Creative Characters

Playing with Inktense

2012-01-31T21:33:00.002-05:00

So I'm always trying out different mediums and when I seen Inktense watersoluble pencils at my local Dick Blicks, well, I just HAD to have them. The pencils look rich and deep in color, but after they are blended with a wet paint brush, they are vibrant and pure. This is an ATC on wood-I'll have it in my etsy when I get a chance to list it. Very busy at the moment. Will share more art soon. xox

Happy Holidays Everyone!!!

2011-12-21T22:15:00.002-05:00

Snow

2011-11-24T04:46:00.002-05:00

I miss the snow. I've lived in Atlanta now for nearly 7 years and it's snowed a few times here, but nothing like it did when I was back home in Michigan 3 years ago. This photo was taken the day after my kids and I arrived and as you can see, they had an absolute blast playing in it. Marcus, Isabella, and my sis-Bianca♥♥♥...

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T00:26:00.003-04:00

TriCk or TreAt

We chose the TreatS-I had so much fun making these cupcakes with the kids, I think I may have enjoyed it more than them... Next up will be another Halloween goodie---Caramel apples. After the kids get in from school, we'll start on'em. The caramel is made from scratch and after the apples are dipped, they're covered in pecans and drizzled with chocolate. Sounds yummy, eh? BOO!!!

Daybreak

2011-10-29T10:09:00.001-04:00

Magical!!!

Dining

2011-10-28T00:04:00.005-04:00

Hey! Just wanted to share a photo of my dining room. I have a lot more to do yet, but I think it looks quite nice considering all I did was paint the walls, the chandelier, and reupholster the chairs. Not bad for around $135.00 and less than 5 hours of work (walls were painted with two coats-2 1/4 hours, metallic circles-1 hour, chairs-1 hour, chandelier 30 minutes)... Wait until I show you the painting I'm working on for this space. It's wild and whimsical-I Love it! I'm using Derwent INKTENSE Pencils as well as pastels and acrylics, can't wait to finish. Soooo busy right now-MUST make time:) Enjoy! xox

SIMPLE Before and Afters

2011-10-12T21:45:00.006-04:00

This photo shows what I started out with-the tile on the left is a 2"x 2" ceramic tile. All I did was apply a simple faux-finish followed by a layer of resin to create the tile you see on the right. Love the depth and dimension! I'm currently working on my dining room and snapped a before photo of one of the chairs. I purchased 4 yards of a contemporary fabric and reupholstered all six for under $65.00-Bargain!

These dated can lights were in my sunroom over my cooking top. I didn't want to replace them because the size and scale is perfect, what I didn't like was the antique brass finish. Sooooo-I gave them a weathered look by applying sand and a few other mediums and ended up with some pretty awesome rusted lights---which look great next to the exposed brick. Too fab!

Talk about design on a dime-it doesn't get any more cost effective than this. Client wanted a granite countertop, but the granite was on back order for 3 months. Temporary solution-paint the existing counters and seal with resin. My client got so many compliments on the treatment, he decided to forgo the granite for awhile.

The pics are of the fireplace in the master bedroom of the Design Is show house. I wanted to keep the integrity of the Victorian fireplace, but wanted to give it a more "today" look. I did so by applying silver metallic paint and glass gems to the facade. Totally inexpensive and totally beautiful. Enjoy!

Mermaid ATC Swap

2011-10-06T22:23:00.005-04:00

Made these mini paintings (2.5" x 3.5") for an ATC swap on Doll Dreams. Great fun!

AFIC

2011-09-26T00:13:00.004-04:00

Jody

Benda

Connie

Janet

Anne Taking a moment to share some photos of the beautiful creations made by some of my students. There is nothing more rewarding than sharing and teaching others what I know---I am so grateful and blessed to be able to do what I do. Thanks everyone, for being a part of my life. Enjoy the photos!

Autumn

2011-09-12T10:01:00.004-04:00

Small painting on wood. Watercolor and ink~listed on etsy.

MerMie

2011-09-12T09:58:00.003-04:00

Just listed on etsy. Acrylic on stretched canvas.

Coming Soon!

2011-09-02T00:47:00.005-04:00

It's been so long since I've posted, no, I have not fallen off the face of the earth, just very busy with the kids back at school, interior designing jobs, commissions, and home renos. I did manage to squeeze in a few paintings and this is the first I'll be offering in my etsy. It is titled: Twisted Virtures. Mixed-media on stretched canvas: arcylic, pencils, pastels, inks, plaster, you name it's in it~16" x 20". Available on Saturday Sept. 3.

