schmancytoys

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2006-07-21T13:18:00.000-07:00

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2006-07-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

break time?

2006-03-24T16:14:00.000-08:00

Guess i have taken a bit of a break on my own blog. I have been on vacation, trying to get ready for taxes and decided to start an Etsy shop. There are only a few things on it right now but if you wanna have a look please go here.

talk to you soon
xoxox

Tonight at Schmancy

2006-03-03T18:00:00.000-08:00

Blair....

2006-03-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

I feel like a jerk. I am totally obsessed with getting my new website up and finished that I have been ignoring my blog stuff. So I got 10 minutes left in my day and want to take this time to thank Blair. I got the most fantastic green and pink themed package in the mail the other day and here is what was in it:

* a beautiful flower pin that went straight away on my shirt...i really like it with black- the colors come out so nicely!
* a super fun "craft mix". I always love a new cd!
* pretty floral green fabric
* a really cute pink pouch with an aligator on it and inside was three embroidery threads in these lovely colors.
* a bag of buttons and a really cute bunny bell. i gasped when i saw it and so did Elena...she works at Fancy and loves to look at all my swaps. i think she was jealous.

I love pink and green combo and I really love my swap. Thanks so much Blair! Can't wait to meet you face to face.

I love checking things off

2006-02-22T11:56:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of jar lids I have at my house. I really love cool old jar lids. The flower ones I found at a thrift store in a whole set. I made some jam for the holidays once and put it in these jars but the lids did not stay on very well which is a bummer but i love them all the same.

Anyways this weekend was very productive. I was not in the mood so much for going out so I accomplished a lot.

I finally finished Blair's swap! Sent on it's way this morning!

Also shipped out this morning was a mini swap for Abby, owls to sell at Paper Boat Boutique and owls and button rings to sell at Glitter Workshop.

Now I will start on gifts to take to Cleveland with me and a few more swaps. I love swappin'! Can't get enough really.

If anyone is looking for a good book to read I just started On Beauty by Zadie Smith. I really like it. I also just finished The Long Goodbye by Raymond Chandler which was also very good. Nothing like a good book to read! I am really looking forward to reading the new book by Paul Auster. I love him. My friend Nelson said it was so good he read it all in one sitting. I trust him so it makes me even more excited. Why can't there be 20 extra hours in a day that could be evenly distributed to all the things you enjoy doing? reading, crafting, knitting, crochet, swap projects, a movie...ahhhh

How and Why

2006-02-13T13:59:00.000-08:00

People come in here all the time and ask me how i got into all this stuff.

I think it was more of a series of events that led me to selling collectibles and loving the toys as much as I do.

Here is Part I..

I went to Europe when I was 19 yrs old with my BF, Lisa. While in Austria, we discovered Kinder Eggs. It was love at first site and bite. We found it to be the perfect amount of chocolate, the perfect toy and perfect amount of joy and satisfaction with opening and eating a Kinder egg. So we started getting one or two a day. Then I left and never laid my eyes on one of those orange and white packaged toys for years. :(

Then I moved to Seattle and found several places that sold them. Oh it was love at first site again. I was so excited that I would always buy them by the twos. Some of them found other places to live but here is my collection as of today. I still love them and can't imagine getting rid of any of them. Someone told me I could sell them on ebay but I would cry...

I think that is where my toy love and collectors side began.

Then I started to visit Giant Robot website and I would do purchasing from time to time. I always thought it was more fun to see things in person as sometimes I would get things and not be that satisfied. However there were no stores in Seattle really focusing on these toys.

Then I met Sally and more events led to today...

More about that next time.

I would heart a day off

2006-02-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

I have been busy caring for Plush YOu blog and ignoring this one. I also have been working a lot because of the upcoming Valentine's Day, the Plush show, wholesale orders, etc. that there is not too much to talk about. I am working two weeks straight but have made it my goal to do the below:

1) finish swap for Blair

2) start swap for Laurie

3) send swap for Abby..this is just a little one so should be easy to accomplish right? right?

4) focus more time on good friend, Colleen's, baby shower gift...i am going home (Cleveland) in a month and need that sucker done!

5) Finish merchandise for Glitter Workshop and Paper Boat Boutique

Why aren't there at least 24 hours of awake time in the day??? I swear i am averaging less and less amounts of sleep these days. Yesterday I probably could have passed out standing up I was so tired! Or I need a clone of myself which would benefit NO ONE but me....

In MA

2006-02-07T14:01:00.000-08:00

Thank YOu Magpie for putting up an image on your blog about my owls. It's nice to see I share space with Faythe....I love her stuff. Hopefully more of her goods will arrive to Schmancy soon.

I heart sunshine

2006-02-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

This is Seattle on a beautiful day. Something we have had very little of this winter. We have finally gotten some sun a few days in a row. It is so nice to see it and feel it. I really love it.

This weekend was nice and relaxing. I worked on my swap for this lovely person. Worked on more owls to send to a few more stores around the country. Watched Bonnie and Clyde and wished I looked like Faye Dunaway....i loved her style. Went out with my friend Nikki on Saturday after she modeled for Fancy, Schmancy, Pants ad we are putting in Bust. It was nice to walk around with someone in case I took flight- it was very windy!!! We met up with Nelson and Norm later on and it's always great fun to hang out with them all. Had one too many drinks though so I felt pretty bad for Superbowl party. I don't like football at all! But i think most of Seattle was watching and I did feel pretty bad for the Seahawks. They got robbed in my opinion. But I don't know if my opinion counts since I don't know anything about football. It was still fun to hang out with some good people and eat food, drink cheap beer and watch it.

Selling your goods continued

2006-02-04T12:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post more about selling your stuff to stores. I have been selling various pieces of merchandise for about 12 years now. I have done craft fairs in various cities along the way. I actually think this is a great place to start for people just beginning to craft items they would like to sell. I did one in Cleveland way back when and then when I started making more stuff in Seattle again I did I Heart Rummage. Rummage was a great way to find out what people liked and a good price point for my items.

The one thing that can piss stores off is if you under sell your items at fairs and then sell them in shops for a lot more. It makes sense in a way because you are making all the money so why not sell more at cheaper costs? It just builds bad blood between the customer, the business owner and you. Now that I am a business owner, it makes complete sense. It would get really annoying if someone said "oh this is so cute but i can get it for half the price at rummage". You'll loose store accounts.

Here are some craft fairs to check out!
Urban Craft Uprising

Renegade Craft Fair

Art vs. Craft

Mutation Craft Fair

Craftacular

Bazaar Bizarre

I am sure there are many more, these are just a few I have found that look good to me!

Selling your goods

2006-02-02T15:53:00.000-08:00

I am starting a list of stores that I would like to sell to. It is pretty long and I am happy to share it with others that may be in the market for consigning their goods. If you would like to add to the list and keep it going feel free to contact me for it.
I decided to put up a few pics of Schmancy. The one that is a bare store was taken when I first opened. Second pic was taken the other day. It's fun to see the changes. Despite the highs and lows, I still love my little shop and feel very proud she's still kickin'.

Whip Up

2006-01-31T17:46:00.000-08:00

check out Whip Up. It looks very exciting.
Below is from their About Page. It's right up my alley!

About
Whip up: To prepare quickly. To excite. To create. To incite. To build. To invent. To conceive. To push. To upset. To manufacture. To provoke.

This website has been created in order to bring the best original and exciting crafts to the attention of many.
To create a community of artists, crafters and makers and share ideas in a central space.

A handcraft guide in a hectic world

What is handcraft? “To fashion or make by hand”. “A craft or occupation requiring skilled use of the hands.”

Whip up is a multi author site with contributors from around the world united by a passion for making things, for beautiful design and for a desire to share ideas with others. The editor and originator of this site is me, Kathreen Ricketson, I wanted a central meeting place for ideas and projects and technical advice for all the latest that is handmade around the world.

Magpie

2006-01-31T15:50:00.000-08:00

Hey gang.
I have not been a good blogger lately. I guess I have been stressed a little and feel like I have nothing to blog about unless you want to hear bitching and moaning. No? Didn't think so.
I have some exciting news in my world. I sent out some owl pins to a very cute store that I have admired over the old Internet for sometime now called Magpie. I really like the selection of items they have and their blog is cute too. I am very happy to participate in their store.

