Whimsy

New Blog

2010-06-01T18:39:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone, It's been SO LONG since I've added new info to this blog. It's actually a bit sad to me to see it sitting here, abandoned :-( But, I will not shed a tear! I've created a new blog! One all about my life and crafty happenings! So, go check it out!!!

This Enchanting Life

:-) Jess

Juice Feast

2009-09-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be announcing that I am embarking on my first Juice Feast tomorrow morning. I have been trying to figure out some kind of cleanse to do for a few weeks and just hadn't found what I was looking for until I was inspired to do a Juice Feast.

One of the main attractions to this idea is the name. The word 'Feast' invokes a feeling of abundance as opposed to 'fast' which makes me think of lack. And, for some reason, that's a really important factor for me. Maybe I'm just tricking myself with words, but I don't care :-)

So, I'll be spending the next few weeks partaking in little more than fresh fruit and vegetable juices (I say 'little more' instead of 'nothing' because I know that there's a large chance I'll give in to some outrageous craving during this time, and don't want to give up on myself because of it!) And, I haven't given myself a set end date, just playing to take it day by day, but at least last for 2 weeks.

I can't wait to share all the mood swings (not having my daily large amount of sugar is gonna have some heinous effects I have no doubt!) and triumphs (be they physical or emotional)

Transition

2009-08-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

My life has recently entered into a definite state of transition. This is truly an exciting time of changes for me. A time of closing doors and opening new ones.
As I stated in my previous post, I will no longer be making stamps. And, after even more deep thought, introspection, and listing to my intuition, I've realized that it has come time for me to close the doors to my Etsy shop all together.
This is a huge decision for me, and was not taken lightly by any means! But, I am a firm believer that shutting the door to something that no longer fits my life's path will open another door. I have no idea what that new 'door' looks like just yet, but I can't wait to see!

I haven't yet set a date to close up shop (sometime within the next couple of weeks is the plan). So, please stop by to see if there is anything you'd like, since they'll all be gone soon.

This blog will remain, although it will definitely shift. I'll share more about my journey through this state of transition and be sure to write a post all about that new Door once I find it!!

End of an Era

2009-08-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

...Well, sort of.
After much deep thought and debate, I have decided to stop making hand carved stamps. I realized that I need to find something more creatively challenging for myself, and carving stamps takes up much of the time I could be using to find that creative challenge.
Thanks so much to my stamp customers. It really was a delight creating stamps for you, and working to make custom stamps was a great experience as well.
But, it is time for me to move on in my creative journey
Note: I have decided to sell my personal stamp stash, and as of this post a few stamps are still available in my shop.

I'm Loving this song right now!

2009-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Humble Beginnings

2009-08-10T09:50:00.001-07:00

While helping my mom clean out a room in her house I can across a few of my old crocheted creations. I must have made these well over 10 years ago!
It's sometimes amazing to look back at items like these and see how much a talent can progress. Often I find myself wanting to be able to create amazing works of art with a brand new (to me) medium, and forget that it takes time to get really good. And that time is important. So much is learned with each project no matter how hideous it may look to me today! Each one is a step toward mastery of that craft.

Log Log Log

2009-07-30T16:33:00.000-07:00

Logs

2009-07-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

I have this love of logs. There's just something about them...it might be the rings...but I think it stems from you love of trees.

Anyway, I've taken that love and interpreted it as Log Holders. Not holders for your logs but holders of any item that fits inside of the log shaped holder. (My sweet 4 year old son ,Shepard, is calling them 'holders' so I figured it was a good name for them)
These handy holders are complete with complimentary moss and leaves. As well as rings on the bottom.
I'll be listing them in my Etsy shop soon! And, probably making more log shaped items, 'cause I just love the logs!

Enchanted Teas Giveaway

2009-07-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

I just can't wait for others to try this Dreamy tea blend! So, I've decided to giveaway three 1/2oz bags to the first 3 people to comment on this post!

There is one stipulation though, well maybe it counts as a few! I'd love for the winners to tell me what you think of the tea! (how it tastes, how it enhanced your sleep and dreams and anything else you'd like to add)

I'll send a message to the 3 lucky winners soon after they've left their comment to congratulate them and get address information!

Dreamy Teas

2009-07-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to finally share my new Etsy shop! I love herbs and herbal teas. I've been drinking and concocting my own recipes for years, so it just seemed fitting to begin sharing my herbal blends with others!

I am proud to say that all of my teas are packaged in 100% biodegradable bags and I use only Certified Organic & Wild Harvested herbs.

The first tea that's available in the shop is a Dream blend. I thoroughly researched folklore, myths, and common herbal information to create this blend. I included herbs that have been known for centuries to enhance dreams, calm and relax, and protect from night-mares. It's a fragrant tasty blend of herbs that's perfect to accompany a cozy chair and good book in the evening.

I've got lots of ideas and recipes brewing so I'll be adding more to the shop very soon!

Enchanted Teas

Look What I Made

2009-06-25T11:29:00.001-07:00

It's been over a year since I last used my sewing machine! I recently got the urge to sew again. As my first project back into sewing I decided to make something for myself. This is pretty unusual since I'm generally making things for other people and hardly find the time to make something for myself. So, I am really happy with how well this tote turned out!

I used Anna Marie Horner's Multi-Tasker Tote pattern. And, Amy Butler fabric.