Enjoy!!! xoxo

Sketch

2011-07-17T10:38:00.003-04:00

I came across this sketch while organizing my studio today. The inspiration came from 3 different photos of models from Vogue. I liked the hair on one, the eyes on another, and the nose & lips of the last one. All of the ladies were gorgeous and I could have sketched each as they appeared, but something about mixing them up appealed more to me and I love the way she turned out. Hey, variety is the spice of life, right? :) I'm going to be doing more realistic work such as this, but with a different spin on it. I'll share more later... xox

Tea anyone?

2011-07-05T13:01:00.003-04:00

Isabella and I enjoyed an afternoon tea with her fairy friends and teddy. I think I had more fun than she did... xox

Mini collage painting

2011-06-21T19:16:00.005-04:00

OK, so I've been playing with watercolors and loving it. Soft pale colours---YUM! I just listed this mini painting on etsy-stop by and take a look.

Hope everyone is having a Terrific Summer!!!
xoxox~Nat

Sketch

2011-06-02T14:07:00.005-04:00

I have not had much time, as of late, to work on anything new---kids just finished with school and I've been sick with allergies-Yuck! I joined an online class and am having fun doing some simple sketches. Hopefully, I'll feel well enough to bust out the paints soon. For now, I'll just enjoy drawing. ♥

Sea Siren on etsy

2011-05-18T16:02:00.003-04:00

7" hanging Mermaid I just listed on etsy...

My Favorite Doll from AFIC

2011-05-08T00:43:00.003-04:00

OK, so several people asked me what was my absolute favorite doll at AFIC last weekend and for me it was hands down Lillian Alberti's "Solange". So whimsical and fun and reminiscent of Van Craig's work. I told people I wanted to Lick this doll that's how much I loved her:) Alright, I know it sounds like I got carried away, but I swear this photo does not do her justice. And as for Lillian, well she's a doll herself. Too sweet for words really---must visit her while in New York.

Cheers!!! ♥

How is it done?

2011-05-06T16:38:00.003-04:00

So how does one get from this to that? It's a long process-just ask any of my students who joined me last weekend at AFIC. This is the piece I started there and the first photo is exactly how it looked when I got home. Too busy working with my students to work on my demo doll. But, wait until I share pics of their creations. Fantastic!!! More posts to come-SOON... Still catching my breath from all the excitement. ♥

Blush it is!!!

2011-04-27T23:29:00.006-04:00

THanks for all the comments. I decided on making my little moth fairy, with blush hair. So what was the deciding factor? My brother's comment---he said the black hair made her look like Edward Scissorhands. Thanks Brian:)

Hope you all like her.

I'll be out of pocket until next week. Headed for AFIC tomorrow morning.

I can't wait-should be a Blast!!!

♥~Nat

xoxox

BookmarkS

2011-04-26T22:58:00.005-04:00

More goodies for AFIC. These pieces were created from my original sketch which was reproduced on 100% organic sateen cotton. Each were handpainted with dyes, watercolors, inks, acrylics, pastels and sealant. I added some steampunk inspired gadgets for a bit of whimsy. I love how they turned out. Almost too hard to part with. xoxox

AdoraBelle

2011-04-25T13:02:00.002-04:00

Design for aprons

2011-04-23T11:32:00.003-04:00

Amongst several items for sale at AFIC, I'll have this design on aprons. Fun and whimsical and PINK!

♥

Med-HEad pins

2011-04-17T09:15:00.003-04:00

Pins for AFIC

OK, You decide-Black or Blush?

2011-04-13T08:39:00.004-04:00

I am BUSY-Very Busy preparing for AFIC. I have all but one doll to finish for my display at the conference, and I'm having a hard time deciding on a hair color for her. She is a fairy/moth type doll which will be suspended in a cocoon, (based on my Aldora doll design). If you would leave a quick message as to which color looks best to you, I would appreciate it:) Since I am pressed for time, I need your response by the end of the day (today). Many thanks! xoxox

Drawer PullS

2011-03-30T16:19:00.003-04:00

I've been busy preparing for AFIC and making all sorts of goodies. I finished painting these drawer pulls over the weekend, just waiting for it to warm up here in Atlanta so I can give them a few coats of high-gloss polyurethane. So, I'm curious---do you have a favorite? I do:)

xoxox~Nat

and the WinnerS ARE:

