Stamps, Scraps, and Starbucks

Art saves

2011-11-02T12:47:00.001-05:00

Im the guest curator this week on Jen Doh's website.....reading my story might make more sense out of my recent blog absence.....life is different but its becoming oh so much better......its good to start finding yourself even if its through not the best circumstances :)

things on this blog will probably be going in a bit of a different direction. I have always shared happy things in happy times with a smile or a smirk......lately ive been feeling really emotion and that has been connected to what ive been making. Prepare for a little more real life being lived out on here..... Stories matter as much as pretty pictures and techniques in my option so sit back....relax....and prepare for the ride lol

My friend debbie was talking to me about oprahs lifeclass awhile back.....lifeclass sounded interesting....but oprah????? not really my thing. I watched an episode and i was floored. the things coming out of her mouth were literally speaking to my soul. this particular lesson was.....when you know better you do better. simple sweet and powerful. Many times through out my life i have questioned my choices and the path i was on. after watching this show i became more at peace with my previous decissions..... I did the best that i could with what i was given so how could i be mad at myself. Now i know better....I guess i should do better ;)

I wanted this quote up on the wall in my studio as a constant reminder to myself......its a really calming thought for me..... So heres my little canvas board with a swirly flower.....it seemed fitting......

Create what makes you happy :)

New beginnings

2011-10-17T17:27:00.001-05:00

Life's a changin around here.... I just moved!!!! Super excited about that. My studio will be set up in a week.... Being with out it for 5 months was interesting!!! Here a semi step by step of the piece I did commemorating my new found independence..... All iPhone photos so bare with me :)

Take a canvas board and slap some cream paint on it

Apply collage paper with gel medium

Apply antiquing gel around the outside with a paint brush then rub it in with a rag. Water can help smooth it out

Apply more collage elements and glue down

Scribble some portfolio oil pastels

Smudge.... Add some doodling and stamps to help make everything look cohesive

Spray some color wash to make clouds

If youre stamps dont work out so well like mine.... Trace them with a charcoal pencil... Smudge.... And call it a day ;) blend in some vintage photo ink on the edges to further antique it

Add a quote and a bird... This time colored in with a sharpie... And youre done!!!!!
i looked at this when i was done and the proportions made me think of when I was a kid.... What's important is always the biggest when you're little.... Today my flowers were way bigger then my clouds..... Funny how that stuff works out ;)
See u guys soon
Create what makes u happy!!!!

Travel art journaling

2011-09-05T14:10:00.000-05:00

Sooooo i went to Boston way back in july and since then i have planned a travel art journal post....hmm a month in the making it better be good right????? I often do searches on peoples travel journal supplies and i mostly come up empty handed......i can only find water color journal stuff.....What about the all around art journalers????? Here's what i took with me and some commentary on what worked and what didnt :)

Heres my airline approved quart size ziplock bag....i was amazed at how much fit!!!!!

Here are the contents....click pic to enlarge! The tiny golden bottles were awesome...i got some as samples and some i bought in a pack at Michael's i think....i brought white, cobalt teal, naphthol red light, phtalo blue, phtalo green, micaceous iron oxide, quinacridone magenta, yellow ochre, hansa yellow, and black.....I used everything in this bag(minus a few paint colors) and i was glad that i brought it all.

Heres a pic of my carry on bag(purse lol) from the return trip. 2 things were added while i was away....another journal and a travel water cup :)

Misc contents of my bag not otherwise mentioned :) I used everyone of these items.....i would like to find a smaller roll of tape...or make my own....it was bulky.....the bulldog clip is a must....

inside of my carry on was a super cool hello kitty lunchbox that housed all of my random things. this box fit perfectly next to my journal on the plane and it made it easy to find what i needed!!!

Im pretty sure i used all of this at one time or another too.....minus the stamps.....the wad of unlabeled pens and stuff are water brushes, sharpies, siglo white pen, nib pen, paint brushes, and a couple of markers

I always bring a 8 1/2 x 11 page protector filled with random bits with me....i also add random bits to my stack while im gone. there are a few stencils in here, vintage paper, scrapbook paper, mini letter stickers, journal spots, printed words, tags, punchinella etc.......

Technology :) I ended up taking and editing the majority of my pictures on my Iphone.....which is not pictured because its taking the picture lol
Things to add next time:
paper towels.....just a few folded
a washcloth to wipe my brushes
a travel cup....which i bought while i was there
my heat gun....i thought it was bulky but im to impatient to leave home with out it
shipping tags.....totally forgot to add a few of these in
maybe a ranger spray ink or 2..... i kinda missed them.....i was thinking about filling mini misters with them
more gel medium.....that tiny container wasnt enough
things to subtract:
not sure on this one...... i felt kinda good about the variety of things i brought and i used most of it
Lessons learned:
Narrowing down what you use all the time is key.....bring what makes you happy (even if it is too much ).....make a mess on the airplane.....it starts interesting conversations with strangers....journaling with your friends in utter silence is pretty much priceless......those moments stick with you :)

What do you bring with u on the road???? what are your must haves???? I would love to see some pictures!

Hmmmm Lets play catch up shall we????

2011-07-24T11:33:00.000-05:00

This has been a crazy summer which apparently equals me being a crappy blogger....i have lots to share and say and no time to post.....Ill work on it i promise!!!!!

My trip was amazing.....i have a million ideas swimming in my head.....Its crazy how much inspiration one person can get in 5 days :) My idea book(and my suitcase) are bursting!!!!
Saturday night I flew in to boston to visit my friend cheryl and thought my friend debbie was coming up the the next day....SURPRISE debbie was in the car at the air port.....It made me sooooo happy :) Getting in at midnight kinda sucked though.....Debbie and I art journaled until the sun came up.....LITERALLY

.....Some times you just need another person next to you making pretty things to be inspired :)

Totally loved this little cafe in downtown Lowel!!! So much fun :) The soy latte was amazing....and so was the decor.....so bright and cheery!!!!

U make me happy!!!!!

Out side the working artist lofts

Graffiti by fenway park in boston
Next post is seafood and beach time and then a lengthy post on travel journaling!!!! Almost all of these pics were taken and edited with my iphone :)

Never dull backgrounds

2011-06-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This was so fun...pt 2 will be up tomorrow!!!!

Create happiness

2011-05-25T13:51:00.000-05:00

my biggest motto in life is "create what makes you happy" I figured today I would explain what that really means to me.

A few months ago my answer would have been pretty simple. If you create it and it makes you feel good then its perfect. Not everything you make is museum worthy, AND THATS OK! I make alot more crap than i would like to admit. But shhhhhhh dont tell anyone lol

Today this statement means alot more to me. I want to do more that create THINGS that make me happy. I want to create a life and a lifestyle that makes me happy. I want to wear purple tights in the middle of summer.........I want to get hot pink dreads........I wanna travel the world......all while making pretty things that truly make me happy :)

Last week a spent some time at a friends house. Her front entry area really makes me happy!!!! It has a new orleans feel to it. The vines are sooooo awesome. I have some strange fascination with ivy......

We strung lights to make it even happier

Delilah thought it was pretty too

I set up all my journal stuff outside in this little sanctuary

I had Pandora radio playing in the background....If you like laid back happy art music type in new soul in the search bar :) Its an amazing mellow mix.....great to journal too!!!!!

My baby got tired about an hour in

Then she just crawled in my lap and i painted around her lol

This journaling session was one of the most peaceful times in my life. I was content....all that i need in life was around me(well except for genghis)
Ill take some real pics of the journal page tomorrow.....all of these pics were taken with my iphone :)

reflections

2011-05-17T15:58:00.000-05:00

Every year inspired has been something different to me. It always meets my current needs (emotionally and artistically) In the right way. I guess its strange to go to an art event and gain emotional stability??? It makes sense though..... I often feel like these people are the only people who really "get" me...... The true me straight to my soul. I don't usually share very personal stuff on here but today i feel like its appropriate.

Year one: going in to the experience i was excited beyond belief......ready to learn new things.....and scared to death by the amount of people i was going to encounter( groups make me nervous) I roomed with 2 wonderful strangers and laughed for hours. There was alot of people there with drama which was a little crazy since i was coming to leave the drama. But in the end it didn't really effect me. I played, learned some new things, and talked to about 10 people. The last day after the final dinner i met a stranger. We talked for maybe 15-20 min and have been friends ever since. In that short time I knew that we "got" each other and we have talked pretty regularly for the past 2 years. Lorrie i think you're awesome and Im glad you're in my life. You always share new things and get my creative juices flowing! Youre an amazing artist and Im glad i get to look at a pretty girl made by you all the time!

