Lazy Daze 2011 vs. Hurricane Irene

And Irene won out. It was both sad and a relief that they canceled the festival. I was so looking forward to seeing everyone. In the spirit of carrying on, Cary officials are launching a virtual Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival next week.

So, in effort to make the most of this I have been busy adding items to my Artfire shop. I've added alot and I mean alot and there's more still to come.  Thank goodness I already had the photos on hand. Here's some of the items that are available.

Purple Flop Ear Bunny Charm

Seamus of the Guild of Good Luck Owls

Pink Ice Cream Business Card ID Wallet

Lollipop Case for EReaders and Tablets

Jack Skellington Inspired Cell Phone Case

Please stop by my shop and see all the new crocheted cases and amigurumi plushes. I've put in so much effort to create this non-wearable fiber art specifically for Lazy Daze. My next show is going to be in three weeks at BazaarSPARK in downtown Raleigh and I'd really much rather make more stuff than clean house.

Lazy Daze 2011 Are we there yet?

It's almost time for Lazy Daze!  This is one of the best arts and craft festival around. It's been confirmed as Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Events for August 2011!

Last year there was 50, 000 people there enjoying the festivities. This year I'll be there as a vendor and not as a customer for the first time. It's going to be awesome!

Inaugural year of Lazy Daze

What's really cool about this is that I remember riding my bike to the festival as a kid. I only lived a couple of blocks away and it was one of the few events that my mother would let me go to unattended. I'd spend all day there shopping and looking and shopping some more. I'd come home with trinkets and charms. Still have some in fact. But I digress.


I've got alot of new items never before seen. Here's a little bit that I'll have.



Amigurumi Cat with a little heart on its chest



While Lazy Daze has the Where's Jerry Contest, you can ask me "Where's Perry?"



There's a monster with a strange little smile waiting for you.

Cupcake Ereader Case for your Nook Color or Kindle

Roomy wallet style case for your cell phone or passort

Cotton washcloths for your bath or kitchen

Deluxe Spa Set perfect for gift giving

Can't wait to see you!

Pussycat Ereader Case

This kitty cat case was really fun to create. So many other cases are dull and boring. I wanted to make one with a bit of flair, a bit os pizazz, something that says "Me-ow!" Perfect for the cat or animal lover.

This particular case is in royal blue with orange accents. Your's will be custom made with your color preferences. It can be made to look realistic or in bright red or green. I can also integrate fun fur into it for a fuzzy look. It's up to you.

 

What's color is your cat ereader?

Cupcake Nook Case

Here's a delicious way to store your Kindle, Nook, or similar reader.

Cupcake Kindle Nook Case

Cupcake clutch style case is perfect for your Kindle or Nook Color.  The stitch I use give 3 layers of yarn between the ereader and the beads for a padded effect and the beads don't poke through.

Perfect for the young, the young at heart. Great as a Sweet 16 or Quinceanera gift. Pastry chef that loves to read? Couldn't be better!
This is a custom item so you can pick out your frosting preference. Chocolate lover? Got it! Want it without beaded sprinkles? Okay! Just convo your preferences when you order. Show your love for cupcakes your way.

What Should I Do? or, I Love Feedback!

2011 has been a busy one and there's no end in sight. There’s many wonderful craft shows and festivals in the Raleigh-Durham area of NC that I’ve been hopping from one to another. It’s been great meeting so many people and getting instant feedback about my products. I love feedback; whether its good or bad, feedback tells you what you are doing right and what needs to be changed.

I started out the season with just owls. When Easter came, there was an instant interest in bunny rabbit keychains. Once I had those two choices, I’ve had requests for other animals. Cats and dogs topped the list for great amigurumi keychains.

I also received requests for lots of spotted animals like giraffes and ladybugs. I’m still ciphering how to make these without any raising the prices. Every little extra thing takes more time and who wants to buy a $30 keychain? If you do, leave a comment and tell me so, I love feedback.

Lazy Daze Festival in Cary, NC is coming up in August. This is one of the biggest and best shows around. I’ve been accepted but I can only show fiber art items, not fiber art wearable. So no brooches and necklaces for Designing Impressions this year. That leaves just the keychains.

I have been playing with other fiber art items. They are toys I’ve made that are suitable for kids and adults.  They have no plastic pieces that can be chewed on or popped out. Plus the are small enough to keep in or on you desk at work and you can squeeze the life out of them when you’re stressed out.

