DSigns by DS

Completed Fiber Art Wallhanging

2012-02-13T14:11:00.000-05:00

I used some of the fabric I dyed a few weeks ago and designed this art quilt. The background fabric looks very much like water to me. I used some of the orange/yellow cotton to make the large leaf. Commercial fabrics were used on the small leaves and for the backing. I hand stamped some maple leaves onto the background fabric before machine quilting the whole piece. Title: Leaves III
I also like this turned on it's side with the large leaf to the left.
Your comments and suggestions are appreciated.

Hand carved stamp used on background fabric.

Completed Art Quilt, Leaves III 17"x22"

Back of Art Quilt

Commercial Fabric

Results of Fabric Dyeing

2012-02-02T17:52:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed dyeing some fabric this week and I'm quite pleased with the results.

I also have some beautiful fabric with bright yellows. I dyed a large piece of fabric with green and I expect that will show up in my work very soon.

Yesterday I "played" with some of the fabric and have come up with a couple of test quilts.

I'm not sure if I'm going to make this quilt exactly like this but it's in the planning stages.

Until next time.
Enjoy!

Fun Day of Dyeing Cotton Fabric

2012-01-30T17:45:00.001-05:00

I finally got around to it! There always seems to be something else that needs to get done so I put off doing the things I enjoy, like dyeing fabric and sewing. Well today was the day! I got out my supplies and ripped my fabric into fat quarters (approx. 20" sq.).

Next step was to mix the dye. I put on my gloves and face mask, wet down a dish towel and went to work mixing. The dye particles can drift, so the wet dish towel placed on the table helps to prevent that from happening because it pulls the drifting dye right to it. Put small amt. of hot water in cup, mix in dye particles. Add more water to make 1 cup.

I started with primary colors, yellow, red and blue. I went on to mix these into three more colors which are green, orange and purple so I ended up with 6 colors in all (good math! : ). I used the zip lock bag method of dyeing this time and found it very easy to do. I added my scruntched up fat quarter to the bag, added a small amount of liquid soda ash and squeezed this to soak the fabric. I added a few tablespoons of yellow dye first. Always, lightest first! Next I decided to add some of the green. I squeezed the bag a little then put in another piece of cloth and repeated steps. I zipped up the bag and now I have to wait at least 1 hour. I usually wait longer.

Once the time is up, I rinse the dyed fabric in cold water until it runs clear to get all the stray dye out, then wash it in machine. Machine dry until lightly damp. Iron nice and crisp so the patterns show up clearly. Tomorrow: Take photos to post.
There are a lot of instructions for dyeing on You Tube and other sites. I hope this encourages you to give it a try.

A Very Good Cause, Foto/Fiber

2012-01-26T16:40:00.000-05:00

Foto/Fiber 2012

90 Photos AND 90 Fiber BONUSES

Gold Donor Day - February 15, 2012

Make a minimum donation of $100, choose a photo by Virginia A. Spiegel, Karen Stiehl Osborn, or Cynthia Wenslow and choose a Fiber BONUS by a specific artist from the following list of fiber artists.

Regular Foto/Fiber - February 16, 2012

Make a minimum donation of $50 and choose a photo by

Virginia A. Spiegel, Karen Stiehl Osborn, or Cynthia Wenslow.

Your Fiber BONUS will be chosen at random for you from the following list of generous fiber artists.

Artists donating Fiber BONUS include: Natalya Aikens,Frances Holliday Alford, Pamela Allen, Liz Berg, Sue Bleiweiss, Nancy G. Cook, Jane Davila, Vivika DeNegre, Diane Rusin Doran, Jane Dunnewold, Jamie Fingal, Leonie Hartley Hoover, Leslie Tucker Jenison, Lyric Kinard, Susan Brubaker Knapp, Lynn Krawzcyk, Jane LaFazio, Susan Lenz, Jeanelle McCall, Linda Teddlie Minton, Karen Musgrave, Gail Myrhorodsky, Karen Stiehl Osborn, BJ Parady, Cate Coulacos Prato, Yvonne Porcella,Wen Redmond, Sue Reno, Lesley Riley, Cynthia St. Charles, Susan Schrott, Suzanne Silk, Lura Schwarz Smith (with Kerby C. Smith), Sarah Ann Smith, and Terri Stegmiller

Drawings for Fiber Art throughout the event.

All patrons of Foto/Fiber 2012 will also have multiple chances throughout Foto/Fiber to win fiber art donated by:

Leonie Hartley Hoover

Lyric Kinard

Lynn Krawczyk

Yvonne Porcella

Susan Schrott

Mary Ann Van Soest

More information on how Foto/Fiber 2012 works:

http://www.virginiaspiegel.com/FotoFiberHowItWorks.html

Our goal – Raise $7,000 for the American Cancer Society!!!

Fiberart For A Cause has already donated over $215,000 to the American Cancer Society through the generosity of fiber artists and their patrons.

Contact

Virginia(at)VirginiaSpiegel.com for more information.

Riding the Artfire Train

2012-01-21T16:04:00.000-05:00

Check out this site to show support for individual artist and crafters.
http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=forums&op=view_topic&tid=53043&topic_src=1.

Fabric Design Continues Through The Years

2012-01-20T10:55:00.000-05:00

Rust & SunPrint

I have been interested in fabric design for several years. In the 70's I worked in a shop where we ran machines that produced polyester knits, very big at the time! My job was to rethread the machines exactly so the design would be knit correctly. Now I enjoy screen printing, fabric dyeing and fabric rusting and use the fabric in some small art quilts. My goal is to move on to a larger piece and I have ideas for that churning around in my head.

I've followed a Blog I like for several years now and it's been fun seeing this artist grow and develop into someone most of the art quilt world is familar with. Lynn Krawczyk is a wonderful writer and that's what held my attention when I read her earlier blogs. She has a series she's done for years, called "Where I Stand". She photographs her feet in different places each week and posts on Sundays. She includes a poem or a comment along with her photo. She has produced several books using these postings. She's gone on to set up an Etsy shop where she sells her thermofax screens. I'm a customer and expect to buy more very soon! She's been on Quilting Arts TV and has published articles in their magazines as well as others. Now she is making and selling her fabric designs! This girl has MOTIVATION and her hard work is finally paying off!! I've linked this post to her blog address so you can check this out for yourself, enjoy!

In talking with a close friend today, she told me of a show she saw about Charles and Ray Eames, husband and wife team who developed many beautiful designs in furniture, fabric and more. Some of Ray's designs remind me of the ones that Lynn is doing now.
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/eames/bio.html

Have a Great Weekend everyone!

Artfire Train Ride

2012-01-05T21:37:00.000-05:00

This is the latest shop riding the Artfire Train!

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=forums&op=view_topic&page_no=1&tid=52341&post_id=1027878

Happy and Sad Times

2012-01-02T23:21:00.001-05:00

I have written and re-written this post a few times. I want to remember the good and fun things about this holiday season but there was some sadness thrown in as well..as life will have it. The adult daughter of a very close friend passed away suddenly before Christmas. My friend, Donna is coping well with the loss, but I know the next few months will be difficult for her. I'll be available to offer comfort.

My sister had a close call, she was in an auto accident before the holidays and suffered cuts, bruises and a fractured cheekbone. She's recovering well and she even joined us for our "Family Christmas" celebration. My sister-in-law is recovering from open heart surgery and doing well. She also joined us. We are all so thankful to have a close and loving family. It was a wonderful celebration hosted by my good friends, Muffie and Norman, many thanks to them!

I want to wish everyone the Best New Year!
More sewing, quilting, mixed media work and gardening in the spring! Lots to look forward to!

That's me on the left in the front next to my brother Sidney, sister, Dot, her husband John, my brother, Dickie and his wife Barbara. My daughter Karen took this photo so I could be in one of them. I usually take all the pictures and don't get in many (by choice!)

More Positive Experiences in Blogging

2011-12-15T22:02:00.001-05:00

I recently linked with a Blog I liked and learned today that two of our items we have for sale are featured on her blog. She has a section "Shop Local" and one of our Note Cards with photo insert "Maple Trees in Winter" and one of Ronnie's small Cherry Spoons are featured! What a treat and a nice thing to do for crafters during the holidays. Check it out at the address below.

http://batesmercantileco.blogspot.com/2011/12/close-to-home.html

Free Clip Art!

2011-12-07T17:25:00.001-05:00

I found a wonderful blogger "Vintage Catnip" who offers free clip-art for those of us who enjoy "playing with paper".
She also sells some of her finds but is very generous with her freebies.
Take a look at her blog and save some clip art for future adventures with paper!

My Artfire Studio Was Featured This Month!

2011-11-23T20:55:00.001-05:00

COLLECTION:DS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

Curated By: AndreaDesigns

ArtFire.com

Handmade Jewelry

It's Baking Time!

2011-11-22T23:48:00.000-05:00

I was craving apple cake a few weeks ago and checked on All Recipes.com and found this one. I made a couple of changes, left out the raisins and added chopped walnuts (1/4 C.). I also used more cinnamon for taste.