Year two. I won a free trip so i was super excited about that.....ready to learn more but not as concerned with it.......and still scarred to death of strangers. I decided to rent a car this year and somehow got the courage to post in the message board asking if someone wanted to shop with me. This was totally out of character for me......stranger danger!!! I waited outside for this lady to arrive that i knew nothing about, secretly praying that she was semi normal, not mean, and wouldnt kill me. Up walks Cheryl, smiling, bubbly, and talking a million miles an hour. "stranger danger" instantly turned into "holy crap, we were meant to be friends for life". Through out the week we shared deeply personal stories with each other. She is one of the wisest people i know and I always learn something amazing from her. We still talk all the time. Cheryl words cannot express how much you mean to me. You always help me on the right path and say the perfect thing at the time i need them. I am so grateful that you are a part of my life. This year I also got to know Donna on a more personal level. She is one of the few people i follow that fuels my creative fire exponentially...... all the time. Shes also an amazing person. She is very smart in both life and art. Im glad to call her my friend. Donna introduced me to this sweet and spunky blond collage artist this year too. Debbie mac is a happy and fun loving creative soul. i decided to switch to their group and I was sooooo glad I did. Debbie's art amazes me. She is also a wise and amazing woman. We talk all the time via skype, showing off projects and new products and talking about everything under the sun. Debbie you always make me laugh even when things are rough. You always tell me how things are even when i dont want to hear it. You make me want to be a better artist and your words are always encouraging. You mean the world to me!!!! With cheryl and debbies help i think i talked to 20 stranger this year :)

Year three......I had no emotions and all emotions......Life was in upheaval and i just wanted to see my friends...... I needed a break from life and inspired happened at the perfect moment. From the jump i decided that strangers weren't scary and I just talked to everyone. I am seriously glad I did. I met a ton of people...... all put in my life for the right reasons. ~~Some~~ alot made me laugh, some made me cry, and some shared the most poignant words i have ever heard. I got to know people that i had met in passing in years before alot better. I did projects and finished some, but this year wasn't about art and learning about it. It was about me...... It was about figuring out who i am......it was about learning that its ok that people are there for you......it was about conquering my fear of people......it was about amazing women(and 3 amazing men)......it was about strange happenstances and chance meetings with awesome people.......My soul was truly inspired. Im pretty sad this was the last year since i actually figured out i like people lol. I want to see my 200 friends again :) i met too many amazing people this year too list them out, but ill try. Jenny's key note speech touched my soul......Tracie made me laugh hysterically and made me love trash.....Nancy almost made me pee my pants with a story that i had heard a bunch before.........christy was sooooo sweet and her mini was amazing........Margie was bubbly and hilarious.....katie and kelli just make me smile........bill was sweet as ever........Melissa was way better then her predecessor .......ken was awesome and i wish he still lived here........paolo kicked ass a alwayd.......Cari was too busy!!!! :( i wished we could have talked more......Mary-ella talked and listened when i needed it most youre a super amazing lady..... Jamie Your stencils make my day and i cant wait to get to know you more!!.......The people who took my class laughed at my jokes so i love u all lol.........Lolly was sweet as can be and is my neighbor!!!!...........tracys glue makes my world complete..........Debbie and cheryl i cant thank you enough for just being there.........Donna your super awesome and you put on one hell of an event i cant wait to be apart of the next one. Dont be sad if i forgot you youre still super fabulous!!!!!!!

Pictures tomorrow.......if u made it through all of the required reading for today :)
Create what makes you happy
*Bree

Inspired preview

2011-05-15T10:58:00.001-05:00

Art journaling with the masses last night made me soooooo happy!!!! I didnt really take alot of pics. Sorry lorrie :(

Inspired was the awesomest ever this year. So chill so relaxed so perfect at the exact moment i needed it. Everything in life truly happens at the exact moment its suppose to.

Project pics and a few others coming soon! I have intentions on blogging more often now lol.

Create what makes you happy!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

inspired mini workshop update

2011-04-22T17:19:00.000-05:00

This week Ive been working on my mini workshop kits. Here's the breakdown.....

~~200 5" squares to rip~~ (the easy part!)
400 grommets to set ( i dont wanna do it)
~~100 batting squares to cut~~
100 squares to sew(Over half done!)
a mere 25 kits to package(everything is ordered and here!)

Im getting there!!! I will to be 100% done by TONIGHT(maybe???? fingers crossed people) In true ADD fashion while making up the kits this past week i have been playing around with ideas that expand upon the original idea. So fun. Ill post pics of those when i get back :) Some things have to be a surprise....right??? A few people have asked about kits. I will sell what i have left with printed instructions when i get back!!! Im also making up some extra banners and mini books to sell as well(pssst im gonna put them in the super secret etsy shop that i have had but never opened lol)

I leave in 16 days!!!!!!!! I cant freaking wait!!!! If youre going to inspired or youre in the area check out the class link ;)

Playing.... Finally

2011-04-20T17:13:00.002-05:00

I don't know what's been going on but I haven't been in the studio for a while???? I've been working on my inspired mini workshop kits(sporadically) but that's about it. FYI 18 days till I leave!! I'm so excited :) any way today I was watching inspiration wed and I finally got my butt to work. Hot pink bricks of course

Click to show the pics bigger :)

Now what to do with the left over modeling paste???? Um.... Put it on everything lol

I hope this jumpstarts my creativity in a big way!!! I miss play time ;)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

rollin' vintage

2011-03-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

Jeff and i have been taking some road trips lately since i frickin hate it here lol. I told him we should look into rvs.........and he said YES!!!!!! I called my grandparents, who manage an rv park, to have them look around for me. Then i hit up my buddy google. I really super want a vintage one. even if we have to work on it. Ive found a bunch of small trailers online for under $2000 which is totally our price range, fingers crossed and soon ill be traveling the country in STYLE. I belong in a vintage camper :)

Angels

2011-03-17T15:46:00.000-05:00

I've said many times before that I believe that people are put into my life for a reason. Those people know who they are and this picture is for them!!! Big thank you's all around to all the awesome people in my life! Thanks for being you :)

Mighty list

2011-03-13T21:09:00.000-05:00

I am continually amazed by life........Seriously! People, situations, color, texture, kisses, painted toes, friends, blogs, technology. Everything amazes me. I stumbled upon Mighty List Tonight and i was instantly inspired.

Jeff and I talk alot about our wants and dreams. Go here, do this, experience that, basically live life. I like to be spontaneous and kinda fly by my pants, where as jeff likes a little research( but not too much though). I do, although, like a good list!! Mighty list is perfect. 100 things to do before I die. some big some small, all obtainable with out wining the lottery. I love this idea!!! I want the list up in our house some how. I found some ideas here and

Visit thailand (ankor wat) This is cheryl's fault!!!
Find inspiration around me for 30 days
Visit all 392 US national parks(1 down)
Process photos in a dark room
Rock some cool eyeglasses
Find and maintain a healthy weight through clean eating and exercise
Throw pottery
Make a ceramic owl
Go on a movie set
Have a fish pedicure
Ride in a hot pink car
Upload a clear video to you tube that doesnt have the word ok or um in it
See Kathy Griffin live
Journal on a terrace in an Italian villa with a great view
eat sushi in japan
Learn basic web design
see the northern lights
Eat at wd-40
Photography a beach sunset
Have a wardrobe that is really me
put something i make up on etsy
Buy a pair of shoes from irregular choice and rock the hell out of them
Pick sea shells by the sea shore (drift wood too!)
Read 20 classic novels
Submit to a magazine
Come up with a consistent blog format and stick to it for 1 year
Dance with my husband
travel the US in an airstream
Take a donkey ride through the grand canyon
stamp a metal bracelet
go deep sea fishing then eat the fish i catch
Find out how something is made by taking a factory tour
send out 100 hand made cards
Put a piece of my art in every room of our house
make a resin table top
eat king crab in Alaska
Get an amazing reading chair that is comfy and beautiful
Get professional portraits done of myself and my family
Buy and Shoot with a holga and a diana camera
Define my artistic style
Maintain a square foot garden for 2 seasons
Make a quilt by hand
see the rangers play outside of texas
Take self portraits on a teal brick wall
Go to the Smithsonian
art journal daily for 1 month
Run a 5k
buy fabric in New York City
Visit all 7 continents
Finish college
Go to an observatory
Decorate our bedroom
Buy a horse
Paint a face
Spend the night in a castle
sew a purse
Design my own stencils (Jenn's idea!)
Make hand made paper
Figure out photoshop
Celebrate my birthday in a foreign country
Bake 40 kinds of home made bread(Idea here)
Buy and fix up an el camino
Take 100 different self portraits
Get my art friends together for a weekend of fun
start my own business
stay organized
climb a mountain
Watch the little mermaid with my mom
Have a house with a window seat
meet my dad
Visit a volcano
Go whale watching
Play in the rain with a pretty umbrella and rain boots
raise chickens from baby chicks
Take a photography class
Make a bright happy granny square blanket
Ride in a double decker bus
Cook out of Julia childs book while pretending im Julie from Julie and Julia Keep a Photo record of the experience
Learn spanish
Get pin up photos taken
Print out happy thoughts and place them in a jar
Collect dirt, water, sand, rocks, or shells in jars from 20 different places
Knit a pair of socks
Stay on a dude ranch
Quit smoking
Put my pictures on dvds and an external hard drive
Go on a cruise
Go to a drive in movie in a convertible with jeff
Take photos with my sister
Sit on the beach in hawaii
Visit a winery
Photograph a peacock
Send a package to a soldier
Watch hot air balloons from the ground(where its safe)
Make an outfit
Have pink hair again
Wrap all Christmas presents with hand made paper
swim in crystal clear ocean water(so i can watch for sharks YIKES)
own a vintage cursive typewriter......and write a poem on it
Record my grandma singing "my sing story" so i can have it forever
Witness a foreign ceremony
Jump on a trampoline
make home made candy
Visit a coffee farm
Be in the audience of the Ellen show
Stamp leather
Backpack some where for more then 3 days

Well thats more then a 100 and I might add more!!!! Make a list.......and do it.

