MendyTexas

"Holly Golightly" Tote Bag Swap!

2012-02-05T15:24:00.001-06:00

I'm thrilled to be a swap hostess for the upcoming Artistic Affair's Breakfast at Tiffany's event. I'm hosting the Holly Golightly Tote Bag swap...something to tote around carrying art supplies or fun vintage finds.

The swappers all had to start with a muslin tote base, then add anything they wanted to make it "Holly" style!

Here's the sample I showed the swappers. I hand painted it all, added some bling, trim and flowers, and lined it with leopard print. It's big and roomy!

And here are some other little hand painted cuties that I'll be giving away that weekend...

She Art Workshop II Class

2011-12-27T14:59:00.002-06:00

I've been having such a great time with Christy Tomlinson's She Art Workshop II online classes!

Here are a few things I made in her "class."

This is a huge collage that I made following steps of Junelle Jacobson, guest artist for the She Art Week 2 class. I think she kinda looks like me! I put the canvas in my guest bathroom.

Had fun with this sweet little pillow. I made about six so far...more to come!

Create With Me Magazine

2011-12-23T16:30:00.000-06:00

I'm THRILLED to be featured in this issue of Somerset's Create With Me magazine!! It's a four page article on my annual art camp for girls. Hurray!

What a great way to share the holidays!!

International Quilt Festival 2011

2011-11-13T16:31:00.000-06:00

Although I don't quilt, I LOVE going to the huge annual Quilt Festival held at the George Brown Center in Houston. Had an incredible time shopping through all the beads, trims, fabrics, stamps, inks, machines, and vintage finds! WOW!

My New Simplicity Embellisher...a needle felting machine:

Free Motion Sewing

2011-10-10T19:08:00.003-05:00

I have a great admiration for artists who do a lot of free motion stitching such as Ruth Rae and Alisa Burke. Burke's new book, Sew Wild is amazing. I can't get enough!

Ever since I started playing with the quilting foot of my "Project Runway" Brother machine, I've been hooked!! I used embroidery thread in a big spool to free motion stitch these cute little kitchen towels. I like my handwriting on these projects much better than real life!!

Homecoming MUM Time!

2011-10-02T13:55:00.000-05:00

If you live in Texas, and you have a child in high school, you'll know that making a mum is a major deal!

My youngest son Max is now a senior...so this will be my LAST Homecoming Mum! I'm a little sad about this. I've enjoyed making mums for years now for my boys' dates. Here's the mum before it was given to Katherine. Seniors get a primarily gold and white mum, but I added just a hint of the school colors. I always like to add a special animal in the middle instead of the typical bear. In the past I've added a Barbie, Hello Kitty, Pug, and a variety of others, but this year its a SOCK MONKEY!

Big on the Big Shot

2011-09-10T18:08:00.000-05:00

Finally bit the bullet and bought myself a Big Shot. I really thought I could do without, but once I had this baby in my hands, I couldn't stop! The flower die is the ultimate! Been making pompoms out of fabric. Love using my scraps that way!! My collection of Tim Holtz Dies is now growing.

A Yard of Burlap Goes Far!

2011-08-22T18:53:00.001-05:00

I've got BURLAP fever!!! Can't seem to stop...

I still have a half a yard left...now for a tote.

"Re-Dressing" the Ordinary

2011-08-11T12:38:00.001-05:00

I've been practicing using my Brother Sewing Machine's quilting foot to do some free motion stitching. I couldn't wait to recover a plain spiral notebook for the new school year. It's perfect for lesson plans. I think I'll enjoy seeing this on my desk each day!

I did a photo "transfer" (of me as a little girl) on to muslin the easy way. I lightly glued thin muslin on to heavy cardstock with a glue stick. I then fed it directly into the printer. Afterwards, I gently took the muslin off of the cardstock. It works every time!

Here are some dressed up versions of food cans! I'll use them for pens, pencils, etc. on my desk

Last Art Get-Away of the Summer!

2011-08-04T15:02:00.000-05:00

I had a lovely day at the Aledo Bake Shoppe in Aledo, TX! Thanks to Jennifer Babcock and family for a wonderful day of crafts and fun. I saw some familiar faces from Paper Cowgirl and met some newbies too!

The gift bags were amazing, the lunch was incredible, and the art was amazing! Jen, thanks so much for letting me teach at this fun event!

Jennifer, Cathy, and Me!

My Class...shabby roses and a mini collage

The Girls!

Projects of the Day!

Ahh...the smell of delicious cake balls in the air! My fav was the margarita...salty and sweet, yum!!

Familiar Paper Cowgirls Tammy and Kristi!

Two Mini Classes this Weekend!

2011-07-25T16:32:00.002-05:00

Getting so excited for my "pre-holiday" class at Jennifer's event this weekend in at the Aledo Bake Shop in Aledo, TX!! Here are some of my class kits...

Strike a Pose!! Art With My Nieces

2011-07-13T16:58:00.003-05:00

Hurray for Art Week with my nieces Rachel and Caroline! I look forward to our special time each year. This year we decorated funky caps with fabric rolled flowers, made our interpretation of "She Art" Girls, embroidered stamped images, and made them into pillows! The girls loved using the sewing machine.

July Mini Art Event!

2011-06-28T15:21:00.008-05:00

I'm SO excited to be a part of Jennifer Babcock's new summer event! She's having a fantastic day of classes and so much more...right here in Texas!

I'll be teaching a "Holiday Open House" Canvas Collage Ornament and a Shabby Flower Ornament. Both will hang with the other event ornaments on a darling vintage style tree. Cute!!

Registration Now Open!

"Christmas in July" Mini ARt EveNT!
July 30, 2011
9:00 - 5:00
Aledo Bake Shop
Aledo, Texas

Join us for a day of creating~~
*We will create a Unique Tree to hang our fun & whimsical ornaments. We will create 6 creative Christmas ornaments. Majority of Supplies for ornaments included. You may bring any special embellishements & bling that you might want to use to personalize your creations! Please bring basic tool kit. Supply list will be sent out with your registration packet.
*One of your treats for the day will be a unique, cute, whimisical Angel tree topper waiting for you at your seat when you arrive Saturday morning.
*You will have a fun filled gift bag with goodies for you to enjoy.
*Doorprize drawings will occur throughout the day!
*Plenty of Chocolate treats on your table!
*Lunch is provided!! Aledo Bake Shop has a wonderful lunch! They will be fixing sandwiches, chips, mini salad, cookie & tea. Yummy!!

We will also be having a shopping day on Friday for you to join in on! So a weekend of fun & creative"ness"!!

Register HERE on Jennifer's Blog!

Paper Cowgirl Event 2011!!

2011-06-13T13:51:00.016-05:00

Back from Paper Cowgirl 2011 with a carload of vintage goodies, and a memory of a fabulous weekend! Loved seeing old friends and making new ones this year. We started with a meet and greet at the Dove's Nest, where instructors were introduced, and Lisa Pace spoke on publishing artwork. The Swap Exchange was the next event. My swaps were amazing!! I received a gorgeous nametag from Cassie and an romantic styled inspiration board from Suzy. The next day I gave my Digi Art Girl Class. I was so excited to have a full house..and them some! We created some fun projects and learned new tricks and tips. This was my second year to teach a digi class.

Friday evening was Cowgirl Prom Night! We gathered at the town's historical downtown shopping area and ate and shopped. My favorite shops were the Crafty Scrapper and the Dove's Nest. We ended the night with cupcakes and frosting shots (yum!)at a darling shop called Polkadots.

Saturday morning I took a class from my Silver Bella friend, Karla Nathan. We made the cutest little dress form! I loved all that she said and taught. She's a doll!

Saturday night was Vendor Night. My booth was right near the booths of Ann Denise, Joanna, and Jennifer B. The shopping was crazy fun!! Got a few things...

Here are some random shots of the weekend!! Can't wait til next year!

Shopping at the Crafty Scrapper!

The Dove's Nest

Dove's Nest Goodies

Appetizers and Tea at the Dove's Nest Tea Room.

My PC roomies Tanya from The Woodlands, and Carol from Austin!! We had so much fun "taking in" all the excitement!!

My new New York friend Betti! She took Karla's class with me.

Sweet Joanna and I...loved seeing my old friend again!

Had so much fun with Jennifer. She came with her daughter and mom.

My nametag that the oh so talented Cassandra made me! She used my little girl photo! I love it.

Here is the final dressform that I made in Karla's class. I have her on my dresser now! Made her with an old Barbie doll...thanks to Tanya!

I LOVE my incredible inspiration board made by swap partner Suzy "Buttons"...wow!

Here I am with Karla Nathan! SO glad she came down from Kansas to be at PC!! Met her at Silver Bella.

Old friends and new. I just met the fun duo Nicky and Tammy! We ate together and they both took my digi class. They are a HOOT! I met Donna at Stamp Asylum a while back. She's really talented!

The one and only Cindy Mayfield! Creator of this year's PC!! She's a gem!!

Fort Worth's Cassie and I at the nametag swap. She made mine!

Ann Denise is a sweet friend and a MAJOR creator. She made the magnificent huge dressform that greeted us each day.

My Digi Art Girl class

My Vendor Booth Saturday night.

I sold out of my signature dyed flowers!

And where did I get the most giggles??? From the crown that I earned as "Miss Congeniality!" tehe! Something to remember forever! Now back to real life...:)

Here's me and Marsha Albee...we both won an award!

