PaperMagicTwigs - For love of design and all things beautiful

"i will kill the spiders. i will share my fries with you when you’ve finished all yours and are still hungry. i won’t ever pop my collar. i will never be rude to your tummy- when i hear it growl and gurgle, i promise to bend down and reply respectfully. i will eat the mushrooms when we order the supreme pizza. i will kiss the papercuts. and the door-slammed finger. and the counter-bumped hip. i’ll try my hardest not to get annoyed when you whisper questions and comments during movies. i will be the big spoon. i will let you win at wrestling. sometimes. other times i will not. i will go faster. harder. i will pull when you want. and tease you when you don’t. i will send you random txts and leave you silly gifts. not always. not on schedule. just whenever i want to. whenever i think you need one. or seven. i will check your tire pressure. and remind you to take your car in. i will hold your hand. i will love you. i will love you. i will love you."

I love the `not always, not on schedule. Just whenever I want to.' part. This is so the thing I keep telling V. That he should 'want' to, he doesn't need to. :)
And I love the writing style. It is the one I love the most. And use. If you ever read any of my stuff you should know. Do you? Although if I want to be a writer it's got to change. You think? Anyhow. Moving on then.

a little bit of color..

2011-05-27T20:52:00.001+04:00

A little bit of Turquoise, or a lot of it? What works for you?
I love all of these! :)

buy it here at - marjorie skouras design

via thebooandtheboy.com/

buy it here

xkcd??

2011-05-27T20:52:00.000+04:00

You will be hooked, just as I am.. here are some of my favs! - via -http://xkcd.com/

Happy Dreams

2011-05-27T20:50:00.000+04:00

I'm in love with this!

Btw, how awesome is this idea?! Which room tugs at your heart??

Quick update

2011-05-27T20:49:00.000+04:00

Went to Ethiopia, V's office retreat. Was great in so many ways, and completely awful in few others. Nevermind. Went back to joburg from there. In a long 9 hr hopping flight. Without yellow fever shot. Was deported. Was kinda cool actually, looking back. Or was it. Hmm. Wish we had never gone.
Spent a week in Dubai without any of my stuff. No laptop. Thank god for my lovely iphone. I have to stop calling it that. Should just call it 'phone'. But not able to. Met friends, played taboo, threw a party for a dear friend who got engaged recently. Was awesome fun. Like always. Slept at 6:30 am. No big deal. House was a MESS. Big deal - looks ok now. Miss it. Back in joburg now. Hating the food at the hotel. They have a special talent of messing up most things. Had a meeting with the head chef. Future looks hopeful.
On another note - totally obsessed with Tap Zoo and Words with Friends. Reading `Alchemy of Desire' - loving it!

Hong Kong delight.. and oh, what a delight! :)

2011-04-21T14:54:00.000+04:00

What a gorgeous apartment this is!!!!! I'm in love with the wallpapers!!! Are you too? :)

via Hong Kong Elle Decor

L.O.V.E

2011-04-21T14:53:00.001+04:00

coz i'm living in a trailer park..

2011-04-21T14:53:00.000+04:00

My second visit to South Africa and I'm so happy. Would have been happier if we were living in Cape Town. Joburg is fun for me only on weekends here, weekdays can be a little drab. Anyways, so it's the Easter weekend and we are (on a very expensive flight) off to Cape Town and Franschhoek!! I couldn't be happier! :)
As a design freak I always try and look for quirky, design, art, boutique hotels to stay in. And since our last visit I have had my heart on a stay at the http://www.oldmacdaddy.co.za/ - trailers, close to Cape Town.
That being full and almost always reserved, you have to plan and book in advance. :(
So I choose the second best option - granddaddy airstream rooftop trailer park - Worlds only rooftop trailers!

All the trailers are designed by local artists, who have brought something unusual and fantastic out in each of the rooms. There were two trailers available - the Afro Funk and Love Of Lace - I'm going with Love of Lace on the managers recommendation. :)
I'm most excited about live music performances that take place right at the rooftop, next to the trailers, at the bar, should be much fun! I'll let you all know how the stay was and weather it is worth it! Watch this space for a review!

Which one would you like to stay in????? Tell me!! I think the polka dots dorothy trailer is very adorable and I also like the 50s and love of lace trailer. you?

Pleasantville by Liam Mooney - 50s inspired room

The Ballad of John & Yoko by Tasmin Relly, Cara Rose and Chloe Townsend

Afro Funk by Carla Soudien

Love of Lace by Tracy Lynch

Dorothy by Sarah Pratt

Goldilocks and the Three Bears by Mark and Joe Stead (comes with costumes to play some!) :)

funny funny

2011-04-21T14:52:00.003+04:00

Wow, that's really me and I bet a lot of other people. I'm really impressed with this campaign! :) I say - tomorrow.

hahahaha!!

