I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs

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.

Just click on the "GET WIDGET" button below and follow the prompts. How much fun is that!

I Love Crafts & Craft Blogsgreat free widgetsWidgetbox

So, if you love our I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs and want to show your support, please add out blidget to your website or blog.

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.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series Interview - Debbie of Willowtree Treasures

2009-02-01T06:18:00.001-05:00

Like many of us Debbie of Willowtree Treasures is a self-taught crafter who has been crafting for over 31 years and like many of us she found a calling in creating "primitive dolls, ornies, make-do's, and animals." And, once the "calling" found her - well, you can see from the results that it was a match made in heaven.

And, like so many of us, she also has not found a craft that she dislikes. There are still many, many different kinds of crafts that she would like to try and master. And, master, I'm sure she will.

For now, however, she has found her calling with the "primitives" whether they are creations she has made from other designers patterns or her own designs. Either way she is meticulous in her details and puts her heart and soul into every creation.

And, like a lot of crafters these days she is a first time blogger who has found a second calling in blogging. I just love when that happens. For creative souls blogs just become an extension of their creativity.

I am looking forward to reading more of her posts and seeing more of her creations and I hope that you will be, too. Enjoy the interview.

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

I would say any talent showed its self by the age of 10. I have always enjoyed drawing cartoon figures and illustrated a book that my dad had published when I was in high school.

2) What was your very first creation?

My first creation that lead me into the primitive world was using a pattern from Plumtickled of a rabbit and her "goodies." I found it to be very challenging and required a lot of painting but I fell in love with the process and enjoyed seeing something that, at first was just material, turn into something that almost has a spirit and soul. I found the different primming processes to be an amazing process too. Something that looked new and changing it to something from the past became a favorite past time of mine! This first pattern allowed me to show off some of my drawing skills as well and seemed be a good fit for me although sewing in a straight line was to take awhile longer! LOL

3) What types of items do you create?

I now create primitive dolls, hang tags, primitive pins, door/wall hangers, make-dos, and pincushions. I have had a hard time sticking with one "style" of creative outlet. If there is something that I love, whether it is a vintage, primitive, extreme primitive, or somewhere in between creation, I will be tempted to give it a try! I do enjoy making vintage hang tags and love to make lamps, and some dolls that have a vintage influences. My love for art embraces many types and styles and it shows in the work that I create.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My favorite creation has been Annie and Clairabelle the cow doll,( a pattern from Imseeingraggedies.) I feel this pattern had a lot of new techniques that I've never seen, or done before, and found it very exciting seeing a process that I wasn't completely familiar with I was able to carry out and have a very nice looking finished project! Every step of this pattern I felt was a challenge and couldn't wait to see the next steps completed until the final creation had been completed.

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

I would have to say a pattern of a Halloween cat with eyelids and a pumpkin on a stick. This was a pattern from Moonchild's Primitives . I would have to say this pattern I found to be very challenging . I am glad, however, I finished it and I truly liked the end result! Again, there were a number of techniques that I've never done before and had to teach myself a lot of the techniques I used such as making the tail. I've never made a tail that was designed like this one but I think it turned out pretty well. I would never say that I was sorry for getting though a pattern that I didn't find all that easy. I would have to say every pattern like this, that I have struggled with, I have in turn learned a lot in the process about my craft and have gained confidence and maturity in my work by doing so!

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

With my sewing I would love to learn how to make round headed dolls and learn to make realistic eyes with the use of artist pencils. For other crafts I would love to learn how to to make wooden signs, how to make silicone bulbs, how to paint realistic flowers and/or gingers, how to arrange flowers or any crafts that are related to these new craft ideas such as wreaths. Also learning how to use clay would be an interesting medium.

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

I can't really say there isn't anything craft out there that I couldn't learn to see it's worth as art or couldn't get used to. I think there is room for anything as an art and am very open minded when it comes to something I've never seen before or couldn't see as being art- worthy with a little stretch of the imagination.

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

The URL of my blog is: Http://www.willowtreetreasures.blogspot.com and it's name is Willowtree Treasures.... where you can read about my business, read what is new in
my business, what I've added to my shop or will have promotions. I consider my blog the heart of my business because this is where you will see what is happening first and stay abreast of what will be coming next. Plus this is where I will share part of me with my audience. You will find out about me, what is important to me, or will share what is going through my mind. I call it " Learning about the artist behind the craft." Catchy huh? LOL I try to keep it informative and interesting and love to keep my readers engaged and interested....but most of all informed!

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

I started my blog as I started my shop in Etsy. In the beginning I was a part of Ebay group called, Olde Primitive Sister's Group, and a Ebay based website with a group from there called, "Olde Primitive Sister's Marketplace" ...and just opened my Etsy shop. I needed something to bridge all of my businesses together and I felt this was a good answer to have a one stop place to get information on all of my locations. I now am engaged with my Etsy shop only and belong to a wonderful group of artists that do primitive to shabby chic works of art! This was a great way to see how Etsy worked and learn the do's and don'ts of a forum I wasn't all that familiar with. You can find this Etsy group, Olde Farmhouse Gathering, by putting the Initials of this group in your search and all the artist's works can be seen. A Primitive Gathering of Sisters is the new group I have joined from Ebay and was a lot of the same members from my old group OPSG. We rejoined each other and started a new group after going our separate ways for a time.This wonderful group of artists can be found by putting APGS in your Ebay search.

10) What do you blog about?

