Whimsy House

2011-10-30T10:49:00.006-05:00

It's HEARTSY time! Whimsy House is a featured seller on Heartsy this week and couldn't be more excited! Click on the photo above to sign up for a free account and discover new Etsy shops offering great opportunities to try their products at a significantly discounted rate. You will love this fun site, much like a "Groupon for Handmade." Heartsy features exclusive private sales on handmade designer items across the internet.

Whimsy House will be offering $21 for $10 and if you're a VIP you will receive $31 for your $10 voucher purchase. What a deal, huh?? VIP sales start tomorrow, November 2nd, and everyone else can join in the fun on Thursday, November 3rd. This is a GREAT opportunity to get a start on your holiday shopping. Enjoy!

XOXO Molly

Where I've been hiding...

2011-10-06T13:35:00.004-05:00

Welcome to our "little" project and the sole reason I've been away from blogging for so long...

Our "new" property complete with white barn and 150 year old stone house. We started "renovating" November 2010 with a complete gutting of the house and addition of the new structure. If you're curious and want to see more photos you can check out our blog dedicated to the project http://oldstonefarmhouse.blogspot.com/.

And what does this have to do with Whimsy House, besides taking a lot of time and attention away from creating? Well, along with a lovely home for our family, I personally will be gaining an AMAZING studio all for me!! It is located above the garage with a funky ceiling and two dormers. Here is the door entering my little slice of heaven.

Dormer facing the front of the house which looks over our drive way and onto a lovely tree.

GIANT closet on the back wall... Oh, the organization that will be happening - I can't wait!

The view out my back dormer window. I'll be able to watch the girls play while I create away!

Sure to be an inspiring space to work in, my little Sophie is already hard at work creating something wonderful out of saw dust. My girls will have a little corner to themselves as well, to support their creative endevors. I love it and am excited by the mere notion of space that will be dedicated to Whimsy House and possibly the rebirth of In Home Designs - my interior design business that took back burner when my second daughter was born premature. I hope to blog more frequently as we proceed so that I can share the progress. Lots of Whimsy Love!

XOXO Molly

Craftstravaganza!

2011-04-04T14:22:00.009-05:00

Whimsy House is proud to have been accepted as a vendor at this years Craftstravaganza in St. Paul, Minneasota. I hope to see you there! Enjoy this press release about the event...

6th Annual Craftstravaganza scheduled for April 30

Rogue Art Show Celebrates 6 Years Promoting Local Handmade Goods

ST. PAUL, MN --- On Saturday, April 30, the Minnesota State Fairgrounds' Fine Arts Building will open its doors to over 70 artists and thousands of returning attendees in the 6th annual St. Paul Craftstravaganza. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees can browse tables bursting with handmade crafts and meet creators, including 34 artisans new to the show. The Minnesota Center for Book Arts and the Textile Center will be conducting workshops throughout the day. The first 100 shoppers will receive free swag bags with samples of vendors’ work and other goodies.

This year’s new artisans and products include: The Elixery vegan lipstick Ugly Baby suction-cup shower art Juicytoots cloth diapers Sprouting Soles baby shoes Innad vinyl wallets ...and many more!

Craftstravaganza founder Andy Krueger said, “Our change of weekends has opened the door to more new participants than ever before. Craftstravaganza vendors are carefully curated for quality and variety, and this year's selection is especially exciting."

The Season of Love

2011-01-21T11:15:00.004-06:00

So sorry to be missing lately!

Life has been crazy busy and exciting since the start of the new year. We have been making slow and steady progress on our house construction - a major and necessary distraction from my world of Whimsy House. You can follow our trials, tribulations and occasional celebrations on my house blog ~ Old Stone Farm House. Meanwhile I've been designing a few new goodies in anticipation of the upcoming Fall in Love with Handmade trunk show on the calendar for Sunday, February 6th at The Glitter Workshop here in Madison. The heart brooches above have just been listed on Etsy and similar ones will be available at the show. Lots of other new designs are dancing in my head, ready to be born... hoping to find some time to work on them this weekend. So, with the season of LOVE in full swing I send you a hug and thank you for your patience while I'm in the middle of a construction zone.

XOXO Molly

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T09:59:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year! Many thanks to all my family, friends and Whimsy House shoppers for making 2010 a fantastic year. Now, on to the Year of the Rabbit ~ 2011.

"According to Chinese tradition, the Rabbit brings a year in which you can catch your breath and calm your nerves. It is a time for negotiation. Don't try to force issues, because if you do you will ultimately fail. To gain the greatest benefits from this time, focus on home, family, security, diplomacy, and your relationships with women and children. Make it a goal to create a safe, peaceful lifestyle, so you will be able to calmly deal with any problem that may arise."

Sounds good to me! Warm wishes for a happy new year to you and yours. In appreciation, enjoy 20% off your purchase at Whimsy House now through Friday, January 7th by using coupon code THANKS at check out - your discount will automatically be applied.

Cheers!

XOXO Molly

CYBER MONDAY SALE (of course!)

2010-11-29T08:10:00.005-06:00

So sorry to be absent from blog-land for a bit... Lots of work being done for my holiday shows but those are almost done and I will now focus more on Etsy-land! To start the ball rolling again Whimsy House will join in the spirit of CYBER MONDAY with ONE LAST SALE before the holidays... and it's bigger and better than ever...

BUY ONE GET ONE HALF OFF plus FREE SHIPPING...

one day only!! Your savings will be applied to the lower priced item (or items!) and will be promptly refunded after purchase. Or, if you prefer, send me a note and I can adjust your pricing before you purchase.

Many thanks to all my Whimsy House shoppers for a fantabulous 2010 ~ I am truly blessed. Happy Cyber Shopping!

XOXO Molly

SHOP EARLY FOR THE HOLIDAYS SALE!!

2010-11-11T13:29:00.005-06:00

Gleeful Garden Necklace

Hard to believe but YES, the holidays are right around the corner!

Between now and then Whimsy House will be at four holiday shows for you to shop in person (listed at left.) For those who prefer to shop on line or aren't in the Madison area, now is the time to shop and SAVE!!

Here are the details...

SHOP EARLY FOR THE HOLIDAYS SALE

at Whimsy House on Etsy

Buy 1 item and save 10%!

Buy 2 items and save 15%!

Buy 3 items or more and save 25%!

Mention sale code CHEERS at check out and your discount will be promptly refunded via Paypal or you may request an adjusted invoice before payment. We run very few sales at Whimsy House so let it be known that NOW is your chance to SAVE... and make a dent in your shopping list! Win Win!

Sale runs from November 11th through November 18th at midnight CST.

Custom orders are always welcome and I have many additional items not listed on Etsy so if you have something in particular in mind, please send me a note and I'll see what I can come up with for you.

Cheers and Happy Holiday Shopping!

XOXO Molly

Craftamongous!

2010-11-05T10:20:00.002-05:00

Back from vacation in Florida (pictures soon!) and the holiday craft fair season begins!

Tomorrow I will be at the Craftamongous show in Shorewood Hills. There will be over 30 local artists and craftspeople selling their work. Stop by and BUY LOCAL for your holiday gift giving needs. There will be a great assortment of products available including jewelry, fiber, painting, photography, assemblage, fiber arts and more....

My 2010 Holiday Show schedule is listed at right. Lots of handmade goodness to be had! Mark your calendar and stop by to say "hi." Cheers!

XOXO Molly

All Hallow's Eve at Confectionique

2010-10-20T15:05:00.003-05:00

Don't miss All Hallow's Eve at Confectionique! It is bound to be a wonderful market... I'm sure that Jessica and Anastasia have whipped up some fabulous not-to-be-missed Halloween and Autumn inspired goodness to delight one and all!

I will have a big batch of felted wool flower brooches there ~perfect for your fall coat, winter scarf or hat...

And here's a sneak peek at some Whimsy House rings that will be there. I will also be taking a fun assortment of seasonal inspired necklace. I love autumn!

My little spook, Sophie. Found her in my bin of felted wool enjoying the sun yesterday.

XOXO Molly

Autumn WAS in the air...

2010-10-11T16:41:00.005-05:00

We had a change in the seasons since last weekend... it seems summer has returned to Wisconsin! It was in the 80s which means a JEEP ride was in order.

We headed to Wollersheim Winery on Sunday with friends and family. This is the view from above and you can see my girls rolling down the hill - of course! We did the wine tasting and took our favorites to the patio to enjoy.

The sandbox is GENIUS ~ our girls actually ask to go there because of it. Always appropriate for a 3 year old to ask "can we go to the winery this weekend?" Well, my husbands family is French so I guess it was inevitable that they would be so versed in vino at such a young, tender age - ha!

Sophie and Elle ~ post hill roll.

Sophie was NOT so fond of the "dairy air" we were blessed with. She had her nose plugged for almost the entire trip! Country girl? I think not.

We took family and friends back to our place for chili dinner and apple pie. Along the way we stopped at our "farm house" that will soon become our brand new home. It's 150 years old and fabulous - 2 foot thick stone walls. You can read more about it here - it will be the subject of many blog posts VERY soon if things proceed as planned. This is our friend Tony waving to my husband outside.

And here's my Elle. She was 2 when we bought this property and is now 6. Sophie wasn't even a thought when we started. The past 4 years have flown by and simultaneously dragged on (an effect of a family of 5 in a 1000 square foot townhouse??) Hoping with huge hope that we will be in our "new" home come spring... I'll keep you updated.

So that was our weekend. Very little crafting was completed which is NOT good seeing that I have 5 shows this holiday season. What can I say ~85 degrees in Wisconsin in October is pretty distracting! I hope you had an enjoyable weekend too.

And here's a glimpse of LAST weekend. We got our Halloween on when it was 50 degrees - phew!

XOXO Molly

Autumn is in the air...

2010-10-05T15:47:00.002-05:00

We've had some chilly nights an frosty mornings lately here in Wisconsin. I love the changing seasons... it's what makes the Midwest "all that" and then some. Autumn is particularly inspiring to me. We had friends over last Friday night for an Autumnal meal ~ portabella mushroom tarts, french bread topped with baked tomatoes and melted chevre, balsamic marinated flank steak and spinach salad with dried cranberries and apple ~ yummy! All this with good red wine and an apple pie for dessert. These flowers are left from the evening - loved them in the morning sun.

