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10 polite habits nail techs actually dislike – and what to do instead

<p><strong>Nail salon etiquette mistakes</strong></p> <p>Repeat after us: Pampering yourself is important. An easy way to do just that? Getting a manicure. Not only is it relatively affordable, but prettily painted nails can also put an extra pep in your step. Of course, the nail tech who does your manicure plays a large role in making you feel so good: From that wonderful hand massage to getting your cuticles in tip-top shape, their skills can make a huge difference. So, it only makes sense that you’d want to treat them really well.</p> <p>But here’s the thing: Certain seemingly polite etiquette rules can actually make a nail tech’s job harder. Plus, while it’s important to be nice, you don’t have to try extra hard to make their life easier. “A manicure is your time off, so you should relax,” says Karina Medrano, a nail technician.</p> <p>So what does that mean? It means there are certain polite habits that are totally a must. And then there are other moves you can (and should) skip so you can focus on your own relaxation. Since it can be hard to identify exactly what most people dislike, we turned to the pros to fill us in on polite moves that are actually etiquette mistakes at the nail salon.</p> <p><strong>Anticipating their next move</strong></p> <p>Over the course of your manicure, your nail tech will likely move your hands around a bit – turning them over to apply lotion and rotating each finger to paint your tips with the best nail polish. If you’ve had a number of manicures, you may even be able to anticipate what they’ll need you to do next and be tempted to save them from having to tell you how to move. Don’t do it. “Many times, clients position themselves in a way that seems to be helpful, but it’s the contrary,” says Medrano. You may make the wrong move and actually mess up their paint job, causing them to have to start over.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> “It’s best to let your nail tech move you around,” says Medrano. “There is no need to tense up – just relax.” Put simply, wait for them to direct you. One way to make that easier is to pay attention to what’s going on. If you have headphones on and are listening to music or a podcast, keep it at a low enough volume that you can hear your technician if they need you to do something.</p> <p><strong>Keeping the conversation going</strong></p> <p>When you’re getting your nails done, you’re literally face to face with your manicurist. Because of this, you may feel like it’s your job to chat with them and keep them entertained. But there’s no need to rack your brain for conversation starters. This is a job, and there is zero expectation that you should keep your nail tech entertained, says Medrano. If you want to chat, no problem. If you don’t? Well, that’s OK too.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> If you’d prefer quiet, Medrano says that it’s become totally normal to ask for a “silent appointment”. You can either let the salon know when you book your appointment or you can mention to your tech when you sit down that you are going to use the appointment to relax and have some quiet time.</p> <p><strong>Giving a colour a chance when you don't like it </strong></p> <p>You arrive at the salon and are faced with a wall of nail polish colours. Whether you want the trendiest colour of the season or just what you’re in the mood for, you’ll probably spend some time debating the perfect shade. Fast-forward to the moment your manicurist is slicking it on, and – you’re not so sure about it. But you feel bad and want to give it a chance. Maybe you’ll like it once the second coat is on, right? And you’d hate to make the tech take it off and start over.</p> <p>“For many, the hardest time to speak up during their appointment is when they don’t like the colour,” says Medrano. “But it’s better to tell us the second you start doubting your choice. Applying the colour is the most time-consuming part, and catching the colour change before doing all 10 fingers helps us stay on track with our appointments.” Plus, your nail tech wants you to walk away happy!</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> If you’re not feeling the colour, speak up as soon as possible. You can simply tell them you’re not sure you like it. Then, tell them what you don’t like – maybe the red you chose is too orange or the pink is too sheer. They may be able to suggest another shade that is what you are looking for. After all, they see lots of different colours every day.</p> <p><strong>Removing your own gel</strong></p> <p>If you get gel manicures, you know that removing that type of polish can take a long time. You have to sit with remover on your nails for a while before the gel can be scraped away. But trying to do it at home to save time and work for your nail tech is not advisable. Gel polish needs to be removed in a certain way to minimise damage, warns nail artist Braelinn Frank. If you try to remove it yourself and wreck your nails, your tech will be left trying to get them back into shape to prevent your nails from peeling.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> When you make your appointment, let them know you have gel polish that will need to be removed. This allows the salon to build in more time for your appointment so the gel can be removed properly by a professional and you don’t make a bigger mess for your manicurist.</p> <p><strong>Deferring to the pro</strong></p> <p>Do you want rounded nails or more of an almond shape? Do you want your cuticles cut, or do you just want your manicurist to use really good cuticle oil before pushing them back? These are all decisions you’ll need to make during your appointment. Don’t just defer to the tech. Yes, they’re pros, but these are your nails. “It’s helpful when someone knows what they want their nails to look like,” says Medrano.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> If you really aren’t sure what you want, avoid telling the nail tech to do whatever they’d like. A better way to approach it is to ask them for their input on the different options and then make the decision that’s best for you based on what they tell you.</p> <p><strong>Cleaning up</strong></p> <p>There’s always a little bit of a mess when you get your nails done – think nail clippings, dust from filing, used cotton balls from removing polish. Worried that your nail tech is grossed out by all this and annoyed at having to pick up after you? They’re not. Not only that, but if you try to clean up, you might just get in the way. “It’s part of our job to keep up with the mess,” says Medrano. “And we know our way around our station best.” Remember, you can always give yourself a manicure at home, but if you go to the salon, one of the perks is not having to clean up!</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> If you want to help, the best thing you can do is stay out of your nail tech’s way. As they try to wipe down their station, move your hands so they can do that. In other words, pay attention and adjust your positioning when needed – that will be the best way to help.</p> <p><strong>Moving your own stuff to the drying station</strong></p> <p>Your manicure is done, and it’s time to move over to the drying station. You feel bad about making a tech pick up your handbag, so you grab it yourself. While your intention is to be kind, you may smudge your nails and mess up all the hard work they just did. “We are here to help,” says Medrano, who confirms it’s better for them to help than to have you mess up your nails. Plus, even a little chip or smudge is a cardinal sin when it comes to making your manicure last longer.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> Allow them to move your bag (and any other items you have with you) to the drying station. Be gracious, and say thank you. Also let them pull out the chair or stool for you. Really don’t want someone to pick up your bag? Consider wearing a small crossbody bag so you can keep it on during your appointment.</p> <p><strong>Holding it in</strong></p> <p>Maybe you have to sneeze, or perhaps you are mid-manicure and suddenly have to pee. Holding it in does nobody any favours. While you may not want to interrupt the appointment, your nail tech would rather you be comfortable and enjoy the service. Plus, if you hold in your sneeze, it could backfire and lead to a bigger sneeze where you spray germs everywhere. “Do not be scared to ask if you need to do something,” says Medrano. “Nothing surprises us.”</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> Need to use the bathroom? Let your tech know, and ask when the best time would be for you to do so. Have to sneeze? Say, “I’m going to sneeze.” Then, rather than using your hands to cover your mouth (which your tech then needs to go back to touching), sneeze into the crook of your arm.</p> <p><strong>Trying to shimmy your credit card out of your wallet</strong></p> <p>If the end of your appointment has come and you still haven’t paid, sliding your credit card out of your wallet with wet nails may feel like a Herculean task. But you can’t possibly ask your nail tech to do that, right? That would be rude. Wrong again. It’s actually ruder to smudge the beautiful paint job your nail tech just put a ton of time and energy into.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Do this instead:</em></span> “The amount of times that I have helped take out credit cards? It’s quite often,” says Medrano. “Just ask! Truly, it’s no problem.” Make it easier on your tech by telling them exactly where it is and what colour the card is; that way, they don’t have to fish around for it. Also, there’s no need to apologise – just say thank you!</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/tips/10-polite-habits-nail-techs-actually-dislike-and-what-to-do-instead" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Beauty & Style

