When I decided to make stuffed animals I had to decide what to make them out of. I could have used the usual materials. Regular everyday fabric and fur but I went for an unconventional choice when I chose chenille fabric. I then took it one step further and decided on vintage chenille fabric. Chenille is known for its super soft feel. Being made from cotton it just keeps getting softer and softer with use.
The old bedspreads were made as far back as 1918. The ones I have purchasd and repurposed were probably made between the 1930's-1950's. All of them are in what is known as "cutter/craft" condition. This means that they are not without flaws. They usually have tears, stains, parts cut-out or other "not in perfect condition" issues. I would never cut up a vintage chenille bedspread that could be used on a bed. Yes, I have actually gotten a few that were listed as "cutter/craft" and been able to "get the stains out". Lucky me indeed.
The bedspreads were usually made by farmer families in the south, specifically near Dalton,Georgia. Around the depression time. A lot of families would get together and make them. Then every couple of months a truck would come around and gather them up and pay them for their work. I don't know what they were paid but I'm sure for the work they did it wasn't nearly enough. I have heard stories about how a family was traveling in the south and they would see these spreads hanging from clothslines all over the place. Some would stop and purchase them directly from the makers themselves. Since no two families are alike, no two spreads are alike. It is quite rare to find a set of spreads, but not impossible. When you do the price goes up. Way up!
I find my chenille at estate sales, on ebay, over on etsy and artfire. My family and friends are always on the lookout for me as well. I have over 40 in stock. That number is slowly dwindling down as I create more "critters" for everyone to enjoy. Each one is a work of art in its own right. I have customers who bring me their bedspreads to make them "remembrances" to share with their loved ones. So I have expanded to include making pillow covers as well now.
So chenille for me was the only choice I could have made. It lets me be creative enough, yet still allow me to have a little "pattern" for what I do. Making handmade gifts of love for you to give to someone you love.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Let's "Make" Christmas
As we get into the Christmas shopping season not all of us are as prepared for it as we would like to be. Before you know it Christmas Day will be here. But you still have time to plan a few fun activities. Check out this website for an intersting array of craft ideas:
http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2ieC7I/:ZfygKdR3:Ti4oMzlw/www.instructables.com/id/101-Crafty-Gifts-To-Make/. Presents don't always have to be store bought.Some of the best ones I have received were handmade and well appreciated because I know they took the time to make them. Some can even be made by your children.
I know that we are still in these tough times of economic turmoil, whether we admit it or not. I know I am. Being on a fixed disability income doesn't go far these days and sometimes you have to think outside the box.With an ever growing family it gets more challenging each year. For me, if I do not make presents this year--there won't be any. For the teenagers-the girls, dreamcatcher necklaces and earrings and for the boys-ear cuffs and chenille scarves. For the little ones they will be getting stuffed chenille animals from my collection. As for the adults well I did purchase some angel pins for the girls and I will have to put my thinking cap on for the boys. Any ideas would be appreciated, let me know.
Hope you all have a safe holiday.
Catherine
http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2ieC7I/:ZfygKdR3:Ti4oMzlw/www.instructables.com/id/101-Crafty-Gifts-To-Make/. Presents don't always have to be store bought.Some of the best ones I have received were handmade and well appreciated because I know they took the time to make them. Some can even be made by your children.
I know that we are still in these tough times of economic turmoil, whether we admit it or not. I know I am. Being on a fixed disability income doesn't go far these days and sometimes you have to think outside the box.With an ever growing family it gets more challenging each year. For me, if I do not make presents this year--there won't be any. For the teenagers-the girls, dreamcatcher necklaces and earrings and for the boys-ear cuffs and chenille scarves. For the little ones they will be getting stuffed chenille animals from my collection. As for the adults well I did purchase some angel pins for the girls and I will have to put my thinking cap on for the boys. Any ideas would be appreciated, let me know.
Hope you all have a safe holiday.
Catherine
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Let us give thanks
Now that the turkey has been purchased, the menu planned and the family and friends invited for Thanksgiving dinner, it is time for you to sit back and relax a little.
So grab a glass of wine, paper and pen and head off to the computer for some early gift giving ideas. After making your list, checking it twice (you don't want to leaave anyone off) head over to www.Artfire.com and check out the vast array of items from some examplary artisans.
