moontea artwork

study in red

2012-01-16T12:57:00.000-08:00

I like how the knitting needle
with a ball of yarn look like a big XO

merry

2011-12-19T16:11:00.001-08:00

merry, a photo by kristinloganbill on Flickr.

Have a happy holiday everyone!

a look back at the year....

2011-12-19T16:08:00.001-08:00

kristinloganbill's photostream on Flickr.

Books

2011-06-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

I still love books. I have discovered that I could reserve books online from the whole library system and pick them up at my local library, so I usually have a huge stack of books that I'm reading all at the same time.
As you may expect a lot of these books are on art and craft. I also have developed an interest in natural beauty books and have found some that I love. I figure that any book that I would consider actually buying must be worth recommending!

So this book is called Green Beauty Recipes by Julie Gabriel. Right at this moment I'm trying her "milk and yeast lifting mask" (on my face!) It's supposed to make a big difference in over-30 skin when used twice a week for 2 months +. I'll let you know how it goes.
My plan is to plant an herb garden and create my own little mixtures for skin and hair.

Do you have any favorite natural beauty secrets? Or favorite books?

Another use for tea towels

2011-05-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I had a couple of crazily cut tea towels, so I decided to use them as curtains- I think they turned out pretty cute (if you don't mind me saying!)...

Top Secret

2011-05-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine is putting together a fund raiser called
Art2Life where artists fill a box with whatever art they make, and the boxes are sold off for $100 each. The purchaser has no idea what is in the box- how fun eh?

Anyway these are my block prints that I made for my donated box.
A set of local barns.

Little Houses

2011-05-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

As you might have noticed I love little houses- I have been seeing them all over for the past few years, and now lately more than ever. Here are a few of mine...

going to stores (yah!)

little villages on little bags

found at a local thrift store

one of my pocket pillows

new photos

2011-02-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

So i made a light box for taking some new photos for Etsy, and it worked out pretty well.  I had the issue of having to wait until there was sun (ha!) in order to take pictures.... so... 

I got 4 full-spectrum light bulbs,  built a little box from foam core, and the most important part-- read the instruction manual for my camera.  It turns out, that you can change the setting for the type of lighting conditions. (seems so obvious- doesn't it?)

Anyway- that did the trick-    

(this is a picture of my new paisley zipper pouch)

It's been a long time since my last post....(why does coming back to a blog feel like a confession?)

2011-02-05T12:07:00.000-08:00

hey there! I don't know how some people keep up with their blogs.... What with the Christmas printing season starting in July, and then Valentine's Day after that, I haven't had a spare minute- Glad to have so many orders- for sure! But sometimes I got very tired of working everyday 12 hours a day- really.

So goes a self-employed artists life.

Well, I have to go make a light box to take some new product photos. A box lined in white paper, with 4 full spectrum bulbs. I'll let you know how it works.

summer time

2010-08-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

It's been such beautiful sunny weather- lots of inspiring views....

It has been great sleeping in the teepee- you can even see the stars at night through the smoke opening. And it's next to the creek, so there is a beautiful lullaby to sing you to sleep.....

Printed Cloth

2010-08-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

My sunflower field design hand printed using Versatex screen printing ink on hemp/cotton

Hey- I know her!

2010-08-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

How nice to be looking through the pages of the August issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine, and see Michelle from Cicada Daydream. The article is about her adorable Cloud 9 eco-friendly fabrics. Yah for Michelle!
I think she talks about the article on her blog, and you can see her fabrics here

New Cloth Goods

2010-08-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of some of the new items my lovely reps have been showing:

The pillows are printed on linen and the button pouches are printed on hemp/cotton and have a little hand made button. (buttons are so fun to make!)

Lavender festival 2010

2010-08-10T09:40:00.001-07:00

lavender festival 2010
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

This was my booth at the lavender festival- It takes place in a beautiful wooded park in Yamhill Oregon.
We had tons of fun and met lots of new people and saw some people that we knew from last years festival.
Thanks to everyone who came!

Lavender Fair time again

2010-07-09T07:07:00.000-07:00

I've been crazy busy lately getting ready for the lavender festival coming up this weekend in Yamhill, OR. In addition to that I just did the farmer's market yesterday, and am getting samples for a new rep group in Southern California AND filling orders too!!
I'm not sure how to get it all done, but I'm trying my best.

If you have some time this weekend visit the Artisan's Fair in the town of Yamhill, and then drive to some local lavender farms. It's super fun- I always used to go before I started doing the Fair. Hope to see you there!

Tea Towels

2010-05-20T16:30:00.001-07:00

tea towels
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

A new addition to my catalog-
I think they turned out pretty cute-

I searched forever (maybe 2 years off and on) to find some pre-made tea towels in linen that I could use to print on.
I tried the flour sack ones, but they just didn't look right.
So finally I had to just sew my own- sometimes that's the only way to get the exact thing you want!

Dotted Fern Notecard

2010-05-10T11:12:00.001-07:00

Dotted Fern Notecard
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

I have been making lots of new card designs. I kind of like this one.
It's an abstract fern, but you know how ferns have the little dotted spores? Well I just think they are so pretty, so here's my version.
What do you think?

Strawberries

2010-05-06T15:47:00.001-07:00

strawberries
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

I have strawberries on my mind! Not only do I have this new fabric in my Etsy shop, but I have wild strawberries coming up in our forest.
They are such pretty delicate (looking) plants, with their sweet cheerful flowers and promises of sweetness to come!
We just ordered 30 gallons of washed and pre-sliced strawberries- ready for eating and freezing from a local rotary club- let me know if you need the info- yummmm!

Eliana's Altar

2010-03-13T16:58:00.001-08:00

Eliana's Altar
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

I think it's really important to work on art that isn't work related-
It really frees up the mind and gets the creative juices flowing.

This altar is made of scraps of foam core that I can never bear to throw out. I cover them with paper mache (really strips of newspaper dipped in watered down glue) then I cover it with a coat of white paint then proceed to decorate with block prints and pencil and water color.
It's for my wonderful friend, El.

