The Painted Lily

Collaboration!

2011-06-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so pleased to announce an upcoming collaboration with one of my favorite Etsy artists, Stephanie Corfee!

I'd been a fan of Stephanie's work for ages and it all solidified when we attended an event sponsored by DesignSponge at Terrain a few months ago. We were neighbors at the crafting table and hit it off.

I'm so happy to be starting on stone coaster sets featuring some of my favorite pieces Stephanie's. Her bohemian sensibilities, playful vibe and bold colors really resonated with me and are going to be so stunning on these coaster sets!

As always, the coasters will be meticulously handmade in my studio, with great care, ensuring that they last years and years!

I'm so excited to be working with Stephanie on this super special project! Head on over to her Etsy shop and check her out!

It Was Just What I Needed

2011-03-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

I'm so honored to be included in Stephey Baker's Courage to Fly blog hop! Over the next six weeks, 39 beautiful souls will be sharing their thoughts on creativity, expression and what it takes to spiritually soar alongside your dreams. I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on how I overcame a stubborn case of the winter creative blues. As my inspiration, I'll be using the question "What is one thing that you need in your life, that upon receiving it, would take you to the skies?"

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Spring is here! It's official!

The first sign of spring in my neck of the woods is the appearance of the crocuses and daffodils peeking out of the soil. It's always a very happy day for me when they can first be seen making their grand debut.

This winter was hard for me. It was long and cold and my creativity and creative spirit seemed to winter over along with the bulbs in my yard.

My business had the usual peak of the holidays and then, the ultimate lull afterwards. Holiday orders hit me hard and heavy this year... more than I had anticipated. I think it just wiped my creativity dry... physically and mentally.

Normally, once I hit the middle of January, my creative spark comes back and I'm ready to take on the world again. But, this year, things were different.

The words just wouldn't come.
The images in my head that compel me to create them just weren't there.
The music that usually gets me going was just falling on deaf ears.

Through this dark creative time, I realized that my body, mind and spirit were demanding what they needed. Just as my body craves vitamins and minerals, it was now craving time and rest.

So, I listened. I waited. I tried not to push.
And it came back.
With the Spring, it came back.

That quiet, that patience, those moments alone with myself is just what I needed to fly. The lesson that I learned was to listen to my "self," not to push and to give my spirit just what it craved.

As a small, creative business owner, it's drilled into me that I need to produce... I need to work... I need to hustle constantly. I need to have big ideas brewing all the time and be taking the big steps to make them happen. But my body and mind told me otherwise and I'm so glad that I listened.

As we change seasons, what is your creative spirit telling you? Have you just sat and listened? Thought and felt?

It's a powerful thing to let our creativity and our spirit drive our production. It may be the most effective way to work through blocks and experience true growth.

Listen, rest and bloom...

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It's a pleasure to participate in The Courage To Fly blog hop organized by Stephey Baker and Handmade Spark! Thanks so much for joining me!

The Steven Tyler Effect

2011-03-03T13:27:00.001-08:00

If you're anything like me, and millions of people in America right now, you're loving the new season of American Idol. We all wondered what the energy would be like with the new judges and I, for one, am really pleased.

We all knew that J Lo was a kind hearted, sweet person who would judge with a soft hand. And Randy... we all knew what to expect from him.

But the real standout this year for me is Steven Tyler.

I never really knew much about Steven Tyler... he's the frontman for Aerosmith who I assumed lived the usual rockstar life. I figured he was a little flaky, probably a little lecherous and maybe even full of himself. That was all before I started watching him on AI.

He's shown what I now call "The Steven Tyler Effect." He's shown heart and kindness and a restrained, perfect amount of crazy to the nation. And we LOVE him for it. America is eating him up right now!

We loved seeing him lean in to the wheelchair bound girlfriend of early favorite, Chris Medina. The moment that Steven whispered in her ear and we caught the words of that very private moment, I heard the nation fall in love with him.

And it got me thinking, what part of myself have I never shown the world (even just my twitter or facebook audience) that might really make them "get" me? I challenge you to consider the same thing along with me. What small part of yourself do you keep hidden away that might make all the difference in someone really gravitating to you and what you offer, present or even sell online?

It might be frightening to show that part of you that is sentimental or soft, maybe hard edged or tough as nails. I've watched week after week now of Steven kissing male contestants on the cheek, grooving along with their songs with reckless abandon and showing that kind of passionate living that we all strive for.

It's being unabashedly yourself. It's loving fully and connecting deeply to those around you. It's soul stirring to watch and inspiring to consider trying for yourself. It's living life in truest rockstar fashion... in the moment, full of life.

So, do it. What do you have to show me?

Just do me a favor and don't trash any hotel rooms.

*Photo credit - Rockstar fine art photo print from Licorice Prints on Etsy.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-19T05:52:00.001-08:00

I've had a really fabulous and surprising holiday rush! My business this season has more than doubled from last year and I'm thankful beyond belief. This business growth has allowed wonderful opportunities for my family and that's just huge. Thank you to all my friendly and thoughtful customers for supporting handmade and following the growth of an individual artist along this rewarding journey! I hope that you love the pieces you've purchased and that they are big hits with your "giftees" this holiday season.

So, as a big thank you to my customers, twitter friends and facebook pals, I'm doing a quick stone tile coaster giveaway today! Just visit my shop on Ets y and let me know which coaster set you're dreaming of this holiday, leave me comment here telling me who you'd gift them to and why (or if it's just a special something for you!). Around 5PM, my family will pick a number and gift those coasters to that number commentor on my blog! It's that easy! Make sure you've left me a way to get in touch with you! Your new coasters will ship on Monday and be delivered in plenty of time for Christmas gifting!

So, there's no strings attached... no need to follow me on twitter or friend me on facebook, no mailing list signups... just me wishing YOU a happy holidays!

Have a very blessed and joyous holiday season!!

How To Shop Handmade and Local This Holiday Season

2010-12-01T12:16:00.001-08:00

Antiqued White Crochet Garland from Antebelle

The holidays are here! The malls are bombarding you with deals and your inbox is filled with emails from retailers all fighting for your holiday dollars.

But did you know that there are shops right around the corner, in your own community that offer lovely, one of a kind, handmade delights that you'll never find at a big box store? If you like to give thoughtful holiday gifts, (and who doesn't?) you've got to check out what your small local retailers have to offer!

If you're in the Pennsylvania area, I've got some fabulous suggestions of really neat little shops that deserve a visit this holiday season. These are some of my favorite places to shop for gifts and places that have wonderful collections of goodies sure to please everyone on your gift giving list.

Map of Philadelphia Cuff from vsc83

First off, in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, you've got to stop by Square Peg Artery. This shop is bursting at the seams with a colorful array of fun and funky goods that are made locally by artists and craftspeople. There's even a monthly art show that features a local artist in a small gallery setting in the back. It's a must-see for cool holiday gifts!

Recycled Farm Metal Sign from The Steel Fork

Another one of my favorites is Earth & State in Media, PA. This shop is full of fabulous finds with an earthy and fair trade vibe. Many of the pieces are local but there are also things from around the country and the world. The staff at Earth & State is super helpful, friendly and so knowledgeable about the products and artists that create them. This is often my first choice when shopping for an unforgettable gift.

And there's a new kid in town this year! Harrisburg's super successful Hodge Podgery has opened up a new shop in Lancaster. It's in right heart of the cool Queen Street area, located in the Stahr Center, which also houses Theater of The Seventh Sister and Lancaster Creative Reuse. This building is quickly becoming a hub of arts for the city. The Hodge Podgery's new Lancaster location is downstairs and is shaping up nicely and the staff there is working tirelessly to get all the new stock out and ready for purchase. It's only been open officially for a week or two and is already looking great! Lots of goodies are being offered there so be the first of your friends to check it out!

One of a kind burlap and patchwork tote from jalmodovar

Another favorite of mine is The Sassy Tassel in Lititz, PA. The gals there have really expanded their already awesome space and now offer sewing classes and workshops. The shop is utterly breathtaking with a huge collection of lovely home goods and decor. They support local artists and host a local artist during Lititz's monthly arts events. If you have someone on your holiday list that has caught the sewing bug, you've got to swing by The Sassy Tassel to check out their awesome fabrics and sewing books. They also carry a fabulous line of bath and body products that makes the shop smells amazing. Even that is worth the trip!

Handmade clay wine glass charms by Contempo Jewels

Nick from Handmade in PA and the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen has set up an incredible resource for finding shops in your area of PA. It's a map that links you directly to the shops in your area. It's a fabulous idea and you can check it out here!

With the economic struggles going on in our country, the most powerful way you can spend your holiday dollars is by supporting your neighbors, local artists and the small businesses that are keeping your communities growing. Keep your money in your neighborhood!

Happy, happy holidays!

Handmade Holidays

2010-11-23T18:52:00.001-08:00

Rustic Birch Tags from Twigs and Blossoms - $20.00

So, you've committed to a handmade holiday and have vowed to give as many handcrafted items this holiday season as possible. That's great!

But don't forget to include yourself in that pledge!

Every Thanksgiving, my immediate and extended family asks for my Christmas list. I've already been scouring my favorite sites that sell handmade pieces and am compiling my list. I'm including all those really neat things in my favorites lists that are things I might not normally buy for myself but that I really would love to own and use everyday.

It's just a quick reminder that taking a handmade pledge doesn't necessarily have to be just for your purchases for others but can also be for your own wish list!

Design Sponge event @ Terrain

2010-11-13T16:47:00.000-08:00

What a fun way to spend a warm fall afternoon! I spent the day at Terrain in Concordville, PA with about 24 other diy-ers and Grace Bonney from Design Sponge. We shared cocktails and crafts and some great conversation!

Afterward, Grace gave a presentation about her upcoming book, which she calls a "design bible." We got sneak peeks at some of the artwork, some of the sections, the layout of the book and learned a lot about the process of how the book was "born." It was really interesting to hear about the journey she's taken to create such a comprehensive and lovely book.

It was a pleasure to meet fellow Team HiP member Stephanie Corfee in person and to catch up again with Tara from Scoutie Girl and Megan from Craft MBA and Cozy Cuff. And, of course, it was great making new friends and learning about other artists, crafters and designers out there in the real world, making beautiful things happen.

One of the joys of attending this event was that it happened under the auspices of Terrain, an incredibly beautiful and hip nursery, home and garden "experience." To call it a shop just doesn't seem to cover it. Terrain has taken a nursery to an entirely new level. Every turn holds a beautifully designed display and the main shopping building holds everything from plants and planters, greeting cards, a vast selection of gorgeous books, thoughtfully designed kitchen and cooking gear, lovely homegoods and an extensive line of bath and body products that tempt the senses.

