Yoli of Sacred Snatch Designs

Sugar Skull Tutorial

2008-10-15T23:31:00.000-07:00

at my new blog sight!

click here, and add me while you are at it!

New blog

2008-10-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I just blogged about a beautiful opportunity.

Please visit my new blog and do subscribe, and/or follow. I will be posting there, from now on.

Thank You!

Yoli

Here is the linky!

New Addiction! Drive by Random Acts of Kindness

2008-10-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I blogged about a swap I was hosting on Swap-bot. Well I am happy to say, it just started a couple of days ago, and already, I am getting amazing feedback from a couple of the chica's that dove right in. I only requested that people randomly drop off 3 pieces of art, notes, doodles, or whatever in random areas and take a photo of their deed. However, a couple of these ladies are already knee deep in their RAK addiction and have already dropped off a handfull of RAK's throughout their cities. They have also written to me about how much joy they are getting out of this, and have vowed to continue dropping off random goodness thruout. I opened up a flickr group so that everyone can share their experience and or partake in the challenge. You can find the group here. (please feel free to join and view photos and discussions)

I have yet to drop mine off, but I did make three collaged postcards with a note for the finder. My goal is going to be to drop them off at various places during 2nd Saturday's art walk here in Sacramento. Which brings me to the point of my blog....

I want to challenge each and every reader of this blog to practice one RAK. It doesn't have to be art, it can be a phone call, an extra tip, a letter, a one liner, anything. Trust me, you will get so much more out of it than the receiver. Some are even calling this excercise of good faith, theraputic, and I have to agree.

I remember a couple of years ago, my husband and I were trying to merge on the Bay Bridge's toll booth. We had gotten in the wrong line (fast track) and needed to scoot over to a booth that accepted cash. We had blinkers on, and were trying to make eye contact with anyone who would show mercy on us. We found a little clearance and were just about to merge onto the next lane when a car sped up and laughed at us as we tried to get in front of her. Well Karma stepped in because as they were looking back at us and laughing, she hit the car in front of her. "Ouch".
Another car stopped and let us get in front of them. We were so thankful, that at the toll booth, we paid for our toll and the car behind us. That particular RAK still feels good to this day.

Whoops, look at me, I am rambling! So yeah, do your RAK and let me know how it went. You can post here or at my flickr group. I would also like to challange all my Scary Art Collective ghoulies to participate with me.

Oh, and if you have the time and are in my city, do stop by our shows. We are participating in two shows.

Blood & Guts Do Sell
October 11, 6-10pm
Side Show Studios

Scarry-Art Collective Halloween Show

October 11, 6-10pm
Body Tribe

Do stop by and hollar at your girl!

Easy Encaustic Wax Tutorial. (You know how I do!)

2008-10-05T16:16:00.001-07:00

Before I get started on this super easy, fun, & addicting craft/art technique, I am going to list the a definition of the encaustic process. Don't let it scare you because you know I always have a "99 cent" solution!

Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax to which colored pigments are added. The liquid/paste is then applied to a surface — usually prepared wood, though canvas and other materials are often used.

The simplest encaustic mixture can be made from adding pigments to beeswax, but there are several other recipes that can be used — some containing other types of waxes, damar resin, linseed oil, or other ingredients. Pure, powdered pigments can be purchased and used, though some mixtures use oil paints or other forms of pigment.

Metal tools and special brushes can be used to shape the paint before it cools, or heated metal tools can be used to manipulate the wax once it has cooled onto the surface. Today, tools such as heat lamps, heat guns, and other methods of applying heat allow artists to extend the amount of time they have to work with the material. Because wax is used as the pigment binder, encaustics can be sculpted as well as painted. Other materials can be encased or collaged into the surface, or layered, using the encaustic medium to adhere it to the surface.

***********************************************************************************

Yeah, who has time for that, or for the mess? I know I don't, so lets get this party started, shall we?

Materials and supplies.

Natural Bees wax: You can find this at Michaels or Joanns in the candle section. Make sure you get clear, and because I like to save my "skrilla" use a coupon. They are always putting out weekly coupons.

Crayons: Here is where I don't skimp out. Crayola shoves in lots of pigment in their crayons. They are not that much more expensive than a generic brand. Trust me, they make a difference.

Quilting Iron: Again, use a coupon people! These run around 30.00. They are so worth it too, because they get super hot and they are small and great for small projects. Oh, and you can use them for quilting too.

Newspaper: Great for absorbing drips and cleaning your tool

Gift Wrap Tissue Paper: You know, the kind you dress up your gift bags with. Dollar store carries it, and so does the rest of america.

Gift Car, Collage, painting,tag,: anything you want to seal up. I sealed wood, paper, and canvas. For demonstration purposes, I am using a Christmas card.

Step 1: I like to get my iron nice and hot, and I set it on high. Be very careful, you can easily burn yourself. After it is nice and hot, I apply the iron directly on my slab of wax, till it starts dripping on my card. I let it drip all over

See the drips? Kinda looks nasty, but I won't even go there......

After you have a fair amount of wax on your card, start rubbing your iron all around your card to melt and smooth out your wax droppings. Have fun, this is the most theraputic part, I can swirl around for hours. If you get to much on one side, you can remelt it and move it around.

Wanna be daring and add some color? Get your crayon and apply it to your iron the same way you did with your bees wax. Use your crayon sparingly! Crayolas put out lots of color and you depending on the size of your piece, you may only need one or two drops. Again, if you have too much color, you can always move it around by melting it and spreading it elsewhere

Here, I added about 4 different colors.

After your piece cools a bit, it is ready to buff out. Using your tissue paper,(thanks for the tip, Krissi, I agree this works best!) bunch it up and rub gently a few times over your piece, and you will notice a nice sheen. You don't have to do this step if you don't want too, but since I like my stuff shiny, I buff away. :-)

Here are three pieces that I sealed in wax. They are going to be part of my RAK Swap challenge that I blogged about previously. (click on link and join my RAK flickr group)

How easy was that? Oh, and you could really go crazy with this technique. try embedding small objects, glitter, tissue papers, anything! I swear, this is so much fun, you will be dreaming about sealing up anything. I may even seal my bills! haha. (I wish)

Anyhoo, if you enjoyed this tutorial, do tell a friend!

Whoops, lemme tell you about clean up. EAZY! While your iron is still hot, wipe off excess wax on newspaper, It will come right off and be just like new. I think this is way easier than cleaning out a crock pot full of wax and having those brushes full of wax.

Saludos!

Yoli

Rawkin Round Robins!

2008-09-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

Omygosh!

I participated in the fastest Round Robin Art marathon ever! Ok, maybe not ever, but it was a 1st for me. I attended my monthly "Northern California Mixed Media Artist" class today. It is not really a class per se, but dang it if I don't learn something new each time, so to me, it is a class of deliciously inspired women and teachers.

Today we were instructed to each bring a sheet of watercolor paper and various images, inks,paints, images,trims, etc.

Once we got settled in, we all set up our work stations. A timer was set for 5 minute increments, and once it dinged, we had 5 minutes to get busy, and then pass it to our partner to the left. I believe there were about 8 or 9 of us. At the end of the round, we were the new proud owners of a wonderful collaborative piece of art. We were all so hot and inspired that we did it twice!

Yup, I walked out of there with two completed pieces that were imprinted and created by a bunch of wonderful minds and spirits.

Here are two pieces. (hold on to your chonies!)

I started this piece with tearing a bunch of papers for the background. I love the romantic vintage feel to it.

This second piece I titled, "Buenas Noches"

I love that someone added a Tuscan villa scene. Perfecto!

Speaking of "Round Robins" I am participating in my very first Journal Round Robin. A few Chica's from Swap-botand I are just starting the process. I am making a total of 3 pages for this first book I rec'd the other day. This is one of my entries. (I am keeping the other two a secret, shhhhhhh)

I used collaged papers, inks, glitter, stickers and I hand painted the Chica. This page was inspired by a confessional made on the opposite page. I call this page "Free to Dream" Trust me, it is very fitting to the confessional. :D

Porque it's all Good, Baby!

2008-09-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

Yes indeed it is! 1st, Krissi blogged about her good dia, and then her blog inspired me to share my good day. It started about 6:30 pm, when I got home. I know, I know, my good dia got off to a late start, but sometimes good things are worth waiting for, que no?

So, I drive up to my drive way, and my kids are walking across the street towards me. My nephew is in tow. He just started walking a little less than two weeks ago, and watching him waddle down the driveway with joy across his face, well, it's just one of those things that can make your heart melt in an instant.

Also, I noticed a delicious smell wafting through the air. I aske Adrian, "Mmmmm, who is cooking?" He said, "Dad is, he is baking chicken!" Niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice. We all walk inside and I am immediatly welcomed by a warm dinner and two fat packages on my countertop. "Mail para Me!"

I eyeball the largest package and start ripping it open. Yeah, I was blown away with this generous gift from BorderBaby Creations.

How awesome is that? La Sirena, embroidered! She even made the frame. OMG, this girl has mad skills. She is an awesome painter too. Oh, and how cool is her name? This Chica hails from Southern California, and I am not sure if she has an online store, but she should! I know she lists her work on myspace and can be contacted via myspace. Trust me, you are gonna fall in love with her work. Do tell her I sent you!

But wait, it doesn't stop there, I still had another package to go! My son beat me to it, and started ripping it open before I could stop him. We both stopped cold, and said WOW. I read the box, and it said, " Yoli, Yes, you get the dropped Shrine! hahahaha, Rose.

I had to think a minute, and then I started cracking up. Rose joined a swap that I was participating in. The hostess didn't know Rose that well, and figured Rose was too new to take a chance on and dropped her. By the time I found out about it, it was too late to add her. I felt so bad for Rose and wrote her that I felt gyped, because I am not going to get the chance to possibly get her shrine.

I stand corrected now. :-) . She sent it to me anyway. Check it out, it was for a Dia De Los Muertos Shrine swap. She clearly spent more time on it than I did.

How freaking cool is that? Rose is a very talented Chica. She sells in shows all over and on the internet. Her work can be found here. You can also find her at myespacio too. Here is her link.

Yes, yes, it was a good day here in Casa Snatchisima.

Oh and I have been meaning to give this loca a shout out too. Last month, I was minding my business and getting my craft on at Scary Craft, (which, by the way, is tomorrow night. Hope to see you there!) when Evie, and her friend stopped by to give me a special delivery all the way from Kansas. Check it out!

It is a knitted eyball con horns and feets, made by The Grim Knitters I was speechless and so surprised! Do check them out, you will find them on Myspace. I am not sure if they have another online presence, but they are definitley worth the visit. Ms. Gauntlette of The Grim Knitters makes knitting ultra hardcore and cool. Her creations really kick so much ass!

Well thats a wrap. I am working on another blog, and I have some homework to finish.

Saludos good people!

Happy Birthday and Giving Thanks

2008-09-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

4 years ago, the unthinkable happened. My best friend lost her son to a senseless murder. The shooter did not know her son, he couldn't find find his intended victim and he was determined to cause some damage. He succeeded. He shattered a thousand lives in an instant. I can't even describe what we went through during this tragedy. To this day, I marvel at my friend's courage to carry on without her beloved son. She struggles everyday, and some days are good, some not so good. Today was a tough day for her. Mario would have been 20 today. September 16th and August 6th (day he was taken from us) are two of the toughest days for her, for all of us, actually. When I got home today, there was a package waiting for me. Inside was a glass angel and a small votive candle with the words, Mario's 20th. Michelle dropped off these candles throughout the day and asked all of us to light his candle tonight to honor his birthday. For those who know me well, lighting a candle is very symbolic to me. It calms me, it comforts me and it grounds me. I was going to light one anyway, but I am more than honored to light his candle.

Mario meant so much to so many. I truly believe he was here to remind us how precious life is and how much we have to be thankful for. I mean really, when I am having a rough day, I think about Mario and am reminded how much I need to not sweat the small stuff.

So tonight, I salute my friend's son, and I salute all of you. Life is really a gift. Go hug someone for me tonight.

Below is an "official" photo we used for Mario's press. His story touched people throughout America. From pro ball players, actors, activists, police academies, teachers, students, and loved ones.

One Love

Easy Chica Style Necklace Pendant Tutorial

2008-09-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Hey Chica's in Craft. It is time for another easy breezy Tutorial. I actually made this project for a swap partner, and I liked it so much, I decided to make one for myself. You can keep this as simple as 123, or you can go as elaborate as you want. I am going to keep this tutorial on the simple side, and if you do make your own pendant, feel free to link it here.

Materials:
Crafty Chica Mojito Paper
Crafty Chica Loteria Cards
Inkssentials Memory Glass and Pendant frames
Decorative paper

Tools:
Scissors
Glue stick
punch cutters (optional) I have a square punch that I used to cut my paper to size

Pick an image to go in the front and in the back of your pendant. I cut out a calavera from Kathy's loteria card, and I cut out an image of Frida for the backside. I also chose a glittered paper for the background of my calavera.

Here are my selections.

These glitter sheets are awesome. They already come with a sticky back, just peel and stick. (I purchased mine at a scrap book store)

Assemble your front piece. I added a butterfly behind my calavera. Sandwich your decorative paper behind your top piece of glass. I used a little stick glue to tack my calavera to my background paper. Then you are going to add your back piece of paper behind your front image and sandwich that in between your back piece glass.

Front Piece

Back Piece

Next, you will open your Memory frame and insert your pendant "sandwich" inside. Be careful not to force your glass in too quickly. Your glass may crack or break.

Viola, instant one of a kind "Chica Style" pendant. Really, you can do this all under 10 minutes!

Next thing to do is add it to a necklace, or if you are really hardcore, make your own necklace!
Look here, two necklace in 1! Talk about stretching your dollar!

Don't have access to Memory glass or frames? Here is your "99 cent" solution. (actually it is cheaper, but I like the phrase) You can also use the very cheap wooden cut outs they sell at your local craft store. They come in all shapes and sizes. All you have to do is drill a hole and I would seal with a varnish. You can collage, paint, add 3d embellishments. The sky is the limit!

Go ahead, Get Your Craft On!

A New Name & a Cool Guest Artist for September

2008-09-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

No, not my name, but the name of our Scary Craft night!

(original post by Krissi Sanvick)

A new name and a cool guest artist for September!

I wanted to let everyone know we had an AWESOME time making hats last month with DyMa Creations. A special thanks goes out out to Miss Dy for lending her expertise as a self-proclaimed Haberdasher and Sewing Mogul Extraordinare to the uninitiated! Check out a couple of the toppers made - these are by Rain and her mom, Kathy! I still owe a blog on last month's challenge, and to let you know this month's (an easy and super fun one inspired once again by Yoli), but that will get its own post - probably tomorrow.

And now for something completely different:

Y'know, we're not JUST "crafters" a term which conjures for most a vision of a housewife gluing stuff to other stuff (not that there's anything wrong with it). Given that the new wave of crafters / DIYers / punk artisans incorporate fine art techniques into their scrapbooking (and vice versa) and wire electronics into their clothing, the term "crafter" just doesn't do us justice.

Enter this month's guest artist Christian Cinder - better known on the grid as simply C!nder - with a new term for what to call people who hoard beads next to their Golden Liquid Acrylics and use Aleene's white tacky glue as often as they use gel medium: creators. Therefore, Scary CRAFT is changing the name of our monthly Sacramento crafting night to "NIGHT of the CREATORS" (Frankenstein imagery intended). However, please feel free to call yourself a crafter ... or an artist ... or a housewife who glues stuff to other stuff (that would be me).

Well don't click away just yet, 'cause C!nder is a giver, and he isn't done yet! Please join us on 4th Tuesday, September 23rd from 6-9 for NIGHT of the CREATORS* featuring a "skull bat 3D paper toy" make & take with C!nder (we're expecting quite a turn out, so an RSVP is strongly recommended! Either post a comment here or send us an e-mail: scaryCRAFT@gmail.com).

He'll bring printouts on cardstock of his skull bat image (no cost to you, but tips for the starving artist are appreciated), you bring some paper crafting stuff: craft knife, scissors, paints, your fave glue, embellishments, etc. While you assemble and embellish your very own skull bat, C!nder will give a 'down and dirty primer on making 3D versions of your own art.' Honestly, this is NOT to be missed!

More information will be posted (including a detailed supply list) next week. Until then, take a few minutes to check out C!nder's blog, his Flickr account, a review of his Hakubots on ToyCyte, and some of his art for sale on Scary-Art.com!

* Don't forget, the creations happen every 4th Tues from 6pm-9pm (except Nov/Dec) at:
Side Show Studios
5635 Freeport (Ste. 6)
Sacramento, CA
www.sideshowstudios.net
~~Crafty~~ Create-y (we'll have to work on that one) love,

your scribe, Krissi (and Yoli by proxy)

Guerilla Style "Random Act of Kindness" Challenge

2008-09-04T23:18:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, once again, thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read my posts. I truly appreciate it. For those of you who have been with me for quite some time, know that I have a addiction to Swap-bot.com. Yes, yes, I have even been known to lure unsuspecting crafty and artsy souls over there, to share my addiction.

