Balmy Attic Arts

Size matters or the numbers game.

2012-02-22T20:59:00.002-05:00

Definitely size matters when it comes to clothing. But how do you determine what your size is? Your perfect size is most likely a range of sizes. Garment sizes are made up by the manufacturers of clothing and the makers of patterns. They both use the psychology of "vanity sizing" and I think you are all savvy enough to figure out what that means.
Ready to wear clothing manufacturers learned some time ago that when the buyer has a choice between two similar garments in similar fabric and quality the one bought will be the one with the smallest size number. As a result of this inconsistency of sizing of off the rack clothing it is not unusual for a person to have a range of sizes often as many as four hanging in their closet. All the clothing fits but the size numbers don't match.
It is no easier for the person that sews as pattern makers have changed the sizes over the years making them of course bigger. Also patterns have a standard variance between bust, waist and hip. This does not change no matter what size you choose. Pattern companies assume all women have a basic hour glass shape with the hips being slightly larger than the bust.
Where am I going with all this? When I list clothing for sale in my Etsy shop you will find the exact measurements of the garment, the suggest measurement for ease of movement and style and the approximate off the rack size range.
For example the skirt below the sizing reads:

Size, almost one size fits all. Hem is 4.6 [165 inches] yards around the bottom.
Top tier that covers both your waist and hips measures 66 inches around. You decide if you want to wear it on your waist or hips. I would suggest that you leave at least 10 inches of fullness around the hips [ie your exact hip measurement should be less than 56 inches]. There is an inside tying drawstring with an elastic section mid back to make choosing where to have the skirt sit super easy. Total length from top of waist to hem is 37 inches. All seams are professionally finished.


full skirt, fingerless mittens and bracelets

Try making a list of your favorite clothing complete with measurements from the bust, waist, hip and even upper arm and upper thigh. Sleeve length and pant or short lengths are also good to know as is skirt length. Measure and write down what is important to you. A quick moment with the tape measure will save a lot of time and frustration when buying clothing rather than playing a guessing game based on the random numbers assigned to flatter your vanity. Having a set of your basic measurements taken from clothing you love to wear also means online shopping has just become much easier.
Next week I will try to [this is dependent on my art skills] give you charts you can fill your measurements into for quick reference and even a croquet [designer speak here for blank body drawing] you can use for comparisons.

2012-02-08T20:40:00.000-05:00

my new Etsy shop banner

Above is the new Etsy shop banner created by Debbie of EphemerasGarden. See my new tag line? The clothing and accessories I make are a blend of the best design for the fabric and the best fit and the best style for the garment. It is all about looking good and feeling good, and yes this means style and comfort do meet.

Here's just a small selection of my wares.........


full peasant skirt

two pairs of fingerless mitts and bangles

Steampunk bloomers

I did tell you in my tag line they were eclectic and eccentric. Stop by often to find what makes you exclaim "exactly me" when you see it.

Neverwares, a new look.

2012-02-02T19:21:00.000-05:00

new shop banner

A quite time of year so I have been over hauling my destash shop. This is the shop I run on Etsy where three generations of us [my mother, myself and my daughter] destash our sewing, crafting and jewelry supplies. For more about us and our destash read our Etsy profile.
Working with Debbie of EphmerasGarden I revamped everything from the shop banner to business cards and avatars. Next week hopefully I will be able to show you the face lift Balmy Attic Arts has undergone with Debbie's help and graphics savy.
Neverwares on Etsy is your place to find new, unused vintage patterns as well as modern patterns. If a pattern has been used and loving refolded it will be noted in the listing and priced accordingly. To be added over the next few weeks will be fabric, beads, jewelry findings, trim and craft material. What you will find there is what we find we no longer need while doing our inventory of what is on hand. Unless other wise noted in a listing the item is new and unused and it's age will be indicated, ie vintage or not.
Just a sampling of what you can find.

new vintage for men

new vintage for women

new vintage for boys

Pick of the litter.

2012-01-17T19:49:00.000-05:00

Cute as a button cats and kittens. Visit Meekamew, an Etsy shop where you can have your pick of the litter and know you are contributing to Andee's surgery. Read more in the artist's profile about her on going grass routs help to cats down and out on their luck.

Meekamew's Etsy shop

My pick of the litter.

Making a Victorian Muff.

2012-01-11T20:16:00.000-05:00

Tired of looking like Bim the tire ad character, pudgy, colourless and style-less? Truth of the matter is its winter and wrapping up in layers is how to stay warm. Not too much can be done about the extra padding but the exterior can be pretty, stylish and colourful. Below is how to make a Victorian style muff to go over your gloves. Now you can wear finer weight gloves with better dexterity for holding out bus passes and keys without sacrificing warmth and fashion. One small step to take to banish the "Bim" look.
Even making this muff entirely by hand will take less than an evening. As not much fabric is needed fabric store remnant bins and recycling the good bits of fabric from thrift store finds keeps your cost down.


Material and supplies for muff.

Tools:

handsewing needle, scissors, ruler, inch tape, sewing machine {optional}

Material:

Exterior fabric, a piece approximately 13 inches by 14inches is needed. Suggested fabrics are fake fur, wool, velvet, and brocade.

Lining fabric, apiece approximately 13 inches by 14 inches is needed. Suggested fabrics arearctic fleece, wool, and pre-quilted cottons. A smooth finish is best as itwill be next to your hands or gloves.

Also thread to match and a piece of ribbon, cord, trim orwebbing suitable to make a hanging strap. The strap material needs to be ½ to 1inch wide and approximately 15 inches long.

Construction:

Step 1: Place both fabrics right sides together [face toface]. Fold the strap trim in half and insert into one of the 14 inch edges.The cut edges of the trim should line up with the fabric cut edges and thefolded end be between the two fabrics. Now stitch along both 14 inch sides, making sure to stitch several timesover the trim ends to make extra secure in the seam. You will now have a tubemade of the two fabrics.

Step 2: Turn your fabric so the right sides of the fabricare on the outside of the tube. You will see the trim now forms a wrist strapat one edge. The next part is a bit tricky but read carefully and if necessarybaste together loosely to see how the technique works. Fold the tube in half,matching unstitched edges of lining fabric together. Start to sew atapproximately the centre point of the lining fabric. Continue sewing aroundwhat will become a tube shape. Matching the seam where the exterior fabricmeets the lining, continue across the fashion fabrics, again matching seamswhere they meet the lining, stopping once you have sewn a few inches onto thelining again.

Step 3: Give a tug to each seamed end to pull the tube intoshape, lining on the inside, fashion fabric on the exterior, wrist strapdangling at one end. The unstitched section in the lining seam needs to beclosed, hand stitching is best.