2009-12-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Well if you don't know already, I'm hosting, along with Jenn, a card crafting party- it's free and all of you are invited. We will be using all fun methods we can think of to create cards- glitter will be included, as will: block printing, nature printing, glue guns, screen printing, letterpress. So if you want to come- this Sunday at 1:00--simply e-mail me, and I'll give you directions! Snacks and drinks will be provided, and children are welcome.

Hey that's me!

2009-08-18T09:49:00.001-07:00

Well, so here I am just "googling" myself and I come across this great blog that mentions me- as in Moontea Artwork! decor8 It's so nice to be mentioned in such a lovely blog- Thank you! I'm still working on licensing- what a lot of work! Making sure I have everything copywritten (writed?) Which images- out of thousands I have- to send out to represent my style... These are water colored drawings some of which got turned into block prints. Hmmmm- got my first rejection- but how do you know unless you try- right?

Lavender Fair!

2009-07-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official! I will be participating in the Oregon Lavender Festival Artisan Fair coming up this weekend- so if you find yourself in the area come by and visit me at my booth. I will have all sorts of goodies: sachets, bags, pillows and cards. Make sure to introduce yourself if I don't already know you (mom)! The Fair is July 11-12 in the town of Yamhill (Oregon)- It's really fun and wonderfully scented.

new bags

2009-06-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

My lovely sales rep in California, Ginger, was requesting some different types of bags, so here are some new ones that will be available in stores and in my etsy shop. I really like the square bag- such a nice size - don't know why it took this long to make one like this...!

bees

2009-06-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

See the new picture on the top of the blog? Well I'm happy to say that this spring we set up our first bee hive- (this pic was several months ago). It's really been fun watching the bees bring in pollen- they get really busy on warm days. We should be able to have honey next year. I already have block print bee cards, but I'm being inspired to make a bee pillow next....this is my bee printed on linen

Do you love dishes like I do?

2009-03-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

If you love to look at dishes- check out this site- Replacements Ltd I literally spent/wasted hours looking up dishes- I think this little Pyrex covered dish is adorable ( I don't like to store food in plastic, so wouldn't this be wonderful- and the rooster is so cute!) Our plate collection is rather eclectic- one each of many different types of dish, but I may just get another one of these:

it's called "Royal Chippendale" and our one little plate has really grown on me over the years. Anyway- if you have a couple of free hours (haha) check out some wonderful dishes.

WOW-this is so worth seeing- Thanks to Eliana!

2009-03-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

well hi there!

2009-03-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

So it's been awhile- what can I say--- Snowed IN- Flooded OUT- Holidays- 40th Birthday- woo hoo! I had to write to share this wonderful article to whoever is lovely enough to still keep up with my blog. "How to Procrastinate Like Leonardo Da Vinci" I can't seem to link to it, so go to this link- Arts & Letters then go down to where it says "Leonardo da Vinci, maybe a little like you, was a hopeless procrastinator...." then read the rest of the article- you'll like it- I promise.... For your viewing pleasure---Here is a new pattern that I made- some little suns- I was trying to make a little bag that would fit credit cards, but it's just the tiniest bit too small, so it just holds change... I'll try again later. Block printing with fabric ink on hemp/cotton canvas Also- I am going to a workshop this weekend on Licensing for artists and such- it's in SF- if you also want to attend the information can be found here I think it should be just what I'm looking for- info on doing Surtex (she has done the Surtex show in NY many times)- and also the who and what of licensing images. I'll report back on how it goes. In the meantime- read the article it's REALLY great!

Things to occupy the brain while working.....

2008-09-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

Lots of text- but very helpful-REALLY! Here are some links to things I like to listen to or watch while working. Sometimes being a little factory worker here takes it's toll on the brain, so if I listen to some "great book" or a talk about quantum physics it makes me feel not quite so brain dead!

-Librivox - free- books in the public domain read by volunteers (warning: some readers are terrible- bless their hearts!)- of course listen to all the Jane Austen!

-Ted- free-some interesting talks on science and design and other things- make sure to listen to the talk on mushrooms by Paul Stamets- amazing!

-Conscious Media Network- free, but you can become a member I guess for more access and to support them- interviews with interesting foldks on religion and space aliens and alternative health etc- it's good to keep an open mind when listening- some things I've never even considered! I love physicist Michu Kaku's talk on space and time and other dimensions.

-New Dimensions Radio- same kinda thing as above- perhaps more tame- and the interviewers can be a little too talky, but....

be sure to catch the talks with Bruce Lipton about the role (or lack of role) genes have in determining our future health and well-being.

-Pandora Radio- punch in a song you like and Pandora finds other songs that have some of the same elements.

that's all I've got for now- here's a picture of my latest works- yes valentines day is right around the corner! (yes I am joking just a bit- but stores order EARLY!)

thinking...

2008-08-15T17:40:00.000-07:00

I am dreaming of "passive income" After days spent solely on printing on paper and cloth I find myself dreaming of someone else doing all the printing! Don't get me wrong- I am grateful and seriously overjoyed to be doing the job I do, but I think I need to branch out a bit and set my designs free into the world. So-I'm beginning to look into licensing some of my designs- do you know anything about licensing? who and what? How about this- anyone who gives me info on licensing in the "comments" section will receive a free gift (perhaps a lavender sachet, or a little bag...). Anyway I need to stay small and expand at the same time, if you know what I mean.

More houses

2008-07-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

I made some new prints of little houses. Then a pillow-one side is a silkscreened big red house, and the other side is block printed little houses. I have also been thinking of new designs for sachets for my reps to sell, so I thought the little house would make a good one. I'm trying to make more household item- hence the pillows! I think I'll make a few other colors and then introduce them in my Etsy shop. I have a million ideas on this house thing (it all started with my barn carving from last year, remember? then continued with my "Italian village" a few months ago). So stay tuned! I think I have more ideas than I have time! I'm sure I am not alone!

enjoying summer

2008-07-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

hi all! as you know, it's hard to be inside in front of the computer when it's beautiful and summery outside. Here is a bit of what I've been doing: -picking blueberries -trying to keep coyotes away -weeding -weeding -weeding (haha) -sewing -getting another (the 3rd!) card order from Anthropologie -woo hoo!