LOL yes please!

Few of my fav iphone apps

2011-04-21T14:52:00.000+04:00

Moleskine Iphone app - My fav!! - Turn your iphone into a moleskine and it's free!

moleskine for iphone - get it here

And so these are the few of my favorite things on my iphone.

calorie counter diet tracker

MyFitnessPal - An excellent app to keep track of your daily calorie intake, lets you keep logs of you daily meals and works really seamlessly. Love this app. So wonderful, even I use it!

WhatsApp - Free msging on wifi network to anyone in your phonebook who also has it. So everyone - pls get it!

Falldown 3D - falldown-3d get it here - A very fun free game. I've gotten a lot of people addicted to this trying it on my phone.

Sita Sang the Blues - For anyone who loves design and animation and funny scripts and mythology - must get, it's free. Watch Sita Sang The Blues on your iphone! - sita-sings-the-blues-free

Art Cards by artist Elizabeth Boylon -

These are beautiful cards you can customize to send on that special occasion or best.. just like that! :) And it's free! -artcards-by-elizabeth-boylan - get them here

DincType -dinctype - get it here - Free.

For design and font lovers. Also has free retro cards!

Wine Notes - free

I'm super excited about this one. Think it'll be great for my SA trip and to take notes of all the wonderful wines, favs, not so great one, general notes.

Poolga - 15 great illustrated wallpapers for your iphone at your finger tips!

Free!

Dial a Muse -dial-a-muse - get it here

Muse + retro + fun +free = get it!

Which one do you like? What are your fav apps? share with me! :)

2011-04-11T10:15:00.002+04:00

In India for a week and then off to South Africa again!! :) Updates will come sooner than later I hope! Till then, keep drooling on design! :)

l.o.v.e.

2011-04-11T10:06:00.002+04:00

summer dreaming

2011-04-11T10:06:00.001+04:00

floor decor

2011-04-11T10:06:00.000+04:00

One day when I have my store, I would love to get something like this done!! Totally love..

gift guide

2011-04-11T10:05:00.000+04:00

vintage polaroid land camera-model10 - by thefancylab - 62$

goodie box of new + vintage paper goods by Peggy Wong of bluepoolroad - 24$

buy it here - 18$

buy them here - 5$

nyc map magnets/badges - 6$

summer drink

2011-04-11T10:04:00.000+04:00

My experiment for today.

L.O.V.E.

2011-04-05T14:12:00.000+04:00

I accept the stylish blogger award! :)

2011-04-05T14:11:00.001+04:00

My namesake and fellow design/decor blogger from allthingzbeautiful.blogspot.com
has nominated me for this blog award. Thank you Neha, very sweet of you! :)
It requires me to accept the award while revealing seven secrets about myself to my readers. As such I already have a page sharing a lot about myself - inane-but-hopefully-fun-trivia-about-me

But I'm happy to share some more here, so here goes -

1) In the last year I have hardly spent time in my own home. Maybe three and half months in 12!

2) I have done rappelling, river crossing, 80 km hikes and want to try bungee jump sometime. I was also a very good high jumper and 100 mt runner at one point far far back in time. You wouldn't think so if you knew me now.

3) I snore. Yes, there I said it. Apparently, not all the time though. And talk in my sleep - that I do often.

4) I love kids and animals. I find it very easy to bond and connect with them.

5) I hate grown ups and acting all proper (boring) and seeming all responsible and mature and in control of everything. Same reason I hate long sit-down dinners. Hell no, my life is exciting and complicated and a lot of fun and I simply can not sit still in one place for that long! On the other hand, I must clarify that I also can't stand people who try to be oh-so-young for their age and act all coy and stupid to get attention and are obsessed with running and dieting and gossiping. Oh, and I kind of hate society.

6) I find it insanely empty and boring and and lonely without V. But when he's traveling, we talk a lot, everyday, so that helps. Us, not the bills. :) Having my lovely friends that I do in Dubai, helps a lot!!

7) I LOVE backpacking in India. I have stayed in rooms for 100 rs a night. And I loved it! :) In benaras we paid 450 rs a night, twin sharing. Common baths between several rooms.

So there, do you share any of these quirks with me?? Let me know!

Thanks again Neha @ http://allthingzbeautiful.blogspot.com/

Wallpapers for your iphone!

2011-04-05T14:11:00.000+04:00

So, I have been playing with my new iphone4, in love with it and highly recommend it!
Some pics and wallpapers for your iphone from mine. :) pls feel free to share with the name credit pls.
I usually have one of these as my wallpaper too and love them! :)

ALL PICTURES COPYRIGHT Neha Ramabhadran

maps of the world

2011-04-05T14:10:00.000+04:00

buy it here - 999

By the Ganga...

