HopHopJingleBoo

New Christmas Pieces on Etsy

2011-12-13T10:53:00.004-05:00

I have been slow these past few weeks getting things done.. Anyways, here's a group picture of a few new papier mache pieces posted on Etsy. Later in the week will post some vintage Christmas pictures for you and photos of my Christmas decorating ..This year I have a chocolate color Christmas tree and garland..

Ghoultide Gathering 2011

2011-11-09T13:33:00.000-05:00

I've Been Hacked on Facebook!

2011-11-07T21:11:00.003-05:00

Hello, had several nice people email today that they have received a weird message from me about 'being in London and wanting Money'!

Well, that was not from Me! I am very sorry if you received this message and now trying to find out what happened. It came from my Facebook ,which I rarely go on..but now I cannot login ..I have reported the problem..so you are fore warned to ignore this message..

Black Cats and Dolls

2011-10-25T00:43:00.047-04:00

I love this old paper plate graphics..

I have a few of the vintage John Martin child magazines and the covers really are eye catching

A vintage child's costume seen on eBay.

A unusual Christmas kitty postcard and a cute vintage photo

Black cats were definitely a popular icon at the turn of the century as have dozens of advertising's of black cats on so many products, its quite amazing

I didn't take out all my Halloween this year as my husband decided we have to replace all the windows in the house and install a sliding glass door in the kitchen, because in the spring we will be putting in a new deck and sunny room.. so I will be taking stuff down when they come to do all the installations and that will be a job in itself!

Anyways, have my tree and vintage paper plates up and a few things here and there..just started on a couple of custom orders yesterday, so will be focused on them the next few days, then it will be time to start doing Christmas stuff and maybe a few turkeys and pies for Thanksgiving...

I wasn't going to take out my Kewpie but then... well she's so darn cute I did it anyways..

I won this fabulous piece of crepe paper on eBay last week .. it is so cool the colors are bright and rich.. and now what to do with it?!

For awhile now I have been buying leather doll shoes on eBay for all my antique dolls and this lady does a wonderful job..

Here is a close up of the big dolls face a AM 1894 my favorite doll head..second favorite is Kestner 154 a cute dolly face.
Love the big eyes big brows and fat cheeks.

Here is another new old doll, a baby.. I don't have very many babies mainly girls.. I buy fixer uppers as like to clean them and do all the fussy stuff.. its just something I like to do and affordable to do.

Both of these babies needed their bodies repaired and new mohair wigs and to reset their glass eyes.. and here is a little head waiting for a body I reset her eyes and made her new teeth, original wig.

This witch mask is too toxic to wear so hung it on a plate.. thats it till next time have a great fal

Gary Jules - Mad World

2011-10-10T06:03:00.000-04:00

Around The House and Treats

2011-10-09T16:12:00.035-04:00

Fighting a bad bug here something I brought home from my trip..was in my head now my chest ..yuck.. so think I'll stir up a old witche's stew.. I hate to cook when I'm sick..and besides who wants to eat something a sick person made...ick.. not me!! A pie I made and sort sums up how I feel today..

Door decoration in the kitchen,a painted jol on a old cake pan and a cat face on a pie pan and faux garland from Hobby Lobby.

Well ,when I got my new issue of Celebrate 365 http://www.365celebrate.com/

I had to buy the cat face print!

A sweet vintage kitty card for you..and my sweet old fatty Rufus in his basket..

Do you see a resemblance? That's Scott Smith's kitty and crow nodders..and yes, I keep moving things around on the shelf..

Now a little Show and Tell..

Kristen's wonderful wonderful ornaments, I call them art ornaments as they really are a small piece of art..[pssst..Kristen if your reading this.. I need 2 piemans, a whole pie head and a slice]..and she does best packaging
just too pretty to open .. but I did!

Vergie was my neighbor at the show and I finally was able to buy one of her kitties!

He's so forlorn looking , he needs a hug..

One of my most favorites..Jerry and Darla Arnold's batting ornaments..A must was this black bunny, he will be out year round and think he needs a sister!

Had to add to my veggie collection 2 tiny 'veggies and their buggie's and a handsome garlic.. I ordered a few other pieces so will be a delight to see them soon! Bought a pretty box just for Arnold ornaments..

The Acorn head by William is so cute and a nice go with Mr. Garlic..think he got a whiff of garlic..
and Turnip head was a wonderful treat from William ..Thanks much!!!

My son-in-law liked the 'Bone Babies' so the Baby Skelly's new home,is hanging on my tree!

and had to get these cute pumpkin heads and loved his 'big versions' tonight is Williams' blog sale so check it out ! http://www.williambezek.blogspot.com/ Debbie was across from me and I wanted everything! but limited myself to this skelly on a pumpkin!

Well, was going to take more pictures.. but my camera battery died and left my charger at my daughter's house.. so had to buy a new one, should be here in a few days... till then here are few pictures around the house as late getting my decorations out. Retro Rudolph postcards framed, a French chalkware rabbit, old plastic pumpkin light, Pat Murphy's felted kittycat..

and in the kitchen window is a trio of slab glass Owls , I put lights in them and they look so neat when it's dark...

On top of the fridge along with the chocolate Rabbits I added Owls and candles..

Under a lamp is a collection of old and new pieces , I made the collage ornament that hangs on the light.

Most of my Celluloid Dolls are rather tiny, but this trio will be dressed up in some vintage crepe paper. They all had holes in their feet so... hmm.. had a idea.. put dowels in blocks and slide them on ..now they stand on a good base to display..

This poor girl a Kestner, has been waiting to get her Halloween costume and a new wig, so will pull out the sewing machine before Halloween and get it done..maybe..

In the bedroom I keep all my vintage Papier mache and composition Dolls and small bisques..I literally have Dolls hanging on the walls ..which is really a nice way to display the long gowns.

This girl in her original paint and brown glass eyes [and really cute molded shoes] has a replacement brown human hair wig and long christening gown, wearing a 'Calamity Kim' hat for Halloween. The moon face hat is on another papier mache doll that I accidently bleeped off the page.. sorry she's a cutie.. another time will show her..

A big 25''Chalkware Kewpie type I repainted.

Another corner in the house with some Halloween touches..

Finally one of my latest addisions to my Doll family.. got 3 others but need to be cleaned up before they get a picture.. this poor girl also needs arms.. I added a replacement mohair wig ,when I was a toddler this was my hair color.. really!

Here was a special order done a couple weeks ago for Robert Brawley, 'Halloween Fanatic'.
Decided to do in Paper Clay rather than Papier Mache.

Twinkles his dog.. I was happy with the results and think he was too..was the first piece to be painted in the new line of acrylic paints I bought, Golden acrylics, they come in a jar, nice rich colors and bought them here http://www.dickblick.com/ ..
This is a peek at some of the work that I didn't finish in time for the Show..plus I have another table with a pile of Dolls, guess those will be winter projects.. Ha!

Think alot of these big pieces will be saved for next year's Show..

I did up alot of Fairy Folk and veggies will post them on my Etsy when they are done..that's all for now..gotta go get me a cup hot tea and watch some Netflix and be a veggie..

Ghoultide Gathering Part 2

2011-10-06T23:36:00.067-04:00

I want to Say 'Thank you 'to all the 'Devoted Customers' who endured the Fall weather..and was glad to met old and new and have a face to the name of those who I met online! 'Much Thanks' and a hug to our hard working Stephanie and Scott and all their helpers for a great Show!
A special thanks to my daughter Simone [the pretty lady in the gypsy skirt ] for who I could not do a show without! Hugs and kisses!

Took me forever to load this posting, don't know if it's the amount of pictures or my computer..but it dragged.. anyways, I will just say' sorry to all the Artist' I missed either their tables weren't set up and /or some of my photos were crap... so choose not to post, and didn't even get out to the tents! Just not enough time.. anyways, enjoy the pictures and you can get the links to all the Artist at the 'Ghoultide Gathering' website: http://www.ghoultidegathering.com/

Bad news is caught myself a nasty head cold, so we ended up coming home earlier than planned..so didn't get to spend any time with the grandkids or do any shopping ...but I managed to grab a few pieces for myself at the Show.. and will 'show n tell' in another posting.. plus even had a few boxes waiting for me when we got home..

