christinebyhand

Fun, Funky, Fabulous Furniture on Etsy

2011-02-22T13:54:00.000-06:00

Click on images to see links.

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

UK Artists and Designers

2011-02-18T15:57:00.000-06:00

Nope, my book work is still not done,

but I could not resist a post

featuring some of these inspiring artists and designers

from the United Kingdom.

Take a few moments and check out their work on

Craft & Design Selected.

Digital Scrapbooks by Paislee Press

2011-02-04T17:11:00.004-06:00

Are you like me and have piles of stuff that you want to put in scrapbooks?

When my oldest graduated from high school, I was going to make a scrapbook for him, but I never got it done. Now that he is just about 30 years old and our first grandchild is on the way, I am eager to complete the task. However, maybe my procrastination was good thing, because I just found this amazing site that offers images for digital scrapbooking. It is called oscraps.com by paislee press.

In order to see how it works, I whipped up the image below using one of the free downloads they have available. I do have Adobe Photoshop on my computer, but I have not mastered it yet. The software that I use most all of the time for graphic layouts is PrintShop 2 by Broderbund. (PrintShop is a inexpensive, super simple, and quite handy bit of software.)

The downloaded images are available in jpg, tif, and png formats as well as Photoshop psd. That means they can even work in PrintShop. Yea! If I was going to use the image I created, I would work on it some more and make a few corrections, but it is pretty slick.

Now, I just need to start scanning all the old photos so I can get to work. The bummer is that taxes need to be finished first. Maybe the thought of working with the wonderful images on this new site will be my inspiration to get the taxes done! It will be my reward.

You will definitely hear more about my digital scrapbooking in the future, but here are the links so you can try it out yourself. =)

http://www.oscraps.com

http://paisleepress.blogspot.com

The Belt Purse aka Fanny Pack is Back "In!"

2011-01-29T14:19:00.001-06:00

Belt Purse Trend Treasury on Etsy

Belt - Purse - Spring - Summer - Fashion - Trend - 2011

Yes! I love fanny packs! Now they are even 'IN!"

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com.

Transparent Canoe!

2011-01-28T20:09:00.000-06:00

This has to be the coolest canoe I have ever seen!

It is made from clear polycarbonate and only weighs 40#.

My compliments to a company in Idaho Springs, Colorado called See Through Canoe for coming up with this ingenious idea. They make transparent kayaks too, but the canoes are less expensive. The canoes also look like they have more clear surface to see through, which is what makes them so appealing.

Click here for the link.

Also, thanks to Crooked Brains for bringing it to my attention. =)

Unique Baby Shower Gifts for Boy or Girl on Etsy

2011-01-28T15:57:00.000-06:00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com.

Click on images to see links.

Viking Weave Cabochon Bezel Tutorial

2011-01-23T15:32:00.002-06:00

This looks like fun! Thanks to my Facebook friend, Christine Rogers, for posting it!

Another Dream Studio by Modern Cabana

2011-01-23T15:09:00.001-06:00

I am dreaming again about my own little studio. Check out these neat pre-fabricated options from Modern Cabana. Right now, I am also wishing it came with year-round outside warmth and grass too. (That is probably not an option in Minnesota.)

Signs of Spring! 2011 Pantone Color Report

2011-01-18T21:11:00.000-06:00

For more information, click here!

Crocheted Coral Reef

2011-01-04T16:27:00.000-06:00

This is really neat! =)

Trying to Disassemble A Kiln?

2011-01-03T14:26:00.001-06:00

With all the holiday festivities, I put this off until after the first of the year.

This is "do it" day.

I need to send my kiln in for repair, but only part of it. Um...Now what???

There are still four cords left to disconnect. It is like a maze!

HELP!

Ice Ornaments!

2010-12-30T14:25:00.000-06:00

What a wonderful way to embrace the cold!

I found this neat idea via Craft Gossip. Here is the link:

http://www.redtedart.com/2010/12/29/kids-get-crafty-ice-ornaments/

Pantone Announces 2011 Color of the Year

2010-12-17T10:09:00.000-06:00

Handmade MN Giveaway by Christine, by Hand

2010-12-12T23:06:00.001-06:00

Make sure you register to win this pendant, handmade by me, through the link below!

Ends December 25th at noon

Merry Christmas!

http://etsymn.blogspot.com/2010/12/handmademn-giveaway-christine-by-hand.html

Tiny Indoor Gardens - Terrariums

2010-12-10T12:27:00.001-06:00

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'I Want A Terrarium' by christinebyhand

I can see how these little landscapes could easily become an obsession! There is no better place than Etsy to find the best terrarium supplies. As I am a Minnesotan, the idea of having my own little inside garden, really appeals to me right now. =) They would make great gifts too, for just about anyone!

Build A Little Home - Tumbleweed Houses

2010-12-08T15:58:00.002-06:00

When I first found this wonderful little company, I was on a dream search for possible designs for a free standing studio. (Right now, my studio happens to be a bedroom in our house, but my dream is to have my own little (or not so little) building where I can make messes.)

