GizeCRAFT

DIY Leather Agendas 2012 at Megabox

2011-12-14T13:19:00.001Z

If you happen to be in Hong Kong, which is one of the best place for shopping...

Go to MegaBox, a big shopping mall at Kowloon Bay with lots of great gifts for the season!

At HKID Gallery, you will see DIY products made by local artists as well as my Handmade Leather Agendas 2012.

They make great gifts for Christmas and New Year's. The agendas are created using real leather in various colors. Inside you will see Monthly and Weekly agendas besides some colorful papers for writing notes.

There is some handstitched and chinese bookbinding style in each agenda.

In each of this special agenda, there is also a paper holder for storing cards, notes or anything light!

These agendas were created to get the New Year 2012 well organized!

Hope you love them too. :0)

DIY Leather Agendas 2012

2011-12-03T17:01:00.001Z

The new collection of Agendas 2012 is finally completed.

For this time, I have decided that they had to be colorful and with a different style.

There has to be some fun in your everyday life! So wouldnt it be nice to carry a cute colorful agenda in your bag to drop down notes or reminders for the new year!

These agendas are sewed up in chinese binding style. As you can notice, I have also hand stitched to keep the agenda beautifully closed.

These real leather agendas will be for sale in Hong Kong only at MegaBox shopping mall in Kowloon Bay.

Should you wish to purchase one of them, you can order by email (limited collection!)

My working studio

2011-10-23T12:59:00.000+01:00

Working space is very important because you need to be able to work, think and create!

Sometimes, it is so nice to just spend the whole day inside my studio and work on my projects.

Today, I will let you take a glimpse ...

At the moment, I am working on the Leather agendas 2012.

I will be using real leather and chinese bookbinding stiches. Besides, it will be different from last year agendas which got sold out very fast in Hong Kong. :0)))

Therefore, I have decided to create some lovely and cute design for 2012. I want to let the owner of these agendas have a feeling of great joy for the new year!

Coffee anyone?

2011-10-03T16:00:00.000+01:00

I needed some coffee cups. I thought to myself, what better than having a nice expresso coffee using cute cups made by me!

Here is a set of 4 little coffee cups!

They make great presents for coffee lovers!

Something else being created!

2011-09-22T16:21:00.001+01:00

I have been creating various things and filling my mind with ideas.

I handmade this phone cover using the brown real leather.

I was really happy with the outcome.

Every time, I look at these beautiful leather, I love the scent and start thinking what I can create.

All of these leathers are from Portugal and I had to find a way to get some here in China.

Therefore, I went to Guangzhou to the leather market and they had just about anything.

These are the leathers that I bought and I cant wait to go there again. Lucky me being so close to Guangzhou!

I had a great time walking and looking around. They do have anything that you can think of. They have supplies of all the materials that you need to create things.

I missed my bookbinding art. Therefore, I went back to creating leather journals. This journal is very well organized with forms that you can write down your own informations on the first page.

As you can see, on the last page is an envelope to hold some of your important small papers or anything that you think you might want to get back to!

This is a DIY wallet that I have also created:

And last but not the least, I created a passport holder:

Ceramic and bookbinding

2011-09-18T14:31:00.001+01:00

Creating is already part of my life. I enjoy so much because I get to focus on what I want to create, think of the colors and patterns....and forget about the rest of the world!!!

This foto was taken during my pottery classes. It does seem easy but not if you are trying for the first time. But then with time, you just enjoy, even though it takes a lot of patience and time.

I have been creating some little tea cups with patterns on them.

This foto was taken in my pottery school and you can see works of lots of the students there. Some of them are very professional already!

These are the little tea cups that I have created using bronze colors matching with white color!

Since I have been working on bookbinding, I wanted to create something unique. Therefore, I have been talking to my dear friend who is an artistic herself and she gave me an idea....she told me, since I am creating various things, why dont I apply them together and create something of my own!!!

Therefore, I decided to make some experience with ceramic by applying some patterns to them. Here you can see them in different colors and patterns. Now, I need to design how to put them on my bookbinding Journals. I already have some slight ideas.....you will just have to wait and see!!! :0)

A gift for myself

2011-08-13T17:40:00.000+01:00

Since I have been hooked on this new hobby, I decided that I needed to practise more. Therefore, I decided that it was time to make something special that I can use everyday!

First, I cut out the right measurements and design the style that I like.

Then I put them all together to start sewing.....

I enjoyed handstitching this wallet because the leather that I used is soft and beautiful.

Completed!

Room for more improvements.....yeah!

DIY Items

2011-08-07T06:35:00.004+01:00

Going to Hong Kong is always a lot of fun.

I headed to Leatherism in Hong Kong and Michael was really nice and friendly and his shop is filled with lots of beautiful handmade items!!!

I was so happy to manage to get my equipments.

Therefore, it was time to start creating things and practising this work of art!
Working with leather is not easy and just like any other art, needs a lot of practise, patience and studying!

My creations:

A mix of sheepskin leather with pigskin leather that I have created a cute pinkish-bordeau wallet for a friend.

Brown leather that makes a nice key holder for my brother.

What I love about this leather is the worn out style that makes it look amazing nice.

The last and not the least, I had to make myself a phone cover! The leather is really soft and nice to hold.

DIY wallet

2011-07-26T17:06:00.000+01:00

Decided to make a nice wallet using the lovely leather that I have gathered in my workshop.

This wallet is for a special person and she chosed a style which seem rather difficult at first sight.

Therefore, I got all the sample papers ready to cut out the leather pieces by shape.

Afterwards, I had to concentrate on how I would sew them up by parts.

The sewing part is the most fun because it is hand sewed and you can create designs on them.

Then I put all the parts together and it was completed!

Weekend creativity!

2011-07-10T05:25:00.007+01:00

Having some good books for reference is very important.

