PolkaDot Possum

A Little Springtime Beauty . . .

2012-02-03T18:05:00.001-05:00

'My Silvery Blue Heartstrings' by PolkadotPossum

Sterling Silver Pandora... LindenAvenueDe... $8.75	Aqua blue earrings arti... BayMoonDesign $19.50	Sterling Silver heart n... IndulgentDesig... $27.00	Glass Heart Pendant, Fu... IntoTheLight $25.00
Heart Watch Bracelet La... ZaftigDelights $68.00	Fabric Hearts - Soft Bl... HeartfullySewn $7.00	Whimsical birds in love... KneeDeepOrigin... $42.00	Valentine's Day Tex... efiwarsh $16.95
i carry your heart with... PurpleToedGyps... $28.00	Beads Round Turquoise B... midnightcoiler $18.00	Valentine Jewelry - Han... SilverandEarth $55.00	Light blue hearts neckl... AmaraPaul $20.00
Silver Heart Mixed Medi... mamapainter $7.00	Two Silver Heart & Leat... MarciaWadswort... $100.00	Blue Jeans hearts gift ... BUBBLECITYSOAP $13.00	Blue Heart Earrings del... CariadClay $10.95

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

'Softly and Sweetly into Spring' by PolkadotPossum

Tears of Love -Stering ... GeorgiaCollect... $45.00	Glass Bottles - Vintage... 8daysOfTreasur... $21.99	Romantic style white bi... Linohandmade $25.00	Sage Handwoven Scarf Co... SameheartDesig... $78.00
mini flower key rack runningonthewa... $12.00	Blue Faceted Glass Bead... YooniqueDesign... $15.00	Organic Cotton Ivory Wh... SistersLace $24.50	Blue Lampwork Earrings ... kmajewelrydesi... $21.00
Beach Pottery Ring - Bl... LolaSeesStars $8.50	Large Green Stoneware P... kingscreekpott... $110.00	Thick Macrame Hemp Neck... StoopidHemp $11.00	Hammered Bracelet Silve... deannewatsonje... $24.50
Fine Art Photography &q... PhotosByChippe... $25.00	Hoop Lampwork Dangle Ea... CandanImrak $27.00	Gray Quartz Pendant Nec... harmonieandme $38.00	The Flapper silhouette ... MoleStreetStud... $10.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Random Posts of Beauty

2012-01-19T21:20:00.002-05:00

One of my fabric boxes was featured in a beautiful collection on Etsy yesterday. It made it to the Etsy front page last night at 10 pm! Here it is:

'Frozen Love Song' by NangijalaJewelry

Snowy Winter Nature 8x1... Briole $30.00	fashion illustration pa... ARTbyLola $28.00	wood wedding guest book... ThreeTreesBind... $185.00	Beach Finds Installatio... GiftsandStars $87.00
Air Plant Planter Yello... RhettDidntGive... $18.00	Raw Amethyst Necklace solisjewelry $55.00	Orchids Wine Glasses Ha... NevenaArtGlass $58.90	Linen Light Mint Croppe... LGlinen $34.00
Hand Knit Striped Scarf... mothrasue $30.00	Silk and Cotton Rosette... Brydferth $32.00	Mini Handmade journal -... plad $15.00	Chandelier Crystal Neck... laurenblythede... $36.00
Aqua Blue Mexican Glass... JosephineMarch... $75.00	Pale Green Hydrangea N... SugarFlower $5.00	Organic Chocolate Body ... Naturallogic $6.50	Handmade Fabric Box, Pa... PolkadotPossum $25.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

It was curated by NangijalaJewelry. Stop by and give her shop some love!
©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Photo Friday

2012-01-13T06:17:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday!

I've spent the last week cooking and using up left overs. Over the weekend, I made stock using a frozen baked chicken carcass which has been in my freezer and a smoked turkey carcass left over from Christmas dinner. My stock pot is large but not huge so I had to cook the stock in two batches. I got 8 quarts of stock that is now languishing in the freezer!

With the some of the left over smoked turkey from Christmas and the last two quarts of chicken stock left over from my last stock prep, I decided to make Mexican Chicken (Turkey) Soup. I use the Barefoot Contessa's recipe from her book Barefoot Contessa at Home. It's so yummy! The DH and I had soup for dinner, I have two lunch portions in the fridge and two quarts waiting to go in the freezer!

We also had no less than seven way over-ripe bananas in da house. I've been thinking of making banana bread for awhile, so now was the time! I made two loaves of banana bread from the American Heart Association Cookbook. One sprouted legs and headed straight to the freezer. The other is going to be eaten over the weekend.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Random Posts of Beauty

2012-01-11T17:30:00.000-05:00

It's a cold, grey and rainy day here in north central Indiana. The word is snow is in the forecast for tomorrow and Friday. Great! More dreary grey! That seems to be the overriding theme in Indiana in the winter.

Lovely colors are the perfect tonic for days like this. Here's a beautiful collection (curated by Christine of Christinesjewelry) of items from the Etsy Treasury Team to brighten up your day!

'Good Morning Sunrise!' by Christinesjewelry

Rose and Green Earrings... BayMoonDesign $19.00	Hong Kong skyline, Morn... SketchAway $20.00	Purple Glass Bead Earri... GlassRiverJewe... $44.00	Purple Flower Cane Pol... efiwarsh $5.00
Silver Shape - Unique d... DivinaLocura $27.00	Retro Dishes 1970s Clea... bythewayside $12.00	Purple Haze: aceo origi... artfields $10.00	The Afternoon Walk--OOA... CursiveArts $35.00
Pottery Wall Pocket -Ru... midnightcoiler $15.00	Art Quilt - Deco Study ... PolkadotPossum $150.00	Baby Girl Burp Cloth Se... HattieDesigns $13.00	Door wreath - mauve - d... laurelsbylauri... $45.00
Set of 5 Preppy Stripe ... principessabow... $4.99	Romantic Rose Brooch cr... Engelfelt $15.00	Folk Art acrylic paint... PrimitivesandF... $60.00	Hair Pins Flowers Purpl... lindesigns $14.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Holidays are Over - Time to Think about Spring!

