MAYA & RUHI

Makes Me Smile

2012-02-10T17:59:00.002+08:00

Note to self: GOTTA get this cool when Those Two are well into their teens.

Rizzle Kicks in da house!

On My Lust List

2012-02-09T19:38:00.001+08:00

Aren't these just the most darling-looking things ever?

Truthfully, my metal crochet hooks get really cold to the touch in this dastardly weather. So I went about looking for crochet hooks with a handle. And I found these! Crochet hooks with handy (and gorgeous) grips, made by Emma at Emsyjane.

These are just a few. She has loads more irresistible designs. I am planning to one day HAVE THEM ALL! MUAHAHAHAHA!!

Poncho Production II

2012-02-08T19:57:00.000+08:00

I know this looks nothing like a poncho right now. But this is the one I am custom-ing up for a friend.

It's basically constructed from half-stitching together two almost-complete giant crocheted circles. I say "almost" because I incorporate a nifty little boat-neckline for to slip the head through.

Sounds rudimentary, I know. But, boy, does it look oh-so-smart! The aran-wool blend that I'm using is soft yet sturdy, which makes the poncho quite warm, and gives it a very contemporary look with it's fairly structured drape. With the rounded hem and a no-nonsense design, it is a really gorgeous updated poncho-style.

I can't wait to make one for myself!

Scenes from Our Backyard

2012-02-06T18:25:00.002+08:00

Thanks to the snow, the weekend was packed with snowball fights and refreshing winter walks on the Common. The Big Chill has been very kind to us -- no wind, lovely sunshine, and super crisp air. So it made sense to get out there and frolick about a bit.

Hope your weekend was as fun-filled as ours! :)

Gratuitous Fabulous Jewelry Pic

2012-02-03T18:23:00.000+08:00

Multi-stone bib necklace

Antony and Cleopatra Collection SS/12

by Anton Heunis

Educated in South Africa and Spain, designer Anton Heunis attributes his grandmother as his muse, having grown up fascinated with her dressing table and jewelry boxes. His art is a genius balance between classical style and post-modern form. LURVE.

You HAVE to check out his other stuff.

Too Cold For Comfort

2012-02-02T18:48:00.001+08:00

It suddenly became cold a few days back, just when everyone began saying "Oh, it's been such a mild winter this year..."

And so, it's Payback. Runny noses, coughs, headaches... you name it. From what I can see, half the population is down.

It's bitingly cold. And when the wind does it's thing, you just want to go inside somewhere, anywhere. The sun is out, but it's no help. In fact, it's a cruel tease... Days like these, I miss the sweltering heat of Singapore... and just want to lean against the radiator all day...

On the bright side, I get to use all my crochet-ed stuff. Now, my heartwarmer has come in handy, as Super Burly Scarf. So good against the elements on my Common treks. :)

Poncho Production

2012-01-30T19:55:00.001+08:00

This is a poncho I crochet-ed up for Ruhi. It turned out so cute, I did another one for Cousin Isha. And right now, I'm halfway through another one for Cousin Amiya.

Since then, I have received many compliments. I've also been told I should get this done for sale. In fact, I have already received custom orders.

So I guess you know what I shall be busy with the next few weeks...

A fellow jewelry artisan friend of mine has suggested I exhibit at an artisans' fair at Clapham High Street. I told her I'll have to see how fast the crocheting can get... ;)

Truth be told, I experimented with another poncho style, for an adult, in a lovely aran wool blend in a graphite hue - a significantly more sane colour scheme. ;)

It turned out so super gorgeous, I gifted it to my sister-in-law. I have no pics of that one. But I do have a custom order from her friend who saw her in it... ;D

Common Sights

2012-01-26T18:48:00.000+08:00

This is Wimbledon Common. And I have a love-hate relationship with it. Here's why...

I have to walk across it 4 times a day. Twice in the morning to take Ruhi to school, and twice in the afternoon to pick her up. Each way is about 10 minutes' brisk walking. Which makes it about 40 minutes' brisk walking for me every day. And you know how I hate Exercise. The thought of having to wake up at 6.30am and gear up for the cold walk across leaves ugly dents on my already-fragile psyche sometimes...

It's a Common. A lot unlike a Park, I soon found out. When I was told I had to walk across a park as part of the school run, I was thinking Singapore Botanic Gardens, manicured bushes, nicely trimmed grassy areas, pretty little dogs on leashes... So the Common was a bit of a nasty shock, with it's overgrowth, kept in check only by posh folk trundling about in appropriately grubby wellies, and their numerous over-sized and/or over-exuberant canine companions -- unleashed. Indeed, a very different world.

But after a few exhausting treks, I discovered these:

And so, every single day, I fall in love -- all over again -- with the Common. :)

Life Changes

2012-01-24T20:31:00.001+08:00

I have fallen painfully off the blog-writing wagon.

How sad is it, that I have had only one post in January, and in this second one, I'm rambling on with no particular thing to say, except that I have had only one post in January so far... Argh.

Maybe it's because I am just so goddamned busy doing all sorts of other stuff. Like the massive school run, the keeping clean of a relatively massive Wimbledon house (I say "relatively", compared to my lovely itty-bitty one in Singapore), the constant cooking-in (as opposed to the frequent eat-outs in Singapore)...

I've even practically disappeared from Facebook...

