were full more than a week ago and still the rain keeps coming. I yearn for a little sunshine though it's hard to complain about the amount of rain knowing that much of our country is still so dry. If only there was a way to syphon it out West where it's needed. World Environment Day After having Susan(eco crusader

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-19854651432496480442010-06-02T19:41:00.003+10:002010-09-19T04:13:37.093+10:00

Would you like this cushion? Well now you have a chance to win this unique hand screenprinted 40cm hemp scatter cushion in EcoInspired's first ever giveaway to mark the occasion of World Environment Day 2010. (This Saturday 5th June 2010) This Birch design has been hand screenprinted using water based inks onto a light/medium weight Hemp/Yak hair and is backed with 13oz Charcoal coloured Hemp/

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-3599938204220289432010-05-26T14:36:00.001+10:002010-07-18T07:21:50.852+10:00

I've just returned to Australia from an incredible trip overseas with my family. We saw such a cross section of natural and man made landscapes, experienced vastly different cultures and enjoyed a break from the sometimes frenetic pace of life back here in Sydney. Now I'm so excited to be home and back to the creative drawing board with a renewed energy for EcoInspired. The week has begun with an

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-65408230827232301272010-04-29T07:30:00.000+10:002010-05-01T07:48:40.496+10:00

I enjoyed wandering amongst some gorgeous examples of fashion design recently at the Victoria and Albert Museum. This ballgown was one of my favourites..... Christian Lacrouix 1991. This simple pinafore was designed by Hussein Chalayan 1996 , it is simple but what I really like about this designer is that he experiments with textiles...."he buried the jacket fabric in his garden

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-21466249073369945902010-04-19T07:50:00.000+10:002010-05-01T07:51:12.781+10:00

Recently I visited the amazing Victoria and Albert museum in London and took these snaps of some of the leading examples of the Art and Craft movement..... this armchair is a classic example of the time....being carved from oak and the seat woven from rush. This beautiful country style timber and tile vanity bench was handmade by the William Morris manufacturers in the early 1900's. It's

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-21959045751785486112010-04-16T04:40:00.000+10:002010-04-16T04:40:12.722+10:00

Ok, I'm going to be a complete show off now and share with you the source of my latest inspiration... so where are we.....  well, other than the intense colour and quiet of the desert we've also experienced ....the energy of this city  and shopped in the traditional souks.....our favourite being .....the Blue Souk. ...whereif you are a fan of gold

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-53052208242227517822010-03-28T23:05:00.002+11:002010-04-18T20:26:25.043+10:00

I've had an interest in hand woven rugs for about 10 years now. My collection is still very small...minuscule in fact, compared to serious carpet enthusiasts but gradually my collection has increased over the years. Mostly I buy kelims... I'm drawn to their rustic colours and texture which work so beautifully with timber floors. However, the 'piece de resistence' of my small collection is a

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-89409903446878861602010-03-18T13:33:00.005+11:002010-03-18T14:10:04.599+11:00

Kellie from www.74LimeLane.com.au has kindly sent me this fabulous photograph of her EcoInspired cushion sitting comfortably on her lounge..... Kellie and I were recently partnered in the Dustteam February Craft Swap.This gorgeous photograph with a'reely' colourful and contemporary look to it, is my February Craft Swap gift from Kellie and I can't wait to frame and hang it in the studio.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-30887083598813862592010-03-14T17:29:00.054+11:002010-03-16T20:57:31.398+11:00

  i love this design by Vivienne Westwood.  Talk about adding texture by way of design. So clever and very inspiring!  The design is available as wallpaper at www.cole-and-son.com or in Australia at www.radfordfurnishings.com.au After browsing TheDesignFiles blog recently I came across a few inspirational examples of sustainable design. Photos are by Green Magazine These fabulous double

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-25774133468881361932010-03-11T21:06:00.000+11:002010-03-11T21:06:38.087+11:00

We've been focusing on EcoInspired's swatch books lately in the workshop so I thought I'd share a few snaps.  These placement prints are next on the list and will soon find themselves collected together in a small book. The design is called 'Parched Birch'. The drawing was inspired by the cluster of fairly ordinary swamp trees in the park behind our house. Although fairly standard, common

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-39148409283844265452010-03-04T21:34:00.002+11:002010-03-04T21:40:34.232+11:00