2011-04-05T12:22:00.000+04:00

Have not been on the blog for sometime, missed it. And throught whatever was going on - shoots, travel, everything was thinking of all the stuff I would like to post about. Now when I'm writing feel at a loss over where to begin.

I had a big shoot for a designer in Delhi, a fashion shoot. That went well and I was exhausted and thrilled to be looking forward to benaras.

Varanasi, Benaras, Kashi - It is said to be the oldest city in the world and the holiest for hindus.

I always had this thing to go to benaras at some point and live there for a few months. But that's not as easy to make happen as it should be. So Seven days it was. This place which had me caught in a romantic idea since the days of reading - The Romantics and Jaya Ganga (my fav book ever!) by Vijay Singh, fyi; I was all set for it especially after the hectic shoot. I wish V had accompanied me but he was biting cold in Poland at the time. So I went with my dearest friend K (who also loves the same books and ideas as I do, hence making it simpler and nicer) :)

We had a small guesthouse by the ghats, and hours, days and nights all rolled into each other... watching the ganga flow, the boats, aarti, temples, the tiny lanes that lead to big discoveries, the food, the cafes, the conversations and the quiet silence... was all very very very nice.

Let's go some place....

2011-03-09T15:23:00.001+04:00

I would love to have one... and then just drive on and on... far far away. Can't think of a road trip like that without this song - Society you are a crazy breed by Eddie Vedder (always on my play list!) -

Anyways, I'm also very soon gonna recommend some very cool places where you can experience living in one of these, but for now these beautiful and dreamy trailers and carvans will make your heart fly. So, let's go get lost.....

http://hilarywalker.com.au/

but it here for 14.99 pounds

Meanwhile, you can get one of these cute caravan bird houses to dress up your outdoors! :)

l.o.v.e

2011-03-09T15:23:00.000+04:00

l.o.v.e

2011-03-09T01:23:00.000+04:00

iphone wallpapers and other stuff

2011-03-09T00:40:00.000+04:00

Get it here for free - set of 7

I have been chasing the iphone 4 for a while (not available with etisalat in Dubai) and while I am making do without it, I can't help but drool over some of my fav iphone accessories. Some of my favorite handpicked free wallpapers and accessories for your beloved iphone. Lot of these are also available to download for your ipad. And remember they are free!! :)

Moleskine cover for iphone - I'm in LOVE!!!!! :)

http://poolga.com/poolga/i-need-a-vacation

this for 6$

get it here for 14.99$

Free thrift wallpaper - get it here

get it here free at Poolga

poolga - get it here

http://poolga.com/poolga/homesick

http://poolga.com/poolga/daren-newman-O-synergy-art-sparrow-blossom

http://poolga.com/poolga/salvemos-al-mundo

http://poolga.com/poolga/gemmell_falls

http://poolga.com/poolga/scott-chambers-synergy-art-rainbow

http://poolga.com/poolga/lucky-seven

http://poolga.com/poolga/untitled-6

free here at Poolga

http://poolga.com/poolga/turquese

http://poolga.com/poolga/martin-draax-05

http://poolga.com/poolga/wasting-time

Because everyone should recycle and old tin boxes are adorable! :)

2011-03-08T01:06:00.003+04:00

L.O.V.E

2011-03-07T16:56:00.000+04:00

cool print ads

2011-03-07T16:52:00.000+04:00

mercedes benz - left brain, right brain AD - see the full ad here

Heineken Social networking since 1873

Monday finds

2011-03-07T16:40:00.000+04:00

Wednesday is a happy day!

2011-03-07T16:14:00.001+04:00

wednesdaycustomdesign a design company with some lovely work in their portfolio. They do custom event styling and packaging. And lots of yummy paper goods and branding too. How happy must a work day be! :)

wed nes day customdesign

Game on!

2011-03-07T12:52:00.000+04:00

It's cricket and soccer usually that people get kicked about. But I'm giving you some very interesting online puzzle games (that you can play, and not just watch!) to get thrilled about. :) I'm a game freak and I'm sure you'll find these great for your mind and they are also very design lovely!

1) samorost-2 - point and click game By Amanita Design - They have some fabulous games and this one really is a treat to the eyes in terms of it's design and imagination. If you are a graphic design person, this is a must visit link. Also, a very fun game, so do play!

2) famous objects from classic movies - A fun guess game where you are shown an object and you have to guess the movie it's associated with. Very clever. Guess the one on the left?? :)

Let me know your thoughts and if you liked the games and if you would like for the game reviews and features to be a regular feature on this blog? Till then game on! :)

typography/poster love

2011-02-21T16:14:00.001+04:00

mikeyburton.com

piccsy.com

get it here on etsy

In love with..

2011-02-21T15:50:00.002+04:00

I am in love.

