Octopuses, Octopi, Octopodes have hearts & smarts!

I have just learned that there are three correct words for the plural of octopus.
And while I was educatiing myself, I also found out that they have three hearts and are highly intelligent...who knew?



I think artist Kelly Guswiler knows, and she also appreciates the beauty of this fascinating cephalopod (I learned that too). Kelly creates all kinds of whimsical and gorgeous fine art from handcrafted one of a kind jewelry, to handpainted floorcloths bursting with color. She has also recently opened Beach Bum Beads offering quality beads at affordable prices. Swim on over to her etsy shops and prepare to be dazzled and delighted.

And speaking of craft shows....

You have got to see the new vendor aprons Michelle of Yooper Boutique sews up for all you artists and crafters selling your wares all over the country. Don't settle for that nail apron from the hardware store. Treat yourself to one of Michelle's and look smart and stylish at your next show.

By the way...see those pretty-pretty paper roses at the right? She makes them too.

When life gives you lemons...

My sister Peggy creates these darling and useful memo boards. They come in all shapes and sizes and themes. She makes each one entirely by hand with the highest regard for quality and has been successfully selling them at craft shows and in magazines since 1990. Recently Peg has expanded her business through the web. You will find a great selection of her bulletin boards and extra pins at Pegsboards.com and also in her ETSY shop here.

Murder in the Village

I love the look of a watercolor painting that is not overdone like this one by Mary Jill Lemieur. Her color choices and use of negative space is awesome. Of course her subject matter is pretty cool too. Just look at the little guy below her signature.
You will find this fun piece along with a hundred others in her ETSY shop here.

prime numbers primary colors...sort of

I am trying to envision the reaction of the original maker of this quilt upon seeing what I have done to it. Well not all of it, but a good piece of it. You will find more information and photos of this art quilt here. Perhaps someone can tell me why the numbers 67 & 107 appear fuzzy in the photo only. Must have something to do with black on bright red?