DemoGraphics

Fond Farewell

2009-09-04T11:15:00.001-07:00

so...i've been putting this off for a while now and it's probably about time i just suck it up and do it. a while back i started a second blog, rocknrollcrafts. This has become an extension of the craft shows we've been going to this year and a showcase for projects that I like to share. In that, demographics has become neglected..and i hate to do that to you..o' demo-g. So, for now..I'm ending this blog and will be concentrating on just the one...http://rocknrollcrafts.blogspot.com/.

thank you all for following and joining me on this fantastic blog voyage! Keep on craftin'!! elaine

Michael Jackson August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009

2009-06-25T17:02:00.001-07:00

a digital tribute to an icon, a legend and truly a part of my childhood and my life. a deep, heartfelt thank you.

Stencil 1 ATC Video

2009-06-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

My newest video up on my youtube channel! Check it out and let me know what you think!

Thanks! :)

Brooklyn Renegade Craft!

2009-06-06T08:24:00.001-07:00

The Brooklyn Renegade Craft fair is this weekend, at McCarren park! Stencil 1 won't be having a booth there, but Chronicle books did donate 5 copies of Stencil 101 for the raffle! Plus, Mr. Stencil himself went guerilla style and hung a bunch of stenciled pieces of cardboard all around the park..find one and add your mark! ps..the stencils featured are from the next Stencil 101; Decor! wait till you see what we do with these...:)

Scor it contest

2009-05-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

I recieved a very nice email the other day from my friend Tim at Scor-it. They make that great Scor-it board..that I Love, love, love. It has this great spongy-esque pad that makes scoring cardstock for cards, boxes, envelopes..zines..so easy and it looks sooo good! :) So he's teamed up with 2 Sketches 4 You, for an American Idol-esque crafting contest. Check it out..

Spring Summer Show Schedule

2009-05-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

The show season is in full swing and I'm arting and crafting my lil' ol' heart out. I may not be posting for a while..so here is my current show schedule, where you can find me in person..and see my stuff..too! At all of these events I will be spraying t shirts with Stencil 1 stencils..:) so fun!

This is the poster from last years Renegade Craft fair..so the dates are wrong..this year will be on the 18th and 19th of July at Fort Mason . I'll post updates when I get them! :)

200th Post- Dom Deluise Tribute

2009-05-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

I had all of these grand plans for my 200th post...until I saw this news on yahoo. I am a Mel Brooks fan from way, way back. Love me some History of the World, Producers, Twelve Chairs..etc..and am also a fan of big cheese..like Cannonball Run. :) I've always loved Dom and everything he's in..that squeezable teddy bear with his wonderful laugh. My crush may have started with the Muppets..but wherever it began..it began. and I'm saddened by his passing, as it is more of a reminder of the people we love and lose. and if you haven't seen Cannonball Run..just watch it. It's hilarious.

2009-05-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

here's a fun idea from the mini merchants over at Martin Meyers...video catalogs! This one is on the mushrooms and moss line..a favorite of mine! The glass jar project shown at the beginning is one of mine..nothing like a little fairyland in an old mayo jar! :) Check out their YouTube page for more!

How Cool!

2009-05-01T10:22:00.001-07:00

a front cover feature using the Stencil 1 Sparrow!! How cool..:)

and then there was Maude

2009-04-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

because I was raised on Maude and the Golden Girls..She's one of the many reasons I want to be an old lady when I grow up. :)

Spotlight on Stuff

2009-04-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

Thrift store german salt and pepper shakers!

Day of the Dead scene..I painted the plywood mini alter, the figures were from my old store, the bells are found and I've come to save all of the beer caps from bottles, and then store them inside an old corona bottle..just love all of the colors!

This is a snippet of a painting that my husband and I inherited from his grandparents...

Love this one..postcard from my mom..celebrating the wedding day..:)

I found this watercolor for a quarter at a fabric thrift store..reminds me of San Francisco in the very early days..

I'm totally addicted to stuff. It comes from a long line of stuff hunters and collectors in my family. I love thrift stores, buying things for 10 cents..finding cool stuff in dumpsters or free boxes left on the side of the road. I have a favorite thrift store that supports our local hospice program..and I feel like a pirate with sparkly booty everytime I leave..I'm also a good rescue home for homely leftovers from the rest of my family and friends..what? You want to get rid of That? I'll take it! :)

Modern Chairs

2009-04-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

The newest designs from Stencil 1...yumm-o!!

Veni video vici...

2009-04-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

Somehow, through the power of YouTube, I have reached my 100th subscriber and this video is up to over 5000 views! Awesome! So, I want to do a new video..but I'm looking for ideas! Well..I have lots of ideas..but I would love to hear from you what kinds of videos you'd like to see. I've been working on cleaning and organizing my office for almost 3 months now..yeah, one day at a time. :) But I thought it might be fun to do a tour on video..like a Craft Cribs. :) No jacuzzis, or sportscars..but literally Tons of paper and inks! that could be fun..

Me etsy

2009-04-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
sisterowl.etsy.com

I'm finally getting a few new things up on etsy..yippee!

Happy B day J!

2009-04-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

A shout out to my mega-talented sister on her Birthday!! Love ya Jen!!!

Spring Treats

2009-04-13T09:30:00.001-07:00

So it seems that I am better inspired by the holiday as it is ending and not on it's approach..ah..c'est la vie. Here are a few of the springtime goodies that Jen and I had fun putting together. WE love the Vintage Scrapbook images from Martin Meyers..so much fun! We combined them with rub-ons, background papers, glitters and more. My favorite? The owl in the top corner..I decoupaged him onto a piece of cardboard, cut him back out and then adhered to the top of a clothespin..so cute!!

To Dye For

2009-04-09T08:59:00.001-07:00

Ok..take a look at these! A very crafty Sara McKenzie at Craft Critique.com, did a review on some Martin Meyer products..and this is one of the projects that she made using the Vintage Scrapbook images. Omg..I'm dying today, literally. Going to do some eggs just like this..might do the background colors darker..but I just love this!! Check out her post for instructions!