I also dream of the possibility of living a more simple life. With those two dreams floating around in my head, I was really interested in the concept of Tumbleweed Houses. Tumbleweed Houses is not just a concept, however, real people have made these tiny houses their home.

I think this is one of my favorite photos of Tumbleweed House.

Dream - find a beautiful plot of land

Dream - build a cozy little house

Dream - build another little building for a studio

You will probably hear more about these neat little houses on this blog in the future. But for now, I just wanted to introduce you to them.

Designer and Co-founder of Tumbleweed Houses, Jay Shafer,

has written this great book!

Click on the link below for a link to their website.

http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com

Handmade Nativity Finger Puppets

2010-12-06T16:16:00.004-06:00

Nativity Finger Puppet Set by WeeKnit

Includes Baby Jesus, Mary, Jospeh, Donkey, Angel,

Shepherd, Sheep, and the Three Wiseman

It has always been a tradition in our family to read the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke together on Christmas Eve. Of course, the little ones always get antsy. This would be a wonderful way to help engage them in the story!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62408729/nativity-finger-puppet-set-includes-baby

Kinetic Hanging Mini Mobile Art - Cathedral Windows - Artistic Sculpture by Skysetter Designs

2010-12-04T11:39:00.000-06:00

Measuring only 12 inches wide by 15 inches high,

this fun mobile will fit almost anywhere.

Perfect for the bathroom, kitchen, office, home office, patio or porch.

All components are rust proof anodized aluminum!

Click here for link

Viewfinder Hand Cast Resin Bracelet

2010-12-03T18:26:00.001-06:00

Made to order by bethtastic

"through the viewfinder" fine resin photographic jewelry on Etsy

Click here for link

Etsy Item of the Day

2010-12-02T15:10:00.000-06:00

Handblown Glass Houses by Luminita

This little blog of mine has gone from feast to famine in a very short period of time. To be honest, I have spent the last month trying to solve some firing problems with my bronze metal clay. Arg! Hopefully, I am getting to the bottom of it, but it has encompassed much of my "free" time lately.

Last night I ran across these beautiful hand-blown glass houses on Etsy. Instead of making a whole treasury of items, I decided these stood alone. For that matter, many of the beautiful items on Etsy can stand on their own. So, I am going switch gears and try to add one of my favorite Etsy items each day. (At least, that is my new plan.) =)

Handmade in Minnesota = Nice People and Nice Things

2010-11-10T11:10:00.000-06:00

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Handmade in Minnesota Treasury link

Ode to the Handmade Rose on Etsy

2010-11-08T15:03:00.000-06:00

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ode to the handmade rose treasury

The Ancient Art of Henna

2010-11-07T15:57:00.001-06:00

The saying "Sometimes Life Gets in the Way" has held true for me lately, but not in a negative way. I have just had so many diversions that have caused me to neglect posting on this blog.

What better way to get back into the swing of things than a wonderful video about the ancient art of henna. Yes, I have my henna paste thawing on the kitchen counter as I write this. It seems like a good time to enjoy some creative and therapeutic time by myself. I have found applying henna a wonderful way to do this. Besides, it is fun. =)

I found this video on a blog by a local Minnesota mom that actually has made henna a business. Here is a link to her great blog: Mehndi Made Memories by Kreativ Mom.

Wear Purple Day

2010-10-20T16:43:00.000-05:00

cristinapires $250.00	LBaccessories $38.00	twochickstoo $37.80
Textilemonster $16.00	northatlantica... $59.00	inlulusgarden $3.95
bubbletime $12.00	efratjewelry $74.00	BorsaBella $38.00
craftsbykash $25.00	tovicorrie $38.00	WrapturebyInes... $60.00
MiShelDesigns $44.00	VisualPunctuat... $40.00	6thStreet $22.00

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I noticed today on Facebook that someone has designated today as Wear Purple Day "to bring awareness to, and put an end to intolerance in honor of the 6 boys who commited suicide in recent weeks/months due to homophobic abuse at home and in schools."

So, I decided to support this endeavor by wearing purple today and making this purple treasury of Handmade items on Etsy.

Ode to Green Leaves on Etsy

2010-10-18T11:42:00.014-05:00

• Tiny green leaf necklace in silver and concrete
• Green Leaf Lamp / Night Light
• Hand Knit Bulky Leaf Wrap
• Copper Armband, Bangle, or Anklet
• Delicate Leaves Necklace
• Gorgeous Green Antiqued Brass Leaf Necklace

Click on Descriptions above for links

Indian Paisley Wood Burned Lazy Susan - Just Listed

2010-10-16T18:03:00.003-05:00

I finally finished this project I have been working on for the past couple of weeks. It took me longer than I expected, because it was one of those pieces where it was hard to tell when it was finished!

This lazy susan was all wood burned by me freehand (I did not use a pattern.) That is how I do most of my work, because I find it gives me the most creative freedom. Each creation is also more of an adventure, as you do not know what the piece will look like until you are finished. It also makes each piece original and one-of-a-kind.