Finished muff showing single back seam and wrist loop.

Seasons change in a country way.

2011-12-22T17:17:00.000-05:00

First Jack Frost arrives, frosting all he touches with icy glitter.


Brown Eyed Susan's frozen in time.

Mother Goose shakes out her down comforter and a few feathers gently float down.


High Bush Cranberry in a snow blanket.

Old Man Winter barges in shaking off his boots and coat.


Another snowy day.

A Merry Yuletide to one and all.

May your New Year be happy and prosperous.
I'll return to posting January 11th 2012.

Secret Santa.

2011-12-13T20:01:00.000-05:00

As an artisan with an Etsy shop I participate in various teams. One I am especially fond of and truly enjoy participating and chatting in is the Artists 4 Animals team. We all share a love of animals and help in whatever way we can those that are homeless, down trodden and ill. Some of the team members run shops on Etsy with the earnings being sent to specific animal charities. Others donate part of their sales or donate the proceeds from a specific item to an animal charity. We are all part of the solution to abuse and abandonment that is so frequently the lot of the unwanted and unloved pets and displaced wildlife.

Being Christmas and Yuletide I participated in the team's Secret Santa exchange. A big thank you goes out to our own Santa for organizing the fun. Below is a photo, shot with flash it paled out everything, of my surprise gifts from my Secret Santa.

Please check out these Etsy shops as their owners are part of the Artists 4 Animals team. Looking for more shops that help out animals in need? Go to Etsy and search using the tag "artists4animals".
BlackFridayStudios
valentinefiberarts
CalliopeRescueStore

Pondering patterns.

2011-12-07T19:59:00.001-05:00

Being done with making Christmas ornaments for my Etsy shop and the craft show next week I have been doing a bit of tidy up in my sewing studio. One thing led to another, next thing you know I'm happily sorting through totes full of patterns. Seems I have become the repository of the family's sewing patterns. Now all I have to do is mate them with fabric. Whoopee! I get to dive into the rest of the totes.
Some thing I read started my brain in gear thinking while I was sorting patterns. What makes clothing look vintage the most. Is it the cut and style or is it the fabric content and pattern or texture? I realize both together will date something but will substituting a fresh modern fabric for a 70's peace, hope and love print make the garment look forty years younger than it's design date?
The bloomers below have an old world look to them but a new age fabric. Soon these and other time traveler fashions will be featured for sale by Before Dark 30. Check back as the launch date for the web site and links is January 2012.

Ladies bloomers in cotton with a celestial print.

Elf shopping, just before Christmas.

2011-12-01T19:26:00.000-05:00

We are going to be part of the Elf Shopping Day at one of our local schools. December 10th. we along with a other local crafters, artisans and farmers will be at the Sharon Public School on Leslie Street in Sharon. Proceeds from the table costs will be going to fund projects and activities for the students.
Sharon is a beautiful old Ontario town. Home to the Sharon Temple and many heritage homes. Not far from here is also Holland Landing, the first fur trading post north of Muddy Little York, as Toronto was known as before Confederation. Here in the local Holland Landing park, Anchor Park, you can see a very old, made in 1815 and very large anchor.

We, that is my self and my daughter Victoria will be selling a variety of Christmas decorations and jewelry at the show. The Christmas decorations are all hand crafted by me out of fabric and sewing findings. Victoria will be selling her hand crafted artisan jewelry in pure copper, brass, and sterling silver. Splashes of colour are added by genuine stones, fire polished and art glass beads. We are plastic free and source our materials in North America. Please join us and have a Merry Christmas!

Christmas stocking by Anne-Marie

Brass and art glass bangles by Victoria

Cute Christmas Kittens.

2011-11-23T21:43:00.001-05:00

Monday's power hour for my Etsy store was fantastic. I chatted with many team members and came away with a big grin. I enjoyed the company of other artists and the frankness and humor of them. Best of all I am now able to send funds to Aslan's to help with their cat sanctuary. Three cheers for the artists4animals Etsy team.

With Christmas just a month away, time to deck the halls. I grew up with a real tree covered in hand blown glass balls and instead of lights tiny candles were lit in special holders that clipped onto the tree. A very dangerous tree by today's standards.

Keeping in mind children and pets and their ability to bump into trees I have in my Etsy shop a selection of none breakable ornaments. They are not made of glass and they definitely don't have a flame. Below is one of my pillow ornaments. To find out more about them click on the Etsy store link on this page. Here you will also find my hand made fabric Christmas stockings.

Remember to use coupon code BAA20 for a 20% discount off the price of everything in the shop, excluding shipping and handling. This discount is valid until December 5th. This the last day for economical North American postage rates.

We three kittens of Orient are, bearing gifts we travel afar.

Saving them one cat at a time.

2011-11-16T20:06:00.001-05:00

Show your support for ordinary people making a difference in the world one cat at a time.

Please visit this blog: Take Pity on the Kitties

Jaffa lying on his porch.

Neutering cats does more than the obvious of stopping more kittens that eventually become cats. Un neutered males are often rowdy fighters. They prowl and protect where they consider their home turf to be. My rescue cat Jaffa was rescued by me from his original rescue home all because of an un neutered male cat. His new loving home had turned into a nightmare as the Tom Cat living on the same street was a rowdy fighter. Aggressively this Tom kept going after Jaffa, the interloper as he saw him. So stitches, pills and bills later he moved to my country home and a happier way of life. Now he can go out onto a porch and patrol a veggie garden for mice without getting beaten up and bloody.

Below is a picture of one of my recycled denim mini totes. The tote price, less Etsy and PayPal fees will be donated to www.takepittyonthekitties.blogspot.com to help cover the costs of neutering feral cats.

donation for feral cats

a few others still available

Give away of artisan crafted work.

2011-11-09T20:18:00.000-05:00

front view of pot holders and towel

I am part of a give away of artisan crafted work comprised of everything from nuts to soap, housewares to jewelry. Here is the link you will need to participate and have a chance at an item you'd like to own.

Life Full of Laughter Blog

To the the right and below are photos of what I have donated to the give away. Firstly let me say I have similar sets listed on Etsy for $28 and that we were asked that our hand made product supplied be a minimum value of $25.00. The kitchen set includes two patch work quilted pot holders and 100% cotton {from India} towel with appliqued fabric border. Winter snow men in bright cheery reds, greens and golds on a blue background are mixed with candy canes and hard candy drops in bright cheery reds, greens and white on green and red backgrounds. I chose to use a coffee colored towel as there are coffee and browns in the snowman print. Also coffee brown is a great color to use in the kitchen as stains blend right in.

Please visit:
Made With Love Giveaway Event
and enjoy looking at all the wonderful hand crafted items by artisans on Etsy while you enter the give away.

