fabulous fabulous!

Rifle Paper Co.

2011-02-15T09:03:00.002-06:00

These Valentine's by Rifle Paper Co. are definitely on the list for next year's Valentine's Day, especially since my go-to Valentine for the last three years is no longer being offered :(

Whisker Graphics

2011-02-11T10:52:00.003-06:00

Need a last minute Valentine for your Valentine? Download and print one of these adorable cards from Whisker Graphics. For free!

Hip Hip Hooray!

2011-02-10T13:17:00.003-06:00

I love this website. Have you seen it yet? It's full of all kinds of party ideas for your little ones. There are some lucky kiddos out there, with some really creative parents!

Whipped Bakeshop

2011-02-08T14:11:00.003-06:00

Need something sweet for your sweetheart this Valentine's Day? I think Whipped Bakeshop can help you out with that. Yum.

Tortoise Loves Donkey

2011-02-07T12:53:00.002-06:00

I can totally see these concrete succulent planters by Tortoise Loves Donkey on my as yet non-existent patio table. Too cute!

Ladies & Gentlemen

2011-02-02T17:02:00.002-06:00

Love these dipped silverware pieces by Ladies & Gentlemen. Must. Have.

via Poppytalk

Ice Milk Aprons

2011-02-01T22:03:00.002-06:00

Aren't these aprons from Ice Milk Aprons just divine?! They are totally what I envision my life being someday: calm, serene, beautiful and full of baking. And with names like "rollings of cinnamon" and "sugar cone scoops" they just sound delicious! Be sure to check out their blog for delicious heirloom recipes.

Frances Crafeteria

2010-11-22T12:08:00.002-06:00

This one's for the locals! My messy desk is even messier today, as I'm busily crafting more goodies for the Frances Crafeteria! Frances is an awesome boutique in Central Phoenix. If you're in Phoenix on Friday, December 3rd (from 6 to 10 pm) stop by and see me!

Less & More

2010-11-17T10:49:00.002-06:00

Lately I have been spending an average of about 9 hours a day at my desk. I'm only slightly complaining, and I am so happy I'm busy with work, but it gets a little lonesome sitting by yourself all day. AND, since I'm living at my desk, it's gotten very messy. Which I hate. Which the hubs can attest to, because I'm constantly nagging him about his endlessly messy office.

I just found Less & More, a lovely shop that offers all kinds of great organization tools. They are so simple and clean, they would add to your desk without making it look cluttered. Gorgeous!

Hello Handmade!

2010-11-01T13:13:00.004-05:00

Just announced! Hello Handmade Paperie has just released their 2011 calender, and it's a beauty! I'll let them describe it to you:

"We are so thrilled to be launching our 2011 calendar today, and we wanted to be the first to tell you about it. Featuring the words of Mary Oliver, Shanna Murray's illustrations and Betsy Dunlap's calligraphy, this quiet calendar will make you draw in your breath with it's beauty. This calendar is broken up into seasons, with four separate 7 x 7 panels.

Because we wanted to create something extra special this year, each one is an original. Betsy has penned each and every season with jet black gouache, no two will be exactly the same. We've laid out the seasons so when the bottom two inches are trimmed away, an original 5x7 remains. We love the thought of these quiet, and thoughtful celebrations being kept long after the year has past."

Lovely.

Día de los Muertos

2010-11-01T10:42:00.003-05:00

Happy November! In honor of the Day of the dead, check out Illustrated Ink's fantastic shop. So many great things!!

Winter treasury

2010-10-26T10:46:00.003-05:00

I just love everything about this treasury by Creature Colllars. It makes me long for short, crisp days and long nights spent by a fireplace. I will have neither of those anytime soon, so here's to living vicariously through Etsy treasuries! Go here to see the complete Treasury list, and here to make your own.

New mug cozies in the shop!

2010-10-18T13:30:00.003-05:00

It's kinda starting to cool off here in the desert (It's going to be 74 on Wednesday!!! You have no idea how exciting that is.) That means it's almost time to break out the tea kettle, so I've created some fun mug cozies. After a few trials and mostly errors, I think I've perfected them! And, the lovely blue-gray mug is included! Available now in the shop. Soon to follow are cozies perfect for your Starbucks habit :)

Uncommon

2010-10-18T12:03:00.003-05:00

I love just about everything in Uncommon's shop. The color palette is so me! And I love all the clean lines. Lovely!

Kickin' it Old School

2010-10-09T11:38:00.002-05:00

I was looking through my old shop and I realized that I had sold quite a few laptop cozies. So I'm bringing them back, along with a few other best sellers. They make great holiday gifts! Check them out in the shop!

A little vacation

2010-09-29T17:35:00.005-05:00

We had a fabulous time in Florida. I just wanted to share some of my photos from the trip with you! My lovely sister-in-law and brother-in-law were the perfect hosts. Thanks so much!

Project!

2010-09-29T15:55:00.006-05:00

I'm back. And just a little sad. It's so stinking dry here that I already miss the water. I'll post some trip pictures soon, but I wanted to share an awesome find I made this morning.

I was walking the dog and passed by a sad little apartment building near our house. Out front were four disgusting looking chairs. I mean, I don't even know how it is possible to get seat cushions that dirty. Yuck. But I saw a hidden potential, and think they will look lovely on our back patio (around the table we don't have yet) in a high gloss white with a fun fabric on the seat. What do you think?

