Bumble Belly Designs

My Season is Coming to an End

2011-12-02T18:10:00.001-08:00

Thank you to everyone that has supported me and my art this year. Just 3 more shows to go before my 2011 season is over. I hope to emerge from the deep winter months with some new work in the spring.
My final shows are spread out in different locations so see if I'll be somewhere close by!
Dec. 4 - Scituate, MA
Dec. 10 - Boston, MA
Dec.11 - Pawtucket, RI

Festival Fete and a New Favorite

2011-11-22T08:49:00.000-08:00

Maine Cardinals

I will be at Festival Fete at the Providence Civic Center on (Black) Friday and Small Business Saturday. Come on down and show small local businesses some love this holiday. You'll end up with some truly unique gifts.

Recent Work

2011-11-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

Here we go! The Holidays are approaching fast, as always, and I am happy to feel inspired to create. Here are 3 of my most recent works. I admit there is more and I have been a bit of a slacker with blogging my newest work but I'll try to be better. You can see it in person tomorrow at the Park School in Brookline.

"winter walk"

"silence"

"cardinal party"

This piece will be part of a show at 13 Forest Gallery opening next week.

JP Open Studios this weekend!

2011-09-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

I'll be landing at JP Open Studios this weekend with a few new pieces. Come out and enjoy the many artists and crafters that will be exhibiting all over Jamaica Plain. I will be outside at the Eliot School for the Arts at 24 Eliot Street on Saturday the 24th and Sunday the 25th from 11am - 6pm. Hope to see you there!

The Girls I Knew

2011-09-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

I went to summer camp. "Camp Avalon, a sailing camp for girls" was special, a place where kids from different parts of the country and world came each summer to live together and build shared memories. I was fortunate enough to attend for 11 years and it had a big influence on who I have become as a person. The camp has been closed since 1988 but this past weekend we had a reunion. I did a lot of reflecting on my time spent there during the weeks leading up to the event. Finding old friends on Facebook jogged memories and inspired the start of a series, "The Girls I Knew". The amazing thing is that everyone was just the same (with a few lines of wisdom around the eyes) and I found that our shared memories and experiences bind us still.

I was so sad when the camp closed. I had hoped to send my daughter there one day but this weekend I realized that Avalon lives on in each girl that attended, whether it was one summer or a childhood of summers. I'll share my memories with my daughter, teach her the silly songs and hope to find her a wonderful camp where she can enjoy a similar experience because it's not necessarily the place but the people that made it so special.

Silhouettes

2011-06-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

My latest pieces, inspired by the rainy spring and a recent trip to the island of Nantucket.

Check out some new work and things to share at Wonder Forest :)

Two Shows This Weekend!

2011-06-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

I will be taking part in two shows this weekend and the weather looks to be fabulous! On Saturday I will be at the Coolidge Corner Arts Festival. This is a great show with very talented artists and crafts people. I'm very proud to be taking part in it!
Sunday, I will be at SOWA for some more fun in the sun. These are my last scheduled shows until the fall, so come on out and say hello!

Craftopia this Sunday!

2011-04-05T20:30:00.000-07:00

This Sunday is my first show of 2011. Come on down to do some Spring shopping and pick up something unique and one of a kind for yourself or someone special.

More Spring Fun and a New Tea Towel Design

2011-03-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

Today I finished a project for me and a new design for the coming season to add to my hand printed tea towels. I was a bit house-bound with sick kids this week and then there were two days of snow so I felt I needed to bring a little spring into the house.

I came across this fabulous blog post for Spool Sewing and fell in love with the birds they created. I love the mobile and have plenty of driftwood branches but for now I think I will just keep them out to brighten up these early spring days.

I ended up finishing them a bit differently by closing their tails and leaving the rough edges. I also stitched back up the tail to "quilt" some tail feathers in.

After that very satisfying project, I got back to work and finished a new block for my tea towels.

I'll be adding other designs to the Lobster, Crab and new Anchor for my first show, Craftopia, on April 10th in Rhode Island.

Bunnies are Ready for Spring

2011-03-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Bunny poem pillows are back for the spring! Available now in my shop, so hop hop!

Birds and Things

2011-02-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

We're headed into Spring, or so I am told. So I have decided to start to post some Spring inspired pieces. Here is the first. Happy Friday!

