SANDI THE FABULOUS AND THE HOME OF SYBIL DESIGNS

hello it's been a long time

2011-07-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

Ain't she a beauty? been gone for a while, but i will be back here and there.

italy

2010-10-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

been a long time.......yes i know. i went to italy for a while and here is a pic of mom and me on a boat touring around the island of Capri. it was such a lovely day.
this is my new obsession. pizza. no the real stuff.......so amazing.

it's not gold

2010-08-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

so, what does this look like to all of you? no it's not a drag queen, it is wheat kernels from the field, brought to rest in a hole that has be dug in the yard. who do you think did this? wasn't me. but, i have been seeing a squirrel who is pretty active around here.

if you look close, there are quite a few kernels in there. interesting eh?

harvest

2010-07-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

so, i decided to grow some potatoes, since i kill any plant that tries to live , i have heard these will grow no matter what. guess what? i decided to dig down and see what came up. woooooow! i was so thrilled. aren't they cuuuuuute? there will be more to come. and with the amount i planted, there might just be a potato coming your way.

craft show i am in

2010-07-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

craft-in at the drive-in is this weekend at the newberg drive in movie theater. i will be there, and the show runs from 10 am to 6 pm. check out here for the vendor list. maybe there will be some of your favorites.

chair

2010-07-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

my office chair needed some serious updating. here is the shell without the cushion...

here is the after. i put white on the seat, and this really cool batik fabric for the cushion.

my fanny is happy now.

spring beauties

2010-06-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

i took some photogs of these gorgeous iris flowers in our yard. they smell lovely.

this yellow one is pretty stunning

this one i accidentally broke off the stem, but decided to include it, because the mottled dusty pink is a color that is hard to replicate.

i will have more coming. i have altered books to show you, cards, etc.

more screenprinting

2010-05-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

i really loved my screen printing class. so much so that i pretty much inked the entire place. thist shirt turned out lovely.

i also did another one here on a piece of muslin that i will again applique' when time allows.

more screenprinting

2010-05-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

i had a blast at my screen printing class. here is another image i put on a few pieces of fabric. this is on a t shirt. it consists of green and purple dye, and i just dolloped the ink and dragged the squeegee across. wasn't sure how it was going to come out, but i am pretty happy with the results.
this is one i put on a piece of muslin. i will applique' it on a later date.
this i put on blue denim. i used white ink and the excess left on the squeegee. it really popped off the denim, no?

screen printing class

2010-05-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

took myself a screen printing class this weekend. didn't know the first thing about it, but i knew i wanted to try it. sooooo, here is the image i used as inspiration:

this is with screen filler on the screen. keep in mind, i didn't paint in the stems, i am going to sew those to whatever fabric in print on

the reddish stuff is another type of screen filler. this dries, and then you use a hose to wash out the blue stuff.

after you get rid of the screen filler and the screen dries, you can print. i used a few colors here, and came up with this sort of burnt orange. i printed it on muslin

this i used yellow and orange for contrast::::

i will be sewing in stems with pretty green thread, so it will be a mixed media type of thing. i had a great time in this class and highly recommend anyone to try it. more pictures later

here comes spring

2010-04-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

i have been waiting for spring to show it's true changes, but nothing is more beautiful than our apple tree in the back yard. it is now in full bloom. every morning i wake up, this puts a lovely smile on my sleepy face.

the farmer in the field next to our property is spraying all sorts of lovely, smelly chemicals, so i didn't get a closeup. but soon, i will post it.

they are so cuuuuute!

2010-03-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

of course, my obsession continues with more paper flowers. in earlier posts, i showed you some that i made from a great tutorial on the lasting memories website/blog. here are a few more i added to my bouquet last week. i love the sparkles, and the embellishment idea. i have had too much fun. this is all stuff i have on hand. a very cheap and fun craft.ta ta for now!

more paper flowers

2010-03-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

i found another you tube tutorial for these lovely paper roses. the directions call for flower shapes from a die cutter, but i don't have one. so i just used some flower shapes i had laying around, and i think it turned out great. i can envision these in all colors!

another cool project

2010-03-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

i found this great tutorial for this beautiful, economical and easy

neckpiece.

it is scrap ribbon, folded to and fro, and some beads in the middle.

it looks stunning on bubbles!! she had a ball. i think this would look great for a spring outfit, a strapless sundress, or a crisp white shirt.

i have decided that fashion is an important part of anyone's jewelry choice. i will be pairing

some of my jewelry pieces with suggestions for what to wear with them.

ciao!

getting crafty with myself

2010-03-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

i had a busy weekend. with renting a carpet cleaner(worth every penny), to cleaning bathrooms, to cooking lots of food, and running errands, i was able to carve out some time for a little craftalicious. this fan flower project i found while surfing some of my favorite blogs. super fun and fairly easy.

this first one i used some fake flower petals and paper

these are two of the smaller versions.