It got good reviews from family and friends and it was requested I make one for Thanksgiving. We will have the usual pies and Indian Pudding but if someone would like a piece of this cake, it will be available....if it lasts that long! I had to try a piece while it was hot, just to make sure it was okay : )

This cake isn't too spicy and it stays moist for days. It's delicious hot with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/apple-spice-cake/detail.aspx

Spoons, Spoons, Spoons

2011-11-07T13:54:00.001-05:00

First it was birdhouses, then decorative fences and small boxes. Now Ronnie is concentrating on hand crafting Spoons and other utensils. I posted a small spoon on one of our shops at Artfire.com but I decided he needed his own shop so www.etsy.com/shop/rjmwoodworks was created! I'm slow at getting the photographs done to post as I have been busy with some contracted work that brings in some cash. I'm a social worker by trade and I write homestudies and adoptive histories for some agencies in my area. I enjoy the work but my real passion is photography, crafting, art quilts, mixed media and sewing.

I think Ronnie's cherry wood spoons and other utensils are wonderful and they make excellent gifts. If you order some, please provide the Code: DSignsBlog to be reimbursed for shipping costs.

A Beautiful Antique Sunflower Quilt is Mine!

2011-11-05T16:08:00.000-04:00

I attended the Belknap Mill Quilters Guild Show in Lakeport several weeks ago. I won the silent auction and this wonderful antique quilt is Mine! It's beautifully made and heavily handquilted. I'll treasure it for many years to come.

The days are getting shorter, I don't like that much. Daylight savings time tomorrow (or tonight before I go to bed). I'm working on some note cards and other items for the Craft Fair at the Senior Center in Plymouth next Saturday. Hoping for a good turnout!

Carved Leaf Stamp

2011-10-24T22:43:00.000-04:00

Today I took a few minutes to carve some "Speedy-Cut" made by Speedball. I used two carving tools in this one and decided on a simple design, a leaf, since that is the theme I'm working in right now in my art quilts. I inked the stamp and stamped it on some of my rust dyed cotton fabric. I'm pleased with the result

and I'm planning to do more with this during the week. If you haven't given this a try and you like stamps, try making some of your own!

Another Etsy Shop

2011-10-14T01:00:00.001-04:00

I have another Etsy Shop, Grandmama's Attic, Just a Little Something. We enjoy going to flea markets and antique shops to find "smalls" that we might like to sell in our shop. I have some older things kicking around that I've posted and some have sold already! This way people from around the country have a chance to purchase something that might not be very common in their area and I like that idea. Here's the address if you'd like to stop by and take a look: www.etsy.com/shop/grandmamasattic

While you're there you can leave a heart for the shop that shows you like it. If you have a shop, you can add this one to your Circle. Drop me a note and let me know what you think, suggestions are welcomed!

Another Wonderful Quilt Show in NH

2011-10-07T18:41:00.000-04:00

I went to the Belknap Mill Quilter's Guild show in Lakeport, NH last Sunday. It was a stunning show and they also hosted the National Alzehiemer's Quilt Exhibit. Beautiful and thoughtful quilts all around. Quite

inspiring! I'm learning a bit about making faces with fabric using some of my photographs. Not sure yet if I'll use a photo of a person or a family pet. I really like this photo of my daughter's dog, Abby and might give this one a try. We'll see.

The leaves are slow in changeing to their beautiful colors but we have a nice warm weekend coming up! We're going to be vending at the Apple Festival and Craft Fair in Bristol tomorrow. Stop by if you're in the area. Lots of pictures, deer antler jewelry and hand made cherry frames!

Craft Fair Time!

2011-09-23T15:39:00.001-04:00

Well, it's that time of the year again when I scramble to get things ready for craft fairs. I've signed up for a couple, the first one is at the Bristol, NH Middle School on October 1st. They are having a 10K run at Newfound Lake and the Craft Fair along with it.

I've also signed up for a Christmas Fair in Nashua, NH in early December. More information to follow. I hope you will support local crafts people this holiday season. Buying handmade in NH is so much better than something from a store (most stuff from China).

The weather has been pretty nice so far this fall. I've cleaned up the garden and my glads are blooming bright red! I changed my mailbox cover from Roses to Sunflowers and put up my fall wreath on the front door. Cool nights are welcomed.

I've been dyeing some cotton using green dye. Some has come out to my liking and some other I will re-dye. Here is a photo of three fabrics before they were dry. They'll be much lighter and I'm happy with the results. Have a good weekend everyone!

Some Photos from the Mancuso World Quilt Show

2011-09-14T12:24:00.001-04:00

The Mancuso World Quilt Show was held in Manchester, NH a few weeks ago and I have to say I am never disappointed in this show. It was wonderful! It featured many Art Quilts made by quilters around the globe. Excellent work and such wonderful imaginations and creativity. Here are a few photos of some of my favorites from the show.

I hope you will think about attending next year if you are in the area. It is held each August in NH. It is held in other states as well and you can learn more information on their website.

A Weekend Get Away

2011-09-12T00:27:00.002-04:00

We took a trip to Lake George, NY this past week to attend the Adirondack Car Show. (Click on Link to see more of my photos of the show). It's a three day event with so many cars I couldn't believe my eyes!! We settled in to our motel room right on beautiful Lake George and with only one other family there at the time, it was lovely and quiet. We went to the show on Friday morning at 8 AM and didn't leave until about 1:30 PM. Lots of walking and snapping pictures along the way. So many cars to see that Ron and I both got a little tired of taking pictures and decided to just walk around and observe, and enjoy the show.

We ran into two detours on our way to NY. As most of you know, Vermont was hard hit by the storm, Irene. Large trucks hauling stone and dirt were all around us as we traveled. They've done a good job making most of the roads accessible but there's still a lot to do before winter hits. On the way home I took a few photos of a house that lost their front yard to the river and across the street from the house, a big chunk of the hillside was washed away due to the river's rushing water. The roadway was repaired so that it was in use, but there's still a lot to do. We saw similar sights all along the route of our travels. Water is a most powerful element!

I haven't done too much art lately. I've been focused on getting photographs taken of the vintage items I've picked up at Davisville Flea Market and some yard sales. I have a vintage shop on Etsy as well as my shop selling photo note cards and photographs in several sizes. I enjoy working on my shops, changing them around and adding new items. We stopped in Whitehall, NY at one of our favorite antique shops. We learned the owners are retiring and looking for a buyer for the place or it will close in December. Sure hope they find a buyer, it's a great shop. Many of the booths were having sales and I got 50% off some of the things I bought!

A Very Busy Time

2011-08-17T23:10:00.000-04:00

This has been a very busy month! We took our exhibit down at the Studio on the 8th. Ronnie is happily crafting frames for some of the photographs. He does a nice job! We will be in a craft fair coming up soon in Bristol and we expect to have some framed photos available for sale along with note cards and deer antler jewelry.

On Saturday I went to the Salisbury, NH Old Home Day. We had a cookout and birthday celebration at my daughter's house. We all enjoyed the parade and the grandkids filled their bags with candy thrown from the floats. It was also celebration for my SIL's birthday. AND he won the Fireman's Raffle!!

The Mancuso Quilt Show is this Friday, Sat. and Sun in Manchester, NH. This is one of my favorites. I have a meeting on Friday morning so I'm planning to go to Manchester to see the show after. I'd love to go with some friends this weekend, but I'm too busy. You see, my oldest daughter is getting married! She's having a small wedding at home with family and on Sunday they've invited just about everyone they know to a cookout to celebrate! Let's hope for some fair weather.

Time To Clean The Pond!

2011-08-04T22:30:00.000-04:00

Today was finally the day. I have a small garden pond (Lowe's made) and it's been in need of cleaning for some time. It was just to hot and muggy lately to consider getting out there to do it! I use my shop vac to pull the water out and I was very careful not to get the little frog that enjoys the pond. He stayed on the far end and when almost all the water was drained, he hopped out! I had tried to catch him before I started the draining process, but he was just too quick. Good thing he is quick, the neighbors have a cat that visits the pond and she would probably love to get her claws into him. So far, so good!

So there I am draining, emptying the vac, draining some more, emptying, draining...well you get the picture. When the water was quite low I noticed something swimming around! Was it a polliwog? Maybe. Nope, it was a small fish! I did suck one up into the vac but saved it and put it in a pail of water until I was finished. Guess what, another fish! I managed to miss that one and he stayed in the pond until I was all set and ready to add the fresh water. The plants have returned, the fish are fine, the fountain has returned, but not the little frog. Maybe tomorrow.

The Reception/Opening Exhibit

2011-07-18T11:52:00.000-04:00

Ronnie and I had a good time at the opening reception on Friday night. Some of my good friends who work nearby stopped in after work. They were co-workers of mine before I retired and we have stayed in touch which has been very nice. Many thanks to Linda, Nancy and Karen for the flowers too. So glad you could come by and happy you liked the photos. Other friends stopped by as well, Bonnie and her sister, Katie. Bonnie was very good with the hula hoop! My girls and grandkids, Dillon and Maegan also came to see the exhibit. The kids had such fun looking at all the crazy things The Studio offers for sale. Maegan and Dillon especially liked the smile and mustache on a stick! They also tried the large, adult hula hoop! Thanks to everyone for your support and encouragement.

