Artshus by Violet

Oh la la ~ Macaroons

2011-12-29T14:58:00.001+10:30

"A worldwide symbol of dainty indulgence, the macaroon seduces tastebuds and practically invites itself onto our plates"

Jose Marechal

Classic Macaroons ~ how delicious!

Recipe

An Artistic Array

It has been said that like a frothy Chanel frock, a macaroon is a work of art.

In every respect this almond based sweet is a metaphor for the esteemed principles of couture: they’re gorgeous, delicious and exclusive, which explains why the macaroon is perceived as the ultimate style icon of the culinary world.

Pastel Delicious

Scrumdiddleyumptious!

Belle Petit Fleur ~ Artist of the Month

2011-03-05T14:26:00.000+10:30

ALEX CARMAN

BELLE PETIT FLEUR

A stay-at-home mum, who likes to spend what little spare time she has

creating delectable jewelry guaranteed to inspire and delight!

APRICOT FLEUR HEADBAND

I highly recommend these items from Alex ~ they make wonderful gifts for any age!

I purchased some myself recently and they are VERY reasonably priced,

beautifully made

and look stunning on ~ quite vintage looking!

Check them out at Belle Petit Fleur

ROMANCE BOBBY TRIO

CRYSANTHEMUM VINTAGE EAR CANDY

Items can also be purchased at the Fullarton Plant & Craft Market (SA only)

on the 4th Saturday of every month.

See website for details: http://www.fullartonmarket.com.au/.

The Band Perry - If I Die Young

2011-02-02T21:17:00.002+10:30

I absolutely love this band and this song ~ fantastic ~ just have to buy this Album!

Lyrics

If I die young bury me in satin

Lay me down on a bed of roses

Sink me in the river at dawn
Send me away with the words of a love song

oh oh oh oh

Lord make me a rainbow, I’ll shine down on my mother

She'll know I’m safe with you when she stands under my colors, oh and

Life ain't always what you think it ought to be, no

ain't even grey, but she buries her baby

The sharp knife of a short life, well

I’ve had just enough time

If I die young bury me in satin

Lay me down on a bed of roses

Sink me in the river at dawn

Send me away with the words of a love song

The sharp knife of a short life, well

I’ve had just enough time

And I’ll be wearing white when I come into your kingdom

I’m as green as the ring on my little cold finger

I’ve never known the lovin' of a man

But it sure felt nice when he was holding my hand

There’s a boy here in town says he’ll love me forever

Who would have thought forever could be severed by

The sharp knife of a short life, well

I’ve had just enough time

So put on your best boys and I’ll wear my pearls

What I never did is done

A penny for my thoughts, oh no I’ll sell them for a dollar

They're worth so much more after I’m a goner

And maybe then you’ll hear the words I been singin’

Funny when you're dead how people start listenin’

If I die young bury me in satin

Lay me down on a bed of roses

Sink me in the river at dawn

Send me away with the words of a love song

oh oh

The ballad of a dove

Go with peace and love

Gather up your tears, keep ‘em in your pocket

Save them for a time when your really gonna need 'em oh

The sharp knife of a short life, well

I’ve had just enough time

So put on your best boys and I’ll wear my pearls

Showcasing Handpainted Rubie Dubie Designs

2011-01-26T18:53:00.002+10:30

These darling little dresses have just been listed on my Etsy store - Rubie Dubie Designs

I will be continuing to paint many funky floral designsfor the little princess in your life.

They are made with excellent quality fabrics and custom painted

with the most delicious flowers and other unique designs.

They are sold at the very reasonable amount of $45 plus postage.

If you would like a custom design please email me at karengrant@writeme.com

and I will create one especially for you.

Lazy Daisy

Alexandra Bear

Roses Roses

Iris

Handpainted Childrens' Aprons

Bec Clarke Creations

2010-12-27T10:49:00.000+10:30

This weeks featured artist is

Bec Clarke.

Bec hails from Tumbarumba in NSW, Australia

her Etsy is

Bec Clarke Creations

Bec sells delightful items in her Etsy shop,

including these wonderful little patterns

or these wonderful fat quarters!

what are you waiting for....go, take a look!