I just posted a new swap, but I wanted to extend the invitation to all you you as well. You don't have to sign up at swap-bot, if you don't want too, you can just post your results here or on your own blog. All I ask is that you share your results with me and or send me the link to your blog so that I can pimp it out.

The name of my Swap is "Guerilla style Random Act of Kindness" and below is the info. I posted on Swap-Bot.

Put this image on your site!

Swap Coordinator:	sacredsnatch (contact)
Swap categories:	Art Challenges Letters & Writing
Number of people in swap:	1
Last day to signup/drop:	October 3, 2008
Date items must be sent by:	November 4, 2008
Number of swap partners:	3
Description:
Ok people, it's time to make someone feel special. I don't know about you, but when I make someone feel good, I also feel good in return. It's a win, win situation. Making someone feel special does not require money, so in this challenge, I don't want you to buy a thing. Use what you have or what is inside your beautiful mind. This swap is inspired by the book, "Guerilla Art Kit" an awesome and inspiring read. The premise of this swap is that you will make 3 pieces of art. Your call, it may be one of the following: A Doodle, A Journal entry, An uplifting quote, A random lette,r An ATC, A sticker, A poem, A mini shrine, A "Dotee Doll", A stuffie, A piece of jewelry, A mixed CD, A card or postcard with a nice note, A Photo. Anything, I am just giving some suggestions, but really, if anything, just write out an inspiring message or even a "Have A beautiful Day" message on a piece of paper. I want you to make at least 3, but you can make as many as you want. Then I want you to leave your "art" in a random place, for a random stranger to find. I then want you to take a picture of your note or art at the place you left it. Sounds like fun? I certainly hope so! I can't wait to get started myself! Here is the link to the actual Swap-bot Challenge http://www.swap-bot.com/swap/show/21259 Saludos, Yoli

Sacramento Has Much Love For Crafty Chica!

2008-08-25T21:44:00.000-07:00

Hey Crafty Homies,

Lately I have been lazy with my blogs and have been cutting and pasting all of Krissi's hard work. (with her permission of course) So this time ,I am going to put in my own two centavos about our day with La Reyna, La Crafty Chica.

Although, I will admit, I am ganking Krissi's pics because I was so busy, I didn't have a chance to take my own. :-)

Friday was Sacramento's turn to represent and show our love for Crafty Chica. She had incredible turn outs at her prior tour stops, and I knew it was time for me to bring out the big guns! Yep, I rallied a few homies and told them to head out to Sacred Casa, because I am throwing a little luncheon Pachanga to help nourish Kathy and family for the final leg of her tour.

My girl, Sharon who is not only my bestest homie, business partner and awesome catorer, helped me with my decorations and shopping the on the night before. We decided to do a panini bar with all kinds of yummy fixings, cupcakes, peach cobler, & macaroni salad.

Krissi brought an amazin"Mexican Fruit Salad with ancho chile powder and a taste of tequila!" Trust me, it was the shizznet,mmmkay?

There was a super tasty menu - each sammie was assembled and grilled to order and we decided to build a custom Panini for the guest of honor.

menu & art by Yoli Mazo of Sacred Snatch Designs; photo by Kathy Cano-Murillo

Some of the decorations we included were Kathy's books (she has about 5 craft books) and my custom Crafty Chica Empowerment Guardian (I made on her cruise, earlier this year) helped to make this a truly Crafty Chica luncheon!

There was even an extra "loving" shrine on display! (You "Go" Kathy!) hehe.

shrine by Kathy (!) for Rain thru www.swap-bot.com

I decided to use Kathy's mojito papers to decorate the cuppy cakes! I thought they looked super festive if I do say so myself.

toppers made by Yoli out of Crafty Chica "Mojito" decorative papers

Here are the "glitter" cupcakes that Amy of Peptogirl Industries brought with her (after battling and finally winning with Mapquest!) Thanks Amy! My son ate just about all of them and lectured me about how these were "real" cupcakes. Hmmmmph. ;-)

Spread the Sparkle Cupcakes by Peptogirl Industries

This was a last minute get together, and I just want to thank all of you that came and helped make this a memorable and special day.

Great minds think alike - Kathy wearing her custom Skelekitty earrings from Krissi and with Rain and the fiesta calavera earrings she made for Kathy.

Helped along by the awesome food and Sacred Mama's Magic Sangria! She has been guarding this recipe for ages and only busts it out on the most special of occassions!

Yours truly with Virginia, my 'Sacred Mama,' as she makes sangria! Kathy deciding on whether to have white or red...

Patrick wonders if he can take two more days of glitter and estrogen... D'Angelo has already checked out with his Sidekick.

And all of this before 3pm! Whew! Everyone took a little break after that and we met up at the Sacramento (Truxel Road) Michaels store for the official Spread the Sparkle event!

I am so proud of all who came and welcomed Kathy with open arms. Michaels did a fanstastic job announcing Kathy's presence and enhanced everything with cooooooooooookies! I even scored the coveted "Lucy" who is getting a little sparkle lift and seal.

Thanks Kathy! I'll take good care of her!

All of this goodness was followed by a late farewell dinner with Kathy, Patrick and Krissi.
So much happiness on an eve of another fabulous weekend that included crafting, and a BBQ on a beautiful Sunday Evening.

Thank you Universe!

Frida Sugar Baby Is Ready To Go Home!

2008-08-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

Yep, Little Frida Sugar baby was handed over last night to Melody of the Sugar Cube Society and is now listed and searching for a firme home.

I made this doll as a donation to help raise funds for diabetes. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the Diabetes foundation.

Also available, is a sweet lil bay created by Amy of Pepto Girls and Pimp Stitch! So cute!

Gracias everyone!

Look who's here:

Frida

and

Sweet Dreams Ginger

You can find these Sugarbabies along with others at:

Click here

You Better Not Cry, You Better Not frown, Crafty Chica is Coming To Town!

2008-08-21T01:08:00.000-07:00

My homegirl, Krissi, did such a fabulous post, I just had to share with yall.

The Sparkle Storm is COMING!

A bunch of us glitter & glue junkies have been telling you for AGES about the Crafty Chica product line by Duncan Crafts, and the Spread the Sparkle Tour Kathy Cano-Murillo is doing to promote the line!

Tonight she wraps up the Southern CA portion of the tour then heads up here for the last three tour dates:

Thursday, August 21, 6 – 8 p.m.
2040 Tully Rd., San Jose CA 95122-1300
(408) 274-6772
Friday, August 22, 6 – 8 p.m.
3691 Truxel Rd., Sacramento CA 95834-3604
(916) 928-9777
I'm so excited, I almost peed a little
Saturday, August 23, 3 – 5 p.m.
7400 N Blackstone Ave
Fresno CA 93720-4301

Wanna little sneak peekage at what's coming Sacramento-ward on Friday? Sure you do!

San Diego Adventures and Sparkling in Los Angeles by Kathy Cano-Murillo
Crafty Chica Inspiration Gallery on Flickr
My Crafty World by Cyndi Garcia of Santa Clarita Craft Lab
All Hail The Crafty Chica by Karen Fayeth (Oh Fair New Mexico blog)

Be sure to come out and join me, Yoli of Sacred Snatch Designs, the Sacramento Craft Mafia, several Scary CRAFTers in our joint support of her craftiness!

p.s. Be sure to say hi to Patrick - especially if you're a fan of his art or rasta music!

Yes, Yes, lets all get out there and represent Sacramento's amor for La Crafty Chica!

August Scary Craft Night Make and Take and Online Challenge

2008-08-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

August Craft Night - Little Black Hats & More!

Hey Scary Kids!

The next Night of the CRAFTERS, Sacramento's original Craft Night is coming for you! On August 26 (a week from Tuesday), at the same Bat-time (6pm-9pm), same Bat-channel (Side Show Studios, Sacramento) we are pleased to present an embellished mini-hat make 'n' take by DyMa Creations!

Join us and make a unique "Little Black Hat" that reflects your style and personality while learning tips and tricks from the Haberdasher and Sewing Mogul Extraordinare herself! Kits are available (see below) or BYO stuff.*** Not sure what to pack in? You can get some ideas from the DyMa Creations Etsy store or view her Little Black Hats with homes. Don't wanna make a hat? That's OK - ya don't gotta. Just bring your crafty self, supplies for whatever you want to work on and a folding chair (if you have one) and join the glue sniffing. WARNING - you may leave covered in glitter.

***IMPORTANT: For this class, kits ABSOLUTELY MUST be reserved in advance. Please message us or comment below to reserve one or more of these kits (CASH ONLY PLEASE - price is dependent on embellishments chosen - payable to artist at time of class):

$8-10: full kit (5½" hat form and your choice of embellishments)
$5-7: embellishments only (BYO hat)
$4: hat form only (BYO embellishments)
oh, and of course, $0: no kit - BYO everything or craft on your own - no reservation needed!

Other important stuff to bring: sharp scissors and your own bottle of Fabri-Tac (by Beacon Adhesives) fabric glue. If you don't have that stuff, just sit next to someone who shares!

See you at the crafting tables!

Online Tutorial & August Craft Challenge!

Hey Scary Crafters, it's Krissi again. La Snatchita and I have been a wee bit behind on our craft challenges, and we want to tell you that we know and we're deeply apologetic (psshhh!)

Well, my friends, I'm happy to say that the drought is over! Here is a tutorial from Jennifer Perkins of Craft Lab /Naughty Secretary Club brought to us via our own Sacred Snatch Designs.
Now, here is YOUR challenge:

Create your own 'batik' decorative paper(s) using this technique
Make something using the paper you just designed - anything is OK, ATC, mixed-media on canvas, envelope, card, paper your office, whatever.

For our non-local folks, you will:

Post a photo of your masterpiece (along with a "before" shot of your finished paper) on your blog/website/Flickr/whatever account, then
Post a comment on OUR blog with a link to your photo
Complete all of this by Monday night, August 25th at 7pm PDT (10pm Eastern)

Sacramentans may either follow the above procedures, or bring their creations to Night of the Crafters on the 26th (we'll take photos). After the glitter clears, we'll gather all the pics together and post them in a singl blog (with links back to all of our wonderful contributors, of course)!

DRAW ON, SWEET CRAFTERS!

Winner, Winner, Carnita Dinner!

2008-08-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Between this blog and my other blog I re-post on Myspace, there were a total of 29 entries.

::Drum Roll Please::

And the winner of the Batik Muerto plaque is none other than.........
Sofia (sp) from Simply Strands!

Congratulations girly, email me your addy and I'll get it out to you in a jiffy!

Thanks everyone for playing, you all rock! For those of you who tried the technique, please send me a picture. I would love to see your creation!

Besos,

Yoli

Easy Crayon Batik Technique Tutorial & Give Away!

2008-08-14T00:14:00.000-07:00

I watched this technique on Jennifer Perkin's Craft lab show the other day. It looked so easy that I ran to my crayon box and got busy! Guess what? It was totally easy and I made a couple of goodies and have been getting requests to do a tutorial on this technique ever since! So with that, Tada......

Here you go, and on top of a technique, I am also throwing in a drawing for the item below. All you have to do is leave a comment and bam, your name goes into a drawing and the lucky winner will be notified for their mailing address. Sound fun? Of course it is! I will take comments through next Monday, August 18th, and will announce the winner on Tuesday. So, get your comments in and hey, tell a friend!

Materials you will need.
Black Acrylic Paint
Crayons
Paper
Water
Brush or Sponge
Paper Towel

Seriously, that is it! By the way, this is a GREAT project for the kiddies too.

Step 1. Start coloring! Use any pattern or design you want. I like vibrant colors, but you can use any color combination. I suggest applying a good amount of pressure on your masterpiece. The waxier, the better!

Completely cover your entire paper with your groovy artwork.

After your page is done, crumple your paper in a wad like the one below. Squish it good and hard, the more wrinkles, the better!

Next, you are going to spread your masterpiece out on a nonstick surface (or a protected table)

Pour some of your black paint in a container and add some water. I didn't measure, I just made it on the soupy side. Then you are going to get a sponge or brush and cover your masterpiece completely in the black paint wash.

Like This.

Next, before it dries, you are going to wipe off the excess paint with a paper towel.

Lay out to dry. (they dry pretty fast) Tada, you are done. You can use these papers as you like. Use them in everything; Altered Envies, Journals, ATC's, Decopauge, Cards, you name it, you can do eeet!

I love the organic look to it. It really does look like dyed batik, but without the dyes and mess!

So below is a little Dia De Los Muertos plaque I made with the batik papers. This will be my drawing prize. Just leave your comment below, and I will draw your name on next Tuesday!

Thanks again for stopping by and be sure to visit often!

Yoli

The Pink Artist Debut!

2008-08-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, thank you for the kind words and wishes of a speedy recovery. I am back and ready to jump into some projects. Speaking of projects, I am cutting and pasting this blog from my Homegirl, Monica Magness of "Girl Gone Thread Wild"

I know I mentioned before that she did a call for artists to contribute 2 inch square mini quilts for a doll she was making. I had no idea the magnitude and beauty that this project would become. I will always feel so lucky and so deeply honored to have been involved.

A couple of weeks ago, I was thumbing through one of my favorite publications at Border Books, and there, staring at me, was "Our Doll!" On top of that, I even spied my little square on the dolls dress. Yay! My little claim to fame!

What is even more exciting is that you and everyone across the world has a chance to win this doll! Details are below, and if you enjoy constant beauty and inspiration, do check out Monica's blog.

(Cut and pasted from Monica's blog)

The Pink Artist Drawing Begins, Bosom Buddies Unite to fight breast cancer!

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead

Welcome, welcome, welcome!!! We're so excited that the day has FINALLY come for The Pink Artist Drawing to begin! We are delighted to celebrate our journey with you!!! Our mission is simple, to spread the WORD: GET CHECKED! and please schedule those mammograms right NOW! From the beginning our promise has been to RALLY FOR A CURE for breast cancer the best way we know how and that is with ART. We pink artists have kept that promise as each of us took to our studios to use the God given tools we were blessed with- OUR HANDS. Support for our project has poured in from around the world thanks to blogs and word of mouth. This support has given us the opportunity to create from the heart a bountiful of PRIZES you could win in The Pink Artist Drawing August 1-October 15, 2008 going on right NOW. Over the course of just a few months our "call for art" grew to include well over 182 men and women, a phenomenal number that makes up The Pink Artist Project & friends who have joined our forces. To see more than 400 squares created by the pink artists personally, please stop by these posts for that joyful experience: The Pink Artist parade of squares (most artists have blog links next to their square, please come and meet our artists). Happy Browsing!

Joining our squares together we have created a 40" art doll we lovingly named, Love Squared to HELP RAISE AWARENESS & FUNDS FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH. Let us introduce you to the lady of the hour, The Pink Artist Doll, ~Love Squared is a symbol of hope, she stands for courage and displays that spirit of connectedness to end breast cancer for good~

To see all of our BEAUTIFUL doll photos,
please click on the links below:

The Pink Artist Doll: THE REVEAL

Interested in seeing the making of our doll?

Please visit these posts here:

The Pink Artist Doll Project, page ONE

The Pink Artist Project, page TWO

YOU can win our doll & a number of beautiful ART prizes donated by our PINK friends by helping us to raise funds for breast cancer research!

In the completion of our doll, we have further grown our circle of FIGHTERS to include Art Doll Quarterly & Artful Blogger (both on sale now at your local bookstore). In the Autumn issue of the 2008 art doll magazine, you can learn more about the stories behind our squares and LEARN just who we are as pink artists. Please have a look and let's celebrate seeing our project & doll in PRINT everybody, YAY!!!! THANK YOU to the staff at Art Doll Quarterly and AB both for their extremely generous support! We love you!

(pages 50, 51, 52, 53)

YOU can buy your issue here if you haven't already ran to the store for purchase:
And READ what Artful Blogging wrote about the BLOGGERS who took action:

(Autumn 2008, Letter from the editor)

"We have made a promise to end breast cancer forever – energizing science to find the cures is a critical part of this promise." -from Susan G. Komen website

As a project that grew from the questions, "what if?" and "What can I do?" we artists have taken on the plight to HELP a much BIGGER team of fighters here, those HARD WORKING souls at Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The Pink Artist's ART has given us a voice, a place to share the names and lives of our loved ones stricken by breast cancer, and lets the world know we mean business! Breast cancer has taken the lives of many women we call moms, sisters, aunts, cousins, friends, coworkers, and also the men in our lives ... so let's HELP stop this cancer DEAD in its tracks, WE CAN DO SOMETHING! YOU CAN JOIN US! Let's rally together as the pink artists & friends offer up our handmade art to raise donations for Susan G. Komen and the fight against breast cancer!

To enter our art drawing:

All you have to do for a chance to take home any one of the magnificent prizes is make a donation between August 1-October 15, 2008 and for every $10 donation you send in your name will go into our art drawing TWICE.