List

2006-01-21T15:58:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, Lisa wrote a list of things about herself. It was neat to see that there were ones on there that her sister didn't even know.
I thought it was also a great way to learn a little bit more about a person that you admire and read about all the time.

I thought I would write a list of 5 items here and there about myself.

1) My parents names are Tom and Jeri....and they are possibly the cutest, nicest people you would ever meet.

2) When I was a kid, I hated my middle name. I would think of new ones all the time and say I wanted it legally changed. One of the new middle names I wanted for awhile was Miss Piggy (i loved the Muppets- still do actually)

3) It took me about 10 years and 7 schools to get my bachelors degree

4) My first concert without adult supervision was Sting.

5) I was really happy yesterday because Blaine Fontana gave me a Really Nice painting that was in the show he had here last month. It made me realize why I do love my job and how much I usually enjoy working with various artists. It was very generous. He is a great guy...read his bio and you will love him.

Doe

2006-01-21T15:50:00.000-08:00

This is doe located on Haight Street in San Francisco. I had it on my "list of places to go" last time I visited but it never worked out. I really wanted to see it because I love their site and it looks like a very nice shop. I contacted them the other day to see if they would be interested in buying some owl pins for their store. Kati wrote back and said YES! I am so excited. If you are in the area, I am trying to ship them out on Monday.

If anyone wants to give me other names of cute shops in their area I could try to sell owl pins or button rings to, please send the names to me. I need to buy a ticket to Cleveland soon and this is how I am going to try to get it.

Plush You site

2006-01-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

I decided to start a new blog strictly for the Plush You II! event. If you are a participant, want to be or just like plush, check out the site.
xo

Valentine's and Sweet Pants

2006-01-18T15:46:00.000-08:00

DEADLINE JAN 31!

Calling all romantic/bitter artists:

Make a Valentine!
not for love, but for money & fame
to hang/sit & sell at Fancy during the month of February
*prizes will be given for 'most sappy', 'most romantic', and 'most bitter'
no larger than 10" please.

Make some sweet pants!
handmade one of a kind UNDERPANTS-
make your own or decorate someone else's.
to be on display & sale for the month of February at PANTS.

You name the price & keep 75%, make the tag (retail prices please)- and deliver to Fancy or Pants by January 31, 2006.
Please include name, title, address, e-mail etc...

Sorry for the short notice-
this will be an annual event, so if you can't make this deadline (January 31st)
get ready for next year.

If your work is selected- it will be on display til February 12th, if it's not selected this year we will contact you for pick up-
feel free to e-mail jpgs in advance- sally@fancyjewels.com.

Sally Brock

Pants
1914 2nd Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
206.956.2945
www.pantsunderpants.com

One of those days

2006-01-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

I am having one of those days. You know, those days where you feel like you are in a great panic, where you don't know what you want to do with your life, if you are satisfied with what you are doing and feeling completely broke and sick of feeling that way. One of those days.

I am really sick of being broke. I know people say that that is the life of a beginning small business owner. I knew what I was getting into and embraced it for a long while. I am also getting sick of it. I want to enjoy things too and I get jealous of those 9 to 5'ers. I try very hard to leave work where it belongs, at work. But I can't help bringing home the anxious feelings. I think I am largely feeling this way because I have not been to creative lately and the weather sucks around here. Today is actually very nice, NO Rain!!! But this has not been the usual. I just need a kick start again. I AM getting my site redone where there will be a made by Schmancy section so I can try to sell more of what I make. Also maybe have a wholesale section so I could try to get more wholesale accounts or something. I wish a fairy would mail me a few thousand and make life easier. But there are no fairies and the only ones make you pay them back with a 15% interest.

This was the only thing that lifted my spirits.

crafting

2006-01-14T13:12:00.000-08:00

I have not been in a very crafty mood lately. Maybe because I have been in a going out mood. Finding balance would be good. I have been having fun either way so no need to beat myself up about it. Here are a few things I have worked on recently. The oven mitt with the cowboy print was for my friend Nelson for Christmas. Nelson is one of the best cooks I know and I will ALMOST eat anything he puts in front of me. I blame him for my meat dabbling. He took me to Salumi's in Seattle yesterday. Best meat in town I guess. He is so excited about my meat dabbling that he wanted to take me there. I let him take charge of ordering and I didn't think I would be such a big fan as I turned out to be. Salty and peppery cured meat= good.

The pink floral mitt was for my friend Lisa in Cleveland for her birthday. I sent it recently but do not know if she got it yet. I hope she likes it. It's late as usual. Now i need to work on my dad's late birthday gift (also as usual) and some late Christmas presents. Maybe they will all be done by June. You would think all the rain (27! days now- yep you heard me right) would keep me in the house!

Tonight at Schmancy

2006-01-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

Tons of cute stuffed boofs here tonight.

This is one of my favorites in the show!

Tonight at Schmancy is the opening for Adam Grano. Come by, meet Adam, drink cheap wine, have fun even if you feel like you are living in a grey bubble full of rain. AHHHHHHHHHHHH.

Plush You II!

2006-01-10T14:35:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of the Plush You! event held last August at Schmancy.
Here is the information about this years event.
Plush You II! Now at Fancy, Schmancy and Pants in Seattle.

The trilogy of awesome, Fancy, Schmancy and Pants have decided to join forces to make Plush You II! bigger and better. We would like to invite you to participate in the event of the year.

Last August, Schmancy had its’ first Plush You event in Seattle, WA. We showcased various plush creations from fifty artists from all over the world. So much so that we decided to make it an annual event. Sally Brock, of Fancy and Pants, decided to get in on the action to make it a bigger and better event.

This year the event will be held on October 6th 2006.

Due to the overwhelming response to the show we have had to change the application process a bit to accommodate all those interested.

To join in the festivities contact curator, Kristen Rask, at kristen.rask@gmail.com with your name, website info (if any), location and a few images of the kinds of work you do. 150 artists will be selected and then contacted with further information about the show. Each artist will be allowed to submit three pieces for the show.

All applications will need to be in by Feb 15th 2006.

This is a great way for you to get your name and work out to the public!

We Love You!
Fancy, Schmancy and Pants
1932,1930, 1914 2nd ave
Seattle, WA 98101
Schmancytoys.com
Fancyjewels.com
Pantsunderpants.com
Fancyschmancypantsblog.blogspot.com
Schmancytoys.blogspot.com

Share your Resolutions

2006-01-04T17:24:00.000-08:00

Hi. I have been out of the blogging loop again. I am trying to work really hard for the upcoming taxes I have to pay....and don't want to.

Happy New Year! I have to say that I really do like the idea of a new year even though it also means I get another year older in this next year. On new years and on my birthday I feel like i get a new slate. I like that.

Here are some of my new year's resolutions for 2006.
1) be more organized
2) create a system for Schmancy for all the things i hate doing but have to....goal is to make things less painful.
3) take more chances with store...don't be so afraid of a little more debt, hopefully it will pay off
4) create something at least 5 times a week
5) take more time to relax when i really need to.
6) try to be more excited about Schmancy even when it's hard.
7) Be an overall better business person so i am not always scared that i will get in trouble
8) get insurance
9) Read more again..create a good balance for ALL the things i enjoy
10) don't waste any more time or energy on things/people that are not worth either my time or energy
11) Lastly don't be such a recluse...i can be one. I get obsessed with art/craft projects or into a book and then i don't want to ever do anything. Going out sometimes is good.

Anyone want to share their resolutions?

I want to wake up to this

2005-12-23T12:10:00.000-08:00

I wish I could have this little guy to wake me up in the morning or tell me about the weather or to get love notes from. why can't I have him?
Today is the Christmas count down. I feel like a slave to retail and really look forward to that day and a half off. Tomorrow we are closing at 3:00 and I am off to wrap presents, make food perhaps, and work on a few last minute projects. Christmas morning will be spent with my sister and BroD. Then i will meet up with some friends and later go out to dinner and to a movie. No biggie. I am excited for a day to relax and do nothing. I want to play games. Maybe work on a little crochet. It should be fun. I hope. Happy Holidays to you all.

