Feb 02 2009
Today.com is moving all blogs to the new theme. Many of you may be wondering why I switched. Well, I like the old theme best too but the company apparently wants a more uniform look to its blogs, so what’s a gal to do.
So, appologies to those of you who like the old theme best. I hope you can get used to the new one. I’ll be customizing it as we go along, maybe putting up a new banner, etc. We’ll see how it goes. Suggestions welcome.
Jan 31 2009
Due to circumstances beyond my control, this Friday’s top ten picks will not be appearing. This feature will appear as scheduled for next week, Friday Feb. 6, 2009.
Please continue to post your comments on last Friday’s top ten picks. This will put your shop up for consideration for the next feature article.
Did you manage to get in to visit the Trunk Show by the Etsy Bloggers team? I did and it was a riot! There are so very many talented handicrafters out there. I saw a lot of things that I would like to buy, particularly some lovely heart shaped pendants.
Well, the show is over for this season. I’m sure the group will have another one soon. Keep watching for more great fun. There will be many more blog carnivals and lots more how to articles coming in the next few months.
Keep Crafting!
Jan 17 2009
Thrift stores are an excellent way to add flair to a craft or art project without spending a ton of money. To find treasures, thrift store shoppers can benefit from a few tips and tricks.
Keep a list of what you need. It’s easy to get lost in a thrift store and come home with a whole lot of nothing or way too much. Keeping a list of items you need or would like to have is a sure way to stay on top of your budget and to make sure to not end up with a storage place that resembles a thrift shop of your own.
When searching for clothing items be sure to have a tape measure with you and to know your measurements. Many times sizes and tags are missing from items and it’s easier to measure than to have to return something.
Many furniture items in thrift stores have been repainted many times or are in need of a good coat of varnish to brighten bare wood. Remember that furniture can often be spiffed up with a little sanding and a coat of paint. Additionally, there are many non-toxic paint strippers on the market to help you bring an old furniture item back to its original and quite likely beautiful, state.
Here is where you can let go and let your crafty side really show. A plain wooden table can be turned into a work of art with a paintbrush, paint, and a handmade stencil. A simple black dress can become glamorous with a string of pearls sewn into the collar. A patio table can be transformed from dull to dramatic with a bit of broken tile and some mortar and a couch can become uniquely yours with a few hand made pillows or a slip cover. Letting your crafty side out can literally transform a thrift shop find into something fabulous.
Give items a good sniff. Thrift store items tend to get a bit on the musty side. It isn’t a bad thing. It’s a fact of life and most often that musty smell can be aired out or the item can simply be washed and then becomes as good as new. However, occasionally there are items for which no amount of air or fabric freshener can help. Avoid bringing those home to avoid allergic reactions or other health complications.
Think outside the box. Sometimes an old book is just that…an old book. And sometimes, with a little ingenuity an old book is a shelf or a lamp. Amazing and functional items can be created out of what others would consider junk. An old book can be fastened to a steel elbow and attached to a wall to become a bookshelf. An old end table can become part of a bedside stand and a small bistro table can become a desk. Beauty and function are in the eye of the beholder.
Whether you’re seeking furniture, decorative items, clothing or even appliances, thrift store shopping can turn up fabulous finds. It takes a keen eye, a focused mind, and the willingness to see a diamond in the rough.
Now go out there and do it!
Jan 16 2009
Here are The Magickal Ewe’s top ten handcrafted items picked for January 16, 2009. This week’s picks are chosen from shops on Etsy.com, on Artfire.com and an indepdent.
I know Hallowe’en is long past but this little guy is just too adorable to pass by. I especially admire the detailing.
Little Pumpkin Man Polymer Clay Shirt Purse Pin $2.00 (Art Fire Item# 35810)
This pantry would make a terrific addition to any doll house display. In fact, I know several adult miniaturists in town who would love to add this to their collection. So don’t think miniatures or doll houses are just for kids! I love going to the miniature show each year and see what the group has been up to. They create themed vignettes. The variety is endless. And this pantry would be perfect in a bakery store display or an old country kitchen.
Etsy :: SouthamptonCreations :: NEW UNIQUE HAND PAINTED MINIATURE PANTRY
This next pick comes from an internet, blog store. You’ve heard of amigurumi? Well, let me introduce you to flowerumis! Not going to tell you which one is my favourite. You have to choose yourself!
Craftybegonia: Special Introductory Event: Craftybegonia’s Flowerumis
This next item is tres chic! Just what the pup next door needs to catch his ladies’ eye for Valentine’s Day. Since this is a family rated blog I don’t think I can show you the items that really caught my eye from these two shops but I can recommend that all you adults out there go take a look, especially at the chocolates section! Enough said.
Etsy :: ConstantGalore :: SALE- DOG mobius scarf Small Medium size in Holy Guacamole
Body balm good enough to eat! Chocolate!!!
