oh hi it's NICE-ETC - The blog for Nice.Etsy.com - Vintage & Handmade by Caitlin Holcomb

Send Out Some Love!

2010-02-09T00:57:00.001-06:00

Valentine's day is less than a week away! Why not pick out a couple postcards and have them sent out?
Perfect for surprising your special someone..especially perfect if you are an admirer who wants to be a secret (your secret's safe with me)!
Available in the shop right here.

Come see me at the Vintage Bazaar!

2010-02-06T17:12:00.000-06:00

Nice will be part of the first Vintage Bazaar on Feb. 27th! I'm really excited..an event like this is long overdue! It's going to be a real challenge for me to stay at my booth and not wander off treasure hunting. I'll have housewares, clothing, and other finds..perhaps some larger pieces that would be too tricky to sell on Etsy. I hope you can stop by!

I've been neglecting this blog a bit. I've been working on custom banners, organizing my supplies and such..and at the moment I have a cold that has really sucked the energy out of me! It really came out of nowhere.

Thanks for the painting encouragement from my last post! Maybe in a month or so we'll be able to tackle the job..still not sure. I've painted a lot of rooms in my life haha..never as big as this one though..I know you guys are right, that it's totally worth it..I'll have to keep remembering that..

wall color bummer

2010-01-30T01:31:00.001-06:00

This image is pretty accurate in displaying the paint color of the main room of our apartment. It's not my favorite. Not by a long shot. It's the color of makeup foundation. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if the floors were not so close in color..maybe. I know the landlord would most likely wouldn't mind if we chose to paint over it, but I'm not sure that I have the time. It would be a daunting task because it's a shotgun style apartment and so this color carries all the way into the kitchen (!) and that just seems so annoying to paint. SIGH. So. Do you have any suggestions of creative ways to get over it? I've thought about hanging fabric or paper literally just tacked to the wall in some places..I just don't want it to look like a huge mess. Am I just overly sensitive? Have you ever been stuck with wall colors that really just bum you out?

I should note that our friend gave us a 1950s dresser set that is in really great condition..a lot of it has ended up working in the living room- accept that it is a birch color and so it TOO is close to the wall color. So yeah..bleeeeeecccccch.

Poppies

2010-01-25T23:06:00.002-06:00

Hello! Nice has been nominated for a Poppie award on the PoppyTalk Blog! It's really sweet to be included, and it would be even sweeter to be a winner! If you'd like please feel free to take a second and vote for Nice! You have from now until January 29th at 11:59 pm. Thanks a bunch!

Jill Thomas Photography

2010-01-15T00:12:00.000-06:00

I received an email the other day from a very talented photographer, Jill Thomas, saying that she has used one of my Hooray banners in a recent wedding shoot! The photos are simply gorgeous and I am so incredibly flattered! I think it's such an honor to be chosen by a photographer and to be a part of someone's very special day! Please check out her blog to see the rest of the wedding and other events that she has shot..I know you'll enjoy it!

shop update

2010-01-09T18:19:00.004-06:00

I've just added a few
vintage items!

See more in the shop!

Tarts

2010-01-09T00:13:00.001-06:00

At Christmas James and I made goat cheese pear tarts. Sarah of Cursive was a guest on Design Sponge a year ago and I've been wanting to make these ever sense. I am not a big fan of cooking or baking at this point in my life..but this was simple and quite delicious! See more delicious pictures and the recepie here.

We also made some cherry tarts because some people in my family don't like goat cheese (which I still can't get over- I am addicted to it!)..but I am a huge fan of cherry pie of all kinds haha so this was good too..and very easy.

By the Light of the Silvery Moon..Happy New Year!!

2009-12-31T17:46:00.002-06:00

Wishing you all the best on the dawn of a new decade! Sounds so serious, doesn't it?

Thanks for hangin' around this lil' blog, Etsy, Twitter, Facebook, etc!
It was a pretty fine 2009, looking forward to 2010! Have a wonderful new year and enjoy the blue moon!

best coast

2009-12-31T14:06:00.002-06:00

feelin good today.

original link here.

Needed a Little Christmas..

2009-12-22T14:27:00.001-06:00

Finally was able to put out some decorations the other night.. I left my garland lights at my parents' for now since they looked so pretty over the doorway...gonna steal them back after the holidays, but in the meantime, James and I needed something of our own. It was a very random decorating session, hahah. Very haphazard, but it works. Feelin' cozy under the lights.

Ohp! There's Constable. haha, He followed me around the entire time, trying very hard to get in each shot.

The little house my Mom made for me 3 or 4 years ago now.

I found this little girl and boy last year and have since been teasing James that they are he and I.

Hooray! The Winner Has Been Drawn..