Waste not, want not, recycle.

2011-11-02T20:01:00.000-04:00

Why is it that when clothing reaches the most comfortable to wear stage is it almost worn out? Usually it is only worn out for what it is, and there are perfectly useful parts left, just not where they do any good. For example, the knees wear out in pants and the belly of the tee shirt gets clicked and stained. So here's where recycling and upcycling come in to play.
Cut the legs off the jeans and they are recycled into shorts and the bottom leg section is turned into an irresistible mini tote. Just like the one I made below.


Hot Peppers, available on Etsy.

Take the back of the tee shirt and upcycle it into a pair of fingerless mitts. Just like the ones I made here.


Available on Etsy soon.

As the saying goes....waste not want not. I do custom work, you can supply your own favorite jeans or tee shirt and I will recycle them just for you.

Goodbye and good crafting till next week.

Out of the Box Sampler and new items.

2011-10-26T18:41:00.009-04:00

Back on track with timing this week. So far no high winds and power outages.
Looking to the left you will see a new button added to the blog. This is for the "Out of the Box Sampler" a really neat way to promote hand made products. In a nut shell you purchase for the cost of shipping a box full of samples and regular sized items from various artisans, only hand made items. Balmy Attic Arts is in the November box. November will be one of our hand made felt ornaments and a discount of $5.00 on a future purchase. Click on the button to find out more about this wonderful way to sample hand made wares.
Above and below are a tease of the new fingerless mitts going into the Etsy shop this week. You will now be able to purchase our "balmy sets". Each set contains one pair of the regular length mitts, one pair of shortie over mitts and two or three bracelets made of glass and crystal beads. All fingerless mitts are made of up-cycled or recycled t-shirt knit. This means they are super soft and washable. The bracelets are new one of a kind and orphan beads. They are threaded onto copper, brass or bronze wire and have a hook clasp. Of course you can slip them on like a bangle. Best though, no stretchy plastic thread to break and embarrass you with run away beads.

Lavender sachet, as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4.

2011-10-22T16:22:00.009-04:00

Over the last few posts I have told you what to assemble to make a lavender sachet. This cute as a button sachet can hang over a coat hanger or on a hook in your closet as well as tuck into a drawer.
To the left are the materials I have chosen to use along with a pinch of fiberfill stuffing and a generous helping of my home grown lavender.

My lady bug cotton was cut into a four inch by six inch rectangle then folded as shown. The two corners on the fold were rounded, I drew around a large thread spool as a guide line, and the raw edges were turned back and ironed. Then the sides were stitched using the smallest seam allowance possible and the resulting bag was then turned right side out.

Next I added the pinch of fiberfill and the lavender. After cutting a length of trim to about eight inches I inserted it like a handle into the bag top. Next I stitched the top of the bag closed with a running stitch and then pulled up the thread slightly to gather the top. Make sure to secure the trim at both ends being used as the handle.
To finish it off and add a touch of fashion I hand stitched trim around the top to cover the gathering stitches. Last but not least I added the two buttons to the center front top with contrasting thread.

Done and ready to hang. Warning, making these is an addictive way to use up all the bits and bobs in your sewing stash you just can't bare to part with.

Time for quilts, Indian Summer has past.

2011-10-12T20:45:00.005-04:00

Moving right along to quilt weather now that Indian Summer is over.
We just had the most perfect Indian Summer weather for the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend and as a result I spent the whole long weekend in the garden. Cleaning up before old man winter arrives. Now everything looks desolate with out the usual profusion of plant leaves and blossoms. There are however grapes on the vines, Virgina creeper berries, honey suckle berries and high bush cranberries for colour. The birds enjoy the dried fruit all winter as well.
I left one patch of painted daisies by the side of the drive despite the fact they had been frosted and were struggling. The few flower heads were so covered with bumble bees, sometimes two and three to each flower, I just didn't have the heart to disturb them.
Two more Serbian spruces have found permanent homes along the fence line. We moved them from where they had grown under the edge of the deck for the last three summers to open spots along our northern fence. The little darlings are self set seeds from one of our other trees. This makes three to date that we have got "free of charge" from mother nature.
Needless to say I enjoyed the great outdoors and completely missed doing the photo's to go with the instructions for the lavender sachet. If I have a chance they will be added this weekend or next Wednesday.

Sachets and buttons.

2011-10-05T19:55:00.005-04:00

Last week I promised a lesson on making a lavender sachet. That will be next week as my home grown lavender is not quite dry enough to use.
In advance you can raid your fabric scraps for several small pieces about half the size of a sheet of paper or 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches. Size is approximate, use what you have to hand. You will use one piece of fabric this size per sachet. Also you will need a single nice button and some ribbon or narrow trim, approximately 18 inches for each sachet you make. To bulk out and make the sachet softer in shape have some fiber fill, quilt batting or cut up strips of panti hose on hand as well. Hand sewing needle, thread and scissors. This is a hands on low tech high reward craft. What you use to scent your sachet is up to you. Options include dried lavender [my favorite], or any fragrant herb or potpourri mix. In a pinch you can use a cotton pad soaked in scented oil. So off with you till next week and find your supplies.

As the mist rises from the garden in the evening we are reminded fall is rapidly gaining momentum and Canadian Thanksgiving is this weekend. May everyone have a happy one with family and friends.

Of scare crows and sage.

2011-09-28T19:23:00.004-04:00

I just adore the scare crow and pumpkins in the corn field fabric in my latest pair of pot holders. There are metallic highlights on this totally washable fabric as well. Each front is a unique mix of fabrics in a crazy quilt design. Two layers of batting and binding added by hand make these one of a kind. Along with the Halloween bats and boos of last week they will be making their debut on Etsy saturday the first of October.

Yeah, the tomatoes are done for another year. This last week was spent picking herbs and tying them in bunches to dry. Lavender for sachets, catnip for toys and mice, sage for stuffing and bread sticks, mint for tea and candies and last but not least basil for pasta sauces.
Next week I'll post a pattern for making a lavender sachet. see you then!

1 tomato, 2 tomato, 3 tomato.....oh no there is more!

2011-09-21T18:12:00.012-04:00

Yes the processing of tomatoes from our over abundant crop is still going on. This week I have been seeding and dicing hard green tomatoes. Frozen in three cup and six cup batches they will be used later in the fall to make Chutney. More about making this delectable condiment in later posts.

