Decorating4...You

Outside My Box

2012-02-04T20:24:00.000-06:00

Last year a company in Canada (Gotrick Inc) asked if I could create a couple of collage pieces using their new product. They wanted to unveil their product at the CHA Winter 2012 show last weekend in Anaheim. My work is usually small, 4x4, 5x5 etc. so when I received their product I was a bit surprised by the size but who doesn't love a challenge. Once I started I had so much fun with all the room I had to work with. Take a look at what I created.....

The Winner Is.......

2012-01-31T22:20:00.001-06:00

I want to thank you all for leaving such sweet comments and taking the time to enter my give-away, I truly appreciate it. And the winner is............#4!!!! Congratulations Joy, I'll send you a message to verify your address. I'll continue to have give-aways this year so stop back soon!!! ♥♥♥

Polyvore

2012-01-30T13:14:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Dinner by decorating4 featuring clutch bags

I'm always a bit late getting started on websites but once I get started...I'm addicted! Pinterest has been one of those sites, OMG, it's sooooo much fun!!!!!! I could look and pin pictures all night long, ooooppps I've been known to do that....hahaha! While on Pinterest I noticed outfits and accessories being put together on a page, WOW where do I find that blouse??? Well I clicked on the site and was quickly introduced to Polyvore, alas another addiction! I've started putting together outfits, it's fun and fulfills some of my creative urge. :) Of course a lot of the clothes and accessories are way out of our normal price range but that doesn't mean we can't look for something similar in the regular stores we shop. Here's an outfit I put together for that special Valentine's dinner you'll be having with your sweetheart. ♥♥♥

OK, I've confessed it takes me a while to find new sites so why don't you fill me in on your current favorites, leave a comment where you like to play!!!

Time is running out, I draw a name tomorrow night for my New Year's Give-Away. Have you left a message yet, look for the post and leave your name???

In The Studio

2012-01-23T12:49:00.000-06:00

Here's another Valentine piece. ♥♥♥

Don't forget to leave a message on the Give-Away Post, January 31 is fast approaching!!! Who will receive my mixed media piece???

In The Studio

2012-01-18T14:00:00.001-06:00

I've been trying to finish some Valentine pieces before that special day. Enjoy!!! ♥♥♥

Don't forget to leave a message on the Give-Away Post, January 31 is fast approaching!!! I can't wait to give away a piece of my art!

Dear Diary, Today is Thursday, January 12

2012-01-13T00:54:00.003-06:00

Dear Diary,

I was up early today, watching the little munchkin. Up and down, up and down.....some days I think Grandma is too old for this! hahaha (not really)!!! We've read stories, played with Little People, played in the new Princess tent, I know, I'll never fit through the attached tunnel no matter how many times she wants me to follow her! Oh no, little munchkin is cranky at lunch, threw her bowl of food on the floor.....off to nap I say! Cleaning kitchen floor, switching laundry, answered emails, sorted through daughter's wedding information, set up two appointments for cake tasting (yummy). Ready to visit Pinterest...whattttttt nap time is over, OK, off to play again. Should run errands tonight but it's sooooooo cold out (I want the warm weather we had a few days ago, it felt like spring). I think I'll grab a soft cover, lay on the couch and watch a movie. So comfortable and warm, of course I fell asleep but now that I've got my second wind it's too late to do anything except maybe....Pinterest!!!!!!!! Goodnight. ♥♥♥

PS Diary....I'm trying to think of a way to let everyone know there's still time to sign up for my first ever Give-Away. I can't wait to see which Lovely Lady will win a piece of my art!

Dear Diary, Today is Wednesday, January 4

2012-01-05T14:24:00.003-06:00

Dear Diary,

I slept in this morning since I stayed up late browsing websites and ironing (does anybody still iron besides me, I wonder?). So far I'm ignoring my New Years resolution of getting more sleep and losing weight. Confession; traveling home from West Branch on Monday I ate 6 cookies to stay awake! Anyway, once I was up I started checking all my sites on the computer again. I know, it's usually the first thing I do when I get up in the morning (besides the usual bathroom trip) and the last thing I do at night. REALLY, is that much going to change between bedtime and morning? It's getting out of control, I keep adding more sites to take care of; Flickr, Etsy (2 shops now), Facebook (2 accts), 3 email addresses and a new favorite, Pinterest (I could search pictures to pin all night long, OK, I know I stay up way too late!). Note to self: get computer time under control! OK, dishwasher is going, laundry is started, I'm dressed (still need to brush hair and put on a bit of make-up to feel alive), bed is made and I'm back on the computer....ugh!!! Putter, putter, putter around the house, I love this kind of day! Hubby fixed dinner, steak on the grill....yummy!!! And now I'm back on the computer.....ugh!!!! Goodnight. ♥♥♥

Happy New Year Give-away

2012-01-01T14:09:00.001-06:00

I've been hanging on to this little piece (shown in an older post), saving it for the right moment and here it is...New Year's Day; new beginnings for many, new goals and resolutions, a fresh start to a new year. I'm having my first Give-away to celebrate, all you have to do is leave a comment (make sure I can contact you) and on January 31 I'll draw a name around 10 pm (CST), the winner of "A Small House". Happy New Year!!!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-25T15:23:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!!!

