Taken by Clare Hayes of Fiorella Jewelry
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Juicy Watermelon Soap Tutorial
Did you know that Watermelon is the most widely-consumed melon in the United States? So why not celebrate America's favorite melon this summer by making some cute and refreshing Juicy Watermelon soap from the Soap Queen website. This soap is easy to make and even easier to enjoy!Unlike the real thing (which is comprised of nearly 92% water), this watermelon is made from 100% luxurious soap and mouthwatering watermelon fragrance oil. Visit the Soap Queen for this and many more bath and body tutorials.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Friday Finds - Camera Ready
Some fun film-themed finds for Friday. I'm particularly fond of the handmade viewmaster disks, which are designed, photographed, and hand-assembled by Portland artist Vladimir.
Italo Calvino Invisible Cities Vladmaster Set by Vladmaster
1950's/60's Recycled Vintage Record Postcards by Violettdrakt
Pink 35mm Film Hair Clip by Exousia
written by Rachael of Open Eyes Press
Italo Calvino Invisible Cities Vladmaster Set by Vladmaster
1950's/60's Recycled Vintage Record Postcards by Violettdrakt
Pink 35mm Film Hair Clip by Exousia
written by Rachael of Open Eyes Press
Thursday, July 28, 2011
3 Things - Fiorella Jewelry
These three things chosen from Etsy may seem random but are actually related...can you guess how?
written by Clare of Fiorella Jewelry
written by Clare of Fiorella Jewelry
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Tuesday Market in Lauraville
This year marks the third year of the farmers market in Lauraville! This market is open every Tuesday from 4-8 at 4500 Harford Road, right across from the Safeway. Customers will find fresh fruits and veggies, meats, eggs, cheeses, and baked goods from a variety of local vendors and farms. Local restaurants will also have prepared foods and several local artists will also be there. So bring your appetite and your grocery list!
For more information and a complete list of fabulous local vendors, check out Lauraville Farmers Market.
Written by Dana of whoop
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
What I'm Working On - Atelier Beads
Anybody who makes jewelry--or wears it for that matter--has had to
face up to the fact that there are gems and gemstones we simply cannot
use any more. Their use may involve wanton destruction and the
suffering of animals, as with ivory. Or it may have resulted in the
wholesale destruction of habitats and populations, as with
Mediterranean coral. Or, tragically, it may involve man's inhumanity
to man, as in the terrible suffering of the men who mine for Burma
jade (jadeite), now often referred to as "blood jade." Although these
gems have been used and prized for millennium, as ethical, caring
people we need to turn our backs on them rather than being the cause
for further exploitation.
Although this is a very gloomy opening for a blog post, I've been
having great fun for about a year now with frankly faux versions of
these three prized substances. I've found in my travels that Japanese
glass makers at one point had a brisk business in turning out versions
of all sorts of carved precious stones in wonderful, intricate glass.
There was a booming business in turning out these pieces in the late
Thirties. It went dormant during World War II and enjoyed a resurgence
during the U.S. occupation of Japan from the end of the war until
about 1953 or 1954. Vintage Japanese glass from this era is available,
and we can enjoy seeing how masterfully the glassmakers re-created the
originals. Most of these little stones were created to be turned into
"costume" jewelry or buttons, and it's still possible to find terrific
uncirculated examples. Here are my three "forbidden fruit" stones of
the moment:
Coral: These tiny (10mm) stones have a beautifully incised design of
flowers and ferns. There is some gradation in the color of the glass
for a natural effect.
Jadeite: Here's a wonderful recreation of the finest Burma jade. As
with the coral, there are some subtle gradations in the color. The
design incorporates flowers and ferns.