I'll have to use some super heavy duty outdoor fabric so they don't fade. I found a few fun swatches over at Sunbrella. Let me know which on you like best!

I'll keep you updated on my progress!

Poppytalk Handmade

2010-09-27T07:10:00.003-05:00

It's here! The Poppytalk Handmade "Indie Love" market! Just look at all the absolutely fabulous vendors. Can you see my little shop in there amongst all the goodness? I am so humbled to be included with such amazingly creative people!

The holidays are fast approaching, so get your shop on and buy handmade!

Paper Lovely

2010-09-23T19:59:00.002-05:00

Hello my darling readers! I have not abandoned you. I'm just on a little vacation. I traded in the always sunny skies of Phoenix for the almost always sunny skies of Florida for a week. To tide you over, check out Kim of Paper Lovely's fabulous letterpress cards for the fall season. Lovely!

Poppytalk Handmade Market

2010-09-18T12:25:00.003-05:00

Oh my gosh, I'm so excited I just had to share this bit of news with you. I've been selected to participate in the Poppytalk Handmade Indie Love Market!! It runs September 27th through October 22nd. So excited!!! My little goodies are making their big debut! Thanks Poppytalk!

DIY Thursday

2010-09-16T14:17:00.003-05:00

Introducing a new feature on Fabulous Fabulous: DIY Thursday! I'll try to do some original DIY projects for you, but most of them will be fabulous finds from around the internets. Enjoy! (And please forgive me in advance if I forget a Thursday or two!)

While it's still 105 here in the desert, I know the rest of you are starting to enjoy the first days of fall. Try your hand at this easy cowl scarf with a tutorial from the lovely Merrilee of Mer Mag for a cool weather treat!

Hope Johnson Ceramics

2010-09-15T11:45:00.002-05:00

Aren't these tiny plates by Hope Johnson adorable?! Love them! It would be so fun to have an assortment for appetizers at your next dinner party.

Cupcakes

2010-09-14T14:04:00.003-05:00

I made these cupcakes last week for our lovely friend Andy's birthday. I didn't photograph them :( but they looked pretty much like the one pictured below, except that I added a bit more milk to my icing so it was a little smoother. Delicious! A note of warning: the icing is oh so rich, so a little really goes a long way on top of the cupcakes. (It's also delicious eaten straight out of the bowl!)

Uh oh, I just realized that the Ming Makes Cupcakes website (gorgeous in it's simplicity) also has cookie recipes... I feel a baking session coming on!

Metalista

2010-09-13T18:24:00.002-05:00

I love the vintage brass jewelry by Metalista Jewelry. Gorgeous!

Hair clips in the shop!

2010-09-13T10:35:00.005-05:00

I was a crafting fool this weekend! In my craziness I decided to switch from paper to felt, and made some cute hair clips. You should have seen the felt scrap mess on my floor. Check them out in the shop!

Oh, and a big thank you to my lovely little sister for modeling the clips for me. Isn't she so pretty!

Before I made the transition to felt, I whipped up some fall/holiday themed goodies. I'm hoping to get selected for the holiday market over on the fabulous Poppytalk, so cross your fingers for me!

Treasury Love

2010-09-12T10:12:00.008-05:00

When I first joined Etsy (ages ago!) their curated Treasuries were nearly impossible to create, as only a certain number could exist at a given time, so you had to anticipate when one would expire, and pounce! Now, anyone can create a treasury at any time. This means there are tons of great collections to browse! Since I've reopened my shop, some lovely ladies have featured my goodies in their treasuries. Check them out, and thanks!!

Salt City Spice created this lovely orange and turquoise collection.

Love the circus themed Treasury by Ello Govna. (Check out her photos. Gorgeous!)

A lovely wedding collection by Kathleen Cavalaro.

Pretty gold tones in this treasury by Heather Kent.

This fall Treasury by Oona James Studio makes me long for cooler weather.

Jenny N. Design

2010-09-09T08:33:00.002-05:00

Ok, so it's not quite fall yet in the desert (even though I am wanting it to be SO BAD). When fall does finally arrive, I think I'll need one of these slouchy bags by Jenny N. Don't they just scream fall? Lovely.

The shop is open!!

2010-09-06T22:16:00.004-05:00

Whew! I had forgotten how long it takes to fill up an Etsy shop. After a marathon session at my computer yesterday, the new shop is finally open!! I'm so very excited. Please do take a look, and let me know what you think. I'd appreciate your feedback!

Happy labor day sales!

2010-09-06T12:10:00.007-05:00

Hello friends! I hope you are all having a lovely labor day. I, unfortunately, will be spending the day chained to my computer. Taking a little break from actual work, I found some great Labor Day sales on Etsy for you. Enjoy!

Pretty bangles from Brooklyn Arts are a steal!

Love these wood cuts from ELWoodworks.

Gorgeous resin earrings from Under Glass.

Adorable dog collars from Nola & Spencer. E, wouldn't this looks cute on Ainsley?!

A little vintage fabric button necklace by Brass Roots.

Simple painted print

2010-09-03T10:54:00.005-05:00

I love this idea from the talented Jessica Jones of How About Orange. Create great painted fabric by simply using painter's tape to block off a pattern, apply your chosen paint color, and voila! Custom, hand painted fabric! I think I could be in need of new pillows, and I'm pretty sure I have some fabric paint... Project!