Artfire is an online community of diverse artisans executing various forms of their trade. Some work in metal while others prefer wood. We also have glassmakers, sign makers, photographers and soap makers just to name a few. Some shops sell vintage items while others sell sewing supplies. So you see you can find just about anything for anyone. Best of all, this weekend the artisans of Artfire will be having
our annual "Thanksgiving/ Black Friday/ Cyber Monday" sale.
It all starts Thursday November 22,2012 12AM EST. We will be offering either 20% off items OR free shipping. Sometimes the artisans give both. But like any good deal it has to end--and it does Monday at 1159:59PM PST.
Just our way of saying "Thanks for shopping with us. Have a great holiday season."
Catherine
So grab a glass of wine, paper and pen and head off to the computer for some early gift giving ideas. After making your list, checking it twice (you don't want to leaave anyone off) head over to www.Artfire.com and check out the vast array of items from some examplary artisans.
Artfire is an online community of diverse artisans executing various forms of their trade. Some work in metal while others prefer wood. We also have glassmakers, sign makers, photographers and soap makers just to name a few. Some shops sell vintage items while others sell sewing supplies. So you see you can find just about anything for anyone. Best of all, this weekend the artisans of Artfire will be having
our annual "Thanksgiving/ Black Friday/ Cyber Monday" sale.
It all starts Thursday November 22,2012 12AM EST. We will be offering either 20% off items OR free shipping. Sometimes the artisans give both. But like any good deal it has to end--and it does Monday at 1159:59PM PST.
Just our way of saying "Thanks for shopping with us. Have a great holiday season."
Catherine
Friday, November 9, 2012
Support those who are proud to say "Made In America"
These days it is getting harder and harder to find anything that is made in America. That is why today I want to let you know of a website that is not only featuring "Made In America" artisans and crafts but also helping in the relief efforts of Stormin Hurricane Sandy. This little known venue has taken it upon themselves to spread the word about what trully should be what we all should aim for. Buying American made products and KEEPING our money here. Not sending it to China, Taiwon, or anywhere else that they have outsourced OUR jobs to.
It is here: www.uripeoplesinitiative.org. Then on the right click the Made In America initiative.
Why is this so important? Because for every item that has one of those darn little stickers that read "made in" wherever, that's money, America's money, going to a foreign land. Now I am all for helping out third world countries but lets face it. China and the like aren't third world countries anymore. Not only that I am a frim believer that charity begins at home! Let us start by helping one another-HERE FIRST.
Buy from a small business, a mom and pop store, a craft fair, flea market. anywhere you can see that YOUR money is NOT going to a LARGE corporation. Why you might ask, when they are not hiring a lot of people? No that is true. But they are your neighbors, your school teachers with a hobby, your sisters friend making extra cash to finish her schooling. And then they are spending that money LOCALLY. Now do you see the big picture. We have to help ourselves. Noone is going to come bail out the United States of America. WE bail everyone else out. It's time we bail ourselves out first.
Another great website is where I list my craft. www.artfire.com
Visit me or any of the other great artisans over there.
It is here: www.uripeoplesinitiative.org. Then on the right click the Made In America initiative.
Why is this so important? Because for every item that has one of those darn little stickers that read "made in" wherever, that's money, America's money, going to a foreign land. Now I am all for helping out third world countries but lets face it. China and the like aren't third world countries anymore. Not only that I am a frim believer that charity begins at home! Let us start by helping one another-HERE FIRST.
Buy from a small business, a mom and pop store, a craft fair, flea market. anywhere you can see that YOUR money is NOT going to a LARGE corporation. Why you might ask, when they are not hiring a lot of people? No that is true. But they are your neighbors, your school teachers with a hobby, your sisters friend making extra cash to finish her schooling. And then they are spending that money LOCALLY. Now do you see the big picture. We have to help ourselves. Noone is going to come bail out the United States of America. WE bail everyone else out. It's time we bail ourselves out first.
Another great website is where I list my craft. www.artfire.com
Visit me or any of the other great artisans over there.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
This holiday season, Buy AMERICAN MADE
Well it's that time of year. The goblins are out, witches are flying by and the bats are in the belfry! It must be Halloween. I'm expecting plenty of tricks at my door tonight. I'm all set up with a few treats of my own.
We all know what comes next. Frenzied shopping. The endless hours of searching for just the right gift for that hard to buy person. We will sit by the computer screen scrolling till our eyeballs are so dry that even when we blink - they will hurt so bad that they can cry no more.