Sweet reason why Kochie wore lipstick live on air

<p dir="ltr">David Koch wore bright red lipstick in an interview on <em>Sunrise </em>on Monday morning- all for a good cause.</p> <p dir="ltr">The<em> Sunrise </em>host wore the bold colour while interviewing model Jett Kenny, the son of sporting greats Grant Kenny and Lisa Curry.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jett also put on red lipstick mid-interview as part of the Lip-Stick It campaign - an initiative that encourages Aussie men to wear lipstick on May 11 to raise awareness and help raise funds for women’s mental health support services.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Less than half of the women experiencing mental health are seeking help,” Jett said on <em>Sunrise</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The initiative comes after the tragic death of Jett’s sister Jaimi, who had passed away three years ago from mental health issues.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ever since then Jett had vowed to raise awareness and funding for the cause, and is now the inaugural ambassador for the Lip-Stick It campaign.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Encouraging those people to just talk about it and having the strength that they might need to voice what they are going through. I think that was the biggest thing I found was they were so reserved, or she [Jaimi] was so reserved talking about her issues and her struggles”, Jett said.</p> <p dir="ltr">He added that, although not everyone with mental health issues experiences the same thing, he wants to encourage women to “just speak about it”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Kochie then told Jeff to “whack on the lippie”, as they talked about the campaign further.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I was trying to [apply lipstick] the other day and it is quite difficult. I might look like the Joker while I do this,” Jett told Kochie.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A lot of people think I look like the Joker without the lipstick,” Kochie quipped.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jokes aside, Jett then told the <em>Sunrise </em>host how proud he was to launch the campaign and support the women in their lives.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s our chance for us men to get behind the women that we love and support and show that we care,” Jett said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If all it takes is to put on some red lipstick to start a conversation, and talk about it, I feel like it’s the least we can do.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s a big thing, not only for myself but for a lot of people. It could be happening to a person you work with, someone you know, but they you know – might not be talking about it because they don’t feel comfortable to do so,” he added.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jaimi died on September 14, 2020, following an 18-year battle with alcohol addiction and an eating disorder.</p> <p dir="ltr">She died at Sunshine Coast University Hospital and was surrounded by her family at the time of her death.</p> <p dir="ltr">In late January, Lisa Curry posted an<a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/lisa-curry-honours-her-late-daughter-with-emotional-video" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> emotional tribute </a>to her eldest daughter in honour of her memory.</p> <p><em>Images: Sunrise on 7</em></p>

Caring

"I felt like I was drowning": Ed Sheeran breaks down

<p>Ed Sheeran has spared no emotion in a new docuseries covering a very turbulent time in his life.</p> <p>In the first trailer for Ed Sheeran: The Sum Of It All, the singer can be heard laughing about how when he was first approached about the documentary, he assumed it would cover his time in the studio working on his new album.</p> <p>To Sheeran’s surprise, the four-part Disney+ series is set to capture the hardships in the British star’s life as his wife, Cherry Seaborn, battled with a tumour while pregnant with the pair’s second child and just as he lost one of his closest friends, Jamal Edwards.</p> <p>The clip includes a montage of moments featuring an emotional Sheeran, 32, breaking down on stage and in private as he deals with the turmoiltuous time he’s been faced with.</p> <p>"I've never seen him cry on stage," his wife admitted in a clip.</p> <p>"He hasn't had time to process and be at peace with his thoughts."</p> <p>Sheeran, who is the father to daughters, Lyra, 2, and Jupiter, 10 months, is also heard saying how his wife changed his life.</p> <p>"Everything in my life sort of got so much better when Cherry came into it," he says.</p> <p><a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/writing-songs-is-my-therapy-ed-sheeran-reveals-further-heartbreak" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sheeran first opened up about these two private, painful events in a social media post</a>, revealing how they influenced his upcoming album, Subtract.</p> <p>"At the start of 2022, a series of events changed my life, my mental health, and ultimately the way I viewed music and art," Sheeran wrote.</p> <p>"Writing songs is my therapy. It helps me make sense of my feelings. I wrote without thought of what the songs would be, I just wrote whatever tumbled out.</p> <p>"And in just over a week, I replaced a decade's worth of work with my deepest darkest thoughts.</p> <p>"Within the space of a month, my pregnant wife got told she had a tumour, with no route to treatment until after the birth.</p> <p>"My best friend Jamal, a brother to me, died suddenly and I found myself standing in court defending my integrity and career as a songwriter. I was spiralling through fear, depression and anxiety.</p> <p>"I felt like I was drowning, head below the surface, looking up but not being able to break through for air.”</p> <p>Sheeran also <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/tragedy-strikes-ed-sheeran-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">suffered the loss of his close friend and co-worker's 16-year-old son in early 2023.</a></p> <p><em>Ed Sheeran: The Sum Of It All </em>will be released on Disney+ on May 3 2023.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Disney+</em></p>

6 things your nails reveal about your health

<p>The body has a unique way of giving hints about your health. According to dermatologist John Anthony, a quick glance at your nails can tell you volumes about your whole-body health.</p> <p>Anthony and Bebra Jaliman, author of Skin Rules, spoke to Health.com about the top seven nail symptoms you shouldn’t ignore.</p> <p><strong>Clubbing</strong></p> <p>“Clubbing of the nails—when the ends of your fingers swell and the nail becomes curved and rounded—can sometimes be a sign of liver or kidney disease,” says Dr Anthony. Chat to your doctor if you experience this.</p> <p><strong>White spots</strong></p> <p>It’s often said that small white spots on the nails are an indication of calcium deficiency, but Dr Anthony says that’s not always the case. “They’re often the result of minor trauma, such as if you whack your finger against something, and aren’t generally to do with calcium.”</p> <p><strong>Yellow nails</strong></p> <p>Nails can naturally turn a yellow tinge with age, “But it’s also sometimes due to nail lacquers or acrylic nails,” says Dr Anthony. If your nails are usually covered in a thick layer of gloss, try giving them a few days off to recover.</p> <p><strong>Dents</strong></p> <p>If your nails are covered with small dents or pits, speak to a health professional Dr Jaliman says it could be a sign of psoriasis.</p> <p><strong>Dry, cracked or brittle nails</strong></p> <p>According to Dr Jaliman, this is a common problem and there are a few possible causes. “Soft, brittle nails can occur from dryness on the nail plate,” she explains. This could be from swimming, using nail polish remover too often or frequently dishwashing without gloves.</p> <p><strong>Horizontal ridges</strong></p> <p>Bumps or consistent ridges from side-to-side on a nail can be a sign of trauma to the nail. When your body is busy fighting an illness, it tends to allocate energy to the important parts, rather than nail repair. “Your body is literally saying, ‘I’ve got better things to do than make nails’ and pauses their growth,” Dr Anthony tells Health.</p> <p><strong>Concave nails</strong></p> <p>“Spoon nails” are very thin and form a concave shape. Dr Jalimen says if you have this issue, it’s worth consulting a doctor. “This is usually a sign of iron deficiency anaemia,” she explains, which can be treated with iron supplements.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Body

Bride wears engagement ring with blood in it

<p dir="ltr">A bride-to-be has caused quite a stir after sharing a photo of her engagement ring that apparently has her fiancé’s blood in it. </p> <p dir="ltr">The woman shared the photo to the popular Facebook group “That's it, I'm wedding shaming” and at first glance it looks like a normal ring with a red stone.</p> <p dir="ltr">To everyone’s shock, she revealed that the “red stone” was in fact her fiancé’s blood.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Has anyone else opted out of a wedding band? I love my engagement ring so much, it has my fiancé’s blood in it and it is so special to me,” she began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’d rather that be put on my finger at the wedding instead of a band. I would have to get a custom one to fit my ring and I don’t know, I just don’t want to.”</p> <p dir="ltr">However, the comments were not nice about the $300 ring, with many questioning why anyone would do that. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m glad she loves it and is happy. It is heinous though,” one wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m fine with one ring…as long as it’s not filled with BLOOD! What in the actual f**k?” someone else commented. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I hate it here," another simply wrote. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

Relationships

The best nail trends for cold winter months

<p dir="ltr">During cold winter months, we are all used to piling on heavy winter coats to keep warm, without worrying much about how we look. </p> <p dir="ltr">While winter fashion can be fun and experimental, it is easy to pick warmth over style and not think twice about covering up your outfit with a heavy coat. </p> <p dir="ltr">Luckily, there are more ways to express our own personal style than through our clothes. </p> <p dir="ltr">Having your nails done with the latest colours and trends can be another way to inject some fun into our winter style. </p> <p dir="ltr">During the recent Australian Fashion Week, Make Up Artist and OPI Australia Brand Ambassador, Mikele Simone, created incredible nail looks for some top Aussie models, and is here to share his top picks for must-try winter nail trends. </p> <p dir="ltr">The front runner for this year’s winter nail trends is definitely blacks and metals, which give off a grungy winter vibe that go with every outfit. </p> <p dir="ltr">"We will be seeing a few different shades trending for winter and black is having a big comeback. We have seen many runways display black nails and it's so easy to wear. Silvers and Golds will be a big trend too, including wearing both shades at the same time," explains Mikele. </p> <p dir="ltr">OPI offers a huge range of nail polishes, with the <a href="https://www.myer.com.au/p/lincoln-park-after-dark-132035590-132052510">Lincoln Park after Dark</a> polish proving to be the perfect winter colour. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTof5WrK3M3/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTof5WrK3M3/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by OPI Australia (@opiaustralia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.myer.com.au/p/opi-opi-infinite-shine-silver-on-ice">Infinite Shine Silver on Ice</a> will bring a much needed sparkle to any nail look, and don’t forget to prime your nails and add a top coat with <a href="https://www.myer.com.au/p/opi-infinite-shine-prostay-duo-pack-503871940-503864740">OPI's Infinite Shine Pro Stay Nail Polish Duo Pack</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Another resurging nail trend is the use of shapes and patterns to create a more futuristic look. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5GL5TEjQn1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5GL5TEjQn1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by OPI (@opi_professionals)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">"We're definitely seeing more obscure shapes, like patterns that are not perfect. We will see French tip designs evolve into more of an organic feel and slightly imperfect, and also more round and fluid-like nail art shapes. A huge nod to a slightly more futuristic nail design," says Mikele.</p> <p dir="ltr">Another thing to remember in colder months is the importance of nail care, as the harsh winter elements do their best to give us sore and dry skin. </p> <p dir="ltr">According to Mikele, there are a few must-haves to keep your nails healthy. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Cuticle oil is number one! Applied daily, it will prevent cuticles from drying out, which can easily be a side effect of cold weather and heaters in the home or workplace. For really dry hands, I always recommend applying a good amount of cuticle oil, followed with a hand cream and wearing a cotton glove to bed to protect the hands and allow the product to soak in overnight - it makes a huge difference! You wake up with baby soft skin and glowing hands!"</p> <p dir="ltr">To have soft and supply hands all winter long, <a href="https://www.myer.com.au/p/opi-protective-hand-nail---cuticle-cream-118-ml-503872750-503865550">OPI Pro Spa Protective Hand,Nail & Cuticle Cream</a> and <a href="https://www.myer.com.au/p/opi-nail---cuticle-oil-148-ml-503872480-503865280">Pro Spa Nail & Cuticle Oil Nail Treatment </a>are here to save the day!</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CbHRdiCMjkw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CbHRdiCMjkw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by OPI Australia (@opiaustralia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Instead of letting the freezing weather get you down this winter, use the opportunity to try new and fun things with your nails to bring light and expression to even the most dreary days. </p> <p dir="ltr">You can shop the entire OPI range at <a href="https://www.myer.com.au/b/OPI">Myer</a>, either in store or online. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