Ameri-funky

2009-04-07T09:19:00.001-07:00

So if you've been wondering how I'm spending my time unemployed..here's part of it. The sister and I, and mom and aunt, went to this fabulous fabric store..charge by the pound of fabric..yahoo. and outside they have a free bin. first stop. Inside the bin, one fine afternoon, was a huge stack of patterns from the late 1940's. I've been going crazy drawing from them! The above is a pattern for a decorative plate, this on the top of a paper mache box..I'm painting things white with Winsor Newton acrylic paint, coloring with pigment markers and then drawing the black line last...what do you think?

Makers Faire San Mateo May 30, 31st

2009-04-04T06:24:00.000-07:00

I just got the acceptance for showing at this years Maker's Faire at the San Mateo fairgrounds!! I'm so excited! I've never even been to a Maker's Fairs..I've heard only great and wonderful things..and now we get to be part of the experience! I'm sooo excited!! Hope to see you there!

More Cardboard Art

2009-04-01T08:32:00.001-07:00

I thought I'd put up a few more cardboard paintings...hope you like..:) I call this first one, Zoofari..

Attack of the 50ft Woman's Army..

Sparrows in Space...must say that one with the "Pigs in Space" ennunciation..:)

Cardboard saved me

2009-03-31T08:34:00.001-07:00

So, I had a challenge from Ed at Stencil 1..to posterize some stencil images. It took about a week for me to get dirty, as I have been a sewing fool for the past few months. But I was sure glad to get my hands on some sprays again! :) This little cutie is on a 5" square piece of cardboard..my surface of choice for this project. I was looking around for my large cardstock..couldn't find any, so a little rip here, a little box cutter there..and voila, canvases! I painted this one with a square of white acrylic paint, let it dry and then let loose with some Stencil 1 spray action. Once the colors dried, in the sun it took but just a few minutes, I then stenciled the Birch Tree and the deer, in white paint..removed the stencils, added some color and then stenciled back on top in black..pop! :)...and a big thank you to the gorgeous photo from sister Jen! :) love ya..

Marah Inspiration

2009-03-27T10:04:00.001-07:00

I saw this and had a mini heart attack! It may be pattern abuse..but I LOVE it! A big huge thank you to Marah Johnson..I saw this link on her blog, Randomly speaking....If you haven't seen or are familiar with Marah..be sure to check her out. She is a paper craft and rubber stamp extrodinaire! and obviously very inspiring!

Fun Find-Walls Notebook

2009-03-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

Just saw this posted over at thepostfamily.com. How much do I want one of these?!?

Here's what they say about it, "Walls Notebook is a notebook / sketchbook with 80 "clean" New York City walls as your blank slate. Write, draw, paste, or doodle on these interesting and inspirational backdrops. You'll be one step closer to being the graffiti artist you've always wanted to be . . . minus the jail time." :)

I hope they have plans for other cities too!

2009-03-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

Marisa at ModernSurrealist has done it again! Look at this great st patty's day project using a soda bottle top, some ultra cute minis..and her craft magic! Check out her blog; http://tinyurl.com/c5fxse..

Happy day o' luck to everyone!! :)

2009-03-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Lucky me....I received this Kreative Blogger award from Diane at http://dianesmixedart.blogspot.com/. Many Thanks Diane!! I am to list seven things that I love or that inspire me.

1) Sunshine and fog
2) Beach waves and sea air
3) Fields of green grass and tall hills
4) Thrift Store Finds
5) Music, music, music
6) My mama
7) My hubby

I'm supposed to foward this on..but instead, I'm welcoming all comments..what inspires you?

Kitten Time

2009-03-07T08:42:00.001-08:00

...finally found the cord for my camera..and low and behold all of the pictures I had on there..Thought I'd start with a little cat show off time..:)

Some brellas and stuff

2009-03-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

As I have undertaken the herculean task of cleaning my office and really my whole house, I've been finding old treasures. Here are three sketch/watercolors from 2005..I was on a kick of archival black pigment ink in a .001 micron pen and watercoloring..

Martin Meyers

2009-02-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

So, if I haven't said already..I've taken to doing some work for Martin Meyers, importers of fun and miniatures. I'm helping design and load up the website, package new products..make fun things using their stuff..I just uploaded a few pages of these vintage scrapbook pictures from Germany..and I am in Love! The image above is from a whole sheet of gnomes-on-the-go..
This one below is just killing me! The dapperness and cuteness all rolled up in to one..I can't handle it! :) I haven't made anything yet..but the plans for atc's, greeting cards..collage!! endless..

Some cardboard, tongue depressors, glue and scissors..puppets here I come!

a hedgehog smoking a pipe..c'mon! :)

1 Year gone

2009-02-23T08:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I hate to keep being such a downer..but today is one year since we lost our Zoe. We've missed her mucho. Cary cut away the grass from her memorial spot yesterday..this will be the year I get or make the gazing ball to sit atop it...:) Love ya girl!!

Shel Silverstein

2009-02-17T08:55:00.000-08:00

my grandma was a big Shel Silverstein fan. I am too..:)

V-Day Confessions

2009-02-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

So as part of my new year's resolution, I am going to share a few more of my personal thoughts and things...and stuff like that. :) As it is Valentine's day and my dearest husband his shaving before he takes me on a shopping spree at my favorite thrift store..I have a few moments to share with you one of my greatest loves. I know, I know..bear with me. This video is of a song that I used to not only sing outloud, to my sister's chagrin, but I would record myself singing just the females part of the song and use my walkman to record the male verse..yes, this is how I stayed out of trouble as a youth..partly.

I used this anime version..kind of fun. I saw the San Francisco production in the early 90's..like 10 times. French club. :) I still sing this in the shower..well, and also Eponine's On my own..mon favorite!

