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Since the topic "craft" encompasses such a vast terrain I thought I'd start by listing exactly what I mean. If you are involved in any of the following areas or making any of the following or just have a passion for any of the following and you have a blog then you would be included in my search for the best "craft" blogs out there: Accessories, Altered Art, Americana, Angels, Animal Crafts, Antiques, Apparel Making, Applique, Aromatherapy, Art, Baby Crafts, Baskets, Bath and Body Products (Homemade), Beadwork, Bears, Birds and Birdhouses, Blogs for Crafters, Bridal Crafts, Broom Crafts, Bunnies, Button Making, Cake Decorating, Calligraphy, Candles and Candle Making, Canvas Crafts, Card Making, Cartoons, Carving, Ceramics, Children's Crafts, Christmas Crafts, Clay, Clock Making, Cloth Crafts, Collectibles, Colonial Crafts, Country Crafts, Crafts Blogs, Crazy Quilting, Creative Embroidery, Crewel, Crocheting, Cross-Stitch, Curtains and Curtain Making, Decorative Painting, Deco Art, Decoupage, Digital Art, Dolls and Doll Making, Dried Florals, Drawing and Sketching, Dyeing, Egg Art, Embroidery, Enameling, E-Patterns, Etchings, Extreme Primitives, Fabrics, Fiber Arts, Floral Crafts, Folkart, Food Crafts, Fragrance Crafts, FREE crafts, Furniture Making, Gardens and Garden Crafts, General Arts and Crafts, Gift Making, Glass Art, Graphics, Handcrafted Items, Hats and Hat Making, Hobbies, Home Decor, Holiday Crafts, Homemade Lotions, Illustrations, Instant Download E-Patterns, Jewelry and Jewelry Making, Knitting, Lace and Lace Making, Lamps and Lamp Making, Latch Hook, Leather Crafts, Macrame, Magnets, Mats, Metal Crafts, Miniatures, Mixed Media, Mosaics, Musical Crafts, Muslin Crafts, Nautical Crafts, Native American Crafts, Needlepoint, Origami, Painting, Paper Crafts, Papier Mache, Patterns and Pattern Creation, Patriotic Crafts, Pen and Ink Crafts, Penny Rugs, Pet Crafts, Pet Edibles (Homemade), Photography, Pictures and Picture Frames, Pillows, Pins, Plastic Crafts, Pocketbooks, Poetry, Polymer Clay, Porcelain Crafts, Portraits, Potpourri, Pottery, Primitives, Printables, Prints, Punch Needle, Punched Tin, Quilling, Quilts and Quilting, Raffia, Ribbon Crafts, Rubber Stamping, Rugs and Rug Making, Rug Hooking and Making, Rusty Tin Crafts, Santa's, Scale Models, Sculpey, Sculpture, Scrapbooking, Seasonal Crafts, Sewing, Shabby Chic, Silk Florals, Snowmen, Stamping, Stationary Design, Soaps and Soap Making, Spinning, Stenciling, Stitchery, Stones, Teddy Bears, Textile Art, Tole Painting, TyeDying, Victorian Crafts, Videography, Vintage Crafts, Wallpaper, Watercolors, Wearable Art, Weaving, Wedding Crafts, Wholsesale Crafts, Wire Art, Wood Crafts, Woodland Crafts, Woodworking, Wreaths, Writing, Yard Crafts.

Also, if you are involved with creating craft projects, craft instructions, resources for crafts, craft shows, craft software, craft supplies, wholesale crafts, craft books, craft magazines, craft promotion, craft business information or craft directories and you have a blog then I'd love to know about you too.

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Get To Know The Artists/Crafter Series - Brenda Greenwalt of Lillie Mae's Crafts

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

Craftiness does not run in my family and many have wondered where I got it as it certainly was not inherited.