For You...

2011-12-24T12:33:00.000-06:00

Feel free to use this photo in your art. Have a fun, creative holiday season!

Around The House

2011-12-23T15:41:00.002-06:00

vintage flocked reindeer

vintage brass deer

little red reindeer

Around The House

2011-12-21T15:23:00.000-06:00

This year I took the time to clean out the decorations I don't use anymore. It felt good to pass some pieces along to my kids and to donate the others. My daughter gave me this Cody Foster house several years ago, I love it!!!

I continue to decorate with old and new, check out the old sleigh on the top shelf. Also the elves in the next picture.

Since I cleared out everything but my absolute favorites it doesn't feel so cluttered around the house. I'll show a few more decorating ideas before Christmas gets here. ♥♥♥

In The Studio

2011-11-19T00:49:00.000-06:00

It's been a few weeks since I last completed an art piece, so finally here's a new one. I've been antiquing and decorating my house recently so I'll be posting pictures in the following weeks of all my found "treasures". Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone. ♥♥♥

In The Studio

2011-10-28T18:32:00.001-05:00

I decided to try and finish all the half-completed projects sitting around my studio, it would be wonderful to have the extra space....yes, I have that many unfinished pieces sitting around!!! It's been several years since I last worked on a shadow box, so I had to dust this one off before I could work on it again. I'm so pleased with how it turned out, I love the vintage Japan figurines, the boys are soooo cute. Have a great weekend and "Go Play". ♥♥♥

In The Studio

2011-10-22T00:36:00.000-05:00

As you can tell I love babies, wings, birds, nests and flowers, they appear in many of my art pieces. I say do or make what brings a smile to your face, be happy!!! ♥♥♥

In The Studio

2011-10-15T11:32:00.002-05:00

"Autumn" House

"Farm" House

I've been racking my brain trying to come up with an idea, something fun and playful for my art. Finally, late one night it hit me, we all love our homes so why not make a variety of special houses. Sooooo here's a sample of my new series "Houses". Hope you enjoy!!!

For You...

2011-10-13T23:03:00.001-05:00

Feel free to use this photo in your art. Have a fun, creative weekend!

In The Studio

2011-10-09T02:20:00.001-05:00

Do you ever look at a piece of art you've finished and days or weeks or months later look at it again and think it's not quite what you wanted??? Usually this happens when I try to finish something too quickly and by the way, why do I think I have to finish it quickly in the first place?

Here's an example of a piece I wanted to make changes to (the original is in the previous post). I liked my first version but felt the wings were too dark, not what I'd planned when I first laid it out so I changed them. But you know how it is, once you make that first change more changes are bound to happen. I decided the wording wasn't quite right so I changed that...then the little one needed a hat, took care of that...and finally I felt the little nest needed to be softened and highlighted...found the perfect feather and ta-da it was done! I loved the pretty butterfly pin in the first version but after my changes I didn't feel it worked anymore. So what do you think, version 1 or version 2 (but of course there's no way to go back to version 1 but always a chance for version 3)!!!

In The Studio

2011-09-13T00:52:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy week but I've been able to finish a few pieces, this is one of my favorites. I found the butterfly pin in a box of jewelry I had stashed away, the colors worked perfectly for this piece. ♥♥♥

In The Studio

2011-09-02T21:20:00.000-05:00

I started this piece last year in a class I took from Brandie Butcher-Isley. As I was digging through a cupboard the other day I came across it sitting there looking so sad. I decided I needed to finish it up...looks much better now! Enjoy!

In The Studio

2011-08-28T11:58:00.000-05:00

Finished another piece last night. Makes me dream of a relaxing vacation in PARADISE!!!

In The Studio

2011-08-23T22:46:00.001-05:00

After 2 years of trips to the ER and 5 hospitalizations my doctor's finally did a test to determine how my gallbladder was functioning.......it wasn't (no surprise to me)!!! My gallbladder was taken out last Friday so I'm home recuperating. Since I'm suppose to take it easy I figured I could stand in my studio and work on art. Well I managed to finish this piece but was tired afterwards, guess I'll have to rethink that one!!!