I also loved this tutorial for making a pretty envelope bag decorated with patterned tape, which is all the rage right now. I just happened to find some on sale at Michael's the other day, and had to have it! Here's my bag! (I think a thinner envelope would make the folds look prettier, and please pardon the image quality - shot on my iphone :)

A new shop

2010-09-02T11:13:00.003-05:00

We've got a little project in the works over at chez Jill & Michael. The coffee table (and, subsequently, the floor) has been littered with paper for the past couple of weeks. I've been making things again! It really feels nice to get back into the creative frame of mind. I've decided to reopen my Etsy shop, this time under a different name. Here's a sneak peak at the shop, and some of what will be in it! We're doing a photo shoot this weekend, where cupcakes will play a supporting role. Stay tuned for more!

Vase tutorial

2010-09-01T11:13:00.002-05:00

What a fabulous idea for making super cute vases! Brittni of papernstitch posted this lovely tutorial over on oh my! handmade goodness. It's just Ikea votive candle holders and kids' tights! So cool!

ROVER

2010-08-31T12:04:00.002-05:00

How totally cute are these little dog outfits by Rover?! If we lived in a cooler climate, and my dog didn't give me a look that said "I'm going to kill you in your sleep tonight" whenever I put something cute on him, I would totally get two.

Here's what they have to say about their line: "Taking a refreshing departure from pink ruffles and glittered decals, Rover introduces the new approach to dressing your dog. Classically tailored garments paired with fresh detailing epitomize the Rover style."

Love it!

Elkhorn

2010-08-27T10:44:00.008-05:00

Someday, when I have a grown-up dining room table, I'm going to have a collection of gorgeous table runners. And I'll start with these by Elkhorn. I think I'll need the pillows, too, for good measure. Oh, and did I mention they're hand printed? Lovely.

Canister labels

2010-08-26T10:31:00.004-05:00

UPDATE: The lovely Cathe Holden herself commented on this little post, and had some fabulous advice for using decal paper to get the labels on your canisters. Here's what she said:

"The decal paper is great, it turns your art into decals just like the vintage ones. It's not cheap (mostly because of the shipping), but I bought a booty-load at once for future projects as well. You print, spray with clear acrylic, then trim out, soak a in water for seconds and the decal slides right off for placing on your canister. Everything but the lettering/graphics disappears if you're working with a light colored surface."

Thanks Cathe!

I have these hideous canisters on my counter for flour and sugar. I'm pretty sure I've had them since college. Hideous. I've had my eye on some new ceramic ones at Ikea for awhile, and I've just found the perfect way to dress them up.

Cathe Holden of Just Something I Made has given us the gift of awesome label downloads! She's made one for just about everything you could find in the kitchen, and even has instructions for making them look beautiful on your canisters. Happy downloading!

via How About Orange.

Sharon Montrose

2010-08-25T19:29:00.004-05:00

It's decided. When I have my first baby (not anytime soon, sorry momma) I'm decorating the nursery with Sharon Montrose's baby animal prints. The only problem I can foresee with this plan is that the prints might be cuter than the baby...

Check out this video of the shoot she did with the baby giraffe. Cuteness overload!!

Vintage tea cups!

2010-08-19T12:12:00.003-05:00

My lovely cousin posted on Facebook the other day that she was having a hard time finding the perfect tea cup. I have no idea if she meant vintage, but I decided to run with it. Here are some pretty ones!

Where to find these cups, clockwise from top left:
Leaning Cedars Vintage
Brecca's Bizaar
Peacock Modern
Beatrice Clay
Nutmeg 'n Sassafras
In Cold Storage

Crystal Jackson

2010-08-16T20:04:00.002-05:00

I covet these little linen paintings by Crystal Jackson. They are so the color palette of my life!

To fill a shelf

2010-08-13T15:49:00.004-05:00

Here are some knick knacks to fill shelves and tables for your living room, E! Let's go shopping!

You can find all this great stuff on etsy!
Terrarium from Moss Scapes
Little yellow vase from Red Hot Pottery
Colorful bowls from Lynn Cardwell Pottery
Corked jars from Fabulous Mess
Adorable tiny plants from Tortoise Loves Donkey
Blue votives from Firefly Candles
Owl statue from Cinful Oldies
Turquoise clock from Clockwork Universe
Painted candlesticks from The Shabby Chic Cottage
Vintage camera from Remember When Camera

A decorated room

2010-08-11T14:36:00.007-05:00

One of my lovely sisters moved to the valley this year (to be closer to me, of course). She got a great apartment on the lake that used to be, with great views of several mountain ranges. It's the inside of her apartment that needs some help. (It's ok, she knows it's true!)

She bought this fabulous chair as her accent piece.

She has a neutral couch that needs some jazzing up, as well as some blank walls. Here are my suggestions for you, E!

Pillows make any dull couch sing. These are from Leah Duncan, Purple Pajamas and Swoon Studio.

These shelving units by Lunar Lounge Design and Cathode Blue are fantastic, and would take up lots of blank and boring wall space.

For the rest of the blank walls, I found these pieces by Callaghan Art Gallery and Beepart.

And for shelves and walls, I love all these little frames from Amye123!
Next post: knick knacks!

