'Twas Brillig

Taking Shape...

2010-03-03T21:19:00.003-05:00

Slowly but surely my Newfoundland Fishing Sheds are taking shape!

Last week:

This week:This is all still background under-painting...the fun stuff begins soon. Well, as soon as all those lobster pots get blocked in!

I'm challenging myself to finish this painting in the next 2 weeks so I can have it featured (along with "Myrtle the Turtle") in a student art show at A Southern Studio during the Palustris Festival!

And all she wants to do is paint, paint, paint!

2010-02-17T20:05:00.003-05:00

(With apologies to Don Henley...)

I couldn't get a new canvas primed and sketched fast enough! My second painting is based on a photo I took in Newtown, Newfoundland in August 2008. The inspiration photo can be seen here.

Although I haven't progressed very far, my latest canvas is already showing dimensionality! It measures 20x30 inches.

I can't wait to start painting the water and all the reflections. Check out all those lobster traps just waiting to come to life!

Myrtle the Turtle! Finished at last....

2010-02-09T22:43:00.006-05:00

Myrtle the Turtle
18x24, Oil on Canvas

February 2010

I'm pleased to say that Myrtle is now finished! She will be framed later this week and once the oil paint dries, I will offer this original oil for sale. Giclees are already available and will start popping up in my Etsy store, The Tulgey Wood. Also look for Myrtle to appear on my newest blog, The Fine Art of Nancy Rawlinson, which will showcase only my oil paintings.

Myrtle the Turtle - latest detail...

2010-01-30T20:48:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to share my progress on Myrtle! All the background painting is complete now and the real fun begins in class this Monday night. I can't wait to start making her come to life!

Myrtle the Turtle

2010-01-24T21:20:00.006-05:00

Just a peek at my first oil painting.....Myrtle the Turtle!
18 x 24"

I built, stretched, primed and stained the canvas myself during my first class with Frank Pierce at A Southern Studio. The background & darks have been slapped in...can't wait to start adding detail!

Check back to see my progress!

Sunday Morning Artist Review ~ Heather's Haven

2010-01-17T18:45:00.010-05:00

Heather's Haven
Amazing Beaded Creations!

heathershaven2.blogspot.com
heathershaven.etsy.com
heathershaven.artfire.com

Ever have one of those artistic wishes that you know you'll never fulfill? Ever live vicariously through another artist? I say yes to both!

Meet Heather! And feast your eyes on these beautiful beaded dolls and accessories!

I can't express how much patience and artistic vision goes into each of her designs. You'll just have to look for yourself!

Heather is also an integral part of the Handmade Artists' Forum, taking the time to support her fellow artists and HAF Etsy Team members.

I'd like to share Heather's own words with you:

"I have this dream to one day wear long flowy skirts and big bold jewelry and play hostess at my own cafe/art gallery. For now I just play waitress, Suzie Homemaker and Martha Stewart.

My honey and I are both artists. We have six kids, two dogs and a couple of ex's. In our spare time we create our art. It's therapeutic."

I have no doubt that someday Heather will realize her dream!

Sunday Morning Artist Review ~ Seedlings, Jewelry Because

2010-01-10T07:31:00.004-05:00

Starting today, watch for the Sunday Morning Artist Review!

Seedlings, Jewelry Because
Handcrafted Jewelry inspired by Nature and the Universe

seedlingsjewelry.blogspot.com
seedlingsjewelry.etsy.com
seedlingsjewelry.com

Sharon Paradiso, the driving force behind Seedlings, is an inspiration and a breath of fresh air!
Not only does she create gorgeous jewelry but she does so using recycled, fair trade, eco-friendly, and green materials when possible.

Twenty percent of her profits are generously donated to Heifer International to help end hunger in the world.

Not willing to stop there, Sharon also selflessly takes the time to help other artists by regularly offering feedback on the Handmade Artists' Forum & by posting fantastic how-to articles on her Seedlings blog! She is always willing to share whatever tips and tricks she has picked up along the way.

Happy 2010! And is it Spring yet????

2010-01-03T08:37:00.003-05:00

Yes, these sentiments are a few days late but just as heartfelt nonetheless! I wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010!!!

I know it's only January....but it's 18F degrees outside right now and that is just a bit more than I can stomach. Worst part is that I know I have to bundle up to take Mariah the Wonderdog for a good long romp shortly.

So, is it any wonder I'm already looking forward to Spring? Just 2 months and the early daffodils will start peeking their golden heads into the air...and then the Bradford pear trees will put on their billowy show! Sigh... really, it's not all that far away!

Which brings me to the photo on the left! I've been featured in an Etsy Treasury for the first time!! Woot! I also sold my purple cow painting and he will be leaving Monday for his new home in New York City! No one told me that selling my art was going to be this much fun. :)

I'm looking forward to keeping in touch with all of you, dear readers, throughout the upcoming year....All kinds of new creative goodness is in the air! Stay tuned!!!

Merry Christmas to All!

2009-12-22T22:26:00.002-05:00

Because I am in a complete whir over everything lately...especially the studio shop and all that the holiday shopping season entails...I'm going to post this now before I forget!!!!

Merry Christmas to All! Here's hoping that this holiday season finds you all happy, healthy and surrounded by those you love!

I'm feeling particularly festive this year. For those of you who know me personally, you are aware that Christmas (in general) is not my favorite holiday. I'm usually pretty Grinchy. This year, however, I'm feeling a whole lot more relaxed, grounded and connected to my friends, family and community. It's been an interesting year, despite the economic trends, and I am truly thankful to have had the opportunity to run my own business, to create every single day, to learn more about my creativity, to grow as an artist and to have met some truly wonderful people that I now count as friends!