What a lovely way to gift a bulb for the holidays! Perfect for the garden and vintage lover!

Every little corner of Terrain holds inspiration. These robins' egg blue rooms were just perfection... rustic burlap upholstered chairs paired with rusted metal framed lanterns? Heaven.

Pretty wrapped soaps from Fringe in a holiday display. Love those candles!

And the day was topped off with a raffle of some fabulous pieces from shops and artists featured in Grace's new book. I walked away with these exquisite fabric flowers from Emerson Made. So pretty!

A vibrant sunset of oranges, golden yellows and bold reds on the drive home ended the day perfectly. Thanks to Grace from Design Sponge and the staff and employees of Terrain for a terrific event... inspiring, festive and perfect in every way! Thank you!!

Why You NEED To Do A Craft Show

2010-10-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Have you ever done a craft show? Think it's not for you?
Let me tell you why it IS!

A craft or art show puts you in direct contact with your customers. If you only sell online, you never have the personal experience of seeing someone handle your product, ask their questions and decide what they like.

Handmade Mart in Silver Spring, Md. Photo courtesy of Nestor Diaz

In a live selling venue, you get to see which pieces people are generally drawn to and which ones just never seem to catch anyone's eye. You might be creating a series or style of product that you love but that just doesn't work with many buyers. Or you may have a piece or style that surprises you by being a big hit that you never expected. It's this kind of "crowd sourcing," or creating new products based on the likes and interests of your customers that is a really cool way to get inspired.

You'll get to use your conversations with buyers to sculpt a selling technique that fits your product and your personality. You'll gently fall into a sales pitch that won't sound "pitchy" or pushy. It will cover all the main points of your product, technique or background without many of the extras that don't need to be said to everyone. A deeper sales conversation can happen as the customer becomes more interested, asks questions and sticks around in your booth to chat.

Essential Paper show booth - photo courtesy of Nestor Diaz

You may find that you're getting the same questions again and again. So, this is something that needs to be addressed in your online sales pitch or Etsy item description.

Only when selling to customers in person can you see how your pricing is working for you. Do people love your products but cringe at the pricetag? Or do they immediately bring it over to purchase? It may help you to decide if your pricing is in line with the current market.

Renegade Holiday Craft Fair, Chicago - photo courtesy of E. Bartholomew

And best of all, at a craft show, you get to meet your "people." You may not have a very specific picture of what your perfect customer might look like but I think this is essential is knowing how to market your product. Tara Gentile from ScoutieGirl always says that the more specific you can get when defining who your customer is, the better you can sell to them. Is she a mom, does she believe in green living, is she a business woman, does she like frills without wanting to pay a lot for them? I was surprised to find that my customer, or the people most often interested in my product, was a much different person than I had imagined and doing live shows with my products is the number one thing that introduced me to her... the person who loved my pieces and just couldn't walk away without taking something home with her.

Many artists and crafters shy away from craft shows thinking that they are too much work, too much time investment or sometimes too much money for a table space or booth. There certainly will be some time, thought and work that will go into preparing stock and a pretty booth space that will draw in the customers but there are many opportunities for shows locally to fit in your budget. There are shows through local churchs or community groups that may charge $20-30 for a space and shows that may charge hundreds (or more) for the very same size space! The only difference is the size of the event, the advertising budget, the area in which it's being held and the size of the crowds expected. Just be sure to think about whether the crowds attracted to the event you're considering would be interested in your product. And check to make sure that the show has a good following or substantial advertising to ensure that there will be enough people to sustain the event and make it worth your while. Nothing is more frustrating than putting in the effort and time to get things ready and then having a very slow day with few customers. Trust me, I've been there!

Artstar, Philadelphia - photo courtesy of Curious Bird

It's a great time of year for shows and I'm sure that there are a bunch of shows in your area still accepting applications. Check out www.craftlister.com for shows in your neck of the woods, or ask around with local crafters, team members or join a local group, guild or Etsy street team to get the inside scoop.

A craft show can be a great learning experience and a terrific way to get directly in touch with the people who are buying your products. It's a fun way to get inspired and re-ignite your creative spark by crowd sourcing for some new ideas. You're going to make some great contacts, hand out a ton of business cards, meet other artists and crafters selling at the show and come away with a clearer picture of your work, pricing, product line and who is ultimately buying your goods.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start selling!

**What great lessons have YOU learned from doing a live show? I'd love to hear how it helped you to sculpt your online selling experiences!**

What's The Story, Morning Glory?

2010-10-15T11:19:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Johnny B Truant's post over on Etsy about telling the story of your products inspired me to to reveal a little of my life, by explaining one of my favorite products in my shop. These are my vintage Kellar magic poster stone coaster set.

Before I became an artist and a mom, I was a professional magician. My husband and I traveled the country, and the world, performing for Fortune 500 corporations, on cruise ships and at private parties. We ended up in Las Vegas for seven years, headlining in our own show at Caesars Palace. It was a dream job with the really cool benefits of getting to hang out with celebrities, see our names on the same marquee as Frank Sinatra back in the day and live a truly fabulous and exciting life.

One of my favorite things about the world of magic are the very rare magic posters from ages long gone. These vibrant and colorful stone lithographs are hard to find in some cases and VERY large in others. It's very difficult (and expensive!) to find these posters as originals and it's sometimes hard to find wall space large enough to display them in your home.

These stone drink coasters are the perfect way to display the bright and bold history of these very rare and sought after magic posters. Favorites of magicians, circus enthusiasts and design professionals, these Kellar posters are classic collectables from the era of big traveling shows. This coaster set is a nice way to own a piece of this magical history without making the huge monetary commitment to owning an original stone lithograph poster.

I'd love to hear the stories of some of the pieces you've created! Feel free to tell your story on your blog or website and link it up here!

Southern Charms

2010-10-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

Deer Valley rag quilt - $175.00 from Southern Charm Quilts

I'm a southerner at heart. Although I was born in the middle of Pennsylvania, my family is deeply rooted in the south and every summer held a trip for my mother, father, sister and I into the south to visit relatives there. It's a place that holds memories for me of the warm embrace of family and the romance of moss hanging from a canopy of trees.

I love sweet tea, a good front porch swing and a lazy warm Sunday in the sun wearing a long, effortless sundress.

Please enjoy this collection of handmade goodies... inspired by and/or made in the south!

Victorian Blush vintage pearls and rosary chain - $35.00 from Renee Loughlin

You Are My Sunshine poster - $8.00 from Jessica Swift

8x8 turquoise handmade pine picture frame - $22.00 from DA Custom Frames

Tree Of Life print - $25.00 from Not Yo Momma's Handbag

Blush Earrings - $22.00 from Eternal Eden

Anchors Away! - Friday Finds

2010-09-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

This week's Friday Finds are inspired by a recent trip my family and I took to Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Enjoy these sea inspired lovelies...

Art For The Seafarer

My Captain - We've Reached The End Of The World print from HidenSeek - $43.00
Pray The Anchor Stays Heavy, My Child print from HidenSeek - $43.00
Jellyfish - original linocut from The Grey Fox Studio - $60.00
Black Octopus Attacking Ship print from BlackBaroque - $10.00

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Jewelry and fashion inspired by the sea!

Anchor ring in sterling silver from SilverBeyondOrdinary- $159.00
Anchors Away earrings from tizzalicious - $7.50
Nautical headband with brass anchor button from Peachy Tuesday - $12.00
Hey Sailor shirt from emandsprout - $16.00

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Fun nautical finds for little ones!

5 flag nautical felt banner from Taffie Wishes - $25.00
A B C nautical prints from KZukowski - $12.00 each
Dotty wooden sailboat from willowbaus - $18.00

Weekend Inspiration

2010-09-06T18:03:00.000-07:00

Just stumbled across the lovely shop, Tea For Thoughts, on Etsy. It was new to me and so inspirational! I love the soft colors and the sweet sentiments. They are just the thing to start a new week!

*All images copyright Tea For Thoughts.

Some New Favorites - Friday Finds

2010-08-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

River Deep - Ziegfeld showgirl mixed media print from Velvet Morning - $13.00

This week's Friday Finds are handmade goodies pulled from my Etsy favorites. These are just some pretty handmade pieces that I stumbled across this week and wanted to share! Enjoy!

You and Me - photo encaustic from Miniature Rhino - $25.00

Wildflowers handpainted, upcycled mug from Deeds and Petunia - $10.00

Olive everyday hobo style bag from Nuwong - $17.99

How I Do It

2010-08-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

If there's one statement that I hear more than any other it's "I just don't know how you do it."

I've got three kids under 6, a husband who travels often for work, a big house, a big yard, a garden and a business that is growing by leaps and bounds.

My days are full of child care, cleaning, filing orders, developing new products and artwork, internet networking, business paperwork and all the usual household chores. Anyone who hears about my life and the things that I get done in one day, always utters those words... "I just don't know how you do it."

Just between you and me, I've got a secret weapon. No, it's not coffee or some illicit substance that gives me massive amounts of energy to get through the day. It's much simpler than that.

It's momentum.

Pure and simply, once I get going I just let the wave of activity wash over me. It seems that the more I get done, the more energy I produce to keep going. As the "done" list grows, my brain and body just kick in to top off with even more things to add to the list.

I fight the urge to sit down and take a break because it completely stops my flow of work. I find that I feel like taking a break not because I'm tired but more because it feels like a reward for finishing something. I've realized that I'd rather move on and get something else done than give myself a pat on the back and a rest on the couch!

Momentum gives me power.
Momentum gives me focus.
Momentum gives me energy.

But when I'm done... I'm. Done.

The excitement that I'm finding by accomplishing so many things in one day just feeds on itself. When I'm lying in bed at night, exhausted, my brain is still going... excited about the list of things for tomorrow.

So that's my secret. Momentum. I get motivated (as difficult as that may be sometimes) and then just ride it through, keeping continual momentum.

It's what works for me. What works for you? How do you do it?

** Photo by Kelsey LoveFusionPhoto via flickr Creative Commons

Houndstooth - Friday Finds

2010-08-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

Houndstooth Hobo bag from cindymars7 - $45.00

Maxwell Romper from Fables By Barrie - $98.00

Houndstooth pom from Pom Love - $6.00

Houndstooth Toddler Necktie from Baby By Stevie - $17.00

I love the classic lines of the houndstooth design. Do you have any really great houndstooth pieces of know of some cool listings on Etsy that might work with this theme? Put your links in the comments so that we can all check 'em out!

