RobinsEggBlue

New leather cuffs...

2012-01-15T10:33:00.000-05:00

I've been a terrible blogger lately- working a couple jobs and decompressing after the holiday show season. This is just a peak at one of the newer pieces I'm working on. I'm sticking with the leather, but embellishing it differently.

This cuff has a vintage brass leaf stitched with turquoise and little brass beads. This wraps twice around with a length of brass chain. More colors and variations soon. Check my Etsy shop often- lots of new designs in the works!

40% Off all Pillows & Bags

2011-12-29T19:24:00.002-05:00

All pillows and Bags in my Etsy shop are marked down 40% Off to make room for new work- through January 15th.

Thanks Cleveland for buying handmade this Christmas season and helping make my Christmas a special one!

Peace to all in the New Year.

xoxoxo

Merry Christmas Season!

2011-12-05T08:52:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post- I'm taking a little blogging break this month. Too much crafty mayhem happening and I'm trying to wean myself off my computer! I had a hugely successful show this weekend at TerraVista (YAY!!) and 2 more to go.

Soooo- I'm off to make more "stuff".

Merry Christmas friends!

xoxoxo

Etsy Front Page!!!

2011-11-14T18:57:00.003-05:00

Woo hoo!! Now let's hope I make a few sales!!

Click here to see the entire list, and here to see my pillow. I'm not sure how long I'm on the FP but they archive the lists. Thanks Etsy!!!

More Bags & Totes

2011-11-08T09:16:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again- holiday shopping will be upon us soon! Last night I went through my giant stashes of fabric in preparation for a month of sewing. Every year it amazes me how much fabric I accumulate.

Between summer flea markets and donations from friends, I have a nice variety of vintage and new- prints and wovens. So- production begins. I might not list much in my Etsy shop- it's a very time consuming process to photo, edit, etc. I will add a few things weekly though.

I'll post my holiday show schedule next post. Off to the studio!

Cheers!

Wool Felted Balls

2011-10-14T12:40:00.002-04:00

Are you getting tired of seeing wool felted balls with acorn caps? They pop up everywhere this time of year and so many people claim it's their copyright. I love them, but I never really thought they were an original design. I'm guilty of making acorn necklaces (see last pic) and I thought my different twist was the little glass ladybugs.

I made these little pin cushion rings a few years ago and they always sold very well. The key I think is adding a fun pin to each one, and of course a great photo. These are so easy to make. Simply glue the wool ball into a bezel- in this case the bezels were old watch maker's tins. Then attach them to inexpensive ring blanks.

Voila! The perfect little gift for any sewer in your life.

So if you're bored with these- try some pin cushion rings of your own.

My fun little crafting tip!

New work...

2011-10-12T16:56:00.002-04:00

I realized it's been awhile since I blogged here- so I thought I'd share some newer work. In addition to my thicker leather wraps, I've been working with some softer leather. This is a great weight to stitch and embellish- so I started with these pieces...

Olive green leather with tiny turquoise beads and brass details....

FLY is one of my favorites. This one wraps twice around your wrist, and has a little brass bird charm....

My favorite color combo- teal and brown. Amazonite and stitched brown leather...

...and another version with carnelian. If you're local in the Cleveland area, you can find these at the Gestures in Rocky River, and at The Log Cabin Gallery in Peninsula.....

...or you can hop on over to my Etsy shop to see more. I have more to share this week. Starting in "production mode" for the upcoming holiday shows. Wasn't it just summer?

...in progress...

2011-09-22T16:18:00.003-04:00

I've been crazy busy the last 2 weeks- WAY too much on my plate- but fun busy! Here's a little snippet of one of my bracelets in progress. My new "convertible" series of bracelets/ necklaces are all one-of-a-kind (sorry you're only seeing the bracelet part)

Another section of leather is designed to hook onto the bracelet to make an asymmetrical necklace. I just delivered several of these to the the Log Cabin Gallery- which by the way is opening the Autumn Aglow show this weekend. These new convertible pieces will also be at Gestures in Rocky River. Chris- co-owner- was actually the one who suggested I turn these in to necklaces. Thanks Chris!

I also have a new wholesale account, and hopefully (fingers crossed) 2 other exciting new ventures. I should know about that next week. Sorry not much new is making it to my Etsy shop- I'm thankful things aren't around long enough to list in my shop.

I'm off- more this weekend.

"In Need of Inspiration" Challenge!

2011-09-14T09:04:00.007-04:00

What's inspiring me recently are these gorgeous 100 year old hand embroidered Indian silk sari ribbons. These textiles are AMAZING!! My good friend Kim gave these to me as a thank you and I really want to do them justice.

My background is in textiles, (I worked in textile conservation at the Cleveland Museum of Art) so I have such an appreciation for the effort and talent that goes into these hand embroidered ribbons. My dilemma is- how do I incorporate these into my work and honor them at the same time?

Just look at the snowmen and reindeer on this one!! My first thought was to stitch these onto soft leather for cuff bracelets- maybe with some simple beaded detail. I've been researching textile jewelry lately and haven't really been inspired.

Does anyone out there have any ideas? Modern or historical? I would love to do a series of posts with all the ideas and images of my readers- so please email me yours.

This peacock silk is very tattered, but I can always back it on something to stabilize it. The last image is a cuff I made a few years ago with seed bead detail. It was the first time I ever did anything like that, but looking at it now I don't think the beadwork enhances the textile- rather it covers it up.

So please send your images (links in the comments) or email them directly.

Beaded Leather Bracelets Part 1

2011-09-12T13:55:00.003-04:00

Dipping into my stash of beads and trinkets was the ultimate inspiration for these new pieces. Each bracelet has 3 strands- leather cord, sterling chain, and linen cord. This first one features this great metal bead of unknown origin- it has a wonderful tribal feel. Mixed up with turquoise, carnelian, sterling beads, and yellow jade.

I think I'll make these all "convertible" pieces, and include a leather section to turn these into necklaces as well. (my friend Chris's idea!)

This piece features an antique mother-of-pearl buckle with cluster of stones- labradorite, moonstone, amethyst, and aventurine. The photo is a bit too dark, you don't really get the feel of the contrast between the amethyst and the green glass African trade beads.

...and even though I hate matchy-matchy, I just couldn't resist the earrings. The antique mother-of-pearl buckles mimic the detail on the bracelet- with 2 little clusters of stones hanging from the sterling wire.

I'll share more of these tomorrow!

Finally! Something new!

2011-09-12T10:58:00.004-04:00

After weeks of stitching, working and reworking, I finally have a few new pieces to share. This is part of a small collection I'll be showing in 2 local galleries (more on that later).

Super soft olive green leather with stitched- on turquoise beads and brass details- these are designed to wrap 3 or 4 times around your wrist. The leather is much softer than my other bracelets- more like a textile and fun to stitch.

Little stitched leather earrings....

....and a simple little brown leather wrap. I still can't get away from this color combo- the brown and teal look- I think it's getting to be my signature. I have several different color combos on the work table with carnelian and garnet.

More tomorrow. I didn't want to share everything in one day or I wouldn't have anything to blog about the rest of the week!

Thanks!

What I've been working on....Log Cabin Gallery

2011-09-04T19:17:00.002-04:00

Several months ago I got an unexpected phone call from a woman who saw the article in Midwest Living magazine- see previous post- featuring one of my pillows. Diane Seskes, owner of the Log Cabin Gallery in Peninsula asked if I would show my work in her cabin. Her gallery is literally an 1850's log cabin on her property that was dismantled, moved, and restored on her property, overlooking the Cuyahoga River. You can read all about it here.

The summer show was a success and I'm invited back to participate in the Autumn Aglow Exhibit. I'll be showing primarily my leather jewelry, with a few new Halloween inspired applique pillows. I hope all my local friends stop out- the show runs 6 weeks, Fri.- Sun.