New projects

2005-12-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things I am trying to make for the holidays. The oven mitt is for my friend Betsy who is coming to visit and has a birthday today. Happy Birthday Betsy.
Every day is crazy around here. Working, then going home to make gifts, staying up late and feeling like I don't want to get up the next day. I am starting to feel sort of sick. I need to go get some EmergenC.
The pic of a table full of goodies on it is from Krafthaus.
Tonight off to make a bunch of cookies for more gifts. I can not wait until the holidays are OVER.
I have so many other things I would like to make and it's nice to make things at a your own pace.
AGHHHHHHHHHHHH

Women's Wear Daily

2005-12-15T13:56:00.000-08:00

A photographer,Brian Smale, just came by to take pictures of Fancy, Schmancy and Pants for Women's Wear Daily. So look for pictures of us in an issue next week!!

Messy Marvin

2005-12-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

My friend Barbara and I were talking about A Christmas Story last night and how cute the characters are. She sent me a link to Messy Marvin. What a cute little kid that guy was.

I also found these today that would make cute gifts for any knitters you might know. There is also a donut option on the cupcake page. Delicious.

Sleepy Saturday

2005-12-10T13:58:00.000-08:00

I am really really tired today. Before 11:00 am. I managed to go to the bank, take a shower, get coffee, drop off a birthday present to my friend, go to the grocery store and go to Office Depot all on my walk towards work. I made it to work on time which was amazing but I am seriously having one of those days of pure exhaustion. After work I have to bus it over to Queen Anne/Fremont to Krafthaus to help Barbara break down our table we shared for the craft fair. I am really excited to see it but only wish I could go early to munch on some goodies and perhaps drink a little champagne. Oh well. While trying to keep myself wide awake I decided to look at this and dream of eating all the deliciousness on display.
I also found this site of a fellow Seattle resident and crafter. Her stuff is great. Check it out. I am looking forward to the holidays ending because we are going to do a swap. Yahoo for swappin'.

Are you a Daring Woman?

2005-12-08T13:19:00.000-08:00

Looking for a bit of inspiration today and found this. It's nice to read about some of these "Daring Women" to find motivation and keep yourself going. Especially in these busy times.

Plush Rush

2005-12-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

I keep forgetting to mention the fantastic Plush Rush in Columbus, Ohio. Go here to see all the plushie goodness up for sale. And go here to see pics from the opening reception.

Krafthaus

2005-12-05T12:37:00.000-08:00

I have been a busy woman and have not had much time to post anything. Not that my life it that exciting but it's nice to keep up with this. I read blogs more than anything. I did I Heart Rummage on Sunday. It was fun but not the best money maker. However it made me want to still keep up with the crafting. I decided to try and get into Krafthaus here in Seattle this Saturday, Dec. 10th. I am crossing my fingers that I will be able to. It is at 2703 3rd ave N. It is a sale featuring local designers of jewelry, visual art, foods, bath products, accessories, apparel, holiday wares, candles, ceramics, art, glass, bags, paper goods and more. It would be great to do it because I always find those things so motivating. Now my new goal is to diligently work this year on stuff and then go to NYC for the Renegade Craft Fair. I love visiting NYC and my good friend, Betsy lives there. She is a great host and is always fun to hang out with. Now I want to convince her to do it too.

Crochet 101

2005-11-29T13:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I started my first crochet class. I am taking a two week class with my sister at So Much Yarn. It is a relatively new store in Belltown that offers lots of classes and has a great selection of yarn. Crocheting is so relaxing that I almost fell asleep in class. It's really fun and I look forward to practicing. I really want to make one of those granny blankets with all the small pieces that you connect together. I only wish I didn't have so many interests. I feel like there is so much I want to do right now and I don't know where I will get all the time to do them. As the holidays come close, I really want to make some gifts for certain people like my landlords at the store. I got all this pretty ribbon, boxes and paper to use for cookies and truffles. When I will make them is another question.
I also signed up for I Heart Rummage this Sunday. I have no idea when I will make all this stuff for it. My hair appointment was just cancelled so I guess I have this evening to work on stuff. Tomorrow I have plans. I guess I will try and lock myself in my apartment for the weekend. Sounds fun right? At least I have Saturday off. Yahoo.
This guy came in yesterday and asked me to be a hair model so tomorrow morning I have an appointment for a hair cut. I wish i was getting the color today so it would be all nice and pretty tomorrow. Oh well.

Lookin' for Scraps.

2005-11-25T12:50:00.000-08:00

I really want to learn how to quilt. My friend's mom has always done quilting and I always thought it looked so soothing. I do know how to sew so I think I could start with something very basic. I feel like I need more fabric. Anyone up for a trade? I have tons of beads, buttons, etc. I just would like some more cool scraps of fabric. It gets pretty expensive getting nice fabric so if anyone is up for it- email me! I really like the simplicity of this quilt. This is where I really fell in love with quilt making. Denise Schmidt's quilts are beautiful and colorful, with modern designs. I found her site a few years ago and decided I either needed to become rich or learn this skill. I don't see option 1. happening anytime soon so I might as well give it a go.

Happy Jello Turkey Day!

2005-11-23T14:52:00.000-08:00

Eat a Jello Turkey.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Birdbrained Confessions

2005-11-23T13:47:00.000-08:00

I like Luke Chueh's work. Sort of reminds me of Deth P. Sun.

I have a confession. I have always wanted to put a miniture world together. Just once. I have this bookmarked. And today I saw this cute fabric store. How do people make things that small?

Holiday Decorating

2005-11-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

Today I decorated Schmancy for the holidays. The other day I was looking through Craftster and found this. I thought it was a perfect idea for Schmancy. This is my version. It didn't take too too long but it was a messy project and hanging it was not my most favorite thing to do. Anyways, I made it yesterday along with all the other crafts. Tonight I might try and tackle quilting. Or just curl up with a book. Undecided at this point. I also might go look at an apartment. I need to MOVE!!!!

Debbie's paintings

2005-11-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

I got three paintings from Debbie the other day. I already talked about them so I just wanted to show them here. They all have good spots in my apartment. The stuffed critter and apron are a few things that I am sending off to Debbie. I have not sent them yet but finally finished the package last night. Yahoo. No more guilt.

10 things.

2005-11-19T15:54:00.000-08:00

Lizette Greco sent me a nice Happy Birthday email last week with a link to Keri Smith's blog for inspiration. I thought her list had a lot of things on there that I would like to remember especially on crazy days. I thought I would share for all you art/craft people out there.

The Topic is: 10 ways to infuse your work with your personality.

1. Document what you are responding to regularly. *journal/sketchbook, blog, listmaking, photo journal, bulletin board collage, internet bookmarks, Allow yourself to go deeper into an idea. Find influence outside of your field. Consider that you are ALWAYS working for yourself.

2. Start to challenge yourself on a regular basis to try new things, (not just for work. *i.e. new foods, colors, processes, classes, travel, become a guerilla artist, etc. Your hobbies are your greatest source of play.)

3. Go back to your childhood, (the formative years). What were your favourite things to do? In this lies some clues as to where you want to focus your energy as an adult. What makes you burst with energy?

4. Do something that is not for money. For your own enjoyment. (Your greatest work will come from here!)
*examples…
-newsletter
-zine
-website
-x-mas card
-product concept
-toys
-gifts for friends.
Design for yourself. *See handout on guerilla art.

5. Use sources that are based on your daily life. Your life IS your art. What are the things that are most important in your current life?

6. Become a collector. Collecting allows us to look at one thing in a contemplative & mindful way. Giving you new insights and perceptions. Examples: Maria Kalman -purse contents, Steven Guarnaccia -shoe sole
rubbings, Ian Phillips & Grant Heaps -Lost & Found pet posters, Mark Ulriksen (former art director) -misspellings of his name, Charles & Rae Eames -toys from other countries

7. "Pay no attention to the man behind that curtain." Ignore what other people are doing. It has no bearing on your existence or vision of the world. The times we feel the most discouraged are usually due to the fact we are comparing ourselves to others. Most times reading awards annuals, and industry mags only serves to make us feel inadequate. Try cutting it out entirely. Designer Bruce Mau recommends not entering awards competitions. His reasoning, “Just don’t do it, it’s not good for you.”

