I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs

A Little Housekeeping for Top Blogs By Crafters

2012-01-14T16:24:00.003-05:00

It's that time of the year again and I've been doing a little annual housekeeping on Top Blogs By Crafters and Top Blogs By Crafters toplist. As a result I deleted close to 70 blogs that were no longer being actively maintained.

I don't know about all of you, but I find it sad when I have to delete a blog. I just LOVE crafts and craft blogs so, for me, it's always sad to see so many blogs go. Especially if they've been around for awhile and up to the last year or two were posted in. Many of the blogs I deleted had been members since 2006 and 2007, but were no longer being actively maintained.

I hope you know that I'm always trying to find ways to bring attention to the fantastic blogs of the members of Top Blogs By Crafters. Last year I set-up a Top Blogs By Crafters" Facebook page which gets a lot of attention.

This year I decided to set-up a "Top Blogs By Crafters" board on my LWOriginals Pinterest.com page and have been slowly adding members blogs to the board. Some of the members banners were not large enough (pixel wise) to upload to Pinterest.com so while I was out reviewing the blogs I took the opportunity to update a few of the current members blogs banners. I'm still working on this, but we're getting a lot of "likes" and "re-pins" over there which is good. Hopefully, that's translating into more exposure for all the blogs.

Also, while doing a little housekeeping I spruced up Top Blogs By Crafters with some new wallpaper and stream lined the format a little.

We still have 504 active members with fantastic blogs. I could spend all day doing nothing but reading through some of the members blogs and drooling over some of their creations. Everyone is just so talented.

If you haven't checked out some of the blogs on Top Blogs By Crafters lately, please pay us a visit. If you love arts & crafts, artists, and crafters then you will love browsing through the members blogs. Bring a pot of coffee. You'll be there a while.

Maybe bring a napkin or two. I'm sure you'll be drooling, too!

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - "Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"

Broom graphic courtesy of All-Free-Download.com .

I Can't Stop Pinning! I LOVE Pinterest!

2011-12-26T05:31:00.002-05:00

I know I'm always telling you that I need help.

Well, this time I definitely need help!

You see - I have become a "pinning" addict.

Now, if you're wondering what "pinning" is I have to tell you that it's not a new craft that I just learned.

It's an addictive, popular, fast growing internet activity - a "visual" pin-board. One which seems to have control over me the last few days as I just cannot stop "pinning."

If you're wondering what in the world has grabbed a hold of me it's a website called "Pinterest" (http://pinterest.com).

What exactly does this website do?

Well, according to their Facebook page: "Pinterest is an online pinboard to organize and share your inspirations! Pin your favorite images and videos from anywhere. Discover new things hand-picked by people who share your interests."

According to their About page: "Pinterest is a Virtual Pinboard. Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes. Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests. To get started, request an invite."

Their mission statement is: "Our goal is to connect everyone in the world through the 'things' they find interesting. We think that a favorite book, toy, or recipe can reveal a common link between two people. With millions of new pins added every week, Pinterest is connecting people all over the world based on shared tastes and interests."

If you still don't know what this is just take a look at my LWOriginals Pinterest page, which is shown below.

So far I have created 30 boards with 520 pins and, if you know me, I'm sure you know there will be plenty more before I'm done.

I've created different boards for all sorts of things I like, such as: some of my handmade Victorian dolls (of course), my cross-stitch projects that I'm very proud of, patterns and tutorials from "The Best Free Craft Articles" that I love, some of my e-patterns, creative embroidery I'd love to try (if I had a few spare moments), my favorite art doll artists, some of the best blogs from "Top Blogs By Crafters", some of my patterns and e-patterns, quilt things I'd like to make, craft books worth reading that I've reviewed on the "Book Review Corner", felt things I love and would like to create, fun paper crafts, mixed media, items I wish I could paint, sewing ideas and notions, etc.

So, why would I spend so much time on this?

Well, with everything I've done above I've been able to not only promote myself, but to promote some of the artist and crafters who are members of or who have contributed free content to some of my blogs/websites. Things that interest me and which I love.

In essence, "pinning" is a win-win for a small business crafter. It's a fabulous way to present a visual image to a vast audience whose distribution capabilities are endless.

In just a few days I already have 60+ followers and each of my boards have 100 or more followers with individual pins having multiple re-pins or "likes."

Members of Pinterest can follow all your boards, follow some of your boards, re-pin something they liked of yours to their boards, or "like" your pin. So something you pin can have a cascading effect and end up on countless pinboards.

And, here's the best part, and why it's a win-win for a small crafter - the pins carry the URL of the website they were pinned from. So, if someone clicks on a picture of something on one of your boards the URL connected to that image is the webpage where the image was found.

This is accomplished by adding a "Pin It" button to the bookmarks bar of your browser. That way when you're browsing the web and you find things that you like or that are of interest to you can just click the "Pin It" button on your browser and then add the image to one of your pin boards.

You can further promote your products by adding a “Pin It” button to your the product pages of your website. If you have a selling blog you can add a "Pin It" button to each of your blog product posts. This will allow blog readers or customers to pin the products of yours that they like to their boards.

You can also add a "Follow Me on Pinterest" button to the home page of your website or sidebar of your blog. Mine is in the upper right hand corner of my blog and is also shown below:

If you choose to follow other members boards or some of their boards then you can browse through the latest pins of the members you follow, go to their pages and browse through all their boards, browse through "everything" on "Pinterest" by category, browse the most popular pins, videos, or gifts.

What's really great about Pinterest for me is that it's quiet. In that I mean that I can go to Pinterest and browse at my leisure. Unlike Facebook, their is no date or time stamp. There is no pressure to comment on friends posts or activities. No one knows if its been a few days, a few hours, or even a few minutes since I've visited or not. I can pin away at my leisure, make a comment on something I like if I want to, re-pin something for further reference, or just browse through beautiful eye candy. It's a simple website that is extremely easy to use and I hope it stays that way as it gains in popularity.

If you're thinking you can just set-up boards to promote yourself - well, you'd be missing the point of "Pinterest" which is to share the things you love and in doing so share a bit about yourself. According to them: Pinterest is designed to curate and share things you love. If there is a photo or project you’re proud of, pin away! However, try not to use Pinterest purely as a tool for self-promotion.

Pinterest is a great tool for small business crafters because it allows you to quickly show the things you've created that you're the proudest of and allows potential blog readers or customers to see what interests you. That way they get to know more about you, your likes, and your passions.

Plus, if you add the "Pin It" button to your product pages then anyone who likes your product can "Pin It" to one of their boards and if others like it they can re-pin it. Talk about a great way to easily promote your products.

Right now if you want to become a member of Pinterest you have to request an invite by clicking the link on their home page or ask an existing member to invite you.

If you become a member, don't be surprised if you can't stop pinning either!

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!

100 Fabulous Ideas For Handmade Gift Giving This Holiday Season

2011-11-28T05:36:00.003-05:00

I just finished posting gift giving idea #100 on "The Best Free Craft Articles" blog. If you LOVE handmade gifts and love giving handmade gifts then you'll want to check out our "Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays" series that we're been running on "The Best Free Craft Articles" blog.

We hope you're enjoying our "Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays" series.

Here's our posts so far:

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #96, #97, #98, #99 and #100 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #91, #92, #93, #94 and #95 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #86, #87, #88, #89 and #90 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #81, #82, #83, #84 and #85 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #76, #77, #78, #79 and #80 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #71, #72, #73, #74 and #75 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #66, #67, #68, #69 and #70 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #61, #62, #63, #64 and #65 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #56, #57, #58, #59 and #60 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #51, #52, #53, #54 and #55 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #46, #47, #48, #49 and #50 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #41, #42, #43, #44 and #45 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #36, #37, #38, #39 and #40 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #31, #32, #33, #34 and #35 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #26, #27, #28, #29 and #30 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #21, #22, #23, #24, and #25 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #11, #12, #13, #14, and #15 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #6, #7, #8, #9, and #10 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Handmade With Love - Gift Ideas For The Holidays - Ideas #1, #2, #3, #4, and #5 From The Best Free Craft Articles Contributors

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!

What Have I Really Been Up To And Why No Blog Reviews?

2011-11-04T05:57:00.161-04:00

Sometimes you get so busy you don't even have time to think, let alone create blog posts for multiple numbers of blogs. Now I know you're going to say, "Well, Linda, you shouldn't have so many blogs!" You may be right about that. But, I just love arts & crafts and I love blogs, and reviewing blogs, and writing about blogs, and dolls, and florals, and genealogy, and ..... Well, just about everything.

Unfortunately, when you get so busy there just aren't enough hours in the day. So, something has to give. And, this year, well - reviewing blogs was one of those things.

So, what has kept me from reviewing blogs - which I love to do? Here's a re-cap:

First, I created two brand new websites/blogs for my sister. I alluded to this in a Linda's Blog post entitled "A Delightful Surprise From My Baby Sister!" She had sent me a bouquet of beautiful flowers as a "thank-you" for all I had been doing for her.

If you're wondering what her new websites/blogs are - well, the first has to do with alpacas and the second has to do with her new patterns. Now the latter (ie: patterns) should come as no surprise for something my sister might do. Given my creative juices never take a break and given how many patterns I've created I would hope some of that might rub off on my sister. When she was young she wanted to do everything I did and I didn't always let her. This time, I helped her.

This past winter her creativity went into overdrive. Make that super overdrive. She had decided that she wanted to combine her love of flowers with her love of quilting and sewing so she designed several framed flower appliquéd wall pieces.

She was not only creating like crazy, but wanted to put the fruits of her creative endeavors to good use by creating patterns. And, of course, I told her that on the net "e-patterns" were the name of the game. So, since she didn't know how to create patterns - let alone e-patterns, I helped her a bit. After all, what are big sisters for?

And, since she had created patterns - well, she needed websites/blogs to sell them. So, of course, "the blogging queen" eagerly volunteered to create those for her. Her website/blog is called "Inspired Creations By D" at http://inspiredcreationsbyd.blogspot.com/.

Inspired Creations By D sells FRAME or QUILT - FABRIC WALL ART PATTERNS. According to my sister, "Inspiration comes from many areas and one of mine comes from my love of the great outdoors, nature & flowers. I love to craft, sew, quilt and design patterns."

If you'd like to visit her website/blog please CLICK HERE or on the banner below:

I hope you get a chance to visit my sister's new website/blog. If you do please leave a comment to let her know what you think.

So, I've explained the latter. You might be wondering "what's up?" with the alpacas. Well, it seems my sister and her husband have decided to try their hands at alpaca farming. I really should say that my sister fell in love with "alpacas" (how could you not - they're just so ADORABLE) and managed to convince her "hubby" that this would be a great thing for them to do. Raise and sell alpacas and alpaca fiber. So, they are.

Right now they're in the process of getting their "alpaca farm" ready for the two alpacas and their 2 offspring that will arrive in September. My sister bought two "girls" that she named Sunflower and Ivy - who are both pregnant and will deliver their babies in July.

In case you haven't guessed by now sister's thing is flowers and gardening which is why she named her alpacas after flowers and which is why she named her new adventure "Rock Garden Alpacas."

So, since she and her husband are now in the alpaca business they needed a website/blog. And, of course, I had no problem volunteering to create another website/blog for them. Their new website is "Rock Garden Alpacas"at http://rockgardenalpacas.blogspot.com/.

Rock Garden Alpacas is not only their selling website, but also their blog as it tells about their journey into alpaca farming. According to my sister,"We decided that it would be helpful to document our journey into alpaca farming as a way of "paying it forward" for all the help we received along the way. If you're thinking of alpaca farming we hope "Our Journey" helps you."

If you'd like to visit their website/blog please CLICK HERE or on the banner below:

I hope you get a chance to visit my sister and brother-in-law's new website/blog. If you do please leave a comment to let them know what you think.

On top that I've also been in the process of revising all 272 of my patterns. I wrote about this previously in a Linda's Blog post entitled "Way Too Much Going On - Changes To My Patterns and E-Patterns."

The first of the year I decided I wanted to revise my patterns to create computer assisted diagrams and pattern piece pages. I tried one pattern to see how difficult it would be and how long it would take using Microsoft Publisher. I've been using it for years upon years now and would be lost without it.

So, I thought I'd see how difficult it would be to use their computer assisted drawing tools to help me create some of the images on my diagrams pages and pattern pieces sheets. After a few mangled attempts at drawing curves I finally got the knack of it. And, it worked really well once I got used to drawing lines, circles, curves, arrows, different size text, and different positioning of the text and images.

In fact, everything looked so wonderful. So nice and neat (not that my drawn diagrams weren't neat) and organized (not that my drawn diagrams weren't organized - as they were). It really made a difference in my pattern. I just LOVED how they looked - how professional - that I decided to revise all of my patterns.

Well, with 272 patterns to do this was a HUGE endeavor to undertake. Depending on the size of the pattern it might take me anywhere from one day to three days just to complete the changes. That's a HUGE undertaking to say the least and one that took up a lot of my time.

I decided to take it one pattern at a time and figured that over time eventually they'd all be done. The first of October I finished pattern #272 and they're all updated on my Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns website.

Thirty seven of those I've posted about on my Linda's Blog and my Linda Walsh Originals Doll & Craft E-Patterns Blog. I've got 235 of the revised e-patterns to post about which will take me the rest of this year and a good portion of next year.

So, you're probably saying, "with all the above I can understand why she's been a little blog absent."

Well, that's only part of the story. I've been doing something else too that has taken me hundreds of hours to complete. Maybe I should say, "I've been working on multiple projects that have taken me many, many, many hours to complete and they have nothing to do with computers, websites, or blogs."

Now you're probably wondering what could keep me from blogging. Well, it's another addiction of mine - cross-stitching. During the last year I've managed to complete a massive cross-stitch project and several smaller cross-stitch projects.

In order to relax during the last ten months of tedious computer work I've been doing some counted cross-stitching. Counted cross-stitching can be quite tedious, but isn't quite the same as the stress and strain you can get from working on the computer with drawing computer assisted diagrams. At least I don't think it is.

