i am cheapskate | blog

Cheapskate Sound Selection - Episode 8

2011-12-04T14:34:00.001Z

The Outsider

2011-12-02T14:30:00.000Z

I've been recording some tracks for my next EP this week, and since it's been so long since you've heard anything from me I decided to give you a very brief preview of the vibe.

Days

2011-12-01T16:50:00.001Z

I can't wait to start this ace Labour & Wait calendar which is sat patiently on our kitchen wall.

Autumnal walk at Winkworth Arboretum

2011-11-27T14:28:00.001Z

Lotte wins the contest to find the largest leaf, the blow is eased by the beautiful Autumn scenery.

Harry Palmer

2011-11-17T22:14:00.000Z

I've let my blogging slip a little of late, so for the first post in a while here is my new custom bicycle - Harry Palmer with his butterscotch paint job and 'i am cheapskate' branding. Thanks to the excellent work of Jack at Kingston Kustoms.

A poem about big baps

2011-09-27T15:43:00.000+01:00

The baps were too big,
but I struggled on through.
Grappling and panting
I managed to chew.
Bite after bite –
my stomach it grew,
engulfing my belt
and touching my shoes.
I wanted to stop
but I had to continue.
A pain in my jaw,
an ache in the sinews.
Repeating in my head
a menacing tune –
"finish your lunch
I made it 'specially for you"
The last mouthful down
and with it I rue –
I was a fool to spoon
a rhubarb fool too.

Poetrain

2011-09-14T09:32:00.002+01:00

I forgot my headphones today which meant having to endure my environment. Train based poetry in 140 twitter characters followed. Poetrain.

Woman on the train,
texts through the pain,
boyfriend cheats again,
but all that I am saying is
"maybe your keypad beeps drive him insane?"

Girl in carriage,
plans impending marriage,
friend's attention wanders,
situation pondered,
will fiancé miss her
if I dump her in the river?

Cough-sneeze-sniff.
Wheeze-sniff-sigh.
This chap has a cold,
he thought he would be bold.
Soldiers into work
so he can drive us all berserk

I'll try to remember my headphones tomorrow.

XP2 B&W

2011-09-02T15:35:00.000+01:00

I tried out my first roll of XP2 B&W film, and it produced some lovely results. Here's a couple taken during a quick break on a long cycle ride.

Not a Hans Wegner

2011-09-01T20:40:00.000+01:00

It may not be a Hans Wegner, but it's original and it's been lovely designed and made by someone and we love it. A lot more comfy than it's Florence Knoll predecessor.

London – Surrey Cycle Classic

2011-08-14T11:45:00.000+01:00

This morning we had a quick cycle out to catch a glimpse of the London – Surrey Classic Cycle event. Great buzz about the place and a decent little crowd on our corner. I'll share some more photies when I get my film devo'd!

Ruby, a christening present. Not very aptly in yellow

2011-08-11T15:10:00.000+01:00

A 1970s Casalino polyprop chair.

In My Pocket

2011-08-04T09:25:00.000+01:00

In my pocket is a whale
in my pocket is a dog
in my pocket is a hat
in my pocket is confetti
and tangled up spaghetti
and some sort of fluff
perhaps that's enough.
The dog he says "ruff"
the whale is more gruff
for I've squashed his best hat
and he need that
for a forthcoming wedding
of some Italians, near Reading.
(Berks.)

Extracts

2011-08-04T09:14:00.000+01:00

I used to regularly share extracts from my notebook but stopped – not wanting to bore everyone. So here is a brief return to a glimpse inside.

These are hot off the press, done on this morning's train ride.

London Street Photography Festival / Draft House

2011-07-25T10:13:00.000+01:00

Yesterday's sun filled London excursion started very well with tea and cake at Drink, Shop, Do. I went for an Earl Grey, Lotte went for a Russian Caravan.

If you haven't been already, then get your skates on and catch the London Street Photography Festival. The "Vivian Maier: A Life Uncovered" exhibition was a highlight for me, I'm really looking forward to the book coming out.

A nice spot of lunch at The Draft House on Northcote Road was most welcome, as were their fine array of Weiss Bier.

Nice Brew Postcards

2011-07-20T20:20:00.001+01:00

Set of four postcards I designed for Nice Brew Interior Design.
The set is completed with a belly band which can double as a bookmark.