Etsy :: soaprehab :: Chocoholic Body Balm–Vegan
I so want grandkids, and I want them now! Go check this out.
Etsy:: MaineLeeCrochet:: Baby cowboy cowgirl booties
This is a spiritually beautiful print.
Etsy :: walkinthewoodsllc :: Serpent Goddess - ACEO
Monsters under the pillow? Mmmmh….
Etsy :: cbartworks :: Lavender Monsters
Are you lonesome tonight? Ahh, the king lives…
Etsy :: BarkerBell :: Elvis Presley Jailhouse Rock Cutout Image Earrings
Paradise and beyond – 6 cups of it!
If you would like your shop to be considered for a future week’s top ten draw simply leave a comment on this post about any one of this week’s top ten. Do I look at all your shops? You bet I do! I love browsing through handcrafters’ shops so not only do I look at your shop once, I go back and back and back yet again. Keep on crafting and have a great week! And don’t forget – BUY HANDMADE!!!
Jan 11 2009
First off, let me just say that I am a big Indy (Harrison Ford) fan. I fell in “love” with Harrison Ford first in the Star Wars Trilogy and followed his career from there. He may not be the greatest actor in the world, but he is good at what he does…Action films.
Indiana Jones and The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull brings back an aging Indy in what is, hopefully, the last Indiana Jones film. It’s full of quirks, laughs and action. The beginning of the film is riddled with moments where I found myself saying “Why did you agree to return to the role?” and “Man … can they make Indy look any more pathetic?”
As I said above, I am a diehard Indy fan. I have all but the fourth film on either DVD or VHS. However, as far as this movie goes, the beginning sucked but the film grew on me as I watched it.
If you love Harrison Ford/Indiana Jones as much as I do, it’s a must see. Even if the only reason you watch it is to see the reunion of Marion Ravenwood (portrayed by Karen Allen) and Indiana Jones. Ravenwood was last seen in Raiders of the Lost Ark. It really is a classic Indiana Jones film, with a healthy dose of Science Fiction thrown in.
The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and stars Harrison Ford (Indy), Cate Blanchett (Dr. Irina Spalko), Ray Winstone (Mac), Shia LaBeouf (Henry “Mud” Williams/Jones), Karen Allen (Marion) and John Hurt (Oxley).
On a scale of 1-10, I’d rate the film as a 6.5. Not the best film out there but enjoyable.
Jan 07 2009
I was nominated for the Lemonade Award by Jewels of the Creative Corner. Thanks for the nomination Jewels. Follow the link above to view all of my fellow nominees.
Once a blog is nominated there are a few simple steps that need to be followed. First grab the logo and find 10 more bloggers to nominate. All of the rules are listed below.
There are so many wonderful posts out there it is very difficult to chose just 10. Congratulations on being nominated!Here are the rules for you lucky recipients:1. Put the logo on your blog or post.(you can copy and paste it)2. Nominate at least 10 blogs which show great Attitude and/or Gratitude!3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.5. Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award.
Chronic Pain Today
The Daily Dish Recipes
Jan 06 2009
Regulations under the CPSIA Act (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) regarding toxic chemical levels in the manufacturing of goods intended or perceived to be intended for the use of children under the age of 12 come into effect February 10, 2009. This legislation responded to the rising number of incidences of toxic levels of lead in some children’s toys. There are a number of what is believed to be unintended consequences of this legislation.
Rick Woldenberg, President and CEO of Learning Resources is given credit for deeming February 10th as National Bankruptcy Day. The Act was aimed at large manufacturers but there was no provision made for the exemption of small manufacturers, crafters, artists, or cottage industries. These too must comply with the existing legislation. Compliance requires testing and certification of each product. At between $300 to $500 US per test this can quickly overwhelm these small manufacturers potentially forcing them into bankruptcy.
This legislation applies to all who would sell their product to addresses in the USA. It affects small manufacturers and crafters in Canada and Europe who sell their products online at venues like Etsy or Artfire for example.
For example, my sister knits doll clothes for the 11 ½ inch fashion doll. She uses mostly acrylic yarn. Some yarns may have nylon or wool in them. One of her designs is for an evening gown. Each gown she knits is a one of a kind outfit. According to the present law, she would need to have each outfit or style tested. The testing must be done on the final product not on the raw materials. At $10.00 per outfit she can no longer afford to sell her gowns to anyone in the USA.
It is also important to be aware that this does not only affect those who make toys . It affects any and all products that are intended or, and make especial note of this fact, might be perceived to be intended, for the use of children under the age of 12. This includes clothing, books both new and used, musical instruments, and many, many more items.
Legislators are considering amendments and revisions to this legislation but will they be enough or will this sound a death knoll for handmade children’s items?