8. Don't promote to target your audience. By all means send things out into the world, but don't think in terms of "promoting to get work". Send stuff out because -you're proud of it, -you want to share something with the world, -it's fun to get mail, -to have good karma, -you want to spread your germs, -you like licking stamps. Try sending a postcard of something you made for fun, (i.e. directions on how to make a finger puppet). When thinking of subject matter for promotions look to your current life. If you deal with topics that are important to you a piece will have much more life to it.

9. Take a lighthearted approach (Don't take yourself too seriously). If you feel stuck, you can always reinvent yourself, (re: try something else).

10. Study other artists or creators who followed their own vision. Research.

Thanks Lizette! Inspiring indeed!

Superstar!

2005-11-19T13:38:00.000-08:00

I wish I was there. The picture with the light snow and beautiful European street is where I would like to be. Sipping tea, a really yummy glass of wine or a lightly sweetend port while I watch people go by. That's where I want to be. With no worries about my store, all the things I need to do for the holiday rush, or all the things I may be forgetting. I wonder when I will ever step foot on foreign land again. To view more beautiful photography go here
Last night I went to a A Series of Consequences. My friend Anna, the one on the cover, is in three of the six pieces. She is really good! I am so proud of her. We started hanging out more after we both quit the University Bookstore. She comes and hangs out with me on Saturdays a lot at Schmancy. We started talking about what to do with our lives one day and I suggested that she go into acting. All her stories are so animated and she seems to really enjoy getting into character so I thought it was a perfect fit. Little did I know she had done some acting in her past and this past year I have now seen her in several plays. It's great to see her climb the ladder to stardom.
The middle picture is of Nikki (on left) and Myself. It's from the scavenger hunt last week. So that's me.

Weekend browsing

2005-11-18T16:26:00.000-08:00

Here are some things to check out this weekend while you are bored.
Colored bubbles
Or look at the knitted wedding phots! Go here for the knitter in you.

I love the Market

2005-11-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

I have been a busy lady! I can't even keep up with daily blogging due to all the things I need to do for the upcoming holiday season! I got a fantastic package the other day from Debbie. There were tons of goodies in there including THREE PAINTINGS!!!! I took pictures of them up in my apartment but I keep forgetting to bring my camera down to work. She has a shop you can access from her site to see more of her work. Really cute and very under priced in my opinion. I got another package yesterday from my BF, Lisa. She sent me a birthday package of two books I have been wanting. One was Alter Knits- the new hip knitting book. The other was the new book by Zadie Smith called On Beauty. I can't wait to read it. I got to finish Me Talk Pretty One Day first. I do miss reading a novel so I can't wait. I always seem to read short stories these days but with the upcoming holidays maybe I can actually finish a book!
This morning I went down to Pikes Place Market before work. I have to say that the place is so much more enjoyable in the winter only because you don't need to fight all the tourist traffic. I really love it there and always manage to find a new gem each time I explore. Today I went to this flea market type thing inside the market. Ted, a Schmancy regular, always goes there and finds the best stuff for super cheap. I have decided to try and check it out on a more regular basis. I wish I had my camera today because I found the best purse. Eight purses in one. It's so cool. I'll take a picture and put it up soon. It was a score and for only $15! I think I will try to spice up a few of the plain ones more but I love it. I also went to this Mexican market that for some stupid reason I have never been to before. I got a Gordita for $2.35 and they have yummy Tamales for $1.50. I could go on but I won't. Must work more.

I love Meredith

2005-11-12T16:59:00.000-08:00

Last night was EVEN more fun than I imagined it would be. It was awesome. I think there was the best group of people at the shop. Meredith came by in the early afternoon to set up the show. It was great fun just to hang out and talk about Portland, My Guys, her process, life, etc. I got whiskey for this opening and bought a crock pot to make hot apple cider. I thought I had enough whiskey but it turns out I was WRONG. I had it until around 8:00 but we still had an hour to go. Oooppps. Some of Meredith's friends came out and they were all really fun. Her friend Donna came out and she is hilarious. We see eachother around town and I told her she needs to be my friend. I am sure she was scared of me.
After some of us went out for drinks, including a few Schmancy regulars who visit often from Vancouver B.C. They are so nice and it was fun to finally hang out with them. I really want to go visit them because I heart Vancouver. I also really want to go down to Portland soon to hang out with all my new found Portland friends.
I want to thank Meredith for coming up for the show and making it a really fun opening.
Now for scavenger hunt. This weekend can't get anymore festive.

Plush Rush and birthdays

2005-11-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

This is Dwight. He is a heart eater. He was completed last night by yours truly. He is not to different from your other heart eaters. The thing about heart eaters is they look so innocent. Even a little cute and cuddly. But if you cross any lines with them- out goes your heart, straight into their mouth. My only advice is to be careful and kind. He will be going to Columbus, Ohio for Plush Rush. You can adopt him there or maybe I will start making more. Anyone for a trade?

Today is my birthday. Last year for the big 30 my BFF from brownies, Lisa, came to Seattle to celebrate with me. It was fun but not crazy. This year I decided I wanted to do it up a little since I am not too excited about birthdays anymore. I just want to do something that I always want to do but never do. This year I decided to have a "big ass scavenger hunt". This sat. over thirty people are meeting at The Garage in Seattle. We will be put into groups and have two hours to complete a list of items developed by a team of judges, David, Nelson and Michael. I think the judges have some things up their sleaves so I am very excited. It will be a lot more fun than just sitting around drinking. BLAHHHHHHH. Gets boring and no one ever leaves thinking "Gee- that was really fun". HOWEVER this will be a fantastic.

This morning I decided to take myself to my new favorite morning spot, The Crumpet Shop, located on 1st Ave in Pikes Place Market. It was the best way to start the morning. The people there are so so nice. The owner, Nancy, introduced herself today and said that I would get a discount from now on for being a local merchant. She then introduced me to the whole staff and told them to give me a discount from now on. They have the BEST homemade chai and yummy crumpets. If you buy tea, you are welcome to come back throughout the day for more- on the house. I love it there.

Then I got to work and had two really sweet ecards from Angela at The Stranger and my cousin Yasmeen. Along with a birthday song message from my old school friend in Cleveland, Colleen. With that voice- she's going places. My sister also called and was in a really good mood and my lovely Trisha called from Cleveland and as always, cracks me up.

Sally, Fancy lady herself, got me delicious Pho and pretty flowers. And I have had the best customers all day. Overall a Grade A birthday.
I also want to thank all those that left me comments on how to HELP me yesterday. As you can see, from all these wonderful people, I finally have a links column up. Yahooo. Blogging once again takes on a whole new world.

more pics

2005-11-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

Even more. Here is the "Donut Boy" himself. It was really amusing to hear all the donut related comments that were made all day. I think it starts to get to Stuart after awhile. I feel the same way when people constantly make comments about the whole Fancy Schmancy Pants thing. Yes it is clever. Yes it was on purpose. But hearing the comments EVERY SINGLE DAY kind of makes you numb. Even though I still heart Fancy Schmancy and Pants.

More UCU

2005-11-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

These are the pictures I promised of the Urban Craft Uprising. The long line got me really excited and slightly nervous. It was seriously jam packed for about 2 hours straight and then it was comfortably crowded. My friend, Kayo, is Pied Nu. Her and her lovely boyfriend, Norm, set up shop! I don't know if there is anything that woman cannot do. It's crazy. She's a factory! She made her cute logo painting the night before! I love it!

HELP

2005-11-09T12:46:00.000-08:00

Does anyone know how to explain how I may add a links bar? I want to add links of all the people I love visiting via the ole' internet and I can not figure it out. I am not very computer savvy but if someone explains it well- I think i can do it. Anyone? Please?