this is the whole family striking a pose. this is a great craft for scrap paper and leftover buttons and ephemera ( i love that word).

stay tuned for more projects!

a new before and after

2010-03-13T18:45:00.000-08:00

i found this fantastic tutorial on design sponge a few weeks ago. i decided to put my own twist on it. it started out as a template i made here:cut out of simple scrap wood:
now, it is pink, cute and a beautiful showpiece for jewelry.
i just love how it turned out. don't you?

new jewels

2010-03-01T20:21:00.000-08:00

erica and i took a fused glass class last summer, and i finally got around to throwing these into something fun to wear.
the image in the glass is supposed to be a tree,but, well, it kinda looks like something from the cakewrecks blog. i still love it though, and it will grace my neck soon.

cute story

2010-02-25T10:38:00.000-08:00

last saturday, i was on my way to pick up something from a friends house, and i noticed these two little girls selling stuff on the side of the street. i stopped and asked them what they were selling. they said "cookies, and flowers." of course, two of my favorite things. they had this lovely little plastic cup of fresh daphne, and it smelled amazing. so, we went over the "financial" end of things and i went home with this lovely little bouquet. it made my otherwise weird smelling car smell oh, so good. i put it in my room, and when i woke the next morning, it was such a lovely smell.

signs of spring

2010-02-22T11:08:00.000-08:00

seriously people, i can't believe it, look at the daffodils, all standing at attention. beautiful.
even through the gravel, they certainly have a job to do.....
at the front of the property, these babies are pushing their way through. i woke up to 30 degree weather, but the flowers don't seem to mind.

new fund portland website

2010-02-20T19:34:00.001-08:00

we all love radio. i in particular don't listen to the radio in my car because it is always a barrage of commercials, and stupid ads. now, i can listen to some great, informational, and somewhat irreverent content on pdx radio podcasts. check it out here.

working on my picture downloads. sorry about this. a call to apple on monday.

check it out. i figured out how to link in. sort of

2010-02-18T12:21:00.000-08:00

Love. Obsess. Inspire. click it baby, click it!!

new blog i found

2010-02-18T11:37:00.002-08:00

check out this blog i found. she also posts some really cool free downloads too.

www.loveobsessinspire.typepad.com

before and after sort of

2010-02-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

i had a rough piece of wood hanging from my bead table that was just so ugly. so, i decided to make a padded bead holder out of it. with some batting, ribbon, and corded ribbon for the hanger, and a little tulle for cuteness, this is the new and improved bead board. as you can see, that is a concrete wall (downstairs studio), and it not much for accepting nails, so i had to get creative.some of my findings and beads in place. i just need stuff off my table. you know how it is.
not bad eh?

eco blog find

2010-02-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

mayamade is a blog i stumbled on that deals in all things "eco." maya has a very relaxed, cozy nature to her blog and it is a joy to read and smile at the same time. she was mentioned on a major website as being one of the really cool blogs to visit, and i did just that.

catch her here www.mayamade.blogspot.com

another before and after

2010-02-10T10:01:00.000-08:00

this is one ugly picture i had hanging downstairs in the studio, i felt it needed a leg up, an inspirational push, a new life, not a reality show.

so, with a little "saucy ness" and some paint, this is what i came up with.
i just love a great before and after! no?

before and after

2010-02-07T17:41:00.000-08:00

i just love a great before and after. of course, since i can't seem to figure out how to make one image come out before the other, this is sort of in reverse.

the picture on the right is how i bought it. the tag said 10 bucks and "needs refurbishing" on it. i snorted, and said to self,"refurbishing" is your middle name. so, i couple coats of paint,and some nice new knobs, and presto, the pic on the left is the finished product.

i love the combo of brown and blue, not puke yellow.

welcome back

2010-02-06T20:44:00.000-08:00

long time no talk. life has been nutty. i haven't taken many pictures, but i am still alive. i will be posting some stuff later.

see you

more inspiration from junk to funk

2009-12-27T13:46:00.000-08:00

continuing on...... this little number was make of scrap fabric. but the best part was the bustle in the back. constructed of shredded paint bucket lids, it gave this dress the drama it needed. some of the bustle was lost, mid-strut, but no matter. still the greatese wedding dress of all time.the was one of my top three. can't see it really good, but this dress is made out of all those mesh bags that your avocados, tangerines, and fruit come in. the hat has a lovely "mesh veil" over the front of her face, and the bustle is piled high with colors of red, green, orange and blue.

the quintessential bridesmaid's dress. or, a night on the town, or casual friday at the office, or riding a horse, or hunting wombats, or..... you name it, i would wear it.

more junk to funk

2009-12-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

here is another lovely that blew me away. her skirt is made with all sorts of stuff i can't quite remember, buuuuut, the jacket she is taking off actually turns into a shoulder bag. now who doesn't love versatility? no?