My Studio

2011-08-17T20:13:00.000-05:00

I've had several friends ask if I could show my pages from the Winter 2010 issue of Cloth Paper Scissors Studios Magazine since they missed it on the newstand. Well here it is, that's me working on a mermaid compact. I was so pleased to share my studio with everyone but I have to admit I've made changes in the past year and it's certainly not as clean as it appears in the magazine! Since my space is small I have to come up with unique storage ideas, as you can see I've incorporated my pottery collection into brush, paint and glitter holders. I'll share more of my storage solutions in the future with additional pictures of the space.

For You.....

2011-07-04T00:49:00.000-05:00

Feel free to use this photo in your art. Have a fun, creative 4th of July!!!

In The Studio

2011-06-29T12:30:00.000-05:00

I'm having so much fun in my studio right now!

In The Studio

2011-06-26T19:36:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone enjoys a safe, peaceful vacation this summer.

In The Studio

2011-06-25T03:33:00.000-05:00

Just enough time to finish one more patriotic piece before the 4th! Have a wonderful holiday!

In The Studio

2011-06-14T18:04:00.001-05:00

Happy Flag Day!!!

History In Review

2011-06-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

I created this tin in 2008 for a trade with a special friend!

In The Studio

2011-05-19T19:50:00.000-05:00

I finished this piece today. I went a little crazy creating texture in the sand but I like the results. I'm in the mood for the beach....or lake.....or swimming pool, actually anywhere I can sit back and relax with the sun on my face!

For You.....

2011-05-13T19:41:00.000-05:00

Feel free to use this photo in your art. Have a fun, creative weekend!

In The Studio

2011-05-11T00:06:00.002-05:00

A whole day to work in my studio, oh boy did I love that, finished "The Circus"! Hope you enjoyed a fun day too!!!!!! I used images from AlteredArtifacts.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T23:28:00.000-05:00

I hope you enjoy a wonderful Mother's Day!!!

History in Review

2011-05-06T14:32:00.000-05:00

Two years ago I made this tin for my in-laws 60th wedding anniversary. They'll be celebrating 62 years in a week...WOW, that's something isn't it!!!!!!!!!

Planning A "Royal Wedding"

2011-04-30T00:19:00.000-05:00

Well it's official, we'll be planning a "royal wedding" next year. Our daughter is getting married next July. After visiting many, many, soooooo many possible reception sites we've finally booked The Temple For Performing Arts, a beautifully restored historic building downtown. Isn't it Beautiful!!!! My daughter doesn't like to make decisions so she's leaving the decorating "mostly" up to me.......ohhhhh this could be a lot of fun....or a lot of stress!!!!! So I'm asking, what ideas do you have for an elegant wedding?????

For You.......

2011-04-25T09:51:00.000-05:00

Feel free to use this photo in your art. Have a fun, creative day!

Captured On Film

2011-04-22T14:43:00.000-05:00

Easter, early 60's. I didn't realize how stylish I was back then. My socks match my dress and I'm holding my purse so lady-like!!!! I hope you have a wonderful Easter.

In The Studio

2011-04-20T14:15:00.001-05:00

I have a nice selection of baby cabinet cards, just warning you there will be a few more pieces with these cute little faces!!!!

In The Studio

2011-04-20T00:06:00.000-05:00

5x5 Mixed Media Collage, "Hidden Oasis". I'm so happy to be back in the studio again, my brain won't quiet down...ideas, ideas, ideas!!!!!!

In The Studio

2011-04-17T01:50:00.002-05:00

I was able to enjoy another fun day in the studio. I'm sending her to my etsy store, I'm sure she'll find a "Beautiful" home. :)

In The Studio

2011-04-13T09:57:00.004-05:00

I finished this little lady yesterday. I was so pleased with the colors, I've had fun experimenting with ink.

Found Treasure

2011-04-11T10:51:00.001-05:00

I treated myself to a "shopping day" last week, boy did I need it! Most of my shopping lately has been running errands to restock household items but this trip was for fun. I went to my favorite antique store "Brass Armadillo" and left with several sacks full of treasure and to my amazement spent less than $85. My favorite find was this beautiful, fun lamp. Hope you get a fun shopping day soon!!!

Found Treasure

2011-04-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

Years ago Mom and Dad received 2 of these clocks as wedding gifts. Stored away in the basement we found them still in their original boxes, perfect my sister and I each got one. I have mine sitting in my Studio along with a shell paper weight from Mom's collection.

