Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Toy Drop Lands In Brisbane

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Brisbane’s (Australia) largest handmade collective, BrisStyle, is joining forces with the Toy Society to co-ordinate a MEGA Toy Drop throughout the South East and beyond during the month of May. Hundreds of toys with notes to “take me home” are set to be anonymously tied to trees, lamp posts or left in other prominent places throughout the immediate Brisbane region, and with BrisStyle’s networks reaching a global audience drops are set to be made the world over.

The Toy Society started this global gift giving exercise as a way to give random recipients the buzz of receiving a “something for nothing” experience as well as for creative communities to contribute to their local streetscape and encourage people to notice and engage with their surroundings.

The local BrisStyle project will give crafty souls near and far purpose to their creative passions by lifting spirits throughout the communities where they secretly drop their handmade toys. The emphasis will be to think big and drop not only in urban areas but also those suburbs which may be in need some extra care and attention such as those which have been recently affected by natural disasters.

The May 27th BrisStyle Indie Twilight Markets will mark the end of the project with King George Square being transformed into a toy giving hub. Leading up to this celebration, the Square will see random acts of toy giving kindness bringing it to life as well as highlighting Brisbane’s sense of community.

WHEN :: From 9th to 27th May –  ending with the BrisStyle Indie Twilight Markets in King George Square on Friday May 27th from 5pm – 9pm

WHERE :: Think BIG! Drops can be made in your local areas (whether you are local, out of state or overseas), a flood or cyclone affected suburb or any suburb in need of some care and attention.

WHO :: Whether you are in Queensland, Australia or even the other side of the world you can participate. Get your Mum and your Nana involved; your friends at work or school – anyone who loves to craft for a purpose.

WHAT::  As featured in the courier mail our sister site CraftBits.com is chock full of plushie patterns so everyone can have a go at making something to “Drop” away.

Don’t forget to come back here and tell us if you are “dropping” something we know we certainly are and will share the pictures soon.


MORE INFORMATION: http://brisstyle.blogspot.com/2011/04/brisbane-comes-to-life-with-its-own-toy.html or  http://thetoysociety.blogspot.com/

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Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.