ALIHSEE BLOGSPOT

2010-09-14T08:48:00.001+09:30

Make sure you check out this beautiful Bloggy by

Alexandra Carman

http://alihsee.blogspot.com/

Alex rewards her bloggy readers by offering beautiful GIVEAWAYS

Don't miss out ~ become a follower today ~

for the opportunity of reading many interesting posts and taking part in

her GIVEAWAYS.

WHITE CHOCOLATE LEMON MYRTLE CHEESECAKE

2010-09-14T08:32:00.001+09:30

My SCRUMDIDDLIUMCIOUS

White Chocolate Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake

will soon be included in a cookbook published by Pacific Magazines

along with many other wonderful 'reader' recipes.

SOOOO EXCITED!!

I'll let you know when and where you can

put your hands on a copy as soon as it is on the shelf.

Rubie Dubie Designs

2010-09-06T12:16:00.001+09:30

My NEW SHOP!

featuring

Childrens clothing, Shu Shus and Accessories ~ Handmade in Australia from quality Vintage and New fabric.

EENSY WEENSY DESIGNS

2010-07-20T14:11:00.001+09:30

GIVEAWAY!!!

Be the first customer at

EENSY WEENSY DESIGNS

by Alex Carman

http://eensyweensydesigns.etsy.com/

and you will have the blessing of choosing from these lovely giveaway items

~ you will also need to leave a comment on this post and let me know which of her items you love the best ~

A set of 6 Beautiful Butterfly Sillouette Cards

A set of 6 Awesome Cupcake Cards

HANDPAINTED SHOES

2010-07-10T17:07:00.000+09:30

GORGUS! GORGUS! GORGUS!

I painted these today and will be listing them in my ARTSHUSHUS shop on Etsy

http://www.artshus.etsy.com/

TWINS by Karen Grant

A beautiful Sepia tone design on Antique White background.

They are handpainted using quality Australian made and owned Archival Acrylics

onto 100% cotton, comfy slip-ons.

Only One of a Kind designs - not repeated!

They are works of Art

and a unique 'Fashion Statement'

Email me if you are interested in having unique

designer handpainted Artshus.

karengrant@writeme.com

BE`BE GOOGOO

2010-06-22T12:43:00.001+09:30

TAKE A LOOK

at my latest creations at

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BebeGoogoo

A unique treasury where you will find my original designs,
handmade cards, notelets and signed 'Limited Edition' artworks.

BE`BE GOOGOO

2010-06-20T11:26:00.001+09:30

Welcome to my newest creation ~ BE`BE GOOGOO

GORGUS handmade Baby Thankyou cards featuring unique

Vintage baby designs.

These beautiful little note cards are perfect to give to a new mum as a unique gift ~ it will be a real blessing for her not to have to spend precious time in purchasing a thankyou note in response to baby gifts.

The little feet and vintage baby designs are individually cut and applied to each card.

Each card is printed using archival ink onto acid free card with a separate sheet

of quality fine paper insert for a message.

The set consists of 3 of each design and include their own little envelope for giving,

packed neatly into a cellophane bag.

They are priced at $10 USD and shipped free to you ~
PAYMENT may be made through PAYPAL
email karengrant@writeme.com

SHOES TO LIVE FOR!

2010-04-16T21:17:00.002+09:30

I would love a pair of these classy SHU SHUS!

Is there anyone out there who can tell me where I can get the PRECIOUS??

This picture is courtesy of April In Paris Shoe Boutique

They have sold out!

Woe is me :(

Shoes Glorious Shoes

2010-04-16T16:43:00.000+09:30

GORGUS! GORGUS! GORGUS!

painted for my pleasure and yours onto archival quality canvas ~ perfect displayed together in black frames ~ the makings of a trendy, chicky different Art Ensemble

OH SO GLAMOROUS

look for them under Artshus or Decorative Delights

Don't you just love Vintage Shoes?

These two are right up there in the 'fave' category for me

What about this GORGUS Polkadot Vintage??

she wants the 'precious'

WINTER RED

2010-04-13T08:19:00.001+09:30

I found the dress of my 'Winter Dreams'.

Is there anyone out there who has this dress

and would like to share it with me??

Perhaps you sew and would like to make me one?

GONE CUPCAKE MAD!