2009-12-21T22:33:00.002-06:00

The winner of Applique Your Way has been chosen by the infamous random.org - Kerri W.!
Thank you all so very much for entering! If you didn't win, be sure to keep following the blog tour for more chances and other fun things...or drop lots of hints and hope it's under your tree later this week! It's a perfect companion for long winter days when you're snowed indoors!

Last Day to Win!

2009-12-18T13:46:00.000-06:00

Remember that today is the last day to enter to win a copy of Applique Your Way. Just leave a comment with your email on my original post with Kayte Terry. : ) I'll post the winner at some point on Monday!

And be sure to keep following Kayte's blog tour for more inspiring posts and chances to win. The dates are listed on the blog for Chronicle Books.

Garland Lights Tutorial

2009-12-17T03:17:00.002-06:00

The other night my Mom and I made a bit of time to do some holiday projects together. We've both been really busy this year and we were so happy to relax and make some things for ourselves, haha.

I am a huge fan of Christmas lights. My current favorite are just from Ikea. They are LED so they don't get hot..and they seem to have a more simple and modern feel to them vs. the ones you find at the regular local store (right? or am I buying into Ikea's design aesthetic? haha). I also love them because they are not bright blueish-white, but a nice subtle whitish-yellow. We also used regular old Christmas lights, but please, please practice caution no matter what lights you use...and just to be safe, don't leave them on while you're not at home.

Needed: silver pipe cleaners, tulle (I used light pink) cut into small pieces, about 3x4 inches each, felt (I used grey), glitter glue (easy and no mess, I used silver), scissors

It's quite simple! Take a single pipe cleaner, wrap one creating a circle about an inch round, secure it in place by wrapping one end over the other once or twice so it won't come undone. Place 1 or two fingers into the circle and wrap the end around your fingers, creating smaller and smaller circles, like a cyclone shape.

Take two pieces of the tulle scraps (or as many as you'd like) and sort of scrunch them around a single light, secure them to the strand by inserting the light into the middle of the pipe cleaner "cyclone". Use the tail end to wrap around the tulle and the light strand, securing it in place.

I also cut out scalloped circles, or flowers, from grey felt, and embellished them with glitter on both sides. Cut an x in the middle of the flower to insert it onto the bulb. Due to the design of my light strand, I needed to keep the flower in place, so I wrapped a quarter of a single pipe cleaner around the "stem" of the bulb. I also did this to random lights just for subtle touch of sparkle.

For the second style you'll need: Gold pipe cleaners, felt (I used white), glitter glue (I used iridescent, silver, and pink), cupcake liners (I am addicted to Amanda's cupcake liners at Bake it Pretty!), scissors.

I placed everything randomly on this strand, I didn't want it to look theme-y, if that makes sense. I made more "cyclones" in gold pipe cleaners, but without tulle this time. I also cut out star-like shapes from the felt and used glitter on both sides, again cutting and x in the middle, sliding it on and securing it with a quarter of 1 gold pipe cleaner. I was very excited to use my cupcake liners, I just cut them like my felt designs and secured them as well.

Totally easy and so cute! My mom and I are really excited about the pipe cleaner "cyclones" (or bells as we were calling them at the time). I haven't seen this done before, but it seemed like such a natural thing, haha.

If you decide to make your own I'd LOVE to see! The possibilities are endless.. A couple years ago my mom wrapped our lights in tinsel- they are beautiful! I am anxious to get makin' even more styles..cos you know I keep these around all year, right? haha I really enjoy them- I hope you will as well!

do not open til dec. 25

2009-12-15T01:57:00.000-06:00

The suggested last date to ship was today, but if you have a last minute purchase, you can do it before 11am central time and I'll be able to ship it out tomorrow for Xmas!

I'll be back soon with a simple little tutorial that I'd like to share.. and remember to enter the giveaway!

Giveaway & Guest Post from Kayte Terry of Applique Your Way!

2009-12-11T11:36:00.017-06:00

Today on Nice-Etc.com I am thrilled to present a post with Kayte Terry the author of Applique Your Way (out now through Chronicle Books)! You may already know Kayte from her blog, This is Love Forever, her abundance of cute and unique project tutorials on Craft Stylish, or perhaps through her first book Complete Embellishing. Her newest book is filled to the brim with amazing projects (that make great holiday gifts!) and precise directions with easy to use patterns. Did you know that the wonderfully talented Jennifer Causey did the photos for the book? It's such a lovely book that I know you'll enjoy and reference often. I am so very excited to be included among many other talented artists and makers. In Applique Your Way you can learn how to make a Hooray banner of your own!