It's been finished for 2 days and has already been put to good use by accompanying my family and I on a trip to the beach.

Simple Cucumber Treat

2009-06-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd take a moment to share my favorite Summer time snack.
I assemble this simple recipe almost everyday during warm weather. It's easy, yummy and refreshing during hot Summer days.

You'll need:
1 cucumber
1/2 a lemon
2 tbs olive oil
garlic salt to taste (you can also use sea salt with fresh minced garlic)

Slice cucumber and place into bowl.
squeeze lemon juice onto cucumber slices.
add olive oil
add garlic salt
stir
enjoy

Interview with Loriann of Plumevine

2009-06-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have been a huge fan of the exquisite Plumevine jewelery for some time now. Each one is not just beautiful, but also a small reminder that there is magic all around us.

So when Loriann agreed to do an interview with me, I was eager to learn more about her!
Here it is!

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico to a third generation family of Spaniards with some Irish strands in the mix.

My childhood memories involve mostly long hours in offices. Being surrounded by desks, typewriters, photocopy machines, paper, tape, pens and all sorts of office paraphernalia. You'd be amazed just how quickly a child finds ways to entertain herself with such things.

I suppose having so much time to myself also became a wild breeding ground for the imagination. But there are also plenty of memories in sunny beaches, coastal islands and fishing trips.

It was a charming boy that got me to the other side of the world, here in the surreally beautiful land of trolls, dark winters and midnight suns.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

A misty dream world where all majestic creatures imagined reside. Something very abstract and undefined that is very akin to nature, and those qualities about nature that make us believe in magic, such as rainbows, stars, the aurora borealis, crystals, iridescent sea creatures and flowers.

Antoni Gaudi has been a massive inspiration for me as well as the Art Nouveau period, and films like The Neverending Story and The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

How/when did you get started creating your unique jewelery?

I started working with wire and beads about six years ago. I did a series called "Elemental Necklaces", which was a collection of necklaces with colours, materials and symbols that were akin to each of the four elements. I wanted to make a bridge between faeries and nature, and items of power that people could wear on a regular basis. To act as a sort of reminder of the magic of life.

Later on I took a sculpting course to try out new things and get my hands in the earth. I did some pottery until I learned about other types of clays and the wide variety of things you can do with them. That's when I started to work on the technique for my current jewellery, but the concept took about a year to put together. I wanted to present something that I absolutely loved and I suppose that took a bit long. Then Plumevine was born in 2006.

What do you enjoy doing when not making jewelry?

In order to photograph the jewellery I got a really nice camera and have really enjoyed experimenting with it. Going around and just taking pictures, feels like bringing home a goody bag, for free!

I also love delving into raw food preparation and have been enjoying yoga lately. Just recently I started to work on dolls which is really addictive! And as those who read my blog might've noticed, I have a long-standing affinity for astrology.

You may find Plumevine on the web at: Plumevine.com
My blog "Naiad Dawns" can be found through: Naiad Dawns
Plumevine is also on Facebook for quick updates, at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Plumevine/69710423366

Stamp Carving Class

2009-06-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to be teaching my very first stamp carving class at Pleasant Memories in Dublin, CA next Friday! The class is at 11am. And, if anyone is interested in joining in there are a few spots open still.

I've created kits that include everything you need to get started carving your own stamps (I'll soon have the kits available in my Etsy shop too!)
A select few of my stamps (a couple of my best sellers) are also available at Pleasant Memories now too!

!!Winner!!

2009-06-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

I had planned on accompanying this post with photos of myself cutting names out, folding them up, and having my oldest son pull one out of a jar.
All of that did happen, I assure you, but the batteries in my camera ran out of juice and refused to let me take even one last picture!

None the less, the winner of the giveaway has been chosen!

And the winner is........Wabisabinaturals

Thanks to everyone who left such kind comments. They were really appreciated by both myself and Mary Ann!

And, If you didn't win, not to worry! This was just the first of many giveaways I plan to do on my blog!!

Fairy Garden Update

2009-06-04T19:28:00.001-07:00

Now that Summer is in full swing my little garden has transformed a bit. I thought I'd share a few pictures I took a couple of weeks ago (yes, a couple weeks ago! With moving and trying to keep up with orders I hadn't found the time until now to share these! Thankfully this garden is actually located in my mother's yard, so the move didn't effect my keeping up with it!)

The Chamomile has taken over the space and seems to be really happy in this shady little corner of the yard. They've turned into giant bushes of delicate, fragrant flowers. And, although it's not visible from the photo, I'm happy to report that the maidenhair fern has begun to grow. Which tells me that my uprooting it, chopping it down to just a few stems and replanting over a few feet didn't kill it! Sadly, I can not say the same for the passionflower vine. It died soon after I transplanted it.

So, I didn't get as much planted here as I'd hoped. I wanted to add some ferns in the back, and maybe a stepping stone or two. I'll call it a work in progress, as are many things in my life....

Interview with Mary Ann Hudson of Rumpos (and GiveAway!)

2009-05-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to share this interview with a very talented designer of childrens playscapes. Her creations are unique and inspire the imagination of the young an d old alike.

Tell us a bit about yourself

My name is Mary Ann Hudson and I am getting ready to celebrate my 10th wedding anniversary with my nerdy husband, Matt. We have a hilarious two-year-old son, Gus, who inspires us to use our imaginations every single day. My husband and I are originally from the midwest, but consider ourselves pacificwest for a a few years to complete graduate programs and are planning to return home to the rain and sea afterwards.

