Warning ~ Lots of pretty things :)

Hi, Today was the formal opening of The Green Table Gift shop since moving to its new location. Its such a fantastic new location.  There were alot of  people visiting and many of the artists were on hand. There were some pretty door prizes and lots of great food. (Mexican food and cupcakes, doesnt get better than that!)  I wanted to share some of the pictures I took so you can get an idea of all of the amazing handmade and vintage items in the shop.  If you happen to be a fan of Annie Sloan Chalk paint, Green Table Gifts is only one of two shops in Arizona able to carry this very popular paint. Stay tuned for lots of new classes being offered as well.  Here is the link to their website, have a virtual look around:) Hope to see you at shop soon!  In the mean time, enjoy a tour of what you can find.
http://www.gtgifts.com/

      

Shabby Chic Cupcake

Hi, I just wanted to show a few new things I have been working on this week. I am working on some new designs. Lots of new pillow ideas.  I like free motion quilting with three dimensional embellishments.  I am just working out the process to get it from my brain to my hands :)  I plan on doing a couple tutorials soon for handmade ruffled roses and the "icing" satin ribbon trim on the cupcake pillow.
I am working on some pin cushions that may be a nice gift for Mothers Day.  I really love pin cushions. I must have 6 or 7 that I have collected.
It looks like a pretty spring like week ahead. I hope you all have a very pretty week too!   Googars and George are relaxing and enjoying a nap with the fresh air blowing in the window. They leave a lot to be desired as co-workers.  

Its time for Make Mine PInk Friday

After a break for the holidays, I am very excited to get down to business.  I love working hard on making my new plans happen.  Its time for the Make Mine Pink Friday events to begin again. So please join us this friday for our weekly shopping event with the participating shops.

www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday

 Winter is a time when the earth comes to a rest - becomes dormant - hibernates and gathers strength to burst forth with new growth come Spring. So it is with us. As the snow falls, we look towards our homes to provide warmth and comfort. There is no coincidence that Valentine's Day comes in the middle of Winter, just when our hearts look for joy. Immediately we are warmed by the magnificence of Winter's romance. Winter whites brighten up our rooms. White ironstone pitchers in various sizes hold pink roses and babies breath. Crisp white bedding and lace covered pillows beckon us to pick up a good book and snuggle up for a bit. Have a cup of tea. What is the rush?


We need all the visual eye candy we can muster up in our decor this time of year.. Rose covered lampshade casts a feminine hue over the room; distressed chippy furniture holds the collection of cottage birdhouses and vintage teapots. The dresser is strewn with a disarray of hankies, butterfly hairpins and broken china necklaces . As you look at it you realize it is a sweet vignette of a romantic evening out and you smile. It looks like a photo shoot. Now inspired, your thoughts go to Valentine's Day and you open the closet to take out all the heart decorations you can find. Simple joys. Winter romance is always in season!

Guest Writer, Susie Durrschmidt
The Polka Dot Rose

New Pink Display For 2012

Its been a busy start for an exciting new year.  I have so many projects I am working on that I am getting a bit overwhelmed, but I am making progress on some new designs.  To start with I finished my display for my space at Green Table Gifts.  The post below shows some before photos.  I only have it partially filled so far. The grand opening is on February 1st and I will be adding lots of new things before then.  I have been working on some new pillows this weekend too.

This has been somewhat of a trying week at work.  I just dont think I am following my true destination.  Many signs are presenting themselves that I am on the wrong track.  The problem is I feel like I am twirling in a circle looking for an open door or window to go through. The "what not to do" is very clear!  Its what to do about it I am searching for.   So, for this next week I am going to keep myself  buried in my studio. This is what brings me calmness and peace.  I saw an inspirational quote that says "Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death."  I am not sure of the source of the quote, but I love it :)   In the meantime I am going to be creating and doing what I know is true. :) Have a great week and happy creating!!!

