Iggy Jingles Crafts

Treasure alert

2012-01-16T18:11:00.000-08:00

My Romantic gift tags - which would be lovely for any kind of romantic gift - have been featured in a pretty treasury. The sweet items are all about love and romance, and there are some gorgeous dolls in it too.

By the way the cardstock in the background is printed with The Wedding March - how about using them for your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen gifts? Need more coordinating gift tags? Please convo me on Etsy or email.

Early for Friday

2012-01-11T22:18:00.000-08:00

Testing out a new graphics progam. I like all the fonts it comes with.

Friday Sketch - Journaling, ephemera

2012-01-06T17:09:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you only have one photo, and a collection of ephemera, from an event, but a nice story to tell. I'd use some of the ephemera as a textural background element - maybe the brochure or the map from the location - as part of the background. Maybe I would make a pocket to hold some tickets, receipts or similar items peeking out. And of course I'd layer papers. I'd always layer papers.

New Dream Star Dolls in my Etsy Store

2012-01-05T02:01:00.000-08:00

Gallery 9 is taking a break from having dolls in their gallery store in favor of some more masculine items - so I'm free to list all my inventory on my Etsy store. Yippee! Stay tuned over the next few days for more dolls.

Commission Work-In-Progress

2011-12-14T14:19:00.000-08:00

I am really rather proud of this doll - an Erte inspired purple Dream Star Doll being made on commission. She's nearly done, although I had a couple of days when I couldn't do too much because of the wretched flu. But I'm back working now, and she is looking beautiful, if I do say so myself. I'm especially happy with her face.

Today I'm doing her beaded and embroidered skirts, and I expect to be putting her all together by Friday for mailing. Did I mention that I've been using the ScraPerfect Embellie Gellie to help with the beading. It really makes a remarkable amount of difference in the speed of the process.

Glass beads and faux freshwater pearls

Uptown Report, and a decision.

2011-12-04T01:52:00.000-08:00

Well, after two days at the Uptown Village Market, I have come home with one commission (yay), a small amount of cash, but all the art dolls I took with me other than the big seller, Wish Dolls. I stayed up late last night (Friday) making a second batch, and I'm glad I did because they all went.

My stall, Roya's spot and Sacred Waters Soaps (sorry about the blurry)

The organizers are to be commended for keeping their promises. The vendors actually were all wonderful artisans and higher end local crafters. There were no mass market imports or factory made items amongst the sellers, and a quite a few fine artists selling prints and originals. I count myself in that group of fine artists. They gave us tickets for drinks both days, and lunch on Saturday.

The organizers promised a mix of products, limiting the number of each type of offering. While it is true that there were plenty of jewelry makers from which to make a selection, they were all of different styles, and the fair didn't feel like every other booth was beaded jewelry, as some do.

The organizers promised huge crowds, and they delivered on that too. They stopped counting on Friday evening when it got very busy, but they estimated a good 2000 people spilled over from the "First Friday" art walk and came in to sip wine, enjoy the carolers, and peruse the art.

Saturday had fewer people, but more actual shoppers. The people that said they would be back to me, came back and made their purchases, which was delightful. The store next to me, selling sooooo soft faux fur and pretty printed fabric infinity scarves did a great business both days. I think their success can be attributed to having the right product, an easy- to-wear accessory, with a consistent on-trend aesthetic, and the right price point for the crowd. Their booth was never quiet. They were making money through the lower cost/high volume method, which works at craft fairs. (Why can't I find her card, darn it!)

More sellers!

I wish I could report that Uptown Village Market was as successful for me, but I can't. And I have no-one to blame but myself. I misjudged the demographic and the affluence of the shoppers. I expected a more mature, art buying crowd. Accordingly I brought my high end stuff. What I didn't expect to see, especially on the late Friday evening, was the number of families with young children. Poor research on my part!

I bet if had made 100 Either Way Dolls, my kid's item, instead of focusing on Dream Star Dolls, I could have sold them all, even at $8 each/2 for $15 price point. This is the first time I have been at a craft fair and not sold at least one or two Dream Star Dolls. My sales stats did not hold, with many fewer sales per visitor than in the past.

On the other hand, the emotional response to my dolls, the admiration accorded them, especially the Bead Head dolls, was gratifying to say the least. People loved hearing "Journey's story". They read the blurb about "Miss Tick". They spent time looking at all the dolls, picking them up and being very curious. But they weren't the right group to buy them as fine figurative soft sculptures.

In the end, after booth fees, and adding up the gas (not much really) my profit on the event is barely more than $100. If I intend to do craft fairs, I have to make more money than pennies, which means making Either Way Dolls en mass which kids do love, and Wish Dolls, which people do enjoy very much because they are a cute concept. But they aren't anywhere near as much fun for me as the Art Dolls which are one of my outlets for self expression. Plus they still would come out to less than minimum wage per hour per doll.

The time away from my family and other concerns, the stress, the hauling, the initial outlay for booth fees - it's no longer worth it to me to sell my art that way. So I will not be doing any more craft fairs for the foreseeable future. My dolls will continue to be available through the Gallery 9, as long as they wish to host them, and Etsy. To unschoolers, who love my dolls, yes I will continue to make Either Way Dolls for Etsy and conferences.

However my desire, my yearning, the images I am seeing in my head for art dolls that are calling me to make them - these are for major, larger scale works. I have dreams of making a 6 foot tall cloth Dream Doll built over a forged iron armature. I still have plans for a whole series of plarn crochet figures, with a message. These are large scale works, suitable for public exhibition and public spaces - the foyers of buildings, corporate offices, permanent collections.

I am going to devote my professional time to my educational publishing project, so that I will have the wherewithal, the space and the opportunity to take my art out of the craft fair level, and into the public art sphere.

For anyone considering joining an Uptown Village Market event in Bixby Knolls in the future - and they are planning a summer sale - they are an upstanding group. Buy the electricity and bring extra lighting for your booth. The spaces are just that - not all have walls. Bring a range of products that are visual and unusual, including a couple of eye catchers, but have the bulk of your price points $25 and under. Have stuff that appeals to young women and kids, with "stocking stuffers" that are cute and appealing.

Erte Inspired Dolls available for the first time.

2011-11-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

I have decided to offer a pair of very special Dream Star Dolls for sale this weekend at Uptown Village Market.

This pair of one of a kind dolls were made for a contest and show, with the theme of Art Nouveau. I based the designs on the beautiful figurative sculptures and costume & fashion illustrations of Erte. My mother had a collection of illustrated plates with his designs that she treasured.

Both dolls are heavily encrusted with beading, and have custom made beaded skirts. The fabrics are reclaimed vintage and the faces are of course individually hand painted.

One is white and gold with a beautiful swirled beading and swoosh shaped skirts. The other is a darker foliage inspired with exotically shaped petals and hanging beads. Both have yarn hair and paper beads. I'm pricing them at $60 and $70 respectively.

I should add that the dolls did win blue ribbons for artistry.

More Uptown Dolls

2011-11-30T16:25:00.000-08:00

...for your viewing pleasure.

Three more beautiful one of a kind in a series Dream Star Dolls that will be available at the Uptown Village Market in a mere 2 days. Cost for a unique and gorgeous gift: $50 (+ tax).

Here is Believe Zodiac, with beautiful silver charms and lively zodiac print fabric. She looks out serenely on the world with azure eyes. Her hair is adorned with blue paper beads wrapped in cording - lots of fun.

Follow Your Heart Paisley wears rose petals and ribbon roses on her skirt. Her body is made from a vintage wool blend paisley twill that I love. Her wavy edged paper beads, wrapped in cording, remind me of cork (but they aren't!). Her charm reads "Follow Your Heart", and offers the good advice to "Love Life, Live Life" on the other.

Homespun Gingham is made from this wonderful black and brown woven gingham that I found in my late mother's stash. She is full of love and hearts - sequinned and felt. Her charms include more copper hearts and a pewter cup. Tea or coffee? You decide. She has a lovely country cottage feel - and not too much makeup.

