The art of slow

Much like hand-stitching or upcycling old clothes, slow cooking is also an act of care. It’s about transforming what you already have into something amazing.

It’s the ultimate act of patience, letting time and heat work their magic, transforming simple ingredients into something rich, deep, and oh-so-satisfying.

And as autumn settles in—the air crisp, the days shorter, and the urge to hibernate growing stronger—there’s no better time to embrace it.

Just like my workshops, slow cooking is about being present, creating something with your hands, and enjoying the process. So, grab a pot, get comfy, and let’s make Beef Ragu—a dish that’s as much about the journey as the delicious, hearty reward.

Slow Cooked Beef Ragu Recipe

Serves: 4-6 | Time: 15 min prep + 3-4 hours slow cooking

Ingredients:

• 800g beef chuck or brisket, cut into large chunks (always use a cheaper cut, no need to use expensive cuts and I promise there’s more flavour in the more cost effective option

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup red wine (optional but recommended)

• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef stock

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt & pepper to taste

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a little warmth)

• 1/2 cup whole milk (for extra richness)

• Fresh parsley and parmesan, for serving

• Cooked pappardelle or your favorite pasta

Method:

1. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-based pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef pieces on all sides, then remove and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

4. Pour in red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

5. Add the tomatoes, beef stock, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Return the beef to the pot. (if you have a slow cooker now is the time to transfer this so I can sit on low alllllll day)

6. Cover and reduce to a low simmer. Cook for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fall-apart tender.

7. Shred the beef using two forks and stir in the milk for an extra velvety finish. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

8. Serve over pasta, topped with fresh parsley and parmesan.

Beef Ragu with Parmesan

So while this ragu simmers, why not pick up that jumper you’ve been meaning to mend or plan your next creative project? (Psst—my Slow Stitching workshops are the perfect place to start!)

Hungry for more creativity? Check out my upcoming workshops

“I haven’t got a creative bone in my body” (why it’s just not true)

Have you ever heard someone say, “I haven’t got a creative bone in my body”? Maybe you’ve even said it yourself. But let me let you in on a little secret: It’s not true. Everyone has creativity inside them—it just shows up in different ways.

What Do People Really Mean?

When someone claims they aren’t creative, it’s rarely about an actual lack of creativity. Instead, it’s often about:

• Fear of judgment: The fear of not being “good enough” keeps many people from even trying.

• Comparisons: Looking at someone else’s artistic masterpiece and thinking, “I could never do that.”

• Misunderstanding creativity: Thinking creativity only means drawing, painting, or writing, while ignoring things like problem-solving, cooking, or even putting together a great outfit.

• Lack of practice: Creativity is like a muscle—if you don’t use it, it can feel weak.

Why Everyone is Creative

Creativity is about seeing the world differently, thinking outside the box, or simply making something your own. It’s not reserved for professional artists or performers; it’s in the way you tell a story, organise a space, or whip up dinner with whatever’s in the fridge.

How to Unlock Your Creativity

1. Stop comparing: Your creativity is unique to you. Embrace that.

2. Start small: Try something fun and low-pressure, like doodling, rearranging furniture, or a simple craft project.

3. Join a workshop: Learn a new skill in a supportive environment where everyone’s experimenting. (Hey, have you checked out my upcoming workshops? )

4. Play: Creativity thrives when you’re having fun.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to be creative. All you need to do is show up and try.

Hand Printed Tea towel, Block printed using an apple and textile ink

The Dopamine Rush of Shopping—And How to Get It Sustainably

Ever bought something, felt amazing, and then regretted it days later?

You’re not alone. Many of us experience the fleeting euphoria of a new purchase, only to find that feeling fades almost as quickly as it arrived. This cycle of shopping, feeling good, and wanting more has a name: it’s called a dopamine rush. But while it may be great for fast fashion brands, it’s not so great for the planet—or our wallets.

Let’s dig into why shopping makes us feel so good, why it doesn’t last, and how we can find a more sustainable way to satisfy that craving for something new.

The Science of the Shopping High

Dopamine is a chemical in the brain associated with reward and pleasure. When we do something enjoyable—like eating chocolate, achieving a goal, or making a purchase—our brain releases dopamine, giving us a little “hit” of happiness.

Shopping, in particular, combines several dopamine triggers:

• Anticipation: Browsing through racks or websites creates excitement as we imagine how something might look or feel.

• Novelty: Humans are wired to love newness. A fresh piece of clothing feels like a reward.

• Validation: Compliments or the idea of fitting into a trend can enhance the feel-good factor.

The problem? This rush is short-lived. Once the novelty wears off, we’re back to square one, often craving the next “fix.” That’s how overconsumption begins.

The Cost of Overconsumption

Overconsumption isn’t just a personal problem; it’s a global one.

1. Environmental Impact:

   • The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions—more than international flights and shipping combined.

   • Over 92 million tons of textile waste are created annually, much of which ends up in landfills.

2. Personal Cost:

   • Cluttered wardrobes: How many of us own clothes we’ve never worn or forgotten we even had?