Ghoultide Gathering Part 1

2011-10-05T14:38:00.024-04:00

Table set up before the show..

Bat ear French bulldog.. did a few different variations on the Frenchies..

Hello, heres a look at my table before the show..

I will do the 'Ghoultide Gathering' in 2 posts, as alot of pictures to share so come back tomorrow for pictures of several other artist tables at the show ..I did not get everyone, as was busy and had to make a dash here and there before the show plus some where late setting up ....[notice empty table..]

My big Gourd head container..

I will have items for sale on 'etsy'... posted this evening> 'Oct. 5th' and will add more 'new' items on 'Oct. 10th' as did not get everything painted for the show..

My cute 'Candy Boy' and a batty 'Witch in black and white'.
Many pieces were mounted on old wooden play blocks then painted over.

My colors are more rich this year went to a new line of paints and very happy with, so did the painted hats on several pieces inpired by the old Beistle art work..

Goth Fairy Queen and a Raven with a pumpkin.

A pretty face Devil..and a knobby face winking Witch...

A favorite piece my grinning corn/onion head man and tiny squash blossom baby..

A new design I did 4 variations on a 'Spider cone' ,can be a 'treetopper' or just a table top figurine .

' Wild Ride'
is a vampire kitty and 2 tiny veggies...

Bunny piece was called 'Bad Carrot'
and was another favorite piece.

Made a couple of Pumpkin Pie Slices and 'pouty pie' was a favorite.

A grouping of some favorite pieces, Goth Moon Girl, Skelly Boy,
Pretty Face Devil, and Miss Oct. she has a glass eye from a old doll head.

This was my most favorite piece 'Batty Girl 'and the 'Goth Sisters' in back was my daughter's favorite.

A Tableful of Paper Clay ..

2011-09-08T17:11:00.012-04:00

Well ,here is where I have been spending my days..the Ball Chair was a B gift from my daughter and has been working out fine..

Getting quite addicted to working in paper clay and alot less work than my usual papier mache.

Meow!!! This kitty will be going to 'Ghoultide Gathering' which is creeping up quick.. so lots of more work to do..

Queen of the spiders.. As items dry and get painted I will post some pieces on 'Etsy 'everything else will go to 'Ghoultide Gathering'..

Got 2 of these old German paper mask on ebay.. but didn't win the cat..boohoo.

Some of my dolls are getting in the Halloween mood ..

Here are 3 new dolls won on ebay and Ruby Lane.

Love this Kestner bought the head on ebay a Kestner 154 and the marked Kestner body on Ruby Lane she now has a lovely long mohair blonde wig..anyways that it here..

Feeling Better and Working

2011-08-02T15:33:00.009-04:00

Been awhile since I was here but feeling better and bought myself a Breville juicer [after viewing the film "FAT SICK andNEARLY DEAD'] and been on the Reboot Juicing...doing ok just never do 'green beans and limes'..awful and made me sick ..literally! Should have some Halloween pieces ready by end of August.

Happy Birthday to Me..

2011-06-09T18:32:00.010-04:00

Haven't been here for awhile ..taking time off from everything .. dealing with health issues..but will be back..

The best thing about Birthdays ..Cake!!

Under the Weather..

2011-04-12T13:55:00.019-04:00

Been under the weather lately, so have not been working or doing much of anything else.. but finally went to the Chiropractor today.. so hope to be working again soon!

Two bisque babies under glass...dressed them up in pretty crepe paper..

Here's a peek at a couple of 'Doll projects' left on hold till I start feeling better.. a very grubby chalk Kewpie... I left the face dirty to show you how easy a bit of scrubbing can do... this Kewpie is a flesh colored chalk and had read somewhere that sometimes kids would break these carnival dolls up and use the chalk to draw with and it does work ... I used the arm on a chalkboard.

This is a sweet German papier mache doll head and had a rat ball of a wig, or I thought it was a wig?! I washed and soaked the wig which actually turned the water black with tiny bugs floating about and other nasties..but after several rinses lots of gentle combing and turned out to be a pretty blond human hair wig!

With pretty blue glass eyes and long hair combed and cut her some new bangs,her head all painted and antiqued she is ready for a body and to be dressed. Finished she will stand about 30''tall, almost the size of a real child and I do have some antique clothing to fit her.She also has nicely detailed plaster arms and legs. Her straw body is long gone..

Those emtpy wine bottles sure come in handy!

Cleaned and patched with paper clay,just had to sand smooth ,prime and paint!

Also worked on the cute Flapper chalkware dolly..

Bunnies and Chicks

2011-03-28T19:20:00.013-04:00

Finished up some of my Easter pieces for Etsy and will post for Sale on Friday.. still working on several custom orders that should be done by end of the month... so here is a peek at some' Chicks and Bunnies' and other critters..

Did a crepe paper ornament with a old photo of me and my bunny.. I remember those neat shoes, red leather with double straps.. I liked wearing them even though they were too tight.. Advertising thread, 2 colorful paper dolls that look pretty with the red transferware..

Old and new Easter things...

Received in the mail, a few Mummy wrapped dolls and old bits to fix up..

Dolly Dingles for Easter..

Early Easter from Bethany

2011-03-01T15:23:00.034-05:00

Received a treat a week ago was my '2011 Easter pieces from Bethany Lowe Design Co.' and was very happy with the collection! {I receive 2 pieces of each design they make from my originals].

This is my most favorite piece of all! The did a great job..the Original and the Reproduction, she has the gold tag on ankle.

Here are a few other pieces made by the Bethany Lowe Co. The bunny with egg is another of my most favorites [these are my keepers!.. but you can buy at http://www.bayberrycove.com/ ]

While digging around my workroom I found some reproduction ceramic heads I had bought a few years ago.. so played around and did some painting, while waiting on my papier mache to cure.. I did a crackle with a dark brown antique finish.. think it might be too dark.. but still not bad, I will be selling all 3 dolls on Etsy next month so if interested contact me..also will have Easter and Spring things for Sale March 11th and the 18th.. so
I need to get back to work!

Will be doing her up for St. Patty in a green print..

This Bonnet head was just glazed in a tan paint..and happy with results she will be dressed for July 4th..

Had 2 heads of this plump girl and dummy me!! I dropped the red head on the basement floor! Here is the blonde but not happy with the antique medium was too dark and gave her a healthy tan, which she is not suppose to have should be rather pale , but guess its ok!

Another view of that cute bunny! He's now in 'my keeper collection'... ha!

My tin plates and a very old French plaster rabbit that I restored and has glass eyes.

Faux Chocolate rabbits and vintage brown transferware..
View from the kitchen window over the sink.. faux spring flowers in various iron stoneware and a real growing night blooming jasmine..poor thing just not enough light to keep her happy..

Been working upstairs lately rather than in my basement workroom..[too cold and lonely].. needed some cheering up.. so after receiveing my Easter package.. Dang! I just had to do up a Easter Tree!

In less than a hour I was ready to decorate.. a gold tinsel tree and a few glass ornaments, some old and new Bunnies from my stash to go with my Bethany Lowe pieces and ..tah dah! My Happy Easter table.. so now have something cheery to look up at while I sit at the table.. but will keep tweeking the look til Easter!

The Big Bunny and Chick are really neat and add a nice balance to the display..

Bethany Lowe took my bunny,chick and duck, shrunk them and did up these delightful cupcake ornaments!

Added another old papier mache doll head to my collection, she is almost mint condition.. too bad her body was missing.. gathered a few vintage German doll heads that will end up as bunny girls.. my ceramic head is on the end see how dark she came out from the stain..

Time to start playing with my favorite scissors and do up a few Easter paper ornaments!
The card in picture is not fringed that was just gathered I hand sew 2- 3 yards of crepe paper for each ornament.