More info here....and pictures of new work later this week. Stay tunes!

Inspiration...

2011-08-20T12:46:00.002-04:00

I don't usually post other people's images, but I have been drooling over these bags all morning! I found them at Totem- and I can't find much more info....

but I absolutely love the salvaged vibe- the mix of rustic textiles and feminine needlepoint. The leather and button details....

...drooling...

...still drooling.....these bags are so inspiring to me because I'm not a pattern maker- I just love vintage textiles...

That's all. I just wanted to share these wonderful images, and hope that something is inspiring you today!

Linen Leaves & Birds...

2011-08-04T11:38:00.003-04:00

Just a quick post....this is the last of my vintage fabric leaf pillows. I love making these and they sell well, but it's time to move on. I have more leaf designs in the works- trees, mushrooms, woodland scenes...

I made my first petite bird pillow almost a year ago- I was using up little scraps of linen and made a teal one with a blue calico bird very last minute before a show. It was the first thing that sold- to a sweet woman who attends the show every year. She's very petite herself, and seems very shy- much like a bird. I always think of her when making these.

Maybe I'll share that with her this year. These last bird pillows now have a handful of organic lavender in the stuffing.

That's all for now. I put my sewing machine away for several weeks to concentrate on the new leather pieces. AND- I'm off to North Carolina!!!

Peace.

Work in Progress.....

2011-08-02T11:09:00.003-04:00

Here's what's on my work table this week....just playing around with leather. I started stitching and beading deerskin- it's so nice to work with. Unlike cowhide, it's soft and pliable like a textile.

...just a few stitches here and there, a few tiny stitched beads. I'm trying to focus on the leather as the main design element, rather than the stones. I love working on intricately detailed textiles, so I'm trying to get more of that aspect of my aesthetic in this new work. These are just the first pieces...

I'm taking baby steps, I know. The more intricate stitched leather bands aren't ready yet- still working out some kinks. I need to figure out how to layer the leather- leather glue? Is there such a thing? I also started tooling some retro tattoo images on wider bands. I really need to stay focused on these new leather pieces. So much fun!

Several different leather colors, mixing metals, etc..

Did I say I LOVE what I'm doing!

I'm back....

2011-07-23T19:48:00.002-04:00

No better place to spend a heat wave than on Lake Chautauqua! My annual "cousin's week" at the lake- when all my sisters and their families spend the week at my parent's lake. We missed a few this year- new jobs and life stuff kept a few loved ones at home. They were truly missed, but I feel blessed to have spent the week with my family.

I'm feeling rested, a little sun burned, and a few pounds heavier from Dad's famous "Chautauqua Shore Breezes" (a perfect blend of rum, pineapple and cranberry!). My fingers are sore from working late at night- stitching leather and wire wrapping. Tomorrow I'll unpack and perhaps share a few images of new work. It's coming along!!

...just checking in....

2011-07-14T14:21:00.003-04:00

I've been neglecting my blog for awhile- and won't be posting for several weeks. Summer, gardening, vacations, art shows, etc. have kept me away from my computer. As I scramble to get new work ready for shows & galleries, I'm also working on a new body of work.

I've been sketching all my new ideas- a little collection of new leather pieces, that combine my love for this color palette, birds, the sea, leather, and textiles. I'm anxious to share the few pieces I have done, but I really want to develop this new body of work as a "collection" before I show anything.

I don't usually work this way with my own work- then I realized this is what I'm trained to do. In my old career as a design director, I directed collections of work. It was organized & cohesive- something my work has been lacking. Rather than jumping from one idea to the next, I looked for a common thread- subject matter, style, etc. I wrote down those things I'm passionate about and started sketching. I'm excited again and feel recharged.

These 3 images are what's inspiring me today- always the element of nature. What is it about robin's eggs that I'm so drawn to? I love mixing textures and materials. Hopefully next post I'll be sharing more. That's all for now!

New in Leather Wrap Bracelets in shop.....

2011-07-02T17:07:00.003-04:00

Just a quick shop update....I added few new leather wrap bracelets in my Etsy shop today. I didn't take the time to photograph all of them.....

...so if you want a certain color/stone combo and don't see it email me. If I don't have it in stock I can make it for you!

Well- off to the beach. I hope you all enjoy your long weekend!

Not My Usual Vintage Vibe

2011-07-02T10:30:00.001-04:00

I don't usually buy new fabric, but I wanted a variety of bags for upcoming shows and events. I adore these new prints. This first one is by a European designer- it's a home dec weight, and the color combo is awesome! The bright yellow interior is the perfect compliment for this messenger-style bag- new in my shop.

This giant bird print is a heavy upholstery weight fabric- this giant tote was designed to accommodate the scale of the print. I designed it with an adjustable strap to fit any figure. Quite possible the perfect tote! New in my shop- with 2 other colorways available in a few days.

I sold out of the other 2 colorways fast and had to re-order. This colorway goes perfect with jeans- cobalt and butter on a tan background.

Lastly, I couldn't resist this little print. I bought one of those sample packs at my local fabric shop- J Ellen's House of Fabric- and had to buy a yard of this coordinating fabric. I really like the contrast of the modern print with the vintage lace & linen- also new in my shop.

That's all for now. These bags are new in my Etsy shop if interested.

More pillows!

2011-07-01T09:05:00.000-04:00

In my studio, I have a basket next to my work table where I collect all the fabric scraps too big to throw away. When that basket fills up, I have the urge to use them. I cut birds and leaves and other assorted things, and spend a week on pillows. Very therapeutic.

I have some new designs in the works, but these leaves and bird designs have been a staple in my Etsy shop this year. It's almost time to move on....

....but I just love making these! I think I'll start making the little bird pillows with a pocket for a tooth fairy pillow. People seem to buy them for baby's rooms, and what a fun keepsake to be able to use it for a few more years.

Maybe I should put a handful of lavender in these? Hmmm...

Granny Chic

2011-06-30T09:51:00.004-04:00

I finally got a chance to photo some new totes- The "Granny Chic" series. New in my Etsy shop- these are all a mix of vintage quilts, lace and linens.

This first one is my favorite- it's giant- with a vintage quilt and pocket on one side......

....and an antique dresden plate on linen on the other. All the straps are adjustable to accommodate any size- tall or short.

This sage green barkcloth looks great with the bright yellow lining....

I made 5 or 6 of these from an old 1970's quilt top. I loved the patterns and 70's vibe. Some have crochet cherries, some have lace doilies.

More later!

Art on the Circle...

2011-06-27T19:04:00.002-04:00

Here's a few pics from my booth at Art on the Circle at Notre Dame College. The show was fun- not a whole lot of traffic but it was very successful for a first year show. I have never worked with a staff nicer or more accommodating than the Notre Dame staff. This show has so much potential- I'm sure I'll be blogging about it next year!

And did I mention the mayor bought one of by big totes? I have a handful of bags leftover that I'll list in my shop this week....

My next show is end of July- Summer Market- my favorite!!

More later....

what I've been working on....

2011-06-24T11:50:00.004-04:00

Later today I'm setting up for another outdoor craft show- the first Art on the Circle at Notre Dame College. I snapped a quick pic of a new pillow I made. I've made a few of these over the years- another way to use all those tiny scraps of vintage fabric I can't bear to throw away!

I know- the design is not the most original- but who doesn't love trees? Mostly vintage quilt fabrics from the 1940's, it's appliqued on linen. This one's about 20" x 20".

Wish me luck this weekend- and stop by the show if you're on the east side of Cleveland!

Summer Shows Begin!!