15 winter nail colours and trends you won’t be able to resist

<p><strong>Winter nail colour trends</strong></p> <p>Even if you spend most of the winter bundled up, there are still parts of you worth showing off all year long. And let’s not forget about that moment of pure joy when you slip your hands out of your gloves to show off your favourite new nail polish. So, now that autumn is over, what are the hottest winter nail colours and trends that should be on your radar?</p> <p>From rich, jewel-toned hues to dupes for frosty snowflakes, winter nails aren’t following one set of rules right now. We’re still seeing a lot of nail art, but it’s less cutesy and more architectural. For example, according to celebrity nail artist Brittney Boyce, instead of going with an overt candy-cane look, opt for a “chic, angled half-French in a sultry red, or do a half white nail with a diagonal cut across that looks clean and elevated.” You also won’t find just the typical wintery shades this year – you might see pastels on the chicest nails. If we had to sum up winter 2022 in a word, it would be unexpected or bold.</p> <p>We asked celebrity nail artists and other experts for their take on what’s trending right now so you can take your manicure to the next level. To get salon-quality results, use non-toxic polishes and gel nail polishes.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: a hint of sparkle</strong></p> <p>Don’t overdo the shimmer on your winter nail designs – a small amount will do the trick for this 2022 trend. Even if you use polish with chunky glitter in it, add only a dab or two. The idea is to catch the light, not pile on the glitter. “Adding a bit of sparkle is a great way to put a classic spin on a French mani and is also perfect for the winter,” says salon marketing manager, Jennifer Bell.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: browns, taupes, and chocolatey shades</strong></p> <p>Winter is the time of year you can match your mani to your hot drink! “We will continue to see a lot of neutral browns and chestnuts throughout the winter,” Bell predicts. There are so many gorgeous shades in this family that you can take it from nearly nude to deep sueded shades, depending on your mood.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: a touch of grey</strong></p> <p>Expect to see a lot of steely, slate, silver, or pale grey polish this season. “We [particularly] love a wintertime grey with a shimmery finish,” Bell says. Greys look great on nearly everyone, but a good rule of thumb (as it were) is that if you’re not sure which grey shade to choose, opt for a darker one because it flatters more skin tones.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: naked nails</strong></p> <p>Believe it or not, one of the hottest winter nail looks is perfectly pampered hands and cuticles with barely any polish. “Nude nails have been a beauty staple for years and are back with a new twist that embraces the barely-there look,” says Patricia Freund, managing director for cuticle oil brand, Cuccio Naturalé. While nude or barely there polish is a classic look, it also makes sense as there’s no need to worry about chipping a nail or ruining your nail art!</p> <p>Freund advises applying cuticle oil daily “to maintain hydrated and healthy nails throughout the winter and keep the ‘less is more’ nude manicure looking fresh all season.” One more tip for your tips: while short nails make sense during glove season, a look that’s gaining traction right now is a slightly longer oval nail with the sheerest polish, perfectly groomed cuticles, and moisturised hands.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: red hot</strong></p> <p>It wouldn’t be winter without classic red winter nails in every shade from spicy tomato to deep burgundy blacks. “We’ll also continue to see classic deep reds throughout the winter,” notes Bell. If you do plan on painting the town – or at least your nails – red, opt for a chip-proof top coat so you won’t have to keep touching up your mani.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: black</strong></p> <p>Classic black will be having a moment this winter. “The opposite of the opaque white trend for spring/summer is onyx – shiny patent leather nails,” says celebrity manicurist Michelle Saunders. It’s all about high contrast and showing off your sparkly jewellery with this winter nail idea. Think black tie meets high fashion. Saunders says for maximum impact, be sure to use a high-shine top coat.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: glitter ombré tips</strong></p> <p>If don’t want to go all-out with glitter, try using just a hint of it in your nail art. Boyce’s advice? “Apply a strip of glitter polish on the tip, then gently drag the glitter chunks downward with the brush. This way, most of the glitter is on the tip and you’ll get a nice ombré effect.” You can also experiment with this effect to add a little oomph to your favourite shade. “Do this on a bare nail, a nude nail, a white nail, or even a darker one,” Boyce says. But if you’re going dark, stick to a neutral shade like a dark taupe or dark blue so there aren’t too many competing elements.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: forest inspired</strong></p> <p>While some trees may be stripped bare, your nails will look amazing in a leafy-green polish. “All kinds of greens are still in the forefront of people’s minds,” Saunders says. And while you’d think deep, lush greens were the only trending verdant hues, you can also go playful and polish your nails any shade of green for an on-trend winter manicure.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: baby shades</strong></p> <p>Despite light colours usually making an appearance in spring, Saunders says, “we are going to see a ‘pastel winter’ with muted, serene colours on fingertips.” Picture Easter-egg hues on your winter nails. If you’re not sure that light colours are your thing in the winter, opt for colours that are classic, not cutesy. Think shell pink instead of bubblegum, or shimmery apricot instead of a bolder orange.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: winter blue</strong></p> <p>This winter nail colour can be rocked all season long. “Blue will win the race for this winter,” Saunders says. She’s predicting that everything from baby blue to deep metallic blue will be on all the chic nails this season. “It’s a nod to the ’90s, and super fun to create nail art with,” she adds.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: rich jewel tones</strong></p> <p>If you love the look of lush nails, get ready to indulge. “Deep gemstone colours are always a classic during wintertime,” Saunders says, “and that isn’t changing anytime soon.” Add some oomph to your LBD with any of these rich colours. Think ruby, emerald, sapphire and amethyst for a super luxe look.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: gold half moon</strong></p> <p>“Winter is a fun time to play up shimmer and texture,” Boyce says, adding that not all winter nail art needs to be complicated. “A gold half-moon near the cuticle is simple nail art that makes a big statement. You can play up different types of metallic shades for this [trend] depending on your look, from a standard gold to rose gold to even a bright orange bronze shade.”</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: dark meets light</strong></p> <p>Create a bit of drama with mostly sheer nails and a hint of a darker colours. “For winter, I like dark, still shades because it reminds me of just how quiet it gets during the night,” Boyce says. Think muted blues or purples contrasted with barely-there colour. “While black gives a lot of edge, you can soften it up with midnight navy or dark forest green shades,” she adds.</p> <p>How can you create this look at home? “An Angled Half French can be achieved easily by using washi tape as a guide and a dry brush dipped in nail polish remover to clean up the edges,” explains Boyce. “You then use a glossy top coat over the entire nail for a finished look.”</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: classic French tips in metallic shades</strong></p> <p>If you can’t get through the winter without a French mani, consider mixing things up. “A classic French tip using a shimmery shade on an oval-shaped nail, either short to medium length, looks really gorgeous for the holidays,” Boyce says, adding that the easiest way to get the perfect French tip is with a silicone nail stamper. Stampers are easy to use, but they come with a bit of a learning curve, so practise before that big event. If you’re not comfortable with a stamper, try dotting on a design with a nail art brush or using a fan brush to create a softened tip.</p> <p><strong>Nail trend: all the winter colours</strong></p> <p>Still can’t decide which winter nail colour or trend is your favourite? You don’t have to choose. Simply paint each nail a different colour for maximum wow. The experts we spoke with for this story all said winter nails this season are more about self-expression rather than sticking to any particular trend.</p> <p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-792f2663-7fff-3448-7169-f7f270bb358e">Written by Rachel Weingarten. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/culture/15-winter-nail-colours-and-trends-you-wont-be-able-to-resist" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a></span></em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

