Goosey Gander

The Last Market

2011-12-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

This year has flown on by, and suddenly it is December. And it's time to wind up Goosey Gander.

This weekend will be my last ever market.

I'll be at Handmade Market on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 December - 10am til 4pm - at the National Convention Centre.

Mama Goose

Spring is in the air? Not today.....

2011-09-28T22:14:00.001-07:00

Canberra's weather has been rather variable lately. I've started sewing some summer stock, which I will take along to Handmade market this weekend. I planned on taking some photos of my current stock today, while I was home with The Gander and Miss Goosey, but the weather is not cooperating at all - it is windy, grey and drizzly. So these aren't the best of photos.

These little tie-tops are such a versatile top. With the shoulder ties and the blousy fit, they can be adjusted to fit a range of sizes. And they work equally well with a long sleeved top underneath for winter, or a sweet puff-sleeved t-shirt for in between seasons. In summer they are soft and floaty and allow lots of air circulation.

Here are some of the fabrics I have at the moment. As with all my clothes, I have limited fabrics left, and once they are gone I won't be making any more. Tie tops are available in sizes 1, 2, 3 and 4. They are $23.

I'll be at Handmade Market this weekend:

Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 October

10am-4pm both days

Convention Centre

Constitution Ave, Canberra City

Last pair

2011-09-23T16:11:00.001-07:00

I'm down to my very last ever pair of elephant pants. They are a size 2. Snap them up at Handmade Market next weekend.

Sewing with kids

2011-09-19T19:05:00.000-07:00

I’ve recently made an exciting discovery – I can sew with both kids awake. Perhaps somewhat slowly, but still, I can sew!

This is good news, because Miss Goosey seems to have given up her day sleep. She’ll be three in November, so I’m not complaining (The Gander gave his up shortly after turning two). But I do most of my sewing for my own kids when she is napping on the weekends, so it’s nice to know that I can still get some sewing done even if she is awake.

With the weather warming up, I need to get started on summer wardrobes for the kids. My internet shopping addiction means that their wardrobes are already pretty well stocked, but I like them to have at least a few ‘mummy-made’ pieces each season. And there is also the small matter of the overflowing fabric cupboard that means I really need to start using some of what I buy.

We took advantage of Canberra’s suddenly sunny weather and went to the opening day of Floriade on the weekend. Mr Hen Pecked was away enjoying some even sunnier weather in Cairns, so we took along a good friend of mine for company. She reminded me of the awful tantrum that The Gander threw at Floriade last year, but I’m pleased to say he was perfectly behaved this year, despite a few tears when his helium balloon went floating off into the sky.

Of course I couldn’t go to Floriade and not visit the Handmade pavillion. So I dragged my reluctant shoppers along (and managed to get them past the Lindsay and Edmund’s stall without them spotting their favourite teddybear choc-pops – luckily it was very crowded at Lindsay and Edmunds!). I did indulge in a little shopping for myself – I just couldn’t resist a sweet little pendant from Tick Tock Type. At the very reasonable price of only $10, who could resist it really?

I’m looking forward to the next Handmade Market on 1 and 2 October. Yes that’s right TWO whole days of Handmade loveliness. And Flib and I will be there for both the Saturday and the Sunday (Flib is even following it up with a week in the Floriade Handmade pavillion!).

Mama Goose

Handmade Market

2011-06-12T01:21:00.000-07:00

What an amazing market! I don't think I've ever seen a market so busy! While Handmade never fails to draw a crowd, Saturday's market was bumper to bumper and an hour or two in there was barely room to move in the aisles. Some shoppers even arrived by the bus load (hi to the ladies from Gerrigong - such a beautiful part of the world!).

Flib and I had a wonderful day as usual, chatting to customers, and checking out the lovely wares surrounding us. Busy as it was we still managed to sample the cupcakes and pick up some lovely homemade goodies to take home with us. I can never go past the onion marmalade and the chilli tomato jam from the Linwood Cafe - perfect for jazzing up any meal.

Our lovely neighbour, Sal from Chloe and Viscount had the most gorgeous clutch purses, at very reasonable prices. My handbag is usually filled with kids drink bottles, wipes, and assorted toys, and I rarely go anywhere that requires anything fancier than an oversized nappy bag.... but I'm planning a kid-free week away in October (my first in five years!!!!), so I was pleased to hear that Sal will be back at the next Handmade Market, so I can buy one of her gorgeous purses.

Flib and I were far too busy to pull out the camera yesterday, but you can see some photos of the beautiful stalls on the Handmade Market blog.

The next Handmade Market will be held over two days on October 1 and 2.... just as well, as with Floriade also on, we might not have room for everyone on the one day!

Mama Goose

End of the line......

2011-05-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

I made the decision some time ago, that I would slowly wind up Goosey Gander. I have had so much fun creating kids clothes, and have really enjoyed the experience of selling them at markets. When I started Goosey Gander I was on maternity leave, and running a hobby business was a wonderful creative outlet while home with two small children. Two years later, however, I'm back at work part-time, raising two growing kids, and trying to fit in their ever increasing extra-curicular activities.

I also miss sewing for my own kids. Goosey Gander was born out of my experimenting with designing clothes for Miss Goosey and The Gander. But somehow it has taken over, and despite having a cupboard full of fabric, and a head full of ideas, I was rarely sewing anything for my own children.

