The Painting Libra

Decal Canvas Art How To

2010-08-30T21:40:00.016-07:00

Vinyl decals are great if you are renting and can't paint the walls or you just want a bold graphic on the wall with little commitment. I love the clean perfect look of decals, but I hate that some of them can't be reused after you place them on the wall. I wanted a more options if I am going to spend money on something, I want to keep it as long as I want it. I have gotten cheap or the last few years as I get older. Putting it on canvas seems like best idea.

So I purchased a Tattoo Style Swallow decal from Beepart at www.beepart.etsy.com. The decal measures approx. 25" wide by 22" high so I purchased a 24 x 30" canvas from Micheal's (with a 40% off coupon of course!)

I purchase Apple Barrell acrylic paint in Pool Blue for about $3 at Michael's.

I painted the entire canvas with about four coats to make sure the coverage was even.

I let the canvas piece dry overnight to ensure it was completely dry. Beepart provided wonderful illustrated instructions on how to apply the decal that took a bit more time, but well worth it to go step by step. First place your decal on a hard flat surface and run a credit card or squeegee over the decal to ensure it bonds to the transfer paper and helps the application go smoother.

Position your decal in place you want with painters tape. I moved mine around a few times to get it in just the right spot. Using painters tape prevents the blue acrylic paint from lifting.

Take a long strip of painters tape and run it down the middle of your graphic.
It helps keep your large graphic in place as you remove the transfer paper.

Peel back one side of the transfer paper from the white backing. Use scissors to cut away the white backing paper. I suggest you use something to hold down your white backing paper to keep it from flipping over while you apply your decal. I simply used my roll of painters tape.

Working from the middle of the decal outwards smooth out the decal on to the canvas. You can use your squeegee to gently smooth out any bubble or wrinkles. Try not to press too hard since you are not on a hard surface. You can use a couple magazines under the canvas piece to help support of the fabric.

You can then remove the large strip of painters and repeat on the other side. If you don't feel comfortable removing such a large piece of the transfer paper, just do a section at a time. It takes longer, but this way you won't screw up the placement of your decal.

Smooth out the rest of your decal with your hand. Then use your squeegee to gently rub across the entire decal to help it transfer from the paper to your canvas piece. Take your time and go over every inch of the decal. You will see the decal change color slightly as you use your squeegee to help transfer the image.

My image had a lot of little pieces so I went over each and every section as carefully as possible. Then start to peel back the transfer paper. If you see some of the vinyl not adhere to the canvas then put the transfer paper back down firmly on the canvas and use your squeegee to rub the image onto the canvas. Remember to take your time.

If you see any bubbles or wrinkles you can use the heat of your finger pads to gently smooth out the imperfections.
And then your done! The shiny vinyl and matte finish of the acrylic paint really pops. I can't wait to find a spot in the house for it.

Peace, love & Painting!

Featured Etsy Seller: Beepart

2010-08-30T20:37:00.008-07:00

I recently purchased my first vinyl from Etsy Seller Beepart and I couldn't be more impressed. I had been wanting to try a vinyl piece for a few years now, but most sites I found to be too expensive. I tend to change my style every few months so I didn't want something to break the bank.

Beepart has a wide variety sure to please everyone. I settled on a 25" wide by 22" high Tattoo Style Swallow Banner decal that could be customized with wording of my choosing. Since I recently purchased my first home I really liked the example style Beepart had to offer with "Home Sweet Home." Plus I had heard swallows represents love and affection towards family, friends, lovers, as well as loyalty of the person by always returning to them. A fitting design for a new home.

After making my purchase Beepart immediately emailed me to confirm the exact font I wanted. A touch I really appreciated. A few days later I received my decal. Beepart included very detailed illustrated instructions that really helped me a lot. I wouldn't have had a clue how to apply such a large decal.

Since I really liked the decal, I didn't want apply to a wall only to be unusable if I decided I wanted it in a different place. So I put it on a large canvas piece instead! I am quite happy with how it turned out.I will post instructions on how to do a similar piece. It was much quicker than painting something with this much detail on a large scale.

Be sure to check out Beepart's cool decals he has to offer. They are priced just right and he is a great seller on Etsy. Here are a few of my favorites:

I would love this above my bed....

This is soooo 80's......
This reminds me of one of my favorite Hispanic holidays, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

To see more go to www.beepart.etsy.com and support local artists!

Laker Surprise

2010-08-18T18:12:00.015-07:00

My guy sure has been the solid rock in the relationship during this whole home buying, fixing up, moving in process. When I found out he was going on a weekend deep sea fishing trip with his dad and brother, I knew this was my chance to give back to him in a way I knew he would enjoy. He is a huge Los Angeles Laker fan. Huge. So during my million of Home Depot trips I saw they have licenses team colors by Glidden (www.mostcolorfulfan.com). He has his own 'man cave' in the house that he plans on making his Laker Room. Perfect!

So I purchased a gallon of the Laker Gold and Purple, a few new rollers, brushes, tape, drop cloth and started my project. Now I pondered for a good 20 minutes on what to do with the actual paint. They are such strong colors I didn't want to do every wall. I picked the wall furthest from the door to do an accent wall.

I then broke out my laser level and painters tape to create stripes similar to the stripes on a home jersey. I had purchased one of those edger tools to help eliminate the taping/cutting in. But honestly, they created more of a mess that needed to be taped and corrected. Save the money and take the time to tape.

I used Scotch Blue painters tape with the edge lock protection. That didn't really work out too well on textured walls as I discovered after I painted and started to pull off the tape. I explain below.

So the bottom wall gets a healthy coverage of yellow. Then the top half. By now it's starting to look a lot like Kraft Mac & Cheese. I am praying it gets better. LOL

The middle gets a coat of the purple. (The blue tape in the middle will be white stripes).

When painting with a dark/light paint combo, I have always heard to start with the lighter color first. In MY case, not so much. I discovered what happened with that and I will explain below. The reason why I say in MY case to paint the dark color first, is because when I applied the purple, it dripped onto the yellow.

Since the purple was such a dark color, I then had to break out a white primer, paint over the spots and let dry. Once it was dry, I had to repaint several coats of the yellow to get it to match. It wasted my time. I think if you are going to do something similar where you are NOT painting right on top of another color, to paint the dark first. It would have been easier to cover up any drips.

The next day I apply a few more coats to get that clean coverage on both colors. Then I started to remove the tape. Looking good so far....until I got up close.

That is when I discovered painters tape works better on a smooth surface. No matter how well I applied the tape and smoothed it out, I still got some spotty areas. So I broke out one of my paint brushes to clean up the edges. Time consuming? Yes. Worth it? YES!

Well after about 10 total hours working on the accent wall making it perfect, I was pretty darn proud of myself. I couldn't wait for my guy to return home the next day. I was dying to post pictures on Facebook, but I didn't want him to see them before he could see it in person.

Finally my guy comes home! He was super excited to see his surprise. He immediately put on his Lakers Jersey and I snapped a photo. I am so glad he enjoyed his surprise!

Featured Etsy Seller: WallabyBagCo

2010-07-22T16:18:00.006-07:00

I have had my Iphone 4G since June and I have hated the fact I can't find a cell phone case for it! Right now the Iphone 4G has a minor bug that if you use a traditional cell phone case, such as silicone it kills your signal. Apple said the problem won’t be fixed for a few more weeks – but I need to protect my beautiful new phone. Up until now I have been carrying it around in an old Victoria Secret makeup bag that was way too big for it. My poor ear buds would get tangled and messed up every time I tried to pull them out.

After searching Etsy I found WallabyBagCo. Carrie is a mother of two and hands down makes the CUTEST cases EVER. I mean EVER. While searching I kept going back to her site to check out her designs. Her fabrics are bold and priced just right.

I finally settled on the Pop Garden Padded IPhone case below:

Each piece is made to order and mine arrived about 9 business days after I ordered it. I could NOT be happier. The case is a slim design with soft fuzzy lining inside that I know will protect the glass face of my Iphone. It has a front pocket (for my ear buds – yay!) with a Velcro flap closure that keeps the phone from sliding out. I am finally proud to have my Iphone in such a pretty case.

She has cases for smart phones, laptops, Ipads, kindles, etc in the most adorable fabric. Trust me, you are going to have a hard time picking out which one you want.

(Padded iPhone / iPod Pouch - Carnival Bloosom & Chocolate)

(Padded iPad Case / Kindle DX with foam inner-core in Pistachio Paisley)

(13" Laptop Sleeve padded with foam inner-core in Zinnia)

Check out more awesome designs at www.WallabyBagCo.etsy.com

And Time Passes By....