In between my physical labour, emotional doldrum, entertaining a few friends, essential jewelry crafting and compulsive crocheting, I make Earl Grey tea, with a splodge of milk...

I have also since discovered the benefits of a seriously big breakfast. In it, there MUST be 2 eggs, in any fashion. I have also become highly dependent on my fish oil supplements. If I don't start my day with my 2 eggs and fish oils, I cannot function properly. In which case, I listen to the theme to Hawaii Five-O. That always gets me going...

Super day, everyone! ;)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T03:52:00.000+08:00

And here's a slew of new stuff to begin with...

Amazonite wrapped hoops

Black banded agate wrapped hoops

Carnelian wrapped bird motif

Chic and Unique hoop with purple glass drop

Jasper wrapped hoops

Amazonite cube with lace motif

Malachite circles with Amethyst and Sienna Red glass drop

Gratuitous Fabulous Jewelry Pic

2011-12-29T18:08:00.000+08:00

Aren't these just GORGEOUS? Lovingly handmade by a talented lady named Tsu Yinn.

Me and Tsu Yinn go way back. She wears a lot of MAYA & RUHI, and even gave me the honour of working on her bridal pieces.

Tsu Yinn's been itching to design and craft for a long time now, and finally her creativity has come to fabulous fruition. Do check out her spanking new shop at www.tsuyinn.etsy.com!

The Big Move In Pics

2011-12-10T04:59:00.001+08:00

The Packing ~ Three words: Oh. My. Gawd. Things I never knew I had made their timely appearance. It was a major opportunity to purge. But I'm not sure if I really made full use of it... -___-

The Goodbye ~ An entourage of Maya's friends made their way to the airport specially to give gifts and plenty hugs. Too sweet! :)

The Plane Ride ~ Thank gawd it was on Business Class! After the harrowing experience with the organising and packing, this was a holiday in itself. All 13 hours of it. :S

The Slumming It ~ The initial weeks with the bare essentials. Not fun, I must tell you. Especially when it's cold out. Slowly, but surely, furniture got bought, school started, routines got made...

... and finally, I had time and opportunity to set up the old workspace. Now, I have a whole room to myself. All 2.5m X 2.5m of it. Yes, everytime I stretch my arms, I hit one of the many boxes filled with yarn... But I'm not complaining. :)

Happy Monday!

2011-10-03T18:41:00.002+08:00

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

~ Audrey Hepburn

(pic via Ileana Hunter Fine Art)

Here We Go! Round One...

2011-09-29T08:20:00.000+08:00

For weeks now, my house has not been running as per normal. I have been preoccupied with winding things down here, having to organize, de-clutter and pack, and setting up things over there, from here, as much as I can. Seriously, what would we do without the Internet??

So Them Two's schools are sorted out, the rental house is finalized, and the furniture pretty much shopped for at Ikea online. The first round of Stuff Going Over There is done. These are stuff we pretty much need as soon as we get there - bedsheets, towels, pots and pans, bowls and plates, forks and spoons, etc. And yes, of course, some yarn, to keep me sane.

Happy Monday!

2011-09-26T07:45:00.000+08:00

(pic via littlethingsstudio)

Afternoon Antics

2011-09-23T10:45:00.003+08:00

Gratuitous Fabulous Jewelry Pic

2011-09-22T11:53:00.004+08:00

The Fairfax necklace

by Jaclyn Mayer

This is really exciting, coz it goes to show jewelry is so much more than prettily placed precious stones...

Fingers Crossed...

2011-09-16T11:44:00.008+08:00

According to plan and floorplan, I might just be able to acquire myself my very own craft room when we move. Yes, triple-yay!

Admittedly, it will be a box-room. By "box-room", I mean approximately 2m X 2m. But, hey, I'm not complaining.

In it will be my worktable, my supplies and materials, my boxes of yarn. And of course, I hope to squeeze in a chair... :)

(pic via 1st Unique Gifts)

On My Lust List

2011-09-13T15:33:00.003+08:00

This is entitled Undress by artist Clare Elsaesser, and is available at her Etsy shop Tastes of Orangey.

I'm loving this for to hang in the bathroom. So serene, so innocent, so apt.

Happy Monday!

2011-09-12T07:13:00.018+08:00

And let me tell you, it is a relief that the school holidays are over, and Those Two are back at school. I have had to put on hold my Driver's Refresher Course, crucial dental appointments and exercising the usual housecleaning regime, over the week-long mid-term break.

Instead, I have had to spend an entire day at Universal Studios with family, launch into 2 blanket projects (one for each of Them Two), spend an entire day at Ikea with Them Two planning for the house in Wimbledon, attend a Hari Raya party with old buddies, star in a homemade Star Wars spoof, have a reunion lunch with my brother's ex-wife, police Maya with her revision, and deal with the dramatics of Ruhi's front tooth falling out.

You're right. It weren't all that bad... :)

Happy Simpliciti Customer #1

2011-08-26T06:45:00.007+08:00

This is Georgia. See how she smiles... and how fabulous she's looking in a Simpliciti heartwarmer with matching beanie?

In fact, she's so happy with it, she shares it with her favourite Unicorn....

Thanks Khia May! :)

Reading Into It

2011-08-24T10:03:00.005+08:00

I have a little bookshelf in the bathroom, filled with useful little reads to while the time away. This is one of them.