Bird Elements

2011-02-04T08:22:00.000-08:00

There are two or three, maybe more, projects that have been bumping around in my head for months now. I have been trying to fight through my "winter let down" and I am trying to give myself permission to do crafty projects with the kids while the ideas mull.
This past week, between the Valentine projects, I managed to get a few elements done for some larger pieces I will be putting together this week.

I will be embedding the fabric pieces into an encaustic commission. The clay birds are a return to something I was working on a year ago. I had put it aside or rather it sat in my studio for the entire year. Now I am going to try to develop it further.
I'll update both later in the week.

Snow Project 2

2011-02-04T08:06:00.000-08:00

We had fun cutting hearts the other day for Valentines Day. My daughter painted glitter on hers for her school Valentines and I strung some together to make this little garland to decorate the mantel.
Keeping kids and hands busy!

The directions for this project can be found on the blog How About Orange. She made them with stiffened fabric which is lovely but I had more decorative paper than fabric on hand, so I used that.
If you love my pink bunnies on the mantel, they are made by my friend Crystal. She makes wonderful spun cotton figures. I'm addicted!

Warm Hearts on a Cold Winter Day

2011-02-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

Today is day 2 of the kids being home due to the massive storm affecting a third of the country. On the coast here, we are getting mostly a wet freezing rain so it's not much fun to go out and play. Later today I think we'll get started on our valentines but yesterday we got the wheels rolling by making these fun and colorful crayon window hearts. It is fun and easy and the supplies are pretty standard things that I had lying around. That's great when it's a blizzard outside!
Here are the directions I followed from Martha Stewarts blog and website.

They were addictive to make because each one is unique and a little surprise. They really add a bright, cheeriness to the front hall.

Flourish Co. - Highly Recommended!

2010-12-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

Approximately 2 and a half years ago I purchased mesh walls for my EZ-up tent to display my work at outdoor shows. Prior to that I had a wall system that I had built with my husband.

(an indoor show showing the homemade walls)

It had worked fine for indoor venues but was unsteady on uneven ground and in windy situations out of doors. It was heavy too, and required help to get it in and out of my car and setup at the shows. These were the reason I invested in the mesh panels for my tent.

(my mesh walls that I have used for outdoor shows)

Last year I continued to use the old walls for indoor shows but they had become warped and crooked from all the handing. So I knew I was going to want to do something different. Something that I could handle myself like the setup I had for my tent.

I contacted the company and explained my needs. I have multiple shows, all with different footprints. I need a system that can go from a 10x8 foot booth to a 7x7 foot booth.. I spoke with Tom, an extremely helpful and friendly employee of Flourish Co. He pulled up my information so he knew all the pieces I already had for inside my tent. He walked me through their website where there is information on how to customize the mesh panels I already owned and then after only 2 hours sent me a detailed estimate on the additional poles and hardware I would need to create a flexible system to meet all my indoor show requirements. I was floored! What service! and to top it all off he helped me to use the pieces I already had so that I would be saving money! The cost was a third of what I thought I would have to spend. The whole experience made my day!

These panels are very well constructed and easy to put together. The poles do weigh a bit but are compact and you can bundle them in groups that are easy to handle. I can't recommend the system enough and I have had nothing but the finest service from this company. I already feel like my initial investment has paid for itself and was so pleasantly surprised that it would take so little to adapt it to my interior needs. They are the best!!!!

Here is my new indoor setup with a 7 foot configuration
.

Flourish - Canopy's and Display Walls

Battery Operated Lights!

2010-12-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

I want to share my most important discovery of 2010.

Two weeks ago, I was able to have electricity at my booth and I plugged in some clip lights to better highlight my encaustics. It was amazing what a difference it made. People could see my work as I had created it in my sunny studio. The colors popped off the wall and the depth and luminosity of the wax was very apparent. The show was a huge success for me and I was hooked.
This past weekend I was at SOWA Holiday at the Cathedral High School Gym in Boston. There are big windows that shed a lot of light during the day, but after the sun goes down my work gets muddied by the overhead lights. I also knew I was facing away from the windows so my work would be back lit from the main daylight source.
After some internet research and running around to different box stores, I asked my husband to help me come up with a battery system. He totally pulled through!

