Madeline Faiella™ Designs

Peep!

You know I'm not much of a consistent blogger but I thought I'd better stop by and make a peep! I will be submitting two pieces of art for the Twelve by 12 Exhibit at ArtServe here in Fort Lauderdale. I'll let you know what happens. I have a few other new things going on too but you know how I am. Eventually, it may all get up here. Wishing you a good day and to all those who went to CHA in Anaheim, I wish you a successful show and safe travels.

$2.00 movies?

A friend of mine showed me these two little movie tickets. They were so cool I decided to make a pair of earrings out of them.

I made a frame of Kato Polymer clay and put the tickets in the frames. Then I poured a bit of Earth Safe Finishes EcoPoxy over them.

Aren't they cool? My friend can't believe he was going to throw these vintage tickets away. Oh and $2.00 for a movie? Definitely vintage! :-)

Why buy when you can redo?

    These metal file cabinets were so dull that I decided to do something with them.  They live in my studio and I wanted something inspiring, bright,and fun while still functional.  So I took them from this:

 

      TO THIS:

 

    Now they serve as a place to store things before but there's that added touch of Asian Spice.  They now serve as pieces where I can place my mannequins, a couple of candles, some artwork and a small lamp.  It looks much better in the space and I can still hide away my painting supplies and files.  Little dragonflies and some foliage dress up the bright Chinese Red color!  Delicious!!!

These are from last year! These two Poinsettias were going to be tossed last year when I rescued them. Here they are today, turning red! I just had to share this with you. It's a tribute to meeting new challenges and continuing to grow!

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY CHANUKAH everyone! Whatever you celebrate, I wish you the very best for the New Year with much health and success!!!.

Art on the Beach...!

While visiting the very beautiful Sebastian, Florida with my sister and her family, the ocean seemed to clear my head and bring in some much appreciated inspiration.  This is a simple piece that will be utilized in my Tropical Line and it was just a matter of sand and Photoshop!  Oh, and a pair of feet.  This leads one to think a little and with that I wish you a sunny and sandy day!

 

THANK YOU NORMAN ROCKWELL

Not too long ago I attended a Norman Rockwell exhibit at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art. Something reminded me of that this morning and I found myself smiling. It was exhilarating to stand in the open area with these outstanding original paintings around me.

It was surprising to see how large some of the pieces are because all through my childhood and adult life, I'd been seeing magazine covers and smaller paintings in print, and for some reason I didn't give thought to what the size of the original art might be.  I've certainly seen, done and imagined large art but I just don't know why it didn't cross my mind in this situation.

In the immediate instant it was a different aspect and I was engulfed in Rockwell's talent and expression. Each piece spoke to me and there I was just gazing at his work.

They had a wall of all the magazine covers that he did; not that was impressive as well. Mr. Rockwell's body of work - or at least what was at the museum, is amazing.

A true artist, he managed to enmesh humor and daily life in his pieces. They are so real I felt I could communicate with them.

If you ever have the opportunity to see a Norman Rockwell Exhibit, I suggest you take advantage of it and take that stroll down memory lane with one of the great artists of our time.

THANK YOU NORMAN ROCKWELL

AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION CLIMB - I DID IT AGAIN!

I climbed 600 steps for the American Lung Association on Saturday, November 12, 2011. I beat last year's time by over 3 minutes. It was my goal last year just to make it - I did that. I was my goal this year to beat my time. I did that. It's a wonderful cause and a great feeling to have been a part of this again. We climbed the 110 Tower in Dowtown Fort Lauderdale. Next year? Beat my time again, OF COURSE!  What a great feeling.

 

My girlfriend, Debbie, sent this recipe to me from her humble abode in Burbank, California. It couldn't be easier and it tastes good. Enjoy!!!

CRAZY CAKE

SIFT TOGETHER THE FOLLOWING DRY INGREDIENTS:

3 CUPS FLOUR
2 CUPS SUGAR
1 TSP. SALT
2 TSP BAKING SODA
7 HEAPING TABLESPOONS COCOA POWDER

EMPTY DRY MIXTURE INTO 7 X 13 INCH BAKING SHEET PAN AND SPREAD OUT EVENLY [FOR A SMALLER CAKE YOU CAN CUT THE RECIPE IN HALF AND USE A 9 X 9” PAN – PYREX PANS WORK REAL WELL AND LOOK NICER FOR SERVING OUT OF PAN]

CREATE 3 CRATERS IN THE DRY MIXTURE:

IN ONE PUT ½ CUP OF OLIVE OIL
IN ANOTHER PUT 2 TBSP APPLE CIDAR VINEGAR
IN THE LAST PUT 1 TSP VANILLA EXTRACT

POUR 2 CUPS COLD WATER OVER ENTIRE CONTENTS IN PAN AND MIX INGREDIENTS [FORK WORKS WELL – DO NOT BEAT] UNTIL ALL DRY INGREDIENTS ARE DISSOLVED AND MIXTURE IS SMOOTH.

BAKE AT 35O DEGREES FOR 30 – 35 MINUTES [CHECK SOONER FOR SMALLER CAKE] DONE WHEN TOOTHPICK INSERTED IN CENTER COMES OUT CLEAN AND/OR CAKE SPRINGS BACK TO THE TOUCH. DO NOT OVER-BAKE, THIS IS A DENSE, MOIST CAKE.