junk to funk 09

2009-12-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

seriously people, marcy and i always go to this gig and wonder how these artists can out do the year before. behold.....the above pic was my favorite of the whole show. you are looking at all used coffee filters that have been dip dyed in berries. the corset is also coffee filters,but is a molded shell around her body. the back of the corset is a pink ribbon criss crossing up and down her back

here is a pic of her onstage struttin that dress. i swear, most of the outfits i would actually wear out.
this is the back of the stage. all made with styrofoam, you know, that crap we can't recycle. they spray painted some of it green,and then let the lights do the rest of the work. i have more pics coming. trying to post more often.

first bazaar of the season

2009-11-29T15:11:00.000-08:00

my girl marcy took a nice pic of me at my booth at the St. Anthony's Bazaar in Forest Grove. i have all my books out and my kanzashi flower pins. you can't see the tote bags, but they are there. it was a lot of fun, and i always something i look forward to.

stay tuned for Junk to Funk pics, and a few other things.

oooo new neat website to share

2009-11-08T20:20:00.001-08:00

since i have been on a sweet tooth kick, this little website and blog will make your heart sing.

click here and be inspired. i love the colors. makes me think of all the fabrics i have, and how to change them up.

oh, and stay tuned. there will be new posts by my partner in crime.... Bubbles.

she is having a hard time trying to figure out what to wear.

A SURPRISE FOR YOU

2009-11-02T14:00:00.000-08:00

IT'S HEEEEEEEEERE ......... SINCE I AM STILL TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO GET THE PRETTY PICTURES FROM WEBSITES TO SHOW UP ON MY BLOGGY BLOG, I HAVE GIVEN YOU A LINKY POO.

click on it,,,, i dare you..seriously,,,,, it's not porn, don't worry, but something much sweeter. and the little shop just opened in Newberg. i smell crafty gatherings here in the future.

head on over.....i dare you!:)

bubbles is the giver

2009-10-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

when i was busy making this little number, it just needed something. you know, that project that needs a little "snap", but you can't put your finger on it. well, bubbles came through when she suggested i take a cutting of blue tulle from her skirt, and use that to embellish the bottom of the pocket. what a giver she is. saving the creative day like that.

anyhoo, i just love this. i am learning how to use fake flowers, and the effect is pretty cool.

as usual, bubbles is all "atwitter" about her suggestion.

more later

books revisited

2009-10-01T10:14:00.000-07:00

this little number was a fun one to make. all scrap and scrap ribbon, it can be used to look at fondly, or to write in. i also have a tie in the front that adds to the allure.cute one!!!!!

congratulations to Shannon. she is the first entry to follow my blog. i think a prize is in order.! don't forget everyone, this weekend begins the fall harvest tour in yamhill county. me and my girl marcy will be out there.....

you like bag grasshopper?

2009-09-14T19:17:00.000-07:00

this is a new item i made last week. some great denim, and a polka dot oil cloth for a pocket.

the straps are re purposed karate belts. don't ask me how many needles i broke on my machine trying to get those on. i have heavy fabric dreams, but only a tinkerbell sewing machine.
bubbles had a ball modeling these. she had a great summer, even for having no head.

i will show more soon.

back in the saddle

2009-09-06T17:35:00.000-07:00

i have a new computer, and tons of inspiration, not to mention i am in Crafty Wonderland next weekend. been busy in the studio, and cranked out this little number. it has pink balls on the bottom and a cool pink Playboy belt. i thought the fabric was so cute. little pink fish, and scuba diver girls. i will post more later.

to be continued

2009-08-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

i have obtained a new computer and am still yet to toss over all my pictures. there will be more to come very soon. please check back.

thanks

i will be at Crafty Wonderland on september 13th from 11 to 4pm

farewell , old friend

2009-08-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

today we are getting our cooktop torn out and a new, shiny one installed. this is a little wistful for me. this is where i learned to flip pancakes when i was a little girl.....a gateway to enjoying breakfast. this is also where my dad, brother and i made the infamous anchovy, pimiento pasta as well. another gateway to trying new things. it as also the testing ground for my now famous wine pairing dinners i throw once a year.

it's 38 years old, and the front burner is broken, but i can't help but remember the memories of all the good food (and my dad's fire with the beans) that was cooked and enjoyed here.

this is also the place i make my wheat paste for the wonderful books i have been so obsessed with. so, i say farewell buddy......out with the harvest gold, and in with the white. you are still useful, and definitely never forgotten. thanks for the memories. sniff sniff

more books

2009-08-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

another book made out of repurposed skirt leather. this remains my most favorite book and it is also the most un fussy.

enjoy!

flaxin waxin

2009-08-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

i took a beeswax collage class, and of course, got obsessed with that too. found these great "stop sign" shaped wood pieces at the Goodwill, threw on some pretty paper, an avocado sack and beeswaxed the top. turned out really "gorg", no?

this one is sort of leaning toward Italy, which as you know i have definitely been there!!! i have more fun doing all this stuff than should be legal in 3 states.