Click on the link below to see more pictures and the Etsy listing:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/59146119

Beautiful Baby Girl Gifts on Etsy

2010-10-16T09:30:00.000-05:00

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http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4cb9b55556068eef2880606b/its-a-girl

Pumpkin Carving Idea Using a Drill!

2010-10-13T15:01:00.000-05:00

I would have to say this is one of the neatest pumpkin carving ideas I have seen!

Click here to see the tutorial from Crafty Nest.

Holmquist Pottery and A Very Special Custom Pet Urn

2010-10-12T23:50:00.000-05:00

Above is a special pet urn for our dog, Maxwell, that I custom ordered from potters, Chris and Sue Holmquist. Chris throws the pottery, and his wife, Sue, does the wonderful artwork.

When I went to pick it up the other day, I could not help but smile. It actually brings back wonderful memories of more than one special member of our family.

Our daughter, Mary, died when she was 13 years from an AVM. I found this poster on the back of her bedroom door after she died. She had cut out a picture of our dog Max and taped it to the top of one of the buildings in the poster.

Every time I look at that poster I can hear Mary's giggle and see her smile. Her bedroom is now my studio, and the poster is still there. I cannot bring myself to take it down.

Max was our family dog, but Mary was the one who pushed us to adopt him. She even used her own money that she had received from her First Communion to pay the adoption fee at the pound. We still laugh about Mary faithfully picking up his dog poop and gagging as she did it. As stinky as it was, she was determined to be a responsible dog owner.

After Max died, I knew I wanted to have Holmquists make a pet urn to keep special memories of Max like his collar, but I could not decide what I wanted it to look like. (Max running would have been appropriate, but I could not find a picture of him running. He was too fast, and taking pictures was not on the top of the list when he would run. The priority was trying to catch him!)

Then, I thought of the poster. I sent Sue the photos above and asked if it might be possible to have a picture of Max on the building. Graciously she agreed to do it for us.

Instead of having to look behind the door, we can now enjoy our wonderful memories of Max (and Mary too) just by looking at this special piece displayed prominently on our family room shelving.

Thank you, Chris and Sue! We will always treasure this special gift you have created for us. =)

I took this picture of Chris and Sue Holmquist during the Riverfront Arts Festival in September, and I have been saving it to post when our urn was finished. They do have an Etsy shop, but have a hard time keeping it stocked. However, I am sure you could contact them there if you are interested in their work.

Here is the link:

http://www.holmquistpottery.etsy.com

Family Tree Photo Wall Murals

2010-10-12T20:36:00.000-05:00

Click on each of the titles below for the links.

1. Grown-Up Living Room by HGTV

2. My Family Tree by A Girl and a glue gun

3. BHG magazine via A Girl and a glue gun

4. How to Arrange Photos in a Wall Family Tree by Modern mom

5. Family Tree via Flickr

6. My Family Tree Wall Mural by Life and Art with Glamma Fabulous

Here are some layout ideas.

7. Fun with your family tree from Wikimedia Commons via Modern mom

8. Free Genealogy Charts from Misbach Enterprises

Thanks to Craft Gossip for the tidbit that got this post rolling.

Did you ever play telephone as a kid? It is that game where one person whispers something to the person next to them. Then, that person repeats it to the person next to them etc.. At the end, the last person has to say what they were told out loud. It was always funny to see how the story changed after repetition. Depending on how creative the group was, the initial whisper could turn into something very different by the end.

With creative ideas, it is also fun to see how each person expresses an idea. =)

Sedum - My Favorite Fall Plant

2010-10-09T20:27:00.000-05:00

I would have to say that sedum is one of my favorite fall plants. For that matter, it is on my list of favorite plants during the summer too. It faithfully comes up every year and thrives even when ignored.

In that fall when many of the blooming plants seem to be fading away, my sedum ripens to display it's deep rosy hue.

Besides their beauty in the garden, they also make wonderful cut flowers that can last for over a week.

Download Beaded Embroidery Inspiration and Techniques by Robin Atkins

2010-10-08T14:02:00.000-05:00

This amazing book by Robin Atkins on bead embroidery is out of print and now available for free download. If you are looking for beaded embroidery inspiration and techniques, this is a wonderful resource. Click here for the link to Robin's blog and the free download.

Robin also has a new book out called Hearts to Hands Bead Embroidery, which looks fascinating. This is a sampling of one of the projects in her new book. They are called Decade Dolls.

You can order an autographed copy of this new book from her website. Click here for the link.

Lovely Red Lace on Etsy

2010-10-07T14:04:00.000-05:00

'Lace is Lovely in Red' by christinebyhand

TotusMel $15.00	gsakowskidesig... $45.00	kissnangel $8.00
EllaJoeCouture $18.00	turcoarts $100.00	tovicorrie $26.50
ashleykimclayw... $48.00	mishap1165 $4.50	filofashion $80.00
reraeshop $26.00	Chuletindesign... $125.00	modernjune $22.00
LusciousLather $4.50	aphidesigns $12.00	phydeauxdesign... $7.50

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Sometimes I Like to Feel Pretty

2010-10-05T16:10:00.003-05:00

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Aqua Grey Afternoon Tea Treasury

October Desktop Calendar

2010-10-05T12:21:00.000-05:00

The best thing about changing my desktop image every month is that it forces me to clean-up my desktop! No one wants to see a pretty image covered up with file folder icons.