And last week, I found it had been vigorously thumbed through, complete with dog-eared bookmarks and penciled ticks.

I said: "What happened to my book?"

And Ruhi says: "Oh, Mum, I meant to tell you: That's a VERY GOOD BOOK."

Happy Monday!

2011-08-22T08:31:00.003+08:00

It's been too many weeks since I blogged. Moving countries is, seriously, no joke. But a woman's gotta do what a woman's gotta do...

(pic via Barn Owl Primitives)

Makes Me Think

2011-08-05T08:49:00.001+08:00

(pic via icanread)

The Big Move

2011-08-04T12:55:00.006+08:00

I am in the throes of readying us all up to relocate to London. And it's proving to involve gargantuan amounts of filing, sorting, organizing... skills at which I seriously suck.

Time and again, I will have mini-meltdowns regarding papers that are not fully in order, stuff that I can't quite decide to keep or dump, to stay in storage or to go with us. And if it does stay or go, where does it go(???). Godammit.

It's pretty overwhelming, for someone as organizationally-challenged as me. Bold and Noble's London type map, complete with the Thames cutting through, somewhat visually represents the stuff that's in my head right now. Though what's in my head is probably less organized... :S

Happy Monday!

2011-08-01T15:43:00.001+08:00

(pic via icanread)

Simpliciti

2011-07-29T07:01:00.007+08:00

That's the name of my new Etsy shop, where I am hawking the products of my crochet addiction. Do drop by and check it out at www.simpliciti.etsy.com.

Kiddy heartwarmers of various bright colour combos - all lovingly handmade, and nicely warm. I'm doing up a couple more colour combos, and also going to start doing matching beanies.

I really like how these are so useful for summer-cool days, as well as winter-cold ones. Worn like a wrap-shrug, it's easy to use and sufficiently cozy. And then when it gets bitterly cold, this can be wrapped around and around as a super-warm, burly scarf. Or tied over the head as a scoodie (scarf/hoodie).

Ruhi is the Simpliciti Poster Girl, so every new colour combo has to be done first in her size. I'm working on making available sizes aged 4/5, 6/7, and 8/9, although I will take on any custom orders of specific colour combos and/or size.

Maybe I should get her to pose in the heartwarmers a la bitter winter. Right now she's just all cutesy in Spring/Summer fashion...

New Commissioned Stuff

2011-07-28T06:38:00.007+08:00

Since acquiring a small shipment of agate slices, I have had 2 commissions for these agate slice necklaces, and crafted up a few more for my new ArtFire shop.

This one above belongs to A.G., who chose this striking piece of dark chocolate agate because she wanted something in a more neutral colour so she could wear it with almost anything. She already owns a stunning purple piece.

This here is for A.R., who wanted a bamboo leaf shape with green stones. Dramatic and stunning, this one is of the greener shades of my strands of Indian agate. I love how this has turned out rustic, yet edgy. The shades of green give it a warm, natural feel, while the wirework lends it a contemporary edginess.

My First Lace Shawl

2011-07-26T12:56:00.004+08:00

Ah, the satisfaction of completing a fairly intricate lace shawl!

I have been working on this (in between lots of other things) for almost a month. Pattern and instructions courtesy of BernioliesDesigns, the Etsy shop of Bernadette, whose day job is a costume designer for a circus in the Netherlands.

If you're into gorgeous shawls, shrugs and scarves, check out her crafted stuff at Berniolie.

Happy Monday!

2011-07-25T08:32:00.003+08:00

(pic via icanread)

Back To Black

2011-07-24T10:35:00.005+08:00

Amy Winehouse
(1983 - 2011)

Just Like JLo

2011-07-22T09:12:00.005+08:00

Working It

2011-07-21T07:00:00.008+08:00

Funny thing: the other day, someone asked me what do I do, and I said "Nothing". When actually I work my goddamned ass off all fricken day.

That's how bad it is. So deeply embedded in our heads that stay-at-home mums have it easy, that even myself as one, bow to that notion in passing conversation.

So yes, other than the laundry, the cooking, the washing up, the occasional cleaning, keeping house, chaperoning, mediating fights, cheerleading, disciplining, and making better little boo-boos, I also make pretty things. Which is what I should say, the next time someone asks.

I'll post proper pics of my pretty things another time. Coz in progress on the worktable is a seafoam green one, a rugged cobalt blue one, and a rawkin' deep purple one, and a few custom orders. Here's a sneak peek...

(pic via Yellow Heart Art)

Eye Candy Art

2011-07-20T06:32:00.007+08:00

Are you into print art? I'm sort of learning. And I discovered the work of American artist/illustrator, Yellena James.

Her work has been described as "colorful arrangements of organic shapes and tangled lines (which) are at once floral and alien, organic and sci-fi, crafty and fantastic."

I say, "Hallelujah!"

Enjoy...

"Lush"

"Whisk"

"Relish"

"Season"

Click on the titles to go directly to Etsy links.

New Stuff

2011-07-19T07:03:00.004+08:00

Turquoise sticks. Cute, aren't they? Such a striking look, I kept it simple. And I thought it'd be nice to juxtapose the clean, smooth lines of the turquoise with a "mess" of wire at the top. Which actually looks a lot easier than it seems. The random wiring requires a fair deal of judgement to get two sticks to pair off.

I love these. If only you could try them on, seriously. They'd be your every-day go-to.