TTFN

purty eh?

2009-07-31T10:04:00.000-07:00

my obsession continues with this stitch. it is the coptic stitch used in the 15th century. i love the exposed spine. i picked up this gorgeous hand marbled paper at a book show and i just love it. i havc this book sitting on my bedside table. it makes me so happy to just look at it.

ooooooo i love the repurposin'

2009-07-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

book making is now a full blown obsession. these little beauties were made with some reclaimed leather i had layin around. the brown one is actually from an old leather skirt i found at the Goodwill store. the buttons are a dollar store find, and the paper is cheap enough. you likey?

book makin'

2009-07-07T22:19:00.000-07:00

since i have been taking so many great classes on bookbinding, i thought i would go in another direction and make this one......it is made out of my own hand pulled paper with my mom's dried flowers.

the white paper was given to me, but all else is mine. i had fun with the binding!

this is a small book with an exposed spine. i think showing off the work in the stitching is important, because it takes a while for this step . i made the book cover and back as well. this paper was kindly given to me from my master book binding teacher. she has a ton of scraps that i have used for everything.

pretty, no?

new website discovery

2009-06-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

since y'all know i am into the re use thing, i found a new cool website that has projects, reports and ideas for what to do with all those so called "throwaway " items. it's called Crafting in a Green World.

check it out here

later

take a guess

2009-06-01T18:13:00.000-07:00

Bubbles has bee so helpful modeling things for me lately, she felt it was time to show off this super find. guess what it is?
that's right, a drape tieback. i found it at a scrap store. doesn't it just scream necklace? y'all know how i love to reuse stuff, well, this item is going to have a happy second life.

errrr

2009-06-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

i had the greatest weekend.....spent two days in different art studios taking classes. had lunch with my best girlfriend Sarah, and i am plumb tuckered out. with as much creativity as i unleashed this weekend, i am stymied about what to do with these wooden bracelets.

any ideas?

reuse, reuse, repurpose, repeat!

2009-05-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

erica gave these to me from her wedding down in mexico. she just knew i could make something super fancy with them..

nothing like a little scrap fabric sewn up with some lavendar pods in it....

it made the most sublime sachet, no?

now when i open my drawer, i see the old mexican man staring back at me saying "Put me in your underwear drawer chica!"

more to come

side by side comparison

2009-05-25T21:00:00.000-07:00

the picture below is me, before college graduation with my nephew.... i could pick him up. now the shoe is on the other foot. he has grown, and he could probably pick me up now!

congratulations!!

2009-05-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

i take a moment away from crafty business to salute my nephew. today my mom and dad surprised him with A CAR for his graduation present. he was smiling from ear to ear. we made him put cap and gown on to take a few pics of him, the car and a few with me. this pic is important to me, because in 1994, there is a pic of he and i when i graduated from college in my cap and gown. he was a tiny boy back then, and look how far he has come. when i find the picture i will post it here, and you can see how he has grown. later.....

bookbinding as obsession

2009-05-18T20:20:00.000-07:00

the bookbinding class i took last winter turned me into a bookbinding fanatic. now that i know how to use fabric as the bookcloth, my world is all opened up. marcy found this cool "Project Runway" fabric, i used it for the main bookcloth, an the white strip is white denim jeans i ripped apart!!! Fabulous, No?

i have this thing about eyes. made a collage piece out of scrap paper, and threw some rinestones in there for extra glitter. kinda looks like a whacked out eyeball, but still cool.

Bubbles the dress form was a little irritated when she found out she wasn't going to be modeling these for me, but due to an unfortunate "Chrystal Light" commercial that went awry, she has no arms. she refuses to talk about it. we will stick to the jewels.

re-purposed beauty

2009-05-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

Bubbles the dress form is all a twitter about my new button necklaces. this is an entirely re-purposed item here folks! the rectangular frame is a belt link, old buttons, a great pink button from an old jacket, and some lovely ribbon. i have had a ball creating these. there will be more for your viewing pleasure.

for those of you who are dedicated to viewing my blog, and have missed me ( including my own self), i am comitted to updating this "bad girl blog" from now on. i have so much more to come.

also, OCAC is having their ceramic and metal arts show this weekend may 16th and 17th. just a heads up.

ttfn: sandi the fabulous

i love this woman

2009-04-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

the crafty chica has been around longer than most of us. but i must say, with work being a little slow, and the economy the way it is, she is a warm, vibrant partner to have in hard times. i picked up her new book "Crafty Chicas Guide to Artful Sewing" at the library, and have been divinely inspired. if you don't sew, or even if you sew, like, hardly, she has some great ideas and fun projects. also has her own product line as well.

everyone knows i have an unhealthy obsession with glitter, but Crafty Chica takes it to the nth power. check out her website if you want, or even if you just need a little smile

www.craftychica.com

and i promise, i will update my blog more often!! really, i will.

check this out!!!

