Pommes Frites / Blog

New from Pommes Frites: Ring Pillow Book Safes

2011-11-09T12:08:00.003-06:00

sidney lanier ring pillow book safe

So excited to finally announce my new ring pillow book safes! This is a project I've been working on for a long time, but they are finally live. Each book has been specially picked for its looks and title, and then I've placed a handmade ring pillow inside. The ring pillows are made of silk dupioni and velvet ribbon! You can also use the book as a wedding keepsake spot after the wedding.

elizabethan drama ring pillow book safe

english philosophers ring pillow book safe

I also think these would be an awesome way to propose to your sweetheart! I've had a couple people do custom orders already for this very purpose and it always melts my heart a little.

poems and songs - burns ring pillow book safe

Plus, there's more in the shop!

DIY Friday: Mini Pumpkin Votive Holders

2011-11-04T13:10:00.004-05:00

This is a great DIY project to make with those leftover Halloween mini pumpkins! Plus, it's as easy as carving the lid off a pumpkin. See below for a quick tutorial.

Materials: Sharpie or pen, votive, knives (a steak knife worked great for me!)

Step One: Trace a circle around the votive onto your pumpkin

Step Two: Carve the top of your pumpkin - just like you would when you're making a jack o'lantern. Since this pumpkin is so small, be careful not to carve all the way through!

step three: scoop all those mini seeds out of the inside

Step Three: Now, if you just sit the votive in the pumpkin, it would be too short and melt the edges! So, take the lid (cut off the excess seeds off the bottom) and turn it upside down in your hollow pumpkin.

Step Four: Set your votive inside, et voila!

I think these would look really cute with those small striped pumpkins. Add a couple around the Thanksgiving table and boom - instant Autumn decoration!

Patchwork Long Beach & Culver City

2011-11-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

I've been in a craft fair frenzy over here for the past couple weeks*, prepping for my very first West Coast show! I'll be participating in two Patchwork Indie Art & Craft Festivals - one in Long Beach and one in Culver City. If my experience a couple weeks ago in DC is any indicator, I can't wait to meet a new market with Pommes Frites. While I miss my loyal Austin customers, there is something extremely exciting about a sea of fresh faces. Plus, an outdoor show in balmy weather ain't nothing to complain about!

If you live in the area, be sure to make it out to one of the two shows (or the Santa Ana one!) The Long Beach show is this Sunday from 11-5 at the Marine Stadium. Culver City is the following Sunday from 11-5 at Helms Bakery. Whoop!

*BTW, I'd really like to make a post about an upcoming craft fair one time (JUST ONCE!) that doesn't begin with some rambling dialogue about the crafty maniac I've been as of late. Seriously, will I ever stop being a maniac leading up to shows? Or in general?

Ring Pillow Book Safes & A Surprise Proposal

2011-11-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

A while back, I had the opportunity to participate in a wedding shoot with a very special twist involved. The unsuspecting model just assumed it was another day at work with her boyfriend (a model couple, what!), acting out a fake proposal and wedding. But, he actually used to the shoot to propose for real, and used a PF book safe, natch!

Full details here. Stay tuned this week, as I will be releasing a new, limited edition line of book safes. And, if this post is any indicator, they may have something to do with rings. And weddings.

The Vampire Pumpkins

2011-10-27T13:00:00.001-05:00

Image from Future Girl Craft

These fanged mini pumpkins, made by Alice of Future Girl Craft are easily my favorite Halloween craft this year. WAY more so than that damn AT-AT dog costume, which I'm probably just resentful of because I also know a Italian Greyhound that dressed up as something from Star Wars (but did not achieve internet fame!)

She followed a Martha tutorial to make the pumpkins, but I think her gourd choices (and that slanty mouth!) really set hers apart.

Alice gives an in depth analysis of the diy process on her blog.

How cute would it be to put these teeth in a large pumpkin as well - big eyes, little mouth style.

What type of pumpkin did you carve this year?

Ansel Adams' Los Angeles

2011-10-26T13:00:00.001-05:00

Say the name "Ansel Adams" and the first word that comes to mind is usually not "Los Angeles". That's why I was so thrilled to come across these "Ansel Adams' Lost Los Angeles Found", which were chronicled by Flickr user Gerard Van der Leun in a set.

Here are a few of my favorites - this is Los Angeles in the 1930's and 40's.

All photos found here.

You can find more photos, plus info on how they were discover, over at the flickr set.

CA Adventures: Camping in Big Bear

2011-10-25T11:00:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite things about Southern California is you can go from the beach to the mountains in two hours. FLAT! That's pretty amazing to me.

Tom, Max and I went camping in Big Bear Lake back in September. It took us two hours to go from sea level (we live five blocks from the beach) to 8,000 feet in the air in the San Bernardino National Forest.

Ever since this visit, camping has obsessed a large portion of my brain. I'm constantly googling for nearby campsites, comparing reviews of gear and hiking trails; every time I visit a big box store I spend a significant portion of time in the "camping & outdoors" section, shopping in my head; plus, I'm always converting recipes we make at home to camp-friendly fair ("oh, we could just marinate this chicken on the way up and throw it on the grill when we get there!")

Here's a photo journal of our time in Big Bear, staying at the Hanna Flat campground.

you can just ignore that GIANT bottle of SKYY vodka in our messy tent. WHAT! we were camping!

pro tip: bring along fritos for your frito pie, because they also double as awesome kindling!

hiking the trail from hanna flat to the lake - this is a burn out area

Max was understandably not a happy hiker (on this NINE MILE TRAIL, wtf?), and Tom ended up carrying him like a papoose in a sling for half the journey

Now, I'm done editing this post and I can get back to googling "best camping site in southern california" for the twentieth time.

PS - if you have a favorite camping spot down here, let me know in the comments! Or even CA in general.

New from Pommes Frites: Amber Container Candles

2011-10-19T13:13:00.005-05:00

Eek! New product from Pommes Frites that I'm really jazzed about! These beautiful amber candles are filled with 100%, eco-friendly (and domestically grown!) soy wax and super yummy fragrances. I've got three scents up in my shop right now, with more to come.

apple picking

vanilla hazelnut

laundry day

packaging for candles

Soy wax candles are great because they burn clean and long and are better for the environment and people with allergies. All the fragrances I use are distilled from essentials oils and are strong without being overbearing. Plus, the amber glass is beautiful when lit, and when not lit, it resembles an old apothecary jar.

Candles are $15, full options here.

Crafty Bastards RECAP - aka, when it rains, it pours

2011-10-08T17:57:00.006-05:00

(advertising my "goin' back to cali sale" during the last 30 minutes)
photo credit: Brightest Young Things

I am SO LOVING the photos the folks at Brightest Young Things snapped at Crafty Bastards last weekend in DC. It was an incredible show. The day started off very ominously; the weatherman predicted 30% chance of light showers, but that ended up being pouring rain and gusting winds ALL DAY LONG. My table cloth literally never dried. I've done shows in intense heat, but never rain. Everything was wet, and at a certain point, I just gave in.

(hi!! new candles!!)
photo credit: Brightest Young Things

DC came out in full force, I got to meet some awesome folks, my parents helped me man the booth (there is nothing more adorable than a proud parent explaining your products to someone!!), and despite the rain, it ended up being one of the best shows I've ever done. Can't beat that!!

I definitely want to come back next year.

PS - I spared you the "here is a million pictures of my booth display" post because frankly, I didn't take any pictures! But it was really fun to create an entire display using items my parents had - wine crates, clementine boxes, old suitcases. It reminded me of the early days of Pommes Frites, in fact.

Crafty Bastards this weekend in DC!

2011-09-28T00:11:00.003-05:00

I'm so excited to be participating in Crafty Bastards this weekend! It's sincerely a show I've wanted to be a part of for a couple years now, and it's also my first travel show. I made it easy on myself, since my parents live just outside of Washington DC - I knew I'd have a spot to crash. For FREE! (Thanks mom and dad!)

Anyway, if you're in the DC area, I hope you come out to see me. It's happening this Saturday, from 10-5 at the Marie Reed Learning Center in Adams Morgan. I'm at booth #89.

ALSO... if you are so inclined, take a second and vote for Pommes Frites for your favorite Craftiest Bastard. I'll love you forever!! Click here to vote. See you in DC!

Etsy Finds: Fabric Bangles

2011-09-14T14:12:00.005-05:00

Remember how friendship bracelets were all the rage earlier this year? I never forget about them in the first place. I made them when I was 11 the same as I made them when I was 20, and I will always pick up one of those cheesy "cat eye" bracelets on vacation. For wish making purposes.

But I do like the upscale fabric bracelets that trend brought on. Here are a few of my favorites from etsy.

felted bangles with studs

"the sparkler" - sadly no longer available, but too pretty not to post

modern friendship bracelet with cute feather

Just imagine an arm full of big shiny, nubby friendship bracelets. Even better if they make noise when you move your wrist. Gotta love interactive jewelry.

On The Watch

2011-09-13T17:00:00.001-05:00

You know, watches got a bum rap for a couple years there. Once cell phones started being more than just a phone, people forgot all about the poor and noble wristwatch and used their mobile as a time piece. I know I started wearing watches again when I flushed my cell phone down a toilet (YES!) and didn't have a phone for two weeks. Not only was there was a lot of pay phone usage (side note: New York pay phones are nasty, but you already knew that) but I wore a watch for the first time in years.

American Apparel has some awesome watches right now - in fact, pretty much every watch you ever owned or could possibly want. Here are some of my favorites.

Clockwise, from top left
Texas Face Watch: Words can't even tell you how much I want this watch. Oh wait, they just did.

Black N Yellow Watch: Really more black n gold, but black n yellow is catchier. I love the simple design of this classic watch.

Vintage Checkered Watch: I like that this one is vintage and has a cute leather strap.

Solid Gold Watch: As a Countess LuAnn says, Money Can't Buy You Class, but it can buy you this classy ass watch.

Gold Calculator Watch - I own this watch and get tons of compliments on it. My only complaint is the buttons are actually too small to use. At least for someone with chunky fingers like. Also, Tom bought me this watch on ebay a couple Christmases ago; I'm sure you could probably find a better deal there (added bonus that you aren't buying from a company whose CEO is a major misogynist! yay!)

Do you wear a watch? If so, do you place your watch so the face is on the inside or outside of your wrist? I'm an outside gal myself.

September Style Essentials

2011-09-09T17:13:00.006-05:00

September is always one of my favorite months (right behind October). You've still got the weather of fading summer, mixed with back to school fashion (oxford shoes! cardigans! glasses!), reading books, drinking hot coffee, and breaking in the callus on your writing hand ring finger.