Ivory: These "ivory" glass stones are some of my favorites. They come
in a variety of sizes and are pure white, with a design of daisies and
leaves.
face up to the fact that there are gems and gemstones we simply cannot
use any more. Their use may involve wanton destruction and the
suffering of animals, as with ivory. Or it may have resulted in the
wholesale destruction of habitats and populations, as with
Mediterranean coral. Or, tragically, it may involve man's inhumanity
to man, as in the terrible suffering of the men who mine for Burma
jade (jadeite), now often referred to as "blood jade." Although these
gems have been used and prized for millennium, as ethical, caring
people we need to turn our backs on them rather than being the cause
for further exploitation.
Although this is a very gloomy opening for a blog post, I've been
having great fun for about a year now with frankly faux versions of
these three prized substances. I've found in my travels that Japanese
glass makers at one point had a brisk business in turning out versions
of all sorts of carved precious stones in wonderful, intricate glass.
There was a booming business in turning out these pieces in the late
Thirties. It went dormant during World War II and enjoyed a resurgence
during the U.S. occupation of Japan from the end of the war until
about 1953 or 1954. Vintage Japanese glass from this era is available,
and we can enjoy seeing how masterfully the glassmakers re-created the
originals. Most of these little stones were created to be turned into
"costume" jewelry or buttons, and it's still possible to find terrific
uncirculated examples. Here are my three "forbidden fruit" stones of
the moment:
Coral: These tiny (10mm) stones have a beautifully incised design of
flowers and ferns. There is some gradation in the color of the glass
for a natural effect.
Jadeite: Here's a wonderful recreation of the finest Burma jade. As
with the coral, there are some subtle gradations in the color. The
design incorporates flowers and ferns.
Ivory: These "ivory" glass stones are some of my favorites. They come
in a variety of sizes and are pure white, with a design of daisies and
leaves.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Favorite Etsy Shop - Jocelyn's Inkwell
We just launched our sailboat this week for the season. We sail in the Chesapeake Bay to favorite destinations like St. Michaels, Annapolis, and Oxford. So when I came across Etsy seller, Jocelyn's Inkwell, I had to take a closer look.
She makes beautiful water colors of bays, lakes, and ponds. And much to my delight, I discovered that she can do a custom watercolor of your favorite lake, bay or island.
My husband proposed to me on Dobbins Island in the Magothy River off the Chesapeake, so I am really excited to get a custom water color of Dobbins Island! It will be a beautiful reminder of what I call my "proposal island', and what is my husbands favorite anchorage on the bay.
Written by Stacey Phinney
She makes beautiful water colors of bays, lakes, and ponds. And much to my delight, I discovered that she can do a custom watercolor of your favorite lake, bay or island.
My husband proposed to me on Dobbins Island in the Magothy River off the Chesapeake, so I am really excited to get a custom water color of Dobbins Island! It will be a beautiful reminder of what I call my "proposal island', and what is my husbands favorite anchorage on the bay.
Written by Stacey Phinney
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Kids' Shopping Book Tutorial
Do your kids hate taking trips to the grocery store? All those packages, products and things that are off limits for little hands. Well keep those hands busy with this adorable and educational Kids' Shopping Book. This tutorial by Tammy from She Wears Flowers, shows you how to make a soft shopping book with felt food so your little one can shop along with you.
For full instructions with lots of photos visit She Wears Flowers by clicking here.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Friday Finds - Fun Times on the Beach
It's almost summer and that means it's beach time. These are all things that remind me of the beach........
Thursday, July 21, 2011
3 Things - Fuzzy Mug
Here are my three things. Can you tell what they have in common?