This month I chose to upload this desktop calendar courtesy of Molly Wizenberg and Shanna Murray. I think this one is particularly special because it is a collaborative effort between artists. Molly did the photography, and Shanna did the design and typeface. I also love the message.

Click here for your complementary download from Shanna's blog.

via sfbaygirl

Best Boundary Waters Fall Forecast for Playing Hooky!

2010-10-04T13:52:00.001-05:00

This forecast makes me want to play hooky

and go visit my favorite dock boy (aka--my son) at Gunflint Lodge.

My Favorite Monday Morning Mugs on Etsy

2010-10-04T11:22:00.000-05:00

mccloypottery $14.00	phoenixfirestu... $15.00	MoorefieldPott... $15.00
Rith $18.99	SandyMooreDesi... $15.00	jjceramics $28.00
SBEarthenworks $26.00	DarriellesClay... $18.00	sheaclay $20.00
Mypolkadotpott... $24.00	MuddyMommaPott... $18.00	PotteryByAnn $17.00
SuePatrickPott... $12.00	abbyberkson $20.00	mossyrockpotte... $18.00

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Harvesting Swedish Ivy

2010-10-03T13:55:00.000-05:00

I have found that Swedish Ivy thrives in the window box by our front door, so I plant some every year. (Believe it or not, there are also some impatiens planted in there too.) Also, every year, I say I am going to cut a bunch of it and root it before the first frost. This year I actually did it.

Hopefully, I will be able to keep it alive until next spring, so I do no have to hunt down new plants. It should be pretty easy to do. I think all I will have to do is keep the vases filled with water. I bet I might even have to give them another "haircut" before spring--maybe even some potting. =)

"See, dear. There is a reason I have kept all these glass vases!" (I knew I was going to put them to good use. I just did not know when.)

Upholstery Art Purses by Helen's Daughters

2010-10-02T20:59:00.000-05:00

I had the joy today of meeting Mariella of Helen's Daughters at the Sogn Valley Craft Fair. These two sisters create the most beautiful purses. They are actually works of art.

Along with her display of beautiful purses, Mariella showed me rings of rich upholstery fabrics and told me they do custom work as well.

You can find Helen's Daughters online at their website www.helensdaughters.com.

Contemporary Embroidery Artist Susan Lenz

2010-10-01T16:25:00.000-05:00

I would like to introduce you to one of my favorite embroidery artists, Susan Lenz. These images above are just a few samplings from her Window, Stained Glass, and In Box collections.

Her work is fascinating, intriguing, and uplifting to me. I have to say that I have visited her blog many times, and simply gazed in adoration of her beautiful work. It seems there is always something new to discover in each of her pieces from these collections. If I had to choose a favorite, I do not think I could do it, as I love them all!

Susan's work can be found on her website: http://www.susanlenz.com, as well as select galleries. You can also find Susan's work on her blog, Art in Stitches.

Rich Warm Copper on Etsy

2010-09-30T11:34:00.003-05:00

'Rich Warm Copper' by christinebyhand

Check out these amazing finds on Etsy made of copper.

Penny Ring RiyahLiDesigns $7.00	Copper Candlestick McGdesign $46.00	Hand stamped copper nec... trishsbeads $25.00
Copper Double-Wide Bang... sparkflight $50.00	The Tip JennyBunny $8.00	Stacking Rings, Copper ... AUNALIArtisanM... $17.00
Vintage Copper Eastlake... hbgordon $7.00	BIRD FEEDER, RUSTIC VIN... transienttreas... $48.00	Hand Stamped Copper You... flowyogamats $5.00
Address Number Sign Ver... AtlasSigns $119.00	Copper Pipe Candle Hold... LRSartanddesig... $8.50	Celtic Budding Spiral C... nicholasandfel... $18.00
5 Piece Vintage Copper ... kissitgoodbuy $30.00	ONE Vintage Letterpress... hopeandjoyhome $6.95	Windchime Natural Paci... tskDesign $177.50

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My Favorite Sweater Dress Dreams

2010-09-29T13:31:00.000-05:00

I really wish I knew how to knit. If I could, I would buy some wonderful yarn and one of these patterns from Garn Studio.

If I got really good at it, I would make myself a Fair Isle sweater dress like this one that Vanessa Cabban posted about on her blog,
do you mind if I knit.

dream-dream-dream...