Join the fun!
Make your money order donation out to Susan G. Komen for the cure

and mail it to Monica Magness PO Box 2206 Madison, AL 35758 where your name will be entered into our art drawing and your donation will be collected & sent in directly to our charity on October 15, 2008

PAYPAL your donation to MLMagness@aol.com

with "The Pink Artist Drawing" in the subject header (or see our Paypal donation button at top left of blog). Your name will go into our drawing and your "gift" will be forwarded to Susan G. Komen for the cure. (Sorry no personal checks, CASH sent at your own risk)

Please make sure your name and address are legible,

typed is best for accuracy. Your name & information

will not be sold or shared with any other party.

Thank you for your help in raising those funds for

-breast cancer research & the CURE.

Donations will be accepted up until October 15, 2008

which is the OFFICIAL day of the drawing.

Winners names will be announced on my blog on the evening of October 15th.

The month of October is as you know Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Together let's make this a fun & rewarding way to HELP BIG.

Artists such as Michelle Ward, Alma Stoller, Tim Holtz, Donna O'Brien, Cheryl Strait, Donna Engstrom, Patti Culea to name just a few, and Stampington & Company have teamed up with us to become pink artists, or have HELPED to offer art up, and/or have gotten the word out for us in flyers, newsletters & Postscript. Won't you join us?

Let's watch the DONATIONS grooooow as our fundraiser will be totaled weekly and shown in the upper left corner of my blog for ALL of us to see.

EDITED 8/2: Please take a moment to ENJOY LIFE TODAY! Do something special just for you & your loved ones! Below are photos of a candle vigil my family held last night at 6 pm to honor our loved one who passed from Pancreatic Cancer, Carlos Vallejo, the man who instilled in me THE POWER THAT ONE PERSON CAN MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE... from my sister and her family in Arizona, to my parents in Texas, to my brothers family in Pennsylvania, to my own family here in Alabama, we sent off heal-ium balloons, tucking in a note and letting it flyyyyy... fly away...up to the heavens... to spread our LOVE to my uncle who left this earth TOO SOON... and also held a prayer vigil in his honor.

Uncle, THANK YOU for guiding this project to its beginning and its end. I love you.

(my beautiful mom in TX)

(my awesome nieces & nephews in AZ)

I love you pink artists! You made my dreams come TRUE.

So, in the name of ART & FUN... let's RALLY TOGETHER bosom to bosom and HAVE OURSELVES A CELEBRATION!! we worked really hard for this moment and it's finally here!

xo, Monica

Catching Up, Mi Etsy & Craft Along Info.

2008-08-12T00:32:00.000-07:00

What up Amigas?

I am trying to catch up here. Between work and being sick this weekend, I am muey behind in my bloggage and lurkage for that manner! I just wanted to put it out there that I finally managed to add some stuff on my etsy. Some of it is very "El Cheapo" and some of it, not so much. lol, but really, I got prices for every pocketbook. I will be adding more within the next couple of days, so be sure to check back often!

Here is a sample.

Etsy
Buy Handmade
SacredSnatch

I'd also like to give a shot out to My Sacramento Craft Mafia Seesters, for they are hosting another todo Madre Craft along! If you are in town, be sure to check it out and tell them your favorite "Snatchy" sent you!

Please come join the Sacramento Craft Mafia on Tuesday August 12th at the Java Lounge for a little coffee/tea...and a little crafting!

Stacey of Bouton Blue will be showing us how to make some cute elastic vintage button rings. She will be providing elastic and some buttons. You will want to bring the following supplies:

Sewing Needle (standard size that can fit in buttons holes)
Buttons (the kind with 2-4 holes in them)
Thread (White recommended)

If buttons are not your thing please don't hesitate to come out anyway.

Bring WHATEVER craft floats your boat...just come out and hang with us!
Java Lounge
2416 16th Street Sacramento
August 12, 2008
6:30pm-8pm

Catch Some Sacredness This Saturday!

2008-08-06T19:54:00.000-07:00

That is if I can get my butt over there and hang my arte! If you are in Sactown, this is a 2nd Saturday Art Walk highlight!

Meet My Homegirl, Tami Snow

2008-08-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

Yup it pays to have homegirls in high places, ya know? So much inspiration and knowledge at my fingertips. :D Tami is a real sweetheart and I am so happy and proud of her. She has been looking forward to this day for a long time. So do come out and help me support her on this special Thursday!

Upcoming Book Signing: Tiny Yarn Animals by Tamie Snow

Have Tamie Snow of Roxycraft sign your copy of Tiny Yarn Animals!

Borders Bookstore
2339 Fair Oaks Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95825
916.564.0168

This Thursday, August 7th at 7pm!

Recycled Business Envie Tutorial

2008-07-29T11:18:00.001-07:00

It's time for another easy sleazy tutorial from your girl, La Sacred Snatchy! I was inspired to write this tutorial after participating in an altered Business Reply Envelope swap, hosted by my homegirl, Juli of Swap-bot. I have thrown away countless junk business reply envelopes that always annoyed the scrap out of me! Anyhoo, after altering just one envelope, I was hooked and now I am actually telling the peeps at my office to give me all their junk envies! I will never buy envelopes again and I have a something to do with all the scraps of paper I feel to guilty to throw out! It's a win, win, situation, I tell you! (Not to mention the "Green" aspect, either!)

So today, we are going to turn this hot mess,
all my bits and pieces of ephemera a.k.a. scraps of this and that,

and these basic supplies. (Junk Business Reply Envies, scissors, and glue sticks)

Into this! Wonderful artful pieces of mail to send to those you love!

I highly recommend a good quality glue stick. You don't want your masterpieces falling off en route to your lover or Sancho. (shhhh) You can actually use any glue, I just love glue sticks at the moment and I have even used them successfully gluing fabric to paper. (that is another tutorial in the works)

Anyhoo, cover the front of your envelope real good with glue. Especially the edges of your envelope. Note, if your envie has a window that is not covered. I simply stick a piece of paper on the inside of the envie, and when I get busy with my gluing, it will eventually adhere to the decorative papers I stick on the outside.

Then turn your glued envie face down on the back of your paper of choice and burnish real good. If you are using scraps , just lay your scraps all over your envie and burnish from there.
Like I said, burnish, or smoosh with your hands real good! Don't worry about trying to align your papers within the envie, because you can always cut around your envelope after gluing to remove any extra papers.

I just cut around my envie. See how it looks all nice and even?

Ohhhhhhhhh, here is the fun part, Embellishing! Sky is the limit. For real, you can not screw up this project. Ok, well, maybe a little. Make sure your embellishments are flat and not bulky. You don't want them getting ripped off in the mailing process! I use pics, glitter glue, fabric, ribbon, rubber stamps, inks, crayons, oh who am I kidding, I use everything!Don't forget the backside either!

Tada............ Finito. For real, you can spend a whole lot of time on this project or you can whip one of these out in no time! I think this would be a great project for the kids too!

Please give this craft a try, and when you do, post a link to your artwork!
Viva La Arte!

Crafty Chica Products Available August 1st!

2008-07-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

Posted for my friend, Kathy. Tell a friend! I have seen and played with these products, trust me, you won't be disappointed. Muey sparkley, and a whole lot of fun. Just her glitters alone, stand on their own!

Coming August 1st! Oh jeepers, that is in TWO and a half days!

Will you help me spread the word? My husband and I have been making art for 18 years and selling it, and sharing ideas on my CraftyChica. com web site for other people to make art too.

In April 2007, we were approached by one of the largest craft manufacturers to design our own product line based on the web site and our artwork. There are lots of cool things - shrine kits, holographic glitters, etc...some items even have some multi-culti flair!

A good sign; The product line just won the Innovations Best in Show Award for General Crafts at the Craft & Hobby Trade Show last week!

Here are the store locations that will be carrying it!

Thank you for all your support over the years, it means so much!!!! and thank you to Michaels and Duncan Enterprises making this happen!

Kathy
CraftyChica. com

Senorita Spool Y Spool Doll Tutorial

2008-07-26T16:26:00.001-07:00

I was cruising my 10,000 blog subscriptions and I noticed my sisters in craft, Lauren of Goody- Goody, Tammi of Roxycraft and Missy of Crafty Carnival all posted a super sweet spool doll tutorial. Well guess what, I happened to have a vintage spool that a friend from one of my art groups gave me, and like a tweaker I finished this lil "Mija" around 3:30 am this morning! lol. Really, she didn't take me that long, but once I started, I couldn't stop!

Meet, Senorita Espool!

Isn't she cute? I had so much fun making this doll, and believe me, the possibilities are endless. All you need is a few scraps of this and that, and before you know it, a doll is born!

Take a look at this flickr group that show cases these spool dolls and clothespin dolls.

Here is the tutorial that I jacked from Missy who jacked it from Lauren. hee. But whatever you do, make sure you visit their blogs and add them to your favorites. Trust the Snatch, they are so worth your time!

I'm hijacking Lauren's blog for a minute to bring you this quick and easy spool doll tutorial! Of course, you can use this to make those ever popular clothespin dolls as well!

Supplies:

Different Size Wood Knobs for Heads (cheapest at Wal-Mart, but also available at any craft store)

Spools (Vintage, or craft store spools both work great!)

Wood Dowels to fit the holes in the knobs (I always purchase the variety pack at Wal-Mart so I always have the size I need.)

Paint, Brushes, paint pen in black

Clear Acrylic Sealer

Glue Gun (Optional)

Let's Get Started:

Place the knob on the dowel and I always secure it with a little bit of wood glue, all though white glue would work fine, or you skip the glue all together. But when I know I will be shipping the doll, it needs that added stability. Placing the knob-head on the dowel makes it easier to paint!

Cut the dowel down to about a 4 inch length or so. I use OLD scissors to score the dowel, and then just break it in my hand…. There’s no need to bring a saw into the house for this little project! J This is a good workable length, and we’ll cut the dowel down again later.

Now that the knob head is on the dowel, it’s time to paint the hair. Using acrylic paint, hold the head by the dowel and design your doll’s do! Once you’ve painted the hair, stick the dowel into the floral foam to let it dry. When painting the hair, I always like to look at my knob head and decide where the best place for the face would be. Sometimes there is an ugly spot, or the grain of the wood wouldn’t look nice. If you toll painted in the 80’s with your mom, like I did… this will be very nostalgic for you! LOL! Use your own judgment, but I find that it takes at least two coats for the hair to look grand. Let the hair dry.

Now that the doll hair is all dry, it’s time for clear acrylic sealer. I just take my whole floral foam block outside, and spray the doll heads all at once. Every sealer has different directions, so you’ll have to follow the directions on the sealer you choose. I use spray sealer because we always seem to have a can handy around here, and I like to do at least 2-3 coats.

Once the sealer is dry, it’s time to “paint” the face. Because the wood is knobs are dry, they suck the paint right up. When painting small details, like the face, the paint tends to run, and this is why you should seal the head BEFORE you paint the face. It took me HOURS to figure this out with my first round of dolls. I have very shaky hands, and so it’s a lot easier for me to use a paint pen than a detail brush and paint. But doing the face is the most fun part! So you do what you like!! I chose to make my faces like the 70’s Fisher Price Little People dolls. I did this for several reasons… it’s easy, I loved those toys, and I think this is a very 70’s kitschy crafty, so it lends well to that type of face!

Once your face is done, it’s time to match your knob-head to its spool body. I love the aesthetic of big head – little body. So I always try to match them up that way, but obviously, that’s not for everyone J So you do what you like! If you use a spool from the craft store, I always like to seal those with the sealer first. You can also use a vintage spool of thread

Once your body and head are matched up, it’s time for finishing details!! Place the head to the body, and make your final cut on the dowel. You’ll most certainly have to trim it down from the original 4”. I use a little glue to glue the head to the body for shipping reasons, but you can also leave it unglued, so it’s interchangeable! Wrap some vintage trim around the spool, stick it with an old pen and you’re done!!

Some optional finishes: add paper flowers or bows to the hair with a hot glue gun, trim a piece of felt to glue to the bottom of the spool for a nice finish, make a sad face for that grumpy person in your life, or a boy with a mustache! The possibilities are endless! Now that you are done! Take pics and add your dolls to the spool and clothespin doll flickr group!!

Footnote:

Since it was 2:30 in the a.m. when I started, I had to work with what I had. I didn't use the dowel because I was using round wooden balls that didn't have a hole in the bottom. No worries, I used E6000 and glued her head right on top of the spool! It worked. yay!

Do give this lil project a try, it is so much fun! Oh, and be sure to check out Pimp Stitch. They have the coolest patterns for sale and for a limited time, they are giving away a few adorable stitch patterns. Andale!

Pictures, Pimpages, Crafts, Appearances and Tutorials!

2008-07-22T15:06:00.001-07:00

Thanks for coming back and checking on me from time to time. I have been sitting on this blog way too long. I have some Crafty and Artsy homies I want to pimp out and share with you. These chicas have mad skills and it is such a shame to keep them all to myself, ya know? So lets get this party started!

First Chica up for blast, is my friend Cyndi of Santa Clarita Craft Lab. She has been crafting it up for a while and she just recently opened her very own Craft Lab down in Santa Clarita California. Any of you Sur Califa Chicas should go check her out. She has lots of wonderful classes to choose from and I really hope to make it down there sometime soon.

Anyhoo, her and I did a private swap on Swapbot. You know, to get her feet wet, sucker her into the Swapping vortex that I am so hopelessly part of. Hehe, I think it worked too, check out what she sent me. Can you say SCORE? Everything is handmade by Cyndi.

Here is her Shrine to Che Guevera. How hardcore is that? She even made little Che's out of all the matches in the box. Fantatico!

This here little gem of a shrine is made by my girl Alisa. The challenge was to make a shrine out of bottle caps. I like how she stacked two together to make a freestanding shrine. She also hooked it up with a healthy dose of glitter and her trademark, sequins!
These next two pics are from my homie "Altered Rose" The challenge was to make two items out of recycled materials. She really took this swap to heart and blew my mind. The pic below is a Shrine made from a jar using a vintage photo of a boy. I really like how nostalgic and old school it is. So cute, makes me want to create a swap using this medium!
I thought she did a great job on this necklace. She used a recycled necklace she bought at a garage sale, a toy bunny, and a TWIG, for Gawd's sake! Reminds me of an old toy from way back in the day. I can so see this piece in a shadow box Shrine.
This is another bottle cap shrine made for me by my partner in Swapbot. I love the simplicity and creativity of it. So delicate looking.

Ok, how awesome is this matchbox shrine? I received this from my partner, Mickeymoosies of Swapbot. I thought she did a banging job. The colors, the details, everything, so beautiful!

But wait, there are more homegirls I want you to check out! Do stop and visit my girl, Lisa of Willis Kids

She offers up a tutorial on paper cutting. Her work is incredible. Truly an art form in itself, don't ya think? She is always posting pics of her latest cut outs and she paints and illustrates too. So much talent!

Ok, this is a recent find. I found her a few months ago. Her name cracked me up, but after snooping around her pics, I was taken aback of her talent and creativity. WOW. Meet my girl of Borderbaby Creations!

Look at her profile pics, WOWZA!

Alas, I never get tired of pimping out my girl Kathy, I just wanted to put it out there, that La Reyna, Crafty Chica, is taking her show on the road to promote her much awaited craft line at a Michaels near you.

She will be in my barrio on August.

Friday, August 22, 6 – 8 p.m.
3691 Truxel Rd., Sacramento CA 95834-3604
(916) 928-9777

Come out with us and show her your love!

Yes Homegirl, There is a Craft Night Tomorrow!

2008-07-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

Fear not, fellow craftistas! We will be crafting with abandon tomorrow (Tuesday) evening from 6-ish to 9-ish at Side Show Studios!

Your lovely hostesses have decided to forego the challenge and the tutorial portions of our program, and have cleared the entire evening's schedule so that you, dear crafters, can focus on your projects in earnest! (Actually, Krissi was under the weather and Yours truly has been working like a dawg, so we were unable to update the blog and pimp out the features in the manner they deserve.)

So, without further ado....

NIGHT OF THE CRAFTERS (a B.Y.O.C. event*)
presented by Scary CRAFT and Side Show Studios
June 22nd (and every 4th Tuesday), 6:30 to 9pm
Side Show Studios
5635 Freeport, 6 - Sactown
(adults and mature teens only please - thank you for helping to give our Mommy-members the night "off")

*bring your own crafts ( and chair).

A Day of Frida, Shopping, Arte and Crafts Galore

2008-07-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, pobrecita, Frida, I had no idea she wore butt huggers!

So last month, ( I can't believe it has almost been a month already) Krissi and I jetted on over to the MOMA in San Francisco to A, celebrate Krissi's 32nd birthday, ::cough, cough::(she is six months older than me. Trust me, she loves to point this out) and B, Go see our girl FRIDA !
I know, I know, I talk about her all the time, but hey, what can I say, she's tight like that.

Anyhoo, if you get a chance, that show is running through the end of September and it is so worth the visit. I am even more in love with her paintings and her humor! OMG, this woman knew how to get her clown on, mmmkay? She was sick and twisted just like me! Ayeeeeeeeee!

I tried to take some pictures, but trust me, they had regulators ALL over the place, and I wasn't about to get bounced out of there before getting my fair share of Frida. I did however gank a whole bunch of postcards and programs! :-).