2011-03-21T19:23:00.003-04:00

Hey All!
Well, I had planned on coming to you live, but I could not find my memory card for my camera---sooooooo, I ended up using an online random number generator (http://www.random.org/) for the 2 lucky winners. Their names are: LANIE (91) and KATTY G. (26)
Congratulations Ladies!!!
I will be contacting you shortly. If you read this first, send me an email: NWredsnapper@yahoo.com

For the rest of you, I'm sorry your name wasn't selected this time. I will host another drawing when I reach 150 followers, so you're still in the running. Best of Luck next time.

♥~Nat

100 FOLLOWERS!!!

2011-03-16T15:36:00.002-04:00

Hey Everyone!
I have reached 100 followers-Yay!!! Well, it actually reads 101, but I'm considered a follower too, (though I don't know how or why)...
I will be announcing 2 names this time round, will do it live (recorded video) and will post it by next Monday.
Many thanks to those who signed in to follow and best of luck to each of you.
Be watching:)
♥~Nat
xoxox

Fabric Bookmark for AFIC

2011-02-24T10:56:00.004-05:00

Hope you all like her. Warm color palette: Plum, pumpkin, copper, gold, and a pinch of hot pink. Enjoy! xoxox

WIP

2011-02-22T00:42:00.002-05:00

This is the early stages of a bookmark I designed for AFIC, she is finally completed. This pattern will be included in a complimentary booklet for each student attending the conference. I have more photos to take of this piece, just waiting for a nice sunny day so I can go outside and capture all the details. I'll be putting her up in my etsy very soon. Stay tuned... xoxox

Wait a Minute Mr. Postman!

2011-02-19T18:03:00.007-05:00

Another postcard swap on Doll Street Dreamers. A collage of various fabrics, fine silks, handpainted batiks, and Angelina film---all FME and full of color... Hope my swapping partners like them. xoxox

The END of a long-running class

2011-02-16T08:55:00.003-05:00

My Spring Marotte class on Doll Street Dreamers, is coming to a close after having a running time of 4 years. Whew, who would of thought this little head on a stick would have been so popular??? When I designed her, I wanted to try something totally new and different than anything I had done before. I love needle-sculpted faces, but hate the center seamline. Now I read a couple of how-to articles explaining the process of a "cloth overlay", but I like working with different fabrics than those tried before and knew the only way to go about it was through some trial and error. Luckily, there was no error involved as I soon learned the fabrics I favored were easier to manipulate than those I read about. I work with a stretch cotton for sculpting and a stretch sateen for the overlay---the results, well---obviously pretty good considering the great many number of students I had sign up. I am very thankful to each and every one who joined me on Doll Street. The marottes created by the students, far exceeded my expectations and some really blew me away. There's nothing more rewarding than to teach and share new things with people. If you're interested in joining me for my Spring Marotte class, you can do so from now until the 15th of March. Thanks everyone! ♥♥♥

Shashi's Pin Doll~winner of my first blog giveaway!

2011-02-04T09:16:00.003-05:00

Pin doll made for blog giveaway. Shashi Nayagam's name was chosen from my first 50 followers. Are you a follower yet? If not, join today for your chance to win a one-of-a-kind piece of art. My next drawing will be held when I reach 100 followers:)

Blessings,

~Natalie

Yet another

2011-02-01T01:21:00.002-05:00

Available on etsy...

FaERy GoBliN PriNceSS

2011-01-30T19:51:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

I just finished this piece and am so excited to be offering it on etsy.

Thanks for stopping by...

~Nat

xoxox

Where does inspiration come from?

2011-01-21T08:33:00.012-05:00

Awhile back, I was involved in a (fabric) bookmark swap. The theme was Art Deco meets Art Nouveau. I thought of all the wonderful artists whose work I could use as reference, such as: Tamara De Lempicka, Gustav Klimt, Leon Bakst and of course, Alphonse Mucha. I appreciate the style and work of each of these artists and I wanted to mesh them altogether and spit out, (well not literally, more like create) a piece of my own. Well, things don't always happen Exactly as planned, and this case is no exception. You see, I get inspired and prefer things that are 'odd, strange, weird' over those which are considered beautiful. So, when I actually set down to begin working on this bookmark I incorporated yet another artist's work I love: Tim Burton. His "Red Queen" from Alice in Wonderland, was added to the "mix" and THIS, is what I "spit out".