I was taught how to crochet as a teenager, while babysitting for a next door neighbor. I loved it so much that I taught my grandmother. I still remember the sight of her as she sat in her rocking chair, watching her great-grandchildren playing outside, and crocheting. She made afghans for everyone in the family which we all now cherish as she has been gone now for quite some time. She loved crocheting and I have always felt much honored to have been able to share this with her and love the fact that it brought her so much joy.

2) What was your very first creation?

My first creation was a purse. I was absolutely thrilled when I crocheted my first purse which in actual fact was simply a square; I turned up the bottom, turned down the top, and viola…a purse.

3) What types of items do you create?

Chloe


Flower One


I have been active over the years in many different crafts such as bath and body, glass block night lights, crochet (of course) and locker hooking as well as many more. Within the last couple of years though I have started creating primitive doll patterns which I love so much I actually have to make a concentrated effort to tear myself away. Chloe, pictured here, was my very first primitive doll and Flower one of my most recent.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Lillie Mae


I actually have two favorite creations; one is a doll created in the image of my grandmother as a child which I named after her, “Lillie Mae” and the second is a doll I created in the image of my mother as a child named “Maxine.”

Maxine


5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

There have been many that I have struggled with, but I’m not only a perfectionist, but also very stubborn. I very rarely give up on anything I have started if I feel it’s worth the work.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I would love to learn to weave rugs. I have always had a somewhat distant love affair with large rug looms but have never had the opportunity to try one out…yet.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

No…I don’t believe there is.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

Lillie Mae’s Crafts at http://lilliemaes.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I wrote my first entry in my blog on July 6, 2007. I created my blog originally to give more exposure to my creations, but enjoy trying to convey on my blog my love of crafts.

10) What do you blog about?

I think my very first blog entry would best fit this question.

The Starting Line

"Crafters are creative and talented people who thrive on the thrill of seeing the finished product." Annette Graf

Like Annette Graf above, I love seeing the "finished product" and cannot be stopped or detoured until my project is done. I never know when or where my inspiration is going to come from, but when it hits I take off at break neck speed and heaven help anyone who gets in my way. Breaking all of the speed limits (haven't been caught yet) I zoom around my workshop hunting for the proper material, paint, ribbon, hunting in drawers, buckets, bins. With one eye always on the finish line, I arrange my products and start my journey. It is a journey I love, full of colors and textures and scents; I can never get enough. I am addicted.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

A tremendous amount of time, energy, but most of all love goes into every primitive doll pattern I create. My patterns are all absolutely original designs, created and crafted here in Muncie, Indiana in my little humble garage/workshop/office.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

I named my business after my grandmother; Lillie Mae’s Crafts; http://www.lilliemaescrafts.com

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

My customers are VERY important and very precious to me. My patterns are intentionally created and written so that even the beginner should have no problem creating a primitive doll that they can admire, showcase and cherish forever.




Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Monday, June 16, 2008

Get To Know The Artists/Crafter Series - Sherrie Nordgren of Sympletymes Blog and Bloomingaprons Blog

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I grew up in a very creative home, also loads of Antiques as a child,
Mom did it all and to perfection..
Oil painting, Sewing in many textile areas, But I was a tomb boy at heart not really interested in arts...
My creative talent first appeared when I was first married at the ripe old age of 18.

2) What was your very first creation?

My Mother and Grandmother owned their own ceramic studio,
I took all the classes they offered in doing new techniques, From painting faces, Brush strokes, Using golds and silvers, new glazes and so on....
Then Mom started china painting and opened her own studio,I did china painting for about 10 years..
Just loving it.

3) What types of items do you create?

I now create Primitive,Whimsical, FolkArt, Vintage, Every thing from cloth...
Rag Dolls to Raggedys, Tags, PinKeeps,Vintage Toys, Aprons 1930's to 1950s retro.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Cloth Doll created in FolkArt media...



5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Columbian style cloth doll, Is my most difficult creation,
Columbian Dolls I love dearly...