2010-07-14T14:25:00.003-07:00

Sorry I haven't had a chance to doing anything to my blog in months! I have been a busy bee with the new house and moving and simply trying to find anything packed in boxes.

I have finally settled into my home and slowly trying to find time to unpack everything. There never seems to be enough time to do anything. Every time you look around you see something that needs to be done or in my case purchased!

We spent about 3-4 weeks tearing out all the flooring, putting in 20" tile and carpet made from recycled bottles. We have fresh paint over every surface and we just ordered new wood blinds. I can't wait to have everything done and post before and after pictures. The change is pretty awesome.

My biggest thorn in my side right now is my craft room. Before I basically used all of my kitchen and living room of my one bedroom apartment to run my business. Finally I have my own room. But the big question is - where do I begin!? Most of my pottery and paints are still in boxes - no wait - take that back! ALL of my pottery and paints are still in boxes. I did manage however to make it down to the only Ikea in the Phoenix area and purchase a large storage unit with cubby holes to store my pottery. I am on the hunt to find boxes to slide into them. Why are these boxes so darn costly? Serious, Ikea wanted $16 for one straw basket. Sadly my brain is so fried from the moving, packing, unpacking and of course 120 degree heat in Phoenix it simply won't work.

I have been checking out a few craft blogs to hope spur my inspiration. I came across one yesterday that is just too darn cute is www.houseofsmiths.blogspot.com. You should check it out if you get a chance. Their style is not quite like mine - but it sure has a lot of ideas that I can jump off of to help get my house out of the white box look it currently is in.

I another one I came across is www.remodelaholic.com. There is a lot of guest posts of remodels and home projects by average people that is getting me inspired. Hopefully I can get out of my non-crafting state and get back into gear. A crafter has to start thinking about the holidays months before they arrive.

Peace, Love & Painting!

One Item to check Off My New Years List!

2010-04-06T14:49:00.007-07:00

It is only four months into the New Year and I am able to cross off one of the items on my New Years…buying a house. This week I will be opening escrow on my very first home! Hooray!

My boyfriend and I looked at 100 or more homes and they all were overpriced, too old, or snatched up so quickly by other buyers we didn’t get a fighting chance. We finally agreed on a home in pretty Glendale Arizona. (p.s the car in the driveway is the former tenant.)

It is a foreclosure so there will be a lot to fix up in the next month. Floors, paint, doors, fixtures, landscaping, cleaning - you name it, it has to be scrubbed to death or replaced. I will be sure to photograph and blog our progress and how things come along. I am super scared but super excited.

If anyone has any tips for painting, flooring, cleaning etc - please share! I love to hear creative new ideas.

Featured Seller: PhenomeGNOME

2010-03-30T11:37:00.006-07:00

Now that I have been the whole home buying process for the last couple months I am starting to notice little things I want for my home. I came across Etsy Seller PhenomeGNOME and the stuff listed in there shop is too darn cute to pass up!

I love love love these two baby mermaid statues.

This castle is too sweet for words! I would love to have a little garden to tuck this among the green and flowers.
Not only are they too darn cute for words, but the way PhenomeGNOME takes photos with each piece set in a garden helps you imagine what your piece would be like in your front yard. It gives a magical feel to each piece.

PhenomeGNOME has a wide variety of fairies, funny gnomes and pet memorials. You won’t resist anyone of PhenomeGNOME’s piece for your spring time garden. I can’t wait to purchase the two baby mermaid statues as soon as my home closes escrow. I just wish I could have the same garden as featured in the pictures. So beautiful! Green doesn’t grow very well here in Phoenix and mermaids don't belong among cactus.

Check out PhenomeGNOME Etsy shop at PhenomeGNOME.etsy.com

Featured Seller: LOVER DOVERS CLOTHING

2010-03-17T08:13:00.007-07:00

I came across this ADORABLE Esty shop this morning that I had to share! Lover Dovers Clothings has to be the cutest and most afforable aprons I have ever seen. Plus she is from my home town of Los Angeles California!

These aprons would be perfect for any cooking diva or even for a housewarming gift.

Check out a few of my favorite designs from Lover Dovers!

I LOVE LOVE this I Love Lucy inspired design!

This Snow White Inspired child's apron has to be hands down the CUTEST thing I have ever seen. It makes me want to have a little girl just so I could dress her up in it!

This reminds me of a candy striper or an old fashioned candy maker. It's so FRESH!

Here is another retro number with sweet cherries on the front. So cute!

I am not sure how many more times I can say adorable or cute about Lover Dovers Clothing. You have to check out her Etsy shop! http://www.loverdoversclothing.etsy.com/

Featured Seller: PeaceCraneGreetings

2010-02-05T12:42:00.004-07:00

Ancient Japanese legend says that if you fold a 1,000 paper cranes will be granted a wish by crane. A crane is Japans most mystical or holy creatures that can live a 1,000 years that can grant long life or happiness. They can also be a symbol for honor and loyalty

Etsy seller PeaceCraneGreetings makes adorable little cranes made of rice paper that comes in a sweet little box. Each box has a greeting perfect for sisters, husbands, partners, mothers - anyone! This is that perfect little something that can make a person smile on a random day. No need to wait for a special occasion. For the price of a burger and fries you can make someone in your life smile.

Here are a few of my favorites.

To purchase visit: peacecranegreetings.etsy.com

Valentine's Day Mugs & Coasters Still Available

2010-02-04T10:08:00.004-07:00

There is only 10 days left until Valentine's Day so their is plenty of time to purchase a handpainted mug or coasters for your favorite person!

Easy PayPal options and super fast shipping via USPS. Buy now at www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com

Congrats J. Welge!

2010-02-01T12:33:00.003-07:00

Congrats to Ms J. Welge! She was the coaster give-a-way today! All she had to do was become a fan of The Painting Libra on facebook and badda bing! She won a free set of coasters!

She picked out the Kissing the War Goodbye coasters - perfect for Valentines Day!

Thank you to everyone who became a fan on Facebook. Don't worry if you didn't win, there is a ton of coasters for $10 on www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com!

FREE Coaster Give-away!

2010-01-25T07:11:00.004-07:00

FREE FREE FREE FREE!

The Painting Libra is giving away a free set of ceramic coasters of your choice. Simply become a fan of The Painting Libra on Facebook and you are automatically entered to win!

Drawing on February 1st, 2010

Become a fan today!

http://www.facebook.com/#/pages/The-Painting-Libra/90708284403?ref=nf

* Winner will be contacted via email. No purchase necessary. Must be a fan of The Painting Libra on Facebook by Midnight January 31, 2010

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T07:43:00.007-07:00

Every year people have New Year's resolutions and break them by the time they get to March. Rather than set one resolution this year that could be broken. I created goals I would like to achieve and would enjoy reaching throughout the year.

My 2010 New Year Goals

1. Buy a house

2. Save more money

3. Help my mom more

4. Promote my ceramic business more

5. Lose weight

6. Learn how to crochet

7. Learn how to cook

8. Take a vacation

9. Try not to get offended at what people say

10. Take more pictures of friends and family

Beautiful Basic Mugs are Now Available

2009-12-14T08:17:00.009-07:00

Looking for a simple mug in bold beautiful colors? Well they are now available at thepaintinglibra.etsy.com!

Each mug is handpainted in glossy or matte colors that make a bold statement. They are perfect for coffee, tea, hot chocolate and some are big enough to enjoy soup or ice cream out of!

Ripple Mug in Really Red

Tall Venti Latte in Dark Straw

Ripple Mug in a Matte Orange

Ripple Mug in Bright Kiwi

My popular Large Latte in Really Red

If you are looking for a particular color let me know. Custom orders are ALWAYS welcome. Be sure to get yours fast for the holidays! Check out more mugs at thepaintinglibra.etsy.com.

Featured Seller: Illuminare by Karen Cicco

2009-12-01T20:26:00.004-07:00

An old friend from high school has finally started to sell her AMAZING photos on Etsy. I have been watching her stuff on Facebook and I am happy to see she is bringing her work to the world. She currently is living in the Netherlands and that seems to be the perfect backdrop for her camera. The vivid colors and level of detail is beautiful. She has a gift and I am very proud of her.

Check out some of my favorites.

Check out her amazing photos at www.kcicco.etsy.com

Melting! I'm Melting!!