How did you get started creating your unique playscapes?

A dear friend wanted one for her super magical daughter, and though I had been making mostly clothes and quilts up to that point, her request really resonated with me. It makes sense, really--as a kid I was always making tiny worlds. I created dioramas, built elaborate fairy houses and bird cemetaries outside, made things for my dollhouse that I would spend hours with, collected minatures. As a "grown-up" I got an MFA in poetry--another way to make tiny worlds. That first playscape I made for my friend's daughter, in many ways, wasn't my first at all--it was just the first one using the materials and skills I had available to me then. I love to plan and imagine the little playscapes, and in my head there are always particular inhabitants and kinds of magic associated with each one. Then, when I give them away or someone acquires one for their family, I imagine that they make themselves new, waiting for their recipiants to imagine life into them all over again.

As far as the creation of them, specifically, I am able to reinterpret quilting, applique, and softie-building skills. I love that I can take skills that I've learned and then, in a way, free myself from those skills by "playing" in the making of these little worlds. For example, I love piecing and creating quilting designs, but it's very precise work that requires adhering to a certain skill set. However, in the playscapes, I can free-cut designs in both two and three dimensions, put everything together as I go, and free-motion quilt according to whims of texture and organic shape. So, those good skills got me started, but the playscapes go their own direction.

What most inspires your work?

Nature and the outdoors. I feel pretty strongly that I want these items to represent what we can find in the out-of-doors and to remind children of all ages how much possibility and play there is just outside our doors. I do incorporate the human and magical-being made into the playscapes, but with a light hand. For example, I love creating a pastoral/farm scenes because all of us have a connection to farms for our food and it is something important to teach our children about--but the emphasis is still on the natural world and the water, mud, and plants. I think that it's no wonder that children and children's poets and authors have populated the natural world with magical creatures and talking animals and adventures and quests--the outdoors is the normative backdrop for big ideas, possibility, imagination, and magic. Trees and fairy rings and flower-covered hillsides are infused with beauty, possibly, and real magic simply by being what they are. I would hope that the idea that we are all gorgeous and meaningful and magical simply by the virture of being ourselves would be something every child everywhere can learn.

What are you up to when you're not creating playscapes?

I am a full-time graduate student in a pediatric nurse practitioner program--from an MFA to a science career! I found this path via volunteering and realizing, with the help of some amazing mentors, that there was a calling I couldn't ignore in service to mamas and papas and their kids. I am also a mama, a writer, and walker/explorer. Anything else you'd like to share.

I really appreciate the opportunity to share what I do and to participate in a culture of handmade. I feel really passionately about keeping my family's resources local, handmade, repurposed, recycled, and low impact and I know that more and more families feel this way everyday. I think that kids "get" these kinds of values instinctively and that every time we reinforce those integral values by introducing a handmade toy into the playroom or making something ourselves or making (beautifully) do, we are giving our kids room and love to take care of their planet and each other.

I am giving away, in honor of the opening of the camping season, my lakeside campsite playscape (pictured above)! My lovely blog hostess will explain the raffle rules and get your info to me for shipping. Even if you don't win, please visit my shop and enter 'Whimsy' in the "notes to seller" and get 10% off of your order until the end of June (or convo me for a custom listing that reflects the discount if you're not fond of paypal refunds)!

Thanks!

Please enter a comment at the bottom of this post to entered in the drawing. The winner will be chosen on June 8th at random. I will post the winner on the blog that day!

Non-Blogging

2009-05-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to write a quick update as to where I've been lately.
I have had good intentions to blog, taken many photos of my boys and my crafting, made up blog entries in my head, but just haven't had the time to get 'em out here!

My family and I are unexpectedly moving this weekend! It's been a whirlwind for the last couple of weeks.

So, I'll be back at it as soon as I'm settled in our home :-)

Xavier's Haircut

2009-04-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

We decided to give our little Xavier a haircut yesterday. The weather has been so hot, it seemed like a good idea. And, it'll grow back soon. But, before it was done I already missed his baby curls.

And, just wanted to show off my newest Scrapbook Layout!

My New Obsession

2009-04-23T19:53:00.000-07:00

I've discovered Digital Scrapbooking!
I'm super new at digital design in general, and only just got Photoshop Elements last week. But, I'm already loving how creative I can be with this medium.

I've got plans to make mini scrapbooks for the grandparents, personalized calendars, invitations, and detailed layouts to hang on the boys bedroom wall. I'm really excited to know that there is so much I can do with this skill, and am soaking up all the tutorials I can find!

Ice Cream for Breakfast

2009-04-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

That's right, you read it. My boys had ice cream for breakfast today.

We go through a lot of bananas in our house. And, I don't complain since I like my boys to eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies.

Now that the weather has begun to warm up it's a perfect time for Banana Ice Cream, and why not for breakfast? After all it's 100% vegan, raw, and Organic (as long as you use Organic bananas)

I froze about 6 pealed bananas over night, then fed them through my Champion Juicer. It really is amazing how creamy it comes out. It looks just like vanilla ice cream, complete with little flecks (look like vanilla beans, are really bits of banana seeds). Anyway, my Shep Loves it (and so does his baby brother)! It's equal to regular dairy ice cream to him, maybe a little better since he gets to watch it being made and take part in the preparation.