Lisa Wilkinson’s book price slashed by 70 percent

<p dir="ltr">The price of Lisa Wilkinson’s new book has been slashed by more than 70 percent.</p> <p dir="ltr">The former <em>Today Show</em> co-host released a memoir called It Wasn't Meant To Be Like This in November 2021, which addressed – among other things – her pay dispute with Karl Stefanovic. </p> <p dir="ltr">However, her book was not well received as the RRP took a massive cut by up to more than 70 percent at some retailers. </p> <p dir="ltr">Kmart was selling a paperback copy of the memoir for $24 and placed it on clearance for a measly $6.</p> <p dir="ltr">Big W had the book for RRP $45 and slashed a massive 73 percent off the pricing to just $12.</p> <p dir="ltr">Amazon also had the book for $12 with only Booktopia and Dymocks keeping the price at $36 and $45 respectively.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite the price cuts on her book, it has now been revealed that Wilkinson is making money off it in a different way. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Project </em>host is promoting her memoir at exclusive women’s networking breakfast group Business Chicks, where attendees are also being charged the full $45 for her book.</p> <p dir="ltr">She also held an event at the luxurious Melbourne Crown Palladium to a sold-out crowd of more than 500 attendees.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tickets to the event ranged from $145 to $185 per seat.</p> <p dir="ltr">In an Instagram post in April, Wilkinson promoted her new book tour “after a couple of false starts at the end of last year, courtesy of good old COVID”.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CcfEm0IhvYR/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CcfEm0IhvYR/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lisa Wilkinson (@lisa_wilkinson)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“I’ll be telling the stories BEHIND the stories in the book, the truth about some of the headlines you may have read in recent times, the many lessons I’ve learnt across the years, the people I’ve met, and why the book almost didn’t happen,” her caption read.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And if you already have the book, please bring it along for me to sign, or you can purchase one on the day, and I’ll be signing those too.”</p> <p dir="ltr">She went on to convince attendees about the event which would include some “darn good coffee” as well as a great networking space.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And again, thank you to everyone who continues to send me messages, stop me in the street, and share their thoughts in book clubs around the country about how much the book has meant to them…you sincerely have no idea how much your feedback has, in turn, meant to me. Thank you.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Instagram </em></p>

Books

Do it for Dolly: Bullying awareness day

<p>If Australian mum Kate Everett could turn back time, she would tell her little girl Dolly to speak up and reach out for help.</p> <p>That opportunity was taken from them forever when the young girl, at only 14-years-old took her own life in January of 2018. This was a result of online bullying.</p> <p>Her death sent shockwaves around the country and five years on, the Everetts are using their grief to fight back against bullying with the common goal to prevent others from going through the same hardship.</p> <p>The family from the Northern Territory launched a charity in their daughter Dolly’s name and created “Do it for Dolly” - an annual day of bullying awareness on May the 13th.</p> <p>“The loss of a child changes a family forever,” Everett said “but creating Dolly’s Dream has helped us with healing.”</p> <p>Dolly’s story touched the hearts of people across the country, sparking the family’s plan to channel their grief into something bigger.</p> <p>They launched Dolly’s Dream and Do it for Dolly Day in 2018 as a way to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. The organisation aims to help change the culture of bullying and raise awareness about the devastating impact it can have on young people and their families.</p> <p>Recounting the family’s tragic story does take its toll, but the impact they have had on the lives of others makes it all worth it.</p> <p>“Dolly’s Dream gives us the ability to focus on what positive can come from this, it’s Dolly’s legacy,” she said, adding it helps the family find comfort and healing.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

Maker George becomes Making It Australia’s first winner

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After a whole series of challenges, </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> has whittled it’s contestants down to just three: George, Rizaldy and Jack.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the rest of the crafters returning for the final episode, the final three were pitted against each other and George was crowned Australia’s first winner of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CV4McDHhTk6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CV4McDHhTk6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by George Roppingly-Goode (@george_can_create_it)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When asked about how it felt to be Australia’s first winner, George told </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">OverSixty</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that she “couldn’t believe it”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I didn’t think I’d make it past a few episodes,” she said, sharing how making it to the final and winning left her feeling stunned.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Walking away from the show, George said one of the things that surprised her most was the friendships she made with the rest of the Makers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I didn’t think I’d walk away with 12 new friends,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">George explained that being on </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> also proved to her that she could persevere and go out and achieve the things she wanted to, despite what she had been told over the years.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As for the future, George will continue creating on a personal and professional level, and sharing her work on </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/george_can_create_it/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instagram</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. She also hopes that her being on the show will inspire other women to pick up power tools and embrace more ‘masculine’ crafting techniques.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If I can do it, so can others,” she said. “The university of YouTube is also a great resource. If you don’t know how to use a jigsaw, you can just find a video and learn.”</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUwjCkzB6px/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUwjCkzB6px/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by George Roppingly-Goode (@george_can_create_it)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fellow finalist Jack</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> was just as thrilled to make it to the end.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I was truly ecstatic and also very thankful to have made it that far in the competition among such talented and amazingly creative contestants,” Jack said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">”I was proud of my efforts and definitely inspired and invigorated by the other projects.”</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQA7HUeFhYf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQA7HUeFhYf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Toy Architecture (@toyarchitecture)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rizaldy shared the sentiment and added that getting through was a huge achievement.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“That sums up all our hard work, our skill set, stories behind the projects and most of all it is all about having fun and sharing what we can do with the world,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It has never been a competition for me. I joined </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to show the world that making things is a lot of fun and they can do it too.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All three finalists agreed that the experience of being a Maker had been unforgettable, and that they had walked away with new friends from all over the country.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If it wasn’t for lockdown we would all have gotten together,” George said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I have met amazing fellow Makers who are now my friends forever,'' Rizaldy added. “Spending time with the sensational judges and witty hosts is unforgettable.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I met some really incredible people along the way, including the hosts and judges,” Jack said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“TV is a hoot!"</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: george_can_create_it / Instagram</span></em></p>

Home & Garden

“No space for self-doubt”: Rehana reflects on Making It to the final five

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This week’s episode of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saw our remaining five crafters continue to make things on a huge scale. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But only four would make it through to the next series of challenges, and Rehana was the next Maker to exit the show.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She sat down with </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">OverSixty</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to answer our crafty questions and tell us about her transition into starting her own creative business.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Honestly, the highlight was everybody on set, from the makers to the cameraman to the producers to the wardrobe ladies. I think the highlight of the show was just stepping on set and feeling like I've met my people. We just connected so instantly that it sort of baffled me a little bit. I'm like, “Oh my gosh, how do I love every single one of you within five minutes of meeting you?”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I guess when you’re on a set for two months, you’re away from your family and everything, but you know, they become your family. You just get through so much. And you experience so many things together you can't help but love one another. </span></p> <p><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your <em>Making It</em> experience?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The fact that I could get things done in eight hours. Eight hours is not a lot of time for crafting!</span></p> <p>O60: The last few episodes of Making It have involved crafting on a HUGE scale in a limited amount of time. Could you tell us a bit more about what that experience was like? </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I'm a graphic designer, so I'm used to doing most of my work on a computer. All my crafting experience comes from like a lot of Pinterest tutorials and watching YouTube and Tik Tok and that sort of thing. And, you know, I had to force myself to start just making decisions. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I tend to think that maybe something's not good enough or I don't really know what I'm doing. But when you're under that eight-hour pressure, you have no choice but to commit and just believe in yourself. There's no space for self doubt. There's no space for thinking you're not going to be able to do it. You’ve just got to get it done.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845220/making-it-rehana1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5ffd148ac4594520baf92c957138ed1e" /></span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p> <p><strong>O60: What’s next for you after <em>Making It</em>?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So since leaving the show, I quit my job [and went] into my own business! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I come from a really traditional background where you either become a doctor, an engineer, an accountant or a housewife. And so when I told my parents I wanted to be an artist or a creative, they were like, “Oh, are you sure you'd be able to make a living out of that?” then I'm like, “I'm not entirely sure I can!” </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So graphic design to me was a nice medium where I could be creative in my work but also it paid the bills. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">[And] when I went on the show, I didn't think I'd go past the first week. I'm like, “I'm surrounded by people who do this for a living, I'm just a hobby crafter.” Sure, I do graphic design, but even then I don't really consider myself a great graphic designer. And you know, I learned that was wrong.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So getting to be in the top four was honestly a surprise [so] if I look really shocked throughout the series it’s because I'm genuinely shocked that I'm still there. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">[And] even once they told me I was going home, I remember telling one of the judges that I felt like I'd already won, like I'd already proven to myself that I could do this and that I could impress people and I had people who thought the things that I was producing were worthy and of value. And that gave me the push that I needed to go full time into my </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/DayNightDusk"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Day Night Dusk</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> business and into my little design business. I ended up buying a laser cutter, I've ended up releasing two collections since we wrapped up filming on the show and in fact Christmas is coming up and I'm about to release a lovely little earring stand to commemorate coming off the show. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At the end of the day I've been so fortunate to have the opportunity to realise that I am who I am and that's good enough. And that's valuable enough to launch myself into a career where I can support myself, being creative and enjoying the work that I do.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: <em>Making It</em> posed challenges that saw you use a whole range of different skills and techniques. Has it changed how you have gone about your creative practice since leaving the show?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Totally. I've been given a whole new I guess confidence in trying a lot of new things, and a lot of support as well. I mean, George's workshop is in Sydney, and she's been telling me she'll teach me how to weld for a while… I can’t wait to go to her workshop, she's got all these wacky machines that I can play with! </span></p> <p><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Oh absolutely, a thousand times yes! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It was such a great experience. And I remember when I first applied I'm like, “Oh, I don't think this is going to go anywhere.” And then when they did call me back to come for a moment, I was tempted to say no, because my son was 14 months, so he was still quite young. And my husband sat with me on the steps and I was like, “I don't think I'm gonna do it.” </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And he said to me, “If you don't do it, do you think you’d regret it?” </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I said, “Yes. I think I’ll regret it if I don't do this.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I'm so glad that I went ahead and did it and I would encourage anyone else who’s interested to just give it a crack and see where it takes them.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVWPYnFhjoo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVWPYnFhjoo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by DayNightDusk by Rehana Badat (@day_night_dusk)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As the finale draws ever closer, the remaining contestants will return to craft their hearts out on Saturday from 7pm.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p>