The herb garden has also been yielding well this summer. I air dried a lot of dill. The fronds or leaves dry to a dull shade of green and just a pinch rubbed between the fingers adds so much flavor to scrambled eggs. Homemade bread sticks also benefit from rubbed dill fronds being added. A quick way to make bread sticks is by using Fleischmann's Pizza Yeast and instead of making the dough recipe given on the back into a round pizza shape make it into a rectangle. Add about two tablespoons of rubbed dill into the flour being used. Cut into half inch strips, give a few twists, put on a baking sheet and bake as instructed on the yeast package. They go great with soups and dips.

Last but not least I have been making more of my crazy quilt style pot holders. This time in Halloween and fall prints. Coming to Etsy soon.

Late summer tomato harvest.

2011-09-14T19:28:00.012-04:00

Just can't bring myself to say fall or autumn yet despite the fact the tomatoes are falling off the plants. Even though early summer got off to a soggy start and moved right on into a three week heat wave there is a bumper crop of Roma Italian type tomatoes in the back garden.

Only so many tomatoes can be eaten fresh. Canning or putting sauce into jars takes time which right now is in short supply. Yes I know, tomatoes can be frozen whole or chopped with no further preparation than washing. This however takes up lots of freezer space and still needs further cooking or processing when defrosted.

The elegant and least time consuming and space saving method of preserving is to juice them then freeze them for later use. Easy to do in an evening while making dinner or blogging. First you will need clean ripe tomatoes, head on out to the garden and find some. Next you will need to wash, roughly chop [say into quarters] and put in a large pot. I use a stainless steel dutch oven with a copper bottom. Fill pot about two thirds full, any more and you risk splatters and boil overs. Add one to two cups of cold water to the pot, this prevents sticking and burning until the juice starts to flow. Bring to the boil. Let simmer about half an hour, a bit more time simmering is fine, this is not an exact science. Make sure to stir once in awhile to prevent sticking and to break up the tomatoes a bit more.
Once simmered to mush stage, first picture, cool till you can handle easily with out burning yourself. Strain through a colander while stirring with a spoon [ I use a wooden one] into a container [I use an 2 liter measuring cup], see second picture. Compost seed and skins and pour the lovely thick juice into freezer containers. I use square containers and once the juice is frozen pop it out of the container, wrap like an old fashioned ice cream brick in waxed paper and store several in a larger freezer bag. There are one cup bricks and two cup bricks in my freezer. The first to add to soups, stews and gravies the second size to add to instant rice, cous cous and other boiled grains.

I find having my own organically grown juice to hand makes winter meals just a bit brighter, no pun intended. Not just Roma but any variety of tomato can be juiced and frozen this way. Always reheat to boil to prevent any chance of bacteria contamination when using your own frozen juice.
Enjoy!

Ginger butter cookies, as promised.

2011-09-07T17:50:00.010-04:00

Last week was a preview of my
Gingerbread Men Christmas ornaments. To inquire about price and pre-order before they appear on Etsy just contact me through the blog or click on Etsy and send a convo.

This week here is the cookie recipe that is include with them.

Ingredients from your pantry shelf:
1 egg
1/3 cup of brown sugar
1/3 cup of white sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla
3 heaping teaspoons of ground ginger
1/3 of a cup of butter
1 level teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
dash of salt
Put all of these items in a bowl and use a hand mixer on slow speed till well mixed together.
Add the following alternating dry and wet ingredients. Mixing after each addition.
2 level cups of all purpose flour
1/2 cup of milk
Depending on your flour you may need to add up to 2 tablespoons of water to make the batter less firm.
Optional: add 1/2 cup of dried fruit of you choice chopped [I use raisins].
Drop by tablespoons onto a no stick baking sheet. Cover with a bit of wax paper and flatten with a fork. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch them closely as the brown sugar makes them more prone to burn. Yield 24 to 30 cookies.
The batter can be stored in the fridge for several days and a few cookies baked fresh each night after school or dinner. I found this the best way to make them last as baking them all in one night just meant they mostly got eaten in one night.
Enjoy the smell of baking ginger so reminiscent of fall and Christmas!

Ginger bread or is it gingerbread?

2011-08-31T20:16:00.006-04:00

One word or two or does it matter? As promised here is a preview of the little darlings I have been making. Starting out in life as a scrap of cotton muslin the transformation to no calorie gingerbread men takes lots of love, a bit of stuffing, layers of paint and varnish and just the right vintage buttons and scarf. Made to either stand on the mantle or hang on a tree or garland. These little delectable gents can decorate your house from Thanksgiving to Christmas.
Available though Etsy soon. When shipped they arrive with a melt in your mouth gingery butter cookie recipe.
ps: Next week I'll post the recipe here!

Cleanliness is next to craftyness.

2011-08-24T19:29:00.003-04:00

Such lovely summery peach shades in both my day lily and baby quilt. Look close and you will see the butterflies that cover the quilt fabric. Soon to be listed on Etsy for your precious little one.

Back to my title, cleanliness is next to craftyness. I just finished the quarterly deep cleaning of my studio room. Everything is vacuumed, and dusted, the floor and windows washed. Now I can get on with creating for fall and winter. I tidy, dust, vacuum and straighten up as I go along but with the nature of fabric and the threads and lint it produces I have deep clean on a regular basis or succumb to dust allergies. Bit of a rant happening here too. Lately on some of the forums and teams I belong to artisans and crafters have been chatting about how they forgo housework to craft and they take pride in the wreckage called a work space. Sorry, not me. I have more respect for my work and the people who buy it to treat my tools and space in a slovenly manner. Let's put it all in perspective here, no body wants to buy from a dirty store and my studio room in my home is my work space and my store.

Please check back next week for a preview picture of the adorable ginger bread men I'm creating in fabric and paint. Guaranteed to be zero calories. The cookie recipe included with them......well it has calories but not too many.

Ketchup is King

2011-08-17T15:08:00.001-04:00

Frustrated with the commercial jewelry and metal cleaners available on the market, Anne-Marie and I spent one summer afternoon a couple years ago experimenting various common household items to find the cheapest and most effective solution.

We tried old lipstick, toothpaste, ketchup, and vinegar.

To our amazement, the ketchup provided the easiest and quickest clean for wire and glass jewelry.

Behold, a highly oxidized copper and art glass necklace:

Add some watered down ketchup:

Gently rub the jewelry piece in the ketchup and rinse in clean water:

Lay jewelry piece on a cotton towel (something with no "fuzz") and roll gently to remove most of the water, let air dry to complete the process.

And voila! Clean, sparkling jewelry once more!

Note!

I do not recommend ketchup as a cleaner for jewelry with soft, semi-precious stones in it, as the acid in the ketchup can (and will!) etch the stone and/or cause it to become unstable and crumble.

Pure white

2011-08-16T18:53:00.000-04:00

Our self-set portulacas have bloomed, and they're a rare white flower:

Tomorrow's post will be a quick and easy jewelry cleaning trick featuring ketchup. Yes, ketchup =)

Sorting, sorting and stashing.

