Collage Cafe

I've not fallen off the face of the earth....

2010-07-07T23:36:00.000-05:00

I've just been pre-occupied with my TRI training... and I have been creating art and doing some wonderful things in my condo so check back after Sunday and I'll get back on track with consistent updates and a few new things (think tutorials...!!!) ; )

...scatter joy...
lindy

I must be an artist!

2010-06-13T16:31:00.000-05:00

.... two words.... art studio. For me, it conjurs up so many things.... one of the biggest being, you must be an artist to have a studio.... and/or have money... and be making money from your art.... and... and... and... all these very limiting 'rule' i had created in my head.....

About a year or so ago I was have an ongoing email exchange with my friend D-.... she casually mentioned that we should go to her art studio and create some fabulousness together... and she continued discussing all the different things we could create.... but I wasn't listening.... I was still mesmerized by her mentioning her 'art studio'....

'art studio' i thought..... but she's a struggling grad student..... how can she have an art studio???? now, don't get me wrong... D is an artist through and through.... and her grad degree is a master of fine arts.... but still... it didn't quite fit the rules I'd created about having an art studio....

And so i placed it out in the universe.... 'i will have an art studio'.....

Fast forward to last weekend.... I was doing my typical round of procrastinating and thought I'd google 'art studio for rent chicago'..... multiple and various things popped up and i eventually found my way to an exciting discovery... there was a listing for a studio for rent not even 4 blocks away from where I live.

now for those of you who know me personally, you know that 1) I do not live in the 'artsy' part of town (wish I did, but that's a different intention) and 2) my space is very small and I long for just one more room where I could not only house all my art (and craft) but actually have a space to create in....

and so I spoke with the owner... made arrangements to view over the weekend while I was home .... all the while, of course, envisioning it as my own (even though I didn't know what it actually looked like yet)....

it is now mine. it is my perfect place to begin... my perfect 1st studio..... the next step to 'awakening the artist'....!

I'll send pics as I begin to fill my space with supplies and artistic endeavors..... !

What are some of your self-limiting beliefs? Are they real or imagined? What would happen if you reframed your beliefs?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Green

2010-06-07T22:25:00.000-05:00

This was a really fun swap! The challenge... create a piece of art the size of a postcard.... any medium, style, subject.... THEN hang it outside to 'weather' for a week... bring it in, let it dry if neccesary and then send it off 'naked' through the mail....

We created two and sent them out into the world.

what color would your art be?

...scatter joy...
lindy

artist at work

2010-05-24T22:28:00.001-05:00

I have a couple larger projects I'm working on... they are taking longer than mere hours which is different for me. I am working on my submission for My Art is Love (see link on the left side of page), as well as a journal page entry for a swap I'm in on the Milliande Art Community for Women.

I'm also making a few tote bags with some gorgeous fabrics I have and handmade invitations.... ; )

Baxter is most often by my side keeping me company but sometimes Bax gets so tired he falls asleep before he makes it all the way into his bed....

Be patient... some deliciousness is on its way!

What has been holding your attention lately?

...scatter joy...
lindy

trash to treasure

2010-05-17T20:09:00.000-05:00

Our task: create a bookmark from items destined for the trash or recycling.... it's a salvaged goods bookmark.

For the front I used a discarded paper I had used as a paint pallet and added a piece of a paper coffee cozy, some plastic that came as extraneous packaging, scraps of craft paper, old foil, & an old coil. To which I added scraps of ribbon with attached charms.

On the back I added some fun sentences from a rescued book.

This was a fast, fun project .... I LOVE functional art.

What have you re-purposed recently?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Creative Journaling Kit

2010-05-15T00:16:00.000-05:00

One of the things I truly love to do is give gifts.... there is a fantastic pleasure in giving with joy something that you think the person will truly love. I recently took part in a swap that was to pull together a Creative Journaling Kit. We did not need to include the journal, just items to make the journaling fun... and we needed to make it something that could be transportable....

I chose to go with the colors listed in my partner's profile... she mentioned she loved black and white with punches of teal. I took that into the contents as well.... I hope she loves receiving it as much as I loved creating it.

The container: A cigar-like box purchased from Michaels... used scrapbook papers to cover the front and sides... painted the edges and inside lid teal.

Inside the box: journal prompts (on the lid), pens, pencils, watercolors, squirt bottle, tags, paper ribbon, stamps, stamp pad, tape roller, scrapbook papers in shade of grey, white, teal, alphabet rub ons and probably a few other things I can't remember... lol

The key to journaling is having things readily available... gather your own kit together... make it easy to write/paint/sketch your story.

What is your 'must have' in your journaling kit?

...scatter joy...
lindy

word art

2010-05-11T22:10:00.000-05:00

You know I love me some word art... this site, imagechef.com allows you to take any word or phrase, choose the shape and color and then they mash it up for you.... check it out!

What color are your words?

...scatter joy...

lindy

aLtEReD ArT!

2010-05-07T01:16:00.000-05:00

Here is my first attempt at an altered art doll. The parameters were to use as many 'found' objects as possible, and paper, pens, paint, pencils and tape were not allowed. We had to use a minimum of 10 different objects, meaning if we used 10 of one thing (like buttons) that would only count as 1 item. Per usual, I had no idea what I was doing... lol... do you see a theme with me?

Attaching metal to metal was my biggest challenge... I initially tried liquid nails and even clamped it, but it didn't hold. Next I tried an epoxy. That worked well (at least well enough for it to hold together through the mail.) A friend suggested I sand it a bit to add some 'grip' so I think that definitely helped.

This was a very fun project for me because I tend to see facial images in EVERYTHING so it's simply a matter of filling in what my mind's eye sees. And I love repurposing items... and making something out of 'trash' or junk.

The more I look at her, the more pleased I am... perhaps I've found an Etsy item for my empty shop???

If you had your own shop, what kind of shop would it be?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Everything Old is New Again...

2010-05-03T22:10:00.002-05:00

Isn't she lovely... isn't she won-der-full? (I've been listening to vintage stevie wonder... lol)

Found this fabulous beauty a while

back when a friend introduced me to one of my new faves, Kouk's. It's a quirky little antique shop that is also a coffee shop.

It serves as a place to store more of my books and does nicely in tying my love of old with my love of something contemporary.

And of course it goes without saying, I adore the color!

And Baxter loves it, too.

...scatter joy...

lindy

Score!

2010-04-30T08:00:00.001-05:00

On a recent antiquing adventure with friendsI found this great package of beer coasters. The owner of the store was keen on telling me that she thought they might be extra special because she doesn't think that particular brand is still brewed (I think that it is... lol... but it doesn't matter either way) because all I could see when I saw the stack were canvases for zentangles... these coasters measure 3 1/2 x 3 1/2 which is the zentangle 'standard' size (although they are most definitely done on ALL sizes on all manners of canvas!) I can hardly wait to get started...!

what's your best 'score' lately?

...scatter joy...
lindy

hope, believe, create

2010-04-28T21:13:00.000-05:00

I recently did a series inspired by the phrase 'manifesting kindness'. The goal was to create 3 pieces of positivity and send it out in the world.

I wanted to create cards that were linked...I liked the idea of 3 pieces that were similar but different.

I love inspirational cards... I collect inspirational card decks. Maybe one day I'll create an entire deck that speaks to the soul.

I started with 3 playing cards, gesso and paint. I added layers of old book pages and more paint. Then I began adding another layer which included stamped words and images, metal on which I embossed, wire, and metal word charms. I think I am finally getting an understanding of mixed media and collage. I'm excited to continue the education of lindy!

What makes your soul sing?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Warrior

2010-04-26T21:40:00.000-05:00

This tangle was done with a dark blue micron on water color paper.

And, as usual, when I was done it looked like something to me... so this one is a warrior mask.

What do you see?

Interesting that it looks like a warrior to me... does this mean I feel I'm at war? or preparing for battle... ? or simply protecting myself??? hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. lol.