The largest cross-stitch was a Victorian Lady, which is shown above, that I wrote about in June in a post on my Linda's Blog entitled "315 Hours On Another Cross-Stitch Picture - WOW!" and in a post on my The Book Review Corner Blog in a post entitled "Linda's Review of In Her Garden - Dimensions Gold Collection Cross-Stitch Kit."

This was followed by several smaller cross-stitch projects:

The 2nd counted cross-stitch pattern that I tried was a Spirit of Quilting Angel Ornament from Brooke's Books Publishing. It was an angel counted cross-stitch ornament design by Brooke Nolan. Here's my review:

Linda's Review of Spirit of Quilting Angel Counted Cross Stitch Pattern Design by Brooke Nolan of Brooke's Books Publishing

The 3rd was a counted cross-stitch & bead design from Mill Hill - Buttons & Beads Series #MH14-0202 Gather Together - Cross Stitch Kit. Here's my review:

Linda's Review of Gather Together Buttons & Beads Series Cross-Stitch Kit From Mill Hill

The 4th was a Flower Shoppe. Here's my review:

Linda's Review of Flower Shoppe Cross-Stitch Kit from Mill Hill - Buttons & Beads Series

The 5th was Haunted Hotel - Cross Stitch Kit. Here's my review:

Linda Review Of Haunted Hotel Cross Stitch Kit From Mill Hill - Buttons & Beads Series

The 6th was Queen Anne House counted cross-stitch & bead design from Mill Hill - -Buttons & Beads Series #MH14-7301. Here's my review:

Linda's Review of Queen Anne House Cross-Stitch Kit From Mill Hill - Buttons & Beads Series

As you can see, I've been a little consumed by cross-stitch.

If you have been following my "The Book Review Corner Blog" you know that I've been reviewing all the cross-stitch kits I have completed and have written quite a few posts on the craft kits that I've bought over the years. If you'd like to read any of them just click on the cross-stitch review below that interests you.

CRAFT PATTERNS & KITS REVIEWED AND MADE BY LINDA

Besides all of the above I've actually managed to create a few Linda's Blog posts and "play." You know how I just love to "play."

Here's some of the other things I have managed to complete this year. I wrote about all of them on my Linda's Blog in the following posts:

Our New 2012 Linda Walsh Originals Print Pattern and E-Pattern E-Catalog

What Makes Linda Walsh Originals Patterns The Best?

The Pro's and Con's of E-Patterns

FREE Pattern Ideas Suggestions Over The Years

I Just Created My First Lens on Squidoo - The History of Faceless Dolls!

I Decided To Try Scribd For Some Of My Free E-Books and E-Patterns

You Can Easily View My E-Catalog on GoogleDocs.com - Do You Have A Viewable E-Catalog?

GoogleDocs For Creating and Displaying .PDF's

The Grays Are Energizer Bunnies

I'm Playing Again, This Time With OpenOffice.org

And, I managed to revise the look of my Tips For Crafters On The Web blog, my Testing The Blogs Series & Helpful Blog Tips blog, my Tips From The Blogging Queen blog, and my I Love Crafts & Crafts Blogs blog. By the way - how do you like the new format?

Over this same period of time my Top Blogs By Crafters list has been growing, and growing, and growing. We've got 568 fabulous artists and crafters who are members now and 2,228 people who like our Top Blogs By Crafters Facebook page.

And, I keep adding, and adding, and adding to the Everything E-Directory. If you haven't visited in awhile you'll be surprised at the number of listings there are over there for the following:

E-Patterns,E-Doodles, E-Stitcheries, Digitized Embroidery

E-Books and E-Stories

E-Tutorials & E-Pictorials

E-Classes

E-Printables and Digital Scrapbooking

Graphics, Templates and Websets

Video's and DVD's

Crafts Podcasts, MP3's, and Internet Radio

Artists and Crafters Blogs

E-Zines, Newsletters, and Online Mags

E-Tailers, E-Stores and E-Malls

Handmade Crafts Websites

Auction Websites

E-Directories and Arts/Crafts Directories

Crafts Supplies and Suppliers

Artist E-Galleries and E-Catalogs

E-Communities, Forums, Groups and Online Networking

E-Projects and How-To Websites

Crafts E-TV Websites

Topsites and Webrings

DIY (Do-It-Yourself), Website, and Blog Designers & Hosting Providers

Pictures and Picture Hosting

E-Product Needs, Services, and Digital Marketplaces

FREE Crafts E-Products/Websites

Arts & Crafts Historical & Educational Information

Arts & Crafts Retreats, Cruises, and In-Person Workshops and Classes

Arts & Crafts Shows, Exhibits, Galleries, and Museums

Art and Craft Schools, Colleges and Universities

And, The Best Free Craft Articles blog just keeps getting better, and better, and better with 1,200 to 1,600 visitors per day. We've got 910 free arts & crafts articles, patterns, tutorials, printables, graphics, projects, etc. over there now from some of the best artists and crafters on the web. Something for everyone.

Here's what The Best Free Craft Articles blog sections are:

Clothing and Making Clothing	Crafts and Crafting
Crazy Quilting, Quilting, Embellishing, Applique, Machine Quilting, Machine Embellishing	Dolls and Doll Making
Floral Crafts,Fresh Flower Arranging, Silk Floral Crafts, Gardening	Fragrance Crafts,Candle Making, Lotions, Soap Making
Holiday Crafts	Jewelry Making and Beading
Knitting, Crocheting and Tatting	Mixed Media,Altered Art,Textile Art, Embellished Art
Needle Felting, Felt, Wool Felt, and Penny Rug Crafts	Needlepoint, Crewel, Stitchery, Creative Embroidery, Cross-Stitch, Punch Needle, Embroidery
Ornaments and Ornies	Painting, Abstract Art, Contemporary Art, Folk Art
Paper Crafts, Card Making, Scrapbooking, Tags, Rubber Stamping	Photography and Video's
Purses, Handbags,Totes, Pocketbooks, Bags, Carry-alls	Recycled, Eco-Friendly, Repurposed, Green Crafts
Seasonal Crafts	Sewing Clubs
Sewing	Special Occasions, Baby Showers, Weddings, Graduations, Parties, and Gatherings Crafts
Woodcrafts and Woodworking	Crafts E-Books
Crafts E-Printables	Graphics Clubs
Graphics	Craft Business Information

Now I'm not saying that any of the above is an excuse for not reviewing craft blogs - which I LOVE to it.

Well, actually, it is an excuse.

But, I'm hoping that 2012 will be a little slower-paced for me and, well, hopefully I'll be able to review some more of the wonder arts & crafts blogs out there. There are just so many of them now.

Hmm...... Where should I start?

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - "Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"

I Just Love Crazy Quilt Gatherings Magazine

2011-06-13T05:34:00.001-04:00

If you've been following along all these years with my blog posts here and on my various blogs you know that I LOVE crazy quilting and embroidery and admire the artists who create fiber works of art. I can spend hours and hours browsing through the blogs of some of my crazy quilting online friends and salivating at their creations. I just love to look at all the amazing creations and dream of creating some myself.

Over the years I've reviewed and posted on my I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs blog about some of the amazing crazy quilters blogs that I've become aware of through my Top Blogs By Crafters toplist. My  I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs posts and links to each of the blogs is shown below:

1) Pat Winter of Gatherings at http://gatherings100.blogspot.com/

2) Janet Popish of "I'm going crazy; you come, too" blog at http://gocrazywithme.blogspot.com/

3) Charlene's "When This You See Remember Me"  blog at http://www.gatherings100.blogspot.com/

4) Pamela Kellogg's "Kitty & Me Designs"  blog at http://www.kittyandmedesigns.blogspot.com/

5) Gerry's "Sewing Southpaw"  blog at http://sewing-southpaw.blogspot.com/

6) Lillian's "Crazy Seoul Sister"  blog at http://crazyseoulsister.blogspot.com/

7) Kay's "Smockery"  blog at http://smockery.blogspot.com/

8) Dale's "DownUnderDale"  blog at http://downunderdale.blogspot.com/

9) Maureen's "KENMAURSCORNER"  blog at http://kenmaurscorner.blogspot.com/

10) Julia's "Julia's Place (previously named Camille's Place)"  blog at http://creativeribbons.blogspot.com/

11) Lesa's "Maddie Can Fly"  blog at http://maddiecanfly.blogspot.com/

12) Jo's "No Matter Where I Go...I Always Meet Myself There" Blog at http://www.nzjo.blogspot.com/

Back in 2008 Pat Winter of "Pat Winter Gatherings" blog self-published a book entitled "My Crazy Quilting Journey" which I bought and just loved. It was 80 pages and was all about her crazy quilting world and her creations. If you're interested in Pat's book it can be purchased in the Blurb.com bookstore at
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/180921 .

Well, Pat is now publishing a crazy quilting & embellishing magazine on the HP Mag Cloud website entitled "Crazy Quilt Gatherings - Celebrating Crazy Quilting of Today" which I just LOVE. It is a magazine dedicated to crazy quilter's.

According to Pat, "Crazy Quilt Gatherings is the first of its kind. A magazine dedicated to crazy quilting. It offers various crazy quilt projects and tutorials, plenty of eye candy, stash resources, tips, contests and interviews from crazy quilters worldwide."

Crazy Quilt Gatherings Issue #1 was released in the Spring of 2011.

Magazine Description - A magazine dedicated to crazy quilting. Featuring fiber artists, tutorials, tips, shopping sources,techniques and more. A little of everything for experienced crazy quilters as well as the novice.

Every time I pick up this issue I discover something new I hadn't noticed before and every time I find myself just astonished at all the beautiful creations. I may have picked it up for a second, but find myself perusing it for hours on end, once again.

Crazy Quilt Gatherings Issue #2 was just released for the Summer of 2011.

Magazine Description -Second issue of Crazy Quilt Gathering magazine. Summer 2011. Crazy quilt projects, tips, artists to meet. Crazy quilt bell pull, Crazy Quilt watch chatelaine tutorial, Crazy Quilt watch cuff tutorial, Silk ribbon embroidery, Bullion stitch pansy, Round Robin information, and so much more.

Both issues are filled to the brim with eye candy, absolutely beautiful creations, techniques for helping you create your own fiber works of art, freebie images, events of interest, useful information, and so much more.

I bought both issues and just love browsing through the pages and looking at some of the unbelievable creations. As I browse through the pages I find myself salivating at all the beautiful creations - all individual works of art. I dream of making some of them knowing full well that I could never create such beautiful pieces. I'm not sure I have the patience for all the work that goes into the embroidered and embellished creations - especially the beading, ribbon embroidery, and fancy stitching.

I bought 2 of each magazine as I wanted to introduce my sister to the world of crazy quilting and creative embroidery. She is a quilting enthusiast and I thought she'd appreciate seeing some astonishing crazy quilting and creative embroidery pieces. Now she is salivating.

A little while ago Pat had posted in her blog about wanting to dedicate a page of her Summer Issue to our "fur babies" and was looking for pictures. So, I sent her a picture of my beloved fur baby "Pepper." Hubby and I lost him last June after 13 glorious years. He was with us 24/7 and we miss him terribly. Every time I would sit down at my sewing machine he would run over, do a little jump, and stop short just looking at me with an expression that said, "For me! What are you making for me?" He thought everything was for him!

He was my constant companion and was involved in supervising all of my creations. Of course he had an opinion on all of them. Those that took the longest for me to do he didn't like as they took too much of my time away from him. His picture (shown to the left) is on page 9. He is forever in my heart and I miss him so lying under my feet at the sewing table.

Congratulations to Pat and all the contributors of both issues of Crazy Quilt Gatherings Magazine for creating magazine issues that not only inspire, but will be saved and re-read time and time again.

On the HP MagCloud website you can preview the issues. I hope you get a chance to preview Pat's magazines and hope your preview inspires you to order your own copy. I bet you'll be salivating, too.

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - "Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"

So Many Wonderful Artist and Crafters Blogs To Read

2011-05-30T09:32:00.040-04:00

I don't know if you've noticed or not, but Top Blogs By Crafters has been busy all year adding new members. As a result I have been spending a lot of time reading through them. I just can't help it. I just love seeing all the wonderful creations on the different artist and crafters blogs and reading their stories. I could spend all day just doing this. However, life does get in the way sometimes and I have to do a little work.