2009-12-01T08:35:00.004-07:00

*Sigh*…. It is the first of December and my poor Etsy shop doesn't have any new items. For the last couple weeks my pottery has been melting in the kiln and I can’t figure out why. The pottery is the same, the glaze is the same, and my technique is the same. Yet I am getting mugs that look like water has been poured over them before they made it into the kiln. It is not as simple as a small paint pull here and there which can be touched up. I am talking on full on melting like the Wicked Witch of the East.
Of course this can be super discouraging to see your hard work pretty much go in the trash. Hopefully Glenda can appear in her cute pink bubble and solve my kiln problems.

FEATURED SELLER: SaltyandSweet

2009-11-25T07:41:00.006-07:00

Looking for an unusual gift you can't find in stores this holiday season? Check out SaltyandSweet's cool mobiles. SaltyandSweet laser cuts black mat board cool characters and designs and joined with wire make the coolest mobiles I have seen. They are simple, clean and yet make a statement! Plus they are just a few miles from The Painting Libra in Tempe Arizona! Hopefully one day SaltyandSweet will make a mermaid mobile....

Check out a few cool designs!

I am digging the MJ design

I have always been a fan of pin-ups. Classy and sexy!

A cool wild wild west design!

Check out more designs at www.SaltyandSweet.etsy.com. Be sure to order early! The deadline for domestic orders is 12/16 for regular shipping!

New Moon & Breaking Dawn Inspired Mugs

2009-11-15T20:58:00.006-07:00

New Moon & Breaking Dawn inspired mugs are now available! (I am currently working on Eclipse mugs). Perfect for drinking your favorite beverage snuggled up next to your vampire or wolf.
Check them out at www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com.

Featured Seller: The Short Shop

2009-11-12T15:15:00.007-07:00

I recently went on a 7 day long cruise to Mexico. For anyone who has been on a cruise that long, you have to pack everything but the kitchen sink! It is fine and dandy when you are packing clean clothes before you go on the vacation, but what do you do about the dirty ones DURING your vacation? You don’t want your dirty undies touching your clean undies, at least I do. I used to use plastic bags, but those are not friendly to the earth and pretty costly.

At least that is me. Lucky for me I brought handmade laundry and shoes bags made by The Short Shop! They came in so handy! I was able to pack my shoes in the shoe size bags which keep the dirty soles away from clean clothes. Then I keep my dirty laundry in an oversized matching bag all week long then simply put it in one suitcase to take home.

When I got home, opened the suitcase, took it out of the bag and dumped it all on the laundry room floor! No worries about what was dirty and what was clean. I even threw the bags in the washing machine too!

Here are two cute bags she has currently listed on Etsy.

These make wonderful gifts for the person you can never buy for. I bet you could use them to wrap your holiday gifts in - two presents in ONE. Perfect for the planet too!

She is a newbie to Etsy and making tons of new bags daily so be sure to check her out at http://www.theshortshop.etsy.com/

A Little Mermaid After All.....

2009-11-04T14:01:00.008-07:00

Ever since I was a little girl I wanted to be a mermaid. For some odd reason I never dressed up like one for Halloween. Finally this year I had a custom made costume made after my design of the little mermaid. I went for a more realistic take on Ariel with a seaweed style top, tons of shell jewerly and a textured tail with scales.

I spent my halloween on a cruise ship to Mexico so it was really fun to walk around in the tight tail. Since I walked so slow, everyone got a good shot of my amazing costume!

My boyfriend dressed up a tribute to MJ, a costume I helped him put together of course!

I was so happy with it I might wear it next year....

Featured Seller: SHORTEFFIGY

2009-11-04T13:43:00.005-07:00

Check out one of my good friends AMAZING handmade journals at Shorteffigy.etsy.com. He makes them from end to end inside and out. All the papers are hand bound and pressed to make some of the best books that are better than you can find in the store. They make wonderful gifts for the upcoming holidays. Perfect for that person who writes in journals or doodles.

Here are a few examples......

The cherry paper is my favorite.....

Check out more books at www.Shorteffigy.etsy.com

And the winner is......

2009-10-19T08:53:00.002-07:00

Each year my good friend and Disney fan Kelly Short gathers donations for the annual Children’s Hospital of Orange County “CHOC” Walk in the Park at Disneyland Report in Anaheim, California.

The Children’s Hospital of Orange County helps provide the best medical care for children who are sick. They are devoted exclusively to helping children fight disease and illness.

For the second year in a row The Painting Libra raffles off a custom mug to anyone that donates under Kelly’s name. Last year’s winner received a large custom latte mug she designed from inspiration from her late son.

This year’s winner is………Deby R. of Antioch, California

Congrats Deby on winning a custom made mug of your choice! Your mug will be sent to you in 3-4 weeks after the design is confirmed!

Thank you to everyone’s donations! Your donations go to a very good cause! See you next year!

Featured Seller: One Great Thing

2009-10-13T12:14:00.005-07:00

Featured Seller is Cassi with OneGreatThing.

Cassi is a stay at home mommy Disney fan that creative tie dye shirts, scarf’s and head bands with Mickey Mouse silhouettes. Her colors are bright,one of a kind and appealing to all ages! They are perfect when you are going to some place like Disneyland and you need to spot one of your family members in a crowd. Plus they are better than what you can find at the stores.

Here are a few of my favorites!

These are great for the whole family....

I purchased this scarf below for myself. It doesn't have any Mickey heads on it, but its super groovy! She is currently making me a super long scarf for that super cold ONE month of winter here in Phoenix.

Check out her items for sale at http://www.onegreatthing.etsy.com/. She also creates custom orders so feel free to conv her. You can also check out her past work on Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/photos/onegreatthing/ . Just remember her items are one of a kind and no two will be alike which makes it so much better!

The After Life?

2009-10-02T08:27:00.002-07:00

I am not a very religious person, but I do believe there is a higher power out there and people do pass on to some sort of spritual level weither it be heaven, earth or limbo. Our bodies are so full of energy that when we die, I imagine we have to go somewhere.

When my great-grandmother passed away when I was in junior high, she was the first real dead person I had ever seen up close. We had arrived at the hospice minutes later after she passed and I wasn’t that close to to her that it really didn’t bother me to see her like that. Two weeks later my great grandfather passed on. Luckily for me I was not there to see it in person. For about two years, my grandmother kept both of her parents ashes in urns in her bedroom until we were able to plan arrangements to scatter their ashes. For those two years, I refused to pass through her bedroom. Something about those ashes creeped me out.

Finally we were able to take a trip to our family vacation spot in Kern County to scatter their ashes in the river. We had a beautiful family cermony at night were my mother and uncle walked hand in hand into the river to scatter the ashes of their grandparents. The funny part was when my mother came down to the river the next morning, there was a huge white streak at the bottom of the clear river. Her mouth dropped and ran to get my stepfather to help her wade into the river and kick up the ashes from the river bottom before anyone else could see them.

About two weeks ago I was fast sleep in my bedroom and I woke up at 2:00 am on the dot to the smell of cigarete smoke. I am not a smoker myself, neither is my boyfriend and I don’t believe any of my near by neighbors are. The smell was so strong it woke me up so I knew I had to check it out. I checked around my apartment and peak outside to find nothing out of the ordinary. The smell started to disapate and baffled I went back to bed and fell asleep.

Yesterday morning I was leaving my apartment at 6:00 am and I turned to lock my front door when this overwelming smell hit it me. The smell was the exact same smell I remember my great grandmother smelling like. It wasn’t a perfume smell, but that unique smell that a person has naturally. I stopped and looked around. It was still early and no one was around. I locked my door and walked around the corner to my car. I could still smell her all the way to my car and the air held a thick heavy feeling similar to early morning fog, but living in Phoenix, there is rarely any fog. I got in my car and the smell started to make me worry. Why was I smelling her? Is she warning me about something? Should I drive to work? Will I get into an accident? What should I do? I started to text my mom, but I knew she would still be asleep and put my cell phone away. I took a deep breathe and drove on to work and the smell disapeared.

I called my mom when I got out to work later that day and told her about my experience and she simply said “grandma was visiting you.” It finally occurred to me my great grandmother used to smoke and I had a flash back of the night two weeks ago when I thought someone was in my bedroom smoking. Maybe it was her. I have been wondering for the last 24 hours why she would suddenly visit me. My mom said she was just checking me out to see how I was doing.

Maybe she is, maybe this is just my imagination. Who knows. Some people find it comforting to know love ones come and visit. Right now it doesn't scare me if I am visited by loved ones, we will all one day discover what is really beyond this life on earth.