I'll be posting photos of another bookmark I'm currently working on---stay tuned:)

Blessings,

~Nat

xoxox

"LivinG on the eDge" Art for Show House

2011-01-20T16:53:00.007-05:00

This is a mixed-media piece I created for the living room of the Design Is Show House. I had a blank wall I needed to address and didn't want to spend a lot of money on a huge canvas so instead, I opted to use a hollow core door. Not too bad for under $30.00 from the local home improvement store. That backdrop is the beautiful Atlanta skyline...Mediums/media used: plaster, gel medium, metallic acrylic paints, pastels, watercolor, colored pencils, pigma ink, decorative papers, decoupage, glaze, and sealant. Once the weather warms up, I'm adding a layer of polyresin which will make it look like glass. Too CooL! FYI-this piece is for sale, send inquiries to: NWredsnapper@yahoo.com

Blessings,

~Nat

xoxox

etsy

2010-12-17T10:07:00.005-05:00

Cool Abstract Art from D.I. SHow House. Listed on etsy

Master Bedroom Design Is Show House

2010-12-11T08:31:00.003-05:00

Here's a couple of photos of the master bedroom I did. Lots of hard work, but well worth it:) Most everything you see here has been repurposed. A fresh coat of off-white paint unifies the various furniture pieces, as does Krylon's Chrome spray paint. Super easy to do and super inexpensive!

Oh my, I'm blushing:)

2010-12-01T23:18:00.003-05:00

Cyndy Sieving just did a Wonderful blog post about me. Geez, the lady is too much. I can't wait to actually meet her in person. To read my "Teacher Feature" click HERE to connect with the AFIC blog.
xoxoxoxox

Busy!

2010-11-28T09:33:00.003-05:00

I haven't had time to post, working away on a big project. I will share photos soon, but will give you all a sneak peek of what it is. Hope everyone had a Fantastic Thanksgiving:) ♥~Nat

and the Winner is----------------------------------

2010-11-10T15:14:00.008-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Part 1

and the Winner is--------- part 2

Happy Creating!!!

Good Morning!

2010-11-08T08:57:00.008-05:00

Hey Everyone!

I haven't posted, I've been busy with a few things---hosted a Halloween Party, had my sister, Bianca in town, and then came down with the flu. I've had it for 5 days now, each day gets better than the last, thank goodness. I seldom ever get sick, but it was going around at my children's school and my daughter had it, so I knew between my son, hubby, and I, one, if not all, were bound to get it as well.

Anyway, I wanted to update everyone who is following me. All of the names of the first 50 followers are ready for me to draw one person's name from. I will make the announcement on Wednesday, so stay tuned. The winner's name will be posted here on my blog, and I will personally contact the winner. Best of Luck to All!

Lastly, I thought I'd share a photo, or two... This morning, after days of feeling sick, I managed to drink a cup of coffee, and while doing so, I took in the beautiful view from my sunroom. It is fall here in Atlanta and unlike my home state of Michigan, where the month of October promises the beautiful myriad of colors, here things change in a blink of an eye---or so it seems. Trees go from green to barren and it pales in comparison to the beauty of what the northern states have to offer during the fall. Ooooh, but this morning was unique. The sunrise was gorgeous and the water calm---and a tree not far from me, caught my eye. It's beautiful red and gold leaves sparkled in the sun and the reflection of the water made it all that More... Quickly--- I reached for my camera and snapped a few photos, to embrace it, to remember it, and to share it; With You:)
♥~Nat

Postcards!

2010-10-27T11:45:00.002-04:00

Sending these out to my swap partners. Fun mix of fabrics---two of which I designed:)

Enjoy...♥

She’s BACK!!!

2010-10-26T22:49:00.004-04:00

Ostrich ShowGirL

Now available at Doll Street---Click photos for more information...

2010-10-26T22:04:00.004-04:00

A pretty little pink pin. She's up on etsy.
Thanks again for following my blog...
♥~Nat

50 Followers!!!

2010-10-26T07:51:00.002-04:00

Good Morning!!!
Well, I have reached 50 people-Yay!!! I know it reads 51, but I counted and it's 50---makes me wonder if I'm following myself???
Anyway, I will announce the winner's name within a week, as I want to do something special;)
So stay tuned for updates.
Until then, Happy Haunting!!!
Thanks Y'all...
~Nat xoxoxox

Face Pin

2010-10-23T23:52:00.004-04:00

Took a bit of a break today and worked on postcards for a swap and some face pins. I listed this one on etsy a little while ago and should have another available soon.
Blessings~Nat

Bold & Graphic

2010-10-15T18:16:00.002-04:00

Cartoonish, yes, but really fun!
She's on etsy...