The faces on Columbian dolls are simple yet very sharp,
I tend to want to over do,
Not knowing when to stop.
Also the clothing for these type of dolls are very detailed if you're doing it authentically in that historical time period.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I so want to try clay over cloth!
I adore the dolls and sculptures' that I have seen that is clay over cloth,
I'm a very visual person definitely hands on,
So hopefully one day I can take a clay over cloth class.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

There really is not art I dislike,
I do wonder at times though why something is called "Art"
Then realize the true saying "Art is in the eye of the beholder!"

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

SympleTymes - http://sympletymes.blogspot.com/

BoomingAprons - http://boomingaprons.blogspot.com/

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I started SympleTymes - http://sympletymes.blogspot.com/ about two years ago
I love to blog because it is so different from having a web site,
Blogging has allowed me to be just me and not all about me.
I have such a strong passion for the art I create and what others create within the same media's, I love sharing their arts with others,
No matter whether I even know them or not,
It's all about the passion.


BoomingAprons - http://boomingaprons.blogspot.com/
is my brand blog - it's about Aprons,
It's a fantastic renewal of creative juices
Yet still creating in the media I love so dearly.
Primitive,Whimsical, FolkArt, Vintage,
I love hand made, Vintage Patterns, Funky and Beautiful!

10) What do you blog about?

I usually blog about what's up, what's new, Swaps, News Of others,
Just doing a heads up type of thing,
I blog about my newest creations, Or what I'm working on,
I get so passionate and so excited about what I'm doing,
Sharing with all is very important to me,
I get so excited when I'm working on a new creation ..
Or others creations...
I love talking and sharing with others just like a kid!
Doesn't matter whether people leave a comment or not.
Though it is always nice to get a comment,
I do wish though people would offer loving critiquing though.
Nice comments are great but critiquing is so helpful in ones growth.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

about me: I Live in Florida, with my Husband Gene high school sweet heart and best friend.
It is because of his support and never ending encouragement , That I am pursuing my dream of creating,
Our kids are grown and now we have gone to the dogs:) We are owned by two spoiled dogs..Roscoe a MinPin and Angel a buff Cocker
One Of Our Families Hobbies is we all ride motorcycles together, when we can,
Or Gene and I ride together with friends.



about my creations



I hold close to my heart...
Creating cloth dolls that were created with vintage patterns.
Studying History of Vintage Patterns, Which should also be taught and preserved.
Sharing information and teaching our knowledge with each other.
Learning the techniques of dollmakers of of so long ago,
To study the work of other designers from the Yesteryear and Present.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

I don't really have a web site, I use my blogs for every thing


Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Get To Know The Artists/Crafter Series - Elsie Flannigan of Elsie Cake and A Beautiful Mess Blog



1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

hmmm... well, i guess my mom would have a better answer for this one than i would... i remember my mom used to paint a lot when i was little. she let me play with her paints then even though i was probably too young. i've always admired that about her. :)

2) What was your very first creation?

haha... i have no idea.

something that stands out in my mind is from grade school. i spent most of one summer making my own "city" with a map and a family for every letter in the alphabet. each person in each family had a name that began with that letter. they all had illustrations and personality profiles. it was sort of a random little project, but i was really obsessed with it and my mom really encouraged it!

3) What types of items do you create?

right now i am primarily interested in painting and making felt dolls. i have also been really into creating hand painted clay toys. scrapbooking and art journaling are things that i will always love, they stay forever. and embroidery is sort of my newest love. i am just getting started with that one.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

wow! these questions are tough!

My favorite painting is entitled "Curious". I made it in Nashville while my boyfriend was recording his music. It is a poem I wrote for him at the time.



My favorite photo i've taken so far is one of my friends new baby, Sophie. that was such a fun shoot!



My favorite project i've worked on in the scrapbooking world is my newest book!



5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?


