So much crafty goodness

We're so lucky in Auckland - there are so many high quality craft fairs, often with a quirky focus, so that every weekend can be crafty if you get the urge.

Today I'm going to go and take a peek at a new market Love Vintage & Retro in Kingsland.  Judging by the blog and facebook page, there'll be lots of  stuff to drool over, and I'm hoping to get some brilliant and unique Christmas presents rather than the mass produced stuff I was reduced to last year.  I figure you can't beat getting a cool present and supporting the little guys at the same time.

Another cracking market is Crafternoon Tea also in Kingsland.  I went last week and got some brilliant plates and a vintage upcycled ring from Odd One Out, not to mention the sourdough and the chocolate croissants - nom nom nom.  I got there late (the Rugby World Cup has lead to some serious coning off of the area on match days) so will have to go again next month to peek at the fabulous jewellery stalls and kiddies' clothes that were there, too.

Talking of kids, have you tried Titirangi Mums' Market? It's a slight misnomer because there is plenty for everyone - you so don't have to be a mum!  Last time I was there I saw everything from beautiful handmade cards to high quality merino knitting, funky toys to handbags - not to mention a bouncy castle and a realllly good duo playing live music.  There's nothing better than strolling around a market listening to Dylan, The Stones, Neil Young and Bowie.

There are lots more, too - Devonport, Mary's Market, Oratia Settlers' Market, to name just a few.  Look in your local paper, look at fliers, and ask friends, then get yourself off to a craft market, support amazing New Zealand artisans and get yourself something wonderful.

Happy shopping!

Look what fabulous thing I've found!

I love finding fabulous crafts, especially when they are things I can't make myself, so I thought I'd share some of my favourites with you.

These funky hobby horses are made by Little Old Nags and are just about the coolest children's toy I've seen in ages.  I particularly love the zebra, and rumour has it there are some unicorns coming up soon, too!

 

Then there are these hilarious and brilliant bits of jewellery, made by Bitsy Frog - Vanessa makes realistic looking foodie earrings and necklaces and so on, all with resin.  There are even teeny weeny butterflies, 1cm across, that she has made by hand and put into jewellery.  I am in total awe - what patience she must have.

And then there's the knitting and crocheting.  Koyal at Koyal Kapilla NZ and Nat at PoppyandBee are very clever.  I can just about make a scarf if I don't have to do more than K1P1, so these scrumptious items leave me agog.  I even own one or two of these, and can honestly say they are brilliant value for money - so well made and sooooo luxurious.  Niiiice!

 

 What fabulous finds can you share with us?