Hey, I look at trash with a whole new perspective. I feel it is my small contribution to being green, because the Santos know I have done my share of waste and then some. I am working on being better though. I am forever sifting through my trash and telling my friends and neighbors to give me their empty pasta and cereal boxes. (Great for book covers and postcards)

Ok, back to our awesome dia.

After our tour de Frida, we went to the gift shop where we got suckered into buying all kinds of Frida gear. I walked out with postcards, Frida paper dolls, stickers, a children's Frida Coloring book and some cards. Krissi bought a gang of gear too.

From there, we were STARVING, so we headed out to the Mission. This is Krissi's old stomping ground and she took me on a serious stroll down memory lane. I got to see "her" Mission, lemme tell you, it was bright, colorful and beautiful. Reminded me of my days back in San Jo.

We got our grub on at this taqueria, and then we checked in an awesome bakery. Remember those horns, Girl? AWESOME.

We also peeped inside Dog Eared Books, one of my favorite stops, followed by visiting this this cool little shrine, voodoo store. (I forgot the name) I bought some resin incense. I love the smell of frankincense.

After a few more blocks, we headed back to Krissi's ride and drove to Berkeley, for a quicky stop at Paprus They have a great selection of hand dyed and specialty papers. I am telling you, we were on a roll. From there, Krissi took me on a cruise down Telegrah for some herbal brownies. I AM KIDDING!. haha. I told Krissi out of all the times I had been to Berkeley, I never took the time to check out the famed Telegraph Avenue. She told me that was a complete shame and took me out for a drive by. Thank you Krissi!

From there we started our descent back home, but of course, we spied a Michael's craft store on the way, and we just couldn't pass by without stopping, right? lol

I tell ya, we got our shop on and then some. We left at 9 am and didn't get home till about 10:30 pm. It was such a great day and I really wanted to share it all with you.

After all that Fridaliciousness, I became inspired and had a lot of swaps to complete. Guess what who I sent out to all my partners?.....................

Picture time.........

this was a card I made for Krissi's birthday. It was made of recycled materials, and alcohol inks. (My latest and current favorite medium)

This was a small matchbox shrine I made for my partner. It was an actual Frida themed project. I h

This is an oldie but goodie, I made this doll last year for a fundraiser. She is an altered doll, that I hand panted and dressed up. She even came with a back brace and her body cast was made out of polymer clay. I altered the box she came in to look like one of her rooms.
I made this ornament for a recycled project. I have to still give it to my partner and since she lives in town, I plan on delivering it to her. I used alcohol inks and recycled cd's, bottlecaps and beads and charms.
This was made for a altered CD swap. I learned these techniques from the wonderful Cyndi. She tought us this class on board the Crafty Chica Cruise earlier this year. By the way, the Cruise in happening next march. If you are looking for a quick retreat of Crafts, Chica's and good food, be sure to join us. I will be teaching a class on next year's cruise.

The next two pics are ATC's I made for another swap. (Yes, I am a swap addict)

This last picture is a Frida matchbox shrine paper doll I made for Cyndi of Santa Clarita Craft Lab. Good Gawd, wait till you see what she sent me. (stay tuned)
and that concludes your daily dose of Frida. hee. My next blog will be a few features, tutorials, and upcoming events. be sure to check back.

Orale Pues,

Yoli

Sacred Roll Call

2008-07-14T22:41:00.000-07:00

Note to my readers: I copied and pasted this post from my myspace blog. The links may not work. I know, I know, why would I do this? Trust me, this was an old blog from before I started blogging like a big girl. Any future blogs will be started here and then copied and pasted to my myspace blog.

I just wanted to share this story with you..............

Ok, I am reposting this from last year. YES, I said last year! I just wanted to make sure I included all artists that are involved. I am turning the baton over to Melody of Sugarcube society. She is my homegirl that started the inspiration for this fundraiser. She is back at it again this year, and because she has connections with getting this bag the proper attention, I am turning over the bag to her. Please hit her up with a friend request on myspace to stay updated. (Of course I will be updating too)

Orginal Post:

Update number 3!

Sacred Bag is on it's way to the last artist in Texas. (Devine Dolls) from there it will be going to Arizona to pay a makeover visit to Kathy of Crafty Chica, before heading to Southern Cali and making it's way back north. Michele of fat thumbs sent me pictures and I am so excited. The bag is coming along beautifully, I can't wait to blast the finished product! Remember, this bag will be on auction for charity. (Diabetes) and I am hoping yall can help me pimp this out when the time comes to auction it off.

I was hoping to get the bag back by the 21st, but if we need an extra week, that is ok. My goal was to auction it off before our Diabetes walk on October 7th and I am still holding onto that hope, but we can still auction it off after, if we have too.

I am working on a press release to send out to local papers to try and get this auction and it's artist's some PR.

This bag started out as a disaster. I was putting it together, and felt that I really fawked it up and was ready to trash it. Rather than throw it away, I thought about putting the bag to an Artist Challenge and offered to send it out to someone who wants to save it and acutioning it off for charity. The response was so overwelming, that Michele. of Fat Thumbs, came up with the idea of letting everyone work on it. Thus the Sacred Bag Round Robin was created.

Salute!
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Artists involved.

Rain of Rain's Embellishments

Melody of Sugarcube Society

and of course, me, Sacred Snatchy

I am mailing it out to the farthest Artista back east, and then have it head west towards Califonia.

That means the lucky first Artist is Mariah in Florida.

Please remember only keep the bag for a few days maximum and then pass it on to the next Artist. Don't be shy about whoring out the inside as well. If you find that you can't or ran out of time, don't feel bad about it, just let me know so that I can tell you where to send it next.

When you are ready to send the bag to the next Artista, please e-mail me via Myspace so I can give you the next forwarding address.

I will include the list of names along with the bag, please initial next to your name when sending it off to the next Artista. Also, if you are choosing to include some Swag or a anything, please list the contents next to your name so that I can properly acknowledge your contributions. Don't forget to include your card!

Once again, thank you All so much for donating your precious time to this worthy cause. As a reminder, I will be auctioning off this fine bag here on Myspace where all proceeds will be going to our Diabetes fundraiser. (Click here for more info)

I truly think this bag will be very desirable with all this creative talent!

Again, my goal is to have this hot little bag back to me by September 21^st, 2007. That is aprox. 39 days from now, so time is of the essence!Here is another link regarding our fundraising and our walk on October 7th.

Besos!

End>................................................

Haha, I wanted this done in 39 days! Oh well, I do believe the bag and swag was definitely worth the wait. I just got an awesome Guadalupe eyeglass case from Krissi. Thanks girl, You Rawk! FYI, this bag traveled over 7500 miles!

Ok, stay tuned boys and girls!

San Francisco and Sacramento events this weekend!

2008-07-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have been blog constipated and have been working on a couple, until then, I wanted to blast these events. All are going to be so worth the drive!

Copied and pasted from Rain's blog.

This weekend is full of fantastic events for local artists and art lovers!

First up: Renegade!

Tons of fun things to see and buy! The ever talented Katie from the Sac Craft Mafia will be there... She's been sewing up a onesie storm in preparation for the show! Miss Amy of Peptogirl Industries & Pimp Stitch will also be there with plenty of terrific button necklaces and stitch patterns to purchase! Please stop by & say hi if you're in the area!

Next: Curious Band of Artists

The artists of the Scary Art Collective will be presenting their book, "Curious Band of Artists" at the Brick House Gallery (2837 36th Street -On the corner of 36th & Broadway) in Sacramento. This is the perfect opportunity to collect their incredible artwork without having to break the bank! ;)

And Finally: Park Your Art!

Walk the 2nd Saturday Grid and Rain at McMartin Realty! She will be there with fellow Mafiosa, Sophia selling fun, funky and eclectic jewelry! Hope to see the locals there! ;)

All in all, it looks like it's going to be a fun weekend for the Northern Californian art & craft aficionados! Hopefully the smoke won't keep you from getting out and about!

Sacramento Craft Mafia's Craft Along

2008-07-07T14:41:00.000-07:00

Wowee, it has been a minute since I have had time to blog! Stay tuned, I have a couple of crafty tutorials up my sleeve, but in the mean time, if you are in the Sacramento area tomorrow, my Sacramento Craft Sisters are hosting a delicious Craft Along!

Hey Sacramento!

It's July and time for another exciting SACRAMENTO CRAFT MAFIA Craft Along!

Want to meet your local MAFIA? You wanna see how we get down with some serious (okay, not really serious!) CRAFTING?

Head over to Sacramento's hippest anti corporate coffee haven, THE JAVALOUNGE this tuesday, July the 8th.

Craft Along with SCM is every second tuesday of the month, at 7pm at JAVALOUNGE!

JavaLounge is the host with the most with tasty REAL coffee, eats, art, and a super creative atmosphere.

For July, your Mafiosa of the month is the amazing Sophia, of Simply Strands. Sophia has taken the Mafia and Sacramento by storm with her beautiful, creative handmade jewelry. She has a fun blog you can visit by clicking HERE.

She will be doing a live craft demo, showing all of us some of her WIRE WRAPPING techniques. Make something pretty and handmade for yourself or someone you love this summer and discover technique, fun and friends.

All are welcome, and there is no charge. Because we are the CRAFT MAFIA, we will be providing some basic tools and supplies, but invite you to bring whatever beads you would like to work with as well as basic jewelry making tools.

And, hey, if the wire working thing is NOT your thing, come anyway, and bring whatever YOU like to work on! All crafts are welcome!

Acomplishments, Celebrations, Sorrows, Beginnings and History

2008-06-19T02:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, all of the above has happened to yours truly within the past 14 days. It's amazing how fast life moves. I mean seriously, the twists and turns, so unpredictable and so wonderful. This blog is a true testiment about how precious life is, and how we so need to make the best of it. All of it, the good, the bad and the ugly. Oh I know the ugly can seem so unfair, but it happens. Most likely for a reason. Oh we may not like the reasoning, but in the end I at least try and learn from my mistakes.

But I digress. So, I'd like to share the past few milestones that a few people I love in my life have accomplished. I was lucky enough to bear witness and enjoy and celebrate their moment. It is these moments that I like to store in my heart and reflect often. Especially when I encounter a bump along the way.

This first pic is of my baby sis. She has been living with us for the past 5 years, since my father's death. Last year she knocked us all on our arses when she confessed that she was pregnant. Fast forward through all the drama, we welcomed a beautiful baby boy into our lives. This year, through determination, she graduated high school. :D

Here she is with her son, who is turning 1 this September!

My youngest son reached a milestone too. He turned 18 last week. How that happened so fast, is beyond me. He is our gentle giant. He is the tallest of all our families combined! I still wonder if he he done growing.!

So much joy and then, quick as lightning, I get the news that a dear friend of mine past away. He was only 44 and was healthy as can be. A stroke took him away from us and we are all just stunned. As I type this out, I still can't believe he is gone. He was one of those remarkable souls that instantly reaches inside you and makes a mark for life. Rawland had a whole lot going for him; personality, looks, profession and passion, yet he was extremely humble about all his blessing. I met Rawland about 13 years ago. Sharon and I sold him his first house. He bought it so that his mother could live in it and then a couple of years later, he bought another house with his Dad, so that his dad had a place to live too. He wanted to make sure his parents were taken care of. Of course this made us love him even more. Although we weren't in constant contact. We would always hear from him from time to time, and both Sharon and I would call each other up all excited when we did run into him. It was like bragging rights to be able to share a chat with him. Honestly, he is one of those people that you just felt good to know he was out there somewhere. Made you still believe there were good people wandering around and how lucky you would be to run into a person like him. At his funeral, it was like a mini high school reunion. Rawland touched a lot of people from way back, and we all came to pay our respects to his family. It was an honor to be there and this is an understatement when I say, "he will be truly missed".

Saturday, it was time to put on a smile again, because my little brother's best friend got married at a beautiful spot along the Delta. Thank Ga, the weather was nice. Here is a pic of them just after they said their vows. They actually had been married a couple of years, but wanted to have a formal wedding with guests. They did a great job pulling it off!
Wednesday was filled with more love. Wednesday was a historical day for us "Californians" It is the 1st day the state was recognizing "Same Sex" marriages. Again, I was lucky enough to witness my friends, Marcella and Vanessa do what we hetro's have had the privilege of doing for a zillion years. They have been together for 18 years, and Wednesday, they made honest women out of each other.

Here they are making their vows.

Sheesh, get a room! lol, j/k! Here is their first kiss as spouses!

Married at last!

Reality set in.

And that, my friends, is where your favorite Snatchy has been. Life has been having her way with me, and because life is short, I have to listen and take advantage of each moment!

This blog is dedicated to the memory of Rawland, and to all my friends and family who I love dearly.

Yoli

Sex and the Swap

2008-06-17T00:07:00.000-07:00

I can only imagine what kind of hits my blog will get with that title! I am still having a hard time living down the word Puta and how many people are directed to my site based on someone googling that word!

So a while back, I hosted a Sex and the City Swap with a few stellar swap homies of mine. The premise was to design or purchase a handbag that your favorite character would wear and fill it with goodies that you would find in her purse. I couldn't wait for this swap to begin! I have been a fan for years and I ran with the masses at opening night to watch my girls in action. However, I do think I may need to see the movie again, because if felt like I shoved an entire season in a couple of hours!

After a little Sexy inspiration,I decided to make, for my partner, a handbag that I think Carrie Bradshaw would wear. I ended up going after an evening look. I noticed her character had some love going on with the feathers and came up with this creation. I know it looks simple, but trust me when I say, working with that glittery fabric was no joke! I almost threw out my machine twice and I could not get the tension right to save my life. After a few frustrating days, I finally finished it! I gave it a pretty interior lining with a black and white floral silky pattern and then I decided to line the outside with some sexy black lace. I will admit, I did purchase the handle, but only because I didn't like the pearl selection I had in my stash.

Filling it was the fun part. I included a mini journal to jot her thoughts down. Some gum for that smoke she would sneak in here and there. A mini album filled with pictures of her, Big, and her girlfriends. Some fun earrings and a huge black blingy diamond ring. Some gloss and some lube. lol, Carrie did like to get her groove on too. She just wasn't so vocal about it. I also included a perfume sample in the event she had a close in counters with Big on a moment's notice!

A few days ago, came my SATC handbag from my wonderful partner, Kathy. OMG, this was her first swap ever and she blew me out the water. Kathy is an amazing crafter and seamstress. She makes awesome dresses, jackets, aprons and the list goes on and on. This bag, including the handle is all handmade. I rawked this bag at a wedding this weekend and received lots of compliments!

But wait, it gets even better! She totally captured Samantha's essence in this bag and it's contents! I mean, really, how much better does it get?

Inside was a manual on some very "interesting" positions. Various lubes and "Dickie" Breath mints. The little captions she wrote on the packaging had me cracking up. Condoms of course were a given, a beautiful blingy bracelet, some Dicky Charms, a Wash the Sins away packet. (perfecto) A birthday card celebrating Samantha's 50th birthday, and a great album with pics of the girls.

Oh and here is the Piece de Resistance............................. Samantha's famed pearl Thong! (Handmade but of course!)

lmao, how awesome is that? Then to add even more to my score. I rec'd another fabulous package from my homegirl, Juli.

She knocked my chonez off too. The Swap was called Literary Surprises. The premise was to select a book and create a package and or craft that incorporated the book. That lil sneak went to my Amazon wish list and created a bonanza of a package around the book.(Scraptastic) by the way, the book rawks, and I highly recommend it. It is filled with easy and creative techniques. You know I am all about the technique. I feel some tutorials coming people!

Feast your eyes! Not only did she include tons of beautiful ephemera, she also painted a mini masterpiece for me utilizing one of the techniques from the book!

Kathy and Juli, Thank you so much for your creativity and generosity! You have truly captured the spirit of a great swapper!

Recycled Postcard and Mexican Tin Tooling Tutorial

2008-06-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

Looky here, you get a twofer today! Yep, got mi own tutorial to share and a WONDERFUL tutorial given by Kristen of Pepper Paints!

First up, is making postcards out of all your junk mail and paper scraps. Truly, the possibilites are endless, and it also makes you feel good to know you are creating and recycling at the same time! I made the cards below for a few swaps, and had so much fun, I just wanted to share, because, well, that is how I roll, Chicas!

Materials:
Junk mail, catalogs,newspapers,bills, paper scraps, left over ephemera, etc
glue stick
scissors
card-stock (preferably recycled, from existing post card ads or cereal boxes and or packaging .

Directions: Really, do you need them? lol, cut away and get to gluing all over. Here are a few I made today!

One card is made from San Francisco handouts, maps and coupon book. Another one is made from a Nordstrom's catalog. I haven't shopped there in a while, but they have the best catalogs!

These two were made from paper scraps and I included quotes to give it a more mysterious element!

Ok, this is a given!

Can you feel me? I like these because they are super easy to make, you can complete several at a time, and you can go crazy or keep it simple. Either way, they will still be the bomb, because they are handmade and ready to send out. There is a huge movement on hand written postcards and being that I am old school, I am really digging these trades!