I am working on a project right now with my friend, Jeremy, that combines art and music. It is by far the most challenging project I've ever worked on. I wish I could share more, but I have to keep secrets! :)

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

You know, I would really love to learn to sew. I am more intimidated by things where you have to follow patterns, but I think It would be really fun!

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

Haha.... I don't think so. I think it's important to see beauty in different arts and crafts, even if it isn't something that I would personally want to work on right now.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?


my blog: www.abeautifulmess.typepad.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?


I started my first blog about three years ago. I enjoyed reading some of my friends' blogs so much that I wanted to have my own!

10) What do you blog about?


I usually talk about craft projects and share photos. I talk about my family/friends a bit and share lots and lots of eye candy.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I just like to keep it light and real. I want them to feel free and inspired to create by the stuff that I share.

12) What is the name and url of your website(s)?

my blog: www.abeautifulmess.typepad.com

my flickr: www.flickr.com/elsiecake

my etsy shop: www.elsiecake.etsy.com

my myspace page: www.myspace.com/elsiecake

Some of the items for sale in Elsie's - Elsie Cake's Etsy Shoppe-

Cupcake Girl Print


Grow Original Painting


Sweet Tooth Fairy Embroidery Pattern


Teddy Print




Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Get To Know The Artists/Crafter Series - Pat Winter of Gatherings



1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

This is hard to pinpoint because I think I was always creative with a very big imagination. My mom always kept art supplies around for us to discover. I was always making crafts from found objects and have collected many items for as long as I can remember. My favorite class was Art in grammar school.

2) What was your very first creation?

In my childhood, the first creation I remember is macaroni art, in my current media; my first crazy quilt item was a covered foot stool.

3) What types of items do you create?

Crazy quilted purses and small items, Lavender stuffed dolls, small crazy quilt pendants.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

My favorite creation was my crazy quilt I entered in a contest because I was working with my favorite color, purple, and a favorite theme, gardening.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

I think the fiber book I made after my father died. It was created as I was grieving and many days I created in tears. It was a great healing tool as well, and I am very happy I finished it.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I think I have tried everything out there. There are things I would love to be talented enough to do like painting or even drawing, but that isn't to be.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

I don't care for plastic canvas or Day of the Dead art of any kind. Plastic canvas just doesn't appeal to me in any way. Day of the dead themed art makes me sad.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

Gatherings By Pat Winter
- www.gatherings100.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?


I began blogging June 15Th, 2005 because I just discovered it and it seemed like a way to express myself freely.

10) What do you blog about?

Anything and everything I am about. To me it meets two purposes, to journal for myself and to share with friends.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I would like for them to know Crazy Quilting is simple, beautiful and they should try it. I also want to encourage readers to find something positive and fun in every day.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

My website is "Pat Winter Gatherings" www.patwintergatherings.com .

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

I want visitors to enjoy my crazy quilting projects and hopefully be inspired to try crazy quilting. Also I would like them to know the tutorials are free to use however they wish and more will be arriving soon.






Pat Winter's New Book




Posted by Linda Walsh Originals
- "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Monday, April 28, 2008

Get To Know The Artists/Crafter Series - Deborah Robinson of Dibbledabble1 Dolls Blog


This was a toughie! Describe me....well I've been called a "faery trapped in a human body"..that pretty well sizes it up!

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

What age creative talent appeared...............I was taught to sew by my grandmother..I was about 4 or 5 years old at the time....she noticed I was interested in watching her sew and felt it was time to let me try.

2) What was your very first creation?

First creation....that would have to be "Barbie" clothes....they were made from fabric scraps and handkerchiefs that were trimmed with crochet work my grandmother had...tied together with ribbon or yarn. Barbie had such exotic garments!

3) What types of items do you create?

What I create....cloth art dolls, nap quilts and various items for handcrafted gifts

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Favorite creation....this is a toss up....my Brighid and my Erin dolls..they were a challenge to make with the fantastic fabrics...I wanted Erin to illustrate movement/dance and with Brighid I made her eyes differently ...they are separate stitched on where as my "normal" eyes are painted on.