Here are the main components and they are all available at stores like Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot and Amazon.com.

1 . A deep cycle marine battery

It is very important that it is a deep cycle battery. These can take a deep drain and be recharged again and again.

2. A power inverter

The inverter converts the 12volt DC current of the battery to 110 volt AC current, which is what runs out of a household socket. It is important that the wattage on your inverter is more than the total wattage of the lights that you will be running. My first day I ran a 200 watt inverter and had 4 lamps each with a 20watt warm fluorescent bulb in each (these are equivalent to a 75 watt incandescent bulb but draw less power). I like Sylvania's mini style bulbs.
IMPORTANT NOTE: I wasn't paying attention the second morning, coupled with exhaustion, and I connected the inverter to the battery backwards (+ to - instead of + to +, - to -) and I blew the fuse in the inverter. My husband ran in with another one that is a 410 watt and it worked fine and I will probably add lights in the future.

3. A battery charger

This charger was great. It has a digital display that will tell you the percentage of charge left in your battery. It will also trickle charge once you reach 100%, so I plugged it in over night and woke up to a full charge ready to go in the morning.

4. Standard lights and cords
The rest can be your choice. I used clip lamps that I picked up 2 days before the show and connected them using standard extension cords. The inverter has 2 plug sockets so I plugged the lamps together on the cords and them plugged the cords in.

Here is the amazing thing, after 8 hours running the 4 lights my battery was still at a 45% charge. I plan on adding a bit more light and finding arm lights that will aim back at the wall. My clip lights were great but washed the wall from top to bottom and I would like to get the lighting a bit more even in the future.

I plan on trying this system at outdoor shows as well. There is a water tight box for the marine battery as they are meant to be used in boats. I will also plan on having it up off the ground on a wood platform. The battery is heavy so a wood box that can be put on a collapsible dollie would work great. It is very important to respect that this is still an electrical device and can harm you if you are not paying attention or treating it with care.

Wellesley Marketplace 2010

2010-11-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

Wellesley Marketplace 2010

by Amy of Bumble Belly Designs

I've been working like a dog. I am so overtired but this is it! My holiday markets start this Saturday at the 34th annual Wellesley Marketplace. It takes place at the Wellesley Middle School from 9-4. It is a fabulous place to begin your Holiday shopping (or finish it!) There will be 130 vendors with unique gifts for even the most challenging on your holiday list.

More new work

2010-10-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

A few new pieces inspired by the season.

Squirrel (sold)

New England Gothic

Manitoba Friends

I'll be at SOWA this Sunday 10-4. Come out and enjoy the art, food and fun! Only 3 Sundays left in the season. Don't miss out!

Birds in Trees

2010-10-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I guess I have been going through a "bird phase". These were done last spring. Bird song in the spring is so wonderful after the New England winter.

These pieces have sold but I will be offering limited edition prints and small waxed reproductions for sale at my shows and soon online in my etsy store.

SOWA this Sunday

2010-10-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

I will be at SOWA on Harrison Ave in Boston this Sunday from 10-4 with my friends from Boston Handmade. Come celebrate handmade and find some one of a kind goodies! The holidays are fast approaching. Only 80 days until Christmas and Hanukkah begins in 57 days!

Here are a few more new pieces I will have on hand.

Birds on a Wire

Hyde Park Bunny

Poppies

New work!

2010-09-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

I have been horrible at blogging and I am going to try to start up again. Summer was busy with the kids and I gave myself a pass on most everything. How many summers is my daughter going to be 4? and my son 8? So we had some slow summer days at the beach collecting things and building things and just enjoying time together. It really cements what is important when you turn your attention away from the grind that constantly pulls at you to focus intently on those you treasure the most. Listening closely to their ideas about things and their questions can give new perspective and a few giggles.
Anyway, I am here and still working at my encaustics. I have started to incorporate my own drawings and paintings, embedding them in the layers of wax. Here are a few.

"Together"

"Cutting Line"

"Mid-west Dream"

"Third Chapter"

Needle Felting Skill Share Workshop

2010-05-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about Boston Handmade, and there are many, are the skill share workshops offered by the talented members. Last Friday I got to try something I have always wanted to learn, needle felting! Lynne, from Cozy Cottage Creations, graciously opened her home to us and gave instructions on how to get started.