The support that I've received from so many sources is truly heartwarming and, to be honest, overwhelming! I've never been one to fit in very well so to have such support from my adopted downtown family is truly wonderful and inspiring! I love you all, my downtown Southern Pines friends!!!!

Thank you my customers, online fans & friends far and wide and old and new!!! I couldn't do all this without you!!!!! You keep me motivated! :)

I can't wait to see what 2010 brings!!!
Hope you'll share another year's journey with me.......

Dang! Where did the last month go?

2009-12-15T22:41:00.004-05:00

Well, once again, time has literally slipped away from me and I find another month gone. And things are changing fast!

The Tulgey Wood ('Twas Brillig on Etsy) is up and running with a broad selection of goodies ranging from dog toys to original paintings to Christmas ornaments! Check back often as things are being added all the time!

The Christmas shopping season is in full swing and I've really enjoyed visiting with friends, family, fans and folks who are just discovering my little Wonderland!

I hope you'll take a moment to browse my paintings....I'm pleased with how they are turning out. The White Rabbit & The Mad Hatter from the Alice in Wonderland series are now finished with The Red Queen nearing completion! I'm excited to announce that I sold my first art print of the Mad Hatter this past week!! Actually, that's my first art sale ever so you can understand why I am completely tickled!!!!!

My cow paintings, "Bethesda Belles" & "Some Days Are Moo" are also complete and available for sale as well, either at the studio shop or via The Tulgey Wood.

I have a few odd pieces in progress, most notably The Jabberwocky. Pictures will come soon!

One thing I definitely want to do is to thank all of you for following my little adventure in creativity! I appreciate every bit of feedback, good and not so.... it all helps me grow as an artist and artisan!

May your days be merry and bright!

New Shop Announcement and Other News!

2009-11-15T21:01:00.003-05:00

I mentioned in my last post that I'm moving 'Twas Brillig Online over to Etsy! The process has begun and, for awhile, my wares will appear in both places...although not duplicated on both.

The new shop on Etsy is called The Tulgey Wood. (The name 'Twas Brillig was already taken. Drat!) I hope you'll pop by and peruse the newest additions!

In other news, my painting of the three Hereford cows, titled "Bethesda Belles", is currently on display at Flynne's Coffee Bar and Downtown Gallery as part of the art show "Painting the Town." The art was created by local artists and each image depicts a scene from Southern Pines! Well worth stopping in to see if you're in area. Of course, all the works are available for purchase. Art makes a great Christmas gift!

Whoooooosh!

2009-10-23T20:10:00.004-04:00

Wow...nearly an entire month has passed without a post. Not intentional, I promise! I've just been busy working on new items for the studio shop and paintings.......paintings.....and more paintings!
The Alice in Wonderland series is temporarily on hold. In its place, I've been working on a piece called 'Bethesda Belles' which will be shown in the Paint the Town Art Show next month at Flynne's Coffee Bar in Southern Pines, NC. All the artwork at the show will feature scenes from Southern Pines!

I've also completed a small canvas (5x7") of a purple cow, titled 'Some Days are Moo" as well as a small canvas board (6x8") of a crow, titled 'The Sentinel.' Both of these items will be available for sale soon and I'm planning on offering prints as well.

In other news, 'Twas Brillig will be adding an Etsy shop, The Tulgey Wood! This online shop will be in addition to 'Twas Brillig Online for the short term and will eventually be the only place on the web to buy Brillig goodies!

Special Coupon for 'Twas Brillig

2009-09-26T21:23:00.003-04:00

Here's a special coupon for you, my loyal readers!
(That's my Snowshoe kitty, Hercules, presenting you with this Halloween offer!)

Update on 'Alice in Wonderland' Series...

2009-09-17T22:48:00.002-04:00

Here are more photos from my new "Alice in Wonderland" Series....

"White Rabbit"
Acrylic on Canvas, 12x12

And here's the start of the "Mad Hatter," the second character in what I believe will be a 3 canvas series. Not sure who the third character will be just yet!!!

And here's the dormouse, now taking a little snooze under the Tea Party table!

I hope you'll check back again soon to see the completed "Mad Hatter" and to find out who the next character will be!

WIP - "White Rabbit"

2009-09-07T23:09:00.005-04:00

Just wanted to take a second to share a sneak peek of my latest endeavor...."White Rabbit" from my newly conceived Alice in Wonderland series. Acrylic on canvas, 12x12. Stay tuned for more pictures as this work progresses and as I start the next piece in the series......"Mad Hatter!"

The weather has been fantastic in Southern Pines lately and I've been working in my newly discovered 'sidewalk studio.' Folks really seem to enjoy watching the creation process; some even stop back by every so often to see the progress! It even got me noticed by the local paper whose photographer took the next picture while I was creating a signboard for my store! Nothing like free press, yes??? :)

A Creative Wow!

2009-08-26T22:47:00.001-04:00

If you haven't seen this yet.....you are in for a treat! Gabe Askew made a fan video for the song "Two Weeks" by the group Grizzly Bear. I can't stop watching it!!!

Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear from Gabe Askew on Vimeo.

Whee!!! I'm a Featured Artist!!!

2009-08-09T08:37:00.003-04:00

'Twas Brillig was recently selected as a Featured Artist on the Handmade Artists' Forum blog!!!

Drop by and check out my spot!!!! Yippeeeee!

And the Winner Is..........

2009-08-01T20:02:00.005-04:00

Phew! It's been a full month of my foisting my earring giveaway on friends, family and total strangers....via Facebook, Twitter, my blog, Handmade Artists' Forum, Indiepublic, American Craft Guide Community....(I think that's everywhere! LOL)

There were 46 entries in total......random.org has selected the lucky winner as #21!!!!

WOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Angela from Sew Glamorous has won the earrings!!! Congratulations!