A perfect and colorful vintage mechanical bunny card..

Sometime this month will do a St. Patty posting with alot of piggy postcards!

Two cuties in their caps!

Some silly dancing piggies around a scarey looking snow pig.. hmmm.. I love bacon..
sorry..

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T12:35:00.012-05:00

Cupcakes and love to all today! Sitting here waiting for the mailman ,have some packages for him to pick-up and hopefully he'll have some for me..[ebay..need I say more..]

Here are a few pieces I'll be adding to Etsy tonight..

A big package came on Sat. and yep.. another Doll.. she looks kinda chubby but she had on 5 petticoats and underneath.. a nice leather body just needs eyes and a wig and time to dress her..

Mushroom Valentines..I have a thing for mushrooms..

A colorful pretty kitty Valentine....

Thought this was a nice Valentine type picture.. a boy dressed in red with his loyal and loved doggie..

A cute honeycomb with a umbrella ..another one of those things I gotta a 'thing' for..

Dolls in the Mail

2011-02-08T18:56:00.023-05:00

Well here are more Valentines for you..

This heart Halloween postcard is perfect for all those crazy for Halloween!

A cute Dolly Dingle like card..

French Bulldog or Boxer?! Gotta love the big ruffle collar..

Checks and stripes..polka dots too..

Sewing themes in postcard art is always cute.. and I have 2 portable Singer sewing machines in the wood cases..but they weight a ton!

Pretty Snowy picture for Valentines..pretty in pink..

Got 2 packages in the mail yesterday and had to stop and play with this delightfully pretty doll.. Its rare to find a papier mache head in such nice condition! She has lovely spiral blue eyes, missing a arm, so have to find a replacement.. Will dress her in linen and a cut down vintage petticoat..

The chalkware Kewpie is in pretty good condition will freshen up her wig and bow and add glitter to the base.

Had a chunk of mint condition heavyweight gauze so hand stitched over her straw body and made new arms, combed out her mohair hair so she is ready to dress.. Notice my tiny new Janome sewing machine?! It weighs less than a couple of lbs. sews like a wiz, but the one bad thing.. no light.. bought on ebay brand new for $35.00 I can put the machine in a 12" basket along with a tin that I keep all the attachments in...cool huh?!

Being a Papier Mache artist I'm drawn to vintage Papier Mache Dolls.. they are such a fragile doll with cheaply made bodies, but with pretty faces and interesting footwear.. some are barefoot but many have colorful and unusual shoes and stockings.. and to have made it this long, always amazes me.. Waiting to be dressed and this girl needs a new wig..she had a Alice type hair style with a remnant of a black velvet ribbon tied in her bits of hair. Would love to have known the history of this doll.. now long forgotten.. but she survived..

A peek at Rabbit doll papier mache head...

Today added these 2 Valentines figures on Etsy, the last for this year, then will focus on St. Patty,Easter, and spring things..

Sewing Projects...

2011-02-07T01:08:00.025-05:00

My husband is such a sweetie pie..he bought these cupcakes in cups as a treat..since we have been watching the series "Cake Boss" on Netflix streaming.. [was craving some cake with buttercream frosting!]

I'm putting on my heart face.. My New Year's Resolutions was: 1. Set Fri., Sat. and Sunday aside as my 'Sew Days'. 2. Fix and Dress all my Dolls. 3. hmm.. exercise more.. ha! Say that one every year.. and every year I do less!

Took all this old fabric off and underneath was the original leather body, nice and clean.. but you can see her shoulder plate is broke off the back and she needs arms.Two more dolls came in the mail. This big girl and the poor little one that was all in pieces..[in picture above]. They just needs a good cleaning some minor repairs, mohair wigs and correct clothing...

Bought online, a new side table from Target..was a snap to assemble and fits perfect in the tiny space..but the poor UPS guy had to lug it up on the deck and it was a heavy box!

Also bought some nice milk crate baskets too..

My 'Mushroom Bunny' made by Bethany Lowe Co. makes a nice Valentine decoration.

Lori-Ann Corelis Black Bunny in a red wagon with hearts..

Chalkware lamp and bunny with a celluloid Valentine Doll and some paper Valentines on my new side table.

Paper Valentines, scanned on my printer.. hang from my glass display.

Valentines from the 20's-30's and 40's.

' Roly Polys' made with peachy pinky rayon fur, Laura Ashley fabric samples and wool scraps. The faces are 'vintage mint condition' pressed fabric,
and have 2 Kewpie composition heads and a monkey. Stuffed with 'Balsam and Lavender' for weight and polyester fluff.

These 'Roly Polys' should be ready next week and will be Sale on Etsy..

This is for my husband ,as he loves to go fishing ...

Two cute teddies

Valentine sweets.

Swinging Sweethearts.

Back and Feeling Fine

2011-02-01T15:43:00.010-05:00

Back from the land of the 'icky sicky' and slowly starting to work again! Lots of ideas for projects.. and will be sharing alot of my old Valentines with you..for your use... just hope I can stay focused!

Glad to be working the past couple of days... and well, here's a peek at a couple of Valentine pieces that will be for sale Etsy this Wed. and a few more pieces will be posted on Friday..

Painted clay 'Boy Cherub' and this 'Bunny' with a Valentine.

Mucha Winter print..

My grandma had a toaster like this.. love eating toast!

Finally feeling my old self again!! [been sick since Christmas ..ugh!!] Anyways, went back to work on Saturday.. have alot of stuff on the work bench to finish. So picking my way thru and adding new stuff too. Even made 2 new banners this morning for blog..I used the one with a picture of one of my dolls..

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T15:32:00.014-05:00

Say Good bye to 2010.. it was a good year for us, but not a great year...still we are thankful to be able to look forward to a new year.. and here are a few vintage postcards for your enjoyment ..

May All of you readers have a Happy NEW YEAR..

We are experiencing some WACKY WEATHER HERE, RAIN AND SNOW..

Time to think about my NEW YEAR resolutions.. will let you know tomorrow..

Have a Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T22:47:00.013-05:00

Today I baked my Mincemeat pie and got a few packages in the mail .. so will be busy cooking Christmas Dinner tomorrow ..

Some more views of our Christmas.. Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night!

Received a big box from Bethany Lowe Designs and very pleased with 'my 2011 Spring Samples'...here is a peek at one.. Mushroom Bunny , he's perfect for Christmas and Valentines..also had a mini swap with Vivian http://www.vivs-whimsy.blogspot.com/ and our theme was 'Deers'.. she made the sweetest little Deer ornament [needlefelted] and the darling deer in a dixie cup with tree, clock and candycane! Thanks much and hugs to you Vivian! I hope you'll enjoy your little deers from me!

Today I received this nice paper Christmas ornament bought on etsy that I will refurbish ..

A cute baby embossed scrap that looks like a Maud Humphrey..

Now the fun stuff! Bought thse cool Christmas Paper Dolls on 'etsy' from: http://www.rhondasoriginals.etsy.com/ her business name is "The Paper Seamstress" and she has all sorts of delightful Paper Dolls to buy! I downloaded and printed them on some vintage ledger paper from a 1920 book my mom had... and also made copies and instructions on plain paper and put in a binder to play with at a later date.. happy with results so far and hope to finish them tomorrow evening when I can relax and enjoy our quite Christmas and wait for the kids to call..

New Issue Celebrate 365 and Other Delights!

2010-12-15T14:55:00.020-05:00

Happy to annouce that the new issue of 'Celebrate365' has a sweet little scrapbook article of some of my Christmas Collectins for you to enjoy.. some of my original work and reproductions made by Bethany Lowe Designs, some antique and new collectibles all mix in a happy blend for the holiday! Thank you Connie ! The link to the site is on my sidebar..

A cute Santa baby..

Here is my Favorite Snowman Capt. Snowball, he is featured in the new issue of 'Celebrate365'
and will be for sale on etsy today..

Look what came in the mail today!!! A trio of Scott Smith Santas, a lantern, a candy container and a small figurine.. Absolutely love them!! I have a weakness for white Santas..