At the end of last year I made the decision to only sell at Handmade Market in 2011. I also decided that I would work through my cupboard of fabrics and sew up what I had left, but not purchase new fabric for Goosey Gander. When the fabric runs out, I'll stop doing markets, and wind Goosey Gander up for good.

So here are some of my 'end of line' products, for which I have now run out of fabric. Once these are sold, there will be no more.

The scooter pants have been a favourite since I started Goosey Gander. They are $29 and I have them in sizes 00, 0, 1 and 2.

A close up of the gorgeous scooter fabric:

The pocket on the back:

Only two pairs of 'Beep Beep' pants left, in sizes 00 and 2. These are made from a lovely soft cord and are $20

Guitar pants are also $20 - I have some made from a soft grey denim (pictured), and some from a black cord:

The demin ones have a blue pocket, and the cord ones have a green pocket

There are two Ollie Elephant pinafores left - size 1 and size 2 ($44)
From Russia with Love has been my most popular pinafore - I have sizes 00, 0 (both $39), 1 and 2 (both $44) And finally the Lollipop pinafore is available in sizes 0 ($39), 1 and 2 (both $44)

Bad blogger

2011-05-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

I'm such a terrible blogger! I love reading other people's blogs, and have several blogs that I read every few days. I get so much inspiration from seeing what other people create. But when it comes to blogging myself, I never seem to find time to do it. Perhaps I need to do a little less reading, and a little more writting.....

I haven't been sewing as much as usual, since I decided to only do Handmade Markets this year. But I have still been working away steadily, and have a nice pile of pants and pinafores just waiting for the finishing touches before the next market.

Handmade Market will be on again at the Convention Centre on Saturday 11 June. It seems like such a long time since the last market, so I'm looking forward to this one! June can be a bit unpredictable in Canberra, so it will be nice to be tucked up inside all cozy and warm at this market.

You can check out some of the wonderful designers that will be at the June market on the Handmade website.

Mama Goose

A new focus

2011-02-08T17:01:00.000-08:00

How did it get to be February already? We are now just days away from the first Handmade Market of the year. Handmade just keeps growing and growing, and yet again has out-grown the venue at Kamberra Winery. So onwards and upwards it is, with a new venue at the Convention Centre.

This venue brings with it ample parking and ATMs!!! While I will miss sitting outside in the sunshine, enjoying some live music, and nibbling on a delicious lunch (which I normally manage to do at about 3pm on markets days - they are such crazy busy mornings!), it will be nice not to have to worry about the weather this time. Or have to assemble the marquee (although Flib and I are definitely getting better at this with practice!).

I've decided this year to cut back on the number of markets I do, and to focus solely on the Handmade Market.

So you will find me at the Convention Centre on Saturday 19 February, Saturday 11 June and Saturday 17 December.

Mama Goose

Did I blink?

2010-12-29T02:21:00.000-08:00

I think I must have blinked and missed December! It seems have have gone by so quickly. And now we are counting down to the end of 2010.

I promised photos of Miss Goosey's birthday dress, and realised tonight as I was tucking her into bed, that almost a month has passed already since her birthday. My baby is growing up far too quickly. So here she is, holding up her fingers to show that she is now two:

And here is The Gander, wishing everyone a safe and happy festive season:

Rain, rain, go away

2010-11-30T14:07:00.000-08:00

I have this little rhyme stuck in my head at the moment. Miss Goosey likes to sing it, but she doesn't quite remember all the words, so her version goes like this:

Rain, rain,

Go away

Come back

Handmade Markets are only a few days away now, and it has been raining fairly solidly since Sunday. I hope it stops in time for the market. I've just checked the Bureau of Meteorology website, and it's not filling me with confidence:

Forecast for Saturday - Cloudy. Scattered showers. Isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon. Winds northeasterly and light.

Hmmmmm.

But back to Miss Goosey. Her other favourite song of the moment is 'Happy Birthday'. We've had a few birthdays in our house in the last few weeks - first The Gander turned 4, and then Miss Goosey turned 2 yesterday. Several of The Gander's friends have also had birthdays, so it has been a month of celebration. Birthdays are such important milestones as we grow up - it's sad that they seem to lose the magic as we get older. I'm enjoying reliving the excitment through the kids eyes.

Flib in the news

2010-11-25T19:47:00.001-08:00

Check out this profile of my lovely friend Flib, of Flibbertigibbet, on the Shop Handmade blog. Flib's a little camera shy, so there's no photo of her, but you may spot a Goosey Gander outfit on Flib's gorgeous 'Little Possum'.

Flib and I are looking foward to Handmade Market in just over a week ...... eeek!

Flib has just returned from a beach holiday, but I wouldn't be surprised if she snuck a bit of handsewing into her luggage, to keep her busy while she was away.

I'd like to say that I've had a productive few weeks too. But unfortunately Miss Goosey, who is about to turn two, thinks she's now a grown up, and wants to stay up til 10pm with Mum and Dad every night. So I'm not getting as much sewing done as I'd like to. I did manage to find a bit of time this week to sew a special birthday dress for Miss Goosey. She and The Gander are having a little birthday bash tomorrow (he turned four last week, and she is two next week), so I'll take some pictures of it and pop them on the blog.