But wait...I have a site for you to peruse. Yes, you can do all your shopping and find something for everyone! Even Uncle Fred. And best of all it gets delivered right to your door! It's called ARTFIRE.com.
Here you will find an immensely diversifed group of shops that have just about anything and everything. Looking for a set of booties for a new baby. Enter that in the search bar and see what you get. Lots to choose from! Looking for earrings for a niece or a set of cufflinks for the hubby? Go on try it out. What's that you say? Something more exotic. OK. Then try serval cats and see what you get. Or antique clothing.
Or antique anything. There is also a great commercial area here as well.
The possibilities are endless. Have a price range? You can enter that too, and ARTFIRE will show you ideas.
Most of what you will find on the ARTFIRE site are handmade, by artisans like myself. We do what we do best. Promote each other and our home site-ARTFIRE. We make things one item at a time, with our two hands. We take pride in what we do. And further more for most of us---IT'S MADE IN THE U.S.A. What could be better than that?
We all know what comes next. Frenzied shopping. The endless hours of searching for just the right gift for that hard to buy person. We will sit by the computer screen scrolling till our eyeballs are so dry that even when we blink - they will hurt so bad that they can cry no more.
But wait...I have a site for you to peruse. Yes, you can do all your shopping and find something for everyone! Even Uncle Fred. And best of all it gets delivered right to your door! It's called ARTFIRE.com.
Here you will find an immensely diversifed group of shops that have just about anything and everything. Looking for a set of booties for a new baby. Enter that in the search bar and see what you get. Lots to choose from! Looking for earrings for a niece or a set of cufflinks for the hubby? Go on try it out. What's that you say? Something more exotic. OK. Then try serval cats and see what you get. Or antique clothing.
Or antique anything. There is also a great commercial area here as well.
The possibilities are endless. Have a price range? You can enter that too, and ARTFIRE will show you ideas.
Most of what you will find on the ARTFIRE site are handmade, by artisans like myself. We do what we do best. Promote each other and our home site-ARTFIRE. We make things one item at a time, with our two hands. We take pride in what we do. And further more for most of us---IT'S MADE IN THE U.S.A. What could be better than that?
Monday, October 15, 2012
My Good Fortune
It has been my good fortune to have severall of my critters included in various collections over on ARTFIRE. I am so honored, to be among the many who are chosen on any given day, to be considered for a coveted spot. Although we are given 12 boxes to fill, that is not always an easy task.
First one must choose a title for their collection. Then they must search thru all that ARTFIRE has to offer and pick out 12 items to put that collection together. Sixteen if you want your collection to be considered for that day's e-mail. I still don't know how they choose the e-mail exactly. There are so many collections being made by the members of ARTFIRE it must be a daunting endeavor. One that I am glad I do not have to partake in.
You can view these collections at anytime by visiting us at:
www.artfire.com and clicking on the collection tab.
Happy browsing.
Catherine
First one must choose a title for their collection. Then they must search thru all that ARTFIRE has to offer and pick out 12 items to put that collection together. Sixteen if you want your collection to be considered for that day's e-mail. I still don't know how they choose the e-mail exactly. There are so many collections being made by the members of ARTFIRE it must be a daunting endeavor. One that I am glad I do not have to partake in.
You can view these collections at anytime by visiting us at:
www.artfire.com and clicking on the collection tab.
Happy browsing.
Catherine
Monday, September 24, 2012
Making a little girls day
Good morning all. What a great weekend. Hope yours was good too! I had a craft fair and I have to share a little tale.
A mother and daughter were shopping. The little girl saw all my pretty critters and told her mom she wanted to get one for her little sister, and maybe one for herself too. Mom said "We haven't seen everything tho. Lets keep looking and we can always come back again." The little girl was heartbroken but sadly said "OK." Off they went to see the rest of the fair. Awhile later they came up to my booth and the little girl says, "Nope nothing as pretty as these." She and her mom carefully looked things over and once again she said "I hope I can get one too." After making her selection she brought it over. A pretty little duck.
It was $6.00. All the money she had. Proudly she tells me "my baby sister is going to love this. Maybe next time I will get one." So I say ok. And I'm thinking--I could teach her a valueable lesson here. I look at her and ask her for the duck and say-"It's $6.00 but since you are being such a good big sister I will sell it to you for $5.00." Now her whole face lights up and she says "Oh thank you so much. Now me and my sister can get a treat."