The Garage Sale Goddess Was With Me:)

So whats a girl to do when she has to come up with a new display for a shop.  Hit the garage sales!  I havent been for awhile, and actually I only had to go to one.  I was looking for some ideas for a new display for my spot in the ever so cute Green Table Gifts. They are moving to a new and better location on February 1st and its a lot bigger and a different configuration so I had to come up with something new. My back drop will be a vintage door. So I needed fairly narrow and tall.  I found this book case for $5.00!  I am using this frame Patty, from the shop, gave me to use.  I can display and hang my jewelry on the wire.  But of course I had to paint it pink. So much better now:)  I move in to my new home tuesday, but for now some before and after photos and a sneek peek of the display.  If you are in the local area and get a chance, please stop by and check out the new place.  The shop will have many new vendors. Lots of vintage and handmade creations.  If you are a fan of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, you will be very happy.  Green Table Gifts is only one of two stores in Arizona able to sell this great paint.  There is a great selection of colors and I believe there will be some fun classes coming up to use these paints in all of their gorgeous colors.  The new address as of February 1st is   3401 W. Frye Road Suite 13, Chandler, AZ 85226

http://www.gtgifts.com/
(480) 855-5620

Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday 12pm-5pm

This is in the Target Shopping Center behind the Chandler Mall.
 
The other great bargain that I am so thrilled with is this Vera Bradly bag.  There is not a spot on it and I got it for $3.00.  Its perfect to use when I have a teaching class for all of the things I need to bring with me.  It made my day!!  This  "M" pillow is the latest class I taught.  Its for teens and it is so much fun. 
 
Well, I hope you have a great week,  and Pookie and Googars say dont forget to be AWESOME :)

Its Time For Class To Start

Hi:)  Its been a great start to the new year.  For one thing the Shop I am in, Green Table Gifts, is moving to a bigger, brighter and new place.  Its in an awesome location.  I have to come up with a new display set up, and I think I have came up with the perfect plan. I will be posting photos of the new display and shop later this month.  I also start teaching this month.  My first classes will be at Joanns and here are a couple photos of the first couple projects.  The place mat is a beginning class for adults and the little denim bag is a teen class.  Its just the beginning.  I have lots of plans for the next few months.  If there is something you think would be a great sewing, art or craft class, let me know. I would love to hear what would be a good class.  My goal is to have a venue where I can teach my own classes and have other teachers teach as well. 

There has been alot of doodling going on too.  I have been trying to come up with a design I can turn into fabric through Spoonflower to make some new Pet items.  Like harnesses with leads.  This was fun, but not quite what I am looking for.  I am also creating some patterns from some of my cupcake and ice cream cone pillows. So, busy busy and I love every minute of it.  Happy creating... Gail  

Heres to 2012 !!!

Happy New Year:)  I have a great feeling about this coming year.  I know this is a day to make new resolutions on how to make your life better. And I do have a few, number one being, FINALLY clearing out my email boxes at home and work! But I am also looking back and reflecting on the past.  One of my major goals of 2011 was to have my hip replacement and fully recover.  Now that I am on this side of that surgery I am so happy.  I was not very patient most of the time and wondered if I was ever going to get better after all; thank goodness my logical self gave myself until Christmas to feel 100%.  And I really do.  I now need to really build up more strength.  One thing I promised myself was that I would never take walking for granted again. So I am doing all kinds of things I hadnt been able to do for years.  Going to the Mall to go Christmas Shopping was pretty awesome. I had not been to a mall in several years!  But walking everyday is another resolution for 2012.  I have some ideas on where I want my creative endeavors to go as well, but still working out some details.  I have been busy sewing some new things I cant wait to share.
The one thing I own that reflects on my life is my charm bracelet.  It was given to me on my 16th birthday by my Mom and its one of my favorite possessions.  I have tried to keep up with all of the special events and interests of my life.  I wonder what new charms I will collect this year!  I just know I am looking forward to this New Year.  I wish you a happy, healthy and creative New Year!    