Hope I see you at Uptown Village Market!

Dream Star Dolls Going Uptown

2011-11-29T17:38:00.000-08:00

Here is the first batch of Dream Star Art Dolls for the Uptown Village Market. Each is one-of-a-kind in a series.

Green Batik

My beautiful beaded 8 1/2 inch Dream Star Dolls appeal to people on an emotional level. Somehow, magically, you will be drawn to one. I can't predict which doll you will like - it just happens. You will just feel called to her. You will pick her up, turn her over in your hands and enjoy the soft hair, the little surprises of the paper beads or the charms. Sometimes the words on some of the charms will be the clincher. I never know which will be claimed first. But somehow they all eventually go out into the world to inspire dreams of beauty.

Bright Batik

Some people keep them on their mantels, others by their bedside. Lots of people tell me they keep theirs beside their computer. Maybe you will tell her your troubles, or just feel grateful that there are beautiful things and beautiful people all around you.

Orange Lady Charms

Maybe you will see one and immediately be reminded of someone special in your life - someone beloved. Maybe the doll is calling to you to take her to that person, to be their totem. My dolls make gorgeous and very unique gifts - you won't find the same doll twice.

Cerulean Blue

They will be presented at Uptown Village Market for $50.00 (+ tax).

Japanese themed One of a Kind Art Dolls Preview

2011-11-29T16:57:00.000-08:00

Here are the two gorgeous Asian themed Dream Dolls (14") with Kabuki mask faces.

The first is a Kimono doll with charms and flowers ornamenting her dressed hair. She is made from a selection of new Asian printed quilters cottons, while her obi is silk from a reclaimed vintage kimono. Her kimono is lined with vintage silk.

Her friend is wearing Shinto inspired wrap pants of a linen blend and a Shinto style headdress - a wrapped pony tail with flowered headband. I was so happy with the beading, which includes mother of pearl shell beads.

Despite the vividness of their face paint, I get quite a serene feeling when I look at these two girls. I rather love them, and I hope they will inspire dreamy thoughts . I'd love to see them go to their new home as a pair - but destiny will determine that.

The Asian Inspired lovelies will be presented at Uptown Village Market for $90.00 (+ tax) each.

Shop Handmade For the Holidays at Craft Fairs.

2011-11-29T15:06:00.000-08:00

As you know, I'm going to be at Uptown Village Market in Booth 45 (Top Left of map), as is my good friend Royaboya - Friday Dec 2 (5-10pm), Saturday Dec 3 (10am-4pm) in Long Beach.

Meanwhile my other friend, Studio Litha, will be selling her gorgeous Art Sock Monkeys at a backyard craft fair, Saturday Dec 10 (3-7pm) in Torrance. These are not your usual mass produced critters.

Fairy Sock Monkey by StudioLitha

Work in Progress Teaser

2011-11-25T15:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some WIP shots of some of the Dream Star dolls I am making especially for Uptown Village Market next Friday and Saturday.

The Kimono and Shinto style pants for the one of a kind Dream Dolls have worked out very well.

The Dream Star dolls will be $50 with bonus doll stand (while supplies last) while the gorgeous Dream Dolls (14 inches tall with wire armatures) will be $75 including stand.

Also available will be a new batch of Wish Dolls, which make a sweet gift and few other bits and pieces. I'm hoping to have some original collage art mini-canvases ready too.

BTW, check out the review about to be posted on my Dolls: Crafting and Collecting blog about the very beautiful "Embroider Everything Workshop" by Diana Rupp. In summary - a great resource for beginner embroiderers!

Martha Stewart Scoreboard Card Ornaments

2011-11-23T14:20:00.000-08:00

My most recent web column for Natural Life Magazine includes a tutorial for making circle based ornaments out of old holiday cards with scissors and a bone folder. Here's how I use my beautiful Martha Stewart Scoreboard and a Recollections Three inch circle punch to make it just that much easier and FAST. Rather addictive actually!

Here are the tools. Best Glue Ever dries very fast. Use sparingly.

Trim off excess as needed to center the image you like.

Three inch round. You need 6 or 8.

Place your round flush to the top left corner.

Score at the half-inch mark.

Score again at the 2.5 inch mark.

Fold up one score line. Turn the circle 90 degrees. Place the fold flush against the rim of the Scoreboard.

Score again at 2.5 inch mark.

Score again at half-inch mark.

Fold all four sides upwards (towards right side).

Here are some more cut and folded rounds.

Tiny dots of glue are all that is needed with Best Glue Ever.

Best Glue Ever dries quickly, with just finger pressure. For another white glue, some paper clips or clothes pins would clamp the segments until they dry. You could also use glue stick. Will it last as long? I don't know.

Add a hanging string. I'm using a scrap piece of card to push the string into a line of glue.

Square in circle ornaments.

Here is an alternative, making triangles with the scoreboard - so much easier than having to measure!

Place the 3 inch round flush with the top left corner as before. Score at 3/4 inch.

Spin the circle, keeping it flush with the rims, and line the score up at the 3/4 inch mark.

I've illustrated with a pencil mark for this close up.

Score at the 3/4 inch mark.

Spin the round again and line up the score at 3/4 inch mark. Score again.

Note that the 3/4 inch score line meets the very first score at the bottom edge of the cut circle.

Fold on the three score marks, and glue as before.

Use 8 to make double ended pyramid globe - not sure how else to describe it.

Only four together make a small pyramid.

Hanging in the Camelia bush outside my house. I use these in my tree of course, and also to decorate gift boxes and wrapped gifts.

Going Uptown!

2011-11-17T12:20:00.000-08:00

Happy news! I have been accepted into juried Arts and Crafts show, Uptown Village Market, Fri-Sat, December 2-3rd, in Long Beach, CA. I'll post the dolls for the show as I complete them.

A wonderful opportunity to buy locally handmade genuine art for the holidays! Map follows soon.

New Dream Doll "Marie"

2011-11-16T22:00:00.000-08:00

"Marie"

New and vintage buttons and ornaments

Charms

I have just finished my latest one of a kind doll, "Marie". She will be auctioned this weekend to benefit The Peace Project at The Gallery 9 in Culver City.

She is about 14 inches tall, with a wire support armature. The fabrics of her body and dress are vintage upholstery fabrics. This toile print is one of my favorites. The beads are glass, shell and plastic. I've mixed faux and some real pearls.

I enjoyed using the Embellie Gellie from Scraperfect to make the beading process so much easier. I also used Best Glue Ever to adhere the hand painted face before beading.

Seed beads on the EG where I could grab them

with my needle - so much easier than pinching

between finger and thumb.

Coming soon in Natural Life Magazine

2011-11-12T16:41:00.000-08:00

I've just been writing up my next column for Natural Life Magazine's website - the first of the "Dear Abby for Junk" series. I'm answering questions about old slides and old Christmas cards, both with something of a timely holiday slant. It's going to be so fun. You'll be able to check out the finished projects and instructions soon. But in the meantime, from a couple of years ago, here are the downloadable templates to make a recycled cereal box village. (What if you used old Christmas cards instead of cereal boxes??.......)

Keep those crafty stash dilemmas coming!

Latest Paper Bag Mini Album

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

I made a personal history mini album, working out a new way to join the bags and get some extra flaps and folding pockets. I love how sturdy something as ephemeral as a paper sack becomes once it is laminated with papers and cardstocks.

Vellum printed with the aid of Perfect Crafting Pouch

Ingredients:
Papers & Cardstock: Cosmo Cricket, Recollections, AC, origami papers (my stash)
Cardstock frames: Piggy Tales
Charms & Embellishments: Orient Express, Making Memories
Inks: Studio G, Tim Holtz Distress Inks
Brads: Recollections
Buttons & Pins: My stash
Ribbon & RickRack: Making Memories
Cricut carts: Pagoda, Birthday Cakes
Rub Ons: EZ
Glue: ScraPerfect Best Glue Ever
Tools: ScraPerfect Embellie Gellie, Perfect Crafting Pouch, Perfect Cleaning Cloth, Cricut Paper Trimmer, bone folder, glass nail file (for distressing)

Letting the BGE get tacky on metal embellishments -

time to scrub cutting board with some baby wipes!