2011-07-14T18:32:00.000-04:00

Today I had a very nice lunch with some of my classmates from high school. Yes, that was a very long time ago, but many of us keep in touch though FB and it was suggested we meet for lunch. It worked out great but we were sorry some had to work so could not come. Maybe next time we'll go to lunch on a weekend day. We might even do this every other month and whomever can go will show up! It's an idea anyway we'll see how it goes.

I've been doing more rust dyeing and screen printing. Nothing to post right now, but after I do a little more and take a few pictures, I'll add them to my Blog. A few of us went over to The Studio in Laconia after lunch to take a look at my and Ronnie's photo exhibit. Sharon tried out one of the adult hula hoops for sale, yes, I did too but thank goodness no one took my picture. Great job Sharon!

You can see some of the exhibit behind Sharon, it looks pretty good I think. Tomorrow night is the Opening and Artist's Reception. So Ronnie and I will be there to meet people and talk with them about our photographs. Some of Ronnie's deer antler jewelry is on sale there too!

Bye for now!

The Results: Fiber Art Quilt

2011-06-26T20:49:00.001-04:00

I used some of the fabric I recently screen printed, etc. and completed a fiber art quilt that I'm quite pleased with. I think this will be a series. I'm calling this one "Leaves 1" so now I go on to "Leaves 2" in the very near future. So here is the result of my playing with fabric these past weeks.

Playing With Fabric and Paint

2011-06-16T17:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday my good friend, Kathleen came over to "play". She worked on an unfinished project, a wonderful small art quilt. She used a photo transfer of her dock at Webster Lake and went on from there with beautiful fabrics. She finished the piecing and moved on to the machine quilting. It made me want to make another one with the same process. I made one a few years ago but maybe it's time to try another. We'll see. In the meantime, I enjoyed silk screening and thermofax screen printing with paint on some fabric I had previously dyed and painted. I have an idea in mind for the fabric and might get to do some sewing tomorrow. They say it's going to rain!

I got my Morning Glory seeds planted (Heavenly Blue). It's a little late but I'm hoping I'll have a few later in the summer. My vegetable garden is planted, finally!! We had so much rain, then I went away....it did take some time, but it's in and GROWING.

I have some more rusted fabric hanging on the line and more all wrapped up in rusty things, making magic!

Until next time, stay cool and happy!

Home From Vacation

2011-06-10T11:31:00.000-04:00

I had a wonderful visit with my cousins in Iowa and Illinois, sad to leave, but also happy to be home.
Today I head outside to work in the yard. It's finally bearable. Heat and humidity has been terrible, here and in Iowa! Must get my tomato plants in the ground.
Stay cool!

Rust Dyeing Cotton for Quilting

2011-06-01T22:08:00.000-04:00

This week I had some fun rust dyeing muslin again. This is a fun technique and very easy to do.
I mix water and vinegar, dip the muslin in it then wrap up some old rusty metal items. Then I put it all in a plastic bag, leave it outside overnight. I leave the bag open so some air can get in, it helps with the rusting process. I never know what I'm going to get and that's the best part.

The bottom two photos are of a completed Art Quiltlet I made using some of my rusty cotton. I also used some other fabric I dyed and stamped. The photo transfer is of the back of an old rusty pickup truck. I altered the photo first in a photo program before printing on to cotton.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-28T23:48:00.001-04:00

We have finally had some nice weather. My tulips are still looking good although it won't be long before they have gone by for this year. I have some lovely pink double tulips this year and I plan to buy more for a greater show next year. My Lily of the Valley are all blossomed and I picked a some today to put in one of my little vintage bottles. I want to transplant some of them to another area of the yard since I have so many in one spot.

I visited the cemetary today and placed some flowers at the graves of loved ones who have passed. I miss them all, Mom, Dad, Nana, Grandpa, aunts and uncles. They were good people!

Here are a few photos I've taken recently, bleeding heart and lovely double tulips~

Spring Rain!

2011-05-19T16:33:00.001-04:00

We have certainly had our share of rainy days! They are good for sewing but I'd rather be outside working in the garden this time of year. I'm going to the Quad Cities for a brief visit with cousins in June and plan to go to some gardens while there to add to my photograph collection this year. I've never seen the mighty Mississippi River so this will be a first for me.

I've finished up some mixed media I thought needed a little more help and repaired the photograph on a pillow I made my sister some years ago. I had used the t-shirt transfer method and the picture wore off after some use. This time I printed the photograph with cotton fabric designed to print with ink jet printers and I'm pleased with the results. Instead of taking the pillow completely apart, I attached the photo to the front using the blanket stitch and embroidery thread. I love this photo of her when she was probably 3 years old.

Hopefully the sun will come out this weekend and we can all get some energy back!!

Peace

My Paternal Great Aunt

2011-05-09T08:03:00.001-04:00

My sister sent me this photograph of our great aunt Frances. She was my father's aunt and I never knew her. Apparently she was quite the woman. She reportedly had an affair with a very well know gentleman from Boston that became quite a scandle in it's day. She left the area and we haven't been able to find much information on her. My sister, Dot, does family geneology and has very little information about Frances.
I love this photograph of her and because I did know her sister, Agnes, I think she must have really been wonderful! Aunt Agnes was full of fun and she was a burst of energy at our family get togethers, even when she was 89 years old! I wish I had known Frances. I will use this photograph in one of my fiber art pieces in the near future.

Found! Spring Wildflowers

2011-05-03T11:30:00.000-04:00

This past weekend was beautiful and sunny! Everyone was out working in their yards, raking the leaves, fixing up their gardens. We went for a ride with our cameras and found some lovely trillium in the woods of Salisbury, NH. They were next to a lovely little babbling brook and we enjoyed our time taking photographs. I'll share a few with you here. I'll offer some in my Etsy and Artfire shops.

Enjoy this beautiful spring weather and all of the lovely flowers that are coming into bloom!

A Day of Mixed Emotions

2011-04-29T23:45:00.001-04:00

I recorded the Royal Wedding and watched it today. The bride was lovely and her groom so handsome. It was a wonderful day for a wedding in London, England! Happiness abounds.

In the American South, there is despair and heartache. Lost lives, Lost homes, Lost Towns. Sadness abounds.

We need the strength to carry on and to have More Joy in This World!
Please, Give Us Strength.

Home Sweet Home

2011-04-21T00:51:00.002-04:00

This is an article that I want to share with you. Lesley Riley is a life coach of sorts. She is an accomplished quilt artist and business woman. She has given permission for this article to be reprinted and I've taken her up on that.

" If you are not happy at home (and I mean being at home with yourself), you will not be happy anywhere, not in the next class, on the cover of a magazine, buying your next art supply or in your studio. Being at home with yourself is the result of taking control of your dreams and pursuing your passions once and for all. It means taking a no excuses approach to creating the life you want. Anyone can be an artist success. It's not about what you know or even how talented you are - its about what you DO. And here's what you need to do - create your best possible life and become your best possible self.
Yes, I know, that's much, much, easier said than done, so I'm going to give you three tips that will help you get started right now.

And let me ask you....."if not now, when?

1) Write down all the things you don't like about your present situation. Now go back over the list and see which ones are a result of your inaction. The number one reason we get down on ourselves is because we don't DO the things we say we want to do. The cold hard truth is that only YOU can make change happen. If you don't see how, then apply your creativity to yourself and figure out how to craft the life you want.

2) To be at home with yourself, create your own recipe for happiness. Check the pantry of your heart for the ingredients you have on hand and then see what you can cook up. If you find you are missing any essential ingredients, create a shopping list and set about acquiring what you need in order to lead a fulfilling life. A tablespoon of gratitude? A cup of compassion? Spreading your gifts? Mixing in a lb of self-care?

3) Start where you are. Is your physical home in conflict with your inner home? Are you just passing through? Are you using it to complement and enhance your life or is it set up for "company," to please others, or just because that's how everybody else's home looks? Your home should be a reflection of your true self. In order to be at home with yourself, your house, your home, has to be a place of your making that gives you joy. So rearrange that furniture, toss the clutter, paint a wall with chalkboard paint and color your world."

Lesley Riley, The Artist Success Expert, is the creative founder of Artist Success, Solutions for the Struggling Artist. To receive her bi-weekly articles on creating your own success as an artist, visit http://www.artistsuccess.com/.

More Playing Around With Fabric

2011-04-12T17:22:00.000-04:00

Today I played with fabric and my sewing machine. I completed a small art quilt I had started some time ago but never got around to put the finishing touches on it. Today was the day. I will be adding stitching along the outside edges of the quilt then it will be really finished! I went to JoAnn's today and bought some storage boxes for 50% off. I transferred all my thread I had just tossed into a box into this very nice organizer. It made me happy. I'm still working on cleaning up my space and trying to get better organized. It's coming along pretty well. We are finally having some really beautiful weather, sun and warmth, boy it took it's time coming this year!

