OH MY..........
Arizona Bead Soup and Branch Stitch
Kumihimo
Merlot and Antique Lamp Crystal
This stunning piece can be found at Arts Prescott, Whiskey Row, Prescott, AZ
Check out more of Rowena's work at www.rowenaart.net
January 31, 2012
>>> Stepping Stones in Prescott Valley, AZ to Host UK WeaverJason Collingwood's Workshop
Don't miss this wonderful opportunity!
Workshop Leader: Jason Collingwood
Workshop Location: Stepping Stones, Prescott Valley, AZ
Workshop Dates: February 21-23, 2012
Cost of Workshop: $200
Description: "3 -end b l o c k w e a v e . An exploration of three end block weaves, the same structure Jason uses to weave all his rugs. Starting with simple two colour designs and moving on to designing within the blocks and the introduction of a third colour. Techniques such as clasped wefts and dovetailing will be looked at to further increase the design scope of this structure. 2 / 1 double faced twill will also be covered in this class. Special emphasis will be placed on Shaft Switching, every one being able to adapt their looms in class to try out this exciting technique."
http://www.rugweaver.co.uk/ - Jason Collingwood's website
Contact Diane Braun, President, Mountain Spinners and Weavers Guild, Prescott, AZ, for more information. (928) 442-9291 - highlander1@highcastlecrafts.com
>>> Hempseed Lotion - A Must for Spinners Hands
I've searched high and low for a good hand lotion that I can use when spinning and not feel like it's competing with my drafting by being too greasy and holding me back. I need the protection of a hand lotion but I just didn't want it to come off on my beautiful fibers.
Hempseed Lotion is just one of the many natural products handmade by Jeanne White, owner and founder of Jeanne's Soaps.
In the summertime you can find Jeanne through out the Farmer's Market circuits. Here are a few of the markets you will find Jeanne selling at: Cedar Rapids Downtown Market, Marion Uptown Market, Iowa City and the ever popular Des Moines Farmer's Market. Farmer's Markets in Iowa are absolutely amazing!
You don't have to wait to catch up with Jeanne at a local market, Jeanne has a store front with her son Jeremy in Uptown Marion called All Things Therapeutic Massage. Contact Jeanne at 319-521-9676.
>>> Silk Impressions by Loom N Essence
Impressions by Nature
Create a Zen Like Silk Scarf or Wrap
The possibilities are endless when dealing with nature as your bounty.
Like any other artistic project you begin with a blank slate, in this case my blank slate happens to be a piece of 100% silk.
First gather an assortment of flowers, lacey leaves, stems, etc Delicately place them on your silk. Sprinkle with tea leaves or just drop a tea bag in the center. Gently... wrap, fold, pleat your silk. Tie with either copper or craft steel. Set in a large zip lock bag and add red wine vinegar, let it set for two weeks. After that, gently remove wires and flowers, let it hang to dry then shake off all the residue. Must set again for another two weeks.
Handwash then use the steam of your iron to set the impressions. Keep in mind that there are design flaws with the process. That being said.... the flowers, stems, etc have been known to poke holes in the silk, the wire needs to be covered at the ends to prevent making holes in the silk. Always plan on doing a few so that you don't have to wait another month for them to cure!
Impression Scarves and Wraps are on available at Creative Colony, Main Street, Amana, IA 319-622-3753 or Eclectic Artisans, 1225 Sunset Drive, Suite B, Norwalk, IA (near DesMoines) 515-981-4009 or directly thru Loom N Essence 319-210-7775.
January 21, 2012
>>> Majacraft Introduces - New Flyer for Aura
Aura Flyer from Majacraft - Now Available!!
Majacraft writes: " thanks to the many requests, we are now going to make our spectacular State of the Art Aura flyer available for purchase individually. Andy is updating the online prices as we speak to include this very special item. And before you ask - YES it will fit and work on all of our wheels".
December 24, 2011
November 29, 2011
>>> Kick off the Holidays at Natures Noel, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Saturday - December 3rd, 2011
9:00am until Noon
NATURES NOEL
Stop by and check out the holiday fare from several local artists. Just to mention a few.... Loom N Essence - Handwoven Designs, Jeanne's Baskets and Brooms, Harvestsewn - Mittens and Accessories, Plant Me A Garden Soaps, Freetoes - Silks and Sarongs, Val's Clay Art, Barb's Everlasting Vanilla, Light of the Heartland - Soy Candles, Simply Elegant - Jewelry, Sarahndipity - Creative Cards and Kate Hawkins re-purposed designs from records and album covers ( very clever!!)
Everyone who knows anything about "Natures Noel" realizes that you MUST show up early in order to get any of the holiday greenery, it sells out so quickly since Natures Noel is noted for their wonderful array of wreaths, garlands and other holiday arrangements. The folks at Natures Noel continue to outdo themselves each year and this venue is sure to put you in the holiday spirit, I know it does for me. Located at Indian Creek Nature Center, Cedar Rapids, IA
October 31, 2011
>>> Eastern Iowa Arts Academy Hosts Annual "Harvesting the Arts" Dinner and Silent Auction
Sharon Poplawski writes: "Recently, I was invited to meet with a few of the Eastern Iowa Arts Academy (EIAA) founders to discuss their outstanding programs. EIAA provides classes in visual arts through after school programs for the Greater Cedar Rapids area, a truly worthwhile enterprise.
Within minutes of discussions on background and mission goals, one cannot help but realize the scope and success of EIAA. Their stories and efforts tug at your heartstrings.
November 11, 2011 marks the second annual "Harvesting the Arts" Dinner and Silent Auction. I have provided a link below if you would like to buy tickets or purchase some of the amazing art work from members and donors
Proceeds from "Harvesting the Arts" Silent Auction helps to ensure the on going success of future classes and programs."
About EIAA.......
The Eastern Iowa Arts Academy is a non-profit after school arts organization created for K - 12th grade students in the Greater Cedar Rapids metro area. EIAA offers classes in art, music, drama, dance, cultural arts and creative writing. Classes run 60-90 minutes each and meet weekly between 3:00-6:00 p.m., Monday - Friday.
EIAA's multidisciplinary and multi-cultural arts programs enhances the appreciation of the arts, strengthens performance abilities, provides quality after school activities, and celebrates the rich diversity in our community.
EIAA's slogan describes the organization best - Explore, Excite, Excel - EIAA provides exciting opportunities for students to explore the performing and visual arts, to excite students about the arts for continuing exploration, and, provide the skills needed to further excel with their talents.
"Harvesting the Arts" Dinner and Silent Auction - Buy Tickets NOW!!!
Eastern Iowa Arts Academy’s 2nd annual Harvesting the Arts dinner and auction the evening of Friday, November 11, 2011, will feature art by local artists and EIAA teachers in both silent and live auctions. Tiffany O’Donnell, from CBS2/Fox 28, will be the Mistress of Ceremonies, and a variety of EIAA student groups will provide live performances throughout the evening.
Get a jump on the bidding - visit the HTA online Auction!
September 30, 2011
>>> Ely Corner Art Studio and Gallery to Host Ely's Fall Festival
Ely Corner Art Festival
Check out just one of the many local Octoberfest celebrations by visiting Ely, Iowa.
