Synchronicity

I love my handmade lifestyle! I enjoy crafts like knitting, crocheting, and creative journaling. These are crucial in my mindfulness journey, especially now that I am working full-time again. 

As I explore the possibilities within my current role, I am also guiding myself in balancing my life.  I am adjusting well to work, so I just need to enhance my days with some journaling.

To inspire myself to keep on creating and writing, I reached out to Anne of 11*11 Handmade. I commissioned her to make me a traveler’s notebook in salmon pink Argentinian vegetable-tanned leather. 

Anne is a one-woman mompreneur who makes all her journals by hand. She takes pride in using vegetable-tanned leather, and guarantees that each journal will age beautifully. 

Her journals have been used by fountain pen enthusiasts and calligraphy hobbyists. Since I sketch my food and label my entries with brush lettering, I felt that I deserved a new handmade journal to last me through the years.  

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that she resides near my office, so we met up when my journal was already completed.  

The eco-friendly packaging won my heart during my “unboxing” process. 

Say hello to my new synchronicity journal! Anne refers to her creations as synchronicity journals because they serve as vessels for our dreams which will be manifested through action. 

I requested for my blog’s name to be embossed on the leather, and yes, it was hand-embossed! 

I was pleased with my purchase, and I crocheted on the P2P bus ride home. 

I look forward to using my new journal, and living up to my handmade lifestyle everyday! There is always something worth creating, whether it’s a blog entry (yes, I believe this blog is also a craft!), a scarf, or a sketch of my lunch.

The possibilities are limitless!

Tribute to Van Gogh

Yesterday, I finished knitting my second beanie using chunky yarn in wheat. I am definitely in love with this color because it complements the scarf which I finished knitting over the weekend. 

The scarf and beanie have been knitted in colors inspired from the daytime paintings of Vincent Van Gogh. Consider this as my simple tribute to my favorite artist, who inspires me to be creative, no matter what! 

Wander Space Sunday

Last Sunday, I returned to The Wander Space to look around for inspo and of course, to shop!

It’s impossible to feel sad in this place. I mean, the dream catchers simply inspire me to think of good vibes already! 

My first purchase were these 5mm circular knitting needles from stockist String Strand Strung.  

I also got these handmade onyx earrings from Made By KCA (Black + Stars? Totally me).

Lastly, I got this handmade leather slim card case from Raqsified. 

All of my purcheses made me want to immediately embrace my creative side, so I sat down and did some knitting.  

They also have a cafe, which I will patronize next time that I am not already full!

Their dreamy store simply makes me unwind and relax. I will be back for more wandering and shopping soon! 

Calado Oh Na Na

I have recently shared with you my favorite handmade hoop earrings from homegrown brand Calado. My Mirasol spiral hoops were handmade in Dauis, Bohol by artisans who have inherited their skills in filigree and silversmithing from their ancestors. Their artistry can be traced back to the Spanish colonial times, and Calado is committed to preserving their craft through their handmade jewelry line. 

I am impressed with the quality of my earrings, and I feel pretty whenever I wear them. I think one of the reasons why I feel confident whenever I wear brands like Calado is because I am a strong supporter of the local handmade movement. Becoming a conscious consumer has also let me be naturally drawn to goods which were ethically and fairly made.

I am happy that my earrings, just like many of my belongings, adhere to my handmade lifestyle. It is my hope that more people will discover the joys of conscious consumerism and the beauty of each handmade object. I will continue to share my handmade finds here on my blog, so watch out for my lifestyle posts! Together, we can all discover that hands will always be better than machines in terms of quality and heart. 

From Alabang to Manila

I went to Alabang after my breakfast forum at the AIM the other day. I took the P2P to Alabang Town Center, and I took sips of coffee in my tumbler during my trip. 

I visited Common Room ATC because my visit to their Katipunan branch earlier this week was not enough! 

I bought the necklace and wood chips for my mom, who bought me so many goodies from her recent trip to Osaka, Japan. I got myself cord ties from Punch Crafts and a skinny brass ring from Blue Flame. 