Linden Lovebirds - Lovely Accessories

2010-08-05T09:30:00.002-05:00

Alas, I haven't bought any new shoes for a very long time (well, pretty girly shoes, that is). I think if I just got some of these clips by Linden Lovebirds I could spruce up my old shoes and be set for another shoe drought!

Illustrations by Amy Blackwell

2010-08-04T11:31:00.005-05:00

Love! the work of Amy Blackwell, a fabulous illustrator from the UK. Especially the birdies!

Working Class Studio

2010-08-02T09:31:00.003-05:00

Have you seen the great things that the Working class Studio is making and selling? A product development venture of the Savannah College of Art and Design, the shop promotes the work of students, alumni and faculty. Pretty great stuff, where art meets function! You can buy their goodies online here, or in Phoenix at Le Grande Orange, one of my favorite eating/shopping spots!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - Part Two

2010-07-29T15:02:00.015-05:00

Round two! Just as good as round one!

Beth bought more than a few things at Migration's booth. I got some adorable felt earrings.

I previewed Miniature Rhino here. It was just as fabulous in person!

New K Industry had the coolest baby bibs for rock star kiddos.

Nous Savons had a beautifully displayed booth. I loved every piece!

OhMa had the most lovely felt goodies. She was even selling felt sheets! I should have bought some...

Loved all the paper goods by Paper & Type.

I definitely bought a notebook cover from randL/Chickabird. It has a built in pencil holder!

I was so excited to meet Rae Dunn, who makes the most gorgeous hand built pottery.

Beth had a great time at Raeburn Ink's booth. She got a lovely, hand printed summer scarf.

I purchased some of Rar Rar Press's postcards a long time ago, to send to the hubs while we were doing the long distance thing. Still loved them!

Beth and I had the best time at Social Grace's booth. She custom created gorgeous necklaces from pieces we picked out ourselves. So fun!

Tiny Sparks Design had some really great hand painted wood pieces. Beth got one, but I can't tell you which or for whom!

I previewed White Nest, and I was so right in my assessment that their home goods were fabulous!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - Part One

2010-07-28T17:05:00.017-05:00

Whew! What a trip! Beth and I had tons of fun at the Renegade Craft Fair, so much fun that we had to break it up into two days so we could see it all. At the end of the second day we were a little sunburned, and a lot tired!

I'm going to show you some of my favorite booths, but like the fair, there were just too many and they have to be broken up into two installments. Hope you have as much fun as I did!

P.S.: If I've mis-identified anyone's work, PLEASE tell me! I didn't do a very good job of photographing the booth names as I took pictures... I want to make sure to give proper credit!

Cakies had the cutest things for little girls. Love the dollhouse pillows!

I adore the embroidery by Chez Sucre Chez.

I spent a little money at Erinzam's booth. Too many good things!

Oh my. Fernworks' jewelry is amazing. So much texture and dimension.

I already told you how much I love Flock Home's goodies here. They were even better in person.

I also told you about Harbinger Co. Sooo gorgeous. Beth got some fabulous earrings that gots lots of compliments while she walked around at the fair.

I loved I Am Dorkas's items for the table. Adorable.

Beth had lots of fun trying on the beards at I Made You a Beard.

Love the kitchen themed paper goods from In Vita.

Jenny and Jimbob had great packaging for their matchbox necklaces.

Lil Sprinkles had some adorably unique dolls.

Liz Oppenheim's jewelry is GORGEOUS!

I hope you come back tomorrow for more good things!

Renegade recovery

2010-07-26T19:05:00.001-05:00

Hi friends! I'm on my way home from LA (after a stop at the outlet mall in Palm Springs, of course). I'll start editing picures of all the great things I saw as soon as I get home! I can't wait to share all the great things that were at the show with you!!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - Road Trip!

2010-07-23T10:12:00.006-05:00

And we're off! My mother-in-law has graciously agreed to be my traveling companion on this trip. She is going to visit her sister in Seal Beach, while I spend my weekend perusing the wares at the Renegade Craft Fair in Los Angeles. Here we come!!

This lovely image is from Scarlet Beautiful.

Renegade Craft Fair LA - Miniature Rhino

2010-07-22T20:31:00.004-05:00

So I've dabbled a bit in embroidery. I enjoy it, but I wouldn't say I'm highly skilled in the art. Most of my stuff ends up looking a bit juvenile. That's why I love Miniature Rhino's work so much. It's embroidery perfection. And, I LOVE her company's name! Can't wait to stop by her booth at the fair!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - LovMely

2010-07-22T09:54:00.004-05:00

LovMely has some truly lovely feather accessories. I think I'll be visiting her booth at the Craft Fair!

She also makes adorable baby headbands!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - The Harbinger Co.

2010-07-21T19:10:00.003-05:00

Love love love the jewelry from The Harbinger Co. Might have to stop by their booth at the Renegade Craft Fair and snag me a pair.

Renegade Craft Fair LA - In-vita Paper Studio

2010-07-21T07:53:00.002-05:00

Have I told you I am slightly obsessed with all things paper? This is why I am excited to visit all the paper craft booths at the Renegade Craft Fair. I can't wait to visit In-vita Paper Studio to stock up on cards for all occasions. So cute!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - White Nest

2010-07-20T12:51:00.005-05:00

Here are some more fabulous home goods from another Renegade Craft Fair attendee, White Nest. Love the pillows!!

