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Mar, 14Manzanita Calligraphy Workshop #1
This past Saturday I was a student in Rebecca Caridad’s very first Calligraphy Workshop in Boulder, CO. There were only 7 of us and we had a fun time learning the basics of Calligraphy. I’ve only practiced once since the class, due to my studio currently being re-done. Once I get it all in order, I plan to put my pen to paper and really get to know my style of writing. That’s the beauty of it – just because you learn something, doesn’t mean that you can’t bend, or even break, the rules. I’m pretty good at breaking rules… so, stay tuned for that. Until then, check out a few snapshots that Rebecca’s younger sister took of our workshop here.
I’ve put a hold on making anything this week, so that I can focus on getting my new studio all sorted out. I really have to have a clean, bright and inspiring place to create. Otherwise, I find it difficult to stay focused. Anyone else have this problem? Anyhoo, the most challenging part of the studio will be getting my 120-drawer Library Catalog, that my dad gave me, out of the garage and up the staircase. I dusted and cleaned it really well, so it’s ready to be moved in. Wish me luck!
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Nov, 12{inspired} work on your focus
It’s been a crazy time of year for me with the Holidays right around the corner and trying to stay on top of everything, and if you’re a creative business owner, then you understand. With the help of my mom, I try to stay focused and think positive. If I feel myself start to worry more than I should, I quickly redirect my thoughts to something more productive. I recently stumbled across this post that Kyla Roma wrote on her blog. I’ve never really listened to podcasts before, but with her recommendations and tips, I’ve officially been introduced.
I often find myself sitting at my desk, drafting table or sewing machine and I realize that I’m in complete silence. No radio, no TV, no iPod – nothing. I actually enjoy the quiet at times, but it’s nice to have something new to listen to as I work. The podcasts can be quite inspiring and keep me focused on positive and useful topics. With music, I’m able to tune it out much easier and then my mind goes crazy with all of my to-do lists! Eek! The podcasts give me a break, so I appreciate that in the busiest of times.
Now, I’m not saying that I’m anti-TV or music as I work. I love them! It’s just that sometimes I feel the need to switch it up a bit and this is a great way to do that. I appreciate Kyla taking the time to gather some recommendations – very helpful for a podcast newbie.
Kyla’s post isn’t just about podcasts, it’s about pinpointing your passion and living it each and every moment. Maintain your focus and you will continue to move forward doing what you love. Now, back to my crazy-busy life!
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Nov, 12{inspired} cookie swap
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I can’t believe that it’s that time of year for another cookie swap! It’ll be our 7th Annual Swap, in fact. I’ve been looking through my recipe books, Pinterest, and the internet for a yummy cookie recipe to share this year… and I’m feeling so inspired! Last year I made soft pumpkin cookies and they were heavenly. I’m thinking either pinwheels of some kind or a gooey chocolatey one for this years party. Any suggestions on a good recipe?
Yesterday, I bought bags with labels to package each dozen in, as well as some super-cute elf invitations from Target. I’m so excited to get the invites in the mail, but I have to focus on this weekends’ craft show, at the moment. What’s inspiring you this week?!
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Nov, 12{inspired} the holidays
This past week I’ve been inspired not only by Halloween, but also by the upcoming Holiday Season. Next weekend my mom and I have a craft show, and it’s totally geared towards Thanksgiving and Christmas – I can’t wait. And it’s that time of year where we need to start thinking about Holiday shopping and I’m going to add few last-minute products to the shop within the next couple of weeks, just in time for a SALE. Woohoo! I can’t wait for that. So, I’ll keep this inspiration going and just keep sewing… P.S. my sweet friend, Meghan, made my lovely Autumn crown for my Birthday last month and I love it!
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Oct, 12{inspired} teal, grey + mustard
Earlier this week went a bit out of control. I went to the store for some fabric to complete an order and stumbled upon this pretty teal, grey + mustard fabric. I couldn’t help myself, I just had to have it. As soon as I saw it, I was inspired to make a few specific things with it. So, be expecting a couple chevron totes coming to the shop! The mustard polka dot fabric is intended for a skirt and I can’t wait to dive into that project as soon as I wrap up a couple of orders first. I hope your Friday is treating you well. Any weekend plans?
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Oct, 12{inspired} woodlands
This week I’ve been gathering inspiration from all over to prep for my Halloween Costume. I’m really excited to see how it all comes together. Last year I was a red fox and this year I seem to be continuing the “woodland animal” theme… can you guess what it is? I’ve never made a costume like this before, so I really hope that it turns out the way I picture it in my head… heeheehee. I’ll start making it this Sunday, and I’ll post more next week so that you can see my progress. Until then, guess!
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Sep, 12{inspired} vintage suitcases
This week I’ve been inspired by vintage suitcases. I found this one awhile ago in an antique shop and I’ve inherited a couple from both of my grandmothers. They’re all a bit dirty and need a good wipe down, but I want to use them for storage in my studio. I’m not quite sure how I will use them, but they’re much prettier than boxes and totes, don’t you think?!
I just love how these old suitcases were made – sturdy and elegant. Samsonite knew what they were doing and that’s no lie. I would love to air-travel with this precious case, but nowadays the airlines are so rough with everything. Each time I check a bag, its either so smashed that it’s unusable or it’s ripped. Am I the only one with this problem? They must have been much gentler back then, or maybe the didn’t pack in as many passengers at once. Either way, I don’t want to chance it.
How about you, do you have any vintage suitcases put to good use? ♥R
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Sep, 12{inspired} a new weekly series
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What’s better than feeling inspired? Sharing that inspiration, of course! That’s why I’ve decided to start a new series called {inspired} which will post every Friday. I find myself roaming the internet, magazines, books, antique shops, boutiques, bakeries and more, where I find tons of inspiration. I usually write this inspiration in my ideabook, but thought that it would be nice to share what I find with you, too. Inspiration is everywhere and I think it’s important to share what inspires us to keep our creative community strong. So join me every Friday and we can be inspired together!
This week I’ve been super inspired by pumpkin! You read that right, I said pumpkin. I feel like everywhere I turn, there it is. Starbucks rings in the Fall Season with their Pumpkin Spice menu, which I LOVE! The Pumpkin Spiced Latte and Pumpkin Scone go great together, by the way. Then I just heard that Einstein’s has a Pumpkin Bagel with Pumpkin Cream Cheese, and Caribou Coffee has Pumpkin Chai! Sheesh, it is everywhere. So, this is making me want to grab a pumpkin treat and just craft all day long. It’s starting to cool down here in Colorado, and Fall is my favorite time to get creative. Baking isn’t my strong suit, but I love to do it! I’m thinking of trying to make a pumpkin swirl log, have you seen those cakes? It’s probably not on any healthy eating list, but it would be a great treat to nibble on at the upcoming October Craft Show with my mom. I think I found a recipe on Pinterest for it…
Anyhoo, what’s been inspiring you this week? ♥R