Mama Goose

Old Favourites

2010-11-03T19:28:00.000-07:00

I've had a busy week sewing up new designs for summer. I'll have some beautiful bright dresses, in blues, greens and pinks, ready for the Old Bus Depot Markets this weekend.

But as well as my new designs, I'll be stocking some old favourites from last summer. I changed my mind constantly on which fabrics I liked best, but I just can't go past this apples and pears print - it's retro cuteness at its best, and looks so sweet teamed with a red spot. Here is Miss Goosey in December last year. She has grown so much - I can't get over how short her hair was then!

And more apples - this red and pink apple dot is available in a limited number of tops and dresses. Perfect for parties, lazing around on hot summer days, or (according to Miss Goosey) playing in the garden.

Mama Goose

November and December Markets

2010-10-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

I've been a very slack blogger of late. When I get time to focus on Goosey Gander I invariably head for the sewing machine, and not the computer. So while I might have been slack on the blogging front, I've certainly been busy sewing up clothes for my next lot of markets.

So where will I be, and when?

Sunday 7 November

Old Bus Depot Markets

10am til 4pm

Saturday 4 December

Handmade Market

Kamberra Wine Company

11am til 7pm

Saturday 18 December

Old Bus Depot Markets

10am til 4pm

Mama Goose

All good things must come to an end

2010-08-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

I've throughly enjoyed being part of Shop Handmade over the last four months. The Shop is such a wonderful concept and I feel honoured to have my work displayed amoung such beautiful things. There are so many talented designers and crafters in Canberra and the Shop is a marvellous way of showcasing them.

But all good things must come to an end.

I've been such a busy little Goose, and as well as working three days a week, and chasing after two very energetic (and rather mischievous) children, I then hit the sewing machine most nights of the week, once the children finally drift off to the land of nod.

With the busy spring and summer market season almost upon us, I've had to make a decision about whether to continue to stock at Shop Handmade, or sell at markets - there are just not enough hours in the day to do both! I really enjoy the buzz of markets, so in the end markets won out, and August will be my last month in the Shop.

My next market will be Handmade in Bloom on Saturday 11 September - only two weeks away!

I'll have lots of pants, appliquéd tops and pinafores, and perhaps just a few samples of my new designs for summer. Here's a sneak peak of the adorable Miss Goosey modelling a cute little summer dress.

Happy Birthday to Us!

2010-07-05T00:20:00.000-07:00

Today is one year since Flibbertigibbet and Goosey Gander had our first market stall...... so Happy Birthday to us!

It's been a wonderful year, and we have had such fun designing products and getting out and about at markets.

It's been a busy year too, as my baby has grown into a toddler, and I've returned to work from maternity leave.

I'll be taking a break from markets for the next few months while I build my stock levels back up and get started on patterns for my summer range. My next market will be Handmade in Bloom on Saturday 11 September. I've still got stock at Shop Handmade, and am happy to take custom orders, between now and September.

Mama Goose

Market Madness

2010-06-14T23:06:00.000-07:00

Wow! The Winter Warmer Handmade Market was wonderful!!! Canberra pulled out its finest winter day, the sun shone down on us, and we had a lovely time chatting to customers, eating yummy cupcakes and popcorn, and doing a bit of shopping when the crowds finally died down.

My stock levels are looking very low, so I've been hunkered down at the machine trying to get more sewn for the Old Bus Depot "Kids in the Shed" market this Sunday, as well as catch up on orders from Handmade, and attempt to restock my rack at Shop Handmade (Mr Hen Pecked dropped off some long sleeve tops today).

So it's back to the sewing machine for now....

Flib and I will be at Old Bus Depot Markets this Sunday, 20 June, from 10am until 4pm. I'll be taking a break from markets for a few months after this one, to catch my breath, and get started on my summer range.

Mama Goose

Fun and Funky

2010-06-03T23:05:00.000-07:00

These cute long-sleeved tops are sure to brighten up a winters day. Featuring cute owls, funky scooters and groovy guitars, they are available for $15 in sizes from 000 to 2. Limited numbers, so get in quick!

Pretty in Pink

2010-06-03T23:00:00.001-07:00

Since having Miss Goosey 18 months ago, I still can't get enough pink. And it seems I'm not the only one, as my pink dresses are always my best sellers. So to satisfy the masses, here are two new designs feature a soft denim with pink trim.

"From Russia with Love"

"Songbird"

One more sleep!

2010-06-03T16:01:00.000-07:00

Only one more sleep until the Winter Warmer Handmade Market!

The Market will be held at the Kamberra Wine Company from 10am until 4pm. Flibbertigibbet and I will have an outdoor stall, so I'm hoping that we have some lovely sunshine (or failing that, at least no rain!). The market will go ahead rain, hail or shine, so rug up in your winter woolies and come and visit.

I'll have two new pinafore designs for this market, as well as some funky appliqued tops for boys. I was hoping to have a post with lots of photos of my new designs, but although the sewing machine has been running hot, I haven't managed to take any photos yet. But I'm home from work today with a sick Gander and a sick Miss Goosey, so perhaps I might just have time to get some photos taken afterall.....

Mama Goose

Tess Anthony Photography

2010-05-14T15:04:00.001-07:00

Goosey Gander and Flibbertigibbet had a photo shoot with Tess Anthony Photograpy on Monday. You can see a sneak peek of Tess's gorgeous photos on her Facebook page, but I've posted one of The Gander and one of Miss Goosey below.