What does your armor look like?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Funky Bird Part II

2010-04-21T17:54:00.000-05:00

Here is the REAL funky bird.... I didn't set out to draw a bird, but after I was done that's what it looked like to me... do you see it??

What does YOUR funky bird look like?

... scatter joy...

lindy

funky bird

2010-04-19T21:45:00.000-05:00

I was home this past week... Bax was by my side keeping me company, soothing my soul... and one of the cutest things he did...? After it got to be a little late (well, let's face it, a LOT late) he would come over to me, stretch to reach me with his paws and ask to go to bed... seriously cute. I would ask him if he wanted to go to bed and he'd scamper to the kitchen to grab a baby carrot (his bedtime snack) and run back to the bedroom and get into position so I could say, 'one, two, three, UP' as I lifted and helped him fly through the air onto the bed. I love that boy.

layers

2010-04-17T14:55:00.000-05:00

This was another from the set of 7 private swap...I was experimenting (well they are all sort of experiements, aren't they?)

And I'm getting ready to take on a new challenge with my art soon. I have long been an admirer of all things 'altered' and find the layers and layers of textures, colors, words fascinating... so I'm going to teach myself that technique and see what happens.

Oh and I read something on a blog I recently stumbled upon and found it an interesting perspective: The difference between art and craft is with craft you have a step by step process you follow to recreate the original and art is where you take that process and then MAKE IT YOUR OWN.

Have you hugged your inner artist today? AND have you told that inner critic to shut the #%!$ up??!?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Childhood Board Games

2010-04-15T11:06:00.000-05:00

My family was a game playing family... we loved cards, board games, & sports... and one of my all-time favorite games is Monopoly.

Of course I just had to join the swap that was an ATC to interpret your favorite board game.

chalks, pencils, & ink on watercolor paper

What is your favorite board game?

...scatter joy...
lindy

city life

2010-04-13T17:41:00.000-05:00

Today's tangle was part of a series for a private swap... I started with straight rectangular boxes, and after I was done it looked like buildings in a city to me.

What excites you more... the allure and buzz of the bright lights or the serenity of the country?

...scatter joy...

lindy

take a slice

2010-04-11T12:52:00.001-05:00

This ATC was part of the series I did in the private swap. Zentangling doesn't always necessarily start out as being anything.... but often times when I'm done I see something in the lines and squiggles.... this one reminded me of different pizza slices.... then again, perhaps I was just hungry....

and it's always amazing how different art looks simply but turning a piece on its side...

What do you see?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Breast Cancer Stamp

2010-04-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Here is my version of the Breast Cancer Stamp. It's standard ATC size done on watercolor paper in ink, chalk, and pencil.

What is your favorite postage stamp?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Bookmark Tangle

2010-04-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

You know I love me some zentangling.... ; ) so..... for this swap we had to do a bookmark. I really liked how this turned out.... I wasn't sure at first because generally I keep my tangles in a smaller space but I took my time and didn't rush.... just went about it as I felt like it. I used sepia toned pens on water color paper, charcoal for shading; the person I was creating this for loves all things vintage. I had some great paper I used for the backing, too, that was an interpretation of an old pattern in blues and beiges...

tell you a secret??? i almost kept this one for me..... *giggle*

what do you use for a bookmark?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Take a bite...

2010-04-07T22:00:00.003-05:00

Yes... I'm obsessed... obsessed with enjoying my food while making my beautiful body as healthy as I can.... (see post below this one for one of my fave breakfast smoothies!).... so much so that I've gone and done something some might think is crazy.... I signed up for my first ever triathlon!!!! OH YES I DID!!! AND.... I started a blog called Tri-umphantly to journal my journey to the center of ME!!!! If you are a fan of fitness or looking for a different approach or simply want to cheer me on (cuz hey, we can ALL use cheering ON!!!) then please click on the link and follow along.... glad to have you!

Enough about that part of me... on to my obsession with whole food fabulous and making ART! So this piece was part of a set of 7 different ATCs that I did on a personal trade with someone from Swap-Bot. She was doing zentangles of letters A-G for me and I had free reign... so I tried to do some fun things for her. This one came about because she mentioned she liked to collect postage stamps and I had this great one from New Zealand.... and of course one of my very fave foods is from there.... I wonder if it's the color or the fact that it is one of the most nutrient-rich foods you can fuel yourself with that has my heart.....?!?

In case you can't decipher my sketches.... these are kiwi. What a cute name... kiwi....!!! This is chalk, ink, pencil on watercolor paper... oh and let's not forget the ephemera....

What's the last thing you sketched?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Spring Smoothie Break.....

2010-03-29T21:41:00.000-05:00

I will post again Friday April 2nd...thanks for stopping by.

Spring has SpRunG!

2010-03-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

I hosted my first swap.... it was part of the newfangled zentagles group I belong to... this group encourages experimentation (in general, tangles are black ink on white/cream background).... this one is not...

I used watercolors, chalks, inks on water color paper

Today's nod to the celebration of crafts is a nod to my love of textiles..... and a further nod to organics as well as modern prints... I just stumbled upon this site and can't wait to place an order... I have no idea what I'm going to make, but right now that doesn't seem to matter.... ; ) Check out Daisy Janie at
http://www.daisyjanie.com/index.html

Bounce

2010-03-24T08:00:00.006-05:00

Zentangle... circles.... bounce.... a recent swap challenged us to interpret a zentangle ATC with a single or multiple circles....

I took it literally....

And today's craft moment: a very cool zippered pouch with reverse applique.... zippered pouches are a huge fave of mine... maybe it's because I seem to have so many bits and bobs flying about and this helps to reign them in...

check it out http://orangeflowerpatterns.blogspot.com/2009/08/zippered-case-with-reverse-applique.html

Have you zentangled yet?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Motivational Movement

2010-03-23T08:00:00.008-05:00

By now you probably know about 'Awaken the Artist' (and just in case you don't... it's my theme for 2010!).... but what you may not know is another signifcant part of my life is choosing a life of health. So guess how excited I was when I found out that I am able to work out at a local gym as part of my client's employee wellness program.... so I went and signed up tonight..... a couple of the very very cool features: access to the gym 24/7, access to any of their clubs any where, and there is a club basically across the street from the hotel, AND.... the personal trainers package deals are beyond affordable..... !

I can't wait... I've been working out at the hotel, which has been 'ok' but the eliptical here skips (which kinda defeats the purpose...lol) and there isn't much in the way of strength training, so wooHOO!!!! Just another reason why I LOVE working on this project... ; )

See ya at the gym!

Today's craft moment: This very cool blog has something for everyone... check it out! http://blog.craftzine.com/

What are your fave workout shoes?

...scatter joy...

lindy

envie envy

2010-03-20T13:00:00.000-05:00

Trading these fabulous miniature works of art (ATCs) has been so fun for so many reasons... one of which is the discovery of mini envelopes to send them in.... (I know, it's the little things in life that gives me such pleasure!) I've received some very cool envies and finally I took one apart to use as a template. You could use any kind of paper, really... scrapbook paper, wrapping paper.... I had a couple Paper-Source catalogs on hand that I thought would be fun to turn into envelopes...

I'm going to work on making a template to share with you, but in the meantime here are the photos.... (and you can always make any size envies... just think of it as wrapping a package. Tape runners (or 2 way tape) works wonderfully well.

template:

folded piece before taping:

new life as an envie:

envies a plenty:

and today's craft moment.... the Paper-Source blog is full of ideas and links to templates!
what color is your envelope?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Eat your Green....

2010-03-19T08:00:00.002-05:00

A recent swap had us creating ATCs that were GReeN... at least 80% had to be green aka 'most' .... and knowing how much I love green, you know I just had to sign up... but what to do... what to illustrate.... ???

Well my fave veg and my fave fruit, of course..... juicy and delicious... I used chalk, watercolor, and pen on watercolor paper.