I recently misplaced one of my Nawa rings, and I was eager to replace it with another locally-made ring. Luckily, Common Room has a handmade brass ring in my size. Blue Flame is also a brand close to my heart as I have previously bought a sterling silver necklace from this maker. 

I also spent some time at the seesaw outside the store. 

I took the P2P back to Makati. I checked out this Pia minaudiare from my friend Rafe’s brand. 

I was hungry, so I had a couple of silvanas from Dumaguete-born bakeshop Sans Rival. I had the butter and choco silvanas. Both were so good! However, I was partial to the butter variant. It was perfection. 

I then took a sidetrip to St. Jude to pray for my personal intentions. 

On my way home, I saw these K9 poodles! 

Here’s to more adventures in search of handmade, good food, and blessings from up above!

Hope in a Necklace

I bought a new necklace for myself. My love for jewelry is quite obvious based on my frequent purchases, but I am now a conscious consumer. I focus on bling that is handmade, bought from a social enterprise, and is local. 

Good thing Tayo Collective has a minimalist necklace collection that suits all of the above criteria. Their gold-filled necklaces are classy, barely-there, and ideal for layering with other jewelry. Each piece is crafted by a woman rescued from the sex trade. 

As a woman and a fan of handmade jewelry, I find this cause amazing and transformative. And since their necklaces are sold through social enterprise collective Things That Matter, it was easy and convenient for me to make that purchase. 

I received my necklace via same-day delivery, and I was thrilled with how pretty and minimalist it is. I feel strongest after a workout, so here I was wearing it after an hour of cardio. It is empowering to wear the creation of another empowered woman. This will definitely be a conversation starter, and a wardrobe staple that will remind me that beautiful things happen if I will yearn for those that matter. 

Zapateria

Last Saturday, I was fortunate to attend the community launch of my friend Unyx Sta. Ana’s co-creation lab Zapateria. It is located in the heart of Marikina. Her dad, Rico Sta. Ana, is one of the city’s distinguished shoe designers. Here, he is shown cutting the ribbon and formally opening this wonderful space for makers. 

Unyx was a grade school friend, so naturally I was able to reunite with ladies from my Miriam College Grade School life. Here, I am with Erika Bolante, the interior designer of Zapateria. 

Erika designed the space, including this shoe chandelier.  

It was a fine touch to showcase local leather...

...And to showcase shoe designs from the 80’s and 90’s.  

I also caught up with Anj, another grade school friend. We share the same birthday and we were born at the same hospital!

Various aspects of shoemaking, as well as sample shoe designs, adorn the space. 

My friends and I proceeded to eat lunch. The bacon-wrapped bananas were so good! 

Also met up with Gianina and her husband Carlo. 

It was also thrilling to get a photograph with Ms. Charo Santos-Concio, who happens to be related to Unyx. 

Finally, a photo with Unyx and the rest of my grade school girls!

I had an amazing afternoon! It was great to see my friends again and of course, it was fulfilling to see Unyx and her dad open a promising co-creation space for the Marikina shoemaking industry.  

Congratulations Unyx and Zapateria! 

Banaue Day 1

I just got back from my trip to Uhaj, Banaue for the Knitting Adventure organized by social enterprise Knitting Expedition. The woman behind the brand of hand-knitted toys, Candy Reyes, was our tour guide. Her passion for the Ifugao culture and of course, knitting, was palpable. It also helped that the people with me in this trip were also staunch advocates of handmade, buying local, and culture. 

Our trip began with a bus ride from Cubao and a stopover at Nueva Vizcaya.  

I was so happy to finally make it to Banaue!

The bus played “Top of the World” by the Carpenters during this moment. 

I was inspired by Mitzie Icasiano (Fulbright scholar and expert on Ifugao handicrafts) to go to Banaue when I became her research assistant in 2007. We handled Kalinga and Ifugao artifacts at the UP Asian Center, and that sparked a love for all things Ifugao in me. I ended up wearing Natalya Lagdameo bangles from the region, and I always found myself dreaming of visiting the rice terraces myself. So after buying a dog plushie from Knitting Expedition and some online conversations with Candy, I decided that this is the perfect opportunity to visit Uhaj.