Renegade Craft Fair LA - Flock Home

2010-07-20T09:27:00.005-05:00

I'm heading to LA on Friday for the Renegade Craft Fair. My best friend lives out there, and said she'd be willing to tag along with me (I really had to twist her arm). To get myself even more excited than I already am, this week I'm posting about the artists whose booths I'm most certainly going to visit. Trust me, there are way more than I have time to write about!

Flock Home has all sorts of fabulous goodies for your house, from lovely tea towels, to pillows to spruce up your couch to hand printed fabric for your next craft project!

Emersonsonmade

2010-07-19T17:56:00.005-05:00

I am in love with an online shop. Is that wrong? You'll soon be smitten, too. Just take a peek. I looked at every page, and wanted to re-do my wedding so I could incorporate all of Emersonmade's goodies. So adorable, from the products, to the styling, to the tone of the site. In. Love.

Shrimp Salad Circus - DIY garden markers

2010-07-19T10:24:00.005-05:00

I am slowly but surely starting to grow things in my yard. We have six fruit trees in their first year of growth (read: no fruit for two more years) and while the leaves are currently falling off the grapefruit tree, the rest are doing great! My next move is to put in some raised beds so I can grow all sorts of other tings. I might live in the desert, but that doesn't mean I can't grow things here. I just grow less in the summer, and lots of veggies all winter long!

Once my veggies beds are set up and planted, I'll need something to tell me what the plants will be once the seeds have sprouted (we are going to grow organic and heirloom varieties, so most will start as seeds). I LOVE this tutorial from Shrimp Salad Circus for Antique Spoon Plant Markers. Sooo cute! I think I could do that...

Cupcake love - Enjoy Cupcakes

2010-07-16T10:17:00.006-05:00

So I'm going to LA next weekend to visit my bestie and to attend my first Renegade Craft Fair. Soooo excited! Aside from crafty goodness, I tend to plan trips around where I want to eat. I assume lots of other people do this, no? I spied Enjoy Cupcakes over on Oh Joy! today and realized I had definitely seen the pictures by the fabulous Jose Villa before. I was so overwhelmed by the cuteness of everything that I forgot that the shop was real, and that I could go there should I ever be in the vicinity! Ok, the shop is a little far from where the bestie lives (ahem, two and a half hours), but she might be persuaded to take a little road trip... it is, after all, for cupcakes!

Check out their flavor list. I've never seen anything like it...

Images from the Enjoy Cupcakes blog.

Lovely Lace

2010-07-15T09:32:00.007-05:00

I think I'm feeling fancy today. Does this mean I am blogging in pearls and heels? Nope. Still in my jammies. But I do feel inspired by lace. Enjoy!

Gorgeous lace jewelry from White Owl. Blog!

Grownup pinwheels by Kim Herring.

A vintage lace headband from Be Something New. Check out that bling!

A French lace bag by Tortilla Girl.

An edgy little cuff from Folk.

An adorable phone pouch by Track and Field.

Sometimes She Does

2010-07-14T18:04:00.004-05:00

Did I ever tell you I would really like to hand paint some china? It's been on my list of crafty to-dos for awhile. Haven't quite gotten around to it yet... In the meantime, I can satisfy my need for hand painted goodness by coveting others' work. If I drank coffee, I'd drink it out of these fabulous mugs by Sometimes She Does. When the temperature comes back down to a bearable range, I might have to get one for tea.

AND, I want these little bowls. So cute!

Laurel Denise

2010-07-13T09:33:00.003-05:00

Don't you just love this simple, pretty jewelry from Laurel Denise? I feel like it would go with everything, and makes such a sweet statement. Check out her blog, too!

A little elephant

2010-07-10T12:55:00.005-05:00

I'm going to a party this afternoon for one of my favorite little boys. He just turned one, and is just about the cutest kid I've ever met. I thought I'd make him a little something, so I brought out some of my old plush patterns. And by pattern, I mean a drawing on cardboard. Fancy. Happy birthday, Finn!

A Field Journal - Fabulous Fourth

2010-07-09T09:17:00.003-05:00

Get out your idea scrapbook, or the pins to your inspiration board (I know you have one), you'll want to remember this for next year. Olivia of A Field Journal created the most adorable Fourth of July celebration. I love every detail! And the photography and design! It looks like it belongs in Martha, I swear. Perhaps she can be convinced to share her templates...

via Tea for Joy

Poppytalk Handmade - Oil Spill Relief

2010-07-08T10:03:00.009-05:00

Have you heard of Poppytalk Handmade? Why I'm sure you have. I've mentioned it here. Just in case you haven't, it's a fabulous place to find fabulous handmade goods, kind of like a curated etsy. That way, you know everything is sure to be great. Well, right now they are hosting an Oil Spill Response Market (each of their markets have a theme), a "Handmade and Vintage Goods fundraiser for the Gulf." Each vendor is donating one item for the cause. Fabulous.

Here are some of the goodies you can find at Poppytalk this month.

Love the colors in these necklaces from Minoux Jewelry.

Very sweet cards from Satsuma Press.

A stellar caged bird apron from Pamwares.

Dreamy photography by Study.

Pretty ceramics by MB Art Studios.

Recycled paper books by Erinzam.

Love the colors in the notecards by Tina J. Studio.

And a very appropriate T-shirt from Letterhappy.

Isabelle Abramson

2010-07-06T14:52:00.001-05:00

The hand carved work of Isabelle Abramson is just lovely! It looks handmade, but oh-so professional.