So, I thought I'd let you see for yourselves all the wonderful artist and crafters blogs that I've been reading through lately and who have become members of Top Blogs By Crafters this year.

trying to create art every day

http://tryingtocreatearteveryday.blogspot.com/

CHOCOLATE LIFE AND JAZZ!

http://chocolatelifeandjazz.blogspot.com/

Croft Crafts

http://croftcrafts.blogspot.com/

Sandra's Fiberworks

http://sandrasfiberworks.blogspot.com/

The Purple Zone

http://stampaddicts-thepurplezone.blogspot.com/

Lulu's Lovelies Heartful Creations

http://luluslovliesheartfulcreations.blogspot.com/

Just A Little Primitive - Punch Needle and Rug Hooking

http://justalittleprimitive.blogspot.com/

Carmel Perfumer

http://carmelperfume.blogspot.com/

Lisa Liza Lou

http://www.lisalizalou.blogspot.com/

Elaine Brady Smith

http://www.elainebradysmith.com/

Nest feathers and Twine

http://ntuart.blogspot.com/

Batiks.com

http://blog.batiks.com/

Journal Artista

http://www.journalartistaart.com/

Rustic Crafts

http://www.rustic-crafts.com

Quilting Across Texas

http://quiltingacrosstexas.blogspot.com/

RosMadeMe

http://rosmademe.blogspot.com/

Shi-Anne's Creations

http://shiannescreations.blogspot.com/

Inspired Creations By D

http://inspiredcreationsbyd.blogspot.com/

Rock Garden Alpacas

http://rockgardenalpacas.blogspot.com/

Julie's Knit and Sew Corner

http://juliesknitandsewcorner.blogspot.com/

Esther’s Mercantile Blog

http://esthersmercantile.blogspot.com

Cherished Handmade Treasures

http://www.cherishedhandmadetreasures.blogspot.com/

Sweet Paper Treats and Country Crafts

http://sweetpapertreatsandcountrycrafts.blogspot.com/

aprilsimply.wordpress.com

http://www.aprilsimply.wordpress.com

Crafters Challenge Blog

http://crafterschallenge.blogspot.com/

Nature's Nurture and Why Life Sucks or Doesn't

http://naturesnurture.blogspot.com

Marion's Quilts

http://www.marionsquilts.com

Calico Mermaid

http://www.calicomermaid.blogspot.com

Black Creek Primitives

http://www.blackcreekprimitives.blogspot.com

My Primitive Nest

http://myprimitivenest.blogspot.com

binky la faye

http://www.binkylafaye.blogspot.com/

LaLatty's Stamp 'N Stuff

http://lalattystampnstuff.blogspot.com/

kreatin' with kimberleeannkreations

http://www.kimberleeannkreations.blogspot.com

Kerenbakers Blog

http://www.kerenbaker.wordpress.com

Teresa's Country Treasures

http://teresascountrytreasures.blogspot.com

Kids Birthday Party Ideas

http://kids-theme-parties.com

365 Days of Crafting

http://365ofcrafting.blogspot.com

Crafts by Moosey

http://craftsbymoosey.blogspot.com/

My Photo & Fiber Art

http://rhondarogalski.blogspot.com

Paper Kawaii

http://www.paperkawaii.com

Crow's Creek Primitives

http://debsprimitivecountrykitchen.blogspot.com/

Uniquely-You-by-Tonya

http://hubpages.com/hub/Uniquely-You-by-Tonya

allcraftsles

http://allcraftsles.blogspot.com/

Fernando's Art World

http://nandosartworld.webs.com/

Sandy's Space

http://angsandy.blogspot.com/

Scottish Lion and Friends

http://scottishlionandfriends.blogspot.com

Handcrafted Simply By Us

http://handcraftedsimplybyus.blogspot.com

Crear es creer

http://crearescreer.blogspot.com

Holly's Craft Blog

http://knitting-monkeefan.blogspot.com

Carol Heppner's Studio

http://heppnerstudio.blogspot.com

The Purple Scrapbook

http://www.thepurplescrapbook.com

Paperglitter-Party printable crafts, Kawaii Decor

http://www.paperglitter.blogspot.com

Lucine's

http://LindaLucine.blogspot.com

My Art Blog

http://raspberryh.blogspot.com

Sock Scrappy Gang

http://www.sockscrappygang.blogspot.com

Its Me, Mary Frances

http://maryfrancesmillet.wordpress.com

Robin Willson Designs

http://robin-giftsyoucanfeelgoodabout.blogspot.com

My Raggedy Dolls

http://www.myraggedydolls.blogspot.com/

Skylar's Scrap Happy Mommy

http://www.scrappingskylar.blogspot.com

Dyeing2Design

http://shirleygoodwin.blogspot.com

Hawaiian Menehune

http://hawaiianmenehunes.blogspot.com

CardMonkey - Live from the PaperJungle

http://www.cardmonkey-business.blogspot.com

Melandollys

http://melandollys.blogspot.com/

Confetti Cache -

://confetticache.blogspot.com/

Diamond Hill Dolls

http://www.diamondhilldolls.com/blogs/clare

I hope you get a chance to read some of the blogs. If you do please leave a comment to let the blogger know you were there.

Happy blogging.

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - "Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"

Better News For Top Blogs By Crafters

2011-04-07T09:37:00.003-04:00

We have news on Top Blogs By Crafters toplist and Top Blogs By Crafters blog.

Good News and Bad - No Make That Better News For Top Blogs By Crafters.

Now some might consider it good news and some might consider it bad news. Well, I think it's good news and even better news.

Since 2006 we have had the best art, craft, sewing, knitting, needlepoint, designer, woodworking, painting, illustration, story telling, cross-stitch, free craft articles, doll making, folk art, primitive, country, seasonal, mixed media, abstract art, scrap-booking, e-products, crazy quilting, quilting, vintage, Victorian, shabby chic, printables, beading, gardening, food, altered art, candle making, Americana, holiday, animal crafts, wool felting, textile, food crafts, applique, basket making, abstract art, contemporary art, creative embroidery, watercolor art, wearable art, ribbon crafts, crewel, decorative painting, crochet, digital art, graphic art, dried floral design, fiber art, weaving, wedding crafts, baby crafts, fragrance crafts, gourd painting, home decor,paper crafts, jewelry making, lamp making, rug making, soap making, stamping, stenciling, tie-dying, pottery, handbag making, purse making, totes making, pocketbook making, polymer clay, potpourri, etc. blogs by the best artists and crafters on the web listed on our Top Blogs By Crafters toplist.

Well, we have grown so LARGE that we have decided to temporarily suspend new membership in our toplist over on GoTop100.com.

However, we do have GOOD NEWS! New membership in our Top Blogs By Crafters blog is STILL OPEN and you can join us there by clicking HERE.

Now you might think that temporarily suspending membership on Gotop100.com is bad news. Well, actually it's really good news because we have grown so LARGE. That means there are lots and lots of wonderful arts & crafts blogs now versus just a handful like it was back in 2006.

The reason we decided to suspend membership over on GoTop100.com is because the hosting company that offers the toplists is undergoing some major changes and has been doing so for over a year now. Well, some of those changes are and have been, in my opinion, disruptive to my membership and to the running of my toplist.

So, I decided to move all 517 members over to our Top Blogs By Crafters blog and we will continue to add all the wonderful artists and crafters blogs over there. When the GoTop100.com changes have been finalized we will review what they've done and determine if it makes sense to re-open membership over there.

In the meantime, I am loving having Top Blogs By Crafters on Blogger.com . Just between you and me I happen to think membership over on our Top Blogs By Crafters blog is even better than membership on our toplist. Now that should come as no surprise to any of you. The "blogging queen" loves her toplist as a blog! As a blog it offers SO MANY MORE opportunities for the toplist and I think all of the members will like it as well as I do. I hope you all agree.

I am not closing down my toplist on Gottop100.com. Just playing a wait and see.

In any event, if you are a member of my toplist and have a voting banner/button on your blog I would appreciate it if you would change the banner/button and it's link to http://topblogsbycrafters.blogspot.com .
My new buttons and banners can be found HERE.

Plus, if you want to join Top Blogs By Crafters it's so easy to do. We now have an online form. Just click on our and submit your application now.

We still have RULES for membership in Top Blogs By Crafters . They can be found HERE.

We hope you like all the changes we have made over at Top Blogs By Crafters .

Good news and even better news.

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - "Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"

Betterfly - An Interesting Concept For Arts & Crafts Teachers Or Anyone With A Teachable Skill

2011-02-24T07:03:00.004-05:00

If you're a reader of my Linda's Blog or Tips For Crafters On the Web you know how much I like to "play" online and try out different websites.

You also know from my "I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs" that I love arts & crafts and would like to learn just about every kind of arts & crafts category there is.

Unfortunately, with a list like the following: Altered Art, Americana, Angels, Animal Crafts, Apparel Making, Applique, Art, ATC's, Baby Crafts, Baskets, Bead Crafts, Bear Making, Birds and Birdhouses, Bridal Crafts, Broom Crafts, Cake Decorating, Calligraphy, Candle Making, Card Making, Cartoon Drawing, Carving, Ceramics, Children's Crafts, Christmas Crafts, Clay, Cloth Crafts, Colonial Crafts, Computerized Sewing, Cottage Crafts, Country Crafts, Crazy Quilting, Creative Embroidery, Crewel, Crocheting, Cross-Stitch, Cupcake Crafts, Decorative Painting, Deco Art, Decoupage, Digital Art, Doll Making, Dried Florals, Drawing and Sketching, Dyeing, Egg Art, Embellishing, Embroidery, Fabric Art, Felted Crafts, Fiber Arts, Floral Crafts, Folkart, Food Crafts, Fragrance Crafts, Garden Crafts, General Arts and Crafts, Glass Art, Gourd Art, Graphics, Hat Making, Home Decor, Holiday Crafts, Illustrations, Japanese Crafts, Machine Embroidery, Miniatures, Mixed Media, Mosaics, Native American Crafts, Needle Felting, Needlepoint, Origami, Painting, Paper Crafts, Papier Mache, Pen and Ink Crafts, Penny Rugs, Pet Crafts, Photography, Plastic Crafts, Plush Crafts, Pocketbook Making, Polymer Clay, Porcelain Crafts, Pottery, Primitives, Printables, Punch Needle, Punched Tin, Quilling, Quilting, Retro Crafts, Ribbon Crafts, Rubber Stamping, Rug Making, Rusty Tin Crafts, Santa's, Sculpey, Sculpture, Scrapbooking, Seasonal Crafts, Sewing, Shabby Chic, Silk Florals, Stamping, Stationary Design, Soap Making, Spinning, Stenciling, Stitchery, Tatting, Terra-cotta Crafts, Textile Art, Tile Crafts, Tole Painting, TyeDying, Victorian Crafts, Videography, Vintage Crafts, Watercolors, Wearable Art, Weaving, Wedding Crafts, Wire Art, Wood Crafts, Woodland Crafts, Woodworking, Wool Felt Crafts, Wreath Making, and Yard Crafts it would be nearly impossible for me to learn everything on the list.

For me there just isn't enough time in the day or within my lifetime to learn everything I want to learn. My list is just way too long. But I'd like to try.

Given the above, when I received an email from Jeremy over at Betterfly my curiosity was piqued. Here's what Jeremy's email said:

Hi Linda,

I recently came across your crafts blog, which I really enjoyed reading, and so I wanted to introduce myself. I work for Betterfly.com which among other things, has one of the largest directories of craft teachers in the U.S.(http://betterfly.com/category/crafts-hobbies-amp-games). It provides a lot of utility for people who teach or want to learn about crafts and is also good for finding activity partners.

Betterfly has been featured in the New York Times and was named one of the top 10 job sites for service providers--like craft teachers--who are looking to turn their service into a paid gig.

I wanted to get on your radar, and I hope you'll have the opportunity to check out the site and pass it along to your readers, colleagues and friends if you like it.

Please let me know if you have any questions. I'd welcome the chance to give you more information either by email or phone.

Thank you,

Jeremy

I thought, "Now that's an interesting concept. I should check it out." So I did.

Well, if I wanted to learn just about anything on my enormous list then Betterfly would be a good place to start.

Betterfly is a website that, according to them, helps you "Be Better. At Anything."

Betterfly is the free and easy way to find the best people - not companies - to help you learn, look and feel better.

When you're looking for someone to whip you into shape, push back your cuticles, or teach you how to handle a knife (in the kitchen!), Betterfly matches you with the best person for you. It's that simple. Because nobody's perfect.

We all have a talent to offer. You might already be a dance teacher, speech coach, hairstylist, or SAT tutor. Or you might be really good at something and want to earn some moola doing that thing you do. Betterfly gives you the free resources to easily create your own page and connect to the people looking for you.

So, if you're an arts & crafts teacher or service provider (like a hairstylist or barber) Betterfly provides you with the ability to attract more customers by becoming a "Betterist." And, if you're someone looking to find someone who could teach you something (like knitting or sewing, or how to draw, etc.) then Betterfly can help match you up with someone in your area who can do that.

And, they go one step further. Not only can you search for "Betterists" by criteria but you can book appointments, read reviews of their services, and check when they may or may not be available.

Each of the "Betterists" can create a mini "Betterist Site" website that contains 6 tab pages: an overview tab that tells perspective clients about themselves, a services tab that tells what they have to offer, an availability tab which provides a calendar of when they are available and allows prospective clients to book an appointment, a qualification & reviews tab which lists their education and experience as well as reviews of their services by clients, a resources tab where you can add a photo or a document or a video or an audio file, and a blog tab where the "Betterist" can create blog posts.

Clients or users of the Betterfly website also have a personal profile page where they can write reviews of the "Betterists" and list their goals, interests, activity partners, and their Betterists.

There is also a dashboard that tracks messages, notifications, and account settings. It also contains information for the Betterist on their appointments, earnings, clients, analytics, marketing tools, and their booking & payment settings. For the clients the personal profile section of the dashboard tracks appointments (upcoming and past), transactions (current, past, and Betterfly Buck), interests and activity partners.

Clients or users can pay for the services they want through Betterfly and Betterists can specify whether or not they will allow users to pay them through Betterfly. According to Betterfly: The client who is booking the appointment pays no fee at all, other than the cost of your appointment, of course. The Betterist accepting payment pays gets charged a 5% fee on all money received online. So if you get paid $50 for your piano lesson, Betterfly will put $47.50 into your account. We call money received online for an appointment Earnings. The 5% is a small fee that helps Betterfly cover some of its costs, such as credit card processing fees.

Betterists do have some control over who can book them and pay for their services through Betterfly. According to Betterfly: Betterfly has created a number of cool features to put you in control. One option allows you to limit online booking and payment to just Clients you’ve already worked with. Another feature allows you to set a cancellation policy whereby anyone who books you online must pay you in advance and loses 100% of the service cost if he cancels- and there are many more options for you to discover.

For the clients or users who are booking different "Betterists" services being able to pay through the Betterfly website is very convenient. For the "Betterist" having the Betterfly website handle the payment process is also very convenient.

One of the ways to pay is through Betterfly Bucks which clients or users can use. According to Betterfly: Betterfly Bucks are currency used on Betterfly to do everything from paying for appointments with Betterists who accept them to giving gifts to friends. The only type of Betterfly Bucks that can be redeemed for money are Betterfly Bucks that have been Earned.

If you are teacher or a personal services provider (like a hairdresser, etc.) then Betterfly is a very interesting concept. When you think about all the different areas for learning and all the different personal services there are then the possibilities for matching consumers with the right "Betterist" become endless.

However, you don't just have to be a professional service provider or a teacher. Betterfly could as easily be used by students seeking another student as a tutor and vice versa. Someone to help them become just a little bit better at something they want to learn.

Right now most of the application seems to be matching users with Betterists in their area. However, I don't see why it couldn't also be applied to e-classes, especially e-classes where the instructor is available for chats at specified days and hours.

Expanding this concept to include e-classes would considerably widen the playing field. Think of all the possibilities for learning something from the best person in their field despite where they are located. The application of e-classes would truly expand matching the right user with the right Betterist - no matter where they are located in the world.