Much love to my husband, my family and all my friends!!

Indie Craft Interview at CHA

2009-02-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

Now up on Craftstylish.com, through CraftyPod, is a fun little interview with Ed by Diane Gilliland. She interviewed him directly following this demo, here we are making a heart shirt for Valentines Day! :) Click here to listen...

The Good Fight

2009-02-09T08:19:00.000-08:00

"Fidelity": Don't Divorce... from Courage Campaign on Vimeo.

Equality for All. Period.

Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Davis, June 30, 1922-February 4, 2009

2009-02-05T06:43:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I lost my grandma. She left for the wild blue wonder, to plant seeds and grow gardens of luscious fruits and flowers. She left us with so, so, so much and as I type I cry for all that I am going to miss. Time is so sad when you see it pass so quickly. The crispy hashbrowns for breakfast using the orange grater, the leather wallet with the front snap, the red lipstick carved to the shape of her lips. She gave me so much. My love of art, my appreciation for beauty and quality and for love. She taught me to look into the eyes of the lonely, the hungry, to hold the hands of the sad and to laugh out loud. To be ridiculous and serious. She always admired my positive attitude, which was fostered by her can do. As I reflect, I realize I've missed her for years, as her health and mobility declined. Slowly our interactions and activites changed, but our love for eachother never waned and never will. I carry her entrepeneur, live hard and love forever spirit with me for always. I will pass it along to everyone I know. I love you grandma and all of us miss you already! Enjoy those foggy scottish moors and drink a double scotch for me!

I think of this as part of her welcoming committee..her mother, her sister Doris and her brother Bruce. She died on what would have been Bruce's birthday.

:)

a San Francisco Seals fan from wayyyy back..she loved Mays and McCovey and would often keep score when listening to the games on the radio...

She loved Benjamin Bufano..and would often take me to the Academy of Sciences where many of his statues were featured..

This was from my wedding..she did the flowers. She used to own a flower shop, Daly City Flowers. She also, at one time, owned a record store off of Bush street and a dress shop.

CHA Quick Pic

2009-02-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

I'm getting the pictures from CHA ready for a grand ol' post! So, this one is really just here to stand in..:) a few souvenir pins from the Indie booth..from Craftster.org. Yup..I took home a few. :)

Stencil 1 at Cliffs

2009-01-31T08:14:00.000-08:00

Ed and I will be stenciling to the masses this afternoon, from 1-3pm, at Cliffs Variety store on Castro! If you're in the area, stop by and say hi!

CHA 2009-part one

2009-01-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

To get things a little started..CHA was a whirlwind. Jen, my mom, Ed and I drove down on sunday and drove back on tuesday. In between we met a lot of really nice, really crafty folks, ate some really good food. I'd never had the red clam chowder before..omg. Love it! Thanks to the Crab Cooker and Carole, in Newport Beach...:) Ed and I demoed for CHA in their premier Indie Craft Innovations booth. Me thinks there is a lot of work to do to make this a thriving section..but there is certainly enough talent to make it happen! :)

Well..I have to keep it short today..off to job 3. I'll post more later..and if you're in the San Francisco area..Ed and I will be hosting another demo at Cliff's Variety Store in the Castro, from 1-3..tomorrow! Hope to see you there!

Come Make a Tote

2009-01-29T08:52:00.001-08:00

CHA Bound

2009-01-24T18:25:00.000-08:00

Hi everybody! Well, I'm off to CHA..for the annual craft trade show extravaganza. I won't be there with Stewart this year, another part of the cut back..but I am road tripping it down there with Ed and my mom and sister. Ed and I are demoing for the Indie Craft CHA booth, once on Monday from 3-4 and then on Tuesday from 11-12. We'll be stenciling like mad people..like we are! :) We get to look around and meet and greet the rest of the time. I'm looking foward to see what everybody's up to this year! With less money it's time to get really creative!! So, I'll shall post pictures when I get back..I leave you with this digi piece I did of my grandma and one of my favorite Maya Angelou poems..peace!

at last...

2009-01-21T05:53:00.000-08:00

I missed this last night..but thank goodness for YouTube! A perfect song, a perfect night..the perfect beginning to a new era! :)

44

2009-01-19T16:15:00.000-08:00

because today is a new day, and a day to rejoice in change!

My New Hero

2009-01-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

So this last weekend we went to go see the Tsunami Bomb reunion/benefit show. I hate to admit that I had never seen TB in concert before. Rats. They rock! They are totally broken up now..and in several different bands..but the lead singer! Emily Whitehurst..OMG!! She's my new hero. She totally rocks. I love live music..definitely don't go often enough..but when I do, it just awakens this certain part of my creative. I don't know why I haven't made this connection before..but I've been lingering in this purgatory of the old year meeting the new year..and I just needed something to stir things up! This show did it! The first band that played is Em's new band, the Action Design. A little bit punk, a little bit Missing Persons..a lot bit Awesome! so inspired..:) Check them out if you love yourself some punk rock, rock..or just treat yourself to your favorite tunes..and stand back as the creativity starts to flow..:)

Mother's Guilt

2009-01-16T08:51:00.001-08:00

I know I've posted this picture before..but I just dropped Lucky off at the vet's for his, well, "parenting removal"..and I feel bad. Poor little guy, carted off behind strange doors. and Sylvie's walking around meowing, playing with his toys..where'd my friend go? Um, yeah...I'm such a cat person! meow.

Paris at CHA

2009-01-13T09:07:00.001-08:00

I had to borrow this post from The Perez Hilton..OMG! I had heard that Paris wanted to follow in Martha's footsteps...

When it comes to business, Paris Hilton is certainly crafty…literally!

At the Craft & Hobby Association 2009 Winter Convention & Trade Show in Anaheim later this month, Miss Hilton will be unveiling her own line of craft kits called "Paris Hilton, the Creative Collection."

Yes, really.