Customized Twitter Profile Page

2010-09-28T15:22:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I spent part of the day customizing my Twitter page with Themeleon. It is something that has been on my list of things to do. Each time I have tried to do it, I simply ran out of time before I came up with something I liked. This one I think I will keep. =)

Themeleon is a very fun site with lots of patterns, designs, and colors to choose from. However, I found that one of the problems is that it is difficult to go back and "tweek" a design once you have saved it. There is probably a way to do it, but I did not figure it out. That meant that I had to redo the whole thing if I wanted to simply change the color a bit.

Today, I spotted a blog post about customizing your Facebook fan page. That one looks a bit more complicated, but I am going to add it to my list. I wish there was a way to use my Themeleon design to do it. That would make it easier! Click here for a tutorial from Handmade Spark if you want to give it a try.

Cross one off the list and add another...

ODE TO ORANGE on Etsy

2010-09-28T07:59:00.001-05:00

Great Wine Party Wooden Puzzle Cutting Boards

2010-09-27T17:42:00.001-05:00

I love these puzzle piece shaped cutting boards

made by the Dutch Design Studio--Studio Oooms.

They are available online at Supermarket,

where you can buy great designs straight from the designers.

(Much like Etsy)

Here is the link:

http://supermarkethq.com/product/puzzleboard

Recycled T-Shirt Tunic Tutorial

2010-09-26T20:06:00.004-05:00

Going through
my Google Reader favorites tonight,
I came across this neat
recycled t-shirt tutorial
from Squiggly Twigs Designs.
How cute! =)

via Craft Gossip Sewing

Dance In the Rain with Etsy

2010-09-26T11:22:00.001-05:00

• SLUGS fleece sox

• Dance in the Rain Necklace

• "after the rain" photograph

• Fall earrings

• "Reflections" print

• "Anyone who thinks only sunshine can bring happiness has never danced in the rain."

September Flooding in Northfield, MN

2010-09-24T22:56:00.016-05:00

Well, I have had a bit of a blog diversion. Our little town of Northfield has been experiencing over record level flooding. It is quite a mess, and I expect the clean-up will be even messier.

The photos below give you an idea of how high the river has risen.

It's A Boy on Etsy!

2010-09-22T22:29:00.000-05:00

Making Hand Shadows

2010-09-22T18:31:00.005-05:00

I saw this light fixture designed by J. P. Meulendijks and it reminded me of something I used to do as a kid--hand shadows! Forget the high tech video equipment. All you need to do this is a dark room, flashlight, and your own hands. The bird was always one of my favorites.

Check out this site for some links to how you can make your own hand shadows: Internet Family Fun. And this YouTube video is a must watch: Amazing hand shadows.

What Is A Jacquard Loom?

2010-09-22T14:34:00.010-05:00

First of all, I will give you a bit of history. The Jacquard Loom was invented in 1794 by Joseph Marie Jacquard.

Jacquard introducing his invention to Napoleon (artist?)

Jacquard was born in France to a family of weavers in 1752. During that time in history, the Industrial Revolution had introduced automated weaving machines, but these machines were not able to create any patterns in the fabrics. Textiles with patterns could only be manufactured by well trained weavers on looms such as the drawloom, which required more than one person to operate. An assistant would have to control which warp threads were raised to created the pattern, while the weaver threaded the weft yarn through. The assistant controlling the warp threads was known as the drawboy.

It was most certainly Jacquards work as a drawboy that motivated him to come up with a way to streamline the labor intensive process. The process was intricate and delicate, but also highly repetitive. It must have also felt very mundane and, at times, boring.

His solution to the problem was creating a series of punch cards that controlled which warp threads were raised and lowered to create the patterns. In other words, the punch cards replaced the need for an assistant drawboy.

Thanks to master weaver Stacey Harvey-Brown, you can see how it works instead of me trying to explain it.

Interestingly, our computer age has further automated the process of jacquard weaving. There is now software available that can be transfered to a digital jacquard loom. I will try to post more on that later.

Give A Warm Welcome for Fall on Etsy!

2010-09-22T11:46:00.000-05:00

• Sunset Hoodie from hilabilou
• "Standing" by ecovision
• Cup Cozy by madeinlowell
• Bangle Bracelet by SquishySushi
• Crochet Scarf by gypsythatIwas
• Delila Beg by annyandme

More Decorating Fun with Chalkboard Paint

2010-09-21T16:16:00.000-05:00

Chalkboard Sofa Art • Chalkboard Painted Plate (tutorial too!)

Chalkboard Paint Kitchen Tabletop • Chalkboard Backsplash

Chalkboard Painted Rocks • Chalkboard Painted Door

Click on each of the titles for the links.

Wood Burned Child's Step Stool

2010-09-21T11:55:00.000-05:00

This is the little step stool I wood burned for my brother-in-law last night. It is is third one I have done for him. He has made one of these for each of his granddaughters for their 3rd birthdays.

When he asked me to do something on the first one, I thought about how paint might not hold up very well on a step stool. That is when I came up with the idea of wood burning it.

After I am done with it, he puts on a couple coats of varnish. I just get to do the fun part of making the design and lettering on it. =)

There's A Whole Lotta Waitin' Going On

2010-09-20T22:08:00.000-05:00

It seems like I have been doing a lot of waiting lately. Right now I am waiting for my wood burning pen to cool down, so I can change the tip. I have also been working on a painting project that seems to be taking forever to dry.