When I first started I had a lot of posts about myself and were very deep. You can see the person I am by reading these starting posts! I also write about my Ebay groups I have been a part of and my Etsy groups. I since have greatly lightened up my topics and basically talk about the new items I have available, any sales going on and any "celebrations" I will be taking part in with my groups and the dates to be looking for them. I still write about anything having to do with my family, groups and everyday issues... and put in an occasional recipe or too also. I have been known to throw in what is happening in my life and tell my customers of great shops to visit in Etsy that show great service and products. Of course I share my thoughts and goals I am setting for myself to grow as a person and as an artist.

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

That I work very hard on anything I create and a part of me goes into every piece of work I engage in! I am a very honest person and do the best quality work that I can!

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

My blog name is Willowtree Treasures, and the URL is http://willowtreetreasures.blogspot.com and my Etsy shop is of the same name...Willowtree Treasures and its URL is http://willowtreetreasures.etsy.com

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

I make mostly primitive items ...but as I have said...my artistic tastes embrace many more styles than just primitive. In my shop you'll see extreme primitive, primitive, primitive with vintage appeal, vintage to even some altered art and possibly shabby chic. I like choices and I do like to give my customers choices so you'll see mostly primitive with a flavor of other styles mixed in. I have available many more things than just dolls. I have included now, make-dos, pincushions, pins, lamps, shelf sitters, door hangers/wall hangers, bowl fillers/ornies and hang tags. I have done a number of my own creation dolls and you can see them in some that are in my shop right now, I have also have taken special requests and worked closely with my customers to create something to their liking , so although I am a pattern user, I have also created my own works and have been successful with that!

Get To Know The Artist/Crafters Series Interview - Annie Greene of Olde Annie Primitives

2009-01-31T07:04:00.002-05:00

If you've been following my "I Love Crafts and Craft Blog" you know that I am partial to doll makers and the reasons are well - obvious - I live with 1,796 dolls. So, you might wonder what I would say about a very talented primitive crafter who hates making dolls. YIKES! I can't believe those words came out of my mouth! Oh, boy - I hope the "dollies" didn't hear that!

Well, I have to tell you that while she isn't a doll maker she is an amazing and gifted crafter with remarkable and original creativity when it comes to primitive ornies, tucks, gatherings, shelf-sitters, make-do's, nodders, door greeters, and hangins. Her name is Annie Greene and she is the owner of "Old Annie Primitives." If you love handmade prim decor then Annie's "Old Annie Primitives" is a website you'll want to visit.

Annie has been crafting for over 25 years and found the world of primitives a year or so ago and well- it took a hold of her and never let go. And, she is very, very good at it.

She also started blogging last June and I have to tell you I just loved reading all her posts. You see, Annie has a wonderful, wonderful sense of humor. I found myself laughing out loud with some of her posts and even saying to myself "that's me!"

If you want to see what I mean here's a little excerpt from her January 21, 2009 post entitled: LISTS, LISTS, LISTS!

Hello...my name is Annie...and I am a list maker. Yes, I am admitting that I have a problem and that I do need help! I have come to the conclusion that while my laundry may sit in a basket for days before folding or while my pots and pans from last night aren't washed yet and that it took me till January 19Th to get my Christmas tree down (and a darn ugly one at that!), I do have my one accomplishment -- my lists! You may say, "I make lists, too!" Why sure you do...grocery lists...Christmas lists...even those "To Do" lists. We all need a list now and then.

However, I have gotten so bad I now make lists within a list! ........

If you want to read all of Annie's post please CLICK HERE.

She also has another post entitled "Those Craft Room Blues"that also had me saying, once again, "that's me!" Annie did get her craft room - I'm still all over the house, but you'll have to go read Annie's post to see what I mean by that.

Annie might willingly admit to hating to craft dolls as you'll see in her interview, but the "dollies" and I will forgive her for that. She's a talented and gifted crafter with a lovely sense of humor and that as far as the "dollies" and I are concerned makes up for everything.

I hope you enjoy Annie's interview and I hope if you get a chance to read through her blog that you find her blog posts as humorous and as delightful as I did.

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

Even though I started sewing clothes at about 14, I didn't discover a "creative side" in me until my early 20's when I started cross stitching and quilting.

2) What was your very first creation?

A cross stitch sampler.

3) What types of items do you create?

I make what I call "rustic primitives". I love to design and sew all kinds of ornies/tucks and use them to create one of a kind of gatherings, make-do's, nodders, greeters and shelf sitters.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

That's really hard. I have several different gatherings that I have almost kept for myself. There is one pictured on my blog that is one of my favorites. It has a snowman sitting in a tin oblong bucket amongst some greenery and pip berries as well as a strand of 35 mini white lights. I attached a piece of stained, ripped Christmas sheet music to the front of it. It was so beautiful all lit up at night! I also loved all the different gatherings I made using my stained and color washed muslin fall leaves.

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

That would have to be an eight point star quilt. I just never could get those points to match up!

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

I have tried just about every craft medium out there. The one area I always wanted to try, and even bought all the tools and supplies for it, is polymer clay. It's all just sitting in a plastic tub, never touched!

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

I don't like doll making. There is just so much tedious work and detailing involved. I just don't have the patience. That's why I love making my ornies -- quick gratification!

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

Olde Annie Primitives

http://www.oldeannieprimitives.blogspot.com

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

I always knew I wanted to sell my crafts on the Internet. I just never thought I'd ever have my own website. So I thought about trying to sell them on a blog. I became serious about it early fall of last year. It all has progressed rather quickly and now that I have my own web site store, I am using them hand in hand.

10) What do you blog about?

