Keep Clear

On my way to work on a Saturday. It's supposed to be summer here in Oz but the weather forecast said it was going to rain. I decided to put the bolero on so I could easily take it off in case it gets too hot for me =)

White Bolero by Ilaya Couture; Black Spaghetti Strap by People R People; Pants by Tiara (SM); Pumps (Nine West); Gold  Overnight Bag by Bags in the City. All brands from Manila, Philippines (except Nine West)

bijoux de kate

I started making accessories on the last quarter of 2006. I accidentally discovered that I had a penchant for making baubles, when, after a Disney event, I had nothing to do at the office and saw excess materials from an arts and crafts activity we did for the kids on that weekend. I tinkered on it and tried to make friendship bracelets for everybody! I enjoyed myself so much that by Saturday I found myself rushing to Quiapo (where they sell the most affordable tools and materials -from noose to pearls for jewelry making). It was such a stress-buster for me and it kept me distracted from problems at work, I was so relaxed that I even filed for VLs just to spend more time making more necklaces, earrings and bracelets!

A movie, person or a season would inspire me. Later on, I decided to put it up in multiply for online retail. It did not disappoint. I would have customers email me for prices and custom designs. By 2008, I joined my first bazaar along with friends and because of its price and one-off designs, it did more than I expected.

I was not able to bring my tools with me when I went to Canberra, the boxes were just too heavy and would eat up my entire baggage allowance. If I had extra resources I would have my tools sent over in a balikbayan box (amongst other things-- clothes mostly) because I also found out that there's a very limited supply of raw materials here at high retail price.

I miss creating with my hands, this is what this post is all about.

On this post are some of my favorite pieces.

after 3 years

In the 3 years since I wrote last, I:

Realized I was in a wrong relationship,

and was as able to get out from that relationship (call it divine intervention)

Immensely enjoyed arts and crafts or any creative medium my hands can work on.

Tried to write again (we have a love-hate-love relationship)

Slowly setting foot in the kitchen.

Dated, fell in love and married my best friend.

Relocated to Canberra, gave up my career in Manila to be a devoted housewife =)

Am now working in this beautiful Asian-inspired shop.

Re-discovering the wonders of blogging.

Inspired by lifestyle/fashion bloggers to meld my love for the arts and talking (or writing in this instance).

Photos by Michelle Morelos and Jamie Lihan for Imaginenation