Here are Kerry from Kerry Hawkins Photography and Christa from Pink Sequin Designs working the wool.
Lynne had a collection of childrens toys and animals to use as models for the shapes of our animals. I chose to do a bird in my favorite color blue.

Here it is taking shape.

The biggest impression I was left with was just how tricky it could be. It takes a real feel for the wool to get the shape the way you want it. It also takes a lot of time and concentration. No chatting in a "needle felting circle" unless you bring a first aid kit! We had a few finger pokes but I lost count after 6. I think we all left with a little left to finish on our projects. I still had to fine tune the shape and finish the eyes.

Kerry was really close to finishing her fish.

Christa was still working on her flamingo.

And Lynne was making the cutest elephant!

It was a great morning! Thank you, Lynne. I can't wait to start another creature!
... and yes the first thing my daughter said was "oh, mommy, can I have it in my room?"

Am I Having Fun Yet? YES!

2010-03-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

I am always pretty miserable in the late months of winter. The holiday season drains me and there is a void in the quiet afterward. I always feel I should push myself - "Keep making things, Amy. Don't stop." There is a kind of guilt there too, that I should beef up my Etsy shop, organize, do taxes... Really, being in business there is always something to do. I did organize a bit and my tax stuff is much more together than last year, so taking a deep breathe, I tried to let it go.

I did my "Mommy duties" - the house looked pretty good! The laundry was done and in the drawers! We actually had people over for dinner and I could use my dining room! While doing the "chores", I found my mind wandering to new ideas, things I had always wanted to try. Eventually I was dropping the laundry, half folded, and running to google something to find out techniques and where to find supplies.

Printing is where I landed. I have always loved woodcuts and block printing and I wanted to see if I could incorporate it into my work.

Here are some blocks that I cut.

And here are some bags in process,

and some finished ones.

I also intend to incorporate these prints into my encaustic mixed media. Here is one piece that is in process.

It has been so rewarding and I look forward to what may develop in the future. One thing is for sure, dinner parties may need to be out on the porch. Good thing the weather is getting better!

My dining room:

Long House

2010-03-07T08:41:00.000-08:00

Last fall, on a trip to see friends, we took an afternoon to go walk the gardens at Long House in East Hampton, NY. It was a typical cloudy fall day but it took nothing away from the beauty of these gardens.

Long House is the residence of Jack Lenor Larsen, an internationally famous textile designer and founder of Larsen the Company, part of Cowtan & Tout since 1998. It sits on 16 acres of gardens that serve as a backdrop to stunning contemporary art and sculpture.

"The mission of LongHouse Reserve is to exemplify living with art in all forms."

I highly recommend a trip if you are ever in the area and I hope to return to see how it changes through the seasons. Oh, and next time I'll be sure to have more than just my iphone for pictures!

Away to NYC!

2010-01-28T10:39:00.000-08:00

I am headed to NYC to visit great friends and spend some time at the NYIGF. I can't wait for the inspiration and fun!
I hope to have a blog post when I get back. Chow

Winter Nesting

2010-01-27T12:32:00.000-08:00

I am back. It happens every year at this time. I feel like a bulb under the deep snow. I'm not really producing anything but inside I am turning over new ideas. Yet somehow they seem stuck, not fully formed, and so I sit on them... waiting...

I've just been puttering in my studio, trying out a few things. I've been sculpting clay birds and wire branches with flowers made from recycled fabric and adding them to salvaged bottles.

I rearranged and have started to organize things after the crazy holiday blitz. I have made a high island in the center of my studio. Last year, I had folding tables along the windows that I used as work surface. Unfortunately, they were also my show tables so I had to clean them off every time I packed up. I would like to say that this kept things picked up but it only resulted in a shuffling of piles and my center table became a dumping ground. My goal this year is to stay better organized. I also was fortunate to gain a flat file (for free!) so now all my papers can have a nice place to land.

One last improvement is a new encaustic pallet. I have wanted one for 2 years and could finally afford to spoil myself. I can't wait to get started!

Last Show of the Season!

2009-12-11T07:11:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow is the final show of 2009 for me - Sowa Holiday Market.
There will be 80 vendors selling fantastic handmade items for everyone on your shopping list. This will be the 6th season for SOWA Holiday and looks to be one of it's best yet!! Come out and shop some of the finest handcrafts in the Boston area. Doors open at 10am 'til 6pm Saturday and Sunday at the Cathedral High School Gym in the South End.