Mostly craft related, but during the holidays it was mostly about all the crazy snowy weather we were having...and of course, my Christmas decorations. However, I plan to start blogging about "days gone by". I love reminiscing about those days when life was so much simpler.

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

I am a very easy going down to earth kind of gal. When it comes to my creations I am very critical of my work and have to truly like what I see before I will list it for sell. I am so proud and grateful of all the wonderful compliments and comments I received from my customers last year while selling on various auction sites.

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

Olde Annie Primitives

http://www.oldeannieprimitives.com

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

It is a brand new site, just opened on January 11, and it is by no means fully stocked. I have SO many more items to add on there! It is a very comfortable and cozy site. I have a newsletter on there that I will be updating monthly, where I will be offering free patterns, tips, news, etc., as well as free giveaways. And I thank everyone who drops by to take a peak! I welcome comments, ideas, suggestions -- just go to my "contact" page and email me!

2009 Christmas Gift Challenge by Shelley of Abundant Blessings Blog

2009-01-30T06:48:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for a year long challenge then Shelley of Abundant Blessings Blog has one for you:

2009 Christmas Gift Challenge

CLICK HERE TO POST YOUR COMMENT ON SHELLEY'S BLOG

Anyone want to join my challenge?

Here's the challenge:

Part 1: This month (January), (or replace January with whatever month you start the challenge if you first see it later in the year), write up the list of people you need to give gifts to at Christmas in 2009. Then for each month of 2009 you make (or purchase) at least one gift. Then when Christmas rolls around, you should be good and ready, or at least ahead in the game. Remember, January includes the list AND one gift.

Part 2: (optional), Also at some time during 2009 you need to make your Christmas cards (if that is something you usually do, or something you want to do this year). They have to be done before November.

Please post a comment ON SHELLEY'S BLOG POST - CLICK HERE stating if you are interested in participating. I will post a reminder each month and would love to hear your comments each month on how you all are doing. You should post a copy of the challenge picture above on your blog with a link to this post for others to see you are doing the challenge and for them to join.

How about a running list of how you're doing with this also?By starting now you will have plenty of time to listen for comments made by those hard to shop/make for people on your list.

I will be doing this challenge myself and I will be placing each item I make into a plastic bag and tying it shut to protect the items. To keep track of the items, I will be storing them all in a plastic storage box. I would really like to see some of the things we all are making but I understand the problem of revealing some one's gift. I will post photos of those which I am able to, but there will be some I can't.

Come on, be brave and join us. Come November, you'll be happy you did.

Challenge and Post Written By Shelley of Abundant Blessings Blog @ http://hisabundantblessings.blogspot.com and Abundant Blessings Etsy Shoppe at http://abundantblessings.etsy.com . Shelley is a homeschooling mom. She and her husband, along with their 4 children, all work together in their creative endeavors.

A Potential Disaster For Handmade Doll Makers Is Looming!

2008-12-31T06:04:00.001-05:00

I don't know if you all are aware of the new CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) of 2008 or not, but because of it selling handmade dolls of any kind is about to become much more difficult - if not IMPOSSIBLE for small business handcrafters!

The CPSIA was signed into law by President Bush on 8/14/08 and has several phases to it that go into effect at different points in time. The issuance of certificates for consumer products subject to any of the rules or bans went into effect on November 12, 2008 and the Internet labeling of children's products advertised on Internet websites went into effect on December 12, 2008.

February 10, 2009 is the next effective date for several of the sections of this bill: 1) Catalog labeling for children's products advertised in catalogs or other printed materials, 2) Ban on total lead by weight set to 600 ppm for any children's product sold, 3) Phthalate ban for all toys and child care articles, and 4) Safety standards for toys that fall under the scope of ASTMF963.

The next big deadline is August 14, 2009 and it is for several sections of the bill: 1) Registration cards required for durable nursery items and promulgate standards for products intended for use by children under the age of five, 2) Ban on total lead by weight set to 300 ppm for any children's product sold, 3) Ban on lead and paint and surface coatings limit reduced to 90 ppm for any consumer product, and 4) tracking labels for any children's products.

And, the real rub - the new law requires 3rd party testing for all consumer products primarily intended for children twelve years of age or younger. Every manufacturer of a children's product must have its product tested by an accredited independent lab and if it passes issue a certificate that the product meets all the applicable Consumer Product Safety Standards.

The new law defines a "children's product" as: "A consumer product designed or intended primarily for children 12 years of age or younger. In determining whether a consumer product is intended for a child 12 years of age or younger, the following factors will be considered:

a) A statement by the manufacturer about the intended use of the product, including a label on the product if such statement is reasonable.
b) Whether the product is represented in packaging, display, promotion or advertising as appropriate for use by a child 12 years or younger.
c) Whether the product is commonly recognized by consumers as being intended for use by a child 12 years of age or younger.
d) The Age Determination Guidelines issued by the Commission staff in 9/2002, and any successor to such guidelines.

As you all probably know, I have made several thousand dolls over the years - some of which have been for sale from time to time. For most of my doll pattern designs or dolls I've made based on other designers patterns I have made 1 extra handmade doll to sell. All of my dolls are and have always been labeled as intended for use by "grown-up girls" only. My disclaimer on my website states: "Please note that all of the products sold on this website are intended for home decoration only and not intended for use by children of any age."

Now you might be thinking that according to a) and b) above of the children's product definition that I don't need to be worried about the new regulations as I don't sell products intended for children. While, technically that may be true, in my opinion, I still have a problem selling my dolls.