Here's my round up of September style essentials.

Clockwise, from top left.

1. An amazing satchel to hold all your gear from Cambridge Satchel Company. I have it in red and always get compliments on it.

2. Cardigans from Urban Outfitters - solid and striped, respectively. Or, you can grab a bunch of these from JC Penney. They always seems to be on sale and my mom always sends them for me in every color of the rainbow.

3. Moleskine Cahier Notebooks. Sold in packs of three, these are the only notebooks I ever use (well, in varying sizes)

4. "We Are Happy to Serve You" ceramic coffee cup. These remind me of back to school time in New York - except in a more sustainable way.

5. Cute oxfords never go out of style.

6. A Linus Roadster for cruising in the crisp weather (I have this bike in ivory - it's the best bike ever!)

7. And a cute bike basket to put your purse in.

8. I love this glasses case, screenprinted vintage glasses, from etsy seller Quiet Doing. Even if you don't have glasses, you could use it as a pencil pouch.

9. Nerdy Raybans - I really want to upgrade my glasses to these classics, because then I might actually not wear contacts during the day. (side note: not a proponent of non-prescription glasses.. they just irk me)

I have to live vicariously through these items to remind me of the beginning of fall on the East Coast; don't think for a second the California air has fooled me into missing seasons.

What are your September style essentials?

Lanterns in the Sky

2011-09-08T13:55:00.005-05:00

Image from Green Wedding Shoes

Ever since seeing these Chinese wishing lanterns at this wedding on Green Wedding Shoes, I've been obsessed!

The tradition is to write a wish on a lantern as you send it up to the sky (they are released after the Chinese New Year). The flight is supposed to represent the release of doubt and worries. My thoughts? Would it release the worry of this lantern blowing into a nearby tree and catching it on fire?

PS - you can buy eco-friendly ones here.

Lo-Pro Southwest Sneaks

2011-09-07T23:07:00.004-05:00

Ever since our road trip, I've been a little obsessed with all things SouthWest. I'm well aware it's been a huge trend for some time now, especially in the DIY community, but I'm just now jumping on the bandwagon.

Before, I was pretty much like "that's nice, but I'll stick with this lumberjack plaid, thank you". Present day: Southwest Blanket on the couch (from NM, natch), amazingly printed weekender bag ordered for birthday, and an overall plan to turn our apartment from "flea-market-meets-Mid-Century-modern" to "Mid-Century-Modern-meets-New-Mexico" (meets Ikea - what, we're poor!) Imagine if Don Draper had a adobe in Taos. YEAH.

This is all a big lead up to say I love these Aztec lace up sneakers from Urban Outfitters. I've been living in similar Lo-Pro sneaks from Vans and Target, and at $20 the price is right.

Although, somebody please remind me, right now, how fast UO shoes wear out - quickly, before I hit "checkout" with the shoes in my cart.

The Ideal Camping Trip

2011-09-06T12:00:00.003-05:00

Lately all I've been thinking about is camping. We're planning a Yosemite trip for my birthday, and in the perfect world (if money were no object), these are the items I'd take so I could camp in style.*

Product information, clockwise from top left.

1. Cute lanterns.

2. REI Kingdom 4 Tent. This tent has a dividable interior, so you can create a cozy sleeping nook and have living space, or have privacy when you've got multiple people camping.

3. Solar Powered Star String Lights for hanging inside the tent. Easy to power during the day for romantic nighttime lighting.

4. A French Press. This gives the option of cold brewing over night - no need to heat water up in the morning!

5. Guide books and trail books for nature-filled goodness during the day.

6. A Rucksack (from etsy seller Infusion), in which to pack water bottles and guide books while hiking.

7. Wool Duffle Bag from Filson.

8. Instax Mini Camera for capturing the sights.

9. Yosemite Blanket from Pendleton - (ps - they have tons of National Park Blankets to choose from).

10. Flannel-Lined Sleeping Bag from LLBean. Gotta love the classic check!

11. An Ice Cream Ball - does double duty as entertainment and dessert maker.

12. Star and Moon Fire Pit from LL Bean.

13. Last but not least - a classic skillet and bacon!!

*Camping in Style is not to be confused with GLAMPING, which is not really camping at all.

What would you take on your ideal camping trip?

How to Smell Like a Candle

2011-09-02T18:54:00.006-05:00

I just figured out they make my favorite candle scent, Tuscan Blood Orange from Pacifica, in a perfume spray! SWEET.

The perfume smells a lot more sharp than the fragrance, maybe not in a good way. It's probably due to the super concentrated oils but it still smells really good. Either way, it's awesome to smell like a candle, and not just because I've been making them all day long.

What candle would YOU like to smell like?

Jane Eyre Doppelganger

2011-09-01T19:13:00.003-05:00

Jane Eyre - to see full photos click here

I wanted to share this piece I recently worked on for Composite magazine, an awesome online art mag (founded by one of my pals Zach Clark). Their fourth issue is called "Doppelganger", and I submitted a piece called Jane Eyre.

It's interesting for me to take the craft I work on every day and elevate it to art. The basics stay the same - I still created a hollow book - but put an certain intention behind it. I took an old copy of "Jane Eyre" and hollowed it out at a specified page. Then, I put the new version of a book (A Kindle) inside and flipped the kindle to the same top page that would have been missing.

I wanted to draw attention to the new media for books - and what will become of the old version, books themselves. On a crafty note, I like to think with Pommes Frites that I help alleviate some of the "book waste" that happens in the world, by never using new books but only old ones that are in the clearance bin or sometimes even the dumpster.

You can view the full magazine here - I'm on page five!

A View From the Road

2011-08-30T14:28:00.004-05:00

Pictures of our road trip from ATX - LBC.

On the Road

2011-08-03T22:55:00.010-05:00

Our trailer in Marfa.

Max chillin' inside the trailer.

Things have been excessively quiet on the Pommes Frites blog recently, and I hope I haven't lost too many readers' attention (I'm looking at you, Mom).

The past couple months have been a flurry of goodbyes, working, packing, working, cleaning, and checking items off our Texas bucket list. In truth, I needed to spend some personal time with Texas - personal time I didn't feel like blogging about.

All of our belongings are packed into a POD - except for our animals, some clothing, and records.

Which brings us to present: Tom and I are currently in Tuscon, AZ, three days into our cross country road trip. Our LBC apartment isn't ready until the 5th, so we're taking the scenic route - stopping off in Marfa, TX to stay at the amazing El Cosmico trailers and Carlsbad, NM to check out the world famous caverns, all the while celebrating my favorite holiday of the year (SHARK WEEK) in motels along the way.

My card reader is packed, so in the meantime, here are some pictures I've taken with my phone. I'll be back soon with more posts; hope you'll join me and Pommes Frites in our new chapter on the west coast!

The last view of the ugly house

Max and Seymour napping on the way to Tucson.

Nothing says freedom on the open road like a sweet dream catcher.

Etsy Finds: What To REALLY Do With Those Excess Branches

2011-06-29T06:38:00.006-05:00

Remember a couple weeks ago when I was wondering what to do with the pile of branches left out front of my house by the tree trimmers?

These Etsy Sellers have come up with a pretty genius (and pretty) idea.

wolf den coat rack from etsy sellers cantilever and press.

My Jello Americans

2011-06-16T12:00:00.001-05:00

I am amazed by the works of art people can create with jello. Yes, jello. My friend Brett Bara is a master. And now there's this.

Snowflakes

Mugshots

These, my friends, are all jello shots. You've probably had them before - they were probably green and made with Everclear and someone probably vomited on your shoes shortly after digesting one too many. But these, if you can't already tell, are gourmet jello shots. And they are incredible. The name of the blog, My Jello Americans, just seals the deal for me.

A few more of my favorites:

Mesozoic

The Mimosa

Catacombs

Travel Plans

2011-06-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Umm, yes, I love this travel planner. So tidy with its grids and color coded wardrobes plans and pre-determined dress code..

I'm kind of a pathetic doodler, but I do have some true skills when it comes to list making. So my travel prep journal looks just as insane(ly awesome) as this (including matching outfits) but with scribbles instead of adorable miniature clothes.

Want to see more travel planners? Found via Etsy's FB on Quipsologies.

The Most Amazing Waterslide. EVER.

2011-06-14T14:25:00.004-05:00

I agree with Joanna - I'm amazed this really exists: a four-tier waterslide that spits you out into the Mediterranean Sea. Amazing. Leave it to Europeans to make quadruple decked water slides look classy.

The hotel is the Citta Del Mare in Siciliy. Found via Cup of Jo via my friend Heather. (PS - check out the pictures on their main page - Italian Baywatch, anyone?)

Austin Flea - and my last Austin craft fair alert!

2011-06-10T14:10:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow I'll be participating in my last Austin craft fair. Sad face. Hope you can make it out to Austin Flea at The Highball! Saturday June 11th from noon to seven. The Flea is always awesome with local vendors like Victrola Design, Ornamental Things and Fleegal Farms, as well as awesome drinks from the Highball crew. Come say hi!!

KLRU Interview

2011-06-09T13:29:00.007-05:00

I just realized I never posted this interview! KLRU, Austin's PBS affiliate, interviewed Austin-based artists (including me!! eek!) at Renegade this year about how they got started doing what they're doing, and how you can get inspired to create.

I'm around 2:43 if you finally want to put an actual voice to that blog voice. Two things: 1. No, I'm not naked. I'm wearing a tube dress! 2. I am also on weeks of 4 hrs of sleep, but I manage to make sense. Sort of....???

Basically, my advice for creating is that you can DIY anything, if you really want to. Jam, tablecloths, pottery, etc. Handmade items just have more heart than mass produced ones. And those things you can't DIY yourself? That's why there's etsy!

A lot of the other interview-ees gave advice for people wanting to start their business, but I'm thinking just in terms of making. I would NOT recommend just copying someone else's design for business purposes. However, you can use it as a jumping off point to create something unique. Keep searching for ways to improve an item and give it more life.

Side note: it's funny that I name check Urban Outfitters as a place you can get inspired to DIY, in light of their recent scandal.

It's also a true fact that I cruise the aisles of Target, look at something and say "I could make that" - most typically with sundresses or something. Whatevs. At least I don't do that at a craft fair. Those people are the worst... especially when the maker is within earshot. Not that that happened, or anything.