These felted wool rose brooches are my favorite way to recycle worn out sweaters. I pulled out this project over the weekend while we watched the Badgers get stomped on... At least I had something to show when the game was over!

How does Fall inspire you?

XOXO Molly

Flea Market Finds

2010-09-27T10:49:00.006-05:00

Sunday we made the trek to Elkhorn for their last flea market of the 2010 season. We missed the first 3 so it was a MUST on my list and I was thrilled when my husband and girls happily tagged along. Since we are ABOUT to start building our new home we really weren't in the market for furniture... YET... but we got some good ideas. Instead I focused on - BIG SURPRISE - finding a few good buttons. Here's a taste of what I brought home.

An autumn collection - celluloid, metal, glass, wood...

Love this guy!

Some feminine fancy... rhinestones galore! Dainty indeed!

And primary colors always catch my eye - fun "realistics" here...
horses, bowling pins, a bear, anchor, flower, some bakelite...
Can you see the tiny key and heart shaped padlock?? A treasure!

This acorn is my favorite find of the day - so tiny and wonderful - where was it hiding through the years and what was it on to begin with? Today it makes me smile!

And here is Sophie's favorite find - a pink celluloid shank button that will become her new necklace later today... She cannot wait...

But she will have to because this Mommy has to tackle this pile of non-goodness for fear her marriage might end if she doesn't. Yikes! Actually my husband has been a love about my MESS. It's been growing since The Creative Connection and I didn't have it in me to tackle it last week so today I will begin....

And most likely I will continue tomorrow because, for some reason, when I start to organize things get FAR WORSE before they get better.

For instance I started photographing things to de-stash in my Fabric House Etsy shop rather than actually putting all this away. My mind isn't quite focused on the essentials... like gaining back the dining room table for the well being of family dinners. Someday, right? I cannot wait for my STUDIO in the new house. I continue to dream about the inspiring place it will be.

So there you go ~ a glimpse into my weekend behind and week ahead.

I listed LOADS of new autumnal goodness in my Etsy shop so be sure and take a peek. If you see any thing you can't live without, I'm offering my lovely Blog Readers 25% off through Thursday, September 30th at 6 pm CDT. Simply note BLOG OFFER at check out and I will promptly refund your discount ~ Enjoy!

XOXO Molly

Call for Crafty People!

2010-09-24T10:31:00.007-05:00

As I'm putting together my winter and holiday show line up I wanted to share this wonderful opportunity with all you Midwest Area craftsters in case you don't know about this show or haven't yet taken the time to apply.

My very first show experience was with Naomi and her FABULOUS Craftacular in Madison, Wisconsin in December 2008. Little did I know what a treat it was to be part of such a seamlessly organized show ~ well promoted, heavily followed, top notch quality products... you name it. I was blessed to have it be my first show experience ~ because these events can be QUITE never wracking to unseasoned artists and crafters.

Applications to this years big event are still open through October 8th so I encourage you embrace this opportunity to become part of Madison's Handmade Movement that is so expertly lead by Naomi (with help from her loyal hubby Jerome.) Give yourself this gift ~ you will be happy you did.

XOXO Molly

P.S. - Fingers still crossed that I get in... acceptance letters go out shortly after the deadline so I will let you know. My schedule so far is listed to the right - lots of fun shows to look forward to!

The Creative Connection Event

2010-09-20T16:41:00.008-05:00

Where in the world did the weekend go?? The Creative Connection Event in Minneapolis was a long time coming and then whizzed right by. What an amazing place to spend an extra long weekend, among countless creative souls and inspiring minds. I was overwhelmed and impressed to say the least!

I arrived at about noon on Wednesday and before I knew it my booth was set up and Preview Night was over... the hours literally flew by. I was honored to meet organizer and lovely past editor in chief of Country Living magazine Nancy Soriano right off the bat ~ she was gracious and kind, someone I would love to spend time with. Then author Amy Barickman of new book "Vintage Notions", Indygo Junction and The Vintage Workshop stopped by the booth and shopped a bit - yes, she actually purchased a few of my goodies and chatted about her next book idea... wow wow wow! My heart was singing with excitement.

The next few days were filled with classes for Creative Connection participants. They were able to shop for a few minutes here and there but we sure would have liked to have seen more of them. Hopefully next year the Market hours will run past the class hours so that we can mingle longer. Co-founder Jo Packham from the gorgeous magazine Where Women Create also stopped by the booth and was equally as lovely as Nancy. They are are a truly inspirational duo. They pulled off an amazing event with a hard working, well oiled team. We heard only good things from all the attendees. Job well done ~ Many thanks!!

A few booth shots. My lovely banner was printed at Spoonflower and put together by the ever talented Mary Ann Abbot - love that girl. She makes me happy!

Plans are already being made for next year so be sure and stay tuned to The Creative Connection Event website for details. Surely an annual not-to-be-missed event has been born, don't you think?

XOXO Molly

Divine Twine

2010-08-20T12:07:00.007-05:00

So excited about this DIVINE TWINE... have you heard of it, seen it, touched it, loved it yet?

Whisker Graphics came up with this fabulous twine, perfect for your every crafting project. I'm planning to use it for my tags and packaging. Can't wait to put everything together! Check out their site for other great designs as well. I ordered a big box of red, apple green, licorice black and aqua twine to have for sale at The Creative Connection Event in Minneapolis in September. Now that my two August show are over - thank you to all you shoppers! - my mind and heart are fully focused on the amazing 4 day event ahead. Be sure and take a peek and consider a class, seminar or shopping extravaganza at TCC... would LOVE to see you there!!

Be there! I simply can't wait... so much to do... it used to be 6 months away and now it feels like it will be here tomorrow. Off to craft!

XOXO Molly

Summer Craftacular

2010-08-09T11:21:00.003-05:00

Hoping to see you at the Sixth Annual Summer Craftacular!

The Summer Craftacular will be held Sunday, August 15th from 10 am to 5 pm at the East Side Club at 3735 Monona Drive. We will be utilizing both banquet rooms as well as the outdoor lawn / Tiki patio area. These spaces combined will allow for approximately 80 booths. We are very excited about this new venue! Not only is the East Side Club a great, established location, but it also offers amazing views of Lake Monona, great parking, cash bars (we will be using the upstairs main bar as well as the outdoor Tiki Bar), and a helpful staff. The Tiki Bar will also offer some simple food options for purchase.

Summer Goodness... be there! Cheers!

XOXO Molly

And the Winner is...

2010-08-04T15:11:00.007-05:00

I'm happy to announce the winner of Green Cricket's Giveaway... Heather from HRBeaDesign!

Heather has a fun shop on Etsy filled with fun and unique handcrafted bead and metal jewelry. Here's a small sampling:

Thank you to all who entered! Watch for more interviews soon... Giveaways too!

XOXO Molly

Meet Beth from Green Cricket Salvage

2010-07-26T11:23:00.011-05:00

Beth from Green Cricket Salvage is one of the most creative and inspiring artists that I know. A self proclaimed "consummate salvager," Beth gives new life to unwanted thrift and curbside castoffs. Colorful chairs, classic kitsch, LP trays, filmstrip earrings, fisher price people necklaces... you never know what you'll discover at Green Cricket Salvage. Beth will surprise and delight you each and every time you visit her shop. And she's as sweet as pie to boot!

Enjoy learning about Beth and her salvage art and be sure to enter the GIVE AWAY below for the opportunity to win a nostalgic handmade treasure.

What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

I take what others have cast off to their curbs and turn them into eco-treasures for your home, as well as seeking out unique salvage and vintage.

A strong, reoccurring desire to have a creative outlet, while doing something to help our growing landfills. That and I was sick of being laid off one too many times.

What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Finding the inspiration piece and scheming on what to do with it

What part of your work is the hardest?

Finishing and marketing things. I have lots of 85% finished projects

A top ten list of your favorites –

...handmade possession...
a bar napkin I gave to my now husband, the night we met, with my number on it

...item in your shop...

Filmstrip earrings. My grandfather was on the development team for Kodak, and I love that I found a way to recycle old film.

...item you’ve sold...

The Madison & Soho chairs. One of my first big sales and I loved the way they turned out.

...item in your favorites list...

UK flag chair by Andrea Ford Restyle

...Etsy purchase...

Erin Tyner photo. There is something so magical about macro art. This picture just makes me smile.

...Etsy shop...

Hello Victory. Kate has the greatest finds and print worthy photos to match.

...blog or website...

Red Otter. Julia captures the most captivating images to fit every mood, feeling or moment she describes.

...source of inspiration...

flea markets, junk stores, outsider art and always....nature

...piece of advice...

'creativity is everywhere, it just must find you working' - Picasso

...rule to break...
focus on one or two things at a time.....I break it almost daily.

Now you love Beth's style too, right?! And you need something special from her shop, right?! The lucky winner of Beth's generous giveaway gets to CHOOSE between a pair of filmstrip earrings or a Fisher Price person necklace - yipppee!

Leave a comment here to be entered to win one of these groovy prizes from Green Cricket Salvage.

For additional entries...

* Become a FAN of a Green Cricket Salvage on Facebook

* Follow the Green Cricket Salvage blog

* Share this GIVEAWAY using a Facebook link or on Twitter

* BLOG about this giveaway

Be sure an leave a separate comment for each entry. The winner will be announced on Monday, August 2nd! Good luck!

XOXO Molly

Back from Vacation...

2010-07-22T13:34:00.003-05:00

I'm back! Our vacation last week was wonderful. We went to Northern Wisconsin to share a week of relaxation, gluttony and memories with my two best friends from collage and our families. Sigh. I wish I could go back! We stay in two cabins on a tiny lake that, except for the occasional fish, eagle or frog, we have all to ourselves. Perfection in a laid back family vacation.

The kiddos gearing up for a water gun fight that turned into buckets of water because little girls simply can't beat the big brother in such a game!

Lavender Dryer Sachets from Whimsy House

So, I'm about to peek my head up from under the mountain of laundry soon and get back into the summer routine.

Watch for a new interview with Beth from Green Cricket later this week... there will be a giveaway involved - yippee!

XOXO Molly

Vacation!!