Captured On Film

2011-04-01T00:38:00.000-05:00

I'm looking forward to warmer weather (not hot), blue skies and boating on a beautiful lake. I grew up boating. The first time I remember going in a boat was at my Great Aunt and Uncle's house in Clear Lake, Iowa. We'd go boating, fishing, and best of all swimming! Years later my dad bought a boat, fixed it up and took us out on the river. It wasn't long before we had a bigger, faster boat and we'd drive 2 hours every Sunday to take it out on the lake. Mom would always bring along a picnic lunch....fried chicken, hard boiled eggs, grapes, chips and dip, potato salad, slices of cheese and Little Debbie cookies. This is the exact lunch my kids still expect me to make for any picnic we have, just like grandma's boat lunch! I spent many hours riding in the boat, day dreaming, sun tanning (more carefully now then in the 70's) and reading. If we were fishing I always had a book in my lap and surprisingly when I'd reel in my line I'd have a fish on it (the only catch of the day)!

I usually wore my long hair in pigtails otherwise it would get too tangled. This is a typical picture of me with my eyes closed (even in the 70's)!

Found Treasure

2011-03-31T17:31:00.001-05:00

A few more treasures I've found at mom and dad's while cleaning out the basement with my sister. A gray Russell Wright platter and oval serving bowl, a gold trimmed coffee caraffe and a diamond shaped Criterion wall art piece. With a little soap and water they look good as new! Ohhhhh there's so much more to show I just need time to clean everything.

For You.....

2011-03-27T13:24:00.000-05:00

Feel free to use this photo in your art. Have a fun, creative day!

In The Studio

2011-03-25T10:02:00.000-05:00

5x5 Mixed Media Collage. I love the sweet, little girl image. I used vintage plastic flowers with Swarovski crystals to add a little dimension to this piece.

Around the House

2011-03-24T16:28:00.000-05:00

Sneak Peek........As I continue decorating the Grand Room I'm surprised by all the "perfect" items I run across for the room. Last summer my sister and I took the day off to have some fun. The fun was the annual Highway 141 Garage Sale, an amazing number of homes/towns participate along a 100 mile stretch. Of course Debbie and I never make it that far, in fact we barely make it 25 miles before her car is filled to the brim. I've found vintage jewelry, cabinet cards, pyrex bowls, and one of my favorite finds was this clock, it looks great in the Grand Room and I love the rustic warmth it adds.

A favorite shop of mine is The Brass Armadillo Antique Mall. I love spending hours there looking in every nook and cranny (of course those "hours" don't happen very often). Grandpa occasionally goes with me and when he's finished looking around he'll sit back and look through the books they sell. One weekend we were walking down an aisle when I spotted this table or should I say chunk of tree turned into a table......I love it! It's perfect for the little munchkin to use when she's old enough, it has a flat, sealed surface. I have two wooden chairs that fit, what a fun find!!!!! I have just a few more things to add to the room and then it'll be finished (until I decide I want to change things!).

Help Find A Cure

2011-03-22T12:48:00.000-05:00

I know a wonderful young lady who participates in normal daily activities such as school, homework, sports but also has regular doctor's visits, takes a lot of medicine and watches for any sign her lungs/body aren't functioning right, her name is Andrea and she has Cystic Fibrosis.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a devastating genetic disease that affects tens of thousands of children and young adults in the United States. Research and care supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is making a huge difference in extending the quality of life for those with CF.

Each year we make donations to our favorite causes and every one of them is important in helping find a Cure. But bringing awareness to these causes is also important, that's why I'm posting this. Cystic Fibrosis is a cause I've been supporting for years, they've made progress in their research but as always there's more to be done. We're working and fighting for a Cure, so if you're interested in a worthy cause this is it.

GREAT STRIDES is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's largest and most successful national fundraising event. Making a donation is easy and secure! Your generous gift will be used efficiently and effectively, as nearly 90 cents of every dollar of revenue raised is available for investment in vital CF programs to support research, care and education. Just click the "Donate Now" button on my side bar to make a donation that will be credited to the ANDREA'S ANGELS team. Any amount donated is greatly appreciated! Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those with CF! Thank you for supporting the mission of the CF Foundation and GREAT STRIDES! To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org.

In The Studio

2011-03-22T00:08:00.002-05:00

Finished this 4x4 today. I used rub on's, stamps, ink, acrylics and paper to create "A Small House".

In The Studio

2011-03-18T00:44:00.000-05:00

I've had a couple of hours this week to actually work in my studio....Yeah! I finally finished this 4x4 piece, I love the feather on her hat!