Brighid


Erin

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Most difficult creation...Tinky the Trixling..the pattern by Sarah Jones....excellent pattern..but the tiny size was a trial for me...especially the tiny fingers and ears.......I no longer have the doll...a dear friend talked me into selling it to her.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Arts and crafts love to try.....some day I would like to give clay sculpting a try....I already sculpt fabric with needle sculpting and I love to play with things and get my hands messy...some kids never grow up!

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

What craft I dislike...knitting because I end up with a knotty mess and have no patience with it...also and thing that I would need to buy equipment/machinery to use for the craft.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

URL.......links are:

http://www.cnydag.com (NY Doll Artists)

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

Started blog and why...I started one about 3 years ago after several friends and future customers kept asking me about a web site....funds were limited so I had to find a free way to share my life and art.

10) What do you blog about?

Answered by #9.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

About my creations...all are handcrafted...I use vintage materials and natural stones or crystals. I am addicted to flea markets/estate sales and resale stores..oh and I have trouble driving by yard sales too! I try to give life to items people discard....I'm a hoarder and have a "someday I'll need it" mentality..so I collect anything I think I can use for my doll

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?

No web site..just blogs.

13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

Answered above.

Money Talks


Art Gallery Display



Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Pat Sloan of QuiltersHome.com


1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

As in when do I remember 'making stuff'? I was always creating and teaching myself how to do things.. it started when I was young.. don't remember what age... maybe 2 or 3rd grade?

2) What was your very first creation?

A reader's digest Christmas tree I made with my Grandmother's neighbor!
3) What types of items do you create?

I make quilts, bags, home decor items, cards, scrapbook, bit of altered art, hook rugs, make wool penny rugs, crochet, decorate cakes... and a few other things.

'Housework is fun' from my crooked cabin book


4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Wow... that is hard. I have a few quilts that are more elaborate than others and therefore might be more 'favorite'. But really I'm about the making and once it's done I just want to make something else!

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Working to deadline when ideas are not flowing is most difficult. But once the idea pops than the making is fun. Stain glass was the most technically difficult... therefore I don't do it anymore!

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would
love to try?

Weaving, throwing pottery, more with inks and altered art.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

See above.. stain glass I LOVE but don't like to DO. Any craft where perfection is required is not for me.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?


9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I've been blogging about 2 years now. I wanted to chat with people who would not necessarily visit my yahoo group. That group is interactive and many people don't have time.. so the blog gives me a way to connect with everyone.

10) What do you blog about?

Crafting, gardening, travel, fun things I find in stores, fun places to visit on the web.. just about anything that is neat! Best thing recently was a new eagle cam with babies!

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your
creations?

I like to have a good time and I like to inspire people to create. I think creating should be fun and not stressful.. so that is what I'm about!

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?


13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

I have loads of neat things. In my store I sell my patterns, books, fabric, notions, and patterns by designers I admire. I also have design wall web cam, video tutorials, free patterns and a newsletter online.

An altered book I did in a workshop in Aug 2006 - end is beaded to hold the pages in.


Easy table runner with 3 fabrics...loved using my 'stash'


Bugs, Blossoms & Bullfrogs. New book released June 2006


Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Romona of NorthbrookDesigns.com

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

When I was in elementary school I remember doing an oil pastel picture of teal and rust colored songbirds ( I think the size of sparrows ). I think that was about grade 5, so maybe 9 or 10. I thought they were brilliant and the bold colors stayed with me. I'm not sure how the teacher viewed them, but I loved them.

2) What was your very first creation?

I don't really know anymore, I've done so much since I was a kid. I think perhaps it was a coat I made in home ec. in high school that made me feel very proud. It was purple wool tartan coat with epaulets and inset pockets and fully lined. It was for me, a great accomplishment.

3) What types of items do you create?

