Post Grad Hair Cut

Vancouver Guide: Caste Projects Pop-up Shop

2011-08-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

(First image borrowed from here)

There is a neat venue here in Vancouver that has been providing locals with the opportunity to curate monthly pop-up shops. I found out about the Caste Projects Pop-up Shop through a Herriot Grace email that mentioned the shop was selling some of her highly coveted products (I was thrilled as I had been wanting a cloud cookie cutter since they first premiered).

Amidst all the end-of-term hustle, I was fortunate enough to stop by Caste this past Saturday to take a look! The shop is self-described as having 'hand-crafted design objects for the home, from local and international designers'. I was not disappointed. Not only was I able to pick up my cloud cookie cutter, I drooled over the Herriot Grace spoons, ooed over the Tannis Hegan canvas bags and Henderson Dry Goods mirrors (a long-time favourite) and was in awe over the tierkunde needle felted bears (made by co-curator Hanahlie Biese).

I had an excellent time chatting with Hanahlie and her husband Caleb about their design studio Caste Projects. I highly recommend you visit their site to see more of their work (I'll have to post more about them later).

The Caste Projects Pop-up Shop is open for all of August, everyday 11am - 5pm (Sundays 12am - 5pm). Find them at 196 Kingsway (at 10th Ave). If you're in Vancouver, it is a must visit.

Best Father's Day Present.

2011-06-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Okay one more post to get out of my mind. I recently discovered Noble Handcrafted products (from Mikuni Wild Harvest). They make the dreamiest sounding matured maple syrup. I'm talking - Tuthilltown Bourbon Barrel and Tahitian Vanilla Bean & Egyptian Chamomile Blossom. Their bottles are just as dreamy. I think either syrup would make a great statement on Father's Day (especially if your dad likes breakfast as much as mine does).

You can purchase the syrup online here. Or in Vancouver at Old Faithful Shop or Blue Owl Home Boutique.

I need a new wallet.

2011-03-08T05:36:00.000-08:00

I would love to snag one of these Castor & Pollux wallets (but sadly not on my student budget). They are bold and sophisticated. I think I would pick the navy, or the red, or the yellow. Does anyone have any other wallet suggestions for me? It would be most appreciated!

Fortune Cookie Coin Purses by Diana Eng

2011-02-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

LOVE!! I cannot wait to get one of these limited edition fortune cookie coin purses for myself. It was literally love at first sight.

Valentine Accessories

2011-02-09T13:36:00.000-08:00

Well lovely blog readers, it has been two months since my last post. Distance makes the heart grow fonder? I hope so. I thought I'd compile a list of some sweet Valentine's gifts to give (or to give yourself!) as my intro back into blogging. I hope to be around a lot more.

Clutch / Handmade Knee Socks / Heart Factory / Shirt / Print

Hey!

2010-10-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday! I'll need 50 of these confetti poppers. And its also Halloween (nearly) And its a Saturday! If I were having a party you would all be invited and we could eat cupcakes and watch movies from the 90s (or a Doogie Howser M.D. marathon, no? okay.)

I am 24!

Lauren DiCioccio.

2010-10-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

These embroidered slides by Lauren DiCioccio blow my mind. So detailed, creative and beautiful!

Mateo Ilasco Home Accessories.

2010-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I love Meg Mateo Ilasco's books but didn't know until recently that she has a beautiful line of home accessories. She is a talented and busy lady to say the least.

Coe and Waito.

2010-10-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

These woodland inspired ceramic pieces from Alissa Coe and Carly Waito of Coe and Waito are brilliant. I would love one of the owl lamps for my bedside table.

Knot and Bow.

2010-10-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

Knot and Bow has some pretty fabulous stationary packages and kits. I'm feeling that I may need their metallic gifting kit for the holidays so I can communicate my lust for gold to all of my gift recipients.

Wash with Joe.

2010-10-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

I remember reading about 'Wash with Joe' some time ago in a magazine and finally came across it again recently. The idea of coffee-mint body wash sounds like a great way to wake up in the morning. If anyone has tried it, let me know what you think!

Terrarium Necklace.

2010-10-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

I think these terrarium necklaces from Erica Weiner are particularly special in their little vintage vials.

Juliette Hogan.

2010-10-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Stunning clothing and incredible styling from Juliette Hogan. I need one of everything. Particulary one of the jackets.

Emerson Made Clutches.

2010-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of everything by Emerson Made, especially these clutches. (Note the use of my favourite colour of leather). I am also a huge fan of anything that comes in its own pretty box.

Tell me what you like!

2010-10-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

Image from here.