2010-07-09T23:04:00.005-05:00

vintage carry on from glamtownvintage on etsy

It's that time of year again... VACATION! I should be headed to bed but I'm a bit wired, just like my girls, excited for tomorrow when we head to Northern Wisconsin for a week with my best friends and their families. I hope you too are blessed with time off too ~ sunshine, happy times, relaxation, good food and the finest of company. Cheers! See you next week...

XOXO Molly

PS - My BIG before-vacation goal was to finish my website... it went LIVE today - excited!! You can check it our here.

Whimsy House Sale!

2010-07-03T08:13:00.004-05:00

"ruffle garden" leather cuff

IT'S HERE! Happy 4th of July! Enjoy 25% off sitewide this holiday weekend... a rare discount at Whimsy House! Simply mention "fireworks" in the "notes to seller" box at check out and your discount will be refunded through paypal. Sale runs through 7/4/10 at Midnight CST. Enjoy!

XOXO Molly

And the winner is...

2010-06-29T15:35:00.004-05:00

Johnna from Artfully Said is the lucky winner of Mary Ann's garden charm giveaway! Yeah!

Many thanks to all who entered and enjoyed my interview with Mary Ann. Thank you to Mary Ann for her generous custom giveaway as well.

I love give away day... watch for another one soon!

XOXO Molly

Meet Mary Ann from A Very Mary Design & Magpie Mary

2010-06-21T17:17:00.027-05:00

Mary Ann, Mary Ann... what can I say? This delightful gal has two of the most darling shops on Etsy filled with vintage treasures galore. She has a keen eye for the kitshy cool and unique vintage fashions AND she's also a talented seamstress and mixed media artist. And the best part? She is a treasure of a friend as well! We met about a year ago on Etsy through a series of fun trades and she has been a lovely addition to my life ever since. Thank you, dear Mary Ann, for being a constant source of inspiration and cheer. You make this world a better place ~ you are loved!

Enjoy learning more about merry Mary Ann and her charming shops and be sure to enter the GIVE AWAY below for the opportunity to win a darling handmade treat!

Tell us about your shop and what lead you to open it.
I started http://www.averymarydesign.etsy.com/ with a goal of selling handmade wares, but quickly realized that my love of vintage needed an outlet, so I opened a second etsy shop: www.magpiemary.etsy.com. Both shops are home to quirky, kitschy and classic vintage goods with a few handmade items tossed into the mix.

What part of your work do you enjoy the most?
Searching for yummy vintage treasures is, hands-down, the *best* part of etsying! I love choosing items that I hope others will adore!

What part of your work is the hardest?
The hardest aspect? Sometimes it's really hard to part with the loveliest of treasures!

A top ten list of your favorites...

... handmade possession...

When I was about 10, my father's mother gave me a giant bag of pre-cut quilt squares that had belonged to my great-grandmother. At 10, I couldn't really appreciate them, so I passed them on to my mother's mother. When I was about 20, my grandmother gifted me with an amazing queen-sized quilt made from those squares. Quite simply, it is my most prized handmade possession.

...item in your shop...

sweet strawberries ~ vintage ceramic pitcher at magpiemary

The Darling Feminine Hair Wrap at verymary

...item you’ve sold...

The Daylight Katy Shoes at verymary

Wild Poppies at magpiemary

...item in your favorites list...

Apak Shop
Murdock Design
Freshline Illustration

...Etsy purchase...

"we go together" handstamped sterling silver necklace by Punky Jane

...Etsy shop...

dulcet on Etsy

...blog or website...

Giver's Log

The Idea Room

...source of inspiration...

Being in my studio is the most inspirational place on the planet for me! It's bright and airy with bold colors, boxes & jars & containers full of delicious supplies, and an entirely creative space.

...piece of advice...

This old quilter's adage is a favorite motto and also very good advice: "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without." In other words, we don't need to spend a lot of money to make art!

...rule to break...

On the other hand, I love to thrift shop, visit yard sales, and scour rummage sales for fun "stuff" that I really don't need! If it's a good deal, get it (or you'll regret it!)

Now you love Mary Ann just like me, right?! And you need something special from her shop, right?! The lucky winner of Mary Ann's generous giveaway will receive 10 customized garden charms...

Adorable and perfect for summer! Leave a comment here to be entered to win this fun prize from Mary Ann.

For additional entries...

* Become a FAN of a very mary design on Facebook

*Become a FAN of magpie mary on Facebook

* Follow the i am very mary blog

* Follow the very mary made it blog

* Follow a very mary design on Twitter

* Share this GIVEAWAY using a Facebook link or on Twitter

* BLOG about this giveaway

Be sure an leave a separate comment for each entry. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, June 28th! Good luck!

XOXO Molly

2010-06-15T09:29:00.003-05:00

What a nice surprise to wake up to on ANOTHER rainy day! An honor...

A Whimsy House ring on the front page ~ Retro Posey Vintage Findings Ring
Happy Tuesday to all!

XOXO Molly

Nostalgic Goodness

2010-06-14T12:20:00.009-05:00

I find myself giddy and inspired by vintage textiles and findings. A little package of goodies like this... quilt scraps and buttons... my mind dreams up all sorts of things! I can't part with even the smallest scrap of vintage quilt fabric, often feedsack and always darling. I ponder the history of each piece and feel honored to give them a "new history" through my accessories.

These leather collage cuffs feature vintage quilt diamonds, silver buttons at center and vintage button and suede cord loop closures. It's no secret I'm a t-shirt, jeans and cowboy boot girl so I find these to be the perfect accessory!

My leather collage necklaces are such a treat ~ candy to the eye! They feature layers of vintage loveliness... a leather background sewn together with felted wool, a vintage quilt scrap and a vintage flower finding and bead center. I love making them because no two are ever alike.

What gets your creative juices boiling? What "supply" makes you giddy with excitement, makes you grin from ear to ear? Can't wait for your answers...

XOXO Molly

Last day of school...

2010-06-11T15:02:00.003-05:00

Elle Cosette ~ First Day of Kindergarten, September 2009

Sometimes life seems to move at warp speed ~ today is one of those days. I find it near impossible to believe that my oldest baby is no longer a kindergartner, that she flew through the year with a bit of trepidation and a ton of brave, I-can-do-it-GO-GIRL attitude. She has been an amazing friend and well liked student (she even got 2 hugs from her teacher today!) I'm proud of the real person my little Elle Cosette is becoming. I have to admit, I had tears picking her up and thanking her teacher for a job well done. Her life flashed in front of me... from the hospital when she entered our lives to the day she will graduate college to the day she gets married. Seriously - it all literally flashed in front of my teary eyes as I buckled her into her booster seat. Sigh. I'm honored to be Elle's mom - what a privilege. Thank you, Sweet Pea.

Elle Cosette ~ Last Day of Kindergarten, June 2010

On to summer! Let the games begin!

XOXO Molly

Summer Berry Pie

2010-06-07T18:07:00.014-05:00

strawberry picnic shoe clips from flowers and butterflies on etsy

It's Summer! We are celebrating birthdays galore this month at our house. This Summer Berry Pie is a favorite for any celebration. Give it a try ~ everyone will love it! Easy to make and pretty as can be. And the shoe clips above are the perfect accessory for pie eating ~ agree? Enjoy ~

Summer Berry Pie

ingredients:

3/4 cup sugar

3 T cornstartch

1-1/2 cups water

1 pkg. (4-serving size) Jello-O Brand Cherry Flavor Geletin (any berry works!)

1 cup blueberries

1 cup raspberries

1 cup sliced strawberries

1 ready-to-use graham cracker crumb crust (6 oz or 9 inch)

preparation:

MIX cornstarch and sugar in medium saucepan. Gradually stir in water until smooth. Stirring constantly, cook on medium heat until mixture comes to a boil; boil 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in gelatin until completely dissolved. Cool to room temperature. Stir in berries. Pour into crust.

REFRIGERATE 3 hours or until firm. Garnish with whipped topping. Store leftovers in refrigerator. Makes 8 servings.

Bring on the berries! Happy Summer!

XOXO Molly

Free Shipping Weekend!

2010-05-28T10:36:00.006-05:00

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! In celebration, enjoy

FREE SHIPPING

at Whimsy House & The Vintage Flirt

now through Monday, May 31st at Midnight (CST). Simply mention "blog" at check out and I will refund the shipping charges.

Happy Shopping!

XOXO Molly

What happened to May?

2010-05-24T10:51:00.008-05:00

I'm not certain what happened, but May is already drawing to a close and summer is fast on it's heels. We have 90 degree weather today ~ this is unheard of in Wisconsin!! On Mother's Day, just a few short weeks ago, it was in the 50's. Guess that's one of the joys of living in the Midwest. You never know what Mother nature has in store for us... keeps things exciting! May in review ~

Road trip: Gallery Night at daintydaisies in Oshkosh.

Happy Mother's Day! My mom, girls & me at Botham Winery.

My first baby turned 6!! Happy Birthday, Elle Cosette!

Spring Trunk Show in Stoughton at Jenny from The Painted Daisy's House.
Confectionique Market - twice!

And so it goes. May also brought a 10 day visit from my Mother-in-Law and success at potty training for my little one, Sophie ~ the best Mother's Day gift ever!! We're ending the month with a Memorial Day weekend visit with my very best friends from Minnesota and their girls. How blessed am I? I hope your May was packed with an equal amount of family, love and
good fortune. Now, on to SUMMER!

XOXO Molly

The Winner is...

2010-05-16T13:37:00.004-05:00

Julie from the Perfect Paper Shop on Etsy won the generous Giveaway from Liesl Made. Yeah for Julie.... whatever will she cook in her lovely new apron?? I hope it's something good! Congratulations! Here's a peek at Julie's shop as well...

lovlies from the Perfect Paper Shop

Many thanks to Liesl for the great interview, discount code and fun giveaway! Keep an eye out for another featured artist interview soon... What fun!

XOXO Molly

Meet Liesl from Liesl Made

2010-05-07T11:14:00.022-05:00

wildflowers in rust butcher's apron by liesl made

Ohh, the goodness that Liesl Made! I just adore Liesl's shop on Etsy. This gal from New Jersey is a talented seamstress who creates lovely designs for her shop on Etsy. You can find anything from butcher's aprons in darling fabrics, make up bags, purses, fabric coaster sets, jammies... you name it. Lisel's designs are executed with utmost perfection and her prices are crazy reasonable. Just about everyone on my Christmas list this year received something from Liesl - I just couldn't resist! Top-notch customer service and darling packaging round things off.

