12 January 2012

I am absolutely THRILLED to announce the publication of my "Color Rim Bowl" article in the latest issue of Woodturning Design Magazine! (Winter 2012 Issue). Please pick one up at your local newsstand, and check it out!

31 August 2011

I've been designing away, and have two brand new crochet patterns for sale on Etsy and Ravelry! Check out my Star Potholder, and my Zen Leaf Potholder patterns, conveniently packaged into PDF files, (which means FREE shipping!) I also have finished products available!

Drop spindling? My brand new wrist distaffs are PERFECT for summer (or anytime!) spinning -- they keep the roving well away from the spindle, allow you wrist to be cool and sweat-free, and they are elegant and colorful additions to your fiber tool collection! Lightweight and convenient -- now on Etsy!

16 February 2011

I would like to announce my new collection of miniatures! I have been creating 1/12th scale miniatures, (suitable for doll house life, or display), from exotic woods and materials. Now avilable in my Etsy shop.

1 February 2011

You've asked for them! Allow me to intruduce... Small Hooks, Sizes B, C, D, and E. Colorful, beautiful, strong and comfortable! Now on auction on eBay!

25 January 2011

I am very excited to announce the publication of my article, "Creating Crochet Hooks" in the February 2011 issue of American Woodturner!

26 November 2010

Introducing -- Thimbles! I am making them in absolutely GORGEOUS colors and have listed quite a selection on both eBay and Etsy.

25 November 2010

Happy Thanksgiving! I wish everyone a lovely, beautiful day, filled with friendship and dear thoughts.

Stay turned for new beauties on eBay and Etsy this evening, including something NEW!

21 November 2010

I've been away at a fantastic woodturning course, but I've returned!

Introducing... my new line of THREAD crochet hooks! Yes, you read it right -- I'm combining the strength of steel with a beautifully-turned wooden handle to delight thread crocheters everywhere! (You may choose any size you want!) I've already listed some on eBay, and several in my Etsy shop! Check them out!

16 June 2010

Well, I'm off and running to Hartford, CT this weekend for the AAW National Symposium! Look for me in the Spouse Craft Room -- I will be doing two demonstrations: "How to Teach Your Woodturner Spouse to Make a Crochet Hook" and a brief workshop on "Free Form Crochet & Knitting."

Be sure and check out my brand new pieces of artwork in the incredible Instant Gallery! (The Instant Gallery is open to the public, so if you're in the area, please stop by and see amazing works of art by woodturners from around the world).

5 May 2010

Greetings and salutations everyone! At last I may reveal what I've been working on! I invite you to wander through my Gallery, and see my brand new art pieces that are at this moment being unveiled at the Utah Woodturning Symposium in Orem, UT!

If you're in the area, come and see them live! I also invite you to watch my demonstrations: "Creating Creative Crochet Hooks," and "Decorating Spindlework." And please feel free to comment on my brand new web site design.

1 April 2010

Thunder got her wish today....
Thunder became snow in Cheyenne today... and lightning bolts pinkish gold. (In case you missed the reference, the song is "Purple People" by Tori Amos). It's a lovely thing when music comes to life... (And even though the date is April first, no kidding -- hail and rain fell today, and the sky thundered while it snowed).

13 March 2010

I've recently taken a 3-day workshop taught by Master Woodturner Stuart Batty -- what a fantastic experience. I've come away inspired and filled with new knowledge. New work coming up soon.

27 January 2010

I've recently taken a class with world-renowned artist David Nittmann on airbrushing. What a fun tool to use! David is an incredibly creative, patient, and knowledgeable teacher -- I had a fantastic time! (If you get the chance, TAKE HIS CLASSES!) And check out his incredible artwork! (Read more about the class on my blog.)

1 January 2010

On this wonderful first day of the New Year, I'd like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year filled with happiness and inspiration! I've been working hard, and I've just posted five brand new crochet hooks on eBay today, and two gorgeous new natural-wood nostepindes on Etsy!