Today's craft moment....one of the more inspirational sites I follow... johnnie's work has a wonderfully positive energy... http://www.savedbylovecreations.com/2010/03/winners-choice-giveaway.html I'm so glad I found her site...!

fave fruit? fave veggie?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Once upon a time...

2010-03-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

there was a girl and she liked being a girl very much because being a girl rocks it out and so she made it her goal to eradicate (big word for small blog) the use of 'like a girl' as being a negative and instead used it as a statement for being or doing your best...! ride like a girl..... run like a girl.... play like a girl.... cry like a girl (cuz let's face it.... crying is NOT a bad thing!)....

today's craft moment.... hey... CRAFT like a GIRL!!!!! wooHOO.... anyway.... today's craft moment: one of the wonderful things about my promise to share cool 'craft' or art sites with you in celebration of national craft month is all the new and wonderful sites and blogs I'm finding... I hope you are enjoying the exploring.... because these fabulous femails are awe inspiring....

http://hearthandmadeuk.blogspot.com/ this site offers up tutorials, commentary, and one of my most favorite things... stunning photography either snapped by the author herself, or found shots decidedly in need of being shared. enjoy.

what do you do like a girl...?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Terrific Tote!

2010-03-17T20:36:00.003-05:00

In celebration of craft month I offer up Confessions of a Sewing Addict. I was on the hunt for a tote/bag to utilize while working (a purse just isn't cutting it) and I was so excited to find this site... I DID NOT MAKE THIS BAG... this is Martina's fabulous work and pattern (which she generously shares on her blog)... so click and visit today!

In celebration of my find I went on the hunt for fabric today.... I found a hidden treasure in Menominee Michigan... a wonderfully fabulous quilt shop called Quilter's Haven. The owner, Chris, is warm welcoming and has delicious fabrics and patterns (yes... I do buy patterns because even though I don't use them in the traditional sense, I look at the pictures and figure out the project.) She is currently remaking her website, but I'm going to share her link anyway... quiltershavenltd.com

The fabric I bought is gorgeous, don't you think? These are for two separate totes....larger pieces are for the Tote Exterior and the smaller for the lining....WooHOO!!!
what color is your tote?

...scatter joy...
lindy

En Garde!

2010-03-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

For some reason this tangle looks to me like a swordsman, cape flying, shield wielding.... ready for the duel....

Please do not ask me to interpret Rorschach Inkblots... I have a feeling it would not be pretty... *grin*

this is for another swap... done on 130 lb cold pressed watercolor paper with micron .25 mm black ink...

... and to celebrate national craft month, one of my fave sites:
http://craftingagreenworld.com/

What puts you on your guard?

...scatter joy...
lindy

bloom

2010-03-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

Spring is fast approaching... one of my favorite quotes is 'bloom where you are planted' and one of my favorite blooms is the sunflower. Here is my zentangle interpretation for a recent swap... this one is on its way to the netherlands...

And here is a link to a fun craft site to celebrate national craft month:
Cool Craft Site

How are you blooming...?

...scatter joy...

lindy

Celebrate Craft Month

2010-03-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

I totally forgot that March is national (?) Craft month.... I love that there is a month devoted to the craft of crafts... ; ) I urge you to 1- make time for your favorite craft, 2- learn a new craft, and 3- encourage others to celebrate national craft month!

I, of course am celebrating the whole year since my 'theme' this year is 'awaken the artist'.... but specifically this month from here on out I will highlight one favorite craft site each day either in a post dedicated to that particular craft or as the final paragraph in the post.

Today I share with you a wonderful, wonderful artist and her blog that celebrates the paper arts.... I encourage you to visit because there you are sure to be inspired to try new things. http://inkstainswithroni.blogspot.com/ Ink Stains by Roni Johnson is a trove of delicious ideas. She is also the author of the Teach Yourself Visually Collage and Altered Art.

What craft have you been wanting to try? What are you waiting for???

...scatter joy...
lindy

time for a tangle?

2010-03-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

It continues to be my new favorite art form... I keep thinking about how I could broaden this beyond making ATCs and trading... and the sweet thing is... everyone interprets the same designs differently. AND anyone can do this... these two I did while listening to a podcast with Doug Graham about raw foods and his book
80-10-10. I think it looks like I was happy... (which of course I was.... and I AM...!)

To me: the tangle on the left looks like a curvy woman with a cape who is busy shaking and grooving... and the center looks like all the inner workings of a healthy body doing it's thing..... and the one on the right ???.... lol... well maybe it doesn't always have to look like something... (although when viewed with the deep curve on the top it definitely looks like my luscious produce overflowing from a bag as I leave the market...!

what does your happiness look like?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Hosting my first swap....

2010-03-10T10:52:00.001-06:00

WELL.... I've decided to do it.... I'm going to 'host' my first swap. I joined the Newfangled Zentangle Group on swap-bot and the founder, Tess, offered to make me an officer. (It's a very official and everyone bows in my presence as I enter rooms....) ; )

Well, maybe I'm exaggerating a little.... but I DO get to post and host swaps for this group... so my first one is SPRING has SPRUNG... the challenge is to tangle your interpretation of that theme on a 3.5 square (typical zentangle size) and because this group likes to experiment with color and design it is not only encouraged, but embraced. I can't wait to see the designs and hope that I can persuade people to send me pics of their creations for a later posting here! (I will add my creation this weekend to this post... in the meantime here is a place-holder... one of the very first tangles I ever did on a scrap piece of paper)

If, after all my blogging on and on and on and on and on about zentangles you still do not know what they are, here is yet another link (compliments of Tess) Beez in the Belfy

So I urge you to stop reading. Put pen to paper. Do the Spring has Sprung dance of the of the tangle.

EDIT: oh guess what?! This is my 100th post WooHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!

What color is your spring?

...scatter joy...
lindy
.

Harmony

2010-03-09T08:00:00.001-06:00

The second in the Inspirational Words series. Harmony.

... with an eye made quiet by the power of harmony & the deep power of joy, we see into the life of things. --- wordsworth

How do you practice harmony?

...scatter joy...
lindy

... Balance ...

2010-03-08T08:00:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite forms of art is word art... especially using inspirational or motivational words. This card is called 'Balance' and is part of a set of two
(I'll post the other one the next post).

I had so much fun making the 'Skinny' that I continued with the same colors and techniques. I'm going to have to make a set of inspirational cards for myself, I think....

How do you find your balance?

...scatter joy...

lindy

who named them 'skinnies'??? and why?

2010-03-07T08:00:00.001-06:00

Embrace Change.... this was for a private swap I did with one of my swapping friends on swap-bot. She had to educate me on creating a 'skinny'.

They are 3x5.... hmmmmm now I wonder if was supposed to make the art vertical vs horizontal...

I did this one in acrylics, inks, pens, metal, ribbon and beads.

Can you tell how much fun I'm having creating?

How do you spread your wings?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Swimming in a Sea of Tangles

2010-03-06T08:00:00.002-06:00

This ATC was for a Zentangle group swap... sender's choice. When I read my partner's profile I saw that she likes bizarre imagery and also has a fondness for animals.

As this tangle unfolded itself it reminded me somehow of a cross between a rabbit, cat, and fish...

drawn on 130lb cold pressed water color paper (so far my favorite paper to draw on) using my Martha Stewart (yeah, I said it...) .5mm pen in peacock blue.

what do you see...?

...scatter joy...

lindy

alphabet of life e & f

2010-03-05T08:00:00.005-06:00

"Express Thanks" and "Forgive" were the next two cards in this series. For some reason, as much as I love the series, I'm finding it difficult to come up with things representative of the words... I try not to be too literal because that's just not a good fit for me, but it hasn't been easy ...

For this swap I thought I would challenge myself by using different mediums than what I typically do... so I used chalks, oils, pencils and pens. My partner was from Michigan (my home state) and it was fun to have that in common. She'd mentioned having lived somewhere warm and moving back to Michigan because of the winter, so I definitely had to incorporate that...

and the Forgive... well, I tangled the word and then of course I'm all about starting over.... so took it from there.