I've never been much of one for nail polish. I'm not exactly sure what caused this and I definitely was never against it but on the odd chance that I were to get a manicure I'd quickly opt for a nice shade of subtle pink (basically equating to clear) saving the colour for my toes. But lately, I'm obsessed. I can't believe all of the colours that are out there. This past week I actually found myself making an concerted effort to track down a shade that I had tried a few weeks ago. I have never received so many compliments on a shade. I highly recommend 'You don't know Jacques' by OPI to anyone who can get their hands on it (or it on their hands). Okay, now I'm looking for your input. Favourite shade? Favourite company? Fill me in!

New Bag Search.

2010-10-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

I have been seeking out a new leather bag for months now. The strap on mine was near to the snapping in half so I had the bag shelved for awhile. I have since had it repaired but I know our days together are limited. My ideal bag is the first one up there, the large Alexa bag by Mulberry (however I'm not sure I could ever justify the price tag). The one thing I know for sure is the colour (its pretty obvious from above I think). I love a nice shade of tan brown leather. If anyone spots anything you think I might like, please send me a note, but for now these are some of what I am considering.

Fay Andrada.

2010-09-29T21:31:00.001-07:00

To me, there is something reminiscent of watercolour paintings in Fay Andrada's jewelry. Perhaps it is the subtle colours, or the hammered brass texture. Regardless, I think these pairs of earrings are all stunning in their own ways.

Halloween!

2010-09-22T06:00:00.001-07:00

I recently received my first order from Rifle Paper Co. (I ordered some of these and one of these) and Anna's work is even more brilliant in print. I am excited to place another order and am thrilled to see her new Halloween cards. I am thinking I may need to get my hands on some of the 'trick or treat' invitations.

Hey I like you: Shared Sugar.

2010-09-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yet another food blog to share this week. Shared Sugar holds the recipe(s) to my heart (and has stellar, mouth-watering pictures to boot!). If you're a dessert fan, you'll thank me (or curse me). How about that toasted coconut custard tart to start? Or maybe the salted caramel ice cream?

I love this watch.

2010-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Nixon Kensington Leather Watch in Gold, White and Navy.

Carved Books.

2010-09-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Mind-blowing Book Carvings from by Brian Dettmer.

Links of Note.

2010-09-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

Week Two of School is done! Hooray! I have finally settled into a nice routine and feel a lot more at peace about the next year to come. I am thrilled to be studying something I am genuinely interested in; it makes a big difference in my efforts. I also discovered that my sewing machine can sew leather without any special needles or presser feet without any trouble. This is big news and I have been dabbling a bit and making some pencil cases. This weekend I plan on cleaning the apartment, visiting with old friends, doing some shopping (must buy more leather) and probably at some point, working on some assignments. What are you up to this weekend? Maybe visit some of these wonderful links to get you warmed up for a smashing weekend!

Do you wear a helmet when you cycle? You should. Here's an awesome DIY Helmet makeover.

Love your cat? Why not put him on your shirt? Tutorial here.

Someone remind me to buy a big pot so I can try my hand at making this stew.

I adore all the pieces for the Filippa K Fall collection.

I know I've mentioned Color Collective a few times, but if you haven't already, you should pay it a visit. Loads of inspiration!

These jackets for dogs will make you laugh and turn green with envy (perhaps they should start making them for women?)

A very cute DIY planter.

Hope your weekend is filled with some residual summer sunshine.

Just dreaming.

2010-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

One, Two, Three

Let me premise this post with the fact that I am not hinting at anything to anyone. These engagement rings are gorgeous in their simplicity.

Hey I like you: Honig.

2010-09-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Honig is a super sweet food blog by photographer Debbie Carlos (maker of my new favourite bunny poster).

Party!

2010-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is over. Maybe we should have a party for Autumn? I'll bring these party horns if you bring cupcakes, party hats and a turkey shaped pinata.

Emilie Friday and Calligraphy.

2010-09-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

A calligraphy kit from Emilie Friday has been on my 'List of Desires' for quite some time now. Since school has started I don't know when I would have time to give it a go, but I think it would be a great skill to build into my design repertoire. She also sells beautiful custom rubber stamps.

Lizzy Stewart.

2010-09-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

These are some of my favourites from Lizzy Stewart. I love her whimsical aesthetic

Miju.

2010-09-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous rubber-dipped copper jewelry by Miju has been on my mind for quite some time.

Handwoven Tea Towels.

2010-09-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

The handwoven linens of Milka Loom on etsy are stunning, don't you think?

School Supplies.

2010-09-09T06:00:00.001-07:00

As of September 7th I have gone back to school. I am extremely excited to be studying again and learning all sorts of skills that I know will help improve my work here at Post Grad Hair Cut. Here's a little collection of some school supplies I have been coveting.