[Angela, I just need your snail mail....email me at twasbrillig (AT) mindspring (DOT) com and I will send these out to you early next week :) ]

Raspberry Buttermilk Cake (Or, OMG she cooked something!)

2009-07-25T19:57:00.005-04:00

Those who have hung around me for awhile will know that I DO NOT COOK. It just doesn't happen often. The whole process stresses me out and the only known antidote is wine. I'm terrified of wrecking the food so wine allows me to not care if I wreck it! ;)

The reason for that preface is to underscore the fact that the recipe link I'm about to post here must be incredibly delicious because, not only did I agree to make it once, I am eagerly awaiting an opportunity to make it again! (To be honest, I really don't mind baking...as long as it doesn't involve bread. I can't even make bread in a bread machine. It won't rise.)

Anyway....check out this recipe for Raspberry Buttermilk Cake over at Smitten Kitchen! Delish!!!
And then browse the site! Smitten Kitchen might make a cook out of me yet!

The Handmade Artists' Forum

2009-07-07T21:33:00.003-04:00

I'd like to take a moment to introduce you to a cooperative collective of Handmade Artists that I recently joined. The Handmade Artists' Forum (or HAF) was founded in April 2009 by Andrew & Kimberly Kitchen in order to provide a venue for all manner of artists to unite and support each other.

The idea is really rather simple....cooperative competition. Not everyone is in direct competition with each other because of the wide variety of arts represented. However, those who are have come to understand that we can band together to succeed.

I, personally, can appreciate this notion. My brick & mortar shop, 'Twas Brillig, is located in a quaint small town with a flourishing artsy downtown community. I am in direction competition with at least 3 other businesses in a 4 block section of town. We discovered that customers who didn't purchase something in one store really appreciated the suggestion of visiting competitors to find the perfect item to purchase. In fact, customers are often stunned at this spirit of cooperation but I can tell you that it works! I have even had customers return weeks later to thank me for sending them to another shop for the perfect item....and then they purchased from me! It's really about doing the right thing for the customers and understanding how important their purchases are to them, especially when the item is a gift.....and especially in the current economic downturn as they are extremely selective when spending those dollars. People remember the places where they are well-treated. And then they tell their friends. The principle is easily transferred to the online sales environment.

But I digress.

The other reason that the Handmade Artists' Forum is important is that we all need encouragement to keep creating because there are so many chain stores out there selling their wares for next to nothing. The handmade artist really has to struggle to keep up. We can't make thousands of an item in a large factory and some of our items just can't be duplicated. We often specialize in one-of-a-kind items. Some items are replicated but we still can't compete with the mass producers.

Requirements to join are simple: You have to love handmade.

All handmade artists are welcome to join and show off their stuff, get ideas and suggestions, ask for feedback and offer critiques of other artists' work. Although this forum is for handmade artists such as jewelers, crafters, chainmaillers, painters and the like, all lovers of handmade are welcome too. We encourage everyone to let these artists know what you think about their work by commenting on their posts.

The Etsy sellers on HAF have recently banded together to form the Handmade Artists' Forum Etsy Street Team and already have over 50 folks participating. Efforts are also underway for the Artfire sellers to establish a HAF Artfire Guild. The HAF Facebook page is being revamped and a HAF Flickr group has also been started. As you can see, we are many busy bees.

I hope you will take a moment to stop by...say hello and check us out! If we pass muster, perhaps you might even join us? :)

The Wrens have Fledged!

2009-07-05T20:03:00.007-04:00

About 2 weeks ago, I posted the first pictures
of the wren family that nested in a hanging geranium plant on our deck. I've been taking photos periodically since then.

Today, when I went out to get new shots, I found that the babies had fledged this morning!!! Yay!!!

Sadly, we did lose 2 of the little tykes about a week ago, presumably due to the intense summer heat we had. The other 2 did just fine and are now bouncing around in the rhododendrons, squeaking and peeping for Mama Wren to bring them a nice juicy bug!

The first 2 pictures were taken when the wren chicks were 6 days old.

It's amazing the little guy up front can sleep with all the yelling behind him!

Feed us, Mama!!!!!!!

Here the youngsters are 11 days old. They completely ignored me and wouldn't even peep. I can only guess that it was because their eyes were open by this point and they didn't like the big monster with the camera staring at them!

You can see their feathers are starting to come in at this point.

By this time, we had lost the 2 others to the heat. :(

I can't help myself...I just love baby birds!

Here's the busy Mama (or Papa, not really sure which since they both tend the nest!) bringing a fat bug for the kids on the 4th of July!

New Jewelry Display

2009-07-02T20:45:00.013-04:00

Lately, I've been wringing my hands over how best to display some of my jewelry, especially the bracelets which were simply set out on a table in the middle of 'Twas Brillig. While it worked, I didn't think it looked professional or aesthetically pleasing.

With the state of the economy, I've had to really think hard before laying out any cash to buy anything that is not expressly needed, even when it concerns the business.

So, what to do? Sometimes the answer is right under your nose! You just have to remember to look a little more closely at what you already own!

I've had this chest for quite awhile and it has been used for years as a catch-all table in our finished basement. It belonged to my father who used it to store fly-tying supplies and fishing flies that he had made. It has bunches of wonderful drawers to display and store items.

I set it up in the store today and was fascinated by how it drew customers right over to look at items displayed in the drawers. Eventually, I hope to be able to fill all the drawers so that my customers can explore the box and reveal the treasures one drawer at a time!!

My Very First Give-Away!!!

2009-06-30T22:33:00.007-04:00

Don't you just love these Southwestern-style African Turquoise earrings? Wouldn't you love to win them?

I thought so!!!

In honor of July...my birthday month...I will be giving away these pretties to one lucky winner. :)

You can view them more closely HERE.

Here's how to enter:
All you need to do is leave a comment under this post!

