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 Amanda with Fireworks Birds Wall Hanging |
Happy Valentines Day from Create Display!
We hope you are enjoying a Thursday full of love and laughter and have lots of special events with your nearest and dearest planned for this weekend too.
This year we are celebrating the romantic festival with a new wall hanging featuring two love birds and some fireworks in the sky above the harbour.
We also have a range of hand crafted fabric textile pieces that make great presents for giving to someone you know really well as a surprise that will delight them and add character and colour to their home.
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 Birds and Fireworks Wall Hanging |
All our textiles come with a designer label and are ready to hang and all made in the studio in Bosham in West Sussex.
We also added a string of hand made vintage wall paper hearts to our upcycled denim display at Bosham Walk Art and Craft Centre in West Sussex.
Whilst we were there we enjoyed a wonderful treat at Wendy's cafe with amazing chocolate cake (gluten free also available) and a delicious coffee.
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 Valentines Display Bosham Walk |
The new restaurant redecoration is fantastic with a wood burning stove, beautiful dove grey walls hung with splendid nautical framed artwork and cosy cushions in lovely fabrics chosen by Shah who is one of the talented makers in the team.
The finishing touch is the roses and tulips on the tables and this makes Bosham Walk the perfect place to escape with your loved one for a stroll together by the water and a cosy catchup with tea and locally baked treats.
If you can't make it down to the south coast anytime soon do have a look at our etsy.com shop and feel free to get in touch….more new stock coming soon!
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https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay
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Create Display Shop
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https://www.bosham-walk.co.uk/
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Bosham Walk
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 Create Display at Vintage & Very Nice Handmade Market in Chichester |
A very Happy New Year from CreateDisplay.com and we wish you all a brilliant 2019!
We hope you have a had a super Christmas or whatever holiday festival that you celebrate. December was a busy and creative month for us as I am sure it was for most people.
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 Dinghy Sailors at Bosham Harbour Textile Artwork by A Howse |
We enjoyed the arrival of the red nose reindeer's and some sparkling winter cheer with the makers at the Bosham Art and Craft Centre in West Sussex.
We added some new textile art pieces to our patchwork denim display in the gallery upstairs. Every year we decorate our homes and studio space enthusiastically.
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 Create Display Christmas Cards 2019 |
This year we continued the tradition with handmade Christmas cards to give to friends and family we meet over the winter celebrations. Sparkling lights and reflections on water and living in Chichester harbour were the theme of this years designs which included views of the local village.
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 Vintage Very Nice Fair Entrance Assembly Rooms North Street |
We were very pleased to be part of the 'Vintage and Very Nice' Christmas Vintage and Handmade Market that was held in the historic and monumental Assembly Rooms in North Street, Chichester, West Sussex.
It was an opportunity to team up with other small businesses and get into the festive spirit with around thirty different local makers and vintage experts.
Our 'pop up shop' featured a selection of our small and medium sized textile artworks and handmade gifts.
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 Vintege Very Nice Handmade Fair Chichester Create Display Stand Side View |
Held over three days from November 29th to December 1st this event incorporated the first Christmas late night opening of the season and this was an opportunity for some bubbles and mince pies all round!
Special thanks to Daryl the Event Manager for some splendid leadership and impresive creativity to happily accommodate some extra sellers requesting stands at short notice.
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 Assembly Rooms Christmas Fair, North Street Chichester |
A massive thank you also goes to talented makers Jan and Vanessa for taking care that our exhibition stand was all sparkling and ready to go and making the time just fly along with their good fun and company.
We all really enjoyed meeting lots of new people and supporting other local artists. Plus we got to shop locally with all the tempting fashion, food and goodies at the fair.
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We look forward to more special events this year and supporting more Vintage and Very Nice Fairs in 2019.
We wish everyone a wonderful year full of creativity, friendship and peace.
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More details to follow soon about some of our new designs previewed here on our Christmas cards.
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http://www.vintageandverynice.co.uk/
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Vintage and Very Nice Fairs
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https://www.bosham-walk.co.uk/
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Bosham Walk Art & Craft Centre
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 upcycled denim backdrop |
Happy Guy Fawkes night from Create Display! We love Bonfire night on the south coast of England and the bright flashes of colour really lift the spirits on a dark winters night.
This year the sky has been full of colour, bangs and wizzes as the fireworks burst into their neon glory all over our local village.
It is the perfect time to pop up our latest handcrafted design, an upcycled denim backdrop to add some nautical texture and really set off our colourful interior artworks.
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 local fireworks in the sky |
We used a dozen pairs of old jeans to handmake this eco friendly display background. We are very pleased with how it adds individuality and interest to our area at Bosham Walk Art and Craft Centre.
The idea was inspired by the Japenese art of Boro where fabric was precious so Japenese people hand sewed hundereds of small pieces of denim together to make new materials they could make into clothing and home furnishings.