The DIY That Could-Have-Been

2011-06-05T12:17:00.004-05:00

The other day some guys were in our yard cutting down tree limbs for the electric company. Like, a lot of tree limbs. What ended up happening looked something like this:

Poor trees. The last thing our little house needs is less covering. Then, off to the side, I spotted these awesome birch-looking logs. Ok, they aren't really log-logs, but to a city girl like me, this was the most awesome thing I could ever find in my own front yard.

I started dreaming up the possibilities of what these ~~logs~~ branches could become. Stuck into a basket for rustic decoration? Cut into tiny tiny sections and water sealed to become coasters? Cut into larger sections and carved to be place holders? Wait why did I need place holders, when I don't even have a dining room table?

And then it hit me. If I picked up these branches they would forever be included of the "DIYs that Could-Have-Been" drawer/corner/closet of death, along with my dream catcher makings, 100+ skeins of yarn, and never-used notepad that reads "THINGS TO MAKE".

So I pulled myself together and let the tree trimmer guys cut those babies into tiny pieces and cart them away.

Two days later I realized they would have made the most amazing base for my DIY indoor cat tree.

What would you have made with these branches? Or, have you ever taken something weird with a promise that you'd one day, DIY it?

Mount Up - We're Moving!

2011-06-02T11:56:00.004-05:00

If you follow me on twitter, you may have seen this sneak peek of a poster I bought from Public School during Renegade. I have re-posted it above for non-tweepies. Now, you may have thought "who doesn't like a little Warren G action" (btw, if you don't know the song this is referencing, I've posted it below for your viewing pleasure), but there actually is some deeper meaning to why I purchased this.

You see.... I'm moving! In fact, we're all moving - in August! And I'm not just talking about servers or blog addresses. Tom, Pommes Frites, Max, the cats and I are all moving to..... Long Beach, CA!

Earlier this year I mentioned a cross-country move might be a possibility, and now it's really happening! Tom will be attending school out there, so we're all going with.

I'll be sad to leave Austin and the friends I've made here, especially my Etsy Austin folks. It's not as easy as it was when I left New York - then, I was ready to go. I was "done" with New York, ready for a change.

I also picked up these California history pencils from Paper Pastries. No time to learn like the present!

Truth be told, I've always wanted to live in California (my dad was born there but moved to Virginia when he was young; I always felt like I got the short end of the stick - I should have been a California girl!!) although I probably didn't see myself moving to Long Beach.

So, I need your help! Do you know anything awesome about Long Beach? I'm looking forward to applying to this craft show and hanging out on Retro Row. I've got a couple neighborhoods picked out for apartment hunting, and have already bookmarked a few boutiques and vintage stores I will be stopping in ASAP. If you know any awesome Long Beach tidbits, let me know in the comments! I'll also take some basic LA knowledge - or Southern California in general.

I'll have you know, Tom and I have been practicing this song non-stop. It's our "moving to Long Beach" jam - since it's of course, about The LBC. I'm taking the Warren G part.

Old Crates = New Stairs

2011-06-01T09:30:00.002-05:00

Q: How cool are these stairs made out of old crates?

A: Ummm.... SUPER COOL!!

At Home Depot, they now call these type of yard sticks "Old Timey Yard Sticks". I kid you not!

Images from Apartment Therapy, find the whole house tour here - it's junk store meets DIY dreamtown. (found via my friend Jammie)

RCF Round Up: Mandatory Booth Display Pics

2011-05-31T15:26:00.003-05:00

It seems like I change up my booth display for every craft fair I do, all while keeping the final goal of a "standard set up" in my minds eye. Three years of "what works... what doesn't", and I'm pretty happy with how RCF Austin's display came out. I set it up as I would a shop, if I were to ever own one: lots of dark wood and industrial metal detailing, cream colored fabric, vintage display accessories.

We even changed around our booth display from Day 1 to Day 2 (and I'll be honest, in the middle of Day 1 we had a big switcheroo!). It was awesome to have an entire booth, but I sometimes find people are "afraid" to venture in - probably cause they think we'll bite, or worse, pressure them to buy something. Which is the last thing I want to do, let alone have my customers think

In the end, I set up a table along one side and shelving along the other, with the middle flanked by a cream colored shag rug (brought from home).

I was most proud of the shelving we Tom built. What looks like metal pipe is actually PVC piping - and lots of spray paint! I didn't have the money to finance my dream shelving, with full metal piping (foot long pieces go for around $10 a pop), so we bought inexpensive PVC piping (10 feet for $1) and some PVC cutters and got to work. With some elbow grease (so. many. coats. of. spray. paint.), I think it turned out really lovely! The best part is - it's fully collapsible. I drive a VW Golf so everything I bring to a show must fit inside.

The wood shelves were the most expensive part of the bookcases - they came in around $40 for eight pieces of wood. Tom helped me out by hand staining them a beautiful espresso color. So, with many trips to Home Depot, a free weekend, and the desire to work into the wee hours of the night, this DIY collapsible PVC bookcase was born!

This is PVC! What up!!

Some more little details...

Fake tealight candles to add some inexpensive light & detail to the bookcases

I feel like this is 90% closer to the "final booth set up" Pommes Frites will have... so maybe someday, I will stop showing you a bajillion pictures of it. Maybe. But probably not.

RCF Update - To Come

2011-05-24T16:31:00.003-05:00

RCF Austin is done, and my mind is at once clear yet unfocused. I'm suddenly taking care of library books, custom orders and other tasks that had been pushed to the back burner during the last weeks. At the same time, I'm doing some intense de-compressing - craft fairs are exhausting! My parents and sister are visiting weekend, so this week is focused on some etsy shop updating and cleaning the CRAZY craft tornado that happened in my house pre-Renegade.

I'll be back tomorrow with a better update, including booth shots and purchases (I got some AWESOME stuff!), but for now, I'll leave you with these two pictures, taken on Sunday night during tear down, which I'm calling "After the Storm".

Hope your weekend was awesome!

RCF Austin - TOMORROW!

2011-05-21T00:21:00.002-05:00

I've been my quiet self this week, humming away at Renegade Craft Fair Austin preparations! In fact, it's 12:22 AM and I'm just now putting the finishing touches on things - which means the final coats of spray paint, the last grommets, and making sure everything is securely packed for tomorrow. Or at least, trying to.

If you're in the Austin area, I hope you'll come visit me at booth #164! I'm along the left hand wall when you walk in - next to Squid Ink Kollective and Twinkle Tooth Designs. Hope to see you there!

Magnetic Make Up Board

2011-05-14T10:26:00.003-05:00

Image from Laura Thoughts
Right now, I'm loving this magnetic make up board. What a cute way to have your make up handy while keeping counter space clear. I'd probably use a small one and just tack up the essentials (ie: the make I wear every day), although I have to tell you I have mixed feelings about putting a magnet on the black of a NARS blush.

Full post, including super easy tutorial, can be found here. (found via Jennifer Perkins' twitter!)

American Girl Dolls & YOU

2011-05-13T11:41:00.001-05:00

Image from The Hairpin

Did you have American Girl Dolls as a kid? I did, and I was obsessed. That's why I loved this article on The Hairpin about How Your American Girl Doll Shaped the Rest of Your Life, or more accurately, what your American Girl Doll says about you as a person.

Images from American Girl Doll Wiki (seriously!) PS - a quick perusal of this website and I found out that my two dolls are now archived! What! I never finished buying their full set of clothes!

I was lucky enough to have two American Girl dolls - Kirsten and Felicity. The article seems pretty spot on for a mix of the two dolls reflecting my personality - I grew up obsessing over Colonial Williamsburg, crafts, Little House on the Prairie, and yes, maybe even feeling like I was a little too unique sometimes. I loved Kirsten because her name was almost the same as mine. While most kids went to Busch Gardens, I ran down the streets of Williamsburg with vigor, clutching my Felicity doll, who was indeed wearing a matching dress to mine. I also grew up "inexplicably drawn towards crafts like knitting, jam-making, and quilting" - um, hello - this blog anyone??

I also agree with the paragraph on the Samantha doll. Samantha, for whatever reason, was a status symbol. I never thought I was "cool" enough to own her, and was endlessly jealous of the Samantha-owning girl up the street.

Another thing I loved about American Girl Dolls? The books! They were so infused with history... and the fact that I could geek out on a history book while clutching a doll that resembled the main character was awesome.

Did you have American Girl Dolls? If so... do you think your description fits you?

ps - all these new AG dolls are blowing my mind! They've got a hippy! And a "sassy NYC girl". Hah!

Adventures in Virginia

2011-05-10T11:15:00.004-05:00

If my last post was any indicator - I surprised my mom for mother's day, and was indeed standing outside the computer room window when she turned around. She cried, I cried, we hugged, laughed, talked for hours, drank too much wine and did some antique shopping. It was perfect!

After the surprise, the family hopped in the car and headed down to Middleburg, Virginia. Middleburg's main drag is lined with picturesque stone buildings, antique shops, random accessory stores, restaurants and wine bars. All the shops have flowers hanging out front and adorable ladies manning the counters. The stores are jam packed with treasures like mercury glass, glittery ornaments and bunches of lavender. In short... I have my retirement plan worked out.

We had brunch at the Red Fox Inn, a restaurant/B&B that boasts taxidermied foxes (of course), trout mousse crepes, and decor that is delightfully reminiscent of a hunting lodge. But not in a cheesy way - this place has been around forever.

And if you're ever out this way, you have to check out the antique shop called Bella Villa in Aldie, VA. It reminded me of my favorite antique store in town, Uncommon Objects. Rooms and rooms in a (somewhat?) restored house - be careful where you step - full of trinkets, treasures and glorious vintage. I'm pretty sure this is the antique shop that got my sister to start decorating her house in antique/vintage items - no, not my years of prodding.

While we were out there, it also struck me how amazingly green and lush Virginia is. Coming from Texas, Virginia was so green it was practically Ireland. It's funny the things you'll never notice about the place you grow up in.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T09:03:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you mamas out there! I'd especially like to send a special shout out to my own Mama, who also happens to be this blogs #1 FAN!!

My sister, mom and I (pretty sweet pants, huh?) circa 2002. This is one of my favorite pictures of us...

It is from her that I am blessed with my height (she is 6' tall! I come in at 5'11"), gift of the gab, tendency to cry frequently at sappy movies and commercials, unique sense of style, and ability to analyze dreams with ease. She is equal parts a mentor, therapist, and friend.

When I lived in New York, one of my favorite things to do was pop down and surprise my mom on Mother's Day (or for her birthday... or just because). New York is only a hop, skip, and a train ride away from Virginia. It's hard now that I'm further - Austin is more like a hop, skip, a jump, a taxi, and a plane ride away. Money and distance makes everything harder.

