tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9233934090827150032011-11-27T15:43:19.974-08:00musings on paper arts, creative pursuits & life ~ by Paula Bauer ~Paula B.noreply@blogger.comBlogger771100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-29428861002607967102010-08-29T17:56:00.000-07:002010-08-29T18:32:09.634-07:00

The title has a double meaning. The monochromatic ivory tones combined with the double black-core mat and the black beads is pretty dramatic. But it also posed a hefty design challenge for me and resulted in more than a few heavy sighs!I discovered my long hiatus from paper filigree had substantially dulled my design skills, and having to rely solely upon textures, weight and placement and not

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-86772080070981801002009-11-24T22:04:00.000-08:002009-11-24T22:05:53.800-08:00

 We baked 8 pies on Saturday for a fund-raising dinner.The girls and I baked another 14 today - 10 that were auctioned off in pairs at the previously mentioned dinner. Here are the last 4 that need to be delivered.I love making pies.Well....I used to, anyway.When.

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-819369212447180762009-11-16T11:17:00.000-08:002009-11-16T11:17:52.130-08:00

Think Idaho might have a wolf problem?I don't have any credit info to give - this photo was recently sent to me and I am trying to track down info.I was told it was bagged near Clarkia, Idaho and the hunter is 6'5"That is a huge predator....how'd you like this monster roaming nearby where your young children....or not so young...are playing near the edges of your property? 

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-56250878497923187652009-09-05T13:28:00.000-07:002009-10-01T00:36:42.294-07:00

A friend recently shared this short film and I had to pass it on.Poignant.Hope-filled.Life-affirming.Beautifully shot and acted.Readers may recall when the inspirational life of Nick Vujicic was blogged about here at 'Twirl'. He is featured in this film of compassion and hope. I hope you will click to link watch it and leave a comment.The Butterfly Circus, directed by Joshua WeigelThis film

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-77198873740277067352009-09-02T07:43:00.001-07:002009-09-02T08:11:16.360-07:00

I have referenced this wonderful booklet numerous times in the past, written by Malinda Florian Papp from Florian Papp Antiques in New York City. This brochure was prepared for an art exhibit of historic paper filigree pieces that they arranged in the 80's I believe. The brochure contains beautiful, full-colored photos of antique paper filigree pieces and historical information on the art of

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-10311122345921510632009-07-20T07:27:00.000-07:002009-07-20T08:20:10.140-07:00

Remember Sally and her incredibly intricate antique paper filigree shadowbox?She just emailed me.The auction is up and running, with additional pictures to view...and a very approachable starting bid for such a wonderful piece of history from the 1700's!http://tiny.cc/antiquequillingLet's help Sally out a little! Please share the link with anyone interested in antiques, historical artwork, paper

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-16802242729117684972009-05-25T07:34:00.000-07:002009-05-25T13:33:53.948-07:00

Freedom isn't free...liberty is purchased and defended with a heavy price.By the rude bridge that arched the flood,Their flag to April's breeze unfurled;Here once the embattled farmers stood,And fired the shot heard 'round the world.Ralph Waldo Emerson "Concord Hymn" (1837)This is not about political views.This day is about remembering.From the blood of the first farmer-patriot who died by the

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-21034624867011420302009-05-17T21:16:00.000-07:002009-05-20T19:42:39.635-07:00

So...show of hands.....how many other paper filigree aficionados have ever said to themselves, "Some day, I want to own a piece of antique quilling."Have you ever daydreamed about it?C'mon now, be honest...you're among friends here!I have often thrilled at the thought of owning a piece of artistic filigree work from the 1800's, when William Bemrose's booklet "Mosaicon" was printed and paper

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-83759361444952206912009-04-06T18:40:00.001-07:002009-04-06T23:38:44.389-07:00

Exerpt from an email forwarded by my brother, aptly nicknamed 'Snicker' to my lil' sis, who passed it on to me.For those who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies. 1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-7589169558443264602009-04-04T19:19:00.000-07:002009-04-04T20:31:40.555-07:00