Never once was she thinking of just herself. Without even hesitating I look at my husband, Jay, and ask him to reach under the one table and get me the bag with the other stuffed animals I have under there. I rummage around, find the even smaller duck and as I give her the one duck I say, "Now this one can be yours and this one can be for your baby sister." Mom standing in the background doesn't know what to say, but she mouths--thank you. The little girl is so happy and I am just thrilled that I made her day.
Later I see mom talking to dad and pointing me out to him. Then out of the clear blue 2 little girls appear before me, clutching 2 sweet little ducks. "This is my baby sister. I wanted her to meet the nice lady."
It didn't cost me anything to make that little girls day.
So you see there is a saying that goes "Happiness is like jam. You can't spread even a little without getting some on yourself." Must be true because I was really busy for the rest of the day.
Have a good one,
Catherine
A mother and daughter were shopping. The little girl saw all my pretty critters and told her mom she wanted to get one for her little sister, and maybe one for herself too. Mom said "We haven't seen everything tho. Lets keep looking and we can always come back again." The little girl was heartbroken but sadly said "OK." Off they went to see the rest of the fair. Awhile later they came up to my booth and the little girl says, "Nope nothing as pretty as these." She and her mom carefully looked things over and once again she said "I hope I can get one too." After making her selection she brought it over. A pretty little duck.
It was $6.00. All the money she had. Proudly she tells me "my baby sister is going to love this. Maybe next time I will get one." So I say ok. And I'm thinking--I could teach her a valueable lesson here. I look at her and ask her for the duck and say-"It's $6.00 but since you are being such a good big sister I will sell it to you for $5.00." Now her whole face lights up and she says "Oh thank you so much. Now me and my sister can get a treat."
Never once was she thinking of just herself. Without even hesitating I look at my husband, Jay, and ask him to reach under the one table and get me the bag with the other stuffed animals I have under there. I rummage around, find the even smaller duck and as I give her the one duck I say, "Now this one can be yours and this one can be for your baby sister." Mom standing in the background doesn't know what to say, but she mouths--thank you. The little girl is so happy and I am just thrilled that I made her day.
Later I see mom talking to dad and pointing me out to him. Then out of the clear blue 2 little girls appear before me, clutching 2 sweet little ducks. "This is my baby sister. I wanted her to meet the nice lady."
It didn't cost me anything to make that little girls day.
So you see there is a saying that goes "Happiness is like jam. You can't spread even a little without getting some on yourself." Must be true because I was really busy for the rest of the day.
Have a good one,
Catherine
Friday, September 7, 2012
Bloomingdale Septemberfest on the 8th
Hello everyone. I have been so busy this week getting ready for the fest that I alsmost forgot to tell you all about it. Saturday September 8th, 2012 I will be in Bloomingdale,IL for the Septemberfest. It runs from 11am till 9pm. They are expecting record turn outs. Last year almost 7,000 attended.
I have been busy sewing all week, and will introduce a new chenille critter. You will have to come out to see it tho it will not go on to the website just yet. Also new at this fair will be "Twins". I had a few request for some so I made some duplicates. Now normally I don't do that because I believe they should remain one of a kind. They will only be sold in sets. I hope noone ask for triplets. LOL.
I also got around to finishing off a lot of the dolls I had partially made. It always nice to see them done up. They are so cute!
Off to see what else I can finish today.
Here is a heads up for my upcoming schedule:
September 22, Plainfield public library, Plainfield,IL.
at least 2 in October-not finalized.
November 3/4, Lincolnway EAST High School, Frankfort,IL
Take care and remember IT"S BETTER HANDMADE.
Catherine
I have been busy sewing all week, and will introduce a new chenille critter. You will have to come out to see it tho it will not go on to the website just yet. Also new at this fair will be "Twins". I had a few request for some so I made some duplicates. Now normally I don't do that because I believe they should remain one of a kind. They will only be sold in sets. I hope noone ask for triplets. LOL.
I also got around to finishing off a lot of the dolls I had partially made. It always nice to see them done up. They are so cute!
Off to see what else I can finish today.
Here is a heads up for my upcoming schedule:
September 22, Plainfield public library, Plainfield,IL.
at least 2 in October-not finalized.
November 3/4, Lincolnway EAST High School, Frankfort,IL
Take care and remember IT"S BETTER HANDMADE.
