Present by Design

healing hand painting

2012-03-08T09:47:00.000-08:00

I thought I would document a few of my paintings in progress.
I find it so interesting how they start in my mind
and how they change once the painting gets going.

First an idea of a hand that heals.
Yes, I traced my own hand onto an old dictionary page that defines heart words.
It is fascinating to read the dictionary... I know, weird.

select paper background and using a matte medium,
glue the paper and the hand down and let dry.

I wanted the background to glow with warmth, so why not orange wash of acrylic paint.

In the middle of the hand was a definition of a heart-cam.
What a perfect spot to draw a heart and leaves circling it.
Then each finger got what I would call little doodles of leaves, stars, circles.
I used watercolor pencils to draw/paint on my hand.


Once I had the hand colorized, it just floated. So I decided to use a organic free flowing border of leaves, which embraces the idea of healing and growing. All I have to do is add a bit of green to the leaves and a blue shadow below the hand for dimension.

This is my final painting.
I love seeing the progress of each painting.
It may take a few days to complete or months.

make the leap

2012-02-23T15:19:00.000-08:00


Creative soul sisters Lannette Ring, Celeste Shaw (owner of Chaps/Pink), Tracy Reddekopp and ME.

A few weeks ago I had a chance to meet two people in a class I am taking called, Hello Business Hello Soul, taught by the talented Kelly Rae Roberts and Beth Nichols. A wonderful class about growing your business with a different approach. As I was reading through the posts, someone asked if there was any people in Spokane. I instantly said YES! But then thought how hard it is for me to meet new people. I almost thought about not responding, my weekend was already busy. Something inside me said, "Make the leap"....

I can't tell you how much of love large letters like these!

I am so HAPPY I did.

One person flew all the way from Hawaii and the other right in my backyard of Colfax, WA. We spent part of the day at CHAPS, which is owned by a contributor to the class, Celeste Shaw....


words to live by

inspirational display at pink

We talked, cried, and laughed. We soaked in the creativeness of each other and the amazing store called PINK. We shared our personal stories of struggles and hopes. The bond is strong. It is amazing how small the world really is.. and how important it is to "make that leap", especially when your unsure. So next time you are faced with a opportunity that you hesitating about, why not make the leap. It might just surprise you!

book as a planter? yep.

2012-02-10T12:17:00.000-08:00

This is the coolest idea yet! My husband that loves all things that are books, made this literary planter. Well, he did the hard part.

Which is finding the perfect book. A Used, vintage, sadly discarded book.
Then you need to glue the three sides of the book pages together, using mod podge (a waterproof medium or plain white glue. A few coats will do, nothing fancy. If you C-clamp or a book press. Do press/dry it overnight.
After that is dry. Use a ruler and pencil to mark out your spot where the plants will go.
Use a sharp exacto knife and a metal straight edge and start the time consuming process of cutting the pages out of the middle. Once you get a few pages deep, it will get easier. You may go through a few blades...
Once you have the depth that you need. Use E6000 in a well ventilated area and smooth on the inside of the cut square. Let dry. You may want to do another coat, since this is your waterproofer.
A final coat of waterproof mod podge on the flat surface of the book, to prevent the paper from buckling when you mist the plants.
When dry you can move in!
The fun part, the part that I did...plant. I tossed a few pebbles in the bottom to help with drainage and then choose some tiny succulents. Decorated it will sea shells and rocks and a tiny clay mushroom.

Aren't you glad we give this sad abandoned book a new life?

brave little pomegranate

2012-01-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

the seeds of a pomegranate are so intensely beautiful... hard to capture.

Did you know that the pomegranate is a symbol of prosperity and ambition?

Of course the Greeks have a sorted past with the fruit...

from secret poison, death and fertility.

The pomegranate is still used as a house warming gift, a wish for abundance or compassion in the afterlife.

I feel a connection to the pomegranate. I am in the middle of a transition with the direction of my business. Making tough but exciting changes. It has been hard to share with even the closest of friends or family.

There is doubt if my new ideas will work or even make money. That doubt seeds itself into my head.

At the heart of the pomegranate is a seed and all around it is a glowing sweet juice. I want to be a brave little pomegranate and show the world of my ambition and abundance will follow.

snow day play

2012-01-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

a eclectic mix of candles make for a beautiful dinner by soft light

i love how the lights are perfect color spheres.

blizzard... the old "jiggle the camera" trick

electric tree. simply beautiful

Two days of snow days. No power. Lots & lots of heavy snow to shovel.

It is fun to just enjoy the moment.

I'm in love... part two

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

My hens-n-chicks and I are having fun finding just the perfect and quirky pot. Thrift stores, yard sales, your best friend can all be cheap and wonderful places to look. And remember the hunt is half the fun, the other half... planting of course.

I had to have this green planter, and the white one is so stunning.

Baby doll heads... either you love it or it completely creeps you out.

Sea glass looks so beautiful in the sun, especially after a little watering.

Simple. One of my favorites. Like a miniature zen rock garden.

I love how the ruby color pops... an complete accident that it's in a recycled wine bottle.

aha moment

2012-01-10T12:40:00.000-08:00

I've been sitting on a few things for the past year.

Percolating and mulling.

It amazes me that sometimes when I ask the universe huge questions...

she answers in mysterious ways. Mostly, the answer has been quietly staring at me, just waiting for me to notice.

I was reading an old copy of Oprah's magazine

and a few of her words in her closing page made me say

"Yes!"

"The wonders that we're capable of have nothing to do with the

measurement of mankind, the lists of what's in and what's out....

the real deal: Whose life did you touch?

Who did you love, and who loved you back?" -Oprah

making a vision board

2012-01-04T09:12:00.000-08:00

A vision board is a way of manifesting your dreams 

into reality. 

To bring focus to what you are seeking... sounds so new age.

But there is solid truth to doing this project.

I remember watching old movies where the cops plastered the wall with photos and string yarn between the connections.

I've always been fascinated by the visual beauty of such a wall.

You don't need a kit or anything special to make your own vision board. You need a base... something to put your ideas on (see below). This will be your visual journal. Put words, photos, colors... whatever calls or whispers to you.

These are clues to bringing your vision to life!

I found an old bulletin board, which works great to use thumbtacks and is portable. You could use foam or matte board, a pretty picture frame with cardboard inside, instead of the glass. A metal tray to use with magnets. Another inexpensive idea, a small shallow cardboard box. Trim off the flaps and hang it on the wall so you have a shadow box. You can even put your vision ideas on all the sides. What a great little shelf to put three-dimensional things that will inspire your vision into reality!

vision board

2011-12-22T11:45:00.000-08:00


My word for the year 2012 Clarity

The start of my vision board... a bit daunting.

I have decided to do a vision board. I also call it my deepest wishes.

The word I choose for 2012 is Clarity. Along with passion, confidence, focus, listen and open-mindedness, talking about my need for Clarity, sheesh!

Jen Louden sent me an email that resonated with my idea to do the vision board. She said choose a word that will be your goal, focus if you are starting a new project, career or just want more of what you are missing. The purpose of a vision or wish board is to put your hearts desires out in the open.