Gropes

2011-06-30T00:01:00.001+01:00

I treated myself to the amazing Nonusual designed Gropes – the most stylish handlebar treatment I've seen. I always wanted the Guv'nor 4, it's handlebars were much more appealing but I think the addition of Gropes could make my Guv'nor 3 handlebars even better.

The exciting moment, the lovely package containing my natural leather Gropes!

Beautiful cork bar end plugs

The package content ready to go!

The Guv'nor Groped! I am totally made up by both the look and feel. I can't wait to get out for a proper ride. I 'm confident if I did it again I'd do a better job, I struggled with the right handside – the gear lever plus brake lever combination made for tricky cutting / fitting. It still looks grand though – over the moon!!

There are a couple more shots on my Flickr

The Grand Birthday Draw

2011-06-08T08:47:00.002+01:00

On my birthday, 6th June 2011, I celebrated with a prize givaway – entrants registered their interest on my facebook page to win tea towels, a CD and a tape cassette.

This is the film of The Grand Draw.

The Grand Birthday Draw from Cheaps on Vimeo.

Bedside Fox

2011-06-01T16:12:00.000+01:00

I caught a fox,
shoved him in a box,
took out his insides and
stuffed him with clocks.
People mock his ticks
and his tocks
but what bothers me most
is his complete non functionality as an iPod dock.

Cracking alarm, mind.

I MOVE

2011-05-10T14:05:00.001+01:00

I MOVE are a new removals specialist in Witney, Oxfordshire – I designed their branding, stationery and website and this set of 4 promotional postcards.

Sunday in Town

2011-05-09T13:55:00.003+01:00

Yesterday we ate at The Hoxton Grill, drank at The Wilmington and enjoyed The Sixteen Tonnes & The See See at The Apple Tree (and we saw a lovely scimitar off Old Street).

Things I don't like

2011-05-04T10:32:00.000+01:00

It's quite common for bloggers to post about things they like, so I – being a grumpy get – would like to do the opposite. Here are some things I don't like.

— Suits worn with trainees. Trainees should never be worn with a suit (or trousers).
— Saying "rock" when you mean wear.
— Saying "rock up" when you mean arrive.
— "I'm liking the new album". This is incorrect. "I like the new album". This is correct.

I'll probably add to this list during the day.

28th April 2005

2011-04-28T09:34:00.001+01:00

It was the day after the Champions League semi-final 1st leg versus Chelsea, I was a mildy hungover and we were ensconced in a Liverpool hotel. Why? It was our wedding day of course!

Six years ago today was the culmination of 4 months secret planning when we wed at the Cotton Exchange, Old Hall Street, Liverpool. We had told no-one, not parents, family or close friends – the idea of a big wedding filled us with dread and this seemed the only way to ensure we were immune to those pressures. Why upset a few people when you can upset them all!!

Since we knew we had no witnesses we had to find some on the morning, this was the only cause of nerves for either of us on the day. We needn't have worried as two lovely volunteers were easily found at The Cotton Exchange and our ceremony went without hitch to an audience of empty chairs.

Post ceremony we enjoyed a reception of Sayers pasty and M&S custard tart sat in the sunshine of Williamson Square before a quick pint of guinness and the off to our few days in Llangollen. My somewhat unreliable 1971 MGB GT proved just about up to the job of getting us about, although his steering wheel did fall off at one point. A minor issue really.

A perfect day, a perfect honeymoon and six years of bliss to date.

Easter

2011-04-24T12:11:00.002+01:00

Easter

2011-04-21T17:48:00.002+01:00

I bought my dad an egg, he doesn't like eggs.
I bought my mum an egg, but she is dead.
I bought my wife an egg, she cracked it on my head.
Instead of buying eggs I wish I bought bunnies instead.

The Lake District

2011-04-16T16:14:00.000+01:00

This is where I've spent the last week. Nice, ay.

Beta Blockin' Lovin'

2011-03-27T20:14:00.002+01:00

Snooker loopy nuts are we, we are snooker. Loopy. The wonderfully talented Mof Gimmers has written a snooker based love song which you can hear on his Soundcloud page.

Whilst you're knocking about on Soundcloud, why not download my cover version too.

Woolton Roses, covered by Mof Gimmers

2011-03-15T21:53:00.000Z

The immaculately talented Mof Gimmers (wordsmith, DJ, intellectual, musician etc) has recorded a cover of my song "Woolton Roses". You can find the man himself all over the internet, but especially on twitter as @mofgimmers.

You can find the original on iTunes for pence, from my website for free or on Spodify.