The Forgive ATC was difficult for me... I don't think I forgive very easily.... in fact I'm not sure I forgive at all.... That's not to say if we have a misunderstanding or disagreement that I hang onto it... I don't... I let that stuff go easily.... and I don't really even think there is anything to forgive...
But the BIG stuff.... the REAL stuff... I don't know how you do it. I have had a couple things in my life happen that I will never forgive.... I can't imagine it....
How do you forgive?

...scatter joy...
lindy

boy do I miss my boy...

2010-03-03T08:00:00.003-06:00

When I'm home Bax keeps me laughing with his antics.... I was busily working on something out in the kitchen area when I could hear this very soft 'woof' 'woof' (he was definitely using his indoor voice...). As I peeked around the corner to see what he was asking for, here is what I saw.

He was posing perfectly and asking very nicely for his broccoli stalks (one of his fave treats) that were on the coaster on the glass table in front of him.

What do your animals ask for?

...scatter joy...
lindy

50 SWAPS Completed!

2010-03-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today as I sent out another 2 swaps I hit the 50 completed mark.... wow.... ! It's been fun working on art in the evenings in the hotel room... I picked up this gorgeous little 'train case' from a thrift store for $5 and I'm able to bring my art supplies with me. Here's my hotel room 'desk' converted to art table. (Don't worry... I have a clear plastic table cloth that protects the top.) It's been a really fun diversion as well as a wonderful and inspiring way to continue to awaken the artist... I will continue to swap and may even check out other swapping sites or maybe even other avenues for sharing my art. Thanks for following me on this journey.

What are your passions and how do you share them?

...scatter joy...
lindy

I saw a hat ...

2010-02-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

This ATC swap was so fun... it was for a collage ATC... the guidlelines were simple: must clip images and words. I went with a red/pinkish/white/gray theme as everything seemed to complement each other so well. I was struck by the image of the woman... it was in a spread for some sort of valentine... I like it because of the hat. ; )

What does your hat say about you?

...scatter joy...

lindy

Ode to Oympics... Winter that is

2010-02-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm drawn to the olympics. I love watching.... and cheering... and even a little tearing as the anthems are sung....

So of course I simply had to join in the fun when there was a swap for Winter Olympics ATC.... here is my rendition of speed skating.

What winter olympic sport is yours?

...scatter joy...

lindy

back door deLISH!

2010-02-24T20:17:00.000-06:00

They say back door guests are best.... I use the back door daily (when I'm living at home) to take Baxie on his walks. And my back door is in my kitchen.... it's a difficult eye-sore that causes me to groan when I try and figure out how to incorporate it into the beauty that is my kitchen...

And then it struck me (well... a while back but I finally did it...!). I'd add some 'art'! This art is in the form of an acrylic rub on transfer.... think: very thin layer of paint.... I got it from Stacy O's... I think this one is 'Dandelion Breeze' ... wait til you see the one I have for the bedroom!

What color is your door?

...scatter joy...

lindy

mini red zen*tangle INCHIES

2010-02-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

Have you noticed that when I try something, I keep on trying it over and over and over and over again.... lol... probably boring you to tears... and that's one of the reasons I want to change up the organization of my blog... so that I provide a little more balanced commentary on what's going on in this collage called my life.

However, I'm not there yet, so, if you can indulge me just another minute, here are the Inchies I made for the Red Zentangle Inchie swap. I thought it was going to be very difficult to draw in that teeny space... but I drew the tangles BEFORE I cut the inchies. (Thanks, D, for the awesome tip!)

Have you tangled yet?

...scatter joy...
lindy

color*full Inchies

2010-02-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

And here is the 2nd and 3rd attempt at Inchies... (2 partners, 4 inchies each)... It was a free theme, meaning the artist could choose how to proceed. I'm still figuring out this artform... I did a few different techniques here... I did a couple miniature zentangles, a few collage and I even did bit of faded drawings, (the red/fuschia to the right) is sketch of a girl in a winter coat ... the wind is blowing and the snow is swirling... the sentiment is 'merry winter'...

I have much to learn but have to say am enjoying the journey so much. Thank you for looking and sharing.
What new thing have you learned recently?

...scatter joy...
lindy

What are INCHIES????

2010-02-19T08:00:00.002-06:00

That was my question when I first saw the challenge on Swap-Bot.

So, as is my custom, I did a search to see just what these things called 'inchies' are. In the most basic sense, they are miniature works of art measuring 1"x1" and can be done using any variety of methods. I still don't know what one 'does' with these little works of art... display them? collect them? keep them? probably. But I have a few other ideas as well... I think they are the perfect size for magnets, pins, and embellishments for larger works of art.

Here are my very first inchies...

I was so excited about these... I read the person's profile and saw that pink and black was her favorite color combo... and then, she has her own webiste offering her custom Tutus (it's great...if you have girls in your life, I think you should check it out!)... anyway, I assumed because she makes these custom tutus that she sews....... so several of the inchies focused on sewing.

After I completed the work I perused her profile one last time only to discover that she actually DOES NOT LIKE sewing.... arghhhhhhhhhh... how did I MISS that???? so I scibbled off a note to her explaining my blunder and she was very gracious.... and she wrote back that her mom, in fact, loves sewing and that she was going to share those with her!

What have you 'missed' lately

...scatter joy...
lindy

Urban 'Loft'

2010-02-17T08:00:00.003-06:00

As many of you know, one of my passions is design and decorating. I've been in the midst of re-making my space for quite a while now, and last weekend made significant headway... drum roll, please..... I now present to you my living space.

New sofa and chair in a mid-century modern style... gorgeous lime green slubbed fabric with button detail on the sofa... and the chair is a woven mocha ... both purchased from Stacy O's in Saginaw, MI. Also new is the TV cart (IKEA), the tables (which really are very very very similar to the style in Pottery Barn) that I found for a fraction of the cost on Overstock.com (gotta love the Overstock...) and the rug (one of my friends said that it reminds her of 'pepples' because of the size of the felted wool) is one of the softest I've ever experienced (also from Overstock).

The furniture pieces are slightly smaller scale so they don't dwarf the space... the tables, glass and iron to let the light and air dance through the room.

For me the key has been in visualizing what I'd like my space to look like... feel like.... and I wanted it to be a real reflection of me.... the woman I am today.

The best part.... I was able to make my purchases with the money from the items I sold that have been cluttering up my space that I was ready to release on Craig's List and Ebay.... and I sold my old furnture on Craig's List, too!

Baxter approves.

Sharing my Taste of Life

2010-02-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

I am determined to change my blog a bit... as I find my voice and my focus I'm also discovering different ways I'd like to organize content. So I'm on the hunt for a template that will allow me to have tabs or sections or some sort of categorization making it easier to find specific items of interest as well as keep me on track for posting a more balanced selection.

Specifically my initial thoughts run towards weekly posts on the Life I'm Tasting: The art I'm creating, the designing/decorating I'm doing, art/craft/diy tutorials, and easy choices for living a health*full life that are fun!

Because I'm new to blogging (less than a year at it) I am not sure of all the protocol involved, etc... so if anyone has any insight, feel free to send me a note... all help appreciated! I'm not even sure if this is possible having a blogspot account....

So, keep on the lookout for changes.... and hopefully within a couple months end I'll have a new look and feel to the site...!

what changes have you made to your life recently?

...scatter joy...
lindy

The Color Purple

2010-02-14T08:00:00.008-06:00

The challenge here was to create ATCs in the color purple.... I wasn't sure what I was going to create and I love how the cards turned out.

Purple... Passion.... Happy Valentine's Day. You are loved.

What does purple say to you?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Sticker Art & a little more orange...