I've added some vintage scarfs to my Etsy, "Just A Little Something" shop and also added a couple of photos to my other shop. Stop by and take a look when you have a minute?
www.etsy.com/shop/grandmamasattic
www.etsy.com/shop/dsigns

Here are a couple of photos of the art quilt I played with today. It is made with cotton and silk fabric, canvas and commercial as well as hand painted and stamped fabric. It is machine quilted with clear nylon on the top and cotton thread in the bobbin.

Playing a Bit Today

2011-04-05T13:42:00.000-04:00

Today I decided to work on a Journal project I read about in one of my favorite craft magazines.

The journals are made from basic office supplies ie. folders, glue and paper. I might make a couple of these and feature different subjects. I'm still not decided on what this Journal will feature. I'd like to make one featuring birds, another with trees and maybe ancestors? We'll see. I'll post when I finish this one.

A Very Busy Weekend!

2011-04-04T11:40:00.000-04:00

I had a very busy and fun weekend. First on Saturday I went to my niece Heather's play in MA which was followed by a wonderful dinner prepared by my sister-in-law and brother. A feast of Brazillian dishes was served and very much appreciated by everyone. Twenty of us at dinner, we had two tables in the dining room and one in the kitchen. The meal ended with a cake in honor of Heather's performance. A very delightful time. Heather is a cancer survivor and we are all so proud of her strong determination!

On Sunday I went to my granddaughter, Kimberly's 14th birthday party. Lots of family members were there and she spoke with her maternal grandmother, who is in Florida, by phone. Gift certificates, jewelry, makeup and chocolate candy were some of her excellent gifts. My daughter Karen brought a wonderful fruit salad and we had a taco dish, chips, popcorn and of course cake and ice cream! Congratulations Kimberly!

It was a good weekend!

The Boston Flower Show

2011-03-22T19:34:00.000-04:00

We had a very nice time at the flower show this year. It wasn't very crowded and the displays were lovely!
I took several photographs and I have posted some for sale on my Artfire shop. Soon I'll add some to Etsy too.

There was an "all natural" display with deer, elk and moose antlers, stumps from large trees, turtle shells, lobster shells, milkweed, seashells, skulls, bones, moss...well you get the idea. It was quite unusual and interesting. This is a photo of that display with a stand made from branches with the top decorated with shells and milkweed. The fuzzy inside of the milkweek decorated the inside of the natural container.

They also had a display with live owls and a hawk that was quite remarkable! There w

as quite a crowd around the handler with one owl perched on his gloved hand.

HAPPY SPRING EVERYONE!!

March 2011, Can Spring Weather Be Far Behind?

2011-03-04T21:24:00.000-05:00

It's March 4th and there is still so much snow out there it looks like Dec.! When will it ever melt?
The weathermen are predicting more snow in our near future but I sure hope it doesn't stay around. The sun is higher in the sky now and some snow seems to melt everyday, although not fast enough!!

I enjoyed looking at my seed catalog for a short time today. I might just place an order, they all look so good!

My Honey's birthday was yesterday and I made him at chocolate cake with chocolate frosting (his choice). I used a Wilton heart shaped pan : ) that I hadn't used before. It took all the cake mixture and took about 45-50 mins. to bake. I made chocolate frosting from the recipe on the Hersey's Baking Cocoa box. It tastes like fudge, delicious if I may say so myself!

I'm still working at cleaning up my space I use for art and hope by April or May to have it completed. My plan is to have new carpeting in one room, paint the walls and install better storage. It's a dream I've had for many years and now I think it's time.

I've sold more photos from my Etsy shop but none on my Artfire shop. I don't know why because I have many of same photos in each shop. It must be that Etsy has more followers than Artfire? I also started another shop, Etsyshop2, that goes by the name of "Just A Little Something". I've done quite well selling some smaller vintage items. I also have a small space at the Laconia Antiques Center (which just moved to the old Newberry's.) We've had pretty good luck there too and enjoy checking out the items in the store when we stop by to drop something new off for our booth. If you have a chance you should stop by the new place, it's going to be very nice. They have kept the soda fountain and stools and they may sell ice cream this summer. The owner is an avid railroad man and he'll have train sets set up around the store as well as selling his antique railroad items.

Here's picture of the cake I made for Ronnie. We both enjoyed it! Happy Birthday Honey!!

Spinning and Knitting Show & Tell

2011-02-26T01:08:00.000-05:00

I don't do either, spin or knit but one of my good friends does and I was the fortunate recipient of a lovely hand spun and knit scarf for Christmas this year! Kathleen stopped by this week for a visit and showed me a scarf she had knit using some lovely yarn she had spun on her wheel at home. We have often gotten together through the years to sew, quilt, make booklets and mixed media fun. She has always loved to knit and once she bought her first spinning wheel she was addicted! I think she has bought maybe 4 or 5 wheels to date and is always looking out for another one. I was like that with sewing machines for awhile. I own too many! I love my little Singer Featherweight and I'm using that one right now to finish sewing Ron's quilt.

While Kathleen was here I asked to take some pictures of the items she brought over to show me. So here they are. The lovely multicolored scarf was knit by Kathleen after she had spun the yarn. The dark shawl/scarf was knit by a friend of hers but the yarn was spun by Kathleen. She added some of her neighbor's alpaca fiber in the yarn as she was spinning it. The yarn is thin ply and works into a beautiful lace like design.

Daughter's Birthday then Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T13:33:00.001-05:00

My daughter Karen's birthday was yesterday, the 12th. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!
I made strawberry cupcakes with pink frosting in honor of her day. After she opened some presents, we ate some of the birthday cupcakes, delicious if I do say so myself!
Today I bought some beautiful large strawberries at Market Basket and melted some dipping chocolate. Wow! Fun and delicious. These are for Valentine's Day but I HAD to try one before sharing.

I'm still working on my cousin's art quilt. It was a busy few days so I didn't have much time to work on it. Hope to get back to it Monday. I also want to do some snow dyeing since I could use a few more yards of dyed fabric in several colors. I can always use more!

I went to the Open House at Badger Brook Farm in Gilmanton yesterday. They've done some renovations and moved things around a bit. I bought a pattern and some lovely trims to use in my quiltlets. If you love wool, hooking, knitting, penny rugs, this is the place to go. It's on Rt. 107, Province Rd.

Today I'm off to work this afternoon, a little more snow is expected tonight in this area.

Have a good week everyone!

February 8th Already!!

2011-02-08T16:35:00.001-05:00

Wow, it seems like January flew by. I don't mind the snow so much now that I'm semi-retired. No need to go out everyday and pleanty of fun things to do here at home. I'm working on a small art quilt for my cousin. She had her 50th wedding anniversary and I want to ship it to her asap. I tried a couple of designs but finally came to a decision. Now I need to go machine quilt it and finish it up! I've been reading some blogs and I think I'll try dyeing some paper towels! I want to do more collage and the process for dyeing the towels sounds interesting. I'll post some photos once I get to it!

Here a photo of the art quilt I've been working on for my cousin. It doesn't look like this anymore because I've moved things around, but it gives you an idea. I used commercial cotton, photo transfers onto cotton and antique laces pieces. The cupid and old valentine were scanned, resized and transferred.

Getting Ready for Valentine's Day

2011-01-30T09:41:00.000-05:00

I have a nice collection of vintage valentines and I've been busily scanning them to use in some of my craft projects. I think I'll make some tags and try and sell a few on my other Etsy site, Etsyshop2, "Just a Little Something". I remember in grade school how excited we were to get valentines from our friends. The teachers always decorated the classrooms so nicely and we had a large box covered in hearts that we would put all our valentines in until it was time to pass them out. Just like going to the post office : )

I don't know if they do anything like that now, but I suspect some teachers make a special celebration of it. We need all the positives in our lives that we can get nowadays.

Here's a couple of the vintage valentines I'll be using. Have a good weekend and upcoming week. Look out for all the snow coming on Wed. if you live in New England.

Chilly in New Hampshire!

2011-01-21T15:56:00.000-05:00

Early morning frost on the windows! Getting even colder over the next few days!

Bundle Up!!

Snow Is Falling

2011-01-12T15:28:00.000-05:00

The snow is finally falling in New Hampshire. Now my grandkids can ski locally (where they don't have snowmaking equipment). They enjoyed some skiing at Ragged Mt. in Danbury last weekend but it will be nice to be able to go closer to home. I don't ski anymore but I do go and watch them and of course take pictures! My adult son will be especially happy it's snowing. He doesn't ski but he does love to snowmobile and every year he can't wait for enough snow to get out there.

I had a lot of birds at the feeder today and enjoyed taking lots of photos. Some I will certainly put into note cards to sell on my Artfire and Etsy shops.