Kayte is here today to kick start her blog tour and share with us her favorite sources for craft supplies and other pretty things. aannnnd you can enter here today to win an copy of Applique Your Way! Just leave your name, last initial at least, and your email. Feel free to let us know your favorite supply sources as well! For now, here are Kayte's favorites! Get your link clicking finger ready..

Since I make things for a living, I have a tendency to do a lot of craft shopping and sourcing. I am definitely someone who buys what I love first and then figures out what to do with it. Of course, when I have a job to do, I just get what I need, but I think my natural inclination at craft stores is just to wander and get inspiration.

I buy a lot of things at flea markets and thrift stores so when I see it and I like it, I have to grab it. I buy tons of big craft lots on eBay and Etsy- they are some much fun to unpack because you never know what you are going to get!

But, I am also a huge fan of the independent specialized craft store and frequent them as much as my checkbook can afford me! Yes, they are a little bit pricier than the big box chains but the quality of their stuff is so much better and worth it in the long run. 

Here are a few of my favorites:

Metalliferous

A full-service jewelry supplier of metal, findings, and beads. Prepare to spend hours combing through the many bins of findings, vintage charms, and chains in every style imaginable.

Purl Patchwork

purlsoho.com

purlsoho.com/thepurlbee

One of my favorite fabric stores, Purl carries cottons from all the heavy-hitters like Denyse Schmidt and Amy Butler as well as some unusual Japanese imports and beautiful cotton solids in a million colors. They have a constantly changing inventory, so check in often and buy when you see something you really love.

VV Rouleaux

I had the chance to visit VV Rouleaux last year, and it is an embellishment paradise! Gorgeous ribbons, silk flowers, tassels, and feathers abound in this luxe boutique.

M & Trim

Buttons, ribbons, sew-on jewels, and trims fill shelves from floor to ceiling in this well organized shop. I think M & J is a little slice of heaven. Remember to ask for prices before they start cutting as trims have a sneaky habit of getting very expensive.

I also recommend starting at M & J and exploring everything else in the Garment District in New York. You never know what you will find.

Liberty of London

For many years, Liberty of London fabrics have been famous for their bright colors and gorgeous prints. This massive department store carries the entire Liberty fabric line as well as general sewing supplies, ribbon, and trims.

Tinsel Trading

Known for its elaborate millinery flowers and vintage trims, Tinsel Trading is a favorite amongst NYC’s many photo stylists. Chests of drawers hold colorful charms and cabachons and bins are filled with vintage sequins. Don’t forget to check out The Shop Across the Street, Tinsel Trading’s outpost of ribbons, papers, and paper craft.

Britex Fabric

If you’re into sewing and you live in or plan to visit San Francisco, you have to visit Britex Fabrics. Their selection is amazing and extensive, though not cheap. It reminds me a lot of Mood Fabrics in New York and LA (moodfabrics.com).

Fabric Row in Philadelphia

I just moved to Philly and was mourning the loss of my precious New York Garment District until I found out that I lived just a short walk from Fabric Row in Philly. Like everything compared to New York, it is quite a bit cheaper and less intimidating. You can find everything you need from notions and trim to fabric and sewing machine repair right here on 4^th Street just below South Street.

Knittn’ Kitten

This Portland, Oregon shop is a treasure trove of vintage and new craft supplies, all priced to sell (I am not kidding, go to this store and shop your heart out!!). A couple of my Portland friends introduced me to this store and it is on my must-visit list every time I go west.

Parcel

I just discovered this Montclair, NJ store a couple of months ago while on a work trip and I already can’t wait to get back there. The jewel-box of a shop is filled to the brim with everything from millinery flowers and leaves, vintage game pieces and rows and rows of ribbons. Everything is beautiful and precious- I felt like I died and went to my very own special heaven.

There you have it! Tons of fantastic sources to get you inspired and ready to create! Thank you so much, Kayte!
Keep on the look out at This Is Love Forever to find out where the next stop on the Applique Your Way blog tour will be..so many surprises in store!

And don't forget that 1 lucky reader will be drawn to win a copy!
Leave your name, last initial, and email.
Feel free to leave info on your favorite craft and inspiration sources, too!

You have until December 18th!

Be sure to tell your friends and feel free to post about this giveaway on your blog!

Tons to Share with You Today!

2009-12-05T06:06:00.003-06:00

I've also added new styles of the Crest Mod Cabin Clocks, and of course the Mini Deer Plaques are still in stock for the Holidays (such a popular gift item!)...

aaaaand there is a new postcard in the shop as well..

Phew! That was a lot of info! Thanks so much and have a fantastic weekend!

shop: www.nice.etsy.com

I'll be shoppin' with you at Renegade this weekend..