Summer!

2008-06-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer everyone! If you get the chance look at Printsy Thursday Leanne Graeff's blog for a little profile on my "lily aimes" project- I really need to update!! Especially now it's turned to Summer and my last theme was Spring. Anyway she has a great description of my art panels.

The sticks and stones project

2008-06-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm not sure if my other project (lily aimes) wasn't working, or it just morphed into this... So for now-- my inspiration is sticks and stones and here is what I've done so far (and some pics of stones too!)

Fact & Fancy in Brooklyn

2008-06-03T10:11:00.001-07:00

Photozoology, Cakehouse, Runny Bunny, Your Secret Admiral, Art goodies, Hasenpfeffer. Originally uploaded by Fact & Fancy

A great little gallery in Brooklyn has some of my bags -unfortunately they got my name wrong in this post... oh well... "moontree" or "moontea" who's notices the diff anyway? (though there is a "moontree press" who might wonder if people contact them asking about their pouches!) Oh- the zipper pouches are on the top left shelf- would love to see pics of the totes too...

Testing....

2008-05-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

I read about this new carving material- it's linoleum, but softer, so I thought I'd give it a try.... The one I tried is unmounted, but they also have mounted. It WAS easier to carve than the usual linoeum, but I still like the "safetykut" (in the bottom photo) for saving the wrists and for ease of printing on fabric.

Crafty Wonderland Report

2008-05-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

So this is my tiny space at the Crafty Wonderland show in Portland. I actually kind of liked the 4x4 space, it makes set up and take down quick and easy, but it was a challenge figuring out what to take and where to put it. My mom came with me (it was mothers day!) and so we had 2 chairs, as you can see behind the panel- then I had the little round table, and the standing panel. The gal next to me was so lovely, her name is Diana from Moss, she sells patterns for the crocheted sumo wrestlers that you may have seen. She also had some adorable ninja cats. It's hard at a craft show NOT to spend all your profits on all the wonderful things that the other vendors have to offer. If you are considering doing this show, I would highly reccomend it. There were a steady stream of customers, and sales were good. And it's only $35, so you actually can make a profit! It does look a little darker than it was, yes it is in the basement, but the basement of a very cool bar/restaurant. And of course, the folks (stitch&destroy) that put the event on couldn't be lovlier!

owl

2008-05-14T09:32:00.001-07:00

owl Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

They have a home in the top of our barn-isn't he adorable. So now the animals who have been visiting our place are: fox, deer, beaver, elk, owl and bats of course and they are all welcome!

amazing art!

2008-05-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Check this out- so amazing! this is her website Her name is Kathleen Lolley, she has such beautiful work. Owls and girls in red capes, and magical trees. so beautiful! she seems to have most of her work on flickr I just love it!

Crafty Wonderland Sunday!

2008-05-08T15:46:00.001-07:00

crafty wonderland Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

I'm doing the Crafty Wonderland show at the Doug Fir Lounge in Portland, Oregon this sunday May 11th. If you come by and see me and say you know me from my blog I'll have a special treat for you!

Little Red Love

2008-05-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I was trying not to get swayed by "little red riding hood" mania, but who can't love her? I may have to do my own print of her, but for now look at these adorable reds. (teapot annejulie's etsy shop, then 2 cute stamps from milkcaramel corrabelle and a print from the etsy shop danita)

Blockprinting on Fabric

2008-05-05T08:00:00.001-07:00

I don't talk about it much, but blockprinting on fabric is pretty hard. I have been trying different methods of printing on fabric for years, and attempting to find "the secret" by scouring the net and the libraries. What ink is best? What printing material is best? What fabric is best? Does anyone know?

Here are a few blockprinters to check out and see what you think.

-Galbraith and Paul how in the world do they do such huge runs of fabric? and what the heck are they using for their block print? -Make It she talks about this difficult subject extensively on her wonderful blog-and has some beautiful examples.

-Tobias and the angel in england, does india style wood block printing on vintage fabrics (among other things) -Jesse Breytenbach-does beautiful blockprinting on fabric tape. (I think you mentioned her, Kylie, a few posts back) -Folly Cove Designers from the 50's I think- I have studied the website at length to see how they get such clean designs, I saw an old article that shows them stepping on linoleum (without the block attached), but now I guess the descendants use a giant press. -Art Goodies It seems that she does single images on cloth with a press, but definately worth looking at (beautiful). -Elle Deco mag did a nice little write-up on blockprinting last dec. with some helpful tidbits.

so this is what I do- I use screenprinting ink and with a little sponge brush I tap the ink onto my blocks (rubber carved blocks) I use linen, or hemp, or cotton on a hard surface (though I have read about using a soft surface, it may depend on the hardness of your block...) and I push, don't rock, the block onto the fabric, and there you have it my "secret" until I can figure out something that works better-- and can print a bigger area at a time!

Another New Something...

2008-05-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

no (eliana), not a baby...haha

Like many of us I don't have nearly enough projects going on at once, so I started another one. In a flurry of enthusiasm yesterday I started a new blog (even though I don't keep up on this one!), also a new flckr page and a new etsy shop!

WHY? you well may ask.... It all started with an art giveaway- I wanted to work more on my non-retail, non-functional art and not have money attached to it so I gave the art to the first 2 people that contacted me (Kleya and Kylie.) So then I guess I was inspired and wanted to do more of that type of work, but add the money back in, but not to be part of Moontea.

I don't know why I had the need to name it something else, and why not my own name? I just don't know, maybe it's safer not to use your own name. I'm calling my art project lily aimes (after my grandma) and what I intend to do is choose a subject each month and do art based on that subject. So the blog records what I am doing and what my topic is.

So this month's theme is SPRING- because maybe it is finally here... So the art of course will be garden related.

I'm using the backs of old countertop samples to paint/print on they're great because they already have a hanging hole, plus we have a ton of them because I could never bring myself to throw them out after they were outdated (R. did countertops for many years). I think the work is different than what I usually do for Moontea, which is usually bold color on a light background, this new stuff is more muted and has the look of old wallpaper (in a good way). You always hear how you should "develop your own style...etc." but if most artists are like me there are many different "styles" playing around inside them.