To improve your chances of winning you can also:

When you leave a comment, tell me about your favorite item in 'Twas Brillig Online.
Mention and link to this give-away on Twitter. Let me know in the comments that you tweeted.
Mention and link to this give-away on your blog. Let me know in the comments that you linked back to this post.
Mention this give-away on Facebook. Be sure to include this link http://in-uffish-thought.blogspot.com/2009/06/my-very-first-give-away.html so that your friends can visit too. Make a comment here letting me know you spread the word on Facebook.
Follow this blog.

There is no limit to the number of entries....the more you play, the higher your chances of winning!

The winner will be selected by random draw and will be announced on July 31st.

Good luck and thanks for your interest!!!

First Friday in Southern Pines!! Friday: July 3, 2009

2009-06-30T22:22:00.002-04:00

Once again it's time for First Friday!

First Friday in Southern Pines, NC, is held the first Friday of the month from 5pm until 8pm.

Throughout the summer months, First Friday is a non-profit event which features food and beverages for all ages, kids activities, and live music. Proceeds benefit The Sunrise Theatre and The Food Bank.

This month the featured band is The Benjy Davis Project, a Louisiana-based rock band.

Be sure to visit downtown Southern Pines for this event on Friday, July 3, 2009! Many of the local businesses will be open as well!

Be sure to stop by 'Twas Brillig during First Friday!

Mention this Facebook event and receive 25% off any ONE regularly priced item on July 3, 2009. (Excluding stained glass) Offer is good for the entire day, not just during the First Friday event.

For those unable to attend, the single item discount will also apply at 'Twas Brillig Online.(http://brillig.shophandmade.com)
Just email me before you check out so that I can adjust your invoice!

(Please note that the store will be closed at 4:00 pm and reopening at 5:00 pm for the event....I do need to grab a bite to eat!)

Thryothorus ludovicianus

2009-06-23T21:30:00.005-04:00

...a.k.a. the Carolina Wren!

Jack & Jenny Wren decided to build a nest in the hanging geranium plant on our deck. The wren roost that I built for them years ago was apparently not good enough for them this year!

Here are the 4 babies...3 days old! Since I need to water the plant every other day, I'm hoping to get some really great pictures as they grow.

Ceramic Washer Bracelets

2009-06-17T20:29:00.007-04:00

These ceramic washers have been hanging around in my bead stash for months just waiting to be magically incorporated into a fun design. Sometimes inspiration is slow to arrive.
And then...WHAM! The ideas start to swirl!!

I just love these washers with their Celtic designs! I opted to double string these bracelets on elastic to just slip on and slip off. Both are available now at 'Twas Brillig Online.

Brillig's Photography ~ Prints Available!

2009-06-16T22:30:00.003-04:00

Just want to share 3 of my prints that are now available through 'Twas Brillig Online or at the studio shop in Southern Pines:

Bove Island, Yukon Territory, Canada ~ 2002

Martello Tower Perspective, St. John, New Brunswick, Canada ~ 2005

Los Arcos, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico ~ 2004

All of these photos are 8x10 prints matted to an 11x14 format. You can see more of my work at Whiffling Through the Tulgey Wood. Any of the images on my photoblog can be ordered by emailing me directly. twasbrillig {at} mindspring {dot} com

Bracelet Sale! Now through Saturday, June 13th!

2009-06-10T14:39:00.004-04:00

All bracelets at 'Twas Brillig are on sale 20% off, now through Saturday, June 13th, 2009! Drop by the studio shop in Southern Pines for a visit to see the full selection!

This offer also applies to all bracelets listed at 'Twas Brillig Online.
***Important: Please email me prior to placing your selection in the shopping cart so that I can adjust the price prior to the request for payment! twasbrillig {at} mindspring {dot} com

Photography was My First Creative Love

2009-06-09T22:35:00.004-04:00

Long, long ago....in a world before 'Twas Brillig....heck, in a world 28 years ago....I entered the misty & mysterious realm of photography. I knew little about it other than it looked like something I wanted to try. A friend of the family was a commercial ad photographer with his own studio in Cleveland. His work opened my eyes to the possibilities inside a 35mm SLR camera.

Luckily, my Dad had invested in a Canon A1 a few years earlier....I snagged it. And then I signed up for Photo I in high school under the auspices of Lee Jaykell (wonder what he's up to these days??).

BAM! I was hooked! He taught us the basics of photography....how to select & frame subjects...how to develop B&W film....how to dodge & burn while developing our own prints. Amazing! I felt like I finally had an outlet for the creative bug that was lodged inside me, the creative bug that had been squashed by various art teachers years earlier. I could breathe again! Eventually, I completed Photo II as well. For graduation, my folks presented me with an Olympus OS2 to chronicle my travels and experiences as I went out into the world.

Alas, my photography fell by the wayside because I couldn't afford to pay for the film processing and all the paper and chemicals were costly. The light was nearly extinguished. But like any good ember, it smoldered.......waiting, waiting, waiting......surely the time would come when the fire would reignite.

Enter digital technology!! Woohoooo! I was blazing in no time...first with my Mom's Sony digital point and shoot (fairly servicable, decent pix)....and then "IT"arrived. My beloved Nikon D-40 dSLR. I take it nearly everywhere and it is never far from my sight. It's like being in love all over again!!! It takes fabulous pictures!

As part of my entrance back into the realm of photography, I started a photoblog of some of my work....Whiffling Through the Tulgey Wood. I hope you'll take a moment to breeze over there and leave me some feedback! There's a little widget over on the right with a slideshow preview of my portfolio.

I'm also excited because I'm about to participate in a photo "boot camp" through the Strobist site. If you have any interest in photography, that site is chock full of great info about lighting. I feel like I'm about to find out what my Nikon can really do! I'll be posting my photos from the Strobist challenge on Flickr and at The Tulgey Wood photoblog. I can't wait to get started!! I hope you'll follow the journey!