I'm hoping to demo this kind of thing at CHA 2012 as part of the big cross promotion ScraPerfect is creating with a bunch of other cool tool companies. I'm thinking of stepping into the modern world and making a How To video for You Tube. Reportedly, You Tube is now the second biggest search engine after Google.

Meanwhile, you can see other photos (more of my baby pics) of the finished project on the ScraPerfect blog.

Gecko Galz bloghop.

2011-10-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

I'm entering the Gecko Galz bloghop for a series of fabulous prizes. You can too with a click. Start here.

Thumbtack

2011-10-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

I've just listed my scrapbooking business on a new service provider website called Thumbtack. I hope that it will help people find me. Craigslist only generated spam, but I hope this will be different. Stay tuned.

Quick update on classes...

2011-10-01T00:35:00.000-07:00

Starting Sunday, back stapled canvases are 40% off with a bonus coupon in the email weekly ad for an extra 20% off your order of canvases - so that is a real bargain on the materials for taking either of the two canvas based classes I'm offering at Michaels next month.

Not near me in Hawthorne? There should be similar classes offered at your local Michaels.

Upcoming Classes at Michaels.

2011-09-27T00:30:00.000-07:00

I only have one class left for September, this coming Friday 30 (5-7pm). In Altered Canvas Trio, you decoupage images from any stack you like to three coordinated 5 inch square canvases embellished with other papers, borders, quote blocks and charms or buttons. You can make these free standing, wall hanging, or sitting on an easel.

In October I am offering:

Spotted Canary School Beginners' Scrapbooking, Fridays 7, 14, 21, 28 (12.30-2.30pm)
Paper Bag Mini Albums Friday 7 (3-5pm) & Sunday 9 (2-4pm)

Texture Wow Friday 14 (2-4pm)

Altered Canvas Trio Friday 21 (3-5pm) & Sunday 23 (2-4pm)
Using Your Cricut Wednesday 19 (6.30-8.30)

Tim Holtz Halloween Banner Sunday 23 (4.30-6.30pm)

All these classes are $25. But come to the October Open House Sunday 8 for savings.

In the lead up to Halloween, I am helping kids (8 up) make duct tape Gladiator costumes as part of Spookductular. These classes are only $15:

Sunday 2 (1-3pm)
Saturday 15 (1-3pm)
Saturday 29 (1-3pm)

I hope I see you at my Michaels in Hawthorne.

And don't forget Operation Christmas Cards for our troops. You can bring cards to Michaels.

Friday Sketch for you

2011-09-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

I call this one "Long Story" because there is so much space for journaling/captions and there are so many photos - maybe for a big family event. I'd make the background paper count with texture or images and use a strong unifiying color for the mats.

Dream Doll progress

2011-09-19T22:23:00.000-07:00

The only sewing I took with me to Good Vibrations was the Dream dolls that I'm beading. They are based on Kabuki or Noh masks.

One, which was pretty much done before, is going to have a kimono type of garment with an obi sash.

The other will be dressed in Shinto pleated wrap pants. I've decided the encrusted beading is too pretty to cover.

And I did the back the same - sequins, beads and mother of pearl shells pieces.

I haven't been paying too much attention to these dolls recently. But I think they will be very pretty once they are done.

Hand.

Foot.

Double page layout

2011-09-10T23:26:00.000-07:00

Double page layout sketch

2011-09-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

I plan to use this to do a "Young and Old" layout honoring James' Grandpa Jack - I have just received a ton of gorgeous old sepia tone photos of his ancestors on his mother's side.

Magic Wands in San Diego

2011-09-02T18:34:00.000-07:00

I am hosting a magic wand making funshop at Good Vibrations Unschooling Conference on Thursday September 8th, at 4:00pm. It's going to be terrific fun.

I will be supplying dowel, ribbons,yarns, marker, glues, many different kinds of foam shapes (including glittery stars, butterflies and crowns), some inks, beads, rhinestones and wire. Also possible: cutting assorted shapes from papers and cardstocks.

Another use for wands is your holiday decorating.

The cardstock toppers are double sided.

The possibilities for different kinds of wands are endless. You might want a very pretty fairy type wand with gauze and sprarkles, or you might prefer something more like a Hogwarts wand with a carved tip and handle. You can create dimension using string and paper decoupage before painting.

If you would like to make a more serious wand with a crystal tip (I usually wire the crystal) please bring your own crystal. I have some assorted wire. I also have a limited amount of essential oils for annointing.

Here's "Journey" - her removable staff is a crystal tipped wand, with charms.

I am planning on using hot glue, as well as glue dots (especially these from ScraPerfect.com), so little hands might need older person help. I will have enough dowels for about 100 people to make wands.

Collage sketch

2011-08-28T22:11:00.000-07:00

Friday Sketch - scrappy layered background

2011-08-20T02:30:00.001-07:00

Win Awesome ScraPerfect Products!

2011-08-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

My layout using everything!

Courtesy ScraPerfect and the beautiful Scrapbooking and Beyond Magazine:

HOW TO WIN? Go to Facebook.com/ScraPerfect and post a response on the thread that says:

WANT TO WIN A PRIZE??? Just tell us where you heard about this contest for ScraPerfect Products. We'd also like to hear questions or comments about our Magically Perfect Craft Products...Where's you first heard about them? What do you love about them? How you use them most?....

THE PRIZE: The Best Glue Ever, Embellie Gellie, Perfect Crafting Pouch and 2 Perfect Cleaning Cloths.

Contest Details: Contest ends November 15, 2011. Winner will be drawn at random form the Facebook posts. Paid shipping to the US, as well as Israel & Brazil where we have DT members. (If winner is from another country, they may choose to pay shipping or forfeit the package.)

There are also TWO online articles:

Cool Techniques & Tools for Papercrafting

Courtesy of ScraPerfect Products
Create a card and learn how to instantly dry pigment without heat, archieve inkjet printing on vellum, apply glitter to acetate with no static cling, and more!

How to Scrapbook Using Homemade Adhesive Dots
Courtesy of ScraPerfect ProductsNeed tiny adhesive dots ones for beads or micro-gems, long ones for fiber, or giant ones for making flowers? Read how to make them any size or shape, save oodles of money, and be "green". [My favorite application.]

More info and ideas at the ScraPerfect blog.

Two Mini Album samples

2011-08-12T22:21:00.000-07:00

Made from paper lunch sacks and assorted scrapbooking papers and cardstocks. One is a summer vacation theme and the other just about girls. Photos, tags and ephemera would be attached later. The size is 6 x 4.75 inches.

This mini-album, with your own papers and theme, is one of the new Paper-Ed classes I teach at Michaels.

Friday Sketch

2011-08-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

It's my party

2011-08-10T23:50:00.000-07:00

Another layout for you. I had some issues with the title, but I fixed them. My 8th birthday party, just back from Tahiti. Mum made me the dress I am wearing from Tahitian printed fabric. International Guest House sounds fancy, but it was actually the boarding house at which we were staying until we moved to an apartment located in the same street as the Wardrobe Building - oh that's another story.

I cut the flower embellishments from one side of a Cosmo Cricket cardstock. The rest of the papers and punch outs are Cosmo Cricket, Colorbok and My Mind's Eye. The charms are Orient Express, held by Recollections brads, while the buttons lurked in my stash. As usual the ScraPerfect Best Glue Ever lived up to its name, especially for the embellishments and lettering.

Friday sketch 3 photos

2011-08-05T20:03:00.001-07:00

Submission

2011-08-01T23:26:00.000-07:00

This kind of bead.

I've sent some jewelry made from vintage quilt yo-yo's to Stampington. Now we wait.

Friday Sketch - 3 photos

2011-07-29T01:48:00.000-07:00

Next Month's Classes

2011-07-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

August is going to be a busy month. I have a lot of writing to do, especially for my presentation at Good Vibrations. Don't worry, it's all been scheduled.

