Back to Basics

The very first products in my line were handbound books. Now that my business encompassess everything from antique furniture to vintage-inspired stationery, I don't often get the opportunity to set up my studio for just one thing: making books. Well, this past week I did find that opportunity, and just loved it. There is something so peaceful in the process for me. Starting with nothing but paper, bookboard and glue, I end up with beautiful books that will be cherished for years to come. My inspiration for this endeavor was a custom guestbook order for an upcoming wedding. Since I was making one book, I thought, why not just make several? Here are some happy pics:







Earlier in the week I made a different batch of books. These ones are made by recycling the covers of old books and turning them inside-out to show-off their beautiful endpapers. Why let something so beautiful go hidden for so long?





One last photo: a mischievious puppy in my studio. Hmmmmm...I see a sock, some torn paper... Happy? Yes! It's a good thing he's so cute!

Hints of Spring

Despite that fact that it snowed today, I am feeling spring in the air! The birds sound more cheery in the morning. The snowbanks are slowly melting. I can even see a few patches of what-used-to-be-grass in the yard. But Mother Nature is much too slow for me, so I decided to take things into my own hands and bring a bit of spring indoors.



Now, I do have a bit of a confession to make. The flowers are fake. I have two excuses: first, I live in New England; second, I do not have a green thumb. I am shamed by this latter fact, but it's true. I had one great herb and vegetable garden when my oldest was still in diapers, but since then it's been all downhill. I would like to have a better relationship with plants. I do love nature. It's on my to do list.

On a happier note, I started working on a few Easter projects! Here is a sneak peek at one:



I'm still picking decoupage medium off my fingernails, but I love how these eggs are turning out! I can't wait to make more! Happy!

Happy Stuff!!!

I haven't posted a "junking" photo in ages, so here are a few from a recent shopping trip. I soooooo can't wait for the flea markets to open again next month!!!!





All I have to say is...happy!!!!

Stretching My Wings

Not only did I add a new shop this year, but I also expanded my space at the Spaulding Cooperage! Actually, it's even better than an expansion. Kris and I merged our two spaces and took over a third "booth" in the corner. The result? Fun and happy! We definitely share a basic design sense, but put slightly different spins on it. The combination is inspiration and a bit of stretching for both of us! Here are a few recent pics:





LOVE these! Made by Ikea, customized by Kris!





Kris made the gorgeous apron in this last photo (of "Mary," my dress form). The necklaces are mine. We both need to list them on etsy.....

On another topic, I had a very happy day! Got to see one of my bestest friends in the whole world, Heather! I love you, man!

From Out of the Woods

I'm so happy to share photos of my new space at From Out of the Woods antiques in Goffstown, NH. I've blogged before about the amazing "Infusion" level of this shop--filled with great ideas and to-die-for pieces that would make the perfect centerpieces for a room, a home, a store...you get the idea. I now inhabit the "transition" space between the antique levels and the infusion area. Here are a few peeks at the new space:




There are a few fun "repurposing" projects here. I'll give more background info on these later:-) My favorite is the message board made from the remnant springs of an old iron crib I converted into a daybed (pics of this to come soon!).

Now for a few close-ups:






Many thanks to my friend, Kris Vogelsang, for helping me schlep all this stuff out to Goffstown this morning. Kris made the adorable sachets you see scattered throught the space. She is also a new blogger--check her out at Cricket Acres Studio!

Also, a big thank you to Donna, the proprietress of From Out of the Woods, for welcoming me into your barn! I'm looking forward to working with you!

Happy day!