Enjoy learning more about lovely Liesl and her charming shop and be sure to enter the GIVE AWAY below for the opportunity to win a darling handmade treat! Also, mention "whimsy house" in the notes to seller box at check out to receive 20% off your purchase today!! Yippee!

What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

Sewing. I’ve always been a creative person so technically ‘what led me’ was that instinctual urge to create. One day when I was young, I had the desire to make my doll some clothes and my mother showed me how to thread the sewing machine. It opened a door on a whole world of possible creations with a needle and thread.

What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

I love cutting fabric and starting up new projects. There is such a joy in knowing you are actually going to materialize a creative thought.

What part of your work is the hardest?

Sticking to one project! Like I said, I love starting new projects, so I always have a dozen things going at once.

A top ten list of your favorites...

...handmade possession...
A painting of the Virgin Mary my brother surprised me with.

...item in your shop...
Maybe it’s just because it’s new, but I really love the Eva Skirt. It’s refashioned from a vintage skirt and the lace doily detail is so sweet!

...item you’ve sold...
Pear Diamonds Butcher’s Apron

...item in your favorites list...
Tear Drop Camper – who wouldn’t love to camp out in that?

...Etsy purchase...
Probably the Mini Fabric Journal cover I got from Anodyne Design.

...Etsy shop...

Smock Paper

...blog or website...
I really like Flickr. It's so easy to get lost in all the amazing photos there.

...source of inspiration...
That’s hard because it is constantly changing. Mainly, I get a lot of creative juice from the fabric itself—I love natural fibers and vintage prints.

...piece of advice...
It might seem cliché, but be true to yourself.

...rule to break...
*It has to be perfect.*

Now you SERIOUSLY need something special from Liesl, right?? The lucky winner of Liesl's generous giveaway will receive this fabulous Butcher's Apron...

Too cute! Leave a comment here to be entered to win this special prize from
Liesl Made.

For additional entries...

* Become a FAN of Liesl Made on Facebook
* Share this GIVEAWAY using a Facebook link or on Twitter
* Blog about this GIVEAWAY

Be sure an leave a separate comment for each entry. The winner will be announced on Friday, May 14th! Good luck!

And don't forget... if you'd like to save 20% and shop Liesl Made today, simply note"whimsy house" at check out ~ your discount will be promptly refunded. Enjoy!

XOXO Molly

Healing Maggie Grace

2010-05-05T10:40:00.009-05:00

Everyone enjoys a good raffle with amazing prizes, right? How about a raffle with amazing prizes AND amazing benefits???

My angel-of-a-friend Mary Ann and her friend Jen have organized an incredible raffle to help out their blogging pal who recently received some heart wrenching news:

"Last week I found out one of my dear blogging friends and fellow artist Teresa of Maggie Graces Creates has kidney cancer... and has to have her kidney removed... and has a $5000 insurance deductible. She went from thinking she had a kidney stone, making the best of it and joking about it on her Facebook page to this. My heart sank when she told me the news. I felt so helpless clear across the country, with no resources to help. Or so I thought. Then I chatted with my dear friend Mary Ann who knows and loves Teresa like I do, and we came up with a plan." ~ from the healing maggie grace blog

And a raffle to help Teresa was born! Reports have it that she is doing well post-surgery which is a blessing indeed. You can help bless this special lady again by entering to win one of the crazy wild awesome raffle packages or you can donate direct or simply send your good wishes her way. It all helps. The power of friendship truly heals. **HUGS**

XOXO Molly

P.S. Whimsy House earrings are included in today's raffle package... head over to check it out - a TRULY fabulous lot of goodness if up for grabs! Healing Maggie Grace Spread the word!

dainty daisies

2010-05-03T08:50:00.002-05:00

I was honored to be the featured artist at dainty daisies this past Saturday during Gallery Night in downtown Oshkosh, WI. I thought you might enjoy a couple peeks into Michelle's wonderful shop...

yoyo tanks

camp skirts

ohh... the handmade goodness!

my "featured artist" display

Everything at dainty daisies is handmade and wonderful! Michelle started the shop to sell her handmade clothing line and branched out to include goods from other handmade artists - 18 to date! The shop is a wonderland of treasures... truly unique and one of a kind in every way. I would suggest you visit someday soon. Enjoy!

XOXO Molly

One Day Sale...

2010-04-29T11:05:00.006-05:00

butterfly beauty - vintage findings brooch

One Day Sale just in time for Mother's Day!

Choose that perfect Mother's Day gift to show mom how much you love and appreciate her. For one day only, receive

10% off one item,

20% off 2 items and

30% of 3 items

at Whimsy House!! Yipppee!

One for mom, one for mom-in-law and one for you.

Your item will arrive in a pretty gift box all ready to give ~ I'm happy to ship direct too. Happy Shopping!

XOXO Molly

***Discount will be refunded via Paypal promptly after purchase. Sale ends at midnight CST 4/29/10. ***

Gallery Walk in Oshkosh

2010-04-28T08:48:00.004-05:00

Whimsy House will be on the road this weekend in Oshkosh, WI. The downtown area has a lovely Gallery Walk the first Saturday of each month and I am honored to be the featured artist at dainty daisies. Store owner Michelle has an amazing collection of handmade goodness for sale in her shop. Check out these goodies recently posted on her blog:

Join us from 6-9 pm on Saturday night. It will be such fun! My mom is coming along with me. We're going to spend the night and enjoy the flea market on Sunday - an early Mother's Day gift! Hope to see you there...

XOXO Molly

A fabulous turn out...

2010-04-26T12:08:00.006-05:00

Phew! What a fun filled weekend! Many thanks to everyone who came out on a rainy Saturday to peruse the Craftacular and Confectionique. A wonderland of goodness, right?? I hope it was a fun day for everyone. Here's a peek at my display in case you missed it...

I met so many fun new people and it's ever so inspiring to be surrounded by other creative minds. The joy! Whimsy House will be on the road in May again... more details to come!

XOXO Molly

Debuting this Saturday... Confectionique!

2010-04-22T11:05:00.009-05:00

If you're in the area this weekend you simply CANNOT miss the debut of Confectionique in Middleton. It is a treat for the senses, in inspiration for your soul. You'll surely find a treasure or two just calling your name... This place is hard to resist!

This fabulous monthly market shop is the inspiration of Jessica and Anastasia, crafting sisters at heart. From their blog, a concise description of the wonderland they've created:

"We are two crafting sisters dedicated to finding forgotten vintage trinkets and crafting them into treasures. Confectionique is a monthly craft market where we get a chance to show our crafts as well as treasures created by other local artists/crafters. Let us bring a bit of "joie de vivre" to your Saturday! And thanks for taking a peek of Confectionique!"

Truly magical...

wonderfully whimsical...

indeed an inspiration!

I'm honored to be a part of first ever Saturday Confectionique market along with my friend Beth from Green Cricket Salvage. It will be open from 10 am to 4 pm this Saturday, April 24th, and is located at Morey Airport in Middleton. Be sure and mark your calendar with these upcoming Market dates:

May 8
May 22
June 19
July 11 (Sunday market)

Say HI to Jessica and Anastasia for me when you stop in to check it out... I will be vending at the Spring Fling Craftacular the same day. Wish I could be two places at once!

XOXO Molly

Going Yo Yo!!

2010-04-20T15:23:00.008-05:00

With two shows coming up this weekend I've been busy preparing a few new items for Whimsy House... going Yo Yo! I've always loved the cheerful nature of fabric yoyos and have a few beautiful genuine vintage table runners in my collection. Inspired by these treasures I've come up with yoyo rings, earrings and pins all fashioned from vintage feedsack themed fabric with old buttons, beads and flower findings.

tiny yoyo rings

dangles

post earrings

just about ready for the shows

Aren't they fun and perfect for spring into summer? I just love them... hope you do too! Looking forward to the Spring Fling Craftacular and Confectionique Market April 24th... Hope to see you there.

XOXO Molly

Spring Fling Craftacular... One Week Away!

2010-04-16T11:18:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday! I'm counting down the days now until the SPRING FLING CRAFTACULAR coming to The High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI on April 24th from 10 am to 4 pm.

Sending these little lovelies off for the swag bag along with a special store offer. Be one of the first 25 to arrive and you will be one lucky swag bag holder.

vintage inspired yoyo posey pins

It's going to be an amazing show - lots of local talent! Hope to see you there...

XOXO Molly

Tax Day Sale!

2010-04-15T09:05:00.003-05:00

Because this anti-accounting artsy fartsy girl is SOOOO relieved to have her taxes done...

It's TAX DAY SALE time!

20% off site wide!

Simply note "tax day" in the notes to seller box at check out and I will promptly refund your discount. A great opportunity to buy yourself a gift or shop for Mother's Day.

I hope you have a great day!

XOXO Molly

Crafty Superstar

2010-04-06T14:23:00.005-05:00

After a gorgeous Easter weekend, we have a very rainy day here in Wisconsin. Perfect for a good read! I just finished Crafty Superstar - have you read it?

Here's the short and sweet on what author Grace Dobush writes:

"Crafty Superstar offers you a wealth of information and advice about selling your crafty goods part-time, whether it is online, through local start-up boutiques or at indie craft shows. Not only is author Grace Dobush a crafter, but she also maintains a full-time job while selling her handmade goods for extra cash on the side. She is joined by experts in the industry who all share their own advice and stories, helping you to determine how and where to sell your handmade wares."
Description taken from MyCraftivityStore.com

I learned about this book when it was discovered that our local Indie Craft Market known as the Craftacular is featured as one of the Major North American Indie Craft Markets. Awesome news for founder Naomi Richardson at Glitterworkshop as well as all who vend there - an honor.

I would recommend this read to anyone starting out in the Indie Craft world as well as the veterans who need a little boost. Inspiring, funny and chalk full of good business advice from many successful and well known Indie artists. Pick up your copy today!

XOXO Molly

Front Page News!

2010-04-05T13:44:00.003-05:00

Can't believe Whimsy House made Etsy's front page again - a true honor. Rings have been so popular lately... better stock the shop good and full.

XOXO Molly

Spring Fling Craftacular...

2010-03-29T11:29:00.009-05:00

Spring Fling Craftacular... SAVE THE DATE!