2010-02-12T08:00:00.001-06:00

This ATC challenge involved using a sticker and building a theme around it. (Most ATC swaps I've been involved in have had the disclaimer "and don't just slap a sticker on a card and call it done"... I'm sure it's necessary but it makes me laugh. So this challenge was a bit tongue in cheek... I created mine before I read my partner's profile.... I was slightly dismayed to see she didn't really like the color orange. However, I sent it along anyway : )

What is your least favorite color?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Radical Reading Nook Phase II

2010-02-10T23:27:00.000-06:00

OH BOY.............!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Working away from home during the week has made it a little tougher to get my home design projects done... it takes a little longer, but last weekend was major breakthrough weekend and, da da da daaaaaaaaaaa.... here it is in all it's glory.

I'm not quite finished yet... but the final stage won't take place til late summer/fall.... so for now, *happy sigh* come join me in my nook and let's read awhile.... Doesn't it just look sooooooo inviting???? and, even though you can't see it very well, there is a great little table next to the chair for my glass of red....

what project are you looking forward to completing?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Live Your Most Succulent Wild Life!

2010-02-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite books is Succulent Wild Woman by Sark.... and so when I had the opportunity to take part in an ATC 'Book Inspired' swap, my choices was clear...

If you haven't given SARK a try, I encourage you to do so... her message of self-love and living a life of succulence is one we can all benefit from.

What does succulent and wild look like in your life?

...scatter joy...
lindy

The ART of Staying Healthy

2010-02-06T11:36:00.001-06:00

Another reason for me to LOVE art.... according to a recent survey by the Group Health Cooperative, creating art entertains us, exercises our brains, and exposes us to new experiences and social activities.

For me it's also very therapeutic. No matter how stressed I can become with the day to day of being on a project far away from home, (hey, if I'm not sleeping in my own bed at night it's considered far! ; ) as soon as I bring out my art supplies the tension starts to fade and my world is immediately that much calmer.

The report goes on to state that those who make art a part of their lives have fewer doctor visits and health-care costs, use less medication and have lower rates of depression. Expressing yourself through art may also help boost your immune system (or maybe it's that glass of red.... er,no, that keeps me HEART healthy...lol)

And the good news, at least for me, is you don't have to be great at it... you just have to Do IT! Any creative act such as arranging flowers, journaling, decorating your house (or even making ATCs).... are forms of art.

What are some things you do to keep healthy?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Color * full Tangles

2010-02-04T08:00:00.002-06:00

These are from 4 swaps... all for zentangles in color. Traditionally Zentangles are done in black ink on white or ivory paper.
Blue, Rainbow, Purple and 'Free Color', which of course, I took to mean 'GREEN'....

Tangles are delightfully fun to do... and it's a great way to spend my evenings when I'm away from home. Watch a true artist at work creating a tangle here... it's time lapsed so goes by speedy, but not so speedy you can't see what's happening... zentangle tutorial

It's interesting to go back and look at them a few days later... I always wonder what I was watching or listening to at the time....

What color is your tangle?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Alphabet of Life ATCs C & D

2010-02-02T08:00:00.005-06:00

Count Your Blessings and Dream... I loved the images & words I had chosen for Count Your Blessings... except they didn't translate as well onto an ATC... lol... so here's what I learned: ATCs are small. NOT BIG. small.

And Dream... had fun with that one. I love dreaming about Paris so took that as my focus.... used stamps, images, ribbon and incorporated my fave colors.

What are you blessed with? What do you dream about?

...scatter joy...

Gay is OK

2010-01-31T08:00:00.001-06:00

A recent ATC swap was called 'Gay is OK'... I was excited about it because I love my friends Jeff & Alex and felt this was another way to honor them and all that they mean to me and all that they bring to my life. We had 3 partners and so I chose to do a series of the same card.

For those of you who don't know, I actually had the honor of officiating their wedding just over a year ago... I love the color and texture and am excited about the progress of my art... and I do believe that love IS the answer...

Who do you love? Who loves you back?

...scatter joy...

lindy

Spread your wings...

2010-01-29T18:02:00.001-06:00

and fly... my other 'Insprirational Words' ATC swap.... This one happened almost entirely on its own... I didn't have a focus or idea going in.... but somehow it 'took flight'....

What gives you your wings? and RED BULL is not an acceptable answer...! ; )

...scatter joy...

lindy

Believe

2010-01-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

You will because you can. A very simple sentence that has seen me through the good and the bad... the great and the greater.

I don't often doubt that I can do something... confidence is not a thing that I lack... however, even I, on occasion think that perhaps I cannot do what needs doing... or what I want to do... or what I wish I could do.... and it is on these occasions that I remind myself that everything I need, I have within myself.

This ATC was for the 'Inspirational Words' ATC... I hope there are more cuz you all know how I love me some inspirational words.... lol...

What words inspire you?

...scatter joy...
lindy

ride, run, walk, jump, etc etc etc LIKE A GIRL!!!!

2010-01-26T08:00:00.002-06:00

The theme of this delicious ATC swap was 'Make a Statement'. For those of you who know me, you know how passionate I am about women having and listening to their own powerful voice.

One of my beautiful friends, Devin, ran in the SanFran marathon, and was sweet enough to send me the best postcard on the planet. I used this postcard as the base... it turns the usual negative ....'like a girl' connotation on its head by proclaiming it as a positive. We should ALL remember to run (or read or walk or ride or laugh or cry or talk.....) LIKE A GIRL... and that doing so is definitely a good thing... hell it's a GREAT Thing!

Give your art a voice... build a community of women.

Who is in your community of women? Who listens to the voice of your soul?

...scatter joy...

lindy

Postage Stamp ATC

2010-01-24T08:00:00.001-06:00

I promise that I'll try and start mixing it up a bit between showing my art and sharing more craft ideas, links and instructions... it's just I'm sooooooooo enamored with these right now... AND it's all I'm doing.... lol....

For this swap we had to take a postage stamp and build a theme around it. I like the way it turned out! It is difficult to tell but it is 3 dimensional. It was my first time using a layering technique and having things pop off the page...

Do you believe?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Favorite Theme ATCs

2010-01-23T08:00:00.001-06:00

One of the ATC swaps I recently took part in was called 'Favorite Theme'... we had 2 partners and creatively interpreted their favorite theme.... one of my partners loves the Paris Carnival so I did some research and interpreted this year's poster onto an ATC. My other partner loves desserts and glitter... after reading her profile I decided to incorporate her love of eating healthy into the mix and chose cherries as the 'dessert'.... and, as I called out, YUM!!!!

Is it possible to be an artist and not have a distinctive style? Does this make you less of an artist???

...scatter joy...
lindy

Where in the world is...

2010-01-21T17:51:00.001-06:00

Marinette Wisconsin???? That was the question I was asking a couple weeks ago when I found out I'd be working on a project here.

The Good: The time I have in the evenings to basically be creative and artistic .... no excuses ... I AM awakening the Artist....

The Bad: I'm away from home sweet home, friends and BAX... and you KNOW how I'm lovin' my space these days... AND I'm only part way finished with the re-do....

The Ugly: Everything is so uber-dry.... I am looking a bit like a hag...... ; P

It IS the waterfall capital of Wisconsin (it has to be true, the internet says so...) AND I'm sure that summer and fall will be simply delightful here.... I may even bring up a bike!

What would you do if you suddenly found that you had no obligations every evening?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Christmas Ephemera ATCs

2010-01-19T23:20:00.000-06:00

I can't help it. I'm hooked... so look at it this way... you will be able to watch me grow into my art.... ; )

These two were for 'Christmas Emphemera' ATCs in which we were to take old cards, wrapping, etc and use bits and pieces for our ATCs... I liked the surprise of using lime green versus a traditional 'christmas green' and really likes how some of the word images on the red actually look as though they are frosted with snow....

confession: As I went to add the pics to this post I was already hesitant as I've made 'better' ones since I made these... which, then, gives me pause about why must I even judge... I can simply love them for what they are.

what does the word 'believe' conjure up for you?
...scatter joy...
lindy

FAST & FABULOUS... crafts for even the BUSIEST of souls

2010-01-16T08:00:00.001-06:00

'Awaken the Artist' is my 2010 mantra and so far, so good, good, good.... !!! And, given the new assignment I've been given for work it's going to be very easy for me to dedicate time to this endeavor... however, for some of you who are a little more time-challenged I found this GREAT website FasterCraft... here is how they describe their site: About FasterCraft

Our goal here at Fastercraft is to help you fit crafting into your life. We bring you projects you can do quickly, and help you find ways to make those things fun and as affordable as possible. If you have questions or suggestions please send them to fastercraft (at) gmail (dot) com.