The world has sped up again....if anyone knows how to just hop off for a few days to catch a breath, I'd love to hear how. The Eco Inspired studio has been chaotic, completely organised, covered with fabric dust and scraps or sparkly clean depending on which day of the week I reflect on.  We've had some good news....Eco Inspired will feature in not one but two editions of Home and Decor magazine

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-29470917831946996822010-02-20T18:18:00.000+11:002010-02-20T18:18:47.487+11:00

I had a nice change and a few hours of fun on Tuesday, photographing two of EcoInspired's soft furnishing ranges.  It was such a blessing to have the help of a friend...that's Paula in one of the shots tweaking the look.   The idea with these table runners is they are  versatile.....so when you're a little tired of seeing them along the dining table, they quite seamlessly shift

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-88084700097121552862010-02-11T10:25:00.000+11:002010-02-11T10:25:03.664+11:00

The ecoInspired Hemp Cube was picked in this Etsy treasury by Maykela. It's so great to see one of my items in a treasury. The cube began like this.....  ....and to this was added a piece of med-high density foam, and a metre or so of screenprinted 13oz hemp in the Banyan Tree design.  Then, a great deal of careful measuring, pinning, sewing, stapling and finally it became this....a

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-59791020522068427472010-02-08T12:51:00.002+11:002010-02-08T12:55:16.645+11:00

I like Mondays....I didn't always of course....I recall saying in the not too distant past.."we should sleep through Mondays and move straight on to Tuesday"...but that was before I began EcoInspired and working with textiles.  Now I jump out of bed on Monday mornings...well in my mind I do...my body takes a bit of waking up, and I get started on whatever I have planned for the day. So after

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-60584943699061171432010-02-04T17:13:00.003+11:002010-02-04T17:19:52.794+11:00

I bought these fabulous cards recently from Stella Peterson of the etsy store 'thelucidimage'.  Stella makes vintage inspired prints and cards with a modern twist. You can see her entire range at www.thelucidimage.etsy.com including sweet Valentine cards.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-74544014556278145092010-02-04T12:20:00.001+11:002010-02-04T13:38:14.647+11:00

I felt so proud of my six year old this week.  He swam the length of the school pool and finished his race. Yay!   His weekly swim lessons have really paid off.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-81028177260793216882010-01-28T23:30:00.000+11:002010-01-28T23:30:20.870+11:00

Twilight is the new range of cushions and runners I've been working on lately. Named by my sister the instant she saw the cushions......stroke of genius!....or was it she'd been listening to Nine Inch Nails or reading about vampires and werewolves? Anyway the name has stuck partly because I love that beautiful time of day where the light and colours are constantly changing....and partly because

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-26432599659851525092010-01-18T22:43:00.001+11:002010-01-18T22:49:37.276+11:00

I would've liked to have had more time to create a more inspired heart item to add to the Haiti etsy store, but in between making sandwiches, chasing the dog back into the yard numerous times, answering phone calls and sorting out mini wars breaking out in the lounge room between 3 competitive brothers, I just managed to applique some hearts onto this cushion I've had in my etsy store.  As

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-25405690249759235182010-01-18T08:52:00.004+11:002010-01-18T09:07:24.592+11:00

I've just stumbled upon a blog post by Pocket Carnival and also by  DELiscious Designz and want to help spread the word.... http://www.heartsforhaiti.etsy.com is a new etsy shop set up to help those affected by the devastation in Haiti. The profits made on all items sold in HeartsforHaiti will be donated to Doctors Without Borders. If you're an etsy seller and would like to help by

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-21881109495041326012010-01-17T10:00:00.003+11:002010-01-17T10:10:24.873+11:00

Fern and Flora Designs are hosting a V-Day Giveaway! Kara Rosenberry Co. has created a collection of clever cards and whatnots just for Valentines Day. Visit their blog at http://www.fernandflora.blogspot.com for a chance to win. Visit their etsy store http://www.fernandflora.etsy.com to see their range of vintage adorned hair and home accessories.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-2639340423196716552010-01-15T22:24:00.000+11:002010-01-15T22:24:54.911+11:00

Here are a few photos of Mother Nature, in fine form while we were away in the  New England district recently...........