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 recycled denim backdrop side view |
Our Create Display Banner with silver stars is the perfect signage banner to top off our new display background.
We backed the blue and chestnut patchwork cloth with calico and added customised curtain tape to the hanging edge. Using a drill we attached a baton with brass hooks as high up as possible to give us maximum visual impact.
We look forward to adding new pieces of denim as we go along and as we put up fresh pieces over the coming season.
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Do visit us at Bosham Walk to see all the art and crafts arranged on two spacious floors.
Enjoy a stroll along the harbour and a delicious tea at Wendy's cosy cafe.
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This thrifty recycled fabric wall hanging will be a creative customised collage that develops as we go forward.
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http://bosham-walk.co.uk
Bosham Walk Art & Craft Centre
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 Kensington Olympia |
The Top Drawer Trade Show is organised bi-annually by Clarion Events and is held at Kensington Olympia in Hammersmith Road in London, England. This Autumn's event was held on the 9-11 September.
Buyers for all sorts of retail and leisure shops and boutiques in the UK and abroad make a bee line for the wonderfully diverse selection of enterprises available at Top Drawer.
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Around 1000 design-led brands promote their wares and creatively make the best use of every meter of space they are allocated for their temporary pop-up shops.
Interior Designers and industry professionals also attend and they are often looking to furnish a variety of contemporary spaces with the latest quality merchandise.
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There is a relaxed but slightly exciting feel in the vast iron and glass hall which was originally built in 1886.
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 Bombay Duck Top Drawer |
The first day at Top Drawer has the advantage of finding all the new products first and being 'ahead of the game' for a busy week ahead.
Many traders sell stock directly from their stands allowing early bird visitors to choose the finest pieces first.
There is also an opportunity to order limited edition items before they run out.
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 AH at Parlane Top Drawer |
Travelling on a Sunday to Olympia is a breeze for many folk living within striking distance of the capital who want to avoid any rush hour hassle.
In the manor of a department store the Top Drawer show was split up into sections that encompassed the relevant product ranges for 'home', 'gift', 'greetings and stationary' ,'wellbeing', 'play', 'fashion', 'craft' and a 'food emporium'.
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A key part of the show was the mini masterclasses, demonstrations and presentations on stage which added to the 'fashion week' atmosphere. Eminent speakers with specialist knowledge shared the latest thinking and tips for creative businesses.
Spread over the three days this 'retailfest' attracted audiences keen to learn about everything from colour and design theory, to tips on international trading in a digital age.
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The Home area was full of stylish natural looking products that would fit happily in both modern and traditional homes and work spaces.
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 The British Colour Standards |
Generally most wood, bamboo, ceramics, glass, leather and metal pieces all had a simple handmade feel. Rustic and friendly looking pieces that could be incorporated into many spaces with ease were in abundance.
Several manufacturers offered ranges in soft light colours reminiscent of the 1950's.
Furniture designs were comfortable and reassuring.
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Luxury looking feature pieces in opulent materials like marble or velvet had metallic accents and a timeless investment look about them.
Bombay Duck made a statement entrance with a tiled carpet made of bold and witty doormats.
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Annie Sloan presented a range of pure and plain fabrics in calming colours to accompany the famously chalky paint range.
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 Corkicle at Top Drawer |
Parlane showcased faux flowers and plants blended with pared down and elegant interior elements. Forma stacked super pastel bowls and colanders that are made of environmentally friendly bamboo and corn.
The British Colour Standard was the forerunner to the Pantone colours widely used today.
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The hand dyed silk colour dictionary transported us back to the 1930's with splendid names such as pertunia purple, grenadine red and Brunswick Green.
If this show is anything to go by then Christmas 2018 stores, homes and leisure spaces will be a wholesome mix of traditional green trees and old fashioned toys.
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There will probably be a flurry of sparkling glass droplets reflecting against gleaming mirrors in December.
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 Forma bamboo bowls at Top Drawer |
Organic decorations made from real and dried greenery, interwoven with fruits and berries will almost certainly be thrown into the festive mix.
Extra candles and oil burners will provide a warming scent of spiced spruce.
Richly decorative wallpaper may elevate the most sophisticated dining rooms, sitting rooms and bedrooms.
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Muted deep jewel coloured walls are fashionable and useful for encouraging a more adult 'boutique hotel' feel for those in the mood to entertain and enjoy long evenings full of soothing music and cosy conversation.
Merchandise available in the gifts section emulated the themes from the Home area and also additionally aspired to lift the spirit.
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Small but beautiful and cleverly designed items that would be both a joy to give and receive could be found at many gift companies exhibiting.
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 Forma ceramics at Top Drawer |
Prints were unique and bright with crisp graphic patterns that are either botanical or from some exotic jungle.