Around The House

2011-03-14T01:38:00.000-05:00

Sneak Peek......I wanted a red striped dust ruffle for the bed in the Grand Room so I went to the computer and searched three of my favorite stores; Target, Kohl's and Penney's. Guess where I found my stripes??? Penney's had a dust ruffle and pillow shams in a perfect beige/red stripe along with small floral pillows that matched and lucky me they were all on sale, what a great deal!!! The bedding looks fantastic with the floral drape panels and red wall. I love all the warm tones in this room, hopefully the little munchkin will sleep peacefully and enjoy the sweetest dreams!

In The Studio

2011-03-03T22:38:00.000-06:00

I took the tiniest tin I had and created this little beauty. The lily pad is a vintage earring with the smallest dragonfly on it. I love my supply cupboard, overflowing with all kinds of goodies, I couldn't believe how well everything fit together. Off to my etsy store beautiful dreamer!!!

In The Studio

2011-03-02T22:57:00.001-06:00

I love nursery rhymes and fairy tales so this whimsical piece was fun to create. I have several Humpty Dumpty images but this one's my favorite, I'm drawn to the colors. I embellished this 4x4 cradled panel with paper, ink, beads, glitter, Swarovski crystals and a sun charm. Off to my Etsy shop he goes.........

In The Studio

2011-03-02T11:16:00.000-06:00

I'm thinking Spring, are you???

Grandma Says

2011-02-28T03:17:00.000-06:00

The little munchkins 1st birthday is fast approaching and I've hardly told you anything about her. My mom always said her grand kids were perfect and I have to agree my granddaughter is perfect, cute, funny, adorable, smart.......ohhhh if you're a grandma you know what I mean! I have the privilege of watching her 3 days a week so we have the opportunity to develop a very special bond. But let me tell you I am tired at the end of each day and I've forgotten how to get anything else done while she's here. It's also hard finding the time to work on my art so if you mommas or grandmas have any secrets to share on how you manage please let us know!!!! I love baby feet and of course hers are the cutest so I thought you might enjoy a few pictures. Of course Grandpa is the one who taught her to put her toes in her mouth!!! :)

History In Review

2011-02-22T00:01:00.001-06:00

While visiting with my Dad the other day I stopped by his refrigerator and studied this piece (it hangs by a magnet). I made it three years ago and gave it to my Mom for Mother's Day. I love the picture of my parents, young and full of dreams. Mom loved it but what made it even more special to her (besides us three kids) were the flowerpot buttons, they belonged to her Mom.

OWOH 2011 Winners are.......

2011-02-17T22:17:00.000-06:00

I want to thank Lisa Swifka for hosting this special event. I enjoyed visiting 871 blogs, you're all amazing!!! And many, many thanks for the lovely comments I received on my art and blog, I truly appreciate it.

Now on to the Winners....

First Prize: the altered rouge compact goes to: SharDon Exclusives

Second Prize: the hanging cowboy collage goes to: PEA

Third Prize: the ATC card goes to: Her Art Nest

Thanks again for your visit, stop back anytime!

One World One Heart 2011

2011-02-05T19:44:00.000-06:00

One World One Heart 2011 is a worldwide blog event allowing bloggers from around the world to meet and get to know each other. This is the first time I've participated, I'm so excited, I can't wait to meet everyone.

Soooo Hello and Welcome to my Blog. My name is Donna, I'm also known as Decorating4 on Flickr. I'm a self taught mixed-media collage artist. I like to repurpose items I've found in antique stores and flea markets and use them in my art (also to decorate my home). I started making ATC's (Artist Trading Cards) and Shadow Boxes years ago then found myself moving towards smaller pieces like tins and old compacts. I love using vintage jewelry in my pieces, I have quite a collection of bling!!! I worked in the publishing business for many years and had access to great decorating magazines so my second love is decorating my home. I have a mixture of family heirlooms, new furniture and many great finds from ebay and etsy. I wouldn't be where I am today without the love and support of my wonderful husband and 2 great kids, thank you family!!!!!!

So on to the giveaway event: The One World One Heart 2011 event runs from midnight January 30 thru February 17. I will announce the three winners on February 18. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post and a way for me to contact you. So simple, I can't wait for you to stop by.

Prize One: An altered rouge compact titled: "Winter Skates"

Prize Two: 4"x4" Hanging Collage titled "Home on the Range"

Prize Three: An ATC card titled "On the Map" (perfect for this event!)