2011-08-10T19:14:00.008-04:00

Sorting, sorting and stashing and destashing our sewing, jewelry and craft materials. There are three generations of us bound and determined to get things under control. I don't subscribe to the theory of the one with the most wins. Why hold onto something you have neither the time or the inclination anymore to use? All of us found we spent more time pawing though bins of patterns, fabric and the like rather than creating.
I opened a new Etsy shop and the three of us are albeit slowly adding stock from our stashes.

neverwares is the name of our shop. Just click on over to Etsy to find us.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/neverwares?ref=si_shop

Check out our store bio and feel free to paw and root through our destash for exactly what you are looking for. I'm trying to add items everyday but realistically twice a week seems to be working best.

Every life deserves 9 cats.

2011-07-27T19:18:00.006-04:00

We have reduced all our bag inventory in our Etsy store to $25.00 or less each.
Now is the time to buy as we do not normally run sales or discount our one of a kind items.
To the left is the oh so sweet kitten print lining inside one of the "every life deserves 9 cats" line of totes Anne-Marie creates. Check out the Etsy listing via our store on the side bar to see the 9 kittens portrayed on the outside.

New Section

2011-07-14T19:32:00.007-04:00

Pattern Series Name Change:

As we reported last week, Balmy Attic Arts has decided to change the name of the "Weekend Warrior" series to "Simply Make-It!"

The series will be available for free currently. That is to say we will be refining the patterns and selling them as pdf files in the future. So get'em while the getting is good.

The "Bring & Build" series of free, creative commons copyrighted patterns will continue. No guarantees on when they are posted, you'll just have to follow the blog to get them.

Free Patterns Section:

This new section on the blog is an archive for all of the past free patterns available to the public under creative commons copyright. It is the new home for the "Bring & Build" series of patterns.

This page will be continuously updated as we publish new patterns. All patterns will be available with a link to the original blog post and a link to a GoogleDocs PDF file for printing ease.

Check out this new page on the left-hand navigation panel.

Spuds for Spudnik

2011-07-13T21:32:00.001-04:00

We've spent the past couple of days digging up potatoes of every size... And just finished hoeing the rows for more. We may get sick of potatoes...

In other news; our Yucca has flowered! It does so only in the very hot, very dry summers. Even then, sometimes it doesn't have a chance because the ants eat into it's flower stocks.

Simply Make-It! Country Rosette Pin

2011-07-06T17:12:00.001-04:00

A new "Simply Make-It!" pattern by Balmy Attic Arts. Be careful though, these little charmers are addictive to make and wear...

Tools:

hand sewing needle
scissors

Materials:

pin back [for clothing] or stick pin with tip [ for hat and hair]
single ornate button
two lengths of lace approzimately eighteen inches long [one should be narrower than the other]
thread of a matching or similar colour

Construction:

Form each length of lace into a tight circle or rosette. Do this by gathering one edge with a running stitch, pulling tight to form a circle, and secure ends together with a few stitches.
Stack smaller diameter lace rosette on top of larger rosette, then place the button on top in the centre. secure all three together by stitching through buttong holes or shank and both layers of lace.
Secure by either stitching or glueing the lace and button completed rosette to a pin back or sitck pin.

Done!

Wear as a fancy Country style pin on your jacket; add a dash of frivolity to your hat or add to a velvet ribbon as a choker.

Note: We've changed the title of the "Weekend Warrior" series to "Simply Make-It!", more details at a later date.

Back to Work

2011-07-02T16:22:00.004-04:00

Canada Post has been legislated back to work. Great news to all of us entrepreneurs and small business owners who relied on the mail to deliver our products. It was nice of the posties to deliver government support cheques to individual and families while those of us who work for our living and depend on the mail delivery system for our income were left out in the cold. A point to ponder: with out us working we can't contribute by our taxes to help those that can't help themselves.

To celebrate back to work our Etsy site will be having random promotional prices on select work and other goodies for the purchaser. Can't have you guys forgetting we exist after almost a month of "vacation". This is our first Hey Remember Us Sale. Listings will start Monday July 4th 2011 and continue at random until September 4th 2011.

Check out the lace pins above and to your right. This Thursday's free pattern will by how to make them.

Bring & Build: Muffin Top Pincushion

2011-05-26T14:21:00.003-04:00

Reading through the instructions before starting and taking care to use sharp tools will make this an easy and rewarding evening project.

Materials needs to make one muffin top pincushion:

plastic cap from a liquid detergent jug [we used a Tide cap]
1 scrap of knit fabric about 10 inches by 10 inches for the muffin top [we used left overs from a beanie baby kit]
1 scrap of knit fabric about 8 inches by 8 inches for muffin bottom [pantyhose, thin sock, etc. works well]
2 fist sized balls of fibrefill, chipped foam or stuffing recycled from a pillow
1/2 cup of rice or lentils [approximate]
thread, scrap of trim of folded fabric and a button or charm for added glitz

Here we have a Tide^TM laundry detergent lid and the bottom of a Body Shop^TM Body Butter container. The fabric is stretch velvet left-over from another project.

Tools:

Hand sewing needle
Scissors
Drawing compass

Here we go:

These instructions are a guide and the materials are best suggestions. We are using items that need a second purpose in life other than taking up space in a landfill site. Substitue what you have on hand, for example; any small, deep, round plastic contained will do instead of a laundry detergent cap. T-shirts are a great source of soft colourful knit fabric

Cut muffin top fabric into a circle about 3 times the diamater of the plastic cap [see the picture above].

Run a gathering stitch around the edge, pull in slightly, stuff with fibrefill, pull tight to close and secure firmly.

Cut muffin base fabric into a circle about 2-1/2 times the diameter of plastic cap.

Run a gathering stitch around the edge, pull in slightly, add rice, pull tight to close and secure firmly.

Anchor muffin top to muffin bottom securely with stitches.

Insert completed muffin into plastic cap.

Finished off by using trim or folded fabric to hide threads on plastic cap and secure and cover ends with button or charm.

Your Muffin Top Pincushion is now ready to use.

If you use this pattern for other than your own use [kids groups, etc.] please credit Balmy Attic Arts and pass on our blog's web address. We post "easy do, save the landfill space" patterns several times a year and would like to spread them to more crafters.

Muffin top pin cushion, coming soon!

2011-05-25T18:56:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow's post will be how to make the muffin top pin cushion shown to the right.

The Magic Disappearing Cake

2011-05-19T09:35:00.002-04:00

As promised on Sunday, I present to you Anne's take on the quick and easy chocolate cake.