After a sort rest, I will be back to blogging about new work and inspirations. Looking forward to 2010!

Design Nearby - Big Print Little Print

2009-12-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

This Friday Dec. 11th, I have the honor of taking part in Design Nearby - Big Print Little Print a one night art sale and party at Pinkcomma Gallery, 81B Wareham Street, Boston.

Featured artists include:

Tony Bevilacqua

Alison Cole

Dyslexic Press

Family Dinner for One

Leah Giberson

Ink Design

JHill Design

Kyle Jonasen

Nervous System

Katie Rowley

Jenn Ski

Two Trick Pony

Viva Ortegacy

Erica von Schilgen

Susy Pilgrim Waters

The 47th

The party runs from 6-11. A fun and funky way to find some cool gifts for the holidays. Hope to see you there!

Coastal Holiday House Tour and Boutique

2009-11-30T16:46:00.000-08:00

This Sunday Dec. 6 there will be the Coastal Holiday Boutique and House Tour to benefit the Scituate Elementary School.My Boston Handmade friend Brooke of Bancroft Studios and 17 other vendors will be at the Boutique at the Barker Tavern from 10:30-5:00 and it is FREE and open to the public. What a great place to find some holiday goodies!

Luscious!

2009-11-30T12:02:00.000-08:00

I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful!! I just wanted to share some lovely photos that my husband, Joe Keller, shot with Mary Jane Sawyer of Ennis, Inc. Yummy!

Boston Handmade Downtown Opening Friday!!

2009-11-24T11:34:00.000-08:00

Members of Boston Handmade have been working weekends to get the space ready to open this Friday, Nov. 27th. Here's a sampling of goods you may find.

Boston Handmade Downtown is at 505 Washington Street, Boston. Open Nov. 27th thru Dec. 24th, Wednesdays to Sundays 11-7. Enjoy a handmade shopping experience and find unique gifts for the people on your shopping list. Stock will be continually added so there will always be something new and different!

We're Back!

2009-11-12T09:44:00.001-08:00

Back for a second year in the same location as last year! Opening November 27th at 505 Washington Street in the Downtown Crossing District of Boston.

At Boston Handmade Downtown you'll be supporting local micro businesses that produce high quality items. Your gifts will be unique and often one of a kind. They won't be made in a foreign factory! So come on down. The artists will be staffing the store so you may just meet the maker of that special gift - try that at the mall!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

What a spectacular day on Sunday at the final SOWA Sunday. Lots of sun and fun people getting in touch with their inner Zombie!

This little lovely is fellow Boston Handmader Lucie Wicker!

I had a great day, but I wish I could have been in two places at once. My husband took the kids to get their pumpkins while I was at the show. I wish I hadn't missed it but I'm glad Joe can handle a camera!

Tape Swell on the Daily Grommet

2009-09-30T11:22:00.001-07:00

My friend Eileen has her business featured on the Daily Grommet.

I first met Eileen when she worked as a stylist for my husband and I.

I also credit her for really getting me started in encaustics. We went to her home for a shoot and she showed me her setup and gave me all the information to get going. She also encouraged me to take a workshop with her at Tracy Spadaforas studio.

Her new business is really great. Check it out.

You go girl!

Say What?

2009-07-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

I just love text and I have been wanting to design something using words as the pattern. I was inspired by vintage bus scrolls and my love of sailing. I golf too, but I'm a hack. I can hold my own if I don't take it seriously, hence the slang terms on one of the pillows. Something new of 2009. Happy Summer!

Boston Handmade at SOWA this SUNDAY!

2009-06-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

I have been crazy busy with shows and a trip out west (more on that later). This show is one not to miss. I will be at SOWA this Sunday with 17 other members of Boston Handmade. Participants will be:

83 West
Bancroft Studio
Blue Alvarez
Christine Marie Art
Chroma Lab
Elizabeth Brennick Designs
Fraske Designs
Kerry Hawkins Photography
Linda B. Dunn
Lucie Wicker Photography
MaJenta Designs
Mimi Kirchner
Nancy Rosetta
Sea Glass Things
Stonehouse Studios
The Hole Thing
Vintage by Crystal

SOWA will have something for everyone. In addition to the artisans, there is a farmers market and antiques market. Come on out and enjoy this Sunday the 14th from 10am-4pm, Harrison Ave., Boston. Stop by and say "Hi!"