Paper Cowgirl Class Goodies!

2011-05-31T19:40:00.003-05:00

Paper Cowgirl is getting closer and closer! I'm so lucky to be an instructor again this year!! My Digi Art Class is going to be so much fun!! My class kits are ready and waiting!

Everyone has now received my class CD of over 130 fabulous vintage images. A bundle of digital art surprises will be waiting for them in class.

Flower Power!

2011-05-15T14:46:00.004-05:00

OK, so it's NO secret that I love love shabby flowers! A few more pretties I'll be featuring vendor night at Paper Cowgirl...

Just a few Blossoms for Paper Cowgirl '11!

2011-05-05T19:38:00.000-05:00

Velveeta Box Challenge!

2011-04-18T17:10:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited to be a part in the Paper Cowgirl Velveeta Box Challenge 2011!! The boxes in the challenge will be auctioned off to raise funds for Paper Cowgirl's Co-Founder Tina Wright's Scholarship Fund. I made one of my fun shabby flowers and added a sparkly turtle. The tag was one from a fun swap last year. All of the trims and ribbons are vintage.

Now to make some Queso with all that cheese!!!

Free Motion Fun!

2011-04-02T17:33:00.000-05:00

Isn't this sooo cute? My sweet friend Tanya made it for me. I'm really wanting to branch out and work more with that free motion sewing...This gets me in the mood!

Spring Break Time!!

2011-03-17T17:00:00.000-05:00

I LOVE Spring Break!

Ordered these darling mugs from Audrey Electric here
Got the idea when my friend Holly had them on her site! Had to have them!

Finished two more canvases from the She Art Workshop...
One is of me, and the other is of my mom! LOVE making these girls!

She Art Class

2011-03-07T16:05:00.004-06:00

I'm really enjoying the on-line She Art Class given by Christi Tomlinson. Here's my first "She Art!"

I tried to make her look like me!

The boots were my fav...

Party Fun!

2011-03-02T06:45:00.000-06:00

Teenage parties are so much fun! I only have boys, so I really get into making special occassion pieces for my nieces. I made this party "sign-in" board for my oldest niece for a very special occasion. Her friends will sign on the right with the thin black sharpie. After the party and signatures, she can hang it in her room. The canvas is 30"x40".

I also made party bags for guests. The little covered books on the bottom will go in each bag, along with a variety of snacks. I used canvas bags with lime green mesh instead of tissue. There's a "sea" of bags on my dining room table!

Paper Cowgirl Registration Starts Today!

2011-02-23T07:00:00.001-06:00

Paper Cowgirl 2011 Registration is up this morning!! Kick up your Cowgirl Boots and click here for a Texas Filled Art Weekend in Waxahachie!! Registration starts today at 9:00am Central Time.

My Digi Girl class will be among the list of classes available! We'll be using your Photoshop to create fabulous art projects. We'll be focusing on how to make "hybrid" projects using digi goodies along with hand made items. SO COOL!! Beginners with Photoshop uploaded on their laptops are welcome and encouraged!! Be a Digi Girl!!

Classes are limited, so don't "cow-poke around!" Registration Page is here.
Hope to see y'all there!!

Hurray for Paper Cowgirl 2011!

2011-02-10T07:03:00.005-06:00

I've been selected once again to be a part of the Paper Cowgirl Event in Waxahachie, Texas in June! This year I'll be continuing my introduction to Digital Art. I'll be sharing my own digital images along with some great digital online goodies. We will be creating many projects including blog banners and backgrounds, invitations, cards, and SO much more. Last year's students will learn new techniques and newbies will get to learn basics. We'll squeeze in a lot in our three hours! Bring your charged laptops with uploaded photoshop and a few of your own special photos, and off we'll go!

Here are just a few samples of things we'll learn in class:

Images from my own collection of vintage wallpapers, fabrics, and findings.
Images from Christina Renee Designs as samples of online products.

Valentine Swap

2011-02-03T10:33:00.002-06:00

Here's Danielle's Victorian Paper Swap Valentine that I made!! Can't wait to get mine...should be soon!

Sweet Pink

2011-01-29T16:45:00.002-06:00

Cupcake Party!

Wax Paper Flowers

2011-01-17T15:09:00.000-06:00

My sweet friend Lori Oles has a fabulous article in the newest Somerset Life Magazine featuring her gorgeous wax paper flowers. She inspired me to make some of my own...her instructions are in the article. I had so much fun making these for an upcoming bridal shower...

Winter Bridal Shower

2011-01-11T19:06:00.000-06:00

I'm giving a special bridal shower for a close friend's daughter in a few weeks! Here are the invites I made. I "created" the paper doll from "The Knot" bridal site. The site lets you create the exact bride and her gown! I used "free hand motion" with my sewing machine to "write" her name on each invite. I fed each invitation in my printer to print out the wording on the inside.

I made scented tags as door prize gifts for the guests. I scanned a vintage Vogue wedding pattern, sized it, and then made multiple copies. I stained the original white lace with strong coffee. As a final touch, I dabbed Bath and Body Works Eucalyptus Spearmint Oil on the lace...mmmmm!

Happy Holidays! Happy New Year!

2010-12-27T15:39:00.005-06:00

Happy Holidays Art Friends! I've made my annual Peppermint Almond Bark, but this time I didn't use "almond bark." I used premium white chocolate chips instead. I also added a little drizzle of dark chocolate on top!

2010-12-05T14:31:00.002-06:00

I've been working on a few things lately...
Started that soldering iron again! I've been practicing on my "shadowbox" technique after taking Sally Jean's class. I used vintage flowers between the glass.

More flowers!! Put these together for some teacher friends. I put a clip and a bar pin behind them.

A sweet little Tussy Mussy, ready to fill!

Silver Bella 2010!!

2010-11-15T15:50:00.006-06:00

Just got back from Silver Bella and I even saw SNOW! A Texas girl likes that kind of thing...

I loved my second Silver Bella experience!! My classes were amazing. It was great seeing old friends and meeting new ones from all over the country. I even bumped into new Texas Bellas...and that's always nice!

Here are a few pics...

Here's my friend Jennifer from Texas! She's an elementary school teacher like me. She's a doll!

My New York bud, Meleen! She always makes me smile. I loved visiting with her cutie pie daughter Caroline too! HUGS!

I took Lisa Kaus' Joy Within class. I learned how to use watercolor pain crayons and of course now, I'm hooked!

Another fab class was the Teacup Fairy class by Beth Quinn. I loved the fairy I made!
Friends at work! Here's Suzanne, Karla, and my roomie Lori!

Vendor Night was a dressed up Hat Parade! Here I am with fellow Texas Sweetie Heather.

Amy and I have the same curly do. She's so sweet!! Check out her online magazine on her blog!!

My newest buddy Heather is dressed to the nines...she and I hit it off immediately!

Beautiful Table! CakeTini party!! FUN!

LORI and I working on a project together. Loved having her as my roomie!

Here are two new Texas Bella Girls, Cassie and Susan. They are the sweetest!!

Party Night! Darlings Danielle and Lori taking a minute to relax!

Loved seeing Jessi again this year! She was my roomie last year. She's so cute!

I was honored to make Suz' soldered necklace for the Upscaled Treasures Swap. The soldered pictures are of her mom, her daugher, and her at 16.

My new friends Nora and Sheila! Nora made my darling charm bracelet and Sheila made my one-of-a-kind Bella Tote and the Upscaled Treasures necklace. Love you girls!

I FINALLY got to meet and create with the one and only Sally Jean Alexander! Her classes were challenging and fun. I plan on practicing her techniques a lot! Here is one piece I made in her class. It's of my grandmother when she was young.

My sweet roomie and I did a private swap. These are the goodies she gave me...including the brown travel case!! Love ya Lori!

Flower Swap:

Trim swap!

Some fun things I bought at vendor night:

My Studio in STUDIOS Magazine!

2010-10-30T19:00:00.005-05:00

I'm so excited and honored to be featured in the newest issue of Cloth Paper Scissors' STUDIO Magazine! The article features photos from my art studio and of my summer art camp.

STUDIOS comes out quarterly, and will be on the shelves November 9th.

Thanks to my sweet art camp girls who helped make this article possible!!

2010-10-24T14:25:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween All!! Congrats to the winner of my digi witchie image...Karla Nathan! She turned so cute in "costume!" Had fun Karla!!

I'll put Karla with another good little witch....Samantha!

In the Mood for a little October Fun... Halloween Giveaway!

2010-10-02T13:25:00.005-05:00

Upcycled Treasures

2010-09-26T17:00:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun creating this "Upcycled Treasure" for a special Bella Gal!! The hand soldered charms are of three generations of girls. I learned a lot about combining different vintage beads and goodies together to make this double strand creation. I think I'll make one for me next!

Fabric Book

2010-09-11T15:42:00.000-05:00

Bang Bang...Chitty Chitty Bang Bang...Chitty Chitty Bang Bang We Love You!
Well, I do love Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, but I used one of my old copies of the book to make a fabric scrapbook!

A Tote for Silver Bella

2010-08-28T19:59:00.005-05:00

Silver Bella is getting closer...just around the corner!! I'm thrilled to be finished with yet another SB swap. This is a Bella Tote for someone very special!!! I made it reversible with a coordinating mini mum. I also included a little makeup bag and eye glass case. I hope she will enjoy it!!