The Santa Lantern is in the glass cabinet for the moment to be safe till I get a tiny light for him..

The Candy container Santa has joined the family next to my Silver Bunny [got when I was 2] and Bethany Lowe tall tan Santa.
A close-up of the Cody Foster Gnome on Mushroom glass ornament.

A old roly poly Santa repainted by me ,notice his bunny?!

A lucky ebay win, this delightful small 10''German doll in her original outfit. She has blue glass eyes and a crude papier mache body...but she still is pretty to me..just needs some TLC..

Here she is standing with another Doll I received the other day [see previous posting]. She has been cleaned up, her hair cleaned and combed into a fat little braid with newly cut bangs and waiting for some arms and a new dress.

While I was looking at one of my favorite blogs [ www.deignersblock.blogspot.com . I looked at a German online catalog ' Impressionen' that she had posted about.. so did some Wishful Shopping.. saw these cool Angel Wing cookie cutters and yummy sweater .. too bad can't speak German, but can figure out a few of the words..

New Etsy Items Posted!

2010-12-14T14:19:00.006-05:00

I finally got all my Christmas items posted for Sale on http://www.etsy.com/ .. I forgot to post this Santa cone, if interested , special price >$40.00 and the cone is 10"tall. 'SOLD' THANK YOU!

Ena Andi-Orchestra di Piazza Vittorio

2010-12-13T17:16:00.000-05:00

Peeks for Etsy and Treats in the Mail!

2010-12-13T15:07:00.016-05:00

The 'Santa is Sold '.. a peek at some pieces that will go on Etsy Tuesday night..

A look 'Before' eveything gets it's Glitter and Collars and a dusting of Snow!

Young and Old Santa Freebies..

I've been good..well in my eyes.. ha! See what Santa brought me .. 2 of my favorite things! A Bottle of French perfume,' John Galliano', which smells divine!! [ take a look at his fabulous gothy Victorian, in the making commercial on You Tube] A heady oriental infused with violets ..spritzed some on my wrists and can't stop sniffing.. lush stuff! One of my favorite high fashion designers and now with the House of Dior.[ which makes my all time Favorite perfume.. Poison.. this new perfume is a close second! ]

I'm a Lucky girl.. this 20" tall Doll was on ebay and could not resist! A German AM 370, a fixer upper with working brown sleep eyes ,original mohair wig, labeled leather jointed body but missing a arm, and has pretty underthings ..and a corset! Even in this state she is pretty..

So here's her 'before' picture will post her 'after' sometime next month!

More Christmas Peeks

2010-12-09T22:35:00.012-05:00

A table tree with birds, moons and owl ornaments plus black, copper,chocolate and gold ornaments ..Have to make a owl tree topper ..

Frames with fruit crate labels for the season.

Kitchen table with papier mache projects and sewing basket waiting patiently for its turn!

More pictures of stuff bought on ebay from http://www.sugarcampcottage.blogspot.com/ my new Nicol Sayre Angel and Glass Gnomes by Cody Foster.. they are delightful with a nice vintage patina.. also got a lovely pink glass goldfish.. but on a different tree.. next time..

A old 'French Souvenir Doll' still has tag on her arm ,but think china head is a replacement, but still like her. Gold paper Dresden wings and a pink cloth jointed body.

More old and new stuff on shelf.

Christmas Sparkle

2010-12-05T21:53:00.018-05:00

Here a sad little Snow Boy on Etsy and 'new banner' designed by Vintage Bella http://www.vintagebella.etsy.com/ she has some lovely graphics and trinkets too!

Finally pulling out my Christmas decorations.. not real motivated this year as will just be the 2 of us.. so eager to start on some Sewing projects that have been stewing in my head for some weeks now..well heres a peek of some of my Christmas trinkets.. more coming.. Bought this pretty Pink Santa repro on ebay from Debbie whose store is 'Sugar Camp Cottage ' and she has a nice selection of goodies and some great photos.. very pleased with him and also a nice little Nicol Sayre angel. debbie also has a blog.. please take a peek http://www.sugarcampcottage.blogspot.com/

Some of my art glass balls all polished up ..

A new Nicol Sayre repro and a homemade paper Santa tree topper.

Close-up of Shiny Brite ornaments and vintage glass coffee pot and beads.

I love table top trees..

A shy Snowboy designed by me and reproduced by Bethany Lowe.

Another of my trees in the kitchen, hanging with a collection of 'Old World Christmas Glass'.. one of my new ones is a 'Octopus on a blue ball'.

Santa in his Zepplin made by Bethany Lowe.

This year I hung snowflakes over the sink and a snow angel.. was a snowy day, perfect for decorating.. Sculpting a few Christmas Figures for etsy so will be posting them soon..

Thanksgiving Around the House

2010-11-20T17:57:00.021-05:00

A little mushroom man among the turkeys..made of paper clay on a wood spool.

My big paper turkey...

A couple of favorite Fall advertising labels..

A *Ikea frame with a fav old postcard..

A Turkey nodder made by Jerry Arnold, old glass teapot , pretty embossed postcard and Scott Smith Veggie lanterns..

Nicol Sayre dolls and tiny tin plates..

Turkeys and tins on my shelf and a honeycomb turkey on the fridge..

Tin plates and Turkey paper plate with matching napkin..a bunch of vintage Pumpkin labels on tins, old turkey postcards and turkeys.. Finally hung up my new print a John Gould Owl in a vintage gold frame..

Got a bunch of reproduction fruit crate labels on ebay so will change out with the seasons.

More turkeys, Lori Ann Coralis pumpkin baby,old Libby can and old ad framed..

Yes..even a few more turkeys! [ a couple of chicks in the crowd too] and even more are still in the cupborad along with turkey plates! Turkeys are popping up all over the house..

Well, been playing with dolls and baking.. even did some sewing on my new mini machine [ will chat later about that!] besides some serious working... Will have a few items posted after Thanksgiving on Etsy...that's all for now.. time to go watch a couple of movies tonight...

Dolls on My Worktable

2010-11-02T18:56:00.013-04:00

I like buying the 'basket case dolls'... mainly as gives me license to do what I want and the cost of the dolls are affordable.

These are cleaned up and eyes reset, I bought mohair wigs on eBay and all the dolls..

Now they are waiting to be dressed.. I have boxes of vintage trims, laces and fabrics to hopefully give them period looking dresses.

Will use this very old fragile cotton dress as a pattern to make a new dress..

This small girl is waiting for a wig I just tied on a swag of mohair for picture.

Etsy Sale & Halloween Peeks

2010-10-28T12:55:00.031-04:00

The past couple of days we have had some bad weather and lots of power outtages so was not able to get on the computer til today.. sooo... there is a 'Sale in my Etsy Store' now til Sunday.. then 'No Halloween' til next year.. now my' Thanksgiving and Christmas' projects begin..

Not sure what's up with my camera.. is it the camera or me?? but everything seems grainy and out of focus..

Jerry Arnold ornaments, Lori Rudolph teapot, and a original Cheswick Co. felt Kitty ornament!

My New Bethany Lowe Black feather tree, pictured during the day and at night with lights..

A peek of a corner shelf with Scott Smith pieces, Kerry Howard-Schmidt Felted Ghost,Nicol Sayre kitty and Paul Gordon lantern, with a couple of vintage paper plates.

A Beistle paper Witch and rabbits..

Lori Ann Corelis mohair Pumpkin Baby and a old composition baby.. some paper clay mushrooms I made and a peek of a one of my Bethany Lowe designs..

Old Chalkware Rabbits and a Wool Bunny with carrot I made copying a picture of a old rabbit toy, Shelia Bentley Green Witch, a pair of my Bethany Lowe Halloween kids.

Old papier mache doll with leather hands.

Old owl, and assorted Halloween books, paper plates, diecuts and cards stuffed in a small suitcase. I was just to lazy or too pooped to decorate this year..