Ok, and for the grand finale! I ran across this blog and I was floored at the simplicity and the bang this craft put out!

Mexican Tooling Project

(copied and pasted with Kristen's permission, of course)

*********************************************************************************

This weeks Unplugged Project is Metal. The long weekend threw me off a bit so I am posting a day late-but better late then never! This Mexican Metal Tooling project is super easy, no mess.

You will need some heavy aluminum-we cut cake pans apart-scissors, stack of newspapers, paint brushes, permanent markers. Optional materials list to follow.

Place your aluminum square on your newspaper stack and use the back of a paintbrush to draw a picture/design. You can flip your square over and draw on the other side too so that some of your drawing sticks out and some is concave.

Now use your permanent markers to color in your picture.

The next part took longer than anything. I punched holes in the corners and used jewelry wire to string the tiles together and tied them to a dowel rod. We hung some beads off the bottom for weight. This is optional but I think it really looks great. Because we used permanent markers I plan to hang this on our back patio but tonight could not find a single place to hang it to get a good photo. This was the best I could do.

Note–after cutting the pans up the edges are a bit sharp, you may want to use masking tape and tape the square down to the newspaper while working on it. Be careful!

Here is a photo I took this morning outside-looks a bit better!

How fabulous is that? I am already doing a progect (Big Ass Matchbox Shrine Swap) using her technique! Awesome. Please be sure to visit her inspiring page and tell her Snatchy sent you!

Country vs. City with a side of a Crafty Tutorial

2008-06-04T00:08:00.000-07:00

I don't know why, but I have always had mad love for big cities. I grew up in a "bedroom" community right outside of San Jose, California. Being that most of my family actually lived in various parts of San Jose, I too, would claim San Jose, just because, to me, it sounded way more exciting than boring Campbell.

As a kid, I would love to visit San Francisco and Los Angeles. I always felt like people from SF and LA were smarter, savvier and just so different than plain ol me. I was 8 ok? lol. Seriously, I would dream of visiting exotic cities like Paris, London, Rome and New York. I knew from a young age, that I was destined to travel, and I would do anything necessary to see the world out there!

How I ended up in Sacramento is beyond me. lol. Actually, I followed my mother here and the older I got, the more I appreciated it's laid back attitude. Good place to raise my kids too, since Sacramento, at the time, was a little behind the times in peer pressure as it was in the bay area.

Although I love traveling to breezy beaches and tropical resorts, nothing relaxes me better than to vacation in a bustling city. Last time I was in NYC, I gasped at the prices of apartments. I looked at some real estate just for giggles, and couldn't believe what a closet cost! No yard, no space, just a box inside a building.

Then I came home to my corner of the earth, and I realized how lucky I am to have some space to roam. My husband's passion is our backyard. If he could have his way, we would live out in some big ol ranch with acres of land. My city is surrounded by small country towns where acreage is in abundance. But.........Nope, not me, I have to live close to the action and we settled on a home that has a big lot.

So after reading Madge's (aka The impatient blogger, aka Impatient Beader, aka Super Woman) blogs about her chickens, pig's and Amish country, she inspired me to take some pics of the hubby doing what he does best (outside the house) and share a bit of our piece of the country that sits behind a house in a city.

Welcome to Manzo's Organic Orchard.

Homegrown Cherries. We have three trees and this was the first year that brought us huge amounts of cherries!

Vine Ripe and ooooh so sweet!

Earth's bounty

We have two white Peach trees. We are expecting a huge peach bounty. Some of the limbs are already sagging to the ground from the weight of these lil peachy gems.

We also have a Galla apple tree. The apples, right now, are the size of ping pong balls.

A couple of years ago, my mother and I stayed at this wonderful bed and breakfast farm house outside of Cortona, Italy. They had a lemon tree in this huge old pot sitting smack in the middle of their yard. When I got home, I announced to Mando that I wanted a miniature lemon tree in a pot right smack in the middle of the yard. This will be the year that it will produce more than two lemons!

Proud Papa farmer in front of his fruit trees that he planted himself.

Man made Pond

What can I say, I had to bring a little swank into our orchard!

Ok, back to "Ms. Madge"
She is starting a series of Crafty videos. Not only does she go out of her way to make them entertaining, but she also actually teaches us something! What a concept! This latest video shows us the wonder of working with extra thick embossing enamel (UTEE) Check her out, and tell her your girl, Snatchy sent you!

Black Goddesses and T-Shirt Vamps

2008-06-01T23:28:00.001-07:00

Black goddess doll Swap
Originally uploaded by Sacred Snatch Designs

This is one of my latest Doll Creations. She is on her way to my swap partner. The theme was Black Goddess and this is how she turned out. These dolls are so much fun and I am already signed up for another "Goddess" swap.

The rest of this blog was written by my girl, Melody of Handmade Dork. She came out and played with us at Scary Craft Night, and I didn't realize how sneaky she was being with her camera. :O.
***************************************************

Ok...so I went to the last Scary Craft's Night of the Crafters (which is a monthly get-together, every fourth Tuesday of the month at Side Show Studios, with artists and crafters in the Sac area) where we learned (some of us more quickly than others) how to reconstruct old tees. It was great to see some peeps I haven't seen in months and to learn new things about my comfort levels with scissors and the use of the word, "wonky." Trust me, everything about my project is "wonky."

At the helm, was Sam Marie who is as sweet as can be (um, and mass patient with my annoying ass). She's been destroying and restroying tees since she was in junior high, so no better instructor could have been found on the subject. However, Sacred Snatch (Yoli) brought a book that gave people further inspiration.

Coping a feel? What happens in Side Show Studios stays in Side Show Studios.

Rain and her mom cut it UP!

Ms. Cy of Side Show took about five seconds to whip this up and was the envy of the room:

A great time was had by all and a barrel full of delicious caramel corn was consumed (the stuff was GOOD).

Here I am being coached by the lovely Sam Marie.

Being the slow learner I am, I had to take my project home. I'm also a slow producer, so, without further ado, here is my WIP:

(Isn't she hot?) Melody of Handmade Dork

Only one more strap to go! I'll post a blog on that in '09 when it's done.

Thanks for the fun, girls!

Another community crafting opportunity is offered by the Sacramento Craft Mafia. Every second Tuesday we hold a Coffee N Craft Along at Java Lounge. The more chances to craft with the peeps, the better! So, come and join!

Painting for Paws Event in Sacramento

2008-05-31T10:18:00.001-07:00

Paintings for Paws

Hosted By: Evie Turner
When: Saturday Jun 14, 2008
at 6:00 PM
Where: Little Real Estate/Union Vacations
4201 H Street
East Sacramento, California|5 95819
United States
Description:
Evie Turner

Click Here To View Event

Please join us for the Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary's Second Saturday Art Show & Reception for "Painting for Paws!" This fundraiser will be held on June 14, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Little Real Estate/Union Vacations on the corner of 42nd & H Streets in East Sacramento. On display and for sale will be the paintings that the cats and dogs actually created with non-toxic paint on their little paws. You can come home with your own one-of-a-kind piece of animal art work and perhaps even the animal artist too!

In addition to the cat and dog art work, the event will feature an extensive silent auction area of unique items all donated by local businesses, community members, and fellow artists. Some of the featured "human artists" who generously donated art to this event are:
Ann Tracy
Antoinette Oneal
Aunia Kahn
C!nder
Char
Evie Turner
Gale Hart
Jared Konopitski
June Daskalakis
Kelly Croisdale
Kim Brownell
Krissi Sandvik
Kyra Skye
Linda Nunes
Lori Ann DeLappe-Grondin
Lost Goat
Nicolas Caesar
Nicole Fox
Nina Boyd
Sacred Snatch
Samantha Marie Grove
Sandy Cappelletti
Spinestealer
Steve Grondin
Sugar MAgnolia Creations
Temple Terkildsen
Walker
Woolloomooloo
Yelena Kopylov-Alford

Make sure that you arrive at the event early as the art has always sold out in previous years. Did I also mention that there will be food and wine? So come for a night of fun and support a worthy cause while you are at it!

Love, Evie, Tsarina & Zoey

Founded in 1993, Happy Tails rescues abandoned, abused and unwanted companion animals in the Sacramento area, and finds them safe, permanent, loving homes. All proceeds from the event will benefit Happy Tails, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

Puta Love on Swap-bot

2008-05-30T00:30:00.000-07:00

A few Crafty Homegirls of mine, who are regulars on swap-bot decided to do a fun "Emergency Puta Kit Swap. For those of you who are not familiar with the term, "Puta", basically it is a Spanish word for "Whore" Yep, you know sometimes WE all have an inner Puta that sometimes likes to step out and have a good time once and a while. SOME of us may need a little coaxing and or a kit to bust out in an emergency situation!

Today, I got this huge package in the mail. Immediately, my nosy son starts to open it. I had a feeling this was my EPK, so I had to grab it and go open it in the privacy of my room.

Needless to say, I was blown away at what was inside the package! So much that I had to share it with all of you. Maybe give you a little inspiration to go put together your own Puta/Ho on the Go kit. Perhaps you have a friend who is in need. Spread the love I say!

Before I get started, I just want to give a shot out to Mary who put together this wonderful package and who has the true Puta Spirit! Thanks girl! I can't tell you how much I appreciate all your hard work!

Outside of lid. I love all the slutticious women and the wooden EPK initials!

Inside of lid

Some furry handcuffs (wow) and some lucky diceLook at these! Hand embroidered Chonez!

She was right on the money on this. Liquer brings out the major Puta in me. She included my own shot class on a necklace (que classy) and a tequila fund piggy bank

I love this black wife beater "I am Chy" lol, yes I am!

Awesome shrine (outside)

Inside

playboy necklace

Musica to get my groove on.

Can't wait to slip some of these in Mando's drink! haha

Whorey perfume!

also included were some black chiny pasties!

I also happened to send out my partner her Puta Kit. She is super crafty and super famousa, so I wanted to make something easy to carry for when she is traveling all over spreading her crafty magic. lol, of course she can always share this with her hoosband!

Handmade frida corset handbag

inside her kit she will find: Puta glitter, some lube, temp tattoos, pasties, a hair barrette, some gum, dirty dice, a dare scratch off ticket, instant boyfriend, and some super secksy musica!

Since I was still all caliente, I made this passion quiltie for another swap partner. I hope she likes it too. Is it hot in here?

Scary-Craft Reminder (Tues May 27th)

2008-05-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

t's that time again already! Tomorrow is fourth Tuesday and that means it's Night of the Crafters in Sacramento.

This month, we'll be:

looking at the creations resulting from our "monster" craft challenge from April
announcing the craft challenge themes for June, July & August
announcing the hands-on technique/tutorial for June
CRAFTING (isn't that what it's all about?)
and watch Miss Sam Marie use her scissors and a little magic to turn T-shirts like this:

into T-shirts like this!

HUBBA HUBBA! If you would like to craft along with Sam Marie, please bring a T shirt or another article of clothing for reconstruction, a pair of scissors, a needle and thread and anything you'd like to add to your new creation (beads, buttons, lace, etc.)

No matter what you'll be working on, be sure to bring your craft supplies AND A CHAIR! Last month's turnout was great, and we expect to have more people this month (so if you have a table too, we welcome it warmly). We'll see you at the:

NIGHT OF THE CRAFTERS
presented by Scary-Art CRAFT and Side Show Studios
May 27th (and every 4th Tuesday), 6:30 to 9pm
Side Show Studios
5635 Freeport, #6 - Sactown
(adults and mature teens only please - thank you for helping to give our Mommy-members the night "off")

Much love,

Yoli & Krissi (Scary CRAFT) and Cy & Char (Side Show Studios)

Inspiring Ladies

2008-05-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

I think I have mentioned before, but Krissi and I, and now Sacred Momma, have joined a group of insanely talented ladies. They call themselves Mixed Media Artists Of Northern California. They meet monthly at Beverly's Unique Scrapbooking. The fourth Sunday of each month, these ladies from all over Northern California get together to share, create, tutor and fellowship. I always look forward to this meeting and I have not missed one meeting since we joined 4 months ago. This month's meeting was extra special because Corky, a fellow craftista I met on the Crafty Chica cruise, drove in from Santa Clara to take part in the "Exploding Box" tutorial. Along with the tutorial, we shared our monthly "challenge' that happened to have the theme of "Houses". As usual, these ladies hit it out of the ball park with their creativity. I just had to share pictures!

Next month, our challenge is altering a checkerboard and yours truly will be giving a "Paper Bag" book make and take tutorial.

Ok, peecture time.............. All these creations are made by the wonderful Artists in my group. I was just snapping away, and I wish I would have wrote their names down to give them proper credit. I'll be pimping this blog to them, so hopefully they can stop by and take credit!

This is the inside of an altered cook book made by one of the Artists.

These are miniature houses made out of chip board. I believe she is going to attach them to pin backs and make broaches out of them. there were Awesome!

Class waiting to start.

Look how small her houses are! Fantastic!

Corky's tag book. She gave this demo on the Crafty Chica Cruise.

Inide of an altered Tin.

Outside of altered cookbook. Look at the Apple she cut and glued. (genius)

House challenges

Glitter is Good.

2008-05-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

For real, and you certainly don't have to take my word for it. Crafty Chica spells it out for Ellen, (silly Ellen)

But I also have back up! Yes, my girls from the Sacramento Craft Mafia are pictured below showing their love and support for Glitter. At our last meeting I hosted a Shrine tutorial with some of the left over Crafty Chica goodness from Craft Con. Not only were we making beautiful arte together, but we were doing it up "Green" style and recycling our materials! It was a win win situation! Just look at how happy my girls are!

Ellen, can you honestly deny the happiness of all these Chicas? Carry on................

Holy Frida Kahlo! She's a Coming to Town!

2008-05-21T23:29:00.000-07:00

Frida Kahlo (It's true) She is on her way to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art!

Saturday, June 14, 2008 - Sunday, September 28, 2008

Mexican artist Frida Kahlo began painting in 1926, while recovering from a near-fatal bus accident, and soon became captivated by the medium's expressive possibilities. She filled her canvases with vibrant colors, powerful compositions, and revealing depictions of intensely personal struggles — the traumatic accident, her ongoing health problems, miscarriages, and her tumultuous relationship with her husband, Diego Rivera. Kahlo's blunt style, influenced by Mexican folk art, and her fantastical imagery earned her recognition among the Surrealists, but her intriguing persona and unmistakable originality propelled her beyond the confines of a specific movement to become a leading figure in the history of modern art.

ADVANCE TIMED TICKETS FOR FRIDA KAHLO
In anticipation of the popularity of Frida Kahlo, we will be using a timed ticketing system, with tickets issued for specific dates and times. Timed tickets limit the number of people in the gallery at any given time and minimize lines, resulting in a better viewing experience for all. Please choose your date and time carefully as tickets cannot be refunded. Tickets are subject to availability.

Advance timed tickets for Frida Kahlo are available online. Please visit our Frida Kahlo Timed Ticketing FAQ page for more information on how to purchase advance timed tickets for the exhibition.

SFMOMA members: Please visit the Member FAQ page for information on how to reserve complimentary advance timed tickets for the exhibition.

PUBLIC TOURS

Daily Tours
Ongoing
Daily (except Wednesdays): 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
Thursdays: 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Meet in the Haas Atrium.
Topics change daily for these free tours led by SFMOMA docents. The 1:30 p.m. tour focuses on Friedlander through May 18, 2008 and Frida Kahlo beginning June 20, 2008.

Free with Museum admission.

Also in conjunction with Friedlander

...........

AUDIO TOURS

Frida Kahlo, The Art of Lee Miller and SFMOMA Collection Highlights
Beginning June 14, 2008
Featuring rare film footage, archival images, audio interviews and video clips, this self-guided multimedia tour of Frida Kahlo guides you on an exploration of Frida Kahlo's self-portraits and personal photo albums. Patti Smith, Amalia Mesa-Bains, Kiki Smith and other guest commentators consider Kahlo's rich artistic and cultural legacy. Also included is an audio-only guide to The Art of Lee Miller and highlights from SFMOMA's painting and sculpture collection.

$3. Includes all three tours. Frida Kahlo multimedia tour narrated in English, Spanish, and French; The Art of Lee Miller audio tour narrated in English; SFMOMA collection tour is available in English, French, German, and Spanish.

Audio tours are produced by Discovery Audio. SFMOMA's audio tour is made possible by generous grants from the Acacia Foundation and the Flora Family Foundation.

...........

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Teacher Institute
Frida Kahlo
June 28, 2008
8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Meet in the Koret Visitor Education Center
Using ArtThink, SFMOMA's new student/teacher curriculum site and focusing on the themes Art and Social Change and Self and Society: Tracing Identity, educators will explore Kahlo's use of self-portraiture to address both personal and political concerns.

$40 general; $32 SFMOMA members. An education packet is included. To register, complete the Teacher Programs application (PDF document) and return it with your check. For more information, call 415.357.4097.