Beach Girls

2010-08-12T11:37:00.003-05:00

Been working on a few jeweled creations for Silver Bella Swaps. This is a bracelet I made using four soldered 1" charms. The theme of the bracelet is "beach." I used pearls, vintage blue buttons, vintage brass buttons, and silver beads. The images I used all had a beachy girl theme.

Couldn't help playing with this cute image just a bit more....

Art Camp Summer Fun!

2010-07-27T14:22:00.000-05:00

Although I have a separate art camp blog, I'm posting a few fun photos of some of the creations the girls made this summer....

We had a great summer of "Fairy Fun!

Surfside Beach

2010-07-16T13:49:00.005-05:00

Texas is HOT HOT HOT!!! We like to celebrate each summer enjoying the sun at a local Texas beach. It's a nice get-away. Here are the guys in my life!

Digi Girl Art Class

2010-07-09T22:23:00.016-05:00

Thanks to my sweet friend Deb, who took these fun photos of my Paper Cowgirl Digi Art Girl Art Class. What a fabulous group of ladies!

My class was SO awesome! I can't thank them enough for trying out something "new!"

Back from Texas' Paper Cowgirl 2010!

2010-06-28T11:13:00.001-05:00

Paper Cowgirl was a huge hit! I had such a great time!! I met some fabulous newbies and saw lots of friendly familiar faces too. We crafted, shopped around the huge antique square, ate (cupcakes and frosting shots were my fav!), and then oohed and ahhed over the lovelies during Vendor Night.

Meet and Greet and Swap Night!!

My sweet friend Nancy

Nancy and LaVerne headed up the darling Paper Doll Swap. Aren't they incredible?

Here are some of the fantastic flowers from the Blossom Swap I hosted. We ended up having two Blossom Swaps!

One-to-one swap "Cowgirl Banner and Cuff" created by the talented Kathy. I'll hang the banner in my art studio!

My Digi Art Girl class was a blast! I saw unsure eyes, confused eyes, and then wide set excited "Did I do THAT?!" eyes. I was thrilled!! Thank you ladies for trying something "out of the box" this weekend! Photos of my class will be coming asap. I had a friend take some shots while I was teaching.

Eating at the "Haunted" Catfish Plantation was southern cooking at it's finest. We ate so much incredible fried food...wow!

Joanna and I eating friend pickles, fried sweet potatoes, friend onion rings, fried catfish, friend hushpuppies, french fries....well anything and everything fried!

Artsy Friends Jennifer and Jana enjoying southern cooking!

Shopping and Cupcakes with Carol and Tanya

We shopped Old Town Waxahachie. Here are some of my "finds."

Vendor Night was magical!

Lots of goodies every inch of the convention center.
Here I am in my booth!

This is my sweetie friend Ann Denise. Her booth was amazing!! It was right next to mine...

The one and only "head cowgirl" Cindy Mayfield. She's the one in charge...love her!

Some of the teachers this year...from the left Deb, Joanna, Me, Jennifer B., Ann Denise, and Cindy G. We're waiting for our cupcakes and frosting shots!!

My good friends Carol and Tanya came with me this year to PC. They loved every minute!

Here I am with my other "vendor neighbor," darling Deb and another fun teacher this year, Chantal.

Here are a few of the goodies I purchased Vendor Night...

More later with photos from my Digi Art class!

Vendor Night at Paper Cowgirl

2010-06-18T08:16:00.002-05:00

Can't wait for Vendor Night at Paper Cowgirl in just a few days!! Here are a few other things that will be at my booth.

These are a take on my fresh flower corsages.

I got a hold of this "lot" of darling turtles and couldn't wait to play with them...

Some hand dyed tattered "pick-me" roses...ready to pin anywhere!

Bundles of fun Digital Postcards designed by me...

I'll also have a section of fabulous TweetyJill images and goodies along with a fun free make-and-take!

Can't wait for the fun weekend!

Paper Cowgirl ...Around the Corner!

2010-06-09T20:20:00.000-05:00

Yes, Paper Cowgirl is right around the corner! I can't believe it's already June!

I'm so excited about my Digi Girl Class at Paper Cowgirl. If you haven't signed up for the event, you have until Sunday, June 13th!

My "Digi Girls" have just received the first part of their class packets...

Ready for some digi fun!!

I've finished another Paper Cowgirl swap...Paper Dolls. I made them "me," could you tell?

Collage "Hanger" Make and Takes

2010-06-03T19:45:00.001-05:00

If you are attending the Paper Cowgirl '10 event in June, look for the TweetyJill make and take during Vendor Night! I am so excited to host the incredible make and take project sponsored by the one and only TweetyJill Co. I've been on the TJ design team and have had many things on their blog.

The make and take will be a nice sized canvas "hanger," perfect for haning on your wall or door knob. All papers and photos are from the TweetyJill company. The wonderful project is FREE for those who are attending Paper Cowgirl!!

Here are some sample projects I made using the TJ collage kits that will be at PC on vendor night:

I can't wait to see what the Paper Cowgirls come up with!

Please look for me on Saturday night!

Parties are such fun!

2010-05-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

I do love a party....and I love giving them too!

Here are the cupcakes for a very special Bride's Maid Luncheon. I used my sweet friend Lisa Kettell's fairy cupcake toppers! Love 'em!

My latest wrist corsage...

Swaps and Such

2010-05-12T18:10:00.016-05:00

Been working on some fun swaps for Paper Cowgirl!(OOH if you haven't registered yet, hurry! Registration ends soon!)

I'm the hostess for two floral swaps...thought I'd attach the flowers to a bag for each girl. That way they have a place to store all of their blossoms!

Here's another swap I'm in, hosted by my sweet Austin friend Carol (The French Curl)

Now to start two more Paper Cowgirl swaps!

Meanwhile, I'm doing the finishing touches on the gifts for the bridesmaids for the shower I'm giving...shsh, they are a surprise!

My sweet girl has been keeping me company during my art moments.

Spring Creations

2010-05-03T06:06:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to be featured in author Shona Cole's artblog! She's a great friend of mine. She's showing a round robin I started a while back...

Click over to her fabulous blog for more information on all the girls involved in the round robin!

I've created some fun digital postcards and small artcards for my niece for her birthday. I chose one of my favorite "pattern" girls to make the digital image.

Yes...I've been in the digi mood lately! I made these digital invitations along with a shabby corsage for a dear friend's Bride's Maid Shower. They were just sent out. I hope they enjoy them!

I have a tutoral on making these invites right now on the Paper Cowgirl Blog...

Spring Crafting

2010-04-14T17:25:00.011-05:00

Hurray for the winner of my Paper Cowgirl Giveaway!!
Marie J!!! I actually met Marie at Paper Cowgirl last year! She's a sweetie!
I'll send your digi girl postcards asap Marie!! Can't wait to see ya again this summer!!

______________________________

Been making some little "mum" corsages for baby showers... I used a vintage flashcard for the backing this time.

I just received the CUTEST goodies I ordered from Little Pink Studio and I have to share...

I can't wait to start playing...I have so many plans for that stamp!

Blog Giveaway!

2010-04-01T16:39:00.008-05:00

In honor of the fabulous Paper Cowgirl Event coming in June, I'm giving away a collection of digital art postcards, designed by....me!

Leave a comment at the end of this post. I'll put all of the names in a COWGIRL hat, and the one I pick will win!!

Of course if you want to learn how to create digi postcards like mine, I'd love to show you in my PC class!!

Paper Cowgirl Registration is Open!

2010-03-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Paper Cowgirl Registration has started...wweeeee!!
June 24-26 in Waxahachie, Texas!
...a weekend of classes, shopping, make and takes, and so much more!

Check out my interview on the Paper Cowgirl Blog!

I will be teaching the Digi Art Class on Saturday at 9:00.
Here are some goodies you will be receiving in the digi class kit:14 vintage Valentines, vintage staple and paper clip, 3 fabric birdies, 3 vintage post cards, 3 crowns, variety of 12 vintage photos, 2 furs, 12 gorgeous wall papers, 3 vintage pattern girls, a funky purse, cool rhinestone, 5 faded roses, 3 stitches, old license plate, 2 old world frames...well, let's say around 75 items!!

You will be able to create a ton of projects with your class kit. Don't forget to start a folder in "my pictures" with your favorite personal photos!

Here are just a few samples of digi artwork you could create in our class...

Everything on the above projects (but my little girl photo!) is included in the digi kit. The choices are endless! Keep an eye out for more samples of projects!!

Paper Cowgirl 2010!

2010-03-08T13:00:00.005-06:00

Heck Yeah, I'm a Paper Cowgirl!!Paper Cowgirl 2010 classes have been posted! The 3rd Annual Paper Cowgirl mixed media art retreat will be in Waxahachie, TX, June 24th - June 26th. Mosey on down to the Paper Cowgirl Blog for more information. Registration and hotel details will be posted soon.
I am SO excited to be teaching at the event again. I had the best time last year. This year I'll be doing a little Digi Girl class. I'll be teaching the basics of digital artwork, scrapbooking, card/invitation making, blog banners/buttons, etc. Perfect for beginners. Come on and try!!
I'll be teaching using my PC and Adobe Photoshop 7.0. Students will need to bring their (fully charged) laptops and have Photophop 4.0, 5, 6, 7, or even 8, already uploaded. All digi kits will be given on a CD before the class. Macs welcome of course, Mac Photoshop is similar to the one I'm using. You will learn how to save your projects, and learn my secret places for printing!! SHHHH!