Most of the striking gift items would happily enliven any home that would otherwise be rather too neutral.
Newcomer to the show Lily Juliet from New York spread out a glowing rainbow of opalescent acrylic bowls and kitchen accessories.
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These Lily Juliet marbled pieces often feature shells from the far east encased within.
Corkcicle arranged in neat rows numerous gorgeously shaped and durable steel water bottles. The special portable drinks containers were decorated in liquorice allsorts tints.
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The exhibition continued with small businesses stands groups on large 'wellbeing' mat.
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 Grand Illusions at Top Drawer |
The catalogue promised to quench “an indulgent expression…the endless quest to nourish body, mind and soul.”
The play area contained the strongest hues and merchandise to tempt any inner child with a “brand new treasure chest (which) has every kind of kids stuff.”
The jewellery and fashion accessories displays were situated on the first floor and gave the visitor an opportunity to meet the latest designers all in one place.
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Bags were simple and functional with leather being popular. Scarves were voluminous, woven and heavy looking for the season and available in every paint box pigment. Jewellery was very wearable and made out of rose gold, gold or silver.
Delicate shapes and chains with simple designs and stones.
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A dash of glamour and glitter was added by Annie Sherburne with her handmade diamante earrings, necklaces and brooches guaranteed to add some party spirit to the holiday celebrations.
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 Parlane Xmas at Top Drawer |
We ventured off piste to the realms of the food emporium where we were tempted by the wonderful array of hand crafted delicacies. The thought, time and passion that had gone in to all the heavenly produce was impressive.
Delicious confectionery at Lavolio included little sugar eggs with marzipan and nuts and a whole host of fun and nutritive flavours.
Aelder Elixir was selling an distinctive elderberry liqueur made in Scotland that is perfect to heat things up as the temperature falls.
The Hawkshead Relish company produce over 100 relishes, pickles and preserves.
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We particularly liked Hawkshead Relish's chunky Christmas table version.
New start up business Cult vinegar lead the way with an impressive combination of very tasty tonics that also improve gut health.
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Tii-Pii is a novel brand from down under that has reimagined the hammock
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 Tii-Pii hammock at Top Drawer |
The large cone shaped canvas hanging basket to relax and enjoy time alone of with close friends and family comes in its own carry case like a tent.
We have added one to our garden wish list but you can use them to make a snug hideaway indoors too.
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The sheer quality of the home, fashion and food ranges on display at the show was extremely encouraging and an indication of the ambition and the determination to succeed in small British business right now.
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https://www.bombayduck.com/
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Bombay Duck
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https://www.anniesloan.com/
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Annie Sloan
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https://lilyjuliet.com/
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Lily Juliet
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https://corkcicle.com/
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Corkcicle
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https://www.formahouse.co.uk/
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Forma
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http://www.aelderelixir.com/
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Aelder Elixir
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https://www.hawksheadrelish.com/
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Hawkshead Relish
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https://www.topdrawer.co.uk/exhibitors/cult-vinegar#/
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Cult Vinegar
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https://www.britishcolourstandard.com/
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British Colour Standard
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https://www.tiipiibed.com/
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Tii-Pii
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https://www.bluestonegallery.com/news/annie-sherburne-jewellery/
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Annie Sherburne
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 Alicante park with fountain |
It is hard not to be seduced by the wonderful sunshine, fantastic beaches and delicious cuisine and wine offered all along all the many and varied coasts or Costas all around the perimeter of Spain.
There is also a lot to admire about the urban environment that helps to build an excellent place to live in that many people even choose to move to from overseas.
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 AH on patio overlooking explanada & marina |
Usually Spanish cities have an old town and some splendid architecture where many buildings are hundreds of years old or more and it is common to see exuberant ironwork balconies and classical bandstands and fountains that give the area such style add character.
This modern ninth floor apartment was designed around a patio to maximise the view over the Explanda and the marina.
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 Alicante Explanada |
This outdoors area allows for the most shade possible throughout the day taking into consideration its aspect in relation to the sun.
The Explanada is a beautiful tree lined marble tiled promanade along to the seafront in Alicante about 500 meters long and it is famous for its bold waves pattern.
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 Calle SanFransico Alicante |
Most buildings are painted in rich earthy colours that echo the rich landscape and the relatively strong light that this part of the world enjoys most of the year.
It is no coincidence that Spain is known for its ceramics and tiles (see our Create Display blog from last Spring on the Ceramics museum in Valencia).
This photograph show the Calle San Francisco street which has fibre glass mushrooms that children and the young at heart enjoy playing with.
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 7th international summar brass festival, Alicante |
Using scale to entertain is simple and effective and there are some nice tapas bars and shoe shops along here this street too. The leather products in Spain are also very well crafted and also good value.
The Spanish love to dress up and socialise in the cool evenings and there are many family friendly restaurants catering for all ages until late into the night which makes for a special and positive atmosphere down town.