There are lots of good ideas to give it a try and experience.

Which is exactly, what I have been doing!

This is my new workplace which is very big and just enough for all my creativity, either working with fabrics, bookbinding, leather making and ceramic!!

I am very happy to be able to come home and enter my world and create!

"Doing what you love and enjoy is the best thing in life"

As you can see this is under working process...I have all the leather pieces cut in the correct measures. Now I need to make the holes and then stitch them using the purple thread.

I think this pink pigskin wallet will look nice with the chosen thread. Giving it a girlish and fun match.

This is a small cute real leather bag that I handstitched for my niece!

She loved it!

Finally, I just had to make something with my sewing machine....so I made this purple summer bag for myself for the lovely hot humid summer here!

Have a great summer!

Hope you like them! :0)

Lotus Flower

2011-06-26T05:22:00.001+01:00

Nothing is more beautiful than walking in a big garden surrounded by lovely lotus flowers with their fragrance spreading with the wind!

I have been experimenting with my creativity. There is so much to learn and still so much to do!

The effort is fun and takes time but I am getting there and will post my new works soon!

Creativity leads to happiness!

2011-04-24T14:50:00.003+01:00

A lovely view outside my varanda...

I have been creating and haven't had time to post them!

So, I would love to share with you what I have been doing lately...

With Iphones been in fashion and almost everyone is having one nowadays, I decided to use my beautiful sheepskin leather and created this handsewn iphone case!

I matched Bordeaux with dark brown to give it a nice modern and at the same time elegant style!

A palm-size card holder that helps to organize important things and can be tuck inside your bag.

Besides, I have been creating some exotic ceramic!

I love the white color and how it matches so well with so many other colors.

I have also been getting use with my new sewing machine...

A cute heart bag for a cute girl!

So there goes some of the little things that I have been occupied with and that makes me happy to share with you!

Happy Easter! :0)

Artist Journal

2011-03-15T13:12:00.002Z

After careful organizing and thinking, my first project on Artist Journal is completed!

These Journals are for specific writings. The first is for Photographers/Writers. This journal is separated by three parts.

The first is for Notes to Ponder.... There are some white unlined papers followed by lined papers for easy writing and dropping notes with sketches.

At the end of the underlined paper is a black envelope that can be used to hold notes, ideas, papers, etc.

After the black envelope there are some white papers which ends with a black cardpaper.

Next is the second part for Inside contains....Here you will find acid free paper for your photos negatives, small photos, etc.

At the end is again a black cardpaper.

Now is the third part for Don't forget.....Here you will find dated pages so that you can plan ahead what you need to do. Besides, you can write down things that you have to remember. You will be amazed how the dates can be of great help!

At the end is a recycled newpaper envelope with nice photography snaps on them. Here you can hold anything light regarding photos or writings!

This Artist Journal is created for any artist who can hold the journal with everything carefully thought for them.

Soon, there will be more journals for other artist such as, painters, musicians, journey writers, culinary writers, etc...anything that helps them to get their work organized and get inspired!

Gizecraft DIY Journals at K11 Art Mall

2011-02-27T14:40:00.004Z

During my visit to Hong Kong to deliver my ready for sale Journals at K11 Art Mall, I managed to take some photos of displays of my work.

Besides, I also took some time to take a look at so many beautiful DIY (do it yourself) products created by so many talented artist!

Everyone's creation is so unique and each product is carefully thought for someone special to own and treasure.

These lovely leather journals have been created using real leather and can also be purchased at K11:

Colors: Green/Bordeaux/Brown/Black
Inside are underlined papers for easy writing!

Holiday Crafting Surprises!!!

2011-02-06T12:42:00.002Z

During these couple of holidays, I decided to do my daily researches and get materials for my craft!

I happened to find a nice book about "Making of Leather wallet"!

Right away, my mind was filled with ideas using the lovely leather that I still have from Portugal.

So, I made up my mind to give it a try and here they are:

Iphone bag for someone special!

I never thought I could actually make a handmade wallet!

Yeah...creativty is addictive! hahahha

Now, practise makes perfect!

Seems like I found myself, one more hobby lol!

Project Book

2011-02-06T12:31:00.001Z

My project book is created in a different style from the previous books. This one is very special and created for organizing my thoughts.

As you can see, on the cover there is a small lined paper, so that I can write what this books is going to be about.

The material I have used makes it look roughly antique! That is what I love about it!

New Books on their way.....

2011-01-31T15:47:00.003Z

These are some of the books that you will see in Hong Kong K11!

With the Chinese New Year coming, I decided to work with red, dark pink, black fabrics and papers.

Besides, I have been requested to make some cute cover books and I really enjoyed creating them.

I invite you to shop at K11 Art Mall if you want to buy yourself or loved ones, something unique and created especially for you!

A glimpse inside my creative world

2011-01-05T14:58:00.002Z

Creating things keeps my mind at ease and makes me happy!

After having completed my Journals for sale in Hong Kong, I decided to focus in my other hobbies.

I was so happy to be able to continue my ceramic lessons and this time, I started pottery-wheel classes.

Here they are:

The joy of using something created by yourself is simply beautiful. Even the tea taste so much better!

Let me get some hot Japanese rice tea..hmmmmmmm!

Announcement!!!

2010-12-20T08:16:00.006Z

Now these handmade items made by me with lots of love and care can be bought in Hong Kong at K11 Art Mall!

The K11 Art Mall is the first Art Mall in Asia.

Please do go there to visit, you will be amazed at seeing so many beautiful handmade items; jewellery, bags, my books, iphone covers, etc!!! Who doesn't love Hong Kong right!

You might get yourself a nice present too.

I am so happy to be able to display my items:

- Chinese Agenda 2011
- Leather Agenda 2011
- Chinese Silk Journal
- Portuguese Cork Book

So what are you waiting for, go and start shopping for Christmas and New Year 2011!!!