Anyway let me know what you think.......

New things happening

2008-04-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

Here are some new bags I've been sewing- I blockprinted the linen and sewed them into bags. You might recognize the bag design.... I used to make the same little pattern out of my hand-dyed velvet a few years ago- (I may try it again in velvet for fall). Anyway, I like how these ones turned out.

So-I'm trying to figure out what (else) to make from these 2 fabrics- the sheep are new.

I wanted to make a baby oriented item, perhaps single diaper pouch- what do you think?

Happy Spring!!

2008-03-20T10:51:00.001-07:00

Green for new growth! Here are directions to make a Robin Hood hat for all your Spring Festivities!

1. fold rectangular paper in half- longwise 2. fold in half again (folded side to folded side) to make a center crease.

3. fold ends to crease to form triangle 4. fold bottom up on both sides to finish 5. make a feather for decoration

more seeds and pods

2008-03-15T13:08:00.001-07:00

more seeds and pods
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

see poppy pods at the top left!

seeds and pods

2008-03-15T13:06:00.001-07:00

seeds and pods
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

These are some new designs I'm working on for fabric. I've been wanting to do seeds and pods from last spring when I did the dill fabric, so this is my preview into fall!
When I'm working on getting card orders out during the day- I say to myself- "okay, if I finish this order, as a reward I can work on new fabric designs!" Sort of strange incentive, but it's so much more fun to be designing new stuff! What do you think of the color?

color

2008-03-08T13:52:00.001-08:00

Look at the color of this log- isn't it amazing- now isn't it amazing how my bag matches the log- just don't know what to make of it!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's Day- Hope you have a good one too! We are going to pick up some native plants from a native plant sale and plant a little thicket at the bend in our driveway. Of course they are just little twigs at this point, but time goes so fast they'll be big very soon. Anyway, very romantic, eh? Well tomorrow, the 15th, is my birthday. I just think it's my duty to tell everyone! I love my bday too, don't know why some people don't- I'm happy to be here and after all, from the day we were born we are getting older, and then what? just a big adventure, for better or worse it's still interesting. I found a great book called The Yoga Facelift- some really great exercises for the facial muscles, and really seems to work!

goals

2008-02-01T17:19:00.000-08:00

SO- a group of artist/business women (though men could join if they wanted to...) and I have been meeting once a month to talk about business and art and how to do them together. Our topic for next meeting is our goals for our business. it's a hard one, for me anyway...I know some people go into a business with a "business plan" which I'm sure is a good idea, but my plan was just to stay home, send my art out, and make some money doing it.... Well, I guess I should be happy because that is what I have done so far, but I would like to make it (my business) bigger, and make a bit more money at it (health insurance would be nice, and so would savings!) so I am coming up with new goals for my business and my art. 1. To buy a printing press- don't know what kind (old letterpress with a motor), but it's time I gave my body a rest and joined the 18th century (haha). 2. Find someone to silkscreen my fabrics for a reasonable price! 3. Find a small, local seamstress shop to sew new, fun things at a reasonable price! ( i like to sew, but not dozens of multiples.) 4. Be more of "the designer" than "the manufacturer". I love to carve blockprints and sew the first of something, but that is enough, let the manufacturing pros handle the manufacturing. 5. Expand my line- pillows and other homewares, wrapping paper, notebooks etc. more bags- I love bags 6. Work on more of my bigger pieces- have gallery shows again. 7. More promotion. Anyway, that is it for now, if anyone has any ideas on these goals of mine, feel free to chime in!! oh- I just included the picture so it wouldn't be all words-

Greatly Missed!

2008-01-10T17:16:00.000-08:00

We were in Portland last weekend and had our car broken into (not the Volvo- the toyota pickup- maybe easy to break into??). They took the stereo- no big loss really- and is there really a market for that? But these are the things I will miss and have not quite gotten over being stolen (the bastards can rot in hell!- in the nicest possible way of course-haha)

Happy Holidays everyone!

2007-12-23T17:51:00.001-08:00

a little glimpse into our house this christmas. a paper star light, my little mushroom on our tree and one of my favorite objects... the foxes holding a candle- notice their little jackets. Hope you have a wonderful holiday! I was thinking of a title for this posting like "put the sol back in solstice" or maybe "put the ice back in solstice".... but I just settled for the good ol' "happy holidays" figuring that would cover it all!

a spare moment?

2007-12-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

okay, here I am in a spare moment- ha, ha just when I think it will slow down it doesn't - so this is a stolen moment! I am currently printing cards for an Anthropologie order!! I really love Anthropologie, and probably have every catalog they have mailed me for the past 4 years- sounds crazy eh? but they are soooo beautiful! I can't really afford their clothes... but I love to look nonetheless- anyway my uniform for working here in the studio is overalls! how about this--- if you have a "uniform" for work, whether official or not send me a picture- This is a picture of the cards slated for Anthro. (oh and they have to be sent out by xmas eve day!!)- nothing like a little pressure to liven things up!)

on vacation!

2007-11-05T10:29:00.000-08:00

Hey - long time no see! The Moontea Studio will be closed for the month of November, while I take a much needed break! Just hoping I get everything finished..... I'll hopefully have a bit more time, energy and photos when I get back to the ol'blog!! See you in December. (I have been trying to get all my tags in a catalog and ready for selling!)

moontea at relish

2007-10-03T17:50:00.001-07:00

front wall...
Originally uploaded by relish at home

picture from Relish at Home from their opening night- (picture from Kelly's flckr pics)
See the moontea goods at the end wall and the bottom left.....
Thanks to Kelly for the beautiful presentation!

studio

2007-09-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

This has become a regular site here in my studio- they come in almost every day now, sit down for a while and just hang out while I'm working... If the door is closed they look in at the window and make little wistful sounds. funny beings.

interview!