Home & Garden

14 tips to get healthy, gorgeous nails

<p><strong>Keep nail beds hydrated </strong></p> <p><span>To keep your nails hydrated, rub a small amount of petroleum jelly into your cuticle and the skin surrounding your nails every evening before you go to bed or whenever your nails feel dry. </span></p> <p><span>Keep a jar in your bag, desk drawer, car – anywhere you might need it. Not a fan of petroleum jelly? Substitute castor oil. </span></p> <p><span>It’s thick and contains vitamin E, which is great for your cuticles. Or head to your kitchen cupboard and grab the olive oil – it also works to moisturise your nails.</span></p> <p><strong>Protect nails from wear and tear</strong></p> <p><span>Wear rubber gloves whenever you do housework or wash dishes. </span></p> <p><span>Most household chores from gardening, to scrubbing the bathroom, to washing dishes, are murderous on healthy nails. </span></p> <p><span>For extra hand softness, apply hand cream before you put on the rubber gloves. Slipping on some gloves will also protect your manicure.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Treat cuticles gently</strong></span></p> <p><span>When pushing back your cuticles (it is not necessary to cut them), come in at a 45-degree angle and be very gentle. </span></p> <p><span>Otherwise, the cuticle will become damaged, weakening the entire nail, says manicurist, Mariana Diaconescu.</span></p> <p><strong>Avoid ingrown nails</strong></p> <p><span>For healthy nails, trim your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. </span></p> <p><span>This is particularly important if you have diabetes.</span></p> <p><strong>Keep hands dry</strong></p> <p><span>Dry your hands for at least two minutes after doing the dishes, taking a bath or shower. </span></p> <p><span>Also, dry your toes thoroughly after swimming or showering. </span><span>Leaving them damp increases your risk of fungal infection and ruins healthy nails.</span></p> <p><strong>Get shoes in top shape</strong></p> <p><span>Dry your hands for at least two minutes after doing the dishes, taking a bath or shower. </span></p> <p><span>Also, dry your toes thoroughly after swimming or showering. Leaving them damp increases your risk of fungal infection and ruins healthy nails.</span></p> <p><strong>Find high-quality socks</strong></p> <p><span>Wear 100 per cent cotton socks. They’re best for absorbing dampness, thus preventing fungal infections. </span></p> <p><span>You can also use socks to cover up your messed-up DIY toenail art.</span></p> <p><strong>Make your manicure last longer</strong></p> <p><span>Stretch out the beauty of a manicure by applying a fresh top coat every day, says Susie Galvez, author of </span><em>Hello Beautiful: 365 Ways to Be Even More Beautiful</em><span>.</span></p> <p><strong>Try these vitamins</strong></p> <p><span>To make your nails as strong and resilient as a horse’s hooves, take 300 micrograms of the B vitamin biotin four to six times a day. </span></p> <p><span>Long ago, veterinarians discovered that biotin strengthened horses’ hooves, which are made from keratin, the same substance in human nails. </span></p> <p><span>Swiss researchers found that people who took 2.5 milligrams of biotin a day for 5.5 months had firmer, harder nails. </span></p> <p><span>In a US study, 63 per cent of people taking biotin for brittle nails experienced an improvement.</span></p> <p><strong>Got milk?</strong></p> <p><span>It’s great for healthy nails! Add a glass of milk and a hard-boiled egg to your daily diet. </span></p> <p><span>Rich in zinc, they’ll do wonders for your nails, especially if your nails are spotted with white, a sign of low zinc intake.</span></p> <p><strong>File your nails correctly</strong></p> <p><span>To keep your nails at their strongest, avoid filing in a back-and-forth motion – go in only one direction.</span></p> <p><span> And never file just after you’ve gotten out of a shower or bath. Wet nails break more easily.</span></p> <p><strong>Try this finger massage</strong></p> <p><span>Massage your nails to keep them extra strong and shiny. </span></p> <p><span>Nail buffing increases blood supply to the nail, which stimulates the matrix of the nail to grow, says Galvez.</span></p> <p><strong>Keep 'em polished</strong></p> <p><span>Polish your nails, even if it’s just with a clear coat. </span></p> <p><span>It protects your nails, says manicurist Diaconescu. If you prefer colour, use a base coat, two thin coats of colour, and a top coat. </span></p> <p><span>Colour should last at least seven days but should be removed after 10 days.</span></p> <p><strong>Avoid these polish remover ingredients</strong></p> <p><span>Avoid polish removers with acetone or formaldehyde. </span></p> <p><span>They’re terribly drying to nails, says dermatologist, Dr Andrea Lynn Cambio. Use acetate-based removers instead.</span></p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article first appeared in <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/14-tips-to-get-healthy-gorgeous-nails?pages=1" target="_blank">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Beauty & Style

‘Holy smoke, what am I doing here?’: Maker Andrew shares his experience

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the latest episode of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the remaining Makers were tasked with inventing a large-scale device to solve a common problem.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After wowing the judges with his chicken-powered alarm clock, Andrew was the next Maker to leave the show.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The metalworking extraordinaire sat down with </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><em>OverSixty</em> </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">to tell us about his experiences on the show and what he has gone on to do since.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The highlight of being a Maker was to live and work with an incredibly talented, inspiring group of people for a long period of time. That is something that doesn't happen often in your life, and [I have] very strong, warm memories of it.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your <em>Making It</em> experience?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What surprised me most, I don’t think I was as prepared as much as I should have been. When I got there and assessed myself against the abilities of the other competitors, I was a bit intimidated because these people not only were great artists but had skills in all these other areas.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I thought, ‘Holy smoke, what am I doing here?’ And I said to them I’m the Volkswagen that snuck into the BMW car park, and [I’m] gonna get found out real quick. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But I lasted longer than I thought.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: On the show, you mentioned that you were formerly a booby trap instructor for the army. How did you make the transition to crafting and metalwork?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That was one of many skills, many qualifications I had in the army. I was a mine warfare and booby trap instructor. I taught a couple of courses in the area, but my main employment was working with army tanks. But I did [work as a] booby trap instructor as one of my extra qualifications. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Well, I got out of the army after 20 years. And then, as a 40 year old, joined the shire as an apprentice diesel mechanic. And I learned a whole lot of new skills there that I didn't have: workshop procedures and how to do things safely and they put me on a welders course so now I had some skills. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And coming off of a farm we had 100 years or more … [I] had access to all these materials. And I now had a welder in my hand. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So … just one day, the wife said to me, ‘Why don’t you go up to the shed and do something creative?’ and I built this cow. And I didn't think it was real good. But I took it down [to display] and no-one shot a hole in it or pushed it over with their ute. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And someone said take it to an art show. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Anyway, I did that and it won first prize. I couldn't understand how it would do that, because I didn't think it was very good. But the judges were academics out of Sydney and they saw something in it. And they gave me a fistful of money and my name in the paper and I thought, ‘This is alright, I’ll have another crack at this’, and it just flowed from there.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What’s next for you after <em>Making It</em>?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Well I’ve got two basically completed public artworks in my shed that I’ve got to deliver, one to Maroopna, in Victoria and one in Jinjili, up the hill.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I'm currently working on a fruit bat for a private commission. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Next week, I'm jumping on a bus as a tour guide, touring the various public artworks I have in the region … and I’ve got the microphone, and I’ll tell them all about the artworks as we go around the district.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: <em>Making It</em> posed challenges that saw you use a whole range of different skills and techniques, has it changed how you have gone about your creative practice since leaving the show?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m now more open to try different things, and maybe mix what I'm doing with something else. You get into something and you're comfortable with it, you tend to stick with it, especially if it’s successful.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But now I'm open to thinking about change and different things to stay in front of the game.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If I knew that certain logistic problems were sorted, I would. Otherwise no. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It's a once in a lifetime, amazing experience and you'd never be able to duplicate it a second time because it was the wonder of getting under the lights, and going to the city, and I'm a country boy and I hate driving around the city and it’s all those events all tied together [that] made it a once-only, amazing thing. I don't think I'd get the buzz out of it a second time.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUMFJGZpWbO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUMFJGZpWbO/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by David Andrew Whitehead (@scrapartoz)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With only five Makers remaining, </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> returns next weekend for another crafty episode.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></p>