UCU

2005-11-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

I did the UCU this sunday and it was fantastic! They all did such a great job promoting the event, advertising, and getting us all excited. It was hard to even imagine what it would end up being like and boy was it a surprise! Tons of people were lining up before the event began. I took a picture but forgot my camera so I will upload pics tomorrow. It was really fun to share a table with Sewdorky-AKA "THE DONUT BOY. I had a blast and I have been searching all other craft shows today so I can get signed up for a few for next year. I forgot how much fun it can be when you are prepared. I love meeting new people this way, having something crafty to work towards, and feeling a community for this sort of thing. I can't wait for the next one. I'll post pics of the event tomorrow.

Meredith Dittmar

2005-11-05T11:50:00.000-08:00

Hi! I have not been so good about regular blogging these days. I have been busy trying to get ready for the Urban Craft Uprising. It is going to be fun to share a table with Stuart of Sewdorky and hang out with him. I am also getting ready for the upcoming show at Schmancy. Next Friday, Nov 12th, starts Meredith Dittmar's show. She will be here showing original work and we will also be carrying more of her clones. Her dioramas are amazing!!! My sister has been saving up to get one. I believe someone is coming up from San Diego to see her show. People love her and you should too!

Things I got when I was gone

2005-10-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

Coming home after a vacation is not too much fun. It is rather depressing. I kept on thinking of my friends, my kitties, and my apartment to make the transition into reality a little less harsh. A fun part to coming back to work was getting a few packages from Starving Artist and from
Sveet Courture. These are christmas presents for a few people so I didn't want to ruin the surprise. But both packages were a lot of fun to open up and will be even more fun to give.

I am back

2005-10-29T11:46:00.000-07:00

I am back from my wonderful vacation in sunny California! It was so much fun and I began kicking myself for ever leaving that city. I love it! I love Seattle too and I am sure I feel like this largely because I was on vacation and everything is better on vacation. But that city is so much fun! I visited with my aunt, uncle, and cousin, Yasmeen. That was great. I also went into the city for 3 days to spend time with friends. We acted like rock stars. Drank like a rock star, shopped like rock stars, and ate like them too. It was great. Now I got to find a way to move a Schmancy down there so I have more of an excuse to go there all the time. I miss it already. Julia was a great host in sf. and it was great to hang out in the mission. I could go on and on about my love for it there. Oh and my aunt took us to Trattoria Mollie's in Santa Barbara where they serve Oprah's favorite meatball. I don't normally eat meat but I had to. Why? Well you know Oprah eats well so I just had to see why this was her favorite. I now know why. It was DELICIOUS! Thank you to Aunt Patty, Uncle Farukh, and Julia for showing us a great time and letting us do all the things I wanted to do on my vacation!!!

Jamie Jester

2005-10-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

This Friday the new show goes up! Work by local artist, Jamie Jester, will be up and she will be in attendance. Come check out her work, drink wine, and have goodies.

Good mail

2005-10-13T13:45:00.000-07:00

I got to work today and had a orange note in my door telling me I had mail at the Moore Hotel. This makes me happy. So I went to the hotel and got 2 packages. I am not going to show you what I got because they are gifts and by any chance someone is reading this that may get a gift from me, I don't want to show them what it is. The first was from bunnigoods. I opened it and immediately thought Zoe and Cara. Then I got something from punkinpie productions. This one is a toss up between Kayo and Zoe. They both would really like it I think. I am going to have to start putting all these gifts in my storage unit since my cabinet space won't fit it all anymore. Yippy for trades!!

Two Confessions

2005-10-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

Confession #1: I might just be officially addicted to trading. I love to do trades. I have said this many times before and explained my love for a good trade so I won't go into it again. I have so many trades I am working on right now. Each time I finish one I feel so satisfied. I feel even more satisfied when I get my trade in the mail. I sit here everyday and watch for the post person around 4:00 every day. Then I feel sad inside if I haven't gotten anything. If I do get something I start to feel like I do after I drink coffee. You know what I mean? Excited, a bit jumpy, the mind starts turning into endless thoughts about the next thing I want to make..that sort of thing. I am a bit sad to go on vacation ONLY because I won't be here when a package may arrive but then I realize it will be a fun thing to come home to.
Confession #2: I love my cats. A LOT. I talk about them and how cute they are and I talk to them. They are good listeners and they love me. Jackpot, shown here, is the best. She follows me around wherever I may go. She sits on the toilet while I brush my teeth, take a shower, fix my hair, etc. She loves to stand on the sink while I pet her and if I stop she squeeks. It's heartbreaking. The other thing she does which I love but can be a bit uncomforable is she sleeps on top of me. I will wake up to her face right in mine, purring. And she will do this if I am on my back or on my side. Somehow she finds a way to make it comforable for herself. I wish I could take them with me to S.F. but they will be in good hands with Nikki and Nelson. I think Nikki is really excited just to be around a t.v. for a week.

crafty families

2005-10-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to refrain from spending too much time looking at various blogs i enjoy reading. Why? Because I get sucked in. I feel like it is o.k. to a point because I find it really inspiring and motivating. But it also sucks up a lot of my day at times and I really do have work to do. Especially because next week I am on VACATION!!!! YAHOOOOOOO. Today is gloomy and grey and I am sort of caught up and thought a little blog surfing wouldn't kill me. I started with Lisa Congdon's blog because I like her work and love reading her site. She always has the nicest things on there like today's tribute to her mom. So I of course had to check out her her mom's site to see where these crafty people came from. This then brought me to Stephanie's blog which I check out from time to time anyways. I think we all have a similar appreciation for color, displaying in your home, etc. but they do it a lot better than me. While reading Steph's blog I stumbled across Tie One On. I love aprons and used to make them a lot. I wish I either had my sewing machine here or i was at home so I could make one right now. They are just so colorful and fun and most of all USEFUL! I think Stephanie's is really great. I love all the color and type. I guess I just gave a tribute to the Congdon family. I will be in San Fran next week and will hopefully be getting together with Lisa for some drinky drinky perhaps? We will see.

Bill Gates goes to college

2005-10-07T17:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes towards the end of the day I like to look at other things. I found this today and thought it was funny. Go here to watch this 5 minute clip. Almost out of here! Yahoooooo

New at Schmancy store

2005-10-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

This just came in! M.O.D. 8" Dunny by Gary Baseman! We love him. You love him too!

UCU and a finger puppet

2005-10-04T12:32:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let everyone know about this really cool craft fair coming up soon! I will be there sharing a table with sewdorky. To find out more information go to Urban Craft Uprising. A few other crafty friends of mine will be there as well so come support local craft stars, get your holiday gifts, and get inspired!
The little lion finger puppet is my new creation. It is going in the mail for a trade but I am going to make more. I will make different animals as well. They are cute kids finger puppets or can just go on top of your computer, table, bookshelf as a little display animal. I like them. I have realized I love to make stuff (well that's not a NEW concept) but I also get bored making the same things over and over. SOOOO as long as I throw in a new thing, I can handle doing the same stuff too.
I am happy with this little guy.
bye for now

for Tricia

2005-10-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

Here is one thing I sent to Tricia of Bella jolie for our trade. She got other goodies but this scarf is my favorite. It is so cozy I just wanted to rub my face with it all the time. I added fringe to it as well which is something I have never done. It's fun to try new things.
Last night my sister and Nikki got together to start our latch hook project. Nikki and I are starting a craft night once a month. We will all meet up and make a specific craft. We thought latch hook would be easy, fun, and inexpensive for our first project.
The last pic. (with the seahorses) is from a site I can't remember. But I love it and wish I had lots of money so I could have it.
last day of work and then it's my weekend. I am so very excited!
bye

Adore

2005-09-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

I mentioned having a nice weekend and it being pretty here in Seattle. The picture of my sister was taken in West Seattle. We got ice tea, sat outside and had a knitting lesson. Although at one point she said I was not a very good teacher. I was only laughing at her because she had a little song to go along with the steps which I found helpful but you know when you know how to do something and someone does it all wrong and it's sort of funny? But she got it. I think she likes it.
Next is some pics of a hat I finished last night for baby Kyle. It is off in the mail now going to Mass. for some baby lovin'. I can't wait to get a picture of him with it on. The hat was relatively easy but I think I want to try some other kind for the next baby.
The last pics are the things I got from Ashley. See, how could you go wrong with a trade? I love it all and wore my scarflette around all night even though I didn't need to.