I have a dear friend that wants to start a NIA studio, but something is holding her back. She too is creating her own vision board. She will probably put photos of the idea studio from size, to lighting and music. Even the inviting scent that we entice you to exercise and energize your senses. Every detail and dream will go on her board.

My hope is that my dream will come true. (hers too!)

I'll keep posting the progress of my vision board.

I'm in love

2011-12-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

I've always been fond of helping things grow. I've fallen hard for hens and chicks. They are a succulent or more technically called, Sempervivum.

I have over ten varieties, which is just a drop in the hat.

Easy to grow and fun to find the perfect container.

Top photo shows recycled wine bottles, a sea shell and a slow moving snail.

My favorite is the old pipe which I paid all of $1.50 at a thrift store.

Found out later that is worth $15!

I try not to spend over .50 cents for a pot, unless it's really calls to me.

Unique ideas are jello molds and muffin or bread tins. A little baby cradle is a perfect resting spot for a tiny chick, complete with bits of blue robin egg shell.

Once you have found the perfect container or pot... time to accessorized.

My son loaned some hot wheel cars, in action of course.

Marbles, tiny birds, smooth drift wood or colorful pebbles.

Use cactus mix soil and don't over water. FUN!

creative retreat port townsend

2011-11-23T15:21:00.001-08:00

The second annual creative retreat was held in Port Townsend, Washington.

My creative sisters of JuPaCi (joyful • purpose • create)
spent a long weekend of bliss.

highlights

• long walks along the beach in search of the perfect stones
• soul searching talks over coffee or wine
• artwalk • savory meals •
a private encaustic lesson from the fabulous and talented Theresa Stirling

My favorite thing was that we set creative goals for ourselves.
Each of us are growing is such different ways. So beautiful!
We are each doing a vision board to see our goals come to life!

We are responsible and supportive to each other throughout the year.

This bond is so strong.

I LOVE THIS!

(next year Colorado)

pumpkin art

2011-10-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

I cannot take any credit for this work of art.

My lovely and talented friend Amy with

Backyard Harvest created this fun pumpkin.

She is also our (CSA) Community Supported Agriculture guru,

along with a small group of volunteers.

I had to know how to do this!

It is called pumpkin scarring or pumpkin writing. Magically huh?

You'll need a pumpkin that is small and green, about the size of a baseball and the skin is still tender. It must still be attached to the vine!
Get your Exacto knife or any other sharp knife and pierce the skin. Not super deep and just even cuts, enough to get the pumpkin to ooze.
Step back and watch it grow into a work of art!

s i m p l y a m a z i n g.

repurpose school desk

2011-09-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that I LOVE to repurpose EVERYTHING.

My husband found this old school desk at a yard sale for $3.

I doubted its potential.

Once we got it home the art of restoring it started.

I am sorry that I can't show you what it looked like before. But it was 6 inches taller and had that lovely fake wood grain laminate top.

Complete with gum, pencil marks, tape and my favorite pink glitter.

My dad took a blow torch and heated up the laminate and scrap it off, leaving behind a few nicks which I think adds to the history of our little school desk. But the most surprising was what was underneath. A beautiful maple wood that reminds me of an old door. Just a bit of sanding and natural stain, followed by a matte polyurethane finish.

I love that you can tuck books and magazines into the desk slots that still have the place for your pencil! Now if only the desk could talk.

seeing

2011-08-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gone through your day and

didn't remember where you had been, or how you got there?

Today, I went outside and took nine, photos at random. I was amazed by the beauty that is just outside my door, even the mundane garbage lid has an rustic loveliness. What was more surprising is that my photos had a general theme, circles.

I believe our subconscious is noticing these details but our conscious mind is so busy thinking about other things. Making quick decisions puts your intuition in charge. Thus, breaks through the conscious mind barrier, allowing you to see differently. Doing this exercise will help increase your awareness of your intuition and fuel your creativity.

Here is your challenge:

Take: 9, 15 or 100 photos at random.

Place: your backyard, park, city or inside your house.

Don't take time to compose or think, JUST DO IT!

to sell your artwork or not

2011-08-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

I remember when I sold my first painting. In the end I was not really sure I wanted to let it go. But did, with tears starting to well up. Perhaps it was happiness that someone truly wanted my work, mixed with the art was my little baby. I had invested many hours and yes,

it was a part of me.

This was a learning moment for me to understand what it was I was doing. Did I want to sell them, or just keep them? In the end, I am doing this to make a living. I want to share with the world my creative thoughts. But I am sure there maybe a few that I'll keep!

As an artist you need to come to this point on your own. Remember to always scan or photograph your original before you sell anything.

inspiration comes from where?

2011-08-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

The view from the roof top of Avissinia in Athens Greece.

Inspiration can come from the oddest places or things.

The key is to knowing and keeping your mind open.

As many of you know, I spent almost a month in Greece. (lucky, I know.) These photos are from our last day in Athens. It was hot and I ready for dinner. My husband had read about one of the best restaurants in Athens, with a view of the Acropolis. Cafe Avissinia. Hard to find but completely worth the effort, eat on the roof top, or inside with the raucous live accordion and sing-a-long.

This cafe is in the heart of the Monastiraki flea market. The walls are painted with many different colors and then paired with mismatched antiques and artwork. The menu is just as eclectic, and delicious.

Monastiraki flea market

Outside on the streets are these stores or in this case a wagon filled to the brim with goodies. To some this perhaps looks like a pile of junk.

To me it is heaven!

It is times like these that inspiration can bubble up. The colors, the combinations of odd things together, just lovely. Take note of these moments. Take a photo, jot in your art journal or scrap of paper what inspired you. So next time you have an artist block, you can look to your inspiration notes and.... be inspired!

Just look at the wonderful color of the bird and the clear shine from the beer glasses.

my process in creating a collage

2011-08-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

You asked,

"What is your process in putting together a collage?"

We'll the answer can vary. Let's try to walk through this cat piece.

First start with an idea, it can be general. sketch some ideas
Gather your materials - paper, canvas or birch board, paint, inks, brushes, glue, medium gel, pencils, kneaded eraser... your stuff!
I put the background on first. This piece used a page from an old dictionary. Use a gel medium to glue it all down. Dry.
Then lightly sketch with a pencil your basic form or idea.
rip and place the pieces on the dry background. No medium. Let it sit over night, and come back to it the next day or so. If you still like it - glue away! If not, keep moving things around or subtracting items until it feels right.
You are ready to add color. I work with watercolor pencils and acrylics and oil pastels, india ink. This part is personal. Some love colors, others chose to work in lighter, gentle colors. You decide the theme, but it should compliment your artwork.
Once everything is perfect or close to it! Sign it. Coat the piece with a waterproof protective medium.

This is the final piece.

why be an artist?

2011-07-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

There are times when I wonder why I am an artist. Then, there are times I can't see myself doing anything else. We all have a special gift to share with the world. The hard part is finding that gift or realizing that it may be right under our nose.

I've been reading books and listening to online speakers and this is the bottom line.

Do what makes you joyful.

easy right? We'll that is the point.