Finally, I made it! This was at our accommodations, the Uhaj Native Village Inn. Their menu is largely Western, and the facilities are modern and clean. 

This was the view from the inn’s restaurant.  

Our room was something like this!

My first breakfast in Uhaj. Yes, both coffees were mine.

I then got to topload on a jeepney. This is a local custom as public vehicles are scarce and people simply have to find a way to fit in- or on top of- a jeep. 

This was a childhood dream come true!

This was at their viewing point.  

Breathtaking!

Now back at our Inn. I found some books which guests could peruse. 

And once again, the view, and my Php20 bill which features the rice terraces. 

Our cottage was cozy, and I was sharing it with two other ladies from our group, Rocelle and Vivi. 

I also got to meet the inn’s adorable Great Dane, Rain. 

We then had our knitting class in the afternoon at the inn’s viewing deck. 

Basic knitting has never been this inspiring. 

Candy’s wingwoman in the region, Jean, was one of our teachers. She is a knitting legend and rice farmer. Also, she is a mom and tour guide!

Rain held my hand as I was struggling with learning how to knit. 

I eventually made a simple cup cozy. 

By the time our class was done, it was time for dinner. I savored this chicken curry with brown rice. It was delicious! 

To cap off the night, I had a cold one with this priceless view. 

It was a great first day at Banaue, and I went to bed inside an Ifugao house. 

I really couldn’t ask for anything more.

Begin Again

Yesterday, I claimed my bespoke ring from Studio 925. I “drew”/doodled my design for a new ring to be made out of an old one. I believe in the importance of being eco-friendly, even when it comes to jewelry. That is why for Valentine’s Day, I decided to go to Janina for a redesigned silver ring with amethyst. 

I was excited to see the finished product, and I was overjoyed when I claimed it. It was better than what I had in mind!  

Stacked with my Nawa rings

If you want to feel special, you have to start with treating yourself right. Trust me, I feel better after having this ring made because I know that it is uniquely mine. I am going to add this to my Nawa rings and I am also happy that they do not clash. 

It seems that handmade is the way for me to go this year and beyond! I hope you will also consider buying handmade and from small businesses. Oh, and if you also have silver bling at home which are in need of an overhaul, bring them to Janina!

It is always better to buy something which is locally made- and not manufactured in a mechanical assembly line. 

I am beginning again this year with a handmade lifestyle and a love for all things local! I hope you will also find your own handmade finds soon. 

Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon crafting, making, and simply being myself. 

I dropped by the newly opened Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop to chill out and get lost in arts and crafts. I was eager to take a break from reality, and I was not disappointed at all.  

I was lucky to find a parking slot in front of the Korben Building. I was able to look around the Papemelroti Flagship Store at the ground floor, where handmade goodies were on display.  

I am a huge fan of Papemelroti merchandise because they are locally made and most of them are crafted by artisans in need (their accessories are made by the Kidney Friends Foundation members).  

The second floor houses racks of vintage clothing which are in good condition! Proceeds from the sales of these clean thrifted fashion go to charity.  

The clothes are affordable and most of them are branded.  

A few steps from the clothing boutique is the Artisan’s Workshop. I was greeted by shelves of kits awaiting customization.

I also found this napping area.  

This taka horse is reminiscent of the papier-mâché horses at Paete, Laguna. 

They have paper dolls in the workshop. Perfect for a nostalgic play session. 

The workshop is open from Monday to Saturday from 8AM to 8PM. You do not need to book or schedule a crafting session. You simply show up, purchase a kit, and pay the Php50 borrower’s fee for materials such as paint, glue, pens, and old magazines.  

The space is inspiring and it brings out the artist in you. Notice the natural light, murals, and handmade decor.  

The tables and chairs are inviting and I was excited to spend time crafting!

When I saw these papier-mâché sitting pretty dolls, I knew I already found my kit for the day. 

Their menu features affordable price points and various craft options for all ages. 

So I finally settled for a 2018 planner and sitting pretty doll as my crafts for the day. Yes, I chose two because, why not? 