Home & Garden

“Me representing me”: Denise shares her Making It story

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The latest episode of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saw Makers embrace their musical sides, with the creation of musical instruments from surprising materials.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdwXAdhDXv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdwXAdhDXv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Denise Pepper Art (@denisepepperart)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Denise, the latest Maker to leave the show, sat down with </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">OverSixty</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to chat about her time on the show and what lies ahead.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I think the highlight of being a Maker was the whole experience, getting out of your normal comfort zone in your own state and then being thrust from Perth to Sydney, and walking into a space you do not know, navigating around that. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So that was interesting. But also, before you knew it, you made some really wonderful, lovely friends. And I think that was very valuable as well.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I still speak to Dan and Andrew and Rizaldy every single day since we stopped filming. So we are a very tight unit, we all very much look after each other.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your <em>Making It</em> experience?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I think my strength and my determination, my physical strength of being able to have long days, and think on my feet and keep working and my mental strength because I'm a sculptor and I make work that takes six months to develop and make and put together but here I am on the set with unknown tools unknown face is having to make something in a very short, quick time. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And those challenges are very interesting [in] how you respond to them. And I think I learned a lot about myself as far as that goes.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: During the self-portrait challenge, you shared a vulnerable moment with Susie, Harvey and the judges about depicting your face. Could you tell us more about that moment and the challenges creatives can face depicting themselves in their work?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I suppose that came to me so unexpectedly but obviously it had been sitting inside of me for a long time. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I suppose that we live internally, inside of ourselves. We hear ourselves speaking inside our heads, but when we actually hear it for ourselves it sounds different.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I don't spend a lot of time grooming myself in the mirror, it’s something that I don’t take seriously. And I suppose, I have thrown myself on a national TV program where it's me representing me and doing the self portrait, I knew I was going to have difficulties with it because I was not going to do myself justice by doing my face because it's not a comfortable area for me. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I suppose once that door was open, then I was pretty tired and pretty emotional and pretty homesick. It came out and there was a very long conversation that wasn’t shown on TV, talking about how I felt with the judges. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And I was very stressed waiting for that episode to come on, because I knew it was coming. And since being on the show, I've had a whole heap of different emotions about the show, because as I've said, I’m from watching me, that was actually me and I don't know myself that well.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But you know what, since that happened and it's been on Facebook, I have had an abundance of people replying, saying, ‘I hear you, I feel the same way. I know what you mean.’ </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So I think I reached out to a demographic of people who feel the same way as me, and I had the opportunity to go there on TV. So maybe there's something really positive about that.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What’s next for you after <em>Making It</em>?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I promised myself that this year I'm not going to do a great deal except for this one exhibition because I think I'm going to reassess what I want to do. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strangely enough, I have no plan and I've never had no plan in my life, ever. It’s a new Denise! It’s really interesting. I don’t know who she is but I'm sure she's gonna be okay.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m sure I will probably [get] back into exhibitions, and maybe run some lovely workshops from my beautiful home … [just] intimate small workshops with my glass practice, which is something that I have been kind of talking about because I love people and I love to share my ideas and my experiences, so I think that's a good possibility that's what I'll be doing is running, you know, really intimate personal workshops in my own home space.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Making It posed challenges that saw you use a whole range of different skills and techniques, has it changed how you have gone about your creative practice since leaving the show?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since I left the show, I think I had burnout, and was not able to create until probably the last couple of weeks. I think ... I had no more creativity inside me to create artwork. I focused on my home and I started painting and doing decorative stuff to my home because I think it gave me some sense of comfort because I was back home and I never went into my studio. I don't go into my studio much anymore, but I'm currently making a sculpture at the moment for an exhibition on the beach down here in Perth called </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Castaways</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and I think I'm coming back to my normal self only just. So it's been a major adjustment, reconnecting back to my past existence. I came back a different person and I’m trying to find where I am at the moment.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I don't know. There are days I don't know and days I go, ‘Yes.’ </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I would love to be a judge on a show like that, I think, rather than a maker. I feel that physically it’s really hard on your body. And, and I don't know whether my body would allow me anymore. Mentally I'm fine. But my body is really tired from the show. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So if it was the exact same show again, probably not.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> will continue to air on Saturday nights from 6pm.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: @denisepepperart / Instagram</span></em></p>

Maker Dan opens up on Parkinson's diagnosis

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In episode six of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Makers were set the task of completing one piece in the Mega Craft Challenge.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contestants were tasked with creating an outdoor oasis in a challenge that saw them create spaces with soft lighting, firepits, swings, and functioning water fountains.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jack took out the challenge with his secret silver cinema, complete with a projector and a series of white curtains.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CUcTEfnBCh0/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CUcTEfnBCh0/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Making It Australia (@makingitau)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As always, one person made their exit from the show, and this time it was Dan.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After his departure, Dan sat down with <em>OverSixty </em>to chat about his time on the show and the meaning that crafting has for him.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The Incredible Makers, Judges and other people that I got to meet were definitely the highlight for me. This is seriously like the Making Olympics!!</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>experience?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The pace was so fast!</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: In a personal moment on the show, you shared that you were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Not to pry, but this is an important issue to many of our readers. Are there any alternative treatments you are considering? Has your diagnosis put pressure on the crafting you do or increased the appeal of making things now?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I have always broadcast the enormous sense of duty that accompanies my insatiable internal drive to create. As for [Parkinson’s Disease (PD)]? When I received the news I was actually a little relieved! I had been searching for the correct cause of the restriction in my right hand for several months. This diagnosis came with medication that provided rapid relief and a dim light at the end of a tunnel.</p> <p dir="ltr">Making it was an AMAZING adventure/distraction to which I adhered to a chance to prove to Kye (wife), Australia and MYSELF, I am still the Dan! So, yes, in the 15 months since my PD diagnosis, Crafting and Making has certainly gained emotional magnitude.</p> <p dir="ltr">With regard to treatments: I'm currently managing symptoms with medication. I'm hoping, prioritising my own health and wellbeing, stress minimisation, and a balance of rest/work will prolong the medications' effective window. Although unfortunately DBS Deep brain Stimulation has already raised its head in a few consultations.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What’s next for you after<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong>?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Keep showing my wife, Kye, that I love her! And developing the OCG (Obsessive Compulsive Garden) and I [am] hopeful I can complete my Electric Hotrod by March 2022. Work wise I've been making deliberate choices to consolidate and focus on what makes me happy. This has inspired me to launch<strong><span> </span>DeleurDesign</strong>. In order to combine, my passion for the environment and minimising our impact, making skills, knowledge of a broad and growing array of materials and ability to design and create unique practical and beautiful solutions to problems for waste management in particular. Lastly, I am going to raise some funds for Parkinson's Disease Research. If you are familiar with the #CARBAR I Created while on Making It Australia? IT WILL SOON BE COMPLETED AND UP FOR GRABS!!!</p> <p dir="ltr">I encourage you to join me on this journey<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/deleurdesign/" target="_blank">@DeleurDesign</a><span> </span>on Instagram or find me on Facebook.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60:<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>seems to be challenging the idea that eliminations mean you no longer appear on the show, can you give us an insight into what’s been happening behind the scenes with the eliminated Makers?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">They did an amazing job of selecting Makers! Assembling a group of Makers that became instant family! We still chat and create every day!</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yes!</p> <p dir="ltr">Starting this weekend,<span> </span><em>Making It Australia</em><span> </span>will air on Saturdays at 6 pm on Channel 10.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @deleurdesign / Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