Madison's own indie craft show is back for a spring event! Join us on April 24th at the High Noon Saloon where over 20 local artists and crafters will be selling their creations.

You can shop for everything from jewelry, to housewares, to clothing while sipping a cocktail and supporting your local art community! More info to come...

XOXO Molly

Front Page!

2010-03-26T10:01:00.003-05:00

Whimsy House was lucky to be featured on the front page of Etsy this morning...

A treasury choosen by Etsy - what an honor! Nice way to start the day. Happy Friday!
XOXO Molly

Wonderous Wendy

2010-03-24T12:56:00.009-05:00

Last summer I fell in LOVE with Wendy's Eco ~ Hand Dyed ~ Southern Girl Etsy Shop, Creole Collection, and have been addicted ever since. Check out my interview with Wendy from last summer - creative inspiration indeed! Yesterday my latest purchases arrived and I had to share...

It's just darling in person! Love Wendy's sense of color and style and the extra special touches like the lace at top...

Lucky for me, Wendy has become one of my special Etsy friends - what a wonderful world of creative people out there! Check out the sweet eco hats she made for my girlies...

And the necklace for me... all from recycled clothes and trims! Amazing!

I have many more goodies from Wendy that I will share in with you in the future - betcha can't wait! Wendy has opened yet another Etsy shop for our collective enjoyment (yes, I'll share!) Creole Sha - be sure and check it out. And I hear she's doing her first show in a few weeks so I will post the details as soon as I know more.

XOXO Molly

Here she is!

2010-03-19T13:21:00.014-05:00

So happy to be introducing my latest show display piece - Lucy! She didn't come with that name but don't you think it fits? I adore her!

Of course the minute I found out that I will be at The Creative Connection Event's Handmade Market my mind started racing with display ideas. By trade I'm an interior designer so displaying small items like earrings and necklaces is challenging ~ entire room scapes come together more naturally. I knew I needed a statement display piece and Lucy will do the trick.

I found her via CraigsList, a resource I should use more often. She came from Haag's Antiques
in Columbus, Wisconsin. They are closing their shop so everything (yes, I said EVERYTHING!!) is 50% OFF through April 18. I also snatched up this group of goodness along with a gorgeous screen and old store rack for display.

I know I would have hauled home many more treasures had my littlest Love, Sophie, not been along to help. We stopped at McDonald's on the way home as a reward for her (relatively) good behavior. Phew - after all that excitement, I need a nap!

If you have some free time over the weekend I would suggest a trip to Columbus to find your treasure... enjoy the hunt!

XOXO Molly

The Bee Bowl by Elle

2010-03-18T16:10:00.008-05:00

Happy spring day to you! We live for these seasonal changes in Wisconsin ~ as soon as one season begins to wear heavy on us another one blooms and the renewal begins. How lucky are we?! Despite the forecast for snow on Saturday, we revel in 60 degrees and sunshine today. The blessing is not wasted on this Midwesterner! I want to share this fabulous pottery my kindergartner, Elle, brought home from school this week. The arts are strong at her school which is fortunate as Elle is quite the artist ~ coloring before and after school, cutting, gluing and taping anything she can get her hands on. We have many the over flowing Rubbermaid containers guarding her precious work as she simply cannot part with anything (shhh - don't tell her mommy does some weeding from time to time!) This special project was created with the help of a local pottery store owner who became the Artist in Residence for a month. Each and every child made a "Bee Bowl" with the extra special touch of melted glass at the center. She really outdid the unrecognizable bowl I made as a kindergartner many eons ago... Way to go, Elle!

Happy New Year... in March!

2010-03-10T11:37:00.011-06:00

Hello Whimsy House Friends!
So sorry to be MIA for such a long time. Somehow the holidays and New Year gobbled my time and attention. I wish you all a happy year ahead as spring begins to bloom, the birds begin to sing and our windows open to the world.

I have some really exciting news to share. I have been accepted as a vendor at The Creative Connection Event in their Handmade Market which will be debuting this September in Minneapolis. Here is what it's all about...

"Welcome to THE CREATIVE CONNECTION! A 3-day conference, crafting extravaganza and emporium for creative women and women entrepreneurs. Created by Nancy Soriano, former editor in chief of Country Living and Jo Packham, the founder and editor in chief of WHERE WOMEN CREATE , THE CREATIVE CONNECTION will bring together women who are passionate about being creative in their lives as artists, business owners, bloggers, and more. Come learn, network, market, and create!" (from The Creative Connection blog)

Take a minute to look at all the event has to offer - I promise you won't be disappointed! An incredible line up, awe inspiring. Hope to see you there!

XOXO Molly

Cyber Monday Sale!

2009-11-30T10:30:00.003-06:00

CYBER MONDAY SPECIAL!

BUY 1 GET 1 Half Price SALE - ONE DAY ONLY!

Details - Buy one item get the second item of equal or lesser value at half price.

The discount will be refunded via paypal after payment has been made.

HAPPY SHOPPING!!

Taking the show on the road...

2009-09-14T17:01:00.008-05:00

The Art Show season has begun!

This past weekend we were blessed with beautiful, sunny and dry weather for the Sun Prairie Art Fair. It was my first time at the show and it was a success. Happy I had the opportunity to participate! Here are a few shots of my display...

I shared the tent with Heidi from Storyline Design and The Fairy Garden along with Cyndi from Prettifications. Check out their lovely shops as they are lovely ladies!

Goodness from my tent mates!

Coming up next for Whimsy House...
I will be at W Cupcake, Winnebago Street, on Friday, October 2nd for Gallery Night in Madison. Over 50 retailers and galleries will celebrate local artists and their work in various locations. Allison and John invited some of their favorite talent in the handmade world to participate in a trunk show from 5 until 10pm that evening. Should be artsy and fabulous... cupcakes and wine for everyone! Hoping to see you there...

xOxO Molly

2009-09-09T18:07:00.006-05:00

Where did summer go?

So sorry to be MIA for so long... We moved in August and had a kindergartner and freshman start school this year so it's been a busy few months. I hope this finds everyone rested and relaxed after summer break. Hope it was a Hoot!

Be sure and check out Whimsy House as it begins to fill with Autumn goodness... my favorite season in every way! I will be at the Sun Prairie Art Festival this weekend and have a show schedule falling into place for the fall and holidays. I will be sure to post the dates and places. Also, watch for a give away soon... it's about time, don't you agree?!?

XoXo Molly

Giveaway Time!

2009-07-02T11:17:00.005-05:00

Lily Pad Vintage Button Ring Whimsy House

Jennie and Clara at Clover and Violet were sweet enough to post an interview with me on their blog. They are a mother daughter team, making fabulous soft flannel blankies, darling knitted hats and pretty quilted items. My Sophie has a blankie and adores it - it's extra large and keeps her covered at night plus it's softness can't be beat! Be sure and check out their blog and Etsy shop out. An added bonus, you can enter to win a Whimsy House ring... enter today!

Clover and Violet

xOxO Molly

Goodness from Clover and Violet

Meet Wendy at Creole Collection

2009-06-19T13:58:00.008-05:00

Creme Brulee Net Top by Creole Collection

I discovered Wendy's shop on the front page of Etsy just a few weeks ago. I had my eye out for clothes as my closet is beyond pathetic and I wanted to shop Etsy so when her fabulous tank top showed up on the front page I jumped right over to her shop and instantly FELL IN LOVE! Not only are her designs full of detail, they are relaxed and feminine, soft and sweet in style yet a little rustic and totally unique... everything I wanted and more. Her style is Creole inspired, creme brulee if you will, and every piece is one of a kind as she upcycles and reinvents thrift store finds. She has a great eye and I quickly found out her heart is genuine and super fabulous too! I was nervous about trying things on Etsy clothes wise as far as fit. Wendy is MORE than accommodating as far as trying and returning if need be and she offered me much needed style advice to boot. She started on Etsy with her shop Margaux Designs which is fabulous and, lucky for us, she added many more shops to her repertoire... ahhh, so much to choose from! Check it out... you won't be disappointed. There's truly something for everyone and if you have questions convo Wendy - she's happy to help.

1) What is your craft and what led you to take it up?

My craft - hum...taking something old and giving new life to it I guess. I love thrifting and I always find great items that I can't seem to pass up - so I use all reclaimed or vintage items in my designs. Sometimes I will totally remake the piece, but most of the time I hand dye it and add special details. Well that is in my CreoleCollection.etsy.com shop. My MargauxDesigns.etsy.com shop I also use reclaimed fabric, clothing etc. but these items have a lot more detail. I started the CreoleCollection to complement Margaux but it seems the Creole shop has taken over most of my time.

I always loved crafts from an early age - my mom was an artist and always had her hand in different mediums. So I guess you could say I knew nothing else.

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

What part I enjoy most - the designing and shopping of course. I love to dream it up and then make it happen. I don't like making the same item twice. That is one of the reasons I use reclaimed items.

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

The hardest part is focusing...as a creative person this seems to be my down fall. I like to jump from project to project.

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...

My dad made me a rocking horse when I was about 15 and also my handmade cards from my children would have to top the list also.

...item in your shop...

It would have to be this vintage slip dress.

...item on your favorites list...

Black Silk Top by Mollusa

This black top by mollusa - to die for!

...Etsy purchase...

Black Knock-off Button Mat Cuff by P8 Button Art and Accessories

...item you've sold...

Vintage Creme Brulee Dress

My ultimate favorite - very hard to sell it - the good thing was it was too big for me :)

...Etsy shop...

Vella... I love her bags and her photos.

...blog or website...

WOW - these are so hard to answer - I have a lot of favs...

danny mansmith
lori marsha
metal and thread

...source of inspiration...

The Internet...

etsy - flickr - stylehive - facebook - twitter - smashing darling

...piece of advice...

Do it for love not money and then you will make money. Treat your customers how you would want to be treated. It is really rather simple. Trial and error. Don't give it up. Try something new. Don't ever be afraid to ask someone. Learn from others. Make your own way. Have your own style. Do something different. Use flickr, twitter, facebook, stylehive and I'm sure there or others. Most of all make time for your family and let the rest fall in place.