Check out all their fast and fabulous ideas!

Pointillism Part II

2010-01-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

And the Pointillism ATC(s) I received in return...

we only needed to create one, however my partner gifted me with all 3 attempts... I'm having fun adding to my blossoming collection.

Pointillism ATC

2010-01-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

I tried my hand at Pointillism back in college ... and recently had the chance to do it once again... it was more difficult than I remembered or thought it would be.... but what is really capturing my interest is the number of different ways to create ATCs and the multitude of themes...

The basic premise of Pointillism is that you create your art by making 'points' on a page without blending them all and without drawing other lines... it can be in color or black and white...

I chose to go with a primitive winter theme... What would your art point to?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Felting Fun and the Ugly I Received

2010-01-12T08:00:00.002-06:00

I signed up for the Ugly Swap because I wanted to make one... wasn't all that interested in receiving one... especially because I'm trying to streamline and simplify.... but my partner really worked some magic... she created an Ugly in Green (I don't think she actually named it... hmmmm do you notice a trend here and my obsession with the naming of things???) but... adorable it IS.... (Bax thinks it belongs to him but I've not given in (yet)!

What would you name this little guy???

...scatter joy...

lindy

Radical Reading Nook Phase I

2010-01-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

I have a funny space in my living area... it isn't its own room, nor is it really part of the living room. Over the years it has served multiple purposes and most recently it was where the computer cupboard lived... but none of those uses were ever really the right fit...well, I finally decided how to design the awkward space. It will be my new reading nook.... so here is phase 1 unveiled....

- new color on the wall ... it is called 'drenched in dew' (and I would really really really love the job of coming up with names for paint colors... ! Wouldn't that just be a fun job???
- new espresso floating shelves (expertly hung by my handy-woman)
- books newly housed and sorted a brand new way... by COLOR!!! this of course brings a whole new criteria when I'm deciding whether or not to purchase a book.... I definitely need more books in the blue and green color scheme.... *grin*

Keep watching as I unveil the next few phases....!

How do you organize your books?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Alphabet of Life ATCs

2010-01-08T22:04:00.001-06:00

So the other part of Swap-Bot is the receiving of items.... Here are the first ATCs I've received... these begin my collection and are for the Alphabet of Life Swap.... Part of the interesting thing is in seeing how different people interpret the theme and create their miniature works of art....

What are some ways you've experienced different interpretations?

...scatter joy...

lindy

the ABCs of ATCs....!

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

Yes. Yet another Swap-Bot post. Can't help it. ; P So.... I have long been intrigued by ATC (Artist Trading Cards)... think baseball cards but for the art*full inclined. You can read more here or simply do a search for Artist Trading Cards... you'll be amazed at what comes up.

But I've been somewhat intimidated by the thought of actually creating something termed 'Art'... I seem to do fine with the 'craft' side of Arts & Crafts .... but I was letting ART intimidate me....

well NO LONGER! Last year (2009) was Reclamation Lindy and this year (2010) I have decided is 'Awakening the Artist'.... I chose a relatively safe forum for my first foray into the world of trading art... This swap is called the Alphabet of Life. The coordinator had this great alphabet of life from a friend and thought it would be a wonderful theme for a swap.... and she was right. Our first two were 'Always Pray' and 'Be Kind'. I read my partner's profile and saw that she liked primitives so tried to create mine with a nod towards that....

I'm hooked. There will be more posts coming your way revealing the ATCs I create and even, perhaps receive.....

How would you depict the Always Pray and Be Kind for your ATCs?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Now & Zen(tangle)

2009-12-30T11:00:00.001-06:00

Oh. MY. GOD!!! I just received one of the best gifts!!!! I have recently discovered the art of zentangling and a very special person was paying attention and gifted me with the Zentangle Kit...

It comes packaged in its own gorgeous hand-made dark teal paper box... complete with step by step instructions on creating tangles, pencils, pens, hand crafted die cut papers and a mini dvd ... what a treat!

I am excited to be on this journey and can't wait to see where these tangles take my artistic endeavors...

and No... you don't NEED this kit to zentangle... their home site gives plenty of info to be able to strike out your own tangles and there are many other sites devoted to showcasing other artists' tangles.... but I sure am excited by this gorgeous gift!

And here is a piece of functional art.... a bookmark I tangled yesterday afternoon... too fun!

What inspires you?

...scatter joy...
lindy

An Ugly Creation

2009-12-28T20:00:00.001-06:00

So another Swap-Bot swap.... This one to Create an Ugly Doll.... I'm not exactly sure what drew me to this swap... I do not want to begin collecting these dolls.... although there is something weirdly appealing about them.... maybe it was just the opportunity to craft one and then be able to send it off to someone.... of course, that doesn't account for the fact that another will be finding its way to me.... lol....

My swap partner had in her profile that she likes fairies.... and so I made mine a Fairy Ugly Doll.....

This was a very quick and easy craft and if you have tweens/teens/ or people who just like to collect unusual things, this could be just the thing. (This could also make an awesome Doggie Toy... Bax was utterly disappointed that he wasn't the recipient of this doll!)

1. Use a felt or wool fabric... a scrap will do as these are not huge dolls... 8-11" on average probably and can be any color.

2. You do not need a pattern. I REPEAT: YOU DO NOT NEED A PATTERN.... simply lay out a double layer of fabric and then roughly sketch the shape you'd like your Ugly Doll to be.... (if you don't know what Uglys are, do a simple google search for 'Ugly Doll' and take a look.

3. Cut out the fabric leaving aprx 1/4 for seam allowance. Because they are not always exactly symmetrical you don't have to worry (although this part would definitely bug some of my more perfect friends ---and you know who you are!)

4. Sew (but leave an opening to put in the stuffing), stuff (lightly... not packed firmly), sew closed and embellish. Ohhhhhhhhh and don't forget to name your Ugly....

This project took me aprx 1 hour to complete. ; )

What would your Ugly look like... and what would its name be?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Pillow Punch

2009-12-26T23:08:00.001-06:00

My wonderful friend beat me to the punch and crafted some fabulous felted pillows upcycled from old wool sweaters! (I have felted the sweaters, and have yet to utilize in a project.) She gifted me with this one after she saw me lusting after it.... isn't it just adorable with the button placket down the front??? (Thanks, Fran!)

I think this Punch of Orange is going to be simply luscious with the lime green, chocolate, and blue color scheme!

What colors are dancing in your dreams?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Dancing the zenTANGO

2009-12-23T08:00:00.002-06:00

I love arts. I love crafts. And I really LOVE learning something new... so my new fascination continues to grow... zentangles. I am new new new so judge not too harshly.... and have to say... I love it. It's easy... anyone can do it... and you end up feeling very artistic...! I am currently in a couple of swaps involving the exchanging of these mini works of art on swap-bot (another new fascination...)

What has caught your fancy?

... scatter joy...
lindy

a merry mummy christmas!

2009-12-21T21:46:00.000-06:00

I did it! I finished my mom's christmas pressie and now it's on it's way to florida to arrive just in time for the festivities!

As many of you can relate to, each year it becomes increasingly difficult to figure out just what to give our parents for the holidays. I came up with this idea last month while at the Craft Social... as I was learning how to make artistic doodles (aka zentangles) a million ideas on how to use this artform came flooding in... among them the brill idea I had for gifting my mumma.

As I reflect on my own life stories, it occurred to me that I really knew too few of my mom's stories and so what better way to get her to tell them to me than to present her with a 'journal' for writing them down.... including some touches of art throughout to keep it interesting.