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 Brass concert with town hall buildings |
This year in Alicante we were lucky to catch the annual Brass music festival which celebrated the best brass musicians internationally.
In its seventh year the events programme featured many very fine jazz performances. The superb quality tunes blended perfectly with all busy visitors dressed up for a night out.
Sitting at elegant bistro bars locals and holidaymakers unwind with their tapas and glasses of the local wine in the splendour of the 16th century town hall square.
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 Brass concert on Explanada Alicante |
This outdoor stage with a permanent canopy is designed to acoustically through the musicians sound forward to the audience while lighting up the performance effectively.
Mediterranean style permeates every smart home or great restaurant in this sophisticated but laid back city.
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 LaMary restaurant Alicante |
Our favourite meal of our recent trip was at La Mary. A reasonably priced formal dining restaurant situated on a side street in the main town La Mary serves exceptionally delicious food and wine with excellent service.
We also enjoyed the recently refurbished classically modern interior design with two display box wall cabinets each showing twenty four beautiful blue and white traditional plates, which were all subtly backlit, adding to the fresh and intimate ambience.
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 Canalajas car park mural Alicante |
In thriving cities such as Alicante unexpected visual juxtapositions are a speciality. In Calle Canalejas the ornate building houses the four star Restobar Gema Penalva that serves authentic local food.
Next to that a large new multi storey car park boasts a striking mural of a big crowd of people painted in linear black and white who are seemingly staring up at the viewer as they were all having their photograph taken from above.
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 Tile Shop Calle Canaljas Alicante |
It is well executed and as likeable as it is surprising.
Opposite a mosaic tile shop sells intricate high end specialist ceramic wares that are organised as individual miniature artworks like a gallery whose pieces would add the finishing touch to any upmarket interior.
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 Basilica of Santa Maria, Alicante
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The Basilica of Santa Maria in built in the Gothic 16th century style and sits next to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Alicante that reopened in 2011 after a major renovation.
With care, thought and ample resources, the lives of residents in a city can be improved and enhanced by well maintained and designed exterior spaces. Old and new buildings can successfully all sit together like a rich mosaic, that creates an environment that is as harmonious as possible, for the benefit of everyone.
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https://www.facebook.com/lamaryalicante/timeline
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La Mary Alicante
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http://www.alicante-spotlight.com/alicante/buildings.htm
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Alicante Spotlight – monuments
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https://www.facebook.com/Resto-Bar-Gema-Penalva-310859968974498/
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Gema Penalva Restaurant Bar
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http://www.alicanteturismo.com/museu-dart-contemporani-d-alacant-maca/?lang=ca
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Museum of Contemporary Art Alicante
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 Alicante umbrella |
In this post we aim to inspire you to bring on your bright side! As you know we love using vibrant textiles in our designs at Create Display.
For many belonging to 'generation X' one of the most memorable childhood events can be the introduction of the package holiday that became popular in the 1970's.
This made it possible for normal people to take a whole family abroad for a week or two, to a magical a land of warmth and relaxation.
Air travel became possible for many people for the first time which added to the convenience and enjoyment of their annual European adventure.
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 Bright vintage scarves |
The Costa Blanca has been a favourite happy place in many lives ever since and there are few things more fun than a vacation exploring the many delights this area has to offer.
A vivid array of sunlit umbrellas randomly lighting up the long sandy beaches is a resplendent sight when set against the water and the sky, which gleam in the heat in high season.
These vintage silk scarves lift the spirits and are perfect for travelling and channel the celebratory nature of this time of year and the arrival of weather for cruising along somewhere in France, Spain or Italy.
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 Coolook jewellery Alicante |
The sea tones and swirls looks like it could be by Emilio Pucci but we are not exactly sure and the purple one is a design by Yves St Laurent.
Any good accessory departments in major stores will have a selection ready for this season.
They are such adaptable pieces they would also make a statement as cushion covers or if you don't like to wear them they could even be framed as eye-catching artwork.
In Alicante we were awestruck with the gorgeous jewellery that caught our eyes as we strolled past the fabulous windows at Coolook.
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 Bershka Alicante Display |
There were so many pieces that are the sort of luminous real gems that could be worn anywhere to bring along the glamorous vibe and natural charm of this stunning coastline.
Like delicious fruit flavoured sweets Coolook jewellery will add juice and sparkle to any August outfit.
The blue glass palm trees and turquoise glass droplets cascading from the ceiling make an unusual and appealing display for this pretty boutique's treasure trove.
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 Turqouise Dress in Square with Pink Flowers |
All the colours of the rainbow were represented all around this large shopping district that is anchored by the spacious El Corte Ingles department store.
Like some spectacular retail fiesta, a kaleidoscope of plain bright pieces are the order of the day when the temperatures hit thirty degrees and above.