2009-03-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

i have always wanted to try this: marbling paper at home....well, now you and i can.....this is so easy it's crazy. a little liquid starch, acrylic paint, paper and a plastic tub, and you can have these beauties. i was looking on a cool "how to" website and this "sista" knows what's up!!!!!!

i am going to be trying this in the near future.......click here for instructions.

or click the pretty picture......

link broken, like my heart!!

2009-03-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

http://http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50071

ok, now try it:{

shamrock fun!!

2009-03-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

something fun for the whole family....... making shamrock pretzels!!! who can turn down a massive thing like this? so easy and fun to give as a gift to all sorts of people: your neighbor, your garbage man(preferably not in the garbage), your friendly racoon, or even your own damn self.... click here for the recipe. or try clicking the shamrock too. i think i can link pictures now.

also, you could make other shapes too. i will leave the creativity up to you!!

aren't they cuuuuuute?

2009-02-22T14:12:00.000-08:00

Michael's had a bumper crop on magnet blanks. i had buttons. this is the birthed baby. soooo cute. and cute for the fridge. i made about 20, because i just couldn't stop myself. these would make a great hostess gift. or get out of jail gift......whatever.

happy sunday!!!

it's been a while!!!

2009-02-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

what with all the running around, working, driving, working some more etc. it has been a challenge to get in the studio for me. i made it a priority this weekend. and since i am doing my part to keep Bubbles (my mannequin) employed, she donned this gorgeous new bag i banged out today. a little tulle underneath the pocket adds a little frosting on the cake.

shrinky dinks

2009-01-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

remember shrinky dinks????!!! that is the piece you see here. i shrunk the circle, and then added this cool cardstock lettering i found. and decided to add a little ribbon for good measure!!

here is what it looks like on "Bubbles", my new mannequin. a few fresh water pearls and green faceted stuff in there too. Bubbles likes it.

more repurposed jewelry from my corner of the world

2008-12-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

I have been stranded at home for a few days, so i have finally gotten back into some crafting etc.

this is a recycled belt link frame, with pretty beads that resemble a tree......

the bottom ball bearing i took off another silver belt and put it on as a finishing touch for this gorgeous necklace. i also used some pretty silver like pearls as well. nice eh?

i did not make these, but i should have

2008-12-02T14:15:00.000-08:00

since the economy is the way it is, and since people are pullling back on spending(which should be the norm anyway), one clever girl over at dollar store crafts made this cool festive ornament. check out the website for more cheap, chic ideas.

more junk to funk

2008-11-20T10:07:00.000-08:00

the dude here is some random guy who decided to dress up. pretty fancy. the gal he is chatting with was in the show. her dress was made of all green colored pages from "Portland Monthly" magazine. i saw a lot of double stick tape on those gals .

this is a paper and plastic evening gown. the pages are spray painted black to give a textured look. the bodice is a piece of old fabric. not tooooo shabby. very "Trashion"

this gal got away with second place and the peoples choice award. her outfit is made out of things you would find in a couch. the skirt is old muslin, the jacket is upholstery fabric, the the button closure area in front is finished with those sliding door lock thingys. you can't really see it, but it was awesome. also for the last cool thing, the standup collar is human hair. she also had a ton of pheasant feathers on top of her head.

more junk to funk baby!!

2008-11-17T21:08:00.000-08:00

bows and ribbon can be trash, but this diva re-used!!!! a full bow skirt and a ribbon bodice. she is also holding her trophy for participating in the nights events. cool stiletto, and gold barbie trophy, no?

check this out!! high waisted skirt made with all zippers. the bustle on the bottom was all bubble wrap, and the top is all plastic. to die for eh??? she also go third place.

one of the sponsors was SCION vehicles. they made one of their hybrid cars into a photo booth. marcy and i took a seat in the back of the car, and away we went. she looks fantastic, while i look a little on the "man ish" side. the second pic is of me giving my best "Zoolander."

more to come

JUNK TO FUNK BABYYYYYYY!!!!!!

2008-11-16T13:58:00.000-08:00

the best, most awesome recycled "trashion" show was yesterday, and i must say, some amazing creations, like this one. blue plastic bag poof skirt with woven shrug made out of grocery bags. so adorable.

emcee sam adams in a bubble wrap tuxedo coat and brown plastic grocery bag leaf like head dress. tara on the left is wearing the ever so stylish "floppy disk flapper dress." out-effin-rageous.

each letter over the stage was made with recycled products. the "F" is egg cartons, the "N" is plastic easter egg cups, and we couldn't figure out what the "U" was.

decided to test my camera on us. not bad.

more pics to come. however, since my silly camera doesn't take good pictures of people actually "in motion"(bogus, i know), they will be good none the less.

ohhhh chocolate

2008-11-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

found a new, local chocolate place. made my way out to carlton, mcminnville area today for fun, and stumbled on it. there are two local stores in the newberg/mcminnville area, but if you don't want the drive, try here. i just love the name too. Honest Chocolates!!! i've had a few, namely the pinot inspired ones. and since it is my job to test and support local talent..... please take my word, they are heaven, and not too sweet either.

i love me denim long time!!!