Maybe someday I will get back into creative mode.For now, I am reflective. Uncertainty and change often leads one to re-examine life priorities.Many have heard this famous quote:I felt sorry for myself because I had no shoes — until I met a man who had no feet.~ Jewish ProverbMy daughter recently found a young man on you-tube who takes this proverb to a new dimension. I watched with tears -- how

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-9876745590639363312009-03-27T11:25:00.000-07:002009-03-27T11:43:13.854-07:00

I was directed to a thoughtful post at Bookworm Room. Some bloggers have a gift; they cut through the white noise and static that fills our day-to-day existence and help us to tune in and refocus on the important messages of life. After my wanderings in blog-wasteland yesterday, I'm humbled and inspired to use my allotted bandwidth for greater good...both in cyberspace and in real life.Is there

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-56555747976968604342009-03-26T19:38:00.000-07:002009-03-26T22:55:11.385-07:00

I frittered away the entire morning fussing with my blog template...culminating in a frantic rush (accompanied by a small amount of speeding) to get my daughter to an appointment 85 miles away.During her 45 minute session, I hammered out a blistering rant at myself for getting sucked in by blog-stuff and wasting so much time over nothing. I frothed not just about my time usage, but the emotional

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-59770495941743978352009-03-25T18:19:00.000-07:002009-03-26T11:53:14.590-07:00

I suffered a small blog disaster a few days ago, hit the wrong button and erased my customized 3-panel template.ouch!So I tidied things up and revamped. Inspired by Ann's new blog, I wanted a cleaner look, too! Visitors should now be able to move around without bumping their shins, metaphorically speaking, on all those columns and widgets I had crammed in here.Do you like it? Do you miss

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-55637557032125469032009-03-11T09:00:00.000-07:002009-03-11T09:37:58.001-07:00

For those interested in paper filigree and paper arts in general, great news....Ann Martin has joined the ranks of bloggers!From Give It A TwirlBesides being a very accomplished paper filigree artist, Ann's card designs have been published in a number of popular card-making magazines and a soon-to-be-available book by Tanya Fox (mentioned in previous post). She's been featured in a short segment

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-41006332304444442522009-03-04T15:52:00.000-08:002009-03-25T20:20:36.384-07:00

My creative endeavors have been placed on the back burner for several months now.But, like the green shoots poking up in my flower beds, my creative side is beginning to stir and awaken.Part of that is due to the sunshine of inspiration, in the form of two new books on card making. Oh my! (I can't bring myself to type the cliche that comes to mind, so I made a graphic instead...can you figure it

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-52575726487484763282009-02-23T14:13:00.000-08:002009-02-23T15:09:39.484-08:00

Life continues at a pace...snow is all gone except for a few of the deeper drifts. Yard damage due to flooding is surprisingly minimal...yahoo! Was dreading the mud flow mess and it wasn't even an issue.Busy time of year - the 2009 Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival is this week. The small jazz choir that Jacob and Susannah are both a part of, Bella Jazz Ensemble (directed by Leslie Wilson ) will be

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-40527726683907981052009-01-08T09:34:00.000-08:002009-03-25T20:25:22.952-07:00

True, 'tis a far cry from The Big Muddy (aka the Mississippi River -- or for some, the Missouri River) so I dubbed this the Micro Muddy.Here's the less dramatic version of the uncropped photo.This is the east edge of our front yard.If you have been visiting 'Twirl' this past year, you know our family collectively invested hundreds of hours in the yard last spring and summer to prepare for our

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-71886251000419788882009-01-07T10:50:00.000-08:002009-01-07T11:45:03.711-08:00

(click the play button for a little flood-themed blues!) sing it, Stevie Ray...it's flooding up in Idaho, too!Okay, show of hands - be honest now!How many thought I was indulging in a little over-dramatization yesterday?Are you ready for today's photos?Just to refresh your memories - this was yesterday.And this is just 24 hours later:(Notice my Lincoln perched near the end of the driveway? )

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-33342406104266723562009-01-06T08:48:00.000-08:002009-01-06T16:39:23.895-08:00

Yesterday it snowed. Today I snapped a few pics when I ventured out to feed and water my chooks (chickens - an Aussie term I adopted from my friend Licia in Sidney). There was slush falling from the sky in big sloppy glops, and it is 35 degrees out. The snow no longer crunches and squeaks...it now slurps at your boots.Given the hilly terrain of the expansive Palouse region where I live, guess