Things to do

2005-09-27T17:06:00.000-07:00

I didn't do the fast. Why? Because my sister ended up having to take antibiotics and she didn't want to start when on them. Also the weekend is so much more fun we you can go out to eat and hang out. It was so nice for once on my days off that I went to West Seattle with my sister on sunday for a little knitting lesson in the sun. It was so fun.

This week I have a lot of tasks to accomplish. this is my list:
1. finish baby Kyle's pixie hat (almost finished)
2. continue to work on package for Bellajolie and for Milkypop.
3. continue to work on owl pins for show in Nov and Dec
4. start knitting for more babies (NOW there are 3 more...I just found out one of my favorite people in the world, Colleen, is having a baby!!
5. continue working on button rings for shows as well.
6. Meet with Nikki again for She's Crafty planning (we are starting a craft night once a month to make a certain craft)

That's it. I am sure I could go on but I won't.

to ashley

2005-09-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

This is a package I just sent to Ashley in Lynwood, WA. Inside this pretty box was button magnets, a necklace, earrings, this old vintage button? that I turned into a pin, some button rings and some candy. I hope you like it, Ashley!
Tomorrow I start my fast for three days and the thought of it makes me hungry. I want to go pig out tonight! I am going to work on other trades this weekend so I keep myself preoccupied. Brown rice and veggies- here I come. Bye bye delicious sugar, candy, coffee, bread (i love you), cheese, dairy in general. Oh I miss you all already.
I heard I'll be glowing in no time. I better.
bye bye

Georgia, trades, more owls

2005-09-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of my weekend and of my exciting mail I received yesterday. First up, owl assembly lines. I have signed up for a few fairs for the holidays. The first one is Urban Craft Uprising here in Seattle. I am sharing a booth with my friend and busy donut maker, Stuart. For this show I would like to have owls, button rings, and anything else I may come up with for this day. I am also participating in a show in Columbus, Ohio, my home state, called Plush Rush. I am not too sure what I will make for this. Maybe something bigger would be better? I am also doing a lot of trades for the holidays. My goal is to get all my holiday gifts from doing trades. I got these wonderful packages in yesterday that were so much fun to open I almost gave myself a heart attack. The beautiful hat, bag, scarflette, and delicious candies was from Francesca. The other fantastic package was from Katey. In there was tons of goodies including this cute owl bag, a notebook full of pretty paper, owl note cards and "You make my bunsen burn" note cards, a cute fawn keychain, a bag of buttons, a cute keychain wallet type of thing, and two beautiful prints. Sally and I have fallen in love with her prints which is why she is having a show at Fancy coming this December!
Lastly is a picture of the new addition in the Van Hollebeke/ VanRask family. Her name is Georgia and is cute as can be. Congrats to Joe and Alix for bringing this bundle of joy into everyones lives!

Winners!

2005-09-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

There were two winners for the drawing at Schmancy. Winner #1 won a signed Kozik Mini Circus Punk and winner #2 won a Parapluesch toy! You have to check out this site!! It's hilarious, cute and addicting!

New necklace and Frankie

2005-09-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

My cat, Frankie, is one of the cutest, besides her sister, Jackpot, she is the cutest. But doesn't everyone say that? I took this picture this morning and doesn't it look like it belongs on the cover of some 70's or 80's album cover? Her eyes are sparkling and looking right at you. It's so funny. She is a handful at times but is really sweet and cuddly..she loves to spoon.
The picture of the necklace is something I made last night. Some woman was staying at the Moore Hotel the other week and had a beaded necklace on that wrapped around her neck twice so one was long and the other was snug on her neck. It looked really good for some reason and made me like beaded necklaces again. I have an endless supply of seed beads of many many colors. However it looks like these colors are the colors of the season.

Package from Mo!

2005-09-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

I love trades. Why? Well all I got in the mail before was junk mail and bills. But NOW I am getting fun packages such as this one from Mo! I love everything!! Thanks so much Mo! The cards are beautiful and sparkly. I got different colors with the pretty bird perched on the branch. I am so excited to send them out to people who will appreciate how wonderful they are. She also sent some buttons which I love! I can't wait to go home and make myself a button ring! I don't make myself things very often but I just love the buttons and since they are a gift I figured at least one belongs to me! I also got pretty in pink earrings, and a delicious dark chocolate, lime, and macadamia nut bar! Something to keep me perky in these gloomy days! Trades=Love

Switchboard Tradin'

2005-09-15T17:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some really bad pictures of some jewelry I make. It's the beaded stuff and the earrings with all the colors are chain with sequins. I have lots of different colors for the sequins. They are fun and probably for younger, hip girls. I just thought I would put something up in case any of you switchboard ladies are looking!

One Good Bumblebee

2005-09-14T13:00:00.001-07:00

I just thought I would put up a few images that Katey just sent me. Go check her site out!

One Good Bumblebee

2005-09-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

I just thought I would put up a few images that Katey just sent me. Go check her site out!

More Owls

2005-09-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

These are a few more owls I made. These two I turned into pins instead of magnets. I like the pins better and they look really cute pinned to your shirt or bag. These were sent out this morning to Katey Her prints are freakin' adorable. We did a trade and I am so excited to get my prints here and put them up in my house! My first goal was to start getting all my holiday gifts through trade, which I still want to do, but this package is going home with me! I'll take a picture of it when it gets here to share with you all.

Lookin' for art

2005-09-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

Today I finally had a minute to sit down and look through my art show schedules. Not only am I doing shows at Schmancy but I am also doing shows now for Fancy and Pants. If you are looking for a show, send me images of your work, contact info, etc. There are some booked already and a few group shows I am working on as well but there are still plenty of spaces and I love to look. Email me at kristen.rask@gmail.com.
Tuesdays tend to be busy so I don't have much time. Got a bunch of new stationary and memos, etc in today and had to price them all, returning emails, packaging up orders, etc. Glad the day is over. xo

Show

2005-09-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

Last night was Lisa Congdon's show. Here are a few pics from the show. Hopefully I can get some better ones of her setting up, etc. from her. Although I am sure they will also be up on her site. If anyone is interested in purchasing her work, please email me directly at kristen.rask@gmail.com for questions, etc. I will be putting up more images up soon.

owls, chickens, bunnys

2005-09-09T16:12:00.000-07:00

Today Lisa's show begins so last night I said goodbye to Plush You! It was sad and sort of nice. Nice only because Lisa's work is amazing and it's sort of nice to look at something new every once in awhile. Seeing as that I am here everyday, changing walls once a month really helps it to feel new and fresh. Lisa's work is up and I will put picks up tomorrow of the show.
The pictures of the owl, chicken, and bunny are things I am working on for a few trades. I made these last night and turned them into magnets. I love the chicken and owl the most. They are really fun to make but I tend to get really excited and obsessed when I make new things and needless to say- I am VERY tired today! But it was fun and I finished the package for Francesca. Off to Italy tomorrow (the package-not me)
xo

I love Noupas!

2005-09-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

I just got in Noupas and I LOVE THEM!!! They are so cute and only $6.00!!! Come and buy one or if you are interested in getting one online...well they aren't on my site yet but will be soon Or email me!!!
Also a freindly reminder about our opening Reception tomorrow evening for Lisa Congdon starting at 6:00 and going until 9:00. Come meet Lisa, look at her amazing work, and eat Schmancy birthday cake!

Uwajimaya

2005-09-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

This morning before work I ran to Uwajimaya to grab some things for the store and for Francesca's package. I also found these two items that I could not resist. The little book is all these different Japanese postcards. The artwork is really colorful and cute. It reminds me of artwork from old childrens books. The other book is patterns for making different felted items. If I feel like making a felted mini bathroom, I can now! Even down to the toilet bowl scrubber. I got a lot of work to do this evening!

first panel- done!

2005-09-07T12:39:00.000-07:00

I have been making this blanket for myself for YEARS! The great thing about knitting is that you can put down a project for weeks, months, or even years, pick it up and get excited about it again. I can't remember where i got this pattern because I got the book out of the library. But it is really simple, and you can create it however you want. I finally finished the first panel the other night, you have to make three. So maybe in another 5 years it will finally be complete!