This year everyone is invited to try out the all-in-one jumpsuits, floaty dresses and voluminous shirts often embellished with embroidery anglaise or bold crochet detailing to continue the midsummer folk festival theme.
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 Piedra Vieja Boutique |
Spanish brands like Mango, Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bimba Y Lola, Stradivarius, Desigual and Bershka all have creative, fashion forward designs with super and often sophisticated collections.
These splendid Spanish boutiques can confidently compete with any of the successful London and Paris clothing companies.
We were also really excited to discover the strikingly neat cobalt and yellow fabric stacks in the double height entrance to Julian Lopez.
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 Lopez Fabric Shop Entrance |
Blown away by the scale of this store we were thrilled to find such variety in stock.
Alicante's destination store for everything to do with sewing and dressmaking, it was wonderful to find such a well stocked emporium extending around three floors.
The prices were very tempting, so we will definitely be heading back to top up our textile stashes, from Lopez's awesome array of different hues and materials.
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 Rolls of fabric at Lopez |
Making your own uniquely simple Kaftan cover up or floaty sarong is easy and there are lots of free tutorials online.
It is a pleasure to choose from such an amazing selection of beautiful bolts and radiant rolls.
As the thermometer heads up to the high thirties its time to enjoy wearing your best saturated threads. It is a great moment to be outside and paint and decorate your home and garden with pops of intense tints. It will lift your mood and help you be at your best and brightest like the finest midsummer flowers along the Mediterranean.
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Coolook Jewellery Alicante
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https://www.coolook.es/en/
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Piedra Vieja Boutique Alicante
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https://el-lugar-de-la-piedra-vieja.negocio.site/
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Julian Lopez Fabrics Alicante
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http://www.julianlopez.es/
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 TangoMike Cosplay Comicon Port Solent |
The south's biggest free comic convention lives up to its aim as a “fun filled event for all the family”.
On Saturday 16th June 2018 from 11am and on into the evening comic and gaming enthusiasts dressed up and celebrated their heroes.
A big crowd turned out to enjoy a day escaping from reality, by the seaside.
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 Comicon Stage Port Solent |
A big crowd turned out to enjoy a day escaping from reality, by the seaside.
The atmosphere was exciting and friendly and set against the stunning backdrop of Portsmouth's most exclusive and picturesque marina.
Port Solent Marina is tucked away at the top of Portsmouth harbour in Hampshire in England and provides an excellent haven for yachts, sailors and superheroes.
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 Comicon Visitors Dressed Up |
There were queues of cars waiting to enter the car parks and playing fields that were assigned as an extra overspill car park for the day.
On stage were a variety of celebrity guest singers and characters such as Star Wars e woks and Harry Potter Goblins and other creatures that were definitely out of this world.
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 Big Red Transformer Meets Little Red Transformer |
Members of the public in fancy dress were invited onto the stage to present and talk about their favourite stars from books, magazines, film, TV and video and online games.
Professional character costumers and cosplayers chatted and mingled in with the crowd including several Transformers, Captain Jax Parrow, Ghostbusters and many more.
Stall holders selling merchandise relating to every Comic, superhero and fictional film stars imaginable lined the promenade.
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 Red Transformer by Stage |
Toys and collectables were on display for shoppers to browse through and take home their special mementoes.
Many accessories were selected by fans to wear to the next Comicon. The galactic looking cake and sweet stands provided a multicoloured rainbow of power snacks for the strolling visitors.
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 He-Man Box Detail |
Between the stage shows and before the Blue Brothers music continued the party into the night, many visitors took advantage of the children's play area and the wonderful selection of restaurants and shops that the marina has to offer.
There were indoor games tournaments and even an underground zombie experience according to the brochure.
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 Comicon Character Face Scarves |
The day was fine and dry everybody seemed to enjoy the scenery and the buzz of the mini outdoor festival. The combination of the bright theatre unfolding in the centre of The Boardwalk and the beautiful white boats coming and going through the water was an excellent scene enjoyed by the hundreds of people who attended.
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 Black Knight and Crowd Comicon |
Port Solent undoubtedly profited from the stalls pitched by the traders and GoGeek events were hired to help deliver this specialist event.
Port Solent marina promotes the marina's retail and leisure facilities that include a multiplex cinema by holding a calendar of events throughout the year.
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 Green Gomorrah & Super Sidekick |
These include music concerts, vintage car rallies and craft markets to compliment the existing businesses. The activities and draw of the inviting marina environment helps to attract new regular visitors.
The day was organised by Port Solent management in conjunction with GoGeek events.
Many different ages of people got involved and dressed up.
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 Daryl Jones Transformer |
We especially enjoyed meeting Tango Mike's pirate character in a trio of supernatural Cosplay vamps in homemade outfits and Daryl Jones a Hampshire based Transformer cosplayer dazzled onlookers along the decking in a striking silver and gold costume.