1. Xylo Wood Bound Book 2. Present and Correct Leather Pencil Case 3. Poketo Weekly Planner 4. Macinari Wood Mechanical Pencils 5. Frye Leather Pencil Case 6. Dietrech Lubs Book, Pen and Pencil set 6. Caran D'ache Ballpoint Pen

Little Moccasins.

2010-09-02T14:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been away! Summer is ending and school is starting so here's something cute to tie you over - sweet little moccasins from Freshly picked.

Sewing Kit Update.

2010-08-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to everyone who purchased a sewing kit in the past week. There are 12 kits left in the first edition. So far we have raised $125 to donate to Kiva. In the next coming weeks I will post more information on the lending process and some entrepreneurs I am considering lending to. I am beginning to work on a second edition that will come out in late September. Stay tuned!

PGHC at So About What I Said.

2010-08-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

Today I'm guest blogging for Melissa of So About What I Said. Roll on over to her blog to see some of my favourite things of late!

TOMs Gold Glitter Shoes.

Cute Embroidery.

2010-08-23T23:53:00.001-07:00

Love the effect of all this little pointed embroidery stitches by Merriweather Council on etsy.

Eva Juliet.

2010-08-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

How cute is this button water colour print by divine artist Eva Juliet?

Matirose Art.

2010-08-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Love these feather-topped girl paintings by Mati McDonough. The colours speak to me.

Claire Coles.

2010-08-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Beautiful interior collage and ceramic work incorporating vintage wallpaper and embroidery by UK-based artist Claire Coles.

The Wheatfield.

2010-08-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous colours and floral paintings by The Wheatfield.

Recession Greeting Cards.

2010-08-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Awesome. 9SPOTMONK.

Leather Bracelets.

2010-08-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I love leather. I bought a piece of leather to try and sew into a pouch but I'm waiting on a presser foot for my machine. I would love to be able to make leather accessories like these bracelets by MZ Wallace Leather.

Love Mae Store.

2010-08-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

Love Mae Store offers some incredibly cute and creative fabric wall decals. How fun would these dress up dolls be for a child's room (or MY room)?

A whale of a box.

2010-08-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Love them! I want to buy an Areaware animal box for everyone I know. The whale is my favourite but I am also partial to the polar bear, walrus and rhino. We all need a safe place for little treasures.

A reveal and a good cause.

2010-08-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've been toying with the idea of putting together some sewing kits since last December when I made my first few samples. Since then it has been brought to my attention that having some essential sewing tools at home are useful for everyone from the occasional mender to the avid seamstress (or seamster!).

This first run of 40 kits are limited edition. They are both screen printed and sewn by hand. I wanted to use some classic materials and chose canvas, gingham and an industrial metal zipper. They include, what I think, are some essential tools those sewing at any level.

In addition, I wanted to contribute part of the sales of these kits to Kiva. For those of you are who are not familiar with Kiva they are an organization that combines micro-financing with the internet, allowing people to lend money directly to entrepreneurs in developing countries. For more information on how Kiva works visit their site here. I hope to get your input through PGHC on who to lend to first. The nice thing about Kiva is that your money is repaid to you, allowing you to re-lend to new entrepreneurs. $5 from each kit will be pooled and lent via Kiva.

The sewing kits are available through my etsy store, sammade.

Mini Notebooks.

2010-08-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

I, like many others, enjoy well-designed stationery. This is why the mini notebooks dedicated to specific lists by 9SpotMonk are right up my alley. My favourites are the Gift log (perfect for collecting gift ideas year-round), the Gossip and the Groceries!

via Poppytalk.

GOLD!

2010-08-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid I was obsessed with GOLD! or at least anything that resembled gold. I had quite the collection. After bookmarking several online treasures I began to see a trend. 19 years later and I'm still obsessed.

Clutch/Pillow/Pumps/Camera/Polish

Hey I like you: Simply Breakfast.

2010-08-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

As much as I like this blog, I do not recommend that you read it right after you've woken up to bare cupboards and an empty refrigerator. You have been warned. Simply Breakfast is an ongoing series of breakfasts made, photographed and, I am assuming, consumed by photographer Jennifer Causey.

Meg Urbani.

2010-08-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am really drawn to these prints from Meg Urbani's 'Along the Country Road' series. I'm tempted to buy two on stretched canvas for above our fireplace.

Im:mortal Collection.

2010-08-08T13:24:00.001-07:00

I love everything by Im:mortal Collection, particularly their plains bag in cedar and their light points quartz necklaces (also lusting over that model's braid - grow hair, grow).

A love for cats that goes way back.

2010-08-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

Found this in one of my keepsake boxes in my parent's crawl space.

Hey I like you: Awful library books.