I added a bit of 'Raw Goji Berry & Cacao Powder Mix' to add some more healthiness and make it look and taste a bit more special.

Needless to say, the bowl was empty in no time!

Watering Can

2009-04-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

Here's my newest stamp. Just listed it in my shop this morning. And, I really love it :-)

It makes the perfect addition to Summer page lay outs, and garden inspired gift tags.

New Stamps

2009-04-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share a couple of my new stamp designs here.

I love this branch! I wanted to make one that was more realistic and detailed than my original branch design. And, once I got the sketch just right I got to carving, and came up with this little beauty. I love that it can be used to frame something, a photo, a page, or a journal entry.

I have been wanting to make a crown stamp for a long time and finally decided on the design. I made it have just the right angle so that it can be placed atop something to 'crown' it.

I'm busy working on more and will be adding them to my shop with in the week!

Sandy Bar Ranch

2009-03-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a trip to the gorgeous Klamath region of Northern CA (think Old Growth forest, a waterfall around every turn, misty mornings, and moss covering everything)

It was quite a drive from the Bay Area, but so worth it!

We spent two days at the beautiful Sandy Bar Ranch. A permaculture based farm that offers cabin rentals right on the Klamath river.

It was a wonderful time to visit. All the fruit tree were in bloom with bees buzzing about.

The boys really enjoyed themselves. The goats and chickens at the ranch were a big hit with both of them! Shepard got to feed the goats and Xavier spent a lot of time just watching the chickens pecking around in their coop.

Easy Solution for Left Over Oatmeal

2009-02-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

Here's a recipe (sort of) for those of you who have also been plagued with the question of what to do with that left over oatmeal. Since Oatmeal is such a common breakfast for my children and I during these cold and rainy Winter mornings I came up with a yummy treat that uses up that oatmeal that's left in the pot.

You'll need:

Cooked Oatmeal (I used about 4 cups worth for this recipe. I make extra now that I've come up with this treat, but you can save whatever you have left over a couple of days and plop it all in a bowl when it comes time to mix your ingredients)

Apple, Pealed and Finely Chopped (you can use a whole apple or just improvise by using the left over apple slices your kids didn't eat, that's what I did :-)

Raisins and/or Currants (I used a bit of both. And just add as many as you'd like. The more the better, in my opinion!)

Sweetener (I like to use a bit of honey or maple syrup. But, not much is needed since the raisins and apples add sweetness)

Cinnamon (I used about a tablespoon full)

An Appropriately Sized Glass Baking Dish (Buttered)

Heat your oven to 350. Mix all ingredients and spread into the baking dish. You may wish to add a few small dollops of butter to the top to help it crisp up a bit. Bake, uncovered, for about an hour (maybe more, maybe less depending on the thickness of your mixture) You'll know it's done when it looks pretty dry on top and feels firm to the touch. I like to serve it warm, right out of the oven, but I'm sure it will keep well in the refrigerator for a few days.

If anyone decides to give this a try I'd love to hear comments on how it comes out! And, let me know if you come up with any variations, I'd love some ideas for what else I could add!

Transforming a Wardrobe part 1

2009-02-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

I'm a believer that most of us, as humans are a work-in-progress. Everyone's at their own level, on their own path.
Well, I definitely consider myself one, in many ways.

One being my choice of dress.

I don't see clothing so much as 'fashion' and what's 'in style', at leatst not for me. I see clothing as something that takes part in who a person is, or maybe even help them become who they want to be.

Okay, so maybe it's not that deep, but I have this ideal picture in my mind of who I am, or who I am becoming, and she sure doesn't wear the uninspired, boring, mass produced attire I happen to be wearing most days. Here's an example:

I want to wear clothing that means something. Made by myself or other hand crafters. Functional, beautiful clothing. Is that so much to ask?

I'll share some inspiration and ideas now

I've had my eye on this skirt for months. It is made my etsy seller New Extrave. And, it's just about perfect, made of natural fabric, beautiful and functional. This may just be my first purchase toward my new wardrobe.

This top is pretty great too. Made by another Etsy shop that's a favorite of mine, Gaia Conceptions. I love most everything in her shop. The clothing is simple, beautiful, and made using eco-friendly and organic fabrics.

I'll be adding new posts soon, with pictures of the items I've added to my new wardrobe. I have some big plans for things I'll make myself as well as items I plan to buy from others.

I think in the end I want the things I wear on the outside to convey who I am on the inside...maybe that's it, I guess my clothes already do that, just not in the way I want...I'm in transition, and it shows!

A Fairy Garden

2009-02-09T13:47:00.001-08:00

I'll definitely have to call these the 'Before' pictures, since this little garden looks a bit drab. But, before this it was a tangled mess of Maiden Hair fern and decoposing leaves.

I've tamed the fern and removed the leaves in hopes of adding some beauty to the space, and to attract a few butterflies and bees to our yard. And, if a fairy or two would choose to grace us with her presense then all the better.
Though, if these etheric beings truely do exist I'm affraid they wouldn't enjoy spending time near freeways (which is what's on the other side of that giant gray wall) But, I wont give up hope.