Happy holidays! :0)

Another collection for New Year 2011

2010-12-08T14:47:00.004Z

Keeping an agenda for the New Year can be very convenient and personal.

Sometimes, we have so many things to remember but seem to forget, so the best way is to write them down on a lovely personal notebook or agenda.

You can start the year by droping down notes with the dates available on these lovely books.

Chinese silk journals

2010-12-02T11:05:00.003Z

Another addition to my fresh creation!

This is a collection of 4 elegant journals using the most delicate and beautiful chinese silk fabrics. They are sharp colors with lovely simple patterns.

White pearl color chinese fabric combined with black acrylic material with lined papers for easy writing.

Pinkish silk fabric matches so well with red acrylic material giving it a very exotic combination.

For this one, I used green silk fabric with dark brown acrylic material.

This last one is fun because this colorful silk fabric is filled with squares pattern like patchwork style.

2011 Chinese bookbinding agenda

2010-11-24T13:37:00.008Z

I love challenges with my creations! I love to have fun and at the same time, learn new things.

Therefore, I learned Chinese binding also called stitched binding.

The method is very delicate and different from the binding that I have been making my journals. It was not difficult to learn and I was really happy how it turned out.

Since the new year 2011 is approaching, I designed my creation using agenda calender 2011 and combined with some nice lined color papers. For the cover, I wanted it to look chic and elegant, therefore, I used real sheepskin leather. Just love the touch of it...

Getting ready for the new year! The best gift for loved ones!

I created a collection of four colors; Brown/Bordeaux/Green/Black.

The cover papers are grey and in the middle, I put sharp matching color papers for each book.

Sometimes, we look at something and think that it is difficult to make. But when you put your hands to it and give it a try with lots of love....it is really so easy!

But the most rewarding is the fun you get from creating!

Some items that I have been creating lately....

2010-11-20T11:01:00.007Z

I have been doing some research, reading magazines and thinking...

With the lovely materials that I have gathered around, I decided to make some new items.

First, I used the lovely calligraphy chinese papers and combined with a nice green cork oak material. I love the outcome that makes it so special! I love this green cork oak material that I bought in Portugal. It is different from the previous typical brownish color that I have created some nice cork oak books.

Inside there is also a paper holder for storing things.

Next, I created this exotic green sheepskin leather journal in lined papers. The leather journals are really beautiful and smells so good. I think they are the best for presents because they are all so unique.

I have some writings that I have placed on the last page of every book to make it more special and personal!

Inside, there are two paper holders on the front and back. They are elegantly looking and the journal has a tiny leather to fasten after writing.

Now these little palmsize notebooks are so cute and sweet. I have been playing around with the colors to make them seem playful and fun.

Here below you will see these nice little books like telefone books, agenda, etc.

I have used a Japanese style of bookbinding to make them. Therefore, I have used some nice origami papers, batik papers, etc to try to make some. They are great for making little books for poem gifts, notes writing.

You will notice the thread makes it look nice and simple.

Hope you like them and thanks for visiting my blog :0)

My first journal from the orient

2010-10-29T16:23:00.001+01:00

Just a glimpse of my first journal using materials that I have mentioned before. This journal is a lot more thicker and the papers are lined.

Inside, there is also a pocket for keeping notes.

Here they are..

2010-10-19T15:36:00.002+01:00

My lastest exotic materials for my bookbinding come from London and Beijing!

I came across these beautiful chinese silk fabrics that I intend to create some new journals.

My next collection will be a fresh start to zen and exotic design. I am so excited and my mind is already thinking...Surprises coming!

The beige-yellowish writing papers are soft and nice for sketch drawing or writing!

These green and white acrylic materials from London will make nice covers for my collection of journey writing journals.

Absence....

2010-10-16T04:39:00.001+01:00

During my absence, I have been gathering beautiful materials for my new project on bookbinding.

They are completely different and I cant wait to start creating.

I will be posting these exotic and lovely materials soon!

:0)

Journey Writing Book

2010-09-14T18:59:00.001+01:00

Lately, I have noticed that there are lots of book on journeys from everywhere...asia, europe, africa..etc..

Therefore, I decided on creating this exotic Journey writing book with underlined papers, so that one can writing about their own journeys wherever they are travelling.

Life is full of dreams and dreams sometimes do come true!

Palmsize portuguese cork oak books collection

2010-09-10T14:22:00.000+01:00

These are very cute and small size notebook that is the size of your palm.

This collection is to match with the first collection of cork oak books that I have created previously.

They are great to be used as a telefone book, notebook, etc.

Since they are so small, you can just tuck into your handbag or put inside your pocket!

Shop online - Gizecraft portuguese cork oak books at Corkologie

2010-08-23T22:31:00.003+01:00

I was so happy to be invited by Corkologie in chicago to list my portuguese cork oak books for sale!
Thanks Marco! Your shop is filled with beautiful items and I am so happy to be able to join your site!

Please visit

http://www.corkologie.com/

if you love products made with cork oak material.

So from now on you can shop for my items at corkologie!!!! Yeah!

A sunny day to be creative

2010-08-22T12:45:00.002+01:00

Been making something new for a change since I love to try new things.

This time I decided to make a portfolio holder.

It is completly different from making a book but it was a lot of fun and it is so nice to be able to make things that I can use to organize my papers and sketches.

Another item that I created is this lovely bordeaux color leather book. The beautiful exotic black paper inside is a paper that I really love and decided to combine with this leather cover.

Besides it has a long leather strap to secure this palm size book.

Labrats Team - Feature Friday

2010-08-13T21:48:00.003+01:00

Thanks Labrats for featuring me GIZECRAFT!