How Does My Garden Grow?

2009-06-07T17:10:00.007-04:00

I promise you it's not with silver bells and cockle shells!

Some of you may already know that this is the Year of the Garden at my house. I'm not known for keeping up with plants........Hmmmmmmmmm....which is why the garden is kind of funny in a way!

I took it upon myself to put in a triple raised bed garden in early April and planted it with all kinds of yummy veggies and herbs. I've already harvested some broccoli (note: if you want to eat a decent amount of broccoli, two plants is NOT sufficient), radishes, lettuce and a variety of herbs! The basil is particularly nice!! Big & leafy, perfect for caprese salads! Oh yum!!!

Some of you may also know that I am downright giddy about anything that sprouts in my garden and have been subjected to my Facebook blurbs about whatever sprouted...especially the corn. One would think I've never seen corn grow before. Well, I have. Okay, so I've never **actually** walked through a corn field but I have seen expansive fields of it from the road. I grew up in Ohio, you know!!!

So since I'm all happy about corn, you will now get to hear that I have a baby ear of corn!!! Woohoooo!!!!! And I'm such a goober that I'm going to post a picture right here, right now!

And there it is! Yessssssssssssssss!

Gladiolus & Grapevine Wreath

2009-06-04T14:57:00.004-04:00

I finally managed to work my way back around to working with silk flowers! Perhaps I had Spring design burnout....well, no excuses because, even though it is still Spring, it feels like Summer. At least when I get tired of one thing, I can move on to another! I never get bored here at the studio shop. :)

Don't you just love these elegant red gladiolus jumping out of a field of greens with white and yellow accent blooms? Yes, it's a large piece...from the top tip of the gladiolus to the bottom tip of the ivy measures nearly 4 feet! It will certainly make a statement on someone's front door!

Watch for more new floral creations in the very near future!

New Today at 'Twas Brillig: Pretty Eyeglass Chains

2009-06-02T20:40:00.008-04:00

I finally got around to making up these pretty eyeglass chains...after a bit of nudging and customer requests. I've had the little elastic gripper ends for months...nothing like a bit of procrastination, eh?

This first eyeglass chain is a mixture of moss agate rondelles, riverstone rounds and Swarovski bicone crystals, accented with assorted seed beads. It measures 30 inches in length.

The second chain is an elegant mixture of lapis lazuli tube beads, riverstone rounds and Swarovski bicone crystals, accented with assorted seed beads. It also measures 30 inches in length.

Both of these chains can be found at the 'Twas Brillig Online or by visiting the studio shop in Southern Pines!

Watch for more chains to be added in the near future!

First Friday in Southern Pines!! Friday: June 5, 2009

2009-06-02T13:19:00.007-04:00

First Friday in Southern Pines, NC, is held the first Friday of the month from 5pm until 8pm.

Throughout the summer months, First Friday is a non-profit event which features food and beverages for all ages, kids activities, and live music. Proceeds benefit The Sunrise Theatre and The Food Bank.

This month the featured band is Corey Harris, a "Rasta Blues" artist from Charlottesville, VA . Harris is very talented and has played with Buddy Guy, BB King, Dave Matthews and others.

Be sure to visit downtown Southern Pines for this event on Friday, June 5, 2009! Many of the local businesses will be open as well!

Remember to drop by 'Twas Brillig and say hello!!! If you mention that you visited my blog or saw the blurb on Facebook, you will receive an additional 10% off your purchase. (excluding stained glass items)

Looking forward to seeing you!

Join Brillig's Mailing List!!

2009-05-27T12:25:00.007-04:00

Be IN the loop!!!

If you would like to be kept up to date on sales, promotions & events at 'Twas Brillig (both in the brick & mortar studio shop and at 'Twas Brillig Online), please send me an email at twasbrillig {at} mindspring {dot} com and I'll make sure you are added to the list!

Let me know if you prefer an email or a tweet!

(The small print: I promise that I will not spam you. Your name and email address will remain confidential and will never be sold or shared with anyone or any organization for any reason.)

Created today......and some Moo.

2009-05-23T15:53:00.006-04:00

Being Memorial Day weekend, I was expecting everyone to be away at the beach instead of strolling down our lovely main thoroughfare for some holiday shopping. Well, I was right! But I was also pleasantly surprised because I've been fairly steady with customers all day....out of town visitors taking in the scenery in Southern Pines! And shopping!!!! Life is good. :)

I took advantage of what little downtime I had to create a new necklace with matching earrings. They will be listed in 'Twas Brillig Online sometime this weekend. I like how the amethyst compliments the tiger's eye. It never occurred to me to put purple and brown together before. It really is a beautiful combination!

And what day would be complete
without a bit of Moo? The farm home
of these bovine buddies is a 5 minute
walk from my house. Usually, they are
way down in the pasture being all shy
and modest. Today they were right up
near the fence waiting for their glamour
shots!
G-L-A-M-O-R-OUS! :)
I just love the expressions on their faces!!

More Inventory!

2009-05-21T19:55:00.013-04:00

More New Goodness!

2009-05-20T14:12:00.007-04:00

More goodness on 'Twas Brillig Online!

Earrings at 'Twas Brillig Online!

2009-05-19T15:53:00.005-04:00

It has taken me awhile to get up to speed but I am **finally** building the online shop for 'Twas Brillig which is housed at Shophandmade.com. It took some twiddling and such to get used to the upload process but I think I have the hang of it now! Now I just need someone to write copy for my products! All my descriptions are bound to sound the same after awhile. There's always some skill to improve, isn't there?!? LOL

Anyway, find my goodies at 'Twas Brillig Online ! I've added several pairs of earrings today and will continue to add stuff at regular intervals....now that I know how this works! :)

Now Twittering!