Remember to leave a comment and a link to your blog so I can visit. Thanks for stopping by, it's been a pleasure to meet you!!!!!! ♥♥♥

In The Studio

2011-02-01T01:50:00.000-06:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, what do you do to celebrate? My hubby and I will leave cards and candy for each other and in the evening we'll go out for a romantic dinner. When my kids were young I liked to help with the Valentine parties at their school. One year a barbershop quartet suddenly appeared in the doorway of the classroom, kids started to giggle, my daughter led me to a chair and I was serenaded by these wonderful men. I couldn't believe it, my hubby had pulled off a great big surprise and the kids never said a word about it. I have the sweetest family ever!!!!!! ♥♥♥

Around the House

2011-01-28T13:54:00.000-06:00

Here's another picture from my retro kitchen. The pink casserole was a wedding gift to my parents, it's 54 years old this month. Happy Birthday Pink beauty!!!!

Around the House

2011-01-27T10:03:00.000-06:00

In the previous post I mentioned I collect retro items and place them around the house, well my kitchen has ended up with quite a few of these pieces. Recently I came across this starburst clock on ebay, I just had to have it. My husband cleaned it up and it looks great on the wall, a real eye catcher!

Found Treasure

2011-01-26T19:32:00.001-06:00

My Mom always kept everything and I mean everything. The basement is full of stuff, things from grandparents houses, things from my childhood, things from the 50's, 60's, 70's, etc. And it's not just the basement, the upstairs is full too. The room my sister and I shared growing up is full of stuff, treasures to be exact. But my Dad doesn't see it that way, "too much junk" is what he says so he's been working on the basement, painting and cleaning it out. Before everything's gone my sister and I decided we'd better get over there to help. I took along one box, hahaha what was I thinking!!! By the time we were done (not completely finished but a good start) I had 5 boxes and had to call my husband to bring the van to get everything home!!!

It was a real treasure hunt! We had no idea there were so many boxes piled in the corner, we started unwrapping and were surprised and excited by many of our finds. Debbie and I seldom argue over things, we have different styles and collections so it works out pretty well. She collects planters, shoes, perfume bottles, green things while I collect retro items that I add here and there throughout my house (just one of my collections anyway). I also found tons of ephemera, maps, notebooks, calendars along with blocks and small bits and pieces of toys, perfect for my art. Here's a few pictures of the pieces I've cleaned up so far, I'll post more later. The casserole was our favorite find, guess who got it!!!!!

In The Studio

2011-01-18T20:52:00.000-06:00

I love working with paneled blocks of wood, I can use paint, paper or both on them. I just finished this 5x5 collage piece....ahhhhh Romance!!!

History In Review

2011-01-18T01:03:00.001-06:00

Tonight I was reading a favorite blog (buckscountyfolkart) and her subject was ATC's (Artist Trading Cards) and how much fun they are to make and trade. I have to admit I didn't make or trade many cards in 2010 but I certainly had fun and met some fantastic artist friends in 2008 & 2009. ATC's in their miniature form (2.5" x 3.5") are easier to make then larger art pieces, there's not a lot of space to fill so your main image is most likely your focal point. I want to get back to having fun with art. I want to stop worrying about the pieces I finish, do they look complete, maybe I should have done that different, will it sell in my shop. I think I'll get started on some cards and have fun while working on them!!!

My favorite place to participate in card trades and swaps is Flickr. Flickr is a great site to meet fellow artists, join groups, and in general find motivation and support. In 2008 I had fun participating in a 1950's Retro Valentine Swap........the following ATC's are a few of the cards I made to trade.

Around the House

2011-01-11T01:41:00.000-06:00

Sneak Peek.....I'm still working on the Grand Room, here's my latest project. I love my parents cuckoo clock and the natural look it adds to the room. With that in mind I forced myself to shop on ebay again and here's what I found....the front pieces of cuckoo clocks, guess what, they make perfect little frames. With some tape, fairytale images from my art collection and special hooks that grandpa says we have to use (he thinks I move things around too much and hates filling nail holes all the time) we now have perfect little frames for the wall. Of course they would be lost on a big wall all by themselves but luckily last summer I was forced to shop and found this beautiful mirror, it probably belonged to a dresser or vanity in it's previous life, it was PERFECT! I gave grandpa the special task of hooking it to the wall securely (oh boy he would hate to fill those holes!). I love the detail on the mirror, it's PERFECT for a princess, little munchkin or auntie can certainly fill that position.

In The Studio

2011-01-06T17:42:00.000-06:00

Here's my newest Mermaid Compact..."Sparkling Waters". I rimmed the bottom of the compact with shells, I like how it came out, the shells fit together nicely.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T02:03:00.000-06:00

Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy New Year!

History In Review

2010-12-30T13:10:00.000-06:00

I didn't realize how many shadow boxes I'd created until I went back to look for favorites to post, 2008 was a good, creative year! Here's one I made for a friend.