2011-06-13T15:13:00.002-04:00

My first of the season outdoor show "Art By The Falls" was great fun! Despite the foreboding weather forecast, it was hot and sunny all day Saturday, and cloudy & cool on Sunday. Thankfully the rain past us by......

Thanks to everyone who came out to visit & buy- it was a great success! I never remember to photo my booth, so here's a few quick pics. Nothing fancy- I always try to keep it bright & cheerful......

A lot of new bags & pillows.......

...and of course my leather wrap bracelets.

The Notre Dame College show "Art on the Circle" is in 2 weeks, and so is the Peninsula Log Cabin Gallery show- gotta get sewing!

So now you can see why I haven't been blogging much.

More later!

Summer Checklist...

2011-06-03T21:57:00.004-04:00

I just read Rebecca Sower's post on her blog & was blown away. She's an old soul that has a way of making me think twice about things. Forget your crazy self-imposed deadlines, the laundry piling up, the dust in your living room. Take a moment to read her Summer Checklist. Definitely old-school, and very wise indeed!

In Rebecca's words:

"Go wading in a creek

Visit a real working farm

Sleep under the stars

Walk down a country road

Eat a warm tomato off the vine

Sew a summer skirt

Drive with the windows down

Have a picnic on a quilt

Stay home more

Make homemade jam

Let your laundry dry in the sun

Host a block party

Play cards on the front porch

Go to an outdoor concert

Eat outside as much as possible

Read a book under a shade tree

Catch fireflies (then let them go)

Make fresh-squeezed lemonade

Buy your groceries at the farmers market

Play hide and seek after dark

Learn to identify birdsongs

Go barefoot

Walk or ride your bicycle when you can

Plant something

and, last but not least.....

linger around the dinner table, not the tv"

(I must say that the only thing I can't do is sleep under the stars. Nap maybe, but not sleep!) This list was well worth sharing. I hope you can benefit from these wise words- I know I will!

My summer show schedule...

2011-05-27T17:09:00.002-04:00

I had no idea it's been a month since my last post here. I've been BUSY designing new work for my 4 summer shows. 4!!! I haven't stopped working to photo and list new work in my Etsy shop because that process is very time consuming. Save these dates:

1) Art By The Falls in Chagrin Falls 6/11-12

2) Art On The Circle at Notre Dame College in South Euclid 6/25-26. More info on this 1st annual outdoor show as I get it.

3) Summer Comforts 2011 Exhibit at The Log Cabin Gallery 6/24- 8/14. The gallery in Peninsula is open Fri- Sun. 11-5 during the show.

4) Summer Market in Avon Lake 7/29-30. The 6th annual oudoor show on the shores of Lake Erie at Memorial Park.

I'll post some new work if I get time this weekend.

I hope you all enjoy some time off!

A Few Favorites of Mine....

2011-04-27T19:26:00.003-04:00

My sewing machine is getting tired- so I decided to get out the "good beads" and have a relaxing evening making a few more of my favorite designs. I have to be in the right mind to make these little bird cages. After drilling holes in the bottom, each cage has to be carefully pried open and the vintage glass bird slipped in so the wire goes through the bottom hole- and trying NOT to break off the little tail!

I can never keep these in stock- and I can't take special orders (because you never know if that tail snaps off after working on one forever- then I have to put it all away & start something else!) I just love working with the "good beads". I think tomorrow I'll snap a few picks of my private little stash of vintage glass- I covet the wire embedded birds- Venetian birds from the 40's and 50's. I just found a few more of my little hour glass charms....

...so I'll be making a variation of this design I made last year. About 1 inch tall, the glass timer is filled with real sand and actually turns. I LOVE these!

So, off to my bottle of red, my audio book (because I'm hosting book club Friday & I haven't started the book), and my apothocary jar filled with the "good beads".

Some New Work....

2011-04-25T11:37:00.004-04:00

Here's a few new cushions I've been working on.....using vintage fabric scraps from old quilts, appliqued on linen. This is a series of scenes I've been sewing from sketches of mine and my son's- like little memory quilts. The sand castle scene is dear to me.....

...the "head stand" is a snippet of a memory from my childhood (when life was carefree!)......

...so is the "puddle". These are all characters from my past & present, but I don't want to be too descriptive, as I hope people can attach their own personal memories.

I'll be listing a few in my Etsy shop, but saving most for summer shows.

More soon!

Shop update- A Few More Leather Wrap Bracelets...

2011-04-20T13:02:00.004-04:00

I'm still here! I spent the morning photographing piles of new work- leather bracelets and new pillow designs. (I still have to photoshop the pillows) Not everything will make it to my Etsy shop, as I'm working hard to get a variety of inventory for summer shows.

So far this summer, I'll be participating in:

*Art By the Falls- June 11-12th in Chagrin Falls, Ohio

*Summer Comforts Exhibit at The Log Cabin Gallery- June 24- Aug 14th in Peninsula, Ohio

*Summer Market- July 29-30th in Avon Lake, Ohio

I'm also trying to get in a new outdoor art festival here in Lyndhurst at Notre Dame College called Art on the Circle June 25-26th. The deadline to enter is May 4th, and I think it will be a good show. Spread the word! It's a beautiful campus, and a great opportunity sell locally.

More pillows designs this week!

Shop Update- New Leather Wrap Bracelets

2011-04-13T10:14:00.004-04:00

Just a quick note to share a few new leather wrap bracelets- new in my Etsy shop. I just acquired more antique lace "flowers" and will be making more of the lace studded style.

All are one-of-a-kind- I use a variety of semi precious stones, vintage glass, vintage religious medals, various trinkets, and antique lace.

New applique pillows will be coming later in the week.

xoxoxo

I'm a bad blogger...

2011-04-07T21:47:00.002-04:00

Sorry friends! I just realized after a few emails from friends that it's been weeks since I posted. All is well- life stuff has kept me away from my computer. This is one of my favorite photos- so simple but it speaks to me. It says "hope".

I'll be back soon and "hope" you're all well.

Peace.

what I've been working on.....

2011-03-19T13:41:00.002-04:00

Here's a few little linen pillows I made last week- vintage fabric birds appliqued on linen with nests made from stitched linen fibers. I quite like how these turned out...

I found out last week I was accepted in the Art By the Falls show in Chagrin Falls 6/11-12 (yay!!!)- so I've been making some smaller pillows for the show.

I also have spring fever- the weather here in Ohio has been really nice.

My next project I'm just finishing is some totes & new bags made from vintage quilts and barkcloth. More on that next week when I have time to photo them.

Have a great weekend!

Feature in Midwest Living Magazine

2011-03-08T10:44:00.003-05:00

That's my pillow on the pages of the March/April issue of Midwest Living magazine!!! Oh Yea! A few months ago a writer from the magazine contacted me about my work- she was writing a feature on green crafts "in the spirit of Earth Day". (You can click on the image to enlarge)

I started using vintage fabrics years ago because I had collected so many tattered and worn quilts- too abused to repair. I LOVE the old prints and the colors. I went a whole year without buying any new fabric- with the exception of the linen "canvas". I always love putting random prints together- 40's quilt prints with mod 70's prints and a few Kaffe Fassett prints.

I was so excited to finally get the magazine over the weekend. Thanks Midwest Living! Visit my little shop for more vintage fabric pillows and bags.

Treasury Time

2011-03-05T09:35:00.004-05:00

Weekends are busy for Etsy Treasuries! I wanted to share a few of my favorites that include my work. Always honored to be included in these curated collections!

Irish Eyes are Smiling

by DiVaRoCks- features all things Irish green, including my Vintage Applique Leaf Pillow.

Looking for Robins

by whiteoakroom- beautifully serene in shades of my absolute favorite color! I LOVE the enameled necklace by tekaandzoe. Thanks for including my pillow!

We do color well....

by VintageRerun is an explosion of color featuring Cleveanders- including my Tiny Silver Lovebird Earrings.