Download the mp3 of Mof's version here.

Philicorda Fuzz

2011-03-13T10:55:00.002Z

I was doing some recording yesterday when an annoying crackle on the Philicorda combo organ halted proceedings. I bodged the offending switch with tape and ploughed on, finding timie to mess around with a fuzz pedal attached to the organ.

Behind The Scenes — Photoshoot

2011-03-03T22:37:00.001Z

How I spent my day today.

Behind The Scenes — Photoshoot from Cheaps on Vimeo.

New bass — 'Pearl'

2011-02-20T19:46:00.001Z

This weekend I brought home my new hollow bodied bass, a beautiful Ibanez. I have named her 'Pearl'. Just because I'm greedy I also treated myself to this amazing little valve amp from Epiphone.

Brighton, for mirrors.

2011-02-20T19:41:00.001Z

The mission: teak mirrors for the living room. A day trip to Brighton follows, and the first port of call – Brighton Coffee.

After a wander around the lanes, scouting out mid-century treasures and trying out a few amps, time for lunch. And, why not, a brew.

We luncheoned at Capers, which was ace. I had a sausage baggette and Filouls had a toasted veggie chilli wrap. Nice. I loved the furniture and the 'help yourself' trashy novels.

Eventually, in Kemp Town, we found just what we were looking for – two 60s teak mirrors. Filouls was lucky enough to be allowed to carry them both.

Wallpaper Capers

2011-02-13T16:11:00.003Z

After five years living with the same wallpaper it was long overdue change in the living room. Even though the room has drastically changed colour three times in those five years, keeping the old wallpaper 'fresh', its life cycle was over.

Thankfully the wallpaper I artfully erected those short years ago came down easier than a strippers kecks leaving the old lining paper in tact. Double good fortune there. Next, breakfast.

A couple of hours later, and hey presto – new wallpaper. Marion Mahler inspired "Mobiles" by Sanderson. We have some vintage teak mirrors coming in the next few weeks to finish the look. Nice.

Los Albatross

2011-02-06T14:39:00.002Z

The first Los Albatross session took place yesterday, I will reveal more in the coming months. It's a musical side project with my old writing partner from years ago, the person who opened my eyes to a new world of musical reference. I'm excited by it.

Southbank

2011-01-30T12:00:00.004Z

Yesterday we had a great, if cold, day in London which we kick started with some amazing Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden. Just the thing to warm the cockles and put a spring in the stride.

This proved a wise move as I was duty bound to be mule for my darling wife's many (and heavy) purchases from the Magma bookshop.

We made our way to the Southbank to take in the Angelheaded Hipsters photography exhibition at the National Theatre. I found this great reward for forcing myself through the painfully badly written and excruciatingly dull On The Road by Jack Kerouac. I'm happy to report that Ginsberg's capture of candid moments of the Beat Generation is far more enjoyable than the aforementioned writer's stream of conscience drivel.

A well earned tea break and muffin followed. Earl Grey for me, Mint tea for the lady please garcon.

We were due at Canteen for tea but with time to burn we headed to the National Gallery to take in a quick tour before closing. We knew we only had an hour, but you can still enjoy some beautiful brush work by Eduard Gaertner in that time I can tell you.

On we went to Canteen for a most welcomed feed. I went for the Venison and Ale stew with a bread pudding and caramel ice cream dessert. This being January the drink was carrot juice. I bought some HP sauce, 5p/week for two years.

With full bellies and aching feet we took ourselves off to a preview screening of Brighton Rock at the Big Friendly Institute, and I must say I enjoyed it very much. I'm no film buff, so I'll spare you my detailed critique.

Night night.

The Night Concept - 9th December

2010-11-29T15:46:00.001Z

The Night Concept - 9th December, originally uploaded by I am Cheapskate.

Poster I designed for the Morris Six's night "The Night Concept". If you're in Manchester on 9th December, get yourself along!

Morris Six Facebook page.

2010-11-28T12:39:00.002Z

Christmas cards now available in my shop, singularly or in 6 packs.

My new EP – what reviewers think.

2010-11-08T09:39:00.000Z

"Sleepy love songs told with heart and humour" God Is In The TV

"‘Knock Knock Knock’ sees a slate roofed world shot through Super 8 and sounds like a lazy cat, dozing in the sun.." Heckler Spray

"Cheapskate’s soothing voice harmonises with the gentle tink of the glockenspiel" Artrocker

"‘Knock Knock Knock’ is like eating a slice of your favourite cake after you’ve just finished your favourite dinner cooked for you by a doting relative." Ark Magazine

Download for free on my website. Go to the Knock Knock Knock page for details.