   • Financial strain: Those impulse buys add up, often leaving us with buyer’s remorse.

The reality is, overconsumption doesn’t just drain our bank accounts and overcrowd our closets—it also takes a toll on the planet.

Alternatives to Overconsumption

The good news? You can still get that dopamine rush without feeding into the cycle of overconsumption. Here’s how:

1. Op-shopping (Thrifting):

There’s something thrilling about the hunt for a one-of-a-kind piece at a secondhand shop. It’s like a treasure hunt where you never know what you’ll find—and when you do, it feels like a genuine win. Plus, thrifting keeps clothes in circulation and out of landfills.

2. Repairing:

Mending doesn’t just extend the life of your clothing; it creates a deeper connection to the items you own. Fixing a torn seam or replacing a button can be surprisingly satisfying—and often, it’s easier than you think. A well-loved, well-worn piece can become a badge of honor.

3. Embellishing:

Why settle for mass-produced styles when you can create something uniquely yours? Adding patches, embroidery, or fabric paint transforms a plain garment into a work of art. The process itself is therapeutic, and the results are endlessly rewarding.

From Consumption to Creation

When we stop chasing the quick high of buying new things and instead focus on creativity and sustainability, something shifts. We start to see our wardrobes not as disposable, but as opportunities—for self-expression, for resourcefulness, and for joy that lasts far beyond a shopping spree.

So, next time you feel the urge to splurge, ask yourself:

• Can I find what I need secondhand?

• Is there a way to fix or enhance what I already have?

• Could I make something old feel new again with a little DIY?

Ready to Make the Switch?

At Stalia Design, I believe fashion should be fun, creative, and kind to the planet. My workshops teach skills like mending, block printing, and embellishing, so you can transform your wardrobe sustainably—and have a great time doing it.

Join me and discover the joy of creating something truly your own.

Let’s turn the cycle of overconsumption into a celebration of creativity. Together.

The Power of Creative Outlets for Kids: Why Arts & Crafts Matter

In a world that’s more plugged in than ever, creativity can be a breath of fresh air – especially for kids. While digital entertainment often takes center stage, having a hands-on creative outlet can make a world of difference in their lives. From building confidence to helping manage stress, creative activities like arts and crafts workshops provide essential benefits for children of all ages.

Here’s why creative outlets matter and how they make a difference:

1. Building Confidence and Independence

When kids engage in creative projects, they get to make their own decisions and explore their personal style. A simple activity, like making a block print with fruit or sewing a handmade monster, offers a chance to experiment and see their unique ideas come to life. Each completed project builds confidence, showing kids they’re capable of making something from start to finish – all on their own.

2. Supporting Emotional Well-being

Creative outlets can serve as a stress-relief tool, allowing kids to express feelings they may not have words for. Activities like flower hammering, for example, channel energy and focus into a beautiful, tangible outcome. These moments of quiet, mindful creation allow children to slow down and unwind, giving them a sense of calm and accomplishment.

3. Boosting Problem-Solving Skills

Crafts and creative play encourage kids to think outside the box. Whether they’re choosing colours, finding the best way to stitch a monster together, or figuring out how to position fruit for block printing, they’re using critical thinking skills. These activities subtly help them build resilience, flexibility, and the ability to try different approaches – all skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

4. Fostering Fine Motor Skills and Dexterity

Arts and crafts involve plenty of hands-on work, which helps children develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Activities like hand sewing a ‘Fronster’ (a friendly monster) or arranging flowers for hammering demand a gentle but controlled touch, making them a perfect exercise for developing dexterity in a way that’s natural and fun.

5. Cultivating a Sense of Achievement

Kids feel a special sense of pride when they see their ideas take shape in the real world. Having their own creation to hold, wear, or show off gives a unique sense of achievement. This sense of pride and self-worth isn’t just momentary – it builds a foundation of confidence that encourages them to tackle new challenges head-on.

6. Encouraging Sustainability and Imagination

Working with natural or everyday materials can also be an eye-opener! Using flowers, fruit, and other household items for art fosters creativity and shows kids that they don’t always need new supplies to create something special. This simple lesson supports sustainability, encouraging children to see the value in repurposing what’s around them and imagining possibilities where others might not.

Creating Lasting Memories

At the end of the day, creative outlets are all about making memories and finding joy in the process. Whether they’re making a unique flower print or stitching up their own friendly monster, these moments become part of their childhood story. And it’s these little moments of creation and discovery that can leave a lasting impact, nurturing a love for creativity and self-expression that can last a lifetime.

So if you’re looking to give your child an experience that combines fun with a bit of learning, hands-on creative activities are a wonderful place to start. At Stalia Design, we offer school holiday workshops that embrace the power of creativity and invite children to explore, imagine, and create – because these are the skills and memories that stick with them as they grow.