2008-10-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

since i put the call out for denim jeans, i decided to make myself a little rug. i like the "rawness" of it.

some of the jeans have old paint stains, rips, tears etc. and i love the pocket detailing.

enjoy!!

more bags

2008-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

this is another bag using purple fabric, grey upholstery samples, and the little grid red piece is from rubber shoe samples. all said, pretty good use of odd materials.

forgot to rotate this photo of the use of belts for handles. but, they matched pretty good.

here is some reclaimed fabric, with a denim pocket. i put a call out for denim jeans, and i have been using them for all sorts of stuff. pockets is just one use. others to follow.

and now.....back to our program!!

2008-10-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

been pretty busy lately with the tote bag thang....here are some new creations, of course all made with re-purposed materials, including the handles, which are belts.

i was inspired by some super cool stuff on etsy. i love this grey denim with the button flowers.

the green embroidery was off a t shirt i found at my clothing swap. it looks great on this bag!!!

don't miss the ART IN THE BURBS this weekend up on Bull Mtn. lots of great art, and super fun too.

also, next weekend is the big NW Bead Show at Montgomery Park. Sarah is getting her teeth pulled, so it is my duty to go for the both of us. duty.......yes, duty!

also, the Catlin Gable Rummage Sale is this coming weekend as well. lots of good stuff at cheap prices. all at the Expo Center. don't miss it!!

a day in the neighbors yard

2008-10-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

harvest is here, and my neighbor's grapes were ready. aren't they gorgeous?
these are reisling grapes to be exact. the weather had been cooperative, giving us a little milder weather last week, so it was time to take them off the vine.
such a thing of beauty. sigh......

more chalk art part 3

2008-10-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

i love this one, so simple and sooo cute!!!
pacific university students did this one. still can't believe it is drawn with chalk!!
sometimes, don't you just feel like taking the day off and going somewhere on your own carrot?
me loves the goggles long time!!!

yes, this is still my craft blog. i will be posting pics of all my new stuff next time. i made some great tote bags and some cool, re-purposed jewels. more soon, i promise!

more chalk art

2008-10-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

regardless of your party persuasion, this dude has serious skills. he was a featured artist that day.
beautiful!!!! another featured artist. i love the idea of a masquerade and a tree swing.
not only is this one beautiful, but it really gave me the notion that i needed to take a bathroom break right then and there.

sidewalk chalk art festival

2008-10-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

went to the sidewalk
chalk art festival 2 weeks ago and saw some amazing stuff.
like this one of some guys fishing.

and this gorgeous one. i love the bee on the flower!!
this guy paid homage to his little doggie. so lifelike. and the dog is sooooo cute in real life too. just a short, shrimpy dog, but attitude galore!!

errrrr

2008-09-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

sold some of my stuff at an outdoor show in southeast this weekend. it was a rock n roll biker bar, but what super fun!!! definitely the most fun vendor show i have been involved in. lots of tats, piercings and great rock music. all outdoor. i was loading my stuff at about midnight, when some of us came across this guy. just takin' a nap. love the beer bottle next to him. the pic is a little blurry. still learning how to use my damn camera. but i have decided that i will be sending xmas cards this year with a nice caption. what do you think?

do you think he had too much to drink?

new tote bags

2008-09-22T19:19:00.000-07:00

my first tote bag. this was the "practice" bag. even with a template, it kicked my ass!!! notice the belts i used as the handles. this was the whole idea. to repurpose items that may never be used in another way. thinkin' outside the box!!

been a busy weekend. sorry i haven't posted new stuff. went to the sidewalk chalk art festival this weekend,,,,,, totally rocked!!! i will post pics later.

Iron Artist part 3

2008-09-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

by far the "raddest" of all the sculptures was this thing of beauty. the base is a plastic hobby horse, cut up the back, wheel inserted, egg cartons to give the look of scales, "flames" coming out of it's nose, hoses everywhere, and a cabbage patch kid on top with nails for hair. everything was then spray painted green. BTW-- the team who made this was last years champion!! we didn't stay long enough to see who won, but seriously........

Iron Artist part duh!! 2 that is.