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-32848884939399245512009-01-05T10:07:00.000-08:002009-01-06T09:53:30.251-08:00

[I'm apply good recycling principles and using previous projects]In honor of the additional 6+ inches of blowing, drifting snow just added last night to the unseasonably (or is that unreasonably?) large accumulations we are currently enjoying -- that last word typed with tongue firmly planted in cheek -- I share a paper filigree frame design first created in 2003, titledSnow FlurryIt just

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-53695808911627744432009-01-01T08:50:00.000-08:002009-01-06T17:28:11.672-08:00

Things are snowy here in the Inland Northwest...we awoke to more blustery conditions to start off the new year. It began with a very short night of sleep (like many of my readers, I am sure!) but we had loads of fun at a New Year's Eve Pinochle Party with 5 tables (thanks, Nances!).Speaking of which......here's wishing all my blog visitors a very Happy New Year!May the brightness of a new

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-12214387980317392522008-12-18T04:27:00.000-08:002008-12-18T04:50:11.426-08:00

I was on Etsy.com at the right time last night. I haven't been there for many weeks, but was able to procure a treasury! As you can see from the small screenshot, it highlights renderings of the birth of Christ.For those readers not familiar with Etsy treasuries, they are an opportunity for members to 'curate' a page with 12 windows. You can select anything that is listed on Etsy--either a

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-83371302912829202032008-12-16T11:20:00.000-08:002008-12-16T14:37:12.017-08:00

...blog love, that is!You were introduced to artist Diana Moses Botkin in my previous post. Is is necessary to proclaim that I am a fan? "Prince of Peace" ©1983 Diana Moses Botkin - Used by permission(this is a low-res image - visit her site for a better representation)I purchased a number of "Prince of Peace". (Shhhh - I plan to add mats with a delicate gilded or silvered paper filigree

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-90124017463078836012008-12-09T18:51:00.000-08:002008-12-15T10:26:56.874-08:00

(plus a little blog love for two friends!) (photo courtesy of brucgreg at photobucket)I wrote about this on my creative writing blog, but I wanted to highlight it here also.Jamie Soles is a talented guitarist and singer/songwriter, as well as a dear friend. He and his lovely wife, Val, live in Grande Prairie, AB Canada with their eight great kids. We love to have them crash at our place

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-31963401074223811492008-12-05T10:40:00.000-08:002008-12-06T09:28:36.321-08:00

Christmas Day box close-upIn November 2007 the girls and I selected some lovely coordinated ribbons and papers at Paper Pals (blog) many from the 2007 Bo Bunny line. The project was begun in December 2007, but holiday bustle shoved it back into a box where it sat all year. Last

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-21134489913478127322008-12-05T10:21:00.000-08:002008-12-05T12:39:32.120-08:00

The fall colors were simply glorious this year and we decided to preserve some of the gorgeous leaves using a simple but messy technique. It involved laying assorted leaves on top of wax paper, covering with 1 ply of facial tissue, and drenching everything with a mixture of 1/2 Elmer's glue and 1/2 water. It takes a bit to dry, but when it is, simply iron the mat between layers of brown paper

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-16277935666765413122008-09-16T09:10:00.000-07:002008-09-16T09:22:40.270-07:00

A new school year with four children to educate, growing family duties & involvement in a local community controversy have been consuming all available time lately.Blogging and paper filigree work have been abandoned for a season.I thank the faithful visitors who stop in regularly.I have no idea when, but like MacArthur....I shall return.In the meantime, many blessings on your own busy, fruitful

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-3588641458334306852008-08-04T06:47:00.001-07:002008-08-05T09:12:14.029-07:00

We crammed a lot of livin' into this past Saturday!Wet and WonderfulThe day began early as we headed to the county swim meet about 45 minutes away. Su and Sa enjoyed their first season swimming for the small local swim team. Su was an alternate (and didn't get to swim), but Sa qualified in all four strokes --back, butterfly, breast, and freestyle.Competition was stiff - some small communities

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-21190439600303938932008-07-31T07:42:00.000-07:002008-07-31T07:59:18.912-07:00