Take some time to look at these Treasuries & all the wonderful handmade finds.

Spring Almost Here?

2011-03-04T12:07:00.002-05:00

I thought I heard birds the other morning- it must be Spring. Why is there still a chill in the air & snow on the ground? I love March- my birthday month. Many people very close to me share my month- all of them Pisces at heart!

I was overwhelmed the other evening with deadlines and other life stuff, so I put my sewing machine away and made myself a birthday bracelet. My absolute favorite part of this piece is the handmade lampwork glass bead. Made by starctcher, each egg is one-of-a-kind and very special. You really have to hold one of these eggs in your hands to feel how special they are- pictures really don't do them justice.

In addition to the glass egg, I used Korean jade, amazonite, leather cord, sterling, and a tiny vintage silver Miraculous medal.

Well- I better get back to work! Have a great weekend!

Best Friends

2011-03-01T20:46:00.005-05:00

This is a new little "sampler" I just finished this morning. I have a whole sketchbook full of little scribbles like this so I decided to bring a few to life. My usual use of vintage 1940's quilt scraps stitched on to linen.

The patch is only about 8" square- so rather than make a mini-quilt I made a pillow. Originally the sketch had "best friends" stamped onto twill tape, but I didn't think I needed it.

I have this crazy picture from the 70's of my 4 sisters & I all lined up in age order on a diving board- probably ages 4 to 9- in typical 70's style. I think I'll applique that for my Mom for her birthday next week. Hmmmm...I better get to work!

A Very Fine House- Part 3.....

2011-02-27T19:55:00.002-05:00

Here are 2 new vintage fabric house pillows I just finished. These are 20" x 20"- with a mix of vintage quilt fabrics, hankies & lace, and a few newer prints mixed in.

I love this larger size, but my work table is small, so I have to take over the dining room when making them. I hope to list these in my Etsy shop soon.

I'm working on some new designs- more on that next week. I'm off to watch the Academy Awards!

A Very Fine House- Part 2.....

2011-02-21T10:43:00.004-05:00

In my previous post I wrote about my dilemma on whether or not to sell one of my favorite pillows. Well, in the end I did sell it this morning. This is the other one she ordered- I added a "full moon" and little stitched stars.

I really like working on these larger 20"x 20" pillows. The only downside is that the larger size pillow form costs more and shipping really drives up the price.

I'm off to make more houses! Have a great week!

A Very Fine House....

2011-02-20T20:06:00.003-05:00

So- here's my dilemma. I made this cushion as a special order for a repeat customer. It's bigger than most- 20". She's waited about 3 weeks (I had some problems getting inspired) Now that it's done I don't want to sell it. I really feel attached to this pillow!

I usually don't feel that way about my work. I admire the finished project, photograph it, and move on. I suppose I could make another for myself- I do have some of the same vintage fabrics left over....I just love the vintage fabric used for the back of the pillow too...

Ahhh! What to do? In the end I probably will let it go. I won't make another one because I hate to make the same thing twice.

I'll let you know tomorrow what I decide :)

Have a great night!

My Hearts...

2011-02-14T10:56:00.003-05:00

I first shared this heart one year ago.....it was inspired by a Rebecca Sower blog post when I joined her in spreading hearts all over our cyber world. Do check out her old post- it's well worth spending time pouring through the submissions. It was fun!

I stitched my heart on linen with an old Japanese glass heart and tattered lace. I set in in an old pocket watch frame and backed it with red leather. Since making this I frame a lot of old photos in these pocket watch frames and hang them in a collage on the wall.

These heart stones are among my most prized possessions. My young son gave me these treasures he found with the words "I love you with all my heart". Just holding these stones lift my spirits when I'm down.

I hope you all take the time to share your heart today with your loved ones.

XOXOXO

Spring Sale at RobinsEggBlue!

2011-02-12T20:02:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again- Spring Sale in my Etsy shop. I usually mark down bags after the holidays, but this year I marked down some Vintage Fabric Birdhouses too....

I need to make room for this spring's edition- so I'm selling these petite birdhouses for $14 and the larger ones for $16.

These are all one-of-a-kind, made from all vintage fabrics and other vintage materials.

Hopefully they will find a new home this spring!

Treasury Time!

2011-02-12T08:54:00.003-05:00

I Just had to share this beautifully curated Etsy treasury list by timelessNchic. It's titled Pitted- and everything has that wonderful olive/ mossy color- VERY trendy this season!

Thanks for including my Birdcage Pillow! You can see the entire list here.

Have a great weekend!

More Vintage Fabric Lovebirds...

2011-02-08T15:43:00.002-05:00

Here are a few more of my Little Lovebirds- all the birds are vintage fabric, all are one-of-a-kind....

I'll be listing more all week in my shop...

...so check back often!

Tiny Lovebird Earrings

2011-02-08T12:33:00.003-05:00

Can you tell I'm ready for Spring? I just added a few pairs of this new design to my Etsy shop. Tiny white gold plated lovebird earrings- each with a different gemstone bead.....

...peridot, lavender jade, red carnelian, and aventurine, with sterling silver

Really simple and sweet- I'm hoping to get more of these birds- stocking up for summer shows. I like that they're not very detailed, very organic looking.

That's what I have to share today.

XOXOXO

Signs of Spring...

2011-02-06T11:29:00.004-05:00

Signs of Spring?..... I'm searching! More snow? Ugh!

I can't get enough of robin's egg blue. A few of my favorites to inspire my day! Off to work!

Linen Birdhouses....

2011-02-04T17:06:00.003-05:00

I made these 2 linen birdhouses last summer to hang in a show booth. I was envisioning a bunch hanging from the tent roof- I thought they would be a real attention getter. Well, time didn't allow for it and since then my puppy ate the red one and the other one was given as a gift....

I have 6 or more all cut & ready to sew. This is the year I finish all my unfinished projects! The world really needs fabric birdhouses- right?

Hopefully in the next month my new Linen Birdhouses will selling in my Etsy shop!

Do you have any unfinished projects to share??

New linen applique cushions...

2011-01-28T21:08:00.003-05:00

I've been busy sorting through all my little scraps of vintage quilt fabric, looking for that perfect print...just the right green....just the right red.....

An upcoming feature in a major lifestyle magazine will hopefully bring visitors to my little Etsy shop- so I'm stocking my shop with recycled fabric applique pillows. All one-of-a-kind, I repurpose vintage & antique quilts (the tattered and unwanted kind!) Here are a few of the leaf pillows I made- a twist on the classic mid-century modern leaf motif. Email if you want to special order a different size or color palette....

More designs later....and more on the magazine feature when I'm allowed to tell!

Enjoy your weekend!

Turquoise shimmers....

2011-01-26T09:15:00.002-05:00

I just realized it's been over a week since I blogged. One of my New Year's resolutions was to do more "Mom stuff"- I just finished sewing a flannel puppy print bathrobe and patching up one very worn, threadbare puppy named Roy.

Just a quick post- I wanted to share this lovely Etsy treasury titled Turquoise shimmers in the golden light of winter, by summerone. I LOVE LOVE this collection- thanks summerone for including my Lovebird pillow! You can see the entire list here.

More later- I do have new projects to share, just no time to photograph everything!

xxxooo

Petite Lovebird Pillows....

2011-01-17T14:20:00.001-05:00

A productive days work and new in shop....

new Petite Lovebird Pillows. Made from linen, vintage fabric and buttons, & a little crocheted heart....

...the perfect Valentine for anyone......

Get yours here, here, and here!

Etsy Treasuries.....