It's easy peasy:

1. Buy a suitable notebook to use for the journal. (I chose spiral bound because it will lay flat, and lined for ease of writing.) I found this one in the clearance cubbies at Paper Source.
2. Modify and embellish at will (keep in mind how long it will take because once you start you'd hate to only get 1/2 way through)
3.Compile the thought starter questions and write them throughout the journal. ( It's much much easier to tell you a story if you ask me a question first, to get me started.)

If you'd like to use my questions to start from, just email me and I'll send you the file.

There are so many stories we need to share with each other and this really is a great idea not only for our elders but also think about writing your stories now... as you live them... what a wonderful gift for your own family members and friends.

How does your story begin?

...scatter joy...
lindy

... and MORE JoY!!!

2009-12-18T08:09:00.001-06:00

I knew that I was probably ordering from my fave Thai restaurant a little too often when, on a rare occasion I would change my order and they would ask, 'aren't you going to order Tom Kahr?' lol.... but I LOVE Thai, and I love Cozy Thai in particular.... so imagine my delight at being 'gifted' with a cute little canvas bag (really, it's CANVAS and not that cheap fused stuff that falls apart after using it 10 times...) and it contained cookies.

And anyone who has ever visited Cozy's knows just how kitchy and kookie it is (in the very best way...) so my delight was doubled when upon opening the bag I discovered there was a container of DANISH cookies inside.... LOL

And now I MUST go watch the penguins dance!!!

What unexpected gesture made you smile today?

...scatter joy...
lindy

After a long, hard, day....

2009-12-16T20:08:00.000-06:00

Well... okay... maybe it wasn't all THAT long... and definitely not hard... but you know what I mean... ! Anyway, imagine how incredibly fun it was when I opened my mailbox to find nothing but holiday greeting cards..... no bills.... NO JUNK MAIL.... simply envelopes filled with sweet messages...... ! The universe conspired to scatter joy my way today!

What kind of cards do you like to give.....? to receive....?

...scatter joy...
lindy

"Drum" roll, please..... or should I say Drum Shade???

2009-12-11T22:11:00.002-06:00

I'm not sure if it's retro, modern, or funky.... I just know that I like it.... and the great thing is that I see it from the living area as well as the kitchen.... ! It makes me smile. I picked this beautiful light up at Stacy O's in Saginaw.... she has great style and wonderfully unique items... I love her AND her store.

What lights you up inside?
...scatter joy...
lindy

simple & quick holiday decor

2009-12-10T22:10:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it takes very little effort to add some twinkle and merriment to your space... check out this cute little holiday decoration that is also quite FUNctional..... and you KNOW functional art is my favorite... I have this on the little cupboard that greets you as you enter my space!

1. Take one gorgeous jar... any jar will do... I used an antique canning jar I had on hand
2. Hang beautiful candy canes (ORGANIC!) around the rim
3. Enjoy!

I added a cut-out snowflake.... you could also add dried berries, or twigs or holly to the jar for added flair.

What makes your holiday spirit soar?

...scatter joy...
lindy

swap bot

2009-12-04T09:27:00.001-06:00

I don't know why I didn't know such things existed, but I stumbled upon this very cool site... it took me back to the childhood years of penpals..... this site has a very straightforward premise.... swap crafts, ephemera, postcards, art, books, and the list goes on.... any number of things with another partner.

There are hundreds of swaps going at any one time, and its almost a guarantee to find a swap that strikes your fancy (strikes your fancy???? what year is this.... 1957???) Anyway, the swaps have a host and guidelines, a description of the swap, sign up date and send out date.... the host matches you with someone ( you send to your match, someone else sends to you, this way it is not dependent upon having even numbers of people participating ). I have signed up for 3 already.... lol..... and the cool thing is, some are US only based but many are international...

If it sounds intriguing, check it out here:

What kind of things would you swap?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Cotton Candy Cable

2009-11-27T01:59:00.000-06:00

I just finished the muffler with the cable stitch that I learned last Friday at our little craft get-together.... I LOVE IT!!!! Don't look too closely for the flaws.... they are too numerous to count... I chose to leave them in..... it adds a bit of character... ; ) If you know how to knit and purl you can learn how to do this, too... it's easy peasy! And... bonus, I found the button in my stash......

Tomorrow... I'm going to tackle that big mess of a closet..... I don't know if I'll be brave enough to post a 'before' but I'll definitely show off my 'after'......

What is your 'before and after'?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Kitchen/Dining Re-Do ---Continued

2009-11-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

The make-over continues.... As I continue to refine the kitchen and dining area I decided to change the gorgeous green on the side board to a beautiful chocolate cream.... I mixed some chocolate mousse from the bedroom with some marshmellow from the kitchen to create this luscious color.... and changed the hardware from small pewter knobs to long brushed nickel handles. I LOVE the result.... it now feels more like a 'sideboard' instead of a dresser...!

And... thanks, Jane, for suggesting the idea of simply unplugging the TV and storing in the closet when I'm entertaining.... I did that this weekend and it worked perfectly!

girls night in

2009-11-22T19:49:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite fabulous femails recently hosted a craft evening in her home.... the art of knitting was the craft dejour .... there were many highlights to the get together not the least of which was a reminder of just how incredible women are and how much I love the creative energy when we spend time together.

Fran also schooled us on the art of hosting.... she had a space all set up for our evening of crafting...and imagine our delight when each of us had 'prizes' waiting for us.... she stunned us all with individualized hand-painted signs, calendars, socks and gloves....

These thoughtful touches really made a huge impact. We were all simply delighted..... We feasted on vegan delights AND we learned how to knit (I learned how to 'cable stitch' and knit on circular needles.... ) it just doesn't get any better.....

How do you show your friends appreciation?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Craft Social Part II

2009-11-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

Reduce, REUSE, recycle (upcycle)...

A fun twist at Friday's Craft Social was the swap table.... people brought in their extras and everyone was invited to take what they would be able to use and anything left over at the end of the night was to be donated. I could not pass up some great 'green' fabric.... it's upholstery swatches that will be perfect for the cell phone holders we made.... and the yarn... lol.... well, knitting IS my new fave, so how could I possibly pass up this yarn that is the perfect mix of my favorite colors (and coincidentally matches my favorite winter puffy vest!)

What is something old that you could make new again...?

...scatter joy...
lindy

My Corner of the Closet

2009-11-16T08:00:00.008-06:00

As part of my ongoing quest to tame my small space I feel as though I'm in a constant state of 'reorganization'... lol... this weekend I tackled the bedroom closet and dressers making the switch from spring/summer to fall/winter. There is something to be said for the feeling of 'new' as everything gets sorted.... 'Donate' and 'KEEP' are my two main categories.... very little gets tossed because even if a garment isn't wearable in its original form, it can often be recycled into fabric or material for something else.

And Baxter likes to help.... here he is sorting through my clothes on the bed... he ultimately created a very nice fort and promptly took a nap!

Best new 'old' find..... Charcoal flannel trousers that I'd bought off-season! YAY!!!! And if you hear me dare utter the words 'I have nothing to wear' please nudge me in the direction of my closet....!

What are your favorite season-changing rituals?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Craft Social Successes....

2009-11-14T12:22:00.000-06:00

Well last night was Craft Social time again.... I really have so much fun at these events. The women attending as well as leading are phenomenal. It's worth it just to feel the energy and inspiration. Last night I attended as a participant and was able to experience 4 different crafts.... ! I started at the doodle-icous table of Julie (visit her blog) made my way over to make a cute felt hair pin (thanks Krissy!), wandered over to the fabric cell phone holder table led by Jen and then ended up making a yo-yo holiday card led by another Jen (yo-yo mama!)

and bonus.... I finally figured out a great gift to give my mom.... (but more on a future post!)

Well done, once again, to Jess & her fabulous friends for hosting a wonderful Craft Social!