2007-09-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

this is what inspired the dill print- the shadow of dill- I talk about inspiring shadows in "MY INTERVIEW" The lovely Brooke, from Magnolia Grace recently interviewed me for her blog- www.magnoliagrace.blogspot.com She has some other interviews on there, as well as some fun and lovely finds! If you want to find out more about my work and life (as fascinating as it is-haha) read her blog! This is really how an interview of my fascinating life would be: Q: what did you do today? A: worked Q: what did you do this weekend? A: worked Q: what will you do tomorrow? A: work ahhh and so happy to be doing so- As a friend of ours says "are you braggin' or complainin' ?" Sometimes I'm not sure... But really, thank you Brooke- I really like answering questions, it gives me a chance to remember why I do what I do, and why I actually do love it!

a bag for Kristin

2007-08-14T15:58:00.001-07:00

a bag for Kristin Originally uploaded by kleja

Look at this amazingly beautiful bag that KLEJA made. (yes that's a bit of my fabric!) You really must look at her etsy shop- she does amazing work. I'm not kidding- look now! www.kleja.etsy.com

woohoo!!

2007-08-04T13:55:00.000-07:00

yeah- the awesome Kleja- of the beautiful (previously mentioned) handbags has purchased the bird fabric! Can't wait to see what she does with it! By the way- follow the above link to see some of her really cool greeting cards.

i love cake

2007-08-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

Well yes I do love cake, but this time I'm talking about the band CAKE- look at this from their web site- so funny- reminds me of some of the funny signs that Shona, from LalaDex Press has put on her blog . You may ask why I have time to look at other peoples' blogs and websites, and the truthful answer is I don't and I better go. Rick is coming back from visiting our friend, Court, in Hong Kong, so I have to go pick him up in Canada (flights to HK are much cheaper from there). And yes still tons of orders and WAAAY behind. but as Eliana says "poco a poco se abre un coco" "little by little you open a coconut"....hahahaha I put some blockprinted cloth on my etsy site- will someone please buy it ? I need help paying my mortgage! take care everyone....

summertime.....

2007-07-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

okay well the living isn't exactly easy.... but I am definately enjoying blueberries and hay cutting and fields of lavender. Our next door neighbor has a wrecking/metal recycle yard (not too picturesque) anyway- the nicest people, and they gave us tickets to the local mud drags... I have to say it was pretty entertaining. Our neighbors wife was driving one of the cars, and she sure was impressive, I thought she was going to tip over. You wouldn't catch me doing that, but it was nice to see something I wouldn't normally have sought out! On the same day we went through the Oregon Lavender Festival- and visited a few farms, inhaling the scent! Maybe next year will be the year for our field. We had our hay cut, but it's been so wet that we haven't been able to bale it yet. So perhaps we will be making a straw bale hut up on our hill- we shall see... On the work front, I hired an assistant, Bonnie- she used to be a lawyer! but now is in love with art and wants to do something in an artistic area. I think she'll be great! I can't wait until she starts on Tuesday and things start getting done a little faster- and I get caught up!!!! I have a couple of seamstresses sewing my little sachets at the moment, but I am anticipating the need for more (more sachets and more seamstresses!) take care all- hope you are enjoying your summer!

photo shoot (at my farm!)

2007-06-04T19:08:00.001-07:00

photo shoot (at my farm!)
Originally uploaded by kristinloganbill

I just like how this picture looks with the strawberries behind it and the mushrooms all bright and cheery!
Trying to add all the new things to my catalog to mail out this week! whew!

a-nother bag

2007-06-04T19:03:00.001-07:00

a-nother bag
Originally uploaded by kleja

This is a bag made by KLEJA- isn't it gorgeous?!
www.klejacreations.etsy.com
It was on her flickr site, but there are a few other great creations in her etsy shop. but oh my! so amazinly beautiful!

reporting back

2007-05-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

Pic on left is looking down my aisle- aisles and aisles and aisles of booths- I didn't nearly get through it all. Pic on right is me on the last day- (notice my apron I made for the show, and the great table my friend Gustav -dancingdevil.com- made) Let's see.... the NSS was great- lots of great orders (inc. Gump's in SF, Soolip S.CA, Bibelot and an order from Berlin to name a few) then there were a few magazines and catalogs who want samples and press kits (I'll tell you who when I make it in them!) then sooo many requests for catalogs (Kate's Papery, Rare Device, and oh so many more). Very exciting. People were extremely nice and positive and supportive and just plain great! So these are some tips I will pass on (I'm not an expert after one time, but..... just sharing) Tip 1: Be nice to every person who comes near/in your booth, you never know where they are from, even if they are also wearing an "exhibitor" badge. ( it creates a happy and cheerful atmosphere plus some exhibitors are also shop owners) Tip 2: Don't be afraid of someone stealing your great ideas- if they will, then they will. It's the chance you take when you put yourself out there. (plus that greedy feeling and attitude carries a bad vibe). Tip 3: Set up your booth ahead of time- really helps in being organised when it comes time to set up your booth for real, plus if you are by yourself setting up, as I was, it helps you be done in time! Tip 4: I think it helps to have more than just stationery. I know it is the Stationery Show, but in my case I know that having more than just cards really helped my sales. Also- lots of people asked for "sets" (which I had- sets of 6). well, maybe that's all for now. oh one more thing- I just want to thank the lovely Caroline for helping me for 3 days at the show- nice, fun and cute! Also Tina for helping me and allowing me to stay at her apt. You are so gracious and I demand that you come stay at our place now! Next time I will share some links to some great folks I talked to at the show!

just a word...

2007-05-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

I don't have any pictures to share at the moment, as I am still in NYC. I just wanted to thank all the well-wishers and all the people who were so encouraging about the Stationery Show before, during and now! The show was amazing and I am so excited and grateful for all the opportunities that came my way. I'll write more and share pictures later. Thank You ALL!!!!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2007-05-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

HI hope you have a great day! We will be spending the day with my mom and R's mom and some other family- on a picnic, if the weather is sunny. This is a little watercolor I painted for my mom. Happy Day.

summary....