If we choose to do something that is hard, in my case, accounting. I would dread getting up in the morning. I do know what makes me joyful - creating things with my hands, painting, collage, jewelry, printmaking, crocheting. The next part is how do I make a career out of this? How do I hone in on one creative process? Or should I?

journaling moments

2011-06-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

Front: Ian's journal with a illustration of the ferry we took to Santorini. I love that his book in full of bits and pieces that it hangs out on the sides. Back: my journal. more details of "what" we did.

Ian gluing away in his journal. Inspirational painting in the house we rented.

I think one of the best way to remember a trip is to keep a journal. It is a wonderful way to look back and remember places and things you did. You don't need to be a writer or an artist to make a wonderful keepsake. Just collect business cards from restaurants, ticket stubs or a beautiful flower and glue away! Add a bits of details and you have a book that will be cherished.

journal kit

2011-06-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

When I travel, I love to take just a few things that help me write in my journal. I like to keep my journal kit small, that way I will actually take it and USE it. Here is a helpful list:

pencil, black and white ink pens
glue stick - to glue ticket stubs (foreign countries have the most beautiful ones), candy wrappers, just about anything goes
a few watercolor pencils. tip: a water bottle cap works great for dipping.
pencil sharpener
scissor would be helpful. but I don't bring them because of airline security. plus ripped edges add to the look
one great journal book, I love Global Art Handbook journals.
make sure it all fits into a small pencil box... this is key!

summer school

2011-06-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

work in progress

Ian working on his horizon piece.

I signed up to take a class by Claudine Hellmuth

called Composition for Collage. I LOVE her books and the way she teaches. I am hoping it will push me to create and get feedback from others. My light bulb moment was to include my six year son.

We have wonderful dinner conversation about

asymmetry, horizon or focal point.

Plus we get to work together. No matter what he does in life,

creativity will be an asset.

Find out about other great classes, even FREE ones at www.bigpictureclasses.com

having faith

2011-06-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

Just back from a month long adventure in Greece. It is wonderful to have the time to immerse myself in such an old culture. Beside the long history and beautiful landscape, I was touched by their faith. Everywhere I turned there were these small shrines, temples, churches to give thanks, to pray, to be reminded that there is a higher being. Even out in the middle of nowhere, you can see a small one-person church for the shepherds. I was told, that when one of the lamps in a shrine blows out, the next passerby will light the lamp.

Amazing.

As I was taking photos of all these different roadside shrines, the local people would walk by and give a prayer. For them, it was a way to share their burden and ease the weight upon their shoulders.

I thought that is would be a interesting idea to make my own shrine.

But with a twist. A artist shrine, a place to offer up my dreams and a place to admit my weakness. A place for reflection and pause.

miniature garden

2011-04-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

This is a follow up to building your own moss terrarium. I have looked EVERYWHERE to find the perfect, tiny creature or item to put into the small moss world. Most everything was so expensive. So I and my friend ended up making our own! Just buy some clay that you can bake that will harden. I inserted metal wire into the bottoms (before baking), so I can just stick them into the moss. They definitely make the tiny world perfect!

ideas: mushroom house, frogs, shovel, wagon, flowers, snails,

fence, bench, butterfly, duck....

wearing your heart on your... chicken?

2011-03-31T12:12:00.000-07:00

Where's my art #2?

I am not sure why I paint chickens. Perhaps it's their plump shape, the curious eyes or motherly instincts. Chickens make me chuckle. This painting was done with acrylics and ink. I used old dictionary papers and a chicken wire background collaged with a gel medium base. I do like working with a mix of tools. I wonder what will be next?

miniature world of green

2011-03-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

I've been longing to make a tiny world of my own. With an abundance of moss in my own backyard and a collections of terrarium ready containers, I dig in!

First scour the thrift stores, your cupboards for the perfect container.

It could even be a canning jar. A lid is needed to retain the moisture and keep your habitat green. I have a rock wall in my yard, that is covered with thick green moss, perfect for this enclosed garden. Do be careful not to harvest in protected areas.

first a layer of small stones,
gravel or sea glass - helps with drainage.
Garden charcoal - for helps to clean the
soil of pollutants, it also acts as a soil conditioner.
A layer of potting soil.
The fun part - add the moss, tiny plants
and small rocks or a quirky knick-knack.
water, mist sparingly and keep from direct sunlight.

Check out this great book if you want to get started yourself!

christmas in march?

2011-03-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

For most everyone else, Christmas is officially over.

Mine is just starting. I design greeting cards and my holiday

begins earlier then most, in March.

This is one I just finished, that I am in-love with.

I used the silver pipe cleaner for the snow hood.

It reminds me of the cards produced in the 30s-40s,

which had embellishments like this.

A small selection of places you can buy my cards.

Arts & Letters - Santa Monica CA

Abacus Gallery - Portland ME

Kung Lun - Kilauea HI

Francis-Orr-BH - Beverly Hills CA

Fortnum & Mason - UK

Moscow Food Coop - Moscow ID

I have more complete listing, if you need one close to home.

If you are interested in buying my cards wholesale,

please contact Constance Kay

throw me somethin’ mista!

2011-03-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

Just got back from New Orleans and had fun of catching some beads from the endless parades. The photo to the right are the new beads made in China. The ones on the left were given to me from my mother-in-law, which she got from her mother. They are vintage strands of glass Mardi Gras beads from Czechoslovakia. These beads were thrown from the Mardi Gras parade floats in New Orleans during the 20's/30's. The unique colors and shapes were typical Czech of beads of that era. What a keepsake!

old tools

2011-02-23T12:36:00.000-08:00

I got an old royal typewriter from my grandma's shed.

I love it. The clunk, the ink, the keys that stick,

the bell that reminds me the end is near. It is wonderful to use

and suprisingly hard to push the keys.

I think my finger muscles have atrophied.

I feel like I have my own little letterpress... using it to make cards.

sweet note

2011-02-15T11:15:00.000-08:00

This is my valentine from my son.

He is six and wrote it all by himself!

It's a treasure, just like him

teaching

2011-02-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

My six-year-old son has been asking me to teach him to sew.

SO, we had our first lesson. The project, "cat toys", which are basically felt scraps filled with catnip. Yes, there is stitch variation, but we had a blast making them. He learned valuable motor-skills,

and the reward of making something by hand.

As you can see by the pink cat toy, our kitties love them too.

Where's my art #2?

2011-01-13T12:56:00.000-08:00

This a new illustration that goes along with my line call my folk art girls.

The process: I do a few sketches in my idea book

and then finish it in Adobe Illustrator.

I am pleased that this illustration and the folk art girls will be proudly

displayed at the Atlanta Gift Show this weekend!

My representive, Constance Kay, will be showing them off.

If I only got to go where my art goes. Perhaps a little bit of me with each piece.

Where's my art #1? continued

2011-01-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

progress. 

My new favorite studio tool. Tissue paper.

On top of the bees wax I use oil pastels and use a wadded up piece of tissue and burnish the color. It makes it shine, very soothing technique. I also use the tissue to write or scribble on and then just use the hot bees wax to adhere it to the canvas. If you don't like it, just heat up the wax and remove the piece.

Not done yet, but close. What do you think?

Where's my art #1?

2011-01-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

Here is my first "where's my art?"

