Reincarnated Kimono Project

Melanie of Kimono Reincarnate has been busy organising an exhibition where various Brisbane artists each get to rework a piece of vintage kimono using the art or craft of their choice.

I thought this would be an opportunity for me to participate in a little creative fun. I will be using a piece of this beautiful kimono. Right now, the idea is all in my head but I will get it done (don't worry Mel).

Two kimonos, fifteen artists are involved in the Exhibition which will be on display at Hanasho from April 2 - 30th. See details over at Kimono Reincarnate.

We hope to see you there!

Images courtesy of Kimono Reincarnate.

It's in the Details

What a week! I have thankfully recovered from 2 unpleasant days fighting a migraine but I won't dwell on the negative. We've been otherwise busy with hitting the phones and the road visiting stores to make up for the fact that we were stuck in The Dungeon recently. It's proving to be a fruitful exercise which shows that when you do escape from the dungeon, you can either start swimming or sink into the moat!

A few new stores will be stocking Thea & Sami products for Christmas but I will be revealing more at a later date. In this post, I thought that I would share a few little styling details that bring a smile to my face.

I have been wanting some Japanese washi tape for ages and recently purchased these cuties from Pretty Tape. If you've made an on-line purchase from us, you may have noticed that I have been using the tape for wrapping your goodies.

The advantage of washi tape is that it is made of acid-free paper, semi-transparent, archival safe and best of all, comes in many pretty colours and patterns.

I have to admit that I've become a little addicted to shopping on Etsy lately and have acquired one of the beautiful calligraphy custom-made stamps from Primele. Creator Patricia Mumau's work is in demand so do expect a little bit of a waiting period but all good things are worth waiting for, right? Patricia also writes a blog here.


These twin metal hat hooks were used for displaying our bags at the trade show. I have six of them that will now have a new home in my walk-in closet. I bought them from this eBay store. They don't come with screws but this could be because different kinds are required for different walls.

Speaking of the trade show, I loved Kimono Reincarnate's booth display - it was one of my favourites. Melanie is such a creative girl and used several red felt flowers to display her jewellery.

The tree and branches were cut vinyl which looked great but unfortunately can't be reused.

Here is Melanie in her very inviting booth. To see more of her Japanese-inspired work, visit Kimono Reincarnate.

All images taken by me (Thea).

Kimono Reincarnate

With Brisbane's Young Designers Market on again next Sunday, I thought I would introduce you to my neighbour from the last market. Melanie Gray Austin creates the most beautiful jewellery, recycled from kimono fabrics collected during her years for of living in Japan. Her label is appropriately named "Kimono Reincarnate".

These hand-made kimono flowers make up this stunning "kanzashi"

Kimono brooches and necklace from Melanie's market stall last month.

I bought these fabric-covered pegs for myself.

This week I will be unveiling some new hand-printed products in time for next weekend's Young Designers Market. I wonder who my new neighbour will be?