In the Spring the Maiden Hair will spread over the arch along with the Passion Flower vine (if she makes it, she's a tiny vine right now) The chamomile, that was planted just this morning, will bloom and fill the air with her calming scent. The miniature rose bushes will bloom with their pink blossoms. And, the velvety pansies, that my sweet Shepard (he's pictured with the garden) picked out from the garden shop for me, will grow and add their delicate beauty to my little garden.

Yes, I have quite high hopes in fact for this humble little garden.

I'll be sure to add the 'After' pictures when this space grows a bit.
And, if a fairy is spotted among the blooms I'll add that too.

Apronology

2009-02-07T19:20:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce that one of my creations has been featured in the wonderfully imaginative Apronology publication. It's filled to the brim with whimsical aprons for any occasion.

Here's a peak at the apron I made for the magazine:

I had a wonderful time designing and constructing this apron.

If you'd like to learn to make an apron just like this one check out Apronology for yourself!

Patterns Patterns Patterns

2009-01-21T13:21:00.000-08:00

For years I've been making lots of cute fruits and veggies. they're so fun to make and fun for little ones to play with.

I finally took my scribbled notes and turned them into official patterns.
I'm adding new ones to my shop everyday, and have more ideas up my sleeve of patterns to create.

Xavier's Homebirth

2008-11-05T17:18:00.000-08:00

This is a little late I know, since my baby is now just over 1 year old. But, everybody loves a good birth story, right!
So here's mine (my most recent that is):

and just for fun, here's my favorite pregnancy photo
Shepard and I are both showing off our bellies

I started having mild contractions early in the day on Oct.2. They were really sporadic and didn't last long, but I was still excited and had the feeling my little one would be coming soon!

Around 7 or 8pm my husband and I took our older son to my mom's to stay the night there since I was starting to have stronger contractions and knew it would be that night.

I sat around waiting for things to get stronger for a couple hours (drank my super strong raspberry leaf tea. It tasted horrible, but I managed to swallow about a cup and a half)

Around 11 or 11:30 I decided to get into the birth pool 'cause I was bored and wanted labor to start. And, that it did! The contractions started getting stronger and closer together right away, and kept progressing. I had David time them when I was really feeling things happening, and they were 5 minutes apart, so I told him to call my midwife. He did, and she was on her way.

here I am about an hour before he was born. Can you believe I'm still smiling!?

Right before my midwife got there I started feeling like my body needed to push. So I did. I was so surprised at how fast it was all happening! When she got there she talked me through the contractions, 2 I think. Then, when she was in my kitchen getting supplies ready I felt his head coming down. I told David, who was sitting beside the birth pool, holding my hand. And, with a look of shock he yelled to her.

Even with how intense I appeared David still thought I was kind of exaggerating, since I was pushing for a couple hours with our first son. But not this time!
So, I pushed my tiny guy out and my midwife placed him on my chest.

Here we are right after he was born

My sweet Xavier was born at 1:08am, and I actually got some sleep that night!

This was an awesome birth experience. I was in active labor for only about 2 hours.

And, I have to mention that I attribute much of the ease of this birth with the herbs I used during pregnancy, labor and after the baby was born. I drank lots of raspberry leaf/nettle tea during the last 3 months of my pregnancy, during labor, and after. And used Blue and Black Cohosh the day that I went into labor (one is known to soften the cervix, the other is known to begin labor, and that they did!)

Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun Weed, was the book that really helped me.

2008-11-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

Free shipping on Everything in my shop all this week!

And, I've listed lots of new items!

Fall is Coming....

2008-09-14T13:16:00.000-07:00

Living here in the Central Valley of California the weather is still telling me it's Summer, with the cloudless sunny days and balmy nights.
But, I've switched over to Autumn mode. It may have been the pumpkin display at my local grocery store that got me excited and ready for the new season. But, I'm ready to throw on a cozy scarf and hat.

Autumn is one of my favorite times of year (a close second to Spring).
I'll be adding new things to my shop in the weeks to come that are inspired by this season of vibrant colors and rich fragrances.

Not to mention, for some reason I've got this urge to make spice cakes and pumpkin muffins...

I've been Published!

2008-09-01T17:38:00.001-07:00

This month's issue of Belle Armoire magazine features an article written by myself! I'm so excited to be in this stylish magazine. If you'd like tio read my article and get the basic pattern for my crocheted crowns pick up a copy at your local craft or book store.

Those are my crowns and slippers

Back to Mt Shasta

2008-09-01T16:27:00.000-07:00

It's the end of Summer and just the right time for a mini vacation. So, on a whim, David and I decided to head for the hills (or the Mountains that is). We packed up the kids and whatever we could fit in the car and drove to Mt. Shasta. If you've read my blog before you'll remember my affinity for this little town and it's looming Mountain. And, it didn't disappoint on this trip.

We visited a few of the local points of interest. There are so many beautiful places around the area it was hard to chose which to go to.

Castle lake was an 8 mile drive up into the mountains and was so beautiful and serene.
It is known as a 'true alpine lake'.
We took a short hike beside the lake on a rocky trail. And, the boys played in the crystal clear water. It was so quiet and peaceful.

We also went to lake Siskiyou, here's the boys enjoying the water there.

It was a great few days. I loved spending time in nature with my family, and breathing in the fresh air!

Adventures in Wet Felting

2008-08-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

I've taken the plunge! After admiring and reading about wet felting for what seems like ages now I've finally given it a go. And I must say I'm impressed with myself. Either I'm some kind of amazingly crafty lady who can master any medium in no time, or wet felting is a pretty simple craft. Well, maybe it's a little of each!