ALLOW CAKE TO COOL THOROUGHLY AND ICE.
YOU CAN USE STORE BOUGHT CANNED ICING BUT IT IS BEST WITH HOMEMADE BUT ADDING ICING MEANS THIS IS NO LONGER A FAT FREE CAKE. INSTEAD YOU CAN SPRINKLE SOME POWDERED SUGAR OVER TOP BUT IF YOU WANT TO INDULGE:

BUTTERCREAM FROSTING

½ BOX POWDERED SUGAR
1/8 CUP MILK
½ TSP VANILLA EXTRACT
½ STICK SOFTENED BUTTER

ESF is back from CHA Supershow as are so many and WOW!!! Another successful trip for the VERY FIRST COMPANY TO EVER PRODUCE A LINE OF LOW TO NO VOC PRODUCTS. Additionally, these products are made right here in the USA. No Green Washing here. Only the real deal. Take a look at www.earthsafefinishes.com to find out what's new and exciting.

HATIAN RELIEF!!!

https://american.redcross.org/site/Donation2?idb=949739833&df_id=4437&4437.donation=form1

Visit the American Redcross to donate to help with relief for Haiti.  Please open your heart and send whatever you can.  I have and will be donating through where I work and we are doing this throughout all of the coming week.   Would you be willing to cut a lunch or two out or a dinner out here or there?  Anything helps.  I don't know anyone there and I haven't been there, but I want to help.  Please, if you have been thinking of helping, let this be a place where you make that decision to do so.  The Redcross is a safe place to donate!!!

PLEASE HELP THESE PEOPLE.  THERE ARE INNOCENTS HURT, HUNGRY, THIRSTY AND DYING.

Did you know that Hospice patients have no medication and they are sufferring just waiting to die?  My Father died in Hospice.  Without the medication and attention these suffering paitents need, they will suffer great physical pain, and I can't imagine emotionally what it could be like.  PLEASE HELP.  WHATEVER YOU CAN GIVE WILL HELP.

GO TO THE LINK ABOVE AND DONATE THROUGH THE REDCROSS.  IT'S SAFE AND YOUR

DONATION IS GUARANTEED TO GET WHERE IT'S MEANT TO BE!!!

THANK YOU.. 

CALL OUT TO DESIGNERS: Are you a Designer who would enjoy meeting a challenge? Want to work with cool set of products? If you are interested, email me. Please put PROJECT in the subject line - not doing so will cause your email to be deleted. I look forward to hearing from you. This is a paying project!!! www.madelinefaiella.com (email)

It's so cold here in South Florida that I can't believe it. Orlando may even have snow. I enjoy cold weather for the most part and this is refreshing and very good sleeping weather. So tell me why I was up until 5:03 a.m. working on the computer this morning? lol lol lol

Two hours later I was up thinking it was time to go to work. Yeah, right. I turned over so quick but not before I felt the cold and noticed the rain. I will say this about that; I love the steely grey color everything takes on. Reminds me of more comforting days when I was a kid up north!!!

NANCY BURKHART OF ESF - RISING TO THE TOP

READ ARTICLE WRITTEN ON VENTURA COUNTY AT www.vcstar.com

ARTICLE BY

By Diana Marcketta Correspondent

Posted January 8, 2010 at midnight vcstar.com  

 Photo by Joseph A. Garcia

Jessica Arellano, left, with her daughter, Lilly, watches her mother, Nancy Burkhart, close a can of their Generation Green paint, which is nontoxic and has no volatile organic compounds. 
****************************************************************************************

Nancy Burkhart had endured enough.

Her fingers were dry and cracked from years of working with toxic paints in her crafting and paint businesses.

She worried that her young grandchildren were unknowingly inhaling noxious gases released from the paints. Although toxins — such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, Texanol and butoxyethanol — have been reduced in latex paints through legislation in the past few years, paints in general still release odors and toxins for a period of time after application.

So, the grandmother of four concocted a formula to create a toxic-free paint called Earth Safe Finishes. Burkhart, a single grandmother in her early 60s, launched the product online and ships from her garage in the Santa Rosa Valley.

“I wanted to take things another step,” said Burkhart, who had produced low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints for her previous company, Terra Bella Finishes. “I knew there was a way to do it. I just had to keep at it.”

Earth Safe Finishes has an acrylic base, but the paints, varnishes and finishes — 28 in all — have been manufactured in such a way that no volatile organic compound gases are released.

“We don’t live in the dark ages anymore,” Burkhart said.

She also has created glazes, shimmers, textures, crackles, decoupages, colorants, fabric magic, sealers and stains.

The products range from $4.49 to $17.99 for most items. A one-gallon bucket of paint runs $49, comparable with low-VOC paints found on retail shelves.

“It costs more than regular VOC paints, but you are paying for the quality of the product and for its results,” Burkhart said.

In less than a year since launching Earth Safe Finishes, Burkhart has developed a following among more than 200 crafters and hobbyists on Facebook and on her own Web site — the sole means of distribution.

Burkhart recalled a heartening experience of providing interior paint for a new home for a family in Idaho. Three members had been diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity — a chronic condition that causes a litany of health problems, including allergies, fibromyalgia, nose bleeds and sinus infections.

“Earth Safe Finishes is the only product that didn’t make me sick,” said Debbie O’Neal of May, Idaho. O’Neal found Burkhart’s product on the Internet after many searches.

Burkhart and her partner — daughter Jessica Arellano — now are even shipping products abroad, regularly sending a pallet of paints to an artist in Lima, Peru.

Although Burkhart has yet to receive certification as a “green” product in Europe, Eurofins US certifies the products as “green” in the United States. Eurofins US is an independent certification company in Des Moines, Iowa. The company tests products for volatile organic compounds and toxic ingredients, such as formaldehyde, ammonia, acetone, lead arsenic, cadmium, phthalates and heavy metals.