The collection is touted as "a multi-faceted line of fashion crafting kits from some of the most popular craft segments including scrapbooking, jewelry making and fabric embellishment."

Paris will be on hand January 25th for an hour between 2 and 3:00 for photos and autographs, of course!

[Image via WENN.}

Kitties Turn

2009-01-06T08:39:00.001-08:00

a few new kitty pictures for the new year..by their request. :)

Sneaky Sylvie tries to pack herself in with my necklaces, the night before the Holiday Craftacular.

the cute couple sunning themselves in the frontroom..

oh Lucky..how he loves to rest his tired chin..

Big daddy Mac..this is MY desk..

do I need a caption?

Happy New Year..or see ya, 08!

2008-12-31T07:06:00.001-08:00

I thought today would be appropriate to thank 2008 for being a year of happenings. Here are just a few shots of the many things I will remember this year for, with a special thank you to everyone that helped make it all happen. Many good wishes and happy thoughts for the coming year..2009 will be just fine!

Starting the year off with a little SF action..lobby at Hotel Tomo following the Frog Brigade show at the Fillmore.

This was the year I joined the Petaluma Craft Mafia and started to put my work together for selling to the public..yipes! ;)

A shot of my table at the PCM's inaugural craft show, Craftaluma!

My girl Mandy and her fam headed back to the east coast in February..tears. I miss the Heck out of them!!

Mandy and Lexi's pedicure...awww...

We also lost Zoe this year...one reason our two new kitties are indoor cats. We miss this little cantankerous cat everyday!

a candid of my first in person meeting with Ed from Stencil 1..this was at CHA Summer in Chicago..

same cha..meeting Jen Perkins..she's a doll!!

came back from CHA to do a kidsfest at Flax, in San Francisco, look at those cute little stamping dimples!

My run in the city continued with a room at the Hotel Des Arts for New Art 08..need a cheap place to stay in the city? This hotel is soooo arty!

Mom and I at the Obamathon...Yes we did!

A happy spokecard customer at the Sacramento Craft Mafia's Craftoberfest!

My love and I enjoying some Gabby La La at the Holiday Craftacular!

a friendly reminder..let's fight the H8 in 2009!!

Stencil 1 Contest

2008-12-29T08:56:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays and Holy Cow! You must check out the Stencil 1 Blog..leave a comment on the newest post, about how you would put Stencil 101 to use, and you may just win an autographed copy!! Contest ends January 21st..How Would you use this book??

Craftacular Pictures 08

2008-12-23T09:17:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pictures from the Holiday Craftacular 08! Thank you Jen! I've posted more on http://rocknrollcrafts.blogspot.com/.

Happy Holidays

2008-12-22T08:38:00.001-08:00

Jen and I had the opportunity yesterday to spend the day in SF with Ed..we had a great time! Love all of the second hand clothing shops..I'm a hat freak. They never fit me right, but I always have to do runway when I see the rack! Ed got his cam out and got this pic of us in our favs from Wasteland.

and..if you're wondering where I've been. Oy. So the craftacular was awesome! We had a great time, sold some stuff and listened to some great music. Had an email on sunday that my full time job, and salary, are getting cut to part time. Panic. So the econ "crisis" hits home and I'm evaluating. Do I keep hustling and arting to make my living? Should I get a real job to pay my bills and just art in my spare time? Right at this moment I feel like I have a choice..

I'm open to suggestions..too. ;)

Craftacular Success

2008-12-15T09:51:00.001-08:00

So, the Holiday Craftacular was a huge success..lots of people, crafts and fun! plus a little bit of caffiene and sugar. Perfect day! I have many stories, pictures and crafts to share..and as soon as I get some of the fantastic pictures back from Jen..they will be here for you to peruse! For now, a little feline reminder from Lucky!

Today is The Petaluma Mafia Holiday Craftacular

2008-12-13T06:22:00.000-08:00

Well, today is the day. I didn't think I would have time to post, but my dear husband woke me up an hour earlier than I wanted..so, here I am. Everything is packed and ready to go! Today is going to be a whirlwind..but the fun kind, I hope! :) I'll have pics, and let you know how everything goes! Wish me luck....

Holiday Craftacular..Tomorrow!

2008-12-12T07:19:00.000-08:00

i spiLLed coffee in the Keyboard
typing not possibLe
see you saturday

Two days to go...the heat is on!

2008-12-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

no time today for the a spotlight..here's the poster again!! See you saturday..;)

Three.e.e.e.e days to go-Spotlight Etsy

2008-12-10T07:10:00.000-08:00

Etsy
Buy Handmade
sisterowl

Today's spotlight is on Etsy. For those of you not familiar with this most awesome site..well, it's just about one of the greatest places online. This site features artwork from crafters all over the world..ranging from those promoting their full time business's to those who just like to make stuff and try to sell it. A lot of the vendors at the Petaluma Holiday Craftacular, peddle their wares on etsy. Be sure to check them out even after the show!!

Holiday Craftacular in only FOUR days

2008-12-09T10:09:00.000-08:00

You'd think I'd be freaking out a little bit..just a bit. But I'm feeling pretty good. I was going through my 'stock' yesterday with the sis..and man, do I have a lot to bring! Paintings, t-shirts, jewelry, greeting cards, magnets, spokecards...oy. Plus all the stencils, paints and sprays. I think we'll have a good day. These are a couple of the new jewlery pieces I've been working on. Love combing metals, chains and german minis!!

I'm also going to be spraying shirts on demand. If you bring me a pre washed t shirt of sweathshirt, tote bag..I'll spray it with your choice of Stencil 1 stencil-for only 5 bucks. Don't have a shirt you want to embellish? I'll have some blanks to spray as well! :)

remember....December 13th 11-5, Holiday Craftacular!!