Tess has recently started her photography business in Canberra, specialising in babies, children and families. We've had two sessions with her now, and have been very impressed with her work. The Gander and Miss Goosey just love exploring the Australian National Botanic Gardens while Tess follows them round with her camera, and the result is some beautiful, natural, portraits of the children.

Tess is having a special deal at the moment:

$70- includes session fee, and a disk of low resolution images.
$130 – includes session fee, and a disk of high resolution images

Yep, that's right, a whole CD of images to print or email to friends and family!

Thanks Tess - we love your work!

Mama Goose

A Celebration of Wool

2010-05-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

The Old Bus Depot Markets will be holding their annual "A Celebration of Wool" market this Sunday 16 May.

Products on display will include handfelted garments and accessories; designer knitwear; millinery; weavings; funky beanies; and farm label knitwear. If you are into knitting there will also be a fantastic range of specialist yarns. Regional Guilds provide demonstrations of hand spinning, hand felting, and other traditional wool based crafts.

Check out the Old Bus Depot Markets website for more information.

It sounds like it will be a wonderful day, and I'm disapointed that we will be away this weekend, and won't be able to attend. I've had an obsession with baby hats since before I was even pregnant with The Gander, and I can never resist a cute knitted beanie!

And speaking of beanies, local business MissChief Maker, located at Rodney's Nursery in Pialligo, is running a Babies in Beanies competition. The competition is open to 0-5 year olds. Entry is $30 which goes directly to Newborn Intensive Care Foundation. MissChief Maker have a gorgeous range of new, handmade and vintage children's wear, so if you haven't already, then stop by and have a look next time you are in Pialligo.

Mama Goose

What's new?

2010-05-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

There is a rule of thumb in Canberra that ANZAC Day marks the start of the cold weather, and this year has been no exception. While we are still lucky enough to be enjoying some beautifully sunny days, the evenings and mornings are getting rather chilly. And given that both The Gander and Miss Goosey still have me up regularly during the night, I can attest to the fact that it most definitely feels like winter at 3am!

My pinafores have been in demand year round (it appears I'm not the only mum who likes to buy kids clothes in bigger sizes and stash them away for next year), but I have been working on some new designs for winter 2010. A few of them debuted at the March Handmade Market, and are available for sale at Shop Handmade.

Mod Blooms (I'm already down to my last few of this fabric):

Lollipop:
Little Birdie:

I'm working on another few designs for my June Markets:

Handmade Market on Saturday 5 June:and the Old Bus Depot Markets special Kids in the Shed on Sunday 20 June.

Mama Goose

A long time between markets......

2010-05-06T20:42:00.000-07:00

It feels like it's been a long time between markets. Last year Flib and I were regulars at Hall Markets each month, as well as doing Mathilda's and Handmade.

But with the success of Mathilda's Market in February and Handmade Market in March, followed by the opening of Shop Handmade in April, the boxes under my bed, that were once overflowing with stock, are now rather bare.......

So when I realised last week that the next Handmade Market is only a month away, I entered a mild state of panic. Luckily this was helped by a little online retail therapy, and before I knew it, over 40 yards of fabric was on its way to my front door...... nothing like new fabric to motivate a girl to get sewing!

So a-sewing I will be, creating lots of new pinafores, pants and appliqued tops, all ready for the Winter Warmer Handmade Market on 5 June.

Mama Goose

Apple Cart

2010-04-24T18:41:00.000-07:00

Apple Cart is a new website selling handmade goodies from designers across Australia. There are products for babies, children and adults - from clothing and accessories to homewares. Click on the image below to have a look:

A limited range of Goosey Gander products are available for sale at Apple Cart - my first foray into the world of online selling.

Happy shopping!

Mama Goose

My sewing space

2010-04-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

Sewing time has become somewhat of a limited commodity around here of late. I miss the days that Miss Goosey would happily lie on the floor (without attempting to run off with my scissors, or play with my pins) while I cut out fabric. She slept for hours at a time, several times a day, and on The Gander's childcare day I was free to sew all day.

But things have changed. Miss Goosey is now *gasp* a toddler. And she is already showing interest in all things sewing..... particularly my scissors and pins. So sewing is something that only happens when both children are in bed at night.

On the up side, I have a lovely new sewing desk. It has room for my machine and my overlocker, and they both fit into the cupboards underneath to make packing up quick and easy. Mr Hen Pecked is happy that our dining table is no longer constantly covered in sewing things. And we can actually sit there to eat meals occasionally.

The draws of my new desk are not childproof though, so I have to be careful about what I store in there. Miss Goosey and The Gander love to pull out my ribbon box and decorate themselves (and the house) with lovely strings of colour. And this morning they discovered a new game:

Divine

2010-04-17T01:39:00.000-07:00

I was just a little bit excited to be heading out to have my first look at Shop Handmade this morning. Mr Hen Pecked even seemed to be looking forward to it. Although The Gander was somewhat disappointed to discover there would be no power tools and workmen there any more.