Several certification companies, including Eurofins US, Green Seal, Green Guard and U.S. Green Building Council, charge customers fees to ensure that so-called “green” products qualify as chemically and environmentally safe under standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency.

“It’s one step at a time,” Burkhart said. “There is a cost to test every product.”

She credits her success to the support she receives from other entrepreneurial women and from local agencies, such as the Ventura County SCORE group, comprised of retired executives who provide counseling to small businesses, and the Ventura County Small Business Development Corp.

“I still don’t know how to write a business plan, but I know I have a great product,” Burkhart said. “I take something valuable away from every meeting and every class I go to, and that makes it worth it to me.”

A support system is often crucial to a growing business.

“Nancy’s company’s mission is simple: provide environmentally safe products of quality. We at SCORE, hopefully, play a part by providing some help and guidance with her business model,” said Michael Scotto, chairman of SCORE Ventura County Chapter. “Nancy is bright and enthusiastic and has developed a product line that will take the company deep into the future to meet the environmentally friendly marketplace.”

The green industry nationally is expected to surge. Green building is expected to increase by $38 billion by 2010, five times more than today, according to the National Association of Homebuilders.

And even though the company is in its fledgling stage, Burkhart and Earth Safe Finishes was chosen earlier this year as a finalist for Green Entrepreneur of the Year by New York-based clothing company Eileen Fisher.

She also will be featured in a coming book profiling successful “green” women in the world written by “FUEL” documentary film producer, Rebecca Harrell Tickell. The film was the Sundance winner for Best Documentary Audience Award.

 

Just heard that you can actually "over tweet!" I have to giggle because I am an undertweeter. Bravo that you out-tweeted the system, Tara. It's hilarious

TAKE AN ONLINE CLASS WITH ANN BUTLER

http://creativeworkshops.ning.com/  FOLLOW THIS LINK  AND ENJOY ONE OF THE MOST CREATIVE, LIVELY, AND COLORFUL DESIGNERS IN THE INDUSTRY!!!!! 

 

CHECK IT OUT!!!! CHECK HER OUT!!!!

Inspired at Home Blog Talk Radio Double Giveaway!

Today is the last day to ENTER!
Double the Giveaway!
Double the fun!
We've just added a second giveaway to this Sunday's show!

We've just added the Earth Safe Finishes Fabric Magic kit as a second giveaway on this Sunday's Inspired at Home Radio show!

HOW TO WATERCOLORS THAT ROCK!!!!

So I picked up Earth Safe Finishes Colorants and I created some 'watercolors' that were both light and breezy and deep and rich. Take a look at what you can do! It's easy and fun.

I was at Art Serve Gallery in Broward County, Florida for an unveling of a large wall piece in clay done by a local artist. It was a nice evening. The Broward Water Color Society had a representative there and she demonstrated something that was easy and fun.

1. Take a piece of watercolor paper and spray it down with water until it's really wet.

2. Lay down coffee filters that are torn in half (OR more if you choose). Spray again until wet

3. Untwine / unravel twine. Pull the pieces apart and lay them down on the paper - continue to
spray water until wet.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you get the design you want.

5. With art brush (I like a flat 1/2 inch for this) add ESF Colorants in the colors of your choice

6. Allow colors to spread out - manipulate with brush

7. Continue layering water and color

8. Place piece in sun to dry

9. Remove filter(s) and twine completely.

Have fun!

BLOG GIVEAWAY - WIN WIN WIN - FREE FREE FREE

Earth Safe Finishes announces a blog giveaway at http://artofgreenfabricmedia.blogspot.com/ Just leave a comment between now and September 26th and you could be the winner of this beautiful silk-and-rayon beaded wrap.

Nothing to buy, just leave a comment about how you could use earth- friendly paints, media, finishes, and colorants. This stunning hand dyed scarf can be yours.  It is dyed with NO VOC Earth Safe Finishes Fabric Magic and Colorants by artist and designer, Beth Wheeler.  THIS IS JUST GORGEOUS so head over to her blog and leave a comment.  Who knows, you just might be the winner!!!!!

BEAUTIFUL - STUNNING - SUPPORT ARTISAN MADE PRODUCTS!!!!!!!!

MULTIPLE STREAMS OF INCOME WORKSHOP!!!

Laura Bray, katydid designs presents:

The Multiple Streams of Income Online Course!

This ecourse will be filled with lessons on everything from deciding which revenue opportunities to pursue, to creating a plan to ensure that you take

action and successfully market your business choices.   

The class starts on September 7.  Sign up today!

 

Laura is a great inspiration and I'm certain these classes will be great!

 

Experts are:

Tara Reed; Priscilla Burris; Claudine Helmuth; Kelly Snelling and me, Madeline Faiella AND Laura is adding more experts as the date comes closer.

 

Lots of payment options.  Do stop by - I'm sure you won't be dissapointed.

 

Laura Bray

46 Northern Pine Loop
Aliso Viejo, California 92656
(949) 533-8296

laura@katydid-designs.com

www.katydid-designs.com

IT'S BLOG TALK

Oprah| Decor| Art

Oprah| Decor| Art

 

Shared via AddThis

This is a wonderful excerpt

from

a dear friend and artist, Mary Lawler.

 

LISTEN TO ME AUGUST 2, AT 7:00 P.M., EST

Please listen while we discuss Earth Safe Finishes, it's products and statement, and the Earth Safe Finishes Gazette and my role as editor.  Earth Safe Finishes is a wonderful product but it's also a GREAT COMPANY run by a Mother - Daughter team and a SLEW (is the a word?) of great support staff.  Wonderful people that support the cause, the products and each other.  Please listen and YOU MIGHT WIN ESF's Perfect Paint Starter Kit!!!!!

