Friday Features

Posted on November 22, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Hi All.

Here’s ………….. FRIDAY.

Once again, time for Friday Features.

First, a quick update on what’s happening around Artzzle. There is a bit more work to be done on the TV tray project mentioned last week. You’ll see it soon. Artzzle is feeling tired and wants a make-over. So we’re on the search for ideas, with the goal to introduce a fresh face in January. No promises, but it would be great to launch the new year in with a new look. That’s the goal.

Friday Features are never difficult. The only hard part is deciding which three sites to use out of the many possibilities! You may be a bit surprised at my choices this week.

Photo Courtesy of GFPH blog.

GLUTEN-FREE POODLE HOME is first.
Yes, you read that right. The home is gluten-free, though not the poodles. I know that because the poodles are one of Gloria’s ceramic collections. She blogs about collecting and decorating, but could never try any great online recipes as she has CELIAC DISEASE. As a registered dietitian, she knows the scoop, so she added a section that gives some great gluten-free recipes (also great for diabetics … like me)! I also like most of them because they are EASY and you all know how I hate to cook! 🙂

C’mon now, who can resist poodles, collections and tasty food that’s easy to make?
Check her out and be sure to tell her Cheryl at Artzzle says hi! Here’s GFPH.

Next is LEAF and TWIG
Short and sweet, the title and the blog, but absolutely beautiful. My love of photography and poetry drew me to this site. At the time of publication, I had not received permission to exhibit a photo from their site, so have featured one of mine.

They introduce their page as “Where observation and imagination meet nature in poetry”. Each post greets you with a colorful nature photograph accompanied by short, elegant lines of HAIKU. My mornings begin with this post as first open. Discover LEAF and TWIG.

Photo courtesy of TSH blog

Third one is a charm … and THE SEASONED HOMEMAKER is that and more.

Leslie is a mom and grandma, who loves her home and shares many homemaking talents on the blog. Truly a woman for “all” seasons, she sews, cooks, decorates and gardens. With sewing expertise she has opened a successful Etsy shop, selling patterns for her custom designs. Always busy, Leslie is presently sharing a journey through down-sizing in a newly built home. Lots to like here. Take a look at TSH

I’ll send at least one more post before next week’s holiday.

Until next time, as always, don’t stress too much, just start something.

Later – Cheryl

This original article “Friday Features” appeared first on Artzzle.com.

No included content or photography can be used elsewhere without specific permission from said originators.

Reader’s Wreath

Posted on November 18, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Hi All.

Here’s a short post today to share a shot of a reader’s project. This was made from our Wreath for All Seasons post tutorial.

This was made by some special Iowa readers; my step-daughter Cindra and granddaughter Brianna. They found their fabric at Walmart. It was one of those little scrap bundles for quilting. The bundle had several different patterns in colors they liked, so strips were cut, and they developed a design going around the wreath.

Their wreath was done on a 9 inch frame. This was their first attempt and it was made to hang in Bri’s bedroom. The gals worked together and the project took just a couple of hours. It was so easy and fun, they’re going to do another one for the holidays! Send more pictures ladies.

Also coming up this week, Thanksgiving printables and some “fun find” projects.

As always, don’t stress, just start.

Later – Cheryl

This original article “Reader’s Wreath” appeared first on Artzzle.com.

No included content or photography can be used elsewhere without specific permission from said originators.

Friday Features

Posted on November 15, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

It’s Friday. Yep, it rolls around every week about now.

Friday is (usually) my “go to town” day. I’m trying to become a “scheduler” type. You know … organize my time, supposedly to control it and maximize use.

This is the day I schedule for away trips … get groceries, run errands, and do a little side shopping when the budget permits. Aby over at SIMPLIFY 101 has lots of sensible tips for organizing. Her info has concise, to-the-point suggestions that can be read quickly and applied easily to your home routines. Best of all, she allows for flexibility with schedules and rules. Aby knows, as do we all, that everyday, things just happen that weren’t on the schedule, and we have to adapt … go with the flow.