In other news, I've also been experimenting with photography, attempting to take the best photos possible so that the image you see on screen matches what the pieces look like in the hand. Look for my new photos on a tan background. I've also updated my thumbnail photos (visible in the search on eBay). Instead of the "sun and hill," look for my "snowflake"/double K symbol!

I invite you to visit my friend Cindy Drozda's web site. She makes the most exquisitely beautiful boxes and sculptures -- completely out of wood, with a dash of diamonds, (and other precious stones). Amazing, breath-taking, one-of-a-kind artworks -- an exceptional gift for a treasured person (or an inestimable treat for yourself!). Please also see her brand new Etsy shop!

10 October 2009

Andrea Lyn Van Benschoten of The Fiber Forum recently interviewed me for her blog. I was delighted to share my inspiration for creating fiber arts tools as well as give hints on upcoming new designs! Thank you Andrea! Read the interview here.

22 September 2009

In other news, I had an absolutely FANTASTIC time demonstrating at the Sustainable Living Fair for the National Center for Craftsmanship. I hope you got to see me there! I was showing crowds of people how I make crochet hooks, fine finials, and even gave fair participants their first turn on the lathe! I had a great time and am definitely looking forward to next year!

14 September 2009

If you are around Ft. Collins, CO this weekend, I will be demonstrating at the Sustainable Living Fair for the National Center for Craftsmanship. I will making all different kinds of things on my lathe, and will have crochet hooks and nostepindes available for purchase too! It's a great opportunity to see how turned items are made. I hope to see you there!

1 September 2009

I invite you to come and see me demonstrate how make crochet hooks in Denver TONIGHT, and Loveland, CO on Thursday! You are welcome to be my guest at both club meetings. (Price is Free!) Click here to see my Itinerary and get directions to the locations.

3 August 2009

I'm back! Ooooh, and I had a FANTASTIC time at Cindy Drozda's Workshop! Before I get completely carried away on that subject, let me tell you that I've posted four new hooks on eBay today, (with more on Thursday)!

NOW it's time to get carried away! I had an incredible time in Utah -- Cindy is simply the most extraordinary teacher ever! I learned more than I could ever have hoped for! Please see my blog for more details.

Annnnndddddd... as if learning from this world-renowned artist wasn't enough... Cindy Drozda will be at the Loveland Sculpture Invitational this weekend, Friday, Aug. 7th through Sunday, Aug. 9th, Loveland, CO, where you will be able to see and acquire her exquisite artwork in person! (What a treat!) (You might even catch a glimpse of me walking around too -- I wouldn't miss it for the world!)

26 July 2009

Remember back in February when I was awarded a generous Educational Opportunity Grant by the Rocky Mountain Woodturners? This week is it! I will be attending a 5-day workshop given by world-renowned woodturning artist Cindy Drozda, which I know will be lots of fun, with so many wonderful things to learn!

22 July 2009

Last night, I saw Tori Amos in concert. She was absolutely MAGNIFICENT. The performance was EXQUISITE -- the music, the colors, the lights, the music... her music... Unforgettable. I am BLISSED for months... Thank you Tori. Thank you. It was absolutely beautiful! Like nothing else in the world...

13 July 2009

It occurred to me that a picture is worth probably at least 1000 words... and Cindy Drozda's instruction is worth more than I can tell... Want to see *exactly* how much my work has improved? Click here for an example!

30 June 2009

Gorgeous new hooks on eBay today! Annnnnnddddd.... I've started a new design series! Hook fashions are are now filled with "Unexpected Details."

In other news, I've returned from Albuquerque enlightened, inspired, and improved! My favorite demo of the whole show was watching Cindy Drozda demonstrate her ultra-fine finials! Check out my blog for more about the AAW Symposium!