For information about where I’ll be, you can check out my calendar that's now set up on the second page of this blog.

And if you like to get involved with what I should be making for Lazy Daze, I have a question on my Facebook page. Stop by and give you input. I love feedback. =)

What's coming up? Saturday Shopping Showcase Summer Festival!

This weekend I'll be at the Saturday Shopping Showcase Summer Festival.  It'll be at 421 Chapanoke Road in Raleigh NC. In case you're not familiar with the area, it's at that huge intersection where 401, 70 and Tryon Road meet -almost in Garner.

I'm really excited about this because it's a chance to meet new people that might not venture to the other venues I have planned. It's going to be quite large and there'll be so much to look at. I'm getting giddy just thinking of it.

If you are able to come, these are some of the items you'll be able to see there:

Mad (Lib) Giveaway Time

I'm having a giveaway and would love for you to spread the word about it. One recipient will receive a gift certificate good for one amigurumi plushie. You can decide which owl, bunny or cat you'd like. These are great for your keys or backpack. Keep it for yourself or use as a gift!

All you need to do is offer some words. You don't have to travel to another site. You don't have to choose your favorite.

This is a homage to all those wonderful Mad-Libs that we played with when we were young(er). And, for those who like to cheat, you can find the story we're filling in if you look hard enough (on the 2nd page of this blog) but that would be cheating wouldn't it?

Here's what I need:

Name
Activity
Active Verb
Noun
Time of Day or Year
Verb
Verb
Plural Noun
Verb
Location
Verb

Sorry, I was never good at diagraming sentences. But, let the fun begin!

Enter as often as you wish. All entries will be used to create stories for the Guild of Good Luck Owls. One entry will be chosen randomly as the winner of one amigurumi plushie. If you would like to have your business name mentioned in the description as the creator of the story, please link me to your store.

This is not affiliated in any way with Mad-Libs. It's a fun way to get your kids excited about words. If you don't have a book, please stop by your local bookstore and purchase one.  Thank you!

Crochet and Doctor Who

This past month has brought me joy (my first craft show of the year) and sorrow (my faithful car was totaled). And in the middle of it I've been crocheting like crazy to keep up with the demand of the amigurumi plushie keychains and having a ball.

So many people have stopped by looking and asking. There's always a new way of looking at amigurumi.  I've has requests for different animals. And requests for cat toys. And requests for larger plushie toys. I promise, as time allows I'm investigating how to expand and add new lines.

In the meantime I wanted to share with you my weekend. It was a Doctor Who weekend. You know how I love The Doctor. These are the things I have gleaned from the marathon.

1. Be at the opening ceremony torch lighting at the 2012 Olympics. The Doctor will be a torch carrier.

2. Cybermen can have fun.


3. Rogue Klingons can find jobs working for Daleks.


4. A verbal smackdown between the Daleks and Cybermen can be funny!


5. Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) can't sing. Why do I say that? Because I want to! lol!


I hope you've enjoyed these as much as I have!

The Poll is Closed

Heeeeere's Barry!
Barry is the Nite Howl Owl on the Guild’s own radio station from 1:00 pm to 5:00 am weeknights. His show highlights blue legends from the early 20th century. Barry is also plays upright bass in the quartet, Stoned Blue, a local favorite. “Gotta pay your dues if you want to play the blues. Music is my life, my livelihood, my mistress of the soul. When I’m with her my problems disappear. Each note is sweet release from all the hassles”, say Barry.

I'm not getting him online until Sunday night at the earliest. Tomorrow is a big family day. Thanks to EVERYONE who commented here and on facebook.

What IS his name?!?!?

I can't decide and he's not telling. He's listening to the sounds of his mind instead.

So I'm asking you, my followers to tell me which story to go with? You'll find the poll on the left side of the page at the top. Read both stories and tell me which you'd like to see used in my shop.

Barry

Barry is the Nite Howl Owl on the Guild’s own radio station from 1:00 pm to 5:00 am weeknights. His show highlights blue legends from the early 20^th century.  Barry is also plays upright bass in the quartet, Stoned Blue, a local favorite. “Gotta pay your dues if you want to play the blues. Music is my life, my livelihood, my mistress of the soul. When I’m with her my problems disappear. Each note is sweet release from all the hassles”, say Barry.

