Make: Cover a Container

Hi all! It's been a while since we've posted anything so here's a little make to keep you busy. Very simple, but a great way to reuse containers and packaging simply by covering with paper or fabric!

Originally posted on TomatoTea's Blog.

What you need:

• Container to cover
• Fabric or paper you wish to cover your container with
• PVA Glue
• Brush
• Scissors
• Fabric Pen or Pencil
• Ruler
• String or Tape Measure

1. First of all, you need to find out the circumference of your container. This is where the string (or yarn in my case. Being a knitter there's loads of this lying around) comes in handy. Of course, if you have a tape measure, you could just use that. Wrap it loosely around your container and have it overlap by say half an inch and cut.

2. Measure your bit of string and take note of the measurement.

3. Next, measure the height of your container.

4. Using these measurements, mark out on your fabric or paper the circumference measurement and height measurement to make a rectangle. I used a fading fabric pen here.

5. Cut this out as neatly and precisely as you can. Probably easier to do with paper as fabric has a mind of its own. Or it does when I cut it.

6. Apply PVA Glue to your tube, taking note to apply liberally around the top and bottom edges and where your overlap will be.

7. Apply your fabric or paper to your container, adjusting it so it covers all of the tube.

And there you have it. A nice little tube to pop in anything you like. You could even decorate the lid by drawing around the base and cutting out some pretty paper or fabric to fit into the top.

Pretty simple, but simply pretty. And useful too.

Busy Bees

Apologies to regular readers of the OOAK blog. Nicole and I have been snowed under with work for the past few weeks, meaning we have had very little time to dedicate to writing on the blog and other social networking sites.

So to signify our 'busyness' and spring time, here are some busy bees!

Echino Beehive from yunisacs: £11 - Yellow Bee Necklace from SpoiltPig: £12
Beehive Earrings from Rose and Raven: £7.50 - Amigurumi Bumblebee from Cute Designs: £6.50

OOAK my gosh...

Website

New OOAK items are in production, keep an eye on the website for updates of all our new One Of A Kind summer goodies.

Recruiting new sellers

The OOAK family is growing, we have taken on some new members... interviews coming soon.

If you would like to join us please contact nicole.ooak@gmail.com or katrina.ooak@gmail.com to get an application form.

Craft Fairs

We are hoping to hold our very own craft fair in the near future, which we are very excited about. The event will be in the South, probably in Bournemouth. Again if you fancy joining in, do get in touch.

Creative collaborations

We are still busy working with as many creative types as we can to try and promote artists everywhere and rid the UK of mass production.


Flower by Hearts and Skulls



That's about all from us for now. What is keeping you busy this Spring?



-Nicole xox

OOAK loves...Lizzie Jayne

Lizzie Jayne Designs

OOAKians meet Lizzie Jayne...

Lizzie Jayne is a talented London based designer who designs and makes her own beautiful and unique wedding dresses.



Lizzie Jayne designs are inspired by the 1950s, and are perfect for anyone who wants a wedding dress with individuality that you wont find anywhere else.

The dresses are available in many different luxurious fabrics and colours, and Lizzie works closely with each client to ensure every dress is a bride's dream come true.



Lizzie Jayne's latest addition to the collection is Grace. This simple and elegant design looks stunning with it's hot pink petticoat. A perfect summer wedding dress I think!




If you would like more information about Lizzie Jayne Designs, please visit the website


-Nicole xox

British Themed Crafts: Union Flag

OOAK loves the UK so I thought we'd celebrate our love by sharing with you some awesome British themed crafts. Its double the love too, as these items not only celebrate UK themed things, but are MADE in the UK!

This week, it's the Union Flag, so lets have a look to see what's on offer:

iPhone Pouch from EgoorEngland: £18 - Love Heart from ilovehearts: ~£14
Ceramic Coaster from The Mosaic Garden: £3 - Felt Brooch from LandBaby: £8.95
Needle Case from SewRecycled!: £6.50 - Hand Printed Cushion from HelkatDesign: £26

Meet the Maker: Shadows and Tall Trees

Today we Meet up with OOAK seller Charlie Poole of Shadows and Tall Trees to find out a bit more about her creative side.

Hey Charlie! Tell us a bit about you and your work.

I have always had a passion for arts and crafts and am always doing something creative in my spare time.

I went to Poole College where I attended an Art and Design Diploma course for two years. This course involved fine arts, life drawing, animation, sculpture, glass blowing and narrative image.

After leaving college I have still been very busy painting and creating clay ornaments and briefly had an arts stall at the Boscombe Underground.

I specialize in Icons and Movies but have recently been looking at masks and drawing my own designs which I hope to make soon. I hope to save up and get my own kiln so I can create more glass ornaments.

Doctor Who

How did you get into crafting/art?

Ever since I was young I have always loved to draw and make things. The only class I really enjoyed at school was art but after I left school I did not pursue this as I have always been told that I should get a “proper” job.