Nicol Sayre Clay Dolls hanging on a old transferware plate.

My favorite wall with a few of my vintage Halloween paper plates.

Night blooming Jasmine in the kitchen..smells great..sort of a heavy dose of honey.. and my Bethany Lowe reproduction ghost.

We bought a new fridge last week.. so added my tin plates to side with magnets.

Close-up of my Favorite Chalkware doll [originally was a lamp] I repainted her and added that wonderful old black crepe paper collar. Someday I'll rewire her and make a lamp shade..but for now its party hats!
More Scott Smith pieces and very cool paper dresden bats!
A fat composition and cloth body Baby Kewpie in a real kid's Halloween costume.

Close-up of those cute Greg Guedel Pumpkin pair and a photo copy of a sweet pierrot girl printed on photo paper from 'French Kissed' a wonderful Etsy Store that sells vintage photo and postcard downloads. That pumpkin tin paper label is embossed with gold trim,it's really a lovely label..

Had to take another picture of Lori Rudolph 'Retro Rudolph' postcards with old German paper pulp Pumpkins giving them the eye! The neat mask on lamp is a Bethany Lowe paper piece.

Nancy Patek Witch Sign with my Owl Ornament piece designed for Bethany Lowe.

The Witch with pumpkins ,a older piece designed for Bethany Lowe and one of my favorites.
The Pumpkin Lantern with Cat is a Scott Smith design for Bethany Lowe, and this year I added a Battery operated changing color light and is really adds a neat effect..

Halloween decorations in the living room corner again.. I keep rearranging stuff.. but that's the fun of it..and yep, more Bethany Lowe stuff the big head girl and stacking boxes..

Close-up of shelf above TV..

The good, the the creepy and the pretty.. Happy Halloween!

Paper Lanterns

2010-10-18T12:11:00.039-04:00

What a perfect picture for Halloween of paper lanterns!

I love paper lanterns and was surprised that I had so many of them! So you are getting about half the images .. I hope you enjoy.. and maybe get yourself a few..

A John Wright Brownie with lantern.

Moon face lantern..

A very neat picture by Maxfield Parrish..

One of 2 framed framed old magazine covers in the bedroom..

My favorite faux Chinese Lanterns and my big paper lantern [ looks prettier when lit]

Pretty paper lantern..

Photo of the real Chinese lanterns in the garden,very easy to grow!

Botanical print of my favorite Chinese lantern.

Pretty lanterns in Japan .

My sister and her Ikea paper lamp..

Rubber stamp with lanterns and a cute postcard.

This is another Lantern print we have in the bedroom.

Old postcard and the above print in a sepia version.

This was new to me always knew them as Chinese Lanterns..hmmm..

The Beatles - Love Me Do

2010-10-09T17:46:00.000-04:00

The Beatles - 'You got to hide your love away' music video

2010-10-09T17:38:00.000-04:00

Imagine

2010-10-09T17:30:00.000-04:00

Etsy Store: Oct.9/10 Saturday & Sunday

2010-10-09T16:56:00.010-04:00

Boooo! Here's a peek at some of the pieces done in "PAPER CLAY" that I just listed in my Etsy Store today.. Will do some "PAPIER MACHE" also... I will add the rest Sunday morning before noon eastern central time. 'Oct. 23th will be the last day I will post Halloween items for Sale' this year...Then it's time to think Thanksgiving and Christmas...time sure flies by.. Have really enjoyed working in the paper clay..will try a few different brands and see which works best. I only made 2 Acorn Leaf girls and Vergie Lightfoot got one of them ! So honored that she liked my work! They were fun to make, already thinking of more autumn type dolls.. The tree was one of my favorites want to play more with that theme..

I like these 2 pieces especially the ghost with his mask..

Just look what came in the mail! A Fantastic Witch wall board by Mike and Nancy Patek of http://greatnorthwoodstrading.com/ I have several pieces made by them and they do amazing stuff with vintage images! Lots of character and texture..Scott Smith's fabulous Halloween glass ornament arrived safely... Forgot at the Show ..what a nice guy to remember..

Hello, been feeling crappy all the way home from Show and finally came down with a cold.. But gulping down juice, tea and water and will wait it out.. anyways.. will try to get my Halloween decorating done on Sunday.. chat then..time for a nap..

Home From Ghoultide!

2010-10-05T18:29:00.085-04:00

A cute shopper and her awesome Bat Bag.

A Debbie Hawkins felted ornament
and Witch's broom pencils from Pam Garcia along with booklets from the Show http://www.ghoultidegathering.com/

One of my favorite booths is 'Jerry and Darla Arnold' and their fabulous tiny batting figures! Wish I could buy them all!

The wonderful dolls of Nicol http://www.nicolsayre.com/ ... love the tiny dolls... hmm... Think I'm drawn to the smalls this year...

Paul Gordon always has such whimsical figures!

Shelia Bentley http://www.primdolly.blogspot.com/ has the most fantastic creations!
Wish I had been able to look at all of them more carefully!

Finally able to see the original works of Johanna Parker http://www.johannaparkerdesign.com/ and was not disappointed! They were perfectly showcased in this huge painted hutch!

William Bezek http://www.williambezek.blogspot.com/ is the 'King of Romantic Goth' [in my opinion!] Details in a vintage patina work so well ... Beautifully creepy...
Going to save up some cash for next year to buy something big!

Stephanie & Vaughn Rawson http://www.whimsicalwhittler.com/ had a table full of fun Halloween wood carved whimsies!

A new artist Maria Barton http://www.starrugcompany.com/ that had some wonderful hooked wool designs... the colors and textures were yummy... I just need a suitcase full of money! Wish that I could buy from everyone!!

Always a thrill to see Loris Ann Corelis critters http://www.lorianncorelis.com/ ... The squirrels were to die for!

A favorite artist and longtime pal Irene Gates [Sparrow Reed] and me in front of her truly fabulous art!

Now to Scott Smith http://www.rucusstudio.com/ and his amazing work... I'll take one of everything, please! So grateful that Scott and Stephanie Rawson had given 'us artist' this truly wonderful exclusive 'Halloween venue' to showcase our work, here in the midwest. Thank you!

A favorite, Popcorn monsters ... with those corn kernel teeth and the graphics on the box... just love 'em!

Here is a peek at the art of Laurie Hardin of Monkey-Cats Studio http://www.lauriehardenaccents.blogspot.com/ ... just love her color palette and painting style.

Pam Garcia http://www.softinthehead.com/ is a hoot! Her work has such fun details and joy in their faces... you just have a goodtime when looking at her table of characters!

The delightful Connie Porcher editor of 'Celebrate 365' magazine http://www.celebrate365.com/ and me.
Her magazine is a dazzling read and thrilled to be includes in its pages!
Her display at the show was fabulous also... I took alot of pictures at the Show in a mad rush as time allowed... but many were in a blur and could not use...sorry... but check the other artist blogs for a tour of the Show... and actually forgot to take a picture of my own booth!

Allen Cunningham http://allenwcunningham.blogspot.com/was in the room over from me and his meticulous work truly is a walk back in time... All his faces are so tranquil and pretty... Yes, want them all!

Doesn't Allen look cute in his costume?!

Another artist with a more modern twist to her work is Kristen Beason http://www.kristenbeasondesigns.blogspot.com/ and everything is perfection even down to the packaging...Love, love, love her ornaments!! They could hang on the wall year round and one look and they seem to be telling a story!

Carolee Clark http://www.kingofmicestudios.blogspot.com/ has Halloween flair with the brush! Her themes and rich colors make it so hard to pick from!

Debbie Hawkins http://www.he-be-je-bes.blogspot.com/ does the most awesome felted Halloween figures and of coarse love them all!

A very textural artist 'Vergie Lightfoot' has a whimsical and dark sense that is so appealing
..Her cats and pumpkins are what
fantasy is come to life...

It was a honor to be next to Pat Murphy http://www.murphybears.com/ as have admired her work for a longtime and really love her new felted tiny critters... but..There is something about those mohair bears to hug and hold ... brings out the maternal thingy in me... and I have a goal to get me one of those bears!