I'm way too new at this to start giving tutorials, but here's a few pictures of how I created a leaf pouch (which isn't finished yet, btw)

Here's my fibers all laid out, ready to be wet down:

Here's the leaf starting to come together:

And, here's a picture of all the felting I did today, including the leaf in the above pictures:

So, I'm pretty excited about this wet felting experience. I've got lots and lots of ideas for things to felt up! There's just not enough time in the day!

Look what I got:

2008-08-05T14:29:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with this group of supplies I've got here. They came from Freckle Face Fibers, and Rosie Pink, both fellow Etsy sellers.
I had to set them up and take an official photo, since they are the basis for the new project I am working on for an apron publication. You'll have to wait until February to see the final manifestation of these scrumptious fibers (that's when the magazine will be published), but I'll be posting teasers here once in a while because I just can't keep this one all to myself for that long ;-)

My First Front page Feature on Etsy!

2008-08-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

Yay! There's my little pumpkin stamp in the bottom corner, there. I know that the photo is grainy and weird, but I just had to commemorate the event by taking a picture of my computer screen :-)

RosiePink: Amazingly Felted Goodies

2008-07-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

rosiepink is a mum and daughter venture, born of a desire to create beautiful textile items.

Lyn:
My name's Lyn and I'm mum. I was born in Southampton on the south coast of England in the UK. I still live there with my husband and I’m also lucky to have my parents living with me in their retirement. I work part-time in a small library which is an ideal job for me as I’m an avid reader.
As a child I was taught to sew, embroider, knit and crochet and when my children were young, sewing and knitting was an economical way of clothing the family, so the skills were used in a utilitarian way - not as a hobby.
Annie:
I'm Annie and I'm daughter. I live in Bournemouth (also on the South Coast of England) with my husband. Until two years ago I was employed as a computer programmer but I finally realised that the pressure and being in an office all day didn’t suit me at all and I gave it up to pursue making our small business dreams a reality.
I love all kinds of arts and crafts including machine and hand embroidery, crochet, knitting, painting, sewing – anything colourful with lots of texture always grabs my eye.

Both:
Home for us is the south coast of England and we are lucky enough to be able to walk on the beach or take a stroll in the New Forest where the colours and textures all around us are a constant source of inspiration. Back in the workroom time flies - an hour can seem like a few minutes because the process of creation is so absorbing and fulfilling for us.
We are basically lifelong crafters with a love of all things textiles and fibre, and we began our adventures in feltmaking several years ago when we attended a one day feltmaking workshop – we were hooked right from the start and couldn’t wait to learn more. Now, feltmaking is our main passion. We love to combine our felt with other fabrics and hand and free machine embroidery to create unique pieces – stitching on felt gives such beautiful textures. We also like to use lots of inclusions in our work e.g. hand dyed scrim, yarns, silks and sparkly bits.We love anything and everything art and craft and enjoy mixing up techniques and different media, especially in picture making.

As well as making items to sell we also sell wool tops and our hand-dyed fabrics for feltmaking. Our artwork is currently available for sale at a local gallery. The next part of our plan is to create lots more beautiful, sunny felt pictures which we will write about on our blog and also will list for sale at Etsy.

Rosie Pink Etsy shop

Rosie Pink Blog

Banana Treats

2008-07-15T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1 banana, chopped
raisins
creamy peanut butter

Here's a fun, healthy recipe that we've been making with Shepard for a while now. Now, 3 1/2 years old, he's been able to assemble these treats completely for over 6 months. Of coarse the bananas are a little lop-sided and the peanut butter is messier than necessary, but he takes great care to place 1 raisin atop each peanut buttered banana slice. So, if you've got little ones at home give this one a try and let me know how they like it!

I love Mt Shasta

2008-07-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

My boys and I spent the 4th of July weekend with family, in the little town of Mt. Shasta CA, way up north in the fresh mountain air.
I really do love it there. With the mountain looming in the distance, overlooking the town, it has such a majestic presence. There is so must natural beauty all around this place. And the little town is quaint and homey.

I took lots of pictures so I thought I'd share them here.

We took lots of walks and Shepard got to feed horses for the first time. We fed them dry grass that was growing everywhere.

And, I just have to share these. I got Shepard a red balloon at a festival we went to. I heard him behind me making lots of noise, and I see him thrashing around with his balloon.

He was having a blast, and didn't stop for a few minutes, long enough for me to snap a few pictures.
I got to see a great performance too. The people who do it travel in a purple bus that runs on vegetable oil. And, they make beautiful sustainable clothes and accessories.

Here we are in the chilly creek that runs through the town park. The water was so fresh and clean, with so many green and lush plants surrounding it.

But, we really spent most of our time at my uncle's house, playing on his giant front lawn and sitting in the shade of the
tall trees.

Who's Hungry?

2008-07-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you've read my previous post and taken a look at my Etsy shop recently you are well aware of my current love of stamp carving! I just can't stop!

I love fruits and veggies, and I'm always thinking of a new aid to encourage the family to eat lots of them. So that is part of the reason that I decided to create a series of fruit and veggie stamps. It started with the cherries, pear and apple and just keeps growing.

My current favorite is the salad set, but the carrot is a close second.

I haven't decide what to make next, but I'm sure the 'fruit and veggie series' hasn't stopped here, all I need is a little inspiration and I'll have another yummy stamp to add the the bunch!

Hand Carving Stamps: My New Obsession!

2008-06-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I learned that I could carve my own stamps using rubber blocks and simple carving tools (Both available for your local craft supply store, for me that's 'Michaels')! Maybe it's partly because carving the stamps takes me back to my childhood days of cutting and scraping designs into my school erasers.
It's really enjoyable to create a stamp using my own drawings. I've got so many ideas, these are just a few of my first designs. Check out my Etsy Shop if you'd like to see my newest designs.

I highly recommend stamp carving to those of you who are crafty types. If you would like to learn more there is a plethora of information on the web, here's a place to start: Ruthann's Soft-Block Carving

Anthemis nobilis

2008-06-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

Chamomile is said to be one of the oldest favorites amongst garden herbs and it's got quite the reputation as a medicinal plant. It is considered a tonic, achic, anodyne and antispasmodic. And, can be prepared as a decoction, an infusion, and an extract.

To my delight this unassuming and delicate beauty grows wild in my back yard.

I haven't done much but admire it yet. But, I'm looking forward to drinking lots of soothing tea, and soaking my hair in it. Chamomile tea is said to make hair shiny and enhance natural highlights (I'll let you know if it does).

And contact me if you would like some of your own seeds I'd be happy to send you some, so you can have this little cuties in your own yard!

Movin' Day

2008-06-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone says this, but I can't believe how much Stuff we have!! I mean, not until I had to pack it all in boxes did I realize how much there is. Even with Garage sales, donating, selling on Craigslist and giving things to family and friends we still filled up the entire moving truck!
I'm glad it's all over (well, not really since not everything has been unpacked yet.) Just thought I'd share a couple pictures with you.

Interview with Liane of Nature Child

2008-06-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

I love needle felting. Such imaginative creations are possible with simply a bit of wool. Of coarse one's imagination is the most important part. Laine of Nature Child has quite the imagination. I have admired her little creations for some time now, and thought it would be fun to learn about the artist who creates such whimsical figures. Here is an interview with her:

Tell us a little about yourself
O.k. before I start you must know that english is not my native language and it`s really hard to find the right words, but I will try: My name is Liane. I live in a little village in Bavaria in the south-east of Germany. It`s a very idyllic valley with a little river, where you can go to swim in the summer and much forest around with mushrooms, elves and fairies and what ever you like to see. It's the place where I was grown up in a big patchwork family. A family with very contrasting persons, but they had something in common: the interest in art, music and the nature. That all rubbed off on me. After a wild youth, that was the time I met my husband (my soulmate) and a short time later we got our first child, I calmed down. And now, I live here with my husband, our three children (4,10,16) and a lot of animals in an old house with a very, very big garden.

How and when did you begin creating needle felted art?
It was a long way to find this kind of art. Since I was a little child I liked to make things with my hands. I began many things. At first I wanted to go on a artist school but my first child was born and she was more important for me, then I helped my father in his work- shop and I restored antique furniture. After the birth of my second daughter I was fascinated by making tattoos and I taught it to me by myself and opened my own tattoo studio. Then we bought our house and and got our third daughter and I had no time for my work anymore. One time I was in my favourite toyshop, which has only things made of natural materials and I saw a small packet with wonderful coloured sheep's wool and I bought it. At home I noticed that I didn`t know what to do with it, but the wool smelt so good and it felt so warm and I decided that I wanna do something with it. In that shop I found a book of dwarfs, fairies and other figures made of sheep's wool and I was impressed and bought it. At the same time I should make something for the christmas bazaar for the montessori school my daughter went to. I felted some of the figures from the book and it was a really satisfying work to do. The people liked it and I was happy. Then I tried to make figures in my own way and I found much more delight in felting than before. During felting it seems to me the little creatures begin to live and in thought I ask them which colour should have the dress or the hair. How whimsical. Now I do felting since three and a half years, and I love it! It`s a great feeling to know that a little baby is lying under my bee mobile and is having fun with it.

What are some things that inspire your creations?
The wonderful coloured wool. You can make so different things out of it, look on etsy and you can see all the beautiful things. The nature. I like to watch the bees and butterflies and other little animals. Of course seeing the flowers or running through the forest is very inspiring. Music is a much important implemental to get in the right mood. I like to hear celtic or irish music, but sometimes I need other kind of music, Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Frusciante, Apocalyptica or...Sometimes it's very stimulantly for me to listen to talking books. And so it`s no wonder when the spring fairie is getting a little big tush when I'm listen to Diana Gabaldon`s great story. I also like to read or hear stories from the dark ages or fantasy tales by Marion Zimmer-Bradley or watch movies by Tim Burton (I really like his helices), Richard Carpenter (Robin Hood). I also get inspired of my children, Cicely Mary Barker, Buddha and God.

Would you like to share anything else with us?
For the future I hope to find more time to do felting and realize my ideas. At this point I wanna say thank you to all the people who helped me to do my work: my husband for his patience and help with the computer and the translation, my children for her truthful review and to give my life a deep meaning. My friend Silvia, she told me about etsy and she emboldened me to offer my work there. My parents to make me sensitive for the nature and doing things with my own hands. The people from etsy for their really great idea and work. All the people who liked or purchased my works, I never got so many compliments. And of course to you, Jessica for your interest in my person and work. You have a great blog and you do really beautiful work. I wish you and everyone love & peace & hope & power.