I started with a large canvas, 18x24.

A bold move!

It was quite liberating to get out a large paint brush and use broad swashes of color. I used a new trick. When the paint is wet, sprinkle at little table salt or sugar in the wet areas. The salt acts as a dryer and pulls the ink/paint to the granules. The salt makes these wonderful stars and streaks.
When the paint is dry, just wipe off the dried salt.

I cut circles out of recycled paper, which I have a ton. Tried to stay within my color palette of creams, whites, and tans. Then hand stitched them together.

I used the hot natural wax to "glue" the flower circles on the canvas. I picked up a cheap mini crock pot at a thirft store. Heated the wax and used a old brush and a mini iron. Do not use very heavy card stock, it doesn't stick to the canvas.

Not finished, but a great start, don't you think?

New Year!

2011-01-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

A resolution or a good motivator?

This year I will be working on a project that will be titled

"Where's my art?"

This year I have promised myself to find my art.

My passion, my niche, my.... art... me.

Rules to "Where's my art?"

1. Make art

2. Blog about my art

3. Sell art

Not too difficult, eh?

I hope you will follow me this year.

I would love to hear your feed back and words of encouragement.

cookie nostalgia

2010-12-24T14:19:00.000-08:00

I love old cookbooks! I find the photos and the descriptions -- keys to the past. They show a glimpse of a time during World War II, when there was rations, lard and special baking flour. The pages tell of times much slower, when families gathered and the food and the warmth of the oven was the glue that bound the family.

Every time I visit my gran, I pour through her books. Occasionally she gives me one to keep. The book above with the tomatoes was actually my great-grandma's.

The pages are stained from pickle brine and stiff from spills.

I absolutely love this link to my past.

This is my son, Ian and I making cookies for the first time with a cookie press.

I was intimated at first, but fell in love with the buttery crunch of the finished cookie.

little chicken

2010-12-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

i found these words in an old book.

lay and no play make jane a dull girl.

final chicken - cluck!

I tried the encaustic wax technique again. I think with a little more flair. I started with my own collage on canvas and then added the text and more color using oil pastels. Then used an old eraser to blend. I love the words: lay and no play makes jane a dull girl. Which came to me in the middle of the night. Progress, yes!

wax on

2010-11-23T11:11:00.000-08:00

As the snow blew horizontally and the road was beginning to drift shut. I thought how crazy to be out on a night like this. Only a real passion to create would get me out of my warm house. I got in my truck off I went to join a few friends and try a new medium.

I recently watched a video by Claudine Hellmuth, Beeswax Collage, a technique using beeswax combined with collage. Believe me I was smitten. This is my "first attempt at it.

No masterpiece but, fun... fun... fun!

inspiration in a doughnut?

2010-11-18T14:54:00.000-08:00

I had the chance to taste a dozen doughnuts from Voodoo Doughnuts of Portland, OR. Talk about sugar overload! The kinds, styles and tastes are completely original. Something so simple, turned into a destination and an experience. If you are ever in the area, stop by. YUM!

felt brooches

2010-11-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

brooch - an odd word for something beautiful to be adorned. When I started this selling my work to stores and galleries, I never once thought too much about displays. But a display is a huge part of how to show your work and ultimately to sell the piece. A gallery wanted me to design some sweet little felt flower brooches. It has been so fun to put them together. New felt, old wool sweaters and buttons make up these little gems. I realize that I needed to display them for the gallery. I took some 18 gauge wire and twisted it to make a swirl. Then wrapped the bottom with another piece of wire to secure the stems. I had a foam ball that I pushed the stems into, and wrapped it with, what else... felt. I had a this utensil holder which works perfect. You could also use a old canning jar or metal can or even a clay pot.

A closeup of one of my favorites, made out of heart shapes and felt balls.

Can't go wrong with circles!

sweet holiday ornaments

2010-10-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

I spent an afternoon making these little Christmas two-sided ornaments. It was so fun! I went to my box of scrap paper and gather bits of string, oh and dug out an old dictionary. The best part was to use an old typewriter from my gran. I was typing away and couldn't find a exclamation point. Crazy! Many old typewriters do not contain a separate key for the numeral 1 or the exclamation point, and some even older ones also lack the numeral zero. Typists who learned on these machines learned the habit of using the lowercase letter l for the digit 1, and the uppercase O for the zero. The exclamation point was a three-stroke combination of an apostrophe, a backspace, and a period. These characters were omitted to simplify design and reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs; they were chosen specifically because they were "redundant" and could be recreated using other keys. There you have it!

baked pumpkin

2010-10-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

This is the most beautiful time of year, when the colors are so vibrant. Every year I look forward to picking the perfect pumpkin, not for carving but the baking. This project is easy and a show stopper for any holiday party. The part I like the best, when it comes out of the oven looking like a glass - glazed pumpkin, oh, and of course scooping out the first steaming, cheesy bite. It's like a fondue! Serve with a crisp salad and cider.

The recipe came from Gourmet Magazine, make it this weekend!

Get the roast-pumpkin-with-cheese-fondue recipe!

sunflower painting

2010-09-22T13:14:00.000-07:00

Stage 1

I took photos during this sunflower painting. It is fun and very interesting to see what changed and what stayed the same.

Stage 2

After I had the under painting complete, I added some old pages from a discarded dictionary.

Stage 3

Then I added color on top of the old pages, blend it together. I'm not happy with the center. At this point my painting stalls.

Stage 4 - Complete

http://www.presentbydesign.com/products/soar-with-the-sky-sunflower

I ended up painting over the center words and making it more lively and added a darker blue background. I also added some red on the petals to make it glow! Taking something from my head and putting it on canvas is always a surprise... it's about the journey, right?!

Present By Design

2010-09-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

This is a little video I put together to see if I could. Not bad for my first. Check it out.

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

babyology loves our socks!

2010-09-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

Ba-by-o-logy (noun).

The place to find anything for children and parents that’s worth having, from the practical to the sublime and everything in between.

They love the high-end and the hip, whether from emerging designers, boutique brands or bigger names. Babyology firmly believes that you don’t have to spend a fortune to surround yourself and the little people in your life with fabulous design, which is why we like to highlight amazing but affordable designer finds from here and overseas.