These are at both my Etsy and ArtFire shops.

Happy Monday!

2011-07-18T06:47:00.003+08:00

(pic via icanread)

Artfire

2011-07-17T18:38:00.003+08:00

I started a new online platform. MAYA & RUHI at Artfire. Just trying out the things Artfire might be able to do for me.

The main difference from Etsy for buyers would be the fact that you don't have to sign up as a member of Etsy to be able to buy. In fact you can click on anything you see right now and be able to buy it! ;)

mayaruhi

Unique Gifts

Let's see how this goes. Wish me luck! :)

Gratuitous Fabulous Jewelry Pic

2011-07-14T06:49:00.003+08:00

This is the Cartier Hindu necklace, also known as the Tutti Frutti necklace.

Commissioned in 1936 by Daisy Fellowes, heiress to the fortunes at Singer sewing machine, the Cartier Tutti Frutti design is inspired by traditional Indian designs.

Taken from a 1935 Cartier commission by the Maharajah of Patna, the piece features over 1000 stones - diamond and sapphire bezels, and carved ruby, sapphire and emerald leaves, all imported from India. It's a design based on Persian and Indian Hindu decorative elements, and was highly popular with the notoriously opulent Mughals.

Price tag? About USD 3 million. Part of Cartier's collection, and not for sale.

(Was) On My Lust List

2011-07-12T06:30:00.004+08:00

Yep, that's right. Seeing as how the USD is at an all-time low, I made an impulse buy.

These are just too cute. Lip tints from Hearts and Bows. And they're all handmade from cocoa butter, candelilla wax, avocado oil, shea butter, natural and essential oils. So gotta-have, right?

Happy Monday!

2011-07-11T07:00:00.004+08:00

(pic via vol25)

Out of Print

2011-07-08T07:42:00.011+08:00

Here's a novel idea: turn iconic book covers into cult T-shirts, and for each item sold, donate a book to Books For Africa.

And then cleverly name your fashion label Out Of Print Clothing.

Now why didn't I think of that?

I Swear It Makes A Difference

2011-07-07T08:02:00.005+08:00

An increasing number of Maya's friends are "friend-request"-ing me on Facebook. Honestly, I feel a little uncomfortable accepting them...

See, I swear. Quite a bit. Especially when I have something to say. Even when I don't, my status updates are rarely exemplary:

"Shower, crochet & beer, sleep."

"Enjoying a classic DILLIGAF lunch: Honey Dijon Kettle Chips and Hoegaarden. Woo-hoo! :D"

"I really need to stop faffing about on the computer and get some real work done."

"My alarm clock is going to ring in 5 hours. Bastard."

"I don't care what time it is, but it's time for some Terry's Chocolate Orange and pinotage." (posted on a weekday at 12.20pm)

"I need a good-mood pill, goddammit."

Honestly though, I find swearing, in all its glorious emphatic-ism, bloody therapeutic. And there's no denying it, 'coz it has been proven to reduce pain. I mean, look at what it did for King George VI in the Oscar-winning The King's Speech. It literally took a whole load off his mind.

Besides, swearing gives character to stuff you say. It's a Remark, with a dash of salt; Self-Expression, with a dainty little firework; a Quip, with an added whip (cue sound effect).

As for exposing Maya's friends to such flowery language, and possibly horrifyingly irresponsible activities and lunch suggestions, I can only remain true to myself. I was on the verge of un-friending all of them, in case I get a cutting response from an irate parent. But then I thought, "Hey, tough titties, man."

As such, I leave you with an excerpt in which the great Stephen Fry discusses the finer aspects of swearing. Have a fricken good day everyone! :D

Oh Happy Day(s)

2011-07-06T07:35:00.004+08:00

Something has happened to the state of my mind. I don't know what it is. Maybe it's about Turning 40, maybe it's the calm before the storm of Menopause... if there is such a thing...

For some odd reason, I have been unusually clear-headed, at peace, productive, reasonable, kind, sensible - yes, all of those things, and more. O_O?

If anyone knows of any reason, do let up. I won't bother if it's astrological, biological, psychological, theological, or even illogical. I'm just interested in what you might think it is. ;)

(pic via icanread)

Heartwarmers a.k.a. Sontags

2011-07-05T07:34:00.006+08:00

I recently discovered that these things are also called "sontags".

Ruhi eventually picked dark purple and bright pink for herself (right), while cousin Saachi, who lives in Dubai, chose a more delicate pale pink and lavender (left). As such, Saachi's set is in a slightly more lightweight, less warm, yarn.

These heartwarmers are so easy to crochet up, and I love doing them coz they're just so cute.

That said, I am going to launch into one for myself. Right after I am done with my black lace shawl project...

Happy Monday!

2011-07-04T16:34:00.003+08:00

(limited edition print by Blanca Gomez)

New Stuff

2011-07-01T07:16:00.006+08:00

Click here to see more.

Same Girl, Different Day

2011-06-30T06:33:00.002+08:00

Ah, to live a creative life is to leave the house unrecognisable to anyone but your Self... ;)

(pic via The Sartorialist)

My Taekwondo Medallists

2011-06-29T06:17:00.006+08:00

The past weekend was spent entirely in a sports hall at the 5th National Taekwondo Poomsae Competition. Two whole days of watching groups of white-pajama-clad people of all ages, from all walks of life, do their kicks, spins and punches.