Have a great weekend!

History Of Us

2010-08-04T10:11:00.001-07:00

The Lovers from Meadowlark - $7.50

Paris Exposition Necklace from Precious Pastimes - $28.50

Notre Dame photo print from Lesley Sico - $10.00

French Love tote bag from Cubist Literature - $15.00

Galeries Lafayette photo print from Cucumber Soup - $11.00

I went all the way to Paris,
To forget your face.
Captured in stained glass,
Young lives long since past,
Statues of lovers every place.

I went all across the continent,
To relieve this restless love,
I walked through ruins,
Icons of glory,
Smashed by the bombs from above.

Inspired by Scoutie Girl's We Scout Wednesday feature and the classic and haunting beautiful Indigo Girls song, "History Of Us."

Confessions of a Bookworm - Friday Finds

2010-07-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

I Am A Bookworm print from vol25 - $20.00

I recently read a shocking fact. Amazon has reported that the sales of their electronic books readers outnumbered their sales of actual books. Wow.

As an avid reader, I'm saddened to hear this! There is nothing like the feel of a book. I love to see font choices, experience the feel of the paper and the smell of the pages.

So, just to inspire you to go out an actually buy a beautiful book, here's a collection of gorgeous book accessories.

The Tempest - leather bookmark from immortal longings - $4.99

Dreaming Ophelia bookplate set from Stiletto Heights - $6.00

Reader's Diary from Green Chair Press - $10.00

Custom Initial Bookmark from Arete - $7.00

Looking for some great books to read? Check out http://www.goodreads.com/ for fabulous book reviews and an online place for you to review books and record what you've read and create your own "to read" lists. It's a wonderful resource for bookworms!

Also, sign up online to receive coupons and great discounts at national book retailers like Barnes and Nobel and Borders. I often receive emails with fantastic sales and coupons for generous discounts.

Looking for more Etsy goodies for book lovers? Check out the bookworm finds that I curated for Etsy's blog, The Storque!

I hope that you can set aside some time in the next few days to snuggle up with a good book! Have a great weekend!

My Favorites - Friday Finds

2010-07-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

This week I'm highlighting just a few of my recent Etsy favorites, like this ring from Antebelle. Located almost right in my backyard here in the Philly area, Antebelle's design aesthetic is so lovely. $12.00
Aliette offers these delicately designed earrings featuring her simple and stunning original art. $25.00

I'm starting to become obsessed with plant stakes and this one from Monkeys Always Look is just perfect for my growing collection of african violets. $12.00

Julene offers these amazing, intricate laser cut papers. She only has a few listed in her shop but does do custom orders. I was thinking how wonderful it would be as a wedding gift using a portion of the happy couples' wedding vows. Wow! $65.00

Vintage items used in jewelry is such a hot trend right now and I've seen many that I love, but this ring made from an old typewriter key by Fringe Lore is the perfect gift for any writer, book lover or purveyor of vintage lovelies. $45.00

Want to see more of what I love? Visit me here!

Do you have any beautiful things that might be perfect for a Friday Finds? I'd love to include it! Drop me an email... thepaintedlily@hotmail.com

Have a great weekend! :)

A Week By The Sea

2010-07-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

I've become obsessed today with the idea of renting a cottage by the sea and hiding out for a week of quiet and solitude... maybe even a whole summer.

I'm so obsessed that I'm finding myself closing my eyes and envisioning this "dream house" on more than one occasion today.

I've even perused online sites that offer beach rentals and homes for sale in beachy areas.

I tweeted about this idea and immediately was getting responses from others chiming in about how wonderful it sounded!

I'm dreaming of a small cottage with a long drive, lots of shade trees and beautiful blooming flowers. I'd like it to be in a cooler climate, north of where I am now in Pennsylvania. I'm looking for whitewashed walls, a pretty porch with a swing and romantic bedrooms with flowing, pastel curtains.

It's just the place to help me relax and completely recharge my energy and creativity.

There's no way that this fits into my current financial situation but just the thought of this cottage is getting me through the day and probably the upcoming weeks. Every business opportunity that comes my way and every sale that I get for the rest of the summer is going to get me one step closer to this dream.

It may be summers and summers away for me but it's my gift of enthusiasm and peace to you today.

Close your eyes, smell the salty air and feel the sea breeze on your skin...

A special thanks goes out to Tara at Scoutie Girl for her We Scout Wednesday post about the gift of enthusiasm.

Photo credit - RCP PA via Flickr Creative Commons

An Old Fashioned, New Age Way To Communicate

2010-07-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

In this age of texting and emails, the art of the handwritten letter has been all but lost in the rush of technology.

That's why I was overjoyed to find a small project going on (in a secret location), spearheaded by two artists named Lenka and Michael. Their goal is to send a handwritten letter to every home in the world.

They've started with Polish Hill, PA and now have their eyes set on a town outside of the US, to secretly barrage with lovely, personal, quirky and wonderful handwritten notes.

Lenka and Michael are looking for funding to start on the next step of their project. Visit them here to see their fun and inspiring video. And, feel free to make a donation and become a supporter of this super cool idea!

What a fun way to connect people and get a community talking and interacting with each other.

I, for one, cannot wait to get my letter!

Photo credit - A.Drian via Flickr Creative Commons

Jade Green - Friday Finds

2010-07-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

Gloriously lovely jade bracelet from The Shag Bag - $16.00

An original painting delicately adorned with freshwater pearls from Amborela - $36.00

Beautifully shaded stoneware berry bowl with drainage holes from Fox Pots - $39.00

Pretty and airy, bamboo/silk blend knit dress from Eronica - $125.00

Beautifully eclectic fine art print from Lesley Sico, featuring soft and sweet items from her apartment - $10.00

Hope that you enjoy these delicate and delicious jade beauties! Have a fantastic weekend, my friends!

A Nice Cool Breakfast Treat

2010-07-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

We can thank Ree from The Pioneer Woman for this great, cool summer treat. This morning I was wondering what to have for breakfast since it was so hot already and nothing seemed appealing. So, I took her suggestion from a tweet I saw this morning and had this. So incredibly delicious!

I took about 4-5 heaping tablespoons of soup cream and mixed in about 2 teaspoons of sugar. You know, there was no measuring... so use your best judgment!

You could also use brown sugar and cinnamon with apple slices or fresh peaches, since peach season is almost here. (And how exciting is that?)

We ate ours with fresh, organic, locally grown strawberries. It was so fresh and yummy and perfect for this heat wave. Even the picture cools you off, huh?

And speaking of locally grown fruits, I'm visiting a new farmers' market in my area tomorrow afternoon and I'll be blogging about it later this week! Check back here for more info and maybe a few sneak peek pictures!

Have a great day!

Crafty By Nature Outdoor Craft Market

2010-07-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

Nestled in and among the tall shade trees at Shupp's Grove Antique Market in Addamstown, PA you'll find Crafty By Nature, a monthly craft gathering featuring local shops and artists. This beautiful, park like setting is the perfect backdrop for the lovely handmade pieces you'll find. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and to meet artists who create lovely and thoughtful pieces.

Pamela Flapper Hat by Like Clochework $40.00

I traveled about an hour to get there and it was well worth the trip! I've known about Crafty By Nature since it's first week, over a year ago. I was scheduled to have a space there last June but we got rained out and by the time July rolled around, I was holding my brand new baby boy! So, this was my first trip there and the weather was wonderful this time around.

Crafty By Nature is the brainchild of Alex, owner of Hello Bluebird in West Reading, PA. That's a whole 'nother blog post, people! Too much coolness in that shop to speak of now!

Birds ponytail holder set by Peachy Tuesday - $8.00

July 4th really felt like the perfect day to visit Crafty By Nature. What better way to celebrate the freedoms that our country allows us than by meeting and supporting fellow indie artists? These are the folks living the American dream of making your own way and following your passions to make a comfortable living for you and your family.

It was inspiring to see that so many artists brought their families along with them! Behind almost every booth was a little playgroup, girls making their own artwork, strollers holding sleeping babies or a group of little kids playing tug of war. It was such a family affair, which was so appealing to me. It really speaks to the laid back "personality" of this event. All are welcome, creativity and energy abound!

Vintage book journal by The Fancy Lamb - $16.00

I met some "web friends" there in person and had a lovely stroll with the kids through all the crafty goodness. We also enjoyed browsing the antique and thrifty section of Shupp's Grove. Fresh squeezed lemonade and hand spun milk shakes finished off our wonderful, sunny day.

Hammered botanical pendant by Laylabelle - $39.00

I highly recommend a trip to Crafty By Nature if you're in the area. It's a must see of the spring and summer season here in Lancaster County.

Visit Crafty By Nature on Facebook, Twitter and on their blog.

Dancing With Angels

2010-07-04T13:12:00.000-07:00

"Your Last Gift To Me" by Stiletto Heights - $18.00

Altered art charm bracelet by Jezebel Charms - $69.00

Leaf crowned angel by Elizabeth Frank - $350.00

Silver wing ring by HappyGoLicky - $45.00

Angels' Tears necklace by New Fashioned Whispers - $29.00

Absinthe Mysteries - Friday Finds

2010-07-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

Oh, the mysteries of absinthe, that magical concoction! These romantic finds celebrate all that is absinthe!

Choklit offers these amazing cuffs (pictured above) made from dupioni silk with a delicate frayed edge. The absinthe color is amazing, the cuffs are gloriously delicate and the styling of this shop's images is breath taking. $86.00 pair

This gorgeous wire wrapped necklace from Glitz Glitter would be a pretty accessory for a night on the town or a day at the mall. So lovely and versatile, a portion of the proceeds from the purchase of this piece goes to the American Cancer Society. $22.00

What a fabulous color, texture and pattern on this handmade corset from La Belle Fairy! Constructed with the highest attention to detail, the corset is made from green silk brocade fabric and has been detailed with grape cluster gold lace. It is a work of art! $375.00

Simple, clean and delicate design are the highlights of this lovely feather fascinator made by Metro Gypsy. It's deep, iridescent greens are paired perfectly with the sparkling Swarovski crystals. It's a small way to make a big statement! $4.00

Spoil yourself with this delicious creation from For Strange Women. The Absinthe lip balm is 100% natural and handcrafted from shea butter, cocoa butter and beeswax for ultimate lip protection and healing. But it's the flavor of this delicious beauty treat that will keep you coming back for more! $6.00

Have a delectable and delicious holiday weekend! Hope you enjoyed these romantic and reminiscent Absinthe lovelies!