...rule to break...

i break all the rules

Creme Brulee and Lace Mini Dress by Creole Collection

P.S. In addition to
Creole Collection and
Margaux Designs mentioned above, I highly recommend a visit to Wendy's sister stores... She is one heck of a busy lady!

sweet summer tank from o baby love

lace top from modern austin

scarlet summer top from modern scarlet

the romantic at heart top from modern noir

ponchatoula memories - 3 from a vintage butterfly

Whimsy House Yart Sale

2009-06-10T07:28:00.005-05:00

Yard + Art = YART

The 2nd Annual Etsy-Wide Yart Sale is on NOW! Woo Hoo! Running June 10th to the 14th, now is the time to snatch up some awesome deals on Etsy... be sure to start with Whimsy House :) 30 items marked down and put into our Yart Sale Section for your shopping pleasure.

An added discount bonus for all my dedicated blog followers...
Simply mention "WH Goodness" in the "notes to seller" box at check out and receive FREE SHIPPING too!! That's right, unlimited free shipping on ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING at Whimsy House so shop to your hearts content and save, save, save! I will refund your shipping costs through PayPal or you are welcome to wait for a revised invoice.

Watch for new sale items daily! I love to get a good deal... love to share them too!

Cheers! xOxOxO Molly

Buttons, Buttons...

2009-05-18T13:53:00.010-05:00

...the stash...

Finally! Spring has arrived in Wisconsin.

Yes, It's a long time coming in our neck of the woods but all the snow is gone and we hardly ever have frost warnings any longer at night. (well, we did last night but that was a fluke - ha!)

The arrival of spring can only mean one fabulous, fantastic, stupendous, butterflies-in-the-tummy thing... FLEA MARKETS! Woo Hoo! One of my favorites close to home is located in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. I get to do some serious button shopping there with "the button lady under the bleachers." She's been collecting her whole life and is now set to sell. I have a really great husband who "let's me" shop by taking the three kiddos and buying them popcorn and snowcones to keep them busy while I hunt and gather and spend too much on my obsession. It was opening weekend and the weather was beautiful to top things off. Perfection! I had a very blessed Sunday - how lucky I am.

Now, I cannot wait to start crafting... Keep your eyes out for new creations coming your way. And if you're ever in Southern Wisconsin on flea market Sunday, let me know. We can wrestle over buttons and share a brat and cheese curds (unfortunately I don't think they serve beer there!) Cheers!

xOxOxO Molly

...more of the stash...

Mother's Day Sale

2009-04-28T08:18:00.003-05:00

"The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new."

~Rajneesh

In honor of Mother's Day...
FREE SHIPPING on all Jewelry Items
if you mention MOM in the notes to seller box at check out - your shipping will be promptly refunded through Paypal.

One week only - April 26th through May 2nd. Enjoy!

Happy Mother's Day to all you Mamas out there - Cheers!

xOxOxO Molly

Meet Ellen at One Ripe Peach

2009-04-18T16:36:00.004-05:00

Pretty in Pink Wedding Photo Album by One Ripe Peach

I discovered artist Ellen's shop, One Ripe Peach, at the very start of my love affair with Etsy. Her items are incredible! Unique with vintage flair, feminine and fanciful... pure girly goodness. I just love the way she uses vintage fabrics, trims and images to make her fabulous treasures. Each item at One Ripe Peach is as irresistible as the next and Ellen always has something new to offer. She made custom baby shower invites for me - the new mommy was thrilled as was I. I can't get enough of Ellen's talent...

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

Mixed Media artist. I love creating with vintage fabrics, papers and trims....recreating from vintage pieces. I guess I am just really drawn to creating...I love the process of creating...taking something old and vintage and giving it a totally new and fresh look...yet keeping with the vintage flair.

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Finding bits and baubles....searching for vintage treasures is probably my favorite part. I love finding something that someone else has long forgotten...and making it my own with other elements.

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

Putting your artwork and creations out there for people to see and judge. I am my toughest critic when it comes to what I create.

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...

A Christmas tree skirt that I made this past year from pieces of my Grandmother's tattered tree skirt.

...item in your shop...

A little girl wall hanging sign that I am posting today....love the sweet frame-like scroll work.

...item in your favorites list...

That would probably have to be the Butter Cream Pedestal by Greenware Design.

...Etsy purchase...

ABSOLUTELY HANDS DOWN....RachelRene Lip Butters....they are absolutely the best!

...item you’ve sold...

I love creating custom orders...so any custom orders are always fun and allow me to create possibly something I hadn't created in awhile.

...Etsy shop...

DollFaceDesign...I adore all of her digital creations. The frame work on her creations is absolutely divine!

...blog or website...

OneRipePeach.blogspot.com

(WH note: check it out - it'll be one of your favorites too!!)

...source of inspiration...

My main source is what mood I am in at the time. I tend to design with mostly pinks,aqua's and neutral tones though...and tend to lean more towards girly designs with ruffles and such.

...piece of advice...

Love what you do and what you create. You gotta love what you are doing...life is too short to do something you don't like or can't be proud of.

...rule to break...

It doesn't have to be perfect. Perfection is in the eye of the beholder. Another one is...when creating...it's definitely appropriate to be messy. Show me an artist who has a clutter free studio!

And the Winner is...

2009-04-16T15:03:00.009-05:00

Jennie from Clover and Violet! Congratulations!

Jennie chose the following brooches with her gift certificate -

"... 'Hope - Felt and Fabric Flower Brooch' because

it has such bright colors and the cutest yo-yo in the center"

and

"...'Shabby Chic Square - Felt, Fabric and Vintage Button Brooch' because pink and green are two of my favorite colors and the uniqueness of a square brooch"

Be sure and visit Jennie's new shop that she has with her Mom - it's fabulous! Great baby quilts, bedding and accessories and a super

GRAND OPENING GIVE AWAY on their website -

Clover and Violet.

Many thanks to all who entered the Give Away and for all your support, friendship and business. It's been a wonderful year for me and Whimsy House... on to the next!

Stay tuned for a monthly give away, artist interviews and much more.

Cheers!
xOxOxO Molly

Let's get this party started...

2009-04-09T16:00:00.012-05:00

With our 1 Year Etsy-Versary celebration sale in full swing, it's time to add a GIVE AWAY to the party games!

So, here's the scoop -
As a kid, was there anything better than going to the treasure box to choose your own prize?!? I think not! In the spirit of happy kiddo parties, this give away is your pick! The winner will

receive a $25 gift certificate to spend as they choose on ANYTHING at Whimsy House so get your entry in today...

Just how do you enter? Receive one entry for participating in each of the following fun missions...

1) Check out Whimsy House and leave a comment here about your favorite handmade item. Tell us the name and why it's your favorite.

2) Post a link on your blog or website announcing this Give Away and Etsy-Versery Sale. Be sure to leave a link to the site in your comment below. Everyone loves to discover fabulous new blogs and websites like yours :)

3) Become an Official WH Blog Follower (those already "following" who participate in one of the additional missions will auntomatically be entered) Would love to have you visit our blog from time to time....

4) Become a Fan on our Whimsy House Facebook page. We love each and every one of our fans. XOXO

5) Tweet about this Give Away and Sale and follow us on Twitter. Be sure and leave a link in our comments here to the tweet as they easily get lost in the song. Thanks, Tweetheart!

So there you go - 5 ways to enter and win a little shopping spree at Whimsy House.

Don't forget about our ETSY-VERSARY sale as well! A great time to buy Mother's Day gifts and a little somethin' somethin' for your sweet self.

Thanks for joining in the celebration - you've made my life a sunnier place. Cheers!

xOxOxO Molly

Entries will be accepted through April 15, 2009 at midnight CDT and the winner will be announced on April 16th.

Heartfelt Thanks...

2009-04-08T08:14:00.021-05:00

CELEBRATE!
Happy 1 YEAR ETSY-VERSARY, Whimsy House!!
Many thanks to all my fabulous customers - you have made my life a happier place.

Enjoy BUY ONE, GET ONE 1/2 OFF from April 8 to April 15, 2008... simply type "I love Etsy" in the notes to seller box at check out & your discount off the lower priced item will be refunded through PayPal. A great opportunity to buy your Mother's Day gifts and possibly a goodie or two for you :)

Cheers!
xOxOxO Molly

Meet Amy at The Peach Tree

2009-04-06T08:24:00.009-05:00

Buell - Necklace by The Peach Tree

I met Amy early on in my Etsy days. She did an interview with me for her blog, The Peach Tree Brooklyn, last summer which is the biggest reason I was brave enough to jump into the blog world myself. Amy is very supportive and encouraging - Many thanks, darlin'! Check it out as she has a quick wit and super eye for Etsy treasure.

Amy's Etsy shop, The Peach Tree, is chock full of high quality, inspired design... you won't be able to resist her fabulous style. Enjoy the interview and stop by to say "Hi" to Amy soon.

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

I'm a jewelry designer and lover of stones :) I think the latter being why I took up creating pieces in the first place. I had built up such a lavish collection of rocks and minerals that I just stopped and looked around me one day, putting together how I could make this a feasible hobby!

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

That's so hard to say. I truly love it all. From the minute new strands arrive in the mail, to getting them into inventory, then laying them out and seeing who wants to be friends with who (little crazy, but you get where I'm going) and then someone picking out that jewel to call their own. It's all such a fulfilling cycle!

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

Seeing the pieces that sit in the shop the longest, I'd say. I have a hard time not getting a little emotionally attached!

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...

An afghan from my childhood. It's a trio of the bold orange, brown and mustard yellow from the 70s. Love it

...item in your shop...

The Marrakech Necklace ...it's downright sexy!

...item in your favorites list...

Eggplant Purple Ribbon Party DRESS at AnthologiE

Swoon!

...Etsy purchase...

SUCH an unfair question.... I've picked three but there's SO many :)

Lace Bag by Tortilla Girl

Custom Train Case from GetReadySetGo

My new Summer Dress by Kaylim

...Etsy shop...

Another mean questions. Let's see. It would have to be GetReadySetGO. And not just because I love her to death, but because of her brilliance in design and renaissance spirit.

...item you’ve sold...

Ah, my Stardust Necklace :)

...blog or website...

Red Otter is one of the first blogs I really got into following

...source of inspiration...

Nature. Or what little bit of nature I have right in front of me here in Brooklyn! Which is probably why the are around my desk is similar to a greenhouse :)

Fir - Sunset - Perennial - Terra

...piece of advice...

I recently did an interview with 3FUN and she sited the best quote from Kurt Vonnegut:

“I want to stand as close to the edge as I can without going over. Out on the edge you see all the kinds of things you can't see from the center.”