Stay warm and Drive Carefully if you have had this storm!

Our Deer Antler Jewelry Featured On Beading Gem Blog

2011-01-07T15:26:00.000-05:00

I was pleased to agree to have our jewelry featured on Beading Gem's Blog. Pearl did a very nice write up and added a video from You Tube about finding deer sheds. Many thanks to Pearl and I hope you'll stop by to visit the feature.
http://www.beadinggem.com/2011/01/jewelry-made-from-deer-antlers.html

Video re: Susan Carlson, NH Quilt Artist's work

2011-01-07T15:19:00.000-05:00

This free digital slideshow made with Smilebox

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T10:14:00.001-05:00

Now let's see what 2011 has in store for us!
On New Year's Eve we set off some fireworks that were just so beautiful. I took some pictures with Ronnie's new camera while he lit the fireworks. It was so mild outside we weren't freezing like the last time we tried this.

RJM Antler Jewelry and Buttons News: We have been asked if our product could be featured on a website and of course I said yes to that! I'll post the link once I hear it's up on line. I'm in the process of designing a bracelet using the antler slices because of a request from my daughter Karen for a bracelet. We'll offer those for sale too if I'm successful it making one.

Today the weather is so mild it feels like early spring instead of Jan. 1st. I'm going to get outside and probably visit some friends and enjoy good cheer!

Happy New Year to All!

Time To Put Away The Decorations

2010-12-30T12:59:00.000-05:00

Yes, I'm working on putting away decorations and cleaning up the house today. It's a little sad to see the holiday season coming to an end, but on the other hand we have a whole New Year to look forward to. I want to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Here's one of my favorite photos from my Christmas celebration. Love the wonder of children!

My grandsons, Dillon and Shawn.

Family Christmas Get Together

2010-12-28T17:43:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful family get-together at my daughter's house. My brothers and their family members were unable to make it because of the threatening storm. But we still had quite a large group to enjoy the excellent food and to exchange small gifts with each other. The pot luck dinner is always something to look forward to. My sister made delicious homemade rolls using our mother's recipe. We need to teach the next generation how to make these! The food was scrumptious. We had baked ham, chicken pie, french pork pie, lasagna, smoked salmon and so much more. We had a fun suggestion for this year's party. It was requested that we all wear or bring silly socks. Most everyone did and here's one of the photos I took. Have a good week.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-25T12:27:00.000-05:00

Enjoyed some fireworks last night in Alexandria. I took some photos with his new camera and Ronnie set the fireworks off. It was freezing out and the wind was blowing. I'd forgotten how cold winter can get! But what a good time!

So far he's pleased with his new camera, I know I like it but I don't really need another one. I can always "borrow" this one.

It's Time For Making Cookies!

2010-12-24T15:33:00.000-05:00

I made a batch of cookies this week but today had to find time to make more. I made Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies, one of my family's favorites so I'll share the recipe here if you would like to give them a try.
Very easy, pretty and delicious! First picture is the raw dough with cherries waiting for the frosting on top before baking. Second picture, they are cooling and almost ready to eat! But have to save some for Seamans Family Christmas on Sunday!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies

Ingredients:

1 1/2 C. all purpose flour
1/2 C. cocoa powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/2 C. Butter
1 C. sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
48 maraschino cherries (1 jar drained, save juice)

Frosting
6 oz. chocolate chips
1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk, approx. 1/2 small can
5 tsp. cherry juice

Directions:

Stir together flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder and baking soda.
In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add egg and vanilla to butter/sugar mixture and beat well.
Gradually add dry ingredients to butter/sugar mixture and beat until well blended.

Shape dough into 1" balls and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Push down center of each ball with thumb.
Drain cherries, reserve juice.
Place one cherry in center of each cookie indention.
Heat oven to 350 degrees F

For frosting, put chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a small saucepan. Heat until chocolate melts. Stir in 4 or 5 teaspoons of cherry juice. Mix with spoon.

Spoon 1 tsp. of frosting over each cherry. Spred to cover cherry.
Bake 10 mins and do not overbake.

Remove to wire rack and cool.
These cookies freeze nicely.

Makes 2 dozen

Happy Holidays Everyone!

A Fun Holiday Dinner

2010-12-21T12:10:00.001-05:00

Craft Time!!!

I invited a few of my friends over for holiday dinner and craft. Many thanks to Kathy and Donna for their help in the kitchen! We all had a good time catching up on news and sharing stories from our adventures as youngsters. I made my pork chop skillet dinner this year (recipe in archives) and a Lemon Trifle for dessert. My friends also provided appetizers, tea and dessert. It's my pleasure to do this and it's a great excuse for me to decorate for the holidays!!

Lemon Trifle Recipe

1 can sweetened condensed milk
12 oz. lemon yogurt
1/3 C. lemon juice and 2 TBS. grated lemon peel
Fold in 2 C. whipped topping

Angel Food Cake (home made is best) cut into 1" cubes. Place half of the cake in a trifle bowl and top with half of lemon mixture. Repeat layers.

Top with Fresh Fruit, I used Raspberries.
Cover with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator 3 hours.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

May Your Christmas Be Happy!

2010-12-17T22:18:00.000-05:00

The time is here! The last weekend before Christmas. I'm having some friends come over for dinner tomorrow night and I'm very busy getting things prepared but not too busy to post this recipe I found on line today.

RECIPE FOR CHRISTMAS JOY

1/2 cup of Hugs

4 teaspoons Kisses

3/4 cup of Smiles

4 cups of Love

1 cup of Special Holiday Cheer

1/2 cup of Peace on Earth

3 teaspoons of Christmas Spirits

2 cups of Goodwill Towards Men

1 sprig of Mistletoe

1 medium size bag of Christmas Snowflakes

Mix Hugs, Kisses, Smiles and Love until consistent. Blend in Holiday Cheer, Peace on Earth, Christmas Spirit and Goodwill Towards Men. Use the mixture to fill a large, warm heart, where it can be stored for a lifetime (it never goes bad!). Serve as desired under Mistletoe, sprinkled liberally with Special Christmas Snowflakes. It is especially good when accompanied by Christmas carols and family get-togethers. Serve to one and all!

It's A Busy Time For Everyone!

2010-12-14T23:14:00.001-05:00

Christmas is right around the corner. I have most of my shopping done but now there's lots of wrapping to do. I use gift bags for many of the gifts, but I have a few that will be best wrapped. And it wouldn't be Christmas without wrapping a few myself. This week is the Christmas Luncheon at work with a gift exchange. I haven't purchased my gift to exchange yet and will probably do that just before the party. I'm last minute with those kinds of things because I really don't have a good idea of what to get this year.

We have been busy making more jewelry and it's looking good! We've had a good response to the necklaces and earings and have sold some of them to happy customers. I hope the trend continues. They are made with sterling silver, deer antler slices and genuine turquoise or gems. I have listed some on my Etsy shop at www.etsy.com/shop/dsigns but I haven't sold any there yet. When people see them in person and see how beautiful and original they are, that's when they sell. This week we will have them available in some local shops. More on that later.

I have taken some photos of the jewelry and since we have some new designs, I'll be taking a few more tomorrow to post in the shop. I took some pictures of my amaryllis that is blooming like crazy!! I paid only $3.89 for it in Lowe's and it's beautiful. Three blossoms on it now with another bud almost ready to open. Of course I'm offering it as a note card or photo for sale in my Etsy shop. Stay warm, freezing weather is here, next to come SNOW!

Craft Fair Season

2010-11-24T20:37:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, this is craft fair season. I was invited to a fair in Nashua and did that fair last Saturday. Today I got an invite from Oyster River School in Durham and I'm considering it. I had a good response to my photographs and the deer antler jewelry and hope to get the word out a little more. So since I have all my "stuff" ready, why not do another one? I'll think about it over this holiday weekend.

People had positive things to say about my items and that helps motivate me I guess even though I do this as just a hobby and don't really intend to make it my full time business. I love taking photographs and making things with fabric, paper, my sewing machine and many other items! I've included a couple of photos of my set up at the craft fair this past Saturday.

Something New For Sale In My On Line Shops

2010-11-15T16:12:00.001-05:00

I'm offering something quite different in my shops I think you'll find interesting. We are making jewelry using whitetail deer antlers found in the woods of New Hampshire! For now we have pendants for sale, some with genuine AZ turquoise. Silver findings are used in the pendants and an 18" rawhide cord is included. Earrings and pins will be available very soon, so stand by.

Take a look at the photos posted on Artfire and Etsy shops. No, the mounted deer head isn't included. : )

We'll See How It Goes

2010-11-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

Election Day Today. I voted as did lots of you. We'll see how it goes.

Back to sewing on the Log Cabin Quilt, it's getting cold outside and it's time!

I've been busy getting my photographs and note cards ready for a holiday fair I will be participating in on November 20th in Nashua. Again, We'll see how it goes.