Marley

Marley is one cool dude. His favorite way to spend his time is chilling at home eating macaroni and cheese. There, he and his friends socialize and discuss the fundamentals of carpentry and carving apples. Marley loves his movies, too, with the ability to quote the memorable scenes. But don’t get him started on Monty Python’s Holy Grail because you’ll have a full reenactment of the movie –unless you’re into that too.



Thank you and remember to vote!  If you like to see all of the owls, they are already on Picasa and Flickr. Plus you can purchase in my Etsy and Artfire shop.

 

The Guild of Good Luck Owls

The Guild of Good Luck Owls was established in 1845 but only recently surfaced in the human world. Goodwill, compassion, knowledge and the love of a good time bring owls from all over the world to the institution. The owls have free reign to follow their passions with the Guild giving them well rounded coursework. Each owl must pass several levels of training including literature and sports & fitness before they are allowed the opportunity for adoption into a human family.

This past year Early American writers and Latin dancing were the study highlights for many owls. Owls enjoyed reading highlights from books from the likes of W.E.B. DuBois and Mark Twain. Afterwards, discussions and reenactments were used to create a better understanding of the pleasures and hardships of past generations. In dancing, we were delighted with the addition of Polly Abdul to our staff. Polly hails from Puerto Rico and draws on her experience of dancing as an owlet to teach our owls. Her specialties were the Salsa and Bolero dance.

We would like to introduce our owls to you. Here are a few who recently became eligible for adoption. They work well as zipper pulls on backpacks and they keep your keys handy, too.

Taffy


Taffy is your go to girl

 Taffy comes from a long line of owls that have joined the Guild. Her family was very excited about her acceptance and so was the Guild. Like her name, Taffy is a very sweet owl that is a favorite with children. Candy making and social science were some of her favorite classes. Mark Twain is high on her list of must-reads and like Mr. Twain, Taffy loves to scrapbook too. She may come across as shy and quiet but once you spend time around Taffy you’ll find that her passions will rub off on you.

Errol

He's a cutie girls, watch out!


A dashing young owl, Errol has captured many a girl’s heart especially when he’s wearing his Aragorn outfit. Errol loves live action gaming and frequently shows up at local fairs with a small group minstrelling and impromptu swordplay. Others in the Guild of Good Luck Owls believe that he is the reincarnation of his namesake, the swashbuckler, Errol Flynn. Once, after a night of Jameson on the rocks, he was found suspended in the main hall of the Guild hanging from silken sashes.

Ezra


Ezra is getting ready for March Madness

 Ezra loves sports. When the Guild tried to pin him down on one, he wouldn’t say. You can always find him on the court or in the field playing ball. A good day for Ezra is one where he can enjoy a hotdog with a cold brew watching a game from midcourt or behind the dugout. If he can’t get to the game, you’ll find him watching one on a plasma at a local sports bar where he’ll talk to anyone about the stats of the local teams and the players. Easy going and fun to be with, Ezra has brought much joy to the Guild.

You can find these owls and their friends on Etsy now.

So what's up with all the flowers?

I mean its Christmas and we're not in Australia. So why the flowers?

When I was at the NC Farmers Market Craft Fair, I ran out! Simple as that. People were so interested in them and my other crochet /fiberart items that it became a turning point for me. But I'm not just doing brooches. I've done 3 necklaces so far.

I'm holding back from placing this on Etsy. I have a small show to go to tomorrow night and they just might find new homes. If not, you'll see them on Etsy this weekend.

I've got many more color schemes with and without flowers to come, too, so keep watch!

Where have I been?

Yep, I delved into the crafting craftiness and came up with some goodies for all to see!

Sonnet 44 - Beloved, thou hast brought me many flowers

by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Beloved, thou hast brought me many flowers
Plucked in the garden, all the summer through

And winter, and it seemed as if they grew

In this close room, nor missed the sun and showers.

So, in the like name of that love of ours,

Take back these thoughts which here unfolded too,

And which on warm and cold days I withdrew

From my heart's ground. Indeed, those beds and bowers

Be overgrown with bitter weeds and rue,

And wait thy weeding; yet here's eglantine,

Here 's ivy!—take them, as I used to do

Thy fowers, and keep them where they shall not pine.

Instruct thine eyes to keep their colors true,

And tell thy soul their roots are left in mine.