The rub is section c) of the children's product definition that says: c) Whether the product is commonly recognized by consumers as being intended for use by a child 12 years of age or younger.

I sell "dolls" for "grown-up girls" but, they are still termed "dolls" and the definition of a "doll" is according to wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn "a small replica of a person; used as a toy," or according to en.wiktionary.org/wiki/doll "a toy in the form of a human" or "a doll is an object that represents a baby or other human being, but includes likenesses of animals and imaginary creatures. ..."

No matter how many disclaimers I put on my dolls or website "dolls" in most consumers minds are "toys" which in my opinion fall under this new act and, therefore, require them to be tested for lead by a 3rd party accredited lab.

And, under the FAQ section of the CPSC.gov website there is the question: Does the CPSC envision stuffed animals falling within the scope of the CPSIA lead limits and Phthalate limits? The answer was: Most stuffed animals would be considered to be children's products and presumably toys. A manufacturer would need to determine whether the design of the stuffed animals is such that it is subject to the lead paint limits, the lead content limits or the phthalate limits.

I do sell some stuffed animals and if stuffed animals are considered toys then cloth dolls are not a far stretch from that.

My problem is that I didn't make hundreds of the same doll. I made thousands of OOAK or individual dolls so the expense for testing of all my products would be unbelievably prohibitive. Plus, the new law allows for any one harmed by a product that doesn't meet the standards to be sued in civil court and even allows for the states attorney generals to sue in criminal court with penalties and jail time attached.

There are thousands upon thousands of different types of dolls and crafts that could be affected by this law. And, it isn't just "dolls" or "toys" - it's ALL CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS or products deemed to be used by children. Just think about that - the scope of that is almost mind boggling.

But, the problem for me isn't just with the lead paint testing it is also with the "general conformity certificate", and the permanent tracking labels going forward. For a handcrafter of "dolls" these two issues become a logistical paperwork nightmare.

I've been watching the forums from Etsy.com since they issued their email about the petition and reading about all the small business handcrafters that will be affected by this law. Because of the "BROAD" definitions used within the act and the "SCOPE" of the act there will be hundreds upon thousands of handcrafters affected. It is no wonder they are calling February 10Th "National Bankruptcy Day." For many, many small business they will no longer be able to afford to stay in business after that date. Or, if they do they may be subject to civil lawsuits and/or criminal penalties and or jail terms if they are selling children's products that are not in compliance.

So, to make a long story short - Due to the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 I am suspending my two Linda Walsh Originals Dolls websites and will be suspending the sale of all of my handmade dolls & crafts. I will still be creating dolls for my doll patterns and will still be selling print and e-patterns, but will suspend selling any handmade dolls & crafts that I may have made. As a result, all handmade dolls & crafts shown on my websites are now currently "Out Of Stock" and not available for purchase.

Am I distressed and bummed by this - ABSOLUTELY!

Am I disheartened - ABSOLUTELY!

Do I have the will or the resources to fight this - NO!

Disclaimer- I am not a lawyer and do not claim to be. My interpretation of this act is just that - my interpretation. In other words - "my opinion." Your interpretation and/or opinion may be different.

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

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Iliana Peredo of Ilycrafts

2008-12-21T06:57:00.001-05:00

As you all know I'm a little partial to doll designers - especially cloth doll makers. I just love looking at all the wonderful creations and ways in which the doll artists use different mediums. And, I'm always astonished at how quickly new cloth doll makers are able to hone their skill.

I especially love to watch new cloth doll makers, see their new creations, and watch the progression of their art. For me, I am always fascinated by how quickly they learn a new technique and become experts at their craft and Iliana Peredo is no exception.

Iliana of Ilycrafts is a new cloth doll maker and in a short two years has already created some astonishing dolls. I just love the way she sculpts her dolls faces and love her cats and angels.

Iliana is also a new blogger and has only been on Blogger.com since October 2008, but has already filled her blog with some of her wonderful creations.

Here's what Iliana had to say about herself on her Etsy Profile:

I started making cloth dolls 2 years ago. I'm experimenting with different materials and new stuff I find. I like to paint, and experiment with different colors, shapes, themes, etc... I love all kinds of antiques especially doll antiques. Every doll that I make or already did is unique.

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

Since I was very young I always wanted to design and create things that's why I studied architecture for 4 years but didn't continue. And at my late 30's I started doing more crafts and later on soft dolls.

2) What was your very first creation?

One of my very first creations was a clown I made and some very small dolls. I just started practicing more and more with doll bodies and designing patterns to make bodies.

3) What types of items do you create?

For now I like to create cloth dolls or other, like cats and other kinds of dolls.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My favorite creation has been my Lavender Angel country style doll I made, because the doll came with a gentle expression and lavender is my favorite color. I wanted the doll to represent the lavender flower that's why I tried to make it scented too.

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

I think that needle sculpting the face of the lavender angel doll was a little hard. When you try to do more than one doll that are almost the same the face always comes out different.

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

I would like to start making oil pastel, charcoal paintings of landscapes.

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

No, I'm always trying new things and new materials.

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

The name of my blog is ilycrafts and the URL is http://ilycrafts.blogspot.com/

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

Before creating my blog I had my site and my daughter recommended me to create a blog. I started my blog 3 months ago. I find it easier to talk about the latest things I do there as well as showing tips or tutorials.

10) What do you blog about?

I Like to blog about the dolls I make or other crafts I plan to do. And I also want to post small tutorials or tips.

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

I consider my work original. I'm always learning new techniques or working with new materials, and pattern designs.