I still have a lot of organizing to do around the house before I can settle in for the winter and enjoy sewing and crafting. Today I registered for an Art Get Away Weekend in July/August. Something fun to look forward to! It's in Maine so I'll be driving saving on airfare. So many of the retreats I'd like to attend are in too far away or I'd have to stay in a hotel for several nights costing more $$$$! This retreat is an adult "camp". Out in the country but close enough to stores and Dunkin Donuts to make people happy. It's all inclusive and sounds like a good time. We'll see how it goes.

A Day Of Play

2010-10-22T17:04:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was a "day of play" at my house. My good friend, Kathleen joined me in doing some creative play. She worked on the cover of a journal and I worked on another small wallhanging. I used my Wizard tool to burn around a transfer print I had made then considered the fabrics I'd use in the piece, with lots of consultation with my friend. Kathleen used the Wizard to burn the edges of her beautiful paper/fabric journal cover and we both like the result. It's the first time I've used this tool and it won't be the last.
I took some photos, as usual, but the one I took of her shows I didn't have a very steady hand at the time and I'm sorry about that because I like this picture of her. So here are some pics from the fun we had yesterday. Happy "Creating and Playing" everyone.

Blue Skies and Sunshine

2010-10-13T12:14:00.000-04:00

Haven't we been lucky? Lots of blue skies and sunshine the last few days. The leaves are beautiful but going fast! I saw a small bear yesterday enjoying some apples that had fallen from a tree at my friend's house. I attempted to get some photos but they didn't come out very good. It was such fun to watch him/or her. The bear got up on it's two hind feet to smell the air, just facinating to see up close.

We heard some good news today, they have gotten some of the miners out of the mine in Chile with more rescue on the way. Great news!

I'm not working on much art right now and sewing is calling my name. I'm working on rearranging my spaces to make them more enjoyable for the long winter ahead. It takes work, first make a mess, then clean it up! Not much fun but very satisfactory when finished.

Soy Wax Batik on Silk Scarf

2010-09-29T15:39:00.000-04:00

I finished the scarf today and I'm quite pleased with the results. I can't get the exact color green background to show correctly on photos but you'll get the idea. This was a first for me in using a tjanting tool to apply the wax. It takes practice but I'm getting the hang of it and will try another.

#1 Soy Wax Applied
#2 Background painted
#3 Painted Leaves
#4 Ironed Out Wax
Finished Scarf!

I've learned since I did this one that it's best to start with lightest colors first. Comments appreciated.

Time to Play with Fabric Again

2010-09-24T12:01:00.001-04:00

Today is a good day to wash, dry and soda ash soak some cotton to prepare for dyeing. I have a silk scarf that I'm going to paint today too so I'll get busy. I had a nice frame made to fit the scarf so I can pin it to the frame before painting. I found out in my first experiment in painting silk that this would be a good idea, hence the frame. We'll see how this goes and I'll be back with some "after" photos.

This Is The First Day of Fall

2010-09-23T15:49:00.000-04:00

I thought it was the 21st but I guess I got that mixed up with the first day of winter??

This is a very busy time of year. I'm working to get the yard in some shape before snow (guess I have a few weeks for that), preparing for the fair I'll be doing in November in Nashua and trying to finish up some unfinished work. I'm a terrible procrastinator as my family will attest to. Why do it now if I have a few more minutes, hours, days, weeks, years??? The thing is we really don't know how much time we really have. My dear friend Trisha lost her oldest nephew to a drowning this week in Mississippi. He had done three tours of duty and made it home. He went fishing and that was it. It just doesn't seem right but so much we see and hear is that way. I try and stay upbeat but sometimes things just get me down and this was one of them.

On to happier thoughts. I'm going to be making an apple pie (yes, food always makes me feel better)! I'll be making my pork chop skillet dinner tonight for supper (recipe on my blog for Jan. 10). Tomorrow will probably be apple day.

Grandson, Shawn had his 10th birthday on the 16th and he's a great kid! So happy times are appreciated around here and I'm looking forward to many more. My knees are better, work is okay, kids are doing well, grandkids and busy and well, significant other (Ron) is busy making things in his woodworking shop and we'll be going to an Auto Show and Flea Market this weekend.

I'm still offering note cards and photos on Artfire and Etsy so if you're in the market for some nice fall note cards take a look! I also have a website at http://www.dsignsbyds.zenfolio.com/

The Adirondacks-Wonderful Weekend!

2010-09-16T01:01:00.000-04:00

Mountains, tall pines, deer and lakes! A Beautiful place on earth to be. We stayed a few days in the Adirondack Mountains and attended the 23rd annual Adirondack Furniture Fair. It was excellent and I really felt like we were away on vacation! We got help finding our way with my new GPS and it worked great! Stayed in a little cabin with a nice view of Long Lake.(last photo) We enjoyed the area and hope to return next year.

The Hopkinton Fair 2010

2010-09-16T00:10:00.001-04:00

It was a hot one this year at the Hopkinton Fair! We went on Friday and it was so humid I didn't want to stay long. We walked the grounds, saw some displays and garden tractor pulls, took a few photos then headed home. I'm sure I'll enjoy the Sandwich Fair coming up soon since the weather has finally cooled down a bit. Here are a few photos from Hopkinton Fair.

Fall Feeling In The Air

2010-09-09T13:28:00.000-04:00

This week has given us some beautiful weather. Warm days, sunshine, some clouds and cool dreamy nights.
Fall housecleaning is on my mind now but I would rather do some fabric dyeing or painting, sew on the log cabin quilt or make some little wall hanging with my "new" rusted fabric. I know I will feel better if my place is cleaned up and "put together" much better than it is now. So I guess I should start there. In between times I can play with fabric and my camera.

I hope everyone has a wonderful fall and enjoy the beautiful weather!

I'm preparing some of my photographs for a craft show I'll be doing in Nashua, NH in November. (Lot's of N's there!) I plan on having my note cards as well as some matted 5x7's and maybe some 8x10's. There are quite a few people selling photos now with digital photography being so much more affordable than print film was. I like taking photographs and sharing with others so I will continue even though there's not much profit in it right now. I hope you will consider some of my work for upcoming holiday gifts. I have a website at http://www.dsignsbyds.zenfolio.com/ where you can order the size you would like as well as the type of paper including canvas! The store also gives you the opportunity to choose a frame and matting once you add a photo into your basket to "buy". If you're not happy with how the photo looks with a white mat, change it to black before ordering. It's easy!!! I still have shops on Etsy and Artfire and plan to continue with those for another year.

Now to get on with that housework!!

Etsy Treasury

2010-08-31T10:45:00.000-04:00

I have been notified that my photo note card has been included in this fun treasury. These are apparently things that were/are her father's favorites.

www.etsy.com/treasury/4c7c0a5cd98e6d9193761f35/for-my-motorcycle-riding-elvis-loving?index

Nice, hot day today but Hurricane Earl may hit the East Coast. I sure hope not.

We went to a Crusie Night last night and saw some pretty nice local cars. We'll go again I'm sure and I'll post some photos. The first of Sept. is tomorrow! Summer flew by didn't it?

Fun Painting Silk Scarf

2010-08-29T14:42:00.002-04:00

Today I painted a silk scarf with fabric paint. I'm not thrilled with the results, I think a pre-schooler could have done as well. Anyway, here's the photo process of what I did. The scarf what white to begin with. I painted on the indigo blue then the green. Added some salt and let it dry. Shook off the salt and let the scarf "rest" for awhile. I ironed the scarf and tied it in a loop to take a picture. I'm liking it better now. I enjoyed the process but hope for better results next time. I think I'll dye one next time!
I'm donating this to the "Enduring Earth" challenge. Sales of the scarves will be donated to The Nature Conservancy. http://www.nature.org/. This challenge is sponsored by Fiberarts Connection a nonprofit 501.
The scarves entered will be exhibited and sold to raise funds at Wilson Community College, Wilson, NC. After the show the scarves that do not sell will be sold online or possibly in another venue. Photos of the entries will be posted on the Fiberarts Blog. I'll keep you posted.

World Quilt Show, Manchester, NH

2010-08-26T11:16:00.002-04:00

I attended the World Quilt Expo in Manchester last week. I'm always impressed with what people thoughout the world create. Beautiful workmanship and Creative Spirit. The quilt above, "Medea Escaping" is by Marilyn Belford of USA and she won a blue ribbon! Congratulations Marilyn! I missed the Images show in Lowell, MA this year, sadly, but just can't do everything, everywhere, can we?

Member of New Hampshire Made!

2010-08-26T11:07:00.000-04:00

My business, DSigns by DS, is proud to be associated with New Hampshire Made.
Check out their website at http://www.nhmade.com/

Roseberry Style: Treasury trilogy

2010-08-25T12:26:00.000-04:00

Roseberry Style: Treasury trilogy: "I´ve been a little busy and now I've got a million things on my mind of what to blog about :) Let's start with featuring some wonderful Etsy..."