A big hug and thanks to Lori! :0))

Here is the link if you would like to enter my creative world:

http://etsylabrats.blogspot.com

My signature

2010-08-10T21:08:00.003+01:00

After thorough thinking and designing my logo stamp in my mind, I have decided on this one:

Besides, on the last page of each of my books/journals, you will see this beautiful text that I have written just for you:

Hope you treasure each handmade book because the whole process of creating them takes time, patience and love. It is an enjoyment of zen feeling.

I believe each one of us should have our own personal book so that we can put some beautiful memories into writing. After some years, you will want to re-read your past memories as if it were today!

Enjoy your life and treasure each moment.

Most of all, do remember to have fun.:0)

My first collection of portuguese cork oak books

2010-08-04T22:21:00.004+01:00

This is my first collection:

It is a clean-cut style and simple design. Feels good just holding in your hand. Imagine when you start writing on them!

They come in four colors - black/brown/beige and red.
Besides each book has its own matching bookmark!

Giggles Treasury - Summer colors Treasury

2010-08-02T19:57:00.001+01:00

Link:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c561182f5456d911587cc3d/summer-colors-treasury-challenge

A big thanks to Giggles for including my For Keeps Journal in her lovely treasury challenge!!! What a big surprise these couple of days has been with my items being chosen to be featured. I am so happy!

Thanks so much!!!

Giggles has a nice shop with very cute items that she makes. Besides she makes custom crochet pieces too.

I would like to share her lovely shop:

http://giggles.etsy.com

Two Treasuries in one week - Yeah!

2010-07-31T19:14:00.003+01:00

Portuguese Etsy Sellers Treasury List by Pedro Nogueira
Link:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c5423f1f5456d916354833d/portuguese-etsy-sellers?index=0

I get a feeling of great joy when someone appreciates my work and helps to promote it!

Pedro Nogueira was so sweet to include my spiral silk journal in this beautiful collection.

He has chosen such nice and talented work of Etsy Sellers in Portugal!

Thanks Pedro and yes we do have so many talented handmade artist here. Congrats all!

Pedro Nogueira is a very talented photographer. I was so amazed at his beautiful photos that caught my eyes.

I would love to share with you so you can see for yourself:

http://www.pedronogueiraphotography.com
http://pedronogueira.etsy.com

***********************************************************************************

Summer with the Lab Rats Treasury

Link:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c4cbb72ea126d91bd073e00/summer-with-the-lab-rats?index=0

Thanks Lab Rats Team for including my Summer Journal in this lovely treasury.

What a nice way to enjoy summer looking at such beautiful collection. Sure that watermelon makes me hungry! Lab Rats congrats! This collection is going to get everyone wanting something special for the Summer.

If you still dont know about the Lab Rats Team, please feel free to take a look at their blog. It is filled with wonderful information, ideas, help, advice for all Etsy Sellers:

http://etsylabrats.blogspot.com/

More Portuguese cork oak books

2010-07-28T12:49:00.006+01:00

I have been concentrating on what to create with the lovely Portuguese cork oak.

I had in mind a design that is light and simple. I love red and it seems the best match for the brownish cork oak. Therefore, I went to get some red papers with light pattern design on them for the inside cover. They look like the beautiful Japanese papers!

Besides, I made two cute palm-size note books that shows the sewing lines. This way you can see how the book was sewed up and how special they are.

For each of these books, I have created a bookmark!

Black sketch book

2010-07-19T19:59:00.000+01:00

This book is made with the word Simplicity in mind!

I wanted to make this book to be used either as a sketch book or a writing book. Inside the book, there are white pages that can be used to draw or write notes.

Besides, I have used a thicker cork oak so that it can stay durable.

The completion of the book has a tiny black strap that adds a simple style to it.

There is also an inside pocket to tuck in notes, bookmark, etc.

A relaxation week of creativity

2010-07-12T23:16:00.002+01:00

This week I have been having fun experimenting different types of material in my bookbinding journals.

To my surprise, while I was cleaning up my things, I happened to find some beautiful thai silk fabrics that I have had with me for a while in my fabric collection. Therefore, I decided to make good use of them in my journals.

Besides, I have also tried making my first leather journal. It is so soft and smells so good. I love the smell of real leather! Yeah...I am getting addicted to leather too!

There is nothing better than starting the week with fun and creativity!

Pocket book - Working progress

2010-07-08T21:43:00.005+01:00

I have been working on these small pocket books.

At the moment, I am still trying to see how it looks and what will be the final design.

Small pocket books are cute and can be tucked in the handbag.

What I like about them is that I am using cortiça (portuguese cork oak) to create them.

It makes them so cool and fresh!

Beautiful gift from Joanne - gr8jewellery

2010-07-06T20:22:00.001+01:00

Yeah!!! I was so lucky to be the winner of the June giveaway on Handmade Europe's blog:

http://handmade-europe.com/2010/06/21/june-giveaway-winner/

I received this beautiful gift from Joanne - http://gr8jewellery.etsy.com

Receiving gift arouses a feeling of great joy. I was so eager and excited to open the parcel. When I opened the beautiful wrapped up gift, I saw a sweet note from Joanne.

She send me this beautiful Swarovski Beaded Bead on Leather choker.

Thank you Joanne. I really love it! :0))) It is exactly the simplicity style that I like.

Joanne shop is filled with attractive jewelry and accessories all handmade by her.

I think her work is amazing and I would like you to take a look at her beautiful beadwoven creations shop and blog:

http://gr8jewellery.etsy.com

http://blog.gr8jewellery.com

Knot2Shabby Treasury - Rain Drops on Roses and Whiskers on Kittens...

2010-07-02T18:15:00.002+01:00

Link:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c2dfdcd75d38eefc5a129dc/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things

A big thanks to Knot2Shabby for including my Spiral Silk Journal.

This treasury is so lovely and cute. The chosen items makes this collection with a feeling of fun!