I went to college on an animal management course but soon realized that this was not for me and that to be happy in life I should follow my dreams and two years later, I quit the office to go back to college and get into art and design again. This was the best choice I ever made as I have learnt so much there and I am now drawing everyday and my skills are always improving.

Brian Molko

Who or what inspires you?

I am very inspired by music. I can just be listening to a song with a blank canvas in front of me and then an idea comes to me and I start drawing. Sometimes I don’t even know what it is until I finished and that’s the most exciting part.

I am also very inspired by movies and characters, I am a huge film buff so I love to paint my own interpretations of my favorite characters.

My artistic style is very unique, I do not worry much about proportions and perfection, making my work sometimes very quirky and surreal. I am very inspired by Tim Burton and his dark, yet beautifully gothic vision.

Dance of Death

When you’re not creating, what do you do?

These days it is very rare I am not creating. I have started to give myself my own projects to and I have been putting all my time into that.

I like to go to the cinema and out to gigs with friends as music and film are my other two big passions.

Cobain

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

I hope to have produced lots of artwork and have my own little shop in Camden with some other artists. I also hope to start designing and creating my own clothing range.

Ziggy Stardust

You can find Charlie's work for sale on OOAK, or if you would like her to do a commission for you please get in touch.

OOAK Loves Siân Lister

Hello there! Please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about you and your craft.

My name is Siân Lister; I'm 20 years old and am a nature and portrait photographer from Dorset. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and I am entirely self taught. Over time, I have developed my own style and am always looking for ways to keep my work fresh and interesting. I pride myself on having all of my work produced locally, by small businesses, and love the personal touch that these businesses give to my photographs. I have won a variety of competitions, and also hosted my first solo exhibition in September 2009, which was a big success!

Colours of Autumn

How did you get into crafting?

I have taken photographs throughout my life, although I first really started showing a proper interest when I was 16. I was given a digital camera for Christmas, and that was it!

All My Love

Who or what inspires you?

Anything and everything! Shapes, colours, sounds, sights...absolutely anything will inspire me, and it usually happens at random. I don't go anywhere without a camera, just incase! When it comes to photographers though; I love the work of Izima Kaoru, Steve McCurry, and Horst P. Horst!

Durdle Door

When you’re not creating, what do you do?

I do a lot of crochet in my spare time, and love working on amigurumi projects! I also spend a lot of time out and about with friends, going for walks and just chilling out watching films. And when I'm not crafting or relaxing, I work in a women's fashion retailer.

Paradise

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

I would love for Siân Lister Photography to be somewhere in five years. It is a dream of mine to one day own my own studio, and make a living out of my passion.

Rebirth

Find out more about Siân Lister and her passion for photography on her website!

Fancy being interviewed? Drop us a line!

Easter Bunnies

Easter is nearly upon us and for me Easter brings up images of spring which in turn makes me think of bunnies! Here are four bunnies from UK sellers to fall in love with:

Bouncy Bunnies




Bunny in a Teacup from sparklehen: £7 - Floppy Cotton Bunny from FruteJuce: £25
Lavender Rabbit from Pouch: £10.50 - European Rabbit from Urbanimal:£25

-Katrina
TomatoTea

And then there was OOAK!

OOAK is now officially open!

Kitty Pinkstars

I am in love with all of Kitty's wonderful sock creatures, but this one named Chloe has to be one of my favourites. I just adore the colours, she makes me think of summer.

As with all Kitty's sock creatures Chloe has her own little story to share with the world. Chloe along with her other friends are now available to buy on our site!

We hope you like OOAK, please let us know what you think of the site.

-Nicole: Hearts and Skulls x

Tomorrow...

...we open.

Samantha Gillingham

This particular bracelet from Gilly is my favourite. Yes yes, the designs are all very similar, she has more on the way but its the blue and bronze that does it for me. Its a combination you don't really see every day.

Sam will be bringing us silver versions of these bracelets very soon, which I am very excited about, as silver seems to go with everything. If you can't wait any longer, why not commission Sam to make you one today?

-Katrina
TomatoTea

2 Days!

Shadows and Tall Trees

I adore this painting by Charlie of Shadows and Tall Trees. She really brings the Mad Hatter to life in all his colouful glory.

This painting really shows what Charlie can do. The original copy of this painting will be available to buy from the OOAK website. If you would like Charlie to paint you a character from a particular film, get in touch and we will see what we can do.

OOAK would like to wish Charlie a very Happy Birthday for tomorrow!

-Nicole x

3 Days...

Samantha Harvey

I love this necklace.

18 hours of hard graft went into stitching this necklace together. It is simply stunning and will dress up any outfit. The best part is, is that it's black so you'll never fail to find an outfit that matches.

Sam has a knack for timeless designs and matching beads together for a piece. If you're looking for something a bit special, why not get in contact with Sam about a commission for a One Of A Kind piece of beaded jewellery.

4 Days

4 days to go!

TomatoTea

One of my favourite TomatoTea products has to be the little birdie keyrings. With spring almost here these little cuties would be a gorgeous addition to any set of keys or bag.