We were impressed with a girl who introduced herself as Superman's enemy Gomorrah and her marvellous sidekick, both glowing in dramatic green and brown face and body paints.
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We often hear that we will all become technology nerds locked up in our bedroom gaming.
It was very refreshing to see local people getting creative and enjoying positive and fun times together and happily recreating a well loved Spiderman or a Lara Croft lookalike.
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We are looking forward to the third ComicCon at Port Solent next year…
…and we think the future might be fantastic.
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https://www.portsolent.com/comiccon
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Port Solent Comicon Webpage
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https://timmaidment.com/
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Tango Mike Cosplay
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 Fabric Wall Hanging by Create Display |
Give your bedroom a fabulous focal point with an easy to make hanging fabric panel that hangs neatly behind your bedstead.
This beautiful design will work for any size of bed and is a suitable option for both adults and older children. The first step is to measure the width of your bed as this will be the width of your wall hanging.
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Secondly choose your fabric: if the fabric decoration is for adults choose a large pattern in complimentary colours to enhance your existing room decoration scheme. A thick cotton or upholstery weight fabric is best to keep it looking luxurious.
It is a good idea to use washable fabrics and you could upcycle a pair of curtains or an heirloom bedspread as part of your project.
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Re-use a piece of fabric if you want to keep the costs down and also be extra environmentally friendly.
A good time to your favourite or a great vintage fabric design.
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 Blossom Inspiration |
We have selected an end of roll off cut by Prestigious Textiles called Emi.
Emi has a simple and elegant Spring flower and pretty buds and looks really fresh as well as blending visually with the other interior elements in the bedroom perfectly.
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You can also choose to 'back' a thinner fabric with an extra cotton lining fabric layer. This backing gives it extra weight and makes sure the finished piece has a substantial appearance. If the fabric is for children or teenagers you can go bolder with colour and introduce a striking pattern too.
Step three is to decide where you want the horizontal line to be that will have the wooden pole from which you will hang your panel. It may help to make a small pencil mark on the wall here. Then measure down to a point 150mm from the floor.
This will be the bottom of the wall hanging and it will fall behind your bed and below your mattress but above the skirting board.
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The forth step is to purchase a 30mm in diameter wooden pole from a large home decorating retailer.
Cut the pole to the width of your bedhead plus 50mm. so it just pops out each side using a small saw.
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 select blossom fabric |
Step five is to paint the cut wood pole to size to match the existing background wall colour behind the bed and leave to dry. Wash your plain and patterned fabrics according to the manufacturers instructions so they will not shrink again when you launder the finished wall hanging.
The sixth step is to lay your plain fabric out on a flat surface or a clean floor and measure out a rectangle the same size as your final wall hanging size (from pole height to above the floor height) and the same width as your bedhead.
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Step seven means adding 50mm all the way round to allow for hemming. Use a large right angled edge (or large sheet of paper) to keep the corners square. Cut this bed sized rectangle out with large sewing scissors.
Fold and hem all around the rectangle to give a neat edge. If you are using a narrower roll of fabric than the bedhead width you may need to join two lengths together at the sides to form one large rectangle.
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The eigth step is to cut out eight 300 x 100 strips of fabric to make tab tops and hem neatly around the edges with the sewing machine.
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 cutting out fabric rectangles |
Step nine involves machine stitching the tab tops to the plain rectangle ensuring the ends go to the back of the panel along with the hemmed edge so the neat side is facing out.
To complete step ten lay your patterned fabric out on a flat surface as before and measure out another large rectangle. You can use your plain hemmed fabric panel as a template here. As before stitch two widths together if your fabric roll is not as wide as your bed.
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Be careful here to pattern match correctly so make sure you allow enough fabric for your pattern repeat if necessary. Hem your patterned piece 50mm narrower than your plain panel using the sewing machine of possible, so you will have a pretty plain line showing around the edges like a slim 'frame'.
Make sure the patterned panel is facing print side up and any turned edges are facing towards the back and lay the patterned piece on top of the slightly larger plain panel. Step eleven is to machine or hand stitch the fabric layers together.
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Ensure the design is the right way up and the tabs are on the top edge.
The twelth step is to press your new panel as hot as is recommended for your chosen fabrics.
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 sew fabric to backing panel |
In step thirteen purchase three gold or silver cup hooks large enough to comfortably hold your painted pole. If your bed is bigger than a standard double or your fabric is very heavy you may need a few more hooks to carry the weight securely.
Measure and mark with a pencil three or more points where the pole will be held horizontally at the chosen point at the top of your wall and use a spirit level to check they are lined up correctly.