Put some fun into your life!!! :0)))

Check out Knot2Shabby lovely jewelry and bags in her shop:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Knot2Shabby

Cortiça Box Book

2010-06-26T15:12:00.003+01:00

Portuguese cortiça (cork Oak)

Cortiça material is one of the most famous product produced in Portugal.

It is estimated in wikipedia that Portugal produces approximately 50% of cork harvested annually worldwide. They are famous for being used for bottle stoppers, especially wine bottles.

Wikipedia information on cortiça:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cork_%28material%29

Nowadays, you can find hats, bags, shoes, etc made of this lovely material.

I had this crazy idea on creating a book using this material. Therefore, I worked my mind on deciding the design and there it is....and with its own bookmark!

This book is different from the rest of the books and journals because it is like a box with the book inside.

Besides, there is a ribbon for secure closure.

I have so enjoyed working on this new item.

New material

2010-06-23T16:02:00.004+01:00

Everywhere I go, I try to get new material to work with.

You never know where you could find good and rare material for your work. Therefore, looking around and having a good eye is important when searching for the best quality!

Meanwhile, I have prepared couple of block books, so that ,once I have decided on the cover design, it will be easy to complete.

Each book takes time and patience but I have to say that it is a zen feeling that I get while creating. And when I have a completed book in my hand, I feel so satisfied!

"Love what you do and do what you love!"

Created my First Treasury - Putting words into writing

2010-06-12T17:33:00.005+01:00

Link:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c13ab96310f6d91c6bb798c/putting-words-into-writing

My bookbindery items have had been featured before in the treasuries of fellow nice curator of etsy.

Therefore, it is time for me to give to you my first Treasury, showing some amazing work of talented artist of the beautiful art of bookbinding.

Inspired by Jacaranda

2010-06-12T13:58:00.002+01:00

Jacaranda is one of the most beautiful tropical trees from Brazil. During this time of the season, you see them everywhere in Lisbon. The are all in blossom and the blue-purple flowers make the sky so beautiful and romantic.

With Jacaranda in mind, I made this cute journal using this lovely dotted pattern silk fabric.

Now all the books/journals have a matching bookmark tucked in the pocket for paper holder. You can use it in the same book or just place in your own reading book.

Enjoy the nature! Give credit to what you see around you because it is so beautiful and keeps one at ease.

Matching Bookmarks

2010-06-11T20:49:00.004+01:00

This is a silk bookmark that I have made to match the bookbinding books.

I am happy with the simple design and actually because it is really useful having one inside the books!

Going to finish with the rest of the collection.

Ladylamb Treasury - Made in Portugal

2010-06-09T20:29:00.006+01:00

Link:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c0fe3c678348eef11839a42/made-in-portugal

What a wonderful and meaningful surprise!

LadyLamb has created this special treasury to celebrate Portugal Day (10th June). She is so sweet to have included my item "For Keeps" in her treasury!!!

All the selected items are so gorgeous! Congratulations to all Portuguese artists!

Check out Ladylamb's beautiful blog. I love it and invite you to see....

http://www.ladylamb.wordpress.com/

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

New fabrics for books

2010-06-08T23:36:00.003+01:00

The dotted style of these two silk fabrics, gives it a playful and chic style.

Onces you experience the soft touch of these elegant silk fabrics, you will not want to let it go.

I am going to work with them in my next project!

If you are curious on how they will turn out ....come back soon!!

Orient Journal

2010-06-07T22:47:00.001+01:00

My love for the Orient made me create this lovely journal.

A nice reason to write your memories.....

The inside black pocket for paper holder makes a beautiful contrast with the red paper.

Enjoy!

The beautiful art of bookbinding

2010-06-04T00:49:00.003+01:00

Lately, I have been pretty lucky in finding good and precious books.

From time to time, I go to the bookshops and look around. It is a good inspirational moment that I have for myself.

Just when I was almost living the place, I saw this book as if it was there waiting for me...been lucky you see...and this one is going to be in my treasure bookshelf.

Pocket notebooks

2010-05-30T16:01:00.003+01:00

Having decided to make more books and journals..I couldn't resist on making some pocket notebooks with some beautiful batik papers. They are so small and can be tucked in your handbag or pocket!

Ready to drop some lines into these cute notebooks?

Inside my creative world

2010-05-28T12:49:00.008+01:00

I have been enjoying being in my world of creation. Sometimes, it is not easy to divide my time in the hobbies that I have. But I have been enjoying so much making books and journals. It's like my mind is not allowing my hands to work on other things except bookbinding. The more I work on them, the more I feel confident in the final outcome.

I still love the silk fabrics that I use for the journals.

I have also been making small pocket notebooks. They are so convenient and uselful in our daily life!

It probably has occurred to all of us that you need to write down something and you just dont seem to have any piece of paper with you.....

So a pocket notebook comes pretty handy!

Angel Pearls Treasury - Havy Stuff

2010-05-23T20:56:00.007+01:00

Link:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=132629

A big thanks to my good friend Eva from Angel Pearls for including my Recycle Journal in her lovely treasury!!! What a big surprise. I am so happy! What a beautiful treasury. Congrats!!!

Check out her blog. It is a beautiful and inspirational blog filled with amazing fotos.

http://angelpearlscollection.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/angelpearls/

Edith & Elizabeth Treasury - Raindrops on roses

2010-05-19T18:21:00.002+01:00

Link:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=132037

A big thanks to Edithandelizabeth for chosing these beautiful items to be included in their treasury. And I am so happy that they have included my Summer Journal too!

Check out their beautiful blog and shop:
http://edithandelizabeth.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/edithandelizabeth

Summer Journal

2010-05-15T21:05:00.004+01:00

Start your Summer days with a journal book!

The cover is so sweet looking and has a soft touch!

I have used a beautiful silk fabric together with the beige cotton material for the cover.

