A handful of fine things

Here are five things that I am especially happy about right now.

1. Tomorrow is the grand opening of the Cute Show at the ellO Gallery and I can't wait to see my work on display and meet the other artists. Ah, what to wear?

2. A new machine has debuted that is a self-contained screenprinting device much like the Gocco. It's called the YUDU and looks like it has the potential to satisfy me in some way after I run out of supplies for my beloved Gocco printer. This gives me hope.

3. Etsy and Apartment Therapy have teamed up for a new creative competition called "Do It Now!" which encourages everyone to finally tackle a small household project in a creative way. I have so many ideas for fixing up my place that I never start so I am glad for the little nudge. Actually, the possibility of winning a $250 Etsy shopping spree is kind of a big nudge. I've already begun to spruce up the entryway to our apartment.

4. I am going on a business/fun trip! My old friend Ashley (of Fern Animals) and I are headed to New York City next week for the premire of Handmade Nation and to hear a lecture by Faythe Levine. I can't wait!

5. I finally thought of a concept for my first attempt at zinemaking and, by popular request, it will be overflowing with bunny illustrations.

I'll elaborate on all these super things in other posts but I just felt like bursting and wanted to share. Let me know what you're especially overjoyed about and help keep this glee-bubble intact!

Featured Maker: Ashley Anna Brown of Fern Animals

It is a challenging thing to be proud of a friend and not sound maternal or condescending but I must say it. I am so extremely proud of my friend Ashley's success with Fern Animals. People can't seem to get enough of her tiny stuffed creatures that are thoughtfully hand-stitched and full of personality.

When we were in college together at Montserrat (represent!) and she had just started making her first handful of little guys; she'd be sitting in art history class with her needle and thread busily sewing up a little suit or a pair of ears for a future critter. Of course, it wasn't long before students and professors were calling dibs on their favorites. Believe me, I'm still sore over losing out on a little white bearlike fella with embroidered hair and a velour hoodie to our printmaking professor.

It is thrilling to see that people are still battling for the opportunity to snag one. She can't sew fast enough to meet the demand! How wonderful to see a hard working creative person succeed by doing what they love.

FernAnimals.com

PS: Go vote for her at the Softie Awards!