2010-04-08T08:28:00.001+09:30

I can't resist painting them ~ they're sooooo DELICIOUS!

ROSEY CUPCAKES

2010-04-03T22:24:00.002+10:30

MORE CUPCAKE YUMNESS

I know ~ you just want to eat them ~ right?

Aren't they just DELICIOUS?

I painted these yesterday and

think I will frame them

what do you think?

AUSSIE ETSIANS and BLOGGERS

2010-03-31T09:09:00.004+10:30

Aussie Weekly Showcase

Want your creations showcased?

Post your details here

for your Etsy shop and Bloggy

and I will showcase three per week on the
WEEKLY AUSSIE ETSIANS SHOWCASE
(link above)

The showcase will change each Friday evening

and I will notify you when yours is up!

SPREAD THE LUUUVE

NURSERY PAINTINGS

2010-03-31T09:08:00.002+10:30

FOR ALEX AND TIM

Paintings for my wonderful Grandchildren

This is Elwood

This is Byron and Pip

Meet Zachary

and this is Ziggy

FOR REGAN AND JONATHAN

This is Lambly and Ryder

I have more ~ as soon as I can figure out how

to get them off my phone and onto the computer

I will post them also.

Handmade Artist Forum ~ Artist of the Week

2010-03-31T09:08:00.000+10:30

It's Me!! It's Me!! It's Me!!

Many of the wonderful artisans on the
Handmade Artist Forum

have included my Artshus by Violet blog
on their blog this week.

I am overwhelmed that I have been chosen

for this gracious gift and have been humbled

by many of the beautiful comments

about my artwork and bloggy.

Here are just some of the posts they have written

http://lisianblue.blogspot.com/2010/03/haf-blog-ring-featured-artist-artshus.html
http://jewelrybynala.blogspot.com/
http://www.redfoxjewelry.com/blog/?p=234

MONTHLY GIMMEE - Purple Butterfly Tags

2010-03-31T09:07:00.000+10:30

MARCH GIMMEE

Handmade Artist Forum ~ Artist of the Week

2010-02-15T15:39:00.000+10:30

RED FOX JEWELLERY

From tractor trailor driver to jewellery artisan ~ oohwah!

This artisan hails from Arlington, Texas

and her creativity focus includes GORGUS pieces of jewellery

showing off a variety of styles

including chain maille, beading, and wire wrapping.

She loves to create something catchy and unique

for her customers and has achieved this quite obviously

in her delightful and unique pieces of jewellery.

Red Fox has a display of her unique pieces
on Etsy ~ http://www.etsy.com/shop/redfoxjewelry

got unique taste and looking for one of a kind?
Then you had better take a look!!!

WEEKLY ARTISAN SHOWCASE ~THREE AUSSIE ETSIANS

2010-02-12T15:41:00.004+10:30

TWO CHEEKY MONKEYS

Deb is based in Melbourne, Victoria

and is the artist behind these

wonderful jewellery designs.

This GORGUS little bracelet is oh so sweet!

Deb is an ex-research scientist
and a stay at home mother who

LOVES crafting of all sorts,
especially jewellery making,
sewing and papercrafting.

IN HER OWN WORDS

I believe I have been very blessed to have the life and lifestyle that I live.

Therefore, 10% of profits from my sales
are donated to Tear Australia,
a Christian aid and advocacy organisation
helping people in developing countries
http://www.tear.org.au/

Debs' creations are not only STUNNING
but are also very reasonably priced.

One of the most admirable things in an artisan
is that they are very willing to accomodate
your personal preferences for colour ~

Deb is no exception

~ you will be very blessed when you
have a look at her work on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/dspdavey

REDEEM DESIGNS

put a little love in your ART

Vick dwells on the Gold Coast in Queensland

and is the artisan behind this collection of

AWESOME up-cycled creations.

After reading her profile on Etsy

I believe we might be kindred spirits both in an
earthly sense and a heavenly sense :) YAY!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/redeemdesigns

She loves to take new, repurposed
and recycled materials
to make individual and unique
fashion accessories,
paper goods and etceteras

Vickies shop has a dual purpose ~

a significant portion of sales from redeem designs

goes toward supporting and encouraging
micro enterprise endeavours

for at risk people groups
(particularly women and children)
in developing countries.