2007-04-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

HI everyone- just a summary of what is and has been going on -cousin's wedding next weekend- yeah for Allison! -NY stationery show preparations- so many ideas I just am taking so much more than I was planning- giving myself more work! -my mom had her cancer move to her hip (from breast cancer 13 years ago)- so any well wishes/prayers/loving thoughts that can be sent her way is greatly appreciated! -with my mom in pain it means Eli (best friend) is (hopefully) going to the NY show to help me for a couple of days...thank you, EL!! -oh yeah, then my wonderful rep in CA needed any new holiday cards because she had some accounts requesting holiday (holiday!) ordering- so of course I came up with a bunch of winter/xmas cards in a matter of days. -now six hundred dollars of wholesale orders supposed to go out on tuesday and I have barely started them.... WHEW!!!! Here are a couple of pics of new cards and my booth- I set up the whole thing in my studio so I will be somewhat organized! Is anyone out there going to be at the show? Wanna meet up? email me! back to work----take care everyone!! xox

More and More!

2007-04-10T18:21:00.000-07:00

I silkscreened a couple more fabrics today- Shona-I haven't forgotten that I am overdue with your fabric. In truth, the excuse I have is not because I have been busy - though I have- nor that it was Easter/my mom's birthday: My real excuse is that I was waiting for this awesome hemp/cotton muslin to arrive in the mail from Dharma Trading! It has such a great texture- I think you will love it as I do (when you finally do get it)! For those of you who are NOT Shona- Shona of LaLa Dex Press and I are going to do a project together- so stay tuned!! I have mentioned that I am doing the National Stationery Show in May ?- well I am getting stressed now- luckily my mom is coming down from WA to help me- When I get stressed I don't really seem like it, except sometimes- like now- I get a rash on my face- it's hideous- like elephant girl. R is nice enough to tell me that I'm still pretty and you can't really notice it but uugh (I think his eyesight is going...) anyway good thing I'm too busy to go anywhere!! Good news is I am getting alot done and the rash clears up within a couple of days!! Hope you all are well-

My busy weekend

2007-04-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

I did a ton of printing and sewing this weekend! Also did more to get my booth ready for The National Stationery Show. I decided to organize my booth by seasons- as that's how I think of the art as I make it- of course lots of things cross over- but if a pommegranate is ripe in the winter time shoudn't it be under the winter category- of course! I printed in greys this weekend- I learned that it's easiest to print by color, I know, it seems obvious, but I didn't always do it that way. OH and check out the first button I ever "made" - Probably most people know about the little blank buttons you buy at the yardage shop, then cover with your own fabric- but this was my first time. I really think it's cute- I used the center of one of my sunflower fabric prints so it looks polkadotted- It's very exciting- you should try it! I am drawn to cups lately- and so I seem to see them everywhere- check out these cups from artist Anji Allen and also the great coffee cup from A Little Hut. I took a picture envisioning my cup fabric as an apron, and I made ONE coaster- since it wasn't real "work" I couldn't take the time to make more.... I am a very difficult boss!! You can look on my flickr page for more pics! Better get back to work befor I get fired!

Life on a Farm

2007-03-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well I do live on a farm, but these recent blockprints are not MY farm! I don't actually plan on having a rooster- I just want chickens and the coveted fresh eggs. And our barn? well it's beautiful, but just a little leaning at the moment. These latest blockprints are possibly for some upcoming fabric, or perhaps some stuffed sachet/tags....or I don't know, what do you think? I have drawings for another barn and a silo. So I thought barns with a Giant rooster all in red would be so cute. Oh-- the cups are going through the same process of figuring out what they want to be when they grow up.

Deadline Looming!!

2007-03-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

Well as you may know I am going to the National Stationery Show in NY in May. I have been trying to get everything together because I have to ship everything out there at the end of April. So I have lists and lists within lists. Designing my booth to look good and be lightweight and easy to put up. Then designing new cards and other accessories, then getting good photos of them to make a catlog and so on and so on.... It is actually fun, but lotso work! Here are some pictures of my prototype pencil bags (I put some on Etsy too if you need one!). I changed them a bit from my little red flowered one from a few months ago. I wanted them bigger and to open at the top so pencils and tools go in the long way. Oh! and I am excited to tell you that Shona from LaLaDex Press is going to make a few books with my brown mushroom fabric (as soon as I send her the fabric!) should be great!

New Work

2007-03-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

I have been working on some new silkscreen patterns based on my blockprints and drawings- I am really happy with the ferns and the mushrooms- I think I'll print the mushrooms in grey too- still working on perfecting my silkscreening skills.... I've also been coming up with new card designs- really inspired by the little hoot owls- I like that you can use a card like that for almost any occasion!

beach at night

2007-03-19T11:10:00.000-07:00

Ted was here, so we took him of course to the Pelican Brewery on the beach- we just had to look at the waves at night- beautiful!

guess what?

2007-03-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

Jan at Poppytalk mentioned moontea artwork on her post today! Check it out and make sure to make lots and lots of positive comments! Thank You to Jan!!

Tip of the Week

2007-03-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

Use tea tree oil on cat, rosebush and bramble scratches. I have found that it takes away that awful sting and makes the scratch heal up super quick. Just dab it on the scratch with a q-tip and cover with a band-aid. It also works if your cat has a scratch- the trick is getting it on the cat as the smell of tea tree oil is very strong. Most health food stores carry teatree oil, as does Trader Joes.

Is it Spring?

2007-03-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

First crocus's This was a rainbow from a week ago when it was raining (it's sunny now!). It stretched from one side of our field to the other!

i'm back...

2007-02-20T09:47:00.000-08:00

okay- well I've been here, but not online. For Valentine's Day R and I went to Breitenbush Hotsprings about an hour and a half east of here- Sitting in hot tubs while the cool rain comes down, ideal! Lots of tubs by a raging creek, vegetarian meals (means not having to ask if the stock used in the soup is a meat stock, or asking for no bacon on your green salad!). There is also a great steamy sauna house, and if you choose you can stay overnight in their little cabins in the woods (we didn't stay). They have this awesome round cob building with neat rounded windows in it. just beautiful.

valentine's day!!