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FILM AND VIDEO SCREENINGS

Daily Video Screenings
The Life and Times of Frida Kahlo
Amy Stechler, 2005, 90 min.
June 14 - September 28, 2008
June 14 - June 30, 2008
Daily (except Wednesdays), 1:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4:00 p.m.
July 01 - September 28, 2008
Daily (except Wednesdays), 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Koret Visitor Education Center

Free with museum admission; drop-ins welcome.

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FAMILY PROGRAMS

The Family Studio
The Many Faces of Frida
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Noon - 3:00 p.m.
Family Tour at 1:00 p.m.
Special Presentation at 2:00 p.m.
Koret Visitor Education Center
Celebrate the many faces of Frida Kahlo through the artist's self-portraits. Participate in a hands-on art activity and community installation in our studios, then settle in for a 2:00 p.m. reading of Frida, written by Jonah Winter and illustrated by Ana Juan.

Museum and program admission are free for families. Free admission limited to 4 adults per child, age 4-11.

Please note: The Family Studio capacity is limited. Families will be served as space is available.

Major support for family programs is provided by The Wallace Foundation.

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MEMBER EVENTS

Member Previews and Receptions for Frida Kahlo
Upper-Level Member Preview and Reception
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Supporting members and above
Artist's Circle and Director's Circle members may enter at 6:00 p.m.
Museum-wide

Featuring a hosted bar and hors d'oeuvres.

Timed tickets are NOT required for this event.

Member Preview Days
Thursday, June 12, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Friday, June 13, 2008
10:00 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.
All members
Fourth-floor galleries

Advance timed tickets are NOT required for Member Preview Days.

General Member Preview and Reception
Friday, June 13, 2008
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
All members
Museum-wide

Featuring a cash bar and live music by Diego's Umbrella.

Timed tickets are NOT required for this event.

...........

Members-Only Viewing Hours
Saturdays and Sundays, June 14 - September 28,
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Fourth-floor galleries

Enjoy private weekend viewing hours, reserved especially for members, throughout the run of Frida Kahlo.

Advance timed tickets are NOT required for Members-Only Viewing Hours.

Yes, I have my tickets already!

Having fun with Fabric and My Sewing Machine

2008-05-19T00:17:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been having fun with my sewing machine. Thanks to Krissi and her patience, I have been giving it a whirl and have been having fun with small items. I am getting pretty good with the ATC's, Postcards and mini quilts. I have even made a few handbags and am currently working on two bags that I made the pattern from scratch! Those pics will be coming soon.
For now, I just wanted to share some of my sewing lessons with you, and although I have sooooooo much more to learn, I am having fun. I am even thinking of joining morsbags.com so I can do some drive by bag give aways! If you don't know about that website, check it out, it is really inspiring. I feel so ashamed to take bags from stores now, and find myself stuffing my handbag with items and saying no all together on paper or plastic!

My goal is to start making bags for myself and family, and hopefully in the process, will make bags good enough to pass out to random peeps!

But for now, here are a few pics for your review.

Salute,

Yoli

Springtime ATC Swap

Postcard Swap

A mini quilt I made a few weeks ago.

Clutch I made for Loan

Corozon fabric Postcard I mailed to a swap partner

La Virgen quilted postcard

These Postcards are so easy to make. I should do a tutorial!

Have a great week everyone!

Cruising Crafty Chica Style!

2008-05-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Just in case you haven't heard, my girl Kathy is doing it again! Another Crafty Chica Cruise to Mexico. This year's cruise was a blast with over 40 chicas, artists, crafters, and down right cool peeps were in attendance. Next year is going to be even bigger, with Kathy blowing up the charts and all.

Yours truly will be representing and I will also be teaching a class! (I promise to keep it clean Kathy) ;-)

I have traveled many places and let me tell you, this is a SCREAMING DEAL, mmmkay? Not only do you get to learn and create, but it is ALL you can eat! lol, for real, the only tab I had was my drinking tab. (it Wasn't that big either!)

So get your reservations in now!

Details!

Crafty Chica Cruise 2009!
DATE: March 16-21, 2009
DEPARTS: from San Diego
WHERE: Cabo and Ensenada (one day at each town, two full days at sea)
COST: $647 inside cabin. $699 ocean view cabin (based on double occupancy)

Cost is lower for spouses/people who do not want to craft.

INCLUDES: Everything! Room, food, tips, entertainment, two cocktail parties, craft supplies/kits for five workshops, personal instruction, tote bag with giveaways, and much more! Plus there will be three bonus mini-workshops for $5 each.

The cost is a little higher this year because we had to push the date up two weeks, which hit the spring break season. But still - compared to other craft cruises, this is a really good price!

As far as the classes, I will have those listed soon. I do know we will have a jewelry, fabric/sewing, assemblage, paper arts/scrapbooking, and Day of the Dead. Each workshop will have the theme of "art de la soul" - self empowerment, making visual representations of your life goals, and discovering something new about yourself!

SWAPS: We will be making two swap projects as well.

Students are encouraged (but not required) to bring personal/favorite supplies, scrap fabric, trims etc.

Aside from crafting, there will be shopping in Cabo and Ensenanda, great entertainment, a full casino, a spa on board the 'Elation' ship (cost is separate). We will have a 24-hour craft room. This year our dining room is connected to our craft room. And we will have better lighting!

Register by May 23 and recieve a $25 discount!
Returning cruisers receive a $50 discount ($25 after May 23)

All it takes is $100 to hold your spot now, and the next $100 is due in September and then the rest is due in December.

http://www.seacruises.com/groups/crafty09/

or call 1-800-795-1008.

See pictures:
http://flickr.com/photos/craftychica/sets/72157604086873643/

Any questions? Shoot me an email!

This is Serious! All Artistas are encouraged to get your voice heard!

2008-05-18T12:46:00.001-07:00

I am talking about the

Orphan Works Bill Affect Ownership of Your Art and Written Work?

Seriously, I do urge you to check this out. Normally I would cut and past, but Emma Allen of Quilting and Patchwork did such a fine job, I am enclosing a link to her blog. It covers a lot of Q&Q and has direct links for you to notify your congressman.

I already sent mine!

If you care about your artwork becoming "public domain", check out this blog.

Happy day People!

Well It's About Time...Maker Faire Wrap Up

2008-05-12T23:47:00.000-07:00

So yeah, I have been wanting to post this blog for over a week! Uploading pics here on blogspot is still a mystery to me, and I all but gave up putting them in order. Be sure to check out my links, where you can learn more about the artists and products! I have been wanting to post this blog forever, so please excuse the out of sync photos.

Lil over a week ago, Sharon and I headed out to the Maker Faire in San Mateo California. This would be my first visit. I always heard it was hecka cool chitters. OMGah, it totally was! First off, it took forever to get off our exit on the freeway, then we were ushered to a faraway parking lot where we were shuttered across America to the fair grounds. We were then greeted by a genormous line of peeps trying to get in. Fortunately I had two tickets that I scored from Craft Con. (Thank you Rachael!_

Once inside the gate, we couldn't help but stand in amazement and with our mouths wide open! We didn't know where to turn or start because there was something happening everywhere! It was like craft show, meets freak show, meets valley of the nerds science fair! There was something for EVERYONE, and then some! I don't even think we checked out every building, it was just too much for us to handle in the 5 hours that we were there.

We started in one building where everyone was offering "Make and Takes" I literally had to yank Sharon out of there because she was having way to much fun at the recycled art booth where we made mixed media badges. From there we peeped out handmade greeting cards from recycled ads and garbage, we made screen prints from carving out styrofoam plates, and also got to make card holders out of cereal boxes. I can't even remember how much swag we picked up on the way, but lemme tell you, it was awesome.

I even got to chop it up with Sonja Nimrey of Fanciful ----. I just happened to have her book in my Amazon wish list, so I took advantage of the situation and bought it straight from her. (She is soooo cute)

After wandering around and dodging moterized cupcakes, we ran into La Reina herself, Crafty Chica. She was busy marketing her wares and giving free Matchbox Shrine demos, featuring her awesome line of products.

Ok, embarrassing moment. I accidentally sidebusted a video interview with Cathy of California. Here I thought I was being polite and asking her before snapping a pic, only to be told, ok, yeah, but we ARE video taping! Whoops!

I also got to see my girls in action. Yes The Sacramento Craft Mafia was there representing to the fullest.

I also got to meet a lot of people I stalked, I mean met online and it just was an awesome event. Did I already say that? lol, for real, even Sharon, who is not a craft enthusiast like me, was extremely impressed and thanked me for taking her.

Yes, yes, It was good day indeed. If you ever have a chance to attend this event, DO IT. I also recommend taking the kiddies. There were tons of stuff for them to do and experiment, and I kick myself for not taking photos of the carnival. lol, trust me, you had to see it to believe it.

Because I cannot get my photo's to align, you will be seeing some of these peeps, but not in the ordred intended. Please click on the links and check them all out. They are so worth the effort
Lauren of Goody Goody and Missy Ballence of Crafty Carnival

Cathy of California. (sorry about butting into you video Chica)

Sonia Nimri, author of Just for the Frill of it, 25, flirty fabulous styles to make from clothes you already own.

The Hawt Tammy of RoxyCraft (and my homegirl!)

Lovely Kathy of Crafty Chica

Tiffany Threadgould
RePlayGround
Tiffany Threadgould is a Design Junkie who gives scrap materials a second life. Her business, RePlayGround, sells recycled goods and features DIY projects.
http://www.replayground.com

Jeepers Creepers!

2008-05-10T17:18:00.001-07:00

Yes, I can do more than Frida and Guadalupe! So number 1 son (oldest, not that I adore him anymore than number 2 son) flew the nest. Yes, I am that much closer to being an "empty nester" well, not that much closer, being that I have 200 people that still live with me. Ok, not 200, but sometimes it feels like it!

Number One Son has joined the ranks to being a renter. I told him it is not easy, and to please finish school and hold out as long as he can. It's hard out there! But being the strong headed independent kid that he has always been................ He bounced.

From day one, that kid has always been on a mission to grow up. He walked at 10 months old, talked early, RAN early, tried to grow up as fast as he can. It was like raising a little old man. He had to KNOW everything and had to always be right. I would always say,:"SLOW DOWN! " (at least for my sake)

Now my other son........................ well that is a different blog.

Anyhoo, my son gave me an unfinished wooden key holder and asked me to decorate it. "Mom, NO Frida or Guadalupe please" I was like, "Guat?" lol, Okayyyyyyyy, I can do more then my favorite icons, Helloooo!

I scoured my clip artsy fartsy books and decided to make it creepy and cool. I settled on some monster looking vintage comic images. I still painted it a vibrant green, but I thought it would go great with the images.

Verdict came in, and he was very pleased. "Cool Mom, this is tight!" I'll take that as a, "Oh Mom, this is the best thing ever!" (my kid is pretty skimpy in the compliment department, so I will take what I can get, mmmmkay?""

Second is a Haunted Dotee that I made for a swap. I made the face out of polymer clay and used some of my favorite left over halloween fabric.

I am currently working on some fabric postcards and fabric atcs. (stay tuned)

Next blog will be my visit to the Maker Fair last weekend!

Icicle Frida 5-08

2008-05-10T17:12:00.001-07:00

Icicle Frida 5-08
Originally uploaded by Sacred Snatch Designs

Hello everyone in blog landia! I have fallen behind in blogs, and thought if I just upload this pic, it will motivate me to get my blog mojo rolling. I have many stories and creations to share, but, gah, I have been feeling like a slug! I mean except for my studio, I have been a mad woman in there, sewing, painting, varnishing, etc. Oh and it feels so good! lol,

Anyhoo, I joined an Icicle doll swap on swap-bot, and the theme was to make a celebrity doll. I just could not imagine doing a Brittany or Tom Cruise Icicle, so I stuck to the celebrities that I follow. Ok, Frida has been gone for a hot minute, but her spirit lives on and is thriving. Hopefully my partner will know who she is. Sometimes, I will run across a swap partner who tells me that she has no idea who Frida is/was, and google her, and became just as hooked as I am. Viva Frida!

See you again soon!

Join us for Scary Craft Night!

2008-05-01T23:03:00.000-07:00

As promised, Scary-Art CRAFT is crankin' up the Craft Night volume with demonstrations of techniques & products. For May's Night of the Crafters, we've got an incredibly hot technique (and an even hotter instructor).

Whether you call it "refashioning," "DIY" or "altered clothing," you've probably seen that there are TONS of books flying off the click-and-mortar shelves detailing how to make the most of your old T-shirts, jeans and other closet cast-offs.

But seriously, wouldn't it be easier to just watch how it's done?

Sure it would!

That's why we are proud to announce that our very first Night of the Crafters demo will feature Miss Samantha Marie Grove. Sam Marie is an artist, DIY fashionista (is that an oxymoron?), and darned nice girlie, who will demonstrate techniques for refashioning a plain ol' men's T-shirt into something that will make the boys go "hubba hubba!"

Sam Marie's altered "Tank Girl" tank started life as a basic graphic T-shirt
and became a pretty AND edgy camisole with some scissors, a little lace and a needle & thread.
The off-the-shoulder Ramones top sure won't be mistaken for a boxy boy shirt now!

Not a punk rocker? Are you a bit on the modest side? Maybe you want to learn how to refashion clothes for your tween, or just bring a too-big shirt in a little? Worry not! Sam has techniques that will work for what you want to do.

If you'd like to work on your own "refashion" project, bring a T-shirt, a pair of scissors, a needle & thread (to match your shirt) and any embellishments you'd like to add to:

NIGHT OF THE CRAFTERS
presented by Scary-Art CRAFT and Side Show Studios
May 27th (and every 4th Tuesday), 6:30 to 9pm
Side Show Studios
5635 Freeport, #6 - Sactown
And please, if you can, BYOC (bring your own chair!)

As always, if you have any feedback on our meetings or if you would like to suggest (or volunteer for) a future demo/tutorial, please e-mail us at scarycraft@gmail.com.

See you on Fourth Tuesday (and don't forget your "monster" craft).

The weekend is always a little better with Vino.

2008-04-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Alex's birthday. (my homegirl, Sharon's hubby)

To celebrate, we headed to my parent's cabin located in the Shenandoah Valley. This area is not only wine country, but is surrounded by lots of mountains, trees and breathtaking views and vistas. It is only an hour east of Sacramento, but being that there are over 40 wineries, it usually takes us about 4-5 hours to get to the cabin. (hiccup)

I only managed to take a few photos, but I wanted to share a winery that is now one of our favorites! Mt. Aukum Winery.

Not only is the vino off the hook, (Petit Syrah won double gold in the San Francisco Chronicle competition, which is one of the most prestigious competitions in the country. so we were told), but the views and wine pourers were amazing. I wanted to share some pics, so you wouldn't have to just take my word for it. :D

We had so much fun, and I hope to visit this winery again. We finally made it to the cabin, that is located on top of a steep ridge, where we bbq'd it up and had a fabulous dinner.

Later, the boys passed out watching tv, and I gave Sharon a tutorial class on making little books out of paper lunch bags. If it weren't for craft hour, we probably would have been passed out like the boys by 9:00pm. (rankers)

Sunday was followed by a wonderful breakfast, some more chillin and then we packed up and headed back to Sacramento. I tell ya, a little time away from the hustle and bustle was just what the doctor ordered!

Do you Twitter?

2008-04-18T08:07:00.001-07:00

Madonna Shrine
Originally uploaded by Sacred Snatch Designs

If so, you can add me here.
http://twitter.com//sacredsnatch

Also, please feel free to break it down to me! lol. I noticed there are some big names out there, and darn it, if I don't need another addiction right now, right now.

I do have to admit, some Twitters are a heck of a lot more productive than I am these days!

On that note, here is an altoid tin Shrine I just finished for a swap. My partner loves kitch and collects Virgin Mary's and Madonnas.

I had fun with this one!

Happy Friday people!

Beary Adorable. (A boy meets girl story)

2008-04-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, After my blog on the Bear I made for my nephew, I recieved this wonderful letter from one of my readers! I was so touched with her story, I asked if I could repost it and blog it here for your enjoyment. She gladly agreed, and I hope it puts a smile on your face. I just love Amore and Romance!

Thanks for Sharing Belia! Best wishes to you and your "Sweetie"

(pictures may take a minute to load, but well worth the wait!)

From: *La BabyBruja*C/S
Date: Apr 3, 2008 1:10 PM

Senorita Sacred Snatch-
Yay! After I saw your bear I got inspired and made my own. Here’s the story of my osito... my companero-sweetie always tells me how the first time we met I was wearing this red shirt, which was decorated with the phrase "Enjoy California" in the Coca-Cola logo style.
I felt sorta self-conscious when I put it on because I knew a little about Coca-Cola’s anti-union worker abuses in Colombia, but I figured I wanted to rep California here in NYC, and most people wouldn’t make the connection anyway.
And then I met him, a lefty-Colombiano who had done some organizing against Coca-Coal’s labor practices in Colombia. Of course, he didn’t think the shirt was so cute. But he used it as a conversation opener to ask me about Cali- and then it was on!
Anyway, I washed it, and it hella shrank, but I kept it for the sentimental value and always hoped I could figure out something to do with it.
As soon as I saw your bear, I knew how to turn it into an awesome gift! I even stuffed it with a little mushy love message letter hidden inside.
So, thanks for passing on the inspiration, and I LOVE your blog and all your awesome craftiness.
-Belia LaBabyBruja

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I am so Proud of my SCM Sistas.............