2009-05-17T19:41:00.004-04:00

Follow me on Twitter!!!! Be kept up to date on sales, promotions and special events!

The 3/50 Project...Spread the Word!

2009-05-06T15:58:00.004-04:00

Recently, I became aware of an grass roots initiative to help spur the economy and save small businesses.....The 3/50 Project. The idea is to pick 3 local businesses that you really love, stop by and say hello and spend $50 per month in those stores ($50 over all 3, not $50 at each store!) If every working person in America did this it would generate a huge amount of revenue...over $42 billion a month. Money spent locally stays local at a much higher rate than if you shop online or at a big box store. Since small businesses, those Mom & Pop shops and brick and mortar retailers that we love to visit, are the backbone of our economy, it really makes sense to support them whenever possible.

I invite you to visit The 3/50 Project website to learn more about how you can help keep our money flowing through the fiscal veins of America!! If you're a small business owner, be sure to sign up to be listed on the 3/50 supporters list. If you put the badge on your website they'll even link back to your website or blog to help promote you. They also have flyers to give to customers to help spread the word. It's a win-win situation....and it's free!

New! Shop 'Twas Brillig Online!

2009-03-21T14:29:00.004-04:00

'Twas Brillig has officially opened an online shop which will primarily feature hand-crafted jewelry.

Although there are just a few items listed at the moment, be sure to check back often as I upload and expand the inventory!

If you don't see what you're looking for, email me at twasbrillig (at) mindspring.com and I should be able to customize a design for you!

Two New Door Baskets

2009-03-20T14:03:00.004-04:00

New at 'Twas Brillig this week.....Two new door baskets! Stop by and pick one up to spruce up your entry! Remember, Brillig does custom work!

She Fancies Herself a Painter....

2009-03-11T22:47:00.003-04:00

So...I had this little 4x6 canvas panel all gessoed and ready to use just sitting in the drawer at the studio (shop....studio shop...can't decide what I really want to call it LOL). It called out to me last week and I suddenly fancied myself a painter.

Apologies to the real artists who actually know something about perspective! Anyway, thought I'd play around with it and paint my little version of what it looks like on the street where I work! Those of you who actually know Southern Pines will undoubtedly be asking what in the Sam Hill I thought I was painting. Artistic license rules!!! (Yes, I omitted the street...so far!)

Fortunately, I can say that this piece is FAR from finished so stay tuned for a future post with the finished results. I'm hoping that it will be cute enough to turn into notecards.

Collage Challenge Revisited, v2.0

2009-03-05T19:16:00.005-05:00

Well, I think it is finished!!

So....what materials did I use in my very first ever mixed media collage.....

Acrylic paint, watercolor pencils

Glue, modge podge

Cardstock, tissue paper

String, drywall tape

Drywall compound, sand

Mulberry paper, bubble wrap

Silk floral bits, vellum pen

Micron pen, Woodcraft paint pen

If I missed an "ingredient" I can't know what it is! LOL

And Ladies???? Why did you not tell me how much I would really like a vellum pen?

I had some "journaling" around the four sides at one point but the tissue paper with the multiple paint washes really obscured it. That's probably a good thing since I wasn't entirely happy with the journaling anyway.

So, whatcha think?

And Jodi? Thanks for giving me this challenge! It may have taken me forever but I had a load of fun creating this :)

Collage Challenge Revisited

2009-03-04T22:23:00.005-05:00

Some of you may be familiar with this work in progress from ages ago....
Jodi challenged me (while I was still a bank peep) to step outside my boundaries and try creating a collage. Here's where I left off about a year and a half ago:

So, I was rummaging around for something to do in the studio today and came across my forlorn little abandoned collage....one thing led to another and I started to mess with it again. Of course, it still isn't finished but at least I'm working on it! If I ever figure out what to do with the edges, I might actually complete it :)

File it under L

2009-02-22T15:50:00.010-05:00

File this custom design under "L" for being created in a Library card file drawer! I love the challenge of an unusual container along with finding the right stems and colors to please my customers. Luckily, my customer (Hi Debbie!!!) is an artist in her own right which helps when trying to uncover likes/dislikes/colors/decor of the room the piece will occupy... and all that jazz!
Debbie asked for dark, organic and un-girly-girl with colors to match the area rug in her dining room. My translation of the vision appears below!

I'm hoping to see pictures of this arrangement in its new home! I'm sure it looks better there than on the side table in my shop!

This last picture is one of the arrangements that I have

created for the upcoming Moore County Home Builders

Association Home & Garden Expo which is next weekend-
February 27, 28 & March 1. I was invited by one of the
exhibitors, Tom Panek of Dream Home Design, to decorate his booth with my florals (free advertising!) and then found out the MCHBA is interested in having arrangements for their booth, the Home of the Year booth and the admissions table! Woohoo! Actually, they said I could display throughout the whole venue but with such short notice I won't be able to accomplish that.
Maybe next year!!! Needless to say, I've been busy this
week. Here's hoping the exposure pays off!

Queen of Hearts

2009-01-29T17:11:00.003-05:00

Here's what happens when it is getting close to Valentine's Day and I feel the need to create outside my normal comfort zone! Presenting 3 collage hearts for your consideration.... please remember, I am not a collage or mixed media artist. I just like to play around with stuff to see what happens!

The 2 in the top row are complete; I'm just getting started on the bottom one. (Did I really just use a semi-colon? LOL Haven't had a use for one of those in years.) I used 4 inch tall heart cutouts and a variety of embellishments: acrylic paints, lace, seed beads, copper foil tape (which I actually soldered!), mulberry paper, rubber stamping, magazine clippings, drywall tape, hand-hammered copper wire and buttons.