Dorset Apple Cake

2010-11-07T15:34:00.000Z

I baked a cake, and I liked it.

Desk space

2010-11-07T15:29:00.000Z

Have a little peak at where I work – this is the place where I create my music, illustrations and whatever else it is I do.

More pics can be seen on my flickr.

Br-egg-fast.

2010-10-17T10:15:00.000+01:00

A treat for a Sunday morning, just what I need before attacking the final stages of production for my new EP.

Odd One Out Tea Towel – Now on sale.

2010-10-11T19:50:00.000+01:00

Do you like tea? Do you like drinking tea? Do you like to wash the cups up afterwards so that they aren't left on a shelf (or sideboard) with little tea stains on the inside, saucer and that awkward bit by the little handle? Then you probably also like tea towels! You're in luck then, because I've done another one. Such was the success of the Tea Kit that I now bring you The Odd One Out.

A large 100% cotton tea towel screen printed with "Odd One Out" design. Comes with special hand printed (gocco) and hand numbered black card.

Applications in which this tea towel may be employed:

– Making crockery dry which once was wet. (post meal time?)
– Laying over freshly baked cakes for a big reveal.
– Framed, pictorially. (some people are into that)
– Make a chicken, you know like people do at parties. (by folding)
– Put a spoon behind and scare children with the 'tea towel is alive' gag. Spoon not included.
– Impress thy neighbours.
– Drying your bicycle saddle. (best employed post rain)

Buy it here.

Vintage Vacations - bicycle style

2010-10-10T20:29:00.000+01:00

We've enjoyed taking our classic MG over to the Isle of Wight a few times in the last couple of years, each time to stay at the wonderful Vintage Vacations.

On about Wednesday of last week Helen tweeted about availability for the weekend, and taking advantage of the uncommonly good weather we decided to make it 4 visits in 3 years with an impromptu trip over. This time, in the spirit of travelling light, we decided to take the bicycles on the train and catamaran (Fast Cat).

The journey couldn't have been simpler from Guildford – a fast train down to Portsmouth Harbour taking around an hour. The catamaran departure gate is a short walk from platform one so before we knew it the bicycles were safely stowed and we were enjoying the mid-morning sunshine on the sun deck for the 20 minute crossing.

Landing at the end of the beautiful long pier at Ryde we wheeled our bicycles (no cycling!) to the High Street. Having driven the route to the caravan site before we knew where to head but we were still surprised just how quickly we arrived at the site to the usual warm welcome from Frazer & Helen. If you've not been before you'll be very pleased to learn that after the tour of your trailer and instructions on lighting the pilot you can sit down to a cream tea, or on this occasion a lovely ginger cake. Yum. Babycham is also laid on, although if you're like us you'll save that for later.

After catching our breath and a few photographs we were back on the bicycles and heading back out to Ryde. Every time we've been we remember too late to go to Masqueryde, a great vintage clothes come fancy dress hire shop. I tried on a great 70s suit but decided against it only for practical reasons – getting it home! Next time, next time.

We spent the remainder of the day in and out of charity shops and bars, finishing up with lovely fish, chips & mushy peas on the seafront.

We managed to get our oversized bellies back on the bikes and pedalled back to the site in time for sunset. Ahead of us an evening playing the wonderful retro board games, some red wine and dancing in the trailer.

Waking bright and early we enjoyed the home comforts of the on-board shower and an eggs breakfast courtesy of the well stocked 'farm shop' table. Then it was back on the bicycles for the journey in reverse.

Having been on longer pre-planned vintage vacations weekends previously it was a real treat to fit in an unexpected October jaunt – such little effort for such great reward. We know we'll be back next year, perhaps more than once!

You can see a few more photographs on my flickr page.

Fruit Poems

2010-10-07T11:33:00.000+01:00

Bananas on my desk are ripening too fast,
why dont they ripen consecutively
so I could eat the greenest last?

I bought a bunch of grapes
and named them individually,
i don't get too attached though
– that would just be silly.

I was attacked once by an apple.
We fought and wrestled and had quite a grapple.
I punched him in the eye and shook him to the core
and by the time I'd finished his pips were on the floor.

