and...we're back.

i know, i ought to be spanked six ways till sunday for not posting on time. blogger issues aside, we all had our arms full for the past month putting together the latest issue of nest...

More updates on that in abit, but all i can say is that we're all pretty excited about it hitting the newstands. (that's right! more design love for everybody...) We've teamed up with Pantry Magic and MPH bookstore for some awesome freebies as well. More details soon.

In other news, our friends at Maki Squarepatch (tote bag above) need your votes to win Fredflare.com's Next Big Thing contest. Team Singapore. Represent!

Bholu

I can't say how much i love these journals by Australian designer Jodie Fried. I'm one of those tactile people, so i really dig the textures on these.

Jodie believes in creating products that benefit people along the way so her Bholu label works closely with traditional Gujarati women artisans from the remote desert communities of western Gujarat, empowering these women with a chance to earn their own keep, and eventually, their independence.

Bholu offers a beautiful range of journals like these, along with cushions, throws, slippers, and even soft toys for children, all made from felt with silk hand embroidery stitching.

They stock mainly in Australia, but welcome all overseas enquiries. If you like them just as much as we do, click on www.bholu.com

Thanks Jodie!

Husque homewares

Marc Harrison is a designer from Australia. He heads design studio Husque which currently produces a range of recycled macadamia shell homewares. Marc first grinds the waste shell, then moulds each shape by hand.

Marc's currently on the lookout for potential retail outlets in Singapore so pop by RSVP Australia at Raffles City to view his collection (until 18th march).

Enquiries can also be made to Jay at Curiosity: jaychong@sagesse7.com / 6334 6022

Festive oranges from Forest & Trees

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a little punch and pizazz! Over at Mandarin Gallery, Forest & Trees take matters into their own hands with these festive hand decorated baskets. Each basket contains either 12 or 16 auspicious oranges and 8 red packets for good luck. If you're hoping to impress some potential in-laws, this one will be a shoe in.

$38 for 12, $48 for 16