Create what makes you happy

Happy accident!!!

2011-03-13T08:00:00.005-05:00

Edited

Sorry if my pics are getting boring......at least im blogging right????? Heres my super awesome happy accident from yesterday. I didnt edit the colors at all some how my sky turned out turquoise!!!! OMG i was freaking out with excitement. Little things amaze me!!!! My co worker said she wanted to buy a print :)

Night photography??? sounds easy enough

2011-03-12T17:15:00.000-06:00

Last night my lens (Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens, if youre interested) came in way freaking late...... 7pm after sun set which was kinda crappy. But we decided to drive around and take some night photos. New Zoom lens......check
tripod........check
new found camera knowledge.......double check!!!!!
moon light......check
creepy church....check

took about 60 pics and i liked these 8....... again they are completely unedited!!!!


weird lighting created burning leaves lol

I like this one even with the bad lighting too


Messing with the white balance and i got this		creepy blue glow!!!!!!

Blue glow= awesome church

Messing with zoom not what i wanted but its a work in progress

Best pic of the night in my opinion!!!!

creepy and i like it

I really like this one too cus of the glow at the bottom.....i need to fix the orientation on it

M is for Makes you work harder

2011-03-10T20:10:00.000-06:00

Heres a little back story. I LOVE pictures! Duh, right? So 3 years ago I ~~conned~~ asked my husband for a dSLR camera. I end up with a cannon rebel xti thats pretty awesome. Up until last year the thing had never been off AUTO. For the last year its been on av (i had no idea what that meant, mind u. It just caused blurry backgrounds some times, which i like) I did not turn a dial or press any button while in av mode either, so it was kinda an auto mode for me too. Sad but true people. 3 years of a fancy shmancy camera that i was using as a heavy point and shoot. Alot of times i would go places and leave it at home. I would go months with out taking pics, cus they all just looked ok. Basically the thing confused me. The manual was a joke. I was at a loss. I pretty much hated the camera. I had no clue how it worked or what the bleep f/stop and all that crap meant. NO MORE I SAY!!!

First off my awesome friend mac told me about Magic lantern dvds. Basically this guy goes through your manual and explains EVERYTHING. this helped a ton. i now know what all of those crazy buttons do and kinda when to use them!!!! My mom and I spent 3 hours at the book store tues perusing photography books. We ended up buying The complete guide to digital photography by Steve Luck It explained sooooooooooooooo much. I now know the differance between f/stop, shutter speed, iso and depth of field. I think? Lets just say were working on it!!!!!

Wenesday we went out to the park to hone our skills. I ended up taking about 300 pics. 50 were in focus and looked pretty good!!!!!!!! That alone made my day :) I now feel like theres hope for me :) Here are my top 9 favs completely unedited.

my mom "in the wild"

this pic sums up my feelings for the day totally scrapbook worthy

I love this one

I was messing with the lighting options and got this. i like the muted vintage feel!!!!

My reflection!!!

Crazy red hair really stands out lol

I heart life

trying macro( cus i know what that means now)

We took pics of each other

Definatly more practicing to come........I think ill be less annoyed with pse if i have better photos to start with!!!!

Outstanding news!!!

2011-02-25T11:00:00.001-06:00

The other day i was on the phone with my awesome friend lorrie complaining about having a directionless life. im almost 30 and its freaking me out a little bit. So were talking and lorrie says something about me going back to school for graphic design. I kinda had a moment....... Shes totally right and im totally doing it. Im super excited and ready to go back asap! Ive checked out some schools around here and im trying to figure out what will and wont transfer when we move back to dallas. Im super happy. Art in what ever form is my life and i think this is gonna help me on my way to making it a career :) thanks for listening!!!!
Create what makes u happy......and listen to smart friends ;)

Im all over the place

2011-02-24T18:10:00.000-06:00

Seriously life is nuts. i have things to share once im at home and off work for a whole day with out people at my house. soon people soon i promise!!! Till then. on valentines day i got the best news ever. Im teaching a mini workshop at inspired!!!! I love my idea and its something that can be built upon and used over and over!!! Check out the info here and if youre going i hope u sign up ;)

Valentines day canvas banner

2011-02-12T17:07:00.000-06:00

Hey guys!!! I hope you liked yesterdays video even though it cut off all crazy. 15 min goes by fast and my editing skills are not so good lol. First heres the other 2 garland banner things i made. Both were simple and cost about a dollar to make!!!

Love the garland on my stick thingies lol

For this one I just freehand cut 3 different size circles and sewed them together! Super easy :) this one is my fav i think.

This one is super kid friendly! Free hand cut the circles......thread a blunt embroidery needle with twinery bakers twine...... (you could punch holes in the circles to make it easier for kids to make) knot on either side of the stacks. easy easy :) it looks like valentines sandwiches :)
I plan on making these for every holiday now!!!
I dont know what the deal is with the video quality :( i must be doing something wrong cus when i look at them on my computer they look perfect. not grainy at all. ill figure it out eventually!!!!

2011-02-11T19:28:00.000-06:00

part one!!! Part two up tomorrow!!! Full size pics will be in tomorrows post. enjoy
Create what makes you happy :)

2011-02-10T18:26:00.001-06:00

Next video will be up tomorrow :( I ran out of time and daylight before work lol. Here's a sneak peak.....

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valentines day craft tutorials day 1

2011-02-09T00:48:00.000-06:00

2 quick cards......nothing crazy just stuff you can do cheap and easy. Both are kid friendly minus the sewing :)

valentines day craft tutorials

2011-02-08T16:55:00.000-06:00

working on some quick tutorials and videos today. I hope to get the first video uploaded tonight!!! super fun and super quick ideas for the last min crafters ;) Most of these are kid friendly too. see u soon.
Create what makes you happy!
*Bree

Sketchbook project recap

2011-01-31T15:06:00.000-06:00

OMG i cant believe havent blogged in almost a month :( its been crazy around here but next month will be better!!! Here are some of my sketch book project pages. I didnt scan them all for some strange reason???

I have 2 other things to finish this week then hopefully life and art will be back to normal (fingers crossed) Oh ya before i forget i have been participating in soul restoration this month too. another reason for the lack of blogging. they opened registration for another round here. I highly recommend this to any and everyone. i have forced some of my non art friends into taking it too. Its worth it. you owe it to yourself to be happy!!!!!

Create what makes you happy.......even when life is nuts

Embroidery sampler

2011-01-06T18:13:00.002-06:00

I figured this would be the easiest way to get out of my creative funk lol. Embroidery is fun and way easier then I thought!!!! I'm looking forward to doing this on some fabric mixed media pieces I'm dreaming up. Not much going on in the studio. My brain has been fried since weve moved. I'm trying to create through it. I have produced some big hot messes this week. How do you guys work through creative block???? I'm super curious ;)
Create what makes u happy!!!!!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy 2011!!!!

2011-01-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Photo credit
2010 was an interesting year.......One word that pretty much sums it all up is CHANGE. Change started in may with my annual Inspired trip. I met some super awesome people who i know were meant to be in my life at that particular time. Most notablly Cheryl Debbie Kirsten and Donna. Each has played a pretty signifagant part in my growth as a person and an artist this year. U guys kick ass and im glad youre in my life!!! Change number 2 was in june with my new sewing machine. It changed my life and made gangsta sewing alot more stress free!!!! Change 3 was my trip to houston in october. It was an eye opener and wise things were said( ill leave it at that cus the rest is too sappy) The biggest change was in november when my husband told me we were selling our house and moving to the middle of no where in the middle of the holidays. WOW that was a big one. Were making it work. its still a little rough but its getting better ;) we have a roof over our head, a steady income and each other.....not much else i need although shopping alone does suck ass im not gonna lie. Heres my resolution video.....its actually the second half of the video that i shot on new years eve. The first half was a lil personal to be sharing with the world so i figured i would just type out the highlights :)

inspiration wed fun

2010-12-28T13:59:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had an awesome holiday!!! Ours was interesting and a little abnormal due to the move but we were together so it was ok :) My studio is 90% put back together and im feeling better about all the changes day by day! I watched Inspiration wed this week for a desperate need of some.....inspiration lol when i first looked at the pic of Donna's finished page i thought she had used some kinda puffy paint to draw her heart, it was actually a super secret new stamp! Since the heart isnt out yet i went with my original idea and used Americana dimensional acrylic paint. Its like fabric puffy paint only its acrylic. I think i got it at Joann's. Enjoy
Create what makes u happy!!!