They love our Fortune Tootsies in Australia!

bountiful harvest

2010-09-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

This time of year, my gathering instincts kick in, especially growing a garden in only three months out of the year. It seems everything is ready to harvest at the same time. I planted some colorful carrots and made seven quarts of Martha Stewart's Curried Carrot Soup. It is so easy, great to freeze, and did I mention yummy! You don't need a garden to make this, but it is rewarding to go from garden to table!

blooming

2010-08-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

These are a few blooms commissioned by my local Food Coop store. I recycled some sad silk flowers and took them apart, petal by petal. I then mixed up the flower petals and made some of my own out of paper, glued them together with Fabri-Tac (good stuff). Added some vintage buttons for the center of the flower. Attached a pin or hair clip to the back using thread, more glue and black felt to make it look finished. They are fun, large blossoms! Let's hope they love them too...

something blue something new

2010-08-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

I am not sure if you would call this a creative art project. But for a long time I've noticed my white towels getting a nice "yuck-off-white" color. Perhaps it's all the iron and minerals in our water. I tried the bleach method, but just could get them white again. I bought two packs of Rit dye, in which I kind of followed the directions - one pound of fabric to one pound of dye. I had probably 20-30+ of fabric. An experiment! Why not throw some rubber bands in a few place to have some fun. (See before pic for bands). After a few hours, the towels looks great, even a perfect match to my bathroom wall paint, LUCK! This project only cost me a few dollars for dye and I have "new" blue towels.

found gold

2010-07-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

We are still renovating our house and had to go into what I would call the "mystery" part of our house, to reposition the dryer vent. Thrilling, huh? It is a crawl space with a window and plants growing in it. I have always wanted to know what was in there. Besides finding old boards, curtain rods, one corn cob and scraps of old linoleum. I found a old paper from 1948 (built that year) in great condition and this old wash basin. I was so excited, clean it up and tried to figure out what to do with it. Most people would toss it, not me! But I envision a round painting/collage that I could mount into the middle of the basin. Perhaps the theme has to do with hand washing clothes. I am open to other ideas, anyone?

hens and chicks

2010-07-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

This summer we are adding a back porch to our house, and these sweet hens and chicks needed to be moved. I've been collecting odd cups and containers, who knows why... but then it hit me. Why not use them for a new home for the succulents. I had so many plants that I gave many away to a new home. I love the way they look in the funky cups. You could even use old muffin tins, bread pans, pie plates, etc. Tip: If you have a ceramic drill bit, make a small hole in the bottom for drainage. The hens and chicks don't need much but sun!

the creative mind

2010-07-09T16:20:00.000-07:00

Recently I received a challenge from my local food coop to create some hair / pin clips. This is my desk after about two hours. I looked up from the pin I was working on and saw such a lovely mess! I had to take a photo. The creative mind when revved up, is messy, out of control, or perhaps like a honey bee... on to the next beautiful flower, gathering and humming.

spools of history

2010-06-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

I have a large apple box full of wooden spools that my grandma gave me. The last issue of Ready Made challenged anyone to come up with a new use for wooden spools. I am working on something that could be considered yard art. When I get it done, and if it looks half way decent, I'll post a photo. For now I love looking at these spools that once carried brightly colored thread. I make believe the stories, quilts and a time long ago when these spools were a necessity of life.

Click on this photo to view the details...

creative retreat

2010-06-15T12:43:00.000-07:00

The first creative retreat was a success!

Two of my highly creative friends joined me at my

house to spend a long weekend of fun and art. Cindy came from Fort Collins, CO and Pam from Port Townsend, WA.

We gathered our art supplies and stared at our blank canvases. Inspiration struck after a cup of Mexican mocha and then a glass of wine.

Cindy and Pam went nuts over my ugly beads! A basket of treasures to be found. I love to share resources and supplies.

Riley, the only male left in the house and me. Let the fun begin!

Pam working on an idea of the Palouse... this idea changed to....

... an abstract African figure that is full of energy.

We had fun posing in all kinds of yoga positions.

Cindy created a soothing beautiful three panel painting that included metal wire with beads.

And I used collage and mixed media to create a woman reaching for the moon. I repainted her face, which is shown in the photo. Faces are HARD!

We took time out to sit and come up with a name for our little group, JuPaCi (jew-puca!)

Which means Joy - Passion - Create, also our initials, sneaky. We plan to meet every year at a different location. Perhaps we'll open it up to other creative friends. We discussed goals and each of us will help, inspire and push one another to achieve them.

We cooked wonderful meals and you can see here that we enjoyed a chocolately-marshmellowy smore... divine! Cindy taught us a butt kicking NIA class. Pam shared her cheese from her husbands business. We walked and talked and soaked up each others energy.

Lounge wear at it best!

The retreat so was wonderful. I wish to savor each moment, put in a magic bottle and open it when I need a little boost. Being creative can be hard and knowing, that I am not alone, in my quest for creating art. These strong women have made a difference in my life. Thanks from my soul!

Mrs. Robin

2010-06-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

Every spring we have Mr. and Mrs. Robin take residence in our red maple tree. Last year they moved out early. But this year Mrs. Robin is working hard in her nest. We patiently await the sounds of small chirps and tiny pieces of blue shell beneath the nest that tell us we have fledglings. It's quite remarkable that she weathers the constant rain, random squirrels and us, her nosey neighbors.

flying lessons

2010-05-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how to make money from your art? And still love it? For all of those want-to-be artists that need a little push. Sign up for this class! I have watched Kelly Rae from the beginning and she is now a flourishing artist and soon-to-be mom.
http://kellyraeroberts.com/ecourses/

purl of wisdom

2010-05-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

They say it's hard to teach a old dog a new trick. I have taught myself to knit. I use the term "knit" loosely! I challenged my son, Ian to learn to tie his shoes and me to knit. I checked out many, many how-to-books from the library and had three open at once. I spent days, just trying to cast on. When I finally figured out that I was doing it backwards. What a thrill to finally see something that looks like knitting. Yes, this old dog learned something new. Difficult, yep. But it feels good to keep going and succeed! Now if only I can get Ian to tie his shoes.

trend setters

2010-04-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

We have been found in print again! In the spring issue of Gift Shop Magazine. We love that they found our Clothes pin Magnet adorable. It also shows that we are on the right track with our products. I love building on a timeless classic, put a little twist on it and that make it enduring for all.

glowing

2010-04-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

Can't stop myself. I have wrapped tea candles with Japanese papers. They look stunning when the candle is lit. Below are a few bracelet I have made out of glass half marbles with of course paper. The one on the end is made out of vintage all-white buttons. All in good fun.

trunk show

2010-04-01T09:54:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for coming to a fun trunk show! It was wonderful to see many of you, that I haven't seen in so long. I loved sitting and chatting and sharing a moment of your day. I really should have taken a photo when there was a great buzz... next time!

jumbo clothes pins

2010-03-26T12:09:00.000-07:00

I've been working with the regular sized clothes pins making the great selling magnets. When I came across these, I HAD to have them. They are 6 inches tall and can be used to hold photos or other items. When I found out that they make a 15 inch, I flipped. I have chosen beautiful paper and sealed them similar to the Scrabble tiles. I haven't sold these yet. They will make their debut at the Trunk Show! Cute huh?

special day

2010-03-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday, when I woke up, I knew it was going to be a special day. Not that I would win the lottery. But it was MY day! What was I going to do to make it special. Indulge in some dark chocolate or take a long walk, work on a art project sitting in the sun. Then it hit me. Why don't I do something special everyday? Why don't I wake up with this feeling of specialness? They say... treat everyday as if it's your last. But how?

we've done it again!