♥~Nat

ATC's

2010-10-12T01:23:00.003-04:00

Made these ATC's for a swap...

New Prints on etsy

2010-09-28T18:21:00.008-04:00

Forgive me for not updating my blog. To say I've been super busy is an understatement. Anyway, I wanted to pop in and announce that I have some new releases in my etsy store. Some are prints of my mixed-media paintings, others of my dolls. Do take a moment and stop by to see if something interests you. All the prints are available in different sizes-just let me know if you have a specific size in mind.

That's it for now.

Hope everyone is enjoying these nice "fall" days. I am. It's nice and cool here in Atlanta. FINALLY:)

♥~Nat

New print on etsy

2010-09-14T23:29:00.002-04:00

I've added another print on etsy. This one is titled: CreepY GirL

It is a reproduction of a mixed-media painting I created and then enhanced with digital overlays (words, verses, scroll work). Interested? Check it out HERE...

That's if for now---♥

Painting turned art doll

2010-09-14T01:48:00.003-04:00

Art doll created from a fabric transfer of an original painting I made a few months ago. This was a commissioned piece. I'm thinking I should make more. So cute:)

Blessings~Nat

In-progess

2010-09-09T11:41:00.002-04:00

Well here's another doll face I designed for Adora Belle, the class I'm teaching at AFIC. There are 3 different shaped heads being offered for this doll and for this last one, I decided to paint it in various tones of yellow-a color I seldom ever use. Stay tuned as I will post photos of my progress.

Thanks for popping in!!!

Blessings~Nat

"Your Majesty"

2010-09-06T09:38:00.004-04:00

Keeping busy. It's large 16" X 20"---on canvas. Enjoy:)

AliZ enhanced

2010-09-05T02:48:00.007-04:00

This is a piece I had finished about 2 months ago. Or I should say, I THOUGHT I finished 2 months ago. I put it up in my etsy and kept taking it off, as something just didn't click for me. Today I decided to break out some more goodies and have had it. I will be re-listing her on etsy, sometime tomorrow. THIS is how she looked before.

Much better now-at least I think so. There I go thinking again-LOL!!!

Anyway, as always---Thanks for checking in...

♥~Nat

Artist Figures in Cloth

2010-09-01T00:02:00.004-04:00

Ok, well are you ready for the BIG NEWS? I am teaching at AFIC (Artistic Figures in Cloth) from April 29th thru May 1st and I am just Ecstatic!!!

This conference only happens every other year and is jammed pack full of fun and exciting things. Cyndy Sieving is the creator and hostess of this marvelous event and she has definitely outdone herself this time. Geez, I don't want to go on and on, let me give you the link so you can read all about it... LINK for AFIC

PLEASE note, classes are limited and are available on a first come, first serve basis. Those who live outside the USA, will have an equal opportunity to request classes, as postmarks will help Cyndy decipher the order in which they are mailed.Thanks a lot for stopping by and reading about what I'm up to. I appreciate each and every person who takes a moment to listen to my rambling.

Until next time---PEACE!!!

♥~Nat

EnlightenMenT

2010-08-30T23:14:00.005-04:00

Yes, I know you probably thought I dropped off the face of the earth, after all it's been ages since I've posted. I managed to squeeze in a 3 week vacation in July, just up to Michigan to visit family and friends. It was wonderful to get away, it's VERY hot here in Atlanta during the summer and July is almost unbearable. Anyway, after having my puter in the repair a total of 3 TIMES, yes 3, in the past 1 1/2 months, I'm finally up and running 100%. At least that's what the tech told me. I'm grateful it didn't cost an arm and a leg, as my computer is fairly new and most was still covered under warranty.
Ok, so back to realty. I listed a piece on etsy a few short minutes ago. It's an original work on board-totally cool and kind of eerie, as the face is very realistic looking and she has a hypnotic gaze. Check it out and tell me what you think. LINK to etsy
Until next time---which will be soon people---I have some AWESOME NEWS to share with YOU!