2007-02-13T13:43:00.000-08:00

As you all know... my birthday is the day after valentine's day, which is why I think I've always loved valentine's day as a holiday. It's like a two day holiday for love and me, or love OF me!! I'm not one of those unfortunate people who have their birthdays near Christmas and end up getting "joint" presents- one present. For me growing up, I had heart-themed parties: heart-shaped cakes and red plates and pink and red hearted napkins- what could be better for a little girl? And now- well maybe it hasn't changed much- just the quality of chocolate has gotten better!! The saddest birthday in my adult life was one where I took the day off of work (as I usually do), but no one else did, so I spent the day by myself. But to make things happy for me I decorated the whole house in cut out paper hearts and crepe paper streamers!! It turned out happy after all. So Happy Valentine's Everybody-and Happy My Birthday to you too!!!

From Martha Stewart February 2005

2007-02-08T10:18:00.000-08:00

I think these little potholders are adorable- I would like to think that I will make them.... we'll see. Also look at that little strawberry pincusion, isn't that the cutest!

stuffed and smelly

2007-02-06T17:12:00.000-08:00

These images may look familiar.... I used my silkscreens and blockprints and printed them on muslin, sewed them up then stuffed them with batting and lavender. I think they would make cute tags for a package-you can write on the back- and then they could be used as a sachet to make your clothes smell good. I plan to make many more, and print matching wrapping paper. I think it would be so cute all wrapped up together... I put individual pictures of each one on my flickr site, if you are interested.

congratulations to Katie

2007-02-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

My friend from high school just had her first baby, a boy!- she sent me a picture of the nursery. She has a blockprint hanging that she bought from me. I think it looks quite nice! It's neat to think that her baby's memories will include images that I created- does that make sense?

you guys are great!

2007-01-26T18:57:00.000-08:00

Thank you for the understanding and kind comments from yesterday. I really (really) appreciated them, and they did make me smile and feel better. So back to the happier land of elves and mushrooms (elves like a little extraneous ink- they would not have it any other way). (I like them and haven't packed them up from xmas). The mushrooms are a silkscreen (for fabric) that I was testing on some paper and I just liked how it looked, though it needs a little more work. I'll show you when it's ready for fabric. Thanks again!!!

bummed

2007-01-25T19:42:00.000-08:00

These are illustrative of how I feel today- It really shouldn't bother me by now (8+ years of selling cards), BUT- on top of an otherwise crappy day I got a phone call from a bookstore I just sent cards to saying that 2 styles of my cards seem to have a lot of "extraneous ink" on them like "something was wrong in the printing process". Well I am the printing process, each card is hand inked and hand pressed. So some of the carving lines sometimes pick up ink and print too- in my view it is the charm of hand printing and what makes each card truly unique. What should I make of that? Well so I guess I will just call tomorrow and offer to exchange them-as they are a consistant account..... I just hate it, and it makes me not want to hand print anymore- does anyone know about Offset Printing?

some things i like

2007-01-23T21:52:00.000-08:00

just a few things that I like (you can see more on my flickr site) now I'll tell you why...the fan I like the shape and the shine of the blades and the light blue of the base. I love tomatillas- not just the taste, but the way they grow is they form a little green paper lantern and the fruit grows inside of it, then it looks like this when it dries out- It looks to me like a little bird cage with the seeds stuck inside like the birds. Then the dried anise I just love the color and the shape of the arms with the little flowers at the end. Oh a note for Shona- I actually packed and moved the dry plants- I'm no magpie (Rick is though), but I seriously packed every little thing and moved them! and okay some things I'm glad I still have, like these. oh and the fan I got for $5 at a yard sale. They had about 10 different old neat fans, but I liked this one the best, though now I wish I'd gotten all of them. $50 for 10 fans, I don't know but.....

why i love rice and hummus...

2007-01-22T20:53:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite thing to eat, it is brown basmati rice with hummus. I love it because you can eat it hot or cold, make it on sunday and eat it the rest of the week. Not only that, but with the addition of a little salad it is good for you. Basically beans and rice, but with a little soysauce, oh so much more! Hummus is super easy to make, this is what you do. Rinse a can of garbanzo beans and put them in the blender (or make them like other beans) add a small amount of tahini (1/2 tsp.) add some lemon juice (3T+-) just a splash of olive oil (T) then a ton of garlic (or none if you don't like it) you can add parsley (italian) if you have it, but if not, it will still be okay. also put just a bit of salt-to taste really. Add some water, but slowly and just as you need it to keep the whole thing moving in the blender. the nice thing is if you add to much tahini you just add lemon juice and vice-versa. then just add everything more or less as your taste dictates. Dump some on some brown basmati rice and a splash of soysauce for saltiness and you will see why I love it!!!!

Varied Thrush

2007-01-18T21:10:00.000-08:00

So what am I doing up so late (9:00!!) well, finally finishing my artwork for Art From the Heart- an auction I donate to every year. It's for the Sonoma State University Gallery, where I went to college, so it's a good cause AND I get a free t-shirt (or rather Rick does). So here below you see it finished. A blockprint colored with watercolor and some stencil and printmaking ink too. on a 5"x5" ampersand clayboard deep cradle panel. What do you think? ( I always do something with a bird and a heart). Call the gallery if you want to bid for it! And the other is the second in my slowly-developing new card series (you may remember the pinecone?). I think it's pretty cute. But kind of sad, as it's a tribute to a lovely bird one of the cats got. Makes me just sick and so sorry. (it really does not happen too often, but when it does....) so this is it's tribute it will live on in the art world. and now, GOOD NIGHT!!!