It's so good, it'll disappear within 24 hours! (In our household at least)

Ingredients:

1-1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup cocoa
1/3 cup margarine/butter
3/4 cup milk
3/4 cup sugar (white)
1 egg
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
dash of salt

Instructions:

Mix the cocoa into the flour to prevent a dust cloud of cocoa.

Mix all ingredients except flour/cocoa mix.

Add flour/cocoa mix SLOWLY.

Beat with electric handmixer or fork.

You MAY need to add up to 3 tablespoons of water - depending on what type of flour you use, atmospheric humidity, etc.

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

Line a non-stick, round, 8 inch cake pan with waxed paper (cut to fit bottom only).

Pour in batter; level with a spoon.

Bake for 25-30 minutes.

Cool 5 minutes.

Take out of pan and eat.

Note:

This cake does not keep well - it will dry out after a day or so. It will freeze well... If you can keep it from the family =)

A change in the weather

2011-05-14T10:47:00.000-04:00

Sorry for not updating on the usual day, Blogger has been having some "technical issues" surrounding log-in.

The weather has taken a drastic change in our little valley of the world - we have heavy cloud cover and it's been threatening to rain for 3 days.

Because it's such a dreary day here, we've decided that today's post is brought to you by the colour yellow. It's a cheerful colour, and we happen to have a couple flowers in bloom right now with yellow petals...

Our one small plant of yellow tulips. It blooms every year, and looks quite striking against the wooden post and farm gate.

Last year Anne really cut this Forsythia back, as such, we didn't get a very good bloom. This year however, the showing is better than in the past 3 years.

Next Wednesday, be sure to stop by for a quick and easy chocolate cake recipe made from real cocoa.

First flowers of spring

2011-05-03T19:03:00.001-04:00

Last week was a whirl-wind of activity here, with two shows over the span of three days. But I did manage to snap a quick photo of the first flowers to show their visage during the almost constant rain. Maybe we'll have enough violets to candy this year.

Teaser!

2011-04-24T21:13:00.000-04:00

The crafting bug has hit us all! Anne-Marie and I are getting ready for the Fairly Bazaar on Thursday, and I've managed to snap a quick photo of some Balmy Bangles. Kinda like potato chips - you can't have just one...

Fairly Bazaar

2011-04-20T11:09:00.000-04:00

Balmy Attic Arts will be attending the Dr. Denison Fairly Bazaar on Thursday, April 28 at 6pm.

About the Fairly Bazaar

The Dr. Denison Fairly Bazaar is hosted by Dr. John M Denison Secondary School’s Eco-Ethical club. A group that is made up of devoted students from grade 9-12 who are passionate about the environment.

The Fairly Bazaar is an annual event, that encourages the use of and introduces the local community to environmentally friendly, local and socially aware lifestyle options. Organizations and companies from around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are invited to attend and set up information booths or sell merchandise to demonstrate to students and the community the different environmentally and ethically sound choices available.

There is also a fashion show called FASHION4U, where students from Dr. Denison model clothes and accessories to showcase wonderful and environmental couture.

Below is a map with the school's location;

View Larger Map

Sunny day.

2011-04-13T17:59:00.004-04:00

A beautiful sunny day and no need to wear winter boots as it is starting to warm up as well. As promised I have added pictures of the finished choker to the pattern.
For all you following our Bring and Build section which focuses on reusing what would be thrown into the recycling bin, or the last resort box as I call it, a new item to make will be presented in May. Save your liquid laundry detergent caps, the large ones you get on Tide, Gain or what ever you use. I will be showing you how to make a pin cushion. Great project for all ages and works well for camp groups and Brownies.
Today's picture is of the butterfly baby quilt I made and one of the many colours of day lilies grown naturally in my garden. This and other quilts I make will be for sale at the East Gwillimbury Farmers' Market starting the weekend after Victoria Day.

Spring treats.

2011-04-07T20:28:00.005-04:00

Spring treat for the cats. The catnip has sprouted and is almost an inch high except where they have rolled on it and flattened the poor plants. Happens every spring along with smears of green juice and leaves along their faces.
Spring treat for people. I have added a new pattern as promised to the Weekend Warrior page. A picture of the finished choker will be add in the next few days.

Above are two more shades of the 4'o clocks or Marvel of Peru flowers. A pale candy floss pink with a sweet scent to match and a startling bright pink edged in magenta with a heady richer sweet scent. These too will be available from Balmy Attic Arts at the local farmers' market.
Enjoy the lovely warm weather we have been promised for the weekend.

Spring has sprung,

2011-03-30T19:30:00.007-04:00

To the right is a picture from last spring. Sorry, this spring is not that far along. The iris plants have just pushed an inch of green leaf through the soil as of today. Back to the lovely yellow flowers to the right commonly known as 4'o Clocks or Marvel of Peru. They bloom in the late afternoon, after 4'o clock and have the most heavenly scent.
Last week I promised an article on how to make plant or seed markers and reuse rather than recycle. Check the side link Bring and Build for the details.

Of snow and seeds.

2011-03-23T20:14:00.008-04:00

Despite today's snow storm making the ground all white it is time to think of green grass and growing plants. There are seeds to be sorted and planting locations to be planned along with a hundred and one other garden related jobs.
Next week, March 31st. in the "Bring and Build" section I'll describe how to turn empty plastic gallon containers into the best marking stakes a gardener could want. Save your empty one gallon or larger plastic containers with straight sides and a square or rectangular shape. Good ones to save are vinegar, water, cat chow and windshield washer.
The following week, April 7th. I have a new free pattern for an easy to make divine spring accessory.

Pleasant peasant skirt for you.

2011-03-16T17:17:00.008-04:00

In the fall of last year a Weekend Warrior pattern was posted for a peasant skirt. Above is a picture of one completed in poly-cotton. Also a line drawing has been added to the instructions for clarity.

Many people have asked my why I give the pattern for free for a skirt I make and sell. Well, it's like this.........once you make one will understand it takes time and a bit of concentration to get the tiers to gather just right. Not everyone has the luxury of time or would prefer to spend their time embellishing a well made garment with trim, embroidery, paint or appliques to make it uniquely theirs.

We are back !

2011-03-09T18:57:00.003-05:00

Balmy Attic Arts blog is up and running again. Look in on us on a Thursday morning as updates will be done on a Wednesday evening.

Single strands

2010-10-01T18:47:00.002-04:00

Just the wardrobe basic you need. Wear just one for a hint of colour or layer as many as you want. Available in three metals, brass, copper and sterling silver with your colour choice of glass bead or semi-precious stone bead. Priced by the material used and by the inch. Order what you really want or chose from our ready made selection.