A Nice Week

2010-08-22T15:17:00.000-04:00

I had a very nice week and enjoyed visiting with my children and grandchildren at beautiful Newfound Lake! Obama's oldest daughter was attending a girl's camp down the road, but we didn't see her, just more State Police in the area than usual. I hope she had an nice couple of weeks enjoying NH. Newfound is one of my favorite lakes, it's so clean, clear and cool! Daughter went waterskiing and grandkids went tubeing. Of course we all went swimming and I had my first try at kayaking. I like it! I didn't do much this week in the way of fabric art but I did go to the Mancuso Quilt Show in Manchester on Saturday. Very nice show, some exceptional quilts and lots of art quilts on display. I bought some indigo paint from the ProChemical booth and although there was a lot more I could have spent my money on, I had to remind myself that I'm "downsizing" my stash!

Summer's almost over but it was a good one for sure!!

More Sun Printing

2010-08-15T21:05:00.000-04:00

This week I did more sun printing. I purchased some new paint colors on-line, just got them and I couldn't wait to use them. I painted the a vintage doiley and placed some dried ferns on top before placing in the sun. Then I over-painted using green paint on some fabric I had previously dyed. Placed keys on top and set fabric out in the sun and magic! I also painted some black paint on to unbleached muslin and I'm happy how clear that one came out. Now to come up with a small quiltlet using these fabrics. I do have something in mind and I'll post once I'm sure or when it's completed. Enjoy the upcoming week!

Late Summer Garden

2010-08-12T18:13:00.000-04:00

Here it is almost the middle of August! My garden is looking a little sad, but the glads are blooming and the sunflowers brighten the yard. I won't talk about my vegetable garden, a big disappointment this year.
Here are a couple of photos I took in my garden yesterday. Soon to be offered as note cards.

What Cook'n?

2010-08-03T19:53:00.001-04:00

Is that soup on the stove? Nope, just dyeing fabric with some coffee! I was at it again today for a short time in between doing some work. The muslin was just too light for what I want to use it for, so a quick bath in some brewed coffee and it's PERFECT! While I was at it, I put in some canvas too so I could use that on today's project.

Here's one of my quiltlets using my rust dyed fabric, printed fabric with paint sticks, soy wax printing and the canvas I dyed with coffee today. It's all here in this little piece along with a photo transfer (3 in a row) of the back window of an old rusty truck. I scrunched up some of the rust dyed fabric and attached it to the upper left of the transfer photo. I machine quilted this with clear thread. I added some embellishments to the middle, spelling out the word RUST with some metal letters and a stamp for the letter "S". Maybe I'll attach an old truck key?

Overpainting and Sunprinting

2010-08-01T18:08:00.002-04:00

I took one of my pieces of rust dyed fabric and overpainted it with fabric paint. I set it outdoors with some keys, ferns and other plants on top and sun printed it. It's not too clear but I've ordered more paint and hope to have better results soon. End of a beautiful weekend. Have a good week everyone.

Results of Rust Dyeing Cotton Fabric

2010-08-01T11:12:00.000-04:00

I did the unwrapping of the rusted fabric yesterday afternoon. I'm quite pleased with the results and see myself doing more of this. I went to a yard sale yesterday and found more "lovely", rusted old things to use next. I think the woman thought I was crazy when I got excited at seeing the container of rusty stuff. She was told what I intended to do with it and she became interested in the process. In the third piece I have indicated where the keys were. I think you can tell where I used the drill bits. The piece with the most white remaining is going to be painted over and sun dyed with keys and ferns. We'll see how that goes later.
Here are my results this time around:

More Playing with Paint and Fabric

2010-07-30T23:25:00.000-04:00

Today was another sunny day with less humidity and that was a welcome relief! I borrowed some wonderful keys a friend has collected over the years and decided today would be a good day to do some sun printing again. I used a fabric transparent paint, placed the keys on top of the fabric and let the sunshine do the rest. I didn't get exactly the results I was looking for this time but I'll give it yet another try sometime (maybe tomorrow?) I also jumped in with some rusting of cotton fabric which I wanted to try for some time. Ronnie found some great rusty old drill bits in his garage and they should be perfect. I soaked the cotton with 1/2 and 1/2 water and white vinegar then wrapped the drill bits up in the fabric. I also took some of the older rusty keys and wrapped some of them up in fabric as well. So far the results for the rusting look promising. I'm leaving them wrapped up for at least another day, then we'll see. Here's a few pictures from today's efforts. Tomorrow I'm off to a small town Fair. Then who knows, maybe more art work?

My Friend's Beautiful Garden

2010-07-28T13:29:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was invited to lunch at a friend's/previous co-worker house for lunch. She has a lovely garden and I have been meaning to go take photos there for some time. She invited me over a year ago. One spring all we had was rain, rain, rain, so it didn't work out that year. I finally made it. Here are a couple of photos I took. I will be offering some of them for sale in my Etsy shop as note cards and photographs in several sizes. What a nice time we had, the weather was beautiful and the chickens and dogs entertained us!

Screen Printing with Thermofax Screen

2010-07-26T18:33:00.001-04:00

I believe I have mentioned in a previous post that I was one of three "winners" picked to receive a free thermofax screen of my choice from Fibra Artista. I tried it out today with screen printers paint from Plaid (no connection) printed on to plain muslin. I can see that I'm going to be ordering more screens and perhaps I'll design one of my own.
This was fun! Thanks Lynn. I did wash off the screen right after I took the photo and it looks almost new again. p.s. I think I like the color green, what do you think?

More Soy Wax Printing and Painting

2010-07-19T23:44:00.000-04:00

I found a new tool at the Webster Lake Association's Yard Sale this weekend. It was originally a wisk but I could see it had potential as a tool to dip in soy wax. Can't beat the price either, 25 cents.

So today I did more Soy Wax Batik on cotton. I also did some Sun Printing with Dynaflo paint using old keys and some ferns. Some happy news for me, I was a lucky winner of a Thermofax Screen from one of my Blog friends, Lynn who lives and creates wonderful art in Michigan. She has opened up a new shop on Etsy selling screens and paint. She has made a two part video on Thermofax Screen Printing that you can see on her blog. I've wanted to try Thermofax Screens for some time but it's been difficult finding them so I'm very happy she's using her machine to make some..so I can buy some! She will do custom, original art orders too and I hope to give that a try.

Until next time, stay cool!

Castle In The Clouds Car Show

2010-07-11T19:47:00.000-04:00

Yes, it rained but we still went. Lots of great cars to see and we took alot of photos even though the cars have rain drops on them. The fog rolled in while we were on the mountain as you can see from one of the photos. We stopped by the Art and Craft Fair in Ashland and I was very impressed! There were artists and works of the quality you see at the Sunapee Crafts Fair in August! Too bad it rained and not many attended. I'll go again next year!! Have a good week everyone.

The Beach

2010-07-10T00:39:00.001-04:00

Today I was fortunate to be able to spend some time on Rye Beach. Beautiful day, a bit windy but the temperature was perfect!! Learned later tonight that grandson, Dillon was at the same beach and might have seen me but didn't know why I would be there alone, so thought it must not be his grandmother. I think maybe he was too busy having fun with his friends.

My friend M has started dialysis and she's doing a bit better. She's had several day surgieries and told me today that at least she doesn't have anymore scheduled. I told her maybe she'd get a call that a kidney was available and she'd be having another surgery sooner than she thinks. I spent a couple of days visiting her and enjoying my "Dover B&B". She and her husband have a beautiful house on the water and since they built it I have called it my B&B. So happy to see she's doing a bit better.

Off to a car show tomorrow, hope it's not too sunny or hot. Better for taking pics.

Batik Time

2010-06-30T12:03:00.002-04:00

My granddaughter Maegan visited me this week. She loves to make things and wanted to try her hand at batik. She catches on very fast and I think she did a great job! We haven't ironed off the wax yet but I know her fabric is going to be wonderful. She's going to make some pillows with the fabric. Kimberly will be visiting us tomorrow. It's a joy to have granddaughters, love 'em. Oh yes, love my grandsons too. Dillon is busy at wrestling camp and Shawn is really enjoying the summer rec program.

Sunflower Apron from Zazzle.com

2010-06-26T22:26:00.000-04:00

Sunflower Apron from Zazzle.com

They Are The Champions!

2010-06-26T17:06:00.002-04:00

Girls Softball----Congratulations Mangos!

My grand daughter Kimberly is the catcher for her softball team. She does an excellent job and the rest of the team are very good too. It's been great watching these teens come up through the years to become such great players! I remember one of their first practices when they were very little. One little girl ran to third base first not yet knowing where first base was. They've come a very long way!! They beat Andover's team last night in a very close game. Kimberly caught the whole game and also got the winning run at the end of the game. This is a very proud Grandmama! I would be proud of her even if they hadn't done so well. They are such good sports and love the game. Congratulations to the Franklin Girls Softball Team!! We'll miss the starting pitcher, Kelsey, next year because she's moving up to high school level ball. Soon the others will join her and we'll have fun seeing what they can do in the years ahead!