Betterfly is an interesting concept not only for arts & crafts teachers but for anyone who has a teachable skill.

Posted by Linda Walsh Originals- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls - "Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"

Oh, What Fun! - A Santa & Mrs. Clause Doll Hop!

2010-11-28T05:53:00.003-05:00

Do You Have Santa's and Mrs. Clause Dolls On Sale?

Yesterday we posted about the HUGE Santa's & Mrs. Clause sale we are having from November 27, 2010 until December 15, 2010 on our Linda Walsh Originals Dolls website.

Well, we thought it would be fun to have a "Santa & Mrs. Claus Doll Hop" on our DOLLS Blog for our dolls and to add other Santa's and Mrs. Clause dolls that some of our friends might be having for sale during this period.

So, if you sell handmade Santa's & Mrs. Clause dolls, have a family friendly website, and are a Linda's friend and/or follower of any of our blogs you can add your doll's picture to our "Santa & Mrs. Claus Dolls Hop." Just CLICK HERE to visit our DOLLS Blog and then click the "Add Your Link" button in the "The Santa & Mrs. Claus Doll Hop - Do You Have Santa's and Mrs. Clause Dolls On Sale?" post.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa's and Mrs. Clause are on sale.

If you love our DOLLS Blog and are participating in our DOLLS Blog hops please show your support by adding our button below:

DOLLS Blog 125x125 Button

Just copy and paste the HTML code to your website or blog.

Check Out All The Articles On The Best Free Craft Articles Blog! WOW!

2010-11-07T03:40:00.001-05:00

We're posting again on "The Best Free Craft Articles" blog and I couldn't be happier?

Why?

Because I just LOVE all the tutorials, patterns, craft projects, etc.

There's just so many wonderful ideas for things I REALLY REALLY REALLY want to try.

Since we've started "The Best Free Craft Articles Blog" we've posted 910 free crafts articles, tutorials, patterns, e-patterns, how-to's, tips, etc. and links to free crafts articles, tutorials, patterns, e-patterns, how-to's, tips, etc. from 158 wonderful contributors. Our contributors are some of the best artists and crafters on the web and their crafts articles are never disappointing.

So, if you haven't visited us lately you're in for a real treat. Shown below is what's been posted lately. Enjoy yourselves.

Marsh Me Snow! - E-Pattern From Linda Walsh

Needlepoint/Sewing Clutch Tutorial by Colleen MacKinnon

Knitted Cloche Hat Pattern From Andrea Millington

Hummingbird Applique Tutorial by Jessica Levitt

Birthday Crown Tutorial and E-Pattern by Jessica Levitt

Chunky Knitted Bag Tutorial From Andrea Millington

Oh, My! It's So Late, Santa!" - E-Pattern From Linda Walsh

Poinsettia Brooch Tutorial by Colleen MacKinnon

Eye Candy For Your Walls Tutorial by Jessica Levitt

Doll House Wallpaper, Grocery Printables, Gift Bags and Boxes, Toys and Games, and Magazine E-Printables From Jennifer Brooks

Laptop Cover Tutorial From Andrea Millington

Scrappy Summer Belt Tutorial by Jessica Levitt

Penny Purse Tutorial by Colleen MacKinnon

Baby Blanket Gift Set - Part 1 and 2 Tutorials by Jessica Levitt

Orphaned Blocks Quilt Part 1-6 Tutorial by Sylvia of Pieces From My Scrapbag

Snowdrop Lace Scarf Pattern From Marie Greene

Let's Build a Dollhouse Sofa, Let's Make Some No-Sew Doll House Curtains, and How to Build a Dollhouse Trestle Table and Benches Tutorials From Jennifer Brooks

PomPom Maker Tutorial From Andrea Millington

Cutting Circles, The First Stitch, Threads To Dye For, How-To Stitch A Penny Rug 3-Stack, and The Makings Of A Penny Rug Tutorials by Colleen MacKinnon

A Burp Cloth Tutorial From Sylvia of Pieces From My Scrapbag Blog

Felt Owl Ornaments E-Pattern by Jessica Levitt

Let's Build A Dollhouse Tutorial by Jennifer Brooks

Re-fashioned Girls Jeans Tutorial From Andrea Millington

Luscious Little Pumpkin and Woodland Christmas Trivet Patterns From Marie Greene

A Tutorial On Crocheted Rugs Parts 1-7 From Sylvia of Pieces From My Scrapbag Blog

Recycled Organiser Bag and Recycled Organiser Wallet Tutorial From Andrea Millington

Ogala Stitch How-To Tutorial by Jo Newsham

Vintage Embroidery Designs E-Book by Maureen Greeson

Photo Ornament Tutorial by Jessica Kesterson

Wing 1 and Wing 2 Tutorials by Belinda Richardson

Honeycomb Cable Mug Cozy and Knitted Bookmark Scarf Patterns From Marie Greene

Diary Wallet Tutorial From Andrea Millington

Santa Ornie and Uncle Sam E-Patterns By Marie Altfather

Ribbon Doll Tutorial and E-Pattern by Maureen Greeson

Paper Pinwheel How-To Tutorial By Jessica Kesterson

Fairy Doll Tutorial By Belinda Richardson

Strip Quilt Tutorial by Geta Grama

Hearth & Home Trivet and The Nifty Knit Potholder E-Patterns From Marie Greene

Woven Rose Tutorial by Jo Newsham

Button Bracelet Tutorial From Andrea Millington

36 Annie Faces and Two Of Hearts E-Patterns By Marie Altfather

Feather Fan and Victorian Fan E-Patterns by Maureen Greeson

Quilted Basket Tutorial by Geta Grama

Spring Is In My Heart and Home Tweet Home E-Patterns From Renee Mullins

Arm Chair Sewing Caddy Tutorial and E-Pattern by Maureen Greeson

Quick and Easy Quilt Tutorial by Geta Grama

Hand-Sewn Ribbon-Top Curtain Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

Antique Bonnet Pin Cushion Tutorial by Maureen Greeson

Designing With Electric Quilt Tutorial and Quilting Designs E-Patterns From Geta Grama

A Very First Birthday Outfit Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

Teeny Tiny Shrinky Dink "Leaves" Necklace Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

Free Motion Quilting Tutorial by Geta Grama

Fun With Stripes Tutorial by Geta Grama

Reverse Freezer Paper Stenciling by Ashley Hacksaw

Valentine Flag/Banner Pattern From Nanette Merrill

Tie Dyeing a Peace Sign Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

Catch A Falling Star and Winter Wonderland E-Patterns From Renee Mullins

Shopping Bag Sewing Tutorial by Geta Grama

How To Fake A Landscape Painting and Distressed Folk Art Painting Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

Tilted Squares - Patchwork Tutorial by Geta Grama

Machine Quilting Tutorial By Nanette Merrill

Peppermint Patti and Holiday Ginger E-Patterns From Renee Mullins

New Portfolios Tutorial by Geta Grama

Scrap Ribbon Wallet/Clutch and Scrap Ribbon Belt Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

Sewing A Gift For A Little Girl Tutorial by Geta Grama

Quilted Floor Cloth/Rug Tutorial From Nanette Merrill

How To Paint A Stamped Image, How To Stencil A Bumble Bee, and How To Stencil Peppermint Candy Tutorials by Renee Mullins

Punkin Pie and Autumn's In My Heart E-Patterns From Renee Mullins

Painted Wood Plaques Tutorial by Ashley Hacksaw

How To Make A Card Holder Tutorial by Geta Grama

Cottage Quilt Block Tutorial By Nanette Merrill

Make Fabric Prints With Tape, How To Makeover A Chair, and How To Make Fabric Panel Wall Art Tutorials By Jessica Jones

Easy Blocks Tutorial by Geta Grama

Turn Old Jeans Into A Skirt Tutorial By Cathy of Hazelruthe's Blog

Experimental Cork Trivets, DIY Mid Century Cork Magnets, and Iron On Vinyl Coasters Tutorials From Jessica Jones

Doll House Potholder Tutorial By Nanette Merrill

Fabric Boxes Tutorial By Geta Grama

Christmas Ornament Wreath Tutorial From Cathy of Hazelruthes

Mini Saddle Stitched Booklet and Make Bags From Envelopes & Pretty Tape Tutorial From Jessica Jones

3D Paper Ornaments and Paper Flower Ornaments Tutorials By Jessica Jones

Waffle Dish Cloths Tutorial By Nanette Merrill

Textured Heart Tutorial By Joy Funnell of Joy Funnell

String Spool Quilt Tutorial by Nanette Merrill

Recycled Paper Flowers, Gift Bags From Newspapers, Gift Bows From Magazine Pages, and Magazine Coaster Tutorials From Jessica Jones

Neat Storage Box Tutorial by Vania Cruz-Perez

Fall Silk Arrangement Tutorial by Vania Cruz-Perez

Halloween Wire Tree Tutorial By Vania Cruz-Perez

How To Make A Fabric Covered Round Basket E-Book From Linda Walsh

A Mother's Heart Annie, My Little Valentine, Daisy Bea, Candy Cane, Cotton Candy, Tilly Sue & Doll, and Clara Anne E-Patterns From Brenda Greenwalt

Tissue Pouch Tutorial By Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Day Trip Purse Tutorial By Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Flower Pot Garden Urn Tutorial From Alisa Burke

Beach Towel Tote Tutorial From Alisa Burke

Beach Towel to Hand Towel Tutorial From Alisa Burke

Yella Belly Twofer and Blue Bunny Twofer Pattern From Lisa Bunting Thoms

Pretty Little Monsters and Count Truffula Patterns From Lisa Bunting Thoms

Shabby Chic Wall Flower Basket E-Pattern From Brenda Greenwalt

Altered Striped Tank Tutorial From Alisa Burke

Easy Altered Hoodie Tutorial by Alisa Burke

The Ruffled Bubble Skirt, The Sunshine Dress, and The Scalloped Skirt Tutorials From Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Annie Pincushion E-Pattern From Brenda Greenwalt

Facial Transference Tutorial From Brenda Greenwalt

Primitive Annie Rag Doll Tutorial From Brenda Greenwalt

Bunk Bed Fort Tutorial By Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Heart Pillow Cover Tutorial By Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

How-To Wrap Gifts With Fabric Tutorial By Dawn Nichols

This 'n' That 2 E-Book From Brenda Greenwalt

This 'n' That E-Book From Brenda Greenwalt

Shabby 'n' Oh So Chic E-Book From Brenda Greenwalt

Bits & Pieces Annie Hair Designs E-Book From Brenda Greenwalt

Alien Party, Part 1-3 Tutorials From Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Bits and Pieces Annie Doll Designs E-Book From Brenda Greenwalt of Lillie Mae's Crafts

Boys Bike Basket and Girls Vintage Bike Basket Tutorials From Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Applying a Slide Adjuster Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Zipper and Strap Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

How To Make A Doll Quilt Tutorial By Dawn Nichols of Dawn's Quilt Corner

Deep Zipper Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Twist Lock Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Flower Bracelet and Fabric Covered Wood Beads Tutorials By Christie of A Lemon Squeezy Home

Blackboard Menu Tutorial by Melissa of Crafting With Cat Hair Blog

Tips For Adding Crystals To Your Craft Projects By Dawn Nichols

How To Frame Fabric For Wall Art Tutorials By Dawn Nichols

Multiple Fabrics Pocket Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Zipper Pocket Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Pompom Garland Tutorial By Melissa of Crafting With Cat Hair Blog

The "Eternal Beauty" Bag Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

The "Classical Romance" Bag Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Making Your Own Pattern Part 1 and Part 2 Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Zipper Pouch Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Three Different Ways To Make A Strap Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

How To Make A Pinecone Wreath - How-To By Linda Walsh

The Wishful Thinking Bag Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Magnetic Snap Tutorial By Daphna of Creative Cutie Blog

Sew a Bookmark Tutorial From SewDelish Blog

Make A Rag Quilt Tutorial From SewDelish Blog

Mr. Mom "Woobie" Blanket Tutorial by Melissa of Crafting With Cat Hair Blog

How To Make A Small Pinecone Tree - How-To By Linda Walsh

Pompey The Clown Doll E-Pattern From Judith Prior

Gecko E-Pattern From Judith Prior

Christmas Welcome Home Stocking E-Pattern From Shawnette Howell

Make SewDelish Chocolate Bars Tutorial From SewDelish

Easy Pet Bed Tutorial From SewDelish Blog

Button Monogram Tutorial From Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Sew Some Quick Felt Slippers For The Kids Tutorial From Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Re-purposed No-Sew Felt Coasters Tutorial From Colleen Babcock

How To Make A Shower Cap Tutorial From SewDelish Blog

Madonna Pearl Bracelet Tutorial Melissa of Crafting With Cat Hair Blog

Machine Chain Piercing Techniques From Rachael of Rachael Rabbit

Simple Baby Beach/Bath Towel Tutorial by Rachael of Rachael Rabbit

Lampshade Beautification Effort Tutorial By Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Felt Rocks In The Washing Machine Tutorial By Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Fabric Baby Blocks Stuffed With Memories Tutorial From Colleen Babcock

How To Make A Green Painted Pinecone Basket - How-To by Linda Walsh

How-To Make Simple Pillowcases Tutorial By Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Felt Noodles Tutorial From Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Attaching Your 3D Round Head Tutorial by Cindy Markovcy

Creating 3D Round Head Dolls Tutorial From Cindy Markovcy

Candy Canes E-Pattern From Cindy Markovcy

Spread The Love E-Pattern From Shawnette Howell

How To Trace and Sew Your Dolls Tutorial by Cindy Markovcy

Felt Food Doughnut Tutorial From Lisa Johnson

Fabric Needlebook Tutorial by Bette Shaw

Cupcake Wrist Pincushion Tutorial By Bette Shaw

Grubby Andy Free E-Pattern From Shawnette Howell

Cloth Doll Pencil Toppers E-Pattern From Colleen Babcock

Upholster Your Dresser In Vintage Sheets Tutorial From Melissa of Haworth Handmade

Halloween Ornies E-Pattern From Cindy Markovcy

Recycled Jeans Ruffle Skirt Tutorial by Bette Shaw

Fancy Nancy E-Pattern From Judith Prior

Frankie and His Bride E-Pattern From Shawnette Howell

Crafter's Apron E-Pattern From Colleen Babcock

Quilted Placemats Tutorial by Ayumi of Pink Penguin Blog

Let's Make A T-Shirt Pillow Tutorial by Deena Davis

How To Make Little Sachet Baskets For Home Decorations - How-To by Linda Walsh

How To Make A Painted and Stenciled Terracotta Pot Decoration E-Book By Linda Walsh

Punkin Ornaments Are We! Widget - E-Pattern From Linda Walsh

A Fabulous Victorian Blog - Dolls from the Attic...Mis Munecas

2010-09-26T05:36:00.002-04:00

I just love it when I receive comments on my blogs - especially if they are in regards to the Victorian era and Victorian dolls. Well, this morning there was a comment on my Victorian Dolls, Victorian Traditions, The Victorian Era and Me Blog from Marta of Dolls from the Attic...Mis Munecas .