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/inspiredathome

 

 

 

HARD HATS!!! EVERY SELF-RESPECTING GAL NEEDS ONE!!!!

Who said you can't dress up a hard hat? Certainly not me! Especially when I am using Earth Safe Finsihes products. I can take my time and enjoy.

Take a look at this hard hat. It started as an old - crusty hard hat. I love the shape of the hat and the fact that it turned out so cool!

1. Tear a map into sections and glue it to the hat with ESF Decoupage on the underside of the map sections.

2. "Tint" the map to look aged by using Colorant - Sienna. Put on with a soft cloth and wipe away/off to create the tint you like.

3. Apply stamps of your choice (I used flying birds, butterflies and text) by using ScrapPerfect's Perfect Pouch to stabilize the area. Then apply ESF's Shimmer Opaque in Gold in random areas. Alternate with Generation Green Perfect Paint "Black".

4. Apply Text (I chose "TRAVEL" AND "FRIENDS FOREVER" to enhance the idea of the design. Get it, maps, travel, friends...butterflies and birds for movement. Use your imagination and get crazy with it.

5. Seal your work with ESF Interior Varnish Satin. Apply 3 coats allowing each coat to dry completely. If you live in a humid area like I do, allow longer drying time.

PARDON ME, I'M OFF!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

INTERVIEW WITH TIFFANY WINDSOR - 8.2.2009

What fun this will be!  I am going to be interviewed by the talented Tiffany Windsor on blogtalk radio.  I hope you will make time to stop by and listen.  The topic is the Newsletter for which I am Editor for Earth Safe Finishes Products, the no VOC line of paints and finishes that are sweeping the industry!

 

 

 

I HOPE THAT YOU WILL STOP BY!!! 

OH YES YOU CAN!!!!

For those of you who think you have to use smelly paints to create something awesome you are so incorrect.  you can create beautiful artwork with Earth Safe Finishes  products and - BECAUSE IT'S SAFE -  YOU can work longer.

Take a look at the product line and come back to learn more. We are just starting this so I need to get photos up for you and during our time together, I will begin to show you how to take your art into a THE SAFE ZONE!

 

NOW, WOULD I PAINT THESE FOR SOMEONE IF THEY WEREN'T SAFE!!!

Head on over to http://artofgreenfinearts.blogspot.com/ and check out Art of Green Fine Arts.  You'll find some interesting news, produts, tips and more.

 

Working on my original art images and photoshop

I love texture and subtle blends of color.  I realized that hours had passed after I tinkered with a bunch of images.  WOW!  I had a blast!  It was thundering and lightning and all I could do was hope that my computer woulnd't blow.  I was super lucky and realized that it was dumb to stay on the computer when I could have blown it.  Don't follow my lead on that one, but my point is that when passion takes over, it's really difficult to stop working!!!!

Take a piece of your work and photograph it in good light and get a clear photo.  Then try a number of options in Photoshop for a number of images from one piece of art.  It's like doing your own licensing!  I had a ball. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A couple of examples of how I spent part of my Sunday afternoon. 

NEW! NEW! NEW!

CHA, CHA, CHA!!!  It was new to me and when I was willing to give the CHA CHA bracelet a go this is what I came up with.

I made the pink beads of Kato Poly Clay and the rest of the piece is a combination of pearls, Swarovski Crystal baubles and various beads and bead caps, eye pins and wire.  The base of the bracelet is an expandable bracelet with little loops that allow you to wrap wires or jump rings through them.

Wrap, did I say wrap?  Oh, I wrapped alright.  This piece took a good number of hours but the results are worth it!  I purchased everything from Fire Mountain Gems.

You can see this piece in the gallery at Fire Mountain Gems online at:

http://www.firemountaingems.com/galleryofdesigns/snapshots_design_gallery.asp?docid=8B2J&WT.cg_s=Customer+Snapshots&sact=search

To shop for jewelry please visit www.madelinefaiella.com or contact me directly.   Custom work is available.

DID YOU KNOW ESF HAS BABY SAFE FINISHES????

We have used Earth Safe Finishes products to do all sorts of things; from all types of crafts and repurposing projects to fine art but DID YOU KNOW about Baby Safe Finishes?  Here are some reasons to use ESF's Baby Safe Finishes:

Pregnant and want to paint?

Baby arrived early?

Moving and need a new nursery?

Finally found an inspiration for the baby's room?

Want something better for your family?

Want something better for your world?

The same safe products with a special pastel
 palette just for baby. 

EARTH SAFE FINISHES offers many possibilities from crafts to marine to baby's room and IT'S ALL SAFE.

 

 

NEWS!!! EARTH SAFE FINISHES!!! NEWS!!!

Earth Safe Finishes has an updated website with new products added and a lot going on.  Take a look around, learn about no VOC's and get as excited as we are about the fabulous-ness of this company and its products!!!

CREATE YOUR OWN  CUSTOM  COLORS WITH VIBRANT, RICH, COLORANTS AND GENERATION GREEN ACRYLIC PAINT!!!!  I LOVE THIS STUFF.

 

One tiny drop of Generation Green Colorant added to another drop of another color or to acrylic paint and you can create just about any color you are looking for. 

DID YOU KNOW THAT EACH AND EVERY PRODUCT IN THE ESF LINE CAN BE MIXED WITH ANY OTHER PRODUCT IN THE LINE???  Mix your own color with the clear stain and VOILA!!!!  Add color to texture.  It's virtually endless and totally customizable. 