Mr. and Mrs. Joe HigleyJuly 26, 2008(photo by the talented Isaiah Eyre)Here is the bride with her bridesmaids right before the bridal march. You can glimpse the paper filigree embellished keepsake box in Sarah's hands, made by moi. Rather than using the traditional pillow, their rings were nestled on red lining inside.It is covered with red folded roses and tendrils and I will get a close up

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-38929374466727134622008-07-19T17:49:00.000-07:002008-07-20T13:00:47.450-07:00

We had another fun and fabulous time hosting an Art Stop Tent at Moscow Rendezvous for Kids, 2008!With only 8 spots available, my table was full almost constantly. Over 300 particpants were registered for activities for Thurs. and Friday, though we saw only a fraction of that number simply because our table couldn't accommodate many at a time and the kids tended to stay longer as they work on

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-60857766984118894722008-07-09T12:37:00.001-07:002008-07-09T12:57:30.873-07:00

Here are two of the latest listings in my Etsy shop:Rose Picket Magnet Victorian MagnetThough only 2" x 3", this gem has over 130 paper filigree pieces on it and required hours of effort!A new item will be added daily (well, that's my intention anyway!) Thanks for looking!

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-34042896711860874202008-07-07T08:23:00.000-07:002008-07-07T10:44:07.680-07:00

Suzanne, the ever-capable and oh-so-interesting Farmer's Wife, has awarded me the Arte y Pico Award.Thanks so much for the honor, Suzanne!And now I have opportunity to honor five creative people/blogs that I admire.As always, there are rules:1. Pick 5 blogs that you consider deserving of this award for their creativity, design, interesting material, and also contribution to the blogging community

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-33739770930809980642008-06-13T09:17:00.000-07:002008-06-13T10:05:29.523-07:00

My gracious, the excitement just keeps building!Cover feature, blog giveaway winner...and then the snow. I must be daft to count snow in June as one of my three 'good things'...but it was exciting (in a 'what-in-the-world?' sorta way)Anyway, on Monday I received notice from fellow Cottage Style Team member Christy at Purple Treasures with the news that I won the giveaway to celebrate her "

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-1888986065105763352008-06-10T09:50:00.000-07:002008-06-13T07:53:16.842-07:00

These pictures were taken at our home near Moscow, Idaho, over the course of 2 hours this morning, June 10. (thanks, Annie!)Yes, that's what I said....June.That's SNOW, folks! Don't frosted peonies look lovely?To tell the truth, I'm a bit frosted myself. But the nice thing about weather on the Palouse-- if you don't like it, just wait a few minutes and it will change.Now, if you'll excuse me,

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-45639686247474632782008-06-09T10:24:00.000-07:002008-06-18T20:35:34.285-07:00

...Cover Girl!(thanks to Ann Martin for inspiring the title;please see disclaimer at end)"Paula Bauerof Gem State Quilling is a very talented artist. Her quilling/ paper filigree designs are an exquisite display of this lost art which requires a good eye for detail, a lot of time and patience." Gail Gasteluaka Lady GaylePublisher/Editor in ChiefThe Tea House

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-30091614755003025732008-06-05T14:05:00.000-07:002008-06-05T14:21:01.058-07:00

...he celebrated birthday #17 recently.Can hardly believe it's true!He's filling out through the shoulders and appears broader than his dad at the same age -- becoming a strong, capable young man. So proud of you, Son!He's especially jacked about the new roller coaster being built at Silverwood. They held a naming contest earlier this spring, and he was one of a handful who submitted the

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-9687623819979044142008-06-05T11:47:00.001-07:002008-06-05T14:25:29.186-07:00

Yep....I did it.I rode Tremors at Silverwood Theme Park.... ...and live to tell of it.This famous wooden coaster actually descends below ground, giving the convincing impression that not only are you going to die on this thing, you'll be buried immediately! But no, you emerge into the bright light (no, not THAT light) to experience this pseudo near-death experience multiple times

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-60799323156784028112008-05-30T13:08:00.000-07:002008-06-08T19:59:49.505-07:00

Recently, while typing a comment on someone's blog, the spell checking program didn't like the word macchiatos. Even as I type this, it is helpfully suggesting I replace the word with psychiatrist. wha....... psychiatrist? !Which simply confirms my long-held belief... (source)...a good cup of coffee (or tea!) is therapy to body, mind & soul.