Hand crafted from brass and firepolished Czech Slovakian glass beads, this necklace is extra-long -- 23.5 inches long.

Tequila Sunrise

2010-09-23T17:32:00.002-04:00

Entitled "Tequila Sunrise" this piece is a part of the Spring 2011 "Cocktails" jewelry line (limited edition!!) from Balmy Attic Arts. Crafted from bronze and art glass, this necklace measures 19 inches, including the handmade clasp.

Weekend Warrior: Pull-On Peasant Skirt

2010-09-07T15:43:00.007-04:00

A fun, swishy peasant skirt to wear to the market, add a waist cincher to become a Renaissance wench or drop to your hips and add a scarf and become one with your gypsy self.

Fits up to a 56 inch hip.

Notes:

Always seam right sides together.

Measurements are given in inches, as the majority of patterns we sew with originate in the USA who still use the Imperial system of measurement. Many sewers, out of habit, use this system. Feel free to convert the measurements to Metric; just remember to round-up slightly if necessary.

Instructions:

The finished skirt sits on either your hips or waist and goes from mid-calf to ankle, depending where you wear it. Measure from waist or hip to hem (where you want the skirt to stop) and divide by 3, this is the 3 tiers. Add an inch to each measurement for seam allowances & narrow hem. Using 45 or 36 inch wide fabric cut 9 panels out the width of the fabric by your tier measurement. Cut out 2 more panels but add 2.5 inches instead of 1 inch.

Stitch the panels short edges together; 6 for the bottom, 3 for middle and the two largest ones for the top, then stitch the panel ends together to form closed bands. The extra inches on the top tier is for the fold over to create the waist band.

Run a gathering stitch around one edge (top) of bottom tier and one edge (top) of middle tier. Gather top of bottom tier to fit bottom of middle tier (un-gathered bottom edge), stitch together. Gather top of middle tier to fit bottom of top tier, stitch together.

To hem, fold up approximately ½ inch on bottom edge of third tier, press and stitch. To form casing for elastic waist, fold over top approximately 2 inches, press, stitch close to fold, then again approximately 1 to 1.5 inches below fold. Leave a section of waist band open to insert elastic; try on, adjust, then stitch closed.

To help you figure it all out:

My length is 36 inches. This is the 3 layers of 12 inches. That means 9 panels get measured and cut at 13 inches and 2 panels get measured and cut at 14.5 inches.

The fabric needed is 9 X 13 inches and 2 times 14.5 inches. This is about 4 metres. At $2 per metre (bargain section prices) this is under $12, including taxes. Putting trim around the hem gives it swish and shape. You will need 7 metres, or buy 3 for $1 trim and get 9 metres for less than $5.

Shopping List:
Fabric 36 or 45 inches wide _______________________________
Elastic – hips + a bit (~1 or 2 inches) ________________________
Trim – at least 7 metres __________________________________
Thread – 1 spool matched (as closely as possible) to fabric colour

Special earring promotion

2010-09-05T18:27:00.003-04:00

Today starts our 1 week promotion on Etsy where any earrings put up during our August Special can be purchased at 50% off the retail price (max. 3 pairs).

Life gets in the way sometimes...

2010-09-01T19:05:00.008-04:00

...and so do seasonal allergies. I was sneezing so hard over the past week, I couldn't see. My exam timetable also got revised for the 3rd time, and they are only required to give me 24 hours notice of a change to the timetable.

oops *juggle*

Keep your eyes peeled, because the next Weekend Warrior pattern will be released on September 6, and is versatile enough for Halloween AND mundane use.

In other news; as many of you know, the promised 3 earrings on Monday, and super special set for Tuesday were not put up on Etsy. Because of my screwy schedule this week, I have ended the August Customer Appreciation Special early.

But fear not!

Because to make up for it, for the first complete week of September (i.e. the 5th to the 11th), any of the earrings put up during the August Special will be 50% off the retail value (max. 3 pairs). If you are interested in more than one pair of earrings during this time frame, please convo us for a special listing.

More earrings on special

2010-08-29T17:42:00.003-04:00

There were no new earrings posted on Etsy yesterday or today because of school commitments. Tomorrow (Monday 30th) will have three new earrings on 50% off retail, and Tuesday will have two new earrings, and a special set (more details, and sneak peeks tomorrow) on 50% off the retail price.

Fishbowls

2010-08-27T07:52:00.005-04:00

I have another exam today and I also move a bunch of my stuff into Residence. The next couple of days will be a little hectic as I un-pack and attend a mandatory training session tomorrow. The August Special may be put on hold - I will have to see when I get to North Bay. If that is the case, next week I will putting two pairs up (i.e. Sunday to Tuesday)

Today's new pair of earrings have a story attached - "the Fishbowl" is a drink served at a local bar in North Bay. It glows under the lights a blue-green colour and is served in a 6 inch beta fishbowl (no fish, just ice, are added to the drink).

Learning to climb

2010-08-26T10:04:00.008-04:00

Our youngest cat is almost 3 years old and still doesn't know how to climb/jump. In our backyard is a walled garden with a type of Roman shade overhanging it. Anyways, all of the cats like to climb it and run along the ridge pole.

It was amusing a few weeks ago, that instead of jumping on top of the wall (as the other cats do), he used the terraced flowerpot shelves to walk up to the top of the wall. He tried to pull himself on top of the shade, and looked so pathetic (he kinda just hung there with his feet kicking wildly), that I had to lift him onto the shade.

Once he was there, we had a wonderful morning playing hide and seek.

Today's new pair of earrings appear to be losing their colour! (figuratively)

Bring & Build: T-shirt to Trivet

2010-08-25T22:36:00.007-04:00

Finished Size:
8 inches across

Total Time:
1-1/2 hours

Materials:

Notes:

Cutting & Linking Instructions:

6) Continue linking strips together until they are one continuous strip.

Crochet Instruction: Basic Granny Square

The finished trivet!

Yipee! 1 down, 3 to go

2010-08-25T13:15:00.005-04:00

Today I finished one of my four exams, yipee! I'm *that* much closer to finishing my degree.

The trivet pattern will be released a little later as a different blog post.

Today's new pair of earrings use only one metal - copper

Trivet? Huh?

2010-08-24T11:24:00.006-04:00

Tomorrow will be the first of our Bring & Build series. We will be posting the instructions as a blog entry.

The first project will be crocheting a charming country trivet (see photo) from an old unisex large t-shirt.

A trivet is an object (usually a short, metal stand) used for putting hot pots and pans on when serving a meal.