Marta's comment was:

Hi Linda you have a beautiful blog...I'm surprised I didn't run into it before, because we love the same things.

I would love if you visit me at Dolls from the Attic...I think you will like it, and maybe care to follow it.
Bisous
Marta

Of course, my curiosity was piqued as I thought she might love the Victorian era as I do and first checked out her profile.

Marta's profile said - I should've been a Jane Austen character... a Dashwood sister with Sense and Sensibility; but secretly longing to be out in the moors sporting dirty, broken fingernails and wrestling with Heathcliff in another novel.

Now I knew for sure that we shared the same interests and clicked over to visit her blog.

Well, I was in 7th heaven - or maybe I should say, Victorian heaven. I knew for sure that I would be following her blog and immediately added her RSS feed to my Google Reader.

Her blog was filled to the brim with pictures of Victorian dolls, Victorian people, and Victorian fashions. Plus, every article was historic in nature. And, if you're a reader of my Linda's Blog you all know how much I LOVE history - especially Victorian history.

Here's Marta's Dolls from the Attic...Mis Munecas blog description: Dolls have always been a part of humankind, found in Egyptian excavations, and in Greek and Roman children's graves. Dolls and history go hand in hand, so is my intention with this blog to convey my passion for the dolls of the Renaissance, and the 19th and early 20th century. By borrowing from the work of the masters and archival photographs, I will be able to link them to the history of the times and briefly touch on the primitives. Welcome to my blog, and stay awhile.

If you love the Victorian era as Marta and I obviously do I hope you'll visit her Dolls from the Attic...Mis Munecas blog.

I wasn't able to spend a lot of time on Marta's blog this morning, but I'm definitely going back. Next time I'm going to bring a whole pot of tea with me. I'll definitely be there for awhile.

After all, I'll be in Victorian heaven. I might never leave.

A Wonderful Quilts On Barns Series From Jen Buettner of "The Insane Ramblings of a Cre8tive Quilter" Blog

2009-10-16T06:21:00.002-04:00

I have been enjoying a wonderful "Quilts On Barns" series of posts on Jen Buettner's "The Insane Ramblings of a Cre8tive Quilter" blog and thought you might, too.

I had never heard of "Quilts On Barns" and was intrigued when I saw Jen's first post. I couldn't help but think that one of these would look terrific on my brother and sister-in-laws barn that they are tearing down and refurbishing.

Jen's posted about 11 quilts she's visited so far and her posts are as follows:

I hope you enjoy Jen's "Quilts On Barns" posts as much as I did. Now let's see if I can convince my sister-in-law to add one to her barn. I've got my fingers crossed.

While I was out on Jen's blog I decided to take a closer look at her "The Insane Ramblings of a Cre8tive Quilter" blog as it seemed like it was filled with a TON of posts and pictures about quilts and quilting. I'm glad I did because Jen has a wonderful sense of humor and writing style and her blog is filled to the BRIM (and I do mean BRIM) of posts and pictures about her fabulous quilts, her family, her craft and quilting projects, and so much more.

In fact, it's really kind of funny that in her first blog post on March 16, 2007 entitled "I can't believe I'm blogging!", she said: "I've wanted to start a blog for some time now. But really, what do I have to say that's so important? I just love to quilt. I guess a blog about quilting is reason enough to have one!"

Not only does Jen have a lot to say about quilts, her quilting projects and her accomplishments, but she has a lot to teach you as well.

Jen started blogging in March 2007 and has managed to post close to 1,700 articles since then. THAT'S A LOT OF POSTS. Jen is an extremely skilled quilter with a wonderful creative mind. If something can be made into a quilted object then Jen will create it. She has made quilted shower curtains, watch bands, quilted notebooks, coiled rugs, yo-yo garland, coasters, pillowcases, table runners, quilts upon quilts upon quilts, and quilted bags totes and pouches. I just love the Halloween totes she just made.

Jen is a fiber artist and quilter extraordinaire. Here's what she said about herself on her "About Me" page : I've been quilting for 11 years and doing other crafts for a lifetime. In addition to quilting I enjoy spending time with my husband, my black lab mix Holly, sewing with my mom, random craft projects, scrapbooking, jewelry making, photography, reading and bicycling.

Not only does Jen make amazing quilts, but she makes some of the most wonderful quilted purses, totes, and pouches you'd ever want to see and her blog is filled with pictures and sometimes pictorials as to how she put some of these together.

In her blog we not only get treated to all the wonderful pictures of her creations but we also get to see creations from her friends, her quilt groups, her quilting retreats, and her quilting trips. Along the way we also learn about paper piercing, batik, strip quilting, coiling, applique, batting, different sewing machines, block quilts, fabric postcards, free motion quilting, hand sewing, log cabin quilts, patchwork quilts, and so much more.

Jen has a wonderful humorous way of writing that makes you feel like you were there with her on her shopping adventures with her Mother, or at her quilt retreats, and quilt group meetings. I got the feeling while reading through her blog posts that she loves what she does, loves quilting, loves her family, and always seems to be having a good time. It really was a delightful visit.

If you have always wanted to learn how to quilt or love to quilt then you will thoroughly enjoy your visit to Jen's "The Insane Ramblings of a Cre8tive Quilter" blog. I certainly did.

Jen, you have a LOT to say about quilts and quilting and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to your "The Insane Ramblings of a Cre8tive Quilter" blog.

Here's some more of her wonderful quilt creations:

I Love Crafts and Craft Blogs Was Mentioned In The "Crafting With A Vintage Look, Issue#028 Newsletter

2009-09-18T06:38:00.001-04:00

I just thought you'd all like to know that we received a wonderful email last week from Scott Henderson of Vintageimagecraft.com telling us that the "I Love Crafts and Craft Blogs" blog was mentioned in their "Crafting With A Vintage Look, Issue#028 Newsletter."

Here's what they said:

Inspiring Books 'n Blogs

Here is one for the books: A craft blog about - craft blogs! But it is so much more, too. Linda Walsh is a crafter and designer with an eye for vintage style. And, she's great fun to read. Delve into her series of interviews with renowned craft bloggers, or read her blog reviews. Loaded with photos and insights, you'll find ideas and inspiration. Tell Linda we sent you to I Love Crafts and Craft Blogs.

We paid a visit to Scott's Vintageimagecraft.com and have to tell you that we loved it. It's a wonderful website filled with oodles and oodles of free craft projects using vintage images.

Here's what they have to say about their website: "Vintage images are the inspiration behind all of our crafts and scrapbooking projects. From the romantic to the whimsical, Victorian and turn-of-the-century illustrations can give your creativity a distinctive touch. These classic illustrations and photographs are rich in color, artistic technique and symbolism. This bygone art captures the essence of life's highlights - holidays, celebrations and sentiments - vividly.

The projects teach you techniques for decoupage, collage, reverse-glass painting, embossing, antiquing, card-making and paper crafts.

VintageImageCraft is your online resource for ideas, inspiration and the finest-quality images. Here, you'll find:

Free craft ideas and instructions for using art to make art. We went for fun and easy. Inexpensive to make, with materials and tools – and skills – that you probably have. Many are perfect for children or small crafting parties.
Free digital images for each craft project, easily downloadable in PDF format with a click of your mouse.
Tips and techniques. A full glossary of helpful information about crafting terms and FAQs about acquiring, manipulating and printing digital pictures. Check the craft tools reference and craft techniques for information about the basics you'll need to get crafting.
Artist reference. The stories behind the drawings may inspire you. Between 1890 and 1920, printers in America and Europe produced hundreds of thousands of postcards bearing photographs and illustrations, and their artistic creators established world-wide reputations.

Not only do they offer oodles and oodles of free craft projects, but they also offer a whole lot more. You might find a little bit of insight into the background or history of some of the different vintage projects, learn a few craft techniques, read interviews with some of today's vintage artists and learn about the actual vintage artists whose creations they feature. They have craft recipes, craft tools, paper sizes, FAQ's, a craft glossary, a TON of vintage craft categories, and a download gallery.

I hope you get a chance to visit Scott's Vintageimagecraft.com website and hope you enjoy it as much as we did. They have a LOT to offer so you may be there for awhile.

Thanks for the mention in the newsletter, Scott. We really appreciate it.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Dessa Rae Greenwood of Dessa Rae Original Art Dolls

2009-09-05T06:04:00.006-04:00

It's no secret that I LOVE dolls and doll artists and have blogged about them many, many times.

Okay, make that hundreds of times! LOL LOL

Now you would think that by now I wouldn't meet a doll artist whose creations I hadn't seen or written about before.

Well, you'd be wrong. In fact, you'd be very wrong.

You see I'd never met Dessa Rae Greenwood until recently and she makes astonishing sculptured dolls, especially reborn babies - something I have never tried to do and do not think I could create. Her sculptured doll creations are not only original works of art, but simply precious to view.

Her reborns are so lifelike that when she puts them in a carriage and walks them through the mall everyone thinks they are real. That's how unbelievable her creations are. Now that would be fun to not only see, but to do.

In fact, Dessa Rae is so such an astonishing doll artist that she has been nominated time and time again for several prestigious doll awards and the reborn pictured above and to the right was featured in the March 2008 issue of Doll Reader.

Dessa Rae doesn't just make reborn dolls - she makes all kinds of dolls from sculptured children to cloth dolls, animals, faeries, mermaids, bunnies. and more. She has been making dolls for 30 years, sculpting for 20 years, and creating her remarkable reborns since 2002.

Here's what Dessa Rae said about herself and her dolls on her Dessa Rae Original Art Dolls Blog blog: I am a self taught Doll Artist, and I have been making dolls for 30 years. I have been sculpting for 25 years. I started out making cloth dolls. I then found Cernit and I was soon hooked on sculpting. Many, many dolls ended up in the trash, and there was a lot of trial and error, mainly error. At that particular time there wasn't a lot of information for beginning sculptors. The information concerning One-of-a-Kind Dolls was a closely guarded secret. I have won two Dolls Award of Excellence nominations. One in 1995 and the other in 1997. I won the Froud Artist of the month in May 2007. My dolls have been featured in many Doll Publications over the years. You can rest assured that what ever medium I using to create dolls, these dolls will be of the highest quality. I am always happy when I am creating, sculpting, and sewing. And I am even happier when one of my creations goes to a good home.

Here's what Dessa Rae said about her reborns on the About Me page of her Sweet Memory Reborns website: "I remember when I first found the Reborning community. I had just found out about eBay and I was looking at the dolls. I kept reading the words Reborns and I didn't know what they were talking about...lol. Then I saw a picture of a Reborn doll, and I couldn't believe my eyes. That doll was so lifelike, I couldn't believe that it was only a doll.

I knew right then and there that I had to find out how to make these beautiful dolls.

I think for the next 6 months I studied, read everything I could get my hands on and experimented. I have tried every new technique for Reborning that there is. Some worked for me and some didn't. I had been using Genesis Heat Set Paints, but due to the chemical solvents used, and the heating of the vinyl, I was diagnosed with chemical Pneumonia. Since I have discontinued the Genesis I haven't had any more health problems.

So it was back to the drawing board for me. I have now come up with a technique that provides a quality, lifelike baby without the health issues.

My first Reborns were gifts and charity donations.

Since that time I have divided my time between sculpting dolls, cloth dolls, and Reborns. I make my Reborns for eBay and for the local doll shows."

I hope you enjoy her interview.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I was about 8 years old when I wanted to learn how to knit, and crochet. Then when my first daughter was born I became very interested in doll making.

2) What was your very first creation?

I guess I would have to say a little rag doll that I made for my daughter when she was born.

3) What types of items do you create?

I create cloth dolls, I make Reborns, I sculpt babies, Faeries, Mermaids, and little rabbits. Mostly in miniature. I crochet beanies for my grandchildren.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My Favorite creation was a sculpt I did about 20 years ago. It was of a little girl who's pet bird had flown away. I took it into the boutique and ran home to get my camera and when I got back the sculpt had been sold. I learned a hard lesson that day!!

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

When the movie Titanic was playing I was so moved by it I decided to sculpt Leonardo DiCaprio. I took me months to finish him. My daughter cut her hair so Leo could have human hair. I still have him in my collection because my daughter wanted to keep him.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I think it is called Lampwork beads. I think they are just beautiful, and I would like to try to make them some day. There just aren't enough hours in the day.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

It's not that I dislike this craft, but I have a hard time quilting. I have a short attention span...lol and quilting makes me nervous.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

My main blog is called Dessa Rae Original Art Dolls. I have another blog that is in conjunction with my main blog called Bonnets and Booties. (The latter is only for my cloth dolls). My main blog address is: http://dessaraeartdolls.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I just recently started blogging. I had been hearing that a lot of artist's were giving up there websites, and only blogging. This peaked my interest and so I looked into blogging. It has been so much fun, I love it. I still have my website though. I have way too many dolls to show them on a blog.

10) What do you blog about?