Some Christmas Fun:)

Boy,,, its been very busy around here.  Just trying to finish up some gifts, the end of the season shows and making sure my website and the shop I am in are stocked.  I am really looking forward to the New Year. I gave myself this year to have my surgery and make a full recovery from that.  I am so glad to be on this side of that! I am doing very well now. Its taken alot of patience, way more than I normally have, but its been a humbling and learning experience.  But I am ready to take on all of my new projects and ideas and get this New Year rolling:)   I will start teaching sewing classes for adults, teens and kids in January.  I am really looking forward to that and as I build on that I would like to branch out to other class venues.

But for today, we had our annuel contest at Target to dress one of the little dogs. All of the head quarter employees vote on them.  When the voting is done, they will be going to the Childrens Hospital. So no one looses! Its always fun and I love thinking of new ideas for outfits. 

I also got an awesome suprise in the mail from my sweet friend Shell from the Raspberry Rabbits.  She knows me well. I am a goofy girl who loves squirrels!  I know its because I live in AZ and we dont have any here to put up with, but I think they are adorable and so fun to watch.  This little guys is needle felted and even has an acorn in his paws.  He is going to sit on my desk all year round!

And last but not least,, a new photo of my new Grand Pug, Bently.  I think he is about 5 months old now.  He is a tiny guy, and appears wont be too big. Just adorable and the sweetest disposition. Very smart too.  Well, have a great day. I hope everyone is ready for Christmas and all of the holiday celebrations. I am getting there!        

How Many Things Can You Make With A Shirt:)

I am having fun with new ideas. You have to always be looking ahead. I have been creating new designs and also working on drafting patterns of my cupcake and ice cream cone pillows. But I have also been having some fun repurposing mens shirts.  I found this pink and white striped shirt at goodwill and made a chair cover, two wine bottle gift bags and with some left over scraps, a cupcake pot holder:)

I hope everyone is getting ready for family celebrations and have a wonderful Thanksgiving! 

Green Table Gifts Holiday Event

HI,, I wanted to share an exciting event going on tonight at Green Table Gifts.  This is a local shop I am in.  This is going to be so much fun. You can come in and meet the local artist, have some holiday treats and even win some great door prizes.

 

Stocking Stuffer Shop Opens At Make Mine Pink

Make Mine Pink "Stocking Stuffer Shop" Will open November 15th and run through December 15th.

Everyone loves getting a stocking. I know both of my daughters are in their 30's (yikes, can this be true!!), and still love getting a stocking. Its one of their favorite traditions.  If you are looking for really unique and fun ideas just stop by Make Mine Pink beginning tomorrow. 

Make Mine Pink Friday

When Family Gathers


November brings the excitement of preparation and planning for when the family gathers. The air is crisp in Autumn and the days are short, however, nothing warms us up more than coming home. Whether if just for a day or two, there is much to do to get ready for the guests to arrive.

Furniture needs to be moved to accommodate everyone. Small side tables come out. Remember to put the extra leaves in the table and count all the chairs. Ironing the large tablecloth and linen napkins is a pleasure as visions of the holiday tablescape come into plan: soup tureens, gravy bowls, large serving bowls, extra silverware and serving pieces, candlestick holders and the very best china and crystal stemware comes out to be used and enjoyed by all.

Don't forget to plump up the pillows and add another quilt to the daybed as Uncle always loves to take a little 'cat nap' after dinner as much as he tries not to. All the youngsters can play with the tins filled with vintage old fashioned games of dominoes, cards, wooden blocks, marbles, buttons, paper dolls and Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, to name but a few of the childhood treasures.

I cannot wait to hear the squeals of 'ooh's and ah's' as everyone sees the desserts making their grand debut.on two tiered bone china servers, cut crystal platters, Nippon candy dishes and decorative baskets filled to the brim with delicious delights. Everyone will gather around with child-like anticipation as they try to select 'oh just one of these....maybe one of those'. The tea which has been seeping in the teapot is ready to be poured into the various floral teacups. Nothing matches and that is what makes it so quaint and charming.

The apron can now come off. Tugging at my heart strings, I stop my pondering and say a prayer of thanks for when the family gathers and look forward to our time together.