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-3444331593797887302008-05-28T23:11:00.000-07:002008-05-29T07:49:57.468-07:00

I have been tagged. In a shameless knock-off of David Letterman's nightly countdowns, here is my "Top 7" countdown list of little-known facts about me:#7. My big toe is over 1/2" longer than the rest of my toes, which are quite petite. The contrast was striking when I was younger, and I was called "Monkey Feet" whenever I wore sandals in grade school.#6. While eating oyster stew made from

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-58414269021330233422008-05-28T08:50:00.000-07:002008-05-29T06:22:05.415-07:00

A talented paper filigree artist, Ann Martin, is featured in an exhibit now showing at the Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvannia. "The Spirit is Quilling: Rolled-Paper Filigree" runs from May 24 - June 15, 2008. Ann has a fresh, crisp style which embraces Thoreau's famous philosophy: simplify, simplify. Her work demonstrates an array of artistic paper filigree techniques in

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-34384027606777320752008-05-28T08:00:00.000-07:002008-05-28T13:42:39.054-07:00

Favorite Son: I am not eating these tough, chewy sausage casings.Forbearing Mother: That's fine, son.[turns to hubby]Adoring Wife: Honey, do you think the chickens would find the sausage casings digestible?Hubby: [pausing between bites] I don't care what they find digestible, as long as they keep pooping out eggs![prolonged pause in conversation]Young Daughter [disbelieving voice]: What did

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-3787235476507952482008-05-24T08:00:00.001-07:002008-05-26T13:37:46.925-07:00

Until now, I have resisted 'treasury fever' at Etsy. But this morning I was in the right place at the right time, and I got one! Click on the pic above to see it all.This is a selection of tea-time lovelies, mostly from my new team -- Cottage Style Street Team.Find more tea-licious cottage/vintage goodness at Etsy by typing CSSTeam in the search box.I'd appreciate any 'love' given to these

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-32312076168051381662008-05-23T08:37:00.000-07:002008-05-23T12:24:56.850-07:00

"vintage rose frame" by Paula Bauersome papers dyed with wine, others muted with tea before roses were created and mounted on the hand-sponged frame, then sealed with an ambering sealer.If you love cottage style or vintage treats, you need to visit my two newest blog friends.Lori at Faerie Window is participating in the 'Cottage Charm Giveaway'. Stop in to say hi!Sadie Lou at Sadie Lou Who is

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-18797289112701427132008-05-22T15:04:00.000-07:002008-05-22T16:44:45.212-07:00

My dear friend and fellow paper filigree artist, Heidi Bishop, once created a card featuring a filigree fly fishing lure. I had to try my hand at it, and created this thank you card. Don't you think it would make an excellent Father's Day card?The small piece of paper with vintage fishing logos/labels seemed the perfect thing to pair with the lure.I found a photo of a Royal Coachman Bucktail

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-63518095626119137202008-05-01T08:34:00.000-07:002008-05-16T13:00:03.638-07:00

At the May meeting we will focus on two techniques: ASL (alternate side looping) and Wheatears.ASL is often used for flowers and leaves, and we will make a few of those as we learn the technique. But with Father's Day arriving before our June club meeting, I needed to demonstrate how ASL can be used for something masculine!The Father's Day card features paper from Flair Designs. It was a real

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-9221113999811876792008-04-29T08:06:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:42:14.344-07:00

Last night was the Palouse Suzuki Strings Spring Concert. The children did a fabulous job and sounded so beautiful! I love the mellow sounds of strings, the high notes float out and linger poignantly in the air. The final piece was simply delightful, called 'Russian Fantasy.'Bravo, PSS!With only 15 minutes remaining before our departure from home, I needed to whip out a quick gift tag to

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-33523896779719010752008-04-28T07:09:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:48:20.664-07:00

[sigh]I fear my carefree life of blogging is done...kaput...over before I've barely begun.My few readers are doubtless wondering what has brought this on.I'll tell you...careless comments, that's what.Who would have guessed?I try to keep my 'grammar nazi-ish' tendencies in check, really I do. While I can't help noticing mangled and hemorrhaging English usage at every turn, I try to avert my