2008-09-13T18:06:00.000-07:00

marcy and i tore it up at the creation tent. we made magnets. mine is on the left, hers is on the right. cool!!

here is another creation in progress.... check out the naked doll!!

teams had to "obey" the rules. referees were hilarious!! here, the refs got a little miffed when they caught this team in violation. therefore, they were sent to the penalty box, and told to take shirts off and bare bras.

iron artist

2008-09-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

saturday, marcy and i headed down to the "Iron Artist" competition to benefit one of our favorite artist "re use" places called "SCRAP." basically, it's iron chef, but artists. they are given certain items, they can add to it, and in 3 hours, they create something out of stuff that would otherwise go in our landfills.

the pic here with the bicycle tire was early in the day. we weren't sure what they were going to come up with.

the second pic shows a nearly finished sculpture. i am really diggin' those tubes going into the mask head. fake greenery always makes things come to life.

such a cool idea

2008-09-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

check this out!! newspaper yarn!!!!! if you want to know how to make it, click here
or click on the pic!!

look what i found

2008-09-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

everyone knows that my favorite place to shop is the Goodwill. i am so amazed at what i can find there. like this: it is a paper jewelry kit. they give you certain glues to make the paper stiff, include findings to make earrings or necklace, you can paint it, and voila', paper jewelry!! can't wait to try it. i will post pics as soon as i get on this project.

pretty bird

2008-09-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

not only did i have fun picking pears in the orchard on saturday, but i came across this lovely little nest perched right on some branches. isn't it cute???? no birds around, but i am sure they will be back to have more babies.....and hopefully clean up all that poo.

fall bounty

2008-09-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

hello lovies!!! fall is my favorite time of year. the weather change, the coats i can wear, the end of sweating in my clothes as i sit here, and of course, the foods. dad and i went out to a local orchard 5 minutes from our house and picked these babies!! every time i go to pick fruit, i have childlike wonder at how that fruit just grows right on the tree like that :). it took us a very short time to pick over 200 pounds to give to friends and family. a real father-daughter thing we do every year. mom tries to put a limit on how much we can bring home, so she kindly refrains from joining us.

too much fun!!

my heart to yours

2008-09-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

i found a project in one of my crafty library books, and did my best to follow the directions (not my strong suit). i shaped wire into a heart, wired up some beads, and threaded them on. pic is a little blurry, but i think it turned out ok. not what i expected, but a woman i took a class with once said "if it doesn't turn out the exact way you want, it just means it's 'organic'."

this will most likely become a necklace, ornament, adornment for a dog sled, etc.

"baby you can paint my car"

2008-09-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

went down to the Art in The Pearl today, and saw some pretty cool stuff. but this, by far, was THE BEST. seems a non profit donated this car for all the kids to paint up, and express their inner artist. it had been painted on for the entire weekend by all the little ones. i don't know the particulars, but i am sure it will be auctioned off for the cancer non profit. the kids were going crazy!!! for me, it was really inspiring to see how they painted the tires, the back and how some just decided to splatter paint on the fender!!

should give you a smile!!! sure did for me!!

totally tote bag. period.

2008-08-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

here is a tote bag i have been working on for a few weekends. keep in mind i am still sort of a beginner when it comes to sewing.

the front floral panels are upholstery samples from a giant sample book i found for 50cents at SCRAP. the handles are the coolest part. they are from a pair of suspenders that mom found. i took them apart, sewed them in, and they will probably be the most sturdy handles i will ever have.

this tote bag is quite "gi normous", but that's all i know how to make..... something big.

ok, here is the pic

2008-08-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

i am still learning how to post pictures you can click on and go straight to the link. sorry, all.

anyhoo, here are these beauties. i want one for every finger. LIBERACE!!!!

way cool rings

2008-08-28T19:58:00.000-07:00

check these out!!!!! totally cool way to use your own artwork in a pewter ring. this guy has serious skills. he also has a video showing the whole process of doing resin for these lovelies.

CraftStylish - Sewing, Knitting, Crochet, Quilting, Paper Crafts, Embroidery, Jewelry Making and more

2008-08-26T22:05:00.000-07:00

CraftStylish - Sewing, Knitting, Crochet, Quilting, Paper Crafts, Embroidery, Jewelry Making and more

i love nothing more than great organization for crafty tools. this tutorial for a craft needle holder is the best. check it out!!

new fun blog i found

2008-08-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

hey everybody, check out a new blog i found right in our own backyard. it's www.Meggiecat.blogspot.com. this woman has been crafting a long time, and has some seriously innovative ideas. check out her tip with the rolling pin. AWESOME!!

also today, i got my hair cut. really cut. at least 6 inches. i love it. so swingy and easy. i will post new pictures soon.

on to watch more olympics.

see you!!

re "jean" purpose

2008-08-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

since i love to "repurpose" items, there is nothing like a great pair of jeans. my heart broke when my favorite pair ripped in the seat. i decided i needed somewhere to put all my sewing stuff whenever i cut fabric, so i just stapled it to the table, and filled the back pockets. i call it the "Daisy Duke sewing holder", or the "pam anderson sewing holder", or the carrie bradshaw sewing holder, or the "Ru Paul sewing holder". anyhoo, it works.

happy day!!

no "wining"