Vintage Skills for Modern Weirdos

The Secret Power of Hand Sewing: Why Learning to Repair Your Clothes is a Game-Changer 🧵✨

Let’s face it – we live in a fast-paced world where throwing out a shirt because of a missing button or a small tear seems like the easiest solution. But what if I told you there’s a better way? A way that’s not only better for your wallet but for the planet too. Welcome to the world of hand sewing and clothing repair!

Now, I get it. The idea of sewing might conjure up images of your grandmother’s sewing kit or seem like an outdated skill that doesn’t apply to modern life. But trust me, learning to repair your clothes is one of the most empowering skills you can have – and it’s so much easier than you think. Here’s why it’s worth your time:

1. Save Money – Lots of It!

How many times have you thrown out a perfectly good jacket just because the zipper broke, or banished a favorite pair of pants to the back of the closet because of a little hole? Learning some basic hand sewing can help you give your wardrobe a second life. A missing button doesn’t mean you need a new shirt, and a torn seam is no reason to toss a dress. You’d be amazed at how much money you can save when you stop buying replacements and start fixing what you’ve already got.

2. Reduce Waste and Help the Planet

We’re all more aware of how our consumption affects the environment, and the fashion industry is a major contributor to waste and pollution. By learning to repair your clothes instead of constantly buying new ones, you’re cutting down on waste and reducing your carbon footprint. Sustainable fashion isn’t just about buying eco-friendly brands – it’s about taking care of what you already have. A needle and thread are powerful tools in the fight against fast fashion!

3. It’s Empowering and Meditative

There’s something incredibly satisfying about fixing something with your own two hands. Whether it’s sewing on a button or patching up a hole, the sense of accomplishment is real. Plus, hand sewing can be surprisingly meditative. The rhythm of stitching, the focus it requires, and the hands-on nature of the task can help you slow down and be present – a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

4. Revamp Your Wardrobe

Not only does hand sewing allow you to repair, but it can also help you reimagine and customize your clothes. Want to add a fun patch to cover up a stain? Done. Want to add a bit of flair to an old jacket? Easy. With a few basic skills, you can give old clothes new life and even create pieces that feel uniquely yours.

5. Vintage Skills for Modern Weirdos

If this is all sounding pretty great but you have no idea where to start, I’ve got you covered! My new class, Vintage Skills for Modern Weirdos, is designed to teach you the absolute basics of hand sewing – threading a needle, tying a knot, sewing on a button, and even some super basic hole mending. You don’t need to know a thing about sewing to join, and you’ll walk away with the confidence to handle those wardrobe emergencies like a pro.

Ready to get started on your sewing journey? Sign up for Vintage Skills for Modern Weirdos and let’s bring back the art of hand sewing – with a modern, quirky twist!

Deb x
PS: Stay weird

Unleash Your Creativity with No Carve Block Printing

Hi I’m Deb, the owner and Chief Creative at Stalia Design, I am excited to introduce my latest class offering: No Carve Block Printing! This innovative and sustainable technique allows you to transform your old garments into stylish, unique pieces using everyday household items and textile inks. Let's dive into what makes this class a must-try for anyone looking to refresh their wardrobe and embrace eco-friendly fashion.

What is No Carve Block Printing?

No carve block printing is a versatile and accessible form of textile art. Unlike traditional block printing, which requires carving intricate designs into blocks, my method utilizes common household objects to create stunning prints. Think of items like sponges, bottle caps, or even vegetables—anything with an interesting texture or shape can become your printing tool.

Why Choose No Carve Block Printing?

Sustainability at its Core

The most sustainable garment is the one you already own. By learning no carve block printing, you can breathe new life into old clothes, extending their usability and reducing waste. This practice aligns perfectly with my commitment to sustainability at Stalia Design.

Creativity Unleashed

This technique opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you're looking to cover a stubborn stain, add a pop of color, or completely redesign a piece of clothing, no carve block printing offers endless opportunities for personalization. Each print is unique, reflecting your individual style and creativity.

Fun and Accessible

No carve block printing is incredibly user-friendly, making it suitable for all skill levels. You don't need prior experience in textile arts to join this class. My step-by-step guidance ensures that everyone can achieve beautiful results, from beginners to seasoned artists.

What to Expect in the Class

In my No Carve Block Printing class, you'll:

• Learn the Basics: I’ll start with an introduction to the materials and techniques, ensuring you feel comfortable with the process.

• Experiment with Tools: You'll discover how to use various household items to create different textures and patterns.

• Create Unique Designs: Guided by your creativity, you'll design and print your own fabric pieces. Whether you're working on a t-shirt, tote bag, or any other fabric item, you'll walk away with a one-of-a-kind creation.

• Embrace Sustainability: We'll discuss the importance of sustainable fashion and how small changes, like revamping old clothes, can make a big difference.

Join Me!

Ready to embark on a creative journey and make a positive impact on the environment? Sign up for our No Carve Block Printing class today! Not only will you leave with a beautiful, personalized garment, but you'll also gain a new skill that supports sustainable living. Let's transform the way we think about fashion—one print at a time.

Deb x

PS: Stay weird