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-80260975437696607602008-04-25T14:14:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:43:04.997-07:00

I didn't realize that April was poetry month...that's how uninformed I am. Thanks to Toni at 3AM Designs for giving me a clue!I currently prefer to write prose vs. poetry. Poetry was something I did in my angst-y teenage years. But a few years ago I discovered an on-line website for the great refrigerator magnetic poetry packs. Surely you've all seen them, right?I used the "Artist" kit and

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-88293089042578244392008-04-16T06:10:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:44:02.494-07:00

Camera-less...it's been gone for weeks. Sent off for repairs.I borrow eldest's when I can, would hog it if I could, but she needed it back.Even with my poorly developed photographic skills, (pun!) I find the state of camera-lessness highly restrictive. No before-and-after photos of our "extreme yard clean" episode on Saturday (I fear the snowball bush will never recover from the haircut we

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-41550200813702520022008-04-15T06:51:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:39:00.930-07:00

Our community has a great resource called 'FreeCycle' where people advertise things they would like to pass along to others, or share wants/needs. As a result, we are now the proud owners of 6 shrubs and a trailer full of sod. Hurrah! This means usable lawn behind the patio for the wedding reception in July!The sod had to be hauled from the backyard up a steep incline to the driveway. Hubby -

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-70281643534544718182008-04-10T15:03:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:46:55.378-07:00

I am still trying to determine if netiquette requires one to respond to comments on one's own blog or on the commenter's blog...or does it even matter?It seems right unneighborly not to acknowledge comments -- like driving past someone on a country road and not lifting your hand in greeting! But it also seems inappropriate to inject your response into the comment section of someone's post that

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-37359093944322764232008-04-10T13:35:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:48:44.050-07:00

The tablecloth in the previous post was given to me by my mom when I moved to Idaho. If I am not mistaken, it was one of her wedding gifts from 1952. It is a small square linen luncheon cloth with several shades of blue stripes and a 3" blue border. The border is noticeably stiffer than the rest of the cloth...I am assuming it either is due to the dye, or the cloth was woven tighter and with

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-64838313434699628622008-04-08T07:14:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:47:28.534-07:00

I've been enjoying my blog surfing recently...expanding my world by looking at things through other's eyes. Found some very talented writers...gifted in painting their world with words that nourish the soul.Then, I come here to my blog and the first thing I notice is my 'blah' banner. I shall be adding something that reflects me - when I seize upon the right thing. I tried to add something

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-90928200575519882042008-04-04T11:32:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:48:00.605-07:00

Not only did she surprise me yesterday with a lovely post featuring my paper filigree work, today she shared several vintage graphics...freebies to download. Please stop by to pay her a visit (just click on the title and it will whisk you right over!)And a warm welcome to all those coming by for a peek at Abbie's urging. You will have to page down a few entries to get to samples of my work.

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-2931778652123351052008-04-02T09:13:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:49:15.005-07:00

Though not considered 'paper filigree' by a purist's standards, I often incorporate shaped and shaded paper flower designs (using paper punches or hand-cut pieces)Currently available via my website: (click on title to go directly to my pattern page)Wild Rose Blossom - step-by-step instructions to create individual flowers (no project included)Poppy Card - step-by-step instructions to create

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-3471379960157440922008-03-26T10:04:00.000-07:002008-05-16T12:50:19.220-07:00

I'm back - I think.A prolonged recovery from a dislocated right shoulder, the continual rain/snow/gray days, and painful memories linked to this time of year managed to sink me into a major 'funk'. But I am making an effort to regain my stride and am feeling more cheered today, despite the white stuff falling furiously outside my window. Where or where IS spring anyway....or at least some

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-53565546967940810732008-02-16T11:15:00.000-08:002008-05-16T13:00:28.620-07:00

I really enjoy our monthly meetings and the delightful ladies who are so eager to learn and try new things! It's a fun evening out!This technique is a great one and creates amazing flowers with loads of variations. We will cover five different styles:- pom and 2-color variations - fringed with center and 2-color variations- angle fringed (a la Jane Jenkins)-

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-54875282080162102062008-02-01T19:11:00.001-08:002008-02-02T06:32:40.673-08:00

I have been discovering and exploring numerous blogs by card makers (mostly stampers). Turtle Chronicles by Deb A. was offering blog candy...the first time I have participated in such a thing. While I didn't win the random selection, I was one of two picked for my 'original comment' and awarded 2 different lengths of ribbon. Totally unexpected and very generous...Thanks, Deb!