I turn my hands to anything that appeals to me. At this point in time, anything with a needle and thread and in all kinds of directions.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

I think my favorite creation up until now has been a doll I made in a class with Barbara Schoenhoff. His name is Morris and I was really excited about how he turned out as I really wasn't that experienced in doll making. Picture inserted.



5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

My most difficult creation was my entry into the Joggles shoe challenge. I don't worry about how difficult something is, I just keep at it until the light bulb comes on and I realize what it is I've been doing to make it difficult. I struggled with this because I have never really created something independent of a pattern and instructions, at least not for a contest. The hardest part was telling my left side of the brain, to butt out and leave me alone. This is the result so hopefully it was be accepted in the first publication for Joggles. Pictures from two angles are shown below:





6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I have tried most of what I want to learn, now it's more a case of refining those techniques to become better at them.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

I tried the string arts, (macramé and stringing between nails to create pictures) and although I did enjoy the art of it, it wasn't something I cared to do often.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?


9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I started my blog in March of 2007 without knowing even what a blog really was. I just knew it was like an online journal, so of course my curiosity prevailed and I dove in. I just had my 100th post, who would of thought it...

10) What do you blog about?

I blog about things in general, my creative pursuits, what I've been doing in the garden, day trips, books I've read, things for sale, changes to my main website and so on.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I would like them come away thinking that I have somehow inspired them to try things they didn't think they would or could. I recently added a creative post to that effect. April 16th 2008 to mark my 100th post.

12) What is the name and URL of your website(s)?


13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

My website is family friendly. I have a site map for general interest topics. I also have links to my creative pursuits on the right hand side of the page that leads to my dolls and other hopefully interesting venues. I continue to pursue all things creative and try to share that on my blog and website. I also take a lot of time to add web pages that are also creative and have 3 different graphic artists that make the pages for me. Some people say you should make pages similar to be more effective if you plan to sell from your site, I prefer to make my website artistic and easy to navigate, and give my viewers a good experience while visiting.


Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Friday, April 25, 2008

Get To Know The Artists/Crafter Series - Kathy Noble of Craftypiggies Goodies


1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I think I was 6 years old.

2) What was your very first creation?

I crochet a granny square blanket.

3) What types of items do you create?

Yoyo dolls, handbags, needlebooks, amigurumi.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

YoYo dolls are my favorite especially the frog easy to make and very cute.



5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

Amigurumi's are a challenge.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I just purchase looms and want to make socks, and needle felting looks hard.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

I don't like plastic canvas to hard on hands but i do like the outcomes.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

My name is Kathy Noble and I have two blogs:

My Main Blog for Crafts - Craftypiggies Goodies http://Craftypiggies-goodies.blogspot.com

My yoyo blog which is a club - YoYo Along
http://yoyo-along.blogspot.com

9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I started I think over a year ago I like to show my creations and talk about family and my cancer.

10) What do you blog about?

Mostly about crochet and yoyos and about my grandkids.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I like to know that I love to share ideas in the craft world and to see that there is a lot of creations in the works. Fun things you can do with a crochet hook and a clover yoyo tool.

12) What is the name and Url of your website(s)?


13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

It's a main site I have for family and friends and show what I'm selling at my Etsy and auction and online stores.


Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Lynda Cansfield of Whimsical Prims

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I have crafted from as far back as I can remember. As a young child about seven, I used to sit with my friend under her mom's dressmaking table and as her mom tossed down scraps of fabric, we would gather these and sew our doll's clothes. I remember having suitcases of dolls clothes, from day dresses to ball gowns, some barely held together but we were very proud of them all.

2) What was your very first creation?

Gosh, its so far back now since I began making things, its hard to say what my first creation was, but as a young mother with two energetic children, I used to make all there toys and clothes and for their friends as well.

3) What types of items do you create?