Hang tight for now and make sure to stop by and visit me within a day or two!!!
♥~Nat

CandyGirL Box on etsy

2010-07-07T12:41:00.002-04:00

2 more FaBriC FaCe piNs on etsy

2010-07-03T17:31:00.002-04:00

I managed to finish two pins today. Check them out: etsy

Face pin on etsy

2010-07-02T23:11:00.002-04:00

Just added another face pin. I have 2 more I'm working on and will have those for sale shortly. Enjoy!

Pillow

2010-07-02T14:09:00.002-04:00

Here is another collaged pillow. Enjoy!

etsy

2010-07-02T00:58:00.003-04:00

Wearable pin on etsy

2010-07-01T03:10:00.003-04:00

Collaged doll on etsy

2010-06-29T13:56:00.003-04:00

Maleficent is an art doll made from my "overwhelming supply" of scrumptious threads, fibers, ribbons, fabrics, beads, and such. She's listed in my etsy. Enjoy:)

Prints now available on etsy

2010-06-29T01:01:00.003-04:00

I'm so happy to announce I have prints available in my etsy shop. Each one is dated and signed and sure to add a touch of whimsy to any space. Thanks so much for the encouragement and support. I LOVE doing what I do.

Blessings♥

Finish Another Collage!

2010-06-24T10:45:00.004-04:00

Painting on etsy

2010-06-23T13:53:00.002-04:00

I will be offering this painting on etsy, Tuesday June 29th. If you would like to inquire about this work, please contact me: alwaysimaginedaydreamer@yahoo.com

Collage

2010-06-20T18:18:00.004-04:00

This work was done in a small journal for a round robin I participated in. The face is an original sketch I drew on notebook paper. Decorative papers, rubber stamps, and paints---beeswax:)

"Play"

2010-06-19T07:53:00.006-04:00

Here's my latest work, "Play". Once again, I found myself working with a color palette I'm not all too comfortable with. Pale tomato red, country blue, and honeycomb yellow were not my first choice(s), but when sorting my collage sheets and checking them against my sketch, this little gal demanded she be surrounded in those colors. Enjoy:)

In FuLL BLooM is SoLd!

2010-06-08T14:25:00.004-04:00

I wanted to post that this piece is Sold! I had numerous emails because I just relisted it 2 days ago and people were asking why she looked different. I did alter her some, added dribbles, eyelashes, and enhanced her features more. CLICK to see the before

THanks to those who inquired. Perhaps, I'll offer another flat wall-hanging soon... ♥

"Winkle" on etsy

2010-06-08T00:03:00.002-04:00

Just listed this doll on etsy. Her name is "Winkle" as in Peri-Winkle... I ♥ her:)

CreepyGirL

2010-06-04T11:07:00.002-04:00

Collage on board...

FunKy FaCe PilloW on etsy

2010-06-04T00:14:00.006-04:00

Ok, so this is the result of me putting my handmade scraps to good use. It's wild and crazy, but so am I, so what the heck... Check it out on etsy ♥

~BLooM~

2010-05-28T11:04:00.005-04:00

Spring is in the air here in beautiful Atlanta and what better way to embrace it than to make art incorporating all things "spring"...

Yes, do "bloom where you are planted"

Blessings~Nat

MerMaid collage on wood box

2010-05-21T15:51:00.003-04:00

Finished this piece earlier today. I was inspired by the seahorse---when I seen him, I had to have him:)

Fabric Overlay

2010-05-20T16:31:00.003-04:00

So here's my latest collage. I kept the face pretty simple because I wanted the emphasis more so on the fabric. The pieces I used were FREE samples from my local fabric store. All I did was take my handy-dandy soldering iron and burn a few holes here and there and finish the edges. Enjoy:)

Lola on etsy

2010-05-18T11:08:00.004-04:00

Lola on etsy

Another Goddess

2010-05-11T18:35:00.002-04:00

Finished collage

2010-05-10T13:57:00.003-04:00

I worked on this piece over the weekend. It was a challenge for me NOT to incorporate pink or purple into the palette. I'm pleased with this more SUBTLE THAN USUAL color scheme:)

New doll for etsy

2010-05-07T00:25:00.003-04:00

Ok, I won't say when I first started this doll, but I'm nearly finished and will have her up on my etsy site soon. She's small, only 6" tall.

Enjoy!