2010-03-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

We are jumping for joy that our Lucky Shoes are featured in their "Unwrapped" section. Last July were were featured for our Fortune Tootsies! http://www.earnshaws.com/
Earnshaw’s is the premier media resource serving the children’s market, including apparel, juvenile products and gifts. With more than 90 years of experience, the magazine is the established voice of the industry. Earnshaw’s magazine features fashion events and informed on the latest trends, and keep their assortments fresh.

carry on traditions

2010-03-12T08:31:00.000-08:00

The other night we watch Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory - the original. I made my caramel corn and enjoyed the sweetest movie. My five year old had never seen it and LOVED it, all except the tunnel scene. My mom used to make caramel corn every Saturday night and we'd watch Love Boat and Fantasy Island. Little did I realize that I was carrying on a tradition. Here is my easy recipe:

Caramel Corn
1 stick of butter (1/2 cup)
1 cup of brown sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2-3 batches of air popped corn
Salt optional

Put popped corn in paper sack. Melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and corn syrup. Cook and stir until boiling. Boil for four minutes. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda thoroughly. Pour caramel sauce over corn in bag and stir with large wooden spoon. Close bad and microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir. Microwave for 30 more seconds, stir. Remove caramel corn from bag - salt if you like and let dry on wax paper.

Note: caramel sauce is the stickiest most burningest goo - use a long handled spoon when you stir the popcorn and watch for little fingers that want to try the sauce. Popcorn will be soft when you take it out of the microwave but will harden in a couple of minutes.

Easy, just throw away the messy bag. Only one pot to clean.

That's it!

Clothes Pins Magnets

2010-02-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

Just finished a large order of the clothes pin magnets. I had to take a picture, because they looked so great altogether. Now I just have to put them on cards and ship them off to Montana. Good luck my little creations!

cup of tea

2010-02-17T08:53:00.000-08:00

I finally did it. I started to paint again. It has been many years. When I opened my box of paints, the smell reminded me of college. I am not sure where this is heading, or what my "style" is... It seems everyone has something they love to paint. My dad, he loves to paint landscapes and butterflies. I could go a million directions, perhaps the graphic designer in me! But I have always been fascinated by the human face. When I was painting this work, everything came fairly easy, except the face. I froze when I had to finish that part. Practice, practice, practice.

ebb + flow

2010-02-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

As I sit in my studio, the sky is a non-color, the trees are leafless. I know that spring is coming and soon my window will be filled with the most pungent rose bush on the planet. Soon it will be hard for me to stay indoors and work. Then it hits me. Creating is just like nature. There is a natural ebb and flow. If an artist doesn't rest, or take a break they will burn out. Nature knows best, it's okay to rest. Soon enough it will be time to bloom.

being creative

2010-02-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

Last week was difficult. I felt that my creative spirit had left, and I certainly didn't know when it would be back. Perhaps it's the gray skies that permanently hang like a wall in January. Or maybe it was that company that decided not to carry one of my products. I was down. A friend suggested that my creative well was dry and that I needed to refill it. But how?

Beside just letting the moment pass. They eventually do. I decided that I MUST do something creative with my hands. No matter what it turned out like. I worked with the felt balls creating some funny creatures. I used beads, buttons, embroidery floss, needles and anything else that added personality to the little creatures. They turned out not too bad.

Also, I've been reading Sue Monk Kidds' book "Traveling with Pomegranates: A Mother-Daughter Story". It has helped me through this hard time. In the book, Kidd is struggling with confidence to continue to write, "The Secret Lives of Bees". Her self doubt, the questions that all of us have. It made me feel better that even the successful, creative women, like Kidd, has her days too. We all know what happen with the "Bee" book. A movie and the sixth bestselling novel of the last decade!

Kidd also mentions in her writing a "necessary fire". My creativeness is my "necessary fire". It makes me alive. The fire is something that is inborn in my heart. And is part of my reason for being here. I just need to remember, that some days the fire will grow big and other days, it will be a small glowing flicker. But I know this, my fire cannot be put out.

Wool Felt Ball Creatures

2010-01-25T12:23:00.000-08:00

The love of felt continues... I bought these 2 inch colorful wool felt balls and while back. They sat and sat until I thought they would make wonderful odd creatures. This is just two that I am working with. The wire is fun, but difficult to make look right. The bead legs are pretty, but not unique. A work in progress. The photo below is from my trip to Tokyo in March. So cute!

Happy Felt Garland

2010-01-11T11:05:00.000-08:00

I have this red and white baker's string, which I love to use to wrap packages. But it has a surprising festive look when I used it to string my brilliant felt beads. I start with nine feet of string, and end up with just about 7 feet. Perfect to hang in your office, kids room or my personal favorite is to make about three and hang vertically on a plain wall or in front of a window. For a little flair I added buttons of many beautiful colors. You could use glass beads, which would look wonderful in a sunny window. Tip to keeping your garland from getting tangle. Recycle a piece of cardboard from a cereal box, or shipping box and wrap the garland around it. That's it!
http://www.presentbydesign.com/products/happy-felt-garland

pretty things

2010-01-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

My grandma gave me a apple box full of beads. She collects buttons, and it seems that beads are always tagging along. I've put together the beads that I love and then found these great glass cabochons. I cut out circles to fit the bezel, then pop in the glass and use my grandma's beads to finish it.

Happy Felted Balls

2010-01-04T11:30:00.000-08:00

I am in love with felt! Felt puppets, felt shoes, felt flowers, everything felt. Maybe it's the soft fuzzy warmness of the material or the brilliant colors, simply, it make me happy.

How to make felt balls?

You will need carded wool, hot water and a bar of soap (liquid works too). Pull a little bit of the wool, the size of a quarter, it all depends on the size you want in the end. You don't need much. Dip your fingertips in soap and rub just a little on a piece of wool. Wind it into a ball.
Dip it quickly in hot water and roll between your palms. Kinda of little rolling a ball of Playdoh. But roll very lightly at first. Towards the end it will be hard. If the ball looks more oval or little cracks. Just pull some of the ball wool and put it in the area that is the problem, dip in water and more soap and continue to roll in your palms. The soap is like glue.
It takes a few minutes to get it to the final firm ball. You can place a wooden skewer through the ball, if you plan to use it for a bead. This will create a nice hole to thread. Place in a sunny window or by a heat vent and let dry. A day should be plenty.

I have these beautiful felt balls, I plan to create some wonderful garland.

Four Hundred Gift Guide

2009-12-11T18:10:00.000-08:00

We made the Four Hundred Gift Guide with our fun and quirky Fortune Tootsies! You can find us under childs Play.

http://www.rjcollective.com/clients/fourhundred/gift/

Helping Women Entrepreneurs Soar!

2009-11-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

This year has been wonderful for me personally and professionally. When I quit my full-time a year ago to pursue my passion, it was an uncertain time, and in many ways it still is! But success has come with lots of hard work and I owe it all to you for purchasing my creations, spreading the word, and offering praise.

I want to to continue the cycle and help other women entrepreneurs by micro-lending. I am happy to say that two women I chose to help are now fully funded. Ifeyinwa (left) of Nigeria, is 30 years old and a fashion designer. She sews very well and a lot people patronize her business. She has been sewing for four years. "I love my business and I love seeing people in fine wears," she says. She sustains and supports her family with her business. She hopes to expand her business in the future and add sarongs and tailoring material to sell.

Elise (right) ASSOGBA was born on February 11, 1975, in Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin. She's married to Alim ADECHI and the mother of one school-attending child. For five years, Elise has been living with her child and her husband in the Avotrou neighborhood in Cotonou. She supports the family on her own and she never attended school. For about four years, she's been selling fabrics by the distribution system. Elise is also a hairdresser who sells hair extensions. She gets her supplies in Dantokpa, an international market in Benin.