Today’s Friday for me, is flowing more towards staying home. It’s a gorgeous, sunny day and I’m in the mood for … well, I’m not exactly sure what I’m in the mood for, but it isn’t going to town and dealing with “places packed with people”.

My Newfie/Lab mix Fozzie is keeping me company this morning. Our Gracie is very much a “girly girl”. She’s sleeping in.

I started my Friday morning out at my computer, in my “new-to-me” desk chair. Isn’t it bootyful? And it fits my booty so comfortably.

Mr. Chair and Miss Mirror were found at a favorite area store, DISCOVERY THRIFT My local readers love Discovery, but it’s also proof positive for everyone else, that you should investigate any/all thrift stores in your own area because there are big deals that don’t need big budgets. Okay, so I have to share what I paid (and make everyone jealous). The mirror was … wait for it … $15 … YES, just fifteen dollars! It is heavy glass with solid wood framing. If you’ve ever searched for mirrors of this quality, used or otherwise, you know what a bargain this is.

And the super comfortable, clean and adjustable desk chair (in excellent repair) … are you ready? My chair was only $35 and worth every penny. I’m at my desk, enjoying it right now.

I’m thinking of putting my mirror on top of this piece. Will probably do some sort of paint treatment on both to bring them together.

Everyone is budget concious now days, even bloggers and DIYers. That’s why I wanted to share another online find today, for you artistic types. Karen, THE GRAPHICS FAIRY is one of my featured favorites today. We seem to have quite a bit in common; blended families, graphics design; dog lovers. and Karen shares ~~oodles~~ well ~~tons~~, let’s just say LOTS of wonderful graphics images for just about any project a person can think of … and they’re FREE. Plus there are DIY projects, tutorials and all kinds of fun stuff.

Do you notice how most blogs are about more than just one thing? They are a wonderful way for us to share, care and learn about many interests. That’s why I began Artzzle, because I’ve always truly felt that Life is a “Giant Puzzle of Art and Design”.

Hope I’ve added a few pieces to your puzzle today! Visit these features and let me know what you think. And tell them Cheryl at Artzzle sent you over. Be sure to share your favorite posts with friends so they can join us too!

As always, don’t stress, just start.

Later – Cheryl

This original article in “Friday Features” appeared first on Artzzle.com.

No included content or photography can be used elsewhere without specific permission from said originators.

Featured Favorites

Posted on October 19, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Hi all. My computer and my printer/scanner still aren’t playing nice together, so thought I would share some wonderful web inspiration I’ve found this week.

The “Eyes” Have It

One of my favorite haunts is over at DOGS DON’T EAT PIZZA. Karen loves kids, dogs and home projects … just like me! You have to check out her latest cute idea, which looks like Halloween but has a special treat at the end!

The Art Part

Those of you who have been asking for more Art articles will like this site. When I found Cassandra Tondro’s work, I immediately asked for permission to share it. Visit here CASSANDRA TONDRO Green Art and learn about her philosophy of “green art – art with a concience”. And take plenty of time to browse as there are lots of “Ooh Ahh” moments.

Mixed Bag

I could just go on and on about this next site. .129 Twig and Vine

Sue over there, is a multi-talented gal. Her photography amazes, her collage work is such fun, but don’t miss her “Henhouse Fibers” spot.

My post could be as endless as the internet … but I have to go (eat as it’s 2:13 p.m. and I’m starving). I’m going to make “Featured Favorites” a weekly column. Let me know what you think.

Big THANK YOU’s to Karen, Cassandra and Sue for allowing me to share with you their wonderful work.

As always, don’t stress, just start!
Later –

Cheryl

This original article “Featured Favorites” appeared first on Artzzle.com.
Copyright © 2013 Artzzle All Rights Reserved

No included content or photography can be used elsewhere without specific permission from said originators.