Working on Alice

2010-05-01T11:27:00.004-04:00

This is a painting I started about a month ago, still haven't finished---yes, I'm bad. I played around with it last night using http://www.picnik.com/ ---I overlayed some words and shapes and really like it thus far. Much more to go, but thought I'd share what I've been up to:) ♥~Nat

On Spoonflower

2010-03-19T10:28:00.002-04:00

This is my entry for the Art Nouveau contest on Spoonflower.

Student Photos

2010-02-21T20:41:00.004-05:00

Received these photos from dollmaker Tracey Raines and could not believe my eyes. Is this doll not amazing or what??? I LOVE HER and couldn't be more proud. Thank-you Tracey for doing such a Great Job:) Tracey also was a student for my Nissa online class and hopefully she'll have photos of her too to share. Enjoy!

Fabric Contest on Spoonflower

2010-01-10T02:40:00.012-05:00

Though I haven't had enough time to make a doll lately, I do manage to squeeze in some sketching and collage work. Hopefully soon, I'll be able to get back to sewing and when I do I'll be incorporating new media into my doll making.

At the moment I am currently involved in an online fabric contest at Spoonflower. If you haven't heard of Spoonflower yet, well then, you simply do not know what you're missing. This is my design for the Toile challenge. It's a bit different for me, but I find as an artist I am ever growing and evolving. Hope you like it:)

Drawer Pulls

2009-12-14T16:17:00.003-05:00

Just listed these fun drawer pulls in my etsy shop.

From SuZi Blu's Class

2009-12-07T21:48:00.003-05:00

This is "FREE".

I made this piece from Suzi Blu's Les Petit Beginners Class. So much fun. Enjoy!

In FuLL BLooM

2009-07-21T20:13:00.003-04:00

I just re-listed this piece on etsy June 6, 2010. I decided to alter the sun, enhance the face with richer color, and add handmade eyelashes for even more dimension. I Love her!!! Hopefully, she'll sell this time round:) Below is how she looked. Much better now.

Just Listed this piece on Etsy!!!

Dotee Dolls

2009-05-18T23:18:00.003-04:00

I've been quite busy with a new project so haven't had time to post these little Dotee Dolls until now. They are for a swap on Doll Street hosted by the lovely, Judi Wellnitz. I can't wait to see what I receive back...

Pattern Testing...

2009-04-21T18:29:00.019-04:00

A couple of months ago, Doll Designer, Colleen Babcock had posted a doll titled: Treasures of the Deep. I, like several followers of her blog, immediately fell in love with the doll. After I sent her a private email, she asked whether I would be willing to test the pattern for her before it's release. No need to ask me twice, I jumped at the opportunity and, if I may add, so glad I did. This design is FANTASTIC and USEFUL. TOTD is not only a doll, but she also serves a purpose---displaying jewelry. How cool is that??? I cannot say enough good things about Colleen's work, it really speaks for itself.
I truly loved making this doll and found one process a bit of a challenge for me. The face, because it was done using only pencils, not paint, which is my forte. But guess what---I really like the look. I'm not sure if I would have felt as confident working with flesh toned fabric instead of the pale orchid color I chose, but Colleen's instruction is so thorough, I'm sure I would have done just fine.
Do keep an eye out for the release of this beauty---she's a real treat.
Thanks Colleen!!!

The Rainbow Quiz

2009-03-20T01:05:00.002-04:00

Your rainbow is strongly shaded brown and black.

What it says about you: You are a powerful person. You appreciate the roughness of nature. You may meet people who are afraid of you. You feel closer to people when you understand their imperfections.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

Round robin FINISHED!

2009-02-19T21:16:00.005-05:00

Finally finished this piece up for a round robin I'm involved in. This is a beautiful silk tunic, which was dyed, stamped, beaded, and painted---then it came my way and I created the (silk) moon with paints, inks, and salt. Too fun!!!

Resplendishant~ Fairy created for Patti Culea's latest book, Creative Cloth Explorations

2009-01-30T13:10:00.032-05:00

Embroidery floss, Sulky threads, silk waste, and organza were sewn onto water-soluble stabilizer sprinkled with Bo-Nash, for Resplendishant’s whimsical hair.

Resplendishant is transferred to Egyptian cotton---trying out hair piece.

Resplendishant is painted with acrylics and Jacquard textile paints.

Jacquard Lumiere paints are used on the bodice and slippers. Background is painted in a horizontal pattern using acrylic paint(s), and textile medium thinned with water.