Join the shops at Make Mine Pink for this weeks theme..... When Family Gathers.  This one day shopping event will have lots of pretty items perfect for the upcoming holidays. 
http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/

Show and Tell Monday

It is getting craft show season and I have been busy at work. My first show is friday night and I am doing it with my friend Phyllis.  I am working on all new products.  They are in a various state of completion. So I will have more to show during the week.  Not only are the craft shows gearing up, but the Stocking Stuffer Shop is due to open at Make Mine Pink in a couple of weeks.  So I am going to keep my nose to the sewing machine so I have lots of new things for this fall.

Today I finished a couple pumpkin and apple pot holders. I also wanted to share my new dress form I just got.  Its not vintage, but she will do. I got her at Home Goods for a very, very good price. Just could not leave her there.  She will be perfect for display for many of my new things. Jewelry, purses and shrugs.

I wish I have more hours in the day.  Besides having to work the day job, adding inventory to all of my shops, craft shows and my website, I am really trying to get some more classes  scheduled.  Thats going well, but boy I would love to have more time to really get that project going.  I hope you all have a great week and find time for creating! I will be back soon:)

Wedding Party Hair Barrettes

I hope its a pretty fall day in your part of the world.  This time of year I get so inspired. The holidays are coming and everywhere you look you see wonderful holiday projects.  The holiday issues of the magazines are out and websites are getting decked out too.  I am officially addicted to Pinterest.com too. :)  I have been getting so much done and new ideas are sketched out and waiting for the patterns to be finished so that I can start the sewing.  I am getting new ideas ready for classes as well. I hope to expand teaching classes to different venues around town. If anyone has any ideas for a class you would like to see offered, please let me know:).  My day job is just not working out and I plan on working very hard over the next couple months to change direction.

I have been doing some special orders for customers also. Thats been picking up too. Its all very exciting. My last project was these hair barrettes for an upcoming wedding for a co-worker.  Her wedding is going to be in a pretty shade of red with peacock accents. 

Thanks for stopping by and happy creating! 
    

Loving October

October is my favorite month. When you live in the southwest desert and its been months of triple digit weather any relief is awesome.  It still gets in the low 100's in the afternoons, but the mornings and evenings are so pretty.  Not to mention October is mega birthday month around here. Nearly all of my family and friends birthdays are in October so there is alot of celebrating going on.

I have been trying to transition my work life into a more creative job.  I made the decision to go part time at my job. I wasnt healing from my surgery as well as I should have been sitting for 8 hours straight everyday.  So I go in from 6 to 10 in the mornings. I will be teaching sewing classes at Joanns starting officially in January, but may do some classes in Dec.  Once I get things perfected I really hope to branch out and do more of that. It seems like alot of fun.  I really have alot of ideas I am working on.ting ready.  From here I hope to be able to get started on my own shop and event space next year.

So with my reduced hours I am making sure not to waste anytime and being as productive as possible.  I am trying to stock up the two stores I am in and re-do my website.  This is a few things I have been working on this past weekend.  For the holidays I made some double ruffled crepe paper streamers and its time to start making Christmas ornaments.  I am busy making the cupcakes and the ice cream cone ornaments.  The pink plate is what I painted when my friends took me to As You Wish pottery painting studio for my birthday. :)  That is always so much fun to do.  If you have a birthday in October to, Happy Birthday! Enjoy the fall weather where ever you are.
    

Join us for Pink October

PINK OCTOBER: Each year many of the boutiques at Make Mine Pink get together to give back to a charitable organization of their choice by holding a Pink October event. This year, because October is also "Domestic Violence Awareness Month," we've decided to hold a special "all pink boutique" contributing 10% of all sales to The Pink Slipper Project. We hope that you'll stop by and see some of the fabulous PINK merchandise we'll have for your enjoyment.


www.makeminepink.com/holiday/
http://www.pinkslipperproject.org/
The Pink October Boutique will open at 12:00am October 7th and run through October 21st.

This is going to be such an awesome event and if you love pink like I do, this is THE place to be shopping. Every thing will be pink:)  Stop by and have a look.