5 Reasons To Buy Handmade

2010-06-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

I often wonder what holds people back from purchasing handmade goods. Is it fear of poor quality? Is it because of budget issues? Is it because they think handmade goods are tacky or lacking in style?

But, I don't need to convince you to buy handmade. If you are here, then we are of the same tribe! We understand the upside of purchasing handmade pieces. So, how do we convert the masses who might be a little more apprehensive?

I've put together a few little nudges you can throw out to friends who might not be on the bandwagon with us. These are just little thoughts to keep in your backpocket until the perfect time arises to drop them into conversations with friends.

1. Handmade pieces are generally pretty unique. They are the kind of things that you can't find in major stores. It's the upcycled dress that turns everyone's head. It's the fabulous, one of a kind piece of jewelry that your friends will covet. It's that avant-guard piece of artwork that you could never have made by yourself in a million years. "Handmade" is head turning, conversation starting and totally hip and cool.

2. Buying handmade directly supports someone who is running their own business and trying to make a "go" of it. They may be struggling. They have probably invested a lot much time and money into their passion. They may have a growing family. Your purchase gets them further along on their path of success. And who doesn't love the feeling of success? How great is it to give that to someone?

3. Buying handmade supports artists on so many levels. If you're an artist, you know that each sale brings you so much for than the monetary benefits. Each sale validates you as an artist and let's you know that you're on the right path. I'm reminded of Sally Field's Academy Award acceptance speech. "You like me! You really like me!" It's an unparalleled rush.

4. Handmade items are usually made with better quality control than things you could buy at the big stores. Yes, sometimes it might be a little more money but the quality is generally going to be something that makes this item last for a long time. I grew up with handmade items and have even passed them on to my children! My kids are playing with handmade toys from 30 years ago. Talk about passing the test of time!

5. The handmade pieces of today are not the handmade pieces from your grandma's time. At a local craft fair you're going to see fewer crocheted toilet paper cozies in the shape of pink poodles and a lot more quirky, humorous screenprinted tees. You'll see fun, fabulous and thoughtful toys for your kids. You'll find a huge variety of eco-friendly homegoods that fit perfectly into your new, green lifestyle.

And you're not just going to see passive Grannies sitting around knitting booties! You're going to mix and mingle with some of the most vibrant and creative minds in the arts industry. These folks are out there, in the trenches, making their dreams come true and making amazing items for people just like you. These are the movers and shakers of our generation!

Just a little side note, I'd die to have the crocheted toilet paper cozy in the shape of a pink poodle that I remember from my grandmother's bathroom about 35 years ago. Also, I've seen some incredibly cool and hip grandma's knitting at craft shows. These gals have it goin' on!

There are so many reasons to buy handmade. As believers, we can take it on ourselves to teach others the benefits of supporting artists and buying quality, awesome, handmade pieces for themselves. It brings nothing but good to all.

So, get out there and get talking! The handmade revolution starts with you!

All photos are from the fabulous Handmade Mart in Silver Spring, MD. Find out more info about their shows here.

*Photo credits - All photos copyright Dots, Lines and Polygons via Flickr

Magnets by Sweet Paperie
Bags by Penelope Parker
Monsters by Charm City Craft Mafia member Cotton Monster
Street Scene at Handmade Mart
Debbie & Kim, Handmade Mart organizers
Soap by 8th Street Soap Kitchen

A Life Through Pictures

2010-06-21T15:56:00.001-07:00

A bit of a different post today...

I stumbled across a story online from The New York Times about a man named Jamie Livingston. Just a regular guy, like you or I.

He took one polaroid photo every day for 18 years. They are photos that might not be incredibly interesting as single images, but when combined, they create a patchwork of life.... Jamie's self portraits, him hanging out with friends, the engagement ring he bought and the days where it seems he had no inspiration at all.

The images form into a crescendo for me when they begin to show us his journey through illness. Hospitals, incisions... it's enough to turn a fairly light hearted collection of daily images into a very personal diary of sorts.

We see him struggle. We see him laugh. We see him deteriorate. And, ultimately, the images come to an end.

It's a huge body of work. Eighteen years of photos everyday. What a commitment, what a statement.

It makes me wonder what my life would look like in snapshots. How about the lives that I'm creating for my children?

What would your polaroid a day look like? What would your collection say as a whole?

To see more of the Photo A Day Project and learn more about Jamie Livingston, please visit http://photooftheday.hughcrawford.com/

Building Your Business Into An Empire

2010-06-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

I recently sent a tweet out into the universe that was meant to be a little tongue in cheek comment on how busy I am and how many new business ideas are barraging into my brain from who knows where. But the more I thought about the tweet and received messages about it, the more I realized how much strength that message had.

The tweet was, "Busy today building an empire. It's exhausting work but what's a girl to do?!"

It's an interesting thought... are you just plugging along, taking your business day by day? Or are you making a conscious decision everyday to make steps towards a larger picture? I find myself busy with the daily duties of having my own business but then in spurts I find myself making huge strides to further this burgeoning business.

What are some ideas that you've had in the back of your head that might further or expand your business? What BIG ideas have you been putting off because of fear or intimidation that it might be too much for you to handle?

Here's a few suggestions that might get your creativity rolling... a few ideas to expand and grow your empire!

* Could you turn your art into greeting cards, gift wrap, collage sheets, buttons, pocket mirrors?
* Do you have great information to offer business owners that could be transformed into a booklet or e-book?
* Could you turn your love of knitting or crochet into wall art instead of just wearables?
* Could you make smaller versions of your handbags to be used as change purses, wallets?
* How could you expand your product line to cover a larger span of price points? Maybe add some more expensive pieces and more affordable ones as well?
* Does your product line have a cohesive look or would your customers be drawn to a more eclectic collection of work?
* Do you use all social media outlets to reach potential customers?
* How could you better package or present your goods for shops and/or shows?
* What is your customer's experience when receiving an order from you? How could you use that moment to make a more meaningful connection with them?
* Are your product descriptions memorable and creative?
* Why would someone want to buy from you? What makes you different from every other vendor out there?
* What questions might your customers have when reading your online item descriptions and how can you answer those questions to "seal the deal?"
* Where do you want your business to go? How big can you get before you need to hire help? Is that a feasible option for you right now?

The list could go on and on! There are endless ways to expand and grow your small business into an empire. From grounding and firming up your creative vision, solidifying the face of your business, expanding your product lines and flooding the online social outlets in a non-offensive or pushy way... these are all wonderful ways to excite the public about your business, and ultimately, you.

Do you have any great ideas about marketing, production, growth, advertising etc that you'd like to share? I'd love to hear all the ways that you are taking steps toward building your empire!

Photo credit - AntKriz via flickr Creative Commons

Open Up The Door And Then You're Free

2010-06-14T06:31:00.000-07:00

May you boldly step into the world today! Go make something happen!

Photo credits -
Door and Handles by Will Michael Photography - $30.00
Open It by Cactus Huggers - $30.00
White Windows 02 by Beautiful Dark Ligh t - $20.00

Robins Egg Blue Beauties

2010-06-13T19:30:00.000-07:00

On a hot and humid night like this, I am really dreaming of cool, casual and pretty fashion. If this heat is going to continue tomorrow, I'll be dreaming of wearing this fabulous dress by Out Of Line. Made of comfortable cotton jersey, it can be tied in the front or the back. Gorgeous! $120.00

Tiffany chiffon and ivory organza blossom hair clip from Percy Handmade $24.00

Spring Rain amazonite teardrop earrings from Linkel Designs $16.00

Hope it's nice and cool where you are tonight! Have a happy week!

Come Clean In A Pool Of Fire - Friday Finds

2010-06-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the only way to find yourself on the other side of a difficult situation is to walk right through the middle of it. You'll emerge on the other side, maybe a little burned, slightly scarred but alive and ready to live.

(Above) "Fall On Fire" fine art print by Life's A Menagerie - $30.00

Firestarter Earrings by Black Owl Jewelry - $20.00

Acacia (tree of life) oil painting from Sheri Wiseman - $30.00

"Playing With Fire" photo reproduction by Peace House - $18.00

"And She Rose From The Heat" kaleidoscope print from The Painted Lily - $30.00

This Friday Finds was inspired by a lyric from this amazing SheDaisy song, "Repent. Check it out right here... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrVXARcKTao

Sweet Relief For Artists

2010-06-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

As someone who works with their hands, I am always looking for ways to keep mine moisturized and nourished. Working with stone just tears up my skin. Digging through stacks and stacks of stone tiles leaves my skin sore and dry. The sealers that I use require that I wash my hands often and it always leaves my skin dry, even after using a good soap and moisturizer. It's an ongoing battle that is often quite painful.

On a recent trip to Lowe's, the home improvement store, I was standing in line and saw a product that caught my eye.

It's packaging is great for standing out in the crowd of "impulse buys" that populate the checkout lines everywhere.

But it's not the brightly colored packaging that proved to be the genius of this product. I was feeling brave and took the chance that it might actually be THE product that would work for my dry and sore skin. And, let me just say... that IT WAS.

I've never tried a healing moisturizer quite like this one. O'Keeffe's boasts that it boosts your skin's ability to heal, rather than just work like other short term moisturizers. And, it works. I've used Working Hands for two full days now and I can see an immense difference in the serious trouble spots on my hands. They have improved by at least 60% and that's only after two days!

The O'Keeffe moisturizing/healing product line was the brain child of Tara O'Keeffe over 25 years ago. Her father, a California/Oregon border rancher, was constantly plagued with sore, dry and cracked hands and feet from all the rough work on the farm. Tara's degree in pharmaceuticals prepared her perfectly to create a product that no giant cosmetic company ever could... one that would help her dad and heal millions of working hands.

O'Keeffe's offers other products specifically for cracked feet and for skin exposed to the elements. If they are anywhere as good as this one for hands, I highly recommend them.

Check out O'Keeffe's online here!

Hands photo credit - Horia Varlan via flickr Creative Commons
O'Keeffe's Healing Hands photo - via www.okeeffescompany.com

My Happy Birthday Bucket List...

2010-06-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

Another year has passed and I am, once again, celebrating the day I was brought into this world. It's always a time of reflection. I think about what it must have been like for my parents on the day I was born, compare it to the memories that I have of my children's not so distant births. I think about my memories of some of my favorite birthdays and many of the wonderful and exciting things I've done in my life. I remember all the places I've been and things I've done that I never dreamed in a million years would happen to me... I rode an elephant in the circus, Michael Jackson serenaded me, I saw my name in lights on the Las Vegas strip alongside my husband/best friend, I called a chimpanzee named Tarzan my friend, I traveled the world, I performed for thousands and thousands of people and finally settled down, became an artist and had three amazing children to complete the puzzle. And that's just in the first 29 years (ok.. so I'm a few years older than 29. Gimme a break.)