The only picture I took of my booth and it was to get a shot of the fabulous Witch hat on one of the Shoppers! You can see my daughter in the corner working hard handling all the sales... and 2 mysterious hands... [reminds me of the old Soupy Sales Show...]

Another shot of the 2 lovely hatted shoppers ... the green hat had a huge spider!

Now to show off the little bit of shopping I did at the show... wish I could of done more!! A Wonderful Pumpkin head ornament by Debbie Hawkins..

A fabulous Green Cat Lantern made by Vergie Lightfoot and a Old Treeman Lantern by Scott Smith

How awesome is this and notice the wee insect detail and graveled dirt... love the nose and came in a neat orange bag..

Bought the first ornament that caught my eye! A wonderfully wrinkled Witch head from Shelia Bentley!

Had to do another picture... Her sculpting is amazing such personality each character has!

' Tiny Stars' by Allen Cunningham and a tiny 'Pouty Pumpkin' by William Bezek.

How perfect are these?! Not only are the ornaments fabulous but her package is a Treat!

These fragile delights made by Jerry & Darla Arnold are a thrill to behold and feel so lucky to have! Was also honored and amazed that they remembered that I had asked about a Rabbit last year and made up this wonderful spotted Halloween Hare !

Had to have this tiny Witch and her Veggie companion in flight! The clip on Candle with real wax drippings in a vintage clip ,a Blue faced Woodland Fairy and the spotted hare..hmmm.. Think I need that other fairy holding a caterpiller!

My purchases are proped up against vintage Transferware bought at a estate sale the day before the Show and the pretty Sunflower Swag and cast metal ornament hanger are from Hobby Lobby. Went to see the 3-D Owl movie with my daughter and the kids and found this pretty glass Owl ornament, flocked Deer and beaded Acorn at Hobby Lobby.
I get to shop at Hobby Lobby http://www.hobbylobby.com/ maybe twice a year so...

I actually gasped when I saw this Fancy Goldfish ornament! I'm crazy for fancy goldfish and have never found a realistic one til now and being orange will go on the Halloween tree!

Got 2 Black wire baskets and the mercury glass Squirrel and plastic glittered leaves... so pretty.

Found these interesting textured balls in the Christmas aisle but look great for the Halloween tree ..all cobwebby and knobby.. Did some shopping at Target http://www.target.com/ and got some plates and cups in the John Derian Collection... love the huge tray is quite heavy duty ..

Glad to be home and will start my Halloween decorating this week will post a tour on Sunday ... you can come then!

A peek at a mini Halloween party for the grandkids when we go down to the Show... Bought all our Halloween Snacks ,Ghost chips, Skeleton Cheese Bones, cider etc. from World Market http://www.worldmarket.com/ crafts and decor from Joanne's and Target. We have a little luncheon when they come home from school and a they get a plateful of crafts to do... and hopefully good memories for them and is just a treat to do!

Decorated Daughter's mantle thanks to Target!

Halloween themed toys for the kids!

When we got home had a load of packages stuffed in the mail box! Here are a few of the goodies..
This cute felted little Ghost and his jol made by Kerry Howard-Schmidt http://www.etsy.com/shop/papermoongallery

This neat magazine cover will go into this frame... a Vintage paper pulp embossed German Witch... winnings from ebay. These lovely collaged faux books with holders made by Lisa
[ disappointed she did not sign them] also from ebay.

That's all for now.. still not unpacked yet....Will post stuff for Sale on Etsy 'Oct. 9th and 10th' Saturday/ Sunday A few Great Halloween magazines to read..

Treats in the Mailbox and Count Down to Ghoultide!

2010-09-27T12:33:00.023-04:00

I received my issue of 'Celebrate 365' http://www.celebrate365.com/ and what a Fabulous issue! Love Scott's art work on the cover and there is even a few of my originals and reproduction pieces made by Bethany Lowe in the magazine ! I enjoyed oogling all the fab photos and reading from cover to cover!

Only a few days away now and we are packed and ready to go.. Will get to see the grandkids and family before the show.. My daughter will be helping me with the Show [she'll be in the bright orange apron!].. she always does a great job and love to chat ... http://www.ghoultidegathering.com/

Here's a close-up of 2 of my favorite new pieces done in 'Paper Clay' rather than my usual 'Papier Mache' and happy with the results!

I have more 'Show and Tell ' of Halloween goodies bought online.. but will do when I get back home! Plus, I will probably find more good stuff down state.. then can start my Halloween decorating.. I have been sooo behind this year in all things..usually have everything up by now..

A neat Bat pin I bought on Etsy from : http://www.ravenofskys.etsy.com/
came in a a nice little black bag and with a card and box.

Finally was fast enough this time to buy something from Lori Rudolph http://www.retrorudolphs.blogspot.com/ .. bought the' Trio of Halloween Teapots' on http://www.spookytimejingles.com/ the perfect ornaments for my Halloween tree and also got these amazing graphic postcards that I will frame
.. Her art work is fabulous.. love the colors !! Thanks Lori!

Bought these double matted frames at Ikea last year.. hmmmm .. Think I need more..
the Halloween Show is only a few minutes from Ikea.

My Etsy custom order from Germany came all carefully wrapped and lovely.. the colors and texture is 'oh so pretty'.. I will be wearing at the show! Felted flower necklaces and Poppy scarf [ but maybe not all at the same time!].
Made by http://www.etsy.com/shop/AVAoriginal AVA

Got some neat Halloween paper doilies and a few wonderful Halloween books for the grandkids [on Amazon.com]. The art work was just too awesome to pass up and just fun to read! Read them twice to myself.. aloud!

A peek at some of the new stuff for ' Ghoultide Gathering' ...

' Custom 'Moon Goth Dolls' made for Etsy and all 'Sold' .. now traveling to their new homes.. My work table is loaded with half done Halloween pieces.. just ran out of time.. so when back from the Show will post 'Oct.10th ' a bunch of Halloween items!

I'm sure all the artist are busy getting the last touches to their creations and excited about this coming Saturday I know I am! Well ,'Halloween & Vine' just went by wish I could have seen it and would have love shopping there too! Someday..

Views of Autumn on Our Deck

2010-09-25T16:32:00.019-04:00

Between working and getting ready for next week's 'Ghoultide Show' and finishing some orders.. I went to the mail box [more about what was in the mailbox in my next posting!] and noticed what a perfect day it was [been trapped in the basement!]. The lighting and colors outside were so pretty grabbed my camera.. The Virginia creeper vine is especially pretty this year and we had rain overnight, so the colors were rich and just made me thankful for this time of year..

My husband made the free style rusty 'Iron Kitty Cat and Happy Pumpkin' awhile back for me.. he's a sweetie and a pretty handy guy!

Visit the Trick or Treat Giveaway!

2010-09-16T23:14:00.004-04:00

Took the night off from working and relaxing in from of the computer.. catching up with all my favorite blogs ..and to my surprise there is a fabulous 'Giveaway' on these 3 blogs ' Retro Rudolph' > http://www.retrorudolphs.blogspot.com/ 'Happy Holidays'http://www.happyholidays-blog.blogspot.com/ > 'Sweet B Folk Art> http://www.sweetbfolkart.blogspot.com/. They have created some fabulous critters to dazzle you for the Halloween Season ..but you gotta visit them and leave a comment..Good Luck!

Esty Store

2010-09-06T17:34:00.003-04:00

Whew! Late! but caught up ..so here is a peek of what's on my etsy... a few more items will be added thru out the week as they get done.. we had a power outage and lost a days work.. but catching up the count down to 'Ghoultide' begins... well back to work...

Down Time

2010-09-04T00:01:00.004-04:00

Was a blastery dark rain day here.. power was out for 7 hours .. just came back on at 10:45 pm! this .. didn't get much work down as no light and water ...but will have a few items ready for Esty on Saturday and more on Monday..well working late tonight ..bye for now.. it's back to the workshop..