Feature Items: Caramel Apples!

2009-09-24T10:15:00.004-07:00

This time of year brings all my favorite things, pumpkins, costumes and of course caramel apples. I remember last year I had a two week streak where I wanted a caramel apple every day. Sadly I would get in my car and drive a couple miles down the road to get a caramel, drive back and savor it alone in my apartment. Nothing screams OCTOBER more than a caramel apple.

I found some Etsy friends who seem to be on the same wave length as me when it comes to this juicy seasonal treat.

This delicious looking vegan soap from Sunbasilgarden is apple toffee scented comes complete with wooden stick and wrapped in cellophane. As yummy as it looks, it really is just soap so no eating it in the shower!!

Check out more fun soaps at http://www.sunbasilgarden.etsy.com/

Back in highschool I remember apple caramel pops were huge! These Caramel Apple Lollipops from VintageConfections look a lot more pretty than those we used to get off the ice cream truck! Plus I love how in the listing they are called "lollis". It makes me want to say it with a British accent!

Check out more yummy treats from http://www.vintageconfections.etsy.com/

Many of the chocolate stops have caramel apples that are available now are covered in cookies, fudge, candy, chocolate, nuts and other junk much stuff that you almost forget there is a caramel apple underneath! Sometimes you want a basic good caramel apple. Sugarsmitten has a simple caramel apple named simply “The Purist's Caramel Apple” My mouth is watering!

Check out Sugarsmitten's yummy treats at http://www.sugarsmitten.etsy.com/

Movie Wall Art Done Cheap

2009-09-24T08:49:00.007-07:00

Living in an apartment means many times management will not let you paint walls. I had a HUGE blank slab of white wall above my couch that was screaming for something. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to put up there, but I knew I wanted something I painted on canvas. I thought about doing one big giant canvas, but the costs were far out of my budget.

I got an idea after sitting around with friends having dinner and discussing movies and the thought occurred to me to express my favorite movies on canvas! I purchased 16 x 20" canvas 2 packs from Michaels (using a 40% coupon each time of course) along with white and brown acrylic paint. (You can get your 40% off Michael’s coupon from the Sunday newspaper ads or by signing up for a weekly coupon emailed to you at micheals.com. Trust me it helps when buying a lot of craft supplies like I do.)

So I started by painted each canvas with the silhouette of each movie character in white and painted the background brown. This would give the person viewing the canvas a clue on what movie it was and yet keep all the different movies unison. I finished with two coats of a matte acrylic spray to seal the art.

(Kill Bill Vol. 1)

To get the uniform look on the wall, I took long poster paper and laid out each canvas on the floor. I then placed my canvas in the arrangement I liked measured the distance between each to ensure the correct placement to get that uniform look. Once I got each of the canvas how I liked them, I traced each with a black marker. I then measured where each nail would need to go behind the canvas and marked on the poster paper.

I then hug my poster paper on the wall and tapped nails into the wall at each of the nail markings. (I am sure my neighbor loved me pounding 12 nails into the wall, but with the nail marks already measured, it went super fast. )Once all the nails were firmly in place, I tore the paper away and hung each of the canvases on the wall. Simple as that!

Total cost of the project: Around $40 bucks.

FEATURED ITEM: Michael Jackson Tribute Canvas Art

2009-09-15T15:55:00.006-07:00

As a child of the 80's, Michael Jackson's music was the soundtrack to my childhood. This is a tribute to the one and only KING OF POP!Hand painted Michael Tribute Canvas Art.

Painted in white and black acrylic paint on 100% cotton duck artist canvas back stapled with a traditional wood frame. (Candles not included)

SIZE: 9" x 12"

There is only ONE available so get it before it is gone!

http://www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com/

Remember......

2009-09-11T07:23:00.004-07:00

Where were you eight years ago today?

I remember I was living in Southern California and was still asleep when the first building was hit. I awoke to my ex step dad calling me to wake up and turn on the TV. I stumbled out to the living room and turn the TV on. Of course being so early my mom woke up and came out to see what I was doing. Of course we couldn’t believe what we had seen. As we watched the news, we saw the second plane hit the second tower. We knew this wasn’t an accident. I watching as much as I could before I had to get ready and go to work, a job I had started only three days prior. Of course rumors flew that there were planes on their way to Los Angeles and all planes had been grounded. I remember driving in my 65 mustang on side streets (it seems liked everyone was avoiding the freeways) looking up at the sky in wonder if the rumors were true. It was strange not to see any planes overhead. I could see other drivers and pedestrians who all had the same worried look. It seemed like forever by the time I got to work at a plumbing wholesale in San Gabriel. No one really worked that day. We either stood around the TV or radio to listen to updates. One of my bosses printed updated photos of the towers as they became available online and posted them outside her office.

The next few days and weeks seemed like such a blur that I don’t remember too many details. Of course the only story on everyone’s minds and lips was what happened.
My 20th birthday fell on the one month anniversary of the towers falling. It was a somber one since they were still pulling bodies out of the rubble. My mom presented me with a gift that is now one of the most cherished items I possess. A custom framed photo of John Lennon giving a peace sign in front of the Statue of Liberty.

That gift meant more to me than almost anything I had received. John is proudly hanging on the wall just inside my front door. He is a reminder that peace and love can conquer all.

A lot has changed since that day. We have been at war with people who simply have hate in their hearts and we have lost a lot of service men and women who died for our country. We may complain about traveling through the airport and past our borders, but we know we are safer than we were before this day eight years ago.

Those who perished that day will not be forgotten. The innocent men and women in the buildings and the planes who could not be saved. The brave firefighters and police who sacrificed themselves to save others and rushed into the burning buildings. Those brave passengers and crew who took down a plane before it could reach its unknown destination.

I promise to those who left us eight years ago to teach my children and their children what I saw and felt that day. Never Forget.

Don’t Stop Believing.....

2009-09-08T13:51:00.005-07:00

Has anyone noticed Journey’s song “Don’t Stop Believing” has become really popular lately? The song came out in 1981 from their album Escape and Journey’s most known song. ITunes reports it is the most downloaded song NOT released in the 21st century and topped the 3 million dollar mark at the end of August 2009 in paid downloads. Could it be because this song is getting new life in movies and TV shows? Could it be because the song is that good or maybe because in times like these, the song just makes sense? It is said when times are tough people like slower songs or songs that have a positive message. Maybe it is just because we simply can’t stop believing…..

I found a couple Etsy sellers creating cool items all around the word BELIEVE.

MyDaisyDreams has an adorable Glass and Resin pendant with definition of “Believe”. It comes on a 18” silver plated flat link chain in an adorable tin. Perfect for gift giving and the price that can’t be beat.

Check out MyDaisyDreams Etsy shop at: http://www.mydaisydreams.etsy.com/

The best part of getting take out is simply because I love getting the fortune cookies and Yogagoat’s hand sculpted porcelain fortune cookie is too cute for words. It is about the size of a real fortune cookie with the words "BELIEVE" stamped across. It even comes in a mini take out box with colorful paper.
Check out Yogagoat’s Etsy shop at: http://www.yogagoat.etsy.com/

Even though things are going bad, maybe you need a daily reminder to simply Believe. AWEshop has a great sterling silver bracelet with individual letters spelling "BELIEVE" with freshwater pearls. Shipping is only $1.00 and comes in a gift box.
Check out AWEshop’s Etsy shop at: http://www.aweshop.etsy.com/

DONATE TO WIN A FREE MUG

2009-08-28T14:50:00.004-07:00

It is that time of year and Disneyland is holding its annual CHOC Walk in the Park event October 19th. This even helps raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Orange County California. My really good friend Kelly has been doing the CHOC Walk since 2003 and it is very near and dear to her heart.

Last year I didn't very much funds to donate since starting my new little business, so I helped out by donating one of my custom mugs. Anyone that helped donate anything they could automatically had their name entered in to win a custom mug of their choice.

Last year’s winner requested a large white latte mug with yellow daisies growing out of lush green grass with little bees flying around. She said her son, who passed away when he was young used to pick yellow daises and bring them to her.

This year anyone who donates under Kelly’s name automatically enters to win a mug of their choice and with any design they choose!

Simply go to www.chocwalk.net and click on the purple SPONSOR WALKER button.
Then enter the walkers name KELLY SHORT and donate any amount you find appropriate.