In The Studio

2010-12-26T21:48:00.000-06:00

Just finished this piece. I love the retro look (you should see my kitchen). I had to glam her up a little with small rhinestones, hard to tell in the photo.

In The Studio

2010-12-26T00:02:00.000-06:00

This piece "You Make My World Bright" is for YOU, my blog friends, thank you for being there!!!!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-24T02:16:00.000-06:00

Enjoy a healthy, safe and wonderful Christmas and New Year!!!!!

With Great Sadness

2010-11-21T09:58:00.000-06:00

My lovely mom lost her battle Nov. 3. You try and prepare yourself, especially when your loved one has been sick for so long but it still comes as a shock, a realization that you'll never be able to talk to them again. I was with her when she took her last breath, I had just told her it would be OK, I would watch over Dad, the grandkids and great grandkids and within minutes her breathing changed and then she was gone. She held on until she knew everyone was going to be taken care of.......she was the caregiver for so many years, that was the hardest thing for her to give up, being there to help others, whether it was family or friends, that's what she did, her job.

I'm going to take a little time away from my blog to take care of myself and my family. I'll be back the start of the New Year. I'm wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and a Wonderful Christmas, I know you'll be counting your blessings too.

History In Review

2010-11-15T09:05:00.000-06:00

I created "Best Friends" in 2008, has it really been that long ago!!!!

Found Treasure

2010-11-13T10:12:00.000-06:00

I can't believe how lucky I was to find these beauties. I used the owl pin in one of my Halloween art pieces, perfect!!!

Published

2010-11-09T17:09:00.000-06:00

I'm so honored to be in Cloth Paper Scissors Studios Winter issue. If you pick up this great magazine check out page 134 & 135, you'll see me working on a special piece of art.

History In Review

2010-11-02T00:27:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a great Halloween!!!!!

History In Review

2010-10-29T10:29:00.001-05:00

Here are two of my fairy boxes I made for my great nieces. I used vintage jewelry and old knobs to dress them up.

History In Review

2010-10-28T13:08:00.002-05:00

Here's another one of my babies in a nest shadow box. I incorporated two vintage leaf pins with pearls into the design.

History In Review

2010-10-28T09:25:00.003-05:00

This was one of my first shadow boxes, I love how it turned out, simple and sweet. I used 2 vintage circle pins to highlight the words.

Around the House

2010-10-22T00:47:00.000-05:00

Sneak Peek.....My parents received this cuckoo clock as a wedding present in 1957, I remember it hanging on our living room wall growing up. This special clock hasn't worked for awhile, in fact it was collecting dust in their basement when I rescued it. It now has a special spot on the Grand Room wall (guest/grandkid room), I love looking at it and remember playing with it's long chain and weights (it probably never kept correct time with three kids playing with it!).

The second picture shows the clock on my parents living room wall, it's Christmas 1958. Captured on Film......there's my stylish Grandma playing with me. I'm in red and white striped pj's and my eyes are shut. I think this is an early indication of things to come, I always close my eyes in pictures! Mom and Dad put the Christmas tree in the playpen so I wouldn't break any of the decorations (was this common in the 50's?). Check out the rocking horse and top, the top is probably still in mom and dad's basement, there's so many boxes I still need to explore....treasures!!!

History In Review

2010-10-17T03:01:00.002-05:00

Since I showed you the first altered compacts I'd made I decided to look back at my first altered tin, here it is. Coming soon....my first altered tin swap and my first shadow box.

Captured on Film

2010-10-14T19:37:00.002-05:00

My stylish Grandma!

I didn't know my Grandma very well, at least not her stories of growing up, raising a son, etc. Of course our family was there for holiday dinners and special occasions but we didn't have as close a relationship as Grandparents do now-a-days with their grandchildren. I do know she was married twice and divorced once, she adopted my dad when he was young but didn't tell him until he was 30 years old, she hunted and fished, she worked in a camera studio and added color to pictures, she had boyfriends and occasionally drank beer, she was an independent Lady. I have boxes and boxes of pictures but no stories to go with them so I'm leaving it up to you......take a look at this stylish Lady and tell me her story........

In The Studio

2010-10-13T18:06:00.001-05:00

I finished one of the mermaids I've been working on.

History In Review

2010-10-12T00:43:00.002-05:00

Here's an example of the first two altered compacts I created. This was 2008, a year I was very active on Flickr, don't you just love that site!!! I enjoy the groups (so many to choose from), viewing the art of so many talented people (always inspiring) but most of all I love the friends I've made (both these compacts went to one of those special friends).