But sometimes... with some frequent flier miles, a 40-hour time block, and a dad and sister who help you conspire, a surprise is still possible. So Mom, if you're reading this - and I know you are, because I've timed it perfectly - go look outside.

Time Lapse City Scapes

2011-05-07T14:05:00.002-05:00

Timelapse - The City Limits from Dominic on Vimeo.

Different day, still obsessed with city scapes. This awesome video is from photographer Dominic Boudreault, who photographed time lapses of some major cities (Manhattan, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec, Chicago) at night. The music is a little dramatic, but the video is beautiful. Worth a watch! (via Gizmodo - with a special thanks to Tom!)

Etsy Finds: Hand-Drawn Skylines

2011-05-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

You know I'm a sucker for maps, cities, customization - so I've fallen hard for these skyline cards from etsy seller architette.

A great idea for graduation announcements, save-the-dates, or to just have one framed to remember your favorite city.

graduation announcements (the mock up is for NYU, to boot!)

save the dates

What city would you get? Hometown? Current city? All of the above?

Etsy Finds: Dog-Eating Narwhal

2011-04-08T13:36:00.004-05:00

Our dog Max's biggest weakness - his kryptonite, if you will - is a blanket. Put one down on your lap or the couch next to you, and he will be under it in 10 seconds flat - even if he doesn't like you or just met you. When I saw this sleeping bag/blanket/amazing sea-themed creation from etsy seller RikaRika, I knew it was something both Max and I would love.

He gets the sleeping buddy, and I get to have an adorable Narwhal around.

Best model ever?

Better yet, I could have an adorable shark around.

She has a ton more pet cozies in her shop, including grizzlies, alligators and killer whales. Cute. overload.

Thirty Under Thirty

2011-04-05T21:12:00.003-05:00

I'm totally honored to be featured as one of the "30 Under 30: Crafters" over on new website Splashlife. Click here to check out my little feature. I'm especially humbled to be featured among some of my favorites, like Sevenply and Spin Thread. Thanks so much, guys!

You should definitely check out all of the crafters if you have time.

Mason Jar Make Overs

2011-04-04T06:15:00.004-05:00

Mason jars are definitely one of my favorite blank canvases. Here are a couple creative make-overs for old mason jars to get your week rolling creatively.

Double dipped jelly jars (via Field Guided)

I think the "in process" photo (top), with the dripping paint, is almost more beautiful than the end result.

And here's a tutorial for making basic old mason jars look like classic aqua ones. A classic vintage blue ball mason jar can definitely run you a pretty petty - ranging from $5 to $20 - so this could be an awesome alternative.

I think those old salsa and pasta jars I've been saving are aching for a make over. Well, it's either that, or Tom said I have to recycle them. What, everybody doesn't keep at least twenty empty jars around?

Chronic Bitch Face

2011-04-02T22:24:00.003-05:00

Image from Kris Atomic

This drawing by Kristina of Kris Atomic cracked me up. I know many sufferers of chronic bitch face, a condition that causes the person to look like they're constantly pissed off, furrowing their brow, annoyed at the world - even when their inner life is very different. And the worst part? Being told to "cheer up, sweetie" by annoying strangers. I know you mean well, but just don't.

I was a long time sufferer of chronic bitch face when I lived in New York - hey, you gotta be! While generally I am a perky and happy person, I also think I get this look when I'm "focusing". Hah! Have you ever experienced this?

April Fools, MS style

2011-04-01T15:37:00.004-05:00

Leave it to Martha Stewart to come up with a bunch of a chic, crafty, family-friendly April Fools Day pranks... even the goofiest of holidays looks like a Pottery Barn catalog in her hands.

This one involved a recipe that turns milk into a solid, unpourable mass. What I want to know, however, is who really uses milk bottles like that anymore? I'm pretty sure a retro milk bottle would arouse more suspicion than the unpourable milk itself.

Check out her pranks here... there are some pretty cute ones!

Do you have any pranks planned? I fell hard for this one. If you're in Austin, you MUST read it.

Camera Mail

2011-03-26T21:46:00.002-05:00

Who says disposable cameras are a waste? Matthew McVickar taped a one to a piece of cardboard, and shipped it off to his friend in Hawaii. The cardboard also included instructions for Postal Workers to take pictures on the journey, and posted the results on flickr.

Double whammy because you get to see behind the scenes at USPS!

PS - more super cool uses for disposable cameras over on Photojojo. Now I want to pick one up! Do you ever use disposable - or even film - cameras anymore?

Scheduled, Ben Franklin Style

2011-03-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

Image from Nicky Bilton, via Swiss Miss

Today I'm feeling inspired by Benjamin Franklin's daily schedule. I flirt with "early to bed, early to rise", but what I can really get behind on this is the way he schedules multiple tasks ("read or overlook my accounts, dine") into block time periods. This really allows for flexibility within the confines of a structured schedule. Much better than scheduling times for each task, non?

How do you schedule your day? Lists? Time fragments?

Etsy Finds: Plaid Mountains & pommes frites cat toys

2011-03-15T08:40:00.005-05:00

I'm loving these plaid mountain plushies from etsy seller Bug Miscellany.

lumberjack plaid mountain plushie

grunge mountain plaid plushie

I also think I need these pommes frites "kitten krazies" - STAT. Little handmade french fries that are stuffed with catnip - and kitties will love those knots.

I love how all the items in Bug's shop are inspired by nature - and the photography reflects that, too! Perfect example of shop cohesiveness.

Etsy in Austin: BFFs IRL

2011-03-13T11:52:00.004-05:00

Yesterday (and today) was Etsy's party in Austin, and it was such a blast! Etsy Austin had set up a "wall of wow", showcasing our wares, and were also on hand passing out business cards and telling everyone about what we do. Etsy set up mini-conferences, crafts, food, and passed out cool freebies. Squid Ink Kollective made this giant cat, Babsy, that you could take photos with.

My favorite were the little cards that said "BFFs IRL" and included an attached friendship bracelet. These were made by an etsy seller, and I was told by Morgan (an etsy admin) that Etsy had basically bought the store out from her. She said she had made them in the '70s and was glad to see them go - she was wanted to segue into more beads. How cool is that!

I also loved the sentiment behind BFF IRL - at times during SXSWi, I felt like I was at the nexus of the twitterverse. Anyone tweeting about the etsy austin event using the hashtag #etsyaustin had their tweet displayed on a flat screen right near the entrance, so sometimes you'd even see your own tweet scroll across the screen. Plus, all these panels about social media with people tweeting about twitter... very post-modern. These cards were a nice reminder that while the internet is nice, nothing beats interacting - IRL.

Meeting people from Etsy was awesome - they are all super nice, especially this lady - and it was cool to see the faces behind the orange logo. I would be lying if I said it wouldn't be a total dream come true to work for them. Maybe in a future life!

PS - today they're teaching you how to build a synthesizer! Hope to see you there!

Etsy Austin SXSW Blog Guides

2011-03-03T10:33:00.003-06:00

Image courtesy of El Grupo/Payphone Revival Project

Etsy Austin is teaming up with Etsy for their SXSW events here in TX, and we're bringing you Austin guides over on the Etsy Austin blog! I gave the deets on my fave sections of town - Midtown / North Loop & East Side. Becka of Baby Bolt offered up some kid-friendly options for South Austin, and Lynnea of Squid Ink wrote a super awesome guide to Veg-friendly places.

Plus, there are more to come! If you're in Austin (or coming), do you have any SXSW plans?

NoLa - Your Tips Needed!

2011-03-02T12:02:00.003-06:00

Image via Design*Sponge
This Friday, Tom and I are packing up and heading to... New Orleans! We're spending Mardi Gras in NoLa with my sister and her bestfriend, and I couldn't be more excited. I can't wait to eat King cake, go on a haunted cemetary tour, walk around the Garden District, look at all the pretty architecture, dress up in costumes, watch parades and maybe speak some French along the way. Obviously, since it's Mardi Gras, the place will be swamped with drunk revelers, but I'm looking at it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The four of us have worked out our costumes are all dressing up as a different season. The Four Seasons! I'm going to be fall, and am currently working on a costume that involves felt leaves and a trash bag-esque skirt. What do you think? (Pictures to come!)

I'd love to know if you have any tips for us. Places I can't miss? Tours that are worth it? Places to avoid at all costs? Thank you in advance!

China Knuckles

2011-02-28T06:49:00.002-06:00

Image from The Broken Plate Pendant Co. Flickr

Who ever thought brass knuckles could be so... dainty? (From The Broken Plate Pendant Co., via Craft)

Hope your week is off to a good start!

Book Safe Giveaway on Le Grand Cru

2011-02-19T10:45:00.005-06:00

Always wanted a Pommes Frites book safe? Here's your chance to win a one! I've partnered up with Le Grand Cru to bring you a chance to win an awesome, one of a kind, dictionary book safe. All you have to do is "like" Pommes Frites on facebook and leave a comment on the Le Grand Cru post, saying what you'd hide in your hollow book.

Here's the link again for the give away! Happy weekend!

BHLDN

2011-02-15T08:23:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, Anthropologie launched their new wedding brand, BHLDN (yes, you just heard a collective sigh across the wedding blogosphere). They've stocked their online shop with gorgeous gowns, dresses for bridesmaids, jewelry and other fabulous fabulous accessories. Here are just a few of my favorite picks.

Tulle Era Dress
(you have to look at close-ups of this dress)

Unabashedly Gloves

Etoile Birdcage Veil (don't those look like little birds?)

Revival Dress(yup, pretty sure I want this dress, now!)

Pastille Mini Dress

My favorite part? BHLDN has reached out to designers and artists to create exclusive items, just for their brand.

What do you think? Would you shop BHLDN?

SALE! in my Etsy Shop

2011-02-13T15:06:00.004-06:00

In honor of Valentine's Day, I'm having a little sale over in my etsy shop! Use coupon code "LOVE2011" for 15% off anything in the shop.

And I've just restocked with some awesome Valentine's Day book safes, with little heart carvings. MWAH!

Coupon code expires on 2/15, so be sure to grab something now if you'd like it!

Etsy Finds: Me & You

2011-02-09T11:00:00.000-06:00

Salt and Pepper, Bread and Butter, Eggs and Bacon... Me and You!* I'm so in love with these engraved wooden pencils, new from packaging shop Knot & Bow.

(Bonus points - we have the same style packaging, right down the the Black and White twine - although I'm doing Red and White now for the season.)

A few more of my favorites from this amazing shop. Or can I just have it all?