2011-01-17T08:31:00.003-05:00

Just showing off a few weekend Etsy Trearury lists I was included in. I'm always honored to be included in these artist curated collections. This first one is "Greens and Blues and Browns...Oh, So Pretty!" by trinasclaycreations. You can see the entire collection here- including my Vintage Fabric Lovebird Pillow.

This next collection "Foggy Morning by Monarchdancer" features my new Linen Flower Sampler Pillow. Thanks Monarchdancer- you can see the entire list here.

Lastly, "I love you this much" features my new Applique Valentine Pillow. Thanks magalerie for including me in this lovely collection!

Have a wonderful Monday!

Sepia Love

2011-01-17T08:18:00.000-05:00

Another beautifully curated Etsy Treasury featuring my Linen Valentine Pillow titled "Sepia Love". Thanks magalerie!

You can see all the talent here!

Be sure to check back tomorrow. Last night I had a sudden burst of creative energy & spent the wee hours of the night on some new necklaces :)

Vintage Fabric Valentine Pillows

2011-01-14T20:47:00.002-05:00

You all know I love working with vintage fabric scraps, and my studio is heaping with little bits of tattered quilts that I can't bear to discard...so I spent the last day or so cutting X & O's for my new little linen pillows....

I only made a handful for a local shop- Gestures here in Cleveland, and for my Etsy shop. I'll most likely be making more little pillows with other sayings and such. What a wonderful way to use all those scraps!

I'll have these in my shop through early February. I'm working on a new little collection of products that I hope to share with you soon. It too was inspired by all my vintage fabric scraps...

...and soon some exciting news about a magazine feature of my work (I'm not allowed to tell!)

I'm off to clean my studio floor of all the little fabric scraps too small to use. Call me crazy but I put them in a little pile in the garden so the birds find them for nests in the spring. How exciting when you see a little nest with brightly colored fabric bits woven in! Ahhh- spring!

Have a great weekend friends!

New in shop....

2011-01-11T09:17:00.001-05:00

Just a quick post to let you all know I've added more jewelry to my Etsy shops. More leather wrap bracelets at RobinsEggBlue and simple $10 earring at junebugz.

More to add next week!

...what I've been working on....

2011-01-10T07:57:00.003-05:00

Here's a few of the pillow samplers I'm working on. I was inspired by a Crescendoh post last week about a garden of button flowers (see previous post) using favorite scraps of lace, buttons and beads. This first one is my favorite- I love the dove gray linen with green and cream.

I was sick all last week- still recovering from a terrible cold- and working on these was quite therapeutic. My hands are always working on something and my sewing machine needed a break anyway.....

This is a really great project to have by the TV- just grab a few scraps of linen and some lace bits. My initial intent was to make little wall quilts- but I never have any wall space so they made better pillows. What do you think? do you think small textile pieces look unfinished as wallhangings?

I hate to frame textile pieces because I think they need to be touched, but I also think the edges need to be finished off somehow. any thoughts out there??

Anyway, you can find these in my Etsy shop, along with other cushions you can't live without! More tomorrow on my Valentine pillows.

Have a great Monday!

...more Petite Vintage Fabric Birdhouses....

2011-01-01T14:07:00.005-05:00

I've had some time to clean my studio over the past week & found a few of my Petite Vintage Fabric Birdhouses. For the past 2 springs I made these in a limited edition & sold them in my Etsy shop.

They are a bit self-indulgent- VERY time consuming to make. They only stand a bout 4" tall, and like so many things I make, people ask "what do you do with it?"

This past spring I told myself I wasn't making any more- but after looking at these this morning I decided I'll make them again this spring.

So come March expect to see a dozen or so on my little birdhouses- all made from scraps from old quilts, mixed with bits of vintage lace, buttons, millinery leaves, etc....

Well I'm off to make a mini art quilt. I just stumbled upon a great tutorial on Jenny Doh's blog Crescendoh- a garden of button flowers. More on that hopefully tomorrow!

...More Vintage Fabric Birdhouses....

2010-12-22T10:49:00.005-05:00

See the previous post on my recent discovery of my vintage fabric birdhouses I made last year. This one is my favorite- the roof is covered with vintage buttons and bits, and the red crushed velvet is covered with antique lace. A miniature red chair sits outside on the porch.....

This shabby chic style house features country blue and red florals and toiles, with a vintage drawer pull perch and a lace doily.

Certainly not very practical, but I really love making these....

The yellow house is a bit more formal with a vintage pocket watch dial and antique skeleton key perch. The fabrics on this house aren't vintage- but I like the mix of old and new.

There they are- my lost birdhouses. They are back in their box awaiting spring, when they'll either make nice birthday gifts or the shelves of my Etsy shop.

As I promised my family- no more computer time this week. (just a few sneak peaks!) Lastly, I want to share a Christmas card by the Sisters of Notre Dame. It reads:

WHEN

the song of the angels is stilled,

the star in the sky is gone,

the kings and princes are home,

the shepherds are back with their flock,

THEN

The work of Christmas begins:

to find the lost,

to heal the broken,

to feed the hungry,

to release the prisoner,

to rebuild the nations,

to bring peace among people,

to make music in the heart.

Merry Christmas my friends.

Vintage Fabric Birdhouses...

2010-12-21T19:53:00.004-05:00

Funny thing happened today... while I was hiding Christmas presents in the attic I stumbled on this box of vintage fabric birdhouses I made last summer. I was kind-of having a bad day & when I opened this box my heart skipped a beat!

I LOVE making these- all my cherished little vintage fabric scraps & bits, tassels and birds, vintage buttons and shells....

I packed them away after a show I did last summer. It was a successful show- my bags sold well- but nobody "got" these. People asked what you do with them? what are they? Can you use them outdoors? I guess I took it all a bit too personally and packed them away.

I'll post a few more tomorrow (I promised my son I wouldn't spend too much time on my computer this week)

I'm not sure what I'll do with these- they might make it to my Etsy shop, but I might wait until spring.

Well- more tomorrow. After a CRAZY craft show month I'm enjoying doing nothing but catching up on sleep and spending time with the family.

Have a peaceful night....

Last Minute Market

2010-12-16T09:57:00.002-05:00

This Saturday 12/18 is your last chance to come out and shop local at the Cleveland Handmade's Last Minute Market. More than 80 artists & craftspeople under one roof!

Admission is Free from 10-6- special early bird admission is $5 that benefits the Hunger Network. Forget the mall this weekend and Buy Handmade!

I'll be there with my leather wrap bracelets, vintage fabric applique pillows and bags, and the last of my little pincushion rings.

Thanks to everyone who helped make this a great craftshow season for me! I truly appreciate your support. Click here for more info on the Last Minute Market.

See you Saturday!

Bazaar Bizarre Cleveland!

2010-12-01T10:44:00.004-05:00

No more mass produced mall stuff! Buy handmade!

I am so excited to be part of this event this year! More than 80 awesome vendors all under one roof! Next weekend- 12/11- 12/12. directions and more info here. If you can't come- visit my Etsy shop here.

xxxooo

11th Annual TerraVista Holiday Extravaganza!

2010-12-01T10:37:00.002-05:00

THE best holiday show if the season! Join us this weekend for some shopping & cheer- directions & more info here.

Being Thankful

2010-11-24T13:44:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again to reflect on all I have to be thankful for. I have only one word- Family. These are the people with whom I have been blessed, and I'm thankful for them every day. I hope you all share a peaceful feast with your family tomorrow.....

As I said in my previous post, I won't be blogging much in the next few weeks. I need to focus on sewing & getting ready for upcoming holiday shows. This a new little bird design I'm using for little pillows and little bags.....

Of course I have many, many new leather wrap bracelets. Since most of these are one-of-a-kind, there's no way I can photo and list each one in my Etsy shop. I will try to list a selection of color & styles......

I dug deep in my stash of vintage fabrics and have a new little clutch style bag I'm selling this year. They are all in various stages of completion- hopefully later in the week I can photo a few....