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

My website name is ilycrafts and the url is http://www.geocities.com/ilycrafts/

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

You can find some pictures of some of my first dolls in my site. And other links or information too.

I hope you get a chance to visit Iliana's Ilycrafts blog, her Ilycrafts Etsy shoppe, her Ilycrafts website, and her Ilycrafts Flickr photostream.

Happy Holidays To All!

2008-12-16T05:10:00.002-05:00

To all the readers of my "I Love Crafts and Craft Blogs" blog I would like to say:

Have a Wonderful Holiday Season!
Happy Holidays To All!

How To Create Fast and Easy Cloth, Paper, and E-Printable Ornaments FREE E-Book by Linda Walsh

2008-11-24T06:34:00.008-05:00

I am very partial to handmade gifts, especially those that have been made by my family and friends. Given that I’m in the Grandmother phase of my life right now I’m especially partial to handmade gifts from my grandchildren. Whether it is a card or an ornament I love them and cherish them all. In fact, nothing pleases me more than receiving a handmade card or gift from my family and friends at the holidays.

With these economic times when money is scarce for so many people my thoughts turn to the different times in my life when money was scarce for me and the handmade gifts that I created and gave at the holidays.

If you are a reader of my Linda's Blog you know that I come from a family of crafters and that when I was growing up at the holidays we always had a Christmas crafting project to do.

One year it was a church scene created out of Styrofoam that my Dad and I created. My Dad painstakingly cut the Styrofoam to form a cone steeple and painstakingly cut the windows so they were a half circle at the top and had window panes. We added colored plastic to the inside of the windows and used a lighted angel inside the church so the colored glass would shine through. Then we added candle carolers, candle trees, and snowflake sprinkled felt for snow for the outside of the church. We used this scene as one of our Christmas displays until the foam finally fell apart. I loved that scene and especially loved working with my Dad on it.

Another year I decided to knit large stockings for everyone in the family. I knit their names in the top and each had their own special knit decoration on it. The stockings were knit with red, green, and white yarn and were about 24” long. We used those, too, until they finally fell apart.

Another year when I was in my twenties I decided to make all the gifts for my family and friends as money was tight that year. So, I decided to make handmade Christmas ornaments for my friends with their names embroidered on them and other handmade gifts for my family. Some members of my family got dolls (of course) and some got quilts, etc. My friends each got several ornaments of different types with their names on them. Some were trees, candy canes, snowmen, stockings, etc.

When my twin granddaughters were young they made their Grandfather and I handmade paper ornaments with their mother. They cut the ornaments out of construction paper and glued glitter all over the front of them. Then they added our names and their names to the back of the ornaments. A hole was created in the top of each and a piece of yarn was used as a hanger. They are some of my favorite ornaments and we still put them on our Christmas tree every year.

In fact, our Christmas tree is only decorated with handmade ornaments. You’ll find ornaments my grandchildren made or ones I've made over the years (and there are many of those) on our tree. Some are made of paper, some are cloth, and some are floral decorations I've made.

Others might be beaded ornaments my Mother and I made one year or wooden clothespin reindeer that I made 30+ years ago. I even have foam toy soldiers that I made from a kit over 35 years ago. Plus, I have wooden ornaments that I painted from a kit I bought close to 30 years ago.

You might also find beaded ornaments a friend of mine made, terracotta floral and terracotta cloth ornaments I made, porcelain Santa heads my sister made, a knitted wreath from my Grandmother, or a felt cardinal made by a friend that sits on a branch with an old fashion silver hair clip. There might be silver icicles or wooden dolls.

You just never know what you may find. What you can count on is that each and every ornament is remembered and loved and painstaking preserved so that we have it for the next holiday season.

So, I thought I would share some easy and fast cloth, paper, and E-Printable ornament ideas with you. Maybe they will entice you to make your own handmade ornaments this year that you’ll cherish and painstakingly preserve for years and years to come.

The same basic outline was used for most of the ornaments whether you are making them out of construction paper, coloring them on heavier stock paper, printing them out on heavy card stock for E-Printables, or making them out of cloth. They can be as easy to make as you want or some of the cloth ones can be more elaborate just by adding beads or other decorations. That, of course, is up to you. We’re providing instructions for the basics. The rest is up to you and your creativity.

Adult supervision is required if you are making these ornaments with young children as some of the ornaments require the use of scissors, Elmer’s glue, hot glue, small decorations, and needle & thread.

Our E-Book is broken down into 4 sections as follows:

Section #1—Instructions and Supplies Needed.

Section #2—BASIC SHAPES and DETAILS for construction paper cut-out ornaments or for coloring ornaments on heavier stock paper.

Section #3—COLORED E-PRINTABLES for creating e-printable ornaments on heavy card stock.

Section #4—E-PATTERN PIECES for felt cloth ornaments that you can decorate as elaborately or as simply as you want.

Please follow the instructions within each of the sections as to how to make the construction paper ornaments, colored ornaments on heavier stock paper, colored e-printables, and felt cloth ornaments.

I hope you enjoy our "How To Create Fast and Easy Cloth, Paper, and E-Printable Ornaments" FREE E-Book. Happy holidays.

Copyright © 2008 - All Rights Reserved - Written By Linda Walsh of Linda Walsh Originals, Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns and Linda's Blog. Linda is a doll maker and doll pattern designer. http://lindawalshoriginals.com

Katherine Ann Johnson Lees of Designs By Kat Blog

2008-11-11T06:21:00.008-05:00

I've always said that the arts and crafts community on the web is the best there is. There are artists and crafters who not only have enormous talent, but incomparable generosity.