The Michaels classes I am offering in August are:

At Hawthorne:

Spotted Canary School Beginner's Scrapbooking: Fridays 5,12,19,26th, 12.30-2.30pm
Paper Ed: Paper Bag Mini-Albums: Saturday August 13th, 11.30am-1.30pm
How to use your Cricut class: Wednesday August 17th, 6.30-8.30pm

At Inglewood:

Spotted Canary School Beginner's Scrapbooking: Saturdays August 13,20,27th, Sept 3rd, 3.00-5.00pm
Martha Stewart Glittering Class: Saturday August 20th, 10.30am-12.30pm
Martha Stewart Punch Around the Page: Saturday August 20th, 12.30-2.30pm
Paper Ed: Texture WOW: Saturday August 27th 12.30-2.30pm
Paper Ed: Paper Bag Mini-Albums: Saturday September 3rd 12.30-2.30pm

The Crop Night at Inglewood is Friday August 19th starting I believe at 4pm.

* Had to change the photo - I forgot I had submitted that other one to a magazine.

Art Doll Works-in-progress

2011-07-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

Here is my work so far on two Kabuki Dream Dolls. These are definitely one of a kind, in a very short series.

Their faces, which I painted, are not any particular mask - I wouldn't presume - but more of a general rendering of the style. The fabrics were bought new for a change, from a specialty quilt store. But a few years ago.

As you can probably tell the Floral Kabuki Dream Doll is a little further along than the Black and White. I plan to dress them in wrap style Japanese pants (Hakama) or perhaps a skirt, and removable short kimono style jackets. Expect more beading, couching, applique and some embroidery. I'm still thinking hard about their hair.

Being Dream Dolls they are about 14 inches tall, with an internal wire armature for support. I don't know whether The Gallery 9 will want them for their store, or whether they will be on my Etsy. I recently received some vintage and distressed wooden beads that may be part of the final result. They will include a decorated wire stand.

Handmade Romantic 3D Gift Tags in my Etsy Store

2011-07-23T23:54:00.000-07:00

I have some pretty things in my Etsy store at the moment, but my new FB friends and recent Twitter followers may not be aware of them. Since my Dream Star One of a Kind Art Dolls are being exclusively represented by The Gallery 9 in Culver City, CA, I'd love it if you'd take a look at some of my paper crafted items.

Like these Handmade Romantic 3D Gift Tags.

All Four Handmade Romantic 3D Gift Tags

Set of 4 coordinating hand made oval gift tags in muted warm pinks and browns. I hand painted, stamped and aged sheet music, which I stiffened with card. I made double layered, hand cut lotus flowers in several varieties of pretty scrapbook papers. Each gently spinnable flower has a unique button center. I added the sentiments with rub on letters, and finished the tags with an eyelet and matching ribbon & yarn tie. I aged the parchment paper on the back but left plenty of room for your handwritten greeting. They are a one of a kind set.

Size: 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches, and remarkably sturdy.

These sweetly romantic tags would be lovely for bridesmaids gifts - the sheet music happens to be snippets of The Wedding March.

Here are the backs

Need a larger set or perhaps a different color way to fit in with your Wedding Colors? Please convo me on Etsy.

Friday Sketch

2011-07-22T00:40:00.000-07:00

How can a week go by so fast. Here's another Friday Sketch.

Scrapbooking Idea - Layout sketch

2011-07-16T00:53:00.000-07:00

I've decided that with so many people wanting to know how to scrapbook, that I'd jump into that pond. I'm going to try publishing a sketch each Friday. (So it's a little late tonight, but I started earlier.) Any how, this is a pretty basic, simple sketch that I think would look nice on a paper with a decorative treatment. I love using text as a design element, so I often add a tag with a quotation or a word.

Have fun, and I'll try and do a layout using this sketch to post shortly.

Gallery 9 Art Dolls

2011-07-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to report that my Dream Star Dolls in The Gallery 9 have sold. Gallery 9 supports The Peace Project, a wonderful initiative working to bring medical equipment, art supplies, and opportunity to people in post war Sierra Leone. More about that on Lisa's spiritually moving blog, The Human Parade.

But the good news is that they have asked for more dolls! Yay. I'm sending over those I have two of which are brand new, summery colored dolls.

Her charms include a wee cupid, and a vintage millefiore glass bead.

Hand painted petals for her skirt.

The other two are wintery colored plaids, including a holiday doll.

Handmade polymer clay charms and vintage paper mache pearl beads.

Tiny Santa charm

These are all I have complete right now. Better get making!

Swap-o-rama-rama this Saturday

2011-07-14T21:26:00.000-07:00

If I wasn't teaching scrapbooking this Saturday, I would love to head out to the next Swap-o-rama-rama at the Renegade Craft Fair (why aren't I selling there??!!?) at Los Angeles State Historic Park. Again that is this coming Saturday, July 16th.

BTW Michaels is offering teachers 15% off your total purchase with your educator ID - every day not just Fridays.

Remnant Patchwork Quick Layout

2011-07-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

This is something of a scraplift - not of any particular layout, but of this type of patchwork look scrapbooking layout idea in general. I had quite a collection of leftover pieces of paper and cardstock.

I cut many of these into 3.5 inch squares, and I have quite a nice pile in other colors too. They worked well because I have a few small square photos. I added machine stitched frames for interest, with variegated thread. I'll be doing some more with other colorways, because it is so quick and effective.

I used the ScraPerfect Perfect Crafting Pouch to prep the paper for stamping nicely, and the Perfect Cleaning Cloth to wipe up the residue, and clean the finger prints off the photos. I added some small wooden flat beads to embellish the title bloc, using Best Glue Ever and the Embellie Gellie stick to pop the discs very easily onto the tacky glue drops.

Cards/Papers: Colorbok, K&Co, DCWV, Recollections
Glue: Elmers Dot Runner, ScraPerfect Best Glue Ever
Tools: Embellie Gellie, Cricut Paper Trimmer
Thread: Sulky Premium Cotton thread
Ink: Studio G
Pens: Zig Calligraphy Markers, Sharpie Ultra Fine
Stamps: Michaels Alphabet Stamps sets

Latest project for ScraPerfect

2011-07-02T01:59:00.000-07:00

You can see the all the photos and the full deets on this cute layout at the the ScraPerfect blog.

Felt easy

2011-06-13T22:30:00.000-07:00

OK I don't normally promote Michaels products, other than my classes, here - mostly because Michaels already has plenty of online visibility. However this time I'm pretty excited and I have to say something about two new product lines.

Michaels has just started carrying felting supplies, "Felt Works" - wool roving, wool felt sheets, felting needles and accessories and bits and pieces like leaves, flowers and ball. The range of colors is lovely, and I know that Jayn will be very excited. She loves needle felting.

The other line is: finally we have some actual art journals with different types of pages depending on the media plans. Plus we have some cute mixed media kits including ATC's and small pads of vintage style images. The kits are all color coded and are great for someone just getting in to art journaling and not sure about how to incorporate found objects.

Custom Scrapbooking Pages

2011-06-04T22:56:00.000-07:00

Just so you know, my new site is live. Robyn Crops.

Also the next Crop Night at Michaels, Inglewood is Friday June 17th from 2-8pm.

Coming soon: Paper-Ed paper crafting classes for more advanced folks, who might have completed the Beginner's Scrapbooking course or have more experience. Lots of fun to teach, lots of fun to do.

Super quick and easy layout

2011-06-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the papers do all the work for you. I used Cosmo Cricket papers and ready-to-cut borders and journal tags with a preprinted vintage style Christmas cardstock (K&Company "Yuletide") to oh-so-quickly put together this multi photo layout. The question is should it be called "Jayn" from the glittery tag (Cricut - Plantin Schoolbook End Caps) or "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" from the printed title? The fun was in arranging the photos over the very lively mats to create borders. Last thing - three of my favorite stacked button brads in coordinating holiday colors.

With great thanks to Lynda for my new Nikon Coolpix P500 that is going

to improve the quality of my photos immeasurably.