Cinco days till Craftacular

2008-12-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Nailed 'Em - Radical Knitting

Colbert at Christmas
Colbert Christmas DVD

Green Screen
Bill O'Reilly Interview

I had planned on the 5th day left before the show, showcasing some of the new stuff I've been working on. Well, I saw this video this morning. It's Hilarious. Especially for crafters, knitters..the fibre fans. So, enjoy the clip..I'll be back tomorrow with fabulous pictures..:)

1 day less than a week to go!

2008-12-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

Although he was a bit disappointed that the Holiday Craftacular is not the Holiday Catacular, as originally believed, Mac is still giving his full endorsement for the event. Please join us December 13th, from 11-5, for a day full of holiday hi-jinx, crafty mischief and feline fun! ;)

One week and counting...til the Holiday Crafactular!

2008-12-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

So, one week from today and the Petaluma Craft Mafia Holiday Craftacular will be here! Hooray!! There is so much going on..we have over fifty vendors, and counting! Three bands, treats and decorations..it's sure to be a blast!
Today, I want to give a shout out to one of my favorite sponsors..Stencil 1. As I type, Ed is stenciling away at his book release party in Brooklyn. If you live close enough to go..then I'm jealous..but Go! You can pick up a copy of Stencil 101, make your own cool stencil art and meet the man himself, stencil guru..Ed Roth! Can't beat that.

Now, if you're more local to my hometown..you can pick up some of his stencils and goodies at the Craftacular. I'll have some of his line for sale, plus we have a bunch of Stencil 1 raffle prizes! Well, I better get back to my craftin'..

Can' Wait..only 8, days to go

2008-12-05T08:56:00.001-08:00

Today's spotlight is on a local Petaluma restaurant, Velasco's. They make the best Mexican food in town! Love 'em! Quite generously, Velasco's has donated a gift certificate for our raffle..dinner for two! ;) With the price of admission, you'll get one free ticket..and you can buy as many as you like for only a dollar a piece! We have other raffle prizes from Chronicle Books, Stencil 1, Rusty Pickle, Petaluma Art & Earth..plus many more from the show vendors themselves..and even moi!! See you there!

Nine Days till Craftacular

2008-12-04T08:13:00.000-08:00

Nine days to go, and a quiet hush can be heard over the hills of Petaluma, as preperations start to hit their final stages. I have just a few more days before I hit, 'Well, ready or not...here I come"..:) Today's spotlight is on another vendor from the show, located in beautiful Sonoma County, Pink Persimmon.

I snarfed these pictures from their website, which is to die for cute! This is a clear stamp company that features imagery including gnomes, elves, mushrooms, deer and Owls! For the Craftacular they are going to be doing some kind of make and take demo..you won't want to miss it, I know I don't! ;)

Top Ten Days till Craftacular-ness!

2008-12-03T14:45:00.001-08:00

Goodie goodie bags..to the first 50 attendees at the impending Craftacular! These little goodies from Martin Meyers are just one of the many things included in the free handouts! I just love these german minis..they are just great for cards, jewelry, collage..you name it. These are just a few of the projects that I've put together in the past using the flatback minis. To die for.
Only 10 days to Craftacular Madness!! See you then! ;)

11 days to Craftacular-Spotlight Gabby

2008-12-02T05:58:00.001-08:00

With just eleven days to go, that's just one week and four days..:) I'm spotlighting one of our musical acts, Gabby LaLa. My husband and I first saw her perform at a New Year's show with the Les Claypool Fancy Band. It was at the Fillmore in San Francisco, if I remember correctly..anyhow, I do remember her..she came out on to the stage in a tiger mask and tap danced her opening rythym..she started singing her song about the Butter and Eggs day parade, a Petaluma Hometown annual, and I was hooked. So kooky and fun, entertainment at it's purest. Well, she not only is performing at the Craftacular, but she will also have a booth of her craft goodies! This is one part of the show I absolutely cannot wait for!! :)

this is a little doodle I did after the last time my husband and I went to see her perform..

12 days of Craftacular

2008-12-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

Oh boy oh boy..there are only 12 days left until the Petaluma Mafia Made Holiday Craftacular! Picture the after shave reaction from Home Alone..that's me! I thought I would highlight a different aspect of the show, on each of the last 12 days left..so today, from the archives, one of the many sponsors for our raffle. That's right, raffle. We've rounded up a bunch of raffle prizes, local goodies, crafting supplies, homemade crafties..the gamut of what the PCM has to offer.

For today, we have two sets of mini Scor-Bords to give away. These are from our wonderful sponsor Scor-it. This tool is great for any cardmaker, scrapbooker..or just anyone who likes to fold things on a perfectly scored line..;) Here are some pictures from my archives of the Tag Bag Project, using the Scor it;

Thanks Giving

2008-11-27T08:24:00.000-08:00

many thanks and universal blessings..to my health, my husband, my family and friends, my kittens and my craft..and to everyone reading..Thank you and Happy Holiday!

Countdown to Craftacular

2008-11-21T08:44:00.000-08:00

Well the countdown has most certainly already begun..can I believe the Holiday Craftacular is less than a month away? Noo!! but...Yesss! I've already finished my tags for the first 50 Giveaway. I used the Deer Stencil from Stencil 1....

You've got your copy of the Stencil 1 book already, right? If you're waiting for Santa, I hear he has already placed a copy in our hourly raffle for the Craftacular...

I added little bit of red glass glitter for his nose..tied in the red from the ribbon, and Voila! Holiday to from tag! Remember the Petaluma Craft Mafia Holiday Craftacular is December 13, 2008 from 11-5..at the Petaluma Vets Hall, right next to the Bowling Alley!! I'll be posting some more pics of the products and things I'll be selling...like the Stencil 1 stencils, I'll be spraying custom t shirts, artwork..oh so much!! Hope to see you there!

Fight the Hate

2008-11-14T07:42:00.000-08:00

with country wide protest..because discrimination is wrong..and changing our constitution to bias against anyone, well that's wrong too.

Crafting for Fun!