Ruhi, a red-tip belt, won a Gold Medal for her event on Saturday... :)

... and on Sunday, Maya, a junior black belt, won a Bronze Medal for hers. :)

A rather smiley weekend, as you can see. :)

Happy Monday!

2011-06-27T08:25:00.003+08:00

(pic via icanread)

It's A Heartwarmer

2011-06-06T23:15:00.010+08:00

I kid you not. It's officially known as a "heartwarmer". I did some detective work at Ravelry, super fun place to hang out at. If you're a knit/crochet nut. ;)

So this is the mini version, complete with matching beanie, I crafted up for my little 4-year-old niece. 7-year-old Ruhi models it...

Ruhi loves it. (Can you tell?) So much so that I have been ordered to craft up a set for her, "in a slightly bigger size, in light purple and dark purple. OK?"

Crocheted Whatchamacallit

2011-05-26T18:21:00.010+08:00

OK, so I made this, and I have no idea what it is. I am sure though there is a name for it, but I just don't know of it. Anyone has any ideas, please let me know.

It's sort of like a shawl/capelet/shrug. Something I have seen worn during Victorian times by peasant folk. Of course, those ones ranged from lengths of rags to woolly, but beat-up shawls.

So the one I have crocheted is on the more genteel side, and somewhat updated. There is a border, which branches out into long-ish straps that you can tie into a smart bow at the back.

I really like how this is actually quite warm to have, and creates a very flattering empire waistline on dresses. And for winter climes, this can be worn around the neck for a warmer effect.

So if anyone has a name for this thing, I'd like to know what it's officially called. Until then, I think I might call it a "shrug" (?). (Pun not quite intended.)

And now, I am going to launch into a mini-version, in pink and grey, for my little niece in London. This one is for her Mummy. :)

Happy Monday!

2011-05-23T06:52:00.004+08:00

(pic via icanread)

Makes Me Think

2011-05-19T13:43:00.003+08:00

Which is why I don't start on half the things I'd like to - in case I won't have the time and energy to make it ever-so-perfect.

O_O.

(pic via brookish)

Forest Walk

2011-05-18T14:34:00.012+08:00

Yesterday, we did the Southern Ridges Walk. The original plan was to go up Mount Faber by the Marang Trail, but I flat-out refused to do the uphill bits. (As Rachel Zoe would say, "I die.") So we taxi-ed up Mount Faber, and started from there.

I've gotta say the best part by far is the Forest Walk, where you trail along a winding metal-grille walkway on stilts, brushing past the canopy of the forest as if you were bird or insect. Lovely!

Peaceful and pristine, and only minutes away from the bustle of the city. You'd never know!

I normally have a crippling fear of heights, but this was surprisingly pleasant! I swear I could do this every day!

Don't look down! Every time I stopped to look through the floor grille, my knees go all wobbly, and I inadvertently bellow a "WHOA!"

Hey, wait up!

Happy Monday!

2011-05-16T10:51:00.003+08:00

Ah, yes, I have been neglecting the blog in a very shameless fashion. A tidal wave of things happen - fairs, general elections, Maya's exams, heavy listing on Etsy - and the blog is the first to suffer... :(

But today, I shall put on my game face, and get lots of things out of the way. At least that is the plan...

New stuff

2011-04-27T06:58:00.009+08:00

A shot of red... so refreshing!

I love this how the deep cherry of this fuchsia agate is played up by the gold brass wire...

Bohemian opulence meets classic elegance in this Klimt of blue quartz,

peach jade, amethyst and Swarovski pearl.

How cute is this little cube against the double hoops!

I love the ruby hue of the faceted fuchsia agate against the powder-blue of the amazonite, set off with black onyx and a cream Swarovski pearl.

Click on the pics to go directly to its Etsy listing.

Things These Two Get Up To

2011-04-26T07:09:00.004+08:00

What happens when we take them to the bar for dinner, and they study the drinks menu a little too closely...

Happy Monday!

2011-04-25T08:33:00.003+08:00

(pic via icanread)

On Making It Big And Not-Quite

2011-04-21T07:35:00.009+08:00

Yesterday, I made up my mind not to take part in Blueprint Emporium, the exhibition that industry players were sure would take MAYA & RUHI to new heights.

And what does THAT actually mean? If MAYA & RUHI were to scale new heights and become The Next Big Thing, I foresee it as me having to spend a lot of time and attention on all kinds of business aspects, things like orders and invoices, sourcing, farming out my crafting, marketing and advertising, etc.

It would take me away from what I love about MAYA & RUHI, which is sitting at the worktable, soaking in the creative energy of the complete chaos of beads and wires, and letting each design evolve with multiple construction and deconstruction. Even worse, I foresee that if MAYA & RUHI really took off, the real Maya and Ruhi will have no mother. I'm THAT poor a multi-tasker. That is why I can't have a "proper" career and be an effective mom. At the same time.

What sealed the deal for me was the arrival of a thank-you card from a client whom I had customed a pair of earrings for. It was such a sweet, personal gesture, it utterly and completely made my day that day.

These fairs I have been doing, not only gives me a break from the endless laundry cycles, cooking, cleaning, washing up, mothering and what-not. These fairs also let me meet the people who appreciate and support my art personally, and that is what gives me the gratification and motivation to continue doing what I do best, which is design and craft every single piece, from scratch, with my own hands.