I started out making bears for adult collectors and have now gone into primitive/cottage/Victorian items and home decor.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

I think one of my favorite pieces was my Harriet Hare. I made everything about her except the actual fabric for her dress, which was an antique petticoat. I made my own clay for her head, I cut up an antique petticoat to make her dress and her boots and paws were made from old leather gloves.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

I can't say there have been any difficult creations, as I normally work without a pattern so my work just goes with the flow. I love making miniatures or small things so when I do make anything large its the stuffing that gets me, it seems to go on forever!

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

Rug hooking and needle punch. I have a kit, have just sort of tried it out but would really like to get into that.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

No, I love all crafts, and if I had time, I would do them all.

8) What is the name and URL of your blog(s)?

My blogs are:

A Prim On A Whim
http://whimsicalprims.blogspot.com

Whimsical's Wandering Wednesdays
http://wednesdayswanderings.blogspot.com

A Bear A Month
http://a-bear-a-month.blogspot.com


9) When did you start to blog and why did you create your blog?

I started my first blog in 2007. Besides creating and crafting I love to write and found a blog was a wonderful way to share with others what I love to do.

10) What do you blog about?

I blog about my everyday life, my creations, things I find along the way, how to make some of the things I do.

11) What would you like your blog readers to know about you and your creations?

I love creating and and sharing what I do and reading about what others do. I love reading your comments about my blog, it still amazes me how the net has bought people from all over the world closer together. Well most of my creations today are one-of -a-kind, 99.9 % are all my own designs and many are made without a pattern, but if there is something I have made and someone would like to know more about it, methods/fabrics etc, I would be happy to share in any way I can.

12) What is the name and Url of your website(s)?

Original Creations: Whimsical Prims & Scallywag Bears
http://www.geocities.com/whimsicalprims

Shoppe: Mother Hubbard's Cupboard
http://www.geocities.com/motherhubbardza


13) What would you like everyone to know about your website(s)?

My websites desperately need updating, I'm afraid the blogs have taken over. I would love to have more time to get my websites done.


Lady Dawsom Plume - totally needle felted.



Billy Boy - One of my favorite bears that I made with his accessories.



Have a Cranberry Apple and Mint Jelly Christmas - My most successful Christmas creations yet.




Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"


Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Shana of Shinybead.com



Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Interview:
Shana of Shinybead.com


1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared?

I've always been into art at as far back as I can remember. I really started nurturing my passion in my early 20’s though.

2) What was your very first creation?

I used to have an affinity towards sunflowers. I did a series of sunflower painting which are still in my living room today.

3) What types of items do you create?

Right now, I would say I create whimsical pieces with the aim to make others smile. My focus right now is jewelry, furniture knobs, and custom designed rhinestone iron-ons created with your design or I do design them for you. I love mingling art forms. I love the look of mixed media pieces.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?

Awww there are so many…I love the piece I'm working on now. My coffee table which is just about completely mosaicked with handmade tiles. I love the theme, the colors, and the design. It's really dear to my heart.

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why?

I create from my heart so for the most part my work just pours out of me. Just can not think of any work that I have been stumped on. If I do hit a road block I just tend to find another route.

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try?

I'm constantly learning new art forms and including them in my work. I would say though, that I would like to learn more about throwing pottery and glass work.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why?

I don’t like anything with boundaries. Its great to have instructions when you're learning something, but to really understand an art form you have to be able to play and experiment with the limits of it. I find restrictions and rules to be boring, and to really create it has to be fun.




Here's what Shana had to say about Shinybead.com on her "About Us" page of her Shinybead.com website:

We offer whimsical and unique handcrafted gifts that are sure to make you smile! Great gift ideas that are truly one of a kind creations.

Custom and ready made rhinestone bling transfers easily ironed on to shirts, tanks, totes, shoes, and fabric. Lots of colors to choose from. You choose the graphic/lettering and we'll take care of the rest.

Wonderful assortment of FUN furniture knobs and OOAK pin/pendant Jewelry pieces.