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-62778593076692497432008-02-01T17:51:00.001-08:002008-05-16T12:51:34.196-07:00

I added a short video on the technique of finger rolling for paper filigree. It's two years old and definitely an amateur production, but I hope it proves helpful to any interested in learning to roll coils without a tool. It's located in the right side bar, below my profile info. I'd love to hear if you found it useful, or if there are any questions that were left unanswered. Thanks for

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-57593923350861356742008-01-25T10:11:00.000-08:002008-05-16T13:00:56.414-07:00

(click on pic for a larger version)My SIL delegated to me the task of decorating tables for my nephew's wedding rehearsal dinner. Yesterday morning, I suddenly decided I didn't have nearly enough stress in my life and determined to create 32 placecards and 17 tablecards for dinner that night. (I still have the flower girl dresses to hem, but hey...that's what Friday is for!) I'm so thankful

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-20625210016086680122008-01-16T07:52:00.000-08:002008-05-16T12:54:51.238-07:00

I have seen Peter Callesen's work in the past. He is an incredible paper artist who makes many of his pieces from a single piece of paper. You gotta go see it!

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-29280001502518818252008-01-14T19:23:00.000-08:002008-01-22T08:16:24.990-08:00

When you watch a video posted on Youtube.com, is it okay to embed the clip in your blog, or is it best to just post a link to the video?I've embedded a couple of movies here that I discovered on youtube (or were shared with me), and now I'm wondering if this violates their copyright?I would really appreciate hearing from others on this question. And until I do, I plan to remove the embedded

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-42521570813819007772008-01-14T10:29:00.000-08:002008-05-16T12:53:40.290-07:00

I've been purchasing more and more unmounted acrylic stamps, and also got some cute sets for Christmas from my girls. I LOVE using them with the Fiskar's stamp press (or use a clear acrylic block). But storage is becoming an issue.Then I discovered this great little clip from a link on someone's blog (I'm sorry - I can't remember who shared the link as I visited a number of new blogs this

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-84193061799181358412008-01-14T07:53:00.000-08:002008-05-16T13:03:00.581-07:00

I will be sharing the technique of folded roses at the January Quilling Club meeting (Monday, Jan. 21st from 6:30-8:00 pm @ Paper Pals). Here are a few more photos of past orders/projects to inspire you!A card featuring patterned vellum overlay with oval aperture.Small 3.5" wooden trinket box, treated with sealantso the folded paper roses look almost like porcelain.Antiqued rose frame (some

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-26833323999496254942008-01-08T09:23:00.000-08:002008-04-16T07:54:16.854-07:00

I love paper filigree, but I am really intrigued by this amazing clip of metal filigree artist, Victoria Lansford,at work.What do you think? Isn't it beautiful?

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-69681214605843133782008-01-04T12:00:00.001-08:002008-05-16T12:55:10.929-07:00

Jen Stark's work is a must see - the vibrant colors are sure to wow you.Special thanks to Ann Martin for sharing this link with me.

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-68287506242938607112008-01-03T01:30:00.000-08:002008-01-03T14:12:34.416-08:00

"Stuck on Roses" Altered Band Aid Tin(call Karen at Paper Pals soon to hold your place - 208-883-4287)The folded rose technique was moved to the January 21 meeting. I look forward to seeing everyone again and hearing about your holidays.We will create this lovely altered Band Aid tin or other small box and coordinated tag just in time for a special valentine's gift.What do you put into such a

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-82667259355665793002007-12-31T14:46:00.001-08:002008-05-16T12:55:57.451-07:00

This was the first Christmas without hubby's brother, Ron. There were two grapevine wreaths with florals & greens at his memorial service in July, and my SIL Carol gave them to me.When Christmas came around, I needed a new lighted wreath as my old one got tossed during hubby's over-zealous shop cleaning. Out came the saved grapevine wreath. After adding several gold ribbons, lights, and gold