Today's new pair of earrings display a certain corporate sophistication

Grass green earrings

2010-08-22T10:46:00.004-04:00

Today's pair of earrings were inspired by the image of tigers stalking through the grass

Dreary damp day

2010-08-21T10:22:00.007-04:00

We're getting weather more suited to September and October; barely reaching 23°C during the day and over-cast, threatening rain.

The cats demand better weather - they've sent requests in triplicate.

Today's new pair of earrings should raise the spirits

Weekend Warrior changes and new projects

2010-08-20T10:01:00.004-04:00

Along with the Weekend Warrior series will be other projects we've come up with to help save "stuff" from landfill sites (i.e. laundry detergent caps, odd scraps of fabric, old t-shirts, etc).

This new segment will be called "B&B"; meaning Bring & Build. Bring your scraps out from hiding, and Build a useful "something" (pincushion, bag, cushion, etc.).

We will be adding a new page over the weekend to explain the premise of this new series.

Today's new pair of earrings are a perfect match to your favourite pair of jeans

Watering Cans and Butterflies

2010-08-18T16:53:00.005-04:00

I was taking pictures of new pieces for Etsy today - with the help of Savannah and Tiamat of course. Tiamat got bored, and attacked an innocent watering can then went on to butterflies and grass hoppers.

Today's new pair of earrings are inspired by the colours seen in the turning leaves of fall

Fuzzy inspectors

2010-08-17T12:32:00.005-04:00

We've put together another video for your enjoyment; this time featuring our fuzzy companions in their capacity as the catnip inspectors and taste testers...

Today's new pair of earrings are inspired by abstract art in it's myriad of forms

Spectacular Clouds

2010-08-15T21:38:00.009-04:00

We've had one exciting weekend! Because I move into residence early this year, my mother has been making clothing for me, and as such, been constantly bugging me all weekend. So... you get TWO new earrings on special today.

These dark green enameled copper earrings were inspired by the Celtic and Norse knotwork that decorates the European countryside

The second pair of earring for today, are a rustic style incorporating wire work and genuine red jasper stone chips

We've been having rain showers on and off all week, however, this evening we saw some spectacular cloud formations prior to the deluge of water. I don't recommend viewing the images at full size; they have been highly colour enhanced and brightened.

Mice Snackums & Soap Operas

2010-08-13T10:13:00.008-04:00

Our cats should have their own soap opera:

They have managed to the exhaust the mouse and rabbit population on our property, and have subsequently moved to our neighbours. This morning, Jaffa (our eldest tomcat) brought a live mouse home to teach our youngest (Tiamat) how to hunt. Savannah (one of "The Girls") stole it and proceeded to enjoy her stolen early morning snack.

See? It has all the making of a good soap; success and treachery, with a possible moral.

Does anyone else have pets (dogs, cats, even fish) who display such characteristic personalities?

Tomorrow is the day we draw a name for our first market bag.

Today's new pair of earrings is inspired by the distinctive twisted Arabic architecture.

Hot and Muggy

2010-08-12T10:33:00.006-04:00

It keeps threatening to rain, and the humidity hasn't let up in a few days. The pole beans are doing well, as are the Jerusalem artichokes, but not much else.

Today's new pair of earrings on Etsy were inspired by the the current retro-style fashion.

Rain, rain, go away!

2010-08-09T16:31:00.006-04:00

Well, we still have rain, and it's putting a halt to several projects we had planned for the week. Oh well, it's means other projects (i.e. home renovations) can continue.

Today's new pair of earrings is inspired by the Victorian era; full of decadence and feminine delicacy for the modern woman.

Rainy dayz & Sundays

2010-08-08T10:38:00.004-04:00

Rain has put a stop to any outdoor activities - even the four cats are inside snoozing. They are demanding that we exchange the rain for nicer weather, and feel hard done by.

Today's new pair of earrings are square, with a retro twist:

What we're working on:

2010-08-07T11:16:00.005-04:00

Today is a busy day for us at Balmy Attic Arts; we have patterns to work on for the Weekend Warrior series, we have weeding to do in the bean patch, and we have to take pictures of new styles for Hallowe'en and Christmas (speak peeks to come soon).

Today's new pair of earrings is inspired by the 60's "love-bead" retro:

It's Official! Hallowe'en is just around the corner!

2010-08-06T20:00:00.010-04:00

Summer has barely started, and the stores are putting Hallowe'en stuff out for sale. The snapdragons are starting to bloom, and already you can buy Hallowe'en home decor. The zucchini is starting to bear fruit, and you can see the fairy princess and vampire costumes hitting the racks in the kids' section.

Have a look at our heritage snapdragons:

This morning we had another large dragonfly grace our garden with its' presence:

Today's new pair of earring, available on Etsy, are a light blue, art glass lotus blossom. Hand crafted from sterling silver, this pair is mounted on sterling silver fish hooks. Remember: these will only be on special until tomorrow; then a new pair is put up!

August Treats

2010-08-05T12:54:00.004-04:00

Starting August 6 (yes, this Friday!), Balmy Attic Arts will be posting a new pair of earring every day (until August 31) on Etsy for sale.

Here's the catch:

Each pair of earring will be available at 50% off retail price for 24 hours ONLY.

So, if you see that perfect pair, buy them, because they won't be on sale again for a while.

Starting on August 8, we will be posting a "Weekend Warrior" segment where you can get instructions for easy projects to gift. You can find more information on these patterns at the link at the top of the page.

Tiamat say; "Be very, very quiet... I'm hunting good deals!"

A summer redesign

2010-07-12T09:22:00.009-04:00

We have recently redesigned our website. Take a gander over to the Balmy Attic Arts home page for biographies on the artist's in residence, their portfolios, and events that we will be attending.

http://www.balmyatticarts.com

Below is a preview of the website's homepage for your enjoyment.

Check out the New Layout

2010-06-11T11:57:00.009-04:00

So we've decided to change the layout a bit. We hope it's easier to navigate for our followers. We've also added a little mini-Etsy on the right hand side so you can go directly to our listings.

New media coming your way!

2010-06-01T18:39:00.011-04:00

Balmy Attic Arts is now on YouTube! Check us out, subscribe, and continue to watch our channel for products in use.

Click the links below to be taken to our channel and our first promotional video, featuring three of our fuzzy friends.

0ranget0ms YouTube Channel

Orange Tom's Finest Catnip Toys

Jaffa says; "The weather is fine, but the mice are lacking."

Welcome Friends!

2010-04-12T14:29:00.009-04:00

Welcome to the Balmy Attic Arts blog!

During the summer months I will be updating here with teaser pictures and videos of what Balmy Attic Arts is up to.

As I will be busy with exams, here's a brief look at a new summer inspired bracelet design.

Enjoy!

Victoria

The clasp of a new bracelet design (called "Merry Berry") that may or may not be available in a necklace style.