The white pages are hand sewn using white linen thread used for bookbinding.

The pink inside cover papers makes this book very girlish and fun.

Fabrics for craft

2010-05-15T13:59:00.000+01:00

Fabrics are beautiful and I found these silk and cotton fabrics that I will be using in my work.

Silk has a soft touch and it is one of my favourite fabrics!

Personal Photo Album

2010-05-14T20:51:00.005+01:00

Having your own photo album is very convenient because you can keep photos that you really like and treasure. Now here is a reason to keep them with you instead of having them in the computer and time passes and you forget about them.

I still recall the old photo albums that had a piece of vegetable paper attached to each page. I reallly love those. Therefore, I decided to make one.

And here it is...

This one has a black cover and is for storing black and white photos.

Another style which is in smaller size and without the vegetable paper inside.

This one is cute and handy. The grey and black covering makes it look nice.

Silk Spiral Journal

2010-05-12T19:05:00.000+01:00

A Spiral Journal using silk for the cover is the latest creation of gizecraft!

As you can see the silk fabric is really beautiful and full of colors.

But this journal is a bit different from the others because it has a long tiny white ribbon that can be attached around it to give it a style.

Inside, there is also a grey paper holder. This is very convenient because sometimes, we need to write down something like telefone numbers, address or etc. So this is a secure place, where you can tuck in these small pieces of paper.

I reall love this book cover because silk fabric is so beautiful!

My Little Black Book

2010-05-11T15:05:00.004+01:00

Black book makes it look very serious. Since I love colorful things, I decided on a sharp orange paper inside cover to contrast with the black hard cover.

The final outcome is pretty cool with a black strap that has an orange thread to give it some style.

Inside is a paper holder arranged in a different style from the previous books. This is convenient to tuck in small papers or anything pretty small.

Cool and chic!

Recycle Journal

2010-05-07T00:33:00.002+01:00

For this book, I have used recycle paper.

There is something nice and wise about recycling! Yes, I enjoy recycling too because we can used them and make something different.

I have always loved combining brown with yellow. Therefore, for this cute brown fabric, I have used yellow paper inside cover.

Just put your thoughts into writing and then fasten the tiny ribbon!!!

Purple Patchwork Book

2010-05-04T11:51:00.008+01:00

I have been tempting myself to try the patchwork pattern in my bookbinding.

Therefore, I decided to take this into action.

After having sewed up the book and proceeded with the rest of the process. That is the first part of the fun and takes time. But I just can't help myself to think of the final cover! :0)

For this book, I used cute purple fabric and clued to form patchwork design. Then I combined with the grey material (100% cotton with acrylic covering, which makes it hard and used mainly for the bookbinding cover.

Inside, I have used a grey paper holder to contrast with the black paper.

Lastly, I have attached an elegant white ribbon to fasten the book.

A beautfiul diary has just been started...now waiting to have interesting writings on them!

With so much time spend on the computer, maybe it is time to hold a pen and start writing.......

Creative Weekend - Bookbinding

2010-05-02T20:03:00.009+01:00

The art of bookbinding is beautiful!

Each step takes time and requires attention to ensure that the threads are well sewed up. There are different type of stitches to sew up the book. The thread cannot be too tight or too loose. The process goes on and before you know, you hold the book into your hands and you just laugh happily!

This red book has a nice red flower fabric attached to 100% red cotton (with acrylic covering) for the cover. Inside, there is an extra grey paper holder for storing small notes, paper, etc.

I have used a simple elegant white ribbon to fastened the book.

This could make a great gift to special ones!

For this beige book, I have decided on making a simple style and with a black strap on the right side.

This book is already reserved! :0)))

After having completed these two bookbinding books, I can start with some crazy and different styles....

Lets see what comes into my mind!!! :0)

Pink Bookbinding

2010-04-29T20:13:00.008+01:00

This time, I wanted to make myself a small book for writing down my notes.

Therefore, I decided to choose a nice fabric that my friend gave me, for the cover. Actually, the fabrics are all so cute and fun and it was not easy but I had my eyes on the pink dotted fabric!

I sewed up the papers and then I joined the cover and voila...completed!

Now I have this one for myself.

There is a ribbon attached to secure the book and makes it look lovely!

More to come.........

Bookbinding is fun!

2010-04-26T19:16:00.007+01:00

Creativity has no limitation. I love to learn new things, so I decided to go for Bookbinding lesson.

It was really worth it and a lot of fun.

After completing the red book, I was so satisfied and proud of myself...yes, now I can make my own books. Maybe, patchwork books, batik papers as cover, etc.

Now I have to start training because Training makes perfect!

Therefore, yesterday, I made the grey lines fabric book by myself. I applied some of my Japanese papers to make it look nice and different! Another craft that I have got addicted too :0)

Bookbinding is a lot of fun!

Earth day

2010-04-23T16:19:00.002+01:00

Earth day - 22nd April

Being part of the world means that we also have responsiblilities to maintain the world beautiful and harmless.

Concentrate on your habits and think of things that you could recycle, reuse and not take for granted.

But most of all stop and breath to cherish the beautiful nature!

Four seasons Patchwork bookmark

2010-04-20T11:54:00.015+01:00

After a lot of trying and mistakes in combining fabric with batik paper, I finally finished the item.

I have created a set of 4 and named them Four Seasons!

This experience was awesome because the fabrics are pastel colors and beautiful. Besides, I was so happy to find the Batik papers. I have always been fond of batik art because the colors are amazingly beautiful and full of life! That is when the idea of combining the two together to create something unique pop into my mind!

So what is Batik paper?

- The handmade paper is crushed and dyed, creating marble-like batik veining.

These patchwork bookmarks are lovely addition to your reading habits and great gifts!

Patchwork Bookmark

2010-04-13T23:41:00.008+01:00

The surprise item that I have been working on, is this patchwork bookmark!

lilydoveandchouchou...congratulations! convo me ok!