A name will be drawn October 21st and the winner will be contacted shortly to discuss the design of their new mug. The winner will receive his or her custom mug within 3-4 weeks of the drawing.

Help support a good cause and get a chance to win a free mug to keep for yourself or give away as a gift! Christmas is right around the corner! Just remember to enter KELLY SHORT under the Sponsor Walker button or your donation won't count for the change to win a free mug!

Visit my Etsy page for current pottery designs on sale! www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com

Featured Artist: RoxyChick4327

2009-07-31T07:58:00.006-07:00

I love when people I know join Etsy and start selling their craft. My good friend from high school is no exception. Her Etsy shop is filled with adorable custom signs, banners and graphics. They are priced right and oh so cute! She is a stay at home mom and seems to have a passion for doing what she does and it shows.

Check out a few of her designs and order one up for your Etsy shop or blog!

Pretty Blooms

Leafy Fields with matching avatar Trees in Bloom with matching Avatar

Check out her Etsy page for more designs and to order YOUR custom banner: http://www.roxychick4327.etsy.com/

I waaaaaaaaaaaaant it

2009-07-27T10:47:00.003-07:00

I switched apartments in April and my apartment has been kinda blah ever since, especially in my bedroom. I have a blue and white Hawaiian flower Roxy bedspread for about a year. This is what I have minus the orange pillows and Roxy print sheets.

I bought it before I moved into my first apartment, and as cute as it is, it doesn’t really match the rest of my apartment. Today I was checking Bed Bath & Beyond and found a CUTE Roxy bedspread that would TOTALLY match my brown and blue green theme in my apartment. Problem is I only want the bedspread and the pillow covers. I don’t need the sheets and other junk that comes with it. At BB&B, it is a whole set for $300. That is way too much for a bedset! Especially when I need to pay for my car annual tags and get new tires. Boo! I guess I have to hold out and wait for the set to show up on Ebay. For now I can just say “I wannnnt it" until I got to BB&B and see it in person and then not like it. That is usually how I work. Haha!

A dance without Words

2009-07-23T12:36:00.002-07:00

Every season I love watching Fox's So You Think You Can Dance. I think it is amazing to see everyday people from all backgrounds so different dances every week that have stories.

Last night performance of Ade and Melissa bringing awareness of how breast cancer can be translated by dance touched me so deeply.

Here is the video of last nights performance. It speaks for itself.

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/5596365/14689629

NEW ITEMS LISTED! ~ Asian Take Out Sushi Plates

2009-07-16T09:48:00.008-07:00

Two new items have been listed for sale on my Etsy page!

Asian Take Out Sushi Plates.

This adorable white sushi plate has a red padoga just like on the cute take out boxes from Asian restaurants. It has a bold red stripe on the left and even comes with a pair of black chopsticks. Perfect for that extra punch at the dinner table!

SIZE: 8 1/2" x 5"

Buy both Sushi plates and get combined shipping! Be sure to check out my cute Holy Bowly Sushi bowl painted with a matching padoga. Buy all four and make it a set!

Holy Bowly Sushi Bowl Since each piece is made one at a time and no two pieces will ever be alike. With color variation and glazing you will be ensured to have a one of a kind piece that no one else has. Please allow artistic variation from piece to piece.

Check them out before they are gone at http://www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com/

Goodbye Michael Jackson

2009-06-25T20:52:00.006-07:00

The news was heard around the world today. The sudden and shocking death of Michael Jackson at age 50. As a child of the 80's, Michael's music defined our generation. My mom would tell me that when I was around 2 or 3 she would put on Thriller and I would dance and dance like no other. His music and videos were like no other in the world. He broke down walls and paved the way for new music artists. I don't think there is a single music artist that can't trace their roots back to the King Of Pop.

Of course his death didn't hit me as hard as when I got in my car to leave work and after speaking to my mom in California, all the radio stations in Phoenix were to play his songs. By the time I got home I sat in my car and cried. It is not until you hear those songs until you realize how much this man brought to the world. There are so many that you just know the lyrics to without really even knowing you do. One of my favorites growing up was smooth criminal and the video was earth shattering with the famous lean in the pure white suit and hat.

Recently I became a fan of P.Y.T after watching the dance group Jabbawockeez on America's Best Dance Crew in tribute to the 25th anniversary of Thriller. The dance they did really changed my mind on the song and it is one of the top on my play list.

There are so many things I can say about the man behind the music, but sometimes you just have to let the music speak for itself. I know he had some trouble in the past, but we all have our demons. As Tupac once said "Measure a man by his actions fully from beginning to end."

Rest in Peace Michael. May your music live on forever.

Featured Etsy Seller: Christy Studio

2009-06-25T13:39:00.006-07:00

I just received this adorable red purse from Christy Studio and I had to share. It was a large bag called the 'Victoria' in bright fire engine red brushed cotton twill and a vanilla color inside. It has an adjustable strap to use as a messenger bag or shoulder style.

What I was impressed with the most, was the interior. It has 5 pockets including a zipper pocket, dog leash for your keys, magnetic closure and a cute Christ Studio Logo sewed inside. I was unbelievably impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of this purse.

By far, it was the best purse I think I have ever bought. Perfect size, perfect design and the price cannot be beat. Better than anything you can find in the stores. If you like simple designs in purses like I do, this is the Etsy shop for you!

Christy Studio is located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia so please be patient in regards to shipping. I ordered mine last week and it arrived today, but that doesn’t mean it will always be that fast. Trust me, they are worth the wait.

Here is a few of my favorite designs including the 'Lydia' (below) in dusty blue that I just bought moments ago. I can't wait for this one to arrive. I love the color and the design is a little different than the bag that arrived today.

Another great style is the 'Pandora' featured here in a Rose Red brushed canvas that looks so soft!

Be sure to check out Christy Studios at www.christystudio.etsy.com or follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/christystudio

Splish Splash! Custom Mermaid Tails

2009-06-15T10:57:00.010-07:00

Most kids growing up want to be a police officer, firefighter, nurse...but not me. I wanted to be a mermaid. I wanted to figure out how to grow a tail and swim like one under the ocean. When I saw the movie Splash and how Madison used a can of salt in the water to make her tail grow, well I tried that a couple times and nothing happened except my mother wondering why were was this clear film at the bottom of the tub.

So as an adult, I still secretly want to have a mermaid tail and at swim around a beautiful lagoon. I found an Etsy seller creating swimmable tails that let you believe you are mermaid with glittering tails and fins.

Earth Song Designs has adorable mermaid tails made of swimmable fabric and a custom made monofin fluke that help you swim through the water.

Emerald Mermaid Tail

Kohaku Koi Mermaid Tail

Fire Flower Mermaid TailThese are meant for serious adult swimmers. Earth Song Designs promotes water safety and highly suggests you swim with a partner at all times when wearing the tails.

Check out more info and pricing at www.EarthSongDesigns.etsy.com

Featured Artist of the Day: Karingrow

2009-06-11T10:35:00.005-07:00

Today’s featured artist is Karingrow from beautiful San Diego, California. Her paintings are so vivid and beautiful. She has a way with tiny details that don’t overwhelm you, but somehow draw you in to the bold colors. The women she paints has such fluidity it is quite calming. Here are a few of my favorites.

Autumn

Of Course this one is my favorite. It reminds me of my favorite scene in Disney's The Little Mermaid when tiny seahorses wrap themselves in Ariel's hair. I love the few touches of the Hawaiian flowers floating along.

Mermaid with Seahorses

Of course my Hispanic side of me is drawn to this one. I think it is the bright bold red in it. Red is my secret favorite color. I think it would be perfect for my kitchen.

Lovely Girl with Birdcages

Check out her shop at http://www.karingrow.etsy.com/ as well as a look into her current projects on her blog at http://www.karingrow.blogspot.com/

D.I.Y - Plastic Bottle Vase

2009-06-09T16:13:00.004-07:00

Ever pick a flower or two while on your lunch break and when you return to work, but you never have a vase to put them in? They always look dorky in your mug and they die without water. What about making a vase out of an empty plastic bottle? Every office has soda water bottles and before it hits the recycle box - make one into a vase!

With some careful snips of some scissors and a few folds, you have a cute looking vase. And after your are done - toss that baby right into the recycle bin!

Check out the step by step instructions here: www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Vase-out-of-a-Plastic-Bottle

Tip: You might want to use the thicker plastic bottles. The new water bottles they have out there are made with 30% less plastic (which are awesome for the earth) but are super flimsy.