Katrina of TomatoTea works wonders with wool to create beautiful textile based items for every season. Each product is unique, stylish and will make you stand out from the crowd.

-Nicole x

It's The Final Countdown...

5 days to go.

And for these 5 days, we will be blogging about our favourite products from our sellers.

Hearts and Skulls

My favourite product has to be this amazing Batman Comic Mirror. It's perfect for any comic book fan, guy or gal and would look great in any modern home to add a bit of character to a plain wall. It'll be quite the talking point too, as its unique and one of a kind, as with all items made by Nicole.

As with all of Hearts and Skulls products, Nicole strives to upcycle as much as she can by searching out lost forgotten mirrors and frames in charity shops to make into her amazing, zany designs. If you're after a particular comic book character to be made into a frame, mirror or set of coasters, drop Nicole a line!

-Katrina
TomatoTea

About us

With just 9 days until the launch of the OOAK website I thought it was time we told you a bit more about us….

Katrina and I have always been avid crafters. Whenever we meet craft is on our minds, we always dream about being able to make a career from our crafts. OOAK, which was originally known as oOAK Tree is the first step towards making our dream a reality.

OOAK is not just about us though, we want to promote independent artists throughout the UK, working together to encourage people to buy handmade items rather than mass-produced goods.

So who are we?

TomatoTea

Katrina is the Co-creator of OOAK, and the lady behind TomatoTea. Katrina makes the most delightful textile treats; you will fall in love with her beautiful yarn creations. Katrina’s famous snuggly neck warmers are a must, and were recently featured in the handmade gift guide.

Hearts and Skulls

Nicole of Hearts and Skulls is also the co-creator of OOAK. Nicole’s work is bright and unique; her love of comic books and all things cute gives her work a distinctive edge. Nicole creates a range of cute and kooky accessories that you will love.

Kitty Pinkstars

Kitty’s work is vibrant and quirky; her amazing sock creatures really make her stand out from the crowd. It is easy to fall in love with all of Kitty’s creations, each one of them bursting with personality. Kitty is a very creative and talented lady who is an inspiration.

Samantha Harvey

Samantha makes beautiful beaded jewellery. Her intricate designs really are a treat for the eyes. Samantha’s careful beadwork gives a stunning effect., each piece is timeless and unique.(see our jewellery on OOAK post for pictures)

Samantha Gillingham

Samantha Gillingham has a real eye for jewellery making and she knows what looks good. Her designs are very complimentary, putting the right colours, findings and beads together to create a perfect piece of jewellery.(see our jewellery on OOAK post for pictures)

Shadows and Tall Trees Art

Charlie is a talented artist with a darkly distinctive style. Tim Burton inspires Charlie and this really shows in her creations. As well as her unique artwork Charlie creates a range of wonderful and strange little creatures that you will adore.


Watch this space for interviews with each of our sellers. You will be able to buy their work on our site, hope to see you there.

The countdown begins: 9 Days!

-Nicole x

Beautiful Buttons

Okay, I admit it.

I am a button addict.

But lets be honest here. I think all crafters have a soft spot for those cute, round embellishments, don't they? They can be used in so many ways, and artisans are finding new ways all the time too! So heres a selection from UK sellers:

Emerald City Bracelet from MrsGibson: ~£20 - 'Nautical But Nice' Necklace from Made by Kate D: £12
Flower Brooch from MiloMade: ~£12 - Girlie Bobby Pin Trio from Discerningchichi: ~£5.50
9 Handmade Buttons from RedRobinDesigns: £1.60 - Funky street from HodgePodgeArts: ~£10

-Katrina
TomatoTea

Flowers in my hair

Spring has almost sprung, the sun has decided to show up a little this week, and I am really looking forward to seeing all the lovely things that Winter has made me forget.

Spring always fills me with the need to adorn my hair with flowers. I thought I would put together a little post, showing you some pretty things that I would like to wear in my hair this spring.. What do you think?

I love the colours in this, is enough to brighten anyone's day by tiedandfeathered





This hair accessory by AAliciaAccessories looks elegant and in pretty silver tones:




I am digging creamrose's etsy store, check out these kitsch spring time ponytail holders:




Lupin works wonders with felt, I adore this gorgeous hairband:




and finally a few of spring hair accessorise by ME that we be available to buy on our new website... which is opening in the next few weeks :D



Have a great day

-Nicole Hearts and Skulls

Get Well Soon

Having had a pretty bad weekend of stomach trouble, which has now been topped off with a cold, I thought I would see what items were available to people wanting to wish others to 'get well soon':

Get Well Soon


Get Well Soon Wish from Origami: £8 - Red Cut Out Card from Storeyshop: £2.95
Button Card from StuffedNonsense: £1.50 - Tissue Holder from LAMdesigns: £7.50
Heart Meter Pin from OMEGAZOID: £5 - Yellow Cut Out Card from Cosmo Cards: £2.75

-Katrina
TomatoTea