Whether or not you are a patient person or not, creating art forces you to wait. I think it was worth the wait for these Etsy artists. Enjoy!

(P.S. Once I am done, I will let you see what I am working on, and you can decide whether it was worth the wait.)

Adventurous Little Birds

2010-09-19T13:10:00.000-05:00

"The Tiny Little Adventurous Bird" Fine Art Print by FreyaArt

Blessed are the Quiltmakers...

2010-09-18T22:46:00.000-05:00

"Blessed are the Quiltmakers..." rubber stamp from River City Rubber Works

Click here for link.

What Is A Blog?

2010-09-18T11:24:00.004-05:00

I spent some time with my mom yesterday, and I was showing her some posts on my blog. It was obvious that she whole blogging concept was confusing to her. So, how do you describe what a blog is to someone who is new to the concept?

My favorite definition is that is is an online journal or diary. The major difference between a personal diary/journal and a blog is that it is instantly published for all the world to see.

Why do I blog? I blog because I love beautiful things. For me, beautiful things can be what is sometimes referred to as "eye candy"--meaning appealing visual images. It can also be (to use the candy metaphor) thought candy and idea candy.

But as Mrs. Gump said to her son, "Life is like a box of chocolates, Forrest. You never know what you are going to get."

A message to my mom
If you want to know what is going on in that little head of mine, read my blog. However, I will not tell you everything! I love you. =)

For a more complete definition of a blog, click here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blogs

Jacquard Ribbon Beads

2010-09-17T23:53:00.000-05:00

Look at these beautiful beads made from vintage jacquard ribbon. They were created by Carmi Cimicata of Toronto, Ontario.

Make sure you visit her blog to see the wonderful necklace she has designed with them! Here is the link: Vintage Ribbon Beads

Laura Foster Nicholson Ribbons and Trims - aka LFN Textiles

2010-09-16T16:15:00.006-05:00

Meet a very amazing artist, weaver and designer, Laura Foster Nicholson. She is the talent and soul behind LFN TEXTILES which designs and markets stunning jacquard ribbon, including those shown below.

Laura's designs might seem familiar to you, because she has also designed textiles for Crate and Barrel.

For the full line of Laura's ribbons for sale in the U.S. click here.

Pictured above is a handmade purse that Laura created, and it is for sale on her Etsy site. It would be quite a conversation piece to have a purse made by the artist who also designed the ribbon on it! Click here for the link to the small suzani ribbon purse for sale in her shop.

The gloves on the right trimmed with Laura's suzani ribbon are a pair Laura made for herself that I found on her blog. What a beautiful use of ribbon!

Jacquard Ribbon Vest

2010-09-16T10:48:00.000-05:00

1960s THE TRODEN PATH ribbon vest

I am totally in love with this vintage handmade ribbon vest from SwaneeGRACE on Etsy. If it was my size, it would be sold. I can just picture rearing it with a long sleeve black shirt, long flowing black skirt and boots. Beautiful!

Make You Own Jacquard Ribbon

2010-09-16T09:14:00.001-05:00

See that nifty little jacquard loom at the top of this post. It is called a Jacquard Tabletop Loom. When I saw it I got so excited thinking it would be so fun to make my own jacquard trims and ribbons. But, that shows you how much I know about the jacquard weaving and how a jacquard loom works.

The article about the Jacquard Table Top Loom is from Weave Zine. Reading through it, it sounds really neat. I searched the internet to find where you might purchase one and how much they cost. Nothing came up. Then, I read the article again. "...Threading the loom presented some challenges. Fortunately a 100x microscope was included with the loom, as well as a micro-tweezers...."

Okay, I am a sucker. It would be really cool if it actually existed.

Instead of making your own, you might have better luck buying your jacquard ribbon from any one of the great Etsy shops. =)

Stay tuned. I am going to do a bit of research on real jacquard looms. They are pretty amazing machines!

DIY Indoor Outdoor Tabletop Fire Pit

2010-09-15T11:57:00.001-05:00

This is one of most awesome ideas I have seen lately. It is a personal fire pit made from a metal vase. Thanks to Design Sponge for the link!

Karen, on her blog The Art of Doing Stuff, describes how she made this lovely little fire pit with materials that only cost her $25. WoW! She even documented each step with images to make an easy to follow tutorial of how she did it. Plus, she has some wonderful photos of it in use on her deck.

Here is the link to Karen's post and tutorial: How to Make A Personal Fire Pit for Cheap!

OnePeace on Etsy

2010-09-14T21:14:00.000-05:00

When I walked by this booth at the Defeat of Jesse James Days Riverfront Arts Fair this weekend, the beautiful, blue, round mosaic mirror caught my eye.

The booth was called One peace at A time. And upon further conversation, I discovered that Jean, the artist, had an Etsy shop as well!