I never fill my fruit bowl,
I just don't see the need.
Unless I'm eating grapes of course –
its where i spit the seeds.

I'd never eat a plum nor kiwi, fig and date.
But if a pineapple knocked on my door
i'd smash his prickly face in.
He's the one I really hate.

Have you seen the way that peaches smile,
all smug and superior?
Imagine if they didn't smile,
that would be much eerier.

I was mocked once by a lemon
when I used a bottle of Jif,
but I had the last laugh
when i peeled him just to take the pith.

Oranges are the politest fruit,
well mannered and kind.
They're even great
when you have to grate them
for their rind.

Whats sexier? – to tango with a mango
or get passionate with a passionfruit?
I'm not sure but I once played gooseberry
when a cherry popped a melon up the shute.

Rhubarb, rhubarb
you're so nice inside a pie,
but when i use you to stir my tea
you always poke me in the eye.

A carrot is not a fruit
but you can bake it in a cake
and it helps you to see in the dark
(if you're still awake).

I cant remember all their names
but there are so many types of berry.
I tried to write them down once
though this was unnecessary.

i tangoed with a mango
and marvelled at a guava
but the fruitiest of them all
was a seedy lil' tomat'a

I'm currant-ly raisin' a sultana
who's father ran off with a banana.
When she looked at me she said
you're not my papaya!?

Get Up Early

2010-08-30T19:22:00.000+01:00

I have new EP coming out on 4th October, which you can download for absolutely nothing. Head over to The EP site to register and also to download 'Devonshire Cream' right now!

Guest column in the Liverpool Echo

2010-08-28T16:33:00.000+01:00

I've written a guest column for the Liverpool Echo with my opinions on the changing face of cover art.

Head over to the Echo now to have a read.

Dog Poems

2010-08-28T16:31:00.000+01:00

I once sculpted a dog out of cheese, and far from making me pleased i was ill at ease with his cheesy fleas.

(little dog poem for you there)

It was quite out of character for our beagle to be evil to beleaguered seagulls, apart from anything else he was aware it was illegal.

(another one)

When I first met her, our red setter (called Greta) was much better. Lately, since the veterinary letter, she's more bed wetter than go getter.

(and another)

The bull fighting dog was no match for Doreen's car. A matador labrador he may be, but a Seat Ibiza is another matter, Dor.

(This one doesn't rhyme). (Intentionally).

Our retriever is hard of hearing so is fitted with a receiver. Now there's no sound he can't pick up and no freeview channel either.

(go on, stop me)

If i had a spaniel I wouldn't name him Daniel – 'cos Daniel is my brother's name and he'd fly off the handle.

(this is true)

If ever there was a dog who liked digging it was the terrier. He'd dig, and dig, and dig and dig and dig. And then he'd bury'ya.

(little scamp)

A Suggestive Biscuit

2010-08-26T14:35:00.000+01:00

I was propositioned by a biscuit once. It was a Suggestive.

Knock Knock Knock

2010-08-20T23:27:00.000+01:00

Find out how to get my new EP for free only on Cloud Sounds.

Odd One Out - Coming soon.

2010-08-19T09:20:00.000+01:00

I'll be able to reveal the full details for my latest Tea Towel design very soon. Here are some sneaky peeks in the meantime.

Tedious

2010-08-10T19:52:00.000+01:00

A tediously long video of me sort of trying to record something of (perhaps) some interest but failing (to do so).

Two go cycling

2010-08-10T13:01:00.000+01:00

For Mrs Cheaps' recent birthday I bought her this amazing Bobbins Glorie Fairground bike, so good I wanted to keep it myself. It was only right for us to try it out on Surrey's hills, so yesterday was Tour de Surrey – taking in about 30 miles of hills, views, sunshine and a couple of pubs. If anyone wants to surprise their favourite wife with a birthday present, I can recommend this bicycle!

The 30 seconds of fame

2010-08-02T10:57:00.000+01:00

The thirty seconds of fame on BBC2's Top Gear.

Top Gear

2010-07-28T10:00:00.000+01:00

I was asked if my car could feature on BBC2's Top Gear show for a classic car special – and I agreed. So here we are, prior to filming. A lovely rare TR2 next to mine and a red E-type jag across the other side.

Our access all areas wrist bands entitle us to a day of free tea too! Bonus.