That behind the pastel colors fabrics are Batik papers. They are handmade paper that is crushed and dyed, creating marble-like batik veining.

So, I have decided to match the batik paper with those lovely pastel fabrics and created this cute and colorful patchwork bookmark!

Hope you like them as much as I do...Lets add some color and fun into our reading!

Spring

2010-04-12T19:36:00.004+01:00

Being in touch with nature, keeps my mind at ease. It is a short break, when fresh and happy ideas comes into my mind.

The scent of spring flowers everywhere arouses happiness and we naturally look at light and happy colors.

Happy Spring!

Fotos taken from the north of Portugal.

Keeping myself busy

2010-04-08T23:51:00.002+01:00

I finally did something that I never thought I would do. Thanks to Karen (you know who you are!!!) I am so happy to finish a sweet yellow spring dress for my niece. I can't wait to see her in this cute dress.

I will head off to the nearest post office to mail it, the first thing tomorrow.

This is the first dress that I have ever made. It was so challenging and fun!

I am addicted to sewing!!! The more things I put my hands on, the more I want to go further...Lets see where it takes me. :0)

At the moment, I am learning and having fun...Pratice makes perfect!!!! Yeah!

Pastel colors

2010-04-01T21:11:00.003+01:00

It was not difficult to search for these beautiful pastel color fabrics. They are so nice to look at.

It has that fresh feeling of spring!

They are for a new surprising item that I am working on.

Therefore, to welcome spring into our lives, I intend to give my first surprise item, as a gift if anyone can guess what is that under the fabrics!!! They are to be used in my new item!

***Keep guessing and comment until the 10th April.***

or email me at gizecraft@gmail.com

One giveaway! One winner!

Good Luck!!!

Working on new items

2010-03-30T18:20:00.000+01:00

When I want to make something new, I always start by visiting the fabric stores. This time, I was looking for fresh and pastel colors. The warmer weather means that we start enjoying beautiful and light fabrics.

Some of the fabrics are very colorful and full of flowers.

Now I start to think of what I can make with them.

Euro Week on ETSY (22-28 March)

2010-03-21T20:15:00.005Z

This is going to be an exciting week because the spotlight is on European crafters and artist!

Check out:

http://europeanst.blogspot.com/

Thanks Judit!!! :0)

Lots of beautiful shops. Europe is filled with so many talented crafters and artist.

Big bags

2010-03-20T11:26:00.001Z

For this brown bag, I decided to make it big so that it can be a convenient bag for daily use.

The interior fabric is a bright green flannel fabric to contrast and balance the dark fabric.

Inside there are two big pockets for storing phone, bag, keys, etc.

I love to play with color combinations and the green contrast is beautiful!

Art for relaxation

2010-03-18T20:16:00.001Z

Being creative is about relaxation, fun and enjoyment!

It is taking a break from everything else, when you stop and spend some time to make things and be proud of what you can create.

This is my own collection

This foto is for a friend...yes Karen!

Grey messenger bag

2010-03-13T19:35:00.003Z

This bag is made for someone very special...

The style is simple and casual!

I have decided to use a hoop and loop tape instead of a zipper this time.

This bag is convenient for carrying books, wallet, etc. There are also two big pockets, one interior and one exterior. Lots of space for carrying things.

Fabrics

2010-03-13T19:10:00.000Z

Today, I went to look for new fabrics. I saw this satin fabric and loved it. It is full of colors, fun and cool.

First Etsy Sale - Birdy sings

2010-03-11T11:09:00.001Z

Today is an exciting day. Just got my first Etsy sale!!! Yeah!!! :0)

So, here I am thinking of the little surprises that I will put together before shipping it to the buyer.

I hope the buyer will be as happy as I am...and yes, she must love spring because she bought the Spring pouch - Birdy sings!!!

Spring pouch bag - greenish grey

2010-03-10T16:31:00.002Z

This spring patchwork pouch is similar to the previous posted.

I just wanted to play around with the two lovely felt fabrics and see the difference.

Pouch bags are great to organize little items and just tuck inside your big bag!

The zipper closure will keep your items well secured.

Spring Birdy sings

2010-03-10T16:27:00.003Z

This spring patchwork pouch is fresh and happy to look at.

The beautiful cotton fabric with a bird highlights this item. And the green felt combines well with the bird fabric. As for the interior fabric, I have used popline green fabric.

This pouch is convenient to hold little things and even if you decide to just carry your cash, phone, and head out for the day.

It has a zipper closure so you have everything secured inside the pouch bag!

Spring pouch bag

2010-03-10T16:19:00.003Z

For a fresh start, I have decided to focus on green colors in my new items! And they are finally completed.

The first one, I used green and grey felt for the exterior. You will notice that there are some simple patchwork design. As for the interior fabric, I have decided on a contrast poplin green pattern fabric.

Pouch is great for holding your little items like cosmetics, phone, cash, cards, pens, etc.

It has a zipper closure.

Spring Items

2010-03-04T12:02:00.010Z

Spring is beautiful and so full of life.

It is the beginning of small leaves growing and flower buds appearing. I can't wait to see flowers everywhere. The amazing fragrant mixture of different flowers filling the air; mimosa, jasmine, wisteria and so many more...

I love Spring!

Therefore, I am concentrating on green items for spring:

I have already organized and decided on the fabrics and patterns. They are all cut and ready to be sewed!

Pouches bags!

Custom order

2010-02-27T23:25:00.008Z

Today, I managed to complete two items. The two bags are totally different.

The first one has some patchwork pattern and with a zipper.

The other bag is simple and has an elegant wooden handle. It looks young and cute.

These bags are even bigger than the previous bags that I have made.

New Item

2010-02-24T01:39:00.004Z

For this new item, I have used three different fabrics. They are felt, cotton and poplin.