2008-11-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

I took a day last week to have some fun. My grandmother hasn't been feeling well, the grip of old age is upon her. But she just loves to have company and brightens up when the grandkids come around. On our last visit, she recieved a nice gift from my sister..from her boyfriend's mom. She then lamented how hard it is to find nice thank cards to send out, especially since she doesn't get out of the house easily. So I took last friday to just sit down and make some cards. This is still my favorite form of crafting.

Stencil 1 Bird stencil, Basic Grey background paper, American Crafts rub ons, Dreamweaver Stained glass stencil, hand doodles in Sharpie and chalk inks from Stewart Superior.

Dreamweaver peacock background stencil, K and Co background paper, Rooster Stamp from Inkadinkado (I think), and all inks from Stewart Superior.

Dreamweaver Stained glass Stencil, which was an after thought..thought I had to do it After I dropped my inkpad directly on the card and left a huge brown mark. :) All the bits of ephemera were cut from background paper by Making Memories. All inks from Stewart Superior.

This one is all paper and adhesive gems..:)

Happy Dance

2008-11-05T08:34:00.001-08:00

I'm going to be busy all day today, doing a happy dance. First for the Best reason of all..we said Yes we can..and Yes we did!! It's a little surreal for me this morning, but I know I'll get used to it! Used to good things happening again..the eight years of fear are almost over..and I can't wait for the next eight!..and I am SUPER excited to have this poster from Cheryl!! The Petaluma Mafia Made Holiday Craftacular is Official..look at this Awesome poster Cheryl designed!! LOVE it!! I'm so excited for this show! I'll be posting projects and updates as the show nears..but let me just tell you, this is not the show to miss! We'll have another collection of some of the kitchiest crafters this side of Austin, plus Gabby La La!! I can't wait!!!

Rock the vote

2008-11-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

I'm off to go Rock my Vote! Love me some stickers...you know.
Let's keep the Hope alive! :)

Lucky Licks his Lips

2008-10-21T09:02:00.001-07:00

watch...you'll laugh. it's a good laugh. we all need one of those! :)

Lucky Size Nine

2008-10-20T10:39:00.001-07:00

I've been so busy lately, haven't had time for kitty pictures. I caught this one of Lucky sleeping on the shelves in my laundry room. Aww..isn't he cute? I took the funniest video of him yesterday..it's going up on to my youtube page tomorrow! :) Here's a lil' pic of Lucky's older sister..

the two of them love to snuggle and clean on their toy, in the window...

still and always my baby, mac jr...

Hi Mom

2008-10-17T10:25:00.001-07:00

just a shout out to my momma, who loves Obama...Thank you for ALL of your help, love and support! You are my Star! :) Love you!!

Craftober Review

2008-10-15T09:25:00.001-07:00

I'm finally getting back on the ball...long weekend, sister in living in town, beautiful fall weather..so many distractions from the computer! :) But I'm back with pictures from this last weekend's Sacramento Craft Mafia Craftoberfest...Ali, Cheryl and I headed up to J and 20th streets, to the News and Review parking lot, to show off our goods and hang with our Mafia cousins..

While we were finishing up the set up, this biker showed up with spokecards! I've been making these, from Ed's suggestion,..they are too fun! A little cardstock and a laminator and you're ready to go! I've made Obama ones, Frankenstien ones, this gentleman bought a smoosh one! They are toooooo fun! He let me get a picture..after I jumped up and yelled..Somebody who knows what spokecards are for...his answer- "For fun!". Love it!

This bike belongs to a patient momma waiting for her daughter to get her face painted. I saw the bike and ran over...can I get pictures?? She laughed, said yes and told me the bike would be signing autographs at 3...

One thing about outdoor shows...the WIND is a killer. Look at all of Ali's embroidery whipping around..it was crazy! I spent one hour just standing up holding on the tent so that it wouldn't fly away..:)

Obamathon, all night long..well, till 9, for me

2008-10-09T16:36:00.001-07:00

This friday night at the Verdi Club in San Francisco, I'll be spraying my lil ol heart out...for Obama! I'll be at the Obamathon
from 5-9pm, spraying your own prewashed t shirt and selling spokecards, posters, Stencil 1 stencils and sprays! Come by and boogie down!

Saturday the 11th, I'll be in Sacaramento for the Craftoberfest! From 10-4pm I'll be with my Petaluma Mafia girls..selling our handmade wares. Hope to see you there!

She's coming back!

2008-10-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited because my sister and her beau are finally moving back to our part of the world. Here are a few pictures, commemorating the almost 5 years they spent out there..and the more than a few times I was able to visit..Look out for much fun and mayhem to come!! ;)

Poster Art

2008-09-30T07:56:00.000-07:00

I was tripping around google yesterday, looking for Hotel des Arts pictures, when I stumbled upon this site , the Obama Art Report. They had done a little post/advertisement for the New art 08 show..anyhow, they had a really neat post on this other website called Poster Offensive. They have a host of great politcal posters that are available to download and print out..these are a few of my fav's..

Newman's Own

2008-09-29T11:31:00.001-07:00

I wanted to cut a stencil to honor Mr. Paul Newman's life..but it still isn't coming out right. So, instead I thought I would digitize him on the atc backgrounds I posted a few posts back...here are just a few of the great pictures available of him online..I have to say that there are quite a few things I have always admired about this man; his liberal views, his catalog of great movies, his line of popcorn..but mostly, the relationship that was projected between he and his wife. I sometimes struggle with my codependancy, I'm getting better as I get older..but I'm often reminded of the relationship between Paul Newman and his wife Joanne Woodward. I heard her say one time that one of the strengths in their own relationship was that they each had different interests. She loves stage plays..he loves racing. So they would both go out and have these different experiences and then bring the stories back to share with each other. I love that.

I found all of these pics on google.. I guess the story on this last one is that this was one of the few races that Joanne actually went to (that's her in the background in the hat)..could that be the reason behind the especially happy grin??