And, inevitably, any birthday sends my thoughts to how quickly the years have passed. I look in the mirror and see the wrinkles slowly starting to form (I'm happy to say that they include wonderful lines from the many laughs I've had in my life!) and the gray hairs peeking through my dark ones. I won't hide them. It's a conversation I just had with my sister today about how it's just who I am and who I'll become. I will embrace it along with all the other signs of getting older as they creep in. I'm passionate about being that woman with FABULOUS gray hair.

It leads me to think how many birthdays will I have left? How many more years do any of us have? It's a frightening, yet empowering thought.

So, maybe it's time to create my bucket list. You know, that cultural phenomenon term that became popular from the movie of the same title a few years back? It's the list of things you want to do before you ... die. There, I said it. Yeah.

I'm not ready to share mine yet. Mostly because it will probably never be finished. It's barely even started. Certainly not put down on paper. But it's forming in my mind... a mental checklist of opportunities I want to make for myself, wild things that I HAVE to do to feel like I've really lived. It's something that maybe we should all ponder on our birthdays, or any day.

Feel like sharing what's on your list? I'll post a few of mine if you share a few of yours? You first! :)

Photo credit - Lady Lbrty via flickr Creative Commons

My Workspace

2010-06-08T12:14:00.001-07:00

workspace
Originally uploaded by Painted Lily

Just thought I'd share a quick shot of my workspace. I think it's important to surround yourself with an organized and inspiring space in which to create. I won't say that mine is always organized but I do like to keep things around that inspire me! Click on the picture to head over to my flickr stream and see notes about all the things you see here.

I'd love to see the places you've created to inspire you! Please share your link in the comments or email me pics that I might post here to thepaintedlily@hotmail.com!

Tapping Into Your Creative Strength

2010-06-08T04:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so inspired to write/read about creativity and ways to tap into your creative flow lately. I think so many artists and creative thinkers hit a wall from time to time, allowing stress or life or just "something" to stop their brain and heart from working together to create new ideas and projects.

That's where I am right now... I have orders backing up, with more coming in everyday. I've been doing a pretty good job keeping on top of orders and cranking them out at an alarming speed for how long my process takes. But yesterday, I just couldn't do it. I couldn't look at another stone coaster, sign and mat another collage print, prime another canvas... heck, I couldn't even bring myself to unload my car from this past Sunday's art exhibit.

While surfing the web I found this article from creativebits.org about ways to get your creative juices flowing and it really hit a chord with me. I realized that I needed to change it up... do something different, recharge myself in some way.

So, I took a vacation just to clear my mind. Ok... so I checked my email, my shop and twitter a few times! But NO work in the studio.

I spent the day with my kids. We played in the sun. My little boy swung in his new baby swing and felt the grass on his tiny toes for the first time. We took a long walk and ate way too many popsicles. We watched a kids' movie, had mac and cheese for dinner and snuggled on the couch until bedtime. It was refreshing!

I must admit that the stress started to creep in again as I checked my email only to find more orders but I just pushed it out of my mind and focused on freeing myself from it.

And, I think it worked! I woke up this morning feeling generally refreshed and ready to work. I even developed two new ideas yesterday while on the walk with my kids. Two new product ideas is HUGE!

Now, to find the time to work on them!

What's your greatest way to recharge or find those few golden moments of creativity a day? How do you keep it from getting "old?" I'll pick my favorite suggestion and send you a package of Painted Lily goodies just to say thank you for the inspiration! :)

The Roots Of The Handmade Movement

2010-05-28T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am forever inspired by the handmade movement... the way that artists and crafters reach out to one another in support and solidarity. It's like the roots of a tree reaching out underneath us all... connecting us and weaving us together. We are The Handmade Movement... you and I, the makers, the customers, the creators, the consumers.

It's through that web of crafters that I stumbled upon the creator of these beautiful images. I have always been a fan of Etsy's "heart" system that allows you to mark and make public artists that catch your eye. And through that system that I found Storytree Creations who makes these incredibly delicate and intricate blank cards.

They each measure 5x7 inches and would be such a lovely way to say thank you, I love you or to cheer up a friend with a little note.

The 5x7 size also makes them perfect for framing and keeping forever! How pretty would these look as a framed collection over your desk in your home office or guest bedroom?

Take a few minutes to look at who has "hearted" your shop. I'm sure you'll find some undiscovered gems and some new roots to follow along our journey in this handmade movement!

A Little Birdie Told Me That It's Friday

2010-05-28T04:21:00.000-07:00

Time for another Friday Finds! I'm sorry to have been missing in action for the last two installments... craft show season is up on us and my queue of orders has been happily growing and growing!

This week's finds are inspired by spring and rebirth. The little chirps and twitters outside my window in the morning is a wonderfully cheerful way to start my day!

This eye catching brooch above created by Lovely Pigeon has been hand drawn onto heat shrink plastic. It's vintage inspired look is so hip and, in black and white, it goes with nearly anything. The perfect little beauty for your spring coat, scarf or to adorn your purse. $19.00

"Sly Devil" is a limited edition, archival print that features this folksy bird and pretty red flowers. Corid offers this print alongside a variety of others that would make a lovely collection when grouped together. As an artist who works in a square and colorful format myself, her square prints really "work" for me. Square frames are becoming easier and easier to find and it makes this a great option for unique art for your home. $20.00

I'm so into brooches right now (ever since Like Clochework gifted me this crocheted one last February... ) and this little birdie really fits the bill! He is so colorful and cheerful and he's even thinking green since he's made from 100% recycled eco-felt! Thanks to lovahandmade for making such an eco friendly cutie. $12.00

What a sweet thank you! This blank card, created by Able And Game, is the perfect way to send a chipper thanks. This is the kind of card that you want to frame and keep on your wall! $4.00

Love this delightful collage print from my fellow Between The Lines classmate, A Girl And Her Brush. The spring colors and the sweet little lovebirds are just darling. And it doesn't need to be framed since it's on stretched artists' canvas? Even better! $120.00

Happy, happy Friday everyone! Have a fantastic and colorful holiday weekend!

Kaleidoscope Collage Throw Pillow Slipcover

2010-05-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to announce the newest Painted Lily product in my homegoods collection! This vintage inspired throw pillow slipcover features my most popular kaleidoscope collage made from vintage images and art papers. The image has been custom printed on the linen-cotton canvas fabric and backed with a repurposed vintage counterpane bedspread. It's bold color and classic design lend this throw pillow to any decor.

There will be more designs to come and they can all be found in my online shop at http://www.thepaintedlily.etsy.com

Beautiful Butterflies - Friday Finds

2010-05-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Spring brings with it my flowering, fragrant plants in the yard and the butterflies that come to gather their sweet nectars. I have found an amazing collection of handmade mariposa lovelies on Etsy.

These pretty, edible butterflies pictured above from Sugar Robot are gorgeous little editions to any cupcake or cake. The rich, deep turquoise color is simply breathtaking! $9.95 for a set of 20

Love this delicate bracelet from Out Of The Door! It's just thing for a special something for yourself! It's a sweet treat that YOU deserve! $20.00

This vintage inspired pillow cover offered by Jolie Marche measures a generous 20x20 inches and features detailed images of two beautiful butterflies along with a vintage label. So pretty and perfect as a bedroom accent. $35.00

Who wouldn't feel appreciated after receiving this one of a kind, handmade thank you card? Recycledideas offers this card is made from recycled junk mail and used office fliers. The most wonderful thing about this beauty is that it has flower seeds embedded in it and can be planted! What a perfect way to say "thank you!" $5.20

Made of a canvas cotton fabric with exceptional attention to high quality workmanship, this bag is a real showstopper brought to you by Ikabags. The color is vibrant and the butterflies frolicking in and among the cherry blossoms is perfect for springtime. It's generous enough to hold a laptop and even serve double duty as a fashionable diaper bag. It's a limited edition so snap it up while you can! $44.00

Happy Friday! If the weather is warm and nice where you are, take a little walk and see what pretty and magical butterflies live in your neighborhood. I hope you have a lovely weekend, full of beautiful moments!

Intricate Beauty

2010-05-04T09:55:00.001-07:00

I am overjoyed to have stumbled upon another amazing artist on Etsy! I saw suzik in a treasury and had to explore her shop and her work more.

She makes temari balls which are a traditional Japanese craft made from the loose threads of womens' kimonos. They were made as toys for their children.

I was immediately drawn to the intricate nature of these temari balls. In my own work, I incorporate mandala patterns and the patterns in these balls were right along those lines... complex, thoughtful and purposeful.

I am in awe of the amount of time invested in each piece. Their beauty is overwhelming and I love that something this delicate, ornate and traditional is still handmade.

Suzik says of her temari balls, "I imagine myself as a woman sitting in a village in Japan with her resources and tools creating a special gift to give to her youngest daughter on a special day, or to give to a friend to help or heal."

Beautiful words about a beautiful product.

Friday Finds - Rich and Romantic

2010-04-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

This Friday Finds was inspired by this breathtaking dress from Lovechild Boudoir. It's color is rich, romantic and unforgettable. $110.00

This gorgeous hair comb is offered by Chloe AND Maddie and is beautiful in it's rich dark reds and elaborate plumes. The rhinestone center really pops against the deep red. $27.95

The vibrant red in these earrings is breathtaking. Dreamy Vintage offers these beauties alongside other jewelry, made using vintage jewels. And they even come with complimentary gift wrapping... how perfect! $16.00

This gothic inspired necklace will really set some hearts on fire! Offered by Blackheart Jewellery, it features a shiny black metal cross and red Czech glass drops. $25.00

Oh, how fabulous are these vintage shoes from AdVintagous?! The seaming is lovely and the bow is just darling. Perfect for a night out on the town or dressed down for daytime. $20.00

Hope that your weekend is filled with fabulous moments as lovely as these romantic finds!

Kick The Door Down!

2010-04-28T17:03:00.001-07:00

I am so pleased to be included in Scoutie Girl's Kick The Door Down Project! This ezine is a collection of stories from women who have overcome adversity, life situations, personal struggles and difficulties to come out stronger on the other side. It is chock full of inspiration, honesty and words that will cheer you on through your life journey.

Thanks to Tara for this fabulous collection, for the honesty and truth with which she approaches every post on her blog and for her passionate support of handmade goods. It's all great over at Scoutie Girl! If you haven't been yet, check it out!

Art credit - Tara Gentile/ScoutieGirl.com

Brand New Pieces!