2010-08-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

For all my fellow book lovers, this blog will be right up your alley. Awful library books displays some real gems of the publishing world! I am thinking of submitting my copy of 'Getting high in natural ways' that we found in the lobby of our old apartment building (some suggestions include: 'having a good cry' and 'dancing').

My weekend.

2010-08-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

My weekend away was really lovely and just what I had been hoping for this summer. The house we stayed at was a brilliant old farm house with lovely stone architecture surrounded by rivers, hills and fields. The weekend included tractor rides, a river float (which resulted in a lost car key), boston milkshakes at the Tastie Treat, a small town street dance, a very steep but satisfying hill climb and lots of eating and laughing.

Wikipedia.

2010-07-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

...40 years ago? Genius, regardless by Rob Matthews.

Links of Note.

2010-07-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Image found here.

Today we are off for the long weekend to Brendan's family reunion. I hope to enjoy lots of good food, nice weather, an old barn and more than one river float. I will try to enjoy sleeping on an air mattress for four nights (as to avoid looking like our friend Mr. Grumps up their in the picture above). Here are some links of the note for this past week.

DIY art project from Sight Unseen via LawofAttraction.

Recipe for toasted coconut custard tart.

A sneak peek at Oh Joy's new line of wall paper.

Andrea's great new food blog, food not fuss.

Gorgeous alternative to a wedding dress.

Magical party decorations by Ashley Meaders.

A birthday tree house build.

Simple and lovely watercolor paintings.

A super cute invitation.

Lady Monicle.

2010-07-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Amazing ceramic jewelry by Simone-Clare Hede of Lady Monicle.

Hey Pretty.

2010-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Golden Feather Amulet Necklace by Diane of Pagan Poetry.

Hey I like you: I go by Katie.

2010-07-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

I first discovered Katie months ago through her work, as she is the maker behind Darlingtonia Moccasins Co. (they are marvelous creations). New to me however is Katie's blog. She takes spectacular photographs and has a great knack for finding gems of the art and design world. I highly recommend adding 'I go by Katie' to your blog roll.

P.S. She also writes an Etsy Handbook! Great tips for those of you just starting out with etsy (or wanting to improve on what you've already accomplished).

Quail Egg Necklace.

2010-07-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful thing to wear such a special, fragile thing around your neck. Quail Egg Necklace lined with gold by Stephanie Simek.

My latest summer accessory.

2010-07-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

I am ecstatic about this leather blanket carrier I received in the mail late last week. I think its gorgeous and goes so well with my linen beach blanket. The blanket, I made myself (if you can even refer to it as 'making'). I bought two meters of my choice of fabric and hemmed the edges! It will be swell for August summer hikes and beach picnics.

Sneak Peek.

2010-07-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

A little sneak peek of a project I've been working on. I am planning on contributing a percentage of the sales to one of a favourite organization of mine. Hope to reveal them in the next couple weeks!

Carnivale.

2010-07-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

How wonderful is this shadow play lamp design by Johan Pergenius? I posted about his sailor here. It would be super sweet in a nursery.

Where have you been all my life?

2010-07-23T12:46:00.001-07:00

I thought that maybe, if everyone wanted to chip in and buy this for me, I'd sure owe everyone a whole lot of typed letters. Just a thought.

Camper Flats.

2010-07-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

The nice thing about reaching mid-summer is that summer things start to go on sale. I adore these flats by Camper. And now I may just buy them.

Hey I like you: My Cardboard Life.

2010-07-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

I never thought cardboard and paper could be so funny. If you're in need of a laugh (and aren't we always) do check visit 'My Cardboard Life' by Philippa Rice. These are two of my (many, many favourites).

I really want this.

2010-07-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

I first saw this vintage quarter-holding pendant from Snoozer Loser via a giveaway on a Cup of Jo. I have been coveting it ever since. Since I rarely have pockets in the clothes I wear it is always a pain to lug some quarters with me down to the laundry room in my building whilst carrying a large basket and detergent. This would solve all my laundry-woes (or at least the one I just mentioned).

Karen Walker.

2010-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Love this flag print shift dress from Karen Walker. The print is just divine. Found on Creature Comforts.

Bike Lust.

2010-07-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

Now that we live so close to the gorgeous sea wall in Vancouver and the sun is shining daily I really want/need a bike. I love the bikes and accessories (like that brass bell!) from Adeline Adeline.

Ice cream sundae bar.

2010-07-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

Image from Bakerella.

Last September I decided to create my own ice cream sundae bar for a family gathering. I gathered ice cream, different toppings and syrups and got some plastic ice cream bowls and spoons from our local gelato place. It was a hit to the say the least (how could it not be though?). I wish I had seen this tutorial on making chocolate cups from Bakerella then though! How easy and fun? Next time for sure.