Odd One Out – Cards

2010-07-18T19:45:00.000+01:00

Today I printed 100 (+20 spare) cards to accompany the screen printed 'Odd One Out' tea towels. The tea towels are not yet available, but should be in a few weeks. The cards are hand printed (gocco) on beautiful black pearlescent card in silver ink. I was going to mix white with the silver, but it seemed to take quite well on it's own. Each card is hand numbered in silver ink – although the pen looks white in comparison to the Riso ink. If you go to my flickr you can see some more shots and some of the process. (Flickr page)

Look After Yourself

2010-07-11T14:10:00.001+01:00

A little something I'm working on.
See it a little larger.

Guitars make my credit card gently weep

2010-07-11T13:16:00.001+01:00

I bought myself two new guitars and sold another this week – out with the old, in with the new. The guitar that featured on my debut album (and previous EPs) has moved to pastures new and in her stead I now have a new white Gretsch G5210 Electromatic (Steve Stills, Neil Young, Steve Marriott style) and a 1960s parlour guitar made by 'Kansas' which I have named "Bessie". Heavy influence from The Band's "Cripple Creek" there... 'my Bessie can't be beat'.

I'm in the process of recording my latest EP and Bessie will feature heavily on that.

Vintage Vacation

2010-06-23T07:36:00.000+01:00

Last weekend we had our 3rd stay in a Vintage Vacations trailer, this time a 1946 Spartan Manor. A few days on the Isle of Wight is always a good way to unwind, but particularly somewhere to feed my penchant for living like its 1967.

(If youre that interested you can see more photies on my flickr page. And you should definitely check out Vintage Vacations.

Favourite songs

2010-05-12T11:14:00.000+01:00

People often ask, probably because I'm a musician – or muscian (musky'un / musky one) as I wrote once, what my favourite song is. It's pretty much impossible to answer, dependent on mood and occasion it changes all the time. But I've discovered there might be a way of determining. I noticed through the magic of iTunes that there are a few songs that I have repeated versions of by different artists – perhaps a sign that it's the song I love not necessarily the recording artist. So using that as a guide, here is my probable top 6 (in no particular order).

I haven't included Dylan & Beatles covers of which there would be many!

1. Long Black Veil by:
The Band
Barry White
Richard Hawley
Grand Union Jackson (that's one of my many guises, does it still count?)
Johnny Cash

2. Hitch Hike by:
Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
The Beatles
The Rolling Stones
Marvin Gaye
The Spiders

3. Baby Don't Do It by:
The Band
Stevie Wonder
The Small Faces
The Isley Brothers
Marvin Gaye
The Who

4. You Really Got A Hold On Me by:
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
The Beatles
The Small Faces
Aidan Smith
Derrick Harriot
Percy Sledge
Diana Ross & The Supremes

5. Goodnight Irene by:
Big Bill Broonzy
Levon Helm
The Coleman Brothers
Leadbelly
Little Richard
The Originals
Van Morrison / Lonnie Donnegan / Chris Barber
Huddie Ledbetter

6. Midnight Special by:
Big Bill Broonzy
Harry Belafonte
Ken Colyer
Leadbelly
Lonnie Donnegan
Spencer Davis Group
Van Morrison
The Beatles

New tea based posters

2010-05-08T11:32:00.000+01:00

I've added two new tea based posters to my shop – both digitally printed on lovely 160gsm silk art stock. The 'Cow Milk' poster is A1 and the 'Odd One Out' one is A2. Both are very limited, so get in there quick if you like them!

Tea Towel

2010-04-30T10:45:00.000+01:00

Limited edition tea towel in a gocco printed box now available in my shop. You can see more pictures on my flickr too

Cycling

2010-04-26T12:54:00.001+01:00

Went for a lovely cycle ride around Surrey at the weekend, pub lunches and all. I can recommend The Squirrel in Hurtmore (and a Pashley Guv'nor 3!)

An Idea For A Bicycle

2010-03-09T10:24:00.000Z

Front Wheel - Space Hopper
Rear Wheel - Several Birds
Saddle - Cheese (hard)

Derek. Or Paul

2010-02-26T09:26:00.000Z

Sergei and his problematic contact lenses

2010-02-23T12:22:00.000Z

My dog

2010-02-19T15:22:00.000Z

An Unexpected Phone Call

2010-02-15T11:20:00.000Z

A little promo for my new album, Un Film Imaginaire–available from www.iamcheapskate.com on 01.03.10

New podcast episode

2010-02-12T11:30:00.000Z

The album preview podcast is now live, so click the links below for a special 6 minute preview of my debut album, released 1st March 2010.