Kraft heart stickers

Colorful, old school library cards

Red heart doilies - it is Valentine's Day, after all

Cute!!

*PS - If I could have a custom pencil made for Tom and I, it would say "cheeseburger and french fries". While my last name may sound like Pommes Frites, his is one syllable change away from Cheeseburger. Cute, huh? What would your custom pencils say?

Double Decker Dress Shop

2011-02-07T14:09:00.003-06:00

I'm loving this double-decker-bus turned vintage-shop, Lodekka - located in Portland, OR. (Found via Decor8).

[All images via Lodekka Facebook]

Vintage upon vintage goodness! You can find more info, including boatloads of tantalizing photos, on their facebook. Any of you Portlanders had the chance to visit?

Rolling Blackouts

2011-02-02T14:45:00.003-06:00

We woke at six this morning to discover our power was out. The little space heater we have constantly running in the bedroom was dead, and it was freezing. It was twenty degrees outside, and inside. Just two days ago, it was 70 degrees.

Every 45 minutes, the power would come back on, only to go out again ten minutes later. Most of Texas has been experiencing rolling blackouts today.

My forgotten pots from summer, frozen over

To keep warm, we ran the gas heater in the living room, propped open the oven, and I made candles on the stove.

We also lit every single candle in the house. Somehow, it seems to warm things, even if just a little bit.

The power is back on now, and snow is on the horizon, so I forsee a night of movie watching under the blankets.

How is the weather in your area?

Etsy Finds: Heart of Gold

2011-02-01T10:50:00.004-06:00

Love the song, love the ring. From etsy seller Garnet Girl Designs.

Here are a few of my other favorite rings from this beautiful shop. I'm so drawn to the simple, recycled metals and designs that really let the big gemstones sing. I also just love how the gemstones take on different colors from different angles.

Glam Rock Fetish Ring with Rose Gold & Prasiolite

Aqua Marine & 14k gold

Ballerina Ring with 14k Gold & Morganite

Try browsing this shop for an hour and see if you're completely transfixed, quietly humming to yourself: "oooo... preeeeettty".

Etsy Finds: Boyfriend in a Bottle

2011-01-27T17:52:00.004-06:00

When I was single, my mom would give me one of those "Grow a Boyfriend" figurines every Valentines Day. Ha ha, very funny mom! I gave her a "Grow a Therapist" in return one year, and haven't received an incredible growing boyfriend since.

I think this Boyfriend in a Bottle from etsy seller Gnome Sweet Gnome is a nice alternative to the standard Grow a Boyfriend. Plus, it's got me humming that Smith's song "Girlfriend in a Coma".

Boyfriend in a bottle, I know, I know... it's serious.

PS, what's more awesome about this little dude? The boyfriend in a bottle, or the amazing packaging it comes with?

edit: The amazing folks at Gnome Sweet Gnome have offered Pommes Frites readers 15% off everything in their shop from now 'til Valentine's Day! Use coupon code at checkout: LOST15.

Seinfeld as a Drama

2011-01-25T22:48:00.001-06:00

I love these hilarious mash ups of old Seinfeld episodes. It answers the question... what if Seinfeld was a drama?

Google Reader Round Up: January 21, 2011

2011-01-21T16:38:00.003-06:00

A few weekend links for you, pulled from my "Starred Items" on Google Reader.

(Images via Bookshelf Porn)

I can't get enough Bookshelf Porn. The smell of libraries already makes me weak in the knees! (via Craft) (don't worry, this link is SFW)

For those of you who love the technology of an iphone but miss the vintage look of a polaroid, I direct you to Photojojo's Polaroid iPhone decal.

"Shaken, not stirred." Ever wondered what that really means? Here's how to properly stir a cocktail (via Lifehacker)

Portlandia has us crafty hipsters figured out.

How to describe your old furniture on Craigslist.

A beginner's guide to R. Kelly's Trapped in the Closet.

I've got an old cruiser that is desperately in need of these rust removal tips.

A cute idea for DIY house numbers - on the cheap, to boot.

Enter to win this candle from Catbird over on East Side Bride. If it smells as good as their jewelry looks...

Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board. (PS, I you click on one link in this whole round up, let it be it!)

DIY Sriracha Chili Sauce. YUM! (Via Craft)

Hope you all have an awesome weekend! I'll be attending a friends baby shower on Saturday, in between working on more book safes and candles for the shop. What will you be doing?

Etsy Finds: Shine On

2011-01-20T19:36:00.004-06:00

Right now, I'm obsessed with these cool, industrial lamps from etsy seller Lamp Goods.

Vintage Canning Jar Lamp

Vintage canning jar chandelier

Exterior wall sconce

As you can tell, I'm quite partial to the ones made of old mason jars.

What are you obsessed with right now?

175 Wine Corks = Instant Bathroom Style

2011-01-19T11:00:00.000-06:00

Image via CraftyNest

I love this DIY wine cork bath mat, inspired by a CB2 bamboo mat. Find the full tutorial over on Crafty Nest.

The whole project requires about 175 wine corks, but I'm sure you know a few winos that will help you out. Have a dinner party - or twenty.

Etsy Finds: Plaid Infinity Cowls

2011-01-18T13:00:00.000-06:00

Speaking of buying handmade for Christmas, my Aunt and Uncle also bought handmade for my sister, mom and me. I was super impressed (and delighted) to receive this infinity scarf from etsy seller Zelma Rose.

The scarf is an adorable plaid and has a matching adorning button. it's the perfect weight for a cowl as it's not too heavy (winter-steez) to wear everyday.

Here are a few other cute items from Zelma Rose's shop that I love...

I'm also quite fond of this plaid pattern.

Double sided silhouette/fabric necklace (the modern cameo).

A Valentine's Day set that includes a cowl and necklace. She's also got a set with shoe clips.

It was so great to give and receive handmade gifts this holiday - especially from someone unexpected! Just goes to show the rising visibility of Etsy, not just to those of us that live and breathe it.

Did you receive any awesome handmade gifts this holiday?

European-Inspired Bike Love

2011-01-06T19:31:00.006-06:00

Lately I have been dreaming about getting a new bicycle.

Not just a new-to-me bicycle, but a new-new bike. Typically, I'm an advocate of vintage bicycles. They're stylish, they're sturdy, and relatively inexpensive.

But lately, I've been falling in love with new commuter bicycles that are inspired by '40s and '50s French bikes, with a little bit of that Dutch style thrown in.

I currently have a vintage Raleigh road bike, and while I love it, I've decided to pick a ride that allows me to cruise more upright; a stylish step-through frame wouldn't hurt either, as I do like to ride in dresses, and throwing my leg over the back of a saddle is less than ladylike.

However, my conundrum with step through frames has always been finding one that is big enough. I'm a very tall lady - 5'11'' - and those "one size fits all" medium frames just don't cut it. And I'm not the biggest fan of those swoopy step through frames - they're too "beach bum" for me.

I recently spotted this beauty at a local bike shop and can't stop dreaming about it. The Linus Roadster Sport is a three speed with classic styling and brown leather accents. I'd love to pick one up in the cream color and accent it with cream colored tires and a Brooks saddle.

An example of a Linus single speed Roadster, outfitted with cream tires on
ICT Cycle Chic

However, the price point ($580) is a little scary. I'm used to throwing down $100-$125 on a vintage bike that maybe has a few issues - but nothing a little love won't take care of. Buying a new bike is exciting - there will be warranties involved, I know the history upfront, I'm purchasing a high quality item that is sure to last - but it feels a bit like buying a new car. Which I don't do.

Public M8 in Cream
I was previously looking at the Electra Ticino, but lost my love when I saw it in person. I also recently found Public Bicycles, which have the same, straight-forward design and pleasing aesthetic, with fully customizable options, but with an even higher price point.

What are your thoughts on new/vintage bikes? Any tips for me for stylish commuter bikes that won't break the bank?

Etsy Finds: Typewriter Jewelry

2011-01-04T15:44:00.001-06:00

I love this typewriter necklace from etsy seller Renee Loughlin. In fact, Tom bought it for me as a Christmas gift and I can attest it's just as cute in person. (side note: a boyfriend that buys handmade = a million points in my book).

I've never gotten so many compliments on a necklace before, and funnily enough a lot of them come from guys. You know it's a good necklace when even dudes are commenting on it. I think it's the perfect mix of nerdy and pretty, too.

Each piece of paper inside the typewriter is different - mine looks like a page from a dictionary.

Here are a few of my other pics from her etsy shop... be sure to click the pictures for the link.

Nautical Navigator necklace, with functional telescope

This necklace has repurposed bullet casing to hold a beautiful raw quartz stone.

Puppies Wearing Hats Eating Bacon Sharing Facts

2011-01-03T13:15:00.003-06:00

Just a little something to get your first week of the New Year started off right... Puppies Wearing Hats Eating Bacon Sharing Facts is an cute feature over on Mental Floss that combines many loves: dogs wearing clothes, bacon, and learning random facts. As they say - the dogs are real, the facts are real, but the bacon is photoshopped.

From the PWHEBSF about Washington DC

From the one about ranch dressing

Ps, think what your pooch has what it takes to wear a hat and eat photoshopped bacon? They just posted a call for submissions.

2011 Resolutions

2011-01-01T14:42:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year y'all! It's my favorite time of year... a chance to re-collect and set the tone for the next 365 days.

Tom, myself, and my giant hair during last night's fesitivies
I could resolve to wake up early and go to the gym every day... but let's be realistic. I'm a night owl who's recently become addicted to Wii Fit. So this year, I'm setting some resolutions that I know I can meet. Resolutions are all about making yourself a better person - and mine will focus on having tons of fun, in addition to hunkering down with business goals.

So here we go...
I resolve to see more movies.
I resolve to go on more day adventures.
I resolve to set business goals and meet them monthly.
I resolve to collect and keep track of sales tax.
I resolve to finally, finally, take those dance classes and guitar lessons.

Let's see how I did with last year's resolutions.

Resolutions 2010
1. Become an Etsy featured seller!!! Done and done! It was weird to "resolve" to do this - especially because it was something out of my control. But I kept in my mind's eye, and somehow, it happened.
2. Save money & travel! I think I did this one - I definitely traveled, and I did save money - but more out of necessity!
3. Simplify & de-clutter the house! I think this will be that type of resolution that will always be on my list.
4. Have more dinner parties. Not so much.
5. Go for more walks with Max & Tom. Somewhat. We did start to go for morning walks, but stopped towards the end of the year.

Changes are on the horizon for 2011... there's a chance we may be moving to the west coast mid-year, although nothing is confirmed yet. Obviously, you will be the first to know!