History In Review

2010-10-04T13:42:00.002-05:00

The top mermaid was a birthday gift for my daughter, she's one of my biggest fans. :) I use mosaics so I can look back at the designs I've already made, I want each one to be unique. The bottom two mosaics were in a previous post but the top one is new. I'm working on 2 mermaids now and hope to have them in my shop soon.

Around the House

2010-09-29T10:27:00.003-05:00

Sneak peek....There were only 2 pieces of furniture left in the room when auntie moved to college, one was this wicker desk. While cruising ebay one day I came across some vintage Old Maid cards with a nursery rhyme/fairytale theme. Love at first sight but the one set was not going to cover the whole top so I forced myself to shop until I found two more sets. Since the cards had an aged beauty to them I had "grandpa" paint the desk a soft tan then placed a piece of glass on top for protection. The little munchkin will enjoy many years of coloring and writing at this special desk.

In the Studio

2010-09-27T23:32:00.004-05:00

4x4 Mixed Media Collage. I'm having so much fun with these square panel boards, I'll have birds and Christmas pieces in my shop soon. I haven't forgotten about my mermaid compacts or altered tins, I'm working on 2 mermaids right now and have a couple of ideas for tins that I can't wait to get started on.....

Captured on Film

2010-09-25T17:47:00.005-05:00

My stylish Grandma!

Tell me her story.........

In the Studio

2010-09-25T02:00:00.003-05:00

A 5x5 piece I've been working on for awhile. I'm trying to decide if I want to keep it or add it to my shop....what to do???

Around the House

2010-09-23T18:24:00.007-05:00

Sneak peek....Check out this cool TV lamp I found on ebay. It was listed without the cord which was OK with me, I just wanted it for it's natural look. As you can tell the guest/grandkid room is evolving, it's beginning to feel warm and cozy.

Digging into my container of treasures I found this little boy and girl, perfect for another shelf on the wall.

Found Treasure

2010-09-22T09:13:00.009-05:00

I found these beauties at a new antique store I found while visiting auntie (my beautiful daughter) at college. I've finally convinced her it's fun to shop antique stores and flea markets although she says I take way to long looking. But honestly I don't want to miss out on that special hidden treasure!!!!!!

In the Studio

2010-09-14T23:49:00.008-05:00

I've been having a lot of fun working on Halloween pieces! I used images from collage sheets I purchased at a couple of my favorite Etsy shops: MoonlightJourney and Rebelsher, check them out.

Around the House

2010-09-11T23:29:00.019-05:00

Sneak peek.....Check out this pretty fabric I found, perfect for the guest/grandkid room. I can't sew, well I guess I can sew buttons on shirts but nothing fancy and drape panels aren't fancy (at least mine aren't). So I took an afternoon and with some straight stitching look what I made, but the color was lost on the tan wall so now we have 3 tan walls and a red wall! The little munchkin says "ahhhhhh, perfect grandma"!

Captured on Film

2010-09-08T13:46:00.004-05:00

My stylish Grandma!

Tell me her story..........

In the Studio

2010-09-07T14:11:00.003-05:00

4x4 Mixed Media Collage. I really like the color combination of this piece.

Around the House

2010-09-06T11:30:00.007-05:00

Since the little munchkin needs a room to take naps in and eventually play in I decided to decorate aunties room, she has an apartment and most of her stuff with her so it was a blank canvas to work with. We (meaning grandpa) changed the pink walls to tan then I had to think...what do I want this room to feel like??? Because this room is also a guest room (mostly for auntie when she visits from college) I didn't want a cutesy baby look, (been there, done that) so what treasures did I want to pull from my containers??? One piece of art I'm proud of (it has the most views of all my art on Flickr) but haven't found the right home for is my Little Red Riding Hood Shadow box.....let's begin with it! So here's a sneak peek at the first thing on the wall.......more to come!!!!

Grandma Says

2010-09-01T09:23:00.006-05:00

Baby Munchkin was born in April, I can't believe she's almost 5 months old. When she was born momma & daddy had both us first time grandma's over for grandma time, they were tired and usually got to enjoy a little nap while grandma sat and snuggled with the sweetest little girl. This lucky grandma also gets to enjoy little munchkin two days a week, it seems like I notice more details with her but I have to remember my son and daughter are both grown so it's been a few years since I've had a baby around the house.

In the Studio

2010-08-23T19:13:00.005-05:00

5x5 Mixed Media Collage........I love this baby image!!!!!

In the Studio

2010-08-20T00:02:00.009-05:00

It's hard.....sooooo many ideas and soooooo little time in the studio!!!! I managed to finish a couple of pieces before Halloween, that's progress anyway!!!!!