Moving slowly.

2010-07-07T16:54:00.001-07:00

Well I have come down with my annual case of strep throat. Good ol' strep usually visits in the spring, so I thought I got lucky this year. Luckily I haven't much else demanding my attention (except for the gorgeous weather that finally decided to show its bright sunshiny face). Marty and I have been lounging for the past couple days. He's a lot cuter at it. Also! For those of you who emailed me about being penpals from my post last month, your letters are on their way!

The Great Sofa Search.

2010-07-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have to admit this search is more fantasy than reality (a new sofa isn't really in the budget at this point) but I'd say most of the satisfaction is in looking any way. I've always loved the look of industrial felt and these sofas from Vancouver Special (all made in Denmark) are definitely high up on my wish list. I really love the idea of them converting easily into double beds for guests! The dark grey is my favourite.

Herb Garden.

2010-07-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

Now that we've moved and are without any outdoor space I've been looking at some options for greening up our apartment. I really love the combination of bamboo and steel in this herb garden.

Vintage: Kelly Green.

2010-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

1. Purse 2. Necklace 3. Hush Puppies

Happy Canada Day!

2010-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a very happy Canada Day! I thought that the work of Anneke van Bommel (Touch the Dutch) would be most appropriate as she is a Canadian artist and her work evokes feelings of things typically Canadian.

I have just moved and will be back to blogging regularly next week! Thank you for all your patience!

Links of Note.

2010-06-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Summer peaked out at us this week but still not much sunny weather has stuck. It is the middle of June! What is going on? To cope I have become obsessed with this self-serve frozen yogurt place that is so inconveniently located. Why do I do this to myself? Just as well, I'll be thankful I have the time to take the transit trip to go visit there more often then I should.

In other news, I am teaching the 'Father's Day Tie' sewing class at Spool of Thread tomorrow (remember Sunday, that's father's day!). We started to take things off the walls here at our apartment yesterday and I'm getting antsy to find boxes and start packing things away for our move. Just let it be now please.

Have a dandy of a weekend! (oh and here are the links)

A madhatter tea party!

Gorgeous usage of the Woolly plant pockets.

Amazing camp out gear. The canvas tent is gorgeous.

Really neat lamps. Perfect for summer, no?

Bedroom inspiration. I can't wait to move!

These wedding cake toppers are gorgeous. The grey tweed suits are my favourite.

Yum, Rhubarb and rosewater mascarpone cake.

A to-die-for vintage find.

Have you heard of this trade guide? I'm on it.

How to send cake in the mail.

2010-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

For a friend's birthday I thought it would be nice to mail them some super sweet cake. I had also been mulling over the idea of baking cake in jars in my mind for a few months. Here are the two recipes I used: cake and frosting.

Because the frosting recipe called for evaporated milk and the intention was to make a cake that only involved the ingredients I had at home, I looked up how to make my own. It takes a long time and I'm not sure how much of a difference it made. The icing was still delicious.

Once you have your cake batter all mixed up, fill up your jars 2/3 of the way. Place on baking sheet and bake in oven. I suggest checking them periodically throughout the recommend cook time.

All done!

I scraped off the tops to make room for icing. This was also a great opportunity to make sure the cake didn't taste awful. It didn't.

Next I packaged the jar up complete with label and single birthday candle.

Finally, I wrapped the box up with kraft paper. Then I took full advantage of the second jar of cake before heading to the post office. This was super easy and I think I will make it a regular gift!

Sailor.

2010-06-14T06:00:00.001-07:00

"Carry your inner boat just like
Sailor, so that life becomes a little brighter.'

Concrete Sailor by Johan Pergenius

Links of Note.

2010-06-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

Phew! Lots of links this week. I am a weekend away from submitting something I've been working on for two months (it isn't that interesting but I am glad that is nearly over). I'm not sure if I've mentioned this but I am going back to school this upcoming September. It is a decision I made last October but had not fully finalized until early last month. I can't wait! Now if only the sun would come out so I could start enjoying summer instead of wishing it to be over. If the sun is shining where you are this weekend, enjoy it for me!

A great handmade wedding gift idea from the Crafts Dept.

This wedding is swoon-worthy. Her lace dress is stunning!

Love this 'summer camping trip' inspired guest post by Rifle Paper Co.

Such a sweet gift to receive.

Cloud-shaped, pear-filled pastries. Yum.

A great father's day gift guide! It is coming soon!

Have you heard Janelle Monae? She is agreeably a classy lady.

Have you been following the blogger-curated summer must-haves on Camp Comfort? Well you should be!

I'd live here.

And I would love to live here as well.