So tell me... what are your resolutions this year?

2010, A Retrospective

2010-12-31T19:53:00.006-06:00

As 2010 comes to a close, I thought I'd take a moment to reflect on what a crazy year it's been. A crazy, awesome year.

January saw the passing of one of my favorite writers, and we went a month attempting to save money by strictly eating in.

In February, I got a gig writing for the Austinist, met Tom's family for the first time and fell in love with Motel6's bedspreads.

In March, I went to Italy with my family and fell madly in love with Venice, where we stayed in an old venetian palace. Pommes Frites got featured on NBC New York.

In April, I participated in Lone Star Ladies present: Shop Austin - and even won 3rd place for "best booth display". I also got crazy with my book organization.

May marked the first ever Renegade Craft Fair in Austin, and I was so stoked to be participating. It had been a dream of mine for several years. We also planted a (more successful) garden and enjoyed eating tomatoes and zucchini.

June, however, was one of my most exciting months yet. On June 7th, 2010, fresh off the plane from throwing my bestfriend a bridal shower and bachelorette party, I was featured as the Etsy Featured Seller! It was actually one of my resolutions for 2010... and it was so exciting to be able to meet so many friendly faces on the blog, too, who came over from that interview.

In July, I went canoeing and did a 4th of July giveaway.

In August, I took a very short trip to San Francisco (where I visited Renegade Craft Fair SF), read a lot of library books and got a super cute bikini. One of my custom books safes was featured on Once Wed. Oh, and this happened.

In September, I watched my best friend get married and celebrated my 25th birthday.

In October, I blogged every day, decided to "un-quit" my day job, fell in love with Shiner Blonde, and dressed up as Princess Leia - complete with a matching Han Solo and ewok dog.

November had me hunkering down for the holidaze with Craft Riot prep and tons of candle making. I also diy'd this cute Dia de Los Muertos headband.

And December? Well, December didn't see much of me around these parts. I was in full on production mode, shipping up until the 17th to get everything out on time. I did find this fantastic dino planter at a local market, and shut down the shop for a couple days to celebrate the holidays with family.

Eight craft fairs, one wedding, meetings lot of new people, traveling around the country and world, learning Spanish, even dislocating a knee cap while dancing to Ke$ha - yup... 2010 was a fantastic year, full of challenges and adventure. I hope your 2010 was good - please feel free to share in the comments! And I hope you'll check back tomorrow for my annual "Resolution Season" post.

XOXO.

Austin Finds: Dinosaur Planters

2010-12-21T14:06:00.006-06:00

Over the weekend I stopped by the artisan market outside Guero's (in the SoCo district of Austin) to hook my girl Natalie up with a couple book safes. Before I could reach her booth, however, I was stopped dead in my tracks by a delightful booth by the name of Plaid Pigeon. Now, I like plaid and I like pigeons, but what I like even more were the objects they were selling.

Their booth was jam packed with colorful planters made from old toys. They had dinosaurs (my favorite), elephants, rhinos and more. Each planter had been carefully complemented by a beautiful succulent.

Image from Plaid Pigeon facebook page.

Cacti and adorable dinosaurs? What more can you ask for? Of course, I didn't have my camera with me but that didn't stop me from snatching one up (I picked a brontosaurus, because I liked the funny way he was sitting) and taking lots of photos when I got him home.

They gave me some super easy tips for care that even I can follow. Hopefully.

Image from Plaid Pigeon facebook page.

In addition to the toy planters, they also had these beautiful hanging terrariums for sale.

Image from Plaid Pigeon facebook page.

By the way, they have some super cool photos on their facebook fan page - including "in process" ones. Gotta love it!

It's safe to say I will definitely be picking up more of these. I love the way they infuse humor with repurposing, bright colors and beautiful plants.

If you're in Austin you should definitely check them out. If not, they also have an etsy page (which is on holiday mode right now).

Awesome Gadget: Wi-Fi Equipped SD Card

2010-12-20T14:07:00.004-06:00

Geez, sorry I disappeared there for a while. The holiday rush was a bit more crazy than I expected, which was good for my bank account but not so much for my blog content count.

Friends who take pictures, I've got one more thing to add to your holiday wish list: a wireless memory card. Holy CRAP! This thing is awesome.

Tom gave me an Eye-Fi wireless memory card as an early Christmas gift. I think he was tired of hearing me complain about having to always lug out my card reader - that is, when I could even find it. Every time I'd take pictures, it would take me ten minutes to search out the thing, let alone wait for it to upload the photos. This may have to do more with my organizational skills, but hey, who's counting?

How can something so little be so magical?(aaaand, I just had to restrain myself from making a "that's what she said" joke there)

This is how it works: you set the Eye-Fi up to your wireless network, install the software on your computer, and replace your old memory card with this new fancy one. Then, as you're snapping pics, you keep a laptop open nearby and it instantly adds the pictures to your computer, in a dated monthly calendar.

Swoon! Here's a picture of it in action:

You can see the little uploader in the top right corner. (and don't you like my desktop? haha)

This little gadget has quickly become my new favorite tech tool. What about you? Have you recently received (or had your eye on) any handy gadgets?

Etsy Finds: Vintage Holiday Decorations

2010-12-02T14:15:00.005-06:00

I was cruising Etsy for some old-school, light up Santas to put in our front yard (ideally, one with Santa being pulled in a sled by a bunch of reindeer. Is that too much??) when I came across this awesome Santa face!

I think I need it.

I learned my sense of holiday decorating from my mom, who seriously transforms the house into a winter wonderland come December. No banister or free surface is left undecorated. How do you decorate for the holidays? Little touches? Or do you go all out?

Post-Thanksgiving Pics

2010-11-27T14:30:00.003-06:00

I just can't get enough of these burning owl candles. The good news? I will be selling them soon. ONLINE.

A few more pictures from our Thanksgiving. We played it low key (and I managed to stay off the internet) and made food at home and watched Love Actually (sigh! side note, did you know the guy who's in love with Keira Knightley is also the main dude in the Walking Dead? Hah!) and a few other feel good movies. We lit a whole bunch of votives inside old mason jars I've been saving and placed them all over our bookshelves and available furniture.

Quick tip: old dijon mustard jars are perfectly size for votives.

How was your Thanksgiving? Did you do any Black Friday shopping?

Craft Riot!

2010-11-24T02:41:00.004-06:00

Just thought I'd share a few of my pictures from Craft Riot! You can see more in my set on Flickr

My new booth set up! I sewed last minute bunting (side note: always make sure you bring an iron or Downy Wrinkle Releaser to iron your freshly-bought tablecloth!)

I packed my magnets on manila cards and enclosed them in a cello bag. Then, we alphabetized them and ordered them in handmade dividers in an old suitcase.

We lit one of the owl candles and watched it burn - I think it really encouraged people to burn their own owls!

I got to hold a tiny dog.

My neighbors, Maggie of Assorted Musings and Stacy of Vintage Rehab.

AJ of AJ the Purple

AJ's adorable huggles!

Tara and Tara (but pronounced differently, hah!) of R&R Design and Fifty Acorns.

Becka of BabyBolt and Tara of Fifty Acorns.

Stephanie of Little Grey Goose. She had the most adorable booth set up!

Stephanie gave me one of her Narwhal Ornaments that didn't have a little voice bubble, because she knew how much I loved it!

Happy Thanksgiving, y'all! I'm trying to take tomorrow entirely off. Meaning: no making candles, book safes, listing magnets, blogging, etc. But maybe I'll still be on twitter. Cuz I love you. And I'm addicted.

Etsy Austin Craft Riot/EAST Coverage

2010-11-19T13:59:00.004-06:00

It's finally here! Tomorrow is the third annual Craft Riot, presented by Etsy Austin. I couldn't be more excited. This is my third year participating - in fact, I even helped organize the first one, which was at a warehouse space in East Austin that hosts punk and hardcore shows. We blew the breakers several times because of all the lights and space heaters that were plugged in (a punk show space isn't exactly made with best insulation).

This year, Craft Riot is happening at the Marchesa Hall, which also plays host to Blue Genie every December. Movin' on up, I'd say!

The fair is from 11-6 each day, and the first 25 visitors get a goody bag packed with Craft Riot vendor doo-dads. Be sure to stop by my booth - I'll be giving away free "Mystery Pin Packs" to shoppers who mention this post. XO!

On another note of shameless self promotion, I've also been posting about E.A.S.T. - East Austin Studio Tour - over on the Austinist. I've got interviews with a print maker, jeweler and gallery owner - and that's just a glimpse of some of the awesomeness of EAST. EAST allows you to get inside the artist's studios, see their designs, works-in-progresses and purchase finished pieces directly from the artist. The number of participating studios and artists has nearly doubled this year!

I went out to a couple studios last weekend, and it was really great to see how many people came out - and it wasn't just those "artsy" Austin types, as you'd think. Everyone and their grandma (literally, would I kid you?) was touring these studios.

And fear not, after this weekend, I'll be back with our regularly scheduled posting.

More Manila Tags

2010-11-17T23:10:00.000-06:00

I must apologize for my lack of posting. I've been totally consumed with Craft Riot preparation, studying for a Spanish test, going on my first audition in over 3 years (!!), working on articles for the Austinist about East Austin Studio Tour, and working two part time jobs.

Since my brain is pretty much mush at this point, I'm just going to share with you these lovely adhesive backed shipping tags from Olive Manna. They're awesome. I want them.

I'm wondering if there's a way to add adhesive to the back of smaller tags. Does anyone have any experience with this sort of thing?

New Packaging

2010-11-13T22:20:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to share new packaging for my vintage map magnets. I decided using a manila tag would tie in more with the book packaging I use when shipping.

I used the same stamp I usually do, but stamped a large manila tag and enclosed it in a cello bag (made with partially recycled contents, bien sur!)

Tom helped me package over 100 of these babies for the upcoming Etsy Austin Craft Riot. If you're in the area, definitely come check it out!

Everything Has Been Done

2010-11-11T23:49:00.002-06:00

(Image from Public School)
This post over at Public School really resonated with me. Jay discusses where the line is between inspiration and intimation in a post entitled "Everything Has Been Done, So How Can We do Anything?".

It's something I think a lot about with Etsy. In the uber-DIY world that is craftland, where there are multiple people making the same exact (amazing) thing, it's always a battle of "who-dunnit-first" - and maybe not "who-dunnit-best". Does it really matter?

As Jay points out, doing "anything that can’t be perceived as a lift in some way is a difficult thing to do nowadays", considering the availability of seeing other people's work on the internet. Everyone is uploading and sharing, the ideas are flying - and sometimes people draw inspiration from places they don't even realize - or do they?

What are your thoughts the line between copying and being inspired?

Hand Stamped Business Cards

2010-11-09T23:59:00.001-06:00

I'm loving Meg's (of Ghostly Ferns) new business cards. They were specially designed by MaeMae Paperie.

The best part about hand stamped business cards? Not only does it further your handmade aesthetic, but it's much easier to make more on the fly as you need them.

Google Reader Round Up: November 7, 2010

2010-11-07T11:27:00.004-06:00

I've got a nice long list of favorited/starred links for you today, since I skipped last week's GRRU in honor of Halloweenz, so I'll get right to it. Enjoy!

Image via Design Sponge.

Seriously. These bookends are just rocks.

Ewoks are usually hated by die-hard Star Wars fans (in truth, because of people like me, who grew up only loving the episode with "the little bears!!" in it). That's all the more reason why I appreciated Mental Floss' round up of awesome parodies and tributes for the little guys that helped win one for the rebel force.

Mmm... Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. You don't have to wait until Thanksgiving to make this one.

One of my favorite scenes from The IT Crowd.

This decorative film for windows is so lovely! (via Craft)

Super cute owl calendar for 2011.

Slate explores the type of cities America wants. Big or small? Old/new? Austin definitely fits into this - it's got a downtown area with a good arts scene, it's a college town, it's got places to spread out that are still within a stones-throw of the city center. And it's warm.

Super organized sewing station.

This article on how dealing with veneer issues was very helpful - some of my vintage furniture pieces are in need of a pick-me-up.

"T" shirts.

Four classic tips on how to overcome procrastination. Print these out and put them somewhere in sight!

Beautiful candles made from vintage tins. I've done this before, although I would highly recommend against melting down pillar candles and pouring them into containers. Pillar candle wax and container candle wax have different melt points - namely, pillar is much higher (in order to retain it's shape) and could cause the container to overheat or even break.

If it won't fit on a Post-It, It won't fit in your day.

Alison over at TeenAngster shows some of her favorite pictures from Victoria's (of SF Girl By Bay) new apartment. Never before have dark walls looked so airy and chic.

How to modify and old telefoto lens to fit your DSLR.

I'm off to work on more book safes for Pommes Frites, and then heading to a friend's baby shower in the afternoon. What are your Sunday plans?

Owl Candles at The Wondercraft

2010-11-06T23:20:00.003-05:00

Austinites: you can now purchase my owl candles and sheet music pins/magnets at The Wondercraft! The lovely airstream-cum-craft boutique is located in the parking lot of Starving Art Studios (2326 E. Cesar Chavez) - and while you're there, you must also catch a drive-in movie while eating something from Along Came a Slider. You will not regret it!

The ladies of the WC recently did a make-over, giving the trailer a magical woodlands theme inside - just in time for Christmas shopping, of course.

(Caitlin from Salty Oat makes the most adorable cross-stitched pins. Love the packaging on library cards!)

Books and Crannies

2010-11-04T21:42:00.003-05:00

Love these images of books crammed into crannies from Pamela Love and Jordan Sullivan's house tour on the Selby.

Ps - thanks so much for the outpouring of support/participation with yesterday's post! I love to hear from all of you. Xo

Give a Little, Get a Little

2010-11-03T23:17:00.005-05:00

It took me two years of blogging without many followers to realize I was doing something wrong. I may have been writing tons of posts that had value, but I wasn't truly participating in the blog world. Don't get me wrong. I read tons of blogs, but only left comments every once in a while.

That's the rub: blogging is not only you sharing your ideas, pictures, diy tutorials and life stores; it's about creating a dialogue between the reader and yourself. A collective dialogue, if you well.
That's why I was thrilled to read about Gretchen's decision to leave 15 comments per day on other people's blogs. She, in turn, was inspired Wolf Whistle, who will be leaving 500 comments this month. Wow!

So what do you say? Are you in? If you're anything like me, you'll read through so many awesome items on your google reader, but not take the extra second to say "this was a great post!" or "awesome tuturial", or share a story of your own that relates. I don't know if I can get 15, or 500, but I will say I promise to share the love on as many blogs as I can.

DIY: Dia de los Muertos-inspired Flower Headband

2010-11-02T14:23:00.003-05:00

I had never celebrated/heard of Dia de los Muertos before moving to Texas - it's not a big thing on the East Coast. However, I quickly fell in love with the Mexican holiday. It's a time to gather together with your loved ones and celebrate the life of those that are no longer with us. This idea, that we celebrate their life and their importance, rather than mourn it, is amazing to me.

People celebrate by decorating altars in their house with candles, favorite foods of the deceased and flowers, paint their faces to look like a skull and wear flower wreaths, among other things. I made this headband inspired by wreaths of Mexican marigolds.

I couldn't find any faux-marigolds, so I opted for this bright orange/yellow flower that resembled it. I wanted to be able to remove the flowers from the headband, and have the option of just pinning them into my hair, so I didn't just glue them to a headband. See below how to make this lovely flowered headband!

Supplies:
2 Stems of flowers - should have at least 5 or 6
Hot Glue Gun
Matching Ribbon
Old elastic headband (or one of your choosing)

1. While the glue gun is warming up, trim the stems off the fake flowers. You may need to use wire cutters for this. Be careful not to take too much of the base off, as this will cause your flower to fall apart. However, if your flower does fall apart, you've always got a hot glue gun warmed up.

2. Cut ribbon into 1.5" sections.

3. Place a dab of hot glue on one side of the bottom of the flower and attach the ribbon.

4. Do the same for the other side, making sure you leave a small loop between the two glued spots. This is where your headband will slide through.

5. Repeat for all your flowers.

6. Thread your flowers onto an elastic headband. I cut an old one in half, and then used a safety pin to close it up. You could also slip them onto a slim plastic headband.

Life should always be a celebration. If there is a loved one in your life that has passed away, take a moment to day to commemorate them in some way - light a candle, eat their favorite food, buy some flowers, or re-tell one of your favorite stories about them. Xo.

November Goals

2010-11-01T20:45:00.003-05:00

October really flew by, huh? Since my "blog a day" challenge turned out so well, I decided to test setting other habits - some personal and some business oriented.

Mini Goals Chalkboard from MaryKate McDevitt on Etsy.

For my business, my goal is to list at least one item every day.

My personal goal is to wake up by 9:30 every day and make the bed. It's a little thing, but I really notice how much better my day runs when I get an early(ish) start, and my bed looks neat and tidy. I'm not really a morning person, but I do love the benefits of faux morning-person-dom. When you've got half your to-do list done by noon, it makes you feel accomplished.

Do you have any goals for November?

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T19:14:00.005-05:00

Happy Halloween y'all. I made it! 31 posts! I only technically missed one day.

Here's a sneak peek of Tom and mine's Halloween costumes. We were Princess Leia and Han Solo circa Return of the Jedi/Battle of Endor. It made sense we did these costumes: we wanted something a little less "done" (ie: not the white robe/sexy bikini thing) and I also wanted to make Max an ewok costume. What better place that costumes for the place Leia and Wicket meet? Cute cute cute!

I ended up DIYing a lot of these costumes: I tailored both our pants and Tom's vest; we added yellow stripes to the sides of our pants (I even had Tom hand stitching the ribbon on! Yes, he's a keeper). I made the poncho and then Tom camo tie-dyed it and I made Max's ewok costume. I'll be back, of course, with tutorials for all of these things.

Here's our inspiration:

(check out Max's costume!! Eeek!)

Pretty good, right? I orginally purchased a camo poncho from an Army Surplus store, but decided it wasn't similar enough. I'm a stickler for authenticity. I even purchased cheap-o hair extensions so my heidi braids had some extra length.

What did you dress up as for Halloween?

More Pumpkin Love

2010-10-30T13:24:00.002-05:00

I promise, this is the last of it.

The other night, Tom and I went to a haunted house, carved pumpkins, watched the World Series and ate chocolate. The haunted house was terrifying (in some parts). I jump at just about anything, so my voice was hoarse not even half way through the maze. Then, of course, I got terrorized in line by some creepy zombie guy. I hate those guys that stand in line and just get in your face and breathe on you. And the more you hate it, the more they stick around. It's a never ending cycle.

We decided to carve some templates into our pumpkins this year; it seems to be all the rage. I went for a skull, although I'm wishing it would have been a little bit more Dia de los Muertos inspired. Tom did a classic jack-o-lantern, but on the back he also put a special carving.

LA Dodgers! This was all done freehand, which I think is pretty impressive.

I'm off to put the finishing touches on mine and Max's costume, then will be hitting up some parties. What are you up to this Halloween weekend?

PS: sneak peek of the ewok costume in progress.

The Best Part of Pumpkin Carving

2010-10-29T23:49:00.001-05:00

The best part of pumpkin carving...

Is the moment when you lift "the hat".

Quick Biz Tip: Learn When to Listen to (unsolicited) Advice

2010-10-28T19:22:00.004-05:00

If you're a small business owner/crafter/artist/writer/actor/human being, you've probably heard this phrase before: "you know what you should do...." followed by some half-baked idea about what the other person's vision is for your business. A lot of the people who utter this phrase have the best of intentions; they're so excited by your product, they can't help but thinking about the endless possibilities for similar offshoots.

However, 7 times out of 10, the idea is 1) one you've already thought of/tried without success, 2) not relatively close to something you make at all or 3) to put it kindly, not that great.

But those three times, those golden nuggets, are worth hanging on for.

One of the best advancements my business has had (switching to a power saw instead of carving each book with an x-acto) came as a tip from my boyfriend.

The people closest to us can sometimes have the insight we can't. While I'm stuck to the archaic razor and paper method, Tom saw a potential for increased productivity if I used something that did the same job - but faster and more efficiently.

Or maybe, it's the people who we've never met before, the people with the least at stake, that have the insight.

Sometimes it's worth listening to all those well-meaners to get that one little nugget of genius.

Have you ever gotten a great idea from a friend or family member?

Costumes of Halloweens Past

2010-10-27T22:18:00.005-05:00

As you have probably figured out, I loooove Halloween. I'm one of those people. I went trick or treating my senior year of high school as Jay (as in: Jay and Silent Bob). Most of my costumes have had some DIY elements - I'm not one of those "straight of the bag" girls. But you already knew that.

Here are a couple of my favorite costumes from over the years. I've probably posted a few of these before, but I thought I'd repost them for any new readers.

A couple years ago, I went as the Morton Salt Girl. This was an insanely easy costume, most of it I already owned or could purchase and wear again: a short yellow dress, knee high socks, yellow shoes and a blonde wig (borrowed from a co-worker). I made a container of salt out of an old oatmeal can, covering it in blue construction paper and white letters. It also doubled as my purse!

Two years ago, I made Tom and myself full-scale Sparks cans costumes. It was one of the more sewing-intensive projects I've ever attempted, but I've still got those shiny cans... in storage. Never let go.

Last year, I went as the character Old Gregg from the British cult tv show The Mighty Boosh. If you've never seen the Mighty Boosh, this probably won't make a lot of sense to you. You can check out the video below for a sense of Old Gregg...

My costume involved green face paint, a mustache, seaweed hair, sparkly tights, a handmade webbed-hand-glove, a tutu and a blazer. It also involved drinking Baileys (shudder) all night. Tom went as my Howard Moon.

I'm putting this picture up, only because I love you.

Here I am in "full face", putting the last minute touches on my costume.

But my favorite costume ever is when I went as ... a toothbrush!! Yes, I was not your normal kid. My mom and I made this awesome costume using old paper towel rolls and purple-painted paper. Ps - isn't my sister cute as a unicorn? Haha!

What are some of your favorite costumes? Best DIY?

Etsy Finds: A Heirloom's State-Shaped Cutting Boards

2010-10-26T15:23:00.003-05:00

Do you ever run into an item, and feel as if the person created that item just for you?

That's how I feel about these state-shaped cutting boards. I'd seen a Texas shaped one before, at our local grocery store, and while I was totally stoked about it, it wasn't at all a surprise. Texans love the shape of their state, and will try to make just about anything into the shape. It's everywhere.

My delight was tenfold when I discovered that A Heirloom's etsy shop now boasts all fifty states. Meep!

Obviously, I'm a fan of the Virginia - it's my home state. They even put in the Chesapeake side!

{all images from A Heirloom's etsy shop. click on picture for listing}

(they even have a Brooklyn!)

These boards are made out of plyboo, a plywood made from 100% renewable bamboo. These are billed as cutting boards, but as the picture notes, they would make fabulous serving trays for a party. Eco-friendly, well designed and patriotic, to boot! What more could you ask for?

Snaps from the Weekend

2010-10-25T12:53:00.000-05:00

Snapped a few pictures while at Glam, Glitter & Gore and thought I'd share them. Starving Art is a really cool space with so much going on - and I do want to go back and actually watch a movie at their drive-in sometime.

Here's the painted wall/screen for the Starlite Drive-In at Starving Art Studios.

As you can see we had stormy skies for most of the day. My poor little tent spent all winter outside in the rain/snow (what we have of it, here in TX) and when I set it up in the morning, I realized one of the legs was actually broken - it wouldn't snap into place all the way. Needless to say, it made me very nervous for the mini-rain storms we had, but all fared well. Sadly, that was the last run for that crappy $80 tent.

The concession stand for Starlite Drive-In is an old boat!

I got a barbacoa-style brisket slider and sweet potato fries from the Along Came a Slider truck, which is in the Starving Art parking lot right across from The Wondercraft. It was sooo delicious, I will definitely have to go back and try some other sliders.

I love this picture of my cat, Vinnie. It was taken through the screen of our front window the other night when we had a couple friends over.

Hope your weekend was good! This week, I'll be gearing up for the holiday season (meaning: lots of new listings, making tons of product, re-vamping some packaging), carving pumpkins and prepping for Halloween (I still have to make my costume - I always wait til the last minute) and trying to go for a couple bike rides, now that my knee is doing better. What are your plans/goals for the week?

Google Reader Round Up: October 24, 2010

2010-10-24T13:09:00.003-05:00

Image via Public School

The difference between twitter and facebook. Hah!

Five timeless writing tips - for you writers out there. I found these really helpful; sometimes a little push is all you need.

Pumpkin carving tips from the very crafty Brett Bara (who also happens to be my old coworker! She made this big boy that you may have seen on the Craft Twitter feed recently).

Arnold Palmer Sorbet - yes please. via Craft.

Beautiful stationary packs from Knot and Bow.

Delicious kidney bean dip - something a little different than the usual chickpea or black bean dip.

This diy gilded acorn charms are a cute way to add some fall flair to your decor.

Embroidered banners from the Women's Suffragate Movement - wow!

Kate from Design Sponge gave a round up of neutral, chic sofas. Of course the one I like is the most expensive. *sigh* Not until my cats stop using the sofa corners as a scratching post. (via Design Sponge)

Some great tips for selling online. I can never get enough of these.

This R2D2 pumpkin is preeeeeeetty sweet!

This "redneck mansion" is awesome. It's actually a theater set for Chekov's Ivanov.

Hope you all had a lovely weekend! I participated in an all-day craft fair yesterday, and today I'll be taking it easy - cleaning the house, doing a face mask and taking pictures of book safes for the shop

Bottle Poppin' on the Go

2010-10-23T11:00:00.000-05:00

Image from Shapeways

Really loving these low key, seat-mounted bottle openers (called the Road Popper) from Shapeways.

They offer a disclaimer that these bottles openers are not for alcoholic use (they don't condone drinking and biking), so I'm just gonna pretend you're gonna use this awesome accessory to open a delicious Mexican Coke, and not a Shiner Blonde.

Found via Like Cool.

Vintage Map Wall

2010-10-22T18:18:00.004-05:00

Image from Three Potato Four blog

I didn't blog yesterday (and I had been doing so well with my blog-a-day challenge!), so I've got a two-fer for you today. This picture, from the October issue of Martha Stewart Living, is from the home of Austin-based designer Kimberly Renner. She cited the awesome vintage supplier Three Potato Four as her main source for vintage maps.

Want. This. Room.

PS - If you haven't checked out Three Potato Four before, I urge you to go do it - yesterday! Perusing their site is comparable to perusing your favorite antique store - but even better curated. Their photos can serve as inspiration for your own photo shoots, as well.

Glam, Glitter & Gore - Art, Fashion & More

2010-10-22T16:40:00.007-05:00

Join me tomorrow for Glam, Glitter and Gore at Starving Art Studios & Galleries (located at 2326 E. Cesar Chavez). There will be food trailers, an indoor and outdoor artist market (I'll be outdoors, along with other Austin-area artists), family-friendly costume and craft projects.

The event starts at noon, and around 6 pm, things will become more adult-oriented - with drinks, live music, photobooths and a costume contest. You can also expect a fashion show from the one and only Savannah Red (using Dios de Los Muertes fabric, a collaboration with Jennifer Cunningham)

Hope to see you there!

Straight Outta Oxford

2010-10-20T12:23:00.004-05:00

Nothing says "school girl chic" more than this fantastic bag from Cambridge Satchel Company. Based out of the UK (go figure), their satchels come in a variety of sizes and colors. I'm torn between a classic brown and bright red.

Modcloth had a run of these bags stateside, but it looks like they're all sold out. I also noticed this variation on Urban Outfitters recently.

The BDG Primary Satchel. The leather looks slightly vintage (read: worn) already, which is a nice touch, but I'm worried it's a little small.

I may not technically be in school anymore (does a Spanish class count?), but that doesn't mean I can't reap the benefits of nerdy school girl attire, right?

Say a Little Prayer

2010-10-19T22:31:00.003-05:00

I've recently become re-enamored with prayer candles. They're cheap (usually $1-$2 a pop), colorful, and readily abundant in the neighborhoods in bodegas and supermarkets.

While I may not be a religious person, I do love religious iconography, and I tried this time to pick candles based on their meanings. I was drawn especially drawn to the (alleged) double action candle. You burn the dark side (top) of the candle to let the bad things out, and the light side to let the good things in. Overly simplified, yes, but as a person who loves to burn sage after cleaning, I loved the ritual of it.

As you can tell, I'm also drawn to the candles with etching on the glass, rather than the ones wrapped in paper. I plan on re-pouring them with soy wax once the store-bought wax is done.

I caught part of the HGTV Halloween Block Party special last night, in which they make over a couple houses on a block using different Halloween themes. My favorite theme was Dia de los Muertos - the designer even implemented what looked like hundreds of long-burning prayer candles. It would be so pretty to decorate your front walkway with them, no?

Ride the Written Word

2010-10-18T23:59:00.002-05:00

I love this concept for a bicycle.

From Write a Bike over on Behance Network.

Can't wait to see if they really make a prototype of one.

Google Reader Round Up: October 17, 2010

2010-10-17T12:07:00.004-05:00

A few links for you to peruse on this lovely Sunday afternoon...

Image via decor8

♥ Amazing what a different a frame can make.

♥ Cozy reading nooks.

♥ Cute diy halloween flag! A nice alternative to the usual witch flying over a full moon.

♥ How to eat your way to a high energy work day.

♥ The first ever Austin Beer Week is right around the corner: Oct 24 - 30. Expect everything from beer olympics to bike pub crawls to blow-out brewery parties. You can check out the site for more details.

♥ Looking for a way to get into the holiday spirit? Look no further than this 50-state roadside farm stand guide - and bring home some squash and pumpkins to decorate or eat. (via Lifehacker)

♥ Make your own magnetic polaroid frame.

♥ A peek at how JK Rowling organizes her writing. She may not known for her intellectually stimulating novels, but she sure can write one heck of a story.

♥ I'm really into these closet visits - it's like a sneak peek home tour, but for fashionistas.

Hope you all have a great end of your weekend! I'm off to celebrate a friend's birthday at music trivia, and later I'll be catching the season finale of Mad Men. Sigh!

Matt Winters @ Starving Art Studios

2010-10-16T19:08:00.006-05:00

Starving Art Studios and EAT Park and Eatery is a new space that opened on the east side not too long ago - part artist studios, part food trailer court, part drive-in movie theater (I'm serious - they played Rock n Roll High School the other night), part craft boutique and part gallery space. That's a lot of parts! The show currently up in the gallery is from local artist Matt Winters.

I love how Matt's pieces are all about the little parts that make up a whole - little candies, cheeseburgers, faces. I'm also drawn to the bright greens and reds. A lot of the pieces are show-specific - drawn directly on the wall, even. Entire walls are covered with these intensely intricate drawings.

(the artist himself)

Matt, my friend Becka & her husband Jeremy. Love this photo.

This show will be up until the end of the month. If you're in Austin, I would highly recommend checking it out - Starving Art Studio & Gallery Space is located at 2326 E Cesar Chavez. If you're not in Austin, you can also peruse my flickr stream to check out some pics!