Peaches and Cream Maryjane by Gracious May
Peaches and Cream Maryjane by Gracious May
Small Industrial Hoops by Jill Popowich Designs
Wooden Sunglasses by Tumbleweeds Oddities
Written by Brooke, FuzzyMug
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Let's Go Out: Beach Weekend
It's summertime, and I'm snatching as many free weekends as I can to run off to Maryland's amazing beaches! Let's stock up on Etsy for that next trip!  I always find myself carrying a bunch of things beachside - books, sunscreen, towels, you name it. So I'll need a bag to tote it all, and why not this beautiful one from Tannei Casey?  I admit that most of my beach weekend time is spent in a swimsuit and flip-flops, but sometimes we go out for a nice dinner at an oceanside restaurant. I'd love to wear this sweet dress by Beatrice and the Bird!  You can't go out in a dress like that without the perfect earrings, and I'm smitten by these seaglass ones from Ocean Mist Studio. By the way, did you know that Maryland's own Eastern Shore is one of the best places to collect sea glass in the country? I sense another weekend trip coming on! See you at the beach! Post written by Jamaila of Zebrink Studio |
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Ten Question Tuesday - Studio Tuesday
Hello! Who are you? Give us the 411 about yourself.
My name is David Scheier. I am a painter and work mostly in watercolor. Some of my work is detailed and realistic and some is more illustrative and whimsical. I am a MICA grad of 2004 (painting). I now live outside of Washington DC where I work as an electrician (and create and sell artwork).
When/how did you start your business?
I started slowly, first only selling originals and taking on commissions every so often. My business became more serious when I invested in a nice printer and started selling prints locally and on etsy.
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I love spending time outdoors; birdwatching, hiking, collecting fossils, exploring and such.
What first made you want to become an artist?
I've always had a need to create things. Seeing the joy it brings to other people is a big part of it as well.
What inspires you?
Recently I am inspired by nature and the outdoors. I paint a lot of things I see and collect during my outdoor adventures.
What's your favorite thing about your craft?
I like all different techniques and effects you can achieve with such a simple medium like watercolor. Honestly, I also like how there is little clean up - I can pick it up or leave it whenever I want.
Where would we most likely find you working?
In my apartment, on the kitchen table, which is hardly used for eating.
What's your favorite music to listen to while you work?
A good mix, but my favorites are Neil Young, Tom Petty and Springsteen.
What's your favorite thing right now?
Hmmm....birds.
If you could have one wish granted for the craft community, what would it be?
That everyone respect and learn from each other, which I think we are pretty good at.
You can check out more of David's work in his etsy shop
Monday, July 18, 2011
Favorite Etsy Shop - Betsy Youngquist
Betsy Youngquist's shop is a treasure trove of creativity. Her sculptures are wonderfully intricate, with a sense of otherness yet humanity that I find really intrigueing. And her jewelry is so cool! It's nice to see a modern blinged out version of the ancient evil eye symbol, these necklaces would be so fun to wear and sure to attract attention.
I just want to give this guy a hug, and then take him home and keep him in my bathtub
written by Clare of Fiorella Jewelry
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Jersey Knit Bracelet Tutorial
I really love this tutorial (http://www.vanessachristenson.com/2011/03/v-and-co-how-to-jersey-knit-bracelet.html ) from V and Co. on how to weave your own bracelet from jersey knit fabric. It's fairly simple- you don't need any special tools except for your hands (and a pair of scissors).
You could really have fun upcycling old t-shirts for this project- any printed logos or designs would become an abstract, decorative part of the finished product. Enjoy!
written by Rachael of Open Eyes Press
You could really have fun upcycling old t-shirts for this project- any printed logos or designs would become an abstract, decorative part of the finished product. Enjoy!
written by Rachael of Open Eyes Press
Friday, July 15, 2011
ArtScape is here! Right now!
We are all set up and finally relaxing after a fury of making. Come down and see us, get a jumpstart on the weekend.
Today’s question of the day:
Artscape is known for being the hottest weekend in July, any tricks for
staying cool?
Yummy & Company (new item:feathers on chevrons in my newest color-plum!)
I freeze a bunch of water bottles before I leave in the morning and drink them all day long!
Greenstar Studio (new felt plush)
Fans. Lots of fans. I've worked out a pretty good "cross breeze" system over the past 6 years. Also, Ice. Lots and lots of ice.