Like I told a good friend yesterday, who had asked if I had come to a decision about Blueprint, "I craft better than supervise other people crafting". In other words, I am very happy where MAYA & RUHI is, and where I am, at home with the real Maya and Ruhi.

And here's for a big Thank-You to everyone who has ever supported MAYA & RUHI in any way. :D

On My Lust List

2011-04-20T06:54:00.005+08:00

Ah... the BB by Michel Molinas, a Paris brand that's hitting the bag scene by storm. I am going to get my hands on this one...

Michel Molinas is apparently Paris' best-kept secret. A family label with a history steeped in leather bag crafting.

My fashionista-business-guru friend, Rachel, who owns Lush Icon, where MAYA & RUHI is at in KL, is stocking these gorgeous-lovelies in her boutique. The BB comes in black, camel and a few other colours. To see the entire Michel Molinas range at Lush Icon, click here.

There's A Fork On My Road

2011-04-19T07:14:00.010+08:00

Recently, I was presented with the opportunity to take part in an accessories exhibition that's part of Blueprint, a major fashion event here in Asia that showcases new talent and reiterate established names.

I was abuzz. A local fashion icon told me I should really seize the opportunity and take part. She was sure I will do well, because I am "an artist with a story to tell". I was stoked, but at the same time scared.

So I gathered up my guts and contacted Carolyn Kan, founder of Carrie K. She was last year's Blueprint ingenue. And since then, her art and her business has grown in leaps and bounds. Carrie K is now a respected local brand, and a successful export label.

Carolyn is super affable. She was so warm, and so generous with her information. I suppose she knows exactly how I feel having had her Blueprint experience. The first thing she said was, "You have to stop thinking of this as a hobby, and start thinking of it as a business."

We spoke almost half an hour, on preparation for Blueprint, what happened next, what becoming a full-fledged business entails, how to learn from customer feedback, how to create business contacts... It was an education in itself. I am eternally grateful to Carolyn for being so willing to share. Incidentally, she won Singapore Elle's Jewelry Designer of the Year. Which serves to reiterate my belief that good things happen to good people.

Thing is, what do you do when you're told you could be The Next Big Thing? There is the very optimistic (bordering on altruistic) "go for it!". But what does THAT really mean?

(pic via savagechickens.com)

Happy Monday!

2011-04-18T13:44:00.006+08:00

(pic via weheartit.com)

Off To The Fair!

2011-04-12T15:29:00.028+08:00

The stash is all set, and suitcase all packed...

...and here's some of the stuff you can look forward to at The Fair!

The Fair @ The Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Road

Wednesday 13 April 10am - 7pm, Thursday 14 April 9.30am - 5pm

See you there! :)

In Conversation with Maya and Ruhi

2011-04-12T07:11:00.004+08:00

Over this weekend, These Two spotted me giving the husband a kiss and a cuddle...

Maya: Mom... are you trying to get Dad to buy you something?

Me: What?? Where did you get THAT idea from?

Ruhi: Mom... are you trying to get Dad pregnant?

O_O!!

Happy Monday!

2011-04-11T09:17:00.003+08:00

(via icanread)

White Out

2011-04-07T09:50:00.011+08:00

I'm loving how all these decor styles are so different, yet so white.

(pics via the nest)

Scenes from the National Museum of Singapore

2011-04-06T20:59:00.011+08:00

I had some Me-Time today, and decided to spend it at the National Museum. Coz I heart museums. :)

The Fair @ Goodwood Park Hotel

2011-04-05T10:15:00.010+08:00

Ah yes, the last fair was so much fun, I just had to do another one. This one will be at the iconic Goodwood Park Hotel. I love this place. It's a solid piece of architectural history smack in the middle of all the spanking new buildings. And so, here are a few new pieces that will be on the table at The Fair, come 13 and 14 April.

Save the dates now, people!

Happy Monday!

2011-04-04T15:20:00.003+08:00

(pic via icanread)

Makes Me Laugh

2011-04-01T12:03:00.005+08:00

What would Serge say?

On A Fringe

2011-03-31T07:28:00.013+08:00

I have been toying with the idea of getting my hair cut. Complete with a fringe.

You see, I wear my home-cut hair all tied back into a bun all my waking hours. Sometimes it hurts. And lately, I noticed that the front spot at my hairline has begun to thin. Yes, very scary. But the thing is: I hate having a fringe. It feels like there's a small animal sitting on my forehead all the time, plus I look like a complete dork.

So what's a woman to do? I think I should get it done. Coz, really, the choices are: Bald Spot vs Complete Dork. Bald Spot could prove permanent. Whilst Complete Dork I can grow out of. :)

Happy Day!

2011-03-29T10:20:00.011+08:00

Seeing as I was unable to wish everyone "Happy Monday!" yesterday... On a similar note, my leap into doing fairs has proved exhilarating. Yesterday's fair was good fun, with many friends turning to help and to support. Made a reasonable amount of sales, and got to experience the nitty-gritty of setting up, selling and packing up. What was particularly cool was getting to meet some of my regular online customers. It was absolutely lovely to put faces to Etsy usernames. Thank you, guys, so much for your continued support of my art! So I am off now to the worktable, with a few ring alterations, and a pair of Sunburst earrings to custom up. Fair pics shall be up soon. :)

(pic by mothballcharlie)

Sneak Peek at The Spring Affair - Part 2

2011-03-24T11:48:00.006+08:00

Sneak Peek at The Spring Affair - Part 1

2011-03-23T09:06:00.011+08:00

Just some of the stuff that'll be on the table come Monday...