I Am Seeing Stripes

2009-06-04T15:28:00.005-07:00

Living in Southern California, you pretty much know what a Mexican blanket is. It is a striped thick blanket that can be used for anything! I wanted one for so long but I could never find any girlie colors that was super thick. The ones we found were super thin and blah in color. Finally after searching store after store in Ensenada, Mexico I found a black, white and purple stripped blanket stuck in a pile in the back of the store. It comes in so handy when you need it for a picnic, bed covering, camping, you name it!

I found some CUTE girlie Mexican blanket theme items on Etsy that I had to share.

First is this ADORABLE purse by BettieBubble. It is made from authentic Mexican blanket with a zippered pocket on the interior and a removable rose brooch. Each bag is handmade to order can come any a variations of colors.

Check out BettieBubbles shop at www. bettiebubble.etsy.com

This cute and bold Mexican Blanket Clutch was just featured on Etsy’s front page today and I had to post it on mine. It is a one of a kind cotton twill purse by Midnightjo1327 that comes with a removable chrome wristlet handle. And the best part is, free shipping! Yay baby!

Congrats to Midnightjo1327! Check out more stuff at www. midnightjo1327.etsy.com.

And finally, what a more perfect bag to throw all your makeup and goodies in before you run off on vacation. Well, maybe just to the boyfriends house for the weekend in my case. This cute bag from Lapistolera can fit all your stuff for only $15!

It would make a perfect gift for anyone. Check out more cute items at www. lapistolera.etsy.com

Broke & Crafty

2009-06-03T10:58:00.004-07:00

In this economy, money is tight and it is hard our us artist to be crafty and save money. I ran across this website www.dollarstorecrafts.com that people post AMAZING cheap crafts for under $15. Most of the crafts I have seen are made with items I am sure you have around the house. There are a few projects I want to try myself when I am broke on a weekend.

The first is an adorable necklace holder created by WendyStarr made of any frame, scrap paper, furniture knobs, new or used and E6000 glue. I must say, they are better than anything I have seen in stores.You could even make it personal with family photos! I have some old Pinup theme calendars I have been holding on to for a reason. Props to Wendy for this great idea! Here is the link to the instructions: www.dollarstorecrafts.com/2009/05/necklace-holder. Check out her Etsy shop at wendystarr.etsy.com

I have tons of those light kits lying around my house doing nothing. And after moving from California to Arizona, there is very little need to have more than one sweater here. Now there is something I could finally use both of them for! A SweaterSleeve lamp designed by Sara Ebert for the International Contemporary Furniture Fair.

It is SUPER simple. All you need is a lamp kit, washed out bottle juice container with the label removed and an old sweater. Simply cut off the sleeve of the sweater, stretch it over the empty bottle container and insert the light kit (be sure to have a low heat bulb) and hang. Here is a link to the project for more details and comments: www.dollarstorecrafts.com/2009/05/sweater-lamp

As a girl, I read a ton of magazines and they just collect, usually under the sink in the bathroom. Hey, we are all human right? (I just don’t take books in the bathroom, we all saw that episode of Seinfeld where George got ‘flagged.’)

Anyways, The Rag & Bone came up with amazing rolled paper wreath made out of magazine pages. I have seen those recycled frames and containers online for almost $100 each! The Rag & Bone brag it will cost you under $2! You can’t beat that. Check out pending instructions at www.dollarstorecrafts.com/2009/05/rolled-wreath

Check out www.dollarstorecrafts.com daily for new stuff posted by crafty people!

I have been bitten!

2009-06-02T16:01:00.005-07:00

For several months, I tried to not give in to the whole Twilight phenomenon. Especially since the author, Stephanie Meyer is based here in Cave Creek, just a few minutes from my home here in Phoenix. It seems to me to be another ‘tween’ fad that wouldn’t really be interesting to a 27 year old. However, I saw a small clip of the baseball scene while flipping through Pay Per View on TV and saw that is actually could be pretty darn good. So I figured I would read the book first and then finally watch the movie since books tend to be different, sometimes better than the movie. I found that for a fact when House of Sand and Fog came out as a movie. Such a disappointment compared to the book.

I purchased the first book from CostCo Friday and so far read about 200 pages while waiting for my car to get an oil change at the dealership. I must admit, it’s pretty darn good. I just need to find time to squeeze in some more reading. Maybe this weekend while the boyfriend is out of town.

I checked out Etsy and found a lot of people have been inspired by the movie. Check out a few pretty cool finds:

Now this is a FIND! It’s is the actual bag Bella uses in the movie. Stitchandswash was contacted by a prop manager who purchased the Feather Bag from a boutique in Seattle and needed a second bag . Stitchandswash stayed up all night and made a second one and shipped it straight to the prop manager…AND BAM! It became one of Bella’s main totes in the movie.

It is an adorable brown leather bag handmade with a aqua peacock feather which is my favorite touch. Be sure to snatch one for yourself – but please allow 5-6 weeks for your very own piece of the phenomenon. Hmm...my birthday is coming up in October, this may be a must on my wish list. It is always great to see an Etsy seller do so well! Congrats! Check out the Etsy page at stitchandswash.etsy.com

I have always been a fan of charm bracelets. I think they are adorable and so fun to wear and collect. Foreverandaday created a Twilight inspired charm bracelet with a wolf, truck, music note, apple etc. It is super cute and would be cute present for the young fan you know.

Check out the Etsy page at foreverandaday.etsy.com

And finally I found this unique idea for a Twilight inspired stuff art doll by KreepyKids. Each doll is made out of 100% cotton that is washable and perfect for older children and adult that features the characters from the book/movie.

As a bonus, 10% of the proceeds goes to animal charities. Love it! Check out more creepy dolls at www.kreepykids.etsy.com

If I only had a brain....

2009-05-21T14:13:00.004-07:00

Ugh! I have never been very tech savvy. Or good at math. Or spelling. Or sewing. Pretty much anything technical. My hair changes from brunette to blonde. I am pretty good with Etsy and this blog – but I am pretty clueless if it any more complicated than these. I purchased a website for my little business The Painting Libra today from GoDaddy.com. I knew www.thepaintinglibra.com was still available and my boyfriend suggested I snatch it up before anyone else does. After the endless pages to sign up and fine print your brain basically scans over, I finally purchased the domain name. After that, I couldn’t get the hang of anything! I thought by purchasing their template making wizard it would help me upload everything. Not so much. Finally after several hours and about $50 of wasted money, I have given up wondering if I wasted my time and money on this. I wonder if I can find someone to build it for me. The problem is I am so picky about the content and I don’t have too much money to throw around. Ugh! Oh well. For now I will let it sit until my scarecrow body grows a brain.

Kiss Me Goodbye

2009-05-20T16:18:00.005-07:00

I have always loved the picture caught by Alfred Eisendtaedt in Times Square on August 14, 1945 of an unknown sailor kissing a nurse. I always thought it was so romantic how the celebration of the war ending caught this sailor in the moment of planting a smooch on a nurse who just happened to be in the right place at the right time.

I wanted to do something with the image on my pottery. I started to sketch the outline of the couple on a large square plate and I loved how it came out.

I painted a bright red border and left his sailor hat peaking out the top. I added a thin black stripe on the inside rim and that was it! It came out perfect.

I also made a matching tall latte mug with a bright red center.

The mug has already found a happy home, but the plate is still up for grabs on my Etsy page so don’t miss out!

http://www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com/

If you like this design, I can always make you a custom one with the colors of your choice!

Sake it to me

2009-05-20T14:32:00.005-07:00

I was a good friend’s birthday party a while back when I noticed a beautiful blue bottle of SakeOne Moonstone Plum Sake. Typically I have seen sake in those short stubby bottles, but this one had an absolutely beautiful blue glass with a swirling bright pink pattern across the base. The colors together where so striking. I asked our friend who was hosting the party if I could have an empty bottle. Happily she gave me one before I left. (Pictured to the far right)

A few weeks later our friends returned from their honeymoon in Italy and brought me back a particular shirt you can only find in Italy. As a thank you to the hostest who gave me a bottle, I painted the Moonstone swirl design on one of my large latte mug.

I kept the background white and used a deep cobalt blue on the inside and used jet black for the swirl pattern. It came out very cute and I heard she knew what the design was from the minute she saw it.

I like to find designs and colors in things that you may not see on a mug that make it more unique.

