I Get By {with a little help}

It's a VERY busy week for me, getting ready for the first show of the summer.  I've never been afraid to ask for help and I have had quite a bit, especially lately.

My mom/business partner is always helpful.  Whenever I ask for something, she never says no, whether it's cutting out templates for map decoupaging (more on that later) or riding along on a Craig's List hunt.  Thanks, Mommy.  I do not have a solo pic of my mom, but below is a pic of my mom, brother, and me:

I also have to thank my good friends Jen and Heather for being amazing pickers for me; Heather is always on the lookout and even called me from an estate sale this weekend to let me know about a steal of a dresser. Thanks, Jen and Heather Ann!

My neighbor friend Jackie, is an amazing photographer and she recently helped me style a photo to represent my work.  She took the photos and did an incredible job and she did this all for FREE because I let her use some of my vintage items in her photography business.  Below is her photograph and styling. Thanks, Jackie!

And last, but certainly not least, is my gratitude to Mr. Vintage Novella.  I rely the most on his help, and I definitely couldn't do this job without him.  And even when he complains that our three car garage can now fit one car, or that our dining room table is a work table, he still helps me.  Thank you, Honey.  Love you.

Will post pics of pieces for sale later this week!

Shabby to Chic

This poor little dresser was a dirty, shabby (and not in a good way) discard.  As soon as I found it, I knew it needed some love.

The color was actually a nice sea-glass aqua.  It had potential.  And, actually, a potential home.  I knew my neighbor was looking for a small dresser for her daughters' bedroom at their little lake cottage.  She came over to look at it and we worked out a plan to paint it cream and she would bring me some cute new knobs.  It turned out darling and beachy and cottagey if cottagey is a word.  I'm declaring it is.

Sold! And For Sale...

I am happy to report that the red, chippy chair planter in the last post sold!  It's not all about making money from it (although that's a big part!)  It's also about knowing that it's going to a good home.

I hope that these also go to a good home.  Vintage teacup bird feeders.  A sweet little way to give nourishment to nature's creatures.  They'll be for sale at the upcoming Bay Arts show on June 16.  This is always a great show with lots of artisan items.  Come on out!

Spring is Here

I have realized I only have about a month to get ready for my first of three summer shows.  I need to work on projects EVERY DAY in order to be ready.  Here's the latest:  a sweet little chair planter.  There was only a little work involved and I think it's adorable.  How cute would this be as a mother's day gift?

Vintage Hankie Shower Curtain

I pinned this and really wanted to make one of my own.  I knew I should wait until my mother-in-law the quilter was in town so she could help.  I have my own sewing machine, but I don't really use it.  I want to start sewing more so now I plan on having it out in the open so I will use it.  Here's my version:

I started with a Simply Shabby Chic shower curtain, and then pinned the vintage hankies in a pattern so they would fit.  Thankfully, the lace takes up some space, otherwise, I'd still be sewing at this point.  My mother-in-law did get me started, but the sewing is ALL MINE.  It was good practice and I would like to make another one.  Every time I'm out scavenging I always buy vintage handkerchiefs, so I do have several more in my stash.

This one will be for sale this summer!

Inventory

Mr. Vintage Novella keeps pointing out that inventory is high:

I keep reminding him that I NEED a great deal of inventory because I need to be ready for three shows this summer.  When I look at these photos, it doesn't even look that full.  Does it?  I still have room on the shelves.  Picking is fun.  Especially when I get a good deal.  Or a free deal.

The picking season is here.

Sparrow and Blossom by Jennifer Rizzo

Jennifer Rizzo is an amazingly talented artist who has a new spring collection...

Check out a few of the offerings:

I am so inspired by her talent; She's offering a giveaway on her site now.  And if I don't win, I'll be buying some items!