Catherine
Monday, August 20, 2012
It's Better Handmade Guild
This week I wish to share our ARTFIRE guild, It's Better Handmade.
We are a group of 219 artisians that collectively work together. We support one another. Not only thru these blogs to promote one another, but also to help one another thru everyday life. WE know it isn't easy doing things the old-fashioned way, but for us it truly is a way of life. We share our goals and ambitions, our dreams and sorrows as well. We inspire each other to "think outside the box" when something doesn't work and to try it again. We do the party dance when we get a sale, no matter how small, and we look forward to tomorrow - when we might wake up to a sale! WE live in the here and now. Yet some of us preserve the past while looking forward to the future. All of us have a story to tell. You just have to listen.
We are a group of 219 artisians that collectively work together. We support one another. Not only thru these blogs to promote one another, but also to help one another thru everyday life. WE know it isn't easy doing things the old-fashioned way, but for us it truly is a way of life. We share our goals and ambitions, our dreams and sorrows as well. We inspire each other to "think outside the box" when something doesn't work and to try it again. We do the party dance when we get a sale, no matter how small, and we look forward to tomorrow - when we might wake up to a sale! WE live in the here and now. Yet some of us preserve the past while looking forward to the future. All of us have a story to tell. You just have to listen.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Meet Art By Sunfire
This weeks It's Better Handmade artisan is Art By Sunfire. This wife and grandmother of four keeps quite busy. She loves to craft and it truly shows. She does jewelry making, trinket chests, Temari balls (round ornament balls) and small notebooks.
This is a Temari ball!
"Temari balls are an ancient Japanese fiber art. Beginning as toys for children, then over time becoming beautifully embroidered decorative art pieces." I can't even begin to fathom how to start making one of these, but if you would like to see more just go over to her studio here:www.artbysunfire.artfire.com.
The 3 X 5 index journals are so handy. Who hasn't needed to just write something down? Or keep a list handy while running errands, or measurements while searching for that perfect ??...well you get the idea.
And that's just it.. you can load these up with you own ideas and take them with you..whereever you go.
The best part if that you can refill them...again and again, since they are held together with 2 book binder rings. Isn't that clever? She has many
more designs and if you don't see one you like she will do a custom one, just for you.
Be sure to check out her blogspot also as she has some great tips on how to use this handy little "journal".
http://www.artbysunfire.blogspot
You can also catch her on twitter:http://twitter.com/artbysunfire
Find her on pinterest here:http://pinterest.com/artbysunfire/
Until next week, remember It's Better Handmade
This is a Temari ball!
The 3 X 5 index journals are so handy. Who hasn't needed to just write something down? Or keep a list handy while running errands, or measurements while searching for that perfect ??...well you get the idea.
And that's just it.. you can load these up with you own ideas and take them with you..whereever you go.
more designs and if you don't see one you like she will do a custom one, just for you.
Be sure to check out her blogspot also as she has some great tips on how to use this handy little "journal".
http://www.artbysunfire.blogspot
You can also catch her on twitter:http://twitter.com/artbysunfire
Find her on pinterest here:http://pinterest.com/artbysunfire/
Until next week, remember It's Better Handmade
Monday, August 6, 2012
Catch the Dreamweavers Designs
Upon seeing this shop's name I just knew I would like it. Dreamweavers Designs is a small shop owned by Jan and her daughter.
They started the shop out of a love of crafting jewelry. With no formal education in art, it doesn't matter. All one needs to have is a love of creating. They have it. Jan has worked/dabbled in sewing, candle-making, soap making and even some woodwork/painting.
This copper tree of life shows the skill they have of making jewelry that you would be proud to present to your family.
"This twisted non-tarnish copper circle pendant with tree of life is embellished with white glass beads. The pendant measures 1 1/2 inches. Comes with a 2mm leather cord. $23"
Their newest love tho is working with polymer clay, as the possibilities are endless. As Jan said "one is only limited by their imagination."
These angel pins show just how much she loves what she does.
"1 1/2 inch polymer clay angel pins, with a smooth faux raku finish, using Adirondack inks in shades of blue, pink, and green and highlighted with pearlex powders. Angel is embellished with a flat backed swarovski crystal. 3/$8"
They are just beautiful, and 3 to a package makes this a gotta go buy it item. Can you say-Xmas just around the corner! I have to go get mine before all the sets are gone.
You can visit the shop on artfire:
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/DreamWeaversDesigns
her blog:
http://dreamweaversdesigns.blogspot.com/
her own website:
http://DreamWeaversDesigns.net.
Until next week...
Catherine
They started the shop out of a love of crafting jewelry. With no formal education in art, it doesn't matter. All one needs to have is a love of creating. They have it. Jan has worked/dabbled in sewing, candle-making, soap making and even some woodwork/painting.
This copper tree of life shows the skill they have of making jewelry that you would be proud to present to your family.
Their newest love tho is working with polymer clay, as the possibilities are endless. As Jan said "one is only limited by their imagination."
These angel pins show just how much she loves what she does.
"1 1/2 inch polymer clay angel pins, with a smooth faux raku finish, using Adirondack inks in shades of blue, pink, and green and highlighted with pearlex powders. Angel is embellished with a flat backed swarovski crystal. 3/$8"
They are just beautiful, and 3 to a package makes this a gotta go buy it item. Can you say-Xmas just around the corner! I have to go get mine before all the sets are gone.
You can visit the shop on artfire:
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/DreamWeaversDesigns
her blog:
http://dreamweaversdesigns.blogspot.com/
her own website:
http://DreamWeaversDesigns.net.
Until next week...
Catherine
Monday, July 30, 2012
Say hello to Kottage Kreations
This week closes out a record hot July. One of the warmest in history. From coast to coast, the thermometer soared to new heights. Staying cool remains on the top of everyones list. On the top of mine tho is a shop I'd like you all to take a look at, Kottage Kreations.
This shop has been around since 2010. She makes jewelry by hand and gets her inspiration everywhere, from magazines to nature itself.
She never knows when an idea will strike and has been awakened from sleep with thoughts that simply had to be addressed--NOW!
Maybe this pair of cranberry freshwater pearl earrings on sterling silver earwires, woke her up one night. They are scumptous! And at only $14.00 they rival anything you can purchase in a store. Better yet you know who made them.
This pair of leaf inspired earrings are just as exquisite. The mint leaves are 18K gold plated and made in Italy. The french hook ear wires are 14K gold filled. Also only $14.00. They are so lady-like. Perfect for anyone.
This shop has been around since 2010. She makes jewelry by hand and gets her inspiration everywhere, from magazines to nature itself.
She never knows when an idea will strike and has been awakened from sleep with thoughts that simply had to be addressed--NOW!
Maybe this pair of cranberry freshwater pearl earrings on sterling silver earwires, woke her up one night. They are scumptous! And at only $14.00 they rival anything you can purchase in a store. Better yet you know who made them.
This pair of leaf inspired earrings are just as exquisite. The mint leaves are 18K gold plated and made in Italy. The french hook ear wires are 14K gold filled. Also only $14.00. They are so lady-like. Perfect for anyone.
You may visit all of her websites below.
On Artfire:
On Etsy:
On Facebook:
On Twitter:
And her blogspot here:
Have a great week and stay cool.
Catherine
Monday, July 23, 2012
A flowerchild that's good to know.
We often hear the word hippie and associate it with the 60's thru the 70's, rock and roll, Vietnam, drugs and the ever popular lifestyle known as "living in a commune". But it's more than that. It's is a life-style. But a long-life-style one chooses. Hippiescreations is just that.
I'd like to showcase a mother of three boys who works out of her home in Virginia. Currently 1 is in the military, 1 resides with his father, and 1 remains with her and has special needs. Among her many accomplishments are a Bachelors in Accounting and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling.
She grew up in cities around Frankfurt,Germany and was raised in foster care. Around the age of 17 she picked up a crochet hook and has been crocheting ever since. She has opened up a shop and has a very nice selection of items ranging from baby up to adults. You can see them here: http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/gallery/Hippiescreations.
She also does woodburning, which is available on her website. I really like her rose bloom necklace which you can view here:
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/Hippiescreations/4325748/
Rose_Tagua_Nut_Pendant_Necklace/Jewelry/Pendants
and at only $20.70, shipping included, that's a good deal. You can also get the cord to your own neck measurements. How's that for pearsonalization? No extra charge either.
She certainly keeps herself busy. Did I mention that she wrote a book too? Betrayal: The Journey: Childhood Memories And The Adult Awakening. So please, stop by her shop and take a look. You'll be glad you did.
I'd like to showcase a mother of three boys who works out of her home in Virginia. Currently 1 is in the military, 1 resides with his father, and 1 remains with her and has special needs. Among her many accomplishments are a Bachelors in Accounting and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling.
She grew up in cities around Frankfurt,Germany and was raised in foster care. Around the age of 17 she picked up a crochet hook and has been crocheting ever since. She has opened up a shop and has a very nice selection of items ranging from baby up to adults. You can see them here: http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/gallery/Hippiescreations.
She also does woodburning, which is available on her website. I really like her rose bloom necklace which you can view here:
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/Hippiescreations/4325748/
Rose_Tagua_Nut_Pendant_Necklace/Jewelry/Pendants
and at only $20.70, shipping included, that's a good deal. You can also get the cord to your own neck measurements. How's that for pearsonalization? No extra charge either.
She certainly keeps herself busy. Did I mention that she wrote a book too? Betrayal: The Journey: Childhood Memories And The Adult Awakening. So please, stop by her shop and take a look. You'll be glad you did.
Monday, July 16, 2012
We all have hopes and dreams
Today I would like to introduce you to a fellow handmade artisan. She actually has two shops on Artfire. However, today we will be featuring her shop, Hopes and Dreams Studio. As if that were not enough to keep her plate full, she is a wife and mother of two.
She has a lot of hobbies and interest. Jewelry is but one of them. She makes it for girls (yes we are still girls no matter what age we are!) of all ages. From little baby's first bracelets to anklets to earrings. She has some wonderful necklace and earing sets also. Please stop by her shop and take a look. She is having a Christmas in July sale, 25% off going on right now. It's never too early to get that started! Here's the link to her shop:http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/HopesandDreamsStudio.
I'm going over to get a bracelet I just have to have!
Till next week, stay safe and happy shopping.
Catherine
custard pudding dreams
She has a lot of hobbies and interest. Jewelry is but one of them. She makes it for girls (yes we are still girls no matter what age we are!) of all ages. From little baby's first bracelets to anklets to earrings. She has some wonderful necklace and earing sets also. Please stop by her shop and take a look. She is having a Christmas in July sale, 25% off going on right now. It's never too early to get that started! Here's the link to her shop:http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/HopesandDreamsStudio.
I'm going over to get a bracelet I just have to have!
Till next week, stay safe and happy shopping.
Catherine
custard pudding dreams
Monday, July 9, 2012
Meet a fellow artist
Today I'd like to introduce a fellow artisan. Her name is Karen, she lives in Mesa,AZ and has been crafting for a very long time. Her shop is called Sew Klassic.
Like most of us she learned her craft from a loving generation before her. As I have said before, quite fortunate to have learned the things we did, when we did - but she actually learned how to knit. She makes the cutest elephant booties. You can see them on her website here:https://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/bio/SewKlassic.
She works long hours and it shows. Yet the reward is not in the sales. It is in the smiles we receive when we get a note back that says how adorable Little Bobby or Cindy looked wearing those booties with an outfit. That it gave them something to playwith. That it put a smile on the child's face, while they were being photographed.
I'd like you to visit her own blog to she what she has to say about herself:http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/blog/SewKlassic.
While you are over on the ARTFIRE site check out the venue. You can choose a wide variety of ways to view items. The obly hting we ask is that you remember:
IT'S BETTER HANDMADE
Until next time,Custard Pudding Dreams
Like most of us she learned her craft from a loving generation before her. As I have said before, quite fortunate to have learned the things we did, when we did - but she actually learned how to knit. She makes the cutest elephant booties. You can see them on her website here:https://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/bio/SewKlassic.
She works long hours and it shows. Yet the reward is not in the sales. It is in the smiles we receive when we get a note back that says how adorable Little Bobby or Cindy looked wearing those booties with an outfit. That it gave them something to playwith. That it put a smile on the child's face, while they were being photographed.
I'd like you to visit her own blog to she what she has to say about herself:http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/blog/SewKlassic.
While you are over on the ARTFIRE site check out the venue. You can choose a wide variety of ways to view items. The obly hting we ask is that you remember:
IT'S BETTER HANDMADE
Until next time,Custard Pudding Dreams
Friday, July 6, 2012
My first blog
Hello and welcome to my little slice of heaven,
CUSTARD PUDDING DREAMS.