One thing this layout made me realize - that I have the year wrong on a couple of other earlier layouts. Oops - gave Jayn a whole extra year. Have to do some revising pretty soon. That's ok.

Journey in a gorgeous treasury.

2011-05-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

Abi Monroe has included my doll in a beautiful treasury. What a nice Memorial Day gift.

Another Cricut 360 layout

2011-05-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed using my new Best Glue Ever for these. It worked fine in tiny dots for the fine cuts, and to hold these foam flower embellishments. I'm looking forward to using it with ribbon very, very soon.

Papers and cards: Colorbok, Bazzil, AC, K&Co mat.

Cricut 360 layout

2011-05-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

I have this photo of Jayn in a really interesting looking double exposure. It looks like she is about to step through a magic portal. I don't remember what she was really looking at, just some greenery I think. We were travelling in Northern California at the time. The layout is for a Design Team application specifying Lime Green and a Bug of some kind. I hope butterflies count.

I added some wee stamped fairies peeking out from behind the blossoms.

I also stitched and used doilies as well as Cricut Cut elements.

The title includes hand drawn "stitching" for emphasis.

June Crop Night

2011-05-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

Come and Crop at Inglewood Michaels Friday June 17th from 2.00pm onwards. Come and use our Cricuts, Cuttlebug, embossing tools, stencils, punches and assorted other stuff to enjoy scrapbooking and paper crafting with other enthusiasts.

Mum and Me layouts

2011-05-17T23:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a heritage layout - very simple, quick and fun. I used stamps to make the title, and incorporated paper doilies into the flowers. I also did some machine stitching just for fun using variegated threads from Dual Duty, which picks up the narrative - my Mum sewed these clothes we are wearing.

I used my EK Success circle cutter. Guess what I use for a glass cutting mat - you never will - the tempered glass turntable from my old microwave oven which died about 8 months ago. I knew I was right to keep it. I'm not sure if you can see in the photo, but there is a lot of variety of texture in the papers. Some have linen finish, while th old gold color is shiny metallic.

Papers: Colorbok, DCW Autumn, All Girl, AC Cardstock, generic paper doilies.

Borders: K& Company "Julianne"

Brads: Recollections

Inks: Michaels brand.

Pens: Zig Millenium, Zig Calligraphy markers

This is the first time I've done a page that was mostly journal. I wanted to tell the funny story. I had this paper that seemed to cry out for calligraphy. Hmm - I'm not 100% sure I'll keep it, but I do like the little vignette that the photos make. I guess making coordinating mother-daughter outfits was a trend in the late 1960's.

Papers: DCW Autumn, All Girl

Swirls: K & Co Punch outs - "Julianne"

Tag: Colorbok punch out.

Pen: Zig Calligraphy markers.

Button: vintage from stash.

New Design Team

2011-05-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to announce that I have been accepted to the first ever Design Team for Scraperfect, manufacturer of "Magically Perfect Products" for scrapbooking and crafting. These include Best Glue Ever, Embellie Gellie, Perfect Pouch and Perfect Cleaning Cloth.

I'm especially excited about the Best Glue Ever because it will glue fabrics without visible bleed, which has been a problem for me in the past. I like using ribbon as borders on my pages, and it will also help with art dolls.

But then again I'm also excited about the Perfect Pouch because I want to be able to print quotes on vellum - and it acts as a mold release for polymer clay - this is huge for me.

Of course the Embellie Gellie has a huge number of uses for a beader, while The Perfect Cleaning Cloth takes fingerprints from photos and cleans up after Perfect Pouch, amongst other uses.

I'm really looking forward to exploring the uses and limits of all these products!

Congratulations Graduate

2011-05-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

This is my college graduation in 1991. I have been carrying these photos around ever since.

Materials: Cardstock and papers from Colorbok, AC, and Cosmo Cricket; Borders: K&Co; Paints and inks: Studio 1, Tulip, Aleene's Paper Glaze, my stash; Cricut cartridges: Wall Decor and More, Gypsy Font, Holiday Cakes, Cake Basics, and Cindy Loo; Pens: Zig; Embellishments: Recollections brads, corsage pins from stash.

My nephew Michael has just graduated from Georgetown, and is very happy.

Congratulations to all grads!

Recycled Box

2011-05-09T23:16:00.000-07:00

Cereal box turned inside out, painted, embellished with decoupaged acetate (my tie dyed paper towel papers, printed ribbon trim and handles. For dh's friend.

Couple of layouts with Aunty Lisa

2011-05-09T23:07:00.000-07:00

Visiting Aunty Lisa layout - a couple of visits to my sister-in-law's house. Added some painted edges for texture. Hand written title.

Sweet and Precious layout - lots of layers. Painted lines and hand colored alterations to the paper.

Both of these use custom embellishments - stamped bows, button brads, lollipop flowers. The bows pick up the designs on Jayn's little onesies.

Mother's Day Card

2011-05-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

Lollipop Flower, buttons and folded cardstocks plus stamped lettering. For my MIL.

Baby Shower Layout

2011-05-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day.

Layering papers, cardstocks from several sources - K&Company, Recollections, AC; Lettering, borders and embellishments - K&Co Punch Out Pad, "Julianne"; Cosmo Cricket sticker, journal block & borders; buttons; ink; Martha Stewart corner punch.

Delight Mom This Mother's Day

2011-04-23T23:26:00.000-07:00

Are you running out of time to make something beautiful by Mother's Day?
Are you afraid that you don't have the skills to handcraft a gift for Mom?
Are you frustrated by kits that seem to be everywhere and want something a little different and special?

Mom's eyes will light up when she unwraps this pretty picture frame made with your own hands during the Rose Frame Class, to be taught by me - only at the Michaels Arts and Crafts Store in Hawthorne, CA.

I have personally designed this keepsake project to be completed in just two hours during the class. You'll use our tools at the store, and we'll do all the clean up. You'll walk out with a customized, truly special gift just in time for Mother's Day.

In the class you will learn to make super easy Rolled Paper Roses. Later you can make more to use in a multitude of ways for yourself or other gifts.

Hair clips
Brooch pins
Ribbon chokers
Head bands
Embellishing other projects like treasure boxes, wall art frames, cards or gift tags

Then you will use adhesive cloth (2 patterns available) and your choice of ribbons to decorate a wood frame. It will be ready to hold your photo to delight Mom or Grandma.

This class is EXCLUSIVE to this Michaels in Hawthorne.

There will be ONLY two sessions of the Rose Frame Class.

Saturday, April 30th - 12.00pm -2.00pm
Saturday, May 7th - 12.00pm - 2.00pm

Cost: Tuition $10.00 plus the materials (approximately $15.00)

Space is limited!

14370 Ocean Gate Ave

Hawthorne, CA 90250-6732

More Information: (310) 676-2064

The class will suit teenagers and older. Hot glue is used so anyone younger would need and adult helper.

About me: I am a Certified Scrapbooking Instructor through Spotted Canary School, and long time paper crafter and textile artisan. I love sharing my knowledge of crafts and designing projects. More of my work can be found in the "Crafting for a Greener World" column in Natural Life Magazine.

Announcing: Custom Scrapbook Pages

2011-04-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

No time or desire to scrapbook, but keen to have your memories preserved artfully?
Allow me to design and create custom scrapbook pages with your photos that you supply.
www.RobynCrops.com - my new website with all the details about my service including my unique "ghost writer" journaling service, a few other fun things.

$30 per page includes
* Personal consultation
* Photo matting
* Layered background papers and cardstocks
* Simple custom embellishments
* Custom cut titles
* Space for your journaling

Specially purchased stickers, hardware, embellishments or lettering additional (at my cost).

Finished pages may be kept in an album or framed as wall art. (3D elements can be added for shadow box styles as desired.)

You can see the kind of work I do by perusing this blog. Examples of $30 pages include the one pictured as well as:

Nursing Mother Layout

Hong Kong Memories layout

and

Meeting Minnie

Contact me at robyncrops@gmail.com

Backyard Bazaar This Saturday

2011-04-05T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here's a map.