22 June 2009

Happy Summer, everyone! I will not be posting new hooks this week because I'm going to the AAW National Symposium! Hooray! Because I'll be out of town for most of the week, I'll post more crochet hooks when I get back on Tuesday, June 30th. (Please note, if you pay for auction/store items by Wednesday this week, I will be able to ship them out on Thursday. After that, and I will ship them out on Tuesday, the 30th.)

1 June 2009

I've joined BlogSpot, Twitter, and Facebook. I've never done any of these "social networking" things before, but I'll give it a go! I must say I'm enjoying blogging particularly! On the blog, I have more space to show never-before-seen-photos of some of my hooks and also talk more about my inspirations, etc.

21 May 2009

I have recently returned from the Utah Woodturning Symposium, and I had a fantastic time! World-class demonstrators, exciting, fun events, and camaraderie in friendship made it an event not to be missed! You cannot imagine the inspirational possibilities that I've arrived home with! Of course, all of this translates into thrilling new designs... and even some different kinds of work... :-)

29 April 2009

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, I've added some information about my cats, since they desired some web space of their own :-)

6 April 2009

I've updated my Gallery pages to show more recent work. (It's been more than a year since I added anything new, but I'll try to keep on top of it this time!)

17 March 2009

This past weekend I took the most FANTASTIC class from world-renowned woodturner Cindy Drozda. What a wonderful experience! She's a fantastic teacher, and I learnt more than I ever could have imagined! If you ever have the chance, take her class. She also has three excellent DVDs on the market, which you can find linked from her web page. I'm blissfully inspired! .... which means more cool stuff coming forth soon.... :-)

10 March 2009

Alas and alack, they have discontinued my favorite polka-dot ribbon which I've been tying 'round the gift pouches that come with every fiber tool. However, I've recently found an even snazzier one, which will be mailed with each purchase starting today.

6 February 2009

My world has recently become incredibly exciting! Last night the Rocky Mountain Woodturners awarded me a significant grant so that I would be able to travel to Utah and take a week-long workshop with world-renowned woodturner Cindy Drozda! Hooray! Thank you, thank you!

In other news, I have posted some fancy new hooks on eBay. Since I've had so many requests, I've made new Laying Tools based on a vintage bone tool, and have added them to both my eBay and Etsy shops. These tiny tools, (also known as awls, stilettos, etc.), are wonderful for punching holes in fabric/felt (they have a very sharp point), and can also be used in embroidery and beadwork. (See my listings for a full range of activities that can be accomplished with these little guys). If you have suggestions, or need a longer design made, please e-mail me.

29 January 2009

I've posted all kinds of neat new stuff on eBay -- hooks and nosties on auction, and new barrettes and a hair pin in my store, including another SPARKLY crochet hook! I also posted another hook on Etsy as well as three focal beads -- perfect for use in crochet, knitting, or any other fiber arts projects! (These make GREAT purse closures).

12 January 2009

I posted some fantastic new nosties and hooks on eBay, including a Sparkly one! New Q on Etsy. Annnnndddd... I have updated my photo on my About Me page after a gorgeous snowfall last night.

9 January 2009

New hooks on Etsy and eBay. I have also been voted to be the Vice President of the Rocky Mountain Woodturners, hooray!

1 January 2009 -- Happy New Year!

I hope the New Year came to you with blessings aplenty, and a lovely transition from one to another. I've just posted some more hooks and nosties on eBay auctions, and also a couple of new crochet hooks on Etsy. Enjoy!

27 December 2008

Hello Hello! I hope some Christmas Magic made it's way into your home this season. I have just listed a very special crochet hook on Etsy featuring the lovely open spiral/dancing ribbons design that looks so lovely in the ornament to the right --->

It's yarn season too, so you'll find 5 brand new nosties in my eBay Store!

24 December 2008 -- Christmas Message

This message is for everyone out there, especially the lonelies. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas filled with laughter and light. I hope that the angels shower you with mirth and joy, flowing like a river right through the New Year. I hope that little things will give you pleasure -- a kitten's warmth, the sparkle of a star in the sky, the jingling of bells. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a delightful New Year.