I began my crafternoon at the stamping station which is reminiscent of similar setups at tourist spots abroad.  

I personalized the first two pages and I knew that it will be a productive session. 

I also got an old book so I could tear the pages off for decorating my planner and doll. As a bookworm, this broke my heart a bit. But then again, this is also eco-friendly. And words look pretty.  

I did my thing and enjoyed the sunshine on my window.  

I was assisted by workshop staff Lyn, who was not just a proficient teacher, but also a skilled photographer! 

I gave my doll magazine cutout hair and curled it using scissors.  

Before I knew it, I already spent four hours in there and I was done! 

Lyn was game to take photos of me with my crafternoon work.  

I was really into the taka horse.  

This place made me feel young, carefree, and capable of having a dream. As you know, one of my dreams is to live a handmade lifestyle. I think this afternoon perfectly upholds that! 

Meet my sitting pretty doll! I enjoyed decorating, painting, and styling her. 

I made her heart wings, which I later removed and turned into a separate decor for Valentines.  

I had a productive crafternoon and my journal is basically my vision board for the year. I pasted magazine cutouts, painted words, and placed stickers to spice up my days.  

Spot my creation among her sisters! 

By the time I was done, I was starving so I drove to Breakfast Bin Maginhawa for my favorite toasted naked longganisa with brown rice and sunny-side up egg.  

I had a gorgeous day and I recommend the Papemelroti Artisan’s Workshop for your next art session! Bring your friends and family. Or if you want to spend some quiet time by yourself, it is also fine! Then eat at your preferred restaurant. You deserve self-love and handmade goodness all-year round!

For the Love of Handmade

Last Thursday, I decided to take a P2P to Alabang to visit the Common Room & Co Pop-up and Common Room Store at Alabang Town Center.

I felt spiffy as I came from a conference at AIM so I had to take a selfie in the bus.

The trip was quick and I was there in half an hour. 

Finally, I was able to catch the pop-up before it closes on 31 January! 

I was giddy to be there as I am a huge fan/believer of handmade. 

I also had to pose by their most photographed spot.

Note to self: what if I fly? 

 Every spot is filled wih beautiful murals and quotes.

See how dreamy it was? This was why I made the trip to the south! 

I was there to look for a necklace and some Valentines gifts for my parents. 

They even painted on the floor and I was ecstatic to find this hopscotch setup. 

As a fan of indie sellers and locally-made goods, I stand tall for small shops! Also, handmade is better. Always. 

How cute was this tic tac toe setup? 

They had everything for every budget and style. These flowers look dreamy. 

I had to have my photo taken by this massive wall filled with Christmas wishes! Yes, these were actual wishes posted by customers and handmade fans. 

It was difficult to ignore the writings on the wall. 

Every time I purchase handmade, I feel as if my dreams are coming true because I have always wanted to transition to a buy local/handmade lifestyle! Supporting shops and pop-ups like Common Room keeps the dream alive and lets me buy from makers as well. 

After touring the pop-up, it was time to drop by the Common Room ATC shop. This one is a permanent location.

Like their Katipunan store, this also sports a dreamy yet edgy ambience.

I found Blue Flame Jewelry’s gorgeous display. I wanted to buy everything! But I decided to look around first.

This was Blue Flame’s sterling silver display. All her pieces are handmade. 

This was her brass and copper display.

Everything was beautiful and created with so much love. 

It was delightful to see Knitting Expedition’s shelf!  I already own their black dachshund plushie and I named it Ella after my favourite dog from Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe. 

These handmade flowers are giving me life. 

I eventually decided on this delicate silver necklace from Blue Flame. I am partial to onyx, stars, and oxidized metal.

Isn’t it lovely? 

This sign is everything. 

I had my purchases wrapped and I looked around some more. 

This was my mini-haul: a Habil terrarium bulb for my dad, a pair of handmade earrings for my mom from Piesa, and my dainty necklace.

Of corse, I had to try the earrings on!

And then, I wore my new necklace inside P2P. It felt like a new beginning.

If you like handmade as much as I do, check out Common Room and support makers who create pieces with passion!