2012-01-10T23:42:00.000-05:00

Well, we all survived the holidays here and managed to make it until today when the kids went back to school. An unqualified success for sure!

Now that things are getting back to normal it's time to head down to the studio to bring to life some of the new creations I have been thinking about since before the holidays. I plan on rolling out some new pieces over the next few months and I'll blog about them as they are realized.

In case you don't know, Pantone has released their Fashion Color Report for Spring 2012. There are some great colors for spring! How do these sound?
Tangerine Tango

Solar Power

Bellflower

Cabaret

Sodalite Blue

Margarita

Sweet Lilac

Cockatoo

Driftwood

Starfish

Yummy, huh? I'm looking forward to seeing some of these new spring colors showing up in the stores!

Check out Pantone's complete report - there are lots of insights from fashion designers and insiders about the new colors and where they are showing up on the runways.

I'll leave you with a preview of some of my new fabric box colors. Notice the Margarita green box here!

These, and other, fabric boxes are available now in my Etsy shop.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Things I Love Thursday

2011-12-15T00:34:00.000-05:00

Christmas is almost here and I would like to highlight a few outrageously unique things I am loving this week!

Isn't this Strawberry Blond, Lime Green Art Doll just amazing???

I think this Pink and Black Ruffles Scarf scarf is fantastic!

Being a fiber artist and loving to knit and crochet, of course I was drawn to this Fiber Art Soft Sculpture !

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Time for Some Holiday Shopping!

2011-12-12T23:02:00.000-05:00

Holiday gift giving is time is here and any of these fantastic items could be perfect for someone on your list.

Soft as a Snowflake Gift Guide:

Teal, Green and Amber Gift Guide:

And here's a collection featuring the 2012 color of the year - Tangerine!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

I'm Lovin' The Yarn Kitchen!

2011-11-19T01:40:00.000-05:00

I am really loving the items from TheYarnKitchen on Etsy! Any of these would make great holiday gifts!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Things I Love Thursday

2011-11-11T00:06:00.000-05:00

Here are some things I am loving this week!

Gorgeous holiday wrapping from http://houseandhome.com.

Peppermint hot chocolate mix! A great gift idea from http://myrecipes.com.

Christmas table setting idea from http://bhg.com.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

New Work Wednesday

2011-11-09T08:20:00.001-05:00

This week I have some new fabric boxes in holiday colors.

These fabric boxes are great for holding treasures, jewelry, office supplies and other items.

These unique, original design fabric boxes were created from a variety of hand-dyed cottons, silks and synthetics. The exterior of each box is embellished with couched yarns for added texture and the interior is lined with a commercial cotton fabric. The edges of the boxes are finished with stitched yarn and they are held closed by elastic and a brass or vintage button. Heavy interfacing keeps the box sturdy but flexible.

Size:
L: 5 inches / 12.5 cm
W: 4.5 inches / 11.25 cm
H: 2.5 inches / 6.25 cm

These, and other, fabric boxes are available now in my Etsy shop.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop - November 7, 2011

2011-11-07T07:40:00.000-05:00

It's time for another Heart Hop where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. Here are some interesting and fun fall and Halloween finds.

Last time we left off with Mietjie who hearts . . .

- seboldsoriginals (Mr. McKarr) who hearts . . .

- nonesuchgarden (Leroy the Ringtailed Lemur Doll) who hearts . . .

- paintboxsoapworks (Luxury Glycerin Soap) who hearts . . .

- orangethyme (Rhubarb Soda Lip Balm) who hearts . . .

- adatine (Bandit Rabbit) who hearts . . .

- andiespecialtysweets (Wild Sugar Mushrooms) who hearts . . .

- KettleConfections (Assorted French Nougats) who hearts . . .

- everythingok (Rainbow Wristwarmers) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Beautiful Colors to Brighten Your Weekend

2011-11-06T01:36:00.001-04:00

Here are some bright and colorful collections to liven up your weekend. Holiday gift giving is right around the corner and any of these fantastic items could be perfect for someone on your list.

Purple and Green lovers.

Peppermint Bark, anyone?

Bright and colorful for all ages.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Things I Love Thursday

2011-11-03T08:35:00.010-04:00

Here are some things I am loving this week!

Source: sunshineandpearls.tumblr.com via Cindy on Pinterest

Doesn't this just make you happy?? This was posted by SunshineandPearls.

Source: balzerdesigns.typepad.com via Cindy on Pinterest

I'm seriously loving this album by Julie Fei-Fan Balzer.

Source: google.com via Cindy on Pinterest

How cool is this zentangle cake masterpiece? It's from the Gallery of Wedding Cakes on The Grand Finale.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

New Work Wednesday

2011-11-02T01:20:00.004-04:00

In anticipation of the holidays, I been working on some new journal covers.

Large Moleskine Journal Covers

These reusable journal covers will fit the Large size (5" x 8.25") Moleskine journals and notebooks.

These reusable Moleskine™ notebook covers are made from a collage of hand-dyed cottons or cottons and silks embellished with yarn to give texture. The covers are constructed on heavy, flexible stabilizer and the inside is lined with coordinating cotton fabric. Inside the front cover is a handy pocket for notes, photos, memorabilia, ephemera and pens. The cover wraps around to completely enclose the edges of the journal and is held securely with a magnetic snap closure.

Journal Cover Dimensions: 5.25" x 8.5" (13.34 cm x 21.6 cm)

These journals/notebook covers are available now in my Etsy shop.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Tuesday Tidbits

2011-11-01T01:54:00.007-04:00

I've come across some colorful and fun things to liven up your November.

A fantastic Moroccan Caravan Gypsy bracelet from SGArtandFashion!

If you like industrial style you will probably love this necklace make from a washer from MaddDoggofTomorrow!

A tiny, gorgeous beaded gourd bowl from Midnightcoiler!

The perfect journal for all your fall note and sketches from Thenibandquill!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop - October 31, 2011

2011-10-31T07:30:00.001-04:00

It's time for another Heart Hop where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. Here are some interesting and fun fall and Halloween finds.

Last time we left off with Floweredsky who hearts . . .

- thecozycorner (Vintage Brass Dinner Bell) who hearts . . .

- CrochetingforCash (Turkey Hat for Children) who hearts . . .