20 December 2008

I had a wild desire to do some barrettes the other day, and lo and behold I think the Hair Ornament Fairies blessed me with their magical sawdust! I came up with some STUNNING pieces which are fabulously gorgeous. Some of them are so artistically inspired they could be set on your desk or elsewhere to have a miniature artwork always within view. Check out these lovelies on Etsy.

7 December 2008

This past weekend was an absolute thrill to work through -- everything I created turned out perfectly! My lathes ran smooth, the woods behaved themselves, even the gemstones lay delightfully in their paths. Speaking of which... I added several new needle cases (which also double as toothpick holders) to Etsy. These are perfect gifts for those folks for which you have no idea what to give. Plus... the new ones I've made are absolutely GORGEOUS. A must-see!

3 December 2008

It's 16'F today and snowing, no wind. My favorite sound in the world is that of snow falling. The tiny snows dance downward from the sky, swirling great waltzes from the heavens. I step outside and listen carefully to the gentle whispering of snow on snow; the nascent sigh that makes the world around bloom into silence. I hear the insulated hush and feel a gentle chill as snowflakes land on my nose. The world is peace.

28 November 2008

Happy Birthday to me -- I'm half-a-million years old today, (or is that 3-billion-one?). In celebration of things-I-like, I've been busily sewing brand new seasonal gift pouches out of a gorgeous jacobean floral fabric I found, and I'll be shipping these limited edition pouches with every item sent out starting today! I hope you enjoy this special Holiday Edition! :)

27 November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving! I am incredibly thankful to have such a wonderful audience and clientele with whom I can share my work. Thank you ALL for sending such wonderful feedback and comments to me -- I treasure every one. I hope everyone out there in the wide world has a marvelous holiday and bright new year! :)

18 November 2008

Please forgive my lack of postings, everyone -- I have been a busy little bee installing a dust collection system in my workshop so that I can breathe easier during the cold winter months when I must keep the garage door closed. I am thrilled to report, however, that I've made a number of gorgeous new fiber arts tools today, and will start posting them on Wednesday. Auction items will, as always, be on eBay, and I'll be regularly putting fixed-price listings on Etsy. Have fun!

13 November 2008

Snow! Hooray! Snow is so beautiful when it falls at night, mirroring the stars in the heavens, swirling 'round with floppy flakes like butterfly wings. Tiny snows dance inbetween, waltzing in a shaft of light from the window.

6 November 2008

Joann's, generally a lovely place for finding fabrics, seems to have discontinued my most preferred floral flannel. As I couldn't pick just one to replace it... well, my philosophy is: why choose just one when several will work much better? ;) Starting today, my gift pouches have three different patterns of coordinating colors and I will try to include one of each when you have several items shipped together in the same box. (Now your hooks can "trade clothes" if they want to, in case one or another has a "hot date" with a knitting needle! :)

22 October 2008

I've got a suprise for you!! (Those who know me in the offline world have seen me literally jumping up and down with excitement at this happy event!) I went and special ordered, straight from the manufacturer, brand new colorways of the dyed hardwoods! Yes, indeedy, I now have gorgeous color combinations, straight from my own heart and mind, which I'm thrilled and excited to make into crochet hooks, hair pins, nosties and more! I've already started listing them on eBay -- Check them out!

22 September 2008

Welcome to autumn! I spent this last weekend at the Sustainable Living Fair in Fort Collins, CO, doing woodturning demonstrations for the National Center for Craftsmanship -- a truly amazing organization which I am proud to be a member of. Their focus is to preserve craft, of every kind, teaching anyone who wants to learn skills that will carry our precious crafts into the future. From woodworking to fiber arts, and everything inbetween, they are dedicated to making sure future generations have access to the skills and knowledge of the past. Check out their web site if you have a chance.