So whaddya think? No matter what, I had fun making them and explored something different!

SNOW! (yesssssssssssssss!!!!!!)

2009-01-20T19:16:00.002-05:00

For those of you who don't know, I am the proud "other mommy" of this fantastic Pyrenean Shepherd named Mariah! This is one heckuva dog! And she loves snow as we found out today. Living in North Carolina, we don't get much of the fluffy white stuff here but this morning we were treated to 3 inches of the stuff and my little mountain dog and I had a great time messing around in it! Had a devil of a time getting her back in the house!

My boss (that would be me LOL) even told me to take the day off due to the weather. Gotta love that! So I stayed home and finally finished up organizing all the jewelry supplies that had gotten completely out of hand late last year. I've been trying to finish that job for weeks and today was the perfect day to kick back and handle it!

Shop News:
I've been working on hand-hammered sterling silver and copper (not together...yet!) jewelry. Some interesting coils have happened and have been turned into earrings....oh, and one larger coil went 3-D and got a hand-wrapped bail created for it and is now a necklace. The photos I took didn't turn out well so I will try again tomorrow and post them when I get a chance.

I'm also working on setting up an online shop at shophandmade.com .... IF I can figure out how to get it to work. It keeps dumping my item listings for no good reason. I want to try them out because you can sell for zero fees and, since it's a new online venue, my wares won't get as lost as they would elsewhere. I'll keep you posted on that endeavor as well!

In the meantime, I'm off to watch AI! Gotta have it! LOL

Save Handmade!

2009-01-17T08:11:00.010-05:00

Now here is a classic example of why the government has no clue what it is doing and should leave small businesses alone...

Small independent artisans and crafters will be driven out of business by laws intended to protect Americans from toxic materials used in the construction of a variety of products. This law was passed specifically to target items being mass produced in China and other places outside the USA in order to protect US consumers. All well and good, but they took it to far and now a good many small businesses will be forced to stop producing because they are unable to meet the testing required by this law.

Change.org has a proposal outstanding to amend this law set forth by the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Please go here to find out more info on this absurd law. The provision goes into effect in February and change.org is trying to get this in front of President-Elect Obama quickly!

Pretty in Pink!

2009-01-09T09:36:00.005-05:00

Anyone who knows me understands that I am NOT a "pink person." I find most shades of pink flat out ugly. If pink absolutely has to find it's way into my world then it should be either a very pale pink, a hot-hot pink or a pink that is on the blue side of pink. I'm funny about red as well which also should be on the blue side!

In keeping with that weirdness, the necklace to the right is on the blue side of pink and is now available at 'Twas Brillig. It consists of a small pink and brown ceramic pendant accented with tiger's eye, rhodonite, riverstone and smoky topaz Swarovski crytals.

Give Me Demerits...

2009-01-05T21:45:00.007-05:00

Oh. My. Hell. I deserve demerits. Big time. I have done nothing crafty since Saturday while at the shop. I think I'm in some sort of limbo until I go to my wholesaler on Wednesday. Yeah, that's it....limbo.

On Sunday I did reorganize part of my beading supplies which desperately needed to be done since I couldn't find anything without a 5 minute search. Oh, and I worked on Tulgey Wood yesterday and today, uploading more of my photos. Does that count as being creative?

Somebody please give me a virtual kick in the butt?

'Twas Brillig is a Complete Wreck!

2009-01-03T19:08:00.006-05:00

The back half of 'Twas Brillig is in a shambles!!! In an effort to switch gears from Christmas to Spring, I literally tore the place up yesterday and today...more so today since I removed the window display. I wasn't completely prepared to replace it but made it look "not Christmas-y" so I suppose it will do for the moment!

I also redecorated the moose.

Moose? Yep. Moose. My shop mascot is a moose... in fact, it is the very moose that you see for my profile picture! He had bright green Christmas balls hanging from his antlers until this morning. Now he is sporting pink and brown polka-dotted ribbon around his neck and has tiny red flowers in his mouth. I think he is looking for a sweetie moose for Valentine's day! LOL

That dang moose gets more folks to walk into my shop than just about anything. Everyone wants to know if he's for sale. I could have sold 100 of him so far. Really. I'm not exaggerating. Yes, I am desperately searching for a similar moose to sell. Who knew he'd be that popular?!?

At any rate, here are photos of my latest efforts to bring in Spring...the first is a fairly large door arrangement done is a half scoop hanging basket. It's rather eye-catching! I've received quite a few compliments on it and I just made it yesterday.

Today I switched gears and went for a less colorful but just as busy look. I thought the purple hyacinths gave this centerpiece a nice punch of color, especially in the midst of all that green. You can't see the grapevine very well in this picture but it is coiled through the entire piece. The grapevine is very cool to work with as it's not real and is wired to bend any which way! And of course, I had to add my signature curly things and ferns. I can't design without curly things and ferns!!!

By the end of next week, 'Twas Brillig should be back in order and I will post pictures of the shop interior with the Valentine's Day and Spring motifs. I've discovered in the short time since I opened the doors that I don't like disorder in my displays. Anyone who knows me will find that funny because I am not known for being a neat-freak. Not even close!

Whiffling Through the Tulgey Wood...

2009-01-01T12:15:00.004-05:00

Check out my other new blog! Whiffling Through the Tulgey Wood will periodically feature some of my photography. I decided to give my photos their own place in space in order to keep it simple!

I hope you will visit the Tulgey Wood and leave me some uffish thoughts!

Art Play!

2008-12-31T19:22:00.010-05:00

News Flash!!!
It is being widely reported that Brillig has been spotted somewhere other than her store, her home or Michael's!! How shocking!!! Our Chief Correspondant had THIS to say about the eventful and unexpected sighting..... :)

Good food, great people, lovely arts and crafts...and wine! Who could ask for anything more!