I hope you all survive the airport scanners, Uncle You-know-who's terrible jokes, and Black Friday shopping and remember to be thankful!

Holiday Show Info...

2010-11-17T13:13:00.008-05:00

I've been so busy "making things" lately I haven't had a chance to blog. The holiday season is a busy one for crafters that make a living (or try to) from their work. I'm doing 4 local Cleveland craft shows this holiday season. Below is a list with links to their sites for more specific info.

1. My first event is a small holiday show at Hyland Software. My sister works there and tipped me off, then Cleveland Handmade started spreading the word. It's called the Hyland Holiday Vendor Expo- Tues. 11/30 from 11am- 2pm. They are at 28500 Clemens Rd. in Westlake.

2. The 11th annual TerraVista show is nearest and dearest to my heart. This will be my 6th (or 7th?) year there and I have made many dear friends there over the years. I'm proud to be among such talent. Plan to stay awhile and mingle- there's so much to see! The show is 12/3- 12/5 at 1400 E. 30th. For more info click here.

3. Bazaar Bizarre- 12/11 & 12/12 at 1301 West 78th Street. More info here. I've never done this show but have always heard great things about it.

4. Last Minute Market sponsored by Cleveland Handmade. This show was such a success last year that even in a Cleveland snow storm people came out to SHOP!! Sat. 12/18 at the Screw Factory 13000 Athens Ave. in Lakewood. More info here.

So that's why I haven't been blogging. If you're not in the Cleveland area I will still be adding a lot of new things to my Etsy shop over the next several weeks.

Well- back to the studio!

I miss that tree.....

2010-11-02T09:41:00.003-04:00

One week ago today we had a terrible wind storm here & it took down most of my favorite tree. Not only did it house a robin's nest this spring and my mosaic birdhouse, it shaded our deck, and was my favorite place to photo my purses.

These bags I made are long gone but I love the little glimpse of ivy on my tree. So this short post is for my old tree- we will miss you but rest assured there will be something planted near your old roots come spring.

What I've been working on.....

2010-10-25T09:11:00.003-04:00

I guess you win some & lose some. Here's a few things I worked on last week- I was so excited with my octopus pillow when I sketched it, but somehow it lost it's cuteness in the process. It took me forever to make too. But not a total loss- my son loves it & he slept with it last night :)

I made this Good Luck pillow for a friend that's moving- but I didn't like how it turned out so I made the See Ya pillow instead.....

I like this one better- but hmmmm- I don't love it. Hopefully she will because I'm not making another one. Oh well- not a very productive week in the studio...

...you win some & lose some.

Etsy Front Page!

2010-10-19T14:34:00.003-04:00

Whooo Hooo! It's not every day I make the front page of Etsy. Last night there was a flurry of activity in my Etsy shop & it wasn't until this morning I realized why. Thanks to HausProud for curating this great collection.

Hopefully a handful of those 140 hearts will end up as sales! You can find my Vintage Fabric Applique pillow here!

What I've been working on....

2010-10-10T11:13:00.003-04:00

Here's a little peak of what I've been working on the past week. Some of my new vintage fabric leaf pillows are in my Etsy shop and some are getting ready for Buttermilk Hill.

The brown pillow is made from a new fabric collection- Moda I think? The other 3 are made from vintage 40's feedsack cotton and other vintage fabrics. I love making these- it satisfies the quilter in me and the recycler- no scrap goes in the trash in my studio!

More later!

A few new Leather Wrap Bracelets.....

2010-10-03T11:04:00.004-04:00

Here's a sneak peak at a few new Leather Wrap Bracelets just listed in my Etsy shop. The new bracelets- a continuous 30" length of leather, chain, and linked beads- wrap around your wrist 4 times. Oh so trendy...

Whether you like chunky or delicate, vintage glass or semi precious stones- I have a variety to choose from in my Etsy shop.

Tomorrow I'll post my fall/holiday show schedule (just waiting to hear back from one venue)

Stay warm (I had to turn on my heat last night for the 1st time!)

Vintage Venetian Glass Birdcage Necklaces

2010-10-03T10:47:00.002-04:00

New in my shop- the limited addition Vintage Venetian Glass Birdcage Necklaces. The little antique glass birds were made in Venice, on the island of Mirano. These same birds were used to make those really expensive Venetian necklaces.

Tucked safely inside a vintage brass "bird cage", each adorned with amazonite, quartz, peridot, and Korean jade. I'll only be making a handful of these- my little stash of birds is running low. (if anyone out there has more to sell let me know!)

More later on my upcoming holiday show schedule. Can you believe the holidays are creeping up! I've been working away trying to make sure I have enough to sell at 4 big shows this season. More later- I hope you like my little love birds!

New Pillows at Buttermilk Hill

2010-09-18T15:15:00.005-04:00

Stephanie from Buttermilk Hill posted this picture of my new pillows on her country porch in central Ohio. I know I mentioned this in a previous blog post- you can now buy my pillows at this new site. Featuring "local, handmade, and vintage goods from the back roads of beautiful Ohio", I'm excited to be part of this new venture.

The site is new and she's still stocking the shelves- but I wanted to start spreading the word. Buttermilk Hill offers free domestic shipping, and their country market features Amish quilts and baskets, rag rugs, painted gourds, my pillows, and much more!

I hope you take the time to have a look!

I'm off to enjoy my Indian Summer day !

What I'm working on.....

2010-09-17T22:21:00.003-04:00

I just realized tonight that it's been awhile since I blogged. My show last weekend was a success. I would have liked a little more traffic- but this is an odd selling season. The Cleveland Handmade group is a really wonderful group of people! I met some great artists and am sure I'll do this show next year. Shows take so much out of me though- not so much the actual show- smiling, talking about my work, shlepping displays, making sure my presentation looks great. It's the preparation- new ideas, new product, pricing, display- it's all so important. Am I making something people want to buy? Is this self-indulgent?

Sometimes I feel so comfortable here behind my computer that to step out and interface with clients face to face I always question myself. I don't know why....

Here are a few new pillows I made- vintage 40's quilt fabrics appliqued on linen (the 1st photo is from a new fabric collection) I really love to make these- it satisfies the quilter in me- without having to commit to months of time. (My mother is an amazing quilter with the patience to HAND quilt her pieces. HAND quilt!) These are all new in my Etsy shop.

I hope I'm not too rambling... more later about some new ventures I'm working on..

Have a wonderful weekend!

Peace.

Cleveland Handmade Market- Wooltex Gallery

2010-09-08T10:57:00.003-04:00

Save the date! This Saturday 9/11 Cleveland Handmade vendors will be at the historic Tower Press building as part of the 8th annual Sparx City Hop. The first of 2 markets in the Wooltex Gallery, this is a great opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping. The Sparx City Hop offers free Lolly the Trolley to take you through all the downtown neighborhoods- Tremont, Ohio City, Waregouse District, MidTown, Asia Town, and St. Clair Superior.....

Over 70 galleries & studios are participating in the event- including ME! Here's the link with all the info you need. More tomorrow on a few new things I'll be bringing with me!

New Applique House Pillows....

2010-09-02T15:25:00.003-04:00

I just finished these new house pillows for a new website called Buttermilk Hill. I love the look and feel of this site- but I especially love that everything they sell is made in Ohio. Amish quilts, rag rugs, painted gourds.....

Any day now they'll be selling my pillows in a few new designs. This is just a sneak peak (I haven't even stuffed them yet) As always, they're appliqued on linen using mostly vintage fabric and lace, and mostly one-of-a-kind.

More later......

Dog V Cat

2010-08-31T15:59:00.002-04:00

This one makes me smile :) RockStarDogTreats curated this awesome Etsy Treasury list titled Dog V Cat. (Personally I like cats better but I 'd never tell my puppy that) You can see the entire list here- it's worth your time!