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-7437249243585152112007-12-31T12:38:00.000-08:002008-01-05T14:02:35.147-08:00

Been a bit since I posted...the holiday rush hit us hard this year. Placed several desperate SOS calls to hubby and eldest to pick up 4 more lbs of butter (we actually ran out in the middle of baking!) or another 10 lb bag of flour (also ran out). Have NEVER been so unprepared! We made it through, but it sure added to the frazzle of preparations.Below are versions of the gift cards we

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-69269104629739309072007-12-14T15:02:00.000-08:002008-05-16T12:56:34.105-07:00

The tree is up and decorated. I miss the fresh, pungent scent of pine from real trees and traipsing about with the whole gang to 'hunt a tree' but the simple ease of pulling a tree from storage is a sweet deal in my kinda frantic life. And John loves not having all those fallen pine needles to deal with in January.Gonna try to get the rest of the house decorated this afternoon. Need to restore

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-42804312385293041782007-12-12T11:41:00.001-08:002007-12-12T11:55:27.907-08:00

I just got another phone call...my pictures....they are saved!! whoooo-hooooo!Jason, the miracle-man at VGH Computer Services in Moscow, ID managed to pull my data back from the brink! (I'm sure prayers helped.) He thought of one more trick to try before putting in a phone call to the flash drive company at my request.AND IT WORKED!Hurrah!I feel sorta like Scrooge after being visited by the 3

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-53610337695287988022007-12-12T10:37:00.000-08:002007-12-12T10:42:29.716-08:00

I just got a phone call from the computer tech guys....my 4 gig flash drive is shot...and worse, they cannot recover the data.And it's not just any data....4 years of pictures.Yes, I know. I should have burned them to CD or had them someplace else. Actually, this was my 'someplace else' I thought the flashdrive was 'safe' and felt good that if my hard drive crashed, at least my precious

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-79306840774048231232007-12-11T08:46:00.001-08:002008-05-16T12:56:59.644-07:00

Oh my...Karen at Paper Pals has the coolest stuff!Look at the amazing clear stamps I got yesterday. These are called "Elegant Flourishes" by Autumn Leaves - designer is Rhonna Farrer. I've been eyeing the hot flourish stamps for a few months now, but I really love this version. (Karen's sale helped nudge me to finally buy some.)My creative muse is doing cartwheels!I also picked up the

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-76871025270449605292007-12-08T17:40:00.001-08:002008-05-16T12:58:06.299-07:00

So, the party was wonderful - many kudos to the director and staff of Latah County Historical Society and all their volunteers. My Littles had a fabulous time making tags and cards and just soaking in the atmosphere of the old home. Here is a pic of the tree. The small round things were roses made from crepe paper. I wish I would have taken a close-up of them.Here is a close up of the fans I

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-30220667628441870382007-12-08T11:11:00.000-08:002008-05-16T12:58:34.489-07:00

The Latah Eagle did a front-page write up on the McConnell Mansion Christmas party. The photo features the tree...and there are the fans I created and donated to the Mansion! They also included an inset of one of my paper filigree snowflakes, and mentioned paper quilling in the article. How cool!

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-65771439811780918322007-12-07T08:56:00.000-08:002008-05-16T12:57:36.311-07:00

I just found out about this book from my dear friend and fellow paper filigree artist (among other talented endeavors) Tracy Belair Gaito.This latest offering from Jenn Mason is not another idea book but discusses design elements and principles and how they interact. I have been wanting to study basic design for some time, and actually began a targeted workshop-type series of articles in

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-923393409082715003.post-79682672903497999282007-12-03T13:53:00.000-08:002008-05-16T12:59:06.614-07:00

I just purchased some mid-1800's hand-made lace to trim the wallpaper fans I am creating for the historic McConnell Mansion in Moscow, Idaho. On each fan I am adding a small paper filigree rose motif, a reflection of the popular artistic pastime practiced by many Victorian women. The wallpaper remnants are left from the formal parlor when the Latah Historical Society restored it. I finished

Paula B.noreply@blogger.com1