- niftybynature (Handpainted Flower Necklace) who hearts . . .

- saracarr (Lambswool Hedgehog Plush) who hearts . . .

- MyBookmark (Wicked Witch in the Book) who hearts . . .

- KittyApril (Halloween Artist Teddy Bear) who hearts . . .

- yoguiana (Crochet Gingerbread Cat Keychain) who hearts . . .

- Mietjie (Bumble the Bee) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Etsy Heart Hop - October 24, 2011

2011-10-24T07:20:00.001-04:00

It's time for another Heart Hop where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. For the next few weeks I plan on showcasing interesting fall and Halloween finds. This week we focus on earthy fall colors!

Last time we left off with ShadedMemories who hearts . . .

- sarahknight (Pumpkin Photo Print) who hearts . . .

- Feille (Petit Yarn Bundle) who hearts . . .

- OnTheRound (Handspun Yarn) who hearts . . .

- lacasadecoto (Round Crochet Pillow) who hearts . . .

- HelenRawlinson (Set of 2 Tea Towels) who hearts . . .

- pixihill (Wool Patchwork Pillow) who hearts . . .

- NewMoonStudio (Wheel Thrown Nested Bowls) who hearts . . .

- Floweredsky (Smokey Quartz Earrings) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Etsy Heart Hop - October 17, 2011

2011-10-17T07:36:00.001-04:00

It's time for another Heart Hop where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. For the next few weeks I plan on showcasing interesting fall and Halloween finds. This week we focus on earthy fall colors!

Last time we left off with lorisplace who hearts . . .

- movetheneedle (Blue and Gold Marbled Journal) who hearts . . .

- AStonesThrow (Print Checkbook Cover) who hearts . . .

- SueRunyonDesigns (Copper Dragonfly Ornament) who hearts . . .

- bonjean67 (Large Autumn Tote Bag) who hearts . . .

- EweniqueEssentials (Hand Knit Dishcloths) who hearts . . .

- StyleKnitting (Purple Fingerless Gloves) who hearts . . .

- janeheller (Queen Anne's Lace) who hearts . . .

- ShadedMemories (Gold and Olive Leaves Photo) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Photo Friday

2011-10-14T08:03:00.001-04:00

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Things I Love Thursday

2011-10-13T08:10:00.001-04:00

Here are some things I am loving for the Halloween season this week:

Felt leaves in autumn colors.

A tiny knitted pumpkin from Mochimochi Land.

Halloween treat centerpiece by Sara Westbrook.

New Work Wednesday

2011-10-11T23:23:00.001-04:00

Here's some new pieces I've been working on lately

Mixed Media Pumpkin Brooches/Pins

Fabric Boxes

Mixed Media Jewelry

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop - October 11, 2011

2011-10-11T11:34:00.000-04:00

It's time for another Heart Hop where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. For the next few weeks I plan on showcasing interesting fall and Halloween finds. This week we focus on earthy fall colors!

Last time we left off with louiseblack who hearts . . .

- CurtinsCreations (Ceramic Curly Creature) who hearts . . .

- blueroompottery (Wheelthrown Stoneware Planet) who hearts . . .

- Iovelycrochet (Crochet Fingerless Gloves) who hearts . . .

- yorktownroad (Golden Yellow Tote Bag) who hearts . . .

- KokoshKnitting (Green Labyrinth Crochet Beret) who hearts . . .

- fishandlotus (Origami Lotus Flower) who hearts . . .

- grayworksdesign (Hackberry Cutting Board) who hearts . . .

- lorisplace (Pilgrim Cookies) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Photo Friday - Autumn on Flickr

2011-09-30T09:20:00.001-04:00

Autumn Treasures Ripe by Thorsten Becker (top left)
Autumn by Lady-bug (top right)
Autumn Avenue by Thomas ♫ {zzaj} (bottom left)
Autumn's Scars by Amir Jina (bottom right)

Things I Love Thursday - Halloween Fun

2011-09-29T22:14:00.000-04:00

Here are some things I am loving for the Halloween season this week:

Candy corn candle holders from ItsyBitsyPaper.

Cool Halloween decor from Truly Chic Inspirations.

Soft sculptured fiber art skull from AnnaBelleArts on Etsy.

Photo Friday

2011-09-23T01:26:00.001-04:00

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes (top left)
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken (top right)
Stuffed Salmon with Sriracha Cream Sauce (bottom left)
Sauteed Salmon with Cilantro Vinaigrette over CousCous (bottom right)

Things I Love Thursday

2011-09-23T01:05:00.000-04:00

Here are some things I am loving this week:

Crepe paper flowers from Martha Stewart Weddings.

Whimsical Fabric Keychains.

T-shirt flowers from Matsutake.

Etsy Heart Hop - September 19, 2011

2011-09-19T23:58:00.003-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. For the next few weeks I plan on showcasing interesting fall and Halloween finds. This week we look at some Halloween goodies!

Last time we left off with LoucheLab who hearts . . .

- scrumptiousdelight (Bag of Plush Licorice) who hearts . . .

- abbydid (Monster Coffee Cozy and Arm Cuff) who hearts . . .

- SundriesAndPlunder (Leather Rabbitt Mask) who hearts . . .

- threemusesclothing (Custom Made Wonder Woman Costume) who hearts . . .

- annya127 (Fine Art Print - Haunted House) who hearts . . .

- KMKostumes (Velvet Red Riding Hood Cape) who hearts . . .

- choklit (Pair of Absinthe Cuffs) who hearts . . .

- louiseblack (Courtesans Jester Circus Corset) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

New Work Wednesday

2011-09-14T23:47:00.001-04:00

In celebration of the autumn season and the beginnings of cool weather, I have created some new items in seasonal motifs and colors.

Girlfriend Brooches/Pins

Greeting Cards

Fabric Box

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop - September 12, 2011

2011-09-12T00:22:00.001-04:00

- kitschycookids (Reversible Zippy Hoodie Pattern) who hearts . . .

- LilMissDolls (Cloth Fashion Doll and Dress Pattern) who hearts . . .

- fabricpalooza (Kaffe Fassett Fabric) who hearts . . .

- SquidWhaleDesigns (Color Dots Painting) who hearts . . .