Gangsta sewing ornaments

2010-12-12T19:03:00.001-06:00

Super fun super quick ornaments with unity stamps. Inspired by haute holidays class!!!! Pretty much everyone in my life is getting one of these.
Lots more coming soon....im hoping to be unpacked and moved in to my new studio on fri :)
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Canvas bag class

2010-12-08T15:40:00.000-06:00

Ready to make a mess...... A creative mess you will truly cherish???? Let's do it! In this class we will take a plain canvas messenger bag and turn it into a one of a kind piece of Mixed-Media art. Each bag will be 100% different. YOU choose the color. YOU choose the phrase. This will be all yours. You will learn lots of new techniques including dying fabric with Color Wash, faux bleaching, using found objects to stamp, "Gangsta sewing", making hand dyed flowers, wire forming, doodling and much much more. You'll also learn a fun way to use those random letter stickers you know you're holding on too ;) Come join me for some painty inky fun.

PS: Leave your pretty clothes at home for this one.....Spray ink stains. Old clothes are a MUST! Unless u like wearing your heART on your sleeve :)
Create what makes you happy!!!!!
Bree Stanley
Http://stampsscraps.blogspot.com

This class will be held on Saturday, December 11th from 1 pm until 5 pm. Make your reservation today!!! 817-282-2622
If your local come see me!!!!!!

REFLECT

2010-12-08T13:53:00.000-06:00

Yesterdays entry in my 31 days messy advent journal was REFLECT. It made me extremely EMOTIONAL like pretty much everything in life lately. I reflected on things changing and how scary it really truly is for US. Then i reflected on the new possibilities that can and will come from all of the current chaos. We will have a more simple life, I can focus on art, Jeff will be happier at work, my dog will have new friends, Less will be more. I think this is what i need to finish finding myself.

After this reflection time i decided to have a sappy movie night...... Me, the dog, Vanilla coke zero, TWO honey buns, and EAT PRAY LOVE. The movie spoke to my soul. It made me realize and reflect even more on the things that are important in my life. LOVE is really all ive ever needed. Jeff makes me so happy even when we dont see eye to eye. He knows me and most of all he GETS me. Im glad hes my BFF. TRAVELING that makes me happy. I need it to be a part of my life. CENTEREDNESS that makes me happy. Its something ive been searching for for a long long time. ART rambled in my mind for most of this movie as well. The movie was beautiful its hard for that not to be inspiring in and of itself.

When the movie was over my phone beeped.....email...... It was a brave girls email......

It may look sometimes like everyone else has it
all together, has the perfect life, has all of the
answers and that everything comes easily to
them. It's hard to keep up and to measure up and
to get up when we get caught in this set of beliefs.
Please, no matter what it takes, please try
hard to stop comparing your beautiful self to
anyone else.

Just like you, sweet friend, no one has it ALL
together. Everyone has good days and bad days.
Everyone has struggles and everyone has to
make choices to make the most of whatever is
handed to them. Everyone has DIFFERENT
struggles, just like everyone has different strengths
and different things to add to the world.
Everyone is DIFFERENT.

We can only affect what WE do, and how
WE feel and what WE add and where WE
go and what WE say. We can not be
anyone but who we are. We can not
truly live any life but the
one we are in. When we step into our
OWN shoes, and live our
OWN life.....miracles happen.

Keep your eyes on your path, lovely you.
Keep your eyes to the light, and don't look at
anyone else's path except to lend a hand.
You are beautiful, brave and phenomenal.
You are just right, just where you are.
You are the best you that there ever was, and
that there ever will be.
Embrace it. Embrace YOU.

xoxo

Copyright 2010 - Brave Girls Club, Inc. All rights reserved

The way things work out always amaze me. A journal prompt being totally fitting, a movie reflecting important lesson, an email saying what you need to hear and all this in one day that i really thought was truly crappy until RIGHT NOW. I got it after i REFLECTED lol

Craft garage sale

2010-12-07T00:04:00.000-06:00

This weekend sat and sunday im having a garage sale...... if your local and want to stop by email me for the address!!!!!!

Vlog :)

2010-12-06T22:05:00.000-06:00

31 days messy advent journal #7

2010-12-01T00:45:00.002-06:00

here are the tags 1-9 10-18 19-27 28-31
This was so much fun...ill definatly do it again....hopefully next time the video part will go more smoothly. I think this time next year ill be able to laugh about all this lol. I love the journal and im excited to start it today though :)

31 days messy advent journal #6

2010-11-30T17:26:00.000-06:00

31 days messy advent journal video #5

2010-11-29T18:11:00.001-06:00

Free download of the cover phrase

31 days messy advent journal video #4

2010-11-28T20:52:00.004-06:00

Here Are the holiday words i used!!!!

31 days messy advent journal video #3

2010-11-27T18:14:00.001-06:00

I like silent movies fyi

31 days messy advent journal #2

2010-11-25T20:31:00.001-06:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

31 days messy advent Journal

2010-11-25T04:54:00.005-06:00

**** I dont know why the videos keep cutting off on the side..... full screen is available by double clicking the video :)*******Day one....it was up earlier on facebook but i didnt have time to blog it..... Supply list and Background video #2 will be up tomorrow!!! Hope you enjoy. Keep in mind that this video is about making the backgrounds Nothing fancy just getting color on the page as a base :)
till tomorrow.... Create what makes u happy!!!!

Advent messy journal series tomorrow!

2010-11-23T19:46:00.000-06:00

Vlog winner

2010-11-12T19:03:00.001-06:00

Ya!!!!!! Debbie Mac u get a box of stuff :) email me your address!!!!!! New video up tomorrow stay tuned
Create what makes u happy!!!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Giveaway vlog

2010-11-07T17:38:00.002-06:00

Enjoy and Create what makes u happy......giveaway open to us residents only :) winner chosen by random.org on friday!!!!!

Video Journal Page

2010-11-06T17:41:00.003-05:00

Heres a video with my actual voice on it. I kinda rushed the voice over so the end is kinda random sry. Talking on video=a hot mess. You get the point pretty much just uploading my practice videos thinking in 5 years im gonna find them funny. Editing takes me for ever :( Inspiration came from Here. I really super like the page though!!! Ive made a million things lately i just havent had time to post them......More coming soon I PROMISE.

Products used
Quinacridone violet
Ultramarine violet
Making memories Lagoon
8 flat and flibert paint brush
helmar 450 quick dry
Tim holtz alterations die "heart wings" by sizzix
portfolio oil pastels
sharpie fine point black marker
extra fine oil based sharpie paint pen in white and black
glass seed beads in lemondrop
fabric donnadowney.com

Spread your He{art} from bree stanley on Vimeo.

Vlog :)

2010-11-04T17:40:00.003-05:00

2 posts in a thirty min span.......sorry i shoulda thought this out a little better........Heres my happy face........I WILL do alot more vlogs.......so easy!!!!

Anthologies open house

2010-11-04T16:53:00.002-05:00

Ill be at anthologies tomorrow for their open house. Come hang out and see all the new stuff!!! Ill be pimping my bag class so come see it ;) 129 w. harwood rd Hurst tx 76054. Hope to see you there!!!!!

Video Journal page

2010-11-01T13:20:00.004-05:00

This is my first one so be kind...... I just taped my self playing so see what it looked like. The whole page took about 18 min to put things in prospective. the editing and the upload literally took 12 hours thats slightly excessive. Hopefully it will be easier with time! At some point ill talk on the videos when i can stop saying um and sooooo a thousand times lol. Im gonna start taping all of my journaling sessions and i have a few tutorial ideas in the works. Pray i can convince my husband to start doing the editing and uploading! Its to technical for me. Supply list is at the end of the video!
Create what makes you happy
dont know why this is cut off just double click and you can see it full size on you tube

"Lifes' Artistry" class album

2010-10-22T15:05:00.007-05:00

Took "Lifes' Artistry" from Donna this past weekend. The book was so much fun. I finished it up yesterday!!!! The hole thing makes me happy :) Enjoy.

The best drips ever!!!!!
My fav pic of all time. Photo credit
I dislike this page but i really liked how the back turned out so i used it anyway

I used the packaging from the prima flowers for my mat

Close up of the image transfer. I Super love this!!!! The ice cream stand is in the weeds lol. Pic taken with Iphone using Hipstamatic app.