2010-04-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to announce the arrival of kaleidoscope ceramic bowls in my shop! The bowls measure 4 3/4 inches across by 3 inches tall and feature my kaleidoscope designs. There will be more designs listed soon but I just couldn't wait to show off my first offering!

This is just the first new arrival in my line of homegoods that I've been slaving over for weeks. Check back often to see the new goodies as they make their grand debuts!

Friday Finds - Window Shopping

2010-04-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

The flowers, blooming trees and springtime emergence of robins has drawn my eye out the kitchen window as I cook, get down to the spring cleaning of my kitchen and spend time with my family in the hub of our home. My kitchen window is an ever changing collection of trinkets and vessels, both new and vintage.

These handblown glass bottles pictured above from Olde Hansa would look so beautiful with the sun shining through them on my windowsill. The colors are earthy and natural and the texture of the glass is so interesting. These bottles are currently sold out but check the shop for other beautiful, handblown choices.

I am loving terrariums and this kit from Augury is the perfect match for my new found love and my diy desires! The kit includes succulents, stones, soil and the orb. I love that you can design this yourself and it's flat bottom allows it to sit anywhere. The loop at the top also gives it the versatility to be able to hang. $28.00

This pretty little heart shaped dish from JD Wolfe Pottery is just the thing to hold your rings at the sink and keep them safe while your hands are in the soapy dishwater. I love the variation in color and the brown specks mixing with the olive greens. $10.00

This photographic print from Leaping Gazelle Studios reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen windowsill. Her sills are very deep and are full of beautiful glass bottles. When the sun filters in through the trees in her backyard, the colors were so magical to me as a child. $23.00

My kitchen window gets exquisite southern exposure which makes it perfect for my collection of succulents and cactuses. I have yet to add any markers to my plants but this marker from Monkeys Always Look has just the right amount of tongue in cheek charm to make an appearance in my kitchen! Her shop is beautiful and her collection of plant markers made from vintage silverware is quite fantastic. $6.50

Springtime always inspires me to re-make my environment... to come out of the cold and into a new life and new world. I hope that this collection of lovelies inspires you to remodel your kitchen windowsill! Have a beautiful weekend!

Friday Finds - Shake Your Tail Feather!

2010-04-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

The peacock is such a majestic and magnificent creature! The bold colors of their plumes are inspiring and the Etsy goodies I have found are purely glorious!

How about this luxurious headband pictured above from Baroque and Roll! The curving plumes are so graceful and the gleem of the feathers would look amazing in the low light of a romantic dinner with your beau. It's one of a kind and features a gorgeous vintage brooch. $90.00

What a beautiful mixed paper notebook from afiori! Based out of Sweden, her shop is like seeing the world through the eyes of someone who is newly in love... soft and romantic, sweet and observant. The peacock notebook measures 8x6 inches and it includes 80 pages of ecletic papers of varying weights. The cover is exquisite, to say the least. $22.00

Belle Sainte Maison offers this elegant and finely detailed collage art print. The colors are bold and vibrant and the collage features letterhead from the Metropolitan Hotel. $12.00

Clutch That has struck gold with their collection of peacock feather themed clutches. These bags gorgeous and so striking! This particular clutch is made to order and showcases a delicate and stunning handbeaded detailing. The clutch is made from dupioni silk outside and a turquoise satin lining. It's a beauty and sure to steal some jealous glances! $80.00

This beauty is a screen printed vintage 1960's locket. The colors are brilliant and I love how they mix so well with the gold of the locket itself. Verabel offers this locket alongside many other designs, all of which are worth a look. $32.00

Have a great weekend! I hope that you will take the chance this weekend to be yourself and show off some of your bold colors.

Friday Finds - Local Love

2010-04-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than supporting local, small businesses and artists. It is my pleasure to feature some of the local goodies available from online Etsy shops based in my neighborhood, the Philadelphia area.

I love the simple and hauntingly memorable work of The Haunted Hollow Tree, as seen above. This is a newer piece in a series called "Found" that showcases the simple beauty of things we see on a daily basis. I like that the collection reminds us of the beauty all around us, like this bumblebee or the poetic way that the light hits a simple bottle of black ink like in this piece. $75.00

Vintage treasures abound from Lackluster Co, based in Lancaster, PA. This vintage letterpress printer drawer is an amazing find, perfect for displaying little collectables or just as a really neat, vintage piece in your home. $38.00

This beautiful print from Emmalynne is perfect for someone who treasures antiques and thrifted lovelies. I adore the soft, romantic feel of her shop and, of course, adore that she is based in the City of Brotherly Love! $10.00

Local artist, Stephanie Corfee's work is, in her own words, "...bohemian and wild, and meticulous and restrained." Her work is so carefree and inspiring! The majority of her shop is very colorful and feels like a kaleidoscope of rainbow colors. This piece really grabbed my eye since I seem to gravitate towards black and white images. Her work is simply unforgettable! $24.00

Delicate and fanciful, these reclaimed fabric and vintage lace flower bobby pin set are such a fantastic find from Cultivar. She also offers her reclaimed fabric flowers in necklaces, headbands, pins, shoeclips and even custom bridal bouquets. Her work is delicate and so soft and pretty. $26.00

Enjoy your upcoming weekend! Want to find local handmade artists in your neck of the woods? Check out Etsy's nifty "Shop Local" tool!

How to use just a few words to focus your business!

2010-04-07T19:35:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking recently about branding and how the "feel" of my business translates from my hands and my brain to my customers.

It all came about because I have been struggling with my product photos lately. I am pleased with the warm wood tones in the background but have felt pressure to conform and incorporate the generally accepted white background. The wood feels more "me" but I wondered if the lighter background would gather more attention. The back and forth in my mind brought me deeper into a struggle that I am now trying to resolve.

I think that many businesses think one thing of themselves, while their customers might think quite another. How can business owners, both small or large, bring these two together to meet?

A thought came to me that maybe a list of adjectives might be just the cure for this disconnect. If I could come up with a few words (maybe 3 or 4?) that would describe the core asthetic and values of my business and products, then I could use this information as a template for each way that I present my products... online, in retail situations, through marketing materials, product packaging, correspondence and social networking sites. It would help me to create a unified and cohesive image that might make my business stand out and seem more well established, trustworthy and professional.

It wasn't easy coming up with words (and I'm still thinking) but so far I've come up with "romantic" and "bohemian." I really took my time and was very choosy about my words. I considered my whole collection when finding them. I need to round it out a little more by adding a few more core words but I am already feeling more focused. I feel like these words will become a contruct through which all of my business decisions will be informed.

How can a list of adjectives help you to become more focused? Do you already have specific words that you keep in mind when marketing yourself and building your business presence? I'm curious to see what words you choose for yourself! Please share them here... let's help each other build strong brands and send some handmade goodness out into the world!

Furry Forest Creatures

2010-04-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

Amberalexander's pieces really grabbed my eye while browsing around on Etsy this evening. I love the dark feel to these pieces I've shown here and the quirky themes of animals intertwined in human life. I love how Amber illustrates faces and eyes in particular... dark, mysterious and full of longing.

She offers very resonably prices prints ($18.00 for an 8x10 print). She also offers ACEOs, cards and originals. Her shop is full of lovely pieces, perfect for any animal lover or nature buff.

If you are an art lover, it's certainly worth a moment to check out amberalexander on Etsy. Her effortless, soft and quirky style will not disappoint!

(All images copyright amberalexander)

Friday Finds - Dark Carnival

2010-04-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have fallen in love with this Dark Carnival/Strange Circus theme. I spent many years in the magic industry and even rode an elephant or two in my day so this week's finds really appeal to me. This art print featuring a creepy and mysterious carnival barker from The Stapelia Company captures that macabre, dark and rich feel. $20.00

Love this 18 " tattooed art doll from mck254. She fits into the carnival theme perfectly. I picture her riding on the carnival train from town to town, slightly sad and thoughtful about the path her life has taken. She is a fanciful beauty among many others in mck254's shop! $225.00

I am a huge fan of black and white ANYTHING and this necklace from Minty Fresh Fusions may need to find a home around my neck. I love how it reminds me of a circus tent stripe. $42.00

Oh, how she reminds me of Lisa the elephant that I rode as Grand Marshall of the circus in Las Vegas! This set of 16 notecards from Dots and Dahlias are playful and memorable and I love the corresponding red envelopes! $18.00

This is a 2D print that looks like a 3D collage. It's another genius piece in Roadside's whimsicle and wonderful circus/carnival themed collection that includes everything from the knife juggler to the trick rider. It's a collection of work that has a very clear point of view and style that works so nicely together. Her shop is a joy and there is not one piece that should be missed! $15.00

Have a magical, mystical, comical, spectacular and wonderful weekend! Hope that you enjoyed this collection of circus-y goodness... sweet as cotton candy, salty as a huge bag of popcorn and wierd as that creepy clown you remember as a kid!

The Perfect (and Quick) Bunny!

2010-03-31T03:17:00.000-07:00

What a cutie! And just in time for Easter! I love this little soft bunny from Elsie Marley. This tutorial on her blog, teaches how to make these sweet little bunnies in only 15 minutes. And what's even better is that he is made from a lone baby sock... I've got a ton of those! These are going to multiple around my house today like... well... rabbits!

Check out her shop for goodies like these a*maz*ing fabric toys. What little boy or girl wouldn't love these?! Playful, colorful and perfect!

photos - Elsie Marley

Friday Finds - March

2010-03-26T06:56:00.000-07:00

As March comes to a close, I am happily searching out the crocuses in my yard to remind me that warm temperatures and growth are just around the corner! I found these amazing Etsy items to inspire us as we head into April...

1. I love the pop of red on this funky lion mask print from MATTY8080. It measures over 10x14 and is perfect for framing. I picture this hanging in an industrial loft apartment! $25.00

2. This 16x20 limited edition print from matteart is super fun and colorful! I really appreciate the character, color palette and sense of style in these illustrations. $85.00

3. This is one of my very favorite pieces on Etsy and adornes my son, Leo's bedroom wall. It's sense of humor is so perfect to me. The lion's expressions and body language really make me giggle! Do yourself a favor and check out Kenneth Rougeau's work at synchronicity313! $4.99

4. Love, love, love these beer bottle top cufflinks from kiwialan! $10.00

5. So sweet... this darling little lamby from tiddlywinks is the perfect handmade goodie for your little one. $30.00

6. I'd love to see a collection of these prints, by lunaclaydesign, all grouped together on a wall. Printed on vintage dictionary pages, she offers the prints using illustrations like a parrot, mermaids, an owl, a duck and this great sheep. $8.00

7. I've seen HeliS' work all over Etsy and am happy to feature this awesome brooch. It's so funky and is a real conversation piece! $16.00

8. These adorable mama sheep and baby lamb stamps from norajane are perfect for your Easter or springtime stationary or scrapbooking! $6.00

Happy Spring, everyone! Here's to lots more "lamb" days in our futures!

Making It Happen

2010-03-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

I am a woman on the verge...

My small art business was beginning to grow around me. I was beginning to feel like I was standing still while things whirled around me... like I was the stillness inside the blur of the tornado. Maybe it's the coming of spring that warms me to the core and awakens my creative spark.

A few weeks ago, my business boomed. Daily sales, lots of inquiries and a number of new wholesale accounts and orders. My inbox was bulging with emails and I was overwhelmed with orders and my business "to do" list.

And then came the calm after the storm. And I was shocked. I thought this was "it." I had envisioned that my parttime business was finally about to morph into a fulltime commitment. And then, a standstill!

I waited a day... nothing. No sales, no emails. Then, another day... nothing. It's now been ten days. I'm not a very patient person!

So, I've spent these last 10 days re-shooting photos, updating my website. I've just been catching up on general business maintainence. But, all the while, I've also been waiting. For what, I didn't know. But I kept waiting.

And then, I stumbled across this post by Scoutiegirl. I recently connected with Tara from Scoutiegirl online after finding her beautiful website and twitter page and realizing that she was from my area. Our paths had even crossed at a local craft show this holiday season when she purchased from me but I had no idea it was her!

Her post that caught my eye (and heart) was about creating abundance, making opportunities and living creatively. Her very personal story about her life growing up with a crafty, go get 'em mom really moved me. I am a mother of three and constantly strive to teach those important lessons of living vibrantly and creatively despite whatever life may throw your way.

Tara's message of "kick the damn door down" may very well be my new mantra. I don't need to sit here and wait for my business to grow around me. I need to get in there and get my hands dirty... start myself on a trajectory towards growth.

I now have in front of me (after hours of online research and soul searching) a dream list of shops, both large and small, that I would love to carry my work. I'm starting at the top and working my way through them, customizing my approach for each one. And I'm not hiding behind email contact, like I have in the past. I'm putting myself out there, walking in to talk to managers, owners, even buyers in big corporate offices. It's so not "me"... pitching myself and my work. But I'm finding it within myself to do it! My family and my kids deserve my success, my hard work demands it.

These are the doors I'm opening this week... shop doors and doors within myself that tell me that I'm worthy and able to accept success. What doors can you kick down this week?

Bright Ideas

2010-03-21T16:12:00.000-07:00

The bright sun and my cheerful mood inspired me to put together this treasury. I'm pleased to have featured...

Thanks to these amazing Etsy artists for all their colorful goodness!

Friday Finds!

2010-03-19T18:14:00.001-07:00

I love photography... capturing the beauty of a moment standing still forever. Old cameras hold a special place in my heart. These long lasting lovelies stood the test of time long before the technology of digital photography. This collection of goodies from Etsy showcases the vintage camera and all of the romance and kitsch that surround it.

1. I've been silently stalking this pretty necklace from japonicas for quite come time now. It's unique, it's quirky, it's perfect! $58.00

2. I met TinaCrespo at an art show last Spring and immediately fell in love with her delicate design asthetic. This lovely 12x18 print is a dream come true for any photography buff. $55.00

3. Any morning cup of joe would be picture perfect with these handprinted mugs by AceroStudio. $28.00

4. I know it's a mens' tee but I might need to own this combed cotton hasselblad tee, screenprinted by filmmonsters. $20.00

5. Lomography or ttv prints are so hip right now... classic and timeless. This 6x6 print by squidart is the perfect lomo option featuring a vintage argoflex. $20.00

6. LOVE this messenger bag offered by happyfamily! It's classic design, sleek and unique image perfectly fits any style. $20.00

7. "Keep calm and snap on" I totally need this print offered by KeepCalmShop in my studio! $14.95

Everyone have a great weekend! If you've got a camera, go out there and shoot this weekend!

*Want to fake the look of vintage photographs? Check out this neat site... http://www.dumpr.net/lomo.php It allows you to put a filter on any photo from your computer or from your flickr photostream. It's super cool, fun and easy to do!

Boho Beautiful

2010-03-16T06:07:00.000-07:00

Spring is just around the corner here in the northeast and the sun and warming temps are urging me to browse around for some hip, new fashions. This collection from Shanghai's idea2lifestyle on Etsy, really appeals to my comfortable, boho sensibilities. His clothes look breezy and funky... the perfect combination for my closet. Do yourself a favor and go check out his shop... pretty, unique pieces for very reasonable prices!

Color Study - Soft Yellow

2010-03-12T03:49:00.000-08:00

Here on the east coast, Spring is coming and my thoughts are turning to the soft feathers of baby ducks! The days are getting longer and the snow is melting as the temperatures slowly start to climb. On a walk through my backyard yesterday, I saw my crocuses starting to emerge. It felt like the day would never come and that we would be buried under a mound of snow forever. Here's to the springing of Spring!

1. This luxurious yarn is offered by yoknits. 48 yards of knitting goodness! $30.00

2. This romantic and comfortable dress by GinaMicheleVintage is the perfect fit for a warm spring day. Stand by the blooming daffodils in your garden and look picture perfect! $64.00

3. Delicate and beautiful, these earrings offered by littlebugjewelry are lemony delicious! Such a pretty indulgence for only $29.00.

4. My hubby totally needs this cool tee from Canadian based, locomotive. I love that the company offers environmentally sound tees for men, women and kids using really neat graphics. $28.00

5. I'm a big fan of cute hats for babies and I'm disappointed that my little ones are all too old for this knitted treasure from reimaginedtreasures. I'm just waiting for the next baby announcement so that I can give this as a gift! $25.00

6. One of my personal indulgences is handmade soaps. I love stumbling across new Etsy soap makers who offer beautiful and luxurious scents. This lemon verbena soap by seaspritesoaps is no exception! It "captures the essential tart sunniness of lemon verbena in a creamy white and sunshine yellow swirled bar." Sounds good to me! $5.00

7. I adore this bright and sunny headband from sunshinesparrow. It's delicate flowers and bold, happy color really appeal the springtime vibe I'm feeling. Such an easy way to look put together! $16.00

Now, go frolic and be happy!

Color Study - Pretty Pinks

2010-03-05T05:11:00.000-08:00

This week's color study is inspired by a tiny, little girl whose face I'm waiting to see...

1. This soft and delicate photographic print from yvetteinufio makes me dream of Spring and birth. This print is just one of many beauties in her shop that capture the quiet details in the everyday. Her vision is pure and inspiring. $30.00

2. Who could resist this darling pink and ecru beanie from nuxiemade? What a beautiful way to keep your little girl's tiny noggin warm! $27.00

3. I really love soft, handmade toys for kids. This owl named Flora from contemori looks like just the thing to become a special "lovey" for any little girl. With her pretty printed tummy and big felt eyes, Flora is dreaming of a home to keep her warm and cozy. What a magical story to share with a little girl! $23.00

4. Goat's milk soap is so luxurious and great for your skin. CozyMoments offers this sweet and super girly, candy scented soap that would be the perfect way to pamper a new mommy. $5.25

5. This lush and soft pettiskirt is a dream come true for any little princess! Made from 35 yards of fluffy chiffon, this pettiskirt is twirly and dramatic. FairyWonderful offers this skirt in a variety of colors and sizes alongside many other magical items for your little one. $50.00

6. This cherry tree photographic print from chelseashores is simple beauty. Looking through her collection of images is like floating through hazy, dreamlike moments. I would love to see this print hanging in a little girl's nursery. $20.00

7. Mommy needs some pretty things too and this gorgeous vintage gown is just the thing. I envision Mommy in her dressing room getting ready for a night on the town with Daddy... her little girl sitting on the vanity watching Mommy put on her makeup (and even getting a little blush and lip gloss of her own). VintageFrocksOfFancy offers this amazing 1950's prom gown along with so many other vintage beauties. $250.00

See the world through rose colored glasses and honor the inner princess in you! Happy Friday!

Color Study - Robins' Egg Blue

2010-02-26T07:23:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the first day of school and the personal style of my favorite teacher...

* Love this baby blue, uber feminine cardigan by new shop, Bright Street based in Montreal. $41.oo

* This delicate, handmade notebook by Sammis2Shoes, makes me feel dreamy and poetic. I'm ready to fill it's pages with beautiful thoughts and words. $12.00

* KristineNoel offers this soft and sweet image of hydrangeas and a pretty blue teapot that just strikes a chord with me. Her images are perfectly timeless and dreamy! $25.00

* Around my wrist, this bracelet would be a real show stopper! So pretty and offered by my twitter friend, LillyQueen. $15.00

* Big and beautiful! Ruju's large market bag longs to be filled with goodies from your local farmers' market or thrift shop! $15.00

* I'm addicted to earrings and these delicate beauties are no exception! StefenyStanyer even makes sure they arrive beautifully packaged for gift giving or as a special something just for you! $14.00

I hope that these lovelies make you feel blue in all the right ways! Happy Friday!

Introducing...

2009-05-03T15:30:00.001-07:00

I'm so pleased to announce the newest product in The Painted Lily line... stone tile drink coasters. I have learned a very specialized technique that allows me to apply my designs to stone tiles using a transparent medium that allows me to highlight the character of the tile underneath. No two stone tiles are the same and I love the variety of textures and colors available. I am very proud offer this line of useful and beautiful pieces that I hope will become a loved part of your home decor!

Each set of four is sealed with three coats of polyurethane to enhance and seal in the image and then the tiles are backed in cork to protect your furnishings.

Please visit my Etsy shop at http://www.thepaintedlily.etsy.com to see all the designs available. More will be listed online frequently so check back often. Hooray for beautiful and functional home decor items!

April Finds

2009-04-16T07:39:00.001-07:00

-"Morning" 8x10 print, $20.00 from yellena

With Spring's arrival, I am really being drawn to the bright and wonderful colors of the season. The dreary greys and off whites of winter are gone and my world is blooming in purples, pinks and greens. These lovely pieces caught my eye and I had to share!

-"Botanica Exotica" 8x10 print, $20.00 from ArtGarden

-"Lady of Wildberry and Skulls" original mixed media painting, ACEO

$16.00 from LeandroArts

Please check out these shops and the lovely work from these three very talented artists. Celebrate Spring in your neck of the woods with some beautiful art pieces!