Tomorrow, I'll show you the new rings and bangles. ;)

Save the date:

28th March, Spring Affair @ Marriott Hotel, Level 3 Ballroom, 9am-5pm

Dry Run

2011-03-22T12:19:00.006+08:00

Yesterday, I have had to do a mock-up of my table display in preparation of the Fair coming Monday, so I know exactly what I need. Seems like enough stuff to hawk for a day.

Plus I've been bonkers-busy with crafting up more Nouveau Solitaires with Swarovski pearls, for the Fair, from which 50% of proceeds will go the Red Cross' relief effort in Japan.

The weather is a tad dismal today. I was planning to photograph some of the new stuff that will be at the Fair. I guess Sneak Peeks will have to wait until tomorrow.

Happy Monday!

2011-03-21T10:18:00.002+08:00

(pic via icanread)

School-Holidays Means...

2011-03-15T10:13:00.004+08:00

Going to the playground first thing in the morning, in your pyjamas.

Happy Monday!

2011-03-14T09:53:00.006+08:00

The school holidays are here, and yep, I have significantly less me-time as a result. Which translates into slightly less leisurely pace at housework, and practically no stretch of time at the worktable, as Fair day draws near. Oh well. :)

(pic via icanread)

Welts, Pricks and Calluses

2011-03-11T07:29:00.006+08:00

All from all the wirework I have been doing. Plus cooking and washing doesn't help one bit.

It wouldn't be right to have a close-up of my "injuries", so here's an inspirational instead.

And with that, I am off to finish hanging out the clothes, wash the dishes from breakfast, and go back to being welted, pricked and callused.

(pic via valentinadesign)

Spring Affair at The Marriott

2011-03-10T07:12:00.007+08:00

I've just signed up for a table at the Spring Affair at The Marriott, on March 28th. It's sort of like an elite shopping destination for mainly the expat housewife (thus the weekday slot), with a congregation of merchants with rather exclusive and/or unique stuff.

I met up with the organisers yesterday, who were rather awed at the fact that I actually sit at home and craft up these pieces of jewelry. I suppose all the others are buying-and-selling, a lot of them expat housewives with an entrepreneurial itch. Most of them bring in stuff from their own home countries. So it makes a really interesting look-see even if you're not out to buy.

So, until then, I shall be crafting feverishly. There will be lots of new rings, bangles and earrings (both Chic and Uniques and Klimts), so do try and drop by to have a look, and to say 'Hello!". :)

(pic via savagechickens)

New stuff at the Etsy shop

2011-03-07T12:36:00.005+08:00

Click on the pics to go directly to the Etsy listing.

Things These Two Get Up To

2011-03-03T12:14:00.008+08:00

How things go horribly wrong...

February Giveaway Winner

2011-03-02T17:01:00.003+08:00

Am I late? Or am I LATE?

A thousand apologies for this super-delayed post. Since Life has taken up a new routine, with Those Two in school, and me settling down to a routine that suits their routine, I have been up to my neck in Stuff-To-Do.

And, with me using the Random Picker at Random.org coz Those Two are busy at school, the winner is bollywood!

Congratulations, bollywood! Please email me your mailing address, and the earrings will be on their way.

And with this, I think I shall have to suspend the Monthly Giveaway for a little while. A few major things going on at the mo... all good. :)

I shall continue to blog though. So do drop by and hang out sometime...

Monthly Giveaway

2011-02-01T06:56:00.005+08:00

I blogged about these recently, and they are now available for sale at the Etsy shop. Click on the links to see more pics.

Just leave a comment at this post if you are interested in receiving the earrings for free! The winner will be announced on February 7th's post, so you have until then to leave your comment... Good luck!

Happy Monday!

2011-01-31T09:21:00.006+08:00

I just spent almost 3 hours ironing out damp clothes that have not dried over this completely rainy weekend.

But being glued to the news is keeping my perspective on what a shitty day truly entails...

(quote by Vivian Greene, print at enduringarts)

Tough One...

2011-01-28T07:42:00.012+08:00

I can't quite decide which is more awe-inspiringly gross: the haircut or the moustache. Maybe it's the combo...

In any case, this was the look at Junya Watanabe's show in Paris recently. I do like-a-lot the jacket though.

(pic via The Sartorialist)

Work(s) In Progress

2011-01-27T09:22:00.009+08:00

Two commissions...

This is a pair of party earrings for C, who fancied the designs of my Byzantine bracelets, and wanted me to translate them into earrings, to go with a pair of very sexy purple satin stilettos. Yum!

I'm all done with the prototype, with amethysts, garnets, onyx, and Swarvoski cream pearls. I'll be taking this apart and working on the final, with slightly finer wire, which I think will give the entire thing an even more sleek and sophisticated look.