Studio and a Secret

2007-01-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

Since you asked (Eliana)... Here is a picture of a little part of my studio. I love it and it's huge and it's warm and heated with radiant heat. I feel so lucky. (thanks, Rick!!!) And the coasters, well they're for Eliana too. I can't keep a secret. Since I only sent you ONE coaster (I know it's strange) I made you four more, they don't really match the other one -a snowcouple-but I think you will like them. They are my designs silkscreened on felt, with little felt pieces sewn on for accent. Now if I get them sent that will be the real surprise. I'm not one in that group of (seemingly) organised bloggers who have all their packages wrapped, cards sent and cookies baked on time- For me Christmas ends when the last gift has been given, so sometimes it can last into July-heck or even all the way until the following Christmas!

animals

2007-01-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

Well sorry- a little blurry- this is our cat, Adventure Cat with a portrait of him I did for a Forgotten Felines auction. The portrait is a hand-watercolored blockprint. And this is Snowflake- in the snow (we did not name him, by the way, in case you think his name is a bit silly). It's been really cold and icy here, we have to break the ice in the water barrels for the llamas to drink. brrrrrrrr

cards going out

2007-01-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

though I think rabbits are for any day- I think this order is for easter-yes I said easter! hard to believe, but just shows how early wholesale orders go out!

Life in Oregon

2007-01-11T12:30:00.000-08:00

one day at the beach the next day snowed in!

what is it?

2007-01-10T15:15:00.000-08:00

I was walking in our little woods the other week, and saw this.... does anyone know what it is? I think some kind of fungus?? anyway it's quite beautiful as well as mysterious-

Little pencil bag

2007-01-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally switched over to the other version of blogger, so nice and oh the features! Do you remember the blockprinted curtains I made for my kitchen? (yes?) well here is a little pencil bag I made from the same material. I was working without a pattern, so it could use a few professional touches, but I think it's pretty cute. I'm hoping to come up with about 4 more designs and make little book covers too to take to the stationery show with me in April. Naturally I'll have to have someone else sew them....

For Shona!

2007-01-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

This is in response to Shona's blog on January 2nd. she had some of her little porceline japanese-made dolls in some scenery, strangely enough I'd been wanting to feature mine for a couple of weeks, though just in the studio where they reside, but her pictures encouraged me to go outside and shoot them on location! thanks Shona! I actually have a few more pics, but I'll spare you and show them at a later date!

Happy New Year 2007!!!

2007-01-01T11:40:00.000-08:00

It always does feel different to me, waking up on New Years Day , it really feels like a new year. We had a surprise guest (Karen Carston) who was on her way home to Washington from CA, so we really partied it up!! ha ha. we stayed up until 11:30 and drank red wine. Just couldn't make it that last half hour. We wore our red underwear and filled our wallets with money and ate black-eyed peas for breakfast- so it should be the best year ever!! anyway............ Happy 2007 everyone! I hope the coming year is creative, prosperous, laid back, time-plenty, war-ending, and every (positive) wish granted for everyone!!

Reindeer galore!

2006-12-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Here are all my reindeer images- together for the first time in one place- (See LalaDex Press lovely reindeer too!) It has been suggested that reindeer are part of the holiday story, not just because they live in the north pole(?) but because they eat the red and white (amanita) very poisonous to humans, but halucinocenic mushrooms that grow under pine trees. Then as unappetizing as it sounds- the Shaman- dressed in a red and white robe - drinks the reindeer piss, in this form it has been rid of poison, but still retains the hallucinogen. Then reindeer and Shaman go flying! Well anyway that's one story for you..... I kind of like it, as it ties in the pine tree, reindeer, red and white of the season, and cooperation between nature and humans. Of course some say coca-cola put santa in a red and white suit- not quite as lovely a tale, I'd say! Anyway tomorrow I'll share some images of the poisonous and oft-seen amanita muscaria mushroom! Let me know if you have some too, and I'll attempt to link your images!

Inside and Out

2006-11-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

AS I promised Eliana here is picture of my chair (one of them anyway!) you can see my dropcloth curtain hanging behind- quite handsome I think. My main challenge for decorating is trying to accomodate the furniture passed down from Rick's great grandmother and beyond- very dark wood, but a beautiful sideboard and old record player that is really a wonderful piece of furniture (I'll show pics someday!) and other stuff. But so that the room doesn't look all dark and heavy I use some brights and neutral colors. SO then we go outside in the snow!!! I think rather rare for here- so amazingly beautiful and serene. Puts me right in the Holiday Spirit! I lovc our barn. Hopefully next summer it will get the care it needs.

Finished Pine Cone Cards

2006-11-22T07:07:00.000-08:00

Not as exciting as beavers, nevertheless, here are the finished pinecone cards from a previous post. I printed them with Daniel Smith watercolors. They're sparkly! I like how they turned out, what do you think?

Walking by the creek today

2006-11-20T18:42:00.000-08:00

I was out walking by our creek today and saw 2 beavers! I got to watch them for quite a bit before they ducked under the water and swam off. I have a pic of the other one too, but it's slightly obscured by trees. Then here are more of these lovely berries.

Oaks and Flowers

2006-11-14T15:59:00.000-08:00

AS you can tell I don't know how to line up my pictures... oh well. Here are some curtains that I hand printed. I think they are so cute, but is it just because everyone thinks their own child is adorable? What do you think- how is my future for home decorating? Well I want to make some little pencil cases with this print too. Look at the neat white berries, they grow along the creek, I just love them. Anyway some Oaks too, just so you know it's still fall!

New work and the moon

2006-11-12T17:38:00.000-08:00

These are some new prints I'm working on- a combination of paper stencils and blockprints, and sewing.... not done yet, but in process. I took a picture of the moon because it was the "true" halloween on November 7, which just means it was the true cross quarter day, when there is a gap between the worlds and spirits are supposed to be closest. (Samhain, is the celtic cross quarter holiday, usually celebrated on Nov. 1st., but obviously changes slightly). Well no bonfire for this night, but maybe next year. I just celebrated silently by taking in the night and sending out hellos to those I love who have died. See our festival on Beltaine in the May 2006- archives- which was the spring cross quarter holiday! It was so beautiful that night, the mists were coming up from the creek and the barn owl was back for the first time and made a pass over the house. I saw a bat too, so it all felt very mystical.

Emilio, flooded creek and some cards

2006-11-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

the pinecone is part of my ongoing experimental cards. not done yet- but in the works.... this is Emilio- our youngest llama- very funny looks our creek is flooding its banks! not too serious yet, but it's amazing how fast it has risen.