Blah

2009-05-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been feeling kind of blah. Not sad or mad, just blah. I have no creative juices flowing through me what so ever. Typically this lasts only a week or so with me, but lately, nothing. I haven’t wanted to paint any new pottery, I haven’t wanted to decorate the new apartment I am in. Nothing. I have ideas in the back of my head of stuff I want to do, but part of me doesn’t want to spend the money either. It seems like when ever money becomes an issue with me, meaning the lack of, my creative side comes to a halt. Time seems to be going by so fast and there doesn’t seem like there is enough time in the day any more to do anything. Get up, go to work, drive home in traffic, go to the gym, shower, eat, watch your favorite show, get ready for the next day go to bed, get up and do it all over again. It is like my creative side is sleeping and I need to wake her up. Hmmm…

Peace, Love and Paws

2009-04-22T15:58:00.000-07:00

Like most of us, we all love animals. I have had two dogs to personally call my own. My first, a Westie name Abbey Road, but sadly passed away before her first birthday.

My second dog, a Dachshund/Chihuahua I found in the middle of the highway on Thanksgiving evening a few years ago. She had no collar or identification. My mom and I had just left my grandparents thanksgiving dinner and I spotted her sitting in the left turn lane at a red light. Of course I jumped out of the car leaving my mom, her dog, turkey and pumpkin pie behind.

After a long pursuit across four dark lanes of traffic, I finally was able to reach her. We knew the shelter was closed for the holiday, so I begged my mom to take her home for safe keeping until we could locate the owner.

She is the cutest darn dog. She straight down the middle with Dachshund/Chihuahua features. A long body, low to the ground with giant ears that stick straight up 9" tip to tip.

(This is her in one of her many funny t-shirts I buy her.)

She came into our lives the night before my mom was about to start radiation treatment for a second brain tumor. She was a sweet distraction to us while we tried to find the owner. My mom thought she looked like the Taco Bell dog, but I said “No mom, she is a girl, she is Taco Bella.”

After weeks of putting up posters and having the vet check for a micro chip, she became ours. Of course we had to keep the name Bella, but added Felice after it which means “lucky you” in Italian. So basically I ended up with a Mexican/German dog with an Italian name. You gotta love the cards life deals you at the moment you need them.

Featured Artist: ILLUSTRATED INK - Wicked Art From the Heart

2009-04-17T08:04:00.001-07:00

Today I came across a great Etsy artist that I had to feature, ILLUSTRATED INK. This shop really caught my eye. Illustrated Ink combines old school flash tattoo art and Day of the Dead to make some really unique items. Plus, she has a ton of mermaid stuff that makes me want to snatch them all up for myself.

This cute mermaid print is Illustrated Inks version of the Mexican loteria card but with a Day of the Dead twist called La Sirena.

I love how the colors are so bold and really stand out. The print measures 8.5” x 11”, perfect to frame for a bedroom or kitchen.

I have a thing for reading books at the gym, but I always use an old receipt or once a prescription card as a book mark. I know, I know…. that is not very wise of me. But I totally would change my ways on these adorable Old School Mermaid bookmarks.

They stand 5” tall and are laminated with a deep purple ribbon. There is no way I will lose my place in my book with these sexy but tough mermaids!

If anyone has been to my apartment, there is more stuff stuck to the outside of my fridge than in the inside. I don’t cook for anything! But I love to have pictures and mementos pasted all over the front of my fridge. These Nautical Journey Magnet sets would be a nice addition to my collection.

You can pick out any four magnets and Illustrated Ink will even gift wrap it for you with a card upon request! What a great housewarming gift – if you can bare to give them up.

All in all, Illustrated Ink has some fantastic stuff and she is the seller to watch. I know I will! Check out her Etsy page at www. illustratedink.etsy.com or her blog at www.illustratedink.blogspot.com

DIY Wall Decals

2009-04-14T15:18:00.000-07:00

Many of us 20 something’s out there live in apartments. And many of those 20’s something’s have landlords that won’t let them paint the walls, even with a lease. When I moved into my first apartment this last year, the white walls were driving me INSANE. I really liked the idea of removable wall decals, but they are so expensive for anything bigger than four inches. I really wanted something to cover a large part of my wall but didn’t want to break the bank.

(Before)

(After)

So I turned to contact paper. Yup! That stuff your grandmother uses to line her kitchen cupboards. It is super thin, easy to cut and the best part – cheap! They come in tons of different colors and textures. I wanted black contact paper for my design so I found a huge roll of contact paper on Amazon.com for around $30 with shipping. It gave me plenty of paper to experiment with and use in other rooms. But you can find contact paper at any art or hardware supply store in smaller rolls if you want to go even cheaper and don’t want to wait for shipping. Contact paper will work on smooth and textured surfaces. However, it won’t work on popcorn style walls and ceilings. Sorry!

It is super simple! All you need is:

Contact paper of your choice
Scissors
Felt tip marker or pencil
Painters Blue Tape
Newspaper or poster paper
Old library or old credit card
Your imagination

Step 1: Take your contact paper and roll it out on a flat surface with the contact paper facing down. The backing has a white logo that peels off – this should be the part facing up.

Step 2: Draw your design on the backing of the contact paper with a felt pen. If you wish to repeat a pattern like I did, you can cut out a template using newspaper or poster paper. I found using a thicker piece of paper helps when tracing out the design multiple times. You can also trace out stencil patterns, leaves, flowers, birds and if you have A LOT of patience – try letters and words. Use your imagination!

Step 3: Cut out your design

Step 4: Now take your cut out pieces to the wall you wish to use the decal on. With the backing still on the contact paper, use a couple of pieces of painters tape and tape up the cut out design to the wall to see if it is in the position you want. This way you can get it in the spot you want without wasting the contact paper.

Step 5: If you like the position of your design, start at the edge or corner of the design and start to pull the backing off the contact paper of the first 3” or 4” inches. Smooth it down with the library card to get out any air bubbles. Keep working in 3” to 4” inch increments until you get the hang of it. Smooth out any air bubbles with the plastic card and remove the painters tape.

If you don’t like where you placed the design after you pulled off the backing, don’t worry! Just gently peel the design off of the wall and re-stick where you want it. Smooth out any air bubbles with the plastic card. You can do this about 2 to 3 more times before the contact paper starts to lose its tackiness.

Step 6: If you like your design – then there ya go! If not, layer more pieces of contact paper on top of each other. The great thing about the black contact paper is the layers are almost invisible to the eye making one big seamless design like mine. My design was just layers of four or five swirl designs that I layered how I liked. I then cut out little flowers and slapped them on the wall where I wanted. Bam! You got yourself a cheap awesome way to dress up your walls!

(Close up of the design - layered pieces of contact paper)

Step 7: If it’s time to move or you are sick of your design and want to do something new, just gently pull the contact paper from the wall starting in one corner. The Contact paper shouldn’t leave any marks or stickiness on the wall. But always check the manufactures website to ensure the surface you wish to use is safe. The Kitterich Corp who makes Contact paper is helpful in this area. Their website is http://www.contactbrand.com/

ENJOY!

LOVE IN @ 70's Shop & Hookah Lounge - Phoenix AZ

2009-04-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

This year will be the 40th anniversary of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's famous BED IN to spread the word of peace to a global audience.

On Saturday April 25th the 70's Shop & Hookah Lounge will be hosting a LOVE IN, a day to remember peace, love and happiness!

They will have tarot card readers, physics, hippie themed protestors, vendors and ME! I will be selling my peace sign themed hand painted items that day.

I will have coasters, mugs, dog bowls and more!Please come down, buy some of my pottery, have your fortune told, sample some Hookah and enjoy the event! Event starts at 12:00 PM

70's Shop & Hookah Lounge

5018 N. 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85014

(Cross Streets Camelback & 7th Street next to the Denny’s Restaurant)

Phone: (602) 279-5470

If you can’t make it, be sure to check out my other items for sale at www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com! Custom orders always welcome!

Going Back to Cali.....

2009-04-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

This Saturday I was out and about with the boyfriend looking at homes for sale. It was one of those rare days out here in Phoenix where it was blue skies and cool breezes. It reminded me of those days back in Southern California where I grew up. Days like this make we want to go down to the beach and enjoy the rays. Here are a few things I found off Etsy.com that make me feel at home:

Check out this cute silver CALIFORNIA NECKLACE from MyLavaliere has a vintage peach enameled flower and lucite leaf detail. It even has stars for Los Angeles and Sacramento.