2008-04-08T18:03:00.000-07:00

I’m just so dangded proud of my sisters in the Sacramento Craft Mafia!

Handmade, with attitude

The Sacramento Craft Mafia has a social edge ... and a lot of fun

By Alison apRoberts -

Published 12:00 am PDT Tuesday, April 8, 2008Story appeared in SCENE section, Page E1

Melody Claussen-Furry, left, Katie Reeves and Amy Cluck are members of the Sacramento Craft Mafia, a group devoted to making things by hand. Michael Allen Jones / mjones@sacbee.com

Members of the Sacramento Craft Mafia are armed and dangerously intent on making one-of-a-kind merchandise you’ll find hard to refuse.

Wielding the weapons of their crafts, from knitting needles to glue guns, members recently met under cover of darkness on the back patio of the Coffee Garden in Curtis Park to share techniques and cupcakes, and plan some upcoming sales events.

Amy Cluck, founding crafter of the group, called the meeting to order by pounding a gavel, ingeniously created by another member using mini-flower pots and empty thread spools.

"We decided at the last meeting we’re going to use parliamentary procedure," Cluck explained as she called the group to order.

The group, which has about 20 active members – all women – and just celebrated its first anniversary, is part of a much larger do-it-yourself movement that brings an indie-alternative vibe to crafting.

Some of the techniques and implements being used here would be familiar to your grandmother, but there are no blue-hairs tatting antimacassars in this group. Instead, there are a few tattoos and some hot-fuchsia and goth-black coifs among the group of crafters, mostly in their 20s and 30s. Some have day jobs and some are stay-at-home moms; they all have crafting in common.

The crafts they create are edgy variations on tradition, including earrings made from guitar picks; coasters adorned with the image of Lizzie Borden on one side, her trusty ax on the other; necklaces made from buttons; baby clothes adorned with whimsical appliqués; and handmade coffee-cup cuffs.

"We’re big on googly eyes and glitter," says Cluck, 29, who lives in Carmichael.

From virtual to reality

The Sacramento Craft Mafia arose in an utterly modern way – an Internet-enabled cultural phenomenon that transformed a virtual community into a group that meets face-to-face and hosts events in the real world.

Cluck had seen the Web site of the original Craft Mafia, started in 2003 by nine women in Austin, Texas. Since its founding, the Texas group has spawned more than 40 other Craft Mafias – from Anchorage to New York City and even abroad to Glasgow, Scotland.

Cluck decided to start a Sacramento Craft Mafia group and began with a MySpace community page. Now, the group has a Web site, including a logo with a double-barreled sassy attitude: a silhouette of a ’40s-style moll holding a glue gun with the Capitol dome behind her. (Cluck, who is a Web designer professionally, created the logo.)

The growing crafting scene, including the local Craft Mafia, relies on the Internet marketplace, particularly a site called Etsy (www.etsy.com) where even the smallest-scale crafter can easily sell handmade items. Unlike eBay, it’s not an auction site; prices are set, and it feels and looks like an online crafts fair. Etsy charges 20 cents to list an item for four months, and it takes a 3.5 percent commission on sales.

Etsy, which started in June 2005 and is based in Brooklyn, claims that more than 100,000 sellers have opened "Etsy shops." These micro-entrepreneurs are part of a global and ultimately revolutionary enterprise, according to the Web site, which says, "Our vision is to build a new economy and present a better choice: Buy, sell and live handmade."

Dream globally, act locally

Such global dreams are part of the crafting phenomenon’s social-movement dimension, complete with a countercultural, political tone that appeals to those interested in living more simply and greenly (many popular crafts use recycled material). Its earnestness shows up in terms like "craftivism" and the online circulation of "buy handmade" pledges.

Not sure if handmade is really hip and artsy here in Sacramento? You’ll be certain if you take the time to check out the crafts for sale during Second Saturday art events.

The Sacramento Craft Mafia has grown large enough that only those referred by current members are eligible to join. It costs $20 for six months to be a member.

The group’s craft-sales events represent a chance to get some collective publicity and provides an opportunity for those members who have sold only online and never experienced the thrills and chills of person-to-person transactions.

"As a group, it’s easier to bring attention to ourselves," Cluck said.

None of the Craft Mafia members has struck it rich, but they seem to be happy if they can feed their craft-hobby habit.

"To break even is awesome," says Katie Reeves, 25, who lives in Oak Park and embellishes baby clothes with hand-designed and stitched appliqués.

Have glue gun, will craft

The meeting feels like a mix of support group, tea party and summer camp craft table. The get-togethers are clearly relished gatherings.

"These girls are great; they’re a community," said Briana Monroe, 26, who works as a project coordinator for a construction company. In her crafting life, she paints chairs and upholsters them into works of art.

Besides a night out with gal pals, the gatherings keep the members crafting.

"This feeds the desire to be creative," says Stacey Ball, 32, who makes crafts using vintage buttons, including knitted hats.

Just being around this group is enough to make a noncrafter consider making something by hand.

"My sister joined first, and I became an honorary member," said Angel Walsh, 30, who lives in Citrus Heights. The Craft Mafia embroidered its way into Walsh’s heart, leading her to take up paper crafting, creating cards and flowers. "I finally decided to get off my butt and craft."

Melody Claussen-Furry, a founding member of the Sacramento Craft Mafia, made these necklaces. Michael Allen Jones / mjones@sacbee.com

Craft Con Gala (Last Saturday)

2008-04-07T00:02:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday, Krissi and I packed our box of Crafty Chica Goodness and hit the road to San Francisco. (I don't know why my words are underlined, and it is annoying me, because I can't undo it)

Anyhoo, we arrived early, so we got a good grubbin bite to eat at the Connecticut Yankee .
(Thanks Krissi!) After a big ol sammich and some cold beer, we headed over to the Urban Art Farm. Where we proceeded to spread out our crafty station. You see, We were going to school these Craftistas on the art of Shrine making, courtesy of the Divine Crafty Chica !

Right out the gate, people were parking themselves in front of our table and getting busy! We originally set up our station to accommodate 3 people, but because we were rawkin the house, before we knew it, we had up to 7 people standing around at a time gluing, cutting and shaking LOTS of GLITTER all around! Krissi and I were embedded with glitter. For real! I left a pile of it at the gas station on the way home!

Before we knew it, 11:00 was fast approaching, and I told Krissi, we better start breaking down, or we would be here all night. We even had to graciously turn some late comers down:(

After packing up our pony show, we headed home (90 minute ride) after dropping off my fellow Craft Sista, Amy of Peptogirl (Do Check out her blog!) at her hotel in the HEART of the Mission.

Ok, enough chat, picture time...............

Here are a couple of Chicas jumping right in and getting busy!

I was putting out like nobody's business! Here are a few of my creations.

This was an awesome shrine made by a very cute crafty Chico! I ooohed and awwwed over it so much, he gave it to me. (Score!)

Most creative goes to this Chica! A G string Shrine! Genious!

lol! Thanks again Kathy, we had a ball and you know we always "Got your Back!"

Crafty Style Gala at Craft Congress in San Francisco!

2008-04-02T01:22:00.000-07:00

Crafty Style Gala at Craft Congress!

Come out and visit me and my partner in crime, Krissi at the Crafty Gala this Saturday. We will be giving tutorials on Matchbox shrines and we will be reppin and utilizing Crafty Chica's new product line. Be the first, to sift your fingers through her glittery goodness! Trust me, it is all muey bueno!

See you Saturday!

Craft Con and Pandora's Trunk present
Saturday, April 5 8-11:30pm

Crafty Style Gala

Urban Art Farm SF
1345A 17th St @ Connecticut (MUNI 19/22/T)
http://craftcon.org/gala

Live Music - Cake and Sake - Live Art
$4 formalwear or costume / $7 general admission

Live art and fashion construction by Onerary and Architect G from Pandora’s Trunk

Magical realist paintings by Alfonso Kellenberger

Live ambient soundscapes quartet with Mika Pontecorvo
electric cello, guitar/flute, electronics/percussion and drums

Photobooth (play dress-up)

DIY craft station (make yer own souvenirs with Yoli from Sacred Snatch Designs!)

Food and drink

Meet n Greet indie artists from nationwide: Savvy indie artists and artisans from all over the country are visiting in town to attend Craft Con, http://craftcon.org, a business development conference for the craft community. The Crafty Style Gala is an opportunity for San Francisco's unique local arts scene to meet the nationwide leaders of the recent craft resurgence and show them what is unique about our culture!
http://craftcon.org/gala

Before and After! Muah to Missy B!

2008-04-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

Before..................................... (11-04-07)

After..............................................(3-31-08, Ok, I still need to stitch shut his leg, but I was too excited and wanted to post)

My how they grow so fast! teejee, Actually, the first pic is my adorable nephew. Last August, before he was born, I bought him the I Love New York sleeper when we were on vacation. Yes, it is true, I love New York, so I just had to by the cheesy sleeper for him. I don't think my sister was feeling it, because after he was born, I would ask her, "Have you put the sleeper on him yet?" She would always make up some lame excuse that it was too big for him. Whatever! So in November, I offered to change his diaper and as I changed him, I ransacked his drawers and found the sleeper, threw it on him and snapped away. I figured, it would be the only time he was going to rawk it, and he would be outgrowing it soon.

Guess what, I was right, and to my sister's relief, it no longer fit him. I was sad to know that it barely served it's purpose, so I asked for the sleeper and told her I would donate it or do something fun with it.

Fast forward to a few weeks ago, and the ever so Hawt and clever Missy Ballence.
offered a free Bear pattern on her blog. I downloaded it and finally, last night I put it to work! Now Lil Anthony can continue to show his support for NYC! Genius! Thanks Missy!

Buahahahahahahha ::evil cackle::

Fridalicous!

2008-03-31T00:20:00.000-07:00

Frida was reppin it hard in my casa last week. I started out with making a Frida clutch for my mother's birthday. I used a Frida fabric on the outside and a Caliente Chili Pepper fabric on the inside.
I put in a lil Santo at the side for good luck and to watch over mi Mama.

Well, you know the old saying, the more you give, the more you receive! Yep, I am a firm believer, and within the next two days, I received two awesome gifts! My Girl, Marcella came through and brought me these killer socks! lol, just when I thought I saw it all, BAM! I get a wonderful curve ball. Don't these rawk? I am thinking of making these into a coin purse or sock monkey. These are too cute to keep under my pant leg!

The following day, I opened my mail to find a wonderful fabric wall hanging from a swap I joined on Swap Bot. I was speechless. Number 1, the swap just opened and I haven't even begun to think about what I am going to send my partner, and number two, she sent me Frida! I have been carrying around this little gem for days and have been shoving it under everyone's nose! I just know they are jealous! hehe, and they should be! This lovely piece was made by the talented, Ms. June.

Isn't that sweet? Thank you so much June, I promise to take excellent care of her! Yes, she will finally be put to rest on my wall!

And that concludes our journey to the land of Frida. :D

Lets show Ellen What Glitter is all about!

2008-03-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

(Repost from a letter from Kath) If you know someone in the Southern California Vicinty, please pass on the word. This sounds like it will be both fun and entertaining!

Hola, my crafty friends!!

I'm writing to you to see if you or any of your posse would be
interested in joining me and other glitter lovers across the land in
standing up in the name of sparkle in front of Ellen DeGeneres'
Burbank studio!

Attached is the press release that went to Ellen's producers today,
along with some ideas for safe-sparkle alternatives. I'll have samples
of these at the rally, bring yours too!!!!

WHAT: Safe Sparkle Glitter Rally
WHEN: Tuesday, April 8, 2008.
TIME: Noon to ???
WHERE: NBC Studios, 3000 West Alameda Avenue in Burbank, Calif.
WHO: Lead by Kathy Cano-Murillo, the Crafty Chica. Also attending are:
- Mark Montano (TLC Network star, and author of The Big Ass Book of Crafts)
- Jenny Ryan (Community Marketing Manager for Craft: magazine)
- Cathy of California (LA-based window dresser and craft designer)
- Cathie Filian (co-host of Creative Juice on the DIY Network)
- Members of the various Craft Mafias, including Los Angeles Craft
Mafia, San Diego North Park Craft Mafia)
- Many more! And anyone else who wants to join us!

Background info:

Ellen wants all glitter banned!

I LOVE Ellen and was heartbroken when she started dissing glitter on
her show because it is messy and gets everywhere. She even went on a
jumbotron on Hillary Clinton's press rally and asked if she would ban
glitter if Hills became our next Prez. I've blogged about it and sent
letters to her explaining all the different kinds of glitters.

I want us crafters to educate Ellen and let her know about the many
"safe sparkle" alternatives out there. We could help her choose the
right glitter for her, so she will stop judging all glitter the same.
It is LOOSE glitter she hates, so her fans need to know to send her
other kinds of sparkle. Ellen is a sparkling chica, she deserves
glitter that suits her!

OK...I know glitter won't be banned, but I thought it would be fun if
all of us crafters stepped up with "safe sparkle" alternatives. I
think Ellen would get a kick out of it and maybe even come outside to
meet us!

Mucha gracias (holds scissors over heart in respect)!

Kathy :-)

PEACE, LOVE, & GLITTER!!

--
For more information, contact:
Alyson Udell
559-294-3335
audell@duncanmail.com
OR

Kathy Cano-Murillo
http://www.CraftyChica.com

Link to Kathy's blog

Thanks for helping my homegirl out!

One Love, One glitter flake at a time.................

Yoli

From the Studio of Girl Gone Thread Wild

2008-03-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

AKA, my homegirl, Monica............

Monica was the brainchild of this wonderful project. I humbly asked if I can contribute, and thankfully she accepted. In fact, I believe over 150 art squares have been donated! See these links for further info. (Trust me, this project is as beautiful as it is inspiring)

On to the building of the doll...............

The Pink Artist Doll Project, page ONE

From start to finish here is

the journey of the collaborative art doll project

come to be known as Love Squared.

Page one.

...

It's been a fantastic break!

The past week flew by and I admit

I only dreamed of the squares ONCE

but it was grand that I did!

Pinpricked I made a new best friend

to keep me company while

stitching in the wee hours,

enjoying a continual pouring of tea,

movies, and phone calls

that kept me tied to reality.

...

I'm going back to the start for a moment.

It only makes sense to tell you

that the inspiration for the doll body

came from a long admired doll artist,

Patti Culea using upper torso patterns

from her book, Creative Cloth Doll Making.

I knew when taking on this project

that some part of this doll had to

have Patti written all over it.

...

Omitting of course the legs and

opting to alter the length so to fit

squares to skirt. Some of you have

seen the first few photos already

in post the joys of communal artistry

so I won't reiterate those steps, jumping

forward instead to the creation of the

skirt and the sewing on of the squares...

Choosing 2 cuts of decorator fabric in colors

blue and beige cut 72" by 54" and

folded in half twice to make a center,

a hole was cut and the layers were draped

over the waist of the doll and stitched in place.

An old lace piece is stitched down to doll

covering the uneven edges.

Not noticing earlier that the blue fabric already

had "square" shapes in the design (lol) I

took this as a sign and jumped right in

to begin there, pinning the first square.

I kid you not, there is a higher power

orchestrating this doll as I have been

stress-free from the beginning and

am remaining calm and overjoyed here-

I think I even sang OUT LOUD when

applying the first SQUARE. -laughs-

The squares were beginning to line up.

What I found happening was that it was easier

to NOT preplan anything, nor did I pull

more than 10-12 squares at one time from their shelter

(ie. storage tub). I didn't lay out the squares

ahead of time. These weren't color-coded

or grouped in any way whatsoever.

Really the only measurements being taken

were the actual size/shapes of the squares.

One by one, literally the squares came together.

Hand sewing each square with PINK thread.

What did happen is a metal tomato cage

for gardening was inserted under her skirt

to help keep shape.

I found myself talking to the squares

and remembering your notes, stories,

friends and family. I'd be lying if

I said I didn't choke up once or twice...

but it was HAPPY tears for this project.

It was NO accident that I signed online

ONCE to tell a gal her squares arrived

safe & sound from TURKEY and when

doing so read a note from one wise lady

who told me of the "threads of life"

and the first thread being the umbilical cord,

also while online that brief period I read

every comment you made during the last post.

Gerry!!! yours hit me especially...

mostly because you remarked how wonderful

tho sad this project is and well,

I didn't DO NOT want anyone remembering

this project as SAD so...

I immediately started to create a face for our doll.

Starting with a grey felted sweater scrap,

sewn on the machine to resemble

a round head shape, a wooly ball...

stuffed with polyester fiberfill,

punching away on the flesh colored

wool roving from Great Britain

found in a local Yarn shop I

just recently discovered during

my last visit to the Goodwill...
(taking breath)

There she was smiling up at me,

with those pink lips and light brown eyelashes,

and curvy eyebrows.

