thrifty gift
I scored again with a pre-collected collection of vintage swizzle sticks. Over 40 of 'em in sets of two, three and four. I'm not sure if this give away will appeal to as many folks as the last, but I bet a few of you out there will have some fab ideas for how to put these to good use. How do I win?!! |
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folded up
 Last month I was playing with ruffles, this month is all about folds. I'm really intrigued by the variation of pattern as well as the more dimensional nature of the pieces. So far I've made a few rings and a couple of necklaces, but I'm thinking I may have to explore other possibilities as well. Read more...
We watched a great documentary a couple of weeks ago about origami masters called "Between the Folds." (It just now occurs to me that maybe this was my unconscious inspiration!) Available on Netflix and PBS, my whole family highly recommends it. |
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make up
A couple of new Austin upcyclers hit my radar this month:
Open Arms is a small company creating  wearables from upcycled t-shirts. A good enough idea in and of itself. However, their business model is centered around providing work and living wages for refugees from all over the globe. Read more...
I was lucky enough to be part of the Austin Flea a couple weeks back and had the pleasure of being a booth neighbor to Greg Geisler of Wounded Wood. Greg has lots of talents, but at the Flea he showcased his pieces made from upcycled architectural cast-offs. From small cabinets to bird houses and sculptures, the pieces all have great juju. Also, if you happen to be in the market for a portrait of your dog, Greg just might be your man.
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may specials
Possibly you're in the market for a little something special for Mom or that favorite grad? If so, I've got a few of my perfect-for-everyone tri-drop earrings on sale for the occasion. Maybe the ideal pair is waiting for you. See them all...
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Little Artist Big Artist Opening Reception
May 12, 2011 | 6 - 8 pm | 100 Congress Ave.
With all thebudgetary crises and de-funding of schools, it's reassuring to have a program like this in place here in Austin. Started by the good folks of the Cherrywood Art Fair, LABA was designed to give kids with little access to art a chance to work directly with a professional artist in their studio. LABA is growing beyond it's East Side focus and this opening night reception will be the first of what they hope will be many more. Join them on the 12th and be inspired. Watch the video. Get more details...
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pop up
Hand Delivered
Why fight traffic? Have a pop up shop of handcrafted goods delivered to your office during lunch. Be a hero at work and contact us today to schedule your show. |
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act up
This tutorial from Natural Home & Garden shows you how to upcycle that endless supply of lousy plastic bags into no-sew lunch sacs. With some minor alterations, you could make a bag for almost anything. Maybe a fab little makeup bag? It could be the perfect DIY gift for Mom!  If you have some basic sewing skills, the plastic fabric can easily be made into fancier bags as well. Just follow these links for some inspiration: Totes from Craftzine Zippered Pouches from Sustain Lane Laptop Bag from Threadbanger |
eat up I'm always looking for quick and easy ways to jazz up simple grilled meats and veggies. Simple is great, but sometimes spice is nice. Adjust the cayenne to suit!Roasted Red Pepper & Tomato Sauce Ingredients: 1 8 oz. red bell pepper
2 plum tomatoes
1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 garlic clove, peeled
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
Directions: Char bell pepper and tomatoes directly over gas flame or in broiler until blackened on all sides. Transfer tomatoes to plate. Enclose pepper in paper bag 10 minutes. Peel, halve, and seed tomatoes; place in blender. Peel, seed, and chop pepper; add to blender. Add oil, vinegar, garlic, and cayenne; blend until smooth. Season sauce with salt and pepper. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.)
This pairs really well with Grilled Corn Salad.
From Epicurious For a similar sauce for pasta, try this recipe from The Pioneer Woman.
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lighten up
 Sarah Turner is making amazing, beautiful, thoughtful work. What I like most is exactly what I like most about all my favorite upcycled art--it's difficult to discern the source material.
Read more...
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