Etsy Treat and Working!

2010-08-30T13:28:00.008-04:00

Bought this cute little stacked pumpkins on Etsy.. Going to add to a necklace chain.. She has some really sweet little pieces .. 'Indigo Twin' .. http://www.etsy.com/shop/indigotwin

Paper Clay gang really to start painting this evening..

Papier Mache in different stages....

Been awhile since I was here been busy getting ready for upcoming Halloween Show 'Ghoultide Gathering' Oct. 2 ... Besides working in Papier Mache been playing with a couple of pkgs. of Paper Clay and dyed some mohair for some Halloween mixed media critters..had alot of emails requesting Halloween and I promise to have New items added to my Etsy Store> Sat. Sept. 4th!

Published..Dang!

2010-08-11T13:44:00.018-04:00

I got published in the Fall issue of 'Studios' magazine! Thank you 'Cloth Paper Scissors' and Scott Smith! A lucky bunch of 'Ghoultide Gathering' artists give a peek at their workspaces...'William Bezek, Johanna Parker, Shelia Bentley, Vergie Lightfoot, Ed Pribyl, Scott Smith and me'! [See my side bar for ordering magazine and links to the other artist.] Plus a special article about the delightful 'Lori Ann Coralis', her studio and perfectly wonderful furry critters.. also 'Dani Nelson' Halloween collector and artist of 'Spook Times Jingles' . A lovely magazine with alot of inspiring reads.

OMG! Still amazed to be in a magazine..We did our own photos and happy with the results so here are a few more pictures that you won't find in the magazine!

A close-up of one of my Chalkware Kewpies, I restored and dressed for Halloween..That's Scott Smith's nodder Kitty and my Pumpkin guy on block along with vintage goodies.

Here's a larger view at the table , I can watch TV or listen to Pandora, keep a eye on dinner in the oven and Sculpt..hows that for multi tasking!? A view of the other side of the table where the cats relax and look out the window...soon to be sliding glass doors into a new screened in porch. On the table is my tub of mache and Halloween stuff for upcoming Show.

A close-up of a glass case on the wall with more Scott Smith pieces and old tins.

Vintage paper Halloween hat and my Cinnamon mohair bear I made years ago.. holding his new Black Bunny buddy made by Lori Ann Coralis.

My work counter in the basement loaded with Halloween projects.

The hanging Pumpkin heads are for Sale now on Etsy.

Dolls and Books load up my sewing counter and bins of fabric.. I'm not usually known for my sewing but do ocassionally make time to sew... My first pieces I ever sold were Teddy Bears at a Street Fair, made from a old 1915 German Pattern I bought at a rummage sale for 50 cents!
I still use that pattern in different forms for mixed media pieces.

The rabbit heads will be Easter projects for next year.

I actually have 2 rooms in the basement..The big room is where I do all my painting, drying and storage. Hanging from the ceiling is all my plastic pumpkin buckets and a couple of kitties and skellys, old and new.

Painting counter and that ever needed storage of supplies!

Well, that's my little tour of my workspace and many of the pictured pieces will be for Sale at 'Ghoultide Gathering' Oct.2, in Northville Mich. and in my Etsy store next month ... now its back to work for me..

New Stuff on Etsy!

2010-07-24T16:52:00.007-04:00

Sorry, Veggie Boy and Star Girl are SOLD! [These are my favorites pieces in this batch !] Thank you! I will take some time off next week for family .. so will post more stuff on Esty end of August!

Been a hectic week here as working on new projects and getting the house ready for our daughter and family coming to visit.. anyways, managed to finish a few more items to sell on Etsy here's a peek..

New Stuff on Etsy

2010-07-20T15:16:00.004-04:00

Just added some Halloween items to my Etsy store more coming on Saturday. Been busy getting ready for my only show of the year ''Ghoultide Gathering'' www.ghoultidegathering.com ..well it's back to the basement..

Halloween Peek on Etsy

2010-07-09T23:15:00.007-04:00

Just a peek here more pieces will be posted on Saturday evening!

Well, finally working here.. catching up on projects put aside because of the heat..[sinus headaches!] so finally cooling off and making Halloween! Been buying supplies so will have lots of Halloween in August-Sept.

Happy Fourth!

2010-07-04T16:45:00.006-04:00

Plants in the Mail

2010-06-25T00:50:00.012-04:00

Here's a free image for you to use.. it was for cigarettes but got rid of the script and now just a pretty patriotic gal with a broom! Have fun..

Was a Sunny day and loving those wonderful grasses, 'Firecracker and Fiber Optic' the names really fit these plants.'

Well such a wimp ,needed a umbrella for rain the past week and now to hide from the bright sun!
But sure makes the garden grow!

With sunshine the solar fountains are doing their job.. had butterflies but no birds..and the sound wonderful..

Today received a nice package while I was arranging pots on the deck ..Last week I had a bug to get a Night scented Jasmine so looked online and found a wonderful site from Florida 'Gardino Rareflora Nursery'.. please take a peep they have some really neat plants! http://rareflora.com/ and was intrigued by all their variety and the huge list of Hoya plants! Had a Hoya plant years ago but never bloomed and grew slow..but after seeing the wonderful pictures of the blooms ,well had to try again... Extremely happy with the healthy and robust pots I received and packed up so nicely.. wrapped in paper cones and paper shreds on the top of soil to keep them tidy.Thank you Gardino will give them a good home!

While I did alittle research on these plants was amazed about the intense interest some people have for these Hoya plants, the flowers look like wax stars and some smell like chocolate , or sweet and even a couple are suppose to smell like peanut butter!

Patriotic Dolls for Etsy

2010-06-23T17:53:00.011-04:00

Well here she is all done and for sale on Etsy..

Her red collar matches her red stripes perfectly! The crepe paper is vintage 60 year old stuff bought awhile back on ebay..I have been holding onto it for ages saving for a Christmas project but .....

I am pretty happy with the results was going to do her all in pastels but glad I didn't..
this is much better..[see previous post for 'before' picture]

The back view... Vampy painted eyes, red cupid kisser and black spit curls..

Some old doll projects I finally finished

Happy with their faces simple and sweet... Both of these girls are for Sale on Etsy.

Rainy Day Projects

2010-06-22T12:06:00.015-04:00

Hiding in the house today doing projects in the basement..

Rain, rain...well ,able to focus on those papier mache projects and not my 'Flowers'!

My Chalkware Projects so far.. can't decide if I should just antique or do a fine crackle finish on them... Then will decorate with glitter on 4th July Girl's base and hat..

Patching with paperclay, sanding and sealing with gesso...the doll in pink is actually paper pulp[like the egg cartoons] and is fragile. Stuffed tissue paper up inside from the bottom to add alittle more stability. She had paper decal eyes..
I have also seen this mold done in plaster as a lamp. But always with a sloppy paint job.. they were Carnival Prizes or Souvenirs in 20's-30's and maybe even the 40's..

Always looking for basket case Kewpies in composition, or chalkware [plaster]
..Have about 14 dolls now..keep adding to the group...

These 2 are almost done.Will repaint the boy, didn't like his face[especially the nose] added too much hair... was playing around but looks best simple and toned down. Bases will be covered in glitter.

Found this half done Doll in my workroom, a papier mache shoulderhead and cloth body... she's about 18" tall. Really don't like her the papier mache was quite coarse but hate to toss out as like her body and eyes..so will force myself to finish her!

A mohair Patriotic Critter..I don't know if he will be a bear, rabbit or goat! [the goat will have tiny horns and a little beard]. Size:15" tall.

A bisque head reproduction doll I started awhile back. Her bow is brass and will have a Striped pleated skirt,paper hat and flag. She is 15''tall.

Rain Rain, Need a Umbrella!?

2010-06-17T20:40:00.023-04:00

Normally, I love rainy days... but eager to see my 'solar fountains' working and my containers are getting rather water logged... anyways here are a variety of Umbrella pictures, postcards and photos... have alot more but will save for another rain day... Enjoy..