There are a lot of words I could use to describe Shop Handmade, but I think 'divine' sums it up best. I was expecting the Shop to look pretty schmick, but I was still overwhelmed by just how beautiful it was! The white fittings, furniture and display items give it a serene feel (well, that was until Miss Goosey started running riot and attempting to help herself to the 'pretties' in the jewellery cabinet). The feature wallpaper glammed things up a bit (and made me wish I had been brave enough to give it a go in our dining room). And the many, many products from the designers made it a treasure trove of handmade gorgeousness.

Of course, I couldn't visit without buying just one or two things. Miss Goosey did well as usual, with a cute little dress from Posie Patchwork. A lovely necklace from Rancho for a birthday present. And a treat from The Curious Chocolatier for Mr Hen Pecked and I to nibble on just as soon as I finish this blog post.......

If you haven't yet been to Shop Handmade, then there are plenty of photos for you to drool over on the Shop Handmade blog. And you can also check out the Posie Patchwork blog for some photos of Goosey Gander products in the Shop (see the photo fourth row down, on the left).

A huge congratulations to Rachel, Julie and the team - I hope you are proud of your efforts in creating such an amazing store.

Mama Goose

Handmade Heaven

2010-04-06T05:56:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to come in and tell you all about Handmade Market, but it's taken me a while to float back down from cloud nine......

Wow! Wow! Wow! Handmade Market was a marvellous day! So many stalls, so many gorgeous things, so many customers, and so many people who chose to take something home from Goosey Gander and Flibbertgibbet.

I did manage to squeeze in a little shopping of my own, including a gorgeous Bloss Doll for Miss Goosey.

And as if the success of Handmade Market wasn't enough, my wonderful husband (who we shall call Mr Hen Pecked), convinced me to apply for Shop Handmade. I'm very excited to be part of such a unique store in Canberra - a place where you can find handmade products from a range of designers, six days of the week.

I wonder if Mr Hen Pecked will regret his involvement, when I chain myself to the sewing machine over the coming days, to generate enough stock for the grand opening of Shop Handmade on Friday 16th April?

Mama Goose

Oh Boy!

2010-03-25T00:32:00.001-07:00

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! Only a few more sleeps until our very first Handmade Market!!!

At the special request of Julie and the Handmade team, Goosey Gander will be focussing on products for boys at this market.

Shorts were running out the doors of Mathilda's at just $10 a pair, but I still have a few left, so will continue this special price for Handmade Market.

There are plenty of pants in a variety of fun and funky prints.

And applique tops to match.

Flibbertigibbet will also have a few new products in her range, especially for boys. So be sure to stop by and say 'hello' if you are at Handmade on Sunday.

Mama Goose

Facebook

2010-03-25T00:19:00.000-07:00

The Gander and Miss Goosey had a photo session with Tess Anthony Photography last week. They had a wonderful time running around on the lawns of the Australian National Botanic Gardens in the beautiful March weather, and although they didn't stay still for more than a nano-second, Tess managed to snap some gorgeous shots of them. I admired her patience - I generally give up after about five minutes!

Tess, being the young 20-something she is, suggested that it was time this 30-something got with the times and set up a Facebook page for Goosey Gander. So I did. Click below to check it out (or head over the Facebook and search for Goosey Gander):

Goosey Gander's Facebook page

I'll be putting pictures of new stock, listing special prices, and running the odd give-away, so become a fan to keep up with all the latest Goosey Gander information.

Mama Goose

Bibs and Bobs

2010-03-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

As well as clothes, Goosey Gander has a range of baby accessories - perfect for gifts for the little people in your life.

New to the range are bibs with colourful cotton fabrics on the front, and a fleece backing. They come in a range of fabrics for both boys and girls and sell for $10 each.

These bibs have two snap closures on the neck to make it adjustable:

Tag toys were added to the range late last year, and have proved to be very popular. With cuddly minky or fleece on one side, soft satin or flannelette on the reverse, and ribbons around the edge, they provide babies with a variety of tactile experiences. A link ring is attached to one corner to easily attach to the pram or carseat, making them the ideal portable comfort toy.

I still have available a limited number of extra large wraps in pink and purple. These measure approximately 140cm by 140cm, and are excellent for wrapping larger/older babies. I was surprised how quickly The Gander outgrew his wraps, and found it very hard to buy anything large enough to keep the little Houdini's arms contained. Wraps are currently on sale for $10 each.

Mama Goose

Handmade Love

2010-02-22T21:37:00.000-08:00

I've been a fan of the Handmade Markets since discovering them on a lovely winters day at the Albert Hall. Miss Goosey and I had been painting her nursery (well, I had been painting, and she had been sleeping) and managed to finish just in time for a quick trip to this 'little' market I had read about online. Upon arriving at Albert Hall I was stunned to see the large crowd, particularly given that the markets were almost closing.

I was very surprised to find a stall (Handle with Care) selling modern cloth nappies. When I first started using cloth nappies on the Gander three years ago, modern cloth could only be bought online. So it was great to see a local business out there promoting a fantastic product, so that potential purchasers can feel the nappies and see how they work before buying them. Although Miss Goosey already has plenty of nappies handed down from her big brother, I couldn't resist buying her a cute pink BubbleBubs nappy.

The next Handmade Market was held at the Yarralumla Woolshed. Flib and I (and Miss Goosey too) had a lovely time checking out all the stalls. And there certainly were lots of stalls to look at! As usual, I made a few purchases for Miss Goosey, incluing a cute litle singlet from the very lovely ladies at Sweet Sista.