Why not support Vicki

in giving honour and value to their lives by visiting her Etsy ~ You'll be blessed!

BUBBAMIA Fabrics

a little piece of Heaven!

based in glorious Tasmania ~
affectionately known as

Down Under Down Under

Visit this wonderful shop to find A GORGUS collection of the

most amazing fabrics to suit all your craft and sewing needs.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bubbamia

Most fabrics are available by the 1/2 yard & yard
If you would like bigger cuts

the owner is happy to do up custom orders for
anything you may like including 1/4 yard cuts

Artshu Watches

2010-02-11T08:33:00.017+10:30

GORGUS!! The perfect thing for the fashionista ~ don't you think?

I really enjoy painting these iddy biddy shu shus for the shu shu girl who simply

can't just wear them on her feet!

$45 plus postage

~ interested?

email a picture of your favourite pair of shoes

artshus@bigpond.com

Tote Giveaway

2010-02-01T15:23:00.002+10:30

One BLESSED person from Canada or the USA who leaves a comment on this bag will actually have it sent to your mailbox - NO KIDDING!!

No Gimmick - just leave a comment and let me know what you think or why you would like to win it and it could be yours.

Giveaway offer finishes on February 14

THE WINNER IS......Bcteagirl

AUSSIE ETSIANS

2010-01-28T12:11:00.002+10:30

My lovely daughter Alex introduced me to Etsy just under a year ago. My kids would often say "you oughta open a shop mum!"

http://www.decorativedelights.com/

I laugh out loud when I watch the iconic Aussie movie "The Castle" which has this exact line in it! Do all Aussie kids say this to their arty crafty mums?

Aussies are amazingly talented in every way and Etsy is enhanced by the numerous Aussies that display their wares ~ I will be dedicating a post to two Aussie Etsians weekly where a brief profile and display of their creative talent will be highlighted for all to see.

Any Aussies who sell on Etsy can feel free to leave a comment and their etsy or blog addy and I will choose three each week to showcase from Friday to Friday as well as add to a blog roll over time.

Rosey Pink Marshmallows

2010-01-15T16:18:00.005+10:30

YUM! I made these today for my darling hubby and my friends at work.

I took a batch of these to work for a friend to take home yesterday and my other work collegues felt a little left out, so I decided to make some Rose flavoured Pink delights to share tomorrow.

White Chocolate Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake ~ AWESOME YUMness!

2010-01-12T15:54:00.010+10:30

This is my latest creation!

You simply must make this and try it ~ it is really and truly 'to die for' YUM

You can find the recipe through

Culinary Delights bloggy.

Let me know what you think!

Paris Inspired

2010-01-07T08:54:00.005+10:30

I have created two GORGUS little notebooks and although it will be hard to part with my lovely creations, I will be offering one as a FREEBIE for the month of FEBRUARY.

The design has been printed using archival ink onto quality canvas and hand sewn into a small notebook for your ramblings about anything and everything.

Your name will go into the draw for the rest of this month until the end of February, when the winner will be notified by email. The 'runner-up' will receive the lovely Paris Luggage Tag above.
Why not bless others and let them know!!

PAPER ROSES

2010-01-06T11:17:00.003+10:30

Do you remember that song Paper Roses ~ I think it was by Marie Osmond (not sure), well here is one I created before Christmas (actually, I made a couple).

I used it to decorate a gift for our clever secretary at the nurses station where I work. I gave her one of my Artshu bags for Christmas to cheer her, but I think she was more blessed by the Paper Rose that adorned the wrapped gift! Go figure!

HAT BOX COLLECTICS

2010-01-05T11:42:00.003+10:30

Many of these hat boxes and cases have been sourced through Garage Sales and Markets in Hobart and Sydney over a few years ~ always on the lookout!

Some I have handpainted ~ not the antique ones!

Don't be alarmed ~ these two are paper mache`

New Year Gimmee

2010-01-02T10:19:00.004+10:30

Gorgus Embossed hand cut Paris Accent Gift Tags ~ A Personal and Feminine Touch to Gift Giving

A beautiful set of 6 Paris Fashion Gift Tags to giveaway! GORGUS, embossed tags backed with an extra piece of textured card for your message.
Once used they can then be recycled and used again! Perfect for that special gift or a gift in themselves.