What hand-made gifts are you making this season?

...scatter joy...
lindy

A Day at the Beach with Bax

2009-11-07T15:25:00.001-06:00

Sometimes you just gotta go with it.... today (and this weekend) we are being blessed with gorgeous sunshine and temps nearing the 70s even though we're entering the 2nd week of November... so home redesign be damned (oh yeah, I said it)... it's off to the lake we went for a lot of walking, running, and doggy fun in the sun.

knit two, purl two....

2009-11-01T08:00:00.004-06:00

I met up with a friend last weekend and she helped reintroduce me to a craft I've always loved.... knitting. I started with a very easy project...... and have already completed it....! Isn't it amazing how it can go from this.....

to this?!

Another fabulous friend has organized a craft evening in her home... we are going to be knitting a cowl scarf, simply perfect for the beginner.... Mmmm... I have to pick out yarn. I think that warrants a trip to Sister Arts Studio......

My hint: Choose an easy project, aka a scarf and make it a little on the narrow side (I only cast on 16 stitches...)... the benefit is it doesn't take long at all to see progress and that motivates you to keep going... and before you know it, fini! Amy's hint: If you make the scarf as long as you are tall, you'll have enough length to wrap or loop with ease...! I made mine a little longer than that and I still didn't finish the skein of yarn.... !!!

What childhood craft would you like to rediscover?

...scatter joy...

lindy

Baxter's new Bath

2009-10-30T16:28:00.000-05:00

It finally happened... my new kitchen faucet was installed today.... oh. my. god. Gorgeous. and the best thing is the pressure of the spray... it is going to be wonderful to prep with that faucet... the fruits and veggies will be in water heaven and I can't wait to give Baxter a bath.... ! I'm sure he's going to love the spray, too...

These seemingly small things, for me, are what all combine to make it right.... I am loving how the space is coming together. I wonder if I should do a video of it all when I'm finally complete?

Although those who know me well tell me that I am never fully 'done' with anything... that one project merely leads to the next... lol...it's probably true.

What kind of 'project' person are you?
...scatter joy...
lindy

bax's new bowl

2009-10-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

CUTE CUTE CUTE ... found Bax a bowl that matches the new dishes and the new colors in the kitchen.... It is the small things that help pull the whole look together and add a bit of whimsy! Don't forget the small stuff....

What is your color?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Don't Read this Post, Mom...

2009-10-24T23:03:00.000-05:00

I am reinventing the art of crocheting the granny square.... this due in large part to the fact that I, number one- cannot read a pattern to save my life and number two- couldn't figure it out.... (YET) I am making this for a Christmas present for mom.... she has lovingly made countless blankets for people through the years... now it's her turn...

and of course, since she's a mom she will love it no matter how crazy it ends up looking......! ; ) The secret ingredient is love!!!

What is your secret ingredient?

...scatter joy...
lindy

Needle Felting... Finally!

2009-10-22T15:32:00.000-05:00

I recently discovered a gorgeous shop in Chicago called Sister Arts Studio ... the owner, Donna could not have been nicer. I have been longing to take a felting class and she offers up several different options (who knew there were so many different kinds of felting techniques??) She has a seriously grand list of offerings for the beginner as well as advanced knitter, crocheter, needleworker, .... well, crafter/artisan. I encourage you to check it out... in addition to adult classes, she also offers classes for kids & tweens and her passion is bridging the adult/child gap by offering classes aimed at building those relationships through a craft/artistic experience.

In addition to the classes, her shop boasts some of the most beautiful yarns I've ever seen...

And... drum roll, please.... here is my first effort for felting... it is a bookmark! I'm pleased and dare I say, proud?! lol.... now you all know what your holiday gifts will be.... ; P

What small shop speaks to your heart?

...scatter joy...

lindy

Flippin my Lid!

2009-10-21T08:00:00.003-05:00

A major part of designing my small space is the purging of all things 'clutter'.... but at the same time I need to find creative ways to store items.
I do not have a candy bowl, but I had these wonderful small hard candies I wanted to have out ... so I dug out a jar from the cupboard and did a quick recycle art project on the top to add a little 'new' to something old...

Easy Peasy: Took the lid, turned it over on top of a gorgeous card (from one of my fave stores, Paper Source) and traced the lid on the paper. Cut out a smidge inside the mark... I did not measure this, I eyeballed it. Took some Mod Podge (because it was what I happened upon first when digging through anything that I could use to 'stick' the paper to the lid) and smeared it on the lid. placed the cut out on the lid then smeared a little more over top of the actual paper. Let dry. The actual 'art' part of this project took me less than 5 minutes...

Isn't it cute??? I think this would be a really fun and easy thing to do for a multitude of things... and of course using papers that coordinate with either the holiday or the contents would be superb....

What ordinary object can you transform into functional art?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Awesome Autumn!

2009-10-20T00:37:00.001-05:00

Yesterday and today were simply glorious... we've had a very wet and cold start to our fall this year and it must be said, Autumn is my favorite season... it always has been...so I felt overjoyed at the sunshine and blissful weather... and since I had the luxury of working from home today, Bax and I escaped to the lake for lunch today.....

I have no idea what I am going to do with all these beautiful leaves I brought back, but I needed the beauty of the season back home with me... and they were calling out to be part of a collage... if I come up with something fun, I'll post it here!

what is your favorite season?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Progress????

2009-10-13T13:14:00.000-05:00

You know the mess that happens when you are re-organizing and re-decorating??? Well I'm in the midst of just such a mess!

I am seeing progress, however, and here is a bit of a 'before & after' shot of the open shelving in my kitchen... isn't it delicious??? It's just enough to keep me motivated to work through the rest of the chaos....

What spurs you through your mess?
...scatter joy...
lindy

purse pause...

2009-10-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

Well... it's been just over 4 months and the thing we've all been waiting for has finally arrived.... (well, the thing I'VE been waiting for anyway....)... 4 months ago I decided I was going to create some purses.... I had everything... fabric, thread, and desire... the only thing I needed to find were the frames... and so I did.

I found them online and ordered them.

and then I waited....
and waited...
waited...
contacted the company who said they had sent them and they had been returned (!) and they would resend....
and so I waited. and waited. and waited.
and then today.... ta-da... they arrived! so just in time for something fall or winter-ish.... hmmmmmm... maybe I'll figure out something with a recycled wool sweater.... !!! And maybe this will be my first foray into Etsy....

rugamarole part II

2009-10-08T09:00:00.005-05:00

One of the best things about spending design time on my space is watching the seemingly random choices all come together in an eclectic beautiful harmony..... this rug is from Stacy O's and is called Cat's Paw, although Baxter has asked for it to be renamed.... *grin*

I love the colors of the circles.... they are happy and vibrant yet soothing all at the same time...

what soothes your senses?
...scatter joy...
lindy

Plates a Plenty

2009-10-06T22:43:00.001-05:00

I've always enjoyed having friends over... cooking, eating, sharing.... and one of the things that makes it so fun is in the presentation.... I admit it... I LOVE dinnerware.... and have some fabulous new finds for the new look of my kitchen & dining area.... here's a sneak peek....

What would you like for dinner?

...scatter joy...

lindy

rugamarole

2009-10-04T21:49:00.001-05:00

My current design obsession is the kitchen dining area... so for the next bit of time I'm sure it will also be the focus of my blogging.... I felt as though I accomplished a lot this weekend and yet still had a lot of fun as well... it was the perfect blend.

I found a rug for my kitchen... it is wool... felted wool.... and baxter approves....

I think one of the most important things when designing-decorating on a budget is knowing when to invest money in quality pieces and when and where to shop for deals (and still get the look and or quality you are going for...)! One of my favorite places that delivers on that is Crate and Barrel Outlet. I'm lucky enough to live in a city that actually has an outlet storefront, but shopping them online is almost as much fun and can definitely garner fantastic finds.... (a few others I'll be sharing with you later this week...).

What do you do to design on a dime?
...scatter joy...
lindy