Her dichroic glass work is beautiful and nicely detailed. I love the simple metal swirl embellishments she adds to her pendants.

Here is the link to Jean's Etsy shop: http://www.onepeace.etsy.com

She also has a lovely website: http://www.onepeaceatatime.net You can find her mosaic mirrors there. I actually see a couple more I would like in my own house. =)

Mosaic Masterpieces on Etsy

2010-09-14T14:50:00.000-05:00

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting

and fall a mosaic of them all.

~ Stanley Horowitz

Sue Pariseau Pottery

2010-09-13T23:10:00.000-05:00

Meet Sue Pariseau, one of my fellow Handmade MN Etsy Team members.

Though I have communicated with Sue online, this past weekend at the Arts Fair (see previous posts) was my first time meeting her in person.

Sue could be the spokesperson for "Minnesota Nice." After talking to her for only a few minutes, I felt like we were old friends.

Though Sue lives in Rosemount, MN, she and her husband have a farm they purchased in Lanesboro, MN. That is where she is constructing this awesome new outdoor kiln. (I have seen pictures of the process on her blog.)

Guess what? Sue said I could come down when they fire it up for the first time! (I hope she meant it, because I just might take her up on it.)

Here is the link to Sue's Etsy shop: Sue Pariseau Pottery
Make sure you check out her sold items too, because her shop is probably pretty bare after this past weekend. I bet she would not mind custom orders. =)

Textile Art Desktop Calendar Downloads

2010-09-13T15:04:00.002-05:00

My oldest son is always on my case about my messy desktop. (But mine is not as bad as my mom's!) And, if you are like me, it always helps to have a little treat as an incentive to clean. Well, here is your treat. It is almost impossible not do do some desktop cleaning after you download one of these. They are just too beautiful to cover up with a bunch of file icons.

Download this one from JMD Designs - Janet M. Davies' blog here:

http://www.jmddesigns.co.nz/calendar.htm

Or you can down load this one from sharon b's PinTangle blog:

http://www.pintangle.com/journal/2010/9/1/free-desktop-wallpaper-for-september.html

Artist, Carla Thompson, of Barefoot Studio in Northfield, MN

2010-09-12T21:54:00.000-05:00

Meet one of my favorite people and favorite artists, Carla Thompson, of Barefoot Studio. She was another one of my visits at the Arts Fair this weekend.

I have fallen in love with Carla's witty, whimsical, and colorful style. Many of her paintings include quotes that touch the heart and/or give you the giggles. You cannot help but smile!

By the time I visited her booth today, many of the wall were empty. However I know that she will be at another one of my favorite, local art fairs in October--The Sogn Valley Arts Fair. (click for link)

I have this little space in our family room above the TV and under the built ins (aka Ikea shelving) that is just the place for one of her horizontal paintings. I am going to be sure I make it to the Sogn Arts Fair early, so I can have first picks. =)

If you do not live near southern Minnesota, you can always check out Carla's website for more information about her wonderful works. It is:
http://www.barefootstudio.net

Jennifer Wolcott - Northfield, MN

2010-09-12T21:14:00.003-05:00

When I first became interested in lampwork glass, I hired Jennifer Wolcott as my private instructor, because I did not want to wait for one of her classes to open up . Since then, she has become a special mentor and friend. Her metal work is absolutely amazing!

Pictured to the left is Jennifer and some of the neat work she had for sale this weekend at the DJJD Arts Fair. (See previous post.)

Jennifer is a "townie" as well. Her father, Dean Warnholtz, was an art professor at Carleton College for many years. Gloria, her mother, had an art gallery and framing studio which I used to use frequently for framing. So, Jennifer comes by her artistic bent quite naturally. However, I am not sure if she grew up around welding torches and sandblasters. But, she has made them her own tools of the trade.

The metal birds, one of Jennifer's newest creations, are actually made from recycled file cabinets. Each side is painted in a different colorful pattern. The sandblasted, recycled, tea light holders are another one of my favorites.

Jennifer does have an Etsy site, MechanoGirl, but she always seems too busy to keep it updated. Maybe I will put another bug in her ear about that.

You can contact Jennifer via her website: http://www.WolcottArt.com Be sure to check out her signature garden art including fences while you are there!

Northfield, MN - My Hometown

2010-09-12T18:57:00.001-05:00

This weekend was the Defeat of Jesse James Days Celebration in my hometown of Northfield, MN. My favorite part of the weekend has always been the Arts Fair. Of course, there are also the food vendors, which we are sure to patronize.

On the top are a few pictures I snapped today. It was a beautiful 75 degrees and sunny, a perfect day for an arts fair.

The bottom picture is of Kris Neset and I. We are both "townies"--born and raised here. Kris makes great jewelry, and I can never resist picking up something new at her booth. This year I found a darling lucite flower bracelet and a fun copper bird necklace. She laughs at me because she knows I could make it myself, but it is so much more fun to buy it from someone else. =) (I keep trying to get her to have an Etsy shop. Maybe on of these days she will listen!)

Custom Ikea Slipcovers!