The Glamour Shoes of Days Gone By

2009-12-15T09:05:00.011+10:30

I have been inspired by a Shoe Calendar my wonderful husband gave me in 2009 to include some of my favourite selections to bless you. Don't you just love the creativity of mankind in producing such works of art?

Wedding shoe adorned with rozettes,

Belen Donate, 1986

Black silk court shoe with feathers and beaded embroidery, 1920

Beaded and buttoned slipper, Spain, 1880

"Passion" suede and feather mule, Nuria Perez, 1991

Quilted Silk slipper, Spain, 1880

Marc Jacobs Lookalikes

2009-12-09T11:12:00.002+10:30

I deliberately left the canvas clean for these impressive copies of an original Marc Jacob open toe pump.

I am looking to purchase a pair of the black design in my size (9), but cannot find them anywhere ~ how will I cope without the precious?

Chick Flicks ~ my opinion

2009-12-08T18:20:00.000+10:30

Lost in Austen is just one of my many much loved and well played Chick Flicks. My opinion probably only really matters to me, but if you're interested - what are you waiting for?

Vintage Avon Beauty Dust Bowls

2009-12-08T18:05:00.002+10:30

I admit it! I am a bowerbird for Vintage Avon Beauty Dust Bowls.

Aren't they GORGUS?
Some of these wonderful collectics actually have the powder in them un-opened, others are empty with only the semblance of beauty dust perfume left as a reminder of what used to be.
I have tried to remain true to the created year of each while pleading 'human' for any boo boos I have made.

A FREEBIE for December ~ A set of nine handmade Christmas Tags

2009-12-07T14:19:00.008+10:30

Be the 1st to join my blog in December and leave a comment and you will receive nine beautifully embossed, handmade Christmas Gift Tags plus a suprise gift!

The Gimmee Winner for November is...

2009-12-06T17:32:00.036+10:30

Alishee from Adelaide, Australia.

A beautiful set of handpainted Violet Gift Tags go to Alex for being the first to join my blog and the most

interesting comment for November.

Hmmm, Back to Creating then...

2009-11-19T08:52:00.006+10:30

It's been a little while since I have been able to see the bottom of my creating table in its own special and according to my hubby ~ 'scary' room.

A famous film quote comes to mind ..."they're baaaack"

I have also experienced ~ flow does follow ebb, your inspiration will find you again, it whispers in your ear and softly knocks on the door to your heart, until you answer...

I'm painting a trio of this shoe onto canvas and will post a picture when it is done ~ I just can't help myself ~ I love painting SHOES!!!

Magnolias

2009-11-12T09:42:00.007+10:30

Just a few of the beautiful Magnolias I have painted ~ ENJOY!

CHOCOLATE MAGNOLIAS

not for eating though :)

a couple of my very first

'Magnolia Soulangiana'

Horse Play

2009-11-12T08:51:00.005+10:30

98, 99, 100 ~

"Coming, ready or not!"

A horse walks into a bar and the bartender says "Why the long face?"

Now you know why!

Seriously though ~ stop horsin' around and join my blog!

Cook With Me

2009-11-10T17:33:00.012+10:30

Apricot Dacquoise

4 Egg Whites

Pinch of Cream of Tartar

1 Cup plus 1-2 tablespoons Caster Sugar
1 100gr packet of Hazelnut Meal
200gr Dried Apricots
1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
1 ¼ cups Thickened Cream
1 teaspoon Vanilla Essence
Chocolate for decoration

Method

1. PRE-HEAT oven to 160C. Line 2 oven trays with Baking Paper.

2. Place the egg whites and cream of tartar in a dry bowl and beat until firm peaks form.

3. Gradually add 1 cup caster sugar, beating until thick and glossy.

4. Fold the hazelnut meal through and spread onto trays in a 2 heaped circles.

5. Bake for 40 minutes or until crisp and then turn off the oven and cool the meringues with the door open slightly.

6. Place the chopped apricots into a small microwave dish and cover with water. When they are soft enough to mash add the lemon juice and the extra caster sugar.