13,240$

15,675$

Get them http://www.barneys.com/Rings/RINGS01,default,sc.html?start=0&sz=184

http://nu-woman.dk/

bath and dreams

2011-02-21T15:04:00.000+04:00

Bathrooms you will love!

Happy Hippy!!

2011-02-09T17:37:00.000+04:00

Good morning! What we have in mind is breakfast in bed for 400,000. - wavy Gray at woodstock

There can't be any large-scale revolution until there's a personal revolution, on an individual level. It's got to happen inside first. -Jim Morrison

Mother, should I trust the government? -Pink Floyd

Never pretend to a love which you do not actually feel, for love is not ours to command.  -Alan Watts

You're either on the bus or off the bus. -Ken Kesey

If you can remember the '60s, then you weren't there. -Unknown

get it here!

For my dear readers - I have this for you - My favorite Bloody Hippy desktop wallpaper. I have it on my desktop most of the time! :) enjoy!

WE love these lamps!

2011-02-07T17:09:00.001+04:00

Capiz Scone - 149$

So WE as in West Elm, has the most gorgeous lighting I'm in love with!! Check it for yourself and give your living space some very special oomph! :)
Which one catches your fancy?? I know I love this one - the capiz scone and the glass jar table lamps. Love them!!!!

Cluster glass pendant lamp - 199$

Coconut Chandelier - 299$

white bedrooms

2011-02-07T16:44:00.000+04:00

Flags Decor

2011-02-07T15:36:00.001+04:00

longing...

2011-02-01T16:29:00.000+04:00

I think I made you up inside my head......

via

The Little Fox

2011-02-01T14:55:00.002+04:00

Found this imaginative artist churning out some adorable work!! :)
Check out her etsy store here and her blog http://onelittlefox.blogspot.com/

16$

pink is the color of my thoughts today

2011-01-31T13:24:00.000+04:00

Where memories are born

2011-01-30T12:43:00.003+04:00

Oh such longing... to be young again and be lost in the world of stories and dreams and hugs and cuddles. To never think too much or too little, to never be bound by rules and society. To dress up in summer frocks and pigtails, to play and ponder over dolls and doll houses. Of swans and stars and little candy jars, brothers and sisters and feet without long heels and blisters!
To just be.
To wanting it all back that's lost in those precious memories of a childhood. :)

A lovely girls' room is more than just a room after all...

Which one's your favorite??

twinkle in her eyes..

2011-01-27T18:44:00.000+04:00

A touch of Brown

2011-01-25T11:46:00.000+04:00

quiet love

2011-01-25T10:23:00.000+04:00

Since I last wrote a post, the world has quietly but surely taken up fondly to the color brown and birds are the coolest motifs. The owl has been popular since a long time, and the birds are cooler than ever now. What I love is how slowly the new brown has made place for itself in everyone's wardrobes! Quietly sneaking in... :) atleast here in Dubai.
And in interiors it's the ikat all the way, and not just a fading fad but something that's here to stay, love it!! And I'm doing this post, coz I never did before and then I went missing...
So, for those of you who wondered and wrote to me about where I was and what I was upto - I was in SA for few months, got back and was traveling again - this time to India. Also busy with some work - some I have shared and some I can't, on my photography blog - http://neharamabhadran.com
The new trend in interiors and fashion I believe is Kantha and it will be here to stay. More about it later..

paper chase

2010-09-02T15:03:00.000+04:00

Paper - light, beautiful and poetic. It's one of my favorite materials. Obviously. :)
I love things made out of paper.. who doesn't!? And decorating with paper? Evereyone does it - wall paper, decals, posters, pictures, hangings...
These pictures below are all this and more.. new ideas done in a new way, old ideas done in a new way and it's all paper done beautifully.. just like how it should be. :)

Only on paper has humanity yet achieved glory, beauty, truth, knowledge, virtue, and abiding love. George Bernard Shaw
I put a piece of paper under my pillow, and when I could not sleep I wrote in the dark. Henry David Thoreau
Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart. William Wordsworth

SAVE PAPER. CREATE WITH IT. RECYCLE. IT IS BEAUTIFUL AFTER ALL.

via

via apartmenttherapy

Via

28$ for set of 10! By twin sisters of FiestaPomPom

via

Via lushlee.com

via luslee.com

via - itsajaimething.com

Martha Stewart kit via - thecraftycameleon.blogspot.com

Living in decor {House Tour}

2010-08-26T15:15:00.001+04:00

I love it when I see a house which is home to someone in a way that reflects their inner joy and creativity. A place to dwell, much loved and fussed about. I think I love it when people are fussy about things, :) choosy and picky. (I know I am!! are you??) Because isn't that what eliminates our choice and taste from what we don't like and what we are not? Often as we would like to see, it does not happen. A place just becomes where one lives, not where one loves to live... although more than ever now, I think everyone's putting effort and experimenting and learning more about themselves in the process of making their home a truly lovely home, reflective of their inner being.