This here is going to be a triple strand choker, with stone charms on the toggle clasp, another signature format of mine. T wants something that will look smart enough for work (she's a lawyer), but at the same time something not so stuffy that she looks like a complete nerd. ;)

I adore this gorgeous bunch of faceted turquoise. It's cute, and classy. I'm wireworking them, as opposed to stringing all of them along, so that each little bead can show off its gorgeous faceting and lovely light brown veins, and shine on it's own... :)

On My Lust List

2011-01-26T07:39:00.007+08:00

Oooh, I like the serious-ness of it all. No-nonsense, void of logo, and totally handmade and marketed by a decidedly private "Danish one-woman company", at her Etsy shop valhallabrooklyn. The whole Credibility thing just gives me goose-bumps...

The 5-pocket Willow bag in graphite... I SO want!

It's not all that inexpensive. This one is going for USD319 (not including shipping). But I like the fact that you're actually paying for good leather and dedicated workmanship here. And that the bulk of the retail price is not toward a little brass logo fastened onto the front of the bag solely for attention/fabulous-ness.

Plus, it's just so goddamned gorgeous...! :)

Scenes from Munich

2011-01-25T07:54:00.028+08:00

Happy Monday!

2011-01-24T09:53:00.003+08:00

(pic via icanread)

MAYA & RUHI Sale in KL

2011-01-21T07:44:00.019+08:00

A sale is now on at Lush Icon at Bangsar Village II in KL, to make way for new stuff. Don't fret if you're nowhere near KL. Just drop me an email at pearlynbhasin@hotmail.com.

So it's the perfect opportunity to nab some of the lovelies from the Frida Kahlo, Monet's Garden and Tamara de Lempicka collections, amongst a few other stand-alone items. Click here for prices and full details.

Scenes from Salzburg

2011-01-20T07:50:00.013+08:00

Salzburg is out-of-this-world pretty. With the Christmas markets in full swing, it was an absolute Winter Wonderland.

But it was cold...

...really cold.

So here's Dad helping Maya with her ice skates.

And here's Ruhi overdosing on bratwurst.

And, for good measure, here's me freezing.

Gratuitous fabulous jewelry pic(s)

2011-01-19T07:52:00.012+08:00

Rings made out of old spoons!

These lovelies are the handiwork of artisan Dan Kemp at dankartistry, who believes that every thing has a story to tell, and in the cause for upcycling them. You can even send him your own spoon for him to turn into wearable heirlooms... :)

Orange Blossom

Cotillion

Narcissus

New Stuff - Crochet Earrings

2011-01-18T07:18:00.013+08:00

OK, I must admit: these are not my doing. My mother is responsible for these fabulously hippie chic crochet earrings. Yup, she's a crocheter too. Fact is, she taught me how to crochet when I was 9.

They're big and light, delicate and dramatic. Very cool...

These aren't up for sale as yet. Still in fairly experimental stages...

Happy Monday!

2011-01-17T08:17:00.003+08:00

(pic via savage chickens)

December 2010 Giveaway Result

2011-01-15T14:35:00.005+08:00

And finally, here we are. So sorry it has taken me this disgustingly long to get round to this folks. But here is Ruhi, very happily doing the honours. She's settled nicely into Primary school, and displaying all kinds of Big Girl sensibilities. So much so that I'm thinking "Where has my Bobo gone?"

Sorry, I digress.

And the winner is...

Congratulations, dy88! Please email me your mailing address, and your prize will be on its way! :)

Thank you so much everyone for playing! It has been really good fun. Hope to see you around the blog AND at next month's Giveaway! (I promise things will be on time. :))

Argh!

2011-01-10T14:57:00.004+08:00

A thousand apologies for my absolute tardiness at announcing the winner of the Monthly Giveaway.

I am back from a month-long hol, and struggling to get back into the swing of things - with jet lag, kids in the new school year, suitcases to unpack, and now, a flu-ed out Ruhi. Meanwhile I am keeping sane with a couple of commissions, and some crocheting here and there. Thank gawd for being able to craft!

So please do bear with me. As soon as I get my act together, the winner will be announced. Thanks, folks!

Monthly Giveaway

2010-12-02T09:52:00.006+08:00

Oops. Totally slipped my frazzled mind, that yesterday was Giveaway Day...

I have saved this one from the MAYA & RUHI Marie Antoinette Collection for this month's giveaway. A delicate and feminine 14K gold plated filigree, with ash-grey Swarovski crystals, and 14K gold filled ear wires.

This Collection is ultra-feminine with a touch of whimsy, and is an ode to Sofia Coppola's "Marie Antoinette" with Kirsten Dunst as the French queen. I love the costumes, the art direction, and especially how Coppola depicts the young royals with a touch of rock 'n roll.

Just leave a comment at this post if you are interested in receiving the earrings for free! The winner will be announced on December 10th's post, so you have until then to leave your comment... Good luck!

*The MAYA & RUHI Marie Antoinette Collection is available exclusively at Lush Icon, Bangsar Village II, Kuala Lumpur.

Scenes from Universal Studios Singapore

2010-12-01T13:09:00.012+08:00

It was a fun-filled day of rides, shows and sights, with my parents and my nephew, Nicholas. :D

From Old Hollywood...

...to Ancient Egypt.
N.B. They're posing for the picture, but looking at the roller coaster. :S

Maya and Nicholas got soaked by the surprise fountain outside Jurassic Park.

Cousinz.

The Oldie checking out the oldies...

Nicholas: "How do I get out of this cheesy picture?"

Happy Monday!

2010-11-29T09:01:00.004+08:00

(pic via thewheatfield)