- CherishedDreams (Contemporary Homespun Lap Quilt) who hearts . . .

- woolies (Natural Wool Handknit Ball) who hearts . . .

- HandyMaiden (Little Village Ornament Set) who hearts . . .

- LoucheLab (Handpainted Platter) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Photo Friday

2011-09-09T00:40:00.002-04:00

Photo Credit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockmixer/ (top left)
http://www.aaronlanguage.com/ (top right)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rinses/ (bottom left)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30908894@N04/ (bottom right)

Things I Love Thursday

2011-09-08T12:57:00.002-04:00

Here are some things I am loving this week:

Cool newspaper flowers from Julie Fei-Fan Balzer.

Mason jar herb garden!

Fabric-covered clothespins from Blondie and Co.!

Etsy Heart Hop - September 6, 2011

2011-09-06T00:47:00.000-04:00

- nikid (Chocolate Caramel and Almond Clusters) who hearts . . .

- ARTBYDONNAROSE (Gerbera Daisies Watercolor) who hearts . . .

- NorthcottWilson (Fair Trade Recycled Handspun yarn) who hearts . . .

- OfTheFountain (Leather ID Luggage Tags) who hearts . . .

- loopyboopy (Loopy Goth Art Doll) who hearts . . .

- fawnpotter (Recycled Wool Fiber Art Doll) who hearts . . .

- Gingermelon (Handmade Plush Kitten) who hearts . . .

- LaurieMade (Kooky Horse ) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Fabulous Fall Finds!

2011-09-04T18:15:00.000-04:00

Sorry I've been missing from the blogosphere lately. The beginning of the semester is always a bit stressful but this fall has been more crazy than most. Hopefully, things are starting to settle down and I can get back to blogging more regularly.

Here is a look at some beautiful fall items to get you in the mood for autumn:

Things I Love Thursday

2011-08-19T00:33:00.000-04:00

Here are some things I am loving this week:

Saw some cool-looking katydids in my yard over the weekend. (Photo from http://www.hiltonpond.org)

Gorgeous travel sketches by Suhita Shirodkar of the Etsy shop Sketch Away!

Vegetable Lasagna from Cooking Lightmagazine! Both kids came into the house this evening yelling "Smells yummy! What's for dinner?" Love it!

Etsy Heart Hop - August 15, 2011

2011-08-15T11:19:00.000-04:00

- lespetiteschoses (Wool Felt Card Pouch) who hearts . . .

- btaylorquilts (Ocean Rain Quilt) who hearts . . .

- LoftFullOfGoodie (Personalized Wool Felt Gadget Case) who hearts . . .

- 4lilcupcakes (Yellow Flag Cupcake Toppers) who hearts . . .

- TodoPapel (Hand-Dyed & Stamped Tags) who hearts . . .

- TinyTerrains (Lichen Moss Terrarium) who hearts . . .

- Clayshapes (Botanical Serving Dishes) who hearts . . .

- nervoussystem (Black Nylon Cuff Bracelet ) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Photo Friday - August 12, 2011

2011-08-11T23:42:00.000-04:00

More flora from the Indianapolis Zoo.

Things I Love Thursday

2011-08-11T02:10:00.002-04:00

Here are some cool things I am loving today!!

I have always loved praying mantis (mantises? manti??) and I also love growing, cooking and living with herbs. Here's a great blog post about the two from BeaK. at Bea's Beatitudes:

Bea's Beatitudes/All About Herbs.: Herbal Summer Tips~

Summer can mean too much sun...: "Herbal Summer Tips~ Summer can mean too much sun and exposure to itchy things and bug bites :) A few simple and inexpensive ways to keep..."

In keeping with the idea of cooking, here's something to try with all those blueberries you have lying around!

Roben-Marie Smith at {Every Life Has a Story}: Blueberry Crumb Cake

Now, I just gotta go find some blueberries . . .

Enjoy your Thursday!

©PolkadotPossum

Etsy Heart Hop - August 8

2011-08-08T02:00:00.002-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with michaelarras who hearts . . .

- jellybeans (Celebration Print) who hearts . . .

- happykathy (Handmade Wallet - Liberty of London) who hearts . . .

- TheCrimsonMoon (Rainbow Bookmark) who hearts . . .

- melissaceramics (Porcelain Heart-Shape Pendants) who hearts . . .

- SouthOfAfrica (African Fabric Shoes) who hearts . . .

- threadsofchange (African Wax Print iPad Sleeve) who hearts . . .

- MadrigalEmbroidery (African-Influenced Embroidered Cuff) who hearts . . .

- caitlihne (Contemporary Folk Print ) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Photo Friday

2011-08-05T00:32:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday! Welcome to my new Photo Friday series.

Today I'm showcasing some photos I took last weekend at the Indianapolis Zoo. I really enjoyed the animals but I was truly inspired by all the wonderful plants growing on the grounds.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop - August 1

2011-08-01T07:43:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone! Can you believe it's actually August already?? I'm having trouble with the concept. The summer has just flown by and I don't feel as though I have accomplished as much work or play as I had hoped to. I need to get busy for the remaining few weeks!

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with giardino who hearts . . .

- cathysavelspaintings (Evolution - Mixed Media Painting) who hearts . . .

- gringrimaceandsqueak (Calypso Masquerade Mask) who hearts . . .

- hypsela (Seashore Art Mixed Media Canvas with Limpet Shells) who hearts . . .

- 88editions (Monoprint Botanical Study Maple) who hearts . . .

- pbsartist (Screenprinted Sketchbook) who hearts . . .

- OPFstudio (6 x 6 Abstract Collage) who hearts . . .

- bheaded5 (Abstract Painting on Rusted Sheet Metal) who hearts . . .

- michaelarras (Modern Coffee Circles Table) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Etsy Heart Hop - July 25

2011-07-24T23:03:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with Rebekahleigh who hearts . . .

- ArtByKristin (Glass and Stucco Pencil Holder) who hearts . . .

- randomcreative (Multicolored Button Bracelet) who hearts . . .

- TimberGreenWoods (Black Oak Leaf Charm Earrings) who hearts . . .

- maldonadojoyas (Bubbles Sterling Silver Brooch) who hearts . . .

- NiuTaller (Crossing Lines Pendant) who hearts . . .