It's not just because there are so many phenomenal artists and crafters doing business on the web. It's because all of these artists and crafters are so willing to share their time, knowledge, and enthusiasm with other artists and crafters. They are always willing to help where ever they can.

Everyday I see evidence of my motto: "What helps one of us helps all of us!" and this Sunday was no exception.

You see, one Sunday morning I woke up to a bunch of emails from a friend of mine, Katherine Ann Johnson Lees who is affectionately known as "Kat Lees" or "Kat."

If you don't know who "Kat" is - let me tell you. She is a wonderful and extraordinary women of enormous talent and generosity, who also happens to be a phenomenal doll artist and doll pattern creator.

Here's what Kat had to say about herself on the "About Me" section of her "Designs By Kat" blog:

A Jersey Shore Girl transplanted to Florida 3 years ago. I started making dolls in 1979 due to not being able to buy a cabbage patch doll for my daughter...took a class and the rest is history. I am married to (TOM) Macgyver for 38 yrs...the man can fix anything.......two children, married and two grandchildren. One dog who owns me I do believe, Devon he is 15 yrs old....old fellow.

She's been a cloth doll artist for over 25 years and designs, teaches, and sells her handmade dolls on her Designs By Kat blog, her Kat's Holiday Shoppe blog, her Christmas Designs By Kat blog, and her Designs By Kat Etsy shoppe.

She also sells her CD's and e-patterns on Dollmakers Journey page. Here's what Kat had to say about herself in her profile on "Dollmaker's Journey" page:

Hello my name is Kathy Lees, nickname “Kat” born and raised Jersey girl. My dad was a Lobster fisherman, my mother worked for International Flavors and Fragrances. I have four brothers, myself being the oldest.

I am married to my best friend and husband affectionately called “Macgyver” by Annie Hesse, which has stuck. We have two children and two grandchildren.

Ever since I could hold a pencil I was always drawing cartoons from the newspaper.

My background is in retail, promotion, and design. I have had many careers, Bee Fashion, Home Interiors consultant, Real Estate Secretary, worked for the Virginia Downtown Development Association, promoting the downtown. Have fought the blue law in Virginia and went lobbying to the general assembly, this was very interesting. I have painted murals, furniture and do Interior Design work to this day. Worked for the Natural Bridge Wax Museum, owned and ran Mountain View Bed & Breakfast for six years.

My doll making career began in 1979 when I could not buy a cabbage patch doll, so I took a local class. I wrote a post to Doll Crafter Magazine pen pal section looking for doll makers and the famous, Gloria “MIMI” Winer answered my post. Gloria being the wonderful person she is invited me to her home for three days. Little did I know then that I was going to test her Universal Doll Pattern. I really do believe Gloria made most of it. She is the most generous person I have ever met and I might add a fantastic hostess. I learned a lot of major lessons that weekend that are still with me to this day. Learn more about Gloria J.Winer at: http://www.mimidolls.com she truly is an asset to the doll world.

Over the years to follow I have won several ribbons and awards. I teach hands on and online classes. I design my own line of patterns. I even was lucky enough to be part of Historic Dolls our doll club in Maryland took to the White House. I created a doll of Mrs. Laura Bush herself. What a wonderful experience that was for 6 of us. My dolls have appeared in Contemporary Doll, Soft Dolls and Doll United Magazine.

I currently live in Florida and belong to the “STITCHIN SISTERS” doll club in New Port Richey. I will continue to support the doll world, take as many classes to expand my knowledge base and perfect my craft. I love what I am doing and cannot exist unless I am creating and designing.

Kat's dolls can range from the smallest to life size renditions. Kat is such an amazing artist that she has been commissioned several times to create portrait dolls for some of her customers.

She is both an artist and an illustrator with whimsical creativity beyond measure. Her dolls bring immense pleasure and smiles to the faces of everyone who sees them.

But, she is also an interior designer and this is very evident in the pictures of her home, especially the pictures with the holiday decorations. Kat the bed and breakfast that she ran at the holidays to be every little girls dream. She created a wondrous environment for her family, friends and guests to enjoy and when you see the pictures of her decorations you can't help but feel her enthusiasm.

You see, Kat LOVES Christmas and the holidays and loves to create Santa's, Elves, whimsical creatures, etc. But, she also LOVES to inspire others to create. To try different avenues, different styles, different mediums.

Her greatest joy is to watch her students as they realize their own hidden talents and watch the wonder in their eyes as they create some of her doll creations.

To share her LOVE of creating and LOVE for life is a gift that Kat bestows on everyone she encounters whether they are students in her home, students taking her online classes, or students who buy her CD's and E-Patterns.

It is also a gift that she shares with her friends and which I, on Sunday morning, was the recipient of.

My numerous Sunday morning emails from Kat were filled with her "Sherrie - The Poinsettia Elf" e-pattern, her "Connie - The Doll Maker Elf" e-pattern, her "Fiona Blue" decorative pillow e-pattern, and one of her wonderful tutorials on "Creating Faces With Chalk."

I, to say the least, was astonished. Kat had sent them to me "just because" and I was not only utterly surprised, but speechless.

Kat's e-patterns and tutorials are filled with hundreds of step by step pictures and instructions for creating her amazing dolls. And, her tutorial is filled with step by step pictures, instructions, and worksheets for learning how to create and paint faces with chalk.

I could not believe how much time and effort went into to producing each and everyone of Kat's e-patterns and tutorials. To say they are worth every penny of their cost is an understatement.