Lovely fresh picked flower from fantasy fields. Crocheted with care this flower is handcrafted to last for years to come. And just like real flowers, no two are alike.

http://www.facebook.com/DesigningImpressionsJewelry?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts

Embellish your coat or hat. Use it to accent your belt, boots, purse or backpack. Give the hem of your plain-jane skirt a boost or update a shirt. Secure your scarf or shawl in place. Attach to a headband or clip for hair flair. Decorate your home by fastening to pillows, napkins, lamp shades, place mats, or napkin holders. The possibilities are endless so use your imagination.

Each flower petal set is made separately then sewn together and glued with Aleene’s OK to Wash-It fabric glue. The leaves are also glued and sewn in the same fashion. A pin is sewn with upholstery thread onto a felt circle then glued and sewn onto the back of the flower. This ensures that if the flower ever needs to be cleaned it won’t fall apart. You can hand wash it and hand shape the flowers while it dries.

I have listed many of these on my Facebook SHOP NOW tab and others on Etsy. They are $10 each plus free shipping.
Please come by and enjoy.

What to Wear for Winter 2010/2011

This is the first in a series of wardrobe possibilities. I like the classics. Maybe it's because I've ridden the trend train enough to know I really don't want to spend a lot of time shopping anymore. The thrill is gone.

But I'm not sad about it! No, far from it. And here, I'll show you what I mean. These items I have found to be currently for sale but you may find something in your closet that already fits the bill. It's about using what you have and adding jewelry to make it fresh and different.

So let's get started, shall we?

Classic scoop neck sweater.

This sweater is available at BodyCentral.






 I think everyone has a sweater like this in their closet somewhere, right? But now you work in an office and have this horrendous draft blowing on you all the time. Yes you could wear a scarf but it gets in the way too easily. What's a girl to do?  How about this?

This is a great choice. Because it's made of fabric and yarn, it provides warmth. Like that scarf but a lot prettier wouldn't you say?  It's not a choker but it's still short enough to not effect the details of the sweater. It gives the sweater an updated look. You'll receive many compliments when wearing it.

The muted colors of the necklace looks great with an array of pastels and it's dark enough to bring attention to your face without making you look sallow.

Worried about how to clean it? Hand wash it gently and let it dry flat and you'll have this for years to come.

Add Some Pieces from AddSomeStitches

Blue Baby Blanket, Booties and Hat

How'd you get started on Etsy?
I first found Etsy through a friend who recommended I check out her store. I started buying on Etsy, and since I've always been kinda crafty, I started the AddSomeStitches Store.

What was your inspiration for your shop?
I'd definitely have to say my daughter is my biggest inpiration. I draw in a lot of inspiration from my entire family, but my daughter is the biggest one. I know she hates it, but I always make her try on hats- which she quickly pulls off her head.

What's your favorite shop item and why?
I don't really have a favorite shop item. I love nearly all of my creations- even the first hat I crocheted. I keep it around even though it looks like a toddler crocheted it and it's horribly embarassing to show anyone that I made it!

Black Slouchy Hat with Pink Ribbon

How do you unwind when you're not creating?
I love to spend time with my husband and daughter, but if they're sick of me, I like to watch movies.

What's your favorite kind of cupcake?
White cupcake with nearly any kind of frosting. I like lemon cupcakes with lemon frosting too!

What pushes you to want to create something?
My motivation comes from the goals I set for myself. I like to feel productive so goals are what push me.

What's your favorite cartoon as a kid. As an adult, if you stumble upon it while channel surfing now would you stop & watch?
I still watch cartoons on a regular basis. My favorite would have to be Dave the Barbarian. It's no longer aired, but if it was- I'd stay up til 3am to watch it if I had to!

Pink and Purple Jellyfish

What's your fantasy job?
My fantasy job would be to create and earn enough money with it to support my family. I love to crochet, and create things. If I wasn't crafting, I'd probably want to be an amazing chef-rockstar-astrophysisist-crafter-mom.

Do you have a secret guilty pleasure?
I love crappy reality tv shows. I got addicted to their drama back when Flavor Flav started Flavor of Love, and I was disappointed New York didn't sign on for a season 3 of I Love New York.