The flower details reminds me of California Poppies, the state flower. For $20 you can’t beat it! Check out more of MyLavaliere items at www.mylavaliere.etsy.com

I have been searching for cute California style art to decorate in my apartment for almost a year now. This cute BEACH BUM sign from Kelsyhenke has photograph letters arranged and mounted onto thin wood with a black beveled edge.

It measures 20” x 6” and is ready to frame. I love the bold colors! Check out more adorable letter style art at http://www.kelsyhenke.etsy.com/.

This year seems to be the year of babies! Tons of people I know are sprouting kids like weeds! Socalbabyshop has the cutest local style baby items. I love this I LOVE SO CAL baby oneise that comes in 6 months to 18 months.

If you know a little toddler in your life that needs to rock the SoCal love, it comes in t shirt style from 2T & 4T. Check out more fun stuff at http://www.socalbabyshop.etsy.com/

When I was around 8 or 10 years old, my grandparents took me on a road trip up to northern California to visit family. On the way up there we saw hills along the road full of beautiful yellow, orange and gold poppies. It was the most beautiful sight. We pulled over to the side of the road and my grandmother took tons of photos. When we returned home after the trip to develop the film, my grandmother realized she never put film in the camera! Oh the days before digital cameras. We still joke about that time around family holidays.

Well Alexandraferguson has a wonderful CALIFORNIA POPPIES recycled felt appliqué pillow made from recycled water bottles pillow that can’t be missed either. This adorable 18” x 18” zipper throw pillow would look adorable on anyone’s bed or sofa. Maybe it would make a nice gift for my grandmother’s birthday, just a fun to remind her of our trip. Check out more cute items at http://www.alexandraferguson.etsy.com/

There is a song by the band Modest Mouse called ‘Float On' that reminds me of Mission Bay in San Diego. I don’t know why, but I listen to that song, I feel like I am back there on the beach eating a slice of homemade pizza from a local eatery with the sun and cool breezes on my face. Why did I move to Phoenix again?

This photo by TravelBugPhoto called THE CALIFORNIA DREAM takes me right back to that spot. This photo makes people who live back East in the snow jealous in a second flat. For only $40 for a 16” x 20” photo, this makes a great deal for any house warming gift. Check out more items at www.travelbugphoto.etsy.com

The moral of story is you always think back to the place you grew up. You never know how much you will miss it until you leave. I heart you So Cal!

March Music Madness

2009-04-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

For those music lovers of the 60’s through the 2000’s, you may have not heard of the March Music Madness on 94.9 FM in San Diego (I listen on the internet here in Phoenix.) They are doing a battle of the bands by 60/70’s, 80’s, 90’s & 2000’s. Each band goes through rounds of songs played live on the radio and listeners are allowed to vote for their favorite band. The winner then goes up against another band in their category and so on and so forth.

Currently, the Beatles are up against the Rolling Stones for two hours. How can you choose? I can’t! I love the Beatles and know almost every single song. I even name my dog Abbey Road. But the Rolling Stones remind me of my father and going down to the beach in California and watch surfers.

Check out the brackets for each category at www.fm949sd.com and see how your favorites did. Listen live and catch up on some great music! I have been rocking out at work! It makes the day so much better!!

60/70’s – Beatles vs Rolling Stones (pending outcome)
80’s – The Cure vs U2 (winner)
90’s - Nirvana vs Pearl Jam (pending outcome)
00’s – Radiohead vs The White Stripes (pending outcome)

Great New Products just in Time for April Fools!

2009-04-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

April Fool’s Day is full of practical jokes and hoaxes. Some funny, some lame. However, each year ThinkGeek.com does not fail to pull some great (joke) product ideas.

My top favorite for all you Sci-Fi geeks. The Tauntaun Sleeping Bag. For just $39.99 your little Jedi in training can keep warm in this creature complete with saddle, intestines and light saber zipper pull.

Teach your kids how to use the light saber just like Han Solo did to save Luke’s life by slicing open the Tauntaun to snuggle up inside. Check out ThinkGeek.com for more info!

Now who loves the 70’s? Saturday Night Fever, polyester, disco balls. Good times! Now its time to give the Pet Rock a second chance, only lets step it up to 2009. ThinkGeek added a USB cord to plug into to your computer!

It’s super low maintenance and uses absolutely no electricity! And all this could be yours for $7.99. Check out ThinkGeek.com for more info!

Hmmm. The wonderful smell of bacon in the morning sure brightens me up. But I don’t like to cook it every time I want a couple slices for my burger. Now, get your own bottle of Squeez Bacon! Direct from Sweden, it is 100% cooked bacon that requires no refrigeration!

Each bottle has 16 servings which equals 64 slices of good old bacon yummyness! Check out ThinkGeek.com for more info!

Remember, try to laugh today and watch out for those funny pranksters!

Be sure to Destroy the Brain...

2009-03-18T15:26:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite movies is the 2004 British comedy Shaun of the Dead. For some reason that movie cracks me up and I can watch it a hundred times!

It is about an appliance salesmen Shaun who leads an uneventful life that suddenly goes crazy when an apocalypse of zombies starts destroying everyone and everything around him.

If you have not seen the movie, rent it from your local video store; grab some friends and a few of these zombie theme finds!

Since this movie does include zombies, you will want something to cuddle up to in the scary parts. Why not cuddle up to Cipolla’s Zombies Need Love Too Pillow?

Made of an all cotton twill it comes with a removable pillow with a zombie and a freshly pulled heart. Too fun! Check out mroe of Cipolla’s items at http://www.cipolla.etsy.com/

Now if you get bitten by a zombie while watching this movie, you gotta look the part with Sacredflesh’s I love Zombie Bracelet.

This cute 8” adjustable bracelet is covered with severed fingers, brains, hands and more. Check out more fleshy type things made by Amy at http://www.sacredflesh.etsy.com/

And of course, don’t forget about your little zombies uh I mean your little sweet baby with Teedious’s When I grow up I want to be a Zombie organic baby onesie.

It comes in White, Baby Blue, Soft Pink, Lavender, Green Apple, Berry, Sky Blue, Orange and Yellow for 3 month up to 18 month. Check out Teedious’s fun items at http://www.teedious.etsy.com/

Now remember, Zombies are out there - be careful and "Don't forget to kill Phillip."

St. Patrick's Day Lucky Finds!

2009-03-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

Today is St. Patrick’s Day! A day full of cheer, drinking, spending time with friends and wearing green! Why not celebrate with some St. Patrick’s Day themed items!

Of course you all want to start the night at your favorite pub with a tall glass of Guinness, but what about bathing with Guinness before you head out?

At $5.00 a bar, you can lather yourself with DennisAnderson’s Beer Soap Bar! Just be sure not to eat it while you shower! Check out more items at DennisAnderson’s shop at www.dennisanderson.etsy.com

Bring yourself some luck with a four leaf clover right around your neck!

ChinaCherie’s Celtic Shamrock Four Leaf Clover brass necklace looks like something passed down from your great grandmother. Simply beautiful. Check out more jewelry at www.chinacherie.etsy.com

And don’t forget about those beautiful Irish locks!

Dress up your hair with this adorable silk Chartreuse Green flower clip from ManDizzle who offers free worldwide shipping. How lucky is that?! Check out more items at Mandizzle’s shop at www. Mandizzle.etsy.com

And for those to have had a bit too much to drink today, try Turtle Mommy’s “Ouchie Pouchie” tomorrow morning....

A cute little cotton 5”x 5”shamrock pattern bag that can be put in the microwave or freezer to soothe your hangover. It is reusable and eco friendly! What a plus! Check out more at http://www.turtlemommy.etsy.com/

Remember to celebrate safe drinking today and don't drink & drive! Call a DD or taxi.

Elvis is in the Building!

2009-03-12T11:04:00.000-07:00

I never was really into Elvis, but suddenly Elvis is huge!

I was asked to create an Elvis mug for an old co-worker and posted it for her to purchase on Etsy. After that I got several orders for this famous face! In the past three weeks I have created three Elvis mugs with a forth one on the way.

The king may be dead - or so they say, but he is alive and well in art!

If you want a piece of Elvis for yourself. Check out my Etsy site below and click on Request a Custom Item.

http://www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com/

March Madness Moving Sale

2009-03-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

I am moving this April so I want to get as many of my items to go to a new home as well. Buy ANY three pottery items and get the four item FREE (of equal or lesser value.) Buyer will get refund of the fourth item via PayPal within 24 hours of payment. Great for upcoming gifts for 2009.

Don’t wait – sale runs through the end of March 2009!

http://www.thepaintinglibra.etsy.com/