9/11/01 … In Remembrance

Posted on September 11, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Remembering the courageous many who died because of a cowardly few.
Americans … this is OUR country. Praise it proudly.

Tuesday Talkin’ on Fall Decorating

Posted on September 10, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Hey everyone,

Are those Fall colors coming to play at your place yet?

Karen over at Dogs Don’t Eat Pizza started a great Tuesday Talk group, and today’s topic is about Decorating for Fall.

Give yourself a little fun time and head on over. I did 🙂

Later – Cheryl

Art Crawl, Y’all

Posted on August 22, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

“Autumn Ride to the Farm” Acrylic on canvas

Okay, corny, but I needed something that rhymed with crawl. I’m attending a fun art event tomorrow and wanted to tell you all about it! Pictured today are some of my older artworks, as I mostly paint walls and wood lately.

Minnesota’s metropolitan Twin Cities are not the only artistic areas the state has. I was afraid that might not be the case when I moved up to the Princeton area. I was very surprised and happy to discover many opportunities and great organizations up here, that interest and support artistic endeavors of all kinds.

“Social Security Check” Conte on paper.

St. Cloud, Minnesota is a heavy art area and that’s where Hubs and I are headed tomorrow. Here’s the scoop

St Cloud Sizzling Summer Art Crawl
August 23, 2013
10 A.M – 9 P.M.

What time is it? It’s Art Crawl Time! Come crawl St Cloud’s Historic Downtown Sizzling Art Crawl August 23rd, 10am-9pm. Over 30 venues will host 50+ local artists, including undergrads and graduates of the SCSU studio arts program.
There will be an Art Off! From 4pm-6pm, in which a group of artists will live paint to the funky bluegrass stylings of the Zombie Pit String Band. Art work made to the tasty licks of the Zombies will be auctioned off after the event.
Hoopers, fire breathers, musicians and demonstrating artists will be located up and down the the streets to perform and tantalize the senses.
And for the kids we have the elbow pot exchange at the Mahowald Plaza where kids can make and exchange clay pots.
Are you ready to get your art on?
For more information, check out our website at ART CRAWL ST. CLOUD

“Experiment in Color & Technique” Water color on paper.

And there’s more. The exhibit “Art as a Catalyst for Social Change” is on display from June 20th – August 30th in the Paramount Theater lobby (free admission). Tomorrow, the public is invited to join Juror, Michael Strand at a reception on August 23rd, 4-6pm with an awards ceremony at 5pm. for participants in this exhibit. The ceremony will be held in the Paramount Lobby. LINK HERE for complete information.

The long promised (but probably not long awaited) tutorial on the wedding flowers will be posted next week. They’re all done and the big event is tomorrow. Hubs dropped them off today and I received the official OK from the bride. Whew, now I can relax!

Before I go I wanted to share this recent shot from my front garden.

We have a family of three robins that resides in the big old ninebark right by our front door. The dad always cusses me out when I go out to water, but then he flaps around in the puddle, the fickle fella!

Here’s baby Robin broadcasting his opinion from our tomato cage yesterday. Ahh … I love where I live!

As always, don’t stress about a project, just start one.

Later – Cheryl

Thanks for visiting. You’ve just read “Art Crawl, Y’all” on Artzzle.com. I love comments and questions so send “em” my way. And be sure to spread the word about Artzzle to your friends. The more the merrier!

Remember, all content on Artzzle, text and photography, is copyrighted and cannot be used in any form, without my expressed permission, or approval from material’s originator(s). You can leave a comment below with any questions on this.

Thoughts for Thursday

Posted on August 15, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Hi All,

Is it really Thursday … already?! Well I’m glad, not because the weekend is coming as I’ll be doing wedding work straight through anyway. But Thursday means I can take a nice, long break and get a post out to you! So here are a few thoughts for Thursday.