While I hope the next Handmade Market is a busy one for Goosey Gander and Flibbertigibbet, I am also crossing my fingers that I get just a little time to shop as well!

Mama Goose

More exciting news

2010-02-22T21:28:00.001-08:00

It appears that Flib and I are on a roll with the exciting news lately. Late last week we found out that we will be stall holders at the very fabulous Handmade Market!!!

The first market for the year is coming up on Sunday 28 March, at a branch new venue - the Kamberra Wine Company. With both indoor and outdoor areas, lovely green lawns, and plenty of gorgeous handmade goodies to admire (not to mention tasty things to eat) it is set to be a wonderful day.

At special request of the Handmade team, I will be focussing on my boys range for the market - shorts, appliqued tops and pants, along with tag toys and bibs in some gorgeous fabrics.

Flibbertigibbet will also have some new products particularly aimed at boys.

We hope to see you there!

Mama Goose

All things new....

2010-02-14T20:43:00.000-08:00

New market set up, new markets, new products...... it's all go for both Goosey Gander and Flibbertigibbet!

We had our first market stall for 2010 at Hall on 7 Feb. The weather looked a little inclement, so we tested out our marquee for the first time. Despite having practiced putting it up, we still had a little trouble on the day, so were grateful for the help of our friendly neighbouring stall holders! Flib took some photos of our new set up:

Yes, that's right, all shorts are on sale for the bargain price of $10! This special price will be available at Mathilda's on 28 February.

Here is a close up of the pinafores so you can see some of my new designs for 2010 - Ollie the Elephant (as featured in a previous blog post) and the sweet little Chocolate Bird. And that's my very last Ladybird Parade on the right - in a size 2.

Despite it looking grey and overcast, with the odd sprinkle of rain (yay for the marquee!) it was a really lovely day and a pleasant change after the recent hot weather. Unfortunately the threat of rain was enough to keep people away, and it was a quiet day for us both.

Of course, Flib and I put the time to good use chatting about our plans for new products and getting the creative juices flowing.

For Mathilda's I will have another two new pinafore designs - one denim and one in a pink cord, both featuring a funky flower print trim. I'll also have a new line of bibs, prefect for baby presents, as well as restocking my popular "tag toys".

Other items in the pipeline include an "all-seasons" denim skirt - I'm visioning something that would look sweet on its own for summer, but also work well over tights or leggings for colder weather.

Flib is full of ideas too, and as always, we will feature coordinating fabrics across both our ranges, so the little girls in your life can have matching clothes and accessories.

And on a final note, Flib and I are excited to announce that we have been approved for a stall at the Old Bus Depot Markets!!! I've been a customer of these markets going back ten years now - clothes for myself, gifts, yummy food, and of course clothes and accessories for The Gander and Miss Goosey - so I'm looking forward to becoming a stall holder there too. I'll be sure to let you know when we have decided upon a date for our debut.

Until then, you can find us at the fabulous Mathilda's Market on Sunday 28 February.

Mama Goose

Mathilda's Market

2010-01-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

Flib (Flibbertigibbet) and I are very excited to be having a stall at the lovely Mathilda's Market in February. We had a great time at Mathilda's last year - so many gorgeous things to drool over (and while I tried hard to resist, a few things ended up coming home with me.... Miss Goosey will be one well dressed little lady).

This year, Mathilda's will be in a new venue - the Hyatt Hotel - a beautiful location to sell such beautiful handmade products.

We hope you can come along to visit us at Mathilda's.

Meanwhile, it is back to the sewing machine for me, to get ready for our first Hall Market of the year, on Sunday 7 February.

Mama Goose

A special order

2010-01-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

This little pinafore was special order to complete a set of three pinafores for triplet girls - each in a different colour cord, with a different applique. I bet they will look very sweet!

The last Hall market cleared me out of smaller sized pinafores, so stay tuned for some new designs over the next few weeks as I get ready for the next market on Sunday 7 February.

Mama Goose

More favourite things

2009-12-14T21:48:00.000-08:00

While I have a clear favourite in my boys/unisex range, I change my mind on my favourite girls item as quickly as I can sew them. There are just too many beautiful fabrics out there!

I keep coming back to two particular girls items though - both with an apple theme. I find it so hard to find gorgeous girls clothes in colours other than pink, and I think that is why I like these fabrics so much.

Miss Goosey kindly agreed to model for me..... although as you can see in the second photo, she was rather sick of me by the end of it!

Here she is in the Apples and Pears tie-top:

And here (looking rather grumpy) in the Apple Dot dress:

Mama Goose

My favourite things

2009-10-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

These elephant pants (modelled here by The Gander) are one of my favourite pieces in my current range, as they are really the item that started Goosey Gander.

I started sewing when I was quite young - I think I was about eight when my mum first let me loose on her sewing machine to make dolls clothes. My interest in sewing waxed and waned through my teens and twenties. But it was reignited with the birth of Miss Goosey, when I discovered all the gorgeous handmade clothes I could buy for her. Upon discovering how much money I was spending on tiny little pink clothes, my husband encouraged me to try sewing my own, thinking that it would be a cheaper option. Little did he know that I would just start spending money on fabrics instead, and building a fabric stash that would soon take over several cupboards....