An Idea from inspiration wed that I finally tried out!

Prima flowers before and after color wash and my painters rag from home depot that ill use for a flower later Creative mess!!!!
All cleaned up and ready for tomorrow!!!!

Lessons Learned:

Helmars Quick dry is by far my new fav glue...... Ive had it for 6 months now and at first i hated that it was stringy, but now its my go to glue for everything
Image transfers are freaking awesome
Im not great with the nib pen on canvas or fabric. I think im gonna get a rounded tip nib and see if that helps it from getting caught in the fibers
When you write with the nib on masking tape the ink goes on super smooth but it also pools alot more so be aware of how much ink you have loaded.
all of the photos in this book were printed on regular copy paper. GASP!!!! I really like the washed out look of them???
old paper is my new fav effect in photo shop!!!!

Most Items can be bought here. I used some Spray ink with i got Here

Inspiration Wednesday.... The stars align

2010-10-20T14:47:00.004-05:00

This has been a fab week! Lots of happy news soon..... First heres my Inspiration Wednesday from last week. I followed what Donna did pretty close cus i loved the page and wanted to try the techniques. Journaling is random on this one but it was what i was feeling last night. I must say this is the happiest ive ever been with my hand writing. Practicing must be helping :) Maybe one day i wont be complaining about my hand writing all the time lol! I will defiantly be doing more transfers in the near future! The messy unpredictableness of the images make me happy and they add subtle interest to the back ground that leaves u wondering what the pic actually is.

Lessons Learned: Ink jet transfers only work with golden gel medium not liqutex FOR ME. My transfers ran when i added paint to them. Next time ill use the workable fixative i bought to stop this. I did use the fixative over the Ink writing so i could splatter paint at will. This worked well. The fixative is very strong smelling. I might have gotten a slight buzz from spraying it on while bending over it in an unventilated garage (oops) I also figured out that if i slow down my handwriting isnt that bad (big surprise there) The turquoise iron ons turned purpleish with pink paint running over it SCORE!!!! This was the first time i used the iron ons and i super love them. They are really easy to use if your patient. They add texture that really screams touch me!!!!

Supplies:
Journal with 140 lb water color paper
white craft paint
ink jet printed photos- i figured out how to invert the photo so the words come out right on the transfer!
dr martians india ink
nib pen
iron ons
quinacridone magenta
caran d'ache neocolors 2 in turquoise, magenta, and steel grey
water pen
Golden matt gel Medium
Krylon workable Fixative
You can buy all of the supplies HERE

Glimmer glam and glaze fun

2010-10-05T13:36:00.001-05:00

Playing around in the studio today..... Music blaring...... Beautiful fall breeze coming in..... I'm in heaven!!!! My vintage thesaurus was calling my name...... I started 6 mixed media pieces! Just messing around makes me happy..... FYI tattered angels glimmer glam and glaze do not work well with water color crayons. Makes the surface too slick :( maybe I'll try them under the glam on the next one!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Journaling prompts

2010-09-28T13:34:00.005-05:00

I got up today and over coffee decided to check out some prompts online and stumbled onto a wealth of them!!!!!
300 prompts- roll over the astric to see the prompt
random prompt generator
one word prompts
600 second
Journal Jar
Scrapbook Journal Jar
Thought questions- the pictures as well as the questions could serve as prompts
creative writing prompts

My current journal.... Cover is an old book and pages are watercolor paper. I like it except the binding sucks( totally my fault) its too loose.

art journal pages

2010-09-26T14:24:00.004-05:00

Playin around alot in my aj......Some recent experiments...... Working on 4 at one time today. Im liking the freedom of going back and forth!!!
Working with texture ideas from a book im reading
Journaling bitchy thoughts then watching them bleed together made me feel a million times better

Who kknows what this will turn into in the future???? Plans on making fabric feathers or something. I thought i would see if i could actually draw one first lol

I have no idea why these photos have black boxes at the bottom??? Oh well

Till next time......Create what makes YOU Happy!!!!

Spray fun

2010-09-25T08:00:00.001-05:00

Messing around with scrapbooking again.....been a while for me..... Happy time

Scrapbook storage pt 1

2010-09-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

Here are some of my current storage ideas :) Hope they help u out!!!!!!Every studio needs a panic button right???? I got this At the dma :)
Ive been keeping my glimmer mists in this plastic bin from ikea.....I think they discontinued them but they have some similar at container store
This is the best thing ive ever purchased all my trims are in plain sight....... I love it!!!!
Labels on the ink pads are super important..... Look here for free pre made ones!!!

Super cheap pencil boxes from walmart hold all of my portfolio, caran d'ache and water color pencils.....these are super convenient for on the go art journaling!!!!!

Next organizing post will have my travel tote and more.....stay tuned :)

Till then Create what makes YOU happy!!!!!!

Tattered angels Glam ROCKS!

2010-09-10T00:17:00.003-05:00

Drove over to Jenns to get my hands on some glam and new mists ASAP... come to find out she's having a sale super awesome 25% off!!!! Started glaming a little in my art journal inspired by Inspiration Wednesday lovin the quick simplicity.

This is one of my fav pics of my pink hair summer ( which is sadly over)

lots of soul searching lately.

Art journaling brings up crazy emotions for me????

I added a translate button on the right.....i hope some of my fellow bloggers will do this as well....i keep stumbling upon awesome blogs i cant read lol

I felt the need for bullets mid post DEAL ;)

Create what makes u happy!!!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Encaustic collage soar in wax :)

2010-09-09T13:46:00.003-05:00

sassafrass papers and oct afternoon letters. some super awesome "Gangsta sewing"!!!!!!
Used clear crackle on the bird, some vintage book text and buttons

Just playin around with the soar theme.... I think im secretly telling myself something. Maybe? Ive been feeling closed in by life alot lately. The bird is out of the wax breaking free. This makes me happy.....i wanna make a big one but i need different wax. Tonight im gonna finish up an apron for a special lady in my life! So far i like it some but it needs a ton more work. I think tomorrow im gonna show some organizing ive been doing. Let me Know how you like this i think this series is what im gonna put in my etsy store?????? Makes me nervous :)

Any way CREATE WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY!!!!!!!!

A little inspiration Wednesday love

2010-09-08T18:30:00.006-05:00

Just finished watching this weeks inspiration wednesday video and decided to show you what i did with last weeks finally :) I have had neocolors for a while but i havent used them near as much as my beloved portfolio crayons.... this kinda gave me an opportunity to try them again and TOTALLY FALL IN LOVE. First there was a house glued down and edged with some portfolio crayons..... Then there was no house....I really liked the way the glue showed the house shape when i pulled it off

Heres the whole quote.....still working on the handwriting.....yucky
Back page......My versa mark was pretty much dry so the birds didnt turn out so well. i need a new one!

Lots more to show soon ;)
Create what makes u happy!!!!

Im wandering around somewhere....

2010-08-27T03:38:00.002-05:00

.....Trying to find my lost mojo
..... Attempting to figure out video recording
..... Wondering if i say um in real life as much as when i record myself???
..... Missing all of my art friends
..... Looking forward to inspired 2011
..... Finishing up celebrating our anniversary :)
..... Chewing gel medium off my fingers

Ill be back....
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY

When life hands you lemons......

2010-07-14T15:33:00.003-05:00

MAKE ART! Life stressful, uncertain, and crazy.....but whats new. Instead of wallowing in my own misery I decided to take life out on a canvas. Much better then hitting people lol.
The detail shot shows the colors a little better. I love my wall colors but everything looks orange in here. The wall color isnt even orange WTF???? More painting today.....and figuring out the etsy thing. its time. I hope.
Till next time
Create what makes YOU happy
*Bree

Im not in kansas anymore.....

2010-06-30T15:59:00.005-05:00

But I was lol. I left Thursday to go visit my friend Kirsten. 9 hour car ride on 4 hours of sleep was a little stressful but once i got there the fun and shopping began!!!! Its amazing that you can meet a random person and have sooooooo much in common with them. We had an awesome weekend.....Hilariously good time!!! I bought out half of Kansas and Iowa.....Heres the first upload.My wall of awesomeness is coming together
Got this at the Des Moines art faire
Super cheap and super cute
Tea Pitcher!!!!
Im pretty sure this is the second most awesome thing i bought
Chartreuse Pyrex plate...Pure heaven.....Number one find on my trip.....They match my kitchen.... The best part 12 plates for $25 holy shit batman!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I like them on my cake stand ;)
Everyone needs a king size quickie!!!!
This is my life
Strange and awesome
Super love these gnomes.....and at 6 for $6 i took 3 and kirsten took 3!!!!!
awesome shoes from a store called half of half.....
I think this is the beginning of a weird cow collection!!!!
salt and pepper shakers and a milk glass bowl for my splenda

Once i sort out everything in my studio ill show u what i bought for in there! Tomorrow i have an actual scrapbook page to show WOW

Inspiration Wednesday.....my take ;)

2010-06-16T16:18:00.005-05:00

Donna's video super inspired me this week!!! I loved the colors and the iron on on hers so i put my spin on it..... practiced my writing with the dip pen....I think this is the best its ever turned out!!! I hate my hand writing but im learning to deal with it and practice to make it better. The whole page makes me smile.....i think it will be coming out of the book and gracing my walls soon since it matches ;)

I have been doing some reorganizing lately....I purged a ton of stuff a month ago. Its still sitting in my hallway for the garage sale im GOING to have someday soon. I have been inspired by Crafty Storage blog. Check it out and be on the look out for some organizing tips here tomorrow!!!!