My fingers are bruised and burned from all the cutting, gluing and re-doing of bouts and bouquets. NO, I’m not finished, not even close, but YES I’ll give you a teaser of progress so far. And YES, I will give you a tutorial post on the bouts, but later …. much later! Remember to click on the photos to get a better look.

As my assembly line routine moves along wih the flowers, I get some daydreaming in while working. Hey, double-duty with my time … yay. Course that might contribute to some of the burns 😦 The idea list for future projects is lengthy, and there have been some great junking and treasure trips of late, so my objects and supplies are growing too! Here’s what I’ve been daydreaming about.

Metals, Woods and Fabric Goods

FABRICS
A planned project is to make several toss pillows. Wal-Mart had some great fabric sales recently, so I marched right over, with definite ideas in my head. We all know that you don’t alwas automatically find what you thought you wanted when you walked in. This trip I wanted 3 (that magic number again!) patterns for the living room. Saw one terrific main design and a second, so-so workable pattern but just couldn’t come up with that third neutral texture. Okay, so mom’s voice said keep an open mind, stay positive. Low and behold, I found 3 fantastic patterns that would work in the guest room, the family room or as a change out in the master bedroom. Eurecka! So, there you go … and here they are, pictured below.

Blues, browns and tan are the main colors in the guest bedroom. Our family room walls are a mid-range tan, sort of dull gold, and the master is a lighter, brighter neutral cream so these choices will work with all three.

WOODS
I’m always scouting for objects with fun shapes and of course, anything wooden is popular right now, in all styles of decor. One of our neighbors about four miles over (remember we live in the country) has a big old poll barn, make that a GIGANTIC pole barn and it’s a picker’s heaven. Here are some wooden pieces I adopted recently at one of his famous Barn Sales.

Now you’re saying, “what the heck can she do with those?”. And my answer is “how the heck do I know … yet”. But Hubs has taken to sketching out some of my ideas and when he starts drawing, something good always happens. You’ll just have to be patient along with me, as there’s often some distance between the drawing and the doing parts. HINT: I want a floor piece of artwork using at least some of the wood stuff, something that stands about 4-5 feet high, and I love copper piping. Wonder what he’ll come up with.

METALS
For some reason, I’ve become drawn to metal baskets and wire containers. You’ll remember the painted buckets from last month, but here are some tiny ones I just found.

And look at these cool baskets and weird little shelf looking objects we’ve collected. My favorites are the bigger milk box that has a Minnesota tag on it, and the wonderful, metal handled basket. I know I won’t paint over the local tag as that’s part of the history of the piece.

The basket is a dilema for me though. It’s just fine (and very appealing) as it is, after a little clean-up. But then, I keep picturing it in some bright color too. We’ll all have to wait and see on that one.

One more shot of fun finds of the fabric kind. I know, I know, I’m not staying in the right order. It’s the old “I’m so excited I just have to write it down quick” thing happening today.

Here are some beautiful scarves I’ve found recently. No collectibles like VERA or KIM PARKERs but nice just the same. Two square ones in different sizes, and two more that are oblong and perfect for table runners OR dress up. There’s that double-duty I like. Spent no more than $0.50 – $1.75 on any of these, so economical too.

Now, I really do need to get back to the flower project. Oops … it’s already 2:00 p.m. Guess it would be a good idea to eat something too! Eating … that reminds me of a great E-Z recipe a friend gave me the other day. YES, me actually talking about cooking … amazing right! But the key words here are EASY, CHEAP, DELICIOUS and PRETTY presentation and it doesn’t even take much time.

But guess what, I forgot to take a picture before I ate it (yes all of it), so you’ll have to stay in touch to find out more.

Meanwhile, have a safe, fun weekend and remember, don’t stress, just start something!

Later – Cheryl
Here’s where I always say thanks “for visiting. You’ve just read “Thoughtful Thursday” on Artzzle. I love comments and questions so send “em” my way”.