Holy sheet music, batman

2008-09-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

I was playing around last night with my newly cut Bodega French Laundry Stencil, on some scraps of background papers that I have laying around...:) Whatcha think?

Cupcake Thanks

2008-09-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to my blogging friend Diane
for passing along the sweetest of little awards..check out where it originated from http://dianaevans.blogspot.com/. This made me pause for a minute to think of the most delicious cupcakes EVER, from Letizia's Bakery in Chicago.

If you're ever on Division, just past Damen..get the chocolate cupcake with the raspberry buttercream..you won't regret it! and here are a few sweet blogs...

Stencil 1
The Naughty Secretary
Moxieville
Jeremy Lawson Photography
Ashley Rose

Hotel Des Arts New Art O8-I survived!

2008-09-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

So I've had a day to rest..which I needed, bad! Mom and I had such a great time at the show..I took this picture whilst waiting for the car to park..Willie Brown pulled up in a limo and an eggplant colored jacket while I was standing there, that was pretty funny. All in all, it was a great day. Imagine an entire, tiny, hotel, covered in art and artists and art appreciators. There was a roof 'courtyard' right outside out two windows, and there was a dj playing music in one of the rooms across from us. I think I described it as a commune on steroids..but it didn't smell bad! :) but seriously, it was a ton of fun. The energy was great..the people were fun and funny..I can't wait to do it again! I'm posting more pictures on rocknrollcrafts and stencil 1!

New Art 08

2008-09-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

So I've been a mad woman as of late...I'm getting ready for the New Art 08 show, next wednesday, at Hotel Des Arts in San Francisco. I just said, out loud, to my mom and sister..just a mere few months ago, that I wanted to do an art show in the city..and guess what...now I am. I've collaborated with Ed at Stencil 1, to bring some fabulous stenciled wall art, cards, t shirts, spoke cards...whatever I can get completely done by next wednesday!! :) Here's a sneaky sneak preview of some of the card sets I'll be bringing!

Power to the Peaceful

2008-09-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

a little music for today...This is Michael Franti and Spearhead on YouTube..:)

Welcome to the Dollhouse Minis

2008-09-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be contributing to yet another blog!! http://dorisdotz.blogspot.com/ Hooray! This time I get to play with miniatures. Here's a fun project featuring their Mertens figures and some mini veggie crates! I added little bit of Palette metallic ink to the crates for a fun rustic look..

These are the Mertens figurines...they are Tiny! http://dorisdotz.blogspot.com/2008/07/vintage-germany-tiny-tiny-figures-just.html

atc Backgrounds

2008-08-26T13:46:00.001-07:00

I picked up some illustration board atc's, back when I did the first Kidsfest at Flax. Turns out the surface is great with the mists..you can do some fun smoosh effects, solid backgrounds with neon splashes..a whole host of fun stuff. I used the pink one for the above piece..added a little bit of digi art and some type..

Here are four fun backgrounds that I welcome you to save, print out and use in your own art! I, of course, would love to see what you come with!! :)

Inka-licous

2008-08-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

I challenged myself to use as many of the ink products as possible on this card. So, here I started with three pieces of white cardstock, three chipboard shapes, two metal corner embellishments and a white card. I sprayed the purple/gold backgrounds with the Mists, using a dreamweaver fleur de lis stencil, one of my faves. The bird and the heart are embossed with Memories pigment ink and three layers of clear embossing enamel. The flourish was covered with the Black Stamp and Stick Gluepad, heated and then covered with Copper metal leafing. The metal embellishments were tinted blue with the Palette hybrid ink in Cote d'azure..what do you think?

And another big thank you to Diane, http://dianesmixedart.blogspot.com/, she has awarded me with another blogging award. This one is the Blogging Friends Forever Award, she got it from Sephi at http://nightowldesigns.blogspot.com/. Love your pics Sephi! The rules of the award are - (1) Only 5 people allowed. (2) 4 have to be dedicated followers of your blog. (3) One has to be someone new or recently new to your blog and live in another part of the world. (4) You must link back to whoever gave you the award. So, I'd like to pass this one on to Moxieville, http://moxieville.blogspot.com/, Jen, http://jennyelwick.blogspot.com/, Jen Perkins, http://naughtysecretaryclub.blogspot.com/, Mini John, http://meyer-imports.typepad.com/, and Zeb, http://zeborahloray.blogspot.com/. Check 'em out!!

Canvas Crow

2008-08-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

Here is a small sneak peak at my current project..Mists on canvas..I'm loving these deep edge canvas's..more room for more paint! :) I was going to crop out the messiness of the desk..but I thought it would be fun to include..this is my front room table. This is where I craft when the hubbie is home..tis good to get out of the office every once in a while!

Lucky

2008-08-14T15:33:00.001-07:00

We've been playing hosts to this lil house guest for about a week now. We've been calling him Lucky..won't tell you why, but it's a pretty good reason.. Jen doctored up this photo I took of him trying to do some cleaning. He is the most precious little siamese, with bright blue eyes...here, Sylvie is trying to compete in the who is cuter contest;

the winner is;

Neon Flowers

2008-08-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

A small bouquet of neon coffee filter roses...

Friday Find 003

2008-08-08T11:06:00.001-07:00

and a Happy 8808 to everyone!! I went to my favorite thrift store this morning...they are moving and having a 50% off everything sale! I found this picture album, complete with this family's 1969 vacation to Hawaii. There were a couple of others..but I opened this album and the top photo fell out! Is that expression priceless or what? It was all mine for a 2 dollars and 25 cents...yippee.

Now, I realize I haven't been posting much artwork..seems like I've been doing a lot, but nothing I've been dying to share. I'm working on designing my own line of stencils..I'm open to suggestions..hint..hint..

My husband and I recently spent the afternoon with Ed from Stencil 1, putting together some stenciling footage for a video spot. I'll post that on my youtube page as soon as it's done. Here's a 'behind the scenes' shot of Ed prepping a t shirt;

This is what we made..a fun trio of gifts..a stenciled t-shirt, packaged in a coordinating canvas bag with greeting card..