Open Market Opener

2009-05-19T11:55:00.001-07:00

Well it was a bit chilly but what a fun weekend! Saturday, I was right across from fellow Boston Handmader Beth Brennick. We had a great time and thank you to everyone who came out! I'll be back with new things on May 31st! See you then :)

Come One, Come All!

2009-05-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

Here we go!
Come on out this weekend and enjoy the spring weather while taking in the goodies at SOWA opening weekend. I will be there Saturday and Sunday and look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones.
New this year is the Antiques Market that will be held in the trolley barn next to the market. There should be a lot of wonderful finds all around. Hope to see you there!

My Purl Girl

2009-05-06T11:28:00.000-07:00

I am addicted!!! It was so much fun making this doll! Thank you Mimi, for your generosity in sharing the pattern on The Purl Bee.
I took along materials to start her on my vacation. I even had the felt shipped to my father-in-laws, in Florida. It arrived toward the end of my break so I didn't complete her until I came home.

My daughter just loves her :)

Inspiration Don't Leave Me Now

2009-04-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm just back from "vacation". It was the first time back to Florida since the passing of my mother-in-law and it made me reflect on a lot of things. It is amazing the impact that small gestures can have on a person's life - fancy soaps in the bathroom, beds made and towels laid out, home cooked dinners you don't have to think about, quiet conversations marveling on how the kids are growing, stories shared about golf and "life at the club" - I missed them all.

I'm finding it difficult to get motivated - I guess I'm having a bit of a relapse in my mourning process but I decided I would just try to make some small items to try out gouache in my mixed media. Family and motherhood are on my mind...

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

I did a little something different this year with the kids. Instead of colored eggs (which always seem to get wasted), we made terrariums!
Growing up, my grandmother would always bring a terrarium to our holidays. She made fantastic little environments with skaters or woodland animals. I was captivated by them. So when Susan from West Coast Crafty, a blog I love to follow, posted a how-to on making terrariums, I was inspired to try it this holiday.

Our family had a lovely, WARM Good Friday and spent the day on the waterfront in Plymouth and snooping in some antique shops in town. I found three great old bottles for the project. Once I got home I found a terrarium that my mother had given me years ago and an old cookie jar, so we had plenty to work with.

In the cold rain on Saturday, we ventured out to gather the ingredients - gravel, activated charcoal, soil, moss and plants. Unfortunately, at this time of year the nursery had not received their tender plants but we found some little ferns and tropicals. To decorate we used figures from the Magical Forest Mix offered by Etsy seller Bake it Pretty.

Working with warm, green little worlds was a great way to chase away the dreary weather. Both kids really got into it. My son loved planning his landscape and had great little stories about what the gnomes were up to. My daughter absolutely loved hers, complete with Snow White and some dwarfs - She keeps sticking her hands in to play in the scene!

I hope your holiday is filled with fun and family, new and old traditions.

The Day That Changed Me

2009-04-03T05:18:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago, today, I became a mom. We did this series of portraits when he was around three months old. I always called him my "little luna" - he had such a happy moon face. Today he is a strong, independent and kind boy. I am so proud. Happy Birthday, Luna.

Vintage by Crystal on Martha Stewart!!

2009-03-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

What can I say... it was bound to happen and it couldn't have happened to a nicer person. Friend and fellow Boston Handmade member, Crystal, will be on the Martha Stewart Show this Wednesday (tomorrow) at 10 am on Fox 25 in the Boston area (check your local listings).

I, for one, can't wait to take notes on her craft! It seems like every time we have a group show I come home with another one or her beautiful creations. I added a Christmas ornament to my tree this year and have purchased these lovelies for my children - instant heirloom!

Check it out!

Before and After

2009-03-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

Usually "Before and Afters" show improvement but improvement can be different things to different people.

My studio was once a lovely sun room. It was my refuge, a "room of my own", where I could surround myself with my favorite things and indulge my obsession with Tiki. The Christmas that my husband gave me my encaustic setup, I was so excited and couldn't wait to set it up. I carved out a small corner by the window so I would have good ventilation and started to play.
Well, a couple years later, I am completely hooked and my room has been transformed into a full time studio.