List 3 things you are so obsessed with it is torture to ever say no to.
I wouldn't say I'm obsessed with my daughter, but everytime she needs something I can NEVER say no to her big blue eyes. She doesn't talk yet, but every time her little face lights up at something in a store I can't help but buy her things she doesn't need.

List 3 of your favorite Etsy shops.
FullBlownGlass
AndrosCreations
LoveLeeSoaps 

Crochet Cotton Bath Set

Do you have a favorite author? When you read, do you use a proper bookmark, bend the page, or grab anything handy to mark your place?
I don't have a specific favorite author though I do really like Robert Corimier. I've been given many, many, many bookmarks, but usually use an old recipt, piece of paper or something laying around.

If money was no object and you can live wherever you want….where would that be?
I would live in my same old town, but build my dream home instead of buying one.

You can find AddSomeStitches on Etsy, Facebook, and Twitter. You can also follow her Blog.

Crocheted Jewelry by MegsCrochetJewels



Black and Silver Party Earrings Crocheted w/ a Ribbon Bow

How'd you get started on Etsy?
I saw an add in a craft magazine and thought is was the greatest thing ever! When I got my artfire shop started I decided to give Etsy a try as-well.

What was your inspiration for your shop?
The very first necklace I ever made got me to thinking. Hey, I might could actually sell this!! I was so stunned at how well it turned out!

Custom Four Strand Crochet Necklace

What's your favorite shop item and why?
Oh my gosh thats a hard one! I think my most favorite item is the Kaleidoscope cuff. They are neat to make. They always seem to take on a life of their own.

Custom Kaleidoscope Cuff

How do you unwind when you're not creating?
When I am not catching up on the DVR with hubby I enjoy Gardening, horseback rinding, reading and writing.

What's your favorite kind of cupcake?
My sister made these chocolate cupcakes once that had chocolate butter-cream icing on them. I don't know what she did to those things but they were absolutely AWESOME!!!

What pushes you to want to create something?

I think my want for all things sustainable pushes my creativity. I am always wondering "could I make that" or "I wonder if I could find someone who could". I love thinking "gee I would really like a thumb ring" and then going over to my table and making myself one!! It gives you such a feeling of accomplishment. And I will wear it forever! Not like something I might pick up in a store and have no spiritual bond with....I hope that makes since:)

What's your favorite cartoon as a kid. As an adult, if you stumble upon it while channel surfing now would you stop & watch?
Bugs Bunny and Tweety and you bet I would stop and watch:)

Rectangle Custom Crocheted Earrings

What's your fantasy job?
New York Times Best Selling Author:) You just wait!! I will be their one day;)

Do you have a secret guilty pleasure?
Sleeping Late. Most of my family know that I am a night owl and I like to sleep late:) But I tried to hide it from the public if at all possible.....ooopppps!

List 3 things you are so obsessed with it is torture to ever say no to.
Longhorn Steakhouses Chocolate Stampede....mmmmm that thing is ridiculously good!! A great deal on a great item in the thrift store!! (Like paying 3.99 for a handmade 99.00 bag in PERFECT condition!!) Hugs and Kisses from my nephews:) I have a great bunch of little boys!!

List 3 of your favorite Etsy shops.
Okay this is going to be REALLY hard!!!!
bluecalla I dream of one day owning one of her bags!!
auntiedawn I just want to curl up in her big chunky scarves!
gypsymoonart I am just spell bounded every-time I walk into this shop!! I have admired her work since I found her. I also dream of one day owning a few things from her shop:)

Do you have a favorite author?
When you read, do you use a proper bookmark, bend the page, or grab anything handy to mark your place?
I do not have a favorite author. There are so many out there it truly would be impossible to choose. Plus I am not very good with names. I don't like to bend the page but I will if I can't find anything to stick there:) Its Impossible for me to keep track of a bookmark.

Crochet Gold Wire and Gold-stone Cuff Bracelet / adjustable length

If money was no object and you can live wherever you want….where would that be?
New Zealand. I think its the only place hubby and I could both agree on.

What is your best childhood memory?
Slipping into the bed with my mom after my daddy left for work. Taking off my dads shoes and coveralls when he got home from work and playing in the woods with my cousins.

You can find more of MegsCrochetJewels on Etsy, Facebook and Artfire. She also has a blog.  MegsCrochetJewels  will also participate in the Etsy DTeam Thanksgiving Sales Event. Please check her out.