What are your thoughts, do you agree? Does your place truly reflect your taste and who you are?

So when I saw Akshatha's beautiful house, I just had to do a house tour, to bring to you her lovely place - colorful, cosy and clearly much thought and fussed about. :) You can visit her equally lovely blog at - http://livingindecor.blogspot.com/

I simply love her bedroom. It's so airy and light and cosy. And so much of her own diy, it's impressive! In her words - "My bedroom with lot of my DIY! The painting above the bed head is by me, the ikea rast is also a makeover. Bed spread sewn by me by sewing a printed and plain fabric together, string pendant lamp by me.. and finally also the pillows which I made myself"

It's her own DIY of a plain Ikea RAST chest of drawers. I love it!! :)

The many shaped cushions make this corner so cosy and I really like the small red rug too!

So what do you guys think?

Thanks Akshatha! :)

Twigs online store - preview, pre-order!

2010-08-24T13:11:00.001+04:00

I have always wanted my own little store... for now it's online... :) PS: Order soon, as items may be limited in number.

1) Words in Wire - I simply LOVE these!! Perfect for any living space, they add a little reminder of a great feeling in a wonderful rustic, cottage chic way! Words available -
Love, blessings, hope, memories, imagine, enchantment, magical, faith, eat - love - pray, angels and many more! Pre-order with me by mailing me at neha_sharma_2000@yahoo.com - Shipment might be limited to certain countries, but we can sort that out.

2) Wall stickers and art - Lots of design coming soon. For now, my fav are here. Especially love the birds on the branch. Available in white, silver grey and black

Hello quiet!

2010-08-24T12:46:00.000+04:00

via designismine

I have been in a rather lovely limbo of sorts, belonging nowhere really. One that I can not explain or describe. It's an instinct to go into hibernation, for no reason or rhyme in particular. It's a quiet alone time, peaceful (mostly!) and very lethargic.. grey in color. Nothing much takes place at phases like these.. :)
I'm sorry I've been away, whoever you are who is reading, whoever it is, who cares. Hopefully (and I know many will not understand) the above explains something.. And it's a snap that happens, and just like that you are back. I don't think I'm out of this lazy phase of nothingness, but the constant guilt of not having been here for so long is really a nagging bagging on the walls of my head, plus I was missing it here.. so...

*************************** *** ********************************
First of - Thanks for Participating in the first Giveaway for the blog. The selection of the winner was random - asked V to pick a number from one to ten sort of a thing! :) And the winner is Harshita. Congratulations!! You have won a pair of beautiful sterling silver earrings.
*************************** *** ********************************

Feeling lazy like the way I am feeling is pretty amazing actually, and how I would love to curl up in a cozy bedroom much like these with a book... instead I'm in a hotel room, cozy and all.. it's not the same..

via designsponge

via

via desiretoinspire

And most of all I miss home.. my bedroom... :(

Dreaming.. {decor crush}

2010-08-12T15:16:00.001+04:00

I really really really love this! Oh, imagine working here! :) pure delight... I am loving everything about this look - the pure white, the dog picture frame, the organized clutter - everything!! Except the big speaker above. I would substitute that with my white (well ours is black) bose ipod speakers. Perfect dream world. :)
Unfortunately I do not know where I got this from, so if you know, pls share.

Also, please enter Giveaway for Sterling Silver Jewelry Here !!
You could be the winner, invite friends and share!

Amelie inspirations {movie decor}

2010-08-12T13:36:00.005+04:00

Paul Johnson's poster art

Whimsical, funny and cute - Amelie touches our hearts, makes us sigh and smile :) A must watch, if you haven't already! I also love the deep red, green and gorgeous interiors. Oh, I miss Paris! For this is parisian life at it's leisurely pace, a sweet music in our ears... a cute story set in a very cute city that I loved living so close to, dearly.

Amelie quotes and trivia:
The main colors in the film (green, yellow and red) are inspired by the paintings of the Brazilian artist Jurez Machado.

Some of the locations in the film can be found in Montmartre. The cafÃ© "Les 2 Moulins" can be found at the beginning of Rue Lepic and the vegetable/fruit store "Collignon" at 56 Rue des Trois FrÃ¨res.

Narrator: "Amelie has one friend, Blubber. Alas the home environment has made Blubber suicidal.
[Pet fish leaps out of fish bowl in an attempt at suicide] "

Amelie : [whispering in theater] I like to look for things no one else catches. I hate the way drivers never look at the road in old American movies.

Amelie: [to her father, who is not paying attention] I had two heart attacks, an abortion, did crack... while I was pregnant. Other than that, I'm fine.