Nursing Mother layout

2011-03-30T00:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a very personal and beloved layout of my smiling baby nursing.

A mix of card stacks and papers from DCWV, AC, K & Company, and Cosmo Cricket; Michaels pigment inks, Buttons and craft wire, Recollections mini brads, Scotch dot roller, Super Stik permanent glue stick, Zig Millenium pens.

I made these flowers with my new EK Success circle cutter. Cut, inked edges, crinkled up, center punched with a tiny hole, then stacked under a custom button brad.

Today's daily layout

2011-03-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that I am trying to do one layout project a day for a little while?

The cool stars are Yudu screen printed in black and then hand colored. I also stacked some buttons and added some bling. Sparkly lettering adds fun. The photo booth style strip is an I-phone app called "Pocketbooth". These are self portraits.

Materials used: Recollections Cardstocks, K & Company stacks, Michaels ribbon, rhinestones and buttons, craft wire, Scotch dot roller, Mini Glue Dots, K & Company Sparkle Glitter letters in blue, Cosmo Cricket kit "Early Bird" paper, Yudu screen printed stars hand cut.

Hong Kong Memories layout

2011-03-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

Another contribution to the album of my childhood.

Materials Used: K&Company Life's Journey stack, AC Cardstock, Designer Mats, Michaels inks and brads, Scotch Dot Roller and Scotch Scrapbooker's Glue, Zig Memory System 2-way glue pen,Zig Millenium pens, Mini Glue Dots, Aleene's Paper Glaze, Cricut cart Holiday Cakes.

I chose the plaid because my Dad seems to be wearing a plaid jacket. Not sure if it shows up very well. This must have been some kind of event. Usually they were working in night clubs, not dancing!

The paper glaze is in the center of the larger flowers, and doesn't show up much in the photos. The flower embellishments highlight the embroidery on Mum's blouse, hand cut from mats and adhered.

Here's a contest

2011-03-23T15:30:00.001-07:00

to win a years worth of scrap kits - very cool.

http://wescrapkits.blogspot.com/2011/03/march-kit-win-years-worth-of-kits.html

Latest Layout

2011-03-17T22:30:00.000-07:00

This latest layout is of the road trip up the California coast we took shortly after my mother died in 2005. The journalling is in the little tag book.

There is a lot of custom work in this layout - inking and drawing "stitches" on the Cricut cut outs, making button brads and cutting my own flower embellishements from a printed sheet of paper. I also added pink and green ribbons to the background.

K&Company cardstocks and papers; Cricut and Gypsy - cartridges: Accent Essentials, Robotz font, Gypsy Wanderings, Elegant Cakes; Michaels buttons; Zig markers; Scotch dot roller adhesive; Zig Two-way glue pen; Scotch Scrapbooker's glue; foam mounting squares from my stash; craft wire.

Scrapbook the everyday

2011-03-10T12:34:00.000-08:00

On of the challenges we find on cropping websites is to scrapbook every day moments, not only special days. Sometimes every day moments become special days. This was the other day, just fooling around in an empty park.
A Diptic photo collage, mostly AC cardstock, and Totally Girl paper, Cricut (Robotz font, Just Because Cards image), buttons and glittery paint.

Black and Gold - Sold

2011-03-04T20:41:00.000-08:00

My first Gallery 9 sale, OOAK in a series with a decorated stand. Still several more over there, and I'm going to add a couple as soon as I can embellish the stands. Very happy!

Tin Man

2011-02-25T02:19:00.000-08:00

Jayn and I were walking around our neighborhood today. We watched a squirrel harvest new nuts from a tree, and passed by this Tin Man - made from tins- sitting on a front stoop. About 30 inches tall I'm guessing. Very cute and clever.

Latest Scrapbook pages Part Two

2011-02-15T01:33:00.000-08:00

I rarely use purchased stickers or titles, since I have my Cricuts. However I love these delicate lazer cut snowflakes from Jolee's. The epoxy buttons and dimensional titles are Jolee's and Soft Spoken. The cardstocks are AC and Recollections and the ribbon embellishments are from Michaels. Mom always hoped to go on another cruise to Alaska with James and I along, and she really enjoyed this trip to see the Glacier. I have started an album devoted to the photos I have of her in her later life. It's nice to do something in blues.

This is another layout from my childhood. I used AC cardstock, and papers from "Totally Girl" and more of the Tim Coffey designer mats from K&Company. I used Cricut cartridges Accent Essentials and
Gypsy Wanderings. The ribbon trim is from Michaels.
I intentionally left a lot of space in this layout. My father was an intermittent presence in my life after the age of three. I have vague memories of him doing his ball spinning trick. He was a juggler. More info about his life has been kept here. I am planning a second matching layout to make this into a double page spread.

My latest Scrapbook pages, part one.

2011-02-14T17:33:00.000-08:00

The next SDU Scrapbooking design course at Michaels Inglewood will be starting in two weeks. It will run Saturdays, February26 through March 19th. Times: 3.00-5.00pm.

These are the pages that I have made recently, and I'm thrilled with how they are turning out.

This is a page using a Diptic I-phone photo taken by James - the three photo images were collaged together by the app. The base is from My Mind's Eye - "Totally Girl" by Jen Wilson, and the other papers are from the K&Company stack "Yuletide" and some sparkling unnamed cardstock from my stash. I used Cricut cartridges Wall Decor & More, Holiday Cakes and George and Basic Shapes for the lettering and embellishments, fastening with Recollections Mini-brads. But the coolest part is the vintage style Santa which I recycled from one of the Christmas cards we received this year. I painted the back with a bicarbonate of soda solution to reduce the acid. I love how the muted colors allow the b&w photos to take center stage.

Here's the Sweet Dreams layout I made, again based on a sheet from "Totally Girl". The cardstocks are AC Cardstocks and I inked the edges of the flowers (Cake Basics) with Michael's pigment inks. I customized the title (Wall Decor & More cart) with Slickers dimensional fabric paint. Again James took these photos.

Jayn met Minnie at her Fourth birthday celebration, at Disneyland in 2003. These are papers from "Totally Girl" again. (Can you tell I really like this stack?) and Tim Coffey designer mats from K&Company. The bow embellishments are hand drawn and inked, while the lacey medallions are made from some old generic paper doilies. The brads are Recollections brand and the title is made with Cricut carts Gypsy Font and Plantin Schoolbook (End Caps).

I couldn't decide what title to use, so I managed to sneak in two to this layout. Totally Girl papers, AC Cardstocks and chipboard glittered letters. Michaels sells these acrylic rhinestones by the bag, and they are attached with Glue Dots. The Cricut carts for the embellishments and borders are Accent Essentials and Plantin Schoolbook - although I also altered the flowers by hand.

I've started on the numerous beautiful photos from my childhood. Here in Journey to Japan I was playing around with different proportions of matting, and custom embellishments. The cardstocks are a mix of AC and Recollections stacks, while the floral paper is Origami paper from my stash. The paper flowers I embellished with pigment inks, and fastened with Recollections mini-brads. I bought them a while ago. Meanwhile as usual I made the titles with Cricut carts; Robotz and Holiday Cakes both have nice fonts. The cherry blossom branches were cut from Tie the Knot, while the rising sun image is hand cut. I found the image of Mount Fuji online, and made b&w.

More shortly.

Here's the latest

2011-02-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

The new issue of Green Craft is about to enliven newstands. My recycled gift boxes using vintage magazine papers and hand made flowers are on page 60-61 leading an article about upcycling cereal boxes. Yay.

It's a packed issue with lots of scrumptious photos and project ideas.

Scrapbooking and rolled roses

2011-02-05T19:41:00.000-08:00

Here are some rolled blooms that I've been making in batches. They are just a spiral - drawn, cut, inked and rolled - and some simple cut out leaves. The beautiful vintage print double sided card stock from K & Company - "Life's Journey" stack - gives the roses a soft, muted feeling. I've been using them on some special cards, although they would also make nice brooches or hair clips, or decorations for picture frames.