I started sewing when I was a girl scout and have been sewing ever since. My Nana, (my mom's mom) made me outfits and stuffed animals. My grandma (my dad's mom) embroidered and crossstitched. Both taught me what they knew. I am so happy I learned what I did - when I did! I trully hope these forms of art do not become lost.
Back in 1975 I made doll's for my neices and nephews. Now mind you, I had never in my life made a doll before. Let alone 4. But I was going to sew them and give them as Christmas presents that year. I started in November, from a pattern that had been in our local paper. That's how I got the idea. Needless to say it was quite an endeavor. I made mistakes. Sewed the legs on backwards - start that one over! Dang! But eventually I got it right and on Christmas day there were 4 happy neices and nephews playing with their new dolls. Dressing and undressing them and exchanging the clothes for the ones they really wanted. They still have them to this day and their children have been known to play with them along with their own. Over the years a few friends of the family have been lucky enough to be the receipients as well.
Now we come almost to the present day. I was dispatching for the state police, for the last 17 years. Then my lungs gave out after one too many bouts of pneumonia. So I had to resign, wish my troopers a safe drive home, and figure out what I was going to do now. Well after thinking about it I decided to sew. So here we are.
My little corner of the world. A world where you child's imagination can grow as he does. I believe that every child needs to let their imagination run wild. It's how they learn to "think outside the box". To interact with their brain. To tell stories. To learn. To be a child. To be safe. I think that is the most important thing. To be secure in their surroundings and feel loved.
I make my stuffed animals from vintage chenille bedspreads that I have purchased for repurposing. They come from many sources, but all were in "cutter" condition. I soak them in "oxixlean", then launder them in my front-load washer with regular detergent, fabric softner and then place the bedspread into the dryer, medium heat. I then take it outside for a "shake-out"., before deciding what to make from it.
I hope you find something that makes you smile and fondly remember your childhood.
Visit a bygone era. Quality handmade items are getting harder to find, but look no further. Visit http://www.custardpuddingdreams.artfire.com/
today to see what you can find for your child. I am having a sale, $5.00 off all orders over $25.00 good until July 10, 2012.
Thanks for stopping by,
Catherine
CUSTARD PUDDING DREAMS.
I started sewing when I was a girl scout and have been sewing ever since. My Nana, (my mom's mom) made me outfits and stuffed animals. My grandma (my dad's mom) embroidered and crossstitched. Both taught me what they knew. I am so happy I learned what I did - when I did! I trully hope these forms of art do not become lost.
Back in 1975 I made doll's for my neices and nephews. Now mind you, I had never in my life made a doll before. Let alone 4. But I was going to sew them and give them as Christmas presents that year. I started in November, from a pattern that had been in our local paper. That's how I got the idea. Needless to say it was quite an endeavor. I made mistakes. Sewed the legs on backwards - start that one over! Dang! But eventually I got it right and on Christmas day there were 4 happy neices and nephews playing with their new dolls. Dressing and undressing them and exchanging the clothes for the ones they really wanted. They still have them to this day and their children have been known to play with them along with their own. Over the years a few friends of the family have been lucky enough to be the receipients as well.
Now we come almost to the present day. I was dispatching for the state police, for the last 17 years. Then my lungs gave out after one too many bouts of pneumonia. So I had to resign, wish my troopers a safe drive home, and figure out what I was going to do now. Well after thinking about it I decided to sew. So here we are.
My little corner of the world. A world where you child's imagination can grow as he does. I believe that every child needs to let their imagination run wild. It's how they learn to "think outside the box". To interact with their brain. To tell stories. To learn. To be a child. To be safe. I think that is the most important thing. To be secure in their surroundings and feel loved.
I make my stuffed animals from vintage chenille bedspreads that I have purchased for repurposing. They come from many sources, but all were in "cutter" condition. I soak them in "oxixlean", then launder them in my front-load washer with regular detergent, fabric softner and then place the bedspread into the dryer, medium heat. I then take it outside for a "shake-out"., before deciding what to make from it.
I hope you find something that makes you smile and fondly remember your childhood.
Visit a bygone era. Quality handmade items are getting harder to find, but look no further. Visit http://www.custardpuddingdreams.artfire.com/
today to see what you can find for your child. I am having a sale, $5.00 off all orders over $25.00 good until July 10, 2012.
Thanks for stopping by,
Catherine
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