[Not my fountain, a stock picture found online.]

More Garden Stuff and Remembering Mom

2010-06-13T14:14:00.021-04:00

I did some close-ups of some of the garden statues yesterday.. playing with the zoom lense on camera.

This statue had some old paint brushed on it and well a 'Green Angel'' ick..I will get another can of the brown texture paint and do it like my Garden Fairy..

Here's a old cement rabbit, he hides near the 'Annabelle Hydrangea' by the greenhouse.

A lone purple 'Lupine' in the garden..

One of my favorite plants is 'Ladies Mantle' with raindrops, which grows next to a huge clump of white flowered 'Cranesbill,' looks ever prettier in fall when the Cranesbill's leaves turn orange /purple.

One of the Iron butterflies my husband made from a railroad nail.. still looking good!

The tiny ceramic bird was from Cindy [my Easter Basket Swap partner]..Fountain isn't running since the sun was hiding but it did come out for a sec and it works! Sounds nice too.

This fountain is a verigris metal bowl and can be changed to a low dish fountain or moved indoors with a plug-in adapter. This one is a large resin painted in a oiled bronze. Solar only.

Both of the Solar Fountains are made by the company ' Solar Smarts' .I did alot of searching and comparing online, then bought mine from ebay alot cheaper than anywhere else...Made the Sunflower mosaic years ago, it's a small wood ironing board used as a table.

Not happy with arrangement on deck will move stuff around and do pictures a month from now. I just potted up everything a few days ago..the vine you see is a 'Virginia Creeper' and has taken over the house and deck, so always cutting it back! [Does look very pretty in fall when all red and purple.] Started tucking in solar lights in pots etc. think will get some floating led lights for fountains and solar twinkle string lights to put on twig wreath..Grandkids will be here in July/August so will be fun for them!

Pots of red and yellow Tomatoes and red, green and orange Peppers..the only vegetable gardening will do this year. Here's a weary looking gardener in purple..kinda how I feel all the time lately..
That purple Clematis again..

Drinking coffee this morning on the deck and waiting for some sun..

A year ago today my mother passed away.. so been thinking alot about her.. where ever she might be.. She was a Finn and you better throw a pot of coffee on when she came to visit! [and have some good bakery to go with..] So here's to you Mom ...

Me and my Mom in Burlington Iowa..yep I still make that goofy face..When I was a kid we lived for awhile in Iowa in a huge house with my grandparents and aunt and uncles..it was fun..

Purple Flowers & Rainy Days

2010-06-12T12:57:00.016-04:00

A old paper scrap of a 'lady bird' for your creative use, notice her pretty pale Purple flowers?!

Some peeks of a few of my plants in the garden and on the deck. A whiskey barrel in the arbor loaded with Purple and Pink Cranesbill and soon to bloom, Yellow mini Daylillies.

Purple blooming in the garden.. I tried doing a close-up here of 'Blue False Indigo' Baptisia Australis and peeking under is varigated 'Snow on the Mountain' and Chives.

My new potted Clematis 'Will Goodwin' with big Purple Blue flowers..
and a basket of Purple Petunias sitting on a old metal tea cart that I decorated with glass mosaic .

This year's color palette is 'Purple, White and Maroon' and alittle Pink and Yellow throw in here and there. In the background are my old Pink Roses..delightfully scented so nice when sitting on the deck..

' Little Henry' Itea virginica Sprich.. A lovely shrub that turns bright Red in the fall.

A Lavender'Goodwin Creek' and 3 different fancy leaf Kales
in a vintage clay embossed pot..

A new plant to me and had to try.. 'Fiber Optic' a Grasslike plant, planted with a Purple flowered Thai Basil , and a mix of Rose and Maroon Calla Lilles 'Pillow Talk' in a small fat urn.
On a old wood bench I have a Rose Pink Astilbe and a pot of a deep Red zonal geranium, Red Sword Cordyline, Lime Green Nicotiana, and a Lime Green Sweet Potatoe vine with my pretty resin Garden Fairy, I spray her with a brown texture paint and happy with results..

Well, I received my Solar fountains yesterday..Yippee!! I set them up on the deck but no sun, rained so hard it filled the birdbaths/fountains! So when the sun comes out will do pictures.. now it's time to go in the basement and do some Papier Mache to pay for all this! Ha! ..

Shame on Me!

2010-06-11T14:46:00.014-04:00

Had a wonderful birthday..went out of town and did some plant shopping and a yummy lunch of sweet potatoe fries and a stacked corned beef on marbled rye ,a chocolate shake and carmel pecan cheesecake for dessert..No calories and no thoughts of diet.. was delish.. then totally forgot about the giveaway! Sorry, but here now... so these are the Winners!

Well made up some Cupcake dolls using copies of vintage girls, rayon ribbons, and lots of crepe paper and abit of glitter...[added 1 extra as late to get this done..] ok ladies and sir, email me with your mailing address and will send out before Friday along with some extra paper treats..

Winner no. 1 is > Len of http://www.happyholidays-blog.blogspot.com/

Winner No. 2 is > Sharon of http://www.myvintagestudio.blogspot.com/

Winner No. 3 is > Nancy of http://www.nancymalay.blogspot.com/

Winner No. 4 is > Vivian of http://www.vivs-whimsy.blogspot.com/

Me on my 7th Birthday..with all my favorites, a kitty to hug, a vanilla cake frosted with pink flowers, a pretty dress, Dr. Pepper in a fancy glass,
chocolate ice cream, anda Betsy McCall doll with outfits..

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-06-09T10:29:00.007-04:00

Thanks for all the sweet comments! Still working on the Giveaways..slow as usual..there will be 3 ... so will post them sometime today before midnight..I promise that they will be pretty!

Ahhhh.. a birthday wish.. just had to throw him in there...

Meow! gotta have my morning coffee...

Leave a comment on this post for the 'Birthday Paper Giveaway'.. there will be 3 Winners drawn.. Thanks!!

This Wednesday

2010-06-07T13:27:00.017-04:00

hello, going to have a "BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY' on Wednesday ,when you leave a comment on Wednesday posting will pick at end of the day at midnight the winner of a handmade gift as my thanks to you for visiting my silly blog...'

Ah.. the perfect cupcake... yum yum... found this on flickr...

Bought a 'Solar Fountain Birdbath' online this morning, as a gift to me and the birdies
...hope it's as pretty as the pictures and works as stated..

Also bought a couple of some Memory foam pillows for me and hubby..

Here's a bunch of silly facts about me with some pictures you may use for projects..
I love to buy and try new make up..

Owls are a favorite bird..

Love kitties and goldfish...and kitty and bunnies.....

Iam a serious coffee and tea drinker....and only with real cream!

My favorite thing about birthdays.. CAKE!

Well, Wednesday is my birthday... so been trying to think what to do?!? Should I stay home and bake or go buy a cake or cupcakes [definately buttercream frosting!] make a stir fry and watch movies and eat... or go on a bum with my DH and do some shopping... made up a batch of papier mache yesterday, so will be doing some sculpting today and tomorrow...will post on Wedsnesday morning..

Been Awhile

2010-06-02T12:05:00.014-04:00

Some peeks in the spring garden.. was gone when all my daffodils were in bloom but still plenty of other flowers are in bloom now in my garden to enjoy..

Alliums and Snowballs are starting to bloom..

My favorites are my primulas and old fashion bleeding hearts
..

This is a small alcove in front with pale and dark pinks, purples and yellows
and a nice mix of intersting leaf textures..the window with lace curtain is my studio in the basement...

A white crab apple..

Heirloom apple tree...

It's been awhile since I've posted anything.. been busy with spring cleaning and sewing since I have been back home.. plus our computer was acting screwy again!! My husband finally got around to fixing it... so painting the greenhouse and planting pots of veggies and flowers today... Saturday will start on some papier mache July 4th pieces ..so should be ready in a couple weeks for Etsy Sale..well had my coffee and got my bug spray on so ready to get to work..later..