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Use a drill to make small pilot holes in your walls and add wall plugs if you need to. Screw the cup hooks straight into the wall. Alternatively you could use large 3M plastic hooks designed to hold 2.5 kg if you are renting and not allowed to make holes in the walls as these say they will remove cleanly if you want to take tham off after a while.
We recommend stickng to the 3M brand and avoiding cheaper imitation products. Step fourteen is to thread your tab tops onto the pole and carefully place your new hanging symmetrically above your bed tucking in the length of the panel behind your bedhead.
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Then stand back and enjoy your new boutique hotel style bedroom wall feature.
We love the way it makes these simple scroll beds from Ikea 'pop' when set against a plain white wall.
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 hang panel & add cushions |
It may suit you to make two fabric panels to change from summer to winter or even four or more to reflect the changing seasons of the year.
Once you have the hooks in place in the wall it is easy to string up another panel like changing up your flags to suit the occasion.
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One idea could be to make two and alternate them if one is removed for washing and pressing. To get the look quickly without the detailed sewing time or if you don't have a sewing machine you could also use a duvet the right size for your bed.
Pair with a coordinating sheet in a thick quality cotton and press carefully and hand sew them together around the edges as above. Hand finish with thick gross grain ribbon and hand stitched tab tops if you want a smart finish.
Enjoy your own original design that brightens up your boudoir most so it is charmingly ready for royalty.
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You may be too busy running your palace and attending to your duties.
So contact us at Create Display about assisting you to make a personally designed panel to suit your most regal rooms requirements.
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http://www.createdisplay.com/?page_id=528
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contact us page at Create Display
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https://www.prestigious.co.uk/
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Prestigious Textiles fabric
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https://www.diy.com/
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B&Q decorating suppliers
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https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/
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Ikea beds and lighting
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https://www.johnlewis.com/
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John Lewis fabric
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https://www.carpetright.co.uk/
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Carpetright flooring
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During the last decade many residential and commercial interiors have been initially designed with a neutral interior scheme. This means that the colours that are chosen as a backdrop or foundation to a room's design scheme are easy and restful for the eye to look at.
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 Sail Boats on the Horizon at Bosham Textile Art |
The neutral choices can be described as without rich, bright or strong colours that are saturated and these calming tones do not date or go out of fashion in the same way as bold hues do.
This small rainbow coloured textile artwork can be hung on the wall in a plain environment that looks a little boring and instantly the area in transformed into somewhere uplifting and more positive.
It is possible to design stunning interiors just using neutral cream, tan, beige, silver, grey, white and black in your home palette.
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However unless you are very skilled with colour, pattern, texture and lighting it is difficult to carry off a visually pared down minimal space, unless you have architecture that is very interesting or an amazing view to provide a eye catching feature. Bringing in accents of carefully chosen shades will ensure that your environment stays looking contemporary and inviting.
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 Dining room with cream, grey and purple |
This year purple is everywhere and ultra violet is Pantone's prestigious colour of the year. This deep and vibrant inky colour is associated with astrology and space and it has spiritual and mystical associations.
As an alternative colour option it is often used by musicians and artists and used cleverly in lighter shades and different material finishes it can be pretty and warm looking whilst still modern and looking to the future, especially when specified in metallic leather for example.
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 Dining room with pretty tablecloth and china |
Here in the dining room with ivory cream walls by Dulux and charcoal laminate slate look floor from Wickes and a grey rug from Ikea we have added a large framed contemporary print of a picturesque view point looking across the countryside covered with trees and hills in soft purples and heathery tones.
We have recovered the kitchen chairs in lavender cotton and custom made seat cushions out of wadding stuffing and linen. We have chosen a good quality vintage striped amethyst curtain fabric to make the cushion covers and ties.
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 Cream, grey and silver kitchen |
The marble effect pattern on the fabric also adds depth and makes them easier to spot clean.
A Cath Kidson fabric tablecloth adds a bold splash with pink roses on a light blue background and it contrasts harmoniously with the soft purple colour theme.
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 Sitting Room with 'limewash' brick fireplace |
The floral splash 'Evie' porcelain china set from Tescos is a bargain at £20 for a 12 piece set and it works perfectly in a shared house.
In smaller properties a successful interior design means spaces flow through the house and relate to each other. This is another benefit of having a neutral base to start with a then building a unique and original decoration on top in furnishing layers.
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 Sitting Room Upcycled Room Divider |
Here the brickwork in this mid century house has been 'limewashed' with a creamy brick paint to highlight the natural variations in the brick fireplace.
A white washed oak effect laminate flooring from B&Q gives the room a light look and the ivory cream walls continue throughout the house which has lighting from Ikea and Laura Ashley.
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 Sitting room mirror detail |
The purple and cream geometric design deep pile rug is also from B&Q and the vintage coffee table and leather sofas were gifts from friends who were moving abroad.
The old vintage mirror and shelving unit which is used as a room divider here are both painted in Alfie from the colours range at B&Q. A purple check wool throw is an easy way to add a more intense hue and provides an extra cosy touch for evenings enjoyed at home.
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https://www.diy.com/
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B&Q white oak effect flooring
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http://www.tesco.com/
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Tesco Evie porcelain china set
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https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay
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Create Display online Etsy Shop
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https://www.cathkidston.com/
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Cath Kidson fabrics
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https://www.diy.com/
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Dulux paint at B&Q
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https://www.wickes.co.uk/
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Wickes Mustang laminate flooring
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https://www.thewoolcompany.co.uk/
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The Wool Company purple wool throw
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http://www.lauraashley.com/
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Laura Ashley lighting
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https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/
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Ikea rugs and lighting
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 Easter tea table Flemish style |
This Easter weekend delight your family and friends with a Flemish inspired table set for a sweet afternoon tea.
It is easy to get the look for your interior decoration and use your favourite pretty tableware too.
First we gathered some vintage pieces: a large blond vintage table cloth, some octagonal yellow floral placemats and a special Bavarian tea set which has little blue forget-me-not flowers and some silver gilding.
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A large round old gold teapot and some second hand amber glassware with an iridescent finish give an inviting boost of sunny colour whatever the weather.
Then we added a gorgeous porcelain cake stand which amazingly is from Tesco.
A marine coloured egg shaped Danish glass stem vase reflects the candy egg theme.
From Marks and Spencer we added a mini globe to continue this spherical idea and sugar eggs to top it all off. Salted caramel and chocolate hot cross buns are a new and winning recipe.
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 Chocolate Hen Brussels mall |
We would of included this amazing chocolate hen if it could have travelled from the covered Mall in Brussels and arrived in one piece.
Fresh oranges are added to our festive spread in a hand sponge painted Bloomingville fruit bowl.
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A Laura Ashley faux rose bouquet sits in a large jam jar. This arrangement is a good alternative to the fresh branches with buds we will bring in from the garden fresh when it stops raining heavily.
To complete our Easter tea we like the salted caramel cake from Co-op finest range and gluten free chocolate coconut cakes from Aldi.
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 Corne Port Royal Chocolatiers Brussels Mall |
The wall hanging with boats in Osbourne Bay and all the soft furnishings in the sititing room are designed and handmade and available to order from Create Display.
In Brussels in Belgium we admired the way the The Corne Port Royal Chocolatiers amazing large egg and tempting display is set against a traditional backdrop of dark wood furniture and a stained glass art nouveau ceiling light.
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 Grand Place Brussels |
The 17th century architecture in Belgium is breathtaking and we loved the gilt flourishes we saw recently on these beautiful buildings in the Grand Place in Brussels.
Even on a day with dark clouds in the sky the fantastic stonework and shapes on the facades lit up the city square which was alive with cafes and continental character.
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 Kanten Rocco Daniels Shop Interior |
In Bruges the tall classical shops and homes were very elegant and featured traditional French style interiors.
This moulded and painted cream and gold ceiling is in a wonderful shop full of lace and textiles called Kanten Rocco Daniels. The Belgians are famous for their lacemaking.
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 Peacock Tiles Brugge |
We found this large art nouveau influenced peacock tile feature in the 17th century town house we visited.
The ceramic centerpiece looked amazing as a focal point between the kitchen and the hallway, An hand crafted original wooden spiral staircase spanned the five floor house which was very stylishly restored.
However climbing up and down the flights was not for the faint hearte or those who had sampled more than one or two glasses of the excellent local beer, cider and wine this area also specialises in.
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 De Sigual Floral Shop Interior |
At the Desigual fasion store in central Brugge the elaborate backdrop of the city blends well with this contemporary shop interior with warm metallic paint on white painted walls.
An unusual and modern fancy chandelier effect is created with hundreds of hanging glass bottles catching the daylight.
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 Daniel Ost Florist Window |
In Brussels the Daniel Ost florist occupies a stunning art nouveau shop front full of displays with a wonderful array of top quality sculptural flowers and plants.
The many ivory and pale pink buds on these branches celebrate Spring simply perfectly.
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 NH hotel window Brussels |
The NH hotel in Brussels has a frontage that contains a window with several smart black wood boxes which make miniature gardens glow when they are lit from beneath.
The glass vases are all the better for being seasonally spherical and it is lovely to look at the individual plants inside each one.
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 Golden Egg in Brugge shop window |
This post concludes with an impressive huge golden egg from one of the windows of one of the many amazing and delicious chocolate shops in central Brugge. It is well worth a visit to sample all the good quality confectionary and admire the sculptural talents and creativity of the chocolatiers especially at The Chocolate Line.
We hope you have a fabulous Spring and here in Sussex we are happy about the longer lighter evenings and looking forward to walking with the trees in blossom and getting out on the water again soon.
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