2010-09-11T01:15:00.001-05:00

I just found this great online resource for custom Ikea slipcovers!

The site is called jcaroline home. (click for link) They offer custom slipcover options in a wide array of wonderful fabrics for the Ikea Podang chair, Podang footstool, Tullsta chair, Harry chair, Henriksdal chair, Henriksdal barstool, Stockholm chair, and Nils chair.

They even have covers for the child's Poang chair that are not even available at Ikea.

Pictured to the right are a couple of the different fabric options they offer. You even have the option of sending them your own fabric.

They call it their "B.Y.O.F." option. In the design industry we used to refer to that as c.o.m.--aka customers own material.

The company was started by Caroline Devoy--the "caroline" in the name, and Jesica Jones--the "j" in 2008.

If you are a do-it-yourself type, here is a little secret. They have shared a tutorial on their jcaroline creative site on how to make a cover for the child's Poang chair. I have seen those cute little chairs at Ikea covered in a natural canvas fabric and thought they were really fun, but also impractical. Covering them with another fabric would make them much more functional. Click here for the link to the tutorial.

This slipcover for the Ikea Tullsa chair was done in their Licorice Emilio fabric with contrasting black piping, which they offer at not additional charge. They will also make pillows to coordinate your furnishings. If you would like to pull in the fabrics you use on the slipcovers and or pillows somewhere else in your room, you can even order extra yardage at a reasonable price. (I am thinking matching draperies, a duvet cover, a fabric headboard....) In other words, you can have a designer room for a very economical price. Oh, and be sure to check out their ottomans too!

ODE to The Granny Square on Etsy

2010-09-10T01:11:00.001-05:00

Truth be told, I have a wee bit of a fancy for granny squares.

A few years ago I had this sweater handmade for me by an E*** seller. (Another confession. I would love to be able to crochet, but all I can do at this point is make a really long crochet string.)

With the colder weather approaching, this is one of those items in my closet that I am eager to pull out and wear again.

The picture does not show it, but it a long car-coat length--perfect to snuggle up in. Because of all of the wonderful colors, I can pull on my jeans and just about any turtleneck with it.

This is a picture of my youngest son and me on Christmas Eve 2008. I quite fancy him as well. =)

It's A Cozy Tea Kind of Day

2010-09-08T11:04:00.001-05:00

• Tea Cosy/Cozy Chicks
• Hand Painted Teapot
• White Birds on Branches Tea Cozy
• Stoneware and Copper Teapot
• Tea Cozy with Matching Coasters
• Granny Green Teapot

New Bronze Asian Love Pendant

2010-09-07T18:25:00.000-05:00

http://www.etsy.com/listing/55752203

Asian lettering is so intriguing to me. This particular character means love in Chinese, Japanese, Kanji, old Korean Hanja, and old Vietnamese. It is composed of three different characters stacked on top of each other meaning--marriage and family, heart, mind and/or soul, & friendship.

I did a little research on this symbol after I made this pendant to be sure the symbol and meaning were correct. As I am not versed in any Asian language, I would be a big sucker for anyone who wanted to tell me the character means something it does not. This is where I found most of my information. I also searched around some more and found their information verifiable.

It is from the website--Oriental Outpost. You can order your own custom Asian calligraphy wall scroll from them. Make sure you visit their About Us section to learn a bit more about them.

How To Take A Fall Walk in the Woods

2010-09-07T13:15:00.000-05:00

• Late November Woods art print by Dream Gallery

• Hand Dyed Fabric Journal by rubymountaindyeworks

• Ball Point Twig byprettylilthings

• Chunky Wrist Warmers by emmylouhelmuth

• Carrousel Backpack by k1000art

Does This Form Follow Function?

2010-09-07T12:27:00.002-05:00

Growing up with a father who was an architect, and a mother who was an interior designer meant that "good" design was always a topic of conversation in our home.

With that, one saying that has stuck with me from my childhood is Form Follows Function. In other words, good design must not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional.

The saying is a quote from the late 19th Century architect and mentor of Frank Lloyd Wright--Louis Sullivan.

When I saw this neat thread spool storage, that saying came immediately to mind. I think that Louis Sullivan would highly approve of this creative way of storing thread. =)

Special thanks to UK fiber artist and Etsy seller, tastykaeru, via Craftzine.

Tomorrow is the Day

2010-09-06T08:49:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I talked about the words that came to mind for my dream journey. (See previous posts here and here.) One of them was "stretch." Well, there are different things I could stretch including my mind, but I think a physical body stretch of tissues and muscles might be what that word was telling me.

Since today is Labor Day in the US, I am setting my goal to begin for tomorrow. (Nothing like putting it off as long as I can.) I know that for some people, yoga might not qualify as labor, but I have been out of practice for awhile. I know the stretching will not be easy. There will probably need to be some bent knees during downward dog.

Maybe I just need to focus on the reward at the end.

Savasana is my favorite part. =)

Set of three photo prints "Clive Does Yoga" from BACLORI on Etsy