I love these following wedding inspiration ideas! Aren't these lovely!?

wedding inspiration via

And remember these two prints above Amelie's bed - these are from artist Michael Sowa and you can get them at art.com for a great price! :) buy them here

Pottery Barn Bed via apartmenttherapy

By Claudia Varosio - 18$

Buy this Amelie inspired wallpaper here

via

Decorex 2010

2010-08-05T11:13:00.000+04:00

I'm super excited about this. I have a press pass and I even won two free passes. Except, no one to go with! Wish I could have the company of you, design lovers and friends..

Decorex 2010

feet what do I need you for...

2010-08-04T12:51:00.159+04:00

Frida by Nikolas Muray

To have vastness - in spirit and imagination, is what I admire and envy most in people. To have that will that just refuses to give up or die.. and oh such courage.. in body and soul! All of which she Frida Kahlo had.

Sensual, unapologetic, brave and bold - her work stirs in me a magical melancholy.. the kind I want to dwell in...
I don't have any `role models' but her's is a life and work that really does inspire me deeply. Everything about how she lived and was, is so brave and special. One day, I shall in my own way do an ode to her... for now.. it's this..

'I paint self-portaits because I am so often alone, because I'm the person I know best.' - Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo quote on the chalkboard "I have wings in order to fly."
Laura Aviva's bedroom, via apartmentherapy

Frida Kahlo inspired table setting by Courtney Keefe of Flush Designs

via buy it here at the quirico company

via

20$ by bird blue designs

Frida magnets - 8$ at The Green Daisy etsy shop

when I have wings to fly?

I'm hosting my first GIVEAWAY on the blog -click here to win sterling silver jewelry or just scroll down to the previous post :)

~First Giveaway!!! Sterling Silver Earrings!~

2010-08-02T12:40:00.014+04:00

It's been 2 months, 2,216 visitors and very precious and loved comments. I have enjoyed stepping into the world of design, albeit as a mere spectator and lover of design and sharing my taste and perspective on it. Thanks to all who have been following the blog, have added it on their blogroll and those of you who take the time out to drop a comment or a mail, or even those who visit and just quietly leave their mark on my visitor count. :) I really appreciate it and I hope you keep visiting and commenting.

I wanted to do something special for all my readers and here it is - the first GIVEAWAY (drum rolls please, this is big and special for me!!)

Sterling Silver earrings - Rs 2450

You get a chance to win this beautiful pair of Sterling Silver Earrings. Suman Mishra, of the Suman Mishra Jewelry (see post below) has been very sweet in sponsoring this beautiful giveaway for PaperMagicTwigs readers!

Now, this giveaway can only be shipped within India. For my readers from elsewhere - there's stuff coming up for you, I promise! Meanwhile, take this opportunity to -

Participate to gift it to someone who is in India - your mum, girl friend, sister, family, blogger friend (!) It'll make their day! :)
If you have an Indian address or know someone who you can get it shipped to, have it mailed there (pls ensure someone's present to claim delivery)

This giveaway is open till 15th Aug and the winner will be announced here, on the blog on 16th Aug. What you have to do to win it -

Tell me something about this blog (yes, this one right here) What you think, like, love, hate about this blog - the look, feel, a post, a picture, a suggestion, or just a hello. Anything at all? In which city will Suman Mishra Jewelry collection, soon be available in? (see post below)
Blog about it, facebook, twitter, email it. Send me a back link, if possible.
Step 1 and 2 each get you an entry. You can do both to get 2 entries, or any one to get 1 entry. The more you share, the more entries you can get. Please remember to post comment with a backlink / a link to where you have shared this blog giveaway, if possible. Otherwise, I will take your word for it. :)
Winner will be selected through a random selection. YOU might be the first winner for this blog!!

Go ahead then, tell me what you think and spread the word. :)

Silver Dreams - Suman Mishra Jewelry {designer focus}

2010-07-29T16:24:00.004+04:00

Set in silver and stones, Suman's Jewelry has clean simple lines with a rustic edge look. It's bohemian, feminine and pretty.

I specially like how the pieces look so light and summery :) I also love how she collects roots, twigs, barks for inspiration. I do too!! (except that I don't design any awesome jewelry like she does!) hehe

Neha: What is Suman Mishra Jewelry line? How old is it?

Suman: 2 Years old, It's a brand that is re-inventing silver jewelry as an accessory of personal expression.

Neha: What's your working model?

Suman: I bring out six collections every year under this label, one after every two months. Each collection is based on a unique theme and a definite colour-scheme in keeping with the season.

Neha: What is the design process?

Suman: I start designing the collection several months in advance, sometimes a year in advance. The journey begins when I am observing the seasons a year in advance, noticing all it’s nuances as they appear in nature, festivals, foods, colors. Every year you can notice something new and different in every season… And somewhere some facts and some feelings that register will resurface when I am designing the collection for that season, thereby influencing the process and outcome.