I wanted something eye catching and attractive to demo for my Michaels Scrapbooking courses, which are:

Fridays in February (11th, 18, 24, March 4) 12.30 - 3.30 pm at Hawthorne.

Saturdays in February (12th, 19,25, March 5) 3.00 - 5.00 pm at Inglewood.

Classes are still 40% off, all four are only $27.50.

Kid's Swap-o-Rama-Rama

2011-01-14T02:42:00.000-08:00

Here's something happening in Los Angeles that I just know will be terrific fun. I've been saving a big bag of kid's clothes to donate, so this Swap-o-Rama-Rama is definitely the place for it.

We've participated in several past Swap-o-Rama-Rama's and they are always awesome. I'm looking forward to investigating the location, the reDiscover Center, as well.

Upcoming Paper Crafting Classes

2010-12-29T15:02:00.000-08:00

Now that I am a certified SDU instructor, I will be teaching at Michaels. I have two different classes coming up.

I made this vividly colored page with letters and images cut from plain cardstock using Cricut and Gypsy - Cartrides used were Robotz and Wall Decor and More. Embellishments - plastic rhinestones! Finally I have started on the backlog of wonderful vintage photos from my late mother's collection. What a life!

SDU Scrapbooking classes will be at Michaels, Inglewood on Thursday evenings in January.
Jan 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th from 6:00 - 8:00 pm.

The classes assume no prior experience with scrapbooking and take you through organizing photos, choosing themes, designing layouts, color theory, journalling, embellishments and tips and tools. The class is normally $45 for all four, but register before the New Year and receive 40% off for a total of $27 for the four classes. Registrants also receive a one time 10% off your purchase coupon to buy materials for the class. They will be very hands on, with a small project every class as well as starting you on the way to making your first beautiful heirloom scrapbook.

Repetition of a motif (dots) and using printed ribbon as a trim.

The other classes that I will be offering at Michaels, Hawthorne, I have created, and at the moment are unique to this store. I will be teaching a two hour class on using your Cricut - V1, Create and Expression - cutter on January 19th, from 4:00 - 6:00 pm, and then another two hour class on using the Gypsy on January 26th, again from 4:00 - 6:00 pm. These classes will be $25 each for which I will supply all the practice kit materials - cardstock and so on. We will have some Cricut machines available in the classroom, but if you own a Gypsy, please bring it along. I guarantee that you will leave the classes with a much greater understanding of the awesome potential of these tools, and some neat little paper craft projects.

Not sure about Scrapbooking classes? There will be an SDU powered special Crop Night at a Michaels store near you the week starting January 9th. Check your local Michaels for the exact time. Mine in Inglewood will be on Friday, January 14th from a little after 3:00 until around 9:00 pm. We'll be making cards and you can bring your WIP scrapbook pages as well. The price - half what other craft emporiums charge - a mere $5 (or store purchases).

Christmas Elf Collage figure

2010-12-07T00:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays! Please feel free to download this happy zentangle elf for your use.

Get her here.

I'll be published

2010-10-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

I have just heard that some recycled gift boxes I made using vintage magazine pages will be in an upcoming issue of Green Crafts. I'm very happy to have success with my first submission to this publishing group. No pics, but I'll post a link when the mag comes out.

Purple Mermaid

2010-10-07T01:46:00.000-07:00

Recently completed and sent off as the prize for my Natural Life Magazine diorama contest.

Coolaberration 2010

2010-10-07T00:14:00.000-07:00

The next doll making odyssey, Coolaberration 2010, has commenced. My doll start and journal are detailed on the group blog. Slightly different and more challenging than last time, we are importuned to send only a portion of a doll figure. Stay tuned.

Peace Art Doll

2010-09-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

This is "Dream of Peace" I have donated to the The Peace Project at Gallery 9 for auction. She is a 14 inch tall OOAK cloth and mixed media Dream Doll with internal wire and wood armature for support.

I painted her face and designed her sparkling heart to evoke both Byzantine and Central American iconography. Her body is a vintage cottage style print from my late mother's collection, while her vivid skirt petals are a combination of vintage and used clothing fabrics, new quilting cottons, and vintage Indian and South Asian fabrics from my mother-in-law's collection.

Tiny colored glass sead beads also appear in many cultures including African tribal adornments and traditional figures, and Native American textiles. Included in her hair decorations are handmade cloth beads made from some yo-yos from a very old quilt that is beyond repair, but represents the traditional feminine crafts of pioneer America. My idea is that her multi-sourced clothes, charms and embellishments symbolize many cultures, many crafting and textile traditions, many tribes all working in harmony.

The flowers and other nature elements are there to remind us that the natural world is often a casualty of war; natural resources are often the impetus of wars. The spirals of colored beads on her hands and feet represent the four Elements - Earth, Air, Fire and Water - nature as balance.

For the auction winner, she will be a conversation starter and thought provoker. Included is a custom decorated stand to display your doll as a functional art sculpture in your home or workplace. Plus everytime you look at her, as well as enjoying the intricate detail and joyful colors and textures, you can feel gratified that you have helped a very good cause in the world.

Finally finished my swap doll

2010-09-14T00:39:00.000-07:00

Very late, but better than never, I hope. This an embellished, hand drawn paper doll around the theme of Moon. She's called "Moonlight Becomes Her." About 7 inches tall, with a hinged neck. (Pencil, marker, galvanized wire, glass beads, sequins, metallic thread.) She's a little different for me, since I tend to work in cloth most of the time.

Swaps have a tendency to get away from me. I've got too many other things on my plate, including a doll I owe a little girl who won it, and the next Coolaberration2010 (which is going to be awesome!).

So I think I'll stay away from any more swaps for now.

My Dolls will be in an Art Gallery

2010-09-04T01:25:00.000-07:00

If you go to my Etsy store in about two weeks, you will find it empty of Dream Star dolls. That is because my Dream Star dolls are going to be carried by The Gallery 9 in Culver City in conjunction with their next juried exhibition, The Peace Project by The Whole 9, opening September 25. The Whole 9 is an artists' community with online portfolios and real life networking and creativity inspiring events.

I'm super excited because the curator Lisa Shultz invited me over and hand picked the dolls to be in the gallery shop as part of this wonderful event. I hope that a whole new audience will see my art dolls.

In addition I have donated a Dream Doll to be auctioned during the gala reception. She is a multi-colored doll with a hand painted face, encrusted with beading, embroidery and couched ribbons. She'll be wearing a vivid mix of patterns and prints, while on her hands different colored beaded spirals represent each of the Four Elements - Earth, Air, Fire and Water. I plan on making an art journal to add value to her purchase with stories based on the Elements. Pics soon.

All proceeds from the auction and exhibition will be used to create sustainable opportunities for victims of the war in Sierra Leone. This country has been in the news recently because of the Naomi Campbell Blood Diamonds scandal. Meanwhile the country's path to stability is filled with struggles. Here are some links to information about the civil war in Sierra Leone.

Africa Renewal - January 2005
Cry Freetown
The Civil War in Sierra Leone - Background
US Department of State - Sierra Leone page

In a treasury

2010-09-03T22:51:00.000-07:00

Some of my gift tags are in a beautiful nature themed treasury by Etsy seller Baby Shower Supplies. It's lovely to be found and be in such grand company.

Family Tree Workshop at CAFAM

2010-07-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

My good friend, and wonderful fiber and mixed media artist, Talitha Sherman is going to be teaching an awesome textile project with the Craft and Folk Art Museum here in Los Angeles. It's her first time working with that organization.

Here's the full description:

Sunday, August 15 (oh hey that's my birthday...)
1.00 - 4.00 PM

The Fabric of Your Life: Family Tree Tapestry

Celebrate your History with a Family Tree wall hanging made from meaningful fabrics.