Please visit EARTH SAFE FINISHES.  Now and often!!!

 

Education is key

It is never to early or too late to learn!  If I had the time and means, I would be taking more and more classes  - I'm like a sponge - even if some things take longer to learn than others. 

Learning more and more about the internet and the SAFE interaction with different site i.e. Twitter / Typepad / LinkedIn etc., but it is important and necessary.  If you have any idea on how to keep it simple and safe, please let me know.  I'm all ears!!!! Or eyes.....

MARCH OF DIMES TEE SHIRT DESIGN 2009

MARCH OF DIMES 2009

For the last 4 years I have donated tee shirt designs for It's my way of giving back and to be honest, I enjoy designing them.

The tee shirts sells for $15.00 each and the proceeds go to The March of Dimes. We have a great time doing the walk at the beach area in Fort Lauderdale.  Please order no later than April 4, 2009.

All the volunteers are great and they do just about anything that's needed to make this event a success.  When children are born prematurely they need a lot of help to make it and to be healthy and to get strong.  Please remember to donate to The March of Dimes. 

You may go to the March of Dimes and donate whatever you can.  If everyone donated one dollar, the difference it would make would be monumental.  I know that it's a rough period we are going through, but the children are innocent and need YOUR HELP. 

Madeline

Ok - Just added Feedburner

I just added Feedburner and now I'm trying to configure the display box so that half of it is not cut off.  Hey, at least I'm giving it a try.  Once I get this all down I'll be flyin'....of course, then I have to find the time!!!!

 

 

BACK FROM CHA- LEARN ABOUT EARTH SAFE FINISHES.

CHA was very interesting on many levels.  Smaller than we are used to but it's quality and not quantity.  Some just didn't come with their entourage and I’m sure that’s due to the economy, yet those that were there did buy, connect, and talk shop. 

 

 

The L&D and Designer Display sections displayed fabulous talent, desire, and healthy ambition as they always do.  It’s a treat to have that much talent under one roof.

 

Thanks to Jan Mollet Evans who hosted a gala of fun for us in the hotel that was sponsored by Pentel.  It was such fun to play with products and learn of some of the new lines they have.  I adored the new pens and the wet / dry chalk.  Great stuff. http://pentel.com

 

 

Stencils!!! The Crafters Workshop knocked my socks off!  Contemporary and run by two great people who just want to make a better product for the consumer.  Believe me when I tell you that we jumped for joy I’m not kidding http://thecraftersworkshop.com.  I saw these at the PENTEL get together and we were misting them with color.  WOW!!!  Great fun.  Great results.

 

 

Flower Soft is a new product that consists of colored sprinkles that you design with.  Add dimension, color, definition, and more to your projects.  I was really taken by this product and I didn’t think I would be at all interested.  This product is 1) Acid Free; 2) Ideal for card making, scrapbooking or just general hobby and crafts; 3) Simple for use by all age; and 4) its 3 D effects are “outstanding” (no pun intended). I recommend taking a look at it.  http://www.flower-soft.com.  There are a lot of application possibilities with this one.

 

 

Ok, this is real cool product.  I had seen it out there but never in person.  Of course, you know me, now I am doing a piece of fine art with it.  Well, I envision what I’m doing.  I’ll have to post it for you when I’m done!  Paverpol... what they were doing with tee shirts was just so amazing my creative juices were flowing down my chin.  LOVE IT!!!  http://www.paverpol.com  Harden many types of materials including fabric, paper, leather and more and create beautiful pieces.  Christa Light, who is the US iimporter, is a delight. 

Walnut Hollow!!! WOW! Great new tools and fun things to work with.  Walnut Hollow is another company who never ceases to amaze me.  They have a metal working kit out now that is a lot of fun and will offer you a ton of creative opportunities.  You can do so much with it that you are only limited by creative and time.  They also have new wood pieces and metals to go with the new tools and … well head over to the website and see what’s going on.  I highly recommend it.

 

 

http://www.walnuthollow.com  Earth Safe Finishes and Walnut Hollow joined forces and had a great workshop.  With Barbara Matthiessen and Rebekah Meir instructing, it was a sure fire project and it was really beautiful!  There are some photos here of both the projects and the classes. 

 

 

JUST PART OF THE CLASS AND THE COOL RAKU PROJECT

THAT BARBARA MATTHEISSEN AND REBEKAH MEIR PUT TOGETHER

WITH ESF AND WALNU HOLLOW!!! THE CLASS WAS COMPLETELY FULL!!!
 

 

 

HERE'S NANCY AT THE BOOTH DURING A CALM MOMENT

 

 

 

  

HERE IS NANCY AND ANN BUTLER.

TWO OF THE STRONGEST PEOPLE IN THE INDUSTRY TODAY.

OH, AND MY FRIENDS TOO!!!

 

 

ALL THE PROJECTS THAT YOU SEE HERE ARE CREATED

FROM USED AND/OR RECYLED OR REFURBISHED ITEMS

INCLUDING CLOTHES, PLATES, PAPER AND FORMICA CHIPS

USING EARTH SAFE FINISHES!!!

 

Oh no you didn’t!!!!  I will not be without things to do because DIYBangles has the most outstanding wood bangles and beads that are made from milk wood.  Believe me when I tell you they are like buttahhhhhh!!!  You will have to get your hands on one of these to feel the richness of the wood Smooth and ready to paint, stamp, embellish, or add fabric or clay(s).  They also have other products you might be interested in so check it out at http://www.diybangles.com 

 

Amaco had a great butterfly competition and I went over to vote.  It was wonderful to see the beauty that came of Friendly Plastic.  They were just great.  http://www.amaco.com

Of course I was smitten with The Purple Cows.  I mean for the hugs alone I’ll ask you to take a look at their site and see what’s up.  I mean really, a big purple cow gave me a hug.  You know how I adore hugs!!!  http://www.purplecows.net  They have a myriad of wonderful products for your home and crafting and more.