Thanks RockStarDogTreats for including my Applique Cat Pillow!

New Pillows!

2010-08-27T12:04:00.002-04:00

I FINALLY finished a few new applique pillows this week. I have a sketchbook full of new designs and not enough time to sew! These are the first in a new series of animals. As always- appliqued on linen....

with touches of vintage quilt fabrics. What a purr-fect gift, or for a girl's room. Each is one-of-a-kind....

I love the little dapper black cat and big white puff kitty. I'll possibly do custom cat portrait for the holidays- wouldn't that be fun!

I know this is a short post- I didn't want to spend all morning on my computer (I always forget how long it takes to photo, edit, and upload images! Then blog, flickr, etsy, ect!). You can find these new pillows in my Etsy shop.

Up next, puppy and fox pillows. Have a great weekend!

Bird Love: Flickr Finds

2010-08-24T14:29:00.006-04:00

Today I found one of my pillows featured in this lovely collection of bird inspired designs. Yes- I'm a bird nerd- take a look at the Flickr Bird Nerd group for more inspiration! Thanks Lark Crafts for taking the time to put this together.

(click the links below to see more work from these artists- it's worth your time!)

1. lil-sad-owl 2. Little Bird Quilt 3. spring 4. raven quilt 5. Peacock yarn art 6. Traffic Pattern 7. Vintage Fabric Applique Bird Cage Pillow 8. The Cream and Burgundy Flowers Bird on a Wire Clutch 9. black bird mini with frame

"tweet"

2010-08-23T18:27:00.004-04:00

I couldn't resist sharing this adorable Etsy Treasury- a collection of bird themed crafts curated by myartstuduio. Titled "Tweet"- one of my Vintage Applique Bird Cage Pillows is included in this cheerful group. This is just a snapshot- you can see the entire list here.

I'm always flattered to be among such talent- thanks myartstudio!

I have some new applique pillow designs to share this week. I'm working on a cat series, some dogs, and smaller house pillows. A LOT going on & and upcoming shows- more tomorrow! Time to get ready for the first day of school. YAAAAY!

A few new Vintage Fabric Pillows...

2010-08-14T09:34:00.002-04:00

I decided to go through my fabric stash and make pillows from some fabrics I found this summer at flea markets......This mod 60's print came from a vintage tablecloth I found last month. LOVE the colors! You can find it here in my Etsy shop.

This beautiful embroidered pillow is made from a vintage 1940's table runner I picked up last summer. The hand detail work is really incredible. Does anyone do that tatting and embroidery anymore?......You can find it here.

My last bits of this vintage barkcloth from the 40's. I always loved this print and have made a few bags & totes over the years with this awesome print. Find it here.

Well, that's all for now- I know- boring post. Not a lot happening. I'm working on new applique pillow designs & getting ready for the back-to-school frenzy!

New Bracelets...

2010-08-07T19:10:00.008-04:00

My new leather wrap bracelets....I knew it was bound to happen. Instead of wrapping 3 times, these wrap 4 times. What's next- I'm already working on the 5 & 6 wraps!

In this series of chunky leather wrap bracelets I use handmade African glass beads. I call mine my Wilma Flintstone bracelet- is everyone old enough to know what I'm talking about!

You can find them in my Etsy shop- along with so much more!

Well- I'm off to a bonfire- more tomorrow or Monday! Have a great weekend :)

Fabric Birdhouses

2010-08-03T19:46:00.003-04:00

Just what everyone needs- a fabric birdhouse- right? Not the most practical thing I ever made (what my husband told me). They're made entirely of fabric- linen house with fabric roofs, and dresden plate fronts.

I had intended to make a half dozen or so to hang in my booth at Summer Market, but it took me awhile to figure out the construction, and I thought I should focus my efforts on more salable items for the show. With all that behind me, I'll finish these houses before I move on.

Wouldn't they look cute hanging in a nursery? They stand about 8" tall, and each will have an invisible line for hanging. I'll photo the rest when they're done. Maybe they'll make it to my Etsy shop- I don't know yet.

new linen pillows....

2010-08-02T22:41:00.002-04:00

Summer Market was a great success this past weekend! After a few days off I'm finally getting around to listing new linen pillows in my Etsy shop. I just listed more of my little Linen Applique Bird pillows in new colors. A lot of people bought these for baby nurseries.....

Starry Night- linen applique house pillow has a pretty sprinkling of "stars" in the background.

Lastly, a few applique leaf pillows. All my linen pillows use recycled vintage fabric- mostly 1940's quilt and feed sack prints.

I'm done with 2 fabric birdhouses that have been in the works for awhile- more on that tomorrow!

artful birds

2010-07-28T14:03:00.005-04:00

This beautiful "artful birds" mosaic was created by one of my favorite artists Rebecca Sower. I've been following her blog and creative endeavors for a few years- so you can imagine my excitement when I discovered my linen bird bag in her mosaic. rebecca sower's weblog is an inspiring must read. If you love vintage textiles and details then you'll love her work. You can see the entire mosaic here with artist's info.

Thanks Rebecca!

I made the list!

2010-07-28T09:36:00.003-04:00

I'm always flattered when someone includes me in their Etsy Treasury- a list of favorites hand picked by Etsy members. I wanted to share these...

This is called "Apple of my eye" curated by room29. Beautiful colors! You can see the entire list here, including my Vintage Fabric House Pillow.

"Orange You Glad" was put together by zJayne- a fellow Clevelander. I don't usually like orange- but this collection is great! You can see the entire list here, including my Mod Leaf Pillow.

This collection by oktak is called "Vintage fabric love". I love it- what more can I say! You can see the entire list here- including my Little Vintage Fabric Birdhouse.

This last list by lynchgirl is called "A New Leaf" Very fresh & contemporary. You can find the whole list here- including my Vintage Fabric Applique Bag.

Thanks Etsy friends for taking the time to include my work!

5th Annual Summer Market

2010-07-27T10:12:00.002-04:00

I hope to see you all this Friday & Saturday at the 5th Annual Summer Market in Avon Lake. Right on the shores of Lake Erie, this outdoor market features artists, antiques, live music, and great food. Find hours, map , and vendor list here.

I'll be selling my wares- mostly pillows, bags, and of course my leather wrap bracelets. This is always a great event- and the weather forecast looks great (fingers crossed!)

So spread the word and come join us for some great shopping- start your Christmas shopping early! I'll be closing my Etsy shop for a few days so if there's something you've been eyeing grab it now.

I'm off to finish my linen birdhouses. I'll post more on that after the show- hopefully with pics of the event.

Wish me luck!

...a few new pillows...

2010-07-22T15:40:00.003-04:00

I have this thing for vintage fabric. I almost never buy new fabric- why should I when there's so much vintage fabric out there just waiting for a new life? I decided to use some of my stash, along with a few recent flea market finds.....

These new pillows are in my Etsy shop- the big Peonies & Birds....

Big Poppies.....

..and this fun Mod Leaf print.

More tomorrow!

Meadowlark....

2010-07-21T13:12:00.004-04:00

Here's a snapshot of a lovely Etsy Treasury curated by BlueRoseRetro. Titled Meadowlark- inspired by the "green of the meadow and the song of the lark"- here's unique variety of Etsy finds (including my vintage fabric applique pillow!). It's always an honor to be included in a treasury collection! Thanks BlueRoseRetro.

for the birds....

2010-07-21T09:32:00.003-04:00

Here's a snapshot of a fun Etsy Treasury curated by applechampagne titled {Bird Cages}. I never knew so many people shared my obsession! My linen pillow, jewelry, wall decals, prints, and accessories all with a bird cage motif. You can see the entire treasury here. Thanks for the feature applechampagne!