Home of the Sampler

2005-09-06T16:04:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a nice long weekend. I had to work all weekend so I decided that since I didn't get a two day weekend, one of the weekend days could be used for working on rings. I finally finished my rings to give to The Sampler. I was going to put a picture up of them but I forgot the cord to my computer so can't upload them. I still want to make little bags for them all to go in and maybe make a few more items. I also really want to start on my package to Francesca in Italy. We are going to do a trade. Her site is fun to look at! She makes really beautiful hats and scarfs. It's also fun to see all the amazing things she has traded in the past. I can't wait to get started on hers. I am sending out a few to Lori and Mo tomorrow. I can't wait to see what they are sending me!! bye

Crafters United

2005-09-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to work on some things to donate to Craft Revolution. Please shop there or donate there to help The American Red Cross aid those in need due to the disaster of Hurricane Katrina. I can't even imagine what people are going through in New Orleans and the way this has been handled by our President and government is disgusting! My heart goes out to them all. I hope I can make a small difference with my contributions.

Lisa Congdon!!!

2005-09-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

The story of Lisa Congdon. Lisa came in to Schmancy in December and bought a print done by Caroline Hwang. She later took a picture of it and emailed me a picture of the print nicely framed and displayed in her apartment. I thought two things:1) that's so nice of her 2) she has such a nicely decorated apartment! Great use of color! She started sending me a few pics of other things she does and then I thought....this woman is so freakin' talented and she has to have a show at my store. I also love nice people and she was always so nice even though I don't even know her. Her show begins this friday at Schmancy. Opening Reception goes from 6:00 to 9:00. Come meet Lisa, eat birthday cake (b-day cake is for Schmancy's first birthday), and celebrate the grand opening of Pants!

Schmancy's birthday!

2005-09-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

Today is the day Schmancy made it's first dollar! It was an exciting moment in Schmancy history! To celebrate in my own Schmancy way I decided to buy myself, on Schmancy, something nice. I have been needing a digital camera for sometime now. My sister takes all my pics for the website and ads. But she is a busy woman and I need stuff on my site a lot faster so I got a camera. Other good uses for a digital camera are to take pics of things for my blog!
My friends gave me a card to a local bookstore, Bailey/Coy Books, so I went there this morning and got Happy Kitty Bunny Pony. I have been eyeing it forever and think it is so cute. I have a lot of old chilrens books and all the images remind me of easter, childhood, and Cleveland.
Schmancy was one of the fastest, least thought over, ideas I have ever had. It makes me realize how those can be the best decisions to make. I talked about it with Sally, left at 6:00 to go get a drink with some friends, told them all, went out for another drink to celebrate, called my parents the next day to gauge their response, they were happy and very supportive, got more excited, had the lease two days later! Painting started shortly after with the help from various friends. Finally September 2nd I sold my first item which was a sewdorky donut. And the rest I guess is history.

Arrested Development

2005-09-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

Michael and Maribel have been telling me about Arrested Development for some time now. I finally got my hands on the first disc via Netflix. It is really funny and I heart David Cross. It's great to watch while you knit something. I started working on this blanket that "I have been working on" for 3 years! Working on= started doing it 3 years ago and haven't picked up very much since. Well until the other night. But I think this might be my new favorite fall activity.

Trading

2005-09-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

I have not been on the switchboards in a long time. Why? Because everytime I go there I have a really hard time leaving. It can seriously suck up my whole day but I think it is a great resource and I always feel very inspired after. So I always want to get in on the trading action but have no way of showing the kinds of things I like to do. Everytime I read someone's blog with pictures of a cute package full of tea, cute paper, stuffed critters, earrings, and postcards so and so sent so and so, I get to wondering...how can I do that? So here is my plea. Here are a few things I like to do. SO I have aprons, bags, and button rings. I enjoy many things so let me know if there is something in particular you want!

Maribel is 30!!!

2005-08-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

Today is my good friend's, Maribel, 30th birthday!! Tomorrow we are going out to celebrate as she has informed me that Thursday is the new Friday. So we are off to the International District for some food and then delicious cake. Happy Birthday!

Best cookies!

2005-08-31T11:44:00.000-07:00

Some people like Martha Stewart, and some hate her. I just like her website for good recipes and sometimes she has other good ideas for the crafty lady in you. Seattle has been feeling like fall these last few days so on monday I decided to make soup and one of my favorite cookies a la Martha (or most likely her staff).
I decided to share the recipe because it seriously makes any cookie lover happy. I could eat these for days and luckily you can because they taste just as good days later. So enjoy!

Chewy Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies

Makes 2 dozen

7 ounces best-quality semisweet chocolate

1 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon cocoa powder

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger

1/2 cup dark-brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup unsulfured molasses

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1. Line two baking sheets with parchment. Chop chocolate into 1/4-inch chunks; set aside. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and cocoa.

2. In the bowl of an electric mixer,fitted with the paddle attachment, beat butter and grated ginger until whitened, about 4 minutes. Add brown sugar; beat until combined. Add molasses; beat until combined.

3. In a small bowl, dissolve baking soda in 1 1/2 teaspoons boiling water. Beat half of flour mixture into butter mixture. Beat in baking-soda mixture, then remaining half of flour mixture. Mix in chocolate; turn out onto a piece of plastic wrap. Pat dough out to about 1 inch thick; seal with wrap; refrigerate until firm, 2 hours or more.

4. Heat oven to 325°. Roll dough into 1 1/2- inch balls; place 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Refrigerate 20 minutes. Roll in granulated sugar. Bake until the surfaces crack slightly, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Photograph by: Christopher Baker

Trish and Kathie

2005-08-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

I love looking at art, talking to the nice humble artists, and I hope one day I can also say I love to buy some art once in awhile. I mean I do but I don't have much money for all the art I would love to put in my house. I do have a few now from my friend
Trish Grantham. I love her stuff! Half the time I look at her stuff I want to cry at how cute it is. The colors are great, the things she sometimes writes on them are fantastic, and I love the different characters such as Carl the squirrel. Who wouldn't love a squirrel named Carl???
The other artist I can't seem to stop checking out is Kathie Olivas. Her work is just amazing! I love love love them and wish I had a whole wall full of her work. So if anyone wants to be my best friend, check out her site, and buy me one! or just check it out and love it too.

plush you hanging

2005-08-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of the Plush You! hanging. The eve before the show. It was a lot of fun and went by really quickly! Thanks again to all the lovely people who really helped out a lot!

cute necklace

2005-08-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

I never really get myself jewelry because I make some and I don't wear much but I really like this necklace from
Luckylooloo. Isn't it cute? It comes in silver and brass.

I am also finishing up the plush book send off for those of you wondering.
Lastly I wanted to put out this announcement for anyone who may be reading this....
FANCY SCARF SHOW!!!

FANCY would like to invite you to participate in our 1st Scarf Show!
Fancy will showcase various scarf creations from artists around the world. Our opening reception will be held on November 11th at Fancy in Seattle, WA. For one month we will have your creations on display and will sell them either at the store or on our online website.

To join in the festivities contact curator, Kristen Rask, at kristen.rask@gmail.com with your name, website info (if any), and a few images of the kinds of work you do. Kristen will then contact you more about the show if you are selected. Please allow for a few weeks for her to do so.
This is a great way for you to get your name and work out to the public! And in perfect time for everyone to find their new perfect scarf!

We Love You and Scarves!!
Fancy
1932 2nd ave
Seattle, WA 98101
Fancyjewels.com

Kozik!