Terry “O” came by Earth Safe Finishes to Film Nancy Burkhart; GREAT JOB NANCY.  We know you will take over the cameras from now on.  Jessica, you did it with style too!!!

 

 

WHO CAN LEAVE OUT When Creativity Knocks ( http://www.whencreativityknocks.com  ) with Ana and Megan Araujo who move from one place to the next filming great segments for viewing on their website.  It’s awesome.  We saw a lot of them because they were at the Earth Safe Finishes booth filming for quite a while.  It was great to see them in action and fun to get behind the behind the sceners.  lol lol lol   There we were behind the camera men taking our own photos and hoping not to trip on a cord.  It was a lot of fun and this is a duo that will make you smile. Their presence at the show was truly ECO GREEN from one end of the booth to the other.

 

 

The products are low and no-VOC (non-toxic) and run across the board from paper to walls to exteriors.  From fine art to crafts and kids crafts.  From canvas and wood to marine.  Yes, yachts are being varnished and after a couple of years they are STILL good to go. Countertops and more are good with the marine varnish and baby furniture is safe for children and the environment. 

 

 

A mother and daughter team, Nancy Burkhart and her daughter, Jessica, manufacture IN THE USA this environmentally friendly line of products that's being used by faux painters, artists, designers, stampers, paper artists, scrapbookers, boaters, and interior renovations.  Unbelievable and I love it.

 

 

ESF has great one application coverage.  The line includes, texture mediums (rough and smooth), gels and glazes, matte and satin varnishes, marine varnish, extender, brush and hand cleaner, colorants that can be used to dye fabric without any heat setting.  Imagine that!  No heat setting and safe enough for baby clothes.  Just add a little colorant to water, dip in the fabric and there you go.  The colorants are so concentrated that they are in eye dropper type bottle and they go a long way. 

 

There is also wax, gesso and gouache.  Feel like doing encaustic paintings? Try the wax; works wonders.  In addition there are Shimmer Opulence colors in translucent and opaque.   These are jewel colors that work on anything.

 

 

There is a huge advantage to this product line; Generation Green can be intermixes mixed with any one product in the line.  They are all interchangeable and work well with each other.  You can get just the color you desire without fear of reaction.

 

 

Finally, you can apply directly to almost any surface from paper to canvas and metal to wood and more without having to prepare the surface.  If you want to gesso something, ESF carries that too!

I will give you all the information you might like so that you can learn more about this product line.  I am a multi medium artist and I love this stuff!!!!

 

 

They were, have been, and are, a great GREEN PRESENCE.  We really do need a better phrase for all of this but this was certainly a booth that was ECO FRIENDLY - green from every aspect.  From the products themselves to the labels that are recycled, the bottles and containers too and even the booth that was a used booth to all the sample projects that were ALL RECYCLED, this was one of the only booths there was truly green.  We had a blast and we were thrilled to see so many people come by.

 

 

 

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! and CHA HERE WE COME!!!

Here we are in 2009 and the hits keep rolling.  I hope you all enjoyed Christmas, Hanukah and New Year's Eve.  Personally I loved January 1, 2009 because I enjoyed relaxing...and relax I did.  It's a time to recharge and get those motors running smoothly.

There are some challenges in this New Year that are not those we usually face so we need to be strong.  It's not easy but it's doable.  So if you are getting ready for CHA, take a deep breath and put your best foot forward.

Please come by the Earth Safe Finishes Booth#4926 and say hello! Be sure to bring your business card to drop into our WIN-A-BASKET O’ GOODIES FROM ESF BOX!!!   At the end of the show, we will pull one business card from the box and one lucky winner will be sent a special basket of goodies directly from Earth Safe Finishes founder and all-around non-toxic paint genius, Nancy Burkhart.  You will also be automatically signed up for our free Newsletter which will arrive in your inbox once a month.

I will be looking for you - come by and introduce yourself!!!

 

 

Madeline

CHRISTMAS IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER.....

Christmas i s almost here and it's time to become a kid again!!!  Don't forget that wonderful feeling.  Buy yourself a nice gift.  It doesn't have to be large - just something YOU like that you can afford.   Or, make it!!! Did you know that in poor economic times the arts stores are doing better and people are home making things.

This snowman was fun.  I painted him with acrylic paint on wood.  I sealed him with varnish and there he is.  What fun.  What a great gift, and what a great decoration to keep. 

Enjoy this little guy.  If you want to purchase the outline drawing, just contact me and I will be glad to send it to you for $2.50.  You can use it as a coloring page with the kids or you can relax and enjoy some kid-time!! 

CHA is just around the corner and EARTH SAFE FINISHES invites you to come and visit us at Booth #4926

 We are offering a workshop with Walnut Hollow®, another green company, taught by instructors who have great projects for you. With our non-toxic paints and new tools
from Walnut Hollow®, it's going to be "GREAT GREEN FUN!" Visit Walnut Hollow® http://www.walnuthollow.com

 

MORE FOR THE ASKING

Visit the online boutique that offers art, jewelry and home decor.  You will also find services such as design consultation and more.  Head over to www.madelinefaiella.com.

Oh, and if you are interested in purchasing this little snow man, let me know.  He sells for $87.00.

See you very soon.

Madeline

YOU ARE INVITED TO A SALE.....