If you are interested in helping women soar, contact Kiva.org.

We can all be great with a little support! I'll keep you posted on their success.

Circle Garland

2009-10-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

I love paper and found a project that my 4 year son could share his expertise. He punches the circles out of paper and I sew them together. We put them in cute little metal tins. We also use paper beads and glass beads in between the circles for a shimmery effect. Absolutely cute!

2009-07-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Earnshaw’s is the premier media resource serving the children’s market, including apparel, juvenile products and gifts. With more than 90 years of experience, the magazine is the established voice of the industry. Earnshaw’s magazine features fashion events and informed on the latest trends, and keep their assortments fresh.

We are pleased that our Fortune Tootsies is featured in their "Pampered - Baby Products & News" section. Below is a link to the article.

http://earnshaws.epubxpress.com/link/earn/2009/jul/18?s=0

In the News

2009-06-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

From A to Z: Moscow woman's Scrabble tile necklaces offer something for everyone

Moscow woman's Scrabble tile necklaces offer something for everyone. Julene Ewert is one of five generations of Scrabble enthusiasts.
Her grandfather handcrafted his own Scrabble board out of wood when he couldn't afford to buy one in 1955.
More than 50 years later, Ewert has turned her love of the popular board game into a creative art form.
The Moscow resident and former University of Idaho graphic designer creates necklaces and earrings using Scrabble tiles and images she creates out of colorful paper and cuts out of random books and magazines. She scans and manipulates the images with computer programs and applies a clear coating that gives the pieces a glossy finish.
Ewert sells the tiles at the Moscow Food Co-op, Prichard Art Gallery, Wild Ivy and locations in Alaska, Oregon and Montana. She also attends fairs and trade shows across the country, selling her tiles and getting feedback from potential customers. The necklaces are the top seller for Ewert's business, Present by Design. She also sells socks for babies, handmade cards and other creations.
Ewert started the business four years ago after creating a few necklaces to sell online. "We made a few to put on the Web and it really took off," she said.
As sales increased, Ewert quit her job at the UI to pursue her venture on a full-time basis and take care of her 4-year-old son. Ewert has always been drawn to crafts. Her first endeavor came when she was a child, selling her crocheted creations at her grandmother's yard sale. She once dreamed of creating cards for Hallmark.
Today, Ewert creates her handmade cards and jewelry pieces at a studio in her home. She collects Scrabble tiles from old games she finds in thrift stores and online, as well as tiles that have been donated to her. Every product she uses is environmentally friendly, from the clear finish to the recycled cardboard she uses to package the earrings.
The Scrabble tiles depict a wide array of images including flowers, animals and patterns, as well as more quirky and random designs like nuns, a man shaving, a toaster and a brain.
"I didn't realize that a tile I had created was of a carcass beetle until my dad asked me why I had a tile of a carcass beetle," she said with a laugh. "Some of my tiles are so random, and people choose the craziest things. One woman had to have the toaster because she said she loves toast."
She said she gets a lot of ideas for tiles from customers, and she recently returned from a trip to Japan, where she drew inspiration from the unique paper she found.
Ewert is working on an order of necklaces with skull tiles to sell at a specialty shop in Spokane called Boo Radley's.
"I went in and within 10 minutes I had an order," she said.
She is thrilled to see the Scrabble tiles take off the way they have.
"A lot of people love the Scrabble concept, and it's a pieces of art," she said.
"It's great to work from home and create something, and make a living following my passion," she said.

Written by: Omie Drawhorn
Photo Credit: Moscow/Pullman Daily News

Makes me smile

2009-06-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

I love getting notes from happy customers. Here is one I just had to share.

"I just want to thank you for such a beautiful piece of jewelry. It arrived yesterday (so quickly!) and was as lovely as it was pictured on your web site! I especially love the little box it came in too. I was so excited about it that I took it to work today to show everyone how beautifully made it is and how nicely you packaged it, and showed them your very nice business card as well, and suggested they go to your web site, and I know many of them will. Thanks again, from someone who will definitely be a repeat customer!"

We made the "A" list baby!

2009-05-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

MUM modern urban mom

An inspiring honest parenting magazine which is absolutely beautiful. A pure joy to read, so sophisticated and elegant. I love that MUM has a lot for the mom, and not just how to get your baby to sleep through the night. But great articles about stress, exercise and sweet stuff you will want! Our Fortune Tootsies made the "A" list!

Words of Wisdom

2009-05-07T09:17:00.000-07:00

"I Will Not Die an Unlived Life: Reclaiming Purpose and Passion"

By Dawna Markova

My dear friend Cindy gave this book to me for my birthday. It moved me. How many times do we just go blindly through our life and wake up one day, realizing that the years have gone by and we don't remember a THING! The poem below are words to live by daily and hourly.

I will not die an unlived life.
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance;
to live so that which came to me as seed
goes to the next as blossom
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.

— Dawna markova

Baby's Little Log Book

2009-02-10T12:06:00.000-08:00

I recently received this book, "Baby's Little Log Book" by Alexis Ahrens. It's packed with tons of pages to keep track of all those things, feeding, naps, doctor appt., diapers, medication, and on and on. This book is such a helper when you are so sleep deprived and doing a zillion things. You have it all in one place! Plus as a bonus, you can keep this and look back and remember those special, early moments with your baby।
http://littlelogbook.com/index.html

Superstar, Super Fortune!

2009-02-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

Our Fortune Tootsies are very lucky indeed. Alison Sweeney, star of The Biggest Loser, recently had a baby shower and our Fortune Tootsies were a hit!
http://hotmomsclub.com/?page=articles/view&AID=17641

CPSIA Update

2009-01-31T14:30:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission voted unanimously (2-0) to issue a one year stay of enforcement for certain testing and certification requirements for manufacturers and importers of regulated products, including products intended for children 12 years old and younger. These requirements are part of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), which added certification and testing requirements for all products subject to CPSC standards or bans.

Significant to makers of children’s products, the vote by the Commission provides limited relief from the testing and certification requirements which go into effect on February 10, 2009 for new total lead content limits (600 ppm), phthalates limits for certain products (1000 ppm), and mandatory toy standards, among other things. Manufacturers and importers – large and small – of children’s products will not need to test or certify to these new requirements, but will need to meet the lead and phthalates limits, mandatory toy standards and other requirements.

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09115.html

CPSIA Changes Everything!

2009-01-29T12:20:00.000-08:00

As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.

Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.

The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.

How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:

To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.

To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322

To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.

To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.

To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.

To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.

To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html

To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.

To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.

If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html

And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html

Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.

Big Lip

2009-01-29T11:31:00.000-08:00

I don't freak out much, but the other day Ian and I were playing "Pet Sitter". The games goes like this... he comes to the front door and rings the doorbell. I answer the door and show him the cats and we pretend he will be taking care of them. But this particular day, I opened the door and found him bleeding from his mouth and nose. Since I didn't see what happened, I was a bit freaked out. The eyes looked fine, good! But the mouth was pretty bad. For about three days, his lip was huge, no stitches and his teeth are fine. Yikes!