Click here to launch the podcast in iTunes Get the kettle on, it's the Cheapskate podcast

Click here to got direct Podcast Feed

Paper Toy

2010-02-11T11:15:00.000Z

Like paper? Like organs? Like me? If you answered yes to at least two of those, why not make a paper cheapskate?!

http://www.iamcheapskate.com/toy.htm

Download and make your very own cheapskate, complete with authentic Philicorda combo organ, lamp and rug.

Designed by the talented paper wizard and illustrator Loulou. To see paper wonders and much more besides, visit Loulou’s website.

http://www.loulouandtummie.com/

The CD has landed

2010-02-06T11:29:00.000Z

Released on 01.03.10, here's the CD version of my debut album.

Un Film Imaginaire - debut album

2010-02-02T13:53:00.000Z

Here are the beautifully retro red cassette tape versions of my debut album. Available from my shop (http://www.iamcheapskate.com). Release date 01.03.10

New Tea Postcards

2010-02-01T13:59:00.000Z

I've just added a load of tea postcards to my shop, click the shop link (if youre reading this on my website) or here to bag yourself some.

Gocco printed with a form on the back for inviting your pals to share a nice cup of tea with you. Printed on a great recycled paper, manufactured using combination of leftovers from the brewing industry – beer labels and malt/yeast/hops fibres – with a lovely subtly speckled finish. All in all, a refreshing brew!

Braun Cine Camera

2010-01-10T16:28:00.000Z

The most GORGEOUS cine camera ever. I want one!! As seen at the excellent Dieter Rams exhibition, Design Museum.

Just Following Instructions & Old People Poems

2010-01-08T10:29:00.000Z

Perry's got nothing on me

2010-01-07T16:21:00.000Z

Let the sun chinon

2010-01-07T15:49:00.001Z

French letter, English words...

2010-01-07T15:48:00.001Z

Helvetica in the home, what could be more satisfying?

Belly full, lets crack on...

2010-01-06T10:59:00.000Z

I hope everyone out there in blog reading land had a lovely Christmas. I had an excellent time, so it's out with the old and in with the new. And there will be plenty of new from me.

Old People Poems

2009-11-13T09:08:00.001Z

I wrote these on the train this morning, i dont know why. You cant beat an old person (unless you work in a home)

1.
Stairlift stairlift take me high,
up to where the bluetits fly.
Let me sing & float & laugh
and take me to my walk in bath.

2.
I remember when these cost 50p
and when football on TV was free.
I remember Busby, Finney & Shankly
but I also recall dysentery

3.
Grandad, do you remember steam trains
and bi-planes and the glory of imperialism?
No. I spent most if my life in prison.

4.
I'm 83 you know,
I've lived here all my life.
I haven't always been an old man,
I used to be someones wife.

5.
'I fought int war' you told me.
'You're 64' I replied.
'Well I would have' you assured me,
'maybe in the catering corps'.

6.
You all look the same
in Zimmer frame and cloth cap,
and the enviable ability mid conversation
to take a nap.

7.
We met outside the Londis,
you didn't know your name.
You smelt heavily of biscuits
and moaned about the rain.

8.
Eyes of blue, her hair was too,
a subtle rinse to contrast her room of chintz.

Julian, the fashion advice starling

2009-10-13T12:55:00.001+01:00

4-2-3-1

2009-09-23T11:18:00.001+01:00

Attempting to explain Liverpool's 4-2-3-1 formation to Kitty through the medium of leaves whilst at the allotment.

The Lair

2009-08-03T10:10:00.001+01:00

What i see when i see my living room.

You Know promo

2009-08-02T17:51:00.000+01:00

Promo film for my upcoming limited edition vinyl release "Science & Love EP" - featuring the finger snapping, hip shaking groover "You Know". Filmed in supersonic widescreen.

Pashley

2009-08-02T17:50:00.001+01:00

On my desk at the moment is a very nice Pashley Provence frame… a little project. Exciting, non?

"m"

2009-08-02T17:49:00.000+01:00

A nice pint of Meantime on a Sunday. The “M” denotes my presence earlier at the Mid Century Modern thingio in Dulwich

Breakfast

2009-08-02T17:48:00.000+01:00

Local lemon curd watches over spent boiled eggs and strong decaff tea.

Coffee

2009-08-02T17:47:00.000+01:00

His and her's – black with one sugar for him, white with no sugar for her.