It's love, people!

2009-04-10T17:44:00.000-07:00

I am in love! I hope that my husband doesn't mind that I have found another to steal my heart!

It's this FABULOUS bag from penelopeparker. The chocolate brown zebra print speaks to my inner goddess and the construction is strong, durable and pure perfection. The size is perfect... enough to carry everything that I need with no extra bulk. It is everything that I love about a bag... sexy, graphic and eye catching!

Get over there and check it out! http://www.penelopeparker.etsy.com

2009-04-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Bri at http://www.atticfinds.etsy.com/ for the great blog post featuring my work! Check it out at http://thecraftbegins.wordpress.com/

I happen to love this colorful and fun (already sold) item from Attic Finds!

Pounced Treasures!

2009-02-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

I found myself browsing through Etsy tonight using the Pounce feature. It allows you to find new shops that have yet to make a sale. I found some great shops with beautiful pieces that are sure to experience their first sale soon! Head over to their shops and check out these great beauties!

Who wouldn't be inspired to get in touch with these gorgeous greeting cards from curiousgravy! These stunning designs are created from original carvings on linoleum blocks. Totally gorgeous designs and glorious colors! A must-have for classic correspondence!

These two glorious images are brought to you by DH Photography By Dawn. Cemetary statuary has long been a passion of mine to photograph and Dawn's eye for catching these beautiful subjects is perfect. She's a girl after my own heart and I hope these photographs touch you, as well.

Soft and sweet remembrances of days long gone... this piece by UpstairsStudio really caught my interest. It's a mixed media piece that measures 10x10. In the artist's words, "The young woman is dreaming of escaping her strict upbringing as she hums the hymn, I'll Fly Away Home. Birds flutter about ready to take her to her dreams." Beautiful sentiment, beautiful original piece. I can't wait to see more pieces appear in her shop!

Check out the Pounce feature on Etsy and find some incredible and exciting undiscovered shops for yourself!

Seven Things

2009-01-16T14:54:00.000-08:00

Brenda at Phydeaux Designs tagged me! She wants me to share seven random things about myself that readers might not already know... Read on and then go and visit her beautiful shop at www.phydeaux.etsy.com

1. I used to be a professional magician. My husband and I met as theatre majors in college and started performing together right away. After we graduated, we toured the country performing at colleges and universities. We got booked in South Florida at The Boca Raton Resort and Club and lived there for almost a year. In 1997, we got booked in Las Vegas at Casears Palace. We headlined there for over seven years and I also had a solo act during that time and performed in downtown Las Vegas. We moved back east to PA when our son was born in 2004 so that we could raise our kids near family. My husband still performs on cruise ships and at corporate events all around the country. Ta Da!

2. I love to read and have a library that is outgrowing it's space. I read every night before bed and try to find time for a least a few chapters during the day, if my current book selection is really great. My last book was "The Body of Christopher Creed" and I am currently reading "The Raw Shark Text." My sister is also an avid reader and I always rely on her suggestions. She hasn't steered me wrong yet!

3. We are expecting Baby Number Three! Our other kids (one boy and one girl) are very excited to be having a new baby in the house soon. I'm due July 19th and have been busy digging out all my old maternity clothes.

4. I have personally met and made friends with an elephant, a tiger and a chimpanzee. We performed with the tiger and the chimp in Vegas and rode the elephant a number of times as Grand Marshalls of the circus. I dreamed of being a vet to exotic or domestic animals as a little girl, so making these friends was a pretty big deal!

5. I never thought I'd be an artist and photographer. It was always a dream but I NEVER thought it would actually happen. Being a mom and wanting to be able to stay home with the kids but still have a creative outlet is what made it all become a reality for me.

6. I haven't taken down my Christmas decorations yet... not out of lingering holiday spirit but out of laziness.

7. Etsy, for me, is a family affair. My sister introduced me to it and she has a lovely shop, stocked full of beautiful hangbags that she designs and makes herself. Her shop is www.penelopeparker.etsy.com.

My mom has a shop at www.glenebenstudios.etsy.com and offers some really amazing Santas and primitive dolls.

And, finally, my son opened a shop and sells "Flower People," pins, hairclips and magnets that he makes. He hand molds each face, paints and texturizes each one. He picks out the flowers and combinations and only gets help with the gluing. He is currently sold out but working on new items. He was the hit of every holiday show that we went to and thinks himself quite the little businessman! Please visit his shop at www.fromthemindofjack.etsy.com!

Well, there are my Seven Random Facts and let me just say that it was hard (but fun!) to think of seven interesting things! Thanks for including me, Brenda! :)

Etsy Front Page 12/25/08 phydeaux

2008-12-27T11:04:00.001-08:00

Etsy Front Page 12/25/08 phydeaux
Originally uploaded by Etsy Front Pagers

The final of my FOUR front pages this month! What a surprise to be featured on Christmas morning!

Christmas Ornaments!

2008-11-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

New Christmas ornaments in the shop...

Adorn your Christmas tree with a tiny work of art!

Each three inch round, ceramic ornament has been embellished with a miniature kaleidoscope image and hangs from a color coordinated satin ribbon.

Perfect as a teacher gift, stocking stuffer, secret santa surprise or as a special something just for you!

Kanchi Magazine...

2008-11-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Kanchi Magazine for featuring me in their November issue! Y9u can see the issue online here...
http://kanchi.com.au/main/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=59

They feature designers worldwide and also have a fantastic clothing line of their own. Check them out (and sign up to receive the online issues) at www.kanchi.com.au

Etsy Gift Guides!

2008-10-17T18:54:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be featured in the Etsy Gift Guides. It highlights cool items on Etsy to help shoppers find the perfect gift! I'm in the Art Lovers Category!
http://www.etsy.com/gift-guides/art-collectors/41?&page=2

Harvest Fair, Oxford Pa

2008-10-13T08:18:00.001-07:00

For NieNie

2008-09-25T10:05:00.001-07:00

I have offered one of my 5x5 prints (matted to 8x8) for auction to support Stephanie and Christian Neilsen. They were in a plane crash on August 16th that left them both severely burned and in critical condition. They are improving daily and their four children are being well cared for by Stephanie's sisters.

The auction is being generously run by Leslie from www.aroomsomewhere.net. Bidding starts at only $10 and 100% of the proceeds will go towards their expenses. Please stop by and see what else she has to offer during this auction! Buy something wonderful and make a big difference for a family in need.

Also, please visit Stephanie's sister's blog http://blog.cjanerun.com/ for updates on their recovery and for more great links to places running auctions and a paypal link to make your own donation.

Thanks for your generosity!

Etsy Artists Exposed!

2008-09-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to be featured in an awesome treasury series from the fabulous Vicki Diane of www.vickidianedesigns.etsy.com!

Her treasury features the faces behind the shops. It is a really great way to get to know some of your favorite Etsy artists and a great way for us to say hi! Check it out... it's only up for two to three days!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=10706

New Products!

2008-09-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I finally got my new bookmarks ready for listing! They retail at $6.00 and are super durable. What better way to adorn your favorite read than with a tiny work of art! Visit the page with this link...http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=15337792

And, at the request of one of my customers, I am now offering a set of notecards featuring my kaleidoscope images. They are professionally printed on glossy card stock (with a matte interior for easy writing) and the set of six retails for $12.00. The colors are vibrant and gorgeous! I hope that they will inspire some beautiful words!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15340523

A Handmade Revolution!

2008-09-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

I Heart Etsy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmXJXYHnWPo&feature=related

Stand Up To Cancer

2008-09-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

I am proud to offer this limited edition, giclee kaleidoscope print in my shop! All of the proceeds of the sales will go to www.standup2cancer.org. It will be available in September and October only... stop by, buy a beautiful print on canvas and know that your money will be used for a great cause!

www.thepaintedlily.etsy.com

Seeking Designers!

2008-08-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to announce that I am now listed with Seeking Designers, an online community of fabulous designers offering fashionable products for home and self! Please see my page there at www.seekingdesigners.com/thepaintedlily.

I was also featured in their Daily Dish as a featured shop today! Thanks to Sarah and the gang at seekingdesigners.com!

front page!

2008-08-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

how cool is this?! yes, that's me right there in the middle... so exciting to make the etsy front page! (www.etsy.com)

My Etsy Finds!

2008-08-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

Please check out my article for Etsy Finds, featured today on the site and emailed to thousands of their members!

http://www.etsy.com/storque/section/spotlight/article/etsy-finds-picks-for-bookworms/2363/

Lovin' Lititz Event

2008-08-04T20:21:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce that my work is being featured at The Sassy Tassel in Lititz, PA on August 8, 2008 from 5-9PM. It is their monthly event featuring artists, musicians, food and more! We'll be showcasing my kaleidoscope prints and fine art photos. Meet me there if you're in the area!

The Sassy Tassel
35 Main Street
Lititz, PA
717.627.8688

Goode's Gallery in Athens, Texas

2008-07-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

I am proud to be featured in Goode's Gallery in Athens, Texas! Click on the link below to visit their myspace page and if you are in Athens stop by and tell them that Jenny from The Painted Lily sent you!

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=388488715

Kaleidoscope Greeting Cards!

2008-07-02T16:36:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce the newest addition to The Painted Lily collection! I am now able to offer greeting cards made from some of my most popular digital collage kaleidoscopes!

The cards measure 5 1/2 inches wide by 4 1/4 inches tall. They are professionally printed on glossy card stock. The print quality is spectular and the colors are vibrant!

In this age of emails and text messaging, sending a card to someone special and including a personal note is a wonderful way to let someone know you care. There is nothing quite like the joy of getting mail, opening it and finding a thoughtful personal note from a loved one! And what better way to send some love than in a lovely card that can even be framed and kept forever as a piece of art!

Please visit my online shop at www.thepaintedlily.etsy.com for more info or to order. Thanks!

I'm On Trunkt!

2008-06-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

I got accepted to www.trunkt.org, a online trade directory for artists. It is a very elite juried site and I was over the moon to have been accepted!

Please visit my portfolio at www.trunkt.org/thepaintedlily!

Front Page!

2008-06-19T18:01:00.001-07:00

I was so excited to have been a featured seller on the front page of etsy.com today! It is the second time I made the front page and it was just as exciting as the first!

check out the treasury listing and the other lovely items at http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=51423

now available...

2008-06-13T06:49:00.000-07:00

this gorgeous cameo pendant on 16 inch chain with long, hanging extensions in the back to dance and swing gracefully down your back!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12516188

Delicate Buddha earrings... feminine and exotic!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=12515574