I have two big sales coming up.  One of them will be mainly jewelry items and the other will be a combination of art, jewelry, and home decor.  I do look forward to making holiday sales and new contacts.

Follow up will be crucial and making it easy for the client will be the most important item on my list.  I have decided on my layout for the table in both events and although they will vary, they will be aimed at creating a brand. 

It's exciting and daunting at the same time but oh so worth it.

The first sale is private to about 250 people.  I can't do anything about that because I would love to invite you, however, the second sale is in the lobby of the National Bank Building at 200 East Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.  You are most welcome.

You will see Madeline Faiella Designs as you walk into the lobby.  Twenty percent of my earnings will immediately go to Juvenile Diabetes. 

Thanks

Madeline

THE HOLIDAY ISSUE OF TOTALLY CREATIVE IS OUT!!!

http://www.lulu.com/content/4105173  Yes indeed! If you click on the link here, you will be taken to www/Lulu.com  where you may purchase a hard copy of the holiday issue of Totally Creative!  This is the newest edition of Totally Creative!  It's fabulous; it's wonderful; it's devine and it's very well priced!!!

TOTALLY CREATIVE MAGAZINE - HELPING THE INDUSTRY ONE PROJECT AT A TIME!!!

There's a great new magazine/e-zine out that's a fresh new input to the creative industry.  TOTALLY CREATIVE  is a magazine for crafters by crafters.  Subscriptions are ripe for the taking and all it takes is heading over to Totally Creative. 

Whether you enjoy working with polymer clay, paper, paint of all types, embroidery, felting, quilting, wire work and more.  TOTALLY CREATIVEis more than just a magazine, it's a concerted effort of many talented and skillful designers to do their part in helping to build the craft industry back up to a bubbling roar!

Crafting happens on all levels and today, when you are looking for things to do at home with the kids or you are looking for help with a project for yourself, TOTALLY CREATIVE is just the magazine for you.

Take a look, subscribe and CREATE!  Tell your family and friends.  With the first issue already in the past, the holiday issue is ready!  What fun for the holidays and it's the perfect time to begin your gift making!

Enjoy Totally Creative and be TOTALLY SATISFIED!

Madeline

 

CREATIVE EDUCATION -

The other night I took one of the best classes I have taken in a long time.  A young local artist, - Michael Bauman - gave an extraordinary class on how to solder with sterling and/or fine silver. There was another student in the class with me and we both learned so much that we walked away with literally weeks of education.  We also had a few refreshers on simple metalsmithing!

We walked into the back room of my favorite bead shop BEAD NEED (www.beadneed.com) in Fort Lauderdale where  we sat down in front of just a couple of pieces of equipment; a small, hand-held torch, a very inexpensive paintbrush for chemical application, small squares of inflammable tiles to work on and paper and pencil.  The chemicals were far enough away that we had to reach a bit and Michael said not to drink them. ‘Nuff said!!!   Thanks, Michael!!!  Flux does  look somewhat like a lemon drop.

After we drew out our own original designs of our intended pieces of jewelry we proceeded to bend, snip, and cajole sterling silver wire to mirror our sketches.  We were instructed about everything from safety to how to pound metal into fine curls and we loved every minute of it. 

Our projects came out great if I say so myself.  We ran out to the larger room where Kasey was giving a beading class to show them what we were taught and how we applied it.  It was great.  There we were; happy people, just as tired as could be, yet invigorated and ready for out next rendezvous in the back room.

My point: try something new.  It’s invigorating.  When we were told that ours were some of the finest pieces to come out of the classes that had been given our illustrious teacher simply said, “THAT’S BECAUSE THEY HAD FUN!”

Enjoy yourself and create freely.

Madeline

 

 

PMC RINGS - MMM...THEY LIKE THEM!

Ladies still do brunch and brunch we did at Le Bonne Crepe on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.  We had some friends who were celebrating a birthday.  Why am I telling you this...simply because I had two clients at the table and one had surprised the birthday gal with a special commissioned piece that I did.

You will be happy to hear that it was so well received that I received more custom orders.   It's good business when clients come back again and again. 

This story goes on to say that I was wearing a PMC ring that I made.  PMC, precious metal clay, is a material that was invented in Japan by the Mitsubishi Group in the late 1990's.  It looks like gray clay and comes in small lumps.

You may go to this link to learn about the history and comoposition of PMC.  http://www.pmcguild.com/history.html

Anyway, just sitting there I realized that I was my own advertisement and without even trying this little ring was coveted and I had two orders.  "I'd like mine smaller in width" or "I love the texture.  Will you do mine the same way?"  It's music to your ears when someone else admires your work.

If you would like to order a ring like this, go to www.madelinefaiella.com and contact me with your ring size.

In this case this PMC ring was the bling-a-ding-ding at brunch.  Well, next to the mimosa's of course!!!

If you work in PMC and you would like to link to this blog, please contact me.  I would be happy to have you.

Madeline

Folks are back from summer CHA....

The best news on the horizon for me as it relates to CHA is that not only will I be in Anaheim, and I hope to see you there, the summer show will be Orlando!!!  Wahoo.  Ok it's 3 hours from me but at least I can actually drive to a show.

Winter CHA should be very interesting because I understand that the designer and licensing section will be twice as large as it was last year.  This is great for everyone.

I will be displaying in at least one - if not two sections and I will be working with Terra Bella Finishes.  If you attend CHA in winter in Anaheim or in summer in Orlando, please do stop by and say hello.  There are lots of good things coming.

Now the people that have come back from the show have not yet all checked in with everyone, but the news is trickling in.   I am gleaning from what I am hearing that as usual, the Designers did a great job in all forums and I am not surprised.