Here’s a little something else today. I know from several comments and emails that you’re enjoying Artzzle.com and I’m so glad. Now, can I ask you (actually beg you) to spread the word to your friends … co-workers … strangers on the street … just anyone! I love doing the blog but one of my goals is to acquire some sponsors, advertisers and hopefully a little bit of green, so Hubs doesn’t have to work so hard! For that I need followers, viewers and lots of comments to build my stats and entice those customers over.

Thanks, I knew you’d understand. 🙂

Fozzy and Gracie signing off

Oxymoron Mondays

Posted on August 12, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

Some Sunday stroll lovelies.
This is not a formal, structured arrangement; no tape, wire or frogs.
I’ve just filled the vase with water, insert taller pieces, then clump a few similiar flowers together and begin placing them here and there.
Here I’ve used 3 types of wild flowers – Brown Eyed Susans, Daisies and Alfalfa; 3 fillers – Russian Sage, and two wild grasses are added for height, texture and filler.
Continually watered, these will last for several days.

Words are fun aren’t they? One of my favorites is “oxymoron”.

Merriam Webster says: “Definition OXYMORON
:a combination of contradictory or incongruous words (as cruel kindness); broadly: something (as a concept) that is made up of contradictory or incongruous elements”

Monday is a big ole oxymoron for me. It can be slow and draggy, because I didn’t want the weekend to end, but it might also be energized and inspired from events of the previous two days. Monday this week is just a big mix of moods and must do’s.

Awoke to beautiful sunshine, but 7:00 am was way too early, as 2:00 a.m. was bedtime last night (remember we’re night people because of Hubs’ job). So a little draggy, but we have to drop off a vehicle at the shop before DB leaves for work, so I need to get going.

I assembled tools to begin making bouts.
* Two widths of satin ribbon in two colors
* Tin snips
* Wire (this is 26 gauge, suitable for small projects and beaded strips)
* Hot glue gun
* Optional Crimper (sometimes it’s fun to crimp some of your ribbon)
* Pearl tipped strait pins

Lots to do today; usual cleaning but also have to begin the boutonnieres for the wedding. That word never looks right no matter how you spell it, so I always have to check! Anyway, have to at least start the “bouts (boots)” but only have 5 so not a huge chore. Haven’t done any recent projects that work for a good post, but have lots of ideas for upcoming slots. Because of short night, I’ll probably need an afternoon nap. And the list grows. You know what I mean.

Our primary flowers are the roses, with 3 sizes of blooms on each stem.
For the bouts, I’ve cut the smallest bud, which will be the main flower in the boutonnaire.
Always give your cuts as much of the stem as possible; too long is better than too short!

I’ve also cut the smallest clumps of our neutral flowers, to be used in the bouts, and pulled 1 small section from the variegated filler as well.
TIP: When doing your cuttings, always keep any remnants of flowers, leaves and wire. They may come in handy somewhere along the process.

Here are little extra pieces that fell from the main stems. I always keep EVERYTHING, until the project is finished.

TIP: Always take as much stem wire as possible when making your cuts. You can snip off excess later if you don’t need it.

Each of my days start with an email check, but Monday’s are especially nice, because I get so many inspirational tidbits from my blogger buddies. Today was not a let-down. Wanting to start quietly, I opened LEAF AND TWIG first to see the wonderful words and images awaiting there. Next I was energized with that beautiful voice over at CHARLOTTE HOATHER’s site.

Now I was ready for whatever mixed media piece THE SEASONED HOMEMAKER was sharing today. This time it was about sewing which isn’t one of my talents, BUT I learned something to pass on to Hubs, as he begins his upholstering adventures. Then colorful inspiration hit me from Donna’s post at DECORATING WITH DONNA.

And finally I followed up on comments from BENJAMIN VOGT‘s weekend gardening discussion over at HOUZZ. Benjamin one of HOUZZ’s regular contributors on gardening, and specializes in natural or native species plants.