...rule to break...

You know, I can't even think of one which makes me think I really must not play by any!

Rosemary Bracelet

2009-03-24T12:42:00.001-05:00

At the Sink by Tea and Ink Studio

Spring Break at our house looks like this... Thank Goodness it's still so innocent!

My preschooler plays so nicely with her 21 month old sister.

I'm dreading the year they want to go to Mexico or somewhere crazy for break....

For now I'll savor the innocence.

xOxOxO Molly

2009-03-21T19:28:00.004-05:00

Saturday Night Special!

Until midnight tonight...

Buy one, get one 50% Off!
Includes WHOLE shop!

Simply Mention "SNS" in the
notes to seller box and I will
happily refund you 50% off
your lower priced item.

Happy Spring!!

xOxOxO Molly

Meet Jenny at Bubbletime

2009-03-18T14:36:00.015-05:00

Mushroom by Bubbletime

Jenny was one of my first buyers at Fabric House, the sister store to Whimsy House. She purchased some project packs of decorator fabric to make her lovely creatures from and it's still a thrill to recognize how my fabrics have been transformed! Her shop is filled with whimsical art that will bring a smile to your face and warm your heart. She is truly talented and sweet as can be. Cheers to Jenny!

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

Oh boy, well, ever since I can remember I've drawn, painted, sculpted and embroidered. Some I'm better at than others. My mom taught me to sew because I found it so interesting to "paint" with thread. I don't know what led me to draw just that as a toddler a pen & paper were my favorite toys.

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Ah, my favorite part is when I've finished the prototype of an idea and it turned out just as I'd wanted it!

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

That would be coming up with a pattern for a brand new shape for a creature, but when it finally comes together it's that much more rewarding.

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...

A little mushroom my mom made out of clay one day just playing around.

...item in your shop...

The koi, big or little, they are my favorites- but don't tell any of the others.

...item in your favorites list...

Ooh, this snail shell necklace from maggiejs!

Copper Snail Shell by MaggieJs

...Etsy purchase...

This vintage creamer from vintageview. I collect vintage soap dishes and creamers.

Antique Victorian WEDGWOOD Transferware Pitcher Creamer by Vintage View

...Etsy shop...

Well I didn't find Megan Lightell until recently but would LOVE to have some of this artist's work!!

Paintings by Megan Lightell

...blog or website...

I try not to spend too much time on the computer but it would have to be Flickr. It's so fun!

...source of inspiration...

My house, pets, garden & my old children's books

...item you’ve sold...

Robin Red Vest Esquire - I love it when animals wear waist coats & stuff.

...piece of advice...

To learn about your camera and how to take good/interesting photos. There's still so much I don't know but the little I have learned has helped tremendously.

...rule to break...

Changing my avatar. I must do it often or I'll go bonkers!

Embroidered Blue Flower Brooch by Bubbletime

On the mend...

2009-03-13T11:03:00.004-05:00

Chicken Noodle Soup Earrings by Betsy Etsy

Our house was hit with the flu... two weeks and we are almost recovered! Phew!

These little earrings are sure to inspire good health.

Well wishes to you and yours...

I hear spring is ALMOST here. Yeah!

Color - Eye - See

2009-03-08T15:50:00.006-05:00

Many thanks to Kendall at
Color-Eye-See
for including my bracelet on her
Tuesdays Treasures Treasury.

An honor to be mentioned with
an awesome group of artists.

You'll want to check her blog out
right away. Kendall has done a
great job... and my bracelet sold
right away!!

xOxOxO Molly

I won!

2009-03-04T15:07:00.004-06:00

"Lulu Ring" by Bikimiki

So, how about that?!? I won! I have to officially stop saying "I never win anything" and simply celebrate winning an awesome Lulu Ring by Bikimiki through her blog giveaway drawing. Check out her fun, felt filled Etsy shop and blog. Fresh, fun and fabulous!

Many Thanks, Ana! I'm tickled :)

xOxOxO Molly

Meet Katie at 55MapleDesigns and KatiesKreations

2009-02-28T10:29:00.010-06:00

"Pomegranate - Pottery Shard Necklace" by 55 Maple Designs

Katie, from 55MapleDesigns and KatiesKreations, and I met last December when I discovered her shops, inquired about some custom orders and a fabulous trade ensued. We became fast friends and now "talk" almost daily. She is a BUSY and talented mom of four beautiful girls. Truly an inspiration! The items I traded with Katie were some of my favorite gifts this year. Everyone was delighted with their treasures. Check out her blog for even more on Katie - KatiesKreations2.

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

I consider myself kind of a jack-of-many-trades. I mostly make jewelry, but use many different mediums (i.e. paper, beads, wood). My Mom and I started making jewelry together. Originally, when I started out it was a mother-daughter team, that was fun. She no longer makes new jewels, but is a true supporter of my "little" business!

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Thinking and dreaming up new ideas.

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

Following through on those new ideas and actually finishing a project. I'm infamous for getting all of my supplies for a new craft and then letting the supplies sit around for months collecting dust. Oh if there were only more time in the day.

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...

Artwork by Salt Marsh Pottery.
Hands and Feet imprints from each of my four little sweeties when they were under 2 months old. (These pieces are much like Erin's pieces - Elm Studio Online)

...item in your shop...

"Purple Powerade Fringe" at Katies Kreations

...item in your favorites list...

"This Is A Print Of A Raven-Haired Beauty Dreaming Big" by The Dreamy Giraffe

...Etsy purchase...

Custom Order from Sarahs Sky

This was a broken plate from my grandmother's china set (that is now mine) that Sarah made into many necklaces for me, my mom, cousins, sister, sister in law and my four little sweeties.

...Etsy shop...

The B-Line

Lovelies by The B-line

...blog or website...

http://fabulousfunfinds.blogspot.com/

...source of inspiration...

Anything I can get a hold of at craft stores...lately, especially am inspired by buttons and ribbon.

...item you've sold...

"Intertwined - Silver and Pearls Crocheted Bracelet" at 55 Maple Designs

...piece of advice...

Always keep yourself fresh by trying new things/crafts.

...rule to break...

No eating after 8pm.

"Pumpkin Pie - Boutique Style Snap Clip Set" at Katie's Kreations.

2009-02-24T15:56:00.003-06:00

Soleils by Amy at The Peach Tree

Amy lives up to her name... She is truly a peach! I met her early on in my life on Etsy and we have been friends ever since. She has a beautiful shop featuring timeless jewelry and can often be spotted on the front page at Etsy. I'm her watch dog of sorts... her fabulous jewels appear on the front page and I quickly let her know :) Currently residing in Brooklyn, Amy is originally from Wisconsin which gives us an extra special bond. I will interview her soon so be on the look out!

Amy is sponsoring a Giveaway at Sandier Pastures where you can enter to win these lovely earrings - aren't they gorgeous?!? Check it out! You can also visit Amy at her Etsy shop The Peach Tree and her blog The Peach Tree Brooklyn.

2009-02-23T13:28:00.002-06:00

Spring Basket - Leather and Fabric Collage Bracelet

As a shabby chic yet rustic loving girl at heart, my latest and current favorite new creations are my leather collage bracelet cuffs. Fashioned from leather and a fun, fresh assortment of vintage treasures, each one is a joy to create and inspires another! I posted this one last night. It has a very cool basket weave leather for the base, a unique pink mother of pearl closure button and a variety of spring goodies as the centerpiece. Enjoy!

Meet Laurie at Gifts and Talents

2009-02-18T17:48:00.007-06:00

I met Laurie through Etsy when I was looking for a fun baby shower favor to include in a goodie bag with a vintage, shabby chic look. She instantly ran with my ideas, vague as they were, and came up with darling clips - personalized and everything! She also did custom clipboards for my daughters teachers at Christmas. She's so great to work with... check her out!

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

ART,ART,ART... I love doing any kind of art, from drawing, painting, jewelry and my most favorite love is decoupage. I am always thinking of ways to take normal every day things and make them into art.

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Custom Orders and Decoupage. I Love it when customers describe in a convo what they have in mind and making it a reality for them.

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

Packing after Friday, Saturday and Sunday Sales!

4) A top ten list of your favorites

...handmade possession...

A stained glass window that has a crack in one of the pieces of glass, strange, huh?

...item in your shop...

It's not currently in my shop, but in my sold Items, the Owl Clothespin Clips.

...item in your favorites list...

I have so many favorites, it is hard to pin point just one. There are oh so many Talented Artists here on Etsy!

"Retro Bird Feed" by BrodyandMa

...Etsy purchase...

Do trades Count? I love the journal (that I gave to my Mom) that I traded with yours truly - WhimsyHouse.

...Etsy shop...

MixedMediaBySRC (she's my Mom)!

"Gorgeous Teal Pendant" by MixedMediabySRC

...blog or website...

I have other sites, but I really focus all of my energy on my Etsy shop, http://GiftsAndTalents.etsy.com.

...source of inspiration...

Everyday things I see, then my imagination takes over. Like most artist, I can already see the finished product before I start.

...item you've sold...

Decoupaged Recipe Boxes, Clothespin Clips and Switch Plate Covers

...piece of advice...

I was once told by a customer to never under-value my art, and that I wasn't charging enough for shipping. She was right about both!

...rule to break...

I don't do my decoupage in the traditional way.

And the WINNER is...

2009-02-16T17:23:00.003-06:00

... DivaQueenie from Duluth, Minnesota!

She chose a red rose brooch for her new black coat.

A good choice since she'll be wearing it for a few more months...

Minnesota likes to hold on to winter!
Enjoy, Shellie!

Thank you to all who entered. Be on the lookout for future giveaways and promotions. Would love to have you "follow" the blog... you'll be the first to know when another goodie is up for grabs!

I love to give gifts!

xOxOxO Molly

2009-02-13T08:10:00.005-06:00

A tisket,
A tasket,
A Valentine's Day Basket!

Happy Love Day to you!

xOxOxO Molly

Fabulous Sewing Basket
from
The Earth Smiles

A Smile Everytime

2009-02-12T17:06:00.006-06:00

"Sisters" Little Mini Quilt by Little Quilts

I know, with 100% certainty, that I will feel happy when I check in at Shalece's Etsy site Little Quilts. This woman is amazing! I want EVERY SINGLE ONE of her pieces, a dilemma that has left me without a single one since I simply can't choose. I'm going to have to just point with my eyes close someday and order one up! She is incredibly funny as well. You'll get a chuckle from this description of the above "Sisters" quilt - I even had to read it to my husband since I laughed out loud when I read it. Enjoy!