I blog about what ever comes to mind...mainly my dolls though. I do have two of my favorite You Tube videos on there. I have a Fingernail tutorial on my blog. I had never done a tutorial and so I thought I would give it a try.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I guess...that I am 57 years young and I still play with dolls. And no matter what type of doll I create they are made from the finest materials. A little piece of my heart goes into each and everyone of them. I always say "From my hands to your Heart"

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

Dessa Rae Original Art Dolls - http://www.dessadolls.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

I would like everyone to know that my website contains samples of my work for 30 years. It is jam packed with pictures, awards I have received. It has different categories for the different types of dolls and crafts I have created. I am updating it constantly. It's not as fancy as some I have seen, but just the same it's fun to look at.

I hope you all have enjoyed Dessa Rae's interview and enjoyed seeing pictures of some of her amazing doll creations. I know that I would LOVE to see some of her creations in person as I can only imagine how real and life-like they are. Plus, I would just love to walk through a mall with one just to see every one's reaction.

For sure, Dessa Rae is a talented and extremely gifted doll artist and sculptor.

She also has two other blogs. Sweet Memory Reborns blog and her Bonnets and Booties Cloth Doll Creations blog.

If you'd like to see more pictures of her doll creations her DessaDolls Photobucket album is at http://s210.photobucket.com/albums/bb18/dessadolls_2007/ and her Dessa Dolls Flickr album is at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dessaraeartdolls/ .

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Kat White of Krystal Kat's

2009-07-11T06:09:00.004-04:00

There is one craft that I haven't tried as of yet, but would love to if I had the time. It just looks like it would be a whole lot of fun.

But, I know that it is much more difficult than it looks and requires a great deal of creativity. It also looks like it would require a lot of patience and a lot of time depending on the beads.

What could this craft be?

Well, it's jewelry making and Kat White of Krystal Kat's is a remarkable jeweler who makes the most astonishing jewelry and crystal suncatcher creations made with Swarovski crystals that you could ever imagine.

In fact, she is so good that her Crystal Suncatchers and Wine Charms were featured in the March 2008 issue of Woman’s Day magazine.

As I was looking through her website and blog I couldn't help but try to imagine a whole window filled with her stunning crystal suncatchers just hanging there in all their wondrous glory.

The colors and the way the light would reflect off the crystals would have to be so beautiful that it would just astonish you.

Kat makes handcrafted jewelry, unique one of a kind domino pendants, charms, pendants, crystal jewelry, bracelets, beaded bookmarks, rings, and so much more. As you'll see from her interview, she "loves what she does" and it certainly shows in her wonderful creations.

But, Kat is more than just an accomplished jeweler and crystal suncatcher creator. She's also a beader, sewer, cross-stitcher, crocheter, painter, digital scrapbook artist, photographer, stamper, decorator, altered art creator - and the list goes on and on.

Kat's jewelry and crystal suncatchers consist of Angels & Fairies, Beaded Anklets, Beaded Rings, Bookmarks, Charms, Christian Jewelry & Crosses, Crystal Beaded Earrings, Crystal Bracelets, Crystal Cell Phone Straps, Crystal Rainbow Suncatchers, Crystal Suncatchers, Crystal Wine Charms & Bangles, Eyeglass Holders, Fabric Items, Fairy Gift Bags, Fall Leaf Jewelry, Gemstone Jewelry, Gift Boxes, Bags and Cards, Halloween & Fall Crystal Jewelry, Little Girls Gems, Necklaces, Red White and Blue Jewelry, Saint Patrick's Day & Celtic Jewelry, Valentine & Hearts Jewelry, and Vintage Necklaces.

I hope you enjoy Kat's interview.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

At age 14 I started beading and made my own jewelry. I have been addicted to beads on and off every since.

2) What was your very first creation?

Probably earrings, then I made a necklace that I wore in one of my school photos. I look at that photo now and think what a cute necklace I made back then. And realize that beading is something I have done the longest and was my first actual craft. I spent all my baby-sitting money on getting beads to make more things!

3) What types of items do you create?

I make Crystal Jewelry and Crystal Suncatchers mostly, but I also make domino art pendants and vintage style jewelry as well. I also like to sew so I sell some of what I make in that area as well. Just made some cute kitty pillows that I will be adding to my Etsy store soon and also my website.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Wow that's really hard because I love everything, but my favorite would be the crystal suncatchers or some of my most interesting bracelets.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Bracelets that require using several wires and maybe some weaving. Trying to get it to the correct size can sometimes take more time then I had thought. You have to be sure to crimp one end so you don't waste time and have to start all over when your beads all fall of the strings. That was a lesson I had to learn after wasting a lot of time not crimping one end then moving forward. Sometimes you cannot do this however so it's good to use a tool to keep your ends from coming loose from your hands and therefore losing all your work onto the floor or mat.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I think making my own beads would be a lot of fun, but it requires some expensive machinery that I just cannot afford at this time. But it's a dream for some day down the road.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

I don't like painting, because my stuff always turns out ugly when I have to paint things unless it's one color. I just don't have the knack for that.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

Shiny Moon Beams at http://shinymoonbeams.com/wordpress/

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I have been doing the blog for about 1 year almost. I started it for many reasons. I still need to spend more time on it and get more involved with some fellow craft bloggers. Some evolving would be good on my part in that area for sure. I have a problem bringing me into the blog and also my craft too and make it all sounds interesting.

10) What do you blog about?

Only about my jewelry, so I would like to blog about more things, that is the hard part for me.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

This is the problem, I really have no blog plan and need to read about this and learn in this area how to write an interesting blog. I see all these wonderful blogs and wish I could spend more time in that area, but it's hard with family and my craft.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

My Jewelry Website is Krystal Kat's at http://krystalkats.com

My blog is Shiny Moon Beams at http://shinymoonbeams.com/wordpress/

I also have a little shop on Etsy at http://shinymoonbeams.etsy.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

That I love what I do!

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Jan Demetralis of "jandees this and that" Blog

2009-07-10T06:36:00.002-04:00

I know that I'm very partial to doll artists and doll makers, and by now I must sound like a broken record. Unfortunately, I just can't help it.

I just LOVE every doll I have ever seen and want to try creating every conceivable type of doll. But, it isn't just dolls I want to make. It's every conceivable type of craft there is and as you can probably understand - that's a problem.

You see, it would be impossible for me to try and make everything I want to make and try every craft I want to try for it would take hundred's of years. And, it would take cloning myself - which is not possible.

One of the things I just LOVE about the Internet is that I get to meet other artists and crafters who share my love of creating everything and anything and would also need to be cloned to do everything they want to do. Jan Demetralis (i.e. Jandee) of "jandees this and that" blog is one such artist and crafter.

Jandee is an exceptional doll artist who has been featured on: Dolls in Miniature, Cloth Paper and Scissors, Quilt Art, and Contemporary Doll. She creates the most beautiful "big-eyed" dolls that I have ever seen and which I just absolutely love. I'm so envious of her talent in this regard as I would LOVE to be able to paint "big-eyed" dolls like Jandee.

She also creates clothespin dolls, pin dolls, colonial dolls, animals, clay dolls, mixed media art & dolls, primitive dolls, gourd art & dolls, quilts and so much more. She's also an exceptional illustrator and portrait painter.

In fact, Jandee has so many talents and has tried so many things I finally lost count. However, what I didn't lose count of is what astonishing creations she always seems to make.

I took an instant liking to Jandee and her creations and postings in her blog and felt an instant connection to her.

I hope you can see why from an early blog post in which she says, "I think --if I could stick to-- one art --and perfect it.. I could call myself an artist !! but-- as soon as I finish one project-- I see another-- I want to try --Of course with the Internet --feeding this monstrous curiosity !!!--Still --- I can't just blame the Internet-- as I have always had this (artistic?) ADD--- a case in point---My brother just sent me some childhood (colored Chalk) drawings --and said-- What happened ?? I was sure you would be an artist someday !! ?? My reply-- was that I hadn't really found my niche yet!! Too many crafts and so little time!!"

I hear you Jandee and I totally understand that feeling. So many things to create and, yet, so little time.

But, Jandee isn't just an exceptional doll artist. She is also an extraordinary artist, clay sculpture, and mixed media artist. And, she is totally self-taught which is all the more astonishing. She has a natural talent and has had so since a very early age.

If you'd like to see more of Jandee's beautiful creations please visit her PictureTrail album at
http://www.picturetrail.com/gallery/view?username=dmtrls1&x=17&y .

I hope you enjoy Jandee's interview:

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

Mom said I as born fiddling!?!

2) What was your very first creation?

Mom would hand me a hanky or pencil and paper in church and tell me to make something when I got fidgety as a toddler!!

3) What types of items do you create?

I am a true mixed media artist..I try anything "new" that strikes my fancy -- Cloth /Clay /Painting/ etcetera. Never had lessons -- Lord knows they would have helped ..But T&E (Trial and Error)-maybe slower but it works!?!?!

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

I am like my grans-- the newest one is always the favorite.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

I think they are all difficult since I don't use patterns or molds -- I have to first figure out how I am going to DO IT!!! Again a lot of T&E ---I ran a catering business and did a lot of food art!!!! I would say that was my hardest time -- as I was on a deadline---

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Knitting and crochet I have tried them -- but no patience---I can't do repetitive crafts-- warp in my brain?? I can't even make the same doll twice but ah to crochet !!!

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Repetitive things Just a brain warp..I love anything tho-- from goth -fantasy and real mod to the prims.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

jandee's this and that at www.jandeesthisandthat.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

Kerry Seymour put up the first blog for me --I cant remember when -- but I lost a few blogs in some down time on the computer---I think the latest is about a year old

10) What do you blog about?

Like it says this and that but mostly what I try to create.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I would like to learn about more how to interact??(is that right? ) with my readers! I would like to show how I do things and give some of my creations to people who would enjoy them I would like their opinions I think that would help me grow --ala in all SHARE!!!

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

I figured I don't sell anything so I didn't need one. I would be glad to advertise certain products I have tried and like.

Something For The Newest Of Crafters To The More Experienced of Crafters Selling E-Products On The Internet

2009-06-01T09:16:00.002-04:00

If you've known me for awhile you know that I have a LOT of websites and blogs so starting another website and blog might sound a little crazy to you.

Well, it is and it isn't.

You see I've been mulling something over in my head for close to a year now. It has to do with being a small business crafter online and has to do with my experiences with that and with my experiences trying to find everything I need in one place.

There's just SO MUCH that you need for your websites and blogs and just SO MANY places to look. I wanted to make that a little easier, especially when it concerns e-products.

So, I thought that an EVERYTHING E-DIRECTORY to be "YOUR ONE SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING E FOR CRAFTS" would be a perfect solution for small business artists and crafters and e-hobbyists alike. Everything in one place.

Whether you’re looking for E-Patterns, E-Books, E-Tutorials, E-Pictorials, E-Classes, E-Printables, Graphics, Video’s, Podcasts, Blogs, E-Zines, E-Tailers, E-Stores, E-Directories, E-Communities, Handmade Crafts Websites, Crafts Suppliers, Crafting Plugboards, Website Hosting, Picture Hosting, Crafting Topsites, Crafting Twitters and FACEBOOK Crafters, E-Products Classifieds, E-Products Specials, Free Craft E-Products and more we are your one source for EVERYTHING E for your crafting needs.

One place to list all your websites and blogs - even your products. Something suitable and affordable for the newest of small business crafters to the more experienced artist and crafter.

You can list your websites, blogs, and even single products, and you can have your website, blog, even single products as featured advertising. We've got lots of options and lots of possibilities. And, of course, plenty of "freebies."

And, like I do with everything, I have an EVERYTHING E FOR CRAFTS E-DIRECTORY BLOG to support the Everything E-Directory. All our listings members and 12 month featured advertisers will have links back to their websites, blogs, and/or products on the sidebar of the blog. And, we'll have monthly posting for our listing members and 12 month featured advertisers "Latest News", "Contest" and "Specials." And, whenever anyone lists their website. blog, or product or advertises their website, blog, or product we'll post about it during that month. It's a win-win for small business crafters and more experienced crafters alike.

Listing in the Everything E-Directory is easy to do and is very affordable. The Everything E-Directory listings are paid on an annual basis and run for 12 consecutive months. Your listing contains a clickable 125x125 button banner for your website and/or blog, or clickable 125x125 product picture on the applicable e-directory category page. It also contains a clickable text link back to your website, blog, or product page as well as a short website, blog, or product description on the applicable e-directory category page. Additional applicable e-directory category pages may be chosen for additional fees.

Advertising in the Everything E-Directory and/or Everything E For Crafts E-Directory Blog is also easy to do and is very affordable. For the featured advertising we offer you a choice of either a button banner or product picture on the applicable section of the HOME page of the Everything E-Directory, top of the applicable Everything E-Directory category page, top of the Everything E For Crafts E-Directory Blog, or sidebar of the Everything E For Crafts E-Directory Blog. We also offer affordable “Classified” listing in monthly posts on our Everything E For Crafts E-Directory Blog.

For the button banner advertising or product picture you can choose 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, or one year of sequential advertising. The prices for months 3 through 12 reflect a discount for placing sequential ads. The longer sequential period of time you advertise the less you pay per advertisement. Featured advertising button banners and/or product pictures run for the length of your sequential advertising period and needs to be 150x150 in size.

We are a family-friendly website and do not allow websites, blogs, banners, or product pictures that are not family-friendly.

I hope you'll agree that this was a great idea. If you'd like to visit our Everything E-Directory please CLICK HERE.

If you'd like more information on listing in our Everything E-Directory please CLICK HERE.

If you'd like more information on featured advertising in our Everything E-Directory and Everything E For Crafts E-Directory Blog please CLICK HERE.

I hope you decide to join us.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Anne and Hazel Lott-Canning From The Vintage Fabric Market

2009-05-18T06:33:00.003-04:00

I just love families that teach their children how to craft and who instill a love of crafts in their children. I also love families that turn their love of crafts and/or their passion, which in this case is recycling vintage items, into a family owned and operated business.

Vintage items seem to be all the rage these days, especially items from the 1940's and 1950's. And, due to the current economic crisis, along with this fad is a renewed interest in making your own items and/or recycling and refurbishing old items.

I especially love the old hair accessories, old purses, vintage fabric, and old patterns. In fact, I wish I had the foresight years and years ago to save my old fabric stash and the patterns I made as a child. Of course, I wish I had done the same with my original Barbie doll and some of the toys I had in the 1950's.