2005-08-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

I really really try not to be star struck. As it seems obnoxious and rude. I played it cool (sort of) when
Frank Kozik walked through my door today. I wanted to grab half my stock and ask him to sign it all but that's where the obnoxious and rude part would comes in. Instead I said hi and acted sort of like a big dork. Anyways I am telling you this in a way to brag and in another way to tell you that he will be at
Roq La Rue this Saturday for a signing between 3:00 and 5:00. come by, buy some toys, and go get 'em signed!
Off to see a Seattle Storm game!!!
I will try to be better about writing in this. My internet has been messed up for weeks. Hopefully it's good now.
xo

2005-08-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

Whewwwwww. We made it!! My internet was down on saturday so I was unable to do anything on the computer. My sister needs to still send me pics from the show which she promises she will do today!! I took some from Mia Hansen. Thanks Mia!!! She came down from Vancouver to see the show on Saturday. It was so nice to meet some of you and it was nice to see those of you I don't normally see. People seemed to LOVE the show and it was packed in here from about 4-8. After that there was a steady flow of people until I closed the doors. I decided to do another one next year and make it an annual thing here. After all the work, it was great to work with all those involved in the show and it really has never looked so good in here. This was a great experience and I hope all those that can stop by to say hello do so. Continue to check the blog..i will post more pics, etc.
xo, schmancy

mark and flying fish

2005-08-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some more photos for the show. First up is Mark Hundley. His work is amazing! He contacted me some months back and we decided to do consignment for his work. They have been selling in here for sometime now and are just amazing to look at. Most of them are a lot larger than they look in photos which makes it even more fun to see them in person!
The other picture is from Flying Fish Gallery. It's funny because my friends, Kristen and Melissa got one of her owls for their wedding. It was one of the first items I noticed the first time I went to their house and now I will have three of them in my store! Yippy
Got to go now. bye

Schmancy won!

2005-08-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who voted on Northwest Source. Here is the write up!
Favorite:
Toy store
Schmancy
Unless you've got some seriously hip kids, you may want to keep Schmancy's toys to yourself. Here you'll find action figures of heavy metal fans and militant teddy bears, stuffed toys shaped like albino squids and doughnuts, and keychain figurines with tofu-shaped heads. None of Schmancy's toys seem native to this universe, yet every one of them is loveable, in an alien-baby kind of way. These truly are the perfect gifts for the person who has everything.

Corinne and Heidi

2005-08-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Again. SO if it were up to me, I would be at a beach and not at work. It is way too hot today and I feel miserable. My allergies are acting up and I don't like hot hot heat (i do not mean the band). To try and keep my mind off the fact that I am slowly melting away, I thought I would post some more plush wonders.
First up is work by Heidi Estey. She is a local Seattle resident and a former coworker of mine. She has no website but she really should. Her stuff has been selling all over town and even though you are against the internet, Heidi...it gets you work!
Second up are these deliciously lookin' apples which pay homage to three different stories, Snow White, Story of Creation, and from Greek Mythology. They are created by Corinne Dean. Check out her site to see all the other work she does.
Now what shall I get for lunch?

Breathe

2005-08-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

On a totally different subject.....I went to see a new movie by Miranda July called Me and You and Everyone We Know. I Loved it! I think it is such a good story that makes you feel less weird for being weird. The children are all so good in it that you want to go steal them all. I don't buy movies too often anymore but this one is sure to be in my movie collection (which is the strangest collection which may be why I stopped) I watched an interview with Miranda on IFC the other day when I was laid out on my sisters couch thanks to a little percocet. It's just a great movie so go out and see it now.
I also just got done reading Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim. I love David Sedaris. I wish I was his sister so I could have hands on knowledge of how funny his sister Amy is and how hilarious his brother Paul is and then he would send me to Paris once in awhile for a visit. Oh and come visit me on big occassions such as the Plush You! show. We would be eachothers favorite siblings. i just know it

Some Seattle peeps

2005-08-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

I am trying to make up for lost time.
The art is from Robert Hardgrave. I decided to put a piece of his art work in to switch it up a bit. He had a show at Schmancy a few months back. Robert survived cancer and most of his work seems to be based on his experience with it. His plushies are called Transplants and are all constructed with old hospital gowns which I am sure were cleaned.
The cubies are from Erin Shafkind. They can sit next to one another or you can stack them up. Erin has been super nice and helpful with all of this...always willing to lend a hand. Check out her website full of art and other hidden goodies.

artists with no websites

2005-08-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

I thought I would mention a few participants that do not have websites right now. These two really need to get something going on soon because their work is amazing. I think I almost screamed when I got Ariana Marinelli's work. They are beautiful and you can see how much work she has put into them. I could stare at them for hours. I love the trees, the fabic, the creatures. I could go on and on. I love them.
Jeremy Read's work also is amazing. Lots of detail and care. You can tell he spent many hours working on these guys and surely will be getting carpal tunnel in the near future. Please be careful because we still want to see all the other wonderful creatures you will surely create!
More still to come
xo, schmancy

I'm back!

2005-08-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hey!! So I was out of the game for awhile there. Sorry about that. Had an elbow injury that made me one armed for a little while there and also I have just been way too busy. But I really want to get more plushie goodness out there to you all.
The donut is from the wonderful Sewdorkycreator, Stuart Bloomfield. I have actually sold these felted donuts since Schmancy opened. IN FACT, the first item I sold was a donut, September 2nd.... it was a very exciting day for me. I love Sewdorky, his website, and the maker...he is a great guy. It has been great fun to see all the great things that have happened to him and his donuts! So there is a new item he has made that is undisclosed right now that will be at the show. I now know what it is, he's gonna be famous soon.
The other item is from Jane Michna. They just arrived the other day and every time I eat them i want to run down to the market and get something creamy and delicious.
I feel like this is the final countdown. More soon.

birds and pigeons

2005-07-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

So I am trying to get to everyone before the show. Since I was too busy yesterday to post I thought I would do two today. For those of you who are actually reading this.....if you haven't seen yours up I can either not steal a pic. from your site or just have not gotten to it. I will!!
These two are from Emerald and Kate Sutton. I thought birds and pigeons went well together.

It keeps coming

2005-07-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the last day to get stuff in for this book for the Plush You! show. I got to work and there were box loads of items. I will try to get those people that are late in. But I won't be able to promise anything. I do finally feel like things are getting under control which is really nice! Last night we went down to the new space and started painting. Sally decided to keep Fancy where it is and we will make the new space Pants. This makes a lot of sense for many reasons but now it really feels like things are happening. It's starting to make me feel a little freaked.
These next pics are from Monique Duke and Mai Le.
The things that have been arriving are just so so good. I can't wait for this! I sent out press releases today. One thing down.
See you all soon!

Since I'll be gone tomorrow.....

2005-07-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

Since I'll be at my good friends, Nikki and Nelson's wedding tomorrow, I thought I would post one more. The Punk Is Not Dead sockmonkey is from Clarity Miller. She lives in Anacortes, WA and has been up to the store once. I have seen her work at various places in town and at I Heart Rummage. I was excited that she made some new stuff for the show that she found exciting. I love that a lot of artists have been excited about the show and use it as a way to break away from their regular work.
The other picture is from Jenny Harada. I think her work is really great. I love this kitty she sent for the show. It is really cute!
Yeah for weddings and days off!!!! Until next time.
xo, schmancy

children and pickles

2005-07-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

Some more pictures to view as a preview to Plush You! Today I got a decorative box and inside was the work by Lizette Greco. The tags are lovely and remind me of art work my mom has saved by my sister and myself. Her work is inspired by her childrens' drawings and the results are these very imaginative creatures!
Mr. Pickles is a brother/sister collaboration. Rita Volpi lives in Columbus, Ohio (my home state) and her brother, Jack, lives in Chicago. They came up with this idea to have a pickle, who wears glasses, go on adventures, etc. They have a really fun website! Check it out! They sent some Plush Meats which are hilarious. My great friend, Trish, in Cleveland, calls me ham slice. I think I have a plush in mind for her.

2005-07-19T15:07:00.000-07:00

Here are two more pictures of work for the show. First is from Lisa Congdon. She will be sending her birds for the show and then the following month, she will be having her own art show at Schmancy.
The other picture is from Heidi Kenney. I can't wait to see her toys. I purchased a "take a chance on me" painting from her a long time ago now and it's hanging up in my hallway at home. She has a cute website and her stuff is great!
Sorry I didn't post for a few days but I finally got a regular employee, Ross. So now I have time to work more on the show and try and get Pants in order. Did you know I am opening up a store with Sally Brock? bye