You might want to make this Sunday morning.

Pen pals anyone?

2010-06-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Image from Mysterious Letters.

When I was younger, a lot younger, I had pen pals from all around the world. Some lasted through several exchanges and some only through one or two. I know I am not alone in my love for posted mail and would love to open up the opportunity to anyone who is interested in giving letter-writing and present-sending a go. I can promise to write.

If you are interested send me an at swagnerm [at] hotmail [dot] com with your address and I will send you mine in return. I'll post things internationally!

We're moving!

2010-06-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago Brendan and I decided we have had enough of our damp (and sometimes moldy) apartment and building and gave our notice at the end of last month. On Saturday we signed the lease for a bright, shiny and clean apartment over on the west side! We can't wait to move in and I have been scouring my domino and blueprint magazines for decorating ideas. I'll be sure to share what I come up with and the process of decorating. Here's a sneak peak of the place!

Friday I'm in love.

2010-06-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

Well this is turning to the blog in which I only post of Fridays. How boring! I find that although I don't currently have a job (which generally equates to a lot of free time) I still have a lot of life-figuring-out work that is keeping my mine occupied. Let's keep our fingers crossed that I can get it all sorted out by mid-month and get back to blogging about all sorts of great things that I'd rather spend my time thinking about.

Last week I said that I had some news! I am going to be teaching a beginner's sewing class (Sewing 101) at Vancouver's new sewing lounge, Spool of Thread. I am super excited about this and hope that all you locals (and visitors if you've got the time) come and check out the store and sign up for a class with me. The store, in my opinion, is just what this city needs. Sewing makes me feel handy. For example, 'oh I love this duvet cover but there's no zipper -- guess I'll go buy one and sew it in'. That could be you!

Spool of Thread is having their grand opening tomorrow from 11am to 6pm. Go!

No links this week, except for this website: Before you were hot. (Thanks to Diana for this one)

Links of Note.

2010-05-28T11:17:00.001-07:00

Well hello!

I really dropped the ball on blogging this month. Times are a'changing over here. We gave our notice to move (it was a decision we had been putting off for awhile) which means we now need to find an apartment. This is both exciting and stressful as the majority of Vancouver landlords seem against pet owners. We will keep our chins up and our eyes peeled.

I also found a perfect (even though it is very part-time) job for the summer which I will have to tell you more about later.

So things are on the move and I am excited to be back June 1st with a more consistent (and interesting, not to worry) blogging regime.

Here are some links to whisk you away into the weekend.

Joanna had her sweet baby boy Toby. I thing I heard a giant collective squeal when she announced it to the blog world.

I have to say that Rifle Paper Co. is my number one in terms of stationery these days. Check out these DIY cocktail invitations she did for the Crafts Dept. Do you think Anna would make me some moving announcements?

A pretty swell giveaway at you are my fave.

She's right, this documentary is great!

I have been really enjoying Mint's National Stationery Show Recaps.

A super sweet necklace DIY.

I give a big 'YES PLEASE' to this memorial day inspired outfit.

This proposal made my heart melt.

Until Tuesday m'dears!

Face Masks and American Psycho.

2010-05-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been absent lately, have been trying to pin some life things down (as you can see, hehe).

Links of Note.

2010-05-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

This strawberry gives this week a thumbs up! This weekend is a long weekend here in Canada but since I haven't been working, I didn't even realize (what a hard life I have eh?). I hope it is full of sunshine and full of treats for all of you! Here is a (very short) list of links for you to enjoy!

New online vintage shop from Bliss in a Teacup.

Indoor S'mores.

Gorgeous old business cards.

DIY Fabric Tape.

Oh hey, you're cute.

2010-05-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Another piece to add to my bunny collection. By Green Thread Shop.

Hey I like you: You Are What You Love.

2010-05-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

You Are What You Love is a beautiful blog created by Aprile Elcich. It is a dream of a blog. Aprile is also a mighty fine artist and thus it is worth your time to visit her shop. Now, go look for yourself and check out her recently completed thesis!)

Would you like to advertise with Post Grad Hair Cut?

2010-05-20T06:00:00.001-07:00

Rates are set with small, new business in mind as Post Grad Hair Cut is still quite new itself and spots are available for June, July and August of this year. If you decide to be a sponsor you will be given a 150x120 space on the left sidebar, a small write-up on our sponsor page and an introductory post sometime during the month. Placing advertisements on blogs can be a great way to spur recognition of your online business and I would be happy to be a host for yours.

For more information on rates, site statistics and any other details please contact me at swagnerm [at] hotmail [dot] com. I welcome all bloggers, designers, artists and crafters who match in some way the style I try to represent here on Post Grad Hair Cut.