Please check out my class, along with many other fabulous classes today!

Paper Cowgirl 2010.

Here are all of the classes available at Paper Cowgirl:

Lisa McIlvain - Mixed Media Art Tags http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Babcock - Altered Bird Trinket Box http://glittermyday.blogspot.com/
Mendy Mitrani - Digi Class http://mendytexas.blogspot.com/
Dale McClain - Sea Inspired Shadow Box http://www.dalemclain.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Stewart - Beautiful 4th Banner http://jenniferstewarts.blogspot.com/
Ann-Denise Anderson - Victorian Boots http://www.whimandfancydesigns.blogspot.com/
Angela Berger - Shabby Classy Necklace http://www.filigreemoon.blogspot.com/.
Chantal Johnson - Inspirational Tag Book http://www.chantaljohnson.blogspot.com/
Laverne Johnson - "pocket" book
Deb Taylor - covered journal http://diddebdoit.blogspot.com/
Cindy Gilstrap - La Petite Boutique Altered Canvas http://cindygilstrap.typepad.com/junqueart/
Corrine Clark - French Paper Shoe http://100prettythings.blogspot.com/
Sandra Feazel - Beeswax/Painted Canvas http://7thststudio.blogspot.com/
Joanna Lewis- Feathered Friend Collage http://www.sweetfinds.typepad.com/

I Love GreenCraft!

2010-02-23T18:48:00.000-06:00

The newest issue of Somerset's GreenCraft is amazing. I'm still savoring the pages of the last year's issue. There are so many ideas, I had to "ear mark" almost every page.

I remember reading about painting cereal boxes in the last issue...an idea that my friend Shona used to craft with her children. Shona's article was wonderful! I loved the idea of re-using something that had amazing potential!!

In the new issue, Kathleen McKinnon uses her "Fiber One" boxes for art projects. I tried out her idea using my "Fiber Plus" container and made something fun.

Here is the original box. Yes, I ate all of the Fiber Plus Chocolate Bars...no not all at once. Yikes!
I used Gesso around the box first.

I then painted the box using two of my favorite shades.

I chose vintage wallpaper, an old dictionary page, and one of my favorite pictures of my sweet Aunt Maria.
I used soft medium gel to adhere the papers and a layer to seal it. I punched holes on each side, and threaded soft wire through the holes. I added a little velvet flower and some pearl trim, and...
Here is "before" and "after!"
I'm happy with the outcome! I'll be saving all of my boxes from now on!! Thanks for the ideas GreenCraft, and of course Fiber One!

Great Read!

2010-02-15T16:40:00.005-06:00

My talented friend Shona's fabulous book is finally out! The Artistic Mother is a mixed media art book full of incredible projects. She surrounds her art around her family. Shona was so sweet to include a Texas artist round robin swap I hosted. Shona and I don't live too far apart...so I met up with her last weekend to get a first hand look at her finished project. She's carrying her little guy, Max.
Fellow Texas girls Carrie, Sarah, and Cindy participated in the round robin, along with Shona and me.

I am still amazed at all the projects in the book. It's a great read!

Valentines

2010-02-06T11:30:00.002-06:00

Hurray...I finally figured out a few things on my sewing machine! Had to have my sweet friend Tanya come over and tighten a few things so it would work smoothly...yay!A few Valentine Tags using my stash of fabric swatches...
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I've been taking the Remains of the Day class that my friend Maija suggested, and it's so much fun! Here is something I made following "most" of the instructions. I made a little detour somehow, and ended up with this book...

I'll try making another this week and follow each step! hehe!

I love her techniques and tips!

I finally got to use my little puggie upholstery scrap I've been hanging on to since ...forever!

Hurray for February!

2010-02-03T07:03:00.001-06:00

Will you be my Valentine??

Here is a digi layout I did of my sweet mom as a girl.

Getting a few things together to celebrate the month of pink and red!! This is a group of goodies for my sweet friend Lilia. We're doing a swap!

Hurray for Paper Cowgirl 2010!

2010-01-23T16:19:00.008-06:00

Paper Cowgirl is the "Best Little Art Retreat in Texas"

The annual event will take place once again in the quaint town of Waxahachie, Texas, June 24th -26th! I am SO excited!

The Two Cowgirls in charge Cindy and Tina...

We will remember and honor our sweet friend Tina (HUGS)

The Swaps...

The shopping...

The food...

The Classes...

a few of the girls...
Heck Yeah I'm a Paper Cowgirl! I'll be there!!

Learning New Things

2010-01-18T18:00:00.000-06:00

During my winter break from school, one of the things I did was organize all of my loose beads and vintage pieces. I wanted to do something with my pearls and velvet beads and got "in the mood!" Here's what I came up with...

I watched some addictive BRAVO TV and made these necklaces. Now I need MORE goodies to play with. So much fun!

Just scanned my fur (faux of course) pieces to use as "digis." I also scanned all of my vintage pattern cover girls...took a while! I love being able to use my goodies again and again! Who could resist a leopard crown and matching tote?
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Since I already had my little "pattern" covergirls out, I decided to make a clipboard for my friend's daughter who is getting married this spring. This time I used a copy of the complete pattern cover. I'm always inspired by the super talented Jane of Jane's Apron. In Artful Blogging a few issues back, she showed a darling clipboard with a pattern cover. I thought this wedding pattern was perfect for mine. The flower and pearls are from my vintage stash. Thanks Jane!

A Great Friend and Artist

2010-01-03T10:00:00.002-06:00

This is my sweet and very talented friend, Tina (Glue on my fingers, Paint in my hair). She helped create the fabulous Paper Cowgirl, an amazing retreat here in Texas each summer. She and I emailed back and forth many times and spoke on the phone before I finally got to meet her in person at Paper Cowgirl. She even asked me to teach a class there last year. I was so honored.

My friend Tina passed away early this morning. Tina was a wife, mother and young grandmother. She had a huge zest for life.

Tina had many talents. She was a soldering queen, (she taught me!), collage artist, faux finishing expert, and so much more. She made me laugh through our emails and in person. What a free-spirited happy girl. I have been lucky and blessed to have had Tina in my life.

Paper Cowgirl friends Cindy, Tina, and me...June '09.

Lisa and I had a wonderful time collecting artwork from around the country early this fall, and putting together this amazing book of friendship for Tina. SO many of her dear friends contributed.

We titled the book "The Power of Friendship." You can see the little banner at the right of my blog. The book turned out to be a huge support for Tina. She absolutely loved it and cherished it.

Tina will always be an inspiration to me.
Thank you for being my friend Tina...I will miss you.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-27T20:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year from our family to yours!This winter break, my nieces and I did a little crafting! We painted tote bags and added a little trim and some flowers. I've been soldering like crazy the past few weeks! Here are a few charms I'm wearing on my charm necklace right now. I love making silhouettes of children. There is a GREAT digital tutorial in the newest Somerset Memories issue.

First I uploaded a "side view" photo. I took out the original background. Next I filled the photo with solid black and added a "patterned paper" background. I printed it out at 1.5 x 1.5. The opposite side of my charm is a piece of vintage wallpaper. I sandwiched the papers between two glass pieces and hand soldered the charm.

This is what I made my mom. The soldered charm is a silhouette of me as a girl.

My nieces Caroline and Rachel are showing off their own silhouette soldered charms they got from their Aunt Mendy!
Have a creative New Year!

Winter Parties

2009-12-11T17:14:00.000-06:00

I finally got to use my "Lisa Kettell Cake Toppers" last weekend. I couldn't wait to use them! I loved meeting Lisa and visiting with her at Silver Bella! I used the toppers on my little white cupcakes with pink frosting. They really turned out yummy!! Recipe for White Cupcakes with Pink Frosting:

White Cake:
1 Box White Cake Mix
1 Large box White Chocolate Jello Instant Pudding
6 Egg Whites
1 C Sour Cream
1/2 C warm whipping cream
1/2 C Vegetable Oil
1 1/2C White Chocolate Chips (Best Quality!)

Mix all ingredients. Fold in the white chips. Batter will be really thick! Pour into cupcake pan or bundt. Cook at 350 for 40 minutes or so. Check cake with a toothpick. Let cool.

Pink Frosting:
1 Bag Powdered Sugar
1 Cup Butter
2 tbsp whipping cream
1/2 tsp Wilton Pink Icing Past (Michael's or Hobby Lobby)

Mix with a hand mixer until stiff. Frost cooled cupcakes/cake.

I digitally created the invites to the shower...

I've also been working on some holiday party items. I am giving these holiday flower corsages to my second grade team of teachers.

I bought concentrated oil (Bamboo) at Bath and Body Works, and with a cotton ball, dabbed each petal. The clips on the back of the flowers clipped right on to my digitally made holiday cards...no wrapping!

I designed the fronts and backs of my digi "postcards."

Can't wait to hand them out on Monday!

Cookie Swap!

2009-12-03T07:00:00.002-06:00

Hurray for Jessi's Cookie Exchange! Thank you for including me in your fun party Jessi! Here I am...ready to bake!OOH BOY! How many of you LOVE those addictive peanut butter "Buckeye Balls?" You know, the balls that are peanutbutter/powdered sugar/butter and then dipped in chocolate...