2008-08-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

i finally found a use for all those wine corks laying around. i got a few of these cinch up thingys at the hardware store (i don't know what they are called), and just hot glued them together, cinched up the thingy, and now i have a wine cork trivet for hot food. just make sure they are all the same height. if not, you can cut them down. what a conversation piece at your next funeral. :)

another crafty day

2008-08-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

you all saw the crocheted bracelets with wire. i decided to take it up a notch and make this necklace. it is three strands of crocheted wire that has been braided, and the tie off is a vintage button i found in my jar. sorry the pics are so far away. my camera is "close up challenged." or maybe the operator is.

thought for the day

2008-08-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

too hot to do much today, but still, must carry on with your thought for the day:

how come everytime i sweat, it smells like a cross between a dead chicken and an old purse? if my purse starts smelling like my armpit, it goes. why is that?

new jewelry, some "purdy" things

2008-08-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

this weekend, i made these...
crocheted bracelets from a tutorial on a craft website. pretty, No?

this is a great way to while away the hours.....
which i did, making these little beauties...
also saw a salamandar on the floor behind my craft table.... no doubt trying to see if he could fit one over his body. i don't blame him. these were super fun. i learned to crochet on YouTube. who woulda thunk it?

comments on posts

2008-08-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

ok party people. i just figured out that i can change the settings so that all of you can comment without having to sign up on this silly thing. try it out. if it doesn't work, let me know.

more pictures and your saturday thoughts

2008-08-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

i made some cute little bracelets that were screaming to be photog'd. they all have their own personality, and are super fun to make.

the second picture is a wooden piece i stained, cut out cherry blossoms with an exacto knife, and mod podged it into place. a small hole is drilled in the top, and it is waiting for it's new life as a pendant, ornament, or something else. i am sorry you have to get whiplash looking at it. i haven't figured out how to rotate the pic after i download it. any one have any ideas?

your Saturday thoughts:

i'm feeling a bit patriotic this week since the Olympics have started. seeing my country represented, and our athletes compete is a proud moment as an American. the men's tight butts category is overflowing. i am going to write the U.S. Olympic committee and request that "tight butts" actually be called a sport. i can judge, i will be objective. i will even take Advil for my carpal tunnel, so i can "squeeze" and really get the "feel" for the tight butts.

anyhoo, tune in everyone: and show your appreciation. these athletes work super hard for a once in a lifetime chance.

other things and thought for the day

2008-08-07T17:46:00.001-07:00

this is a photo of a handbag i made this past winter. all the fabric used was from an upholstery sample book. it nearly kicked my ass, but it would have killed the average gal. not me. it turned out lovely, No?

also, your thought for the day: how come, when you go to nightclubs, there is always one guy, wearing too much cologne, wearing a leather jacket, in town from Beavercreek, age 50, trying to pick up 20 year old women? did he miss something? oh, yeah, he did. his blood pressure meds.

wednesday thought for the day

2008-08-05T22:49:00.000-07:00

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

if your pants are so low that i can see your crack, chances are i could grab a quarter, put it down there, and get a prize!

monday thought for the day!

2008-08-04T16:30:00.001-07:00

if your dog licks the privates first, make sure they don't lick your ice cream after.

craft projects finished! more to come!

2008-08-03T18:41:00.000-07:00

here are a few of my jewelry pieces. the first is a jasper and natural stone with a few borosilicate beads in for fun. the next is rose quartz and freshwater pearls with a lovely polished rock. i just love the natural stone i am finding these days.

to the left is a tote bag i just finished a few weeks ago. this fabric was remnant courdoroy with these pretty embroidered flowers. i used belts i found at Goodwill for the handles. a great idea, because you can change them out.

the pin here is a spin on the Japanese Kazashi flowers that the Geisha wear in their hair. i took a class to learn how to make them, and decided i would make more. they make great magnets as well.

this is a little princess necklace with some of my favorite rose quartz, and a blue stone i was never able to identify.

pretty huh!!

august 1st, holy crap!

2008-08-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

august is already here, and all i can think about is my xmas shopping in september. that's right. i shop in september.

this weekend i will be attending my 20 year high school reunion, and have decided to craft all day on sunday. what has happened to us that we now need to schedule stuff in? if i could schedule all stupid people to take the year off, sign me up!! it's crazy how some can get dressed in the morning.

anyhoo, my blackbelt in resale shopping goes on. i will blog tomorrow about more finds.

for those of you who are interested in purchasing organic clothing without the high price tag, i definitely recommend www.youdeserve.com . check it out, and shop away. also, my new favorite eco website is the oh so fashionable www.ecostiletto.com . lots of great info for the eco fabulous in us all.

thought for the day: S. is a great friend, and has been "eco" all her life (even though she doesn't like to call it that). she remembers the days when her vivacious british mother would go outside to hang dry all their clothes. she would wear the apron, filled with the clothes pins, and hang 'em high. and the wonderful fresh smell,,,,,, just can't beat it. anyhoo, S. just erected her own clothes line and is lovin' it. i will try to post pictures.
c'mon people, give the dryer a break, hang 'em high and breathe in the air!!!!