- summersville (Screenprinted Sketchbook) who hearts . . .

- CeramicaBotanica (Turquoise Dipping Dish) who hearts . . .

- giardino (Hand Printed Linen Pillow Case) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Etsy Heart Hop - July 18

2011-07-18T08:30:00.002-04:00

- vintagenowandthen (Vintage Metal Paints Box) who hearts . . .

- JewlsinBloom (Vintage Hand Crochet Doilies) who hearts . . .

- OldeTymeNotions (Antique Amethyst Apothecary Bottle) who hearts . . .

- AngelaDesign (Light Purple Spiral Polymer Clay Brooch) who hearts . . .

- cherrytime (Crocheted Beads) who hearts . . .

- vianaloves (Party Earrings) who hearts . . .

- Onneke (Storm in a Teacup Illustration) who hearts . . .

- Rebekahleigh (Bicycle Art Print) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Etsy Heart Hop - July 11

2011-07-11T08:30:00.003-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists. I hope everyone in the U.S. had a great Fourth of July holiday last Monday!

Last time we left off with CuteAbility who is hearted by . . .

- JSorel (Zazzy Zelma Spool Knitter) who hearts . . .

- StephanieFizer (Kokeshi Darling Stickers) who hearts . . .

- valentinadesign (Jemma Original Painting on Canvas) who hearts . . .

- toocutecustomcrafts (Reversible Floral Cloth Napkins) who hearts . . .

- Kisbit (Zombie Doll ACEO) who hearts . . .

- miliaart (Don't Sting Me Please - Original Painting) who hearts . . .

- ChristinaRomeo (Stretching to Reach - Original Mixed Media Acrylic) who hearts . . .

- CeeGeesAttic (Vintage Seventies Metal Check Box) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

My Blue Heaven

2011-07-07T21:22:00.001-04:00

A gorgeous blue treasury I am featured in on Etsy. My recycled denim journal is the last item on the third row.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Ice Cream Sundae - A New Etsy Collection

2011-07-06T13:53:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone. Busy week this week, so that, along with the Monday holiday meant no Etsy Heart Hop. It will be back, bouncing along next week for sure!

Just wanted to share a new collection of Etsy items I put together today. All of these are from the Etsy Treasury Team. Enjoy!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Art Quilt - Deco Study #2

2011-06-29T08:40:00.001-04:00

I want to start posting more of my original design contemporary art quilts, like I did last week. I haven't really taken the time to do this in the past and I would really like to share some of my favorite pieces with you. Today I am focusing on my small art quilt Deco Study #2.

I love the art deco period and wanted to play around with some of the design elements in my art quilts. I decided to make a few small pieces before tackling a larger wall hanging to get some experience working with the motifs. One of the results was this 12 inch x 12 inch art quilt.

The materials used in this art quilt include hand-dyed cottons, commercial cottons and silks. I started by collaging the design motifs onto a background of richly-colored hand-dyed cotton. Once I was satisfied with the design, I satin stitched the edges of each piece with rayon thread. The way I built up the circle collages gives the quilt top a slightly three-dimensional effect. The collaged top was layered with Warm and Natural cotton batting and a commercial cotton backing fabric and then free-motion machine quilted with rayon threads. (I don't own or use a "quilting machine". All my quilting is done with my older Bernina® 1090 machine.) Since I allowed the design elements to "break out" of the confines of the square quilt, I wanted to retain that organic feel and did a simple zigzag stitch around the edges to finish the piece.

Have you used fiber art in your home decorating? If not, then you should definitely try it! Art quilts can be used on the wall, framed or unframed, just like any other artwork. But art quilt have a tactile, textural quality that most other types of wall art don't have. I use contemporary art quilts (some framed and some unframed) all over my house and they give that extra punch of color that your walls sometimes need. They also look super when grouped with other types of artwork.

One thing to note, however; fiber art should not be hung in direct sunlight unless protected by UV filtering glass.

I will devote a future blog post to different methods of displaying this unique and fun type of art. Thanks for stopping by and if you have any questions about art quilts or how to display them, please leave me a comment. I'll be sure to get back with an answer!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop - June 27

2011-06-27T08:35:00.002-04:00

- ceramiquecote (Black Rooster with a Black Circle) who hearts . . .

- emilydyer (Oval Plate with Orange Birds) who hearts . . .

- ruchika (3 x 3 Tile Three Seedlings) who hearts . . .

- GollyBard (Watercolor - Water Lily Bog) who hearts . . .

- robertapolfus (Porcelain Lily) who hearts . . .

- peifferStudios (Petals Ceramic Bowl) who hearts . . .

- themadplanter (Handmade Teacup Chandelier) who hearts . . .

- CuteAbility (Tea with Lemon Teacup and Saucer Necklace) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Ginko

2011-06-24T01:48:00.001-04:00

I haven't blogged about any of the wall art I have made recently so I thought it was time to remedy that. The fiber art group I belong to in Lafayette (FibR) decided to do a series of 12" x 12" challenges similar in vein to the Twelve by Twelve International Art Quilt Challenge. We ran three different challenges with the following themes:

rust and gold
blue and purple (with Tyvek™)
neutral with one color plus texture

Other than these restrictions, and the fact that the finished piece should be 12" x 12", we could do anything we wanted in any medium.

This is my piece for the rust and gold challenge.

I started with a piece of canvas that I had gessoed then painted, splattered and stamped with acrylic paints. Then I cut up the painted canvas and pieced it with rust-colored hand-dyed cotton and golden-colored silk fabrics. I embellished the top with hand-dyed cheesecloth for added texture and used some Shiva sticks to add rubbings of ginko leaves. The rubbings didn't show up as much as I wanted so I cut and appliqued metallic silk organza ginko leaves over the rubbings.

I layered the quilt with batting and backing fabric and machine quilted it using various motifs.

Then I used Sulky Solvy™ to machine stitch a large yarn and thread ginko leaf and machine stitched it to the center of the quilt top.

I zigzagged chenille yarn to the edges of the quilt to finish it.

This piece was part of FibR's recent show at the Tippecanoe Arts Federation entitled "Botanica". The show ran from May 13 to June 17 at the Wells Center in Lafayette, IN. Ginko is now at Gallery 510 in Decatur, Illinois in their consignment shop where I have some of my art pieces.