“Powerful and empowering”: Robert shares Making It experience

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Episode five of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saw our crafters breathe new life into used items to create something new.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the Faster Craft challenge, Andrew outshone the competition with his welded deer light, made from scrap metal and vintage glass insulators from his farm.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The main challenge pushed Makers to transform discarded items into furniture, with Rehana securing the win with her monster-themed bed made from a repurposed dresser.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUZyGqwBk9E/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUZyGqwBk9E/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Making It Australia (@makingitau)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At the end of the Master Craft challenge a Maker was once again eliminated, and this time it was Robert.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Melbourne artist sat down with <em>OverSixty </em>to reflect on his time as a Maker, and how it has impacted his community.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I think the highlight for me was probably after I made my first Master Craft where I’d done the steel… Whenever I walked back into the barn, people were just standing and staring at it.</p> <p dir="ltr">But also, I think just connecting with all the other Makers and getting to know the judges and the hosts. It was just a really fun, fun space to create and just get to know new people as well.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>experience?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I am a very relaxed person. And I like to listen to music and go at things at my own pace. But also, I didn't realize how much I smiled as well. Watching the episodes, I was like, man, I smile a lot.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: On the show, your creations celebrated your heritage, family and your personality, including your Indigenous heritage. Could you tell us how it felt to represent your culture on the show?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I was a little bit nervous. Because I like to have a yarn, I like to say things very long-winded sometimes, because there's a lot of story and depth to a piece.</p> <p dir="ltr">But to have a platform, and I know the response that I've gotten from people from my own family, but also within community, they've just been so proud and just so excited and thankful that they get to see a cousin or a family member actually creating and sharing culture on national TV… One of my cousin's said, ‘when we were growing up, you had Ernie Dingo, and now I've got my own cousin on TV.’</p> <p dir="ltr">So just telling kids, which is very powerful, because I think the visual representation of indigenous culture is starting to [increase] more and more, but the impact ... personally to people that are Aboriginal, it's just powerful, and also empowering. I actually get to see somebody that has the same stories of me or looks like me.</p> <p dir="ltr">But I think it’s definitely changing up [and] a new era coming in of the celebration of Aboriginal people and their cultures, and the diversity of Aboriginal culture and peoples and their background.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What’s next for you after<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong>?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Because I work as an artist full time … so [I’m] currently working on a couple murals and commissioned artworks and also doing a sculpture for Hume City Council for peoples that have been a part of the Stolen Generations. So a very powerful piece that's going to be going up next year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Then just informing people about that story and what people had to go through, but also a place of empowerment and strength for community that have been through it … and hopefully whatever else comes now.</p> <p dir="ltr">I love sharing art and culture with people.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Definitely, especially because creating art is about expressing yourself, but then also creating something for other people.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Absolutely. The importance that I think I want to give to other artists or other creative people is that your story is, as much of it is of it is yours, it's also the people that are viewing, people that are connecting with the story and how you can impart yourself onto them but also then implying a little bit of themselves on to you.</p> <p dir="ltr">And I think being able to do that in a way in which is an invitation for people to sit down and hear your story is probably the most empowering thing because we haven't had that much time to kind of chat and yarn to people especially during all these wonderful lockdowns but creativity and a show like<span> </span><em>Making It</em><span> </span>break breaks those moments for a little bit of time and you get to dream.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60:<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>seems to be challenging the idea that eliminations mean you no longer appear on the show, can you give us an insight into what’s been happening behind the scenes with the eliminated Makers?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I'm not too sure what everyone else is up to. I know everybody's still kind of going about their everyday. But the thing, I think it’s still like a surreal moment. But we all still send texts to each other like, ‘hey, how are you going?’</p> <p dir="ltr">And like we just have all these inside jokes [about] some of the stuff that didn't make it, but it's still funny that we kind of get to share that.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yeah, I’d do it a little bit differently, I’d probably be a little bit more prepared.</p> <p dir="ltr">I think I'd work out a bit more of a strategic plan for when I'm not feeling very creative or I'm feeling a bit rundown ... and I think I worked that out towards the end. I was like, you just got to dance and listen to good music and make other people dance with you even if they don't want to. Nobody really wants to dance to some cool R&B disco Song at seven o'clock in the morning, but If they pick up your energy, you're gonna go and you're gonna have some fun.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CUZ4zPSBGaV/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CUZ4zPSBGaV/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by RMY (@robertmichaelyoung)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><em>Making It Australia</em><span> </span>returns on Thursday night at 7.30pm.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @makingitau / Instagram</em></p>

EXCLUSIVE: Wai-Sai shares her Making It journey

<p dir="ltr">The latest episode of<span> </span><em>Making It Australia</em><span> </span>saw Makers embrace food, designing paired food costumes and creating tasty self-portraits.</p> <p dir="ltr">Hot temperatures only increased the difficulty of the challenges, with Sai-Wai’s candy-melt hands and Dan’s sugar glue falling through.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKTUtXBxGu/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUHrxI_BMW8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Making It Australia (@makingitau)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><span>George took out the Master Craft with her intricate self-portrait using foods starting with G, and Rizaldy and Dan won the first challenge with their fish’n’chips paired costumes.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0; width: undefinedpx; height: undefinedpx; max-height: 100%;" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKPJJStWF8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKPJJStWF8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" target="_blank">Shared post</a> on Time</p> </div> </blockquote> <div style="position: absolute; width: 92%; bottom: 2px; left: 0; right: 0; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; color: #000; text-align: center;"> <p>5 Best VPNs to <a rel="nofollow" href="https://arablionz.cc/">arablionz</a> Vudu Abroad (Outside USA) in 2020</p> </div> <p dir="ltr">But, one person had to leave the show.</p> <p dir="ltr">After being eliminated in a shock announcement, Sai-Wai sat down with<span> </span><em>OverSixty</em><span> </span>to answer our crafty questions and share her plans following her time on the show.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Just being around like-minded people. Meeting that tribe of weird little misfits.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: It seemed like you all had such a great bond on the show as well.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yeah, yeah we did. Honestly it was pretty much immediate.</p> <p dir="ltr">Quite a few of us were from Melbourne, and I remember even that first day, when we were flying up to Sydney… I remember being at the airport just [thinking] ‘I wonder if anyone from Melbourne is going to be on the show’ and just looking around and I clocked Russell straight away…. Russell had their little sequined backpack and I was like ‘Oh! Fabulous’.</p> <p dir="ltr">I think when we landed I saw that Steph had been sitting right in front of me and she had this fabulous pink handbag. And then I think the next person I noticed was Jack when we landed because Jack had some amazing floral pants.</p> <p dir="ltr">We just knew who our people were. It was really funny.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>experience?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">How kind of comfortable I was at doing it. I think it says a lot about the professionalism of the people we were working with, in terms of the crew, that they made the whole thing really comfortable and… made me feel really, really at ease. That I could be myself.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: On the show, you created pieces that reflected your Asian heritage, could you tell us a bit more about what it was like to represent Asian creatives on the show?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I think that one of my main drives to actually go on the show was to kind of represent Asian creatives. And I think once I met... everyone else who was part of the show, I was really happy to see that there was a breadth of age, experience, and diversity as well on lots of different fronts, and that was really refreshing.</p> <p dir="ltr">I think coming from a migrant background as well … I think it’s one of those things that’s coming from a place of love from your parents where they want you to be a particular thing because they’ve worked so hard to get to a point, and if you are outside that mould, that can be quite difficult. So, I think there’s a lot of Asian creatives that do have that experience, and either had to go into the field they don’t necessarily feel passionate about to please somebody else, or [push against it to pursue] that dream.</p> <p dir="ltr">Just being able to showcase my background and tell that story as well. And I think a lot of my art practice explores my sense of place as part of the Chinese diaspora, as well. It’s all tied in there, I can’t extract it from my work or part of my experience. It’s part of who I am.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What’s next for you after<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong>?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">It’s been quite an interesting journey. So after we finished filming, I had a bit of a break, and I had an exhibition up in Sydney open, [and] managed to get a road trip in, then came back and managed to get some freelance work with the wardrobe department of an American reality series that was filming in Melbourne… I think that screens next year.</p> <p dir="ltr">And at the moment I’m working towards an exhibition in November… I’ll have an exhibition in Melbourne in about November.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60:<span> </span></strong><strong>It looks like you’re now tending to the barn’s garden now that you have been eliminated, can you give us an insight into what’s been happening behind the scenes with the eliminated Makers?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yeah, so hanging out there. So Harley and Susie have locked us in the shed and they trot us out every week. But yeah, looking after the garden, I’m quite happy with that.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Oh yeah, yeah. It was fun!</p> <p dir="ltr">It was really fun, and honestly, I would say that you know, if there’s going to be a season two and anyone thinks of applying, just do it.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Making It Australia<span> </span></em>returns next week on Wednesday night.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image:<span> </span><span>@makingitau / Instagram</span></em></p>