Now, that's a Kool-aid smile!

happy-happy-happy

I'd like to tell you that all squares are now

stitched to our dolls skirt, but I was just 12 shy

when making this post. In just a few minutes I'll

update our parade of squares, page 3 to include

two more artists squares making that the

last 12 squares to go on the doll.

My goal is to have our doll completed by April 1.

.....
Please excuse the lighting in the photos.

Most often the images were taken

around midnight and by myself.

I am sooooo not a photographer.

......
Also, THANK YOU to Donna O'Brien of the blog,

The Ribboned Crown
for mailing in this exquisite donation

for our doll.

From here my next post won't be until next Monday

as I have to play catch-up, but I am officially back online,

checking emails and keeping in touch with YOU!

Next post WILL be more progress made on our doll

wso be sure to check back in March 24. w

-Thanks again & again for your support & participation-

May this doll leave your heart filled with JOY

and a smile in your every step,

HAPPY EASTER!!!

HAVE A BLESSED DAY

wait, there is more............. here is a link to part two, where the doll's face, hair and limbs are formed.

Are you as flabbergasted as I am? I just had to share and if you haven't already, subscribe to her blogs! She is a super star blogger on blogspot and she is really a down a$$ ruca with a killer personality!

Crafty Finds in Mexico, Crafty Chica Projects

2008-03-24T23:40:00.000-07:00

I know I am major tardy with my vacation pics, but darn it if I didn’t leave my camera charger on board the ship! My camera was DEAD and I wanted to take a few more pics of our purchases in Mexico.

I had to order a new one via ebay, and since it was coming straight from Hong Kong, it took a minute to get here. (It came today)

So on with my story.........................

Like I mentioned before, the trip was off the hook! Kathy had loads of projects for us as well as a couple of guest "Artist" projects that we had the option of partaking in. We were ninja crafters! lol, one night I was the last girl standing! (I am not sure if I should be proud or shamed about this) but it happened!

Ok, ok, on with the peectures!

The 1st night of the cruise, we had a meet and greet. We were also asked to bring ATC cards for trade. I misunderstood and only made 4, but I think we were supposed to make 40! Thank Gah I brought swag bags. Here is a pic of the cards I made. I made Loteria fabric ATC cards.

This was our first assignment. Tote bags, that, by the way, were loaded with loot!
See Krissi’s blog for pics of all the goodness that was inside.

She had about 6 or 7 designs, of course I picked Frida.

Next project was painting statues. These statues/Santos will be included in her line of products. They were so much fun, and there were some really creative statues.

back.

I decided to collage mine up. I still have a lot to learn with my painting skills.

True story: So, on the way home, I wrapped my Angel/Statue in a shirt and put her in my carry on. I didn’t want to pack her in my luggage and chance her breaking in a zillion pieces. For real, you should have seen how they loaded and unloaded our luggage off the ship! (Escary)
Anyhoo, like I said, I decided to carry her with me. Why did they run my bag multiple times across the x-ray machine at the air-port? They flagged my bag, and security wanted to know what the heck was wrapped in my shirt. I told them it was an Angel. He took her and ran her through twice! For a second, I thought perhaps the statue was made of cocaine the way they were treating me! lmao. I was like, hmmmmmmm, what kind of operation is Kathy running. LOL, I keed, I keed! But really, they thought my statue was some kind of weapon of mass destruction. hmmmmmmmmmmmmph.

Next project was an Altered Journal. Kathy gave us the wooden Journals and more swag. We were told to have at it with decorating the outside. Obviously, I did not hold back.

The last project was a blank wooden Shrine. I am still working on it, because I chose the hardest one. (I think) and it had lots of small cubby holes and I am still trying to fill them. For now, I painted, trimmed and added some glitter as a backround.

Cindy offered us an awesome class on Madonna Shrines. Can you believe these are made with tuna cans, recycled CDs and bottlecaps? Awesome!

Corky (another guest) gave us a class on making a Altered Tag Book. I still have a lot to finish, so I didn’t take a pic of it yet.

All this creative fun plus SHOPPING! Hellooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

I purchased this at Casa Ramirez in Ensenada.

Pics of Casa Ramirez

I saw this, and I had to have it.

Look, it’s a small thin metal box.

Ok, open it up and looky here!

How awesome is that? It’s an instant 3d pop up Nativity Set! Awesome!

Another favorite find is this beautiful hand embroidered handbag. I loved all the colors and I think I am going to embellish it. lol, as if it needs any, but I think it is screaming for some milagros.

I also purchased a beautiful white blouse with lots of bright flowers embroidered on it, and a couple of trinkets for embellishments.

Did I mention how much fun this trip was? lol. Guess what, she is going to do it again next year, so start saving those centavos!

Local Craftista Takes Her Dream to the Next Level!

2008-03-24T22:16:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, when I returned from a much inspired vacation (Crafty Chica Cruise) a package arrived via snail mail to mi casa. I immediately tore through that package like it was x-mas! I so love mystery packages! Did I ever tell yall about the mail I got from some fool at Pelican bay? (He found my name through the Daily recorder when I applied for the business name of Sacred Snatch) I'll save that one for later.

Anyhoo, inside my package was a lovely note from my girl Annette in Southern Cali. It was an invite to her grand opening of her store and it also included some adorable goodies!

Annette has been in the art arena for a while and has been selling her wares at art shows and festivals. She had been working on getting some store space and, finally the opportunity came and she siezed it!

I have nothing but mad respect for her. If I ever had the nerve to open a store, I would want it to look just like hers! She has lots of handcrafted items that she makes herself and she also has folk art from all over. I even spied a few familiar pieces from other popular artists too!

If you find yourself in southern Cali, please stop by and tell her your favorite "Snatchy" sent you. You won't be disappointed! Not only does her stuff rawk, but you will also be greeted by a wonderful person!

I can't wait to go visit the store myself!

Annette, I wish you all the best. May your business continue to soar with the Angels!

Your fan Por Vida,

Yoli.

Picture time:

I already used one of the Santos on a handbag and I used a mini serape on an ATC. I am going to include a few items in the Sacred Handbag auction. (last two artists are making their mark)

Check out her Calaveras!

Yes, he is rawkin an actual beanie! lol, too cute!

Here is a link to her website and address information. She has some awesome photos of what kind of art you will find at her oasis of a store.

I can only imagine all the inspiring goodies that are begging for attention!

Once again Annette, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your friendship and the goodies.

I salute you!

Yoli

Be Afraid, Be very Afraid. Pics of my estudio.

2008-03-20T15:53:00.001-07:00

I am biting off of Kathy's blog (Crafty Chica). She dared to do a blog featuring her sacred studio, and she inspired me to come clean about my workspace.

I too, had visions of a large open space, brightly lit, overlooking our glistening pool. I even fantasized about building a small workspace in our back yard with power and and clear drawers galore with all my ephemera neatly organized and sub organized. A large desk for my lappy and new printer would face the sliding french doors and I would have one large table for gatherings and another folding sewing table. All of this space would be in a Mexican meets Moroccan theme.

I would have chica's over all the time and during the hot summers, we would create, and take dips in the pool.

It could happen!

lol, for now, I am limited to my former formal dining room. Fortunately, I have a large breakfast room that seats a large table and benches as well as a large dining bar in my kitchen. (we eat informally) Only on special occassions did we use the formal dining room, go guess what, I packed my show and nested right there on the antique table. I have pocket doors, so this mess, I mean inspiration is easily concealed.

Ok, tread carefully, I wouldn't want you to get lost or get any loose glitter on you. (Ok, I lie, I hope you find glitter everywhere. ::evil cackle::

This is where I have all my embellishments. Yes, those drawers are loaded to the gills with tools, embellishments, rubber stamps, sequins, beads, fibers, religious relics, gloss, threads and in that bag on top of the small table is where I store my sewing machine.

This is the top of my desk,work table, and cutting board. This is on a good day.

Oh, it also serves as my sewing table. I am the Queen of multifunction! (notice the gold thread?)

Ahhh, here is where I dock my IPod. (It was also here where my last one got stolen. (our casa was broken into last year, and thankfully no one got hurt and they got away with nothing but my IPOD) Under my boom box is where I store felt and colored tissues as well as boxes in all shapes. To the right, is my fabric and trim bin and my sewing basket full of Gawd knows what.....

This is my paper storage and mailing center. (actually it's where I store my stationary for notes that go in my orders and swaps)

The large bins to the left are full of cigar boxes and handbags waiting to be altered and created into something.

All in all, this space is about 9 feet long and 7 feet wide. (If that)

I told you it wasn't pretty!

Trades Rawk!

2008-03-20T15:13:00.000-07:00

Yay, I was fortunate enough to score a trade with the fabulous Ms. Funky Art Queen. A few weeks ago she posted a blog about an ATC swap, and I jumped at the chance. ATC cards (Artist Trading Cards) are all the rage and I love them because they can be done, zip, zap if you want, or you could spend days on them. Sky's the limit, and although some are for sale, the original premise was that these little gems be traded only. The founder of this movement thought everyone should be able to own original art, and started the trading movement. ATC's have exploded across the world and I find it quite moving to open up my mail and staring at me, is an original piece of art just for me.

I have quite a collection building up and have now settled on finding ways to store them and display them. I am working on this altered art journal and have decided that this will be the perfect way to show off and store my mini works of arte.

If you haven't jumped on the ATC train yet, get busy! They are loads of fun, and the sky is the limit!

Ok, picture time!

Sorry for the poor quality of picture. My scanner is on the mend, so I took pics of these with my camera. This is what I rec'd from Funky Art Queen.

This is what I just mailed out to her today. I have been having fun mixing it up a bit. I hand painted and rubber stamped sheets of fabric for the background and then I made a photo transparency out of packaging tape, using Frida's image. Then I added some embellishments and stitched around the card using different stitches. I am a firm believer of using metallic threads. I know some metallic threads can be tricky to work with, but I found these threads at Wal-Marrrrrrrr of all places. It is just as sturdy as regular thread and it is not necessary to use specialty metallic needles! yay!

Now go make some Art!

My 1st Fabric ATC

2008-03-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

Fabric ATC
Originally uploaded by Sacred Snatch Designs

Ok yall, be kind! I am so in love with fiber arts right now. I joined a fabric ATC challenge, and this is what I came up with.

Materials used were: Fabric (ok, durr) gold thread, hand dyed (not by me) wool yarn by a homegirl of Crafty Chica's. Photo transfer on packaging tape. (Thanks for the tutorial, Alisa!) and beads from a swapbot partner from Italy.

What can I say, I am eclectic. I am going to be practicing more with beading and layering of fabrics.

Stay tuned........................

It's all about timing, positioning, and Douching!

2008-03-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

It’s true, this fact (my title of blog) was stated while eating breakfast with a table full of random strangers on a recent cruise I took.

I have been wanting to blog all week, but because I was on vacation last week, I had butt loads of work to catch up on at my day job. (Real Estate) Don’t believe the ugly hype about how bad the market is, It is a BANGING time to go out and buy some real estate, mmmmkay? Buyer’s are starting to recognize, therefore my time has been limited to quick peeks here and there on myspacio.

back to the above conversation.................

So in the mornings of my cruise, we have a choice of where to eat breafast. You can have it in your room, up at the lido deck or at one of the main dining rooms, where you can have sit down "service". We like to be waited on by the potential of a certain hawt waiter, so we grabbed sit down meals every chance we got.

We ended up getting seated next to two pregnant couples and an "older" couple. We all say our hello’s, ask were we are all from, and proceed to eat and enjoy small GENERIC talk. The two pregnant girls, naturally start talking "baby" talk. One couple were on their 3rd baby, the other couple were on their 1st. I didn’t volunteer news about my herd, but chose to listen and get my grub on.

I am not sure what couple spoke up, but one of them mentioned they at some point wanted a girl. That’s when it spilled out. Out of know where, the "elderly" lady. (ok, she wasn’t that old, but she was older than me) chimed in with her wisdom. "Oh, when we were hoping for a girl, my doctor gave me a pamplet! It said it is all about Timing, Positioning and Douching!"

I almost spit out my hashbrowns. I asked my mom, "Did she just say douching at the breakfast table amongst a bunch of strangers?" "Yup, she suuuuuuuuuuuuure did, "said Mamita.

I am not sure what happened next, but I know the two couples didn’t go there for further details. (Thank Gah)

Elderly woman did say it worked for her, though.

Yes, I just new it was going to be a glorious day after that great meal!

******************************************************

Mmmkay, I totally have some great pics to share and I want you to know the Crafty Chica Cruise was off the hook! We made so many cool artes, and lots of great friendships were formed.

Yes, Kathy is all that and 3 bags of glitter! She is VERY down to earth and a great hostess with the mostest. I know next year it is going to be even bigger and better! She probably is going to have to charter a private ship! How cool would that be Kathy? (No pressure)

Anyhoo, I am getting ready for another appointment, but I do have lots of pics to share. For now, I have some pics in random order of the cruise in my photo album, but I have even more to upload.

Check out Crafty Chica’s and Krissi’s blog for more information on what a fabulous time we had.

Stay tuned................

Bon Voyage! Going on a much needed vacation!

2008-03-02T20:18:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to say a last minute good bye to yall. I am currently packing and repacking for my journey overseas tomorrow! I am gonna be kicking it with 40-50 other Artists, Crafters, Celebrities, Homies, and a boatload of party goers. We are headed to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada! Because I am hardcore, I am taking my lappy, but I don't anticipate a lot of time to be online. however,I am planning to upload a butt load of video's and photos! I also plan on making some mad playlists to inspire us all.

On top of the craft projects I had to complete, packing, shopping, and tyiing up all the loose ends at work, I tweaked it last night and made these Sacred Swag bags for all my new homies on the Cruise.

Please wish us all a safe and smoooooooooooooooooth sailing trip!
Catch you all next week, same Sacred time, same Sacred channel!

Besos,

Yoli

Oh, The Horror of It!

2008-03-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

Disclosure: To my Gentlemen readers, "You may want to skip over this post. It won't be pretty."

So like I have been boasting, I mean saying, I am about to embark on a cruise of a lifetime on Monday with Crafty Chica and her Posse. In preperation for said excursion, I had a huge list of things and tasks that I had to take care of prior to leaving. One of these tasks included a Pedicure. You see, it has been winter, and I am always cold, so my "toots" have been snuggled up in socks and boots or clogs these past few months. In other words, I can't even remember the last time I had a pedicure. My dainty feet gradually turned into ravinous hoofs!

I decided today would be the day that I would get them done. My plan was to go do some shopping and then head over to the nail salon. It was such a nice day, I wore flip flops. However, my feet looked so bad, I was too embarrassed to go shopping, and decided I would go DIRECTLY to the nail shop. I kept hearing my hubby's voice in the back of my head saying, "If there is one thing I can't stand is seeing a woman dressed up and out and about and then having some tore back toes!" Well I didn't want to be one of "those" women, and chance a man gasping at my neglected hoofs. Nope, that is not how I roll.

As soon as I locked my front door, I made a mad dash into the car to avoid anyone seeing my feet. I went to my favorite nail shop, and thought I scored big when I noticed no one was inside the shop. Normally all stations are busy.

A pleasant looking young man asked me what services did I need. I told him "Pedicure!" and expected him to get the woman who normally does the pedicures. "Do you see where this is going?"

So he tells me to grab my color and I see him drawing the water. I still didn't think much of it, and I found the prettiest dainty pink and walked up to the Pedicure chair. He tells me to get in and then motions me to put my foot on the foot rest.

THAT is when I realized that HE was going to be my Pedicurist! OMG. I wanted to crawl backwards out of that shop!

So than I tried to ignorantly reason with myself, I said to myself, "Yoli, get a grip, he probably doesn't even speak english, (as if that was going to blind him to the fact that my feet were buried under 20 layers of scales!) Just throw on your Ipod and imagine yourself suantering across the labido deck.

I see him eyeballing the damage and then he busts out. Is that an 80 gig Ipod Video? Shit! He speaks perfect english and he is trying to chop it up with me! I told him yes, and from there I got a full class on how to download and convert wma's and video to Ipods. Perhaps he was trying to get his mind off of my talons, I don't know, but I was miserable! He went on and on about how much of a techy geek he was, and all I could think of, was, "Why the heck are you doing my toes, and not behind some techy desk job?" I thought against asking him, because I didn't want to remind him of his reality of filing sawing and hacking at my feet.

Then the next part came, he started to roll up my jeans to give me the leg massage portion. I almost choked and kicked him in the face, but then I realized, I shaved my legs this morning! THANK GAH!

On top of that, he spent extra time kneeding my jelly because he was into a show on TV and wanted to see the outcome, so he was rolling and squeezing and slapping for what seemed like eternity.

I couldn't take it anymore and told him I was in a hurry and if we could speed the process up. He laughed and said no problem. I promptly tipped him a 5 spot. (although it should have been a 20, but I was short on cash) and made it out with just a shred of dignity.

On the bright side, my feets are now looking purrdy and fierce and are ready to hit the sunshine for next week!

Ayeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!