In my bag: The last bag.

2010-05-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

This is the very last post of the 'in my bag' series. Thank you to everyone who participated and everyone who commented. It was great to see what you all carry around!

My name is Jacqueline Sofia and I am a fresh-out-of-college working woman. I work in Baltimore in the Center for Global Health at Johns Hopkins, and I am also taking prerequisite classes for nursing school. My blog, All Things Beautiful, is a scrapbook of everything I feel is worth taking a second glance at. We become so busy with our lives, that it is easy to miss the beautiful things in life. Thank you to Samantha for giving me this opportunity to add my bag contents to her series!

1. The bag. My parents took a trip to Italy last year for my Mom's 50th birthday present, and came back with some really wonderful finds, including this brown leather bag. It's simple and big enough to carry the increasing amount of stuff that I seem to accumulate.

2. Wallet. I recently purchased this read leather wallet from Iragranteco on Etsy. The leather is so soft and its recycled from her other projects! I can even fit my passport in it...for that unexpected trip to Europe or South America every one should be prepared for.

3. Cell phone. I still don't know how to use all the gizmos on this thing.

4. Change purse. I got this back in middle school from Old Navy. It's been a faithful companion ever since. I collect change like it's my job, too, so this comes in handy.

5. Moleskin planner. I like to go "old school" when it comes to keeping my affairs in order and write everything down instead of keeping one of those fancy electronic planners. I am also terrible at remembering things, so this planner is like my second bible. I don't know what I'd do without it.

6. Red notebook. This is nice to have on hand for memories I want to keep, quotes I want to take note of, or recipes that I find.

7. Naked Bee Hand and Cuticle Healing Salve. I have super dry skin, and this salve is wonderful for keeping my hands from becoming old and wrinkly looking!

8. Sugar in the Raw packet. I am a coffee addict. It is apparent by the sugar packets I carry in my purse on a consistent basis.

9. Thomas Paul Luddite sunglass case. I don't wear much jewelry, so the main accessory I have on me at all times are sunglasses. I bought this sunglass case from a small boutique where I live in Lambertville, NJ- Bucks County Dry Goods. I love the antique look of this case and its softness, which makes it easy to store in my sac.

10. Camera. My boyfriend bought this digital camera for me for Christmas. I used to have this bulky, 5-year-old canon powershot, for which I would have to manually open the lense in order to use it. I am always taking snapshots of food, and this slips right into my bag or pocket whenever we go out to eat.

11. Seashell pill case. My mom always carries a cute little pill box with her in her purse. For my birthday one year, she bought this one for me- I don't usually carry medicine around with me, but I still like to keep it in my purse because it reminds me of her.

12. Woven multi-color pouch. The contents include a Tide stain stick, Burt's Bees Res-Q Ointment, as well as Peptobismol for those days you go out to eat and your eyes are bigger than your stomach.

13. Keys. My friend, Jules, brought back this leather Africa-shaped keychain from Niger a couple summers ago, after she spent time working for Catholic Relief Services. The other keychain is an ode to my local National Public Radio station, WYPR. I am a lover of all things NPR!

Bits of an Efficient Trip to Portland.

2010-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

I love Portland. I try to go every year. This year my sister, her friend and I rented a car and made the drive on Friday afternoon. We had all day Saturday to pack in as much as we could and we shopped, ate and appreciated numerous gorgeous brick buildings. Here are some highlights.

After we arrived in the late evening on Friday we venture to the Nob Hill area to find something to eat. We stumbled about 23 Hoyt and delighted in their delicious (and very affordable) Happy Hour menu. The roast beets with goat cheese (for $3) were my favourite.

In the morning our first stop was Powell's legendary bookstore. I was excited to see that they were exhibiting Nikki McClure's amazing paper cuts.

Any trip to the US is not complete without visiting an Anthropologie store. It is conveniently across the street from Powell's so we were there as they were opening the doors. And now begins a series of my sister and her friend posing.

I was very tempted by the Filson store. I love their bags and classic styling. The store itself is gorgeous with a real moose head (it really gave me some perspective on how big moose actually are).

After some more walking we ended up at Oblation Papers and Press. My sister and I tried our hand at some calligraphy pens and I admired their urban paper mill.

For lunch we stopped at Traders Joe's and picked up some snacks, then borrowed the steps of just one of the many gorgeous apartment buildings to stop and sit.

Back in Nob Hill we enjoyed delicious milkshakes from Moonstruck chocolates (I dream about these every year leading up to the trip). My sister spent some time in the stunning Goorin Bros. Hat Shop. deciding on what fedora to purchase (I believe she decided on the one in her hand in this picture).

While wandering and deciding on where to eat dinner I noticed some clever balcony gardening techniques (previously mentioned here).