Join us to create a one of a kind piece of textile art celebrating your unique family and utilizing material that has journeyed with you. Bring your own fabric or choose from our supplies. Just about any fabric can be repurposed and turned into something special and new, your favorite old shirt, grandma's nightgown, bed sheets, almost anything. The fabric must be ironable; silks, satins and cottons work best. You will create your wall hanging with scissors, heat bond and an iron. First you'll fuse your fabric to felt with heat bond and an iron, trace and cut out the tree and leaves, then fuse the whole piece together and mount it on foam board. Finally, write family names on leaves and attach leaves to your tree with push pins. Then take home and enjoy! Makes a great holiday gift.

Recommended for ages 12 & up
Fee: $50/$40 CAFAM Members
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
workshops@cafam.org

Talitha has designed a couple of beautiful templates for the trees. They don't have sewing machines at the CAFAM studio - hence the heat fusing. The current exhibits are well worth seeing also.

Please repost about this cool workshop if you have readers in the Los Angeles area!

History of Green clothing

2010-06-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Readers of my recent columns might be interested in this Eco-Fashion history exhibit at the Fashion Institute in New York City. I know I am, but unfortunately getting there would be a bigger schlepp than I can manage. If any of you do go, I'd love to hear about it. Maybe they will have an exhibition catalog I could buy.

Do do that voodoo...

2010-06-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

I will be demoing the Yudu at Michaels Hawthorne on Saturday, June 26, 1pm-5pm. Stop by if you are in the area, or check your local Michaels for a demonstrator. We are all over the place now.
Wish I had my own.

Learning how to scrapbook

2010-06-05T02:39:00.000-07:00

Birthday at Disney.
Cartridges used - Wall Decor and More, Cindy Loo, Birthday Cakes,

My newest blog

2010-05-27T15:11:00.001-07:00

Making, Mothering, Musing - Creative Writing and Writings about Creativity.
Information about upcoming projects, my writing activities and assorted wordy stuff about living an artistic life and parenting at the same time. So far all I've done is transfer some old blog posts and articles from Imagination Tribe on Ning, which is soon to be disbanded in favor of Facebook. But it may be new to some of you.

Mermaid card

2010-05-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

I've used my collage mermaid and some cricut images for this Thank You card. I had colored the mermaid herself with pencils and markers; then I did shading with oil pastels and Aquarelle water color crayons.

Another collage figure for you

2010-05-14T01:25:00.000-07:00

I'm planning on using this figure as a fairy in collage. Once again I made her using a combination of drawing and zentangles drawn over text.
Go here to download her for free. Let me know if you use her.

Earth Day Crafting with the Cricut

2010-04-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

You all know I love making gift and favor boxes from recycled food packaging. I had a ton of fun making these for my demo today.

The small boxes are from a yogurt stick box, covered with a page of text from an art magazine I get that has really nice paper, and decorated with an assortment of flowers cut on the Cricut from security envelopes. These ones are black and white, and I also have saved a bunch with blue and white lining and even some red and white (I'm thinking Valentine's Day next year).

The larger box uses pages from the same art magazine, otherwise on its way to the recycling box. I cut strips at random widths, decoupaged them to a remarkably sturdy cracker box, and used the Quantity feature to cut a ton of flowers from a couple of other pages that worked for color. Glitter paint, buttons - there we go. Later I can cut the recipient's name or other message on either a hang tag or to be affixed directly. These are going to by my next holiday gift packages.

Making these was so much quicker with the Cricut and, I think just as cute, as the other boxes I have been making with hand cutting. I also really like the wire handles with the assorted buttons woven through. Would anyone ever discard an old button? I hope not!

Anyone who wants to see these in person and is in the area please pop in to my Michaels demo.

Cricut Demo Schedule

2010-04-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

Here's my Michaels demoing schedule for this week and weekend.
I'll be at the Hawthorne store:
Thursday, April 22nd from 4.30pm until 9.00pm
Friday, April 23rd from 4.30pm until 9.00pm, when you can also join in the monthly crop night group.
Saturday, April 24th from 2.30pm until 7.30pm.
Sunday, April 25th from 11.30am until 4.30pm.

If you are in the area, please pop in and say hi! I can answer your questions about the Cricut Expression, Gypsy and the other fine crafting products made by Provocraft, and I'm even getting better at knowing my way around the Michaels store.

I'll be posting some pretty layouts I've designed on the Gypsy as examples of a business promo use of the Cricut system. Plus I notice tons of kids coming into Michaels doing school projects about California Missions - guess it's that time of year. So I'm planning a mock project as a demo display. Good opportunity to learn something about the Missions. Pretty much all I know is that a couple were used as locations for "Vertigo".
Plus there is a very nice bunch of miniature dioramas on the topic at the LA County Natural History Museum.

Collage Mermaid

2010-04-05T17:43:00.001-07:00

I've created another collage figure for you. Download this Mermaid for free, print her and have fun. Please let me know if you make anything cool from her.

Vintage reuse

2010-04-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

Included in the fabrics my MIL sent me, was a vintage yo-yo quilt. Or to be more accurate pieces of the top layer of a vintage yo-yo quilt. Quite stained and old, the quilt top is slowly deteriorating. Many of the pieces are silk, and some are vintage rayon. Some have separated into layers, and for some the hand stitches holding each rosette to its neighbor are the strongest part. I gently hand washed the bits I wanted to use in delicate detergent made for dolls clothing, and some disintegrated completely!

However that doesn't mean that these elements can't be used for textile arts. For my most recent contribution to Coolaberration '09, Shimasani, I have appliqued washed pieces to a piece of lace and added beading and embroidery to make her underskirt, as well as attaching rosettes to the lining of her velvet cape. More pictures soon, when she is complete.

I also have made a whole bunch of these small beaded buttons. Some have found their way onto Shimasani, and here are the rest. The metallic thread adds a little glint, the pearls are just the right size, and the small beads are pretty.

I'm planning to use some of these for some pins. Stay tuned.

New Job with Provo Craft!

2010-03-22T11:53:00.001-07:00

I'm very excited to announce that I have been offered a fabulous position demonstrating the Cricut made by Provo Craft in my local Michaels Craft store. I have been yearning for a Cricut for years and now it seems I will have the opportunity to learn all about it! I see it as a tool that would only enhance my ability to make all kinds of cool things, like these mini gift tags.
I haven't been much of a scrapbooker up until now - I'm looking forward to moving into a whole new area of paper crafting and personal journalling. It's about time that some of the beautiful photographic material my mother left me is made into something.
Meanwhile my Bead Head dolls will soon be presented with their own art journals.
I've been using the Provo Craft Knifty Knitter for years. Currently in the works - a pair of upcycled cuffs from tie-bleached T-shirts for eventual submission to Altered Couture. Now how can I incorporate cut card shapes....I'm currently fascinated with the idea of making other objects into beads and sequins for attachment by thread.
So soon I'll post my schedule, and I hope any readers local to me will come on by and see the Cricut in action at Michaels in Hawthorne.

First Diorama Entries

2010-03-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

The first couple of Diorama entries have arrived at Natural Life Magazine. They are adorable - but this is just a teaser...Still plenty of time to enter.

Open Armed Girl Wall Hanging

2010-03-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a hanging Thank You card I've made for some friends. The letters are polymer clay painted with some silver and bronze paints to give them sheen. The heart is pc too. I laminated the colored figure to a couple of layers of cardstock and made some hanging charms.
You can download the figure and print her in different sizes using your own printer software. This is about 12 inches from loop to tail.

New from Jayn

2010-03-13T01:55:00.000-08:00

Lots of new earrings and pins on Jayn's Etsy store - lots of Spring colors.

First Submission of the Year

2010-02-24T07:28:00.001-08:00

I mailed some new recycled gift boxes, using vintage magazine pages, ribbons and buttons, to Somerset Studio magazine yesterday. That is the one that is about paper and mixed media art. I am now crossing my fingers.

Clip Art Ideas

2010-02-19T13:54:00.001-08:00

Here are a couple of ways of using the open armed girl. One of these is Jayn's work on her money box, formerly a coffee can. The other is a card idea using paper collage and glitter glue over an altered vintage magazine page. The coloring is a combo of colored pencils and markers. More soon.