Kat is an extraordinary artist and doll maker. Her creations can literally take your breath away. To learn from Kat is to learn from a master of her craft. And, Kat is certainly a master doll maker with a gift for making everyone feel like they can be a master doll maker, too.

The sidebars of Kat's Kat's Designs By Kat blog, her Kat's Holiday Shoppe blog, and her Christmas Designs By Kat blog are filled with her tips and tricks.

I hope you get a chance to visit Kat's Designs By Kat blog, her Kat's Holiday Shoppe blog, her Christmas Designs By Kat blog, and her Designs By Kat Etsy shoppe.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Tina Wishart of Teeweewonders

2008-10-24T06:03:00.001-04:00

Like so many of us Tina Wishart has been crafting forever and comes from a crafting family. She was taught to knit at an early age by one of her parents. Now you might think it was her Mum. Well, you would be wrong. It was her Dad. And, I have to say "he taught her well."

Now - how do I know that? Well, all you have to do is look at some of Tina's beautiful knitted creations to know that she is an amazing knitter and crocheter. Then isn't anything she can't knit and she makes the most adorable baby clothes you'd ever want to see.

Add to that the fact that most of Tina's exceptional creations are done freehand.

Now - what do I mean by that? Well, she doesn't use a pattern. She just starts knitting or crocheting and makes it up as she goes along. For anyone who has ever tried knitting, it's hard enough to learn with a pattern. It takes an amazing skill, creativity and imagination to be able to create it as you go along. The ability to visualize the finished color and pattern is a skill all unto itself. Suffice to say, Tina, is very talented and gifted.

I just love the little baby sets with the tiny sweater, booties, and caps. I always wanted to knit a set myself, but knitting and crocheting was just not my thing. Well, it is Tina's and her blog is filled with pictures of her wonderful creations, all the details on her knitting projects, ufo's, other crafting projects, and all her wonderful photographs.

If you love to knit and crochet, especially knitting and crocheting baby clothes, then you will love Tina's Teeweewonders blog.

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

I was blessed at birth with two amazingly creative grandmothers. One was a women’s tailor and the other knitted for a factory. My mum has an amazing creative talent – as does my sister and for as long as I can remember, I have been crafting; in some shape or other. I have always “made things”, such as kitting out my dolls house with furniture made from matchboxes and lampshades made from flowerheads. I made myself a piano out of a cardboard box, when I was probably around 7. I pretended it could really play and absolutely loved it!

2) What was your very first creation?

When I was five, my dad taught me how to knit. My mum donated some mauve/purple yarn and a pair of knitting needles and I was away. I was hoping I might be able to knit a scarf, but my grandfather kept asking me whether it was a pair of UNDERPANTS for him! Gosh – I was so mad.

3) What types of items do you create?

I knit a load of baby clothes, but also socks, gloves, hats, shawls, scarves – and at the moment even a jumper for ME!

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My first creation, which incidentally was turned into a pair of shorts for my teddy...

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

A jersey I decided to knit for myself, without any real knowledge of how to read a pattern... It turned out gorgeously, by the way.

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

I have been planning to learn how to do tatting since around 1980, but somehow I've never gotten around to it. It’s not the most useful craft, but it is so beautiful and I loved my grandmothers tatting results so much.

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

I can’t really say there is. I think there’s a craft for everyone and even if I’m not mad keen on the particular craft, it obviously gives the crafter a lot of pleasure and that’s good enough for me.

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

My blog is called teeweewonders and the URL is: http://teeweewonders.blogspot.com.

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

I started my crafting blog in 2006, but didn't really get started on it properly until January 2007. I've always kept details of my knitting and I found that blogging was a great way of keeping a record, whilst also sharing it with other bloggers.

10) What do you blog about?

I have two blogs. In my Danish language blog I blog about everything and sunder but on my teeweewonders blog I primarily blog about crafting and share a few of my thousands of photographs.

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

On my blog and in my crafting there are no rules. I love to knit freehand and feel no way about mixing and matching patterns as I see fit. I love your comments and try to reply to them as quickly as possible, however, every now and again my offline life gets in the way of my blogging. I allow this, as I want my blog to be fun for me as well as for you.

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

Teeweewonders: at http://.teeweewonders.blogspot.com
Tina – omme i London: at http://twishart.blogspot.com

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

That they’re very welcome to visit and comment as much and as often as they like. I guarantee a smoke free zone on both of my blogs.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Lisa Plummer of Groggy Froggy

2008-10-21T06:03:00.002-04:00

Sometimes you run across artists and crafters whose work truly represents their essence. It reflects who they are and where they have come from. Their own growth and their spirituality.

Lisa Plummer is such an artist and crafter. She is an extremely spiritual person and all of her art and creations represent her spirituality. Whether it's her abstract paintings, her altered art or mixed media collages, her stitcheries, her painted baby shoes (which I just love) or her spirit dolls you can find her heart and soul within her creation.

Lisa has perfected her collage skill to an all time art form. There isn't anything that Lisa can't turn into some kind of a collage. Everything and anything is fair game and you never know what might be next. But, the results are always spectacular works of art.

I hope you enjoy Lisa's interview and get a chance to visit her Groggy Froggy blog and her Groggy Froggy Etsy shop.

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

I must have been about 5 when I had a little booth where I sold paper plates with painted macaroni glued to it. I remember loving the television show ZOOM and Mom would find me ransacking her kitchen drawers for things to trace around because I saw them doing it on the show.

2) What was your very first creation?

I remember my older brother, Allen, showing me how to make a special Christmas decoration using styrofoam cups cut in half and glued to cardboard (for bells). He let me help him make it for our mom.