Well, the newest winner of the Pillsbury Bake-Off used these PB balls inside a peanut butter cookie.

WOWSERS!!!!!!!

My family was in pure heaven after taking a bite out of these cookies.

Double-delight peanut butter cookies
INGREDIENTS
• 1/4 cup Dry Roasted Peanuts, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
• 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated peanut butter cookies, well chilled

DIRECTIONS
Heat oven to 375° F.
In small bowl, mix chopped peanuts, powdered sugar and cinnamon; set aside. In another small bowl, stir peanut butter and powdered sugar until blended. Shape mixture into 24 balls.

Cut roll of cookie dough into 12 slices. Cut each slice in half to make 24 pieces; flatten slightly. Shape 1 cookie dough piece around 1 peanut butter ball, covering completely. Don't eat all the peanut butter balls!! Repeat with remaining dough and balls. Roll each covered ball in peanut mixture. Pat mixture completely onto balls.
On ungreased large cookie sheets, place balls 2 inches apart. Spray bottom of drinking glass with PAM and press into remaining peanut mixture.
Flatten each ball to 1/4-inch thickness with bottom of glass. The trick is to make it really flat, so the center will be a "surprise."

Bake 10 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling rack. Store tightly covered.

Now if you are nice, you will share some with your little brother...

My brother and I in the early 1970's...

Don't eat too many!!

Silver Bella Heaven!

2009-11-18T16:50:00.000-06:00

I had so much fun at Silver Bella. It seems like a dream...ended too quickly! It took me a while to get all of my thoughts and photos together. I wish I would have taken so many more pictures!

I collected MOO/Business cards from all over the country.

The fun A-Z Swap...I had a class with the very talented jewelry artist Kaari Meng. I made a beautiful bracelet that turned into a necklace when I finished.

Here's sweet Jessi and me! She took me under her "wing" as a newbie to Silver Bella! She's such a party girl...and tons of fun!I was in a really fun swap that Jessi hosted that included all of these talented girlies... Shopping during Vendor Night was like a dream. Here is some of my loot!That night I was able to meet the incredible Lisa. She's such a talented artist, and a doll! I bought some cupcake holders from her. I forgot to bring her book to sign...darn!
My roomies Jessie, Maija, Kim, and Joy were the BEST! Here are some of the goodies they gave me.

Another class I took was from Charlotte. I have all of her books. She has so many great craft ideas. We made darling winter hats out of felted sweaters. I know it hardly gets cold down here...but the one month it does, I'll be wearin' my cute hat!Here's my fun roomie Joy and me...wearing our creations! We worked on projects on the floor one night and she gave me so much inspiration! Love that Joy!!
Here are my two wool hats. Ok, so it's in the 70's today...they still look cute!

I took not one, but two classes with Ms Rebecca S. I hope she didn't think I was stalking her. I've admired Rebecca for YEARS!! Her style of scrapbooking took me to another world. I love her shabby and romantic creations. I can't believe I finally got to meet her! YEAH!!
Here's my good friend Lori and me! I've "known" Lori for so long, and finally got to "meet" her in person! Lori is SO talented and fun. We have a lot in common and I feel like I've known her forever!! Wish we had more time!!
Lori made me this lovely canvas hanger...I just love it!!
Look! It's the very talented Hope and Lori working at our table in Rebecca's class! I met my fellow Texas Bella Joanna at the Paper Cowgirl event last summer. She's so much fun! I'm so glad she lives close by. Can't wait to see her at PC again!Speaking of Texas Girls...here's Rita! The Texas Bellas had a big Mum Swap and Rita made mine! It turned out just gorgeous!! Thank you Rita!
Maija from CA and I hit it off right away. She was another roomie of mine! Maija kept me laughing all weekend. We wore our hats in the room...we loved them!! So glad to get to know this girl. Joanna and Maija... The main speaker at the Bella Luncheon was the amazing Jo Packham of Where Women Create, an incredible publication. She made me so proud to be a creative woman, doing what I love. What an inspirational lady!
Pam G. has been another artist I've admired for a while. I love her style!
Here's my other sweet CA roomie, Kim. Her smile is contageous!! I had so much fun with her. She had such beautiful things at vendor night. I finally got one of her craft bags!! I loved her vendor night booth.
My last class was with the famous Teresa M! Silver Bella is her "baby" and I was so happy to be able to attend this year!

I met so many fabulous ladies. I wish I could have taken photos of them all! I can't believe I don't have one of my new Texas fun friend Jana. We had a blast taking several classes together. She's an amazing photographer.

Danielle M. of the Vintage Dragonfly is another one I loved getting to know. We talked about old purchases and new ones...it was great!

I laughed and had a great time with Meleen from NY and her crafty teen daughter. They both got a kick out our Texas Homecoming Mum tradition. I think Meleen and family will start a Texas Mum trend in NY!

I met Amy , another super artsy girl, late one night after a party. We talked and laughed while doing a little crafting.

I loved visiting with these ladies during our after shopping "down time." Sure wish I had pics!

There so many more I met...loved them all!

Thanks Y'all!

Silver Bella Here I Come!

2009-11-12T12:00:00.001-06:00

I'm off to Silver Bella!! HURRAY HURRAY!!

I found a great song to get me in the mood for lots of baubles and glitter....turn your volume up!!

Here are a few more things I've created for my sweet friends.

I'm going to wait to see if THIS girlie notices these darling girls all ready soldered and ready to wear... SURPRISE!!

This was a REALLY fun project. I had all of my roomies send me their little girl pictures. As soon as I got one I dressed her up in my own digi style. Here are the cuties!!!
I hope to put a smile on their faces! Look at these darling girlies...Maija, Kim, Jessi, and Joy!! Thank you for letting me room with you!!

I've been stuffing my case with Silver Bella essentials. I hope I have everything!

I've Been in my Art Studio this week!

2009-10-24T16:15:00.001-05:00

I've created a wrist corsage for a fundraising auction honoring my good friend Tina.
Lots of glitter and pearls, on a pearl bracelet. It would be a great touch for any holiday party!Speaking of my friend Tina....take a peek at a very special book we've put together for her here... The very talented Lisa and I organized the book, and it turned out just beautiful. There were over 25 of Tina's friends who participated. Each talented artist created a page of encouragement and love. The theme of the book was "The Power of Friendship."

It was an honor for me to do the cover of the book. Look at the thickness of this creation!
Thank you Lisa, for actually putting the book together! I made a new friend!!
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Just a few more floral corsages I've been working on before Silver Bella...
It's fun to put a corsage on a colorful apron!
Some little goodies for a few little sweeties...
Here's another peek at "part" of the mum for my TEXAS Bella exchange.I can't believe Silver Bella is in three weeks!! I am getting both excited and a little nervous! Here's my art case...ready to pack!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Halloween! Welcome to my Blog Halloween Celebration...a continuation of festivities originated my friend Vanessa of A Fanciful Twist!
My theme this year is Glamour Witch!

Who says witches are scary?? How about a few "mod" witches?

Here are a few digital creations of mine...

Now for the most celebrated glamorous witch of them all...

Samantha Stephens.

Click here to play a Bewtiched Paper Doll Game!! Have fun!

Here are a few party gifts...
Thank you for coming over!

Happy Halloween!

More Flowers!! Wrist Corsages

2009-10-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

I've made Homecoming Mums before, but never attempted a wrist corsage until this weekend. I started playing around with my collection of vintage flowers and made this fun corsage...for myself of course!
I fell in love with these beautiful pearl corsage bracelets. I used REAL flowers in the wrist corsage for for my son's homecoming dance date...
Supplies I needed: fresh flowers, floral wire, floral tape, silver wire ribbon, and fresh flower "glue."
Here are three practice corsages...
Here's my final corsage...on me. ...and here it is on Max's sweet Date. She loved it!

Texas High School MEGA Mums!

2009-09-20T17:08:00.008-05:00

It's THAT time again!! Texas High School Homecoming!

My youngest son is a sophomore, and this weekend we went shopping for mum materials. His date loves cats, so I planned a "cat theme" using the traditional red and green colors of the high school.

Here is our homecoming "loot!" We got everything from Michaels, Toys R Us, and the Dollar Store. I bought the silk flower, lots of trims in the school colors, extras like a feather boa, glittery strands, sticker letters, the featured toy (my son picked out) for the middle of the flower, and of course the kitty accessories. I used my hot glue gun and a lot of glue sticks. I ended up using 12 glue sticks for this mum.
Craft stores sell white circles to use as backing, but I find them very flimsy. I make my own foam board circles. They don't have to be "perfect." They will be covered. So here is where I started. I covered one of the white circles with green felt and glued part of the feather boa and some glittery gold trim around the edges.

I usually buy a large mum, mainly so it can show off the "toy" in the middle. When I make senior mums, I use three smaller flowers.

I used spray glitter all over the flower and then glued it to the covered circle.

Each mum has some kind of toy in it...usually a stuffed animal. Traditionally, HC mums had a teddy bear, but we like to be different. I like to really focus on what the girls enjoys.
The toy of choice this year....Hello Kitty!

The next step is the flip the kitty around and start hot glueing all of the ribbons. It's important to remember that what you glue on first will show up on the FRONT of the creation. I glued the small ribbons and trims first. I used a lot of thin ribbons, so that I can attach toys on to them later. I then added the red boa, and the plaid ribbons. The last layer was the thick gold mesh and crushed gold ribbon.

I then flipped the corsage over and started with my stickers. I put both names on the front.

Next I used small pieces of thin ribbon to tie the bells and school signs on to the thicker ribbons. I made knots. My mums are heavy and loud!
Now for the FUN STUFF! We bought all of the "kitty toys" at the dollar store. I used my glue gun to glue everything on the ribbons.
The key to a good mum is...the tackier the better!
I will add candy later.
Now to finish my mum...

I flipped the mum over and added a thin pretty ribbon at the top. The ribbon has two open ends. This will be the "necklace" for the mum. Yes...the girl wears it around her neck!
I covered the neck ribbon with my second white circle. I covered the circle with some coordinating scrapbook paper and added a little note.

Here is the final product! It will be worn around the neck homecoming day. Later, the girls like to hang it in their room.
The mum is about 4 1/2 feet long.

I hope she will like it!Here is another one I made....using Tinker Bell as the center piece. It's a senior mum...all white and gold.

The Power of Friendship

2009-09-13T20:37:00.002-05:00

My sweet fellow Texas art friend Tina is going through a hard time right now. If you don't know Tina (Glue On My Fingers), she's a very talented cute-as-pie girlie. She solders, faux finishes, and is an expert at all mixed media art. She and my friend Cindy are the co-founders of the one and only Paper Cowgirl event in Waxahachie. If you do know Tina, please visit the Paper Cowgirl Blog for information on an inspirational art book being made for her. The power of friendship goes a long way!

Big Hugs to Tina!

Little Glass Houses

2009-08-30T11:30:00.002-05:00

Seems like yesterday when I sent out all of these soldered glass houses!
They were so much fun to make. I really enjoyed working with triangles for the first time. I had a lot of support from Tina...thanks girlie!
Here is my display of all of the Cute little Soldered Houses. The swap was hosted by my good friend Tina Wright. Some of us used two pieces of glass to make the house shape, and some cut out one large glass piece. I was amazed at all of the little details in each house. I LOVED this swap!
Glass houses created by:
Tina, Cheryl, Jeanie, Heather, Phyllis Ann

Dale, Shannon, Cindy, me, Sherri,

Thanks to everyone for sending me a house!

Sometimes I take one or two off and wear it as a charm on a long necklace...hehe!

Graduation, College, Sweet Goodbyes

2009-08-17T19:00:00.000-05:00

Last weekend my family wished my oldest son good luck on his new life journey...college!

Here are my parents with both boys. My In-Laws with the boys and sweet cousin... Our "little boys" and Dad...Mom and Me!

I surprised my nieces with these glass glitter crown pins...

I had a fun surprise waiting for me when I got back home! My sweet friend Dede's Halloween Round Robin article came out in the latest Somerset Studio issue. I was so lucky to be included in this art group. It was so much fun!
Circled is my part in the book...
Thank you Dede!

Art Days

2009-08-05T15:00:00.001-05:00

I have that soldering iron out again! I leave it out for about a week, just so that I can pick up where I left off.

I always make a little something special for the teachers I work with. This year I am switching from kindergarten to second grade. I hope my new group will enjoy their personalized birdie charms...

I think we should all wear them on the first day of school!

I also made a little gift for my sweet mom's birthday. It's a soldered charm with her mom (my Nana) on it. The charm is detachable...so she can switch it out with other charms I've made. My curly hair came from my Nana! I made one for myself too!
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I have had so much fun diving into my Pre-Silver Bella swaps!! Here one sneaky peek of what I'm doing... The colors are so much fun to work with!

Here's a peek at another Pre-Bella swap. I love the richness of creams with blacks. I don't work with black very often, but I like it. I have BIG plans for this creation...for a very special swap.

This project will take a while...I'll be back!

Texas Antique Shopping

2009-07-24T18:00:00.001-05:00

I went shopping for goodies last weekend with my old friend Carol. We drove to the downtown historical square in Montgomery, Texas, and then to a wonderful antique mall in Spring, Texas.

LOVED this darling scrapbook I found. Here are the pages, ready for journaling.
I love "lovelies" major and minor...

She could surely get attention wearing this to class!

I love her belt with the little change purse attached.Let's list our "beauty assets"....funny!!

Hmm...thinking what to put about my "smooth and "sinister" sides...

Here are some beautiful trims and goodies. I have plans for that measuring tape. It will be part of a Big Texas Silver Bella Mum!! Texas Silver Bellas are doing a Mum Swap and I can't wait to get started!

I also ran across more pearls for my collection.
I already wore the two necklaces together and I love it! The pin will be a centerpiece for one of my handmade flowers.

More flowers torn right off of a hat...

Super cute cake toppers for $1
After shopping, I always have ideas for artwork. Here is a sneak peak at a fun Pre-Silver Bella Swap...

Keeping Busy

2009-07-17T12:15:00.000-05:00

My sweet puggie Madeline, on the computer....literally. I decided that since I was soldering anyway, I'd make a little something for Madeline's collar. I soldered a little photo of "Mommy and Daddy."
...and a little flower on the other side.
Now time to work on my soldered swap with some Paper Cowgirl Friends. This tea party image was a gift from my friend Jan, and I thought it was so cute!Paired up mine with some pearls. I "created" this necklace using a bracelet and links.
A few other pieces using small vintage flowers. Here's a special piece with photos of my Mom and Dad.
All for soldering for now!!

OOH, her's a little "Bella Kindess" from my SB roomie Jessi. Lots of goodies!! She's so sweet. Thanks Jessi!

Like My Tote? It's "Duck Taped!"

2009-07-09T08:00:00.003-05:00

The winner of my "Vintage" Corsage Class Kit is the one and only Renee of Circling My Head. What an inspirational woman! I love her look on life and love. I hope she enjoys making the corsage...don't worry, I did some of it for you already! Enjoy my friend!

Since I am a classroom teacher during the year, I love focusing my summers on family and art. I finally bought the newest Photoshop Elements, and have been playing with new projects. I've also done some incredible research online, learning new and exciting things.

Gotta LOVE that Martha Stewart!! I was playing around, searching through her fabulous website for fun and unusual things. I found a no sew, Duck Tape Tote Bag!! There is a short instructional video. The bag was introduced by a gal named Jodi Kahn. She had many bags on display. She also has a book out called Simply Sublime Bags 30 No-Sew Low-Sew Projects. I will be purchasing this book asap!

Well, once I saw the video, I had to try it myself.
Here is my version of the step by step process...

I have two squares of vintage style silk fabric, my trusty huge stapler, and my DUCK tape! My tape was in the garage, so nothing fancy. I hear that Wal-Mart has different colors of Duck Tape. Hurray! I am using two contrasting fabrics: a soft pink and a blue with gold.

Find some trim, lace, etc., and measure out two equal strips. I was in such a hurry to try this, I just used the first trim I saw. Use your stapler and staple the strips on to the wrong side of your fabric square, up at the top. Don't go all the way through both layers, just the "flap" and the trim. Do the same to the other square of fabric. Now the FUN part...rip a piece of Duck Tape and just put it on top of the staples. Do the other piece as well.
Now start attaching the two pieces together, as you would if you were really sewing, but with staples. Don't be shy, staple, staple, staple. Do the bottom too. If you were using one large rectangle of one fabric, you wouldn't even need to staple the bottom. Get the Duck Tape (wish mine was a prettier color!), and go around the staples. Trim the edges. You could make a "dart" on the bottom of each side with more staples, to have more of a "box" shape, but I got lazy and way too impatient to attempt that step.
Now FLIP out the bag, shape it a little, and now you have your tote bag. It's quite sturdy and it took me about 6 minutes to make! I added one of my handmade flower corsages. This would be a great idea for kids! Here is the opposite side. My corsage is just pinned on, so I can move it around easily.
I put some magazines in my bag, and it held up!

I had so much fun with my duck tape creation. I found the official duck tape website and found some amazing things. I nearly fell off my chair admiring the PROM dresses and formal Tuxes made out of the tape! Scholarships were given out for the most creative outfits.

WOW!!

Paper Cowgirl 2009

2009-06-29T09:00:00.006-05:00

I'm BAAACK!!

I had such a GREAT time at the Paper Cowgirl event last weekend! Here I am with my good friends Cindy and Tina. We've known each other for a while online...but here they are in person! These gals really know how to put on a fantastic weekend. Vendor's night was an evening of delicious frosting "shots" and lots of shopping! Jan was a delight to meet. She made me laugh! Jan was ahead of the ATC swap.
Sweetie Joanna...also going to Silver Bella! We had a great time together.New friend Ann Denise. She sold the most beautiful crepe paper strips! I had to add to my stash.
I took an amazing class with the one and only Dale. We made darling collages!
My "vintage" corsage class was on Saturday afternoon. I had the BEST group of ladies!! Everyone was so sweet and patient. I loved hearing stories and art tips from them. I was so lucky!! My super sweet sis-in-law came in from Fort Worth to see what all the fuss was about. She had great time with the group. Getting dirty in my class with the big bowl of walnut ink ...
Group photo of the vintage corsage girls. We had so much fun!
Here are a few photos from The Dove's Nest shop and restaurant...gorgeous!
We went to a wonderful Antique shop right around the corner. I found these great photos.

...and this very pretty case. It goes with my vintage pink suitcase!
I bought three soft and shabby pillow cases. Maybe I'll make a few aprons out of them??
I met Caroline from the Crafty Scrapper. She's a doll...and another curly haired girl like myself! The store is one of the most amazing scrapbook store's I've ever seen. I wish I would have taken photos inside. I was too busy shopping with Jan, Joanna, my sister-in-law Elisa, and my new super sweet friend Jodie from Corpus. I can't believe I didn't get a photo of her either...grr!
I had SUCH a great time this weekend, I decided to do a little Give-Away! I will draw a name from this post, and give someone one of my class kits! I even dyed the flower for them already...oh yes I did! I will mention the winner in my next post. Here is an example of one of the kits. I am donating the other one to my elementary school for their fundraiser.The Paper Cowgirl weekend was the highlight of my summer. Thank you Cindy and Tina for including me. Can't wait til next year!! :)mendy

Mad Tea Party

2009-06-27T08:00:00.008-05:00

I am so excited to be included in A Fanciful Twist's Mad Tea Party! What a fun summer event!
Well...on with the Tea Party!! Welcome everyone!My Tea Party is a celebration of my Silver Bella Roomies. Please help me honor them today!
I am so glad you all came to my party. Please let me introduce you to my SB Roomies... Joy, Kim C., Maija, Jessi, and Kim H.
Did you know that Silver Bella will have an APRON theme on Friday night during Bella Market?

Tea for you? And you? And you?
Would you care for some cream filled cupcakes? I made them myself.
How about a few tunes from my 1917 Victor Talking Machine? Let's see... I have a great collection of swing music! We'll have to take turns winding it up...
Let's pamper ourselves with homemade foot and hand scrub. These have a cool mint fragrance.
Oh yes, this is Princess Madeline. She would like to say "hello."
Thank all of your for coming to my tea party today. I'm glad everyone got to meet my new Silver Bella Roomies! Aren't they fabulous?Thank you so much for coming. I had a great time. Let's do this again soon! Hugs, Mendy

Paper Cowgirl!

2009-06-22T14:00:00.001-05:00

Well, I am off to the great "town" of Waxahachie this weekend. I am SO excited! I finally get to meet all of my new Paper Cowgirls! I'm ready for art, a little relaxation, and some serious shopping! (My Aunt Shirley)

Got my bags packed...

I have all my class kits made... and a few fun things for Vendor Night.

I'm ready for a Cowgirl Weekend!

Summer Art Camp

2009-06-10T19:00:00.002-05:00

Summer Fun Has Begun!

I have started my Art Camp for Girls! My first session includes a group of 13 little girls. We have our mornings filled activities galore! The camp will last all week. I have a second session in July.
We are making mini scrapbooks, name banners, collages, decorating art totes, making cards and tags, and even have an ATC party on Friday! Take a look at these cuties!

Lots of Photos This Week!

2009-06-06T15:00:00.000-05:00

What's new this week? Prom and Graduation for my oldest son Morry!!I can't believe he is already 18 and starting a new chapter in his life... He said the Pledge at the ceremony...
It was just "yesterday" when I took this picture of him!! Congrats to you my little man!!

Lots of Packages!

2009-05-24T21:00:00.000-05:00

I've received lots of GREAT package lately! They've come at the right time too...I've been working hard these days finishing up the year at school.

I ordered a set of 100 postcards using my digital creation on the front. You can design the front and back if you want. I love them!

My sweet friend Jessi sent me these darling Dick and Jane book and the Bad Girls Go Everywhere bag. She's one of my roomies at Silver Bella! Thank you Jessi!! What a sweetheart...My Paper Cowgirl bud Jan, of Polkadot Barn Studio, sent me this goodie bag for a Paper Cowgirl Swap. She and I are teaching at the event next month. I am so lucky she got ME!! I love everything she sent.
And now for packages going OUT!

Two soldered charms for a friend...

...and a LONGHORN soldered piece for my friend Carol. She can wear this to the football games in the fall. Hook 'Em !
Last package mailed was this goodie bag for my Paper Cowgirl Swap Parnter, Marie.

I am so excited for summer to come!! Have a great week!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-09T10:00:00.003-05:00

What could be the most amazing Mother's Day present EVER? Having my husband and boys help move all of my art supplies from an upstairs small extra bedroom to downstairs...in the hub of the house! When my art studio was upstairs, I always felt apart from the family. Now I am in an office/extra den, closer to the kitchen sink and the backyard. You would think I struck gold! And just think...it didn't cost a penny! I am so happy!!
Just enough nooks and crannies to house my goodies.
Ahh....now to play.

Little of This and That

2009-04-27T17:40:00.000-05:00

I love creating fun jewelry pieces. I need to organize my things. I have tools all over the house! Here are a few "new" pieces from my vintage collection. I have lots of plans for these goodies!

Fun Times Ahead

2009-04-18T20:16:00.009-05:00

I still can't believe it... I signed up for my first Silver Bella! I am so excited!! I am looking forward to the classes and meeting art friends from around the country. Hurray!

Summer, Paper Cowgirl...Fall, Silver Bella. Can't ask for more than that!

Until then, I have lots of projects to do...

I've been working on some fun mini collage "hangers" for my 22 kindergarteners. Check out my tutorial on the collages on the Paper Cowgirl blog.

Four collages down, 18 more to go!

Springtime in Texas...and Winner of My Paper Cowgirl Giveaway!

2009-04-10T07:00:00.007-05:00

Ahhh...Springtime in TexasThe wildflowers are out and it's time to take in the beautiful weather.

Here are our famous Texas Blue Bonnets...
You can find them on every corner. Here are three native Texans...my boys and me!

Speaking of goodies from Texas...
It's time to announce the winner of my Paper Cowgirl giveaway!!

Drum Roll Please.....da da da....
The talented Miss Kim Caldwell!! Her blog is called Artistic Bliss, and it's a beautiful one!
Congrats to you!

If you are going to the Paper Cowgirl event, and are in my Vintage Corsage class, I will have another drawing for a different digital jpeg image! I will pick a name during the class. You will be able to use it for all kinds of things...business cards, gift cards, etc. Sign ups are closing soon!
Happy Spring!

All For One and All for Paper Cowgirls!

2009-03-29T10:00:00.004-05:00

Take a look at the Paper Cowgirl Blog and you will see all the latest updates on the fun summer Texas art event. All of the instructors have a bio and an interview. See the fantastic classes here!

Hey Cowgirls!! Do you have the right outfit for the Paper Cowgirl Weekend? (Cowgirls courtesy of TweetyJill Designs.)

Are you ready to saddle up and spend some time in Waxahachie, Texas?
Are you ready to learn some new tricks of the trade? How about some great shopping vendor night?

Well...How about a little Give-Away!!!

All Paper Cowgirl instructors are giving away goodies on April 10th!! Just comment on this post and you will be in the drawing for my fab give-away, using some of my favorite Christina Renee digi goodies....

You will receive the digital creation below. It that can be used for your business cards, calling cards, gift tags, and SO much more! If you win the drawing, I will contact you and ask that you send me your detailed information. The digi will be sent in a jpeg file.

So give me a little comment, and your name goes in the cowgirl hat! Since you are commenting anyway...don't forget to comment on your favorite Paper Cowgirl Posts too!!

Good luck Y'all! :) Mendy

Spring Break!!

2009-03-18T10:33:00.000-05:00

It's my Spring Break and I have been doing some serious shopping!! A few of my finds...

Here are some fabrics and trims I will be using in my corsage class at Paper Cowgirl! Just a sampling!! I am so excited about the class. There are a few spots left!

I purchased (another) set of cookbooks. I've been collecting them for years. Some of my cookbooks are thin...I tear out pages for my artwork! I can't stop adding to my pyrex collection of greens! I use them everyday!
Things I've been creating...
I have a little packet of goodies for my dear friend Dede. I have been in a fun round robin she is hosting. She also gave me the honor of a friendship award on her blog. What a sweetie!! Hope she'll enjoy the sampling!This is a soldered piece I created for my school's big spring fundrasier. It will be auctioned off in April. I used my favorite blond girl with the colorful beads. This is the second one I've made with her image. I also papered the box and added a vintage flower.

A Little Southern Charm

2009-03-08T19:30:00.001-05:00

I am featured in an interview at Paper Cowgirl this week! How fun!!

Interested in some FUN this summer? Check out Paper Cowgirl for classes, shopping, and lots of southern fun! Here is a sample of the corsages we will be making in my class...a perfect touch for this cowgirl's hat!

Speaking of "cowgirls...."
My good friend and fellow Texan, Tina invited me to join her Soldered House Swap a few months ago. There are 10 of us in the "glass house" group.

I had so much fun making these "Howdy Y'all" houses for the swap.
Here is where they were created.
One wonderful tip I learned after making a soldered piece is to buff it with this wonderful silver polish. It makes it sparkle!
Little Glass Houses, clean and polished...
They are all packaged and ready to go! My husband just bought a new camera/video recorder and was practicing by filming me making one of my houses. Maybe I'll play with the video and eventually put it on the blog...

I can't wait to post all of the different houses that come in the mail!

Paper Cowgirl 2009

2009-02-27T22:30:00.000-06:00

Well, the time has come for Texas' Paper Cowgirl 2009! Check out the Paper Cowgirl Blog hosted by my friends Tina and Cindy. The event is from June 26th to the 27th. There will be tons of shopping, classes, and more shopping! Registration starts March 1st!I am honored to be teaching a Fabric Vintage Findings Corsage workshop on that Saturday the 27th, from 1:30- 4:30 . I will be demonstrating how to alter a fabric flower and make it into a one-of-a-kind creation!

Here are some samples I've made. We'll be working with rich fabrics, pearls, trims, ribbons, velvets, lots of vintage bling, and more! The corsages can be worn...
Or even attached to a pillow or purse!

Each corsage will be "your own" design. You will want to go home and make tons of these for family and friends! I just made one for the guest of honor at baby shower, and another for my Aunt on her birthday.

All supplies are included in the price of my class. Don't forget to visit the Paper Cowgirl blog on

March 1st! I can't wait to meet my blogger art friends!

Somerset Digital Studio

2009-02-21T18:30:00.001-06:00

Hurray for the newest Somerset Digital Studio 2009! I wish this was a monthly magazine. It's my very favorite digital publication.

The issue is full of incredible ideas and tutorials. To be included with the most amazing artists is such an honor.

Here are my pages...

Speaking of digi....I have a new banner on my blog! The funniest thing is that I did it in the car while my hubby was driving. There's nothing like laptop art!

Fantastic February

2009-02-07T18:00:00.000-06:00

OOH...FUN Valentine swap with two good friends...

Lilia sent me these beauties...love them!!
Lori sent me these lovelies! Fabulous!

I am so happy with my goodies! I already have everything on display. Thank you so much!
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Here is a little preview of a round robin I am working on with some friends using canvas paper.

Now for a digital moment...

I am working on my son's Senior Album. Here are a few of the many digi layouts I made of his mascot experience this year. I used some of my favorite Christina Renee digital elements.

Lots of Pink and Red...

2009-01-28T20:00:00.001-06:00

I am so excited to be a part of a fun Valentine's Day Swap with two good friends, Lilia and Lori. Here a a few of the goodies that I sent to them. I hope they enjoy them!
I started off with something chocolate...the new double dipped M&Ms...yum!
Here is something sparkly, soft, new, artsy, and a little touch of "vintage valentine."

I included a super soft stuffed heart with dried lavender sprinkled inside!
...and a few fabric covered notepads.
Here are a few of my favorite ArtChix Girls.

OOH, just noticed they put the "Winged Cuties" Digi girls I did for Somerset Digital Studio on their site. Cool!

Postman, please deliver!
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A few other goodies sent off...

I love February!

A Little Peek

2009-01-21T19:00:00.000-06:00

Little Bitty Packages...
Peek Peek, what's inside??

Little strawberry filled chocolate truffle "Cake Balls..." Click to try the simple recipe!
Of course I had to make WAY too many!Another peek...at something I am working on in a round robin.
One more little peek...

First Tux, first formal, and first photo of the evening with me. This is my youngest, Max ready for a fun evening with friends.

Having Lots of FUN!

2009-01-13T07:00:00.005-06:00

I started the week off making these yummy cupcakes! I used this recipe to make these very rich, intense goodies. I love making frosting from scratch...the frosting hardens and is easy to pack up to give as a gift. My sister-in-law gave me this awesome Dessert Decorator Pro. It was so easy to shoot out that frosting.
I went pom pom crazy after reading this fab post from the one and only

Pam Garrison. She used coffee filters to make the most adorable creations!! I told my friend Vintage Flair Lori that I HAD to try to make some "poms." She made some really pretty flowers out of her coffee filters.

Here are the steps I took:

Open up a coffee filter. They do come "unbleached," which means their color is a natural tan. I wish I would have spotted those out first...oh well.
Fold it in half, and then again.
Staple the bottom a few times, and then fold out all the layers. It's fun!

I used Glimmer Mist to "age" the poms.
I added a lacey trim to the two ends and hung it near the window! Thanks for the great idea Pam!

Here is a little sneak peak on a round robin I am in...just a little glance.

Have a super creative week!

Texas Boys in the Big Apple!

2008-12-30T14:14:00.004-06:00

Just got back from New York! We did it all...including seeing Jersey Boys. It was a trip we'll never forget! What a magical place...

Now back to real life in Texas...

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-23T14:25:00.002-06:00

Happy Holidays to you! Have a healthy and happy New Year! :) mendy

A Little This and That

2008-12-12T16:00:00.003-06:00

Aren't these Pistachio and Tart Cherry Chocolate Candy packages SWEET? I found a great recipe in the December issue of Good Housekeeping Magazine, while I was at my parents' for Thanksgiving. My mom always has an issue of Good Housekeeping on the coffee table. I love reading it!

The recipe is easy and really delicious. Here is the official recipe from the magazine.
Here is the "Mendy" version:

You need these ingredients...
Melt two bags of dark good quality chocolate in the microwave until melted. Stir til smooth. Add 3/4 cup dried tart cherries and 3/4 cup pistachio nuts. You can add more if you like! Pour dark mixture into a large pyrex, lined with foil. Heat 1/2 package of the white chocolate until warm and smooth. Spoon the white chocolate over the dark chocolate in dots. Use the tip of a knife to swirl the white chocolate all around the dark chocolate mixture. See photo below.
Put pyrex in the frig for 3 hours or more. Pull the bar from the foil and break into pieces. I packaged mine and put all the packages in the freezer until I was ready to give them out. Keep a stash for yourself...try not to eat them all!
Have you seen these tiny glitter balls? I use them in many of my projects for holidays and year round. Got them half off at Hobby Lobby. They are perfect for embellishing a gift...Here are the little birdie ornaments for my teacher friends.
I used these ArtChix images for the gift tags.
One last ornament I made with a digi birdie and some dripping pearls...

OOH Cookies!

2008-12-05T06:00:00.002-06:00

It's...

Jessi's Annual Cookie Swap!

Thanks for inviting me my friend! Here I am "cooking"for the first time in my bedroom kitchen!

My very FAVORITE cookie of all time?? Peanut Butter Cup Cookies!! I could eat a dozen in one sitting. And who could peel off those little papers and not eat a PB cup, or two???Ready to make a few dozen to eat...and maybe a couple to share :)

INGREDIENTS
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk
40 miniature chocolate covered peanut butter cups, unwrapped (don't eat them all!)

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Sift together the flour, salt and baking soda; set aside.
Cream together the butter, sugar, peanut butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla and milk. Add the flour mixture; mix well.
Shape into 40 balls and place each into an ungreased mini muffin pan.
Bake at 375 degrees for about 8 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately press a mini peanut butter cup into each ball. Cool and carefully remove from pan.

Warning...they might be gone before you can put them on a plate!

I'd also like to share these with my friend Danni, who is having a cookie swap soon. I won't be able to go...boohoo! She lives near by, but I haven't seen her in forever!! Miss ya girlie!

Thanks again Jessi, for the blogger cookie swap, and for the sweet stash you sent me!!

Love it all!!

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P.S. Have you stopped by Michael's lately? I was amazed at their bead section. I made necklaces, bracelets, rings, and key chains this year. I made this necklace using "felt" silvery beads and a charm combination that was already put together. Simply string the finished charm set on to the necklace!

Glitter, Beads, Pearls and More!

2008-11-12T19:49:00.010-06:00

It's that time of year...time to think of something fun to give to fellow teachers at my school. Last year I filled mason jars with a minty hand scrub mix. This year I tried my hand at filling clear ornaments with a birdie scene. Thanks to Somerset Life for the inspiration, and my friends Donna of Under the Red Roof and Lori of Vintage Flair. What fun!

I cut out digital birds and gave them glass glitter eyes. I filled the bottom with shredded vintage early readers and little glitter balls. I tied a bit of tiger tail beading string through a hole in the bird and let the bird hang down. I decorated the top with diamond glaze and glass glitter.

Here they are, all the birdies waiting for a home!
Now time to top them off with a bit of lace, and figure out a way to wrap them up....

A few other huge ornaments I did for friends...I put their childhood photo inside.

Now for a totally new project! I made these stretchy vintage inspired rings last weekend. After I made one, I had to make ten more! After wearing mine the first day, I got lots of compliments and actually sold one off my finger...how funny! They are fun to stack on top of each other.

My friend Sandy of My Lulabelles and I did a swap recently. Look at the goodies I just got!!
Cutie Pink Elephant...gotta love her!
Now WHERE do I start? I have enough goodies to play with for a little while! Thanks so much Sandy!

International Quilt Festival in Houston

2008-11-06T20:59:00.009-06:00

It's November, and time for a day long shopping spree at one of my favorite places in the world...
The International Quilt Festival in Houston!!! I always go with good friends and comfy shoes. I had a great time this year!! I bought some fun fibers, trims, vintage goodies, beads, fabrics, glitter sprays, glitter paste, and so much more. Oh, and NO I don't quilt!!

Vintage silks, trims and velvet in my fav colors...YUM!I always hit the wool area, where I buy all their "end" pieces. They are perfect for crafts!
Some vintage flowers and lose petals from the Tinsel Trading Company!
Great fabrics sold in a big quilter's roll. Perfect for tea dying!
One of my freebies from Stampington...Got the year's subscription to Where Women Create.So that's the contents of one of one of my bags...hehe!