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-82598397391901185692010-01-14T22:31:00.000+11:002010-01-14T22:31:23.119+11:00

French's Forest Organic Market is on every Sunday from 8am till mid afternoon. It's a great place to shop for fresh, local produce that is grown without the use of harmful pesticides. I always come away with a bag full of fresh veggies, a few herb seedlings that I always have good intentions of keeping alive and a really good coffee. There is also a selection of stalls that sell jewellery, craft

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-62785077315400945782010-01-02T08:23:00.029+11:002010-01-02T08:53:23.059+11:00

Just like seasoned travellers get itchy feet to head abroad, I find it difficult to last longer than a couple of days without doing something creative, with my preferred option being something crafty. Being away from my workshop, with no fabric or thread handy I have two other known options...my sketch pad and pencils have been calling me from the bottom of my suitcase so I could start drafting

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-65207000026458544312009-12-31T13:47:00.000+11:002009-12-31T13:47:23.680+11:00

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-32789898381171083392009-12-31T11:23:00.034+11:002009-12-31T12:05:02.628+11:00

Nundle is a gorgeous country village with a population of just over 500, located roughly 45 minutes south east of Tamworth in Northern NSW. It has been a perfect stopover for us on our way to Ballina. We browsed the quaint village stores including the Exchange Store where fossickers would trade their gem finds for supplies. Harrison loved fossicking, as did all of the boys, even in the drizzle

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-9959241138346980312009-12-18T16:06:00.000+11:002009-12-18T16:06:09.440+11:00

Xmas busyness has kept me away from blogging lately but rest assured I have lots more planned for the New Year including my first giveaway to celebrate a couple of small wins for EcoInspired, but more on that later...... For now I'd like to tell you about a giveaway hosted by Sabine of the etsy store VintageMarquise. Sabine's store has some fabulous vintage finds from the South of France. I just

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-37758944561547360592009-11-23T17:28:00.002+11:002009-12-27T19:05:07.475+11:00

Exposing a raw edge of fabric on a cushion feels like breaking the rules, somehow.  It brings a little satisfaction to the rebellious side of my personality that gets a little weary of sewing straight seams and overlocking edges.  This cushion was a pleasure to sew. The fabrics are tactile, the colours contrast nicely and it made good use of a few small sample pieces I had. Hemp/Yak

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-41846872436447396012009-11-18T13:09:00.008+11:002009-12-27T19:06:34.293+11:00

I've recently printed 'Reeds' in Dark Coral Red. It's also printed in Turquoise on White, Mocha or Stone 9oz or 13oz Hemp/Organic cotton canvas.  This fabric is ideal for home furnishings:-cushions, upholstery, lampshades. Small quantities are available through etsy www.ecoinspired.etsy.com and will soon be up on EcoInspired's website.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-54626742236278729872009-11-08T20:50:00.004+11:002009-11-08T20:56:25.563+11:00

A couple of new pics of my screen-printed cushions. Available through the EcoInspired website or my etsy store  http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34048759

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-68570074051349076912009-10-26T09:03:00.000+11:002009-10-26T09:19:32.224+11:00

Breakfast on the Bridge looks like it was a big success.What a great way to showcase one of Australia's favourite landmarks.

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-9308719083538996922009-10-23T16:17:00.000+11:002009-10-23T16:22:36.130+11:00

I found inspiration for another design in the Spring growth that's taking over my yard. www.ecoinspired.com.au

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-82646792767438384812009-10-13T15:45:00.000+11:002009-10-13T21:10:19.688+11:00

When inspiration for new creations is in short supply I turn to another favourite pastime, reading!My latest find at the local library is '1001 Ways To Save The Planet' by Bernadette Vallely, an environmentalist based in England.Sharing is very green, so I thought I'd share a few of my favourite tips from her book.Tip #1 If you must use your dishwasher, like me, make sure it's always a full load

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862746381192630367.post-24900071539068470882009-09-03T09:50:00.000+10:002009-09-03T10:06:54.303+10:00

I'm still finding it hard to believe my website is up and running! Thanks to a fellow Etsy seller MissyMaoMao I followed her tip and used Wix.com.Check it out if you have the time www.ecoinspired.com.auAlso take a look at www.wix.com/missymaomao/missymaomao  

Karen Brockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15474054332534086378noreply@blogger.com0