Well, the day is half over and there’s still more to do. I’ll post a full tutorial when I work on the boutonnieres. Lot’s of great links today and more on the FUN PLACES list to check out too!

Meantime, our entire week here is supposed to be beautiful weather. Hope yours is too. And remember, don’t stress, just start.

Later – Cheryl
Thanks for visiting. You’ve just read “Oxymoron Mondays” on Artzzle.com. I love comments and questions so send “em” my way.

Minnesota Nice … AND Busy

Posted on August 7, 2013 by Cheryl @ Artzzle

In our state we have a saying “Minnesota Nice” because we think we’re pretty likeable. Well, whether the weather is cold or hot, we also keep very busy in Minnesota. August and September are our last warm months of the year, which means busy … busy … busy, and I am too!

Our oldest daughter is getting remarried later this month and my contribution is the flowers. She and I went “silks” shopping last weekend at a local MICHAELS. In floral design, once again my magic number three is employed. I had her choose a primary flower – the two-toned roses; a secondary flower – the smaller pink blossomed stems and a filler, the neutral creme, multi-blossomed stems. Add greens and ribbon and there you go. Our greens here are varigated to add a little more interest and pull in the neutral. Her colors are dark pink, ivory and silver for the metallic.

I will post a “how to” as I assemble the bouts and bouquets. Silk flowers are easy to work with and very economical for weddings vs. fresh flowers and arrangements. More on that in the tutorial post.

It’s fair time in Minnesota so check it out here STATE FAIR

RE USE MINNESOTA is another of my recent web finds. If you get to the state fair check out their decorating exhibit “Room with a “Re” Purpose. Should be interesting.

ReUSE featured at State Fair We are very excited to present “Room with a ‘Re’Purpose” at the State Fair this year. Through beautiful interior design and furniture ideas, we will demonstrate opportunities to reuse and repair everyday items. In the Eco Experience’s Dept. of Commerce’s energy home.

In September I’m headed to JUNK BONANZA Check it out for a ton of fun! Am hoping to drag along my son and his lady, because they live down that way and they’re a blast at these things.

And I’ve found a wonderful reference that lists stores, festivals and junking jaunts, not only in Minnesota but across the country. So even if you’re on vacation you can plan to pop in at a few places along your way! Check it out at
FLEA QUEST.

Answer to last time’s Kim Parker question.

The question today is “Who is KIM PARKER and why do I love her book so much?”
Kim is a well known artist and designer of textiles and home design items. She has product lines in many major department stores. I found her through her first book “Kim Parker Home” and was recently very honored to have her join me on HOUZZ as an Artzzle follower. Check out her link or find her on her HOUZZ page (or following along on MY HOUZZ page).

This time, the question is for you to answer and it’s two part; what does the rest of your summer look like AND will you share your favorite haunts, fests and fairs with me on Artzzle?

Check out all the article links and attack the new “FUN PLACES” list.
With weddings and house guests, fairs and fun fests galore, I’m super busy for the next several weeks. But I’ll try to get one or two posts in each week.

Oops, speaking of guests, I have a bunch coming for dinner tonight, so better get going. Don’t worry, it’s VERY casual and they’re bringing the pizza. All I have to do is clean … oh man, it’s 4:00 already!

Remember, don’t stress, just start.

Later – Cheryl

Thanks for visiting. You’ve just read “Minnesota Nice and Busy” on Artzzle.com. I love comments and questions so send “em” my way.

ARTZZLE

Helping with the Pieces in Life's Puzzle of Art and Design

Category Archives: Chat

Friday Features

Reader’s Wreath

Friday Features

Featured Favorites

9/11/01 … In Remembrance

Tuesday Talkin’ on Fall Decorating

Art Crawl, Y’all

Thoughts for Thursday

Oxymoron Mondays

Minnesota Nice … AND Busy

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: