Works in Progress

Almost completed a few pieces today...the nautical mirror needs one more coat of sealer and it's ready! The darling little rocking chair is ready for sealer. I found a great non-toxic, earth-friendly furniture sealer. I had to buy online because the only place that carries it is near DC and it was easier just to pay shipping than to fight traffic (gas probably would have cost me as much as shipping, too). It's from a company called Vermont Natural Coatings and it's a polywhey furniture finish/sealer. It's great stuff -- virtually no smell, goes on smoothly and dries to a nice sheen. It's a little on the expensive side, but so far, a little seems to go a long way. I'm heading back this weekend if the rain continues...otherwise, I'll be on the sidelines cheering for Kellen's soccer team and working the concession stands at Broadneck...ah, the life of a soccer mom!

Try Something New

Like my new blog background? Let me know! I'm not sure it's exactly me yet, but it's better than plain old white. Speaking of that, did you know the easiest and most inexpensive way to change the look of your home decor is through paint? Don't be afraid to paint your walls with color and lots of it ... it doesn't have to be bright. It can be subtle, but please, unless you're trying to sell your house, get away from all white walls!!! I'm researching an article on color trends for 2010, so stay posted (and friends in Annapolis, be sure to read the March issue of What's Up Annapolis for all the details).

I've wrapped up work on two of my projects and will be posting them soon on my website. (Of course, I'll give you the website address, but I'm not ready just yet.)

On another note, anyone looking for earth-friendly, non-toxic furniture finish...I've found it! (You can't recycle furniture and then use a toxic polyurethane finish...It would defeat the whole purpose! ) But, before I give them a big plug, I need to try it on my furniture first. If it looks great, I'll let you know. Note: Just because it's water-based doesn't mean that it's earth friendly or non-toxic.

Fun Finds!

Ah, the thrill of the hunt...

Driving up to Severna Park in the early hours of Saturday morning, I anticipated a gold mine of treasures waiting for me. A daycare was closing and the thought of all those small tables, chairs and a rocking chair (advertised) had my creative juices up to blender speed. When I got there, however, a big disappointment -- plastic everything and the rocking chair was for a big person and much too nice for me to sand and paint over. I got back in my car, got a cup of joe and decided to make the most of my morning adventures. I saw a sign up ahead -- multi-family yard sale. As I pulled up to the homes, again, I was disappointed. But...but, wait! What was that ahead? Cars stopping and people getting out, some of them carrying items? As I pulled up to the curb, I saw it...a lone round table...just the right size. As it turns out, it wasn't supposed to be for sale, but I ended up getting it, two chairs and two adorable sailboat shaped mirrors!!!

I actually went over my spend limit, but the chances of finding all this in one place are usually slim to none, so I pulled out those dollar bills, packed up my car and went home (well, actually to a soccer game).

I got up this morning...too excited too sleep and sketched about ten different possibilities. I can't wait to paint! I'm thinking, this is how it should be...follow your passion.

New Art Space

Far left: Old space--dark and crowded; Left: new space--bright and cheery!

I've got a new space to create my art! I'm using a little corner of my friend's warehouse. She started a new business, To The Trade, and in exchange for using her space, I accept deliveries and answer the phone while she is out on business. It's awesome and much better than my over-crowded garage (my husband is happy, too). Who knows, maybe we'll get a car in there this winter???

I recommend everyone create a space to work for his or her craft no matter where. I actually use the back of my (very long) closet for card-making and scrapbooking. My sis has a whole room dedicated to jewelry making and it's very cool. If you think about it, many people (except, perhaps, those of you in a studio apartment) have spaces they don't use.

Here are some ideas:

Being creative may mean that you have to turn a closet, laundry room or part of another room into an office. The end of a long hallway or a stairway landing (although you can't close a door) could also be an option. In addition, don't forget that space under the stairs.

If you decide to use part of a room for an office, be sure to set up boundaries, says Kanarek, also the author of Home Office Solutions, (Quarry Books, 2001). She suggests using a folding floor screen or large piece of furniture, such as floor to ceiling bookshelves, to divide the room so you can minimize distractions.

A PAINTING WE WILL GO...

I'm painting at least once a week now and getting stuff ready to debut my website. Yes. I've had the website for quite some time, however, I haven't been able to keep up with inventory. I need enough to sale -- at least five pieces before I send it out to every friend I know!!! I think I'll probably be ready to debut after the holidays. It's too crazy out there right now for anyone to take the time to scroll through my site at a leisurely pace ...which, all of you reading this will definitely want to do! Right?

Now that the cool weather is approaching, I've got to find a new outlet to get my bargains...of course, Crumpton will always be there! Any other ideas for finding furniture?

Crumpton fun

Well, I finally made it to the Crumpton auction...fields and fields of possibilities! Crumpton is a well-known outdoor auction on the Eastern shore of Maryland that is open every Wednesday, rain or shine. You can find some cool stuff and a lot of junk. It's really fun, but takes some getting used to -- you have to be a savvy shopper and bidder. It's the second time I've ever been there and this time I wasn't quite so overwhelmed.

I ended up with a sweet, little vanity that needs A LOT of work. I also bought a cute table, that needs a good cleaning, from my friend Cassie. So, much to do...so little time!!! I have made arrangements to get my stuff out of the garage and into a friend's warehouse. It's a barter deal. I'm there to answer the phone and receive deliveries once a week and I get to store and paint my stuff...it's a win-win.

Discovery and Painting

I'm painting again. Went on a yard sale hunt last weekend with success. Got some new items that I'm dying to re-create! Going to northern Massachusetts next month to visit my first born for Parent's weekend. When he's seen enough of me, I plan to yard sale up there. Last time I was there I bought an incredible wicker side table. However, since I'm flying this time, I have to limit myself to items that will fit in a suitcase...that's going to be tough.