Jersey Girl Design (Sparkly ring in brown)
I've got my little misting fan...and am hoping the rumors of a kiddie pool are true :)
Design by Night (Peacock facinator)
Design by Night's big "tool" purchase this year was a whoop daddy top of the line Coleman cooler on wheels with a retractable handle. I plan on loading that bad boy up with all sorts of chilled beverages (maybe some rum punch) and a few freezer packs that I can strategically place to cool my butt off!
Today’s question of the day:
Artscape is known for being the hottest weekend in July, any tricks for
staying cool?
Yummy & Company (new item:feathers on chevrons in my newest color-plum!)
I freeze a bunch of water bottles before I leave in the morning and drink them all day long!
Greenstar Studio (new felt plush)
Fans. Lots of fans. I've worked out a pretty good "cross breeze" system over the past 6 years. Also, Ice. Lots and lots of ice.
Jersey Girl Design (Sparkly ring in brown)
I've got my little misting fan...and am hoping the rumors of a kiddie pool are true :)
Design by Night (Peacock facinator)
Design by Night's big "tool" purchase this year was a whoop daddy top of the line Coleman cooler on wheels with a retractable handle. I plan on loading that bad boy up with all sorts of chilled beverages (maybe some rum punch) and a few freezer packs that I can strategically place to cool my butt off!
Friday Finds - Summer Dresses
I love pretty dresses in the summer. It gets too hot to be fussy and these dresses slip right on and can be dressed up with a simple accessory or two and you're ready to head to a summer wedding or cocktail party. Here are some of my favorite dresses on Etsy that can be custom made to fit you perfectly.
Begoina Dress by Kelsey Genna
Guipure Lace & Liberty Lawn Dress by M Holland
Black Elegant Long Linen Dress by Xiaolizi
Oversize Bow Linen Dress with Side Pockets by Lana Stepul
Written by Brooke, FuzzyMug
Thursday, July 14, 2011
ArtScape Starts Tomorrow!
Wow, this is the fourth year of the DIY section and BEST’s fourth year at Artscape. Ah, the things we’ve seen, the good times and fond memories we’ve shared. I'm sure we'll have some great stories to share this year.
Today’s question of the day:
What is your wildest Artscape memory?
Charms City Company (key necklace)
Our wildest Artscape memory was watching our friend John topple down the hill behind the port-a-pots after slipping in a puddle on the hill. John was mad.
JennyJen42 (new patchwork potholders with felt applique birdies)
Well....there was the hooker selling her jewelry on a piece of folded cardboard that she was open up to show the right customer, the rock opera people and their outfits, as well as the time that Artscape was at the same time as Ode-con, the anime' comic convention downtown, and all of those crazy costumes were there.
Jill Popowich Designs in Metal (new sterling silver cicada necklace)
Spending a whole weekend with my BEST gals. We always have fun and find ways to make the time fly... like playing Artscape bingo!
Block Party Press (bent arrow necklace)
I think I've permanently blocked the wildest memory out of my mind for my own sanity. I just know it was scary. I do remember admiring a woman's necklace from afar only to realize that it was 2 baby pythons when she came closer.
Today’s question of the day:
What is your wildest Artscape memory?
Charms City Company (key necklace)
Our wildest Artscape memory was watching our friend John topple down the hill behind the port-a-pots after slipping in a puddle on the hill. John was mad.
JennyJen42 (new patchwork potholders with felt applique birdies)
Well....there was the hooker selling her jewelry on a piece of folded cardboard that she was open up to show the right customer, the rock opera people and their outfits, as well as the time that Artscape was at the same time as Ode-con, the anime' comic convention downtown, and all of those crazy costumes were there.
Jill Popowich Designs in Metal (new sterling silver cicada necklace)
Spending a whole weekend with my BEST gals. We always have fun and find ways to make the time fly... like playing Artscape bingo!
Block Party Press (bent arrow necklace)
I think I've permanently blocked the wildest memory out of my mind for my own sanity. I just know it was scary. I do remember admiring a woman's necklace from afar only to realize that it was 2 baby pythons when she came closer.
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