Until next time, keep on creating in your little corner of the world!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

ACEO Artist Trading Card - Dots #10

2011-06-21T08:35:00.004-04:00

In a previous post, I showed pictures of some ACEO artist trading cards that I was making. Here is one of the finished ACEOs.

This ACEO is made from over-dyed upholstery fabric and hand-dyed and commercial cotton fabrics. I embellished the front of the card with decorative stitching and hand-dyed cheesecloth for texture. The circle collages are made from commercial cotton, hand-dyed cotton, and silk fabrics machine appliqued to the front. Peltex is sandwiched between the front and the backing fabric to make the card sturdy. I couched yarn over the raw edges to finish the card and give more texture. The card is hand beaded with glass beads.

These cards are so much fun to make. They can be very useful for trying out new ideas before committing to a larger wall hanging.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop Monday - June 20

2011-06-20T08:35:00.004-04:00

- kirstyelson (Polka Dot Lavender Fish) who hearts . . .

- robinandmould (Owl Tea Cosy) who hearts . . .

- junecraft (Plush Folk Guitar) who hearts . . .

- applenamos (Scoop & Sort Colors Wood Set) who hearts . . .

- honeyrunfarm (Honey Sticks) who hearts . . .

- feltjar (Bird's Nest with Eggs) who hearts . . .

- tsifcaonline (Collage Necklace - Gray Area) who hearts . . .

- lceramic (Creature Brooch) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Handmade Zippered Clutch - Orange Love

2011-06-17T23:24:00.008-04:00

This handmade zippered clutch is the perfect size bag to hold electronic gadgets (iPhone, Blackberry, iPod), tools for journaling or knitting, makeup, etc. This bag is 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) tall and 8.25 inches (21 cm) wide with an 8 inch zippered opening.

I crafted this bag from hand-dyed fabrics from my fabric stash. I layered strips of fabric on a piece of lightweight interfacing making sure to overlap the strips. Then the overlapping edges of the strips were stitched down to the interfacing using decorative machine stitching. The bag is lined with cotton batik and lightly padded with cotton batting. I hand-painted a heart on a panel of tea-dyed cotton canvas using Liquitex Acrylic Ink!, Neopaque fabric paint and Tattered Angels' Glimmer Mist. This panel was stitched to the front of the bag and further embellished with hand stamped twill tape. I included a small, interior pocket to hold tools, accessories, lipstick or ear buds.

The Flower bag was made using similar techniques.

I love the look of these bags. It's so much fun to put them together and make decisions about the color combinations!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop Monday - June 13

2011-06-13T01:10:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with sabahnur who hearts . . .

- aubepine (Fire Glow Necklace) who hearts . . .

- jerseymaids (Antique Silver Heirloom Earrings) who hearts . . .

- ThreeTreesBindery (Custom Wedding Guest Book) who hearts . . .

- terrysifeltlikeit (Luminary Felt Vessel) who hearts . . .

- sweptashore (Beach Glass) who hearts . . .

- kelleystreetvintage (Victorian Mounted Photos) who hearts . . .

- birdie1 (Large Blue Oval Toolbox) who hearts . . .

- EmmaLamb (Flower Garland) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Etsy Heart Hop "Monday" - June 7

2011-06-07T01:31:00.002-04:00

Hi again! Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday (except it's Tuesday - sorry!) where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with TheWoodenOwl who hearts . . .

- daiseychain (Soft Gray Fiber Art Necklace) who hearts . . .

- caramelos (Vintage Spun Cotton Red Mushrooms) who hearts . . .

- yasoknitting (White Lace Barefoot Yasosandals) who hearts . . .

- radusport (Fingerless Gloves) who hearts . . .

- jewelera (Fluttery Butterflies Bib Necklace) who hearts . . .

- Rudman (Felted 3D Art Scarf) who hearts . . .

- galafilc (Nuno Felted Scarf) who hearts . . .

- sabahnur (Shades of Blue Jellyfish) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Heart Hop Monday - May 30

2011-05-30T13:39:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day!! Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with schalle who hearts . . .

- Thesmokingcat (The Cat in the Garden) who hearts . . .

- Chipojo (Zebrorse) who hearts . . .

- Catswithattitude (Napoleon Disease Print) who hearts . . .

- MsPIGGii (Cat Fanatic's Gift Set) who hearts . . .

- giftsdefine (Custom-Made Conversation Bird) who hearts . . .

- MapleShadeKids (Owl Friends Shelf) who hearts . . .

- blackbirdfashion (Paisley the Wiener Dog) who hearts . . .

- TheWoodenOwl (Wooden Bird Bookends) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

NOTE: Original Etsy shop owners retain copyright to all items and photos.

Cool Wednesday Finds! Business and Fiber Art Tutorials and Info

2011-05-25T15:13:00.001-04:00

Happy Wednesday! It's a gloomy, stormy day here in the Midwest so I thought I'd try to brighten things up a bit with some interesting and fun tutorials and finds from my internet meanderings.

I used to do art shows when I lived in Chicagoland and dealing with business cards was always a problem. You had to have them - because someone would ask for one - but most people just passed them up. Now that I have an Etsy shop and an Artfire shop, I still need business cards but how to make them more fun and interesting?? Well Aisle 3, from the blog Upcycle Your Life on Aisle 3 has a fabulous tried and tested idea for just this problem! Check out her post Do Shoppers Beg You for Business Cards?.

This would also be cute for inspirational sayings or for school kids to trade (with their names inside)!

For those of you who are into felting, here a cool tutorial from Tonya Utkina on dyeing felt with Kool-Aid!

For a little something different, check out this blog post by Newspaper Blackout artist Austin Kleon.

Etsy Heart Hop

2011-05-23T00:26:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with LizMathewsVintage who hearts . . .

- vintageontheridge (1800s Salesman's Sample Book of Victorian Calling Cards) who hearts . . .

- DonkeeHouse (Vintage Letterpress Dollar Signs and Numbers) who hearts . . .

- cleverhands (Hand Bound Notebooks) who hearts . . .

- inblue (Leather Billfold) who hearts . . .

- terbearco (Audrey Hepburn Mounted Rubber Stamp) who hearts . . .

- LaurenAlexander (Something Radiates - Original Painting) who hearts . . .

- PonderandStitch (Triple Strand Cuff Bracelet) who hearts . . .

- schalle (Print - Forest) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

ArtFire and Etsy Features!

2011-05-20T16:47:00.006-04:00

Some of my original, handmade jewelry, bags and boxes are featured in a collections on both ArtFire and Etsy at the moment!

First, one of my recycled denim brooches is featured in a collection over on ArtFire. The collection is "It's a Jeans and T-Shirt Kind of Day" and it features some great handmade items for those casual jean days.

Its a jeans and t-shirt kind of day

Curated By: sandeeknits

ArtFire.com

Jewelry Supplies

Over on Etsy, I have items featured in several collections today.

First off, I have a small zippered clutch bag featured in the "Friday's Favorites" treasury by All Things Tangled, a Handmadeology member. This treasury features items from Etsy shops that have few than 10 sales. What a generous act by All Things Tangled! The treasury is also featured on the All Things Tangled blog!

Second, I have another small zippered clutch bag featured in a treasury by malibuquilts called "Can You Hold This, Please?". If you need a new bag, purse, wallet, tote or gadget case, you should definitely check out this great collection!

Another one of my small zippered clutch bags was featured in a treasury by VitalTemptation called "Plums, Hearts and a Frog Love :)". VitalTemptation is another Handmadeology member.

VitalTemptation featured one of my new treasure boxes in a treasury yesterday: "Light in the End of the Tunnel".

My box is in the third row, third from the left. I haven't blogged about the boxes yet but I will post more information on them soon!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Artist Trading Cards (ACEOs) in Progress

2011-05-18T08:16:00.017-04:00

Spiral

Dottin' Around #5

I'm working on some new artist trading cards (also known as ACEOs) and I thought I would share some in-progress photos with you.

An artist trading card (or ATC) is a small work of art the size of a baseball trading card or playing card (2.5" x 3.5"). These works of art are either originals or limited edition numbered series. They were originally created by artists for trading only; however, artists later realized that they would also be a great, inexpensive way for others to begin their own art collection. So the idea of ACEOs was born. ACEO stands for Art Cards, Editions and Originals. ACEOs are now being made and sold by artists all over the world.

The in-progress cards shown below (as well as the finished ones above) began as a large (~12" x 12") background of various hand-dyed cotton and over-dyed upholstery fabrics fused to a piece of Peltex^TM to give the card thickness and support. I then used decorative machine stitches to stitch the fabrics down and start to give the background some texture. I often add couched yarns to the background as well. I then added more background texture through the addition of hand-dyed cheesecloth fused down with painted fusible webbing. Sometimes netting (or tulle) is used over part or all of the background surface.

Once the background is complete, I start working with my focal images. The cards in progress are from my "Deco Dots" series. I added various sizes and colors of fabric circles, partial circles and rings to achieve the look I wanted. I also sometimes add other decorative fabric pieces (such as the wavy cut strips shown) or various decorative trims.

Etsy Heart Hop Monday

2011-05-16T08:16:00.008-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with Blushie who hearts . . .

- kylieparry (Blueberry Hedgehog Mixed Media Charm Necklace) who hearts . . .

- jorgensenstudio (Frond and Floral Promise Stack Ring) who hearts . . .

- bravura (Natural Linen Bag No. 3) who hearts . . .

- mamaslittlebabies (Deco Fan Necklace) who hearts . . .

- funkyjunkmama (Hand-Painted Miniature Portrait on a Bug) who hearts . . .

- luxrevival (Antique Victorian Floral Flower Brooch) who hearts . . .

- FrenchSentiments (Cow Girls) who hearts . . .

- LizMathewsVintage (Animal Rubber Stamps) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop Monday

2011-05-09T09:00:00.006-04:00

Welcome back to Heart Hop Monday where we follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. This is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy and discover interesting new artists.

Last week we left off with LauraBScott who hearts . . .

- thefuzzymonkey (Felted Wool Bowl) who hearts . . .

- FernTreeFlowers (Paper Nosegay with Romantic Lace) who hearts . . .

- cronopla6 (Paper Nosegay with Romantic Lace) who hearts . . .

- cocoondesigns (Handmade Heart) who hearts . . .

- freespiritheidi (Natural Stone Beaded Brooch) who hearts . . .

- wondrousstrange (Raku Leaf Cabochons) who hearts . . .

- gfxgirl (Primitive Halloween Postcards) who hearts . . .

- Blushie (Fresh Cut Grass Handmade Soap) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Some Online Tutorials for Mother's Day

2011-05-08T22:40:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!

I've come across some fun things to try this week!

- I'd love to make some of this natural lip balm. This video is from http://www.yourdailythread.com.

- Here'a a tutorial for making a cool paper flower from Roberts Crafts.

- How about making a mini album like this one from The Scarlet Lime.

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Etsy Heart Hop Monday

2011-05-02T01:37:00.008-04:00

Happy Monday!

I recently discovered a super fun weekly post on the Scoutie Girl blog called Heart-to-Heart. In this series of posts, the Scoutie Girl writers post an item from one of their favorite Etsy shops (a shop they "heart") and then an item that shop "hearts" and so on.

I think this is a really cool way to showcase some of the awesome talent on Etsy as well as discover interesting new artists for myself. So I have instituted a new weekly series on Polkadot Possum called Heart Hop.

This is the first installment of Heart Hop where I start at my Etsy shop and follow a trail of hearts from one Etsy shop to another. I am following shop hearts. I have randomly chosen items from the hearted shops. Note: The shops listed here have chosen to display their favorites publicly on Etsy.

So Polkadot Possum (me) hearts

- beadygirlbeads (Spotty Dotty Glass Bead) who hearts . . .

- RuthBleakley (Pink Heart Marbled Paper) who hearts . . .

- LBCpaper (Handmade Paper Flower Magnet) who hearts . . .

- zuhalkanar (Dragonfly Painting) who hearts . . .

- rodica (Poppies Painted Brooch) who hearts . . .

- blueberryfields (April Muffinpie) who hearts . . .