When nature speaks..... Listen

2010-06-12T15:55:00.001-05:00

I was just at the bookstore having an indepth conversation with my grandma about life, love, growth, and change. In the end I was a little sad and worried about the future and what I need to do. There's so much in life confusing me right now..... So I pull out of the parking lot.....stop at a stop sign and this blows into my lap.....

Sometime nature feels the need to point u in the right direction..... Im crying and listening God :) u and Grandma are right.

Dont usually post mushy feely stuff on here but in 10 years i want to remember this moment.

Post From My iPhone
Create what makes YOU happy

Inspired Prima messenger bag

2010-06-07T15:12:00.005-05:00

So heres my bag from inspired......The whole thing makes me giddy!!! I learned a ton of new things in the process....some good some bad.....bleed a little (kept poking myself with the embroidery needle).....In the end i really liked how it turned out......messy.....bright.....and gangsta lol click on the pics to make them bigger :)

Embroidery is sooooooo not my thing, but it added cool texture
Sprayed over some thickers
The back is a "Gangsta sewing" house.....Got the Idea from Rebecca's Mini class last year....some times you literally stumble upon an idea lol(yes i tripped over it in my closet)
Photos printed on fabric paper.....Take the freaking backing off before u try to sew it on geez....i broke a needle on that one!
Love this phrase.....Inspired built allot of creativity in me!!!

Will post some of the process pics tomorrow!!! Till then....
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY
*Bree

Prima canvas messenger bag

2010-06-02T23:15:00.001-05:00

Hard at work in the studio dying canvas

FYI the only way I got the ranger color wash off was bleach lol

Teaching myself gangsta embroidery!!! I have poked myself a million times

Making flowers outta my rags..... More on those fri with better pics

Side note.... The new iPhone is suppose to have flash so that will help my lazy blogging pics!!!

Also in the midst of painting our patio furniture

Happy colors!!!!! Painting here and there when I'm outside

Lots to share on fri so get ready for a lengthy post!!!!

-- Post From My iPhone
Create what makes YOU happy

Donna Downey's Inspired 2010 Pt 2

2010-05-21T14:00:00.007-05:00

Welcome to part 2!!!!! all of these pics are from wed and Thurs. Before i left this year i made a post on the inspired yahoo group to see if any one wanted to sight see with me. I received an email from Cheryl. Turns out shes the most fabulous person i have ever met. She was put in my life at this point in time for a reason. She has the strongest and most beautiful soul ever. we laughed and talked for hours. she gave me wise advice that i will follow forever. Shes my new hero in life. I truly love her dearly.
shes silly and beautiful all in one. I love the pic above and below equally. she makes me smile!!!!
We went to donnas new studio on wed. I totally loved it. When u walk in u know its her studio. The plans she has for this place are freaking awesome. I wish i could transplant it to texas!!!!! Cheryl and i shopped a ton and hung out with donna for a bit. Donnas an amazing person :)

This is one of primas messenger bags. we got one on registration day to decorate......Mine is in the works so get ready for pretties!!!!!
Some of donnas paintings that are hung on the walls. I love the colors and the fabulous textures!!!!!

Love this quote!

One of donnas aprons
Thurs I took donnas apron class. I totally loved it. learned some new techniques.
Heres mine......Inky and splotchy. Makes me smile!!!!! I wanna add some stuff to it. ribbons and bits. Its on my list of things to do lol
Tune in tomorrow for waaaaaaaaaay more pics.

Till then.......
Create what makes u happy
*Bree

Donna Downey's Inspired 2010

2010-05-20T18:54:00.008-05:00

AHHHHHHHHH home again and semi settled back into the swing of things....... I dont have words to express how wonderful inspired was for me this year. Last year i met cool people made some stuff and in then end made one friend who is beyond awesome(luv u Lorrie!!!) This year was so different. I flew in on tue: took some random pictures unpacked all my goodiesWednesday I got up and proceeded to Downtown Concord
In my mini rental car and failed miserably at parallel parking ha haGraffiti makes me smile!!!loved the color inspirations!!!!!
Got some awesome skull beads
Lots more pics to share in the next week followed by tons of art I have been creating since I got back :)
Till then.....
Create what makes u happy
*Bree

2 days before I leave.....

2010-05-09T16:16:00.001-05:00

Making a journal last minute

Packing KINDA

Huge list still left to pack

Taking tiny pictures(sorry they're upside down lol)

With my new camera!!!!!!

Working on this :)
Post From My iPhone
Create what makes YOU happy

Jump back in

2010-05-05T16:49:00.001-05:00

Less then a week till inspired.... Decided to make something after a 9 month break. Lots more to come!!
From My iPhone
Create what makes YOU happy

Im inching back

2009-11-02T03:31:00.000-06:00

Typed in my blog addy on wordle and got this

It makes me happy

Just for Lorrie

2009-10-13T22:34:00.001-05:00

hi! Im busy be back eventually........

I'm an aunt!!!!

2009-08-10T03:26:00.001-05:00

-- Post From My iPhone

This would be why i havent been on recently...... My baby sister had her baby on tues at 11 pm his name is Vincent Dante He was 6 lbs 3 oz and 19 1/2 in long. I wish him the best life has to offer! I cant wait to watch him grow up( so i can scrap the moments)

Create what makes YOU happy

Painted background

2009-08-02T18:00:00.002-05:00

Having fun with paint and sewing!!! Off to scrap some more )

Sassafras lass dog lo

2009-08-01T17:42:00.002-05:00

Hey guys!!! Trying to stay dry in the rainy weather were having here...... Yucky :( This is the first page i have scrapbooked of Genghis. The picture makes me laugh. He was sitting there watching a bird in the neighbours tree. The layout was put together with some scraps i had laying next to my paper trimmer. I just sewed them on all messy! This is another simple lo. I have seriously been scrapping up a storm! I have also done some painting..... Inspired by Lorrie who is a seriously talented artist :) More on that soon( if i ever finish)
till next time.................CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY!!!

be messy and go your own way! Prima and glimmer mist

2009-07-31T18:19:00.001-05:00

Playing with color combos.....Messy and simple. I love this blurry photo!!!! Nephew is in town so i havent had much time to blog.....more soon!

Hambly green and yellow goodness!

2009-07-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

This page literally took me 5 min. I like the simplicity and the focus on the pic. I might be going in a more simple direction??? U never know!!! Hope everyone had a great weekend mine starts today!!!

Color combos on my mind

2009-07-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

This pic has been sitting on my desk taunting me for a while. It was taken when I was the skinniest i have ever been. It was hard for me to equate the pic with the happy time it represents, cus all it reminded me of is how much weight i have gained since i got married. I have lost 15 lbs this year so im def back on track but this pic still haunts me :( SO instead of feeling bad constantly i just scrapped how it made me feel and put it in my album. Sorta turned the page on those thoughts LITERALLY!!! Color combo came from my shirt, and inspired me to make 2 more pages with the same colors. I think i might really like this combo lol. I didnt use alot of demntional embelishments on this page like i usually do because i really just wanted it to be focused on my thoughts and feelings and not how much stuff is on the page. I feel better just getting all of this off my chest!

Supply list:
Paper: Hand made black glitter paper from india, Creative imaginations green dot, bazzil card stock, hambly frame, and lined paper by sandy lion
Stickers: Luxe tag, Thickers, mini alphas
other: Slate glimmer mist, hole punch, staples, thread
Create what makes u happy!!!!!!!

Graphic 45 communique

2009-07-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Heres the Graphic 45 page I made for KPS. Its my two babies.....My husband and my dog lol. They make me happy and so does this paper!!! I distressed it up with all things Tim Holtz.

Supply List: Paper: graphic 45 classy correspondence, communique, photogenic and kraft card stock tools: Heidi swapp edge distressor, ranger ink blending tool, glue dots, atg gun, Cuttlebug Ink: Glimmer mist slate, Ranger distress ink in vintage photo, tea dye, walnut stain, black soot, and fired brick Other: Harlequin grungeboard letters, staples, Tim holtz ideology sprockets and gears, and game spinners, tim holtz adage tickets, Making memories vintage findings metal flowers, Sizzix flower die, making memories tiny alphas, vintage trim

Top favs right now.....