"I was the youngest of six kids and I always wished I had a little sister to love and dress up and push around in a stroller. My older sister assured me that having a little sister was anything but fun, she said “it’s like having a dog with no legs permanently tied to your waist and you have to drag it everywhere you go”. All that did was make me really want a dog! And if I could get one with no legs, all the better, it would be easier to dress and would never run away."

I hope you're smiling too!
xOxOx Molly

P.S. Don't forget to enter to win the Give Away! You can still post a comment for a couple more days!

Valentine's Day Give Away and Discount Special!

2009-02-11T08:03:00.006-06:00

"Garden of Love" felt and vintage fabric button brooch

Oh, the love I have for my Etsy friends!
To show my adoration, two Valentine's Day specials for you...

First, a GIVE AWAY! Simply take a look at my Etsy shop WhimsyHouse and comment here on your favorite handmade item. Your name will be entered into a drawing to win a felted wool rose brooch or a daisy ring (your choice!)

Second, Receive 25% OFF your order with code "V-Day Blogpost" in the notes to seller box at check out. You may wait for a revised invoice or I will happily refund your discount through PayPal. Love you!

Drawing entries will be accepted until midnight Sunday, February 15th and the winner will be announced and contacted on Monday the 16th. The discount code is valid through Sunday, February 15th as well.

Happy Valentine's Day! Enjoy the ones you love!

xOxOxO Molly

Meet Casey at Across the Pond

2009-02-07T12:59:00.004-06:00

Casey and I met the first week I set up shop on Etsy - we did a fabulous trade... a necklace for a brooch. She's a sweetheart indeed! Enjoy meeting her and be sure to check out her Etsy shop.

1) What is your craft and what led to you to take it up?

I dabble in a lot of crafts, but I have stuck with mostly papercrafts and jewelry. I love old things and I enjoy thinking of the history behind them, so I've made my focus creating with vintage or antique items, like buttons, clock parts, paper, etc. I also think it's important to record the history we're making in the here-and-now, which leads to a love of writing and scrapbooking, which in turn leads to my papercrafting hobby.

2) What part of your work do you enjoy the most?

Shopping for supplies! I'm happiest when I'm surrounded with an entire store full of paper, ribbon, beads, fabric, and all the other little bits and bobs.

3) What part of your work is the hardest?

Adding that finishing touch. You know when you've made something according to your plan, but when you finish you realize the item is not "finished"? I get that a lot. Then the item I made sits in waiting for a long time while I think about it, and sometimes it never gets done.

4) A top ten list of your favorites...

...handmade possession...
The little sweater and hat my mother made for my son. They are so beautiful and such a wonderful family heirloom.

...item in your shop...
This just came together beautifully, including the photos!

"Just a Note" Locket

...item in your favorites list...
This print from LondonParticulars

I'm married to a Londoner and I love the city...we're even planning a move there in 2010! This print is so unusual and magical.

...etsy purchase...
I had these silhouettes of my children made by jennyleefowler for my mom for Christmas. They came out perfect and it was the favorite gift I gave this year.

...item you've sold...

I just sold this one about a week ago. I was actually logging on to take it off my list because I had decided to keep it when I saw that it had sold, lol. I miss it. :-)

...esty shop...
Just one? I always have such a hard time answering this because there are so many awesome shops on Etsy! I'll go with Deciduous Soul. This was one of the first shops I hearted and is still a favorite. I want everything she makes!

"love letter" by Deciduous Soul

...blog or website...
Etsy, of course!

...source of inspiration...
My materials are what really gets me going. I love leafing through my papers or digging through my buttons and dreaming of all the things I can make! I also get a lot of inspiration from other artists.

...rule to break...
I'm a rule follower, lol.

...piece of advice...
Everyone, even the most successful, were once where you are today. Don't give up.

2009-02-05T08:38:00.005-06:00

I have to share this wonderful artist with you! Yesterday she purchased these blocks from me for her "new urban/retro office" - very cool. Her Etsy profile listed her as a children's photographer and had her website - Work Of Heart Photography. I was intrigued and had to check it out, thinking maybe she was using these fun blocks in her photos. WOW! Her photography is FABULOUS! 100% Original and Inspirational! What a unique and personal style. I am ready to jump on a plane and have her photograph my girls... Her art is brave - enjoy the blocks, Skye!

Introducing Skye Hardwick-Edmonds.

May she inspire you too!

http://www.workofheartphoto.com/

2009-01-29T15:09:00.004-06:00

Julie's "Big Bow Knited Headband" and darling daughter

http://knitsational.etsy.com

"I am a terribly independent and creative woman. I treasure my time alone and time spent dreaming and creating... I struggle to "surrender" to these little people every day." Julie, Knitsational Artist and Owner

Julie's honesty in her response to my "Inspirations and Beginnings" post is exactly the way more people, namely women, need to start in their journey to a happier heart. If we embrace what makes us ourselves we can move forward in fulfilling our own needs - in the case creativity is the craving, the need. It took me awhile to figure out that I need a creative outlet like I need food, drink and sleep. Otherwise my head gets cloudy, all full of half baked thoughts and crazy pent up emotion. Creating lets it out... the dancing daydreams that don't let me sleep at night. The "surrender" is easier if we take care of our own needs as well. I'm only starting to practice this. I know I can do better. Baby steps, baby steps, baby steps.

Dear Julie -

Your independence and creativity are anything but "terrible"! Teach your girls it's OK to be that way - as your mother did for you. Let them learn now that Independence, creativity and the ability to dream are all qualities that are sought after and hard for many people to learn. They're lucky to have you as a mom and role model. Kiss them, hug them and buy them crayons - the washable kind of course!
Cheers to you and your lovely family - thank you for relating to me. It feels good to know we're on the same "boat."

xOxO Molly

Favorites from other Etsy Mamas

2009-01-24T18:00:00.007-06:00

Watch for more details on these lovely Etsy ladies soon. They are each an inspiration! I plan to do a feature on each of them in the coming weeks. Be sure to check out their Etsy shops... you won't be disappointed!

Laurie at GiftsandTalents.etsy.com
Erin at ElmStudiosOnline.etsy.com
Amy at BeanPickleSprout.etsy.com
Casey at AcrossThePond.etsy.com
Katie at KatiesKreations.etsy.com

Inspirations and Beginnings

2009-01-22T12:17:00.016-06:00

"There is no place else that I'd rather be but I can't just be right here.
An enigma wrapped in a mystery or a fool consumed by fear."
- For You by BNL sung by Ed Robertson (who makes me smile!)

I love this song - the melody, the words. I think this quote sums up where I was in my life when I started my Etsy shop last spring. Let me give you a little back ground...

My husband and I purchased a fabulous piece of property in October 2006 - two acres close to the city yet just far enough away to feel like country. The most fabulous part, and likely the biggest sway in our decision to buy, is the 150 year old stone house and beautiful old white barn that live on the property. Oh, the dreams! Being an interior designer by trade and with a handy husband enamoured with quality and detail it felt like this project was meant to be. We put our existing house on the market, survived what felt like hundreds of showings and finally sold 8 months later. A blessing - we made it out of the faltering market just before things became really shaky. So we moved our family of four into a two bedroom town house with our many belongings (Oh, the stuff!). Said family included, at that point, our 3 year old Elle and preemie Sophie. It was a chore of mammoth proportion although I have no doubt that every move, of every size, feels the same.

So we settled in and began our journey of life in much closer quarters. On top of having two small children, my husband and I both ran our businesses from home. It quickly became apparent that ALL these "tasks" were not going to bloom in the new digs. (Is it possible for a town house to shrink?!) The office of an interior designer has loads of stuff, from paint swatches to fabric samples, catalogs for furniture, art and accessories, files on this client and that client and piles of ideas for someday. I was only able to unpack a teensy bit before my new title "stay-at-home mommy" emerged and my brief life as a career woman was put on hold. Preemies are a lot of work... 3 year olds are even more! My contact with the people outside the house, namely my clients and reps, slowly faded and my familiarity with Dora, Ruby and Max, Monkey George and the Wiggles skyrocketed. I adore my babies - truly, every little part of them, every daily discovery, every inch of daily change. I also, with a tinge of guilt, love design and decorating, contact with people, the feeling of concrete accomplishment.

Do you see where I'm going here? Back to the song lyrics... "there is nowhere else I would rather be but I can't just stay right here..." Etsy answered my prayers - solved my dilemmas! And I'm quite certain I'm not the only mommy counting Etsy in her daily blessings. I've since thought I should have named my store "The Sanity Shop." So, I continue to unwrap the enigma (mommy hood without losing mommy!) while perpetually tackling the mysteries of the computer world and wading through my fears (not sure I can shake the "fool" part though!).

Since Spring 2007 I've met so many awesome Etsy shop owners and truly wonderful customers. I hit 400 sale this week, am 3 shy of 800 "hearts" and have just over 500 100% ratings. When I "opened my shop doors" with a dozen felt brooches I promised myself I'd be happy with just 1 sale, just 1 thrilled customer. I still do the happy dance EVERY SINGLE time a sale rolls in, a convo comes through, a rating is logged. I love it - Etsy validates the part of me that I felt I was losing... make that the people I meet THROUGH Etsy - they are my angels! Thank you!!!

If you're a stay at home mommy hoping to jump into Etsy, I would love to chat! Drop me a line, post a comment - I'd love to help in any way I can. Cheers!

x0x0 - Molly

A blog?!? Really?!?

2009-01-17T19:19:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year! One year ago I would never have imagined myself here. Christmas 2007 my bestfriend gave me a beautiful copper bracelet. I thought she had picked it up during her travels but quickly learned she purchase it on Etsy. Etsy? I hadn't heard of it. I dove right in. I was instantly addicted... seriously addicted. So, here I am. Just one year later. Starting a blog, fully engrossed in a venture that is an everyday blessing in my life. That Christmas gift was more than she or I imagined it could be. My life has changed - lots - over the last year and I'm here to share what I can with you... Blessings to all and LOTS more soon!!