- JennasBeachRetreat (Beach Cottage Vintage Bottle and Starfish) who hearts . . .

- LauraBScott (Bright Pink Begonia Photo Pendant) who hearts . . .

Check back next week to see where the trail will lead!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Time and Sand

2011-04-28T01:43:00.004-04:00

Today I sent off a big package of art to Time and Sand a new store that's opening in Columbus, IN. The grand opening is this weekend - Sunday, May 1 from 1 to 5 pm. Check it out if you are around central Indiana!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Gifts for the Teacher in your Life

2011-04-22T01:27:00.003-04:00

The school year is rapidly winding down and, if you are like me, you may be looking for good ideas for teacher gifts. You probably would like to find something more original than the same-old-same-old that you can find in the local stores. I've put together a collection of unique and one-of-a-kind gift ideas from the artists on Etsy who belong to the Etsy Treasury Team. Check them out!

Click on any picture to see the item listing in Etsy. If you would like to view this treasury on Etsy you can go to http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4daf21e8d2636d9139bb7f0d/gifts-for-the-teacher

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

The Power of Words

2011-04-18T22:26:00.002-04:00

I recently saw this video on Connie Hozvicka's blog Dirty Footprints Studio. It's an incredible video which illustrates the power of words and how we can change them to alter our affect on the world. I wanted to share it with you here.

The Story of a Sign by Alonso Alvarez Barreda. Music by: Giles Lamb http://sonicdesignagency.wordpress.com. Filmed by www.redsnappa.com. Director: Seth Gardner

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Great Giveaway Opportunity!

2011-04-12T18:00:00.002-04:00

Here is a great giveaway opportunity. If you have an Etsy business or if you are thinking of starting one, this would be a great package for you. Handmadeology is giving away all the products from their Etsy shop on their blog!

This package is valued at $105 and includes:

Twitter Essentials, Facebook Essentials and Blogging Essentials (along with the trackers for each)
Handmade Bookkeeping Spreadsheet
Etsy Treasury Tool Bundle
Creative Etsy Success Package

This is a a great opportunity for the Etsy seller! You can enter by going to the announcement on the Handmadeology blog! Get over there now!!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Flavor for Mixed Media. I won!

2011-04-11T23:24:00.011-04:00

Just got an email from Mary Beth Shaw. Apparently I won a copy of her new book, Flavor for Mixed Media: A Feast of Techniques for Texture, Color and Layers, in a giveaway on Judy Wise's blog! I'm so excited! I can't wait to sink my teeth into it and see what I can create!!! Woot!

It's the Simple Things . . .

2011-04-07T13:47:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago . . .

DD: "Mom, can we go to Atlanta (Georgia) for vacation this summer??"

Me: "We just got back from Atlanta last month - why do you want to go this summer?"

DD: "I want to go back to that place where we got our picture made. You know, that Japanese place?"

Me: "Benihana???"

DD: "Yeah! That place! I want to go back there and eat!!"

Me: "You know, most bigger towns have a Benihana. Maybe we can go to one in Indy sometime soon. We don't need to go all the way back to Atlanta for that."

DD: "Will the one in Indy have that same kind of ice cream?"

Me: "I don't know but I'll bet it's just as good."

She thinks for awhile.

DD: "Will they have those same kind of little umbrellas? I LOVE those little umbrellas!"

Me: "I'm sure they have those little umbrellas!"

Note: DD holding one umbrella and wearing another in her hair!

Sometimes it doesn't take much to make 'em happy! (Of course, the sushi and hibachi shrimp didn't hurt either!)

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

New Art Goodies!!

2011-04-05T14:59:00.002-04:00

Fun, fun, fun!!! I recently received some artist's supplies that I ordered online. I got some Liquitex Acrylic Inks! and a bottle of Golden Glaze in Fresco Cream from Dick Blick.

Liquitex ink! in quinacrodone magenta, phthalocyanine green, yellow orange azo, vivid lime green, cerulean blue hue, naphthol crimson, cadmium yellow light hue, and deep violet.

I also received an order from Scrapbook.com.

Adirondack Color Wash in Red Pepper, Butterscotch and Denim. Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist in Key Lime Pie, Sun Sisters and Vintage Pink!

I'll be using these in Roben-Marie's, Mixed Media Mayhem online workshop and in the new 21 Secrets online workshop hosted by Dirty Footprints Studio. Woo hoo!!!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Cool New Bags!

2011-03-28T20:55:00.016-04:00

Well, it's Spring Break for my kids this week. Whether I can survive the bickering and the complaints about not being able to find anyone to play with remains to be seen. My kids really love school and they just don't know what to do with themselves when there is no school. So, hopefully we'll be able to survive without seriously hurting each other!

I just finished designing and making some new bags in the studio. I really like these. The exteriors of the bags are mostly over-dyed 100% cotton upholstery fabric. They are lined with hand-dyed cotton fabric and lightly padded with Quilter's Dream polyester batting. The interior of each bag sports a small pocket. The bags are about 8 inches wide and 6.5 inches tall. They have a black zipper closure. Each bag is embellished with a hand-painted and free-motion stitched canvas panel that has been tea dyed. On each panel is an inspirational word stamped onto twill tape.

These are very different from anything I have done in the past but I am really liking the freshness of them!

Spring

Close up of Spring.

Back of Spring.

Interior of Spring.
Check out this zippered pouch in my Etsy shop .

Flower

Close up of Flower.

Back of Flower.

Interior of Flower.
You can see the Flower zippered pouch in my Etsy shop .

Grow

Close up of Grow.

Back of Grow.
Check out the Grow zippered pouch in my ArtFire shop .

Fresh

Close up of Fresh.

Back of Fresh.

Interior of Fresh.
The Fresh zippered pouch is for sale in my ArtFire shop .

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)

Another Remains of the Day Journal

2011-03-22T16:01:00.002-04:00

Well, I seem to be on a bit of a roll here. Allow me to present my latest Remains of the Day type journal. The pages are again composed of Strathmore drawing paper, Rives Lightweight paper and hand-dyed watercolor papers. The pages are decorated with inked watercolor and drawing papers as well as some fabrics that coordinate with the cover. This journal is 6" x 9".

Enjoy!

©Polkadot Possum (Cindy Harwood)