3) What types of items do you create?

I enjoy a lot of different crafts. In the past, I've made and sold a number of spirit dolls. More recently I find myself obsessed with embroidery. I love to make primitive stitcheries, especially in the colder months. They're just so cozy and cute!

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My favorite creation thus far has to be my "Belief is Key" doll. She was inspired by one of my favorite artists, Shiloh Sophia McCloud, and I got to do so many fun things with her. I hand-painted the muslin fabric, painted her little clay face, did lots of beading and embroidery on her and got to use one of my keys, which was a fleamarket find that I was saving for the perfect project. I liked her so much I took her off the market and selfishly have her hanging on the wall over my work desk.

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

My most difficult creation is pretty much anything that requires a pattern. I am trying to discipline myself to follow crochet patterns and have been thrilled to complete a wearable hat and a recognizable dish cloth. Just last night I made a bath mitt that would fit an NFL player. Tonight I will try to do it correctly so that it fits the person I'm making it for.

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

Felting looks like such fun! I would love to try both needle felting and felting things I've crocheted.

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

I can't think of any that I dislike. If it's beyond my skill, then I just enjoy looking at what others have made. I love just about anything handmade.

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

Groggy Froggy at www.groggyfroggy.blogspot.com

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

I started Groggy Froggy in April 2006. I created it because I joined a cross-stitch SAL and wanted to document my progress. It's been really interesting to look back over the past couple of years at the changes that have taken place in my crafting and in my life in general.

10) What do you blog about?

I blog about things I've made and about my life.

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

That I truly appreciate the time they take to read my blog and comment on my creations. Everyone is so supportive.

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

I don't have a website but my things can be purchased at
my etsy shop. www.groggyfroggy.etsy.com

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

I recently sold most of my dolls so I'm restocking the shop slowly but surely. I will be putting in more and more embroidered and/or prim things.

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Janet Popish of "I'm going crazy; you come, too" Blog

2008-10-20T06:28:00.008-04:00

If you've been a reader of my "I Love Crafts & Craft Blogs" blog for awhile then you know that I just love and admire artists and crafters who can create the most beautiful crazy quilts and crazy quilt items that you'd ever want to see.

If you don't know what crazy quilting is let me explain. Crazy Quilting is when you sew a quilt or other item together using pieces that are not cut to any specific size and then sewn together in no particular pattern. The pieces may be embroidered or decorated with scraps of lace, silk, velvet, etc. The more intricate the embroidery - the better!

Now you might think that throwing something together and then stitching it in no apparent pattern is simple. You would be wrong! You see, it is anything but simple and is an art form all unto itself.

It requires creativity, an eye for color and design, originality, creative embroidery skill, and the ability to envision the finished piece before the first tiny piece is laid. It requires someone of enormous talent and Janet Popish is such an artist and crafter.

Janet doesn't only make crazy quilts. She likes to make something different using the crazy quilt technique. Whether it's a tray, a refurbished box, framed crazy quilt pictures, even a vest for a bear Janet finds a way to incorporate crazy quilting into unique pieces.

I hope you get a chance to visit Janet's "I'm going crazy; you come, too" blog.

Here's her interview:

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

Less than 6; my mom saved one of the troll doll shirts I made at that age. It is pink gingham with a button sewn on in the middle.

2) What was your very first creation?

I don't remember. I've been drawing forever and sewing almost that long.

3) What types of items do you create?

Right now I'm really into crazy quilting, but not necessarily making quilts. I like to do small CQed pieces into purses, teddy bear vests, box tops, Christmas stockings, framed pieces, etc. One of my daughters once asked, "Mom is there anything you can't crazy quilt?"

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My crazy quilted color wheel wall hanging. It's one of my most recently finished projects and I put so much of myself into it.

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

I did a quilt (on commission) using Grateful Dead t-shirt designs. There were about 20 that the customer wanted to use, and I combined them into a 16 block quilt. The designs were all different sizes, and had to be sashed to make them into blocks of the same size. Math is not my strong suit, so I figured and refigured a lot and finally asked my mechanical-minded husband to help with that part of it.

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

I would love to learn more 3 dimensional embroidery techniques, like stump work. I recently took a class in Brazilian dimensional embroidery, which I love, but it felt very foreign to work with the rayon threads and do stitches (that I could do in my sleep with cotton) in the opposite way.

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

I'm not "crazy" about traditional quilting. I occasionally do a traditional quilt as a wedding present or for a baby gift, but I usually do it in the craziest way possible. I can't follow a quilt pattern to save my life, so I will often start with a center panel of focus fabric and build borders around it until it's the size I want, then sandwich it, tie it, and bind it. I prefer hand work to machine work when possible, and most of my CQing is done entirely by hand.

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

"I'm going crazy; you come, too"

This is from a movie, where a woman says to her husband regarding redecorating their home, "If you don't let me gut out this house and make it my own, I will go crazy and I WILL TAKE YOU WITH ME!"

http://gocrazywithme.blogspot.com

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

I started blogging in May of 2007 in order to have a place to show my work to other CQers that I've met online through CQ groups.

10) What do you blog about?

Most CQing, but I throw in the occasional family picture, or landscape photo, or book review, or just an idea I might be pondering.

One of my most recent posts is about a beautiful spider that is living in the flowerbed outside my front door. I like to keep my readers guessing.

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

That most of what I make is pure imagination. I rarely use a pattern (counted cross stitch being the exception). Patterns are overrated. There's a quote by Scott Adams that I really believe in: "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep."