Tigerlilly Patch

Tigerlillyshop Trunk Show, Saturday!

2012-01-31T21:30:00.002-05:00

I'll be at one of my favorite shops in Frederick, MD for the wintery Fire and Ice First Saturday celebration! Street level ice sculptures are on display throughout the shopping district for this special event!

February means that love is in the air at The Muse... Check out this great boutique full of handmade wares, perfect for thoughtful Valentine gifts. I'll have a selection of my mixed metal botanical jewelry for sale, as well as some of my button work. Make a night of it and enjoy a stroll through this historic shopping district, grab a hot chocolate and be part of one of the most fun events of the winter!

Pinterest and Instagram Fun!

2012-01-11T10:17:00.002-05:00

So I just love my new i-phone!~ It has opened the door for me to see how easy social media can get integrated with my life and business. I am having a blast loading style shots, studio images, and just fun inspiration on Istagram and Pinterest.

I have been working on this fun Woodland Finds board : http://pinterest.com/tigerlillyshop/woodland-finds/ .

And if you don't have an iphone to access Instagram, you can always follow what's going up on this site: http://followgram.me/tigerlillyshop

The Way We Work, National Archives Trunk Show

2011-11-30T16:05:00.007-05:00

I am very excited to have been invited to this event at the National Archives. This will be my first ever show on the Mall in DC! I'll have a representation of my preserved botanical work that compliments their National Park collection. There won't be a huge display, I have a 3" space for my necklaces, earrings, rings, a few other one of a kind pieces.

You can find more information about the US National Archives here:
https://www.facebook.com/usnationalarchives?sk=wall

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Inspired by New Deal arts projects, which put artists to work and promoted American art and culture during the Great Depression, “The Way We Work” trunk show will feature the work of contemporary artists for sale at affordable prices.

There is going to be a lunch hour film program in the National Archives' William G. McGowan Theater Friday, December 2 will highlight Works Progress Administration short subject films.

Support the work of today's American artisans and the mission and programs of The Foundation for the National Archives, while shopping for meaningful gifts this holiday season!

This Weekend, Too! Merry Mart

2011-11-30T11:57:00.000-05:00

Merry Mart is a unique craft show featuring a diverse mix of art and craft from Baltimore and beyond. BEST's own Jen Menkhaus of The Littlest Bean and Allison Fomich of Tigerlillyshop helped to organize and run the event again this year!

This is a warm and fuzzy indoor show that showcases local Baltimore talent with unique handmade work. Shoppers will find one of a kind gifts, clothing, handbags, plushies, felt accessories, ceramics, soaps, kids toys, mixed media, amazing jewelry, and great art! If you are looking for unique items that will be remembered and appreciated for years to come, don’t miss this show. Shop local and expect to find great gifts at this handmade marketplace this holiday season!

You can find the vendor list and preview here: http://merrymartbaltimore.blogspot.com/

As always, it will be held at the Creative Alliance at the Patterson on December 4th, 2011, from 11am-5pm.

Holiday Heap 2011 this weekend!

2011-11-30T11:49:00.004-05:00

Only 4 days until the CharCity Craft Mafia's Holiday Heap, and we can hardly wait!

This year's fair will have 60 of the best local and national crafters, as well as a yarn-spinning demonstration by Three Ravens and a raffle to win a huge basket full of goodies by supporting Arts Every Day! Check the CCCM blog to see vendor interviews and raffle basket sneak peeks.

GrrChe, a local food truck, will be outside for lunch and snacks.

Check out the vendors beforehand by visiting the vendor page. The show will be held on December 3rd, from 10am to 5pm inside St John's Church at 2640 St Paul Street, Baltimore MD 21218.

Emporium Collagia, Fells Point Indie-pendant Business

2011-11-21T22:43:00.012-05:00

In the spirit of Small Business Saturday, I thought I would post about one of my favorite small shops in Historic Fells Point, Emporium Collagia. The owner is an artist with a distinct eye for the unique. She has been a fan of my electroformed pieces for a while and always has a nice array of necklaces to choose from! This holiday season, I am so very excited that she is offering her shoppers my new bronze collection!

Proprietor and Aritst Luana Kaufmann has a beautiful little shop at 1732 Thames Street along the waterfront strip in Fells Point. Her unique collage art prints are on display and for sale tucked in amongst an exquisite collection of hand picked interesting home goods and gifts from everywhere! Her store is a collage, in it's own right, it's always fun to see what new items she has to offer.

If you are looking for a special item, you can find a great selection in her tiny storefront. There are super fun surprises in every nook. I am happy to encourage you to support Luana and her eclectic adventure. Shop locally, pop in and see what special gift you leave with!

Urbanite and my Upholstery

2011-11-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

I have been focusing a lot of building different parts of my businesses over the last year. You may have seen my red chair upholstery ad in Baltimore's free publication: Urbanite Magazine.

The studio is filling with furniture that needs to be redone. I'll be updating you on all of that stuff as new pieces come through the studio. I'll have lots of before and after shots to inspire!

Don't forget to connect with me on my Allison Fomich Upholstery page!
Stay tuned!!!

Calling all Friends and Fans!

2011-11-04T11:31:00.007-04:00

In the spirit of the holiday I am thinking of all of my beloved friends, fans, and loyal customers over the years and I want to give back! I'll be doing some giveaways over the next few months and am excited to offer a peek into the studio more often with a newsletter that will be sent out every other month.

You can sign up for the behind the scenes newsletter by clicking here, just fill in the form and I'll send you a 10% off coupon to my Etsy shop!

Over the next few months, I also want to give a little shot in the 'ol arm to this little blog and my photos on my Flickr page, get better at connecting on Twitter and Tigerlillyshop Facebook AND on Allison Fomich Upholstery Faceboook. Yes it seems like a lot to do, but I miss my online community! Let's reconnect!

More galleries, gift shops, and brick-and-mortar stores are carrying my jewelry work. I feel like my hard work is taking me on a slow meandering successful road. I am feeling good about the upcoming season.

I hope to see many of you at my holiday craft shows, maybe we can even connect with a personal studio visit!

Art Under Glass 2011

2011-05-19T07:56:00.004-04:00

This was my display in the Tropcial Greenhouse. My jewelry just looked right in there!

Rawlings Conservatory Exhibit, 3rd Annual Art Under Glass

2011-05-11T23:17:00.001-04:00

Allison Fomich, BEST's own Tigerlillyshop will be dipping her toes back into the fine art world this weekend. Appropriately, it will happen in a place close to her heart, the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore.

This is the first time my Tigerlillyshop jewelry line will be exhibited in a fine art setting. I'll be a small part at the 3rd annual fine art exhibit showcasing some of Baltimore's most talented artists. I am very excited to be in a show with the likes of April Wood, John Ruppert, and Joyce Scott!

Visiting the Conservatory a few weeks ago, I met with some of the master garden staff. They generously gave me cuttings and snippets of specimen growing in the various rooms. I have been working on some pieces that are informed directly by the Conservatory's plants. The botanical garden has been a great place to be inspired. I can't wait to show these art pieces, a really new experience for the line!

11:00 am – 12:30pm - Brunch with artists and preview exhibition
$100 per person
reserved tickets

1:00 pm – 4:00 pm - Art exhibition and sale with refreshments
$30 per person in advance
$40 at the door

Patrons can buy tickets here.

Participating artists:
Gloria Askin • Lindsay Bolin • Loring Cornish • Mark Eisendrath • Kevin Fitzgerald • Allison Fomich • Edmond Hardy • Christine Neil • Joe Kabriel • Giselle Kolb • Barbara Z. Lipman • Ursula Marcum • Edmundo Ortega • Megan Schneebaum • Joyce Scott • Steve Stannard • Soledad Salame • John Ruppert • April Wood

Station North Art Festival, Baltimore with Babes

2011-05-11T23:15:00.000-04:00

The other day, our wonderful school art teacher Ms. Laura Embereson, pulled me aside in the hall to tell me my daughter will have work on display at this event, and that there will be awards given out like a real art show! I had never heard of the event before, but it sounded intriguing, especially since our daughter's self portrait will be on display. The exhibit is called Aimed for Purpose, very appropriate for a student show.

Thinking back to my own childhood, this event sounds like similar exhibits I showed at. I am artist, who was once a child who enjoyed making art. I remember when my parents encouraged me and my talent, exposing me to events and exhibits like this. A child feels a great sense on accomplishment and pride when they see a piece of their own artwork in an exhibit, out there in the world. I can't wait to share this day with her!

Location : Across from Station North Thrift Store, 1400 Greenmount Ave.
Time: Saturday May 14th, 12-4pm
Free!

For more info: Adopt a Block Inc.

Station North Art Festival (SNAF) is a program that is run through Adopt-A-Block, Inc. that involves East Baltimore schools and school-aged children who submit artwork based on a pre-determined theme that is always positive and community based. We collect the artwork from individuals and teachers, it is judged by professional artists, and the top 3 students and top school are awarded several prizes.

Upholstery Update

2011-03-17T20:47:00.006-04:00

Well, exciting news! We have decided to take our upholstery business to the next level! After much deliberation, we have decided to take out an ad in the Ubranite, one of Baltimore's free monthly magazines.

I think we will be reaching a broad audience across the city that appreciates handmade and supports local businesses. Hopefully the ad will make an impression. It is a small ad in the back, it will be in the "Marketplace" section. But I think we will have a striking graphic that will attract customers.

After 13 years of word-of-mouth business, we are ready to really push the business to grow. So, here we GO!

Baltimore Bride Feature

2011-01-27T10:42:00.002-05:00

My work was featured in Baltimore Bride this month! Super excited to be photographed among some of the most talented crafters in Baltimore.

Merry Mary and Holiday Heap This Weekend!

2010-12-03T19:21:00.001-05:00

As if you didn't already know, the Baltimore crafty selling season is upon us. We survived Black Friday and many of us wondered if Cyber Monday was actually legit... But really, there are many places to spend holiday gift dollars this time of year. Where will you spend? You may want to think about keeping your hard earned dollars local and support the economy you live in.

Are you ready to be that "conscientious consumer"? Go crazy at these super fun shows this weekend!

This one always rocks my socks off! Charm City Craft Mafia presents Holiday Heap 2010 on Saturday Dec. 4th, from 10am-5pm. Never a dull moment at this show, shop early for the best pickin'. You snooze, you loose!

You can count on great handmade shopping at the Creative Alliance in the Highlandtown Arts District this Sunday December 5th, from 11am-5pm. If you are looking for unique items that will be remembered for years to come, don't miss this warm and fuzzy event!
Everything you need to know about Merry Mart can be found here .

It is SO much fun to shop these awesome shows. See you there!

I Heart Art: Baltimore -This Friday!

2010-11-17T08:05:00.003-05:00

Don't forget about the meet-n-greet party on MICA campus this Friday, November 19, from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. ET. Food, drink, music and a craft activity will be included in the festivities taking place in Brown Center’s Leidy Atrium, 1301. W. Mount Royal Ave.

Come meet Vanessa and Morgan from Etsy and members of the Baltimore Etsy Street Team. There will be a raffle full of goodies from BEST artists, MICA, and Etsy, so get there early! And don't forget to bring your business cards!

Please RSVP by calling 410-225-2219 or e-mailing spcs@mica.edu. We can’t wait to see you at the party! For directions, please visit: www.mica.edu

Our Patterson Park Weekend

2010-11-14T20:18:00.005-05:00

I was taking a photo of this leaf and branch, when she jumped up to get it. Total coincidence!

Patterson Park is just breathtaking right now. We have had beautiful warm fall days, the weather and sunshine has been perfect. So glad to get some shots this year.

Where's Brett? Monkey like-in the tree tops.
It was a fun day!

Button Rings on Sale!

2010-10-18T10:48:00.003-04:00

Trying out the new Etsy On Sale App !

I will be offering more sales throughout the fall and winter since this app makes it so easy to offer my customers deals deals deals!! Please check back for next week's promotion!

End of Summer Gardening

2010-09-01T07:00:00.001-04:00

My daughter brought her play camera to our city garden plot the other day and took some really cool shots. Yes, I love everything she makes, that is my job, but I thought it might be a nice thing to share with my readers. Here is my 5 yr old's view of a day in the sunshine of our garden.

Marigolds gone by, looking closely and smelling their pungent fragrance as she dead heads them. I think this is a universal North American gardening experience. So happy to instill these scents in her childhood memory.

This one is so beautiful, she held a stick up and made a growling face, but "It didn't work", she said. I think it is a great self portrait. Very summery and sunshine. Even though it is the hot sweltering end of summer, this image is sweet and self aware.

I asked her to take one of me for fun. She had her turn with the hose and soaked me earlier, I am drenched in this picture. We really have a good time together when it's just us. I love going to the garden with her. She helped me weed the beets at age 3. Now at age 5, she is making friends with mourning doves and asking if we can take them home. I said she has to catch them first.

Watering plot #32. I propped up the hose in our neighbor's fence so I could focus on the other plot. I love to see her perspective, her vantage point and her world.

Morning glories cover the fences this year thicker than in past years. The vines provide some much needed shade in our corner near plot #2. She was hanging out close to me picking these heart shaped leaves and giving them to me. She repeated over and over that she was giving me the most important gift of the loving heart. I made sure to tuck them into my pockets so I wouldn't lose them.

It was a really hot blazing summer day out there, but we kept cool in the hose. There were a lot of weeds to pull, but we did find some creatures to look at. I squished harlequin beetles, squash bugs and we had to leave the mourning dove where he was perched on the fence. I left that garden closer to my daughter. Girl time.

Top 10 Kaboodle Contest Winner!

2010-08-31T12:46:00.002-04:00

The results are in, I was #3 in the top ten. Thanks everybody for voting for my Red Cherry Blossom Ring! I appreciate all of your votes and I can feel the love from all my fans!

Vote for me in the Etsy & Kaboodle Floral Jewelry Contest!

2010-08-11T23:55:00.010-04:00

Please vote for my ring!

Etsy's marketing team has been working with Kaboodle to do some cross promotion. They did a blog post in the Storque a few weeks ago: Tips for success for everything Kaboodle related here.

My Red Cherry Blossom ring has been singled out, along with 47 other Etsy finds, to be in a contest for the best Floral Jewelry. To win, my ring must receive the most hearts by Kaboodle’s community of savvy shoppers. If I win, I get some great free promotion on the Kaboodle site!

*I will be prominently featured in a Winning Designer’s Circle within Kaboodle’s new Indie Channel
*I will receive winner badge that announces that my ring product won the Kaboodle contest
* My ring and I will be promoted throughout the Kaboodle site.

With your vote, YOU are entered into a random drawing for a chance to win a $100 PayPal gift certificate offered by Kaboodle!

I would be thrilled to get the promo from this contest. Voting ends on August 23rd, so don't delay! I encourage all my fans and friends of BEST to vote for me. Any promo I get, I carry my BEST team along with me!

Thanks for your vote in advance!
Allison

Celebrating 5 Years on Etsy!!!

2010-08-06T17:02:00.003-04:00

*********SALE**********

Join me in celebrating 5 years on Etsy!!! How did that happen? What a great ride it has been. So many opportunities, so much growth as an artist and business owner. Happy to extend a celebration to all of you out there. Thank you, all!

20% off metal jewelry! Buy 2 get 1 button rings and plastic rings... GO! Sale starts now and goes through Monday night!

*Sale terms: Simply proceed through the check out and pay, I'll reimburse you the 20%. For button please request a color/style, for plastic rings please request a pattern. Sale ends Monday night at midnight EST.

Acorns for the Autumn Season

2010-08-06T10:54:00.002-04:00

Look at these beauties! I am gearing up for the Fall selling season, making sure I am stocked up with my acorns. They are one of my popular sellers in the electorformed copper, but I am now offering sterling castings of some choice specimen. These little guys are cast from nature, preserving each detail and characteristic of the individual piece. Collect all 4! (lol)

17th Annual Hamilton Festival and Classic Car Show this weekend!

2010-07-30T15:02:00.000-04:00

Come visit BEST and Charm City Craft Mafia members at the 17th Annual Hamilton Festival and Classic Car Show. The festival features two stages with all-day music, dance and martial arts performances, cars, craft and food vendors. There will be beer gardens for the adults and kids games with prizes for the little ones!

Hamilton Street Festival and Classic Car Show 2010
Saturday July 31st
11:00 a.m. to 8: p.m.
Harford Road at Hamilton Ave

Patterson Park, Baltimore, MD

2010-07-27T10:54:00.001-04:00

Pagoda, a rose garden, the pond. There is a duck and a rock in the pond.

Veggies of the Week, 7/14/10

2010-07-21T22:48:00.002-04:00

We grew all of this. I have no idea how. I think my husband bought some seeds and started them. I have a vague recollection of planting them in our city garden plot.... I remember a lot of traveling and distractions...

We ventured out to check on things in the garden last week. Weeds had taken over a lot of the area, some veggies were being choked out by the healthy weeds, but underneath it all, we found food! Thanks to a good friend or 2 that watered for us while we were neglectful gardeners, the garden lived and somehow thrived! Check out that bounty! WOW!

Artscape DIY, Here We Come!

2010-07-16T08:50:00.006-04:00

We'll be sweating it out at Artscape this year on Charles St. We have lots of new things to see, my sister Maria is up helping with the show!

Our booth C29, is just before the Penn Station, across the street from the Man/Woman sculpture, just before the Penn Station bridge. We're in good company selling in a tent with Sweet Pepita Clothing and The Broken Plate Pendant Company! Please come by and say hello!

Pile of Craft THis Saturday!

2010-06-23T09:18:00.001-04:00

This Saturday is Charm City Craft Mafia’s 4th annual Pile Of Craft! A one-of-a-kind craft fair for Baltimore, featuring 40+ of the country's best handmade crafters selling their own housewares, stationary, screenprinted & sewn apparel, jewelry, handbags, hats, knit items, woven scarves, plush toys, ceramics, comic books, prints, paintings and more! Support handmade and local artists and meet them in person!

A number of BEST members will be participating in this awesome event:

Jamie Zollars, Sweet Pepita, Maneating Flower, Elisa Shere Jewelry, The little Bean, Found Studio, Boxerbox Press, Sugarpaperie, The brokenplate, Tigerlilyshop ,Yummy and Company, jennyjen42, Dandelion Blu , and Block Party Press.At our BEST table will be: greenstarstudio, Design by Night, Atelier-Beads, and Jill Popowich designs. Check out the vendors page here.

Pile of Craft is absolutely free to attend and open to all ages. I hear a rumor that a photobooth will be there! Don’t miss this amazing event!

June 26th 10-5pm

2640 St. Paul Street

Baltimore, MD 21218

Upholstery of the week

2010-06-19T07:01:00.000-04:00

Well, really it has been a month or so! But the 2 pieces, couch and loveseat are done, delivered and sitting happily in their home. I am glad these are out of the studio, the space free to fill with the next few chairs... My daughter can scoot around here again while we work.

It was a big project, took longer than I had planned, but that is how it goes sometimes. I am pleased with the set, happy with the results.

Etsy Craft Party, Baltimore

2010-06-17T16:45:00.000-04:00

Looking for a super fun way to kick off the weekend this week? Why not join BEST & the Charm City Craft Mafia for a Craft Party & Meetup, in honor of Etsy's birthday?

This friday, June 18th, starting at 6pm, we'll be at Roosevelt Park in Hampden. We won a free Craft Party kit from Etsy for being one of the top parties, so we'll have lots of crafty goodies to test out! We'll be working on a collaborative banner project, and we'll have a few other crafty things up our sleeve. Maybe even some giveaways!

In addition, we'll be hosting an informal craft supply swap at the meetup, so please bring any crafty supplies you'd like to trade or give away. Any unclaimed supplies will be donated to Art with a Heart and The Black Cherry Puppet Theater.

You can RSVP here, just click on the red button that says "I'm interested." Baltimore is DEFINITELY the craftiest spot on the globe, so let's let 'em see that, huh? Kids & families welcome.

So, bring some work in progress, a blanket, a picnic dinner, and get ready for some fun! Just look for the Etsy-orange balloons. Hope to see you then!

Columbia Festival of the Arts, Art Park

2010-06-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

The Columbia Festival of the Arts is an annual event that celebrates music, dance, theater, comedy, literature, fine arts and crafts. It has grown in popularity since 1987, attracting big name artists from around the country. Events and performances span an entire 2 weeks of June. It culminates with a weekend full of music and art.

A few members from BEST will be selling in the indoor section of the Art Park in the covered garage at 10200 Wincopin Circle:
Saturday, June 12: Noon - 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 13: Noon - 7 p.m.
See you this weekend!

tigerlillshop

g reenstarstudio

tarabu

Designs by Leslie Brown

Blooms of the week 6/8/10

2010-06-08T09:30:00.005-04:00

Can these Asiatic Lilies give a bigger and brighter show?!? I mean, this has been nonstop for 3 weeks now! I am so glad we took a chance on the mixed collection when we did. These hardy beauties have brought us lively color for us to enjoy year after year. I guess these have been established in our container garden for about 4 yrs now. It might be time to split them up and give them to some friends soon.
And lovely marigolds, how I love you. These seeds were collected at our community garden plot one Fall when the growing season was coming to an end. The red/orange/gold blooms on these 18" annuals are enjoyable all summer. Some of our other varieties of marigolds self seeded this year, so we have lots of orange ones, too. Also, our petunias self seeded all over the place and I have been tucking those into pots all over the yard for purple and pink color.

More pictures to come as the blooms keep on going!

Blooms of the week, Our Urban Garden

2010-05-26T22:13:00.004-04:00

Our lilies have started, and it looks like they have really multiplied this year! These Asiatic lilies are early summer bloomers that have showy colors and a profusion of blooms. Although they are not fragrant, the color and ease of culture make them indispensable in the container garden. They withstand the heat in our concrete backyard. I love these easy care bulbs.

Handmade Mart is This Sunday!

2010-05-20T07:08:00.000-04:00

See the vendor list here!
See you this Sunday in Silver Spring, MD.

Silver's In the Air for This Year

2010-05-19T10:50:00.007-04:00

Some sneak peeks!

Blooms of the week, Our Urban Garden

2010-05-17T09:29:00.005-04:00

We have had nonstop blooms in our city container garden. So happy to share some heirloom irises and a peony bloom with you this week. I have been waiting for this peony to bloom for 6 yrs, I planted it as a tuber. Finally!!!!

Squidfire Art Mart: May 8, Fells Point Craft Show

2010-05-06T11:55:00.000-04:00

Join us on this Saturday at the tenth annual Art Mart where more than 50 unique and hand-picked artists will flood Baltimore's famous Fells Point Square for an all-day, open-air marketplace. BEST members participating include: SugarPaperie , ElisaShereJewelry, BlockPartyPress, DandelionBlu, JennyJen42, The Littlest Bean, AtelierAdornments, JerseyGirlDesign, CEKCustomDesigns, TheBrokenPlate, TigerLillyShop, YummyAndCompany, Lanabella, Sweet Pepita, and VWStudios. This event runs from 11–6 p.m. For more information visit http://www.squidfire.com/.

From Scratch Market, See You Saturday!

2010-04-29T09:27:00.005-04:00

I'll be heading up to the From Scratch Market in Trexlertown Grange, PA this weekend. This is a now promising indie show that I am really looking forward to! I'll be in good company from the BEST team, Jenni from Lanna Bella Soaps and Tara of Trabu will be selling at this show. Check out the vendor list!

Mother's Day is on it's Way

2010-04-25T12:14:00.002-04:00

I'll be stocking up on hearts this week. Look for one of a kind gifts for mom!

7th Annual Highalndtown Wine Festival

2010-04-16T09:51:00.005-04:00

This weekend make the trip to Southeast Baltimore for the 7th annual Highlandtown Wine Festival which celebrates the tradition of home wine making. This event has a nice feature in the Urbanite this month, check out the article here.

I look forward to sipping wine all day at this springtime event. Not only is there great food from Di Pasquales Deli , but live music and the old guy Bocce tournament are always entertaining. Everything starts looking better and better as the day goes on in beautiful Our Lady of Pompeii church courtyard, even the goats. There is a craft market this year, too. LannaBella from BEST will be there selling her organic teas, soaps, candles, and salves.

But the Homemade Wine Competition hosts some strong contenders. There is a limited supply of this good stuff, so get in line early and often!

Admission is $25 ($20 in advance) and includes a souvenir wine glass and 5 generous tastings.

Some news coverage here: http://wjz.com/video/?id=69550@wjz.dayport.com

Annual Spring Blowout SALE!

2010-04-14T09:38:00.008-04:00

*****SALE through Saturday April 17th! ******
Sale ends Midnight EST !

20% off all metal jewelry!!!!

*Buy 2 plastic rings, get one free! (please request design of choice for free ring)

*Buy 2 button rings, get one free! (please request color of choice for free ring)

To take advantage of the sale, check out through my Tigerlillyshop and pay. I'll issue a refund for the difference.

Blooms of the week, Dwarf Iris

2010-04-12T15:12:00.004-04:00

These are old fashioned irises, I got them from an old guy's garden when I lived in PA. He had such a huge range of plants that he would split them up in the spring and offer gallon buckets for $3.00. What a deal!

This dwarf bearded iris only grows 8" at the highest. It's great for the front of a border or tucked away in a heat tolerant container garden. Lovely!

Pile of Craft 2010!

2010-04-09T14:23:00.004-04:00

Save the shopping date! This show can't be missed;)
See ya there!

Easter Goggles

2010-04-08T16:58:00.003-04:00

We are still reeling from bags and bags of Easter candy around here.

New Fabrics in the Shop!

2010-04-07T09:52:00.003-04:00

Spring is here, and I am stocking the shop with lots of fun spring inspired things. More button bracelets and rings on the way;)

Easter Sunday

2010-04-04T13:56:00.000-04:00

Upholstery of the Week, Gothic Chair

2010-03-31T16:48:00.004-04:00

Just finished this baby up. Gothic chair, fully restored. Horsehair and cotton sewn chair pad.
Beauty!

Spring Blooms, photo inspirations

2010-03-27T23:36:00.002-04:00

I thought I'd start a new posting ritual for weekends. I'll post a picture that I take of something that inspired me around the city.

This week it was blooming trees at Patterson Park. Always a great place to spend a springtime afternoon.

What will it be next week? Stay tuned.....

Spring is for Ferns

2010-03-26T16:54:00.002-04:00

I am stocking up the shop for the Spring. I know one of these days sales will pick up and shows will fill every weekend, I just have to be ready for it. It's easy for me to get distracted during this time of year, I suffer from an annual Springfeaver! All of the flowers, fresh smells and light green shimmers among the trees can easily keep me out of the studio.

The garden calls, the seeds and seedlings need planting. Tulips will be up soon, they love to bask in the sun on the cool days of April. I'll be celebrating with them! But in the mean time, on these early rainy dark days, I'll post my inspirations in the shop.

Spring Blooms in the Urban Garden

2010-03-25T14:26:00.007-04:00

Our container garden brings us joy all year round! Over these last few weeks Baltimore has been hit with springtime weather. The flowers noticed and have been blooming nonstop!

So happy to see these pansies overwintered nicely.Robust and cheery, I imagine the singing flowers from Alice in Wonderland every time we pass.

And the daffodils trumpet springtime loud and clear!

Highlandtown Spring Artfest / Home and Garden Show

2010-03-18T07:00:00.001-04:00

Elisa Shere Jewelry

Tigerlillyshop

Adornments by AtelierBeads

Lana Bella

Kick off the Spring Season with a visit to the Skylofts Gallery of the first annual Highlandtown Spring Artfest! Elisa, Anne, Allison, and Jeni from BEST will be there selling their wares. The event will be showcasing local talent with a diverse selection of painting, pottery, papergoods and jewelry. See container garden demos and enter to win a herb garden from Baltimore Contained!

Make a day of it, pick up some of the best-ever donuts at Hohen's Bakery (always a treat) and some Italian goodies at Di Pasquales Deli (an even bigger treat). See you there!

Highlandtown Spring Artfest / Home and Garden Show
Skylofts Gallery
3701 Bank St.
Baltimore, MD 21224
Saturday March 20, 10:00-3:00

Spring Into Art five, Benefit Auction for PPPCS

2010-03-16T14:05:00.007-04:00

I donated 2 pieces to the Spring Into Art Auction this year. I believe in the future of the Patterson Park Public Charter School and want it to succeed. The school has been a grassroots effort from the surrounding neighborhoods and I am proud that it is a great option for parents choosing to keep their families in the city. Please come out and bid this weekend!

03.20/21.10

A unique art exhibition and sale showcasing local talent and
benefiting Patterson Park Public Charter School

A chance to buy fine art from more than 20 Baltimore area artists and support the
Patterson Park Public Charter School. 40% of all art sale proceeds will be donated to the school.

Opening Night Silent Auction

Saturday, March 20th—6 pm to 12 midnight

VIP Reception—6 pm to 7 pm.

Enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres + cocktails, music, and the opportunity to place the
first bid! Tickets are $35 and include the Opening Celebration + After Party.

Opening Celebration—7 pm to 9:30 pm.

An evening of great art, food, drink + music. Get your auction bid in before 9 pm!
Tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100 and include the After Party.

After Party—9:30 pm to 12 midnight.

DJ, chill tunes + cash bar keep the party going!

For ticket information please visit www.pppcs.org.

Open Gallery + Family Art Day

Sunday, March 21st—10 am to 2 pm

Browse + purchase art at this free open gallery. See (and hear) the talents of PPPCS students. Learn more about the arts programs at PPPCS.

Patterson Park Public Charter School

410-558-1230 x396 | www.pppcs.org | 27 N. Lakewood Ave. Baltimore, MD 21224

Formed Metal Jewelry, by Brett

2010-03-13T09:51:00.005-05:00

Working with my husband in the studio has really tuned out great. He has an inquisitive nature and has come to really like working with metal. He taught him self some cold joining techniques and has taken a liking to forming and forging. I am so lucky!

The ring above is made from a scrap he found in the brass bin, something I thought was ruined, he reinvented and made a beautiful ring. I am really impressed with his ingenuity in the metal studio lately.
He's also my cuff former. That hammer I got him for Christmas last year is really paying off!

Thebes Stool, Upholstery Project Done!

2010-02-24T17:37:00.004-05:00

With a custom embroidered silk fabric, I created this Egyptian revival topper for a customer's antique Thebes stool. Cushion is cotton batting, a nice firm seat or footstool.

Done! Next....

Inspired to Work by the Buyer's Market of Philadelphia

2010-02-17T09:35:00.008-05:00

Back from a trip to the Buyer's Market of Philadelphia this week. Just visiting, not selling. I was lucky to get to tour the floor with my friend Monica and Jen Menkhaus, the former Assistant Show Director. I was able to connect with some great young sellers like Betsy of Foundling , Sofi Masri and some seasoned sellers such as Michael Michaud and Melissa Finelli. I even saw a few familiar faces from Baltimore in action Barbie Levy and Lisa Cimino, both had stunning displays and beautiful products.

I was very inspired by the day. I better understand what needs to get in line in order to really be prepared to do a show of this magnitude. So, off to kick start production, maybe make some new things.

Solid products, line sheets, display, confidence, courage... I feel like we are kicking off the new year to a good start!

All Things Halted

2010-02-10T14:39:00.002-05:00

So we are not on top of things around here, even though there has been some down time. The snow has proved to be draining and distracting. My poor customers are asking about their orders, but I can't get to the post office any time soon. If the mail trucks can't make it here, I can't make it there! So, things are still on hold...

Spring Sneak Peak, Bridal Party Favors?

2010-02-02T14:09:00.004-05:00

I scored some really cool vintage flowers from Japan and Korea on my trip to NYC this past December. I am fooling around with some designs for next season. Using my silk buttons and little bouquets of these flowers, I'm looking at brooches, hair clips, headbands, barrettes.

I'm considering custom wedding work, too. I could see making buttons with wedding fabric scraps, special keepsakes for the bridal party, or sweet sixteen court, or some other fancy occasion. Custom work is my specialty, I love making things special for people with meaningful materials.

I love these flowers!

CNN's Dream Jobs Featues Tigerlillyshop

2010-01-26T09:09:00.007-05:00

Here is the LINK! We were featured on CNN's American Morning today with footage from our everyday lives and our studio !!!

Erin's body product line from www.krugsecologic.etsy.com was also featured.

Link: http://www.cnn.com/video/?/video/business/2010/01/26/feyerick.dream.jobs.cnn

Lunch with Handmade

2010-01-15T13:05:00.005-05:00

We love having tea parties around here. Looris and Candee and the 3 eyed green Cottonmonster joined us today. Sometimes it's the baby dolls and teady bears that have their playtime, but for some reason this handmade plushie crew always brings more of a party. They order things like flaming orange flippy dips, pinapple swimmy swammies, and strawberry dingdangdoos. And as for their behavior, well, that is another story. It's always more fun with imaginative handmade.

Christmas Break

2009-12-25T00:12:00.000-05:00

Our Christmas cactus is blooming, a reminder to me that it is time for a break.

It's been a good year full of home renovations, great vacations, and new growth in our business. I tackled the most challenging upholstery projects I ever attempted and did the worst craft show ever. This time of year is so nice to relax, eat some chocolate and reflect on the things we did all year long while being surrounded by family and good friends.

I hope all of you out there have a great holiday break and get the rest and rejuvenation you need.

Thanks to all of my customers, friends, family and business ladies that help make the year manageable! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

HANDMADE Custom Pet Tag Sale

2009-12-21T11:49:00.006-05:00

My sister Maria woke up Sunday to a very ill kitty pawing at her belly.
The kitty needs a surgery procedure that is out of my sister's price range so she decided to do some DIY fund raising ASAP!

***CUSTOM PET TAG SALE!***
All handmade tags are 20% off!!

The tags are made from hand cut 18g aluminum, and finished with silver ball rivets. They're made to size (sm/med/lg) for your pet, and stamped with your pets name (front, occasionally back) and number (back).

Check out her website at yabettasupadont.etsy.com
for more tag selection. Custom orders are welcome!

Thanks for the support!

Christmas Cooking

2009-12-21T06:59:00.000-05:00

I am trying to squeeze in some baking this season. It is important to me to at least make some cranberry bread and a few cookies. I can't go too overboard since we are still working on furniture around here....

I had to get a picture of these loaves, they we so warm and cozy in there. This is the same holiday bread that my mom makes every year -minus the nuts thank you! For as long as I can remember, I have watched this stuff rise and brown in the oven. Yummy.

Now, back to this chair that is staring at me in the studio. And one more (maybe not the last) trip to the post office for my rush orders.

Snowing, But Cozy Inside

2009-12-19T13:17:00.004-05:00

I think this is what all the Christmas carols sing about. Cold and blustery, snow piling up out there. Inside, cookies, warmth, family. Even if it is not falling exactly on the day, I am going to call it our own White Christmas.

Chocolate Crackle-Tops

2009-12-17T23:50:00.004-05:00

I was given a cookie cookbook one year as a Christmas present from a good friend who loved baking. I have used this book over and over to make the best cookies ever, hands down. The recipe in this book for roll out/cut out sugar cookies is better than my mom's. The lemon shortbread recipe is to die for. I have tired fancy cookies that looked too hard for me to even attempt, and those came out beautifully! So when I saw this recipe, it was one I had to try.

These chocolate cookies are one of my favorites for the holidays. They are pretty, fun to make with my daughter, and delish to boot. The better quality chocolate you use, the better the taste. The trick to this recipe is to keep the cooking temperature low at 325 as to not melt the powdered sugar coating.

7 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
scant 1/2 unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
scant 2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar for coating

1. In a medium saucepan, over low heat, melt chocolate and butter together until smooth, stirring constantly.
2. Remove from heat, Stir in the sugar, continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir into the chocolate mixture in batches, just until blended.
4. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least an hour, until the dough is cold enough to hold it's shape.
5. Preheat oven to 325 degrees, Grease baking sheets. Place confectioners sugar in a small deep bowl. Using a round teaspoon or small ice cream scoop, scoop the cold dough and roll in to balls between the palms of your hands. Roll 1 1/2" balls.
6. Drop each ball into confectioners sugar and roll until heavily coated and place on baking sheets.
7. Bake cookies for 10-15 minutes, until the tops feel slightly firm when touched. When slightly cooled, move the cookies to a wire rack with a spatula to cool completely.

Open Studio Now 'till Christmas!

2009-12-17T12:12:00.008-05:00

Lost of stock left for those last minute gifts and stocking stuffers!

*Button rings, plastic rings, button earrings
*Silver and Copper Earrings, Necklaces and an overabundance of Cuff Bracelets
*Electroformed Acorns, twigs, maple seeds and really cool pods

Remember to shop local and get first dibs on my best stuff. I don't list everything in my etsy shop, so you can take your pick in person. And I give deep discounts at the end of the season, deals, deals, deals! lol.

Open studio hours Dec. 16-21 from 11 am - 7 pm.
Just let me know when you might be swinging by 410-522-7375!

Squidfire Winter Art Mart

2009-12-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

Join 60+ talented artists and crafters on December 12, when the Du Burns Arena in Canton will be transformed into an alternative shopping center. DIY/indie crafters from all over the east coast will join all of us from Baltimore to offer you the most unique, handmade gift ideas.

BEST will have some things for sale from the button jewelry line. I, however will be in NYC that weekend selling at the One of a kind show! Squidfire is sure to be a great show, the space this year is huge and will accommodate a big crowd. Get your last minute gifts and finish up holiday shopping at super hip show!

Du Burns Arena, Boston Street, Canton, Baltimore, MD
Saturday Dec. 12, 11-6!

Buy Handmade and Help The MD Food Bank

2009-12-07T10:14:00.001-05:00

It has been a difficult year for many Marylanders because of the tough economy. Many are without jobs and without food. In an effort to help those in need this holiday season, several BEST members will be donating a percentage of money from the the sales of their handmade items from December 1-14. Buyers will have a unique opportunity to support handmade and help feed hungry Marylanders.

The Maryland Food Bank provides nearly 14 million pounds of food annually to 1,000 Network Partners - including food pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, low-income day care centers, after-school programs, senior centers, rehabilitation centers, and other feeding programs. They supply food for over 50,000 Marylanders each week who otherwise would go hungry or not eat enough, including families with children, the elderly, the homeless, the homebound, low-income workers, the recently unemployed, and people with AIDS and other health problems. For every $1 contributed to the Maryland Food Bank, they are able to provide 3 meals to Maryland’s needy families and individuals.

From December 1st through 14th, the following participating BEST members will be donating a percentage of their sales:

blockpartypress- 10% of Etsy sales
sweetpepita- 10% of all Etsy sales
jenmenkhaus- 10% of all Etsy sales
glowgirl - 10% of all Etsy sales
yummyandcompany- 10% of all Etsy sales
atelieradornments - 10% of all Etsy sales
lanabella - 10% of all Etsy sales
lolamiren - 10% of all Etsy sales
thebrokenplate - 10% of all Etsy sales
tigerlillyshop - 10% of all Etsy ring sales
greenstarstudio - 10% of all Etsy sales
vwstudios - 10% of all Etsy sales

Take some time to visit these Etsy shops, support handmade and know that when you make a purchase between Dec. 1 - 14, you will be helping to provide food and services to someone in need this holiday season. Here are some other ways to support the MD Food Bank:

* Make a direct monetary donation

* Purchase and donate food through the Food Bank's “Virtual Food Drive”

* Deliver the food directly to the Maryland Food Bank at 2200 Halethorpe Farms Road. Please call 410-737-8282 to arrange your delivery.

Pee-Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special

2009-12-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

PeeWee Herman has been a marketing machine lately. He's on Twitter, Facebook, the Conan O'Brien Show, etc. He launched a great website, too, which I have been enjoying with my daughter! It may not be 100% appropriate fora 4 yr old, but it is so fun, I had to share.

The best part is, we have watched clips and even the whole episode of the Pee-Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special the on his website. The brings back memories of my 1980's childhood. so strange, so cool, so weird and funny. I have to admit, I love Pee-wee Herman!

Marry Mart at the Creative Alliance This Sunday!

2009-12-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Sun Dec 6, 11am-5pm.
Free! Cash bar. Lunch for sale catered by Water for Chocolate.

Avoid manic mall madness! Do your holiday shopping at The Patterson. 35+ fab local vendors with the best in regional crafts, arts, and gifts! Coordinated by Allison Dickinson, founder of Paper-Rock-Scissors Gallery.

These fellow BEST member swill be vending:

Electroforming Maniac

2009-12-04T15:05:00.002-05:00

These beauties just came out of the bath! Oh it's just like Christmas everytime!
Thought I'd share the happiness;)

Visit BEST at the Greenbelt Festival of Lights!

2009-12-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

The BEST girls will be showing at the Greenbelt Festival of Lights this Saturday and Sunday.

Somehow a ton of local shows fell on the same 3 days this year. Not sure how this happened, but many of us are trying to show at all of them and are stretched pretty thin this weekend.

Although I won't physically be there manning the table, some of my work will be at this show. My generous lady friends agreed to host a couple of trays of button accessories for me! So look for button rings, plastic rings, button earrings and hair ties at the BEST tent. My trays are filled with deals at $6.00! All one of a kind, all handmade, and great for a quick gift!

Ok, see you around this weekend!

3rd Anual Holiday Heap This Saturday!!!

2009-12-02T23:36:00.012-05:00

It is that time of year again! This local craft show is my favorite of the season. The venue hosts a handmade loving crowd, the building has a warm and fuzzy feeling. Grab some coffee, listen to the DJ and feel good about shopping local.
This cool Charm City Craft Mafia show never lets us down!

Don't miss it!
10am-5pm
Saturday, December 5th
Saint John’s Church, 2640 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218

Not only can you buy handmade, but there will be an awesome gift basket raffle benefiting Art with a Heart, a local non-profit providing access to art activities for disadvantaged families, children, and people with developmental and physical challenges. Take a chance and give back.

We hope to see you this weekend! The following BEST members will be vending this year:

TigerLillyShop
Jen Menkaus/Littlest Bean

Sweet Pepita

Elisa Shere Jewelry

The Broken Plate Pendant Company

Yummy and Company

Block Party Press
JennyJen42

BEST

New York One Of a Kind Show and Sale

2009-12-01T10:48:00.005-05:00

I am really looking forward to my first show in New York City this month. Nervous, yes!

I am making lots of new metal work and electroforming like crazy. My sister Maria will be accompanying me at the show and she too, is making new nature work for the Tigerlillyshop.

The New York One of a Kind Show and Sale Open to the Public, Pier 94, 12th Ave at 55th

Preview Night Thursday Dec. 10, 5pm - 9pm
Friday Dec. 11, 11am-8pm
Saturday Dec. 12, 10am-7pm
Sunday Dec. 13, 10am-5pm

And! I have some FREE NYC OOAK Show tickets for you!

1st come, 1st served. E-mail or Convo your address to me and I'll ship you however many tickets you need.

Christmas is coming!

2009-11-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

One little collage to get us ready for what is to come. Snow, presents, and family. Cheers!

Gearing Up for My Black Friday SALE!

2009-11-24T10:43:00.007-05:00

I am offering a big online sale over the weekend:

Friday Nov. 27 through Monday Nov. 30!

Buy 2 plastic rings, get one free!
(please request design of choice for free ring)

Buy 2 button rings, get one free!
(please request color of choice for free ring)

Buy 2 stud earrings, get a surprise pair free!

AND 20% off all metal jewelry!!!!
please check out as normal and i'll send a refund after checkout reflecting sale prices;)

Dangling Ponies

2009-11-23T11:32:00.002-05:00

The monster blue chairs are gone. It is time now to focus on the holiday selling season and our own family Christmas preparations. This year seems more daunting than past years with the New York show looming in the near future.

It is easy for me to loose sight of the little things every day that make for a happy family and happy life. I promise myself this year to stop and have some fun during this chaotic time. Even if it means having to work extra late some nights or spending money I don't have. My goal is balance this season, it may be harder to achieve than I expect, but I feel with the right mind set, I can do it.

I will enjoy this season, I swear it.

Sneek Peek Upholstery

2009-11-11T15:04:00.002-05:00

Yes, just a little something so you'll keep checking back!
I wonder what this could possibly be?

Harford Day School: Festival of the Arts

2009-11-06T08:50:00.001-05:00

The 8th Annual Arts Festival, a juried exhibit and sale, will be held November 6 and 7, 2009 on the campus of Harford Day School. More than sixty artists (including BEST's own greenstarstudio, Shelly Daly, and Tigerillyshop!) will be at the show to present original, handcrafted work in a variety of media.

The festivities will begin with a Preview Party for adults on Friday, November 6. Guests that attend the Preview Party will be the first to preview and purchase artwork while enjoying the food from many of our best local restaurants. Some of the participating restaurants last year were: DuClaw Brewing Co., Bonefish Grill, Manor Tavern, Bill Bateman's Raw Bar and Grill, Damon's Grill, Scotto's, Sizzling Bombay, and Josef's. Consistent with this year's Caribbean theme, Lenny Rogers from Trinidad will entertain the party-goers on the steel drum. Maui Wowi will serve island drinks from a Tiki Bar, and a lucky raffle winner will go home with a Caribbean vacation. Preview Party tickets are $65 each. If you would like to receive an invitation to this exciting event or would like information on sponsorship opportunities, please visit the website.

Q&A with Tigerlillyshop Today!

2009-11-05T12:44:00.000-05:00

Join me in the Etsy Virtual Labs at 4:00 today for a follow up chat session about her Quit Your Day Job feature.

I am firing up my web cam for this! Not sure what to expect, but I am sure it will be fun.

Hope to see you there!

My Own Quit Your Day Job Feature!

2009-11-02T20:40:00.007-05:00

I am so excited to share my story with you all on Etsy's Blog.

See my Quit Your Day Job Feature here!

I'll be in the Etsy Virtual Labs Thursday 4:00 pm for a web cam Q&A follow up session. Please come by and say hello!

I love this parade

2009-10-25T21:57:00.005-04:00

Here are some pics from the night. Great time, as always. There are some hard working, talented people that put this parade on every year. Congrats to everyone who made it happen!

Our Kitty is Ready for the Great Halloween Lantern Parade, Eureka 2009!

2009-10-25T00:08:00.006-04:00

Alright, we are rearin' to go to the Lantern Parade. Rain date be damned, we will go and be part of this 10th anniversary celebration! Brett and I put the finishing touches on our Cheshire Cat lantern. Whiskers, stripes, sparkly teeth -it's perfect!

See what it looks like lit up here.

New Gardening Club

2009-10-23T11:48:00.002-04:00

This week was the first all volunteer garden club at the Southeast Anchor Enoch Pratt Library. It was a great day, 73 degree weather, raking sun, a perfect afternoon to set out a fall bulb planting.

With gloves and tools in tow, a group of community members offered to help us plant bulbs. We worked with a new local business, Baltimore Contained, who supplied about 200 bulbs for planting that day! The mixture of naturalizing daffodils and dwarf irises are really going to make a beautiful showing next spring!

Here are some great pictues of the event!

NYC Museum Visit

2009-10-20T14:36:00.004-04:00

We had a great time navigating the New York subway system and visiting the American Museum of Natural History this past weekend. I had never been to this famous museum before and was really excited to share the experience with our 4 year old. It was easy for us to get there, the museum actually has an underground subway stop entrance which made it very convenient on our rainy weekend.

The Hall of Biodiversity was pretty impressive with a state-of-the-art science exhibit. From mushroom spores to lobsters and giant jellyfish, this display was stunningly beautiful.

Dioramas, ancient bones, fossils, mineral specimens, gems -it was all so much to see in such a short time. We'll be going back again soon. Memorable for sure.

Squidfire Philly Art Mart

2009-10-15T12:34:00.000-04:00

Fall is a great time for a road trip. This weekend, grab a friend, hop in the car and jet up to Philadelphia for Squidfire's first Philly Art Mart. It will be held on Saturday October 17, from 11-6pm in the fancy schmancy neighborhood of Society Hill.

Over 40 of the best local and regional crafters and artists will display their handmade wares at the Old Pine Community Center in the heart of Philadelphia. Come visit BEST's Sugar Paperie, Jennyjen42, Yummy & Company ,Sweet Pepita, The Littlest Bean and The Broken Plate. This event goes on rain or shine. We hope to see you there!

WE WON!!! Congrats Girls!

2009-10-14T12:47:00.001-04:00

Yay! We won the Mobbie Award for Outstanding Art & DIY blog in Baltimore! Won't you come and help us celebrate tonight at Metro Gallery? Say around 7 or 8? Thanks so much again to all of our wonderful readers and the Baltimore Sun!

I'm In! Holiday Heap Craft Fair

2009-10-14T07:00:00.002-04:00

Mark it on your calendar's folks!

It's the best seasonal show in Baltimore!

The Charm city Craft Mafia's 3rd Annual Holiday Heap

10am-5pm December 5th
2640 St. Paul Street
Baltimore, MD 21218

Bee Keeping, In the City

2009-10-13T11:02:00.006-04:00

I have a friend who started a bee hive earlier this year, in his garden, right in the middle of Baltimore City. He was scheduled to check on them, to open up the hive and see what progress the new colony had made later this week, but had to do it last week before it got too cold. We were lucky enough to get invited over to witness the event!

This particular inner city hive made a lot of progress early on in the season, it even established more quickly and more robustly than another hive that was started by another friend out in Laurel, MD simultaneously. Even though Baltimore lacks trees and green space in some areas, there are spaces of thriving growth where nature has taken over. We do live in an old city that has a ton of wild growth out there.

We were very excited to see this type of Top Bar Bee Hive in action.

Featured in Air Tran Go Guide

2009-10-10T20:08:00.004-04:00

A few months ago, I sent some things out to be photographed for a promo shoot for Air Tran. I guess they have a decent online site that promotes different city attractions for the places they service. I hadn't heard, then I happened upon this! Totally surprised me!

Vote for the BEST Blog!

2009-10-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Our BEST blog, where my friends and I write many of my craft-relate blog posts, is in the running for Baltimore's craftiest blog. Please vote for us today! (and tomorrow too!) don't worry if you are out of state, your vote counts anyway! thanks!

Growing a Grasshead

2009-10-08T08:01:00.000-04:00

We brought this little guy home the other week after a trip to Port Discovery. The public programmers had the kids make these grassheads. Start with some grass seed first, then put some sawdust in a nylon stocking, add a few rubber bands for a funny nose and ear features. Next we threw on some eye stickers, watered daily to keep moist and soon we had a new friend on our kitchen windowsill.

He stares at us at breakfast and we just love him. Definitely going to do this project again. It really has been fun watching him change as the days go by.

Crafty Bastards , Check!

2009-10-05T17:24:00.003-04:00

This is all I saw for the entire time Saturday from 10 -6. OMG, I am still recovering.
Thank you all for stopping by, we had an insane and great day~!

First Hint of Autumn

2009-09-26T13:48:00.001-04:00

Ada and I found these on the way to the farmer's market this morning. So beautiful.

Cool Little Mod Red Footstool

2009-09-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

So, here is my first upholstery listing on Etsy! I plan on adding more from now on. Check back, I have some cool little chairs to list.

I plan on promoting my upholstery business a little more the rest of the year. If you might have something for me to redo, let me know. I also sell upholstery and drapery fabric, have tons of fabric books at the studio to choose from. Feel free to call or e-mail!

Gift Guides on Etsy!

2009-09-23T13:23:00.004-04:00

Crafty Bastards Picks

Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair is an exhibition and sale of handmade alternative arts and crafts from independent artists presented by the Washington City Paper. The fair is all-day, outdoors, free to attend, and will offer goods for sale, food, entertainment, prizes, and more! Crafty Bastards will take place Saturday, October 3, 2009 in Washington, DC. More details about the fair can be found http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/craftybastards/Whether or not you can make it to the fair in person, be sure to browse the selection of work from Crafty Bastards vendors below.

check it out here!

Ada's Creation

2009-09-22T15:39:00.001-04:00

Found in my daughter's sketchbook after watching Spirited Away. On the left is a "Wind Spirit" and on the right is a "Bear".

I love these, had to share.

Faceboook Biz Page

2009-09-15T08:24:00.002-04:00

Hey, everybody!

In the spirit of networking and promotion, I finally got it together to start a page for the Tigerlillyshop. Please be my fan, sign up here;)

My ottoman, Upholstery Before and After

2009-09-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

So, I got this beauty about 5 yrs ago. I traded for it -the other guy got a very sad worn out computer. This little mobile ottoman is a nice thing to have around to prop your feet up on, roll through the house as a toy, and seems to be one of my daughter's favorite play things. Slowly it has been leaking it's contents all over my house. It was time for a makeover.

This is it open with it's guts out. Some sort of fibrous fill that I have never seen before in my 11 yrs as an upholsterer. Anyhoo, I used the pattern, sewed an new one in leather, stuffed the heck out of it... TA DA!!

Vote for your fave (Me, of Course)!

2009-09-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

Go ahead! Vote here.

New Electroforming Bath!

2009-09-11T14:08:00.003-04:00

I have upgraded to a 5 gal tank of electroforming solution and have been doing tests. Finally getting good results. Going to be doing some larger items. Hopefully I'll be doing some silver plating and some larger sculptural pieces. Hooray!

Reaching the Children

2009-09-04T23:46:00.005-04:00

In response to all of the fear mongering about the President's speech to the youth of our nation next week, some people have decided to keep their children home from school Tuesday in protest. I personally think that having our President acknowledge our nation's kids and encourage them to take personal responsibility for their lives is a smart move. I mean, duh. Education is what makes life rich and the only person who can learn is the one who takes the initiative. Hearing it from the President has the potential to improve the choices kids make in regards to their education and ultimately their lives.

There has been a lot of chatter among my friends and family on this issue, and I have one funny smarty-pants friend who nailed it. She imagines her response to a hypothetical school that won't show the speech to to their students:

"to whom it may concern, I chose to keep my son/daughter home from school today, in the hopes that the president and I might be able to teach him/her any number of things that you seem to have decided he/ she doesn't need to know. I'm willing to take the risk that he/she didn't miss much there today. I understand that life lessons and encouragement... Read More to succeed may not help him/her pass your standardized tests, but I think we can both agree those are a crock anyway. Sincerely, open Minded, Responsible Parent"

Yeah, that's right on.