As I'm posting this I realized it's been a few weeks since my last post. I've been crazy busy getting ready for Summer Market in Avon Lake, Ohio. The outdoor show, right on the shores of Lake Erie is Fri.7/30 & Sat. 7/31. This is a wonderful Summer Market including crafts, antiques, live music, great food, a farmer's market & more. Here's the link- but I'll post more about it tomorrow!

Stay cool!

The Last of the Pin Cushion Rings...

2010-07-05T22:07:00.005-04:00

I made the very last batch of my pin cushion rings- made from hand-felted wool balls and little vintage enamel stickpins. Very cute and very useful!

I bought a whole bunch of these little vintage stickpins years ago not knowing what to do with them- they were pennies a piece. (I went through my ebay phase where I bought anything unusual and vintage I could find!) I tried to get more & saw similar pins on ebay for $5 a piece! I think they look right at home perched on their rings- just waiting a new home.

These are all listed in my sister-shop (not my sister's shop!) www.junebugz.etsy.com. Everything in my Junebugz shop is under $20- check it out!

More tomorrow!

Summer Sale!

2010-07-05T12:36:00.002-04:00

I'm making room in my Etsy shop for new linen bags and just marked down several bags and totes. Grab them while you can! There's more in my shop.

This is a great tote made from a dusty green vintage barkcloth- with antique lace & button detail. You can find it here.

This great reproduction tropical barkcloth is the perfect summer bag! Find it here.

A pretty vintage hanky was the inspiration for this linen tote- find it here.

I LOVE this pretty high end tropical print fabric! Find it here.

New bags next week!

Going to the Lake

2010-06-24T17:25:00.005-04:00

We've gone to this Lake for 25 years. Every summer all my sisters pack up their families, board their pets, and put their lives on hold for this one treasured week. Every summer we survived the water skiing, Dad's famous rum punches, cousins, scrabble games, sunsets, fishing, birthday parties, flea markets.....

I'm very thankful for another year we are all healthy and able to make the trip. Even though their place is small, no one treasures this week more than my parents. So many changes over the years- new additions to the family, babies, marriages, my baby niece starting college this year!

I'll be back in 10 days- rested and sunburned- ready for more crafty endeavors. I hope to read a book, catch up with everyone, find some new antique barns, and only check my email once a day!

See you all soon- hopefully with a few stories to tell!

Me & my sisters!

Have a great week!

...a few new bracelets...

2010-06-23T18:48:00.006-04:00

I've been hanging on to these vintage glass "man in the moon" beads for awhile. They've been hanging over my table for a few years- inspiring me. I used a few in some new leather wrap bracelets- all designed to wrap around your wrist 3 times...

I love the soothing colors in this one- sea blue & pale blue quartz with turquoise accent the glass "man in the moon" bead perfectly. You can find it here in my Etsy shop.

I don't use alot of purple in my work, but I love these vintage glass flowers mixed with amethyst, Korean jade, and tiny seed beads with a vintage train token. You can find it here. The purple and green are very striking together I think....

This last bracelet features a vintage religious medal- with carnelian, quartz, and vintage glass beads. You can find this one here.

More tomorrow!

New RobinsEggBlue Website Updates-

2010-06-21T17:48:00.002-04:00

FINALLY- my RobinsEggBlue website has been updated! Take a peak at my recent crafty endeavors- my birdcage pillows and bags, my house pillows, and my leather wrap-around bracelets.

The site links directly to my Etsy shop where most everything is available. The top bar has "what's new", "bags", & "jewelry" tabs. Email me if you don't see something in the shop. (with upcoming craft shows sometimes things don't make it to Etsy but are still available).

Let me know what you think!

...just a few new pillows...

2010-06-18T11:41:00.004-04:00

I just realized this morning that I haven't posted anything here for awhile. I have alot going on but not alot photographed. Here's a few new pillows I made...

...appliqued on linen, using vintage feedsack and quilt fabrics. I just put a few in my Etsy shop.

I'm working on new fabric birdhouses that I'll blog about next. I'm making them for my show booth- and to sell. They're designed to both hang and sit on a shelf. More soon!

Don't forget your Fathers this weekend!

Avacado Baby

2010-06-03T07:53:00.004-04:00

While She Dreams... featured my Bird Bag in her blog post I Wish...Avacado Baby. Such a pretty blog (LOVE the banner!) with great shopping & crafty finds.

I like the idea of her series "i wish...a series of things i really really want". Thanks A.J.! I'm thinking of doing a similar series of my inspirations.

Off to sew! Have a great Thursday!

My MOOs

2010-06-01T22:45:00.001-04:00

Aren't they cute? My MOO mini cards arrived today & I love them! I plan to use these as hang-tags for my bags & pillows. I can't take credit for the artwork- they have hundreds of great images to choose from.

Here's the link if interested. Just a helpful tip- keep this landscape format in mind when editing your photos. The only reason I used MOO's artwork instead of my own was because none of my existing images worked with this format. These are an adorable 2 3/4" x 1 1/8".

Bird Nerd

2010-06-01T12:41:00.000-04:00

I'm not really sure how it all happened- I never was crazy about birds. I have 2 or 3 bird feeders outside- but that's not too crazy. We had a canary named Mike when I was little- but I don't recall liking him much.

So what's with all the birds in my work? And my shop/ blog name? I guess robin's-egg-blue IS my favorite color.

I won't be posting a lot of new work in the next few weeks- I'm in production mode for upcoming shows. I need to make a lot of purses and pillows over the next month.

One new project I hope to share later this week is some new fabric birdhouses I'm working on. These are made entirely of fabric (not like my other ones that are fabric on a cardboard base- see previous post). I'm making these to suspend from my tent at shows- and hopefully sell! More soon!

Here's the latest of the linen bird cage pillows in my Etsy shop.

Granny's Mid-Century Modern

2010-05-28T09:16:00.005-04:00

I've always loved the mid-century modern leaf motif. It seemed a perfect fit for using all the old quilts & vintage prints. Kind of a fun contrast between old & new, past & present.

They're machine appliqued on linen with a hidden magnet closure. These 2 bags are new in my Etsy shop....

I hope you all have a great holiday weekend!

More of what I'm working on...

2010-05-27T17:55:00.004-04:00

Summer craft shows coming soon! Here's a sneak peak at a few new bags-

More linen (of course!) & more birds (of course!). These bags are a little smaller than my usual...

.....trimmed with cotton crocheted lace. All one-of-a-kind using vintage quilt fabrics for the birds....

You can find them in my Etsy shop.

A few more new bags tomorrow~

What I've been working on...

2010-05-20T11:11:00.002-04:00

The other day I was so excited to be featured in Etsy's Daily Finds email blast featuring themed products. I sold 7 of my leather wrap bracelets that day- plus some special orders. I didn't even realize I was in the promo until someone emailed me!

So I scrambled into my studio to make a few more- I figured if people want them now- I'll make more. So much fun to make and mostly one-of-a-kind. I get to take out all my beads & trinkets...

You can find them here in my Etsy shop- or contact me if you want your own.

Lucy

2010-05-19T10:04:00.002-04:00

Just because everyone needs a little smile in the morning.....my son snapped this photo of Lucy last night.....

It makes me smile :)

Vintage Fruit Earrings

2010-05-18T09:17:00.003-04:00

I just made the last batch of my Vintage Fruit Earrings. They're made from 1940's German composition fruit~ really light weight & fun for summer. I decided to phase these out of my shop- so let me know if anyone's interested & I'll reveal my sources & post a little tutorial.

They're all in my other Etsy shop- Junebugz. Available in Lemon, Orange, Crabapple & Raspberries for only $14 a pair.

More tomorrow!