Background is further enhanced with watercolor pencils and Lumiere paint.

Soft, subtle clouds created with lace fabric, which served as a stencil, and white acrylic paint.

Sparkle and shimmer added to clouds with a Shiva paint stick. Stars were randomly stamped with a rubber stamp and Silver metallic paint.

Fairy dust was added to hair by applying textile medium and a generous sprinkling of glitter.

Enhancing features with watercolor and colored pencils.

Zig pen and pastel pencils.

Enhancements finished

Hair sewn in place. Ear pierced.

Wings made from Angelina film, stitched in place, and detailed with a soldering iron (holes) and gold Lumiere paint. Bodice detailed with stitching.

Skirt---Dupioni silk stitched in place with free-motion embroidery

Overskirt---metal organza, burned, painted, stuffed with Angelina fibers. Waistband---ribbon, hand painted trim, wire, beads, glass vial with fairy dust, silk cocoons overflowing with glass baubles, and a stunning lampwork bead by artist, Debbie Sanders. Slippers---hand-dyed ribbon, glitter, and glass beads.

Staff---wire covered with painted Tyvek, embossing powders, glitter, melted with a heat gun and capped off with a Swarovski bead.
Swarovski rhinestones randomly adhered to background. Hanger---ribbons, charms, wired beads, and more silk cocoons. Edges bound with threads and highlighted with Lumiere paints.

Resplendishant taking flight…

Published in Patti Medaris Culea's, Creative Cloth Explorations~adventures in fairy-inspired fiber art~

Christmas Presents

2009-01-30T11:07:00.005-05:00

Here are a few items I made for X-Mas presents.

One pet rock (river rock and acrylics), and two fabric and fiber face pins.

It's been awhile---

2009-01-25T18:00:00.006-05:00

Oh my, it's been so long since I've posted. I hope everyone had a Wonderful Holiday Season. I sure did. I visited my Mom and Step-Father up in Michigan and had The BEST Christmas since my move, 4 years ago.

Over the next few days I'm going to try to put up some images of what I worked on prior to my visit. Also, I will be uploading some photos which I took while preparing for my submission for Patti Culea's latest book, Creative Cloth Explorations. What a delight to be published in such a Beautiful Book. Enough chatting.

Photos above, are before and after of a set of pillows which were commissioned by a fellow doll maker. I decided to go with a teal hand painted fabric for a background. The girls were painted with my usual process and each piece was finished with beaded eyelash trim. Enjoy!

Making Beads?

2008-12-08T22:09:00.004-05:00

I did some Winter cleaning last week and stubbled upon some supplies I purchased a LONG time ago. I started playing with bits and pieces and paints and powders, etc. and before I knew it, I had made some really cool looking beads. Lots of work as usual, but they are really unique looking.
I have them up on my Etsy shop. Have a Peek!!!

"In the Clouds"---------eBay

2008-11-24T09:23:00.010-05:00

Just listed this Original painting on eBay. LINK

Aldora Face-Up?

2008-11-22T16:17:00.009-05:00

As you may recall, I taught Aldora at MM&M this past April. I must admit, I never was really satisfied with her face and I’m sure my students can recall me telling them I still needed to further enhance the facial features. Well, last night I decided Aldora must undergo a ‘face-up’ so she can venture off into the world. That’s right, Aldora is completed, to my satisfaction (LOL), and is available through my Etsy Store. She’s much more dramatic and exotic looking. I’m very pleased with the final result. Hopefully, her new owner will be too…

Coming Soon on eBay

2008-11-14T02:36:00.010-05:00

~I Love YOU This Much~ AUCTION LINK

It's been a long time since I've made a Prim doll. In fact, it's been a long time since I made a doll period. My sis borrowed my sewing machine for nearly 2 months so I decided to purchase a doll 'blank' from a seller on Etsy. This little gal has been painted, stained with coffee, sanded, enhanced with pencils, pigma, pastels, gel pen, and sealant. I finally was able to clothe the sweetie, thanks to my sis returning my machine. A few finishing touches and she'll be available on eBay. I will add a link to the auction very soon.

My Little Princess

2008-11-09T02:49:00.004-05:00

Here is a photo of My Isabella, "The Princess" on Halloween.

Marcus wore a mask and I took photos of him at night, but they just didn't turn out-(he wore all black with a mask). Boys will be boys. LOL!!!