The elephant pants were one of the first things I made for The Gander, and he loves them as much as I do.

Mama Goose

Mathilda's Market

2009-10-12T20:46:00.000-07:00

Flib and I are very excited to announce that we will be at Mathilda's Market on Sunday November 15!!! I'm going to be a busy little Goose between now and then, sewing lots of gorgeous summer stock.

Mathilda's Market was first held in Canberra in April 2009, with November being the second market. If you didn't make it to Mathilda's last time, then here is why you should make a trip this time:

Mathilda's Market showcases and sells beautiful handcrafted and limited production baby and kids goods. Carefully handpicked stallholders bring the most divine and original clothing, accessories, homewares and toys for the little ones. Exquisite wares are lovingly made by some of Australia’s most talented crafters and designers – many of them parents themselves. It’s a shopper’s heaven for those who want to stylishly dress their children or decorate their kids’ home environment, but don’t want to buy mass produced, chain store items. At Mathilda’s Market you’ll see the funkiest and most gorgeous of outfits for the kids, chic bedroom decorations and furnishings, bright and brilliant toys, must-have accessories, pretty and practical bags and shoes, dreamy vintage-inspired creations, handcrafted musical instruments and jewellery, fabulous dress-up costumes, striking linen ... and so much more! As most of the stallholders don’t have a shop front, you are guaranteed to find something truly unique.

So come and see our stand at the upcoming Mathilda’s Market on Sunday 15 November, from 10am to 2pm at Manuka Oval (Bradman Room), Manuka Circle, Griffith. This will be a fantastic day out for young & old. For a sneak preview, have a look at the website (www.mathildasmarket.com.au) and enjoy a browse through the photos of all participants. I look forward to seeing you there!

Mama Goose

Tie-tops

2009-09-30T02:15:00.000-07:00

I had lots of fun experimenting with this pattern, and the result is a flowing top just perfect for hot summer days. I'm a practical girl at heart though, and I think this top would also work with a long sleeved tee underneath in cooler weather. The tie straps mean it is easily adjustable.

Available in an ever-changing range of fabrics, in sizes 1 to 4, for $20.

Road trip!

2009-09-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

Miss Goosey and I took a roadtrip to Bowral on the weekend, to share a stall with a friend at the Bowral Kids Market. We had a lovely day. Bowral is just stunning at this time of year. I used to think Autumn was my favourite season in the highlands, but with my recent landscaping experience, I was full of admiration for the gorgeous trees and blossoms that lined the streets. The Bowral Tulip Festival starts this weekend, so I might have to do another trip to check it out.

Mama Goose

Summer shorts

2009-09-10T16:57:00.001-07:00

And for boys, I have several designs of shorts in both bright and funky (how cool are the red hippos?) and more classic patterns.

Ruffle Skirts

2009-09-10T03:05:00.001-07:00

Here's the first of my spring/summer collection - cute little ruffle skirts! My recent love of all things pink seems to have dominated my fabric choices so far, but I am working on some other colour combinations to balance things out a bit ;-)

These skirts come in sizes 1-2, 2-3 and 3-4. They have elastic waists, and can be worn either below the knee, or above, so the sizing is flexible. I imagine most little girls would get more than one season's wear from them. Ruffle skirts are $20 each.

Mama Goose

Spring has sprung!

2009-09-04T05:10:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung! Not that you would know it from looking at our front yard - we are in the process of re-landscaping, so it is currently a large patch of dirt almost completely devoid of plants. We do have a few trees out the back though, and The Gander and I have been watching our plum, eagerly awaiting the blossoms to go POP! And pop they did last week, much to The Gander's delight.

With them, came the first of my spring/summer collection:

Details to come tomorrow :-)

Mama Goose

Parcels in the post

2009-08-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

As those of you who sew will know, part of the fun is admiring gorgeous fabrics. I was very excited to receive not one, but three, parcels in the mail last week, all bursting at the seams with delicious new fabric!

Of course, I had to snap some photos of them before I washed them all and started cutting them up. These bright and colourful prints are destined to be summer tops, skirts and dresses, and will be available (assuming the teething Miss Goosey cooperates with her mummy's plans!) at the September Hall markets.

Mama Goose

August at Hall Markets

2009-08-10T02:57:00.000-07:00

Flib and I had another lovely day at Hall Markets on the weekend.... although it was a tad chilly! We are looking forward to the weather (hopefully) warming up a bit in September.

We are also looking to expand our horizons, and perhaps try some other markets (as well as continuing to do Hall each month). Any suggestions for possible markets are welcome.

I've started work on my summer range. It feels a bit strange to be sewing up summery tops, skirts and shorts in this weather, but spring really is just around the corner. Miss Goosey and The Gander are both scoring well as I test my patterns out by making clothes for them.

I'll post some shots of my new fabrics over the coming days. But until then, for those of you who haven't yet visited us at Hall, here's a few pictures of the stall:

Sneak peak!

2009-07-31T03:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a little sneak peak of two new appliqued pinafore designs for Sunday's market. I only have two of each design, so get in quick!

Brown Owl

Apple of my eye

Fingers crossed for lovely weather on Sunday!

Mama Goose

New sizes and prices

2009-07-29T05:58:00.001-07:00

The last few weeks have just flown past, and I have been busy getting ready for the next Hall Market this Sunday 2 August.