It Rained But The Sale Went On

2010-06-24T11:34:00.001-04:00

On Friday before the yard sale, the weatherman said Saturday looked good up until 2PM when we could expect showers. So the Art & Craft Supply sale went on as scheduled. A good number of people came first thing and I'm happy to say I made some sales. So I got rid of some of my older "stuff" and of course found other things to buy while there. One seller had so many things that I would have liked to buy that it was difficult to decide without going in the hole. I'm selling some of my quilting magazines & books, some fabric and other craft related items. I used to make Santas, Dolls and Stuffed animals so I have things like eyelashes, eyes, noses for bears etc. Didn't sell much except some straw hats for dolls. The batting and pillow foams went quickly at a very, very low price. Patti said she's going to put on another similar sale in the Fall and I'll try again. Hopefully, we'll have much better weather. Now I've decided to have my own yard sale on some upcoming Saturday..too be announced.

Art & Craft SUPPLY Yard Sale News

2010-06-11T09:49:00.001-04:00

I've been going through my boxes and boxes of supplies and pricing items low so hopefully they will sell and I won't have to lug them all home. The sale is tomorrow at 10 AM until 2 PM. 170 Province Rd, Gilmanton, NH @ Badger Brook Farm. Ten people will be selling all sorts of art and craft supplies. I can't believe some of the things that I've held on to through the years. I actually found some patterns for clothing I made my girls back in 1972! I'm going to keep one of the patterns and add it to a picture I have of them wearing the dresses, another collage in the making!!

We're still doing yard work and I'm pleased with all that's been accomplished this spring with help from my kids and others. I've planted some climbing vines up the trellis on the pergola and I'm anxious to see how they do. I went to Orford, NH yesterday and visited a friend at her campground. We went to lunch at a wonderful little drive-in in Fairlee, VT. They had the most beautiful flowering vines there and I'm hoping that mine will come close to how those looked. Oh yes, I had a lobster roll, she had shrimp salad and they were both EXCELLENT.

Have a great weekend everyone, enjoy the sun while it's out!

Completed Driveway and Huge Koi!

2010-06-06T13:17:00.001-04:00

It's done and I'm pleased with the results. I didn't drive on it for a couple of days because I wanted it to harden up before I parked my car on it. I'm planning on putting some screened loam along the side and at the end by the house.

Yesterday was a good day. We went to a small car show in Cornish, NH and enjoyed taking some photos. Wouldn't you know it, my battery in my Nikon died shortly after arriving. I should know better and always charge the battery the night before. Anyway, lucky for me I had brought along my Cannon point and shoot. It takes good photos so I guess it worked out okay. We also drove to Concord to see an antique car show on Pleasant Street but didn't see anyone there. Either it was cancelled or ended early. So we went to Barnstead and visited a business that has several ponds and waterfalls on display. Believe they also give classes in building them. In one of their large ponds they had the biggest Koi fish I have EVER seen! The fish is huge!! I took a photo with it swimming along with another Koi that is the usual size (also quite large) hoping to give the viewer some idea of how huge this thing was.

Have a good week and I'll be back to posting soon.

Paved Driveway!

2010-06-03T14:47:00.000-04:00

My driveway is being paved today. After 30 years living here, I've finally decided it's time. It's look'n good!

My New Pergola

2010-06-02T09:58:00.001-04:00

The pergola is finished and now I'm going to plant some climbing plants on each side to climb up the lattace.
The guy who built it was funny, he said he can't guarantee the roof won't leak : )

Quiltlet Challenge In Progress

2010-06-01T21:51:00.002-04:00

I thought some of you might be interested in the process I used in making this small art quilt. So here are the steps I took (as I remember them), I work intutively and don't take notes.

The word for this challenge is Rebirth. I decided to use the wild flower Trillium because I think they are so beautiful and they arrive early in the spring when the flowers are just waking up from a long winter.

Process:
I'm using a photo my friend Ron took of a trillium.

I enlarged the photo and printed it on my ink jet printer using cotton.
I used colored pencils and markers to add to the color.
I used fusible web and added that to the back of the cotton photo.
I cut out the flower. (Photo 1)
I fused the cotton photo on to some thin batting. (Photo 2)
I chose one of my hand dyed fabrics for the background.
I tore off the fusible on the small leaves only then fused them to the background fabric. (Photo 3)

Now I'm quilting the individual petals of the flower and will tack them onto the backing so they curve out much like the real flower.

I'm adding the backing, quilting it and bind to finish. So far I'm pleased with how this is turning out.

I'll post a photo of the finished quiltlet very soon!

Close Encounter of the Truck Kind

2010-05-27T11:27:00.002-04:00

I had a close encounter early last night. Not with an alien ship but with a large pick up truck. I was traveling home from Concord on Rt. 3 N. and saw a big black truck coming south. I watched in shock as he lost control, left the road and went down the shoulder, up a small embankment then across the road into my lane (missed me!) went off onto my side of the road and flipped at least 3 times. The driver behind me told the police he flipped at least 5 times. I really didn't see as he sped past in front of me. All I was trying to do was not get hit and thankfully it worked out. I was shook up but recovered and waited for the ambulance and police to arrive. The 16 year old male driver got right out of his truck, which landed right side up and walked over to us. Believe he was in shock. He was hurt from his seatbelt but it probably saved his life! It turned out that this boy grew up across the street from me, (moved recently). When his mother arrived she couldn't believe it was me, and I told her I was so glad he didn't hit me...oh yes, and that he's okay! She's very thankful as well and gave me a big hug. Be careful out there!

Pergola is Coming This Week

2010-05-23T11:46:00.000-04:00

I just heard that the guy building a pergola for me off of my larger shed will be here tomorrow morning! I hope it doesn't rain, drizzle, okay, rain, no. So now I'm off to clean off the small deck to get ready for some serious building. I also bought more flowers yesterday that need to be planted in pots for my large deck. Then off to work this afternoon for a few hours. Hope everyone has had a lovely, sunny weekend.

Yard Work & Quilt Related

2010-05-10T09:46:00.000-04:00

The old fence is now gone thanks to my family. Mother's Day was celebrated at my house with the tearing down of one fence and putting up another one. We all had lunch together and I enjoyed spending time with my kids, grandkids and two of the family dogs. It was a busy place for awhile and my cat hid out for most of the day. I'll post photos once I take a couple. Enjoy the sunshine!

Quilt Related: I'm still working on my 12x12 Quiltlet "Rebirth". Posting photo when completed.

Announcing Art & Craft Supply Yard Sale!!!

2010-05-07T17:14:00.003-04:00

Mark Your Calendars Now!

June 12 @10 AM
Rain Date: June 19 @10
At Badger Brook Farm, Gilmanton, NH

Do you have craft supplies and art supplies you have not used? Come sell them at the first art & craft supply yard sale at Badger Brook Farm! Rent a Space, Only $5! Tables and outlets are not available.
Clean out your craft room and make some $$$!
If you want to bring some of your artwork to sell too, bring it!

Spaces must be reserved in advance. Don't miss the fun!

Badger Brook Farm
170 Province Rd (rt. 107), Gilmanton, NH 03237
email: create.girl@yahoo.com or phone: 603-267-1200

I have reserved a space and hope to see some of you there to purchase some of my art and craft supplies. I'll have fabric, cotton and wool, patterns, books, misc. craft supplies, craft kits and more.
I may have my note cards available for sale as well.

Paste, Fabric and Paper

2010-05-04T20:25:00.003-04:00

Today I attended a class held at Badger Brook Farm in Gilmanton, NH.

We made paper fabric using backing fabric, glue, paste and dye.

Patti Bradley is a patient and warm woman who gave us time to be creative in a beautiful setting.

This class was just what I was looking for.

I'll be cutting up my pieces to use in some mixed media projects in the near future and will post results.

Here are a few photos from my day.

What FUN!!

"Badger Brook Farm...where women gather & create"

New Tree for My Garden

2010-05-01T17:42:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I bought a new Japanese Maple for my herb garden. I wanted a small tree near my little pond. The pond is finally cleaned out and has fresh water but I haven't put the fountain back in yet. Maybe next weekend?

Today I went to many yard sales with my friend Donna and her daughter, Diane. We found some good bargains and had a good time. I bought my daughter a good sturdy pitch fork for $2.00!!

I'm still working on my 12 Squared Challenge quiltlet with the theme "Rebirth". I'll post when it's completed.

Photo and Note Card Promotion

2010-04-24T14:34:00.001-04:00

I have been busy addressing post cards to send out to folks I know who don't generally use the Internet. I'm hoping they'll take a look at my shops. I have posted a framed photograph of A Garden Path so that it will give you an idea how beautiful these photographs appear framed. At this time I do not offer framing for my photographs. The note card frames beautifully in a 5x7 frame. I'll be posting some of those soon. Great day today and I'm heading back outside to enjoy the sunshine! Have a wonderful weekend and don't forget to visit both my shops. Artfire and Etsy.

Earth Day

2010-04-22T01:16:00.000-04:00

Recycling comes to town!
(or should I say city?)