EXCLUSIVE: “We inspire each other”: Stephanie shares Making It experience

<p dir="ltr">In episode three of<span> </span><em>Making It Australia</em>, Makers reminisced about their hometowns and happy place across two ‘Home Sweet Home’ challenges.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sai-Wai claimed victory in the Hometown Diorama challenge with her layered seasonal diorama crowned by a clay pup.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUHrxI_BMW8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUHrxI_BMW8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Making It Australia (@makingitau)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">In the Master Craft challenge, Makers were tasked with creating their very own happy place. Makers produced large-scale spaces - from bedrooms and daybeds to bathrooms and medieval man-caves.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sai-Wei won once again with her fantasy bathroom, complete with a mural, claw-footed tub, and plenty of candles.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844330/242088590_703945750525594_1603170910710106832_n.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/378f78e127c34af8955693128920b3ff" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Sai-Wai Foo / Facebook</em></p> <p dir="ltr">At the end of the challenges, Stephanie was the next to leave the show.</p> <p dir="ltr">She sat down with<span> </span><em>OverSixty</em><span> </span>and shared her highlights from the show, as well as an insight into what is happening with the eliminated Makers.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Everything. The days I had down at the tool shop, I loved more because I got to play with power tools. And I don’t often get enough time to do that at home unless I need to renovate something or do something.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: [The show] must have really given you a chance to broaden your experience with other kinds of crafting tools and techniques.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Definitely, because you’re mixing with crafters that have different abilities, and you just take from them, you learn from them, you share your skills.</p> <p dir="ltr">We inspire each other as well. And we played with different tools and used different techniques, and everyone was really nice in sharing what they already knew.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong><span> </span>experience?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I feel it was a surprise how much I could pull off. I didn’t have as much confidence going in as when I came out.</p> <p dir="ltr">I didn’t realise what I was capable of when I had tools in my hands, because I don’t have as much time at home to do all that stuff because I’m really busy.</p> <p dir="ltr">But… to be playing things all the time for no reason [on the show] … I didn’t realise how much I could do given the tools [and given] all the time to experiment.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: On the show your family inspired a lot of your creations, how did it feel to create a Happy Place just for you?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">That was a tough one to pick because I had to think, ‘What’s my happy place? It’s always my kitchen, I’m always making things. But if it wasn’t my kitchen, what could my happy place be?’</p> <p dir="ltr">It was funny because I like to sit and read cookbooks to get ready for my next thing in the kitchen. So my Happy Place is sitting there with my cookbooks having my cup of tea… and it’s always around having food.</p> <p dir="ltr">It was really exciting because it came back to food. … It was really nice to show off my teacup coffee table, and my teacup clock, and my tea bags as a little cushion.</p> <p dir="ltr">That is my thing, it’s just for me, a space [where] I can relax.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Can you tell us more about your measuring tape bangle?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">That is my good luck bangle from Spotlight. I actually bought that before I even got on the show and I’ve been wearing it ever since. I feel like it’s given me good luck.</p> <p dir="ltr">And I think I need to get it engraved [with] ‘Making It 2021’ because that’s my year.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: What’s next for you after<span> </span></strong><strong><em>Making It</em></strong><strong>?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Well, I hope there’s something more waiting for me. I think the show was meant for a reason, it was given to me so I can do something with this opportunity.</p> <p dir="ltr">And I’m hoping I can do something with food, something like MasterChef or something with Spotlight.</p> <p dir="ltr">Something with food hopefully.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60:<span> </span></strong><strong>We have had some hints that eliminated Makers don’t fully leave the show, could you shed some light on what’s been happening?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Yeah, we’ve been in this big barn together with Susie and Harvey at the back, and I cook for them, Kat does the laundry, and Russell decorates the barn.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">In a heartbeat, oh definitely.</p> <p dir="ltr">It was the most amazing experience I’ve had. I would definitely do it again.</p> <p dir="ltr">I recommend everyone to try something like that in their life, it was amazing.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: makingitau / Instagram</em></p>

Maker Russell reflects on Making It experience

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Episode two of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saw competitors embrace their inner child in two creative challenges.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the first-ever Team Challenge, the Makers came together to make functional billycarts, with Russell, Rehana, Dan, and Denise winning with their Beelycart.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CT4MDN7Nbt0/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CT4MDN7Nbt0/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Making It Australia (@makingitau)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rizaldy took out the Main Challenge with his magical forest cubby house.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, another person had to go, and this time it was Russell.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">They sat down with </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">OverSixty</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and revealed their highlights of being on the show, as well as an insight into the show's unusual elimination process.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I would say that the biggest highlight was the other Makers. To be with such talented people, it was such an experience, like, the creative energy when we were all together.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And we all got along so well, like we were all so different yet all so similar at the same time.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I don’t know how to explain it, it was as if we’ve known each other for years.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We would have dinners and hang out together while we’re not filming. And it was so good because we got to talk about art, we got to talk about film, about music, and it just [had] so much positive energy.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your <em>Making It</em> experience?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The thing that probably surprised me the most [that] I could do more than what I thought I could.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sometimes when you look at someone else who’s talented or who’s really good at something, and you’re like, I can’t do that. But I realised when I got there … everyone was sort of positive and encouraging … and it made you want to try stuff.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And so I found out that I actually could do a lot of things that I didn’t think I could do.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: On the show you told Susie and Harvey that crafting is a way of representing your identity as a non-binary person. Could you tell us more about that and how it felt representing the queer community on the show?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yes of course. One of the reasons why I went on the show was I wanted to be a good representation for the queer community and to be someone that people can look to, because when I was younger, there wasn’t a lot of role models, as such, to look to. … you know, if there was someone like me when I was younger, maybe I could’ve got a better understanding of myself a little earlier than I had in life.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I have been contacted by quite a few people on social media with just all these kind words and comments of support and admiration of some sort.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It makes the whole experience even greater to be able to bring happiness and joy to the people that I’ve never even met.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What’s next for you after <em>Making It</em>?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Well, at the moment I’m in lockdown, but I have started a YouTube channel, and I want to base it around crafting. It’s called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDW0TRqu0_LRhgtC6leVpA/featured"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Procrastinating with Russell</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> [and] I want to base it around being a creative and someone who deals with mental health.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I feel as if there is a big stigma around mental health and it has… definitely increased during COVID and lockdown, and it’s become very noticeable with everyday people. So if I make relatable content … it will be a positive influence to people.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Like being creative, you just can’t help but smile and have fun. And, you know, you don’t have to be a fine artist of any sort. And anyone can do it as well, be it a four year old or a sixty year old.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: We love the way the show seems to be trying to do away with the idea of eliminations. You and Kat seem to still be there in some capacity. What’s the deal?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Well, we pretty much stayed at the farm. Kat [has been] hanging out the washing and I’m sewing up a storm.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a heartbeat. Definitely, I would. It’s the greatest thing I’ve done so far.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CT4VuhGP7cL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CT4VuhGP7cL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Russell Zorino-Brown (@luckyfellow)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia </span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">returns next Wednesday and Thursday on Channel 10.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Channel 10</span></em></p>

Home & Garden

EXCLUSIVE: We chat with Maker Kat

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The debut episode of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saw 13 creatives test their skills in two challenges.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jack came out on top in the first Faster Craft challenge, while Robert won the main Master Craft challenge with his traditional shield carved from red gum.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, one person had to go, and Kat was delivered the bad news after her Gaelic harp lacked finishing details and its iconic shape.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844110/making-it-ep1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/24746c9540954f85a085fa02448af98d" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After her departure, Kat sat down with </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Over60</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to talk about her time on the show, and give a few hints about whether we will see her again.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What was the highlight of being a Maker?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The experience of meeting other people and forming such good memories while we were together.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We all got on so well. I was nervous about coming on the show but there were no dramas at all. I don’t know how [the show] pulled it off.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What surprised you most about your <em>Making It</em> experience?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">[Everything that happened] behind the scenes was interesting, and getting to how production [of a TV show] works.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: On the show, you surprised Susie and Harvey by sharing that you bought your first book recently. What was the book that you bought and have you made any more progress?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">[It was called] </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">The subtle of not giving a f**k</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">. I’m about halfway through but whenever I try to read I get distracted by other things … I might stick with my colouring books.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What’s next for you after <em>Making It?</em></strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m currently studying a cert 3 and 4 in fitness, and want to become a [personal trainer] next year. I want to expand my brand and start by offering it to friends and family… I just want to make people around me more healthy.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m also getting into photography and doing photoshoots for my friends and family. … I saved up and got myself a new camera… I don’t have eight hours on a weekend to paint but [with photography] I can go out for an hour or two and satisfy that craving for art.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: You were the first to be “eliminated” . . . but it seems like you are still on the show! Can you tell us more about that? Is <em>Making It</em> trying to change the format of elimination style reality shows?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I can’t go into too much detail about it, but it won’t be the last time you’ll see my face on the show.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s not like other reality shows like </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Bachelorette</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> where it’s your love life that gets squashed [after elimination].</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Last but not least, if you had the chance, would you do it again?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Absolutely. I would totally do it again.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Making It Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> will be returning on Thursday night and challenging the remaining makers to construct their own Happy Place.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p>

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