Precious Feet

2008-05-29T19:36:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love an adorable pair of baby booties? Not me, that's for sure.
So when I found a pattern for the perfect little mary janes I immediately wanted to make them. My mind started reeling with color combinations, and embellishment ideas.

Here are a few of my first pairs. I just love how they've turned out! I will definitely be making more of these cuties, since I've still got lots of ideas to bring to life.

Interview with Katie of Flutterby Designs

2008-05-29T15:46:00.000-07:00

I have been intrigued with all things faerie since I was a child. I'm always on the look out for amazing faerie wings. The wings that Katie, of FlutterBy Design creates are just that. Here's a short interview I had the pleasure of receiving from her.

Tell us a bit about yourself
My names Katie or aka Button and I live in Devon which is in the South West of England for those of you who don't know. It's a gorgeous place and I think I'm lucky to live so close to Cornwall too as it too is beautiful. I live with my boyfriend, my boyfriends sister, my sister, my best friend and my gorgeous little house rabbit Cooper so it's a full house which I love. I grew up on the outskirts of Exeter in a big old house with lots of my family; Mum & Dad, 2 sisters, 2 aunts, 2 uncles, grandparents and 4 cousins ooooh and lots of animals such as dogs, cats, parrots, koi carp, rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils and hamsters.

When and how did you get started making faerie wings?
I started making faerie wings in 2005 after my friend suggested it. We were planning our trip to The Big Chill festival that summer and she really wanted some fairy wings. After spending many hours searching she decided that she didn't like the mass produced boring ones and asked me to make her some as she knew that I was creative. I've always had a passion for all things fairy being a massive Brian and Wendy Froud fan since I saw The Labyrinth when I was little. So the idea of making some fairy wings really excited me. I excepted the challenge and that's where it all started. After the amazing response I had from my first pair I didn't stop. Since then I have enjoyed making them in my spare time (it's my main hobby) but I have also loved making custom designed pairs for weddings, hen do's and parties to tight deadlines as I love the challenge.

What inspires you?
What inspires me? Many things such as (mentioned before) Brian & Wendy Froud, Tim Burton, the sunshine, Etsy - love some of the unique clothes on there, the countryside, the fact that I feel like a little girl still, my family and friends, music, festivals, fabric shops - I love them!!!. I love fantasy art work and films such as Legend, The Dark Crystal, all Tim Burton films because they are just stunning. I don't find it too hard to be inspired as I truly love playing around with wire but if I do feel like I am lacking inspiration then I'll watch Corpse Bride or The Labyrinth or I'll listen to some happy music and that usually gets me in the mood.

What do you do when you're not creating wings?
When I'm not making wings I love to belly dance (you get to wear gorgeous spangly clothes and dance around with lots of happy ladies), spend time with little Cooper who's a dude, play on my DS, watch a film and eat pizza with my boyfriend or (at present); planning what summer festivals to go to!

I'm just so happy that I found this as a hobby as before I started to make my wings I was at a bad place and really quite down. Now I am so much happier and actually feel like I've achieved something, I think my Dad would be proud. I often get excited when I go to bed at night because I can't wait for the next day to begin. When someone buys my wings I get the nicest feeling and feel totally overwhelmed. I still get as excited now as I did when I sold my first pair. I am honoured that I was asked to be a part of Jessica's blog.
P.S. Shhhhh....... *whispers* faeries are real:O)

Flutterby Designs

Enchanted Slippers Pattern

2008-05-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

Enchanted Children’s Slippers

Size: 4-6 toddler shoe

Supplies:

1 Skein Worsted weight yarn
1 yd. Hand Dyed Silk Ribbon or ribbon of your choice.

Note: Pattern is made to fit size 4-6 shoe (toddler size) but can be modified to fit other sizes.

Make two:

Ch 3, join to form ring
Ch 1, 6 SC into ring, join (with Slip Stitch) to first SC
Ch 1, 2 SC into each SC around. Join to first SC (12)
Ch 1, 2 SC in first SC, 1 SC in next, cont. around. Join to first SC (18)
1 SC in each SC around, until there are 8 rows (counting from very first round)
Ch 1, turn, 1 SC in each of next 12 stitches.
Ch 1, turn…cont. 1 SC in each, and turn, for12 rows.
Ch 1, turn Crochet 2 together, SC one, to end.
Ch 1, turn Crochet 2 together to end
Bind off. Weave in end.

Cut the ribbon in half and weave each piece through the slippers to use for lacing them up.

Note: to make skid proof apply dots of fabric paint to the bottom of each slipper.

Feel free to contact me if you have questions while making these little slippers. And I'd love to see pictures of the ones you make

DeStash

2008-05-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

My family and I are moving in two weeks! That will be here before I know it!! So, I've been Destashing like crazy. I can't even believe how much craft stuff I have. There's just no way I can keep it all since we're downsizing considerably.

It's actually kind of fun finding these treasures to pass along to others who will use them. I have a stack of vintage craft magazines from the 60's. It's pretty funny to read what 'respectable ladies' were supposed to be interested in back then. These magazines were passed down to me from my late grandmother who must have read them thoroughly since she was a talented seamstress and definitely a respectable lady.