As I mentioned before, I had lots of requests for pinafores in bigger sizes, so I now have sizes 3 and 4 in the Pink Pop and Red Paisley denim party dresses, as well as the Ladybird Parade appliqued dress.

As the bigger sizes use a lot more fabric, and take longer to sew, than the teeny tiny size 00's, I've introduced a new pricing structure for the pinafores:

sizes 00 and 0 - $35
sizes 1 and 2 - $40
sizes 3 and 4 - $45

I've also got a limited number of some new designs sitting on my sewing table ready for the finishing touches.... stay tuned for a sneek peak on the blog tomorrow!

Flibbertigibbet joins Blogger

2009-07-09T02:37:00.000-07:00

Flib, my partner-in-sewing, and the creative force behind Flibbertigibbet, has now launched her blog!

Please stop by (http://flibberti.blogspot.com/) and admire her gorgeous hairclips, as well as the bright and colourful bags her Mother-in-Law has made for our market stall.

At seven months, Miss Goosey is still quite lacking in the hair department. What she does have is fairly long, but nowhere near thick enough for clips yet. But I'm sure that by the time it is, she will have quite a collection of hair pretties to choose from.

Just to get her started, I couldn't resist these very cute ladybird button clips.... perfect to match Miss Goosey's "Labybird Parade" pinny.

Mama Goose

Our first market

2009-07-06T03:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone to helped to make our first market day a success! We had a lovely day meeting people and chatting about our products. We got some great feedback, that we will use to refine our product range - I'll definitely be stocking size 3 and 4 for the next market, as I received many enquiries about larger sizes.

See you all next month - Sunday 2 August - at Hall Markets.

A very tired Mama Goose!

Market Day!!!

2009-07-04T03:04:00.000-07:00

It's Market Day tomorrow - I hope it is not too cold and that the rain stays away!!!

Here are some pictures of my appliqued cord pinafores.

Ladybird Parade

Sienna's Garden

I only have a few of the Sienna's Garden pinny, as I have run out of the red fabric, so get in quick if you would like one - size 0 and 1 only!

Mama Goose

For the boys

2009-07-03T04:18:00.000-07:00

Whenever I go to markets (or shops in general for that matter) I always fall in love with the gorgeous girls clothes I see. But I'm often disapointed by the lack of range of boys clothes. It's hard to find something a little 'different' for boys. So while I am loving sewing pretty things for little girls, I'm also trying to keep a balance in my range, and find some bright and funky fabrics for boys too.

Here are two boys sets. Pants are $18 each, and appliqued tops are $15. Or you can buy the matching set for $30.

Sock monkeys

Beep Beep

The nitty gritty - prices and sizes

2009-07-02T04:39:00.000-07:00

So far my range is available in sizes 00, 0, 1 and 2. I have plans for size 3 pants and pinafore, so can take orders for these, and anticipate having them in stock for the August Hall Markets. If there is enough interest in size 4, I will also do custom orders.

Products pictured in the posts below are priced as follows:

Denim pants (Elephants and Pink Scooters) - $25
Blue Scooter cords - $25
Chocolate Owl pants - $25

Demin pinafores (Pink Pop and Red Paisley) - $35

Also available (but not yet pictured on the blog) are:

Sock Monkey cords - $18
Beep Beep cords - $18

Sock Monkey appliqued long sleeved top - $15
Beep Beep appliqued long sleeved top - $15

Set of Sock monkey cords and top - $30
Set of Beep Beep cords and top - $30

Ladybird Parade appliqued pinafore - $35
Sienna's Garden appliqued pinafore - $35

Extra large muslin wraps - $15 each or 2 for $25

Cloth breastpads - $6 a pair or 4 pairs for $20

Keep an eye out for pictures of these products over the coming days.....

Mama Goose :-)

Party Dresses

2009-07-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

These little demin pinafores are just perfect for winter birthday parties. They would look sweet worn with tights and a long sleeved top. I'm still deciding which one Miss Goosey needs in her wardrobe. Or perhaps she needs both?

They are currently available in sizes 00, 0, 1 and 2. I'll be adding a size 3 to my range in the next few weeks.

Mama Goose Sews

2009-06-30T02:56:00.000-07:00

I've been a busy little Goose.... sewing, sewing ,sewing, ready for our first Markets this weekend! Goosey Gander will be making its debut at the Hall Markets on Sunday 5 July from 10am until 3pm.

Over the next few days I'll be uploading some pictures of my stock. The first installment today is pants - demin, cord and linen-look. Some for the Geese, some for the Ganders, and some that could be worn by either boys or girls.

These elephants are a favourite of my little Gander, but I think they would also look sweet on a little Goose - perhaps teamed with a red polka dot top.

These pink scooters are bright and funky - perfect for adding some colour to a winter wardrobe.

And so the boys don't miss out on the scooters, we also have some in a grey cord

Lastly we have gorgeous owls teamed with a brown linen-look fabric

Here are some shots of the back of the demin pants, so you can see the cute little pockets too

It's back to the sewing machine for me now!

Mama Goose

Goosey Gander Goes Live......

2009-06-02T23:44:00.001-07:00

Well here we are... Goosey Gander has hit the web!!!

More coming soon..... one day..... when I get organised......