I don't have any of my vintage items, but for sure Anne, Colin, Hazel and Gillian not only have a ton of vintage items, but they are constantly seeking out and finding the BEST in vintage to add to their collection.

They run the Vintage Fabric Market, which is a brick and mortar family owned and operated store in Castle Camps, Cambridgeshire, UK. They also have a "The Vintage Fabric Market" website and "The Vintage Fabric Market" blog.

According to their "About Us" page: Our family tradition of fashion buying and manufacturing begins in the early 20Th century. The current generation has a lifetime's experience in retail and manufacturing.

We have always had a fascination with fabrics and recycling and know that many people share that passion. There is a real and growing demand for genuine vintage fabrics and fashion accessories in the UK and we saw an opportunity to use our experience to satisfy that demand. We started out trading on eBay with immediate success and built up a loyal customer base.

In 2008 we took the plunge and set up our own online store. The store gives us much more flexibility to display our goods attractively and communicate with our customers.

If you like recycled vintage clothing, accessories, etc. you'll love their selection. Their categories include the following: Vintage, Retro, Evening Bags and Purses, Classic Leather Handbags, Millinery, Costume Jewellery, Vintage Clothing, Hair & Kitsch Accessories, Women's Accessories, Men's Accessories, Children's, Vintage Linen, Bedding, Vintage Fabric, Haberdashery, Embellishments, Knitting, Sewing Patterns & Crafts, Prints, Embroidery & Greetings Cards, Collectibles, Books, Cooking & Household, Handmade Bags, Jewellery, Hats and Gifts, New Products

I hope you enjoy Anne and Gillian's Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

Anne - I was about 10. It was very common to be taught those kinds of activities - sewing, knitting, pattern making etc.

Hazel - My parents have always encouraged our creative sides, especially my mum Anne, who is the driving force behind The Vintage Fabric Market, so I guess from as early as I can remember.

2) What was your very first creation?

Anne - A piece of knitting.

Hazel - I think my first creation was probably a friendship bracelet. I can remember sitting for hours with my sister, plaiting threads in front of the TV. Very therapeutic!

3) What types of items do you create?

Anne - Fashion Items, which we sell a lot of on the website.

Hazel - At The Vintage Fabric Market we make bags, hair accessories, hats, jewelery, you name it really.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Anne - Hats because they are so glamorous.

Hazel - I made a lovely cot quilt for one of my friends children before he was born. She still uses it for him now and it's inspired her to begin a quilt of her own.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Anne - A swimsuit because they are very difficult to fit.

Hazel - The same quilt. It had lots of intricate pieces on it and I hand sewed a lot of it. It was very time consuming but worth it in the end.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Anne - Silk screen printing, we're soon hoping to make our own brand of fabric!

Hazel - Hmmm not sure, I've recently seen a blog about sheds where a lady covered one in fabric remnants. The end result was amazing, so I guess that's my next big project.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Anne - Cookery because its messy!

Hazel - They're all great aren't they?

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

The Vintage Fabric Market-http://vintagefabricmarket.blogspot.com/

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

We began our blog in early March, this year.

10) What do you blog about?

We blog about our life and work in The Vintage Fabric Market, It's a real family affair.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

We just wanted to show one and all what we got up to in the workshop, and the day to day shenanigans really.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

The Vintage Fabric Market www.vintagefabricmarket.co.uk

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

Anne - A one stop shop for vintage crafts!

Hazel - It's a unique website selling vintage fabric and items dating back to the thirties, sometimes earlier. It's a delightful treasure trove of collectibles, fabrics, patterns, clothing and jewelery etc. Come in and have a look around, you're bound to find some delicious trinkets to tempt you!

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Sue McFadden of Sue McFadden Original Felt Dolls

2009-05-01T06:25:00.005-04:00

Sometimes you meet other people that you take an instant liking to. People that you can relate to and who seem to share your interests. Then you discover upon reading through their blog that you are very alike indeed.

Maybe you're both "baby boomers" having graduated in the same year. Or, maybe you're both doll designers always searching for something you can't quite put your finger on.

Such is the case with Sue McFadden who is an astonishing cloth and felt doll maker. Her creations are beautiful works of art, each with their own distinctive personality - their own heart and soul. Each doll speaks to you in their own unique way and conveys Sue's feelings on life.

When I first saw Sue's incredible felt dolls it took me back to a time many, many, many years ago when I first visited an amazing doll shop not too far from where I live. When I walked into the doll shop I was in awe of all the beautiful porcelain, and cloth dolls for sale.

And, then I had my breath taken away by some astonishing felt dolls that were for sale as well. I just couldn't stop looking at their faces and admiring the creative process that went into making them. They were, quite literally, the most beautiful dolls I had even seen. As I was very young at the time I don't remember the doll maker. Suffice to say, however, that the impression they made on me has lasted to this very day.

And, suffice to say they were some of the most extraordinary dolls I'd ever seen. That is, until I saw picture's of Sue's felt dolls. Her dolls take my breath away in the same manner as the dolls I had seen so many, many, many years ago. Seeing Sue's dolls reminded me of my feelings of astonishment at the creative process that I'd felt so long ago.

So, thank you, Sue for bringing back a wonderful memory and for bringing back a sense of astonishment and awe that I haven't felt in a long time.

Sue is an amazing cloth and felt doll maker who makes button jointed, felt bodied dolls with 3 dimensional paper clay mask heads covered with felt. She also makes amazing shadow box dolls, paper dolls, and is a beautiful artist and illustrator.

I hope you enjoy Sue's interview and are as amazed at the pictures of her creations as I was. The pictures of her dolls are just breath taking. I can only imagine how incredible the dolls are to see in real life.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

Around age 5. I started to draw pictures then. My Grandmother and Mother taught me how to knit, embroider, sew, crochet, bake, etc. Very crafty family!

2) What was your very first creation?

A profile drawing of my Father done in pencil. I had captured his likeness (or so my family said!). I was totally unaware of it as being anything special.

3) What types of items do you create?

Felt artist dolls, shadowbox illustrations using dolls, felted items

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

It would have to be one of my felt dolls, a OOAK called Ragged Robin, 1993. She was my first OOAK doll. I had no idea where I was headed. I had always loved the fairy realm. This was an instance where the creation came to me and presented itself. I just worked in good faith.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

It's usually the current doll I am working on! Right now I am in the sculpting process for 3 new felt dolls, all different sizes with hopefully ball joints! Sometimes new creations are successful and sometimes not. The unsuccessful ones usually propel me into the next creation. The missing link becomes evident!

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Tatting, my Mother gave me her shuttles but I wasn't smart enough to learn while she was still with me. I want to learn more about needle and wet felting techniques, perhaps make some apparel. In my early adult years I wanted to be a fashion designer. I also have been trying my hand at children's books, both writing and illustration.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Pottery, just the making of it. I actually collect it! Being an Art Education major years ago and then teaching we had to do it all! It gave me a great appreciation for all art/craft forms and the artist that bring their creations/visions to life.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

Sues Daily Blog (I was so paralyzed at the time - what, me going public?! haha!) at http://suesdailyblog.blogspot.com/

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

In 2007. I created for twofold reasons. To reach family and friends and to give an inside glimpse into my doll making process. I think it humanizes your art by sharing your life. Only you can create what you do.

10) What do you blog about?

Day to day events in my studio and personal life. They really are very intertwined. My doll work and new processes that I am learning.My husband is in the restaurant business and we live in two locations to run the restaurants (with wonderful partners!). It's a very creative and interesting life!

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I've been making dolls a long time (since 1981) but there is always something new to learn. My creations are a reflection of how I see the world and feel about it. I always try to give 110%! I try to convey magic, beauty and mystery. Actually to me a lot of my creations are a mystery! I'm just the medium!

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

Sue McFadden - Original Felt Dolls at www.suemcfadden.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

That it's terribly dated but carries my work up to date. I plan on redoing it this year. The web is an amazing place. The changes that have happened in the past ten years are amazing. I've reached people I could not have reached any other way. Truly a blessing!

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Kathleen Rush of PigTails Paper Trails

2009-04-19T10:34:00.002-04:00

I just love it when I learn something new about crafting and today I learned three new things. They have to do with paper crafting creations and scrapbooking. I learned what SVG is, what Cricut is, and what "Sure Cuts A Lot" is. Do you know what they are?

If you're like me and you don't - SVG stands for "scalable vector graphics" and is file format used for describing two and three-dimensional vector graphics - static and animated. Cricut is the personal electronic cutting machine by Provo Craft and "Sure Cuts A Lot" is the software used for true type fonts and shapes on the Cricut machine.

Now that you know what they are you still might be wondering what they are used for.

Well, they're used for creating two and three-dimensional paper crafts. I learned this by looking at some of the wonderful creations by Kathleen Rush of PigTails Paper Trails who sells SVG graphics on her Pigtails Paper Trails website and her PigTails Paper Trails Etsy Shoppe.

I have loved watching the explosion in the paper crafting industry over the last decade. I'm always amazed at some of the paper creations that are created by some very imaginative paper, altered art, and scrap booking artists and crafters.

I'd like to think I'm a forward thinking and imaginative crafter, but I for one never saw the paper creation explosion and all the creative possibilities there were for paper. The volume of creations and the variety of paper creations is simply amazing. An explosion is putting it mildly.

I would LOVE to learn how to create astonishing altered art projects, two and three dimensional paper creations, and wonderful heirloom scrapbooks. Unfortunately, for me time is my enemy and I just can't learn everything I want to learn and create everything I want to create.

However, if I want to learn how to create some amazing altered art projects, two and three dimensional paper creations, and wonderful scrapbooks Kathleen would be the artist and crafter to turn to.

You see Kathleen is an amazing altered art and paper artist with an incredible imagination. She is also an avid scrapbooker. She makes some of the most wonderful altered art clipboard creations that you'd ever want to see. Once I saw Kathleen's clipboards I fell in love with the idea of altering them.

She and her sister, Rebecca, also make paper dress creations that I just love. Some are cards and some are paper shadowbox three-dimensional decorations.

Kathleen and her sister, Rebecca, both contribute to the Pigtails Paper Trails website and her PigTails Paper Trails Etsy Shoppe and both post articles on the PigTails Paper Trails blog. Kathleen also has a personal blog on scrapbooking and her life entitled "A Bushel and A Peck" at http://abushelandpeck.blogspot.com .

I hope you enjoy Kathleen's interview.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I have always been creative, but I started scrapbooking in my early twenties.

2) What was your very first creation?

I made a scrapbook for my brother in law for his high school graduation gift.

3) What types of items do you create?

Scrapbook pages, altered art including altered clipboards and journals and tags. I also create SVG files for use with "Sure Cuts A Lot" and Cricut.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My favorite creation was a book I made of a weekend getaway my husband and I took without the kids. It was a spectacular and relaxing weekend and I love to relive the memory.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

A scrapbook for my third child. It seems like life became so busy that catching up on hers has been difficult.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Quilling, quilting, crochet and knitting.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

I dislike making clay creations but I love to see what others create. I just can't get it right no matter how hard I have tried.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

PigTails Paper Trails at http://pigtailspapertrails.blogspot.com

A Bushel and A Peck at http://abushelandpeck.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I started to blog a little over a year ago. At first it was to promote my Etsy store and then it became fun to show my friends and family what I have created and
what is happening in my life.

10) What do you blog about?

My latest creations in my home and in my craft life. I also blog about some of my personal experiences.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your
creations?

That I love what I do and that I love to get feedback and comments!

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

Pigtails Paper Trails at http://pigtailspapertrails.com and my PigTails Paper Trails Etsy Shoppe at http//pigtailspapertrails.etsy.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

At my website I sell SVG files that I create for use with "Sure Cuts A Lot" program
and Cricut. At my Etsy store, I sell one of a kind altered items such as
clipboards and journals.

I offer freebie cutting files at my store. http://pigtailspapertrails.com

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Lisa Young of Button Bliss

2009-02-18T05:21:00.002-05:00

There is a lot of truth to the statement that, "It's A Small World!"

It is for sure and the reason I know this is true is that time and time again I have encountered artists and crafters from other parts of the world whose blog posts make me laugh and have me saying to myself, "That's Me!" Well, Lisa Young who lives in Australia is one of those artists and crafters.

I just love reading Lisa's Button Bliss blog posts as they always have me smiling and laughing out loud. They are carefree and delightful with a wicked sense of humor thrown in. You can actually imagine what is going on in her mind and maybe even the expression on her face at the time.

Here's a case in point from a 2/7/09 post: "I have also been cleaning out my craft room AGAIN. I'd like to say I am creatively cluttered, or that it is organised chaos, but in truth I'm a messy worker, easily distracted. I like to have five projects on the go at once, I can rarely find my keys and only god knows where my mobile phone is at the moment (I'm hoping he'll send me a dream or something soon). I'm fairly certain that I only own four children, although there are a couple of extras here who look very relaxed in their surroundings."

There is a post entitled "A Royal Flush" about - well, toilet flushing, that also had me laughing out loud. I'm not going to spoil it for you by giving you a little snippet. You'll just have to go to her blog and read it for yourself.

Lisa is an artist and crafter who, with her husband, creates the most adorable laser cut and hand painted wood buttons you'd ever want to see. They are delightful designs filled with Lisa's beautiful creative humor. In other words - they are simply precious.

However, Lisa doesn't just design whimsical buttons. She also designs beautiful and charming stitcheries. And, amongst other things, she sews and paints.

Lisa is a talented woman who doesn't just love her life - she lets it explode in everything and anything she does. You can tell from her writings, her creations, her stitcheries, and her pictures that she just loves her family, her business, and her creations.

Not only is she a creative and gifted crafter. She is also a warmhearted and caring individual with a heart of gold. Her Button Bliss blog is filled with her unending humor. She allows us a glimpse into her life in Australia and her creations and, in doing so, shows us how enchanting life can be.

I hope you enjoy Lisa's interview and get a chance to read through her delightfully wonderful blog.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I failed Yr 7 art so it must have been after that! I really didn't craft much until after my children were born and then it just grew and grew.