7. Remove the baking paper from each meringue and place one onto a serving plate.

8. Beat the cream and vanilla essence until thick and spread over one meringue layer . Add ¾ of the apricot and then sandwich the other layer on top.

9. Spread more cream on the top and decorate with the remaining apricot and grated or curled chocolate.

How Beautiful

2009-11-10T09:51:00.003+10:30

Could not resist stealing this amazing decorative shoe from

A Gift Wrapped Life ~ what do you think? Ooh la la? or GORGUS?

Proud of This

2009-11-06T18:57:00.012+10:30

"Remember the Moments "

Alex is a 20-something-newlywed, Christ-follower type of girl. One of her greatest passions in life is to sing & glorify her Maker.
A full time wife & office Secretary, she loves spending time chatting with her friends over a cup of coffee. Reading is a must & blogging gets very addictive. Everyday is a challenge to be more Christ-like. There are many struggles but she knows that "she can do all things through Christ, who gives her strength."

What is the title of, and where can we find your blog?
My blog is called Remember the Moments.

What is the topic or topics that you find yourself writing about the most?
My blog is a space where I feel I can write about almost anything. I do, however, tend to visit my favourite meme's: "Word-filled Wednesday" and "Thankful Thursday" so most of my entries center around God! I have also put a few recipes up that I think have worked well. Basically... just life!
What or who prompted you to start blogging, and when did you launch your site?
What young girl doesn't like writing in her diary or journal? I started blogging in my early teens, mostly just to hear myself think! Since then, I realise that it can be used to encourage others, worship God & keep those of my friends that don't see me all the time, updated on my every day life.
Are there any other women that you've connected with through blogging?
I have my "regulars" that I love to visit! I love browsing random blogs - its a great way to find encouragement and to see that I'm not alone in most of the issues in life! There are so many ladies (and a few men) out there with some real pearls of wisdom!
How much thought and time do you generally put into each post?
I am not one for random entries that talk about not much at all! I like to think about what it is I want to say, and then say it! Sometimes this holds me back from blogging as I feel like I sometimes can't/don't want to share what has been going on in my life (thus why I do a lot of meme's!)
Are there any other websites or blogs that you write for?
Not currently - could be something interesting to try!
What are some of your hobbies or accomplishments outside of blogging?
My greatest accomplishment is having Christ in my life, next would be getting married! I absolutely love singing; it is one of my great passions in life. To find a way to use this (besides singing in church) for Christ is one of my greatest ambitions. My favorite, all time thing to do is to curl up in bed with a book. I do a little bit of scrapbooking & crafty stuff, when I can find the time. I also help run a kids club, which has predominantly new African arrivals into Australia - it can be quite an experience!!
What struggle if any have you experienced with keeping your blog up?
As highlighted above, sometimes I have so much in my head that is going on but feel I am unable to share it, maybe for fear of judgement or people not understanding. There is also the issue of a hectic schedule that doesn't permit much time for computer, outside of work!
What are some of your favorite blogs?
I love:
South East Country Wife; Wifely Steps; And heaps more!
Can you leave us with a Bible verse that God has placed on your heart?
A verse that I have always remembered from Hebrews 13:5b-6: "...be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
Visit Alex's blog: Remember the Moments

Remember the Moments

2009-11-05T10:47:00.001+10:30

a truly inspiring blog ~ thats my girl!

The Lion of Judah

2009-07-06T17:02:00.023+09:30

Don't you just love him?

He reminds me of Jesus where the Scriptures speak of Him in Revelation chapter 5 verse 5

"Behold the lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome..."

2009-07-01T08:29:00.014+09:30

A William Morris quote for all you bloggy arties

"The past is not dead, it is living in us, and will be alive in the future which we are now helping to make".

The Great Big Foot

2009-06-19T08:59:00.008+09:30

My darling sister worked for a time in a shoe store in Cairns and came to realize that many women were limited in their choice of shoe due to having a larger than average foot size.
She did what any thoughtful person would do and opened a shoe store to cater for these larger sized feet.

Now when women need stylish and feminine shoes to suit them for weddings etc. they go to her shop in Cairns where they can find the most amazing range to suit them or she will even have special shoes made for them individually.
Tess was nominated and was runner-up for the New Business Woman of the Year Award last year - well done sis!