I doodle everywhere – on newspapers, envelopes, notebooks, to-do- lists.. and nearer the time when I have to actually concretize the collection, I find myself snipping-out these doodles and pasting them on a large sheet of paper. This ends up becoming what I like to call my “mood-board”. It often includes pictures from newspapers/magazines of things/places/people/animals that I may have liked and/or that have a connection to the overall “mood” of the collection. And then I sleep over it. Almost literally. The time between then and the actual putting-down of the designs is a difficult and unsettling time. I am clearly ill-at-ease and although I maynot be sitting with my pencil, I am almost constantly thinking about the collection. Right down to dreaming about it! And then one fine day, it just falls into place like it was always meant to be – and I have my collection down on paper within half-an-hour.

Rs 3357

Neha: Where do you retail?

Suman: Delhi - "BITS AND PIECES"

Santushti Complex,

Chanakyapuri,

Near Hotel Ashok,

New Delhi

Timing: 10 am - 6 pm

Mon to Sat

Bangalore: "FFOLIO"

#1, Embassy Chambers

1,Ground floor

Vittal Mallya Road,

Bengaluru,

Karnataka 560001

Call: 080 22218142

Rs 6495

Also available online on Facebook: The “Suman Mishra Jewelry” Store -right here The collection will shortly be available in Mumbai too, starting August.

From the collection - Bubbles of Joy

Neha: What inspires you?

Suman: A lot of non-design stuff inspires me. Movies, songs, conversations. But nature is my biggest inspirational starting point. A walk in the nearby wooded area with my dogs often helps me break a creative dry spell… not to mention put some concrete starting points for my designs. I always collect naturally desiccated leaves, seeds, flowers, roots, bark, and twigs. I can’t stop wondering in amazement at nature’s design. These findings are my greatest treasures. Also, Music. Art. Festivals. Food. Architecture. Bottles.

Suman's fav piece- Orange Explosion Long necklace from the collection "Bohovillea
Rs 7590

Neha: Favorite city:

Suman: Delhi – history, natural beauty, centre of political power, food, art!

Neha: fav book

Suman: ‘Earth’s Children’ series by Jean M. Auel

Neha: fav blog (if you follow any)?

Suman: Poppytalk

Neha: You can't live without
Suman: good food, my puppies, nature and of course, my Buddhist practice.

Hmmm..... now how would you like some of her jewelry on you or your loved one?? ;) No, seriously!!??
Ok, let me just something very special is coming up for you my lovely readers!! And I'm so excited!! :)

Polka Dot Happy!!

2010-07-29T13:45:00.038+04:00

I have always loved them. They are goofy and chic and so fun!! And in trend or not, I'm hardly ever able to resist them! Yes, they are the polka dots!!! :) I think there's something about them that can perk up anyone, they are just so HAPPY! (in a nice way. I don't drool over too much yellow/happy things otherwise!) :)

What is YOUR favorite polka dots thing you own??? Tell me!!!

via

Super cute storage in pastels and polka dots Pottery BarnKids

Newest add to my wardrobe - Topshop, this is so minnie mouse(ish)

Polka dot top by Ashley Renee - 16$

via anne sage of The City Sage

Polka dot house!! photographer - Yale Joel

I would love these prints on my wall! By Valerie Galloway - 25$

Like it?? Click here for a DIY on this! via apartmenttherapy

art by Astrid Termaat

via

Chasing design living in South Africa!

2010-07-22T13:49:00.004+04:00

So, the latest is that we are moving to Johannesburg for three months! V has a project there and it gives us a great opportunity to know and live in another country. I would have never thought I would live in South Africa!!! I'm excited and a little nervous and mostly sad because I know I will really miss home - Dubai, my friends here, my gorgeous new bedroom (with Hemnes bed), my pillow, my tv, all my stuff. And I will get home-sick, but right now we are thinking we might visit Dubai at least twice in between (ya right!)
It's not a very long period, but long enough to be kind of like a mini relocation. At least that's what it is turning out to be with all the logistical issues.
Our relocation manager sent pictures of the house we are going to be living in, or so she suggests. It's a huge place in Sandton area, with huge lawns and swimming pool. It's also the exact kind of place I don't think I can live in because it's too big and I will be very scared to be alone in such a big house. So I've been looking at apartments and bed and breakfast inns and cute cottages.. it's amazing how lovely the homes are in Joburg!! Till we (hopefully) fix another place, here are the pics of the house we are supposed to be in.

While I love all the open green space (would be awesome for a party) and the pool and the idea of living in a house like this, I do hate how big it is as I said earlier, and also hating the living and dining room, just so not my taste! :) What do you guys think?
Meanwhile I've found some lovely apartments, that I will post pics of soon!
Anyone in Johannesburg???? Would love to catch up!!