Chicago Parent

2008-11-10T13:49:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to be a part of the annual CosmoTot Holiday Gift Guide in Chicago Parent. They find our Fortune Tootsies mod and a gift to drool over. Thanks Chicago!

How Sweet...

2008-11-10T13:10:00.000-08:00

I love seeing our Fortune Tootsies on sweet little feet. Heather with Paprikaeventdesign.com took a beautiful picture of their new little boy, Lucca. I think that we should have a contest. Send me pictures of your baby wearing our socks, or retailers can send photos of creative displays of our Fortune Tootises. We'll post the photos and give one lucky person a free set!

Send us your snaps to:
email: presentb[at]presentbydesign.com

Scrabble Show

2008-10-31T20:03:00.000-07:00

I did my first craft show! What fun... the Scrabble pendants are a hit. As one buyer said, "When you hear people squeal, you know you're a hit." My dear mom helped me sell and setup. Thanks mom!

Helping Children

2008-08-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

We recently had the opportunity to be a part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County. Our philosophy, every little bit helps! Volunteer programs points to the powerful, positive, lasting impact Bigs have on children’s lives. Bigs and Littles have lots of fun together, and they create memories that will last a lifetime. “Little Moments. Big Magic.” http://www.bigbrooc.org/

We hope that you will inspire to give big in your own way!

Redbook Buzz

2008-06-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Exciting news our Baby Fish Mouth shirt line will be featured in the July issue of Redbook magazine. Check out the "T-Spot" column and they are highlighting our "He made me a bottle..." and "I love the smell of baby powder..." shirts. We'll post a link to the magazine, once it is on the newsstands. For now, take a look at why they are so cute! http://www.presentbydesign.com/search?q=Baby+fish+mouth

Breastfeeding Finds

2008-03-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

Breastfeeding Magazine gave us a "Wow!" for our Simplymilk Kit. They said that it makes the perfect new-mom gift. We agree and are so proud!

http://breastfeedingfinds.com/breastfeeding-new-mom-gift-set

Happy Feet

2008-02-12T20:29:00.000-08:00

Urban Baby Daily: A new moon is upon us with the celebration of Chinese New Year. Tomorrow marks the start of the Year of the Rat – and tots born under the sign will be in the good company of Prince Charles, ice skating champ Sasha Cohen and actress Scarlett Johansson (rats are ambitious, so they say).

Stock up auspicious baby goods for the year ahead, and pick up a pair of lucky socks. Fortune Tootsies offers a take-out box of three pairs of socks branded with predictions for the months ahead (You will sleep through the night...soon.).

You'll take their word for it.

Parent's Magazine Goody Blog

2008-01-22T15:15:00.000-08:00

Must see. Must do. Must have. Right now.
Parent's Magazine Goody Blog said our Fortune Tootsies is one of their favorite shower gifts. We of course agree completely. Check out the link below to read all about it!

http://www.goodyblog.com/playing_house/2007/12/lucky-socks-for.html

Polka-Dots All-Around

2007-10-14T21:20:00.000-07:00

Our Simplymilk products was recently reviewed by Polka Dot Mom. They love to feature unique polka dot products handmade by crafty moms in business. We are just that! Please read this wonderful article and Simplymilk, which is one of our signature products. We are just beaming!

http://www.polkadotmom.com/2007/10/breastfeeding-gift-basket-for-new-moms.html

Lucky Us!

2007-10-09T14:09:00.000-07:00

We have been blessed with many orders for our Fortune Tootsies. A few weeks ago, I thought it would be interesting to know how many tiny toes we have covered. In the past year we have had the honor of keeping 564 babies tootsies warm and lucky!

This is my not-so-tiny tot, Ian, helping me pack up an order. What a helper!?!

Blog to Blog

2007-08-14T15:18:00.000-07:00

http://www.designmom.com/2007/08/be-prepared-by-guest-mom-rachel-jones.html

Christmas in July!

2007-07-25T21:32:00.000-07:00

Christmas came early, our lucky baby socks, Fortune Tootsies are going to be in the holiday catalog of Femail Creations! They are a company that focuses support on women artists and women-owned businesses. With the belief for women to laugh, and inspire them to dream big. Please check them out, support women-owned businesses!

Tootsie Mania!

2007-07-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to see our Tootsies on little feet! The mommysider gave us a wonderful review, check out the link. July should be a great month for our Fortune Tootsies and Simplymilk products. Both will be featured at the San Francsico Gift Show and the ABC Trade Show. I am excited to see the response. But you don't have to wait until the products are on your baby boutique shelf. Buy your own from us! http://themommyinsider.typepad.com/the_mommy_insider/2007/06/fortune-tootsie.html

Wonderful News For Our Fortune Tootsies!

2007-06-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

Momsfavoritestuff.com recently wrote this about our Tootsies...

I love my little guy’s toes…all ten and those chubby little ankles. I hate covering them up but, when I do, I want equally cute socks and shoes. I’ve found it hard to find socks that are cute and soft all at the same time. However, recently, I’ve received Fortune Tootsies to try out. These are soft red and white socks that contain a fortune on each sock. Very adorable…and very much a convesation starter!... see link below for the complete review!

http://momsfavoritestuff.com/blog/2007/06/07/fortunes-for-your-little-ones-tootsies

Stroller Derby Review of Simplymilk

2007-05-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

Another fun review of our Simplymilk Breastfeeding Care Kit.

http://www.babble.com/CS/blogs/strollerderby/archive/2007/04/10/simply-milk-gift-baskets-great-idea-for-first-time-moms.aspx

Cool Mom Pick of the Month!

2007-05-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Our Simplymilk - Breastfeeding Care Kit was choosen for "Cool Mom" pick for the month of May. Cool Mom Picks searches high and low for great products for busy moms. Check out the good words!

http://www.coolmompicks.com/2007/04/making_breastfeeding_easy.php

Real Help for Real Women

2007-04-30T14:58:00.000-07:00

Book Reviews:
For any mom-to-be that is interested in water birth, this is the book for you! "Woman-To-Woman Water Birth" is written by Claire-Marie Alvarez, RN, BA(Hons), PG Dip, MSN. She shows beautifully the simple idea of water birth and bringing a new and precious life into this world. Alvarez has an innate way of looking and experiencing birth, no bright lights, machines and noises. Just the natural beauty of birth. Alvarez walks you through all the steps, so you can make the best decision for you and your baby. The photos of moms, dads and baby help illustrate water birth. A must-read for anyone considering to have a water birth.

"Woman-To-Woman Labor Day, It's Time To Meet Baby!" another gem written by Claire-Marie Alvarez. She has more than 18 years of experience helping women bring their babies into this world. She show you the all the secrets and tips, before you even enter the delivery room. You will know what is coming, and won't feel scared when you face it for real. "I have the unique ability to calm a stressed-out laboring woman, get right in her face and help her do the hardest work of her life, so she can push without panic."
I wished I would have read this book before my never-ending labor. It is packed with information that would have helped and eased my mind. And a laboring woman can use every ounce of information and support she can get!