Just last week, I finally got around to moving out the remaining furniture and setting up some real work stations using tables that I was hanging onto (our old kitchen table and one from our photo studio). I have been using folding tables to lay things out and plastic storage bins - not the most attractive, but someday I'll invest in esthetically pleasing cabinets. The most important thing is that it is now a functioning space. I no longer have to walk around the house mumbling to myself about where I left my scissors or ruler or...

I loved my old sun room and it was a lovely place to spend time, but I spend even more time in my studio and it's value is immeasurable.

Wall Flower - Second in a Series

2009-03-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

This piece is the second in my "Wall Flower" series.

As I have been working through each piece, it has helped me reflect on the power and impact that woman have had on society but more importantly on the people their lives touch every day - their friends, husbands and most importantly their children. Woman's lives and roles have changed enormously and I know I have benefitted from the sacrifices of others. With expanding opportunity, comes all the stresses and responsibilities that tug on me for attention but I don't want to forget that the most important tugs come from the little hands grabbing my sweater or jeans.

I'd like to be, under the sea...

2009-03-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

I have a fascination with what lies out there. Living on the coast my whole life, I find the shore is where I get my inspiration and my rejuvenation.

We had two wonderful days walking the beach and jetties in nearby towns this past weekend. I found some wonderful beach "junk" - weathered wood and lobster netting thrown back on shore by winter storms.

My kids loved it too. My son is going to make a sculpture with the bits he found.

An Etsy Favorite

2009-03-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

When I first started on Etsy, I was captivated by ATC's (artist trading cards). I loved the idea of a small original piece of art at an affordable price. I started a collection of cards that had meaning for me and created a mini inspiration wall inside a shadow box frame. I keep it where I can admire it every day and it continues to inspire.

Artists in this collection:

InsituDecorativeArts
catwalk
studiolyon
AzureGrackle

Tiny World

2009-03-01T09:11:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would be happy to live in Boston in the grey month of February. Yesterday, however, I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else in the world. I am fortunate to live within driving distance of Mimi Kirchner and yesterday she held her Tiny World class.

There were seven of us, with varying levels of sewing experience, but with Mimi's generous guidance each world became a treasure of self expression. We had lots of laughs and I smiled the whole way home. A perfect way to spent a cold February day. Thank you, Mimi.

Jen Bowles and her mom created little orchards with birds.

and friend and fellow Boston Handmade member Brooke Pickering created an island of her own!

Nesting

2009-02-25T12:26:00.000-08:00

I opened my studio window today to put in my ventilation fan and what a joy! There were birds singing! The Canadian Geese have returned to the little pond up the road and the mother should be on her nest in the next 3 weeks. The kids love to watch their return every spring and count the goslings when they hatch in April.

I was inspired to complete this piece today. I will hold on to the hope of spring.

New Custom Dog Leash Racks

2009-02-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

Well, even if it is February vacation and the kids are tugging at me, I have managed to finish two custom leash racks today. Now, it's time to get back to the huge tent in my living room!

Museum of Fine Arts Boston is great for kids!

2009-02-16T17:50:00.000-08:00

We had a great day today at Boston's MFA. They have programs for kids all this week. We participated in art in the Egyptian galleries. My son really loved constructing a piece using papyrus, wood and muslin. My 3 year old just liked cutting the construction paper into little bits. It's all good.

I highly recommend going early (they open at 10am) and catch lunch in the courtyard cafe. There are plenty of options for your kids or you can bring a lunch. There were a number of families that thought ahead - me, not so much.
It may wear the little ones out but there are plenty of spots to sit for a rest, as my daughter has demonstrated, and the inspiration was endless!

Something Old Something New - Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T08:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day to all! I've been reminiscing lately and looking thru quite a body of work.

Something Old
A photo I took of my husbands hand many years ago. We were testing some polaroid films on the roof of our studio. Ahh, the good old days...

Something New
This piece was inspired by my love of the French movie "Le Ballon Rouge". It's a classic!

Enjoy the day and cherish your friends and family.

Thinking Spring...