2) What was your very first creation?

I first made some little bee buttons and farm animals, all hand cut on a scroll saw, but we quickly decided that to keep up with demand and to keep all my hubby's fingers attached we would need to purchase a laser machine. I have working stitcheries for a number of years and my first "own" design was a little garden with three of my birdhouse buttons on it.

3) What types of items do you create?

My main focus is hand painted timber buttons and embellishments, we have everything from soft and pretty rose buttons, to a Noah's Ark parade of animals, to bright and funky flowers, garden items, cupcakes and baby bottles. All buttons are my own designs and are completely hand painted by me in my little workshop.

We do a lot of custom designs. where a customer might ring and say they need a purple teddy bear with the name Bob on his tummy, and we make it. They might have a special quote that they want on a heart button, there is no limit to what we can create.

I have just started a small range of scrapbooking items and will be adding to it, with words and letters, flourishes, and tags.

I also design stitcheries, both simple designs to frame and larger quilt style designs.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My Little Book of Angels is something I'm really proud of. It was a big step to put together and I am delighted with it. The Little Book of Bears will be released later this year.

In my buttons, the last button I designed is always my favourite, until I get a new idea. I really love my nativity buttons. There is Mary, Joseph and baby, three wise kids, shepherd and his sheep and a camel and donkey. They are so cute and unlike anything I've ever seen elsewhere.

The other thing I am really proud of is our Xantha Maree section. Xantha was a little baby born with EB, or Butterfly skin. She spent her whole two months of life wrapped in silk cloth to minimise rubbing and was in constant pain from blisters and sores which formed where ever she was touched. Her parents have established a Foundation in her honour to raise much needed funds to support other families facing this cruel disease. We have set up a Butterflies for Xantha Page, and have butterfly buttons and stitchery designs from a number of artists and ALL sales go to the foundation (we are donating all materials etc so they get the full amount). http://www.buttonbliss.com/store/WsDefault.asp?Cat=ButterfliesforXantha

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

I had a lady making a birth sampler for her sister who had delivered twins. Sadly one of the babies lived only a few hours. We needed to acknowledge her in the piece in a special way. I made two soft pink hearts with each girls name and on Baby Megan's button we etched a little butterfly fluttering up and away. It was very sad, and an honour to make a keepsake for this family.

A customer was creating an Alphabet quilt and wanted a button for the letter X. Of course the choices are limited and I thought I would do an XRAY, but it was not easy to think how to do it. I was at the movies with my Mum and halfway through the movie I had a brainwave of how to do it. I couldn't wait for the movie to finish so I could go home and try it.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I wish I could knit like my Mum. She click-clacks away without looking at her work- I take forever to get through a row. I would love to learn to patchwork more than simple squares. I so admire women who can create the most amazing works of art, all those pesky little corners joining up AARRGGHH! I would also like to dabble in painting, although it would be more abstract- a bit like my mind

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Well, I hate the feeling of playdoh in my fingers and the few times I used clay in art at school, I remember just wanting to wash my hands. My skin dried out and was itchy... so I don't think Pottery is my thing.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

Button Bliss at www.buttonbliss.typepad.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

Originally I started my blog as a way of recording my designs, largely for copyright and proof of being the original creator of a design (legally it's all about proving that you had it designed and launched before someone else did). But, I love to write so I really enjoy having a little place to ramble away about my world. I started my Blog in February 2008

10) What do you blog about?

New designs, my thoughts, my kids and family life. I blog about times when I'm fresh out of ideas, and times when there are so many new ideas there aren't enough hours in the day. I will list hints and tips for crafters, sometimes there are competitions. Sometimes it's a page of photos of new buttons I can't wait to show everyone, or sneak peek of a new project and sometimes it's a picture of my yummy ginger cat, or the kids playing.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I am a stay at home Mum and while my business is important to me, my children and husband are really my world's focus. When I design I can't help but be influenced by the blessings in my life. So all our animals are happy smiley critters, even our shark has a goofy grin on his face. I love the beauty of a country cottage garden and am constantly amazed at the perfection of a 'just bloomed' flower. . I look at my teenage daughter and her wild, colourful dress sense and it is reflected in a rainbow of funky flowers. If you have a need for a personalised button for a blessing in your life, I will do my best to create it for you.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

Button Bliss at www.buttonbliss.com

Country Lane Designs at www.countrylanedesigns.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

Come on in and have a visit. There is heaps to see and if you can't find what you'd like, just send me an email and I'll contact you. We have Buttons, Stitcheries, E-patterns, Homewares, free projects, Easy Peasy painting guide for painting fabric, a great Button Club, quotes, specials and more.

Show Your Support For Our I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs Blog!

2009-02-17T06:37:00.006-05:00

We've got the BEST NEWS!
Now You Can Get Our I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs Blidget On Your Blog!

That's right. Now you can get my I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs on your own blog or website with a Blidget which is my blog turned into a widget.

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Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Joanne Noel of Wee Bears

2009-02-17T06:09:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you run across an artist who makes the most precious, the most adorable, the cutest, and the most charming of creations. An artist who has mastered her craft and is at the height of her perfection. In fact, I'm sure she has mastered every craft she has ever tried.

An artist who obviously loves what she's doing and an artist I'm so very jealous of. You see, Joanne Noel is a miniature thread artist who crochets the most precious 2 1/2" bears you'd ever want to lay your eyes on.

That's right - they are only 2 1/2".

How in the world can you make something that tiny? How do you hold on to it while you're crocheting it? Let alone crocheting tiny outfits and minuscule hats to go on your bears. It's simply astonishing and amazing to be able to create such a beautiful and tiny masterpiece.

I am so jealous as, unlike Joanne, I could never, never get the hang of crochet. I just couldn't do it. My mother tried to teach me when I was 10 years old. I just couldn't do it. Then my sister-in-law tried and tried to show me when I was in my 20's, but I just kept getting everything knotted. I could knit, but I couldn't crochet. Forget that I wanted to learn to tat. That was never going to happen.

So, I am very jealous of Joannes ability to create her beautiful, tiny bears. -Extraordinary bears that are too adorable for words.

I hope you enjoy Joanne's interview and enjoy her bears. They are just delightful.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

My Grandma taught me to crochet when I was 13.

2) What was your very first creation?

My very first crocheted bear was a pink one that I made in 2000 that turned out looking like a pink pig.

3) What types of items do you create?

I do all types of crocheting. I also crochet other miniature animals.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

A little crocheted bear named Joey. I really don't know what it is about him but he is my favorite.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

I really didn't have a most difficult. It was more a matter of getting used to holding on to the little pieces.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I guess I've tried just about all of the crafts. I used to make the porcelain dolls. Tried knitting, ceramics, quilting, beading, needle felting. I also taught heirloom sewing by machine. I made the traditional style miniature teddy bears but always went back to the crocheting.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Knitting. I've tried it several times and find it awkward for me with the two
needles.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

WEE BEARS at www.joannesweebears.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

A couple of years ago. I had a website at one time but the blogs are free. I noticed quite a few of the bear people were using them instead of website.

10) What do you blog about?

Just my teddy bears.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I just like to share them.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

I don't have a website.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Donna Perry of Findings Primitives

2009-02-16T06:49:00.001-05:00

Sometimes you meet artists and crafters who have an uncanny ability to transfer what they see and what they imagine into whimsical creations that take on personalities all their own.

Sometimes you meet artists and crafters who are very private individuals, but who have a creative energy beyond measure. Who can translate their private nature into creations that are individualistic, imaginative, and that draw you in. Creations that make you want to know more about the artist who created them.

Well, Donna Perry of "Findings Primitives" is such an artist and crafter. Her specialty is primitives and she is exceptionally talented when it comes to creating primitives that are truly one of a kind. In fact, you can tell just by looking at her creations that she thoroughly enjoys what she's doing.

But, Donna isn't just a talented primitive crafter. She's also a gardener. And, I'm sure that if she applies the same creativity and care to her garden that she does to her creations - then her garden must simply be spectacular to see.

You see, I happen to know how much vision, creativity, determination, and hard work goes into creating spectacular gardens. How much love has to go into creating the gardens year after year after year. How much pleasure you would derive from the various shapes and rocks you have in your garden.

However, I don't know this from my own personal experience. My sister-in-law has been creating the vision of her garden for the last 35 years and it is an English garden beyond compare. She spends just about every minute she can in her garden and her love for it and creativity show with each new plant she adds, each new stone, each new planter. It takes a tremendous amount of ingenuity to create and maintain a garden. It takes someone like my sister-in-law and someone like Donna. They are natures artists and can really show the rest of us the beauty in every flower, every plant, every leaf. Their gardens are their creations. In fact, their gardens become extensions of their souls.

Donna is new to blogging and just opened her website in January 2009 and I couldn't be more excited for her. I just love when someone is new to blogging. Exploring what they can do with their blogs and websites - opening up a bit and letting us all into her world. Such an exciting time and I know that if Donna applies the same creative spirit to her blog and website as she has to everything else - well, watch out everyone - you're in for a real treat.

I hope you enjoy Donna's interview.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I’m guessing I was 5 or 6 years old. That’s as far back as I can remember.

2) What was your very first creation?

A knitted pair of slipper socks that my Grandmother taught me how to make, once I was pretty good with my knitting.

3) What types of items do you create?

Sewn items, Primitive dolls, ornies, bowl fillers & holiday items.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

I would have to say my yard work. Each year I try to add to it. I love rocks & have them all around the outside of my house. Last year I added a stone walk way. It is an ongoing creation. I visualize it & then create it. It’s great because I bring home rocks from different places I go. One year my friends brought me back rocks from their trip. It was great! Funny… but great. It’s surprising how many different shapes, textures, colors & sizes you find when you start looking around. And they’re FREE!! It just lasts from year to year.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Again the work I have done in my yard. It has been the most physically difficult thing I have done, it has been many hours, days, wheel barrel trips & tons of lifting. But I love it!

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Sculpting clay. My daughter is so go with this. She can make the smallest things with such detail. She makes flowers, small animals, even a tea set. I have to take some lessons from her.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

No, not that I can think of, I enjoy creating whatever I can. And I just love looking at other artists’ work.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

My blog is named FiNDiNGs PriMiTiVEs & the URL is http://findingsprimitives.blogspot.com/ You can get a look at what’s going on with me. You will find links to groups that I’m involved with, my website, my eBay auctions

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

April 2008 That is when I found out what a blog was. After looking at some other blogs I wanted to try and set up my own. I guess I enjoy the process of learning new things & then I am pleased with the creating & end result.

10) What do you blog about?

Well, I am by nature a pretty private person. It doesn't come easy for me to blog about my life. But I’m still new to blogging & I am trying to show with pictures & tell a little about myself as I add to my blog.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

That I’m very picky when it comes to quality, the materials that I use & how something is made. That’s very important to me. I like things that are going to last.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

The name of my website is Findings Primitives & the URL is http://www.findingsprimitives.com/ My website is very new! I opened the website on January 11Th, 2009 & I update it on a daily basis.

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

That I have always wanted to have a website were I could offer my handcrafts, that were made with quality & uniqueness. That is what I look for when I shop.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Elizabeth Hunter of Craft from My Heart

2009-02-15T06:53:00.003-05:00

There are artists and crafters out there who are never afraid to be adventuresome and try their craft on any medium and Elizabeth Hunter of "Craft From My Heart" blog and "Craft From My Heart" website is no exception.

There are also artists and crafters out there with generous souls who are always willing to not only show you their creations but share with you how they created them and Elizabeth does so time and time again on her "Craft From My Heart" blog.

However, Elizabeth's generous nature doesn't just stop with her art and crafts. She also cares about other artists and crafters and tries to help any way she can. One of these ways was to create, with a few of her friends, Just Doodlin Around in an effort to find low cost ways for artists and crafters to advertise.

Like many of us, Elizabeth has been an artist and crafter for many years. She is a self-taught artist who loves to paint on just about anything. Whether it's cloth, glass, wood, tin, paper, plastic, ceramic, handbags or even rock Elizabeth will paint on it. Could even be a mailbox - Elizabeth will paint on it and create a masterpiece.

A lot of what Elizabeth paints is country or primitive style, but like many of us she also loves other styles and will create Victorian painted items, Americana, folk art, etc. It doesn't matter the style or the medium. Elizabeth is outstanding at whatever she attempts to do.

Painting isn't all Elizabeth does, however. She also sews primitive dolls, and creates floral wreaths with silk floral and painted accents - sometimes wood, sometimes cloth, and sometimes tin. Whatever it is it is always a surprise and always delightful.

I hope you enjoy Elizabeth's interview.

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

When I was about 8 years old I would set up a table at the front of my house with my sister and sell rocks that I had painted pictures on.

2) What was your very first creation?

My first creation was when I designed and stitched a four foot muslin bunny.

3) What types of items do you create?

Mostly paintings and hand crafted items like wreaths, dolls, primitive, Country, Americana, Victorian, handbags, home decor, and seasonal items.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

There are so many in which I have enjoyed, but one of my favorites was a floral wreath made to look primitive by dying, the silk like flowers, to give them an aged look.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

The most difficult creation was a custom order for a primitive mail box. Dealing with primitive design it is tedious to paint with an aged look. Painting quickly and allowing to dry was the most challenging part.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I would love to try punch needle and quilting. I have seen many beautiful inspiring creations.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Really I don’t think there is any that I don’t like. I really enjoy trying everything and anything to do with crafts.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

Craft From My Heart Blog at http://craftfrommyheart.blogspot.com/

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I started my blog April 2007 because I wanted to show others what I have created and how easy it can be to create some of my projects.

10) What do you blog about?

I like to write about my creations and how to create them.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I have been a WAHM for twenty years. I have always loved to create crafts and decorate my home. Every thing I make is made from my heart and if I don’t like the way my projects turn out I will start all over again.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

Craft From My Heart at http://www.craftfrommyheart.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

At Craft From My Heart products are hand painted and created by me. You will find many styles of decorative items such as hand painted glass, pails, teapots and many other gifts. Craft From My Heart also offers a layaway plan along with gift certificates. I also design and sew my own dolls. If you would like something created for you please email me and I will reply promptly.