I've friends who feel it's rather sad that we missed the world cup. I couldn't be happier!! :)

Play Clan {Design Feature}

2010-07-21T13:03:00.003+04:00

I came across Play Clan rather randomly and it left an impression. You can identify Play Clan stuff anywhere, once you get their flavor, I think I even spotted few cushions in.. was it Rajneeti (?)... I think! Quirky, fun and full of life (quite literally) .. and very affordable - I really really like them!! :) And while in Chennai I got to see some of their stuff first hand at The Park and Evoluzione. Cushions, coasters, t-shirts, posters - you name it, they have it!

colaba coasters - love these!! :)

Himanshu whose brain child Play Clan is, has been really sweet to have taken out time to tell me more about Play clan, how it came about and a little about himself. Thanks Himanshu!! :)

What is Play Clan?
Himanshu: Play Clan is a concept that combines 'Fashion, Art and Design' to create lines in Home, Apparel, Gifts and Stationery, inspired by the colorful life, culture and people of the Modern India.
purani dilli
How old is it?
Himanshu: I founded play can in 2008 with our first store at the Select Citywalk.
What made you come up with the Play Clan concept?
Himanshu: Play Clan celebrates the life in India and our products reflect the energy and inspiration that we see everyday around us. We are storytellers that weave these tales in our product.

Your favorite piece in Play Clan?
Himanshu: I love the loaded shirt... it combines screen printing and embroidery with interesting placement. The copy in hindi says, follow traffic rules!

Three words that describe you?
Himanshu: I would like to answer that from a Brands point of view : Three words that describe Play Clan are - TAKE INDIA HOME
What inspires you?
Himanshu: Everything that I see has some inspiration in it... I guess India has that charm!
Favorite city?
Himanshu: I guess Dillwaale Dilliwaale :)

Get upto 25% off on Play Clan products here for next two days!

or visit and buy them here - theplayclan

Sew on baby!!

2010-07-21T11:15:00.002+04:00

Clare Owen's beautiful illustration on her blog here

We returned from our trip to Chennai a few days back. V was working almost all the time and most of our plans to go to Pondichery, or go to our fav stores and places to eat never really happened, also because we both fell sick with fever and cold and was no fun after that.

We did though, happen to be in Chennai just in time for the Chennai International Fahion Week. (more on this coming soon) Courtesy my sis-in-law we had front row passes for the shows. Thanks S! :)

I loved being in the middle of action in India after so long.. reminded me of IE days. Everyone was very friendly and nice and we met some lovely and talented people that I totally intend to get to know better! :) It was V's first time at a fashion show, and he thoroughly enjoyed it.

I dedicate this post to all my new and old friends who design and love clothes and to all of you who create magic with their sewing machines!

I would love to buy one some day, any recommendations for a basic but awesome sewing machine, anyone?

Nan's 8X10 print - 16$

This would make such an awesome desktop wallpaper I think!

Pottery Barn spools! I got myself one set just day before! :)

sewing machine on a cup! via Circa Ceramics

Print art by Ajawin

Oil painting by FunkyPalette - 250 $

Lovely vintage-look sewing machine pendant chain - 45$ by Japonica

loving..

2010-07-05T22:58:00.004+04:00

via

Please note that there is a problem with blogger at the moment, and that's why you are probably not able to see the comments you post here. Rest assured, I am getting your comments in email and they will show soon on the blog too, once they resolve the problem.

So, keep visiting and commenting.. you know I LOVE your comments!! :)

PS: Next post will come to you from India, yes, heading home tonight for a week.. very excited, I will be in Chennai, so if any of you are there, give me a shout!

Bed time stories {IKEA HEMNES BED}

2010-07-05T21:23:00.043+04:00

I have been waiting to re-do my bedroom for a while now. We have a two rooms, one of them is right now just a big pile of stuff.. so I want to move our current bed into the other room and make it organised, and get a new bed for us in the bedroom. So exciting!! I do love our current bed which is an IKEA MALM and while I like it and it's very comfortable, (only) I'm bored about how low it is and then everything is kinda low to match it.. besides i'm in love with the new IKEA HEMNES bed. I also totally love the hemnes day bed from ikea.

I'm a little nervous about the bed and hope the bedroom turns out the way I really want it to.. :) because to begin with V does not see any problem with our current bed, in fact, quite loves it and he said he is ok about it, but I know he is not thrilled about the whole white bed thing happening!! Well, since I spend more time on the bed, I think it's fair I get to decide.. :)

Here's the bed we are getting.. it's gonna get delivered soon! We are getting the white one.

Here are the IKEA HEMNES bed series..
shall i get the black instead??

we are getting this one! :)