2009-12-04T19:43:00.001-06:00

Just a reminder that the Chicago Holiday Renegade is this weekend! I'm not participating this year..I opted just for Art vs. Craft this year, which was great fun, but oh is it so difficult to sit out a Renegade show! Though I'm sure I'll feel better once I'm there and free to roam around and shop as I please!
And after that I think we'll head down to the One of a Kind show at the Merch Mart. I've never gone, and this year Etsy has a section with artists that I'm interested in checkin' out. I know for sure that Kelly and Matt of Over Due Industries will be there..looking forward to seeing who else!

In other news, I'm working on a shop update!

simple gatherings

2009-11-30T20:35:00.003-06:00

This makes me want to have a holiday bingo party with drinks and fun little random prizes! Maybe I'll find a vintage one.. Or get a vintage cage and make the rest? It could be fun to search for prizes and have everyone bring a few of their own to give out as well.

Art vs. Craft next weekend!!

2009-11-21T16:27:00.004-06:00

A week from today, Saturday November 28 James and I will be heading up to Milwaukee for Art vs. Craft! We are really looking forward to seeing a new town (neither of us have really been to Milwaukee, just little visits that hardly count), and it's going to be so much fun to be a part of this really cool fair put together by the famous Faythe Levine & Kim Kisiolek (of Handmade Nation and The Paper Boat Boutique)! Also very excited to meet new vendors..this is my first craft show outside of Illinois!

We're heading up the day before, and hoping to do some exploring, so if you have any Milwaukee suggestions we'd love to hear them! And if you're in the area I'd love to meet you Saturday!

And Chicago peeps don't forget, it's not that far for a day trip! It's just under a 1.5 hour trip!
You could even take the train.
Here is a link to a google map.

2009-11-19T15:58:00.002-06:00

Hello friends!
If you are in Chicago come on out tonight to the Portage Theater! James and I have friends who have made a movie. It's called Frontwards.
It's a coming of age film about what exactly happens to the main character 20 some years after he reads Where The Wild Things Are.

JK, JK
Tonight at 8, door opens at 7.
Drinks at the Burlington afterward!
Check it out here.
Here is the facebook event page.
Hope to see you there

2009-11-06T16:47:00.004-06:00

Thanks for the well wishes in my last post! I think I'll be feeling better by tomorrow. I can't wait to be cough free! At the moment I am headache free and that feels pretty, pretty good. Still taking it easy tonight though.

Anyway, I wanted to share with you my mom's shop update! She's done it again and added many pretty pieces to her shop. My favorite wreath currently is the last one shown above. I love it! I can hardly ever resist glitter, especially during the holidays. I hope I can get my hands on one!

2009-11-04T16:23:00.003-06:00

How was your Halloween? What did you dress up as?
James and I made it to Lula Cafe..every year they dress up as a different restaurant, and this year it was Hot Doug's. mmmm it was well worth the wait and very delicious. Later we went to celebrate our friend's birthday which was nice..it was a very easy Halloween haha. To top it off, the following morning we met that same birthday friend and another for brunch at the Publican which was also very delicious. Food was the theme of the weekend it seems..James even cooked a yummy dinner Sunday night!
It was fun driving through the city seeing everyone out in costume..even the morning after, on our way to brunch I spotted someone still in their banana suit, and another still in bat wings. I think my favorite costume this year was a girl dressed as the boy from The Red Balloon. She had the right hair color and cut, a grey sweater and of course a huge red balloon. When I complimented her on her costume she was quick to point out to her friends that someone actually got her costume. ha.

So it was a nice time. Now, I'm actually sick! May have caught something my friends or dad had. On and off fever and horrible cough and sore throat. No fun. James has been taking care of me though and I'm hoping to be better by tomorrow!

2009-10-30T02:57:00.003-05:00

Halloween wouldn't be the same without it.

2009-10-28T01:28:00.006-05:00

Have you seen Anabela of Fieldguided's Halloween costume? It's inspired by these fantastic bunny ears. So cute. My favorite Halloween costume so far this year.

Tonight I was working on a project that allowed me to put on a Netflix instant watch, and I chose How to Steal a Million. I guess I hadn't seen that one since high school..perhaps longer! I'd forgotten little bits..including the fantastic lace mask Audrey wears to her mysterious engagement at the Ritz!

It begins at 1 minute into the trailer. I love her glittering eyelids underneath. Whoever had that idea was a genius. I can only assume the outfit was Givenchy.

ALSO I must strongly suggest you head to Anabela's post in which she's hosting a giveaway from All Modern. I've got my eye on that Tord Boontje light!

2009-10-23T14:15:00.004-05:00

Havin' a sale! Perhaps there's something you've had your eye on...

<3