2009-07-24T08:38:00.000-05:00

Haven't done a u should buy this post in a while :) so here's what im slightly obsessed with right now......

Spray ink......glimmer mist, maya mist and ranger color wash
Stencils Stencils and more stencils
Graphic 45 paper......lo with this to come!!!!
Random etsy searches......Doilies(to spray paint through) Vintage grab bags, ephemera
Small studio Productions--- I ordered a bunch of stencils from here! Love them and i super love the prices :)
Making memories vintage findings- Found this stuff at Michael's today and I bought half the line
Tim holtz new stamps- I want them all!
Two peas- Theyre my #1 online retailer......their clearance section couldnt rock any more or i would die

ok guys......READY.......SET..........SHOP!!! Ps im not affiliated with anyone of these companies I just love to shop

Kps Dt lo from June

2009-07-23T07:30:00.000-05:00

Heres My husband and his new leaf blower lol. Fun page to make!!! I sanded the thickers and it looked like wind....that made me happy. Off to scrap some more Have a great day guys :)
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY!!!

Back on track and spray painting away!!!!

2009-07-22T15:39:00.003-05:00

Ok Im kinda back on track!!! Finally right :) My studio is 90% done THANK GOD! I can finally get some things finished...... Right now im taking a few online classes. First Im taking Stencilry from Mary Ann Moss . This is a wonderful class using spray paint and stencils. I believe she is having another class soon so check it out! The first picture shows my spray paint background I made using her techniques. I love how it turned out. The colors make me happy :) I have always liked stencils but now i LOVE THEM. And spray painting through lace makes me giddy!!!!! I can see my self using these techniques over and over in art journaling, scrapbooking and mini books.
This pic shows my completed art journal page. I used my stencil background as the base and added a picture of myself that I made using the techniques I learned in Dina Wakely's Art journaling 201 class. This class has been super amazing and its still available for you to take in an archive form! Sign up for it.........u wont regret it. Get ready for a ton of posts....i have been making a ton of stuff and im finally ready to show it :)
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY!!!

So life is slightly nuts

2009-07-06T20:47:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of my 3rd bedroom that is currently housing all of my art stuff. I'm remodeling my studio and everything is complete chaos. I can't find anything :( this is the third time I've painted that room lol. Third times the charm right? I'm thinking when I'm done painting I'll be happier in there. The dark teal made me feel kinda anxious. So I picked this awesome peachy salmon color that I'm gonna accent with a bright teal!!!!! Here's a progress picture it looks orange cus of bad light oh well.

So this blogpost is from my new Iphone so it's really just a test post. Im praying this will help me post more! Have a great day everyone!
-- Post From My iPhone
Create what makes YOU happy

Bo bunny card- messy style!!!

2009-06-19T08:31:00.004-05:00

When I opened my kps box i got so excited about all the awesome stuff! The only thing that scared me was the bo bunny. I dont usually use theme paper so its way out of my comfort zone. There was a bunch of different paper in the box so i could have bypassed this line all together but i decided to challenge myself to make this paper work for ME. Paint it, sew it, and grunge it up! I like the way it turned out in the end and im happy i stretched myself. Lesson learned: any paper will work if you make it your own!!!!
Go use some paper u dont usually use and make it your own.......
I just thought I would mention that this is my third post in a row!!!! Im so proud of myself :)
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY

Basic grey wisteria layout for KPS dt

2009-06-18T14:30:00.003-05:00

This is the layout I made for the kps Design team. I had some much fun with the paint and gesso!!! When this paper came out i didnt really think I liked it, but come to find out I LOVE IT!!! The picture was edited using actions from Coffee and tea photo shop actions blog. Her actions are awesome and FREE. Check out her tutorials too they helped me a bunch. Sorry for the wonky picture. Some day ill be patient enough to get my layouts to photograph straight :) Have an awesome day guys!!!! 2 days till my birthday!!!!!!
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY

Cardboard layout Prima Products and glimmer mist

2009-06-17T19:32:00.008-05:00

I have been soooooooooo busy. The past 2 weeks have been nonstop working and mayhem. I finally got in the remodeling groove again! I decided to tackle our half bath downstairs. This bathroom has been a mess since day one. For the past 4 months its had a concrete floor. This is the bathroom company uses btw. Yuck. heres before:
Heres the during: Heres the almost finished after: The only thing missing is the vanity, mirror and new light hopefully we'll get those in the next few weeks!I am so happy to see it coming together. I had some sort of remodel revelation. I decided to think about the rooms like scrapbook pages. Make the colors work, the layout work, add embellishments and bam its done! I feel good about it all. Im not a carpenter but i can do this crap :)

Enough of that lets get to the scrapping!!!!! I photographed a tutorial for the background. Its super fun and easy to make.....It will be up on monday :) Almost everything is prima. I also used glimmer mist, crackle paint by ranger, a heidi swapp thingy, Basic grey rubons, a paper doily thing, gesso, mm mini letters, and some cardboard. Heres a close up of the glimmer misted flowers.....Dont forget to check back monday for the tutorial!!!

GASC Arlington with dollarscrapbooking.net

2009-06-05T01:09:00.003-05:00

Today on 4 hours of sleep(insomnia is running ramped in this house) I worked for Dollarscrapbooking.net here in Arlington. Exhausting but totally worth it. These ladies were so awesome and fun to work for!!! Check them out at Great American scrapbook convention or on their web site. Almost everything's a dollar HELLO?????
So......... I got to the convention an hour before my shift started to power shop!!! I found some really awesome stuff that Ill be posting prob on sun. The hands down best find was this hand made paper from India for 35 cents. These deals, im telling u, are beyond wonderful!!! I cant stop touching the paper. It feels like heaven and the texture is to die for. I have about 50 projects envisioned for it so ill prob be forced to get some more :) Hubs and I are going again in the morning so I can spend his money(its my birthday month and I deserve it) I'm sleepy so till next time.........
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY

Layer love

2009-06-03T14:35:00.003-05:00

Im totally loving this class!!!! I worked on this till 6 am cus I couldnt sleep. The colors make me happy!!! JULIE called hers old man in the sea I call to thee..... Can u see why? I journaled on mine to finish it up. Sorry this post is so quick and choppy im on my way out the door. I have a couple more of these to show this week.....
CREATE WHAT MAKES U HAPPY!!!

hey

2009-05-26T14:34:00.001-05:00

Lorrie.......email me so i have your addy!!!

4 am bullets again

2009-05-26T03:23:00.002-05:00

Finished my custom album......145 pages in 3 days GO ME!!!
Frantically working on stuff for the craft fair sat....details on that tomorrow
Playing with my kps box o goodies.....Hopefully ill be done with that tomorrow too
Taking the most awesome class ever.....Layer love by Julie prichard maybe ill get pics of my trials up tomorrow. The class is closed though sorry
Realizing that i have alot of stuff to do tomorrow
Praying im off wed so i can finish the over flow then :)
Big news happened today....cant share till its official but its big VERY BIG
No im not pregnant
Dick Blick rocks my world :) I will be anxiously awaiting my package!!!!!
Next Month I plan on taking this class by my fav mixed media artist Suzi Blu
No mini tutorial monday cus im crazy busy and im waiting for this stuff to come in the mail(long story)
I havent made anything for myself since my last post and that sucks big time
I might go crank something out real quick :)

Wax and art journal page

2009-05-21T16:58:00.004-05:00

I got super bored with my custom album work last night so i thought i would play in my studio some. Art journaling brings out some strange introspection for me. This one is called outsider. I wasnt going to post this since i usually put up happy happy joy joy stuff, but this is a blog about me and my life through art. The quote says "Shake off this sadness and come out of yourself a little". Its from a vintage version of Heidi I found. The picture is from a Free People catalogue On a completely other note I made this tiny canvas with wax. It was a trial run of a few techniques i saw on youtube. Stamping in wax and painting over it with acrylic paint then melting it to get this crackle effect. The little frame is from House of 3!I made the whole thing, looked at all of its imperfections and aptly titled it beauty. I love it and plan on hanging it in my bathroom to remind myself that imperfection is beauty :) Im off to finish my album so i can deliver it tomorrow.....Hoepfully ill get some time to mess around in the studio some more!!!

seriously 4 am and im doin POTD

2009-05-19T03:38:00.000-05:00

I have a mountain of work to do.......so i decided to blog lol. Not really im totally done for the day my brain isnt working and its almost 4 am ;)
Potd still going strong
I have big plans for these pictures......mini album......cover and back with just the pics inside.....jump rings and ZERO embellishments........GASP........I want to see my life for what it is. crazy pics capturing simple things with one liners that make me smile. If i ever make it to the photo printing place Ill post pics......now off too bed