For dinner we ended up at a really lovely restaurant called Papa Haydn. The decor was wonderful with yellow and white table linens on the outside tables. We enjoyed mussels with chorizo sausage, french onion soup, a cobb sandwich, cucumber salad and white wine. For dessert we tried the amazing pistachio milles-crepe cake.

Portland is so lovely. It feels like home every time I visit. I would move there in a heart beat if it wasn't so tricky to find work as a Canadian. I hope to go again before summer is through! On Sunday we left bright and early and stopped at an Outlet Mall for a shopping experience like no other. After being spoiled with the well-decorated and personalized shops in Portland I have to say that outlet shopping is not my favourite way to shop. I did however come away with two pairs of badly needed shoes, so no complaints.

Portland Glimpse.

2010-05-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

My first trip to Portland was Summer 2008. I went with my friend Connor and it was a great trip. She inspired me with her interest in the telephone poles layered in posters. Two years later and the poles are still there and still surprisingly stunning in their layers of decay. Tomorrow I will share more Portland Weekend details with you.

Swing necklace.

2010-05-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Swinging Necklace by Toby Jones.

Sketchbook Bags.

2010-05-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

With my old brown bag on the verge of retirement I have been shopping around for a replacement. I really like the bags by Sketchbook Bags. Particularly this 'explorer' bag.

Cedar Pillow.

2010-05-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

It looks so real.

Flag Necklace.

2010-05-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

I really love the effect of these leather flag necklaces Scout Holiday. It is like bunting you can wear!

Links of Note.

2010-05-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hello and goodbye to week number two of May! Aren't those flowers pretty? Brendan was nice and surprised me with them yesterday. What a guy. Today I am off to one of my favourite places, Portland, OR! I am looking forward to shopping and eating maple bacon donuts! I will be sure to post about it when I return. Next weekend I'm going to have a little bake sale at one of the monthly markets so if you have any suggestions for tasty treats to make, do let me know. Otherwise, I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and here are some links I thought you all might like.

First off you should all visit Ann's blog to enter her giveaway for a piece of her art. Ann is one of our sponsor's here (A Beautiful Party) and her work is lovely.

You will get a giggle out of these unicorn cupcakes.

I have to say, thank goodness Nautical is back. Love this curation of sea-inspired garments.

Vegan lip balm with a fun name and stay-put design.

Yum. I think I'll have some of these for dinner.

A great idea for placecards and table decor -- wheatgrass.

A chocolate dress!

Gorgeous bird cage.

Anabela's enviable trip to Chicago.

I may try this cat bowl for Marty.

I wouldn't mind sporting this on a certain significant finger.

Decorations for your man-lodge inspired room.

I'm considering some pretty sugar cookies for the bake sale!

Young Hipsters.

The purely paper flower shop.

Very pretty necklaces.

Love the plus-size models in this French Marie Claire Spread.

Phew! That was a lot this week. Keep up the great work everyone!

Oustanding in the Field.

2010-05-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Outstanding in the Field? They are self described as a 'roving culinary adventure -- literally a restaurant without walls'. Guests are taken on a tour of a farm, garden, islands, ranches or even sea caves and then served a meal created from almost all local ingredients prepared by a chef from the region while seated at a long (and I mean long) table. The mission is to re-connect diners with the origins of the food they eat and to honor local farmers and food artisans who cultivate it. They are currently selling seats for their North American Tour including a meal at UBC Farm here in Vancouver in July. Very cool!

Oh Macrame.

2010-05-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

After a recent chat with my new friend Galit she reminded me of this incredible macrame work she did for Aritzia last year. I think she's done a lovely job breathing new life into an old craft.

Monochrome Weaves.

2010-05-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

1. Bag 2. Chair 3. Rug 4. Cardigan

Marty likes: Dream Cats.

2010-05-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

I stopped doing my 'Marty likes' posts a few months ago as I thought I was verging on 'crazy lady who spends too much time with her cat' territory. But how can one resist? I feel supported in my habit by Anabela's new tumblr called Dream Cats. I'm sure I will have quite the time picking a shot of Marty to submit.

Hey I like you: Ming Makes Cupcakes.

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

Here is yet another cupcake website, Ming Makes Cupcakes, that makes my mouth water. I love the simplicity of the layout and the up-close and personal photographs. I will definitely have flourless beet chocolate cupcakes!

Steve Alan for Keds.

2010-05-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't mind getting my hands on a pair of these Steve Alan Keds.

How to make a zipper pouch.

2010-05-12T06:00:00.001-07:00

Hey! If you're interested in learning how to make a pouch with a zipper, head on over to Lauren's blog for my guest post and tutorial!