Flax Kidfest

2008-07-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

This past saturday I attended Kidsfest at Flax in San Francisco. I gave temporary ink tattoos to the childrens...I had a great time!

she just loved her smiley cheek...too cute!

I had a moment or two of no stamping..here's a view of the Chronical Books table where they were making Spoon Puppets..that looked like a lot of fun!

tools of the trade...clear tattoo stamps and some tattoo markers..

This little girl was too cute. She asked me if she could have more than one stamp and I said, sure you can have two, three, four..she says, "My dad said I could have 5..no, I mean, he said I could have 6." and 6 she got..when I asked to take a photo of all her cool tattoos..she made this pose. Reminds me of a young me..always ready to pose..:)

Naughty Secretary and me

2008-07-25T10:54:00.000-07:00

I'm back from CHA, with a few pictures this time, I'm getting better at bringing the camera along. I'll post some pics of me and of the Stencil 1 booth as soon as I get those from the sister. In my camera, I only just had my one excursion trip away from the booth. Much to my surprise, on the way to the Expoteria, I saw the Crafty Chica (also on her way to lunch). I didn't get the chance to chat..but it made me stop and look at the booth she was coming out of. Smart ol' Duncan picked up some of the Hottest Craft Designers to demo in their booth. Jenny Hart, Jennifer Perkins..oy the talent.

I got the chance to sit and make a brooch with the Naughty Secretary..the table was piled high with goodies! I couldn't choose...I wanted to use them all! Jennifer was very nice, sooo funny!

and a little extra time for a picture! Thanks Jen..and I hope to see y'all at the next CHA!

Arte y Pico

2008-07-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

I've just returned from a weeklong trip to Chicago. CHA was a blast! I'll have pictures from that up this weekend! So I'm home now and catching up on messages and emails..and what a very nice surprise from Diane (http://dianesmixedart.blogspot.com), an award...Oh my. Here are the details, and my list of awardies at the bottom! Thank you Diane! You inspire me too!

The Arte y Pico Award is meant to be paid forward to five bloggers who you want to recognize for their creative talents, interesting material, and overall contribution to the blogger community...helping to make the world a better place, one blog pots at a time!Now it's your turn...If you have been selected for the award, please pay it forward, following the steps below:1) Choose 5 blogs that you consider deserving of this award based on creativity, design, interesting material, and overall contribution to the blogger community, regardless of the language.2) Post the name of the author and a link to his or her blog so everyone can view it.3) Each award-winner has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the award.4) The award-winner and the presenter should post the link of the "Arte y pico" blog so everyone will know the origin of this award.5) Please post these rules! - Be my guest to copy and paste from here..The Arte y Pico blog is in Spanish.To read it in English, click here. The translation is not perfect.
The blogs I have selected are:
1. Jenny Elwick, http://jennyelwick.blogspot.com/
2. Jeremy Lawson, http://jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm
3. Petaluma Craft Mafia, http://petalumacraftmafia.blogspot.com/
4. Zeborah, http://zeborahloray.blogspot.com/
5. Ashley Rose, http://ashleyrosehelvey.blogspot.com/

Petaluma today, Chicago tomorrow

2008-07-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow early morning, I head to Chicago. So I thought I should leave the week to my kitties..enjoy and I'll post ya when I get back! :)

a lil' morning snuggle and photo shoot..

...LOVE this picture of him...

stolen moment..for sure..they both took off as soon as they heard the camera "snap"..I was lucky to get even this one..

2008-07-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

I'm getting everything ready for CHA..and I ran across some pics of a very little me. This one makes me so nostalgic. I could just cry. I just love my Dad to pieces...I might be saying in this one..."Whoa...where'd all that curly hair come from?"..oh, and the candlestick..yup, Microphone!

Memories Mists Vivids

2008-07-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

Ta-da...here's the newest release of colors for the Memories Mists! They are all vivid, neon colors that work on light and dark papers and fabrics. They are more opaque than the originals and thus take a little bit longer to dry..but boy o boy..they ARE worth the wait. I've been having fun pairing them with the og colors, the metallics..and of course..my stencils! Too much fun!

I'm heading to CHA next week. Stewart isn't going to have a booth..but I will be there with Ed from Stencil 1. It's his first CHA..I'm just there to help and support and schmooze..what I do best. :) If I don't post for a week..that's why. BUT..my sister will be there, so I will have lots of pictures..so check back! and have a great week!

So You Think you Can Dance?

2008-07-07T10:34:00.001-07:00

I know I can't dance..but I can stencil! I got this email from Ed at Stencil 1..this shirt Gev is wearing is made with Stencil 1 images! Uh Oh..time to go make one for myself!

Random PIc Day

2008-07-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

everybody get random, random...

yes..that is an mtv macrophone..he just loves his karoake..

bff's

George 2, because one day is not enough

2008-06-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

I had the great honor to meet George Carlin just a few years ago. He did a book signing at Copperfields, in advance of a Luther Burbank show. In fact, after that trip was when he entered re-hab..always thought a bender in Napa might have put him over the brink. That or the crack...but, really, he was such a nice man! OMG..the things people will say to a famous man, it was fun just to stand on line and hear him interact. He told the teenage boy in front of me that he ought to lighten up a little. I think the kid was in awe. I mean, George f-in Carlin. In person. In Petaluma. When it was my turn, he called me Butterfly Girl because of a barrette I had in my hair. I think I made some crack to him about the mute boy before me..I don't really remember..I too was in awe.

Here's a link to one of my all time favorites, the differences between Football and Baseball..classic!

http://www.baseball-almanac.com/humor7.shtml

Bye, George

2008-06-23T07:56:00.001-07:00

" Is there another word for synonym?"

Friday Find 002

2008-06-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

Folk art platter; $1.50

Satisfaction of buying the cutest thing ever! Yeah..priceless..