Wax tutorial part 1

2009-05-18T18:54:00.009-05:00

I love researching new techniques and teaching myself how to do them!! I thought I would start sharing some fun tutorials on mondays. First up is a crayon encaustic technique. This is super fun and easy. I bought a few things last night and started playing right away. This is part 1- The basics :)
Supplies needed:
Crayons
A heating source- I used a electric skillet, but i have see people use an electric griddle and even a pan on the stove
paint brushes- natural bristled cheap ones
a muffin tin(the cheap kind)
A quilting iron- I got mine at Joanns made by clover you can also use a low heat iron(not one u use on clothes though k!)
Step 1
Heat your electric skillet to 200 degrees put a little water in the bottom so you dont scorch your muffin tinStep 2
Break your crayons into pieces. Take the paper off and drop them into the tinStep 3
When its melted you can brush it on with a paint brush. You can let the wax dry on the brushes so you can use them later! No clean up :) Just set the brush in the tin and when it heats up the wax will be read to use again and again!!! Same thing goes with the wax when it hardens you can take it out to reuse later Step 4
If you have lumpy parts you want to smooth out. heat up the quilting iron and run it over the dried wax to remelt it. U can use the iron to make designs in the wax too.Another cool thing you can make with the crayons is wax cakes. Drop a few crayons into the tin and let them melt. Put the tin into the freezer to harden, then pop the cake out. Press the cake to the quilting iron to make drips on your paper. The drips come out swirly which is super cool!!!!Heres my semi finished piece! Hope you liked the tutorial. Part 2 next monday!!!!

TGIF even though thats when my week begins

2009-05-15T14:24:00.005-05:00

I love bullets :)

Theres no fence separating my yard from my neighbors right now
Hopefully there will be by Sunday??
If my dog chews through the new fence im gonna scream
I have the best husband ever!!!
I went to buy canvases from Kelly Rae and when i hit check out all of them were sold out :(
Laundry sucks big time
Taking a whole lot more pictures lately!!!
Happy about working and making money!!!
Finished some art journaling!!!
I think im gonna rename my art journal motivations to me :)
I used water color crayons on this and although I like the effect my paper hated the water....it beaded up pretty bad :(
Guess i should go get ready since i need to leave in 30 min lol

Hey!

2009-05-12T16:38:00.000-05:00

My intro is up on KPS if u guys wanna check it out.....She said such nice things about me I almost cried :)

Happy Tuesday

2009-05-12T12:34:00.005-05:00

Back on my normal sleep schedule thank God!!! The canvas above is really small.... 5 x 5 i think. Super quick and easy to make. Its now one of the first things u see when u walk into my house. Im gonna make some more this week using wax on top. Im messing around with ideas for a craft fair im doing here at the end of the month. The background is one we did in a mini class with Rebbecca Grawl and the house idea kinda came from jen Stewart's class. I was inspired lol. I made 3 more of these last night too all in about an hour. Will post more later.
Wanna see my Photos of the day????

Paint under my nails makes me happy.....

2009-05-11T14:01:00.003-05:00

I feel like my creative spirit is renewed.....not necessarily because of what we made, but more like the energy I felt the past week. Being around so many creative people empowered me. I knew i would be around creative souls at inspired, but i didnt realize how much i would honestly relate to the wonderful people i met. I met so many people that I really understood and for the first time ever in my life i feel like they got the real me and it was great. I wasnt anyone different for anyones sake. I was me i laughed and joke and complained and was messy and sprayed bbg on anyone i wanted and it was OK. This is gonna be a huge run on sentence post sorry grandma.

My new secret dream in life is to live in a commune of artists....a commune with electricity and toilets of course :) I think that would make me super happy. At the closing dinner Kelly Rae Roberts spoke and what she said touched me to my inner core. She talked about feeling out of place like something was missing in her life and she couldnt figure out what it was....the she discovered art and her life was at peace. Thats kinda how i have been feeling. I have had some kinda art in my life for just about forever. Mostly crafty stuff my grandma showed me. And looking back on those moments, thats when i felt at peace. Now when I'm in my studio with my lovely green painting dress on making a huge mess, I feel whole too. I still dont know where this creative ride will take me but im gonna embrace it and make it mine. Just for me. Im gonna make messes, wear blue eyeshadow, paint my nails hot pink, get an art degree, paint whether its pretty or not, take crazy pictures and thats that. Most of this I already do anyway but i really need to stop caring about what other people think i should do with my life and focus on what makes me happy.

Ok im gonna unpack a little and make some stuff.....I might post again later today with some more pics from inspired. Cathy Z made a blog post into a lo and i think i see that happening with this one.....I need to keep this front and center in my mind......Have a wonderful day!!! GET MESSY FOR U :)

My Life is Blessed and I am INSPIRED

2009-05-10T20:58:00.005-05:00

Im gonna make a few posts about my time at inspired this past week....This one Bullet style :)

I only slept 14 hours in 4 days... I usually sleep 9 or 10 a night....coffee was required
My roommates were so beyond amazing i cant believe it
Donna Downey might be one of the nicest people I have ever met
I kinda like fabric books who knew???
Cathy Z went to the same college as me so we bonded lol
Beta beta gamma(our made up sorority) was one of the most fun group of woman ever
Im not big on "conditioning" clay.... I dont see clay artist making it to my resume any time soon
I won the grand prize the last night.....A free trip back next year.....I cant wait to see these ladies again
I actually met a ton of people from dfw at inspired....I cant wait to hang out with them
Kelly rae Roberts speech moved me beyond words.....she is a true inspiration
Im off to finish some projects...soon to be posted :)

4 am bullet stlye

2009-05-04T03:53:00.005-05:00

Garage sale went beyond fabulous :) the little bit thats left is going to goodwill

Semi packing for inspired....ok lets be honest i have been thinking about packing all day and havent started
Spray tan makes my feet look like i have leprosy
a huge spider fell on me while jeff and i were watching tv. I HATE BUGS
When I wake up its officially 2 days until i leave for inspired
I have a bout a billion things to do in 2 short days....tomorrow SHOPPING all day
i really like bullets and i think if i use them more ill blog more often
My puppy Genghis got fixed on thurs and i havent seen him since (hes spending time at grandmas) I miss him more then i could ever imagin......7 days from today i get to hug and kiss him again :)
I hate bandwagons but I think im gonna try and do Photo of the Day.....my cameras lonely
Mom let me borrow this!!! I cant wait till the film gets here!!!!!
I cleaned out my car today and found a million pairs of black shoes(i have to wear them at work and they all hurt my feet)
ive been watching her and her and her on Youtube alot lately
This bullet concludes 4 am bullet style...hope u liked the quick update

If u live in dfw......

2009-04-30T11:40:00.002-05:00

Im having a scrapbooking garage sale at my house sat...........Stamping up stamps, patterned paper 15 cents(good paper some super new) and a ton of other stuff. Email me @ scrappersrevolution@gmail.com for directions :)

Actions rock!!!

2009-04-27T14:55:00.005-05:00

Just a quick post.......I found this super cool blog that has FREE actions for Photo shop Elements..... CoffeeShop I have been playing around with some of them all day!!! This is the original picture of my hubs and meThis one is using her Lomo action. Jeff said it looked like an album cover. This one is using Retro Honey action. Vintage yumminess :)
These are all so easy and fun to use!!! The only thing that sucks about them is they take a lot of steps to install on my mac. Im off to watch Heroes and then make some pretty stuff!

still playin

2009-04-26T12:01:00.001-05:00

Still working on clearing out my studio.....I cleaned out the entire closet! I'm Getting rid of a whole lot. Ive also started putting things all over the walls to try to cover up the yucky dark color. I really like my paint dipped tags, I might not use them as collage and just leave them up on the wall. Who knows? See the yellow spot? I peeled paint up off the floor and stuck it to the wall....random makes me happy!!! Seriously, do not paint your studio until you are 100% on the color :) This color makes me very not happy lol
I made this the other night in my crazy painting frenzy. First layer....I kinda like it....kinda dont....I think im gonna collage over it some and make it more mixed media??? Its just practice stuff on dollar store canvas boards so if i dont like it in the end i will start over :) I got the boards at dollar tree....if u have one of those look for them!!! Theyre 2 for a $1 :) I bought every one that was at the store, sadly only 4 packs..... Im gonna go play some more before work!!!

Good morning :)

2009-04-25T01:52:00.005-05:00

Im still playing in the paint.....I was surfing You tube and I ran across a fabulous painter named Jonas Gerard. His care free attitude towards his amazing abstracts is astounding! He totally inspired me to paint for hours....If your interested check out this video. Im not done with this page yet but i wanted to put up a pic to show the colors....I love bright colors. This page is about my total randomness, Lets face it people im all over the place. Have a super great day