Craftiness abounds...I have committed to the Creative Everyday Challenge for 2009 in order to keep it going and keep it fresh! Some days it is hard to keep it going but as long as I work on something every day, then it is a day well spent. I can't believe I am fortunate enough to do what I love for a living.

Yesterday I was doubly crafty...first in florals and then in jewelry. Here's a look at what I did:

My creation from Jodi's Art Play Night...

An old world style floral design on a ceramic pendant, strung with blue apatite, tiger's eye, riverstone, jet with picasso bricks and Montana, Smoky Topaz and Lt Colorado Topaz Swarovski crystals.

A companion necklace of 2 complimentary strands is in the works to layer with this piece or they can be worn separately! You choose how much necklace you want to wear!

And your first peek of Spring at 'Twas Brillig!

Cheery cherry blossoms, tiny red ranunculus blooms, fluffy pussy willows nestled into the tender fresh green leaves of springtime...

Definitely a nod to Valentine's Day as well!

The days are getting longer again and I'm longing for Spring. It's officially a mere 70 days away but here in Southern Pines the first delightful harbingers will be pushing their way from the ground in a matter of weeks. There is a patch of "February Gold" daffodils in the front yard of the owner of a local garden shop. I look forward to seeing them sprout every year!

I'm not trying to rush Mother Nature but Winter is definitely not my thing.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T22:23:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Green "Opal-Essence" and a good many Earrings

2008-12-21T14:33:00.006-05:00

Guess I got busy with the earrings, oui???

Pair 1: Patriotic!!! Coral, Riverstone and Lapis

Pair 2: Turquoise, Thai Silver Beads and Lt Colorado Topaz Swarovski bicones

Pair 3: Rhodonite, Thai Silver Beadcaps and Stick Pearls

Pair 4: Lt Colorado Topaz Swarovski bicones, silver spacers and Turquoise Picasso Czech pressed glass beads

Pair 5: Black Onyx, Sterling cone beadcaps, Jet Swarovski rounds and Smoke Cristazzi cubes

Pair 6: Striped Agate Ovals, Lt Colorado Topaz and Smoky Topaz Swarovski bicones

Pair 7: Gunmetal seed beads, Howlite, Snowflake Obsidian drops
***Update: Sold!!!***
Pair 8: Tigereye rounds, Lt Colorado Topaz Swarovski bicones and Blue Aventurine rounds

Pair 9: Kyanite rectangles, sterling beadcaps, Tahitian Swarovski Pearls and Cream Swarovski Pearls

Pair 10: Dumorterite nuggets, sterling rope spacers and Lt Colorado Topaz Swarovski bicones

Well, try as I might, I can't get Blogger to display this necklace at the size I want it to be shown without distorting it badly. UGH! Fortunately, the upload decided to cooperate with the
bracelets and earring photos so you can see exactly how pretty the stones are in these 3 pieces!

All 3 pieces are made with Green Opal which is a type of chalcedony. It is rather lovely and paired well with the sage Cristazzi crystal pearls. I just love the wide variation in the colors in this gemstone, ranging from pale turquoise to brick red to dark green to black! The necklace and bracelet are all finished with "antique" sterling silver magnetic clasps. The beadcaps for the earrings were selected to match the clasps.

I'm certain I can get my favorite model to try this set out for me in the near future. (Mom, if you're reading this then that would be you!) We've been joking around about her swinging by the shop to select her jewelry to wear when she is out and about at her various "functions!" Hey, I know a good advertising venue when I see one!!! LOL

Baubles and Bags

2008-12-14T22:13:00.012-05:00

Voila, two of my latest offerings from the shop....

First...I adore ceramic pendants and the impact they give to a necklace!

I've worked with several already and the latest is the goldfish pendant pictured here.

Strung with tigereye, blue aventurine and riverstone, this necklace evokes balance and serenity. ***UPDATE: Sold!!!!***
Don't you just love all the detail on the pendant?

It measures approximately 3 inches long.

I added a hammered sterling silver magnetic clasp to finish it off.

After a 17 year hiatus, I've actually dusted off the sewing machine (in truth, Mom's sewing machine) and, with minimal cussing, made this cute nautical-themed drawstring bag. It is a fairly large bag measuring about 18 x 18 inches (not including the strap).

I'll be making several more of these in the next week in a variety of fabrics. Plans are in the works for other styles of bags as well, including a quilted style bag with a zipper closure. We'll see if I remember how to install zippers!!! LOL Cussing definitely has the potential to increase exponentially in the near future!

Boldly Going Where I've Never Gone Before...

2008-12-13T20:30:00.004-05:00

This is not exactly the Starship Enterprise.

Although if you're using my familiarity with the retail industry as a bellweather, I might as well be on a mission to Mars! Beam me up, Scotty!

Hi! For those of you that I've never met before, I'm Brillig. I am a silk floral designer and jewelry artist! (I love saying that!) In my past life, I was a banker for 15 years....but it was time to move on to something completely different because my heart wasn't in it anymore.

On November 22nd, I opened 'Twas Brillig in quaint, adorable downtown Southern Pines, NC.
In addition to the silk florals and handmade jewelry, I will be creating and selling a variety of goods which I hope to showcase here on a regular basis. 'Twas Brillig will also be handling a limited amount of consignments. Currently, I have beautiful stained glass pieces created by Chester Turnage of West End Glass. In the near future, I hope to be carrying mixed media art by Jodi Ohl of Sweet Repeats Studio Shoppe.

Also be on the lookout for an Etsy store to complement this blog! I anticipate having it set up by mid-January if all goes according to plan.

So welcome, dear readers! I hope you'll stop by periodically as I boldly go where I've never gone before....