There was a great trend report from Marie Browning and Orphan Works Bill discussions which is very prominent right now.  You can watch an interview at http://www.whencreativityknocks.com/craft-and-hobby-episodes/videodirectlink-19.html to learn more.

Madeline

On daily posts!

Hello there. Well, by now you can plainly see that I do not post daily although I would like to at least post twice weekly. Some of what's in the works are projects that need to be finished. You know the feeling...I don't know which to do first and then you need to post. So, let me say that I have enormous confidence in myself and I will get to where it's running smoothly. That means the website: and this blog. Of course that includes a newsletter that is supposed to be coming out from my site. I have finished one for someone else, but it's like the cobbler without shoes. Oh, but it will get done; that is a fact. Madeline

On charitable design!

 Don't you feel terrific when you have successfully created something to donate for a charitable cause?  For as long as I can remember I have donated, given, gifted (whatever you want to call it) to many different organizations. 

 In the last 4 years - I have donated designs to local chapters for The March of Dimes, Juvenile Diabetes, Cystic Fibrosis and most recently, National Transplant Association.

Why not give of yourself by donating your talent!  The image seen here is one of many that became the graphics design on many tee shirts for those who walked for Cystic Fibrosis.

Do you make jewelry?  Do what I did and give a piece that can be auctioned off.  Whatever you decide to do, JUST DO IT!  It's a fabulous feeling to - give - your time - and your artistic talent.

Madeline

So much jewelry, so little time!

Jewelry is something YOU and I adore!  It’s fun to wear and since ancient times, people have been adorning their bodies with everything from headdresses and earrings to pendants and neck pieces.  From the Chinese to the Egyptians – jewelry has been worn by both men and women!!!

 

Don’t you enjoy the feel of a smooth bead on your skin and seeing the glimmer of something shiny in the light?  Think about it – when you head to the beach you see lots of skin, but you also see something glistening in the sunlight.  Mmm…could be necklaces, ankle bracelets, rings, earrings or neatly hung charms that hold sentiment of a place once visited. 

 

One small piece can make a huge statement as to WHO YOU ARE.  So much jewelry, so little time!!!

Pictured here; polymer clay necklace.

 

 

Ethics. It's a small world.

It never ceases to amaze me what people will do in the name of "non-ethical behavior". The sad thing is that those people seem to get a reputation and it's usually a bad one.

For example, a fellow designer expressed her distaste for something, without mentioning names, of course, that happened to her regarding someone using other people's work to get a project done and calling it their own. That's outrageous behavior but it does happen. Or take the case of people going to exhibits and shows and using - cell phones - to take pictures of work that was exposed for buyers in a licensing venue.

Plagiarism takes on many forms and it all boils down to ethics! Doing something just to get it done, to be on top, to be the first, to be the most and win, is not the way to go if it means stepping on the rights of others. What satisfaction is there in using other work when you know in your heart you didn't create it. Where is the integrity in taking advantage of people who are vulnerable to get what you really shouldn't be taking. The way to stop this is to confront those people when you are able.  *Professionally and discreetly at first, please!* Too often it comes too late and the damage is done.

Exposure of these unethical type is usually the cure!

Madeline

The Uphill Climb...

I have talked to so many artists and designers who share a similar issue. They tell me they sometimes feel as though they are moving uphill. Simply said, you probably are but it's not just creatives who are become overwhelmed or dismayed, it’s and inevitable struggle that hits all of us one time or other. There are always going to be uphill battles however persistence is key.

If your muse is resting trying to get the strings back on the bag o’ tricks isn't if it were that easy to become successful, then everyone would have the same level of success. Success means something different to each and every person. There are groups of people who believe that success is only being a multi-millionaire or driving a new car and to you - IT MAY BE SOMETHING TOTALLY DIFFERENT. 

Despite the naysayers keep at what you are doing and make the uphill climb with grace.

Some people start their businesses in their garages and others in their living rooms, kitchens, or bedrooms. Some just take over the whole house to get the job done. The key is to believe in yourself and do what you feel is the right thing for YOU.

Learn all you can about what it is you want to do and be open to change. Work hard and keep positive if not all the time, most of the time. It really does make a difference.  If you need to take a few months off from what you are doing, believe that there is a good reason for the time off and there is probably something out there for you to learn which can be applied when you come off your mini hiatus.

When the uphill climb has you losing your breath take some time off it's energizing and motivating.

Good luck!

Madeline

Orphan Works Bill

The controversy over this Bill is nothing short of outrageous and with some of the greatest people in the industry supporting its opposition we can only hope for its ultimate demise! There are so many other issues that need attention and warrant the time, effort(s) and fortitude that went into the alteration requests to a Bill that was (rightfully) shot down before. For all the updated information and the oportunity to sign a petition to vote down this Bill, please go to http://www.owoh.org/. 

Please, sign the petition and write the appropriate letters to help show that you care about the copyrighs of everyone in the visual arts. This is a Bill that could adversely effect hundreds of thousands artists of all types. We are all hoping for a positive outcome.

Thank you.

Madeline

An Editor's work is no easy job!

I am excited to say that I have just finished the first edition of the new Terra Bella Finishes Newsletter.  We are hoping to have it out by the 15th of this month, and it looks like it might happen on time.

There are so many topics worth talking about that it was a difficult decision to stick to the Company's products and our illustrious artist of the month, Barbara Metthiessen. Next month there will be lots more and I am currently deciding on the artist of the month for August.

If you would like to be featured, contact me or Nancy Burkhart.  nancy@terrabellafinishes.com

Fingers crossed!!!

Madeline