I really love using dotted fabric in my items. As for the patchwork design for this item, I think the two colours matches perfectly with each other.

This small bag can be used to hold your glasses, pens, make-up, etc.

Featured on illuminession

2010-02-22T01:08:00.000Z

Just found out that Carolina from Illuminession, featured me on her lovely blog.

http://illuminession.blogspot.com/

Thanks Carolina! :0))))

Taking a break!

2010-02-13T15:27:00.003Z

From time to time, it is nice to concentrate on other crafts. My other hobby is ceramic and I need to work with my hands on some project that I have had in mind, besides the banko teapot.

This is the recent Banko teapot that I have made. I love the glaze that I have chosen. It gives that asian look to it.

(my personal collection - not for sale)

Green tea comes to my mind!

Pouch bag

2010-02-12T12:18:00.003Z

This pouch bag is made with felt fabrics. The colours are grey/dark grey/bordeaux.

As for the fabric inside, I have used dotted blue poplin fabric. Just love the dotted fabrics because it makes the bag so cute!

I have applied just a small patchwork pattern around it to make it special.

You can put in anything like notebook, mobilephone, makeup, whatever you want!

Notebook bag

2010-02-08T20:09:00.001Z

Using a zipper is so much exciting because it makes the item look even prettier and at the same time, you can make sure your personal notebooks are secure inside.

Girls fun patchwork bag - Cloo

2010-02-07T22:09:00.006Z

This patchwork bag is full of colours. It is casual and fun. The colours are to get ready for spring...yeah, we are all tired of the cold and cloudy weather.

So, what is better than having colourful items to start and look forward to spring.

Change is good

2010-02-06T23:47:00.002Z

Been trying to make an item with a zipper. Didn't have any idea and never imagined that it would be a difficult thing to do. A good friend of mine has been of great help.

So, I put my hands on this experiment. It took some time to adjust the measurements and I had to re-do again and again until I was satisfied.

It is reallyt nice to try out something new for a change.

Purple scarves

2010-02-01T12:06:00.003Z

Custom order:

Two new purple scarves with different design.

One is a more young style with red felt and purple flannel fabric.

While the other is a more feminine style with dotted fabric, purple felt and purple flannel fabric.

Just a light patchwork pattern gives these scarves a touch of style.

A Treasure book

2010-01-30T18:40:00.000Z

Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing
(in portuguese)

Has it ever happened to you to have a book in your hand and you dont buy it at the very moment. Then, after a while, you regret it and never find it again.

That is an awful feeling and ever since, I have been searching for this book.

Today, I was lucky enough to have discovered. It laid there on the table, the only book there as if it was waiting for me to purchase.

Now I have a treasure book. So next time, I find a good book, no thinking twice!!!

Buy or else you could never find it again.

Fine Tooth Comb - Tips for improving your small business

2010-01-28T09:20:00.001Z

Today, Julie of "Fine Tooth Comb" has featured me on:

Tag, You're it!
http://onthedotcreations.typepad.com/fine_tooth_comb/

Tags are really imporant descriptions for our items.

And, so is knowing how to choose the right ones.

Thanks Julie!

Gizecraft

Lisbon - Sunday afternoon

2010-01-26T20:23:00.004Z

This photo was taken on a Sunday afternoon.

After months of rain and cloudy weather, the sun finally came....Beautiful day!

Even though it was a cold and windy day, still everyone was out for a ride.

Seems like spring is heading its way.

After a break, back to patchwork

New phone covers

2010-01-24T23:38:00.007Z

Phonecover is useful and pratical. It protects your phone and makes it more attractive, especially with beautiful fabric colours!

So, with one patchwork style, I made two patchwork phonecovers.

One is green and the other is purple.

Size: 4inches x 5inches

Fabrics: felt and popline

The Hot Seat

2010-01-24T18:35:00.000Z

Check out this lovely site, which is a very friendly and helpful site to all Etsy sellers:

http://auntkarenscreations.blogspot.com/

Karen with her friendly words of: "pretty please with cherries on top", I accepted and was put on the Hot Seat!

She has lots of more interesting and exciting ideas coming...

You might just be the next person on the Hot seat!

Beware hahahhaha!

Purple patchwork scarf

2010-01-21T20:29:00.016Z

The purple flannel fabric with the dotted fabric is very cute.

I have been thinking of the style and have decided on this pattern.

Purple is really a very attractive colour and looks good on anyone!

Two styles to choose from. Just turn and tuck and see which side suits what you wear!

I love using flannel fabric because it is so soft and warm.

Dotted fabrics

2010-01-16T14:57:00.003Z

Dotted fabrics are cool and matches any other one colour fabrics.

These are combination of fabrics for my next items.

Blue dotted and purple dotted cotton fabrics.

Blue and purple flannel fabrics.

Patchwork scarf - Soff

2010-01-10T22:03:00.005Z

A soft baby blue color scarf around your neck is the best neck warmer during cold weather.

This scarf has some patchwork design and is also double sided usage.

Just turn around and tuck the end through the opening!

It is very practical and simple and lovely.

Size: 5inches x 30inches

Red scarf - neck warmer

2010-01-09T20:18:00.005Z

Another patchwork scarf.

This one has an opening that enables you to secure the scarf around your neck and keep it warm.

The pattern is different and the is also a double-sided usage.

Just turn around and secure through the opening and there you have a different style.

Red Scarf

2010-01-09T19:11:00.000Z

Red has always been a very attractive colour. I made this red scarf using flannel fabric because it is so soft and gentle. The red pattern fabric is made from popline.

This scarf is short measuring (5inches x 28inches) just to cover the neck. You can also secure the scarf using a beautiful brooch. It is pratical and simple. Besides, it is two-sided usage. Therefore, you can choose either red or brown or turn it anyway you like.