FREE GIVEWAY - Shana of Shinybead.com is going to have a FREE giveaway to commenter's of this post for her crown knob which is pictured above. To enter all you need to do is leave a comment on this post anytime from April 23, 2008 until May 31, 2008. After that time we'll put all the commenter's names in a hat and chose a winner. The winner will be notified by Shana by email by June 3, 2008.



Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series - Sherry Marrero of Anniescupboards.com

Here's the post from my "The Best FREE Crafts Articles Blog" that I mentioned in my previous post. I hope you enjoy this series.

We have more FREE patterns from Sherry Marrero of AnniesCupboards.com for you all to enjoy.

I thought that before I posted the link to her FREE Raggedy Ann & Jackie Frost doll pattern that you might like to get to know Sherry a little better.

I asked Sherry a few questions about her creations and here is what she had to say:

1) What age were you when your creative talent first appeared? 9

2) What was your very first creation? I made a soccer ball in Home Economics (it had over 100 parts and I was the only one to select it and finished it COMPLETELY and the right way).

3) What types of items do you create? I make dolls.

4) What has been your favorite creation and why?
This dolly was “the look” of a doll I was searching for. I have been on my doll making journey for 5 years now and I always look to her and giggle. Her and I know where she has taken me. This dolly lives in Japan with a very happy lovely mommy but she is always in my heart.

(Click picture or go to http://www.anniescupboards.com/past7.jpg to see larger picture ).

5) What has been your most difficult creation and why? It was very hard for me to understand how to get my round headed dolly’s ROUND! They were coming out like a pumpkin not round. After 2 months of crying and throwing muslin and having a big ole I can’t do it fit with lots of kicking and screaming on the floor I finally adjusted my head pattern and made her.

(Click picture or go to http://www.anniescupboards.com/septpage-5.jpg to see larger picture).

6) What type of arts & crafts haven't you learned to do yet that you would love to try? Crochet/knitting and Needle Felting.

7) Is there any particular art or craft you dislike and why? I don’t like scrap booking or stamping. Because you can’t hug them and get hugs back.

I hope you enjoyed learning a little about Sherry and her wonderful doll creations.

Here's Sherry's FREE Raggedy Ann & Jackie Frost FREE doll pattern:

Raggedy Ann & Jackie Frost Free Doll Pattern
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Sherry Marrero of AnniesCupboards.com.

Click here for the free doll pattern
Click here for the printable instructions
Click here for printable apron pattern
Click here for printable dress pattern


Please respect Sherry's TERMS OF USE: My terms for using my free patterns are that you can make these for your craft shows, websites, and auction sites. But please make sure you give credit back to me Anniescupboards © as the designer of the pattern. Duplication and distribution of pattern in print or electronic form prohibited without permission. You can not sell this pattern. Thank you. Sherry Marrero.

Sherry's Bio: I am a primitive folk artist doll maker. I enjoy making prim dolls and have such a love for Raggedy Ann. I have been making dolls for almost 5 years. I have 2 sons ages 17 and 12. Married to a wonderful man who spoils me so. I fell in love with Primitives a few years ago and just keep exploring in my journey for my perfect Raggedy Ann.

Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Sherry Marrero of AnniesCupboards.com. http://www.anniescupboards.com/


Posted by Linda Walsh Originals - "Doll Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals Dolls -"Handmade Dolls & Crafts for Grown-up Girls!"
Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Website- Handmade Dolls & Crafts
Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns - "Instant Download E-Patterns for Grown-up Girls!"

Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series

A few months ago I started a series on my "The Best FREE Craft Articles" blog entitled: Get To Know The Artist/Crafter Series. My intention was to ask some of the artists and crafters who had been offering FREE items on their websites some questions about their creations.

Well, I decided that I should move that series over to my "I Love Crafts and Craft Blogs" so that all crafters and artists could be included, not just those offering FREE items.

The first crafter I interviewed was Sherry Marrero of