Fourth of July!

2010-07-02T10:51:00.009-05:00

Happy Fourth of July weekend! It's almost too hot here to celebrate, but I hope you have fun plans and get to see some fabulous fireworks!

In honor of the holiday, some red, white and blue goodies. Enjoy!

A cute stripped messenger bag from Ika Bags.

A patriotic banner from Pamwares.

Adorable felted acorns by Sewn Natural.

Do you have a fancy party to go to? You need this necklace by Good Girls Studio!

Love love love this tote by Mojo Spa Style. Fabulous!

If you can rock these leg warmers by Mademoiselle Mermaid, I say do it!

Gallant & Jones

2010-07-02T10:39:00.004-05:00

My in-laws are thinking about re-doing their pool. The only addition they really need are some lounge chairs. I love these by Gallant & Jones. Simple style, great patterns. Lovely!

via Etsy Love

Inspiration Board

2010-07-01T18:31:00.003-05:00

I love love love this inspiration board Emilia Jane , created as a hint to her significant other for how she'd like her 30th birthday party to look. It looks like a fun summer party, but the soft color palette makes it look crisp and cool. I need a little cool right now! She created the board over at Style Me Pretty's Style Circle, a place where you can create and be inspired by others' inspiration boards. Fabulous!

Handmade Pasta

2010-06-30T22:27:00.006-05:00

Have I mentioned yet that I have the best husband on the planet? Not only is he a fabulous food photographer, he's also an amazing cook. Tonight I sent asked him to bring home some ingredients for dinner. Whatever he wanted. His solution? Handmade pasta and sauce from scratch.

And for dessert? I had the urge to make cookies. I only had so many ingredients on hand, so peanut butter it was! The jam is blueberry from Trader Joe's. Yum!

Paint Pens

2010-06-30T12:59:00.003-05:00

I wish I could doodle like this. Pick up a paint pen, and voila! A work of art. I fear I would be entirely less successful. That's why I love the entire mer mag blog. Everything is lovely!

Stitching Sampler

2010-06-29T17:13:00.002-05:00

I want this! Lord knows I need the practice...

via Pam Garrison

Blue Moss

2010-06-29T16:23:00.003-05:00

I'm loving this little necklace by Blue Moss. So summery! I think it would match just about everything! Visit her blog to see all her latest creations!

Carrie the artist

2010-06-29T14:17:00.002-05:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Carrie a couple of weeks ago. She's working on a little project I'm involved with.

Can I tell you a secret? She's amazing. She's also the reason I started blogging again, and have felt the need to be crafty recently. She's that cool and creative! She's an artist by trade (check out her website for the great wall paintings she does), and a crafter. She also has a great blog where she documents her craft adventures. Check it out!

DIY Patio Table

2010-06-28T11:07:00.003-05:00

Sorry if I seem a bit heavy on the DIY right now, but I think summer is the perfect time for a few good projects! The hubs and I are in desperate need of some patio furniture. Right now, the two chairs we have outside have been long occupied by the dog (read ruined by the dog). I think it would help to have a table and dining chairs we could push into the table. That way, he wouldn't be tempted :) The only thing standing in the way is our budget.

Voila, I have found a solution! It's rustic, kitschy and elegant all at the same time. A table made from palettes! The folks over at ReadyMade have done it again. Hubs, are you ready for (another) project?? Follow this simple (for anyone buy me) tutorial, and you'll be dining al fresco in no time.

(via Poppytalk Handmade)

Smile and Wave

2010-06-27T13:06:00.003-05:00

I just spent a lovely half hour on Smile and Wave's Flickr photostream. Her home is gorgeously decorated, with so many great details! I've compiled some of my favorites :) Also, she has an amazing blog (it's where I got the pom tutorial). One of my new favorite discoveries!

Found - front yard

2010-06-26T18:55:00.002-05:00

I found a pretty feather while I was doing some work in my front yard today. Then, after a trip to the in-law's for a swim, I noticed this little seed pod on the roof of my car. I decided I had to do something nice with them, so I made a little embroidered collection. In the process, I broke off one of the pod's branches (so sad!). I also wish I had used white linen rather than blue. But I still think it's a bit lovely!

Pom Poms!

2010-06-26T13:50:00.002-05:00

I have made many a pom pom from the Martha Stewart kits. They're pretty, and I love me some Martha. But why buy a kit that costs three times as much as the sum of the raw materials in it? Thanks to the lovely blog Smile and Wave, I can buy inexpensive tissue paper and make them all on my own! And it seems a lot less complicated than the kits. Thanks!

Ideas, ideas, ideas!

2010-06-25T10:58:00.004-05:00

I've long loved the Creature Comforts blog. So cute and smart. I was exploring it today and came across the Projects & Freebies section. Oh glorious repository of ideas!

First, I want to print out the stationary. Then the recipe note cards (and stickers!). Then the mini notebooks! And there are free fonts. Free Fonts! And tutorials for ruffly headbands and fabric flowers!

Whew. I'm pooped just thinking about all the fun things I now want to make. Craft on!

Lou Lou Belle

2010-06-24T14:46:00.001-05:00

Lou Lou Belle Handmade makes some of my very favorite bags. (You can see another post about her here.) They are perfect gifts for bridesmaids, and they'll want to use them again and again! She will even create custom collections to match your colors. Check out this black, gold and cream themed wedding. Sooo gorgeous!

Great summer bag

2010-06-22T09:29:00.004-05:00

I really need to start sewing again. Of course, now that I have the urge, I lack the time needed for a project. Sigh.

Jaime over at Prudent Baby has posted a pattern for a fabulous summer bag, and she says it only takes an hour to make! Of course, that's after you make your own bias tape... and I'm sure she didn't include cushion time for the pattern-challenged! But the step-by-step pictures really do make it look simple. Perhaps I'll try it, as soon as I have a free hour. Well, after I clean the house, get my financials in order, catch up on some business paper work...

A Header Dilemma

2010-06-19T00:25:00.004-05:00

Help! I can't decide on a header! Let me know which of these you like best. Also please tell me if you hate all of them! Maybe I should hold a contest for a new logo design...

Fabulous Fonts - Mary Read

2010-06-18T00:57:00.005-05:00

Can I tell you something? I harbor secret dreams of one day becoming a graphic designer. So I am a little font obsessed. And I LOVE this font! Now, to find a way to justify spending $150 to buy it... Don't you think it would look fabulous in this blog's logo?!

Office Details

2010-06-17T22:15:00.005-05:00

I work from home, so I spend a lot of time in my office. I stole the comfy chair from the hub's office (sorry sweetie!), but I'm a girl, and I need more than a comfy chair. So my office is filled with lots of fun decor. Actually, it may be too full. I keep finding things I like, but I don't have wall space or room to add anything else!

Here's a sneak peek into the room where I spend far too much of my time.

These maps are amazing. They are just four in a series of 15 maps of the Mississppi River. You can download the hi-res zip files for free here.

New plant! And a lamp from Ikea.

This last one is in the hallway outside my office. I saw this frame at Ikea months ago and fell in love. I made it mine this week! The fabric is Belle by Amy Butler.

Thanks for stopping by!

Famille Summerbelle

2010-06-17T21:56:00.007-05:00

I love maps. I could spend hours on a long road trip studying an atlas, the colors, the city names, the mountains and valleys and plateaus. I would love to someday have a huge world map on a wall that my (future) kids could stare at and learn from.

They might not learn city names from this map by Famille Summerbelle, but they sure would let their imaginations fly! And guess what. It's a paper-cut. A paper-cut! Amazing! (via Design*Sponge)

Check out their website for more amazing products. They make kid's rooms beautiful!

Etsy Shop - JoyFolie

2010-06-17T12:20:00.004-05:00

Loving all the little girl pretties over at JoyFolie's shop. I love tiny shoes, and these are the sweetest! Of course, it also helps that the product photography is gorgeous!

Maro Designs

2010-06-16T15:58:00.000-05:00

I made a great etsy find today. I'm not the biggest fan of props in a photo booth. Feather boas kinda make me cringe. But when I saw these, I just knew I had to have them. So I bought a few. Ok, more than a few. I'll let you know when they arrive, because I'm thinking I'll make Michael try them all on :)

Oh, and I got a couple of these, too. They shipped today, and should be here in time for my clients this weekend to use them if they so desire!!

Fresh

2010-06-15T23:32:00.003-05:00

do you like the new look of this little blog? thank you so very much, blogger, for creating new templates for the css challenged among us. i love it. so light and airy and open. ahhh. a breath of fresh air, a new start. here's to a renewed love for blogging.

Divine Twine

2010-06-15T21:54:00.006-05:00

i think i HAVE to have this. have i told you about our new little project? of course not, as i haven't blogged since january, and that is when said project started it's grown-up life. we have a new business, and this twine matches my color scheme perfectly! it will be perfect to cute up mailings and such. and it will look lovely on my desk. why is it that simple pretty little things can bring us such joy?!

p.s. i want all the colors.
p.p.s. thanks to the absolutely amazingly talented carrie for the twine heads-up, more on her fabulous-ness later :)

etsy favorites: rae dunn

2010-01-12T12:27:00.005-06:00

i am so excited. i'm starting pottery classes again this month, after about two years without any pottery making. i'm not really taking classes so much as having open studio time with my dear friend megan, a pottery guru (and fabulous fellow photographer!). i plan to learn a lot from her!

in honor of my upcoming classes, take a look at the gorgeous work of rae dunn. she makes some really amazing stuff, and sells some of it in her etsy shop. these are perfect for that upcoming holiday! also check out her inspiring blog.

etsy favorites: hello handmade paperie

2010-01-05T16:09:00.004-06:00

for valentine's day last year i got my lovie this gorgeous card from hello handmade paperie. i told them what i wanted to note to say, and they wrote it in the most gorgeous calligraphy, addressed the letter, and popped it in the mail for me a few days before valentine's day. it came in a gorgeous navy envelope with more calligraphy in white lettering.

don't hate me, but it's not currently for sale in their etsy shop. perhaps they'll bring it back in time for the holiday? to tide you over until then, check out their amazing 2010 calendar tea towel. it would look so lovely on the wall of your craft studio!

byrd & belle

2009-12-11T20:40:00.002-06:00

to all my snowed-in friends:

i've found a great cold weather project to occupy your snowy days. byrd & belle has a great make your own cup cozy kit. they send you all the necessary materials and step-by-step instructions. take the finished product with you to your local coffee shop, and show off how environmentally friendly you are!

ninainvrom

2009-11-25T08:27:00.004-06:00

loving the work of ninainvorm (nina, from the netherlands), especially her redecorated, screen printed ceramics. so lovely! also, check out her pretty blog!

sale at paper cloud!

2009-11-24T13:10:00.003-06:00

here's a heads up: ariana over at the fabulous paper cloud just sent me a note letting me know that, though december 15, they are offering 20% off ALL their products! how great is that! here's to holiday shopping!

etsy favorites: infusion

2009-11-19T10:16:00.004-06:00

i have A LOT of etsy shops marked as favorites. 935 shops, to be precise. i thought i'd cull through them to find you some truly spectacular standouts.

your first is infusion, "a line of sustainable, natural and organic bags, shoes and clothing." i'm actually starting to feel chilly here in the desert (it's in the 40s in the morning!), so i loved the cozy look of infusion's beautifully crafted goodies. how cute are those baby shoes!?!

oh, on a side note, congratulations to the fabulous kitty and her lovely husband chris, who welcomed their third boy into the world yesterday. can't wait to meet you, little jack!

paper lovely

2009-11-19T09:44:00.004-06:00

bet you thought i'd quit, eh? i kinda thought i had, too. then i got a note from the lovely kim, a girl i went to high school with. a DECADE ago. eee gads, i'm getting old, but looking forward to our 10-year reunion next year!

anywho, kim is a super talented designer, and has taken up a letterpress hobby, a hobby i would also like to try (if i can find an affordable press). her shop is filled with all sorts of little lovelies. please check them out! also spend some time on her charming blog and her design site.

glad to be back!!

julie friedman

2009-07-05T22:46:00.005-05:00

i got an email from julie friedman, a graphic designer, telling me about her etsy shop. i'm so glad she contacted me!

Julie really does lovely work. you can buy some of it here, but be sure to check out her website for more of what she can do!

LOCHER'S Paris

2009-06-25T21:25:00.004-05:00

i know, i know, i'm a bad blogger. but i'm back! (i seem to be saying that a lot lately. sorry.)

i've had a few email from readers who make lovely things. monique from LOCHER's Paris wrote to tell me about their irreverently awesome line of tops and accessories. here's what she had to say:

"We create sweet embroidered romantic tops featuring a variety of gentle shapes with wispy embellishments in dusty pastel shades like decadent French desserts. HOWEVER, our clothing is anything but sweet and naive. The embroidery is of the most delicate little florals and sweet birds that may remind you of the needlepoint designs your grandmother used to detail pillows and such, but are contradicted only by discreetly placed playful phrase using very naughty potty-mouthed words.....Its perfect for that girl who wants to say "Come here" and "Go Away" at the same time."

sounds great, no? the website is lovely, the tops sweet and naughty. perfect!

oh, and monique wanted me to let you know that they are currently having a menage a trois sale - buy any 3 items and get 1 necklace of your choice for free!

summerville

2009-05-18T07:54:00.004-05:00

how do i love textiles? let me count the ways!

lots. i love them lots.

check out these pretties by summerville.

MIA

2009-04-07T00:10:00.005-05:00

sorry if i've been missing in action this past month... i was a little busy getting married!

(photo by the lovely andy delisle)

i'll try to be back to regular posting soon!!

paper cloud

2009-03-12T22:10:00.000-05:00

thanks to ariana of paper cloud for writing to tell me about their new spring line. it's adorable!! i love all their products, but these new patterns really add to their collection. so springy!

the timing is perfect for me, as spring has certainly sprung in the desert. the orange and lemon blossoms smell heavenly right now!

and as if their products weren't fabulous enough, paper cloud is eco-friendly! they only use all-natural materials, and everything is handmade. so go check them out!

find a previous post on paper cloud here.

Museum of Craft and Folk Art

2009-03-12T21:10:00.007-05:00

a little follow up...

after posting about tomoko murayama today, i got a note from the buyer of the Museum of Craft and Folk Art, where tomoko is represented.

Did you know such a thing exists? no? neither had i, and what a shame! check out the website. i just spent a good chunk of time browsing, and i think i want to go to san francisco to pay them a visit! it just looks so amazing.

here's what kpoene', the museum's buyer, told me:

"In addition to Tomoko Murayama, we also have Yeh-Wen Chang, a jeweler who makes gorgeous reconstructed vintage pieces (she was one of Etsy's Weekend Picks last week), Katy Kristin Bowen, who makes felted necklaces, plushies, and drawings on driftwood, Mati Rose McDonaugh, a painter and printmaker of whimsical animal scenes who has been featured in numerous shows at galleries including Rare Device and who won Fred Flare's "Next Big Thing" contest for her Enormous Tiny Series in 2008. We also carry Loreto Aromatica, the delicious handmade perfumes of Loreto Remsing, a San Francisco perfumer who blends all of her scents in her kitchen from organic flowers and perfume oils.

We have a great mix of "traditional" and contemporary handmade goods and I work directly with all of our artists, many of whom have never sold before and are only carried in our store."

sounds amazing. if you're in the area, be sure to check it out!

tomoko maruyama

2009-03-12T11:30:00.002-05:00

the introductions keep coming in! tomoko maruyama wrote me to tell me about her new line of greeting cards. and boy are they adorable! there are lots of occasions and designs to choose from, so i'm sure you can find something you just have to have!