2009-02-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

I am starting to dream of Spring. It is inevitable every year, after the holiday crazies have gone and the snow starts to look really dirty, I start to wonder how long it will be before the thaw. I actually got a glimpse the other day of an eager daffodil starting it's journey skyward just outside my front door. It's the closest one to the house so it's clock is always a little off - I guess we have that in common.

Bunnies, flowers and maps of places I wish I could travel to... these are a few of my favorite things.

Red Rider...

2009-02-08T14:35:00.000-08:00

More new work inspired by my two boys - my six year old son and my husband (who never stopped being 6). They are huge fans of the movie "A Christmas Story". I happen to think the leg lamp is way ahead of it's time.

New Work

2009-02-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

Wall Flower Series 1 - Joie

I had a bit of a tough start to the new year. We lost a very special person in our family. She was a rock. A woman with uncompromising grace. She influenced all those around her and since her passing I have come to see, yet again, that it is the small bits, the kind words, the pats on the back, the sharing of secret recipes and old photographs, the passing down of family stories that makes life worth it. She felt that there was nothing more important than family and she was the foundation of ours.
I was left flat after the holidays. I didn't know where to turn, what to do. In a bag of old wallpaper, I have found a bit to hold on to. My "Wall Flower" series will be in her memory.

My Favorite Gift - Handmade Nation

2009-01-06T10:33:00.000-08:00

by Amy of Bumble Belly Designs

First, I must say that my husband rocks! He always gets me the best books - ones that inspire and inform me. This year my gift was "Handmade Nation - The Rise of DIY, Art, Craft, and Design" by Faythe Levine and Courtney Heimerl. I will admit that I have not finished the book yet. I am pouring over each page savoring the interviews with each artist and being inspired by their talents.
I am new to the "Handmade Revolution". I fell into my Etsy life by chance and changing life circumstances. Encouraged by good friends, I feel that I have finally found that "place", the "thing" that makes you happy. I love being a part of a larger creative community and wake up each day wondering what I will come up with - how will a piece turn out - what will I start next...

The book has served to enlighten me and introduce some of the pioneers in this recent rise of handmade. The diversity of the talents is truly awe inspiring and the stories have served as "little cheerleaders", each providing encouragement and possibility.
I am also eagerly anticipating the feature length documentary that will be released in 2009. The book is based on the interviews and footage collected for the movie by Faythe.
Faythe Levine also has a blog about this "handmade nation" which I will be sure to keep up with.
Here's to health, happiness, and handmade in 2009!!

My Most Recent Creative Project

2008-12-29T13:35:00.000-08:00

by Amy of Bumble Belly Designs

Every year, since the birth of my little boy, I have hand made a holiday card. I really enjoy the creative possibilities and look forward to it every year. I made some really complicated ones the first couple of years. One year, I sent origami cranes in origami boxes along with the card. My husband walked around the house with a concerned look for a few weeks as I sat hunched over the kitchen table folding and stamping and punching and gluing...

Each year, I never know what I will come up with and they have definitely been different each year.

This year we added a new family member when we adopted a sweet little dog the day after Thanksgiving. This added a bit of anxiety to getting "the picture". I wanted to do a silhouette this year, so we took individual profiles of my son and daughter and then a straight shot of "Snowy". Using photoshop, I made them into silhouettes and placed them together into an oval shape and added random snowflakes to the surround.

These are the original shots I worked with...

and this is the final front of the card...

The inside photo was a bit more challenging. We took it in about 5 minutes - that's about all the time we seem to get before a complete melt down and loss of attention. There wasn't one photo that was great of everyone - this happens a lot with the two kids, never mind throwing a dog into the mix. Our trick is to have the camera on a tripod so that it remains stationary. This means the background will be consistent in all the shots and if you take the photos in rapid succession you may be able to combine shots for the best result. I had one shot that was great of the kids but the dog had his head down looking a bit disinterested. I cloned a better shot of him into the good shot of the kids and it was easy because all the angles matched up from shot to shot as a result of the camera being stationary.

This is the result...

I would like to call every ones attention to the beautiful dress that my daughter wore for the picture. It was made by Boston Handmade member All The Numbers. I bought it at Boston Handmade Downtown on one